บท 31: Poisonous beauty

On the other side of the capital, hidden within the walls of The Cinnamon Mockingbird Restaurant, two figures engaged in a hushed conversation over tea.

Fragrances of exotic spices and freshly brewed tea filled the air, as delicate porcelain tea sets and embroidered silk curtains added to the atmosphere of refined luxury and privacy. The atmosphere spoke of exclusivity and secrecy, befitting the elite clientele it catered to.

"It seems this girl is quite hard to get a hold of. There are too many people who want her, both dead or alive," the man spoke, keeping his voice low and respectable, acknowledging the difficulty of the task at hand.

"Your duty is not to inform me of the challenges, Xifu," the other figure retorted sternly, exerting an oppressive air and demanding unwavering commitment.

The young master desired her, and as fast as possible. The first three attempts to secure her had ended in failure, leaving no room for further mistakes or missed opportunities, especially now that he knew there were forces seeking her demise. "Perhaps infiltrating her inner circle will be easier. Otherwise, the task of delivering her to me may stretch on indefinitely."

"I have failed you, Young Master," Xifu replied humbly, acknowledging his defeat with humility.

Xifu's initial attempt to kidnap Han Aeng had been foiled due to interference from an old man, the second ended in an empty carriage. As for his third attempt, its only fruit was the death of three of his personals.

So far this girl was staining his name time and time again.

"Why is that old man toying with me when he promised to hand her over?" The young master chuckled with a hint of amusement, but the venomous glint in his eyes sent shivers down Xifu's spine.

"After last night, they are likely to be vigilant in protecting her. However, I can expedite the process from within. There will always be a loose end somewhere, and I will find it," Xifu offered, confident in his ability to navigate the intricacies of the situation.

"I expect you to redeem yourself and demonstrate your unwavering loyalty, Xifu."

"Your servant is embarrassed of himself and will redeem himself and prove his sincerity," Xifu affirmed before picking up his tea.

The young master only passed a half-bored glance at Xifu before drinking his tea. "I will remain here until the Spring Solstice Festival, so plan accordingly. I look forward to departing with her adorning my arms."

Impatient yet practical, the young master continued, "Should all else fail, you will persist until you acquire her. I want her to reach me unharmed and secure, so handle her delicately."

"This servant understands, young master. I will obey your orders and bring you Li Wangfei," Xifu pledged, bowing his head in submission.

"Do not refer to her with such a distant title!" The young master's cup flew past Xifu's face, shattering against the wall. As the rage dissipated, his tone turned gentle. "Address her as Han Aeng."

Xifu felt a chill run down his spine at the young master's words. The intensity of his obsession with Han Aeng was undeniable, and Xifu understood the consequences of failure. He knew he had to tread carefully and meticulously execute his plan if he wanted to ensure both his own survival and the successful capture of Han Aeng.

"I will do as you command, young master," Xifu replied, his voice steady despite the unease that settled within him. "I will address her as Young Miss Han and handle her with utmost care."

The young master's gaze lingered on Xifu for a moment, his eyes filled with a mix of expectation and warning. "Remember, Xifu, you are expendable. Do not forget your place."

Xifu nodded, acknowledging the young master's reminder. He had served him faithfully for years, understanding the ruthless nature of his demands. Loyalty was his currency, and he knew that any wavering would lead to dire consequences.

The young master's voice turned chillingly low as he murmured, "My venomous beauty, it is time for you to come to me."