Lord Nine Thousand (23)

Chu Feng Qi's eyelids trembled slightly. The young man's fingertips were pressed against his fresh wound, rubbing it with a gentle, soothing motion that was both strange and alluring.

The youth did not dare to cry out in pain. His eyes were red and misty as he gasped, "I only wish to offer everything to you. If Lord Nine Thousand could dote on me just a little, it would be wonderful. I only want to please you."

He truly liked him—no matter what, he liked him immensely.

Du Chao Gong let out a soft chuckle and withdrew his fingers. He wiped them clean with a handkerchief and said nonchalantly, "I thought you were going to ask for something grand. Speak then; tell me to what extent you wish to be doted upon, and I shall consider it."

Anyone with a keen eye could see that Du Chao Gong was laying a trap. Standing nearby, Chen Ba shook his head in silent admiration; Chu Feng Qi was clever, but still green. If he truly asked for something significant, his real intentions toward Du Chao Gong would be laid bare.

However, everyone had overestimated Chu Feng Qi. The youth's eyes lit up with joy; had he been a small animal, his ears and tail would surely have perked up.

"Thank you, Lord Nine Thousand! My request is not much. You have already agreed to let me wash and iron your clothes; now I only hope you will allow me to learn a few dishes from your chef. Once I have mastered them, I will return to serve you."

Was he foolish or brilliant?

Upon hearing this, the various conspiratorial suspicions in Du Chao Gong's heart dissipated, replaced only by surprise.

Perhaps because he had obtained the answer he wanted, the young man no longer cared what Chu Feng Qi’s motives were. His expression turned faint as he said softly, "Since you have gone to such lengths to ask, it would be remiss of me not to agree."

As he finished speaking, the corners of his lips curled into a cold smile. "But if any mistakes occur, I will not forgive you easily."

This threat did not make the youth flinch. On the contrary, he narrowed his eyes and smiled with utmost obedience. His smile was pure and devoid of any ulterior motives, making Du Chao Gong look like the villain in comparison. "Once a promise is made, I will surely devote my all to fulfilling it. I will never fail Lord Nine Thousand's expectations."

Du Chao Gong gave a cold "hm," his tone turning indifferent. "Dismissed. Your presence is no longer required here."

Though loath to leave, Chu Feng Qi knew when to stop. He bowed in farewell and departed.

Perhaps because he had been using his wits all day, Chu Feng Qi only felt the pangs of hunger once he relaxed. On his way, he silently thanked his "elder brother" for the advice. After wandering for a while, he finally found the kitchen. Just as he was about to enter, someone laughingly blocked his path.

Seeing Chu Feng Qi stop, the man withdrew his hand and explained, "Seventh Highness, someone has already reported that Your Highness has not yet eaten. After you have finished your meal, your studies will officially begin tomorrow. Please, do not be in such a hurry."