Chapter 13: Hesitation

As soon as the POS machine displayed a successful transaction, the expressions of the two qipao-clad hostesses changed dramatically. In an instant, the aloof arrogance vanished from their faces, replaced by warm, enchanting smiles.

“Mr. Zhou Jian, you really are full of surprises,” one of them gushed.

“That’s right, Mr. Zhou Jian. To think you’re so young and yet so capable—how impressive,” the other added, their faces brimming with admiration. They eagerly took Xu Yang’s hand, their words accompanied by the subtle, alluring sway of their shapely figures.

Xu Yang offered a cold smile. He hadn’t used his real name just now; instead, he had quietly set a trap for Zhou Jian.

At that moment, a woman in her late twenties, with a seductive figure and an alluring presence, swayed her slender waist as she approached Xu Yang.

“Young Master Zhou, my name is Jiao Jiao. Welcome to the Pavilion of Warm Fragrance. As our distinguished new guest, allow me to personally show you around today. I guarantee you’ll find both body and soul delighted, and have the most wonderful time.”

So she’s the madam here, Xu Yang mused with an inward laugh. He nodded, replying simply, “Very well.”

He then followed Jiao Jiao into the Pavilion of Warm Fragrance.

The grand hall glittered with opulence, and beauties of every shape and style stood in a line, each more stunning than the last, awaiting Xu Yang’s selection. As he took in the variety of exquisite faces and alluring forms, he felt a wave of heat rise within him.

But remembering his true purpose, Xu Yang quickly steadied himself.

“Young Master Zhou, if any of these young ladies catch your eye, just say the word. I promise you’ll enjoy yourself to the fullest,” Jiao Jiao said softly, her waist still swaying invitingly.

“No rush,” Xu Yang replied coolly. “I’ve heard that every building and landscape within the Pavilion of Warm Fragrance is of the highest caliber. I’d like to look around first and enjoy the scenery.”

His words left Jiao Jiao momentarily stunned.

The pavilion’s views were indeed beautiful, but what man ever came here for that? Every guest spent handsomely for the women, not the scenery. In all her years entertaining clients with peculiar tastes, Jiao Jiao had never encountered someone as unusual as Xu Yang.

“Young Master Zhou, we offer a wide range of experiences here,” she said. “Outdoor meadows, rooftop balconies, kitchens, baths—whatever setting you desire. You can even book a personal photographer or select a special costume. However you wish to play, the Pavilion of Warm Fragrance can accommodate you.”

Still, Jiao Jiao’s mind struggled to keep up, and she continued to promote her services with practiced enthusiasm.

“Very nice,” Xu Yang said, his tone indifferent. “But for now, I’d simply like to wander around on my own.”

“Ah?” Jiao Jiao exclaimed, unable to hide her astonishment.

“Is there a problem?” Xu Yang raised an eyebrow and asked.

“Not at all, not at all,” Jiao Jiao quickly replied. “If you wish to explore, please, feel free. I’d be delighted to guide you myself—our gardens are truly a sight to behold.”

“No need. I’ll walk around by myself. If I need anything, I’ll find you,” Xu Yang responded.

“Very well, of course,” Jiao Jiao nodded, though confusion still clouded her face as she watched him bypass the line of beauties and head alone toward the garden.

Just what sort of man is he, anyway? she wondered.

The overall layout of the Pavilion of Warm Fragrance was reminiscent of a Suzhou garden, with classical architecture that drew a silent sigh of admiration from Xu Yang.

The wealthy certainly know how to live, he thought. Even their debaucheries are conducted with such taste.

But he hadn’t forgotten his purpose here. Sparing only a passing glance at the scenery, Xu Yang made his way deeper into the courtyard, toward the most refined and secluded buildings.

“What are you doing here?” A tall, sharp-looking man stepped out to block his path as he approached.

“I’m here to see Young Master Chen. I was sent to deliver his medicine,” Xu Yang replied, patting his pocket as though to prove his point.

“Medicine? I wasn’t told my young master was ill,” the bodyguard replied, suspicion clouding his features as he eyed Xu Yang warily.

“Not that kind of medicine,” Xu Yang said, lowering his voice and adding a sly, knowing look that all men would understand. “The kind meant for use here at the Pavilion—very effective.”

At once, the bodyguard’s face lit with comprehension.

“He’s upstairs. I’ll take you,” the guard said.

“And why would you come along?” Xu Yang frowned, his voice turning cold.

“I’m the young master’s bodyguard and I don’t know you. Of course I have to go with you to ensure his safety,” the man answered matter-of-factly.

Xu Yang sneered. “How foolish,” he scoffed.

The bodyguard’s fists clenched as he glared. “What did you say?”

“I said you’re foolish. If I deliver this kind of medicine to Young Master Chen right in front of you, what would that do to his reputation? Do you want to lose your job as his bodyguard?” Xu Yang’s tone was icy, his gaze sharp and unyielding.

His words gave the bodyguard pause. After a brief hesitation, the man stepped aside without another word.

Xu Yang ascended the stairs, a quiet sense of satisfaction swelling within him. Ever since inheriting the legacy of the Emperor, his mind and reflexes had sharpened tremendously. In the past, he never would have dared attempt such a thing.

Reaching the second-floor door, Xu Yang did not hesitate—he pushed it open and strode inside.

A faint, powdery fragrance of women immediately greeted his senses.

“What do you want?” On the bed, a shirtless man lounged with a beautiful woman in his arms, his tone annoyed.

“Young Master Chen, I’ve brought you something special,” Xu Yang replied, his gaze steady on Chen Xing.

Chen Xing, clearly the worse for wear from his indulgences, scowled and snapped, “What is it? Don’t you know how to knock?”

“My apologies. I was in a hurry,” Xu Yang said with a smile, striding boldly up to the bed.

With two muffled thuds, Xu Yang struck both Chen Xing and the woman, rendering them unconscious before they could make a sound.

He glanced at the seductive woman sprawled on the bed and couldn’t help swallowing.

Then, pulling a silver needle from his pocket, Xu Yang pressed it into Chen Xing’s lower abdomen.

With a faint hiss, bright red blood began to flow.

Xu Yang nodded in satisfaction. Since it was his first time doing something like this, his heart pounded faster than usual, and a complicated expression crossed his face.