The lackey dared not say no. It had taken him considerable effort to get close to Mr. Zhong Jr., and if he were to leave a bad impression and get replaced, all his years of effort would be in vain.<br>Moreover, Mr. Zhong Jr. hailed from a mysterious family. Even though he had recently gained the family’s trust and was allowed to stay by Zhong Jr.’s side, he still hadn’t grasped the depth of this family’s background.<br>It wasn’t that he didn’t want to figure it out, but rather he didn't dare to.<br>He knew better than to speak out of turn. What he should know, the master would tell him when in a good mood; in a bad mood, one would do well not to ask unnecessary questions or be overly curious.<br>At the same time, he knew that Mr. Zhong Jr. was different from the typical spoiled second-generation rich heirs. He was competent and someone who didn’t easily show his emotions.<br>They had been in this place for about a month. Every week, Mr. Zhong Jr. would visit Gu Yue Studio to chat with that eccentric old lady.<br>It was evident that the true owner of Gu Yue Studio was a difficult old lady to deal with. Throughout their many visits, she hadn’t shown Mr. Zhong Jr. any kindness. At times, the lackey found it unbearable, but his employer remained calm and composed.<br>Thus, the lackey grew even more cautious. With a boss like this, any misstep on his part could have dire consequences. But if he did things correctly and pleased his boss, the rewards would be considerable.<br>The lackey was convinced that Mr. Zhong Jr. had taken an interest in the old lady’s granddaughter, Cherry Zhang. Every time after leaving, he would sit in Cherry Zhang’s office, openly displaying his admiration. However, the girl didn’t seem to return his feelings.<br>Later, the lackey privately inquired about Cherry Zhang’s background. He learned that she was still a student but spent most of her time managing affairs at Gu Yue Studio. Currently, there was no indication she was involved with anyone and seemed to be single.<br>Finding the right opportunity, he relayed this information to Mr. Zhong Jr., who didn’t scold him for meddling but merely nodded in acknowledgment. That day, Mr. Zhong Jr. appeared to be in a good mood, casually buying a jade plaque from the antique shop and giving it away.<br>The lackey knew he had made the right gamble and thus became even more attentive to matters concerning Cherry Zhang.<br>“I don’t like your tailing lackey. He doesn’t even look like someone worth mentioning.”<br>While mulling over whether he should investigate the young man Cherry Zhang had invited, the lackey suddenly heard a voice that chilled him to the bone.<br>This damned old lady!<br>But the lackey didn’t dare to retort. Before this foul-tempered old lady, his usually composed boss was uncharacteristically gentle. Despite her sour demeanor, it proved she wasn’t someone to be trifled with. So, he stared at the floor, pretending he hadn’t heard anything.<br>“If the old lady doesn’t like it, let him wait outside,” Mr. Zhong Jr. said with a slight smile, turning his head and instructing calmly, “Cheng Yun, wait outside.”<br>The lackey... Cheng Yun dared not show any discontent. He nodded and silently left the room.<br>This was the office of the true owner of Gu Yue Studio. Though the sign outside bore the modern title of ‘Chairman,’ the interior was decorated in a classical style.<br>The room had screens, a wooden threshold, and green stone slabs. Royal palace chairs in mortise and tenon structure were placed by the window.<br>A bead curtain hung by the entrance, and inside was a small red sandalwood desk. On its left stood a pen holder, inkstone, and paperweight, while the right side was stacked with ancient books.<br>In one corner of the room lay a replica of the Fuxi Nine-Heaven Melody Guqin. Its surface was spotless, suggesting it was either rarely used or well-maintained.<br>Watching Cheng Yun leave, Madam Zhang gently swayed the silk fan in her hand and said slowly, “The young one from the Zhong family has remarkable patience. He’s much better than that old man of yours, who always seemed to have swallowed dynamite.”<br>“Madam, my grandfather has mellowed significantly in recent years, focusing on painting and calligraphy,” Mr. Zhong Jr. replied.<br>Madam Zhang said, “I left the stormy capital decades ago, made it clear to everyone that I, Zhang Lifanlan, wanted no part in their petty squabbles, and just wished to enjoy my twilight years in peace. But as the saying goes, no one visits The Temple of Trinity Treasures without a reason. It’s unlikely the old man from the Zhong family suddenly remembered past sentiments and sent you here for no reason.”<br>Madam Zhang’s gaze shifted to Mr. Zhong Jr. Despite her graying hair, her complexion was healthy, exuding an aura of authority. “I see you’ve followed the rules and kept your composure during this time. I do appreciate such steady qualities in young people. I’ll give you a chance—tell me your story.”<br>Taking a deep breath, Mr. Zhong Jr. revealed a look of contentment. His efforts over these days had finally paid off. After carefully considering his words, he began softly, “I once heard an elder in my family mention some secrets. He said that this world is vast, filled with unimaginable wonders beyond the grasp of ordinary mortals.”<br>He paused before continuing in a more solemn tone, “I heard there’s a place in this world that can fulfill any wish a person has... I don’t know much, but the elder said you, Madam, are the one who knows it best.”<br>Madam Zhang suddenly chuckled coldly. “What an audacious claim from a young brat. Do you even realize that the place you speak of isn’t some sacred haven but a place where one makes deals with the devil?”<br>Mr. Zhong Jr.’s expression brightened, “The rumors... are indeed true. Madam, you know about that place... perhaps even visited it?”<br>Madam Zhang waved her fan, her demeanor abruptly changing. “I’m not feeling well today. Leave. And don’t come back.”<br>Seeing her turn cold, Zhong Luochen remained composed. He reached into his inner suit pocket and retrieved a brocade pouch. From it, he carefully emptied the contents onto the table. “Madam, Luochen knows he’s being a bit impatient. However, time doesn’t permit me to move slowly. News from home today... left me with no choice but to trouble you.”<br>What he placed on the table was a Jade Amulet.<br>Madam Zhang’s gaze flickered. She gently picked up the Jade Amulet, held it in her palm, and carefully stroked it. Finally, she sighed, “When I left that place of endless disputes years ago, I gave this Jade Amulet to my unfortunate sister, who had accompanied me since childhood. Are you truly ready to use this favor now?”<br>“My grandmother entrusted it to me before her death,” Zhong Luochen said softly. “She told me that if the Zhong family ever faced a crisis, this would be the only thing that could save us. I had no intention of using it, but given how deeply apprehensive you are of that place, I was compelled to bring it out.”<br>Madam Zhang clasped her hands together, holding the Jade Amulet tightly. She took a deep breath and said, “Go back. I’ll need time to think this over.”<br>Zhong Luochen nodded solemnly. “I hope Madam can provide an answer soon.”<br>“Tell me what this is about first,” Madam Zhang said.<br>Zhong Luochen hesitated before replying, “To be frank, it concerns my grandfather. Madam, the fiery-tempered old Zhong you knew... the doctors say he doesn’t have much time left.”<br>...)
