“Mr. Rhys is so generous, I truly don't know how to repay you,” said Hongniang.
Her fingertips gently traced the smooth texture of the jade box, her eyes shimmering with moisture. As she looked up at Dustin, her gaze was filled with gratitude.
“It was just a small favor, Miss Hongniang, no need to take it to heart,” Dustin said with a faint smile. “Besides, this item seems destined for the Third Prince—I’m merely offering it on his behalf.”
“What does Mr. Rhys desire in return? As long as it's within my ability, I’ll agree to it,” Hongniang said with a gentle smile.
“I ask for nothing else—only that should I encounter trouble in the future, the Third Prince will lend his support,” Dustin replied.
“I see. That makes sense.” Hongniang nodded.
So, he didn’t seek any treasure—only a favor from the Third Prince.
Given the prince's current position, a favor from him was worth more than any treasure.
And if the prince succeeded in ascending the throne and becoming the ruler of a nation, the value of that favor would multiply tenfold, even a hundredfold.
It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that even if Dustin committed a heinous crime in the future, this favor could save his life.
It had to be admitted—this was an incredibly smart move.
“It’s getting late. I won’t disturb Mr. Rhys’s rest any further.”
Hongniang rose and gave a graceful curtsy before casually adding, “Of course, if Mr. Rhys is interested, I’d be happy to join you for a game of chess tonight.”
Seeing Dustin momentarily stunned, Hongniang smiled charmingly and turned to leave.
Her light pink gauze skirt fluttered softly in the breeze, like a blossoming peach flower swaying gracefully, gradually disappearing at the courtyard gate.
“This woman... is truly a seductive enchantress,” Dustin muttered with a shake of his head.
He prided himself on his self-control, yet even he nearly lost his composure under Hongniang’s teasing glances and expressions.
Now that the Dragon Source Essence had been given, all that was left was to wait and see how things unfolded.
After leaving the villa, Hongniang made her way briskly to the study of Li Juntang Hall.
She knocked on the door, and upon receiving permission, gracefully stepped inside.
“Well? Any progress?” Prince Li motioned for her to sit and poured her a cup of tea.
He did not treat Hongniang like a mere servant—instead, more like an honored guest of the residence.
And indeed, Hongniang was worth such respect.
“Your Highness, I did not fail in my task. The Dragon Source Essence has been obtained,” she said, respectfully presenting the jade box.
“Oh?” Li Juntang’s eyebrows rose as he eagerly took the box and carefully opened it.
When he saw the faintly glowing Dragon Source Essence inside, his eyes lit up with joy. He couldn’t help but praise her: “Excellent! Excellent! Hongniang, you’ve done wonderfully!”
Li Juntang held the jade box tightly in his hands as if clutching a priceless treasure.
He had expected it would take more effort—he hadn't imagined things would go this smoothly.
Clearly, sending Hongniang had been the perfect decision.
“It is my honor to serve Your Highness,” Hongniang replied with a slight bow, always maintaining her humility.
Though Li Juntang treated her as a guest, she knew better than to act as one.
“Since Dustin has handed over the Dragon Source Essence, what are his intentions? Does he plan to pledge loyalty to me?” Li Juntang asked again.
“Mr. Rhys said he needs to give it more careful thought. This cannot be rushed. I hope Your Highness can be patient. With his wisdom, I’m sure he understands your sincerity. But this concerns his future, so it's only natural he’s cautious,” she replied.
“No matter. As long as the Dragon Source Essence is in hand, whether he chooses to align with me or not can be dealt with later. You may go and get some rest,” Li Juntang said, not pressing the matter.
He was smart enough to see that Dustin was still observing the situation, waiting for the right moment to act.
In short, Dustin might offer help during good times, but likely wouldn’t take risks in adversity.
Still, even a small gesture of support during good times was valuable—so he would make sure Dustin received proper treatment regardless.
Night fell like ink, draping over the entire estate.
Moonlight filtered through the clouds, casting a cool, silvery glow.
Li Juntang carefully tucked the Dragon Source Essence close to his body and, accompanied by two guards, headed toward a secluded courtyard.
This courtyard was surrounded by thorny hedges and tall walls. At the entrance stood two stern and imposing guards, their eyes sharp and focused.
They held long swords and stood motionless like statues, alert to every sound.
“Your Highness!”
As Li Juntang approached, the guards immediately bowed.
He nodded slightly and spoke in a low voice: “Open the gate.”
With a deep creak, the heavy gate slowly opened.
Li Juntang quickly stepped inside, walking down a shadowy path until he reached a seemingly ordinary building.
Two more guards stood by the entrance. After confirming his identity, they opened the door.
Inside, the room was dimly lit, with only a few oil lamps casting a faint glow.
Li Juntang walked to one of the walls and gently turned a hidden mechanism. With a loud rumble, the wall slowly opened, revealing a staircase leading downward.
He descended the stone steps, each one feeling like a step deeper into a secret world.
Finally, he entered a spacious chamber.
The chamber was filled with all kinds of rare and precious treasures—dazzling jewels, ancient weapons glowing coldly, and valuable books neatly arranged on shelves.
At the far end of the chamber stood a massive treasure vault. Its door was forged from refined iron and etched with complex runes. - Marinien
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