Ao Lie did not respond immediately, seemingly contemplating Ao Bing's words. Nezha, feeling a bit shy, lowered his head and said, "I didn't do this because of the awakening of the Demon Orb, but because... because..."
"Because what?" Ao Bing gently prompted.
Nezha lifted his head, sincerity shining in his eyes. "Because you are very important to me. I can't lose you, Ao Bing."
A flicker of emotion passed through Ao Bing's eyes as he smiled slightly. "I feel the same way, Nezha. Thank you for risking yourself to save me."
Clearing his throat, Ao Lie broke the tender moment between them. "It seems the prince's condition has stabilized. I will go report to the Elders." With that, he discreetly left the room, closing the door behind him.
Only Nezha and Ao Bing remained in the room, and the atmosphere became somewhat delicate. Nezha scratched his head, unsure of what to say; Ao Bing quietly watched him with a smile in his eyes.
"What are you laughing at?" Nezha asked awkwardly.
Ao Bing replied softly, "I was just thinking that someone who usually seems impulsive can become the most reliable support at crucial moments."
Nezha chuckled shyly. "Is that a compliment?"
"Of course," Ao Bing nodded seriously. "But next time, don’t push yourself so hard. It pains me to see you hurt."
Those words warmed Nezha's heart as he grasped Ao Bing's hand tightly. "As long as you're safe, it's worth it for me to endure any pain."
Ao Bing shook his head gently. "That's not how it should be, Nezha. We should face difficulties together, not have you bear everything alone."
After a moment of silence, Nezha finally nodded. "You're right. But..." His expression suddenly turned serious. "Ao Bing, can the Dragon Tribe and Demon Orb really coexist peacefully? Will your people accept me?"
Ao Bing thought for a moment before responding firmly. "It may take time, but I believe they will. Your actions today have already shattered the Dragon Tribe's prejudices against the Demon Orb. You saved the Dragon Palace and the Dragon Tribe; this kindness will not be forgotten."
Nezha still looked worried. "But those old stubborn members of the Elders..."
"Don't worry," Ao Bing interrupted him with a smile. "With me here, no one will dare to say anything. Besides, if the Dragon Prince and the Child of the Demon Sphere can coexist peacefully, even..." He paused for a moment, a faint blush appearing on his face, "even fall in love, then that itself is the best rebuttal to a thousand years of fate."
Nezha's heart raced. "Ao Bing, are you saying..."
Ao Bing did not shy away from his gaze. "I'm saying we have proven that so-called fate is merely a product of people's prejudices and fears. The Demon Orb and Dragon Tribe are not natural enemies; they can understand and support each other. Just like water and fire seem to oppose each other but can merge under the right conditions to create greater strength."
Nezha was deeply moved by Ao Bing's words; the last trace of doubt in his heart vanished. He tightened his grip on Ao Bing's hand, determination shining in his eyes. "Ao Bing, no matter how difficult the road ahead is or what challenges we face, I will stand by your side. Together we will break free from fate and create our own future."
Ao Bing smiled and nodded; although he still felt weak, his eyes were filled with vitality and hope. "I feel the same way, Nezha. From now on, whether facing doubts from the Dragon Tribe or prejudice from the Human World, we will face it together."
In that moment, an invisible force seemed to flow between them—stronger than Demon Sphere Power or any divine abilities of the Dragon Tribe—a powerful emotional connection. Suddenly feeling an impulse, Nezha leaned down and gently caressed Ao Bing's cheek. "Ao Bing, may I... kiss you?"
Ao Bing's cheeks flushed slightly, but he did not shy away; instead, he nodded gently with tenderness in his eyes.
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