Chapter 3: This Young Master Needs Some Trust

Chapter 3: This Young Master Needs Some Trust

Thanks to his little stunt they were bundled off into his carriage by the Lan Family and sent off back to the manor. Lan Fen had sat as far away from him as possible and they had passed the ride in silence. Arriving at the estate wasnt much better. Mr. Goatee seemed well aware of whatever scummy deal his predecessor made with the Lan family and had two burly guards ready to escort Lan Fen to his room.

Despite the servants already doing their best to avoid him the manor was particularly desolate at the moment. What few servants he saw quickly completed their chores and made themselves scarce. Chen felt his heart sink with every further confirmation that yes, his new identity was a terrible human being and everyone seemed to know it.

Lan Fen was still unreadable beneath her veil. Her steps were slow and measured like a soldier walking into hell. Chen stopped just after the door and watched the guards escort her into the bedroom. Mr. Goatee looked indifferent to the whole affair and simply bowed when the guards exited.

I wish you a joyous night Young Master, I will make sure none disturb you, Mr. Goatee said.

Have someone send up some water, Chen replied.

Of course Young Master I will have them send up wine as well-

No, Chen interrupted forcefully Just water.

Mr. Goatee narrowed his eyes and for a brief moment, Chen felt a thrill of terror that he had noticed something. Instead, Mr. Goatee bowed again.

Of course Young Master.

He checked the connection again to see if anything had changed but it still registered as valid. After tonight hed have to confront Mr. Goatee and establish the connection no matter the risk, he was running out of options. Of course, that was assuming he made it through the night.

The door closed.

Lan Fen was standing at the foot of the bed facing him. He could feel her eyes follow him as he walked across the room and pulled out a chair across from her and sat down.

So, he said. Perfect opening.

Silence.

Off to a great start then.

You can sit if youd like?

You are telling the truth? Lan Fen said with what almost sounded like awe in her voice.

How do you figure that? He hadnt said anything particularly convincing after all.

Even if everything you said was some sort of ploy to lower my guard Chen Haoran lacks the mind needed to stand such insults.

So you believe me?

What are you?

Good enough. He summoned up the burning words and pushed for lack of a better term. It felt as if something was snapping into place and filling what was once an empty space.

Benefactors Everlasting Hundred Blessings Charitable Prosperity

Spouse Lan Fen

Well it was different at least. Chen Haoran supposed it was his fault to assume that it would show him a user manual or something.

Hey-, he was cut off by a knock at the door. Chen Haoran opened it to find the water he had asked for, the servant held it high even as she bowed so low she was practically prostrating. Thank you, he said as he took the pitcher and cups from her. She ran without looking back.

Would you like some? He asked Lan Fen. She tilted her head at the water and didnt say anything.

Oh right, of course, youd be suspicious of it. Not surprising considering the circumstances but he didnt think she was any less parched than he was. He made sure she could see the pitcher as he poured himself a cup and downed it in one go. He motioned the pitcher at her.

Please, she finally said.

He filled her cup and handed it to her at arm's length where she received it gracefully. She tipped a finger into the water and tasted it before finally lifting her veil.

Chen Haoran wasnt ashamed to say that he was captivated. He had felt the power in her voice and saw that same power in her face, the kind carved into a warrior statue. She had the look of eagles about her with golden eyes that pierced him. Needless to say, he lost that staring contest. Lan Bitch had said something before about Lan Fen being at the Ninth Layer of the Qi Realm he didnt know how that compared to his own power but something told him that Lan Fen was much much stronger than he was before whatever accident she had.

After winning their impromptu staring contest some tension seemed to leave her shoulders and she finally drank.

Received Hundredfold: Pure Spirit Wate