Chapter 45 - Confirmation
“Awoo…” The fiery-red young fox darted precisely into Yin Xu's arms, but in an instant, it emitted a shrill cry and sprang away from his grasp.
Initially bewildered, Yin Xu soon comprehended the situation as he observed the fox taking a few steps back, baring its fangs at him. Glancing at the fiery-red fox fur draped over him, realization dawned.
With a malevolent grin, he advanced toward the young fox, drawing closer until they were face to face. “Oh, how unfortunate. If you disobey me again, I'll flay you alive and fashion you into this coat!”
Emitting a few hisses, the young fox's black eyes shimmered with tears, evoking genuine sympathy.
Yin Xu chuckled sinisterly, prodding the fox's nose with his finger.
The young fox retaliated by biting his finger before swiftly retreating into the wall.
Unperturbed, Yin Xu flicked his finger, removing the fox fur coat and tossing it to Teng Yu. He then approached the distressed creature, lifting it gently and offering solace, “Alright, no need to wear this color again in front of me.”
The young red fox's gaze followed the fox fur, witnessing it in Teng Yu's grasp, prompting it to attempt a leap toward Teng Yu with a claw.
Yin Xu enveloped it in his embrace, grinning at Teng Yu, “Seems it has taken a dislike to you.”
Teng Yu shrugged. Was he concerned about the animosity of a mere beast? He lightly tapped the young red fox's head with his hand before striding past the owner and entering the house.
Yet, despite Yin Xu's threat, why did the young fox hold no grudge against him?
Inside the house, Han Qing engaged Wu Sheng in a wrist-strength contest, effortlessly overpowering him, while Han Sen and the butler savored tea and played chess, appearing at ease.
“His Highness is back.”
“Madam.” The four individuals rose and bowed to Teng Yu. Then, they heard from Han Sen, “Your Highness, the County Magistrate of An County arrived earlier, unaware of Your Highness's presence.”
“Indeed.” Teng Yu glanced over his shoulder, jesting, “I hadn't realized Seventh Young Master was living in such luxury, even garnering gifts from county officials.”
“Of course, of course.” Yin Xu feigned ignorance to his teasing and carried the young fox into his quarters.
Upon entering the cozy room, the young fox swiftly leaped from Yin Xu's arms, scampering onto the bed and nuzzling under the blankets.
Yin Xu ignored the fox, for Teng Yu had arrived. It seemed unreasonable for him to endure the chill of a solitary bed when company was present.
He changed attire, exchanged footwear, and retrieved two vials of medicine from a secured cabinet.
Teng Yu's quarters were adjacent to his own. Initially, the butler contemplated offering his master's room to accommodate their esteemed guest. However, recalling his master's prior behavior towards the First Prince and others, he abandoned the notion.
Fortunately, Teng Yu wasn't particular about such matters. While he projected extravagance and indulgence in public, he would endure more adversity in the future than most. Furthermore, compared to the First Prince, his treatment at the Huo Family Villa was rather favorable.
“Knock, knock.” Yin Xu rapped on the door of the guest room.
“Come in.”
Pushing the door open, Yin Xu entered to find Han Sen awaiting him, a bucket of hot water positioned nearby, suggesting Han Sen's intent to bathe.
“Perfect timing. Add a few drops of this medicinal oil to the water. It aids in meridian clearance and bone fortification,” Yin Xu instructed, extending a small red bottle.
Handling items intended for His Highness required caution. Yet, Teng Yu swiftly caught the bottle, casually removing the cork to sniff.
Teng Yu's eyes brightened, his fingers quivering. He struggled to maintain composure as he inquired, “What is this? Its flavor is peculiar.”
“Even if I disclosed it, you wouldn't recognize it.” This concoction was tailored by Yin Xu for his current condition, specifically beneficial for individuals with impaired meridians. The formula remained Yin Xu's closely guarded secret.
Teng Yu wasn't overly curious about the formula. Now aware of the source of the scent, his emotions stirred.
The presence of this item in Yin Xu's possession, along with the distinct aroma, affirmed his involvement in the Loong'an Temple incidents. Yet, questions lingered: Why did he visit? How did he attain invisibility? What transpired?
With Yin Xu's identity confirmed, these mysteries would eventually unravel.
Teng Yu glanced meaningfully at Yin Xu, directing Han Sen to add the medicine to the water. He resolved to retain this youth's company, contemplating consequences if unsuccessful.
“Two or three drops suffice; return the remainder,” Yin Xu instructed. Not out of stinginess, but due to the rarity of the medicinal oil. He possessed only one bottle, reserved for emergencies like Teng Yu's injury.
Han Sen complied, dropping three careful drops into the bath, emitting a peculiar fragrance.
Having grown accustomed to palace scents, Han Sen initially anticipated a foul odor. Surprisingly, the medicinal fragrance rivaled superior incense.
If Yin Xu were privy to Han Sen's thoughts, he'd surely scoff. As a Demon Elder, he wouldn't tolerate medicinal odors tarnishing his presence.
Teng Yu shed his final garment, easing into the bath's warmth, experiencing utmost comfort.
Channeling his inner energy, Teng Yu noted an acceleration in circulation, aligning with the oil's meridian-clearing effects.
As the medicinal aroma dissipated, Teng Yu maximized his cultivation, rising only when the water cooled.
Visit freewe𝑏(n)ovel.co(m) for the b𝘦st novel reading experience