AT THE SAME TIME
EMPEROR LIANWEI POINT OF VIEW:
The morning sunlight poured through the windows, golden and warm, casting a soft glow over the room. Richard still lay on the cot, wrapped in blankets, chest rising and falling more steadily now after the healer's insistence. I watched him for a moment, marveling at how fragile he looked, despite all the battles and scars that told of a life harder than most could imagine. Huan perched on the edge of the bed, his small fingers brushing lightly over Richard's arm.
"He… he's really strong." The boy murmured, eyes wide, "But he's… scared too."
I glanced at him, smiling softly.
"Yes, Huan. Strength isn't just muscles or skill. It's surviving what most people would crumble under. And right now, he's letting us help him."I said.
Bai He stepped closer, a gentle hand resting lightly on Richard's shoulder.
"We've never met anyone like you." She said softly.
