And in those velvet eyes, alongside appraisal, lay a flitting shard of caution, the sort sharpened only in palaces where every smile hides a scale.

She is more than an adviser. Jared quickly figured things out. The king is old… An intelligent girl with high cultivation at his side could well be more than company, perhaps pillow, perhaps puppet master. Handle the errands, whisper over policy, and never stray from the royal bedchamber. A convenient mask…

Poor girl, pressed beneath a withered king…

Jared’s expression didn’t reveal his thoughts. With a measured smile, palms pressed together in courtesy,  said, “I’m Jared Chance, and I seek no reward. I merely found Her Highness alone beyond the walls and worried for safety. With Celestia soon to wed Celestial Palace, the princess’ well-being touches every realm of level six. I could hardly stand by.”

He purposely mentioned the marriage alliance, testing how it stirred Yuliana’s still surface.

A cultivator guarding the stability of level six, after all, was far less threatening than a cultivator with hidden knives.

“You are considerate indeed.” Once Yuliana heard about the marriage alliance, a faint ripple crossed  eyes, gone before it settled. “Her Highness will rest in the palace. Allow me to show you Celestia City while  recovers, Mr. Chance.”