The room was a sight to behold. Each nook and corner was decorated with intricate designs that radiated divine beauty and luxury. As Kai gradually calmed the raging turmoil within him, his curiosity was stirred. He was compelled to explore the lavish space that surrounded him. With measured steps, he rose from the discomfort of his bed, his eyes roving over the exquisite furnishings and delicate craftsmanship that adorned the room.
Among the many luxuries, Kai's attention was drawn to an oval, golden-framed mirror hanging elegantly on a wall decorated with intricate engravings of mythical creatures and celestial motifs. Hesitantly, he approached the mirror. The reflection that greeted him was startling. It was a striking image of Lord Xing Li. Standing tall and imposing, Lord Xing Li's remarkable features, from his piercing hazel eyes to his flawlessly chiseled visage, held Kai captive in a trance of mesmerization.
"By the heavens, the beauty of this man is truly transcendent," Kai gasped in awe. He was unable to look away from the captivating reflection before him.
Unaware of Jie Yan's presence just outside the door, Kai was suddenly startled when she entered the room. Her voice was filled with genuine concern. "My lord, please lie down."
Following her was the doctor, who advised Kai to rest and refrain from exerting himself because he was still healing.
As Kai settled back into the bed, Jie Yan stood by his side. Her gaze was filled with worry and care. The doctor proceeded to conduct a thorough health examination. Amidst the pain and confusion, Kai found himself overtaken by a wave of curiosity.
"Jie Yan," he softly inquired, "how old am I?"
"You just turned 18 years old yesterday, my lord," she responded gently.
His thoughts drifted to Xing Li's family and swirled with questions. Carefully, he asked, "Is my father going to visit me?"
Jie Yan hesitated. Her expression was evasive. "That I cannot say, my lord."
Drawing from the knowledge of the novel he had read, Kai understood that Lord Xing Li had always been neglected because he was the son of the third concubine who had passed away. It became clear that Lord Thor, Xing Li's father, might never come to see him. This realization strangely brought Kai a sense of relief.
Deciding not to press further, Kai shifted the conversation. "How did I get these injuries?" he asked softly.
Jie Yan was visibly taken aback by his unexpected question. "It was Lord Ying," she answered hesitantly. "During a flower viewing in the garden, Lord Ying and his servants hit you and pushed you into the water."
"Do you not remember what happened yesterday, my lord?" she asked nervously.
Images flooded Kai's mind. He saw Lord Ying's cruel smirk and his disdainful gaze. Lord Ying, the second older brother from another concubine, had always harbored resentment and insecurity toward Lord Xing Li.
As Jie Yan and the doctor left the room, Kai's mind was haunted by the weight of his knowledge, the tragic fate of Lord Xing Li as told in the novel. How could he possibly avoid the same destiny?
In the story, Lord Xing Li was a minor character. He was rarely seen and overshadowed by his oldest brother Rong Yue, who was the true villain. Xing Li was abused and later disposed of without any explanation.
Now, faced with this new reality, Kai was determined to rewrite that story. The path ahead would be fraught with challenges and danger, but he refused to surrender to the same tragic fate. Armed with the knowledge from the novel, Kai felt a flicker of hope amidst the darkness.