My Brother's the Protagonist? Good Thing I Awakened My System!

Chapter 159  The Second Prince

As the group neared the gates of the capital, the scene ahead was bustling with activity.

A long line of merchants, travelers, and citizens stretched down the road, all waiting to pass through the security checkpoint.

The massive gates loomed in the distance, guarded by armored soldiers ensuring that everyone underwent proper inspection before entering the city.

Approaching the front of the line, one of Wang Zhiqing's guards dismounted and approached the lead checkpoint guard, speaking in a low tone.

"We are escorting someone of importance," the guard stated, glancing subtly toward the carriage. "Inform your officer immediately."

The checkpoint guard raised a skeptical brow, his gaze flicking between the guard and the unassuming carriage.

"Who is it you're escorting? And why should we believe such claims?"

The guard's expression remained calm and firm.

"Her Highness Wang Zhiqing, of the royal family."

The checkpoint guard faltered, visibly startled. After a brief hesitation, he gestured for another guard to fetch the officer on duty.

Moments later, a squad of city guards arrived, their senior officer stepping forward, his air of authority unmistakable.

"What's this about?" The officer demanded, his sharp eyes scanning the group of "mercenaries" and their carriage.

The dismounted guard saluted. "We are escorting Her Highness, Princess Wang Zhiqing. You may verify this if necessary."

The officer frowned, clearly skeptical. He gestured for two guards to approach the carriage, but before they could, a familiar voice emerged from within.

"There's no need for this." Wang Zhiqing said firmly.

The officer's expression shifted as recognition dawned. He stepped closer to confirm his suspicions.

Wang Zhiqing lowered the curtain slightly, revealing just enough of her face to erase any doubt.

"Your Highness!" The officer exclaimed, immediately saluting and dropping to one knee. His men followed suit, their previous skepticism replaced with alarm and respect.

"Forgive the delay, Your Highness. We didn't recognize the carriage!"

"That was the intention," Wang Zhiqing replied evenly. "Now, can we pass?"

The officer nodded vigorously. "Clear the path! Make way for Her Highness!"

Guards and travelers alike hurried to clear the road, word spreading rapidly about the carriage escorting someone from the royal family.

The disguised carriage resumed its journey, escorted by the royal guards, smoothly entering the capital.

Inside, Wang Zhiqing let out a small sigh of relief.

Feng Chen gazed out at the capital's familiar streets. Only recently, he had to sneak into this city. Now, he was entering openly.

( How ironic! ) He thought. He was also relieved that his task was nearing its end. He doubted anyone would dare attempt an assassination on royal grounds. Even if they did, the Commander of the Royal Guard—a Nascent Soul Realm expert—could easily thwart them.

The carriage rattled steadily as the Royal Palace came into view. Its towering walls, adorned with golden accents, stood as a symbol of power and prestige.

As the carriage passed through the main gates, guards bowed, ensuring a seamless entry. Within, sprawling gardens, stone pathways, and majestic fountains painted a picture of serenity.

The group disembarked in the inner courtyard, where the atmosphere was notably tenser. Guards here were even more vigilant, their eyes scanning every movement.

Wang Zhiqing stepped out, her gaze briefly sweeping the surroundings before landing on Feng Chen, who followed her with quiet composure.

As soon as they stepped out of the carriage, a voice called out to them. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

"Wang Zhiqing!"

It was the Second Prince, his expression unreadable as ever. His regal robes and commanding presence made him an imposing figure.

Wang Zhiqing smiled, masking her wariness. She couldn't forget the assassin's claim that her brother was behind the attempt on her life.

Beside the prince stood Lan Jing, who stiffened upon spotting Feng Chen.

( Why is this great demon still here?! ) Lan Jing thought, struggling to mask his fear.

The Second Prince noticed his unease. "Lan Clan Leader, is something troubling you?"

"N-Nothing!" Lan Jing stammered, forcing a laugh. "I was just surprised to see the Fifth Princess with Fe... uh..." He trailed off, catching Feng Chen's warning gaze. It was clear that he didn't want him to call out his name.

"With my friend!" Lan Jing managed to quickly change his words.

The prince arched a brow, his attention shifting to Feng Chen. "Friend?"

"He's the one who saved me from a Scarlet Horned Direwolf," Wang Zhiqing interjected.

"Trouble on your journey back?" The prince asked, feigning concern.

Wang Zhiqing nodded, briefly recounting the attack and how Feng Chen had saved her, carefully omitting any mention of the assassin.

She subtly glanced at the Second Prince, trying to catch any hint of an unusual expression that might reveal he was the mastermind behind the attack.

But there was nothing—his face remained as composed as ever.

The Second Prince listened intently, his expression unreadable. When she finished, he turned to Feng Chen.

"It seems you've done the royal family a great service. Would you consider working for us?"

The Second Prince extended his offer, framing it as both a reward and an honor, as serving the Imperial Family was a privilege reserved for the elite. However, beneath the gesture lay his true intent—he recognized Feng Chen's power and sought to recruit him to his side.

"It would be an honor," Feng Chen replied smoothly, "but I have other matters to attend to."

The prince's smile faltered, annoyance flickering briefly in his eyes before he masked it. "Should you reconsider, you may inform me at any time."

Feng Chen offered a polite nod, inwardly unimpressed. He couldn't help but notice the curious dynamic between Lan Jing and the Second Prince.

( Wasn't Lan Jing aligned with the First Prince?) He wondered.

Lan Jing, eager to escape Feng Chen's presence, seized the moment. "Fifth Princess! Second Prince, I shall take my leave!"

Lan Jing said.

Feng Chen also thought about something and said the same. "Wait," Wang Zhiqing interjected. "I must prepare a reward for saving us."

"No need," Feng Chen said. "You can send it to my... friend here." He gestured toward Lan Jing, smirking faintly. "I'll take my leave with him."

Lan Jing paled but nodded, too terrified to refuse.