One day passed since our last conversation, Yuexin seemingly offended by my intimidation, but it doesn't matter.
I look out of the window, and tall city walls slowly become visible on the horizon.
''Finally, Zhenwu City.''
Yuexin also glances out of the window, then her gaze shifts back down, as if nervous about what's to come.
''Relax. You said it yourself. Han family is small.''
I continue, doing my best to reassure her.
''Surely, the Young Lady from the Lan family wouldn't be intimidated by us.''
She gives me a disapproving look, but doesn't say anything.
''If you have something to say, just sa-.''
''What do you even know? My father will blame me for this conflict, the Duchy, your father, everyone!''
Her pitch high and voice loud, clearly reaching far past her limit.
''You were right, it was my selfish actions that got us here! But so what? Am I supposed to marry some idiot? Live to be a toy to him?''
A small tear forming in her eye, her voice almost breaking down.
''So many people will die because of me. Because of him. How can I even look into your father's eyes?''
Sniff.
Oh. Well, that's a little awkward.
Considering that she's a sheltered Young Lady, maybe it's impressive she held on till now.
I can't have you ruining my plan however.
''Lady Yuexin. While what you said is correct, it would be good to focus on the future, not the past.''
I speak slowly, my voice gentle and calm.
''You've had your first taste of politics. As a Young Lady of the prestigious Lan family, it won't be your last.''
I lean back, my eyes closed.
''You won't be the only person to blame. I was there with you, and I'm sure my father will be angry with me too.''
She looks at me, her eyes swollen from her outburst.
''But it's not your fault. I forced you to escort me... It's not the same.''
With a chuckle, I lean back towards her. My eyes now looking deeply into hers.
''No one will care about the details. I was there, and that's enough to them.''
I continue,
''Do you know why I'm not worried?''
She wipes a tear, her eyes full of curiosity.
''W-why?''
A smile tugs on my lips.
''Because even bad situations can be turned into benefits.''
I stand up, my posture confident and energetic.
''Just think about it. Think about what you can do now. Xu family made a mistake. They underestimated my family, and declared war on both of us.''
My tone playful, almost eager.
''This makes negotiations easy. And if the negotiations go well, and we win the war...''
I sit back down, my voice low, but still as confident as before.
''Think about how many benefits we will get from their territory.''
I continue,
''This is your priority, Lady Yuexin. Ensure that the negotiations go well and reap the benefits from the conflict. This is the whole point of politics. This is why everyone seeks conflicts.''
My voice an octave lower, a fraction of my Qi infused into it to give it more weight.
''Promise Patriarch Han as many benefits as you can. If you do, I will promise you one thing...''
My lips form into a smirk, my gaze cold and ruthless.
''We will annihilate the Xu family...''
Hearing my bold declaration, her eyes widen for a second, but then they turn resolute.
''I understand. I'll do as you say.''
She gives me a nod and falls into deep thought.
.
After passing the checkpoint, we make our way to the Han family estate.
''Han Ye.''
Hmm? She called me by name.
''Yes, Lad-''
''Just Yuexin is fine.''
Before I even finish my sentence, she cuts me off abruptly.
What's with this sudden change?
''Well then, what is it, Yuexin?''
She stops in her tracks, just before the entrance towards the Han family estate.
''I will make sure that negotiations go well.''
She pauses for half a breath,
''In return, keep your promise.''
The previous pitch is nowhere to be found. Her voice is heavier, unlike her previous self.
''I want you to annihilate as many members of the Xu family as possible.''
Unable to hold back my smile, I reassure her immediately.
''It will be my pleasure, Yuexin.''
Good girl, my dear Yuexin.
But you should be careful.
The more you want from me, the easier it will be for me to use you...
.
.
.
[STATUS]
[Name: Han Ye]
[Age: 18]
[Cultivation: Terror Manifestation Realm - Early Stage ▸ Foundation establishment - Early Stage▸ +]
[Fear Points: 35]
[Fear Points needed for the next stage: 1500]
[Techniques: Shadowless Step, Thousand Faces Arts (incomplete), Silent Pulse Breathing]
Authors note: If you're enjoying the novel so far, please add it to your collections! Every single one goes a long way. Honest review will be Great too!
Powerstones: If we can reach 70 power stones in a week, I will make one more chapter a day for 1 week. Let's do it!