Chapter 11: Lian Xiang's Allure! The Emperor's Birthday Celebration!

When confronted by the fourth princess's question, Xiao Zhen replied, "I don't think I need to say anything."

Jiang Lingyou insisted, "If you won't tell me, I'll assume you're just playing hard to get and keep pursuing you."

Xiao Zhen concealed his exceptional talent as one of the brightest stars in the Baixiao Dynasty's younger generation, and Jiang Lingyou had no intention of letting him slip away.

Rubbing his temples in frustration, Xiao Zhen found the whole situation awkward. He really didn't want to discuss personal matters in front of everyone; it was embarrassing. However, considering the fourth princess's persistence, he knew it would be difficult to remain silent.

Lian Xiang watched Xiao Zhen with a look of sadness etched on her face, biting her red lips tightly. The realization that Xiao Zhen already had someone he cared for struck her hard.

Feeling foolish for having pursued him without considering his feelings, she blinked back tears, her eyes glistening, but she refused to let them fall. Despite her internal turmoil, she had decided to give up on Xiao Zhen. From this moment on, she resolved never to approach him again.

Xiao Zhen caught sight of the shimmer in Lian Xiang's eyes and suddenly realized she might have misunderstood the situation, leading her to feel upset. Sensing that he couldn't remain silent any longer, he finally spoke up.

"Xiang has accompanied me for three years when I had no cultivation base, never leaving my side. She has deep feelings for me, and I reciprocate those feelings to some extent. Is that enough?"

The crowd was taken aback, surprised to hear his words about Lian Xiang. It made perfect sense; who could compete with her beauty? In terms of status, she was also a little princess, and when compared to her, Lian Hua seemed completely outmatched.

With a wry smile, Jiang Lingyou said, "So it's Lian Xiang? I'm convinced."

Her acknowledgment came without further insistence. Jiang Lingyou was perceptive enough to understand the dynamics at play.

Meanwhile, Lian Hua clenched her jade fists, her eyes burning with jealousy. "Lian Xiang, you've stolen my man; how could you go this far?"

At that moment, Lian Xiang's heart raced with surprise. But remembering her sister's feelings, she hastily added, "But my sister will be sad to hear this."

Xiao Zhen smiled softly. "It's not my concern if she feels sad. When I was upset, how did she treat me?"

He recalled how Lian Hua had coldly announced their broken engagement and left without caring about his feelings. It was clear that he wouldn't waste time worrying about someone so self-centered.

Continuing, he said, "Xiang, pursue your desires. If you don't like me, that's fine; I'll marry the princess instead."

Lian Xiang stamped her foot in protest. "No way! You can only like me! Oops, you're in trouble now."

Realizing that Xiao Zhen was teasing her, she playfully pouted.

Xiao Zhen nodded and then turned to Jiang Lingyou, "I'm sorry, Princess, but I can't guarantee that you won't abandon me."

With a smile, Jiang Lingyou replied, "To be honest, I can't promise that I'd do what Lian Xiang has done. You made the right choice."

"Three days from now is my grandfather's birthday. You should come; he's quite fond of you."

Xiao Zhen pondered for a moment. "Are you saying that many talented individuals will be there?"

Jiang Lingyou quickly caught on and smiled. "Are you afraid?"

Xiao Zhen rubbed his temples, thinking about how troublesome the gathering might become. "I can already imagine the chaos that will ensue. But after having rejected you, it wouldn't look good if I didn't attend. I'll go and apologize."

Jiang Lingyou smiled with satisfaction. "Thank you! It might indeed become a little complicated."

Xiao Zhen was puzzled. "What do you mean by 'complicated'?"

But Jiang Lingyou didn't elaborate; she simply left with a smile, leaving him to wonder.

Lian Xiang, still by his side, seized Xiao Zhen's Liand and spoke quietly, "While her grandfather's birthday may seem like a simple celebration, it's actually a gathering of young heroes. Her grandfather has been wanting her to marry for quite some time, but hasn't found a suitable candidate yet…"

Suddenly, Xiao Zhen's expression darkened. Not only did he have to fend off Lian Xiang's suitors, but now he had to worry about Jiang Lingyou's as well.

He could already envision becoming the center of attention at this event. This situation was proving to be more complicated than dealing with the simple-minded Lian Hua.

Just then, Lian Hua sneered, "Just wait until Jiang Qingyun arrives. You'll regret your choices then."

With a flick of her sleeves, she stormed off, leaving her resentment Lianging in the air.

Xiao Tianling clicked his tongue. "If you were to invite Lian Hua and Jiang Lingyou back now, they'd probably agree to marry you on the spot."

Xiao Zhen quickly replied, "No way, Grandpa! I'd like to live a few more years!"

With a grin, Xiao Tianling said, "I didn't see it coming, but you seem to be quite lucky."

Xiao Zhen rolled his eyes. "They're all just a bunch of superficial women. I'm not foolish enough to think they'd come to me without my strength."

Xiao Tianling nodded, then turned serious. "Remember Zhou Lian?"

Xiao Zhen froze at the mention of that name. Zhou Lian was a formidable talent, nearly his equal, but they had become rivals.

Reflecting on their past, Xiao Zhen recalled their shared experiences and the bitter rivalry that had developed. Zhou Lian had once been a close friend, but circumstances had driven a wedge between them.

"Zhou Lian… what's he up to these days?" Xiao Zhen asked, curiosity piqued.

"Rumor has it he's been making significant strides in his cultivation. He's not someone to underestimate," Xiao Tianling cautioned.

Xiao Zhen nodded, his thoughts racing. The path of cultivation was fraught with challenges and rivalries. "I suppose I should prepare for a reunion then," he said, his tone a mix of anticipation and determination.

As the day of the grand gathering approached, Xiao Zhen felt a whirlwind of emotions. The complexities of relationships, expectations, and rivalries weighed heavily on him.

The gathering promised not only a celebration but also a test of his abilities and resolve. Would he be able to navigate the pressures from those vying for his attention, both romantically and in the realm of cultivation?

He had always prided himself on his strength and independence, but this situation felt different. The looming presence of the royal family, along with the expectations placed on him, added a layer of stress he hadn't anticipated.

"Just stay true to yourself," he reminded himself. "You're strong enough to handle whatever comes your way."

Determined to face the challenges head-on, Xiao Zhen steeled himself for the days ahead. He wouldn't let the drama of romance and rivalry deter him from his path.

After all, he had a destiny to fulfill, and nothing, not even the complexities of love and ambition, could stand in his way.

As the sun set on the eve of the grand event, Xiao Zhen took a deep breath, ready to embrace whatever awaited him at the emperor's birthday banquet.

With a newfound sense of purpose, he prepared for the gathering, knowing that it would be a crucial moment in his journey. Whatever trials awaited him, he would face them with courage, determination, and the strength of his convictions.