"Senior, Ying'er is the hope of my clan," said the Cao Family Patriarch in a low, trembling voice. "Please… I beg you to show mercy."
The old man's tone was humble, his posture low. He was terrified—of Yang Ji's power, of their unknown origins.
Yang Ji frowned slightly, his patience thinning. "You're short-sighted," he said coldly. "Your descendant serving under my young master is an honor greater than joining Danta itself."
Serve… as a maid?
The Cao Patriarch's heart clenched. If it were a marriage proposal, he might still have tried to negotiate. But a personal attendant? His family's prodigy, reduced to that?
Yet, from Yang Ji's tone, it was clear—these people didn't even place the Danta in their eyes.
Before he could speak further, a calm, aged voice sounded beside Lei Qi. "Young man, perhaps you've heard my name—Mang Tianchi."
The Patriarch's eyes widened. "You… you're the headmaster of Canaan Academy, Mang Tianchi?!"
"Indeed," Mang Tianchi replied lightly.
The Cao Patriarch froze, then exhaled slowly."If that's the case… then Ying'er will accompany you."
In truth, Mang Tianchi's name alone wouldn't have swayed him. But the weight behind that name—the Thunder Clan, an Imperial Clan once home to a Dou Emperor—that changed everything.
To associate with such a lineage… how could the Cao Family possibly refuse?
This was a power above Danta itself.
Lei Qi smiled faintly. "You won't regret this. My name is Lei Qi. If your clan ever requires aid, you may come to Tianlei City and seek me personally."
At that, the Cao Patriarch finally understood—Among all these formidable figures, the one truly in command… was this young man.
"Thank you, Young Master Lei Qi," he said quickly, bowing deeply. Without hesitation, he sent someone to fetch Cao Ying.
Moments later, an elderly maid led out a girl of about thirteen.
Her long, wine-red hair flowed like silk, her delicate features already hinting at breathtaking beauty. There was clarity in her eyes, and a faint, natural pride that made her presence impossible to ignore. Though still youthful, her aura carried a subtle sharpness—like a gem not yet polished but already shining through the rough.
The Cao Patriarch softened his expression. "Ying'er, this is Young Master Lei Qi. From today onward, you'll follow him. Whatever he asks, you will obey."
Cao Ying froze. Her wide eyes filled with disbelief, then fear. "Patriarch, I… I don't want to leave the Cao Family!"
She had overheard enough to know what was happening. Her status within the clan had been like that of a princess—and now she was being handed over as a servant?
But the patriarch's tone grew firm. "You are not leaving the family. You are being given an opportunity. Serving by his side is a blessing few could ever hope for. Treasure it."
"Patriarch…" she whispered, her voice trembling.
But her plea fell on deaf ears. He didn't dare refuse—none of them did. Even Danta would not intervene in such matters, and causing a scene would only harm the Cao Family further.
Lei Qi stepped forward and placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry," he said, his voice calm. "You won't suffer under my protection."
Without waiting for a reply, he turned, spreading his Dou Qi wings. "Let's go."
The group rose into the air, leaving the Cao estate in streaks of light that soon vanished into the horizon.
Back aboard the spatial ship, Lei Qi brought Cao Ying to his quarters.
She remained quiet, standing still in the corner of the room—obedient, yet uncertain.
Lei Qi didn't press her. He knew that no matter how clever she was, she was still a child suddenly torn from her home. It would take time for her to adapt.
For three days, she served him silently—preparing his meals, assisting with his robes, ensuring his comfort.
"Impressive," Lei Qi said finally, glancing at her. "You adapt quickly, little one."
Cao Ying lowered her head. "Does… does Young Master have any orders for me?"
Lei Qi smiled faintly. "Sit. That's all."
She hesitated but obeyed.
He studied her quietly—the intelligence in her eyes, the calm composure that seemed far beyond her age. She was young, yes, but already carried the bearing of someone destined to shine.
Lei Qi leaned back, thinking to himself: Give her a few years… and she'll dazzle the entire continent.
He chuckled softly. "Not bad, Cao Ying. You'll make a fine disciple one day."
Her eyes lifted slightly in surprise—but for the first time, there was no fear.
Just quiet determination.