Chapter 408: He Has a Plan

Chen Guanlou had just drunk half a cup of tea and eaten two pastries when a beautiful maid came to invite him to the study, saying the Young Master had been waiting for some time.

He glanced at the maid's pretty face, then walked straight to the study without looking aside.

The Young Master's study differed greatly in style from the Elder Master's.

The Elder Master's study felt heavy and solemn, with few furnishings, each one a prized piece.

The Young Master's study was airy and bright, specially designed for optimal lighting, adorned lavishly rather than merely chasing after expensive items.

The desks, chairs, and benches were all chosen for comfort, not at all like a warrior's style—more like the indulgent, youthful idealism of a young man.

He silently calculated the age; the Young Master was probably seven or eight years older than him.

At first glance, he saw an ancient version of a "tycoon." He had a small beard, immaculately groomed from head to toe, with no jewelry at all—not even a crown, merely an ordinary gold one, not the jade crowns currently in fashion. He wore no pouch, no jade pendant, no ring on his fingers.

He radiated nothing but seriousness.

This was a warrior!

The moment Chen Guanlou saw him, his first impression was exactly that: a living warrior, born into a noble military family, hardened by years in the army, blending the aristocratic bearing of a noble son with the meticulous discipline of a soldier—perfectly fused.

It was the complete opposite of the Elder Master's free-spirited, world-weary, unrestrained style.

Yet, one could still see they were father and son—their facial features were similar, but their temperaments were entirely different.

"Greetings, Young Master!" Chen Guanlou bowed with a formal salute.

"Brother Lou, no need for such formalities—you and I are brothers, treat this place as your own home."

Chen Guanfu appeared stern, yet his speech was courteous and gentle.

"Brother Lou, please sit."

"Thank you, Young Master."

Chen Guanlou sat down on the right side.

"The chief steward has mentioned you many times to me; I grew curious, so I asked you here for a chat," Chen Guanfu spoke bluntly, laying out his reason plainly. Indeed, a warrior—direct in speech and action.

Chen Guanlou suddenly understood.

He'd thought: how could a nobody like him suddenly catch the Young Master's eye? It must be the chief steward's recommendation.

The chief steward truly was "relentlessly instructive."

"You handled the last mission very well—it saved us a great deal of trouble."

"Are you referring to the escort mission for the prisoner and goods? That was nothing. I merely relied on the Tianlao's reputation and Hou Fu's covert connections to make the journey so smooth."

Chen Guanfu laughed. "Brother Lou, no need for such modesty. I always speak plainly: what's yours is yours, and no one can take it away. Reputation and connections? In the end, it all comes down to people. Find the right person, and you double your results. Find the wrong one—ah, no need to dwell on that. Today is our first meeting; let's get to know each other, and after that, keep in touch. If you ever need anything, come straight to me—I'll stand up for you."

"Thank you, Young Master!" Chen Guanlou meant it. He liked dealing with straightforward people. Even if this wasn't the man's true nature, at least the tone of this conversation was pleasant and harmonious.

Chen Guanfu continued: "I heard from the chief steward that you insist on staying in Tianlao instead of entering officialdom. Don't rush to defend yourself—everyone has their own path. I believe you have your reasons for staying in Tianlao. That place… well, it's a hidden treasure, if you know how to use it. Clearly, you're a clever man. I won't urge you to leave Tianlao—stay if you wish. If anyone harasses or frames you, you may use Hou Fu's name to strike back. If you're outmatched, you may seek help from Hou Fu. That is my promise to you."

Huh?

He must've had incredible luck today—two people rushing to show him kindness. Good people indeed!

"The Young Master treats me so well—I'm deeply grateful. If you have any task for me, just give the order."

Chen Guanlou firmly believed there was no such thing as a free lunch.

Chen Guanfu showing him kindness couldn't possibly be without motive.

What could he possibly offer that would warrant the attention of a Marquis's heir? Was he being asked to transport goods again? Or was there someone in Tianlao connected to this matter, requiring extra care?

Chen Guanfu stared at him.

Chen Guanlou held his teacup, pretending to sip.

Hou Fu's tea was delicious—top-grade tea brewed to perfection, better even than the Emperor's, since the suppliers didn't fear being executed for failing to deliver.

"The rebel leader Da Ming Wang should be nearing the capital soon," Chen Guanfu said after a pause, naming a major case, a figure of nationwide attention.

Chen Guanlou's heart skipped. Sure enough—he'd known there was no free lunch. There was a motive.

He felt no surprise, no anger—only a sense of relief, as if the long-awaited moment had finally arrived.

Just like him—he never showed kindness without reason. There had to be reciprocity, some value worth helping. Money was the clearest measure.

Occasional acts of goodwill were small, effortless things—like giving a beggar on the street a steamed bun. How big a deal could that be?

"According to the route, he'll reach the capital in three days," Chen Guanlou replied honestly.

"Has Tianlao made preparations?"

Chen Guanlou nodded. "I had a cell specially modified to ensure the prisoner's safety."

"Yes, ensuring the prisoner's safety is paramount. Next spring, the Emperor plans to use Da Ming Wang's flesh and blood in a heavenly sacrifice. The prisoner must not suffer even the slightest mishap."

Chen Guanlou wondered: what did Hou Fu truly intend? If they wanted Da Ming Wang dead, they needn't go through such trouble. The prisoner was captured by the Elder Master—he could've killed him quietly on the battlefield, with no consequences, without waiting until the capital.

Release him?

Also unnecessary.

Letting him go on the battlefield was easier than killing him. Same reason: no need to wait until the capital.

Then what?

Annoy the old Emperor!

In an instant, Chen Guanlou felt a flash of insight—he grasped the sudden impulse.

How to annoy the old Emperor?

Chen Guanlou felt nervous, excited, eager—no sense of being set up to take the blame, no thought of consequences.

Chen Guanfu weighed his words carefully, then said: "When Da Ming Wang arrives in the capital, treat him well. Don't let him be mistreated. If needed, fulfill his requests. Any expenses will be covered by Hou Fu."

Huh?

Chen Guanlou asked: "Is this the Elder Master's wish, or yours?"

"Does it matter?"

"There's still some difference."

"Tell me why."

"If it's the Elder Master's wish, is it because he still remembers their years of battlefield camaraderie? But if it's your wish, I can't help but think deeper."

Chen Guanfu suddenly laughed, his gaze heavy with meaning: "Think as deeply as you like. You may even write down your thoughts and send them to me."