Chapter 381

Chapter 381

Resisting the urge to break decorum and hug him, Yans heart broke as she watched Grandpa struggle with his emotions, unsure how to proceed after Rains demonstration forced him to action. Still laying on the floor, Jin Tok gaped like a fish on land while alternating his wide-eyed stare between Rain, Grandpa, and the crowd of disdainful nobles, unable to comprehend the nuances of what just happened or why no one would speak out against Rains actions. Arrogance and stupidity blinded Jin Tok to the truth laid bare for all to see. Grandpa was no longer merely a respected Teacher and former hero past his prime, but had reclaimed his standing as a Peak Expert of the Empire, a living legend few could hope to match, a man almost above criticism and reproach. Whats more, since they first met, Rain had gone from nameless savage to publicly accepted Number One Talent of the Empire and Imperial Consort, his standing so far above Jin Toks, they were as different as Heaven and Earth.Updated from novelbIn.(c)om

A child born into wealth and reputation, Jin Tok was a feckless half-wit dumbass who still had yet to realize how far his family had fallen. His heroic father made many enemies in life and Grandpa had to call in every chit and favour he had left just to keep the Cho family alive, but they were all too mule-brained to see it. What Jin Tok thought he could accomplish by ruining Grandpas return to glory, Yan would never understand, but despite the snivelling shit-bags hateful actions, she knew Grandpa would forgive him, for such was the price of love.

Much as she loathed Jin Tok, Grandpa only saw the child he once held in his arms and swore to cherish and protect, not the hateful man that child grew up to be. It broke her heart to see Grandpa in so much pain, so against her better judgment, she reached out and gave him a gentle push, so light it was more of a pat, but that was all the prompting he needed. Marching over with resolute purpose, he lifted Jin Tok onto his feet with a harsh glare, but ruined the authoritative atmosphere by straightening the shit-bags clothes and smoothing his hair like a proper doting grandfather would. Whatever Grandpa Sent made Jin Tok shrink like a turtle into his shell, but from his aggrieved expression, Yan wagered the idiot hadnt learned a damned thing from the experience.

They would have all been better off if Rain had cut Jin Toks throat, but Grandpa would never forgive him for it, especially since he was already partially responsible for instigating the feud between Kai and the People which started the sequence of events which led to Kais death.

Keeping a firm grip on Jin Toks arm as if afraid hed bolt and run, Grandpa apologized to the crowd and excused them both, dragging the shit-bag away for a verbal haranguing, but he was too soft-hearted to do more. A real shame since Jin Tok could do with a caning or twelve, but sadly, all Yan could do was learn to tolerate his presence since it seemed like he would once again be a part of Grandpas life. Putting it out of her mind, she commanded Shana to hang back as she approached the Chief Provost and the Blacksmith, hoping to get through the next bit without the sweet girl chittering for hugs and treats. Careful to stop at a safe distance so she wouldnt accidentally poke anyone with her horns, she showed her respect with a full bow while her words made her position clear. Du Min Yan greets Lieutenant General Akanai and Divine Blacksmith Husolt. On behalf of Grandfather, this one thanks you for coming and apologizes for his unexpected departure.

Still yet to recover from Jin Toks disruption, the crowd didnt even pretend they werent listening in on the conversation, waiting to see if the Chief Provost would claim credit for Yans impressive Martial prowess or otherwise denigrate the living legend. Truth be told, the People deserved at least half the credit, for while Grandpas teachings sped things along, at least once a week hed sigh and shake his head while admitting she would have excelled even without his guidance. It was a matter of pride and it wounded his greatly to believe hed stolen Yan from the People, but she knew they didnt see it that way.

Well... most didnt.

With a smile and a nod, the Chief Provost replied, Your time in Central has served you well. I hardly recognized you on stage the first day during your phenomenal performance against Wu Gam. Her reminder earned her a derisive snort from the surly Eccentric sitting nearby, but the Chief Provost merely ignored him and continued. So young and already utilizing External Chi, Du Min Gyus prowess as a teacher may even surpass his already formidable skills as a warrior. Admirable indeed. While the crowd voiced their agreement, the Chief Provost Sent, It gladdens my heart to see you thriving child. I know how difficult it must have been as a woman and demi-human in Central, so allow me to profess my admiration for your strength of will and character.

Her cheeks blazing from the high praise, Yan mumbled her thanks as the Blacksmith winked and nodded at her shield hanging from her shoulder. Your fan is a pretty piece, but I told you before, your shield is a piece of Inspired work, some of my best. Dont neglect it now, or youll break my heart, girly.

Beaming from the amicable exchange, she nodded and chose her words carefully so not as to give away their silent exchange. Thank you for the high praise. This one is undeserving and still has much to learn, but she will always remember her roots. A month ago, she wouldnt have dared utter those last words as it would have given rise to a public condemnation of both her and Grandpa, but now she could proudly declare her origins instead of hiding them like a shameful secret.

It stung to admit it was mostly due to Grandpa and Rain rather than her own efforts, but she wouldnt complain too much about it.

The unsharpened spear in question stood a little ways off, the centre of attention now that Grandpa was gone, fending off a horde of fawning bootlickers with his customary tactless, unintentional discourtesy. Shed already noted this during his improvised strip show on the streets of Nan Ping, but Rain had changed considerably in their time apart. Gone was the scrawny, slouching, bedraggled youth, and in his place was a strapping young man dressed to impress and brimming with confidence. Although he still had plenty to go before he could be called anything but lean, his wiry athletic form filled out his high-necked tunic well, his shoulders broader and back wider now that he stood up straight, and his pants were just tight enough to give an impression of his cute butt and shapely calves. Though shorter than most, if not all the guests, there was an air of command about him, not demanding respect, but expecting it, yet still friendly and approachable thanks to his easy, charming smile. Longer than she remembered, his silken black hair was brushed to one side, showing off his piercing amber eyes to full effect. When his sharp gaze locked onto her eyes, a chill of fear ran down her spine while a shudder of excitement coursed through her, ready to follow him into the closest room and do whatever he bid her.

Mother Above. He had no right looking as handsome as he did, no right at all. How was a woman to resist?

Freeing himself from the crowd with the help of his Death Corps guards, Rain made his way over to Milas side and greeted Yan with his brilliant smile, so genuine and goofy her heart melted to see it. Yan, he said, slipping his arm around Milas waist. Its so good to see you again.

And that was it. No I missed you, no I still love you, not even a joke about becoming his fourth wife. Just, good to see you while being all lovey-lovey with Mila. When did they become so intimate? Uptight Mila seemed perfectly fine with this public show of affection despite her parents standing only a few metres away. It wasnt anything overtly salacious or indecent, merely one hand resting on her hip, but their actions were so casual and practised it spoke of a deep level of trust and affection, far more than theyd shared when Yan parted ways. To make matters worse, Rains new concubine towered over them nearby, a gorgeous goddess with long legs and huge tits whose every action exuded sex appeal as she clung to her Lord Husbands sleeve and studied Yan with a wary gaze. With Lins undeniable charisma thrown into the mix, was there even still room for Yan in Rains cluttered love life?

Fucking hell. What a difference a year makes...

Summoning a phony smile, Yan swallowed her disappointment and replied, Good to see you too. Turning aside, she wave Dain over and said, Let me introduce you to my new... What would I call you anyways? My God-Sister?

The willowy womans smile had a seductive cast to it, her eyes half-lidded and head held at a slight tilt, giving her the illusion of vulnerability despite being one of the most dangerous young women Yan knew. Actually, she drawled, linking arms with Yan as she spoke, Weve met, and since you call Godfather Grandpa, I would technically be your God-Aunt. Be a good little girl Yan-Yan, and greet your God-Aunt nicely. With a petulant smile, Dain switched to Sending and said, You naughty, deceitful seductress. To think, I spent an entire morning raving about how bold and daring Falling Rain was yet you didnt see fit to tell me hes smitten with you.

Smitten?

Yes, utterly smitten and ready to heel at your command. Have you seen the way he looks at you? Like a starving predator lying in wait. Ive already forced you to share your beloved Grandpa, so your God-Aunt wont fight you for your little lover, even after such a spectacular and seductive display of arrogance and power. Pursing her lips, Dain added, That said, he seems like a man of voracious appetite, so if hes looking to add to his harem, be sure to think of your dear God-Aunt first, okay? I wont settle for being his concubine, but neither will I insist on the position of primary wife. Mother and Father have been nagging me to marry for years now, and I fear theyre contemplating having me drugged, chained, and sold off to my prospective husband-to-be.

Starving predator huh? Brimming with confidence thanks to Dains perspective, Yan completed the introductions and stepped aside to greet Li Song, even though the two of them werent that close. In fact, the surly wildcat seemed overtly antagonistic and Yan had no idea why, but she couldnt be bothered to puzzle out why. Knowing Rain was still interested filled Yan with both joy and trepidation, her heart pounding and nerves aflutter as she struggled for control. He still cares, so dont screw it up, but youre not orphan Adujan anymore. Youre Du Min Yan and you cant afford to be seen throwing yourself at men. You must be ladylike and demure lest you bring shame upon the Du family name, even though no one blinks twice when the men of Central whore about with reckless abandon. Thus, she had to be sneaky about throwing herself at Rain and wait until after nightfall to seduce him.

Only a few hours more, and then...

Chapter Meme