Chapter 36: Distances and Deepening Bonds
The battles in the Western Plains had not only cemented Ling Tian's military prowess but also strengthened the emotional bonds within his harem. After their victory, Ling Tian made a decision to spend time with each of his companions individually. This wasn't just a break from their mission; it was a deliberate act to understand their hearts and deepen their connection.
First, Ling Tian chose to spend time with Princess Mei Ling. He knew she carried the heavy burden of her royal bloodline and that a deep loneliness lay hidden beneath her regal strength. Ling Tian took her to a place called "The Palace of Clouds," a mountain peak that soared above the heavens. There, he talked with Mei Ling about her childhood and her unspoken dreams. Mei Ling confessed that she had always yearned for a power that could free her soul from its chains.
During their time together, Mei Ling revealed her deepest secrets, and Ling Tian told her that her true power wasn't in her title, but in her free spirit. One evening, as they watched the sun set, Mei Ling took Ling Tian's hand and said, "You have shown me that true power isn't in a position, but in a sincere heart." As she spoke, she looked at him, her eyes now filled with not just respect, but a deep love. Ling Tian kissed her forehead, and in that moment, Mei Ling opened her heart completely to him.
Next was Mu Qing. Mu Qing was a woman who was always ready for a fight, but inside, she was filled with a fiery passion and emotions that she kept locked away. Ling Tian took her to a dense forest where a river flowed, known as the "Lake of Tears." There, Ling Tian taught Mu Qing a new way to fight. When she asked him to teach her a new technique, he explained that a battle wasn't just about anger and brute force; it was an art.
He taught Mu Qing to turn her anger into peace and to connect her strength with her deepest emotions. One day, as they sat by a waterfall, Ling Tian looked into her eyes and said, "Your strength comes from your pain, but from now on, your strength will come from your love." Tears welled up in Mu Qing's eyes. She hugged Ling Tian tightly, and for the first time, she felt that she was not just a weapon, but a woman who could be loved and respected.
Finally, Ling Tian chose to spend time with Xiao Li. Xiao Li was always silent and reserved, but Ling Tian knew that her soul was filled with profound sorrow. Ling Tian took her to a place where the sun's rays could not reach, a place called "The Hidden City." There, Ling Tian helped Xiao Li confront the fear and pain hidden deep within her soul. He told her that she was no longer alone and that her every fear was now his to share.
When Xiao Li finally confided her pain in him, Ling Tian told her that her pain was her strength. He explained that her silence wasn't just a weapon; it was her peace. One evening, as they sat alone, Xiao Li looked at Ling Tian, her eyes now filled with love and respect for the first time. She whispered softly in his ear, "From now on, all my power is yours." Saying this, she kissed him on the cheek.
In this way, Ling Tian began a unique journey with his harem. It was not just a physical journey, but an emotional one. He spent time with each member, forging a new bond with each one. Ling Tian showed them that their strength was not just their own, but that it was also in their love, their hearts, and their emotions.