THE REAL PROTEGE

Following behind Ling Li, the Seven Shahs stood in hushed reverence, their thoughts a tumultuous haze. They had arrived in search of a favor, yet now they found themselves stepping into the realm of legend.

Mystical Mountain — The Azure Dragon's Family.

As they crossed the winding stone corridor that led away from the throne chamber, the Azure Dragon's voice emerged with an unexpected gentleness — stripped of regal grandeur, resonating instead with the warmth of a devoted husband and father.

"My wife remains delightfully playful, even in her twilight years," he murmured, a nostalgic smile gracing his lips as if he were savoring a cherished memory. "She adores her games — it's been her nature since time immemorial. Now that our youngest daughter has finally taken to the skies, she insists on teaching her daring aerial maneuvers. I find myself torn between laughter and concern."

Ling Li glanced sideways, a smile curling at the edges of her lips, charmed by the affectionate exasperation that colored his words.

"My two sons," he continued, laughter bubbling forth like a gentle brook, "have developed a rather profound sister complex. They are always close at hand during her flight practice, fretting over her every move, as if the air itself were a treacherous abyss, afraid their sister would fall. It's sweet — though a touch absurd."

His laughter resonated through the corridor, warm and unguarded, creating a cocoon of joy around them.

In an instant, they emerged into the light. The rear of the chamber unfolded into an expansive field, breathtakingly lush and painted in vibrant hues of nature's palette. Wildflowers danced in the soft caress of the wind, their petals shimmering faintly with a magical luminescence. Fruit-laden trees formed a majestic border, their branches sagging under the weight of golden pears and silvery plums, the sweetness of their fragrance pervading the air like an enchanting spell.

Above them, two phoenixes soared — one grand and magnificent, the other a petite silhouette — trailing ribbons of crimson fire across the azure canvas of the sky, like brushstrokes on a masterful painting. Just beneath, two dragons glided effortlessly in perfect synchronization, their iridescent scales reflecting sunlight like jewels catching the eye.

Ling Li paused, captivated, her breath momentarily stolen away. The scene before her was achingly vivid, imbued with tenderness and untouched by the burdens of immortality. It embodied sheer joy — a testament to family, protection, and the simple delight of play.

A soft smile blossomed on her lips as she inhaled the beauty of it all.

"They're exquisite," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

The Azure Dragon nodded, his eyes drawn upward, shimmering with a deep affection.

"They are the very essence of my heart."

Mystical Mountain — The Phoenix's Gift

"Honey," the Azure Dragon called, his voice a melodic whisper that danced through the air like the delicate rustle of silk. High above the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, a magnificent figure pierced the cerulean sky — the giant crimson phoenix. With a poised, sweeping motion, she glided downward, her wings ablaze with shimmering embers that trailed after her like fiery jewels against the backdrop of the heavens. Just before touching down, her radiant form transformed — the vivid feathers dissolving into ethereal light, while the fierce flames folded seamlessly into flesh.

She descended lightly, now manifesting as a young woman, her hair cascading to her ankles like a river of molten ruby, glistening in the sun's golden rays. Her eyes, the color of a smoldering sunset — bright, piercing, and imbued with an ancient wisdom — met Ling Li's gaze with a blend of curiosity and warm familiarity. Her features were small yet striking, radiating an air of serene, immortal beauty.

Without a moment's hesitation, she playfully leaped into the Azure Dragon's embrace, catching him off guard, her laughter like the tinkling of crystal bells.

"Honey, you have a guest?" she chimed, her tone light and teasing, as though the very air around her was filled with joyful mischief.

"Yes," he replied, chuckling as he steadied her with a tender smile. "This is Otako. She's here for you. Otako, this is my beloved wife."

Ling Li bowed her head slightly, her voice imbued with respect. "It's an honor to meet Her Majesty finally."

With a flourish, the Phoenix waved her hand dismissively, a bright grin illuminating her face. "Oh, don't be too formal with me. Just call me by my name — Red."

Ling Li hesitated for a heartbeat, caught off guard by such an unassuming title. "Red?"

At this, Red burst into laughter, unabashed and unrestrained, her joy lighting up the glade around them. "I know, I know! I think my mother was too lazy to think of anything else and just named me after my feathers!"

She turned back to Ling Li, her arms opening wide, inviting warmth and friendship in a vibrant gesture of welcome.

"My husband has mentioned that you're here for me. Just let me know what you need; since you're his friend, that makes you my friend too."

Ling Li blinked, taken aback by Red's forthrightness. The warmth and ease in her voice were unexpected, wrapping around Ling Li like a comforting blanket in a chilly room.

The Azure Dragon, ever attuned to his wife's mindsets, stepped forward to clarify Ling Li's intentions. As he spoke of the fabled Nirvana Elixir and the impending tribulation looming over Shi Min, Red's expression transformed. The playful glint in her eyes dimmed, replaced by a solemnity that deepened the air around them.

"Oh, the Nirvana Elixir," she mused, the gravity of the situation settling over her like a heavy cloak. "So, you'll need my blood. How much do you require? A full cup, perhaps?"

With a bemused smile, the Azure Dragon playfully flicked her forehead with his finger. "Do you truly believe your body could spare a full cup of heart's blood?"

"Ouch!" Red exclaimed, rubbing her forehead while pouting, a mixture of indignation and delight flickering across her face. "This is my first time giving blood. I'm just thrilled!"

A sudden silence enveloped the room, the air thick with disbelief.

The Seven Shahs exchanged puzzled glances: "…"

Ling Li stood frozen, her thoughts racing, echoing the astonishment of everyone present. Who, in their right mind, gets excited about offering their heart's blood?

"...."