I let out a soft chuckle, feigning ignorance.
''Terrifying? How so?''
The instructor looks at me in disbelief, his posture dropping slightly in resignation.
''Young Master, please be honest.''
He leans in closer, making sure no prying ears hear the next exchange.
''Is Young Master really in the Qi Gathering stage?''
I tilt my head slightly.
''I am. I believe I've told you before, Mr. Instructor. Late stage.''
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
''...''
I get it. It's unnatural, but you're scared enough to give me a point?
Really?
The instructor's brows furrow.
''Then… forgive me for asking, but why is your Qi so dense? So… terrifying?''
I don't know. I'm just standing here.
I didn't even know it's leaking out... until now, that is.
''Mr. Instructor, would you be so kind as to tell me your cultivation level?''
In one fluid motion, the instructor straightens his posture as if he's about to announce something grand.
''I am honored you would ask, Young Master.''
''I have reached the Mid Stage of Foundation Establishment.''
''...''
Why are you so smug about it? You gave me a notification.
Nonetheless, I need to keep up appearances. Anything for the book.
''That's quite an impressive achievement.''
I step forward, offering a polite smile.
''Our mansion is lucky to have you.''
Without thinking, I reach out and pat his shoulder. Just a friendly gesture.
CRACK!
…Oh. Right. The door incident.
The instructor's legs bend like a reed in the wind as he drops to his knees, clutching his shoulder.
[You've gained 3 points of Fear.]
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
[You've gained 2 points of Fear.]
His eyes are wide, his jaw dropped, like he's trying to come to terms with what just happened.
''Y-Young Master…''
The crowd is getting louder with each second, a few even trying to step up for their beloved instructor.
With a sharp gesture, he quickly stops them, his eyes determined and fixed on me.
If you move, we'll all die...
He takes a deep breath before finishing his sentence.
''D-did this old man... offend Young Master?''
I wish you did. Would make this mess easier to explain.
I could tell you the truth, but would you believe it?
Sigh.
Guess it's time for another performance.
''Offend? No... But I am displeased.''
I say, my tone flat and cold.
[You've gained 2 points of Fear.]
Upon hearing my words, the instructor quickly bows his head low.
All the disciples quickly follow his lead. Breaths shallow, no movement anywhere.
''However... I'm also impressed.''
I continue, pacing slowly and deliberately in front of them, hands behind my back.
''First, you approached me from behind.''
Step.
''Second, you pried into the Heir's cultivation.''
Step.
My gaze focused, voice razor sharp.
Step.
''What do you think Patriarch would say?''
I stop directly before him, close enough to feel his breath, towering over his kneeling figure.
THUD!
In sheer panic, his forehead slams into the floor.
''T-This old bag of bones would not dare!''
[You've gained 2 points of Fear.]
''But...''
I turn towards the disciples.
''Your disciples have left a deep impression on me.''
I give them a polite smile as I continue.
''Disciples are a reflection of their instructor... and their loyalty is admirable.''
Slowly, I pace towards the instructor again.
''Your mistakes aside, our family is fortunate to have an instructor such as yourself.''
I extend my hand, lifting him to his feet.
''I don't believe you've introduced yourself.''
Despite his still-trembling legs, he bows down to me respectfully.
''Th-this old one is Han Shixun, martial instructor of the escort trainees.''
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
''It's a pleasure, Instructor Han.''
I say, my voice gentle and polite again.
''It's unfortunate to meet under these circumstances, but my father's orders will not wait.''
Look at him stiffening up. Perfect.
''I was entrusted with a certain... matter of discretion.''
I start pacing away from the disciples.
Instructor Han understands my intentions and follows me while staying a tad behind.
''An inspection of the martial arts library. Quietly. Thoroughly.''
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
Look at him. So confused.
I can't blame him. The Heir asking for access to the library as if I couldn't go in without it.
I most likely can. It's just, I don't know where it is...
You're the only one who is not running away, Old Han. Blame your courage.
Regardless, I'm almost there, just a little push.
''I trust you understand the need for silence.''
I add, walking at a leisure pace, as if taking a stroll.
''My father would prefer his intentions remain… his own.''
[You've gained 1 point of Fear.]
The word 'father' always works like magic. Look at him bowing on the go.
''Instructor Han, I will need you to guide me there personally.''
Without hesitation, he clears his throat, straightens his back, and takes the lead.
''Of course, Young Master. This old one will see to it immediately.''
Perfect. We have our ticket.
.
.
.
[STATUS]
[Name: Han Ye]
[Age: 18]
[Cultivation: Tremor Initiate - Late Stage ▸ Qi Gathering Stage 10 ▸ +]
[Fear Points: 27]
Authors note: If you're enjoying the novel so far, please add it to your collections! Every single one goes a long way. Honest review will be even better! Gravemind is peacing out~