23 Rewarded with Wealth... and then More Wealth 1 (2/2)

Feng Jin's aura was reminiscent of a general. Chalice has to hand it to the old guy, his presence itself commanded respect. She knew without a doubt that he was powerful. It amazed her that someone actually dared abduct this man's daughter. And also Chalice couldn't help but pray for the tragic fate of whoever becomes his future son-in-law.

”Greetings, my name is Alice. It is an honor to meet the Chief of the Keyne tribe.”

Chalice noted the strange glint that passed through the man's eyes. It seems he really was not a simple person.

Feng Jin cupped his fist and dipped a bow at her. Chalice figured it was one of their customs. She can now thoroughly confirm that they were more or less similar to the Chinese.

”Please forego the formalities, Miss Alice. You my greatest of gratitude. You have saved my daughter's life and for that we are indebted to you.”

Chalice smiled at him, pleased at how polite he was. She had noticed it as they entered the stronghold. The Keyne people were a corteous bunch. They were all so cute, and Chalice was awed at seeing their dresses. She almost thought she was transported to old Huaxia.

”Oh, it was nothing. I was passing by and I can't possibly dismiss my morality and let such a young girl be harmed.”

Feng Jin nodded at her. Though he did not smile Chalice felt that the man had considerably warmed up to her. This made her ecstatic. Befriending the Keyne's would be beneficial to her plans.

”Still, it is my daughter's good fate to have encountered you Miss Alice. This debt of gratitude is something we must reciprocate.”

He said solemnly. The man then turned to his daughter and asked her to bring tea and snacks, to which the latter complied to immediately. However, Chalice was sure he did it so that he could talk to her in private. This conjecture of her was futher proven when Feng Jin dismissed the guards and other people within the Great Hall.

”Hmm. It seems that Chief Jin has something to say to me. Please, do feel free.”

She reassured the man. He coughed for a bit before facing her, his gruff face was serious.

”Pardon me, it is not my intention to pry but may I ask what is the descendant of Duke Amaranth doing in the Nephele Mountains?”

Chalice half-smiled. She had expected for himto figure out who she was. And Feng Jin did not disappoint.

”What gave me away, Chief Jin?”

She asked with a mischievous grin, indirectly stalling in answering his prior question.

”Your emerald eyes are distinctive to your lineage, my Lady.”

Chalice sighed at this. She knew it. Emerald eyes were unique to their House. To anyone with an understanding of the Amaranths, this is a dead giveaway.

”I thought so. Well, it doesn't really matter. After all, in this stronghold it is only you Chief Jin who is aware of this fact.”

She met his eyes before she continued. Telling him her purpose wouldn't really hinder her.

”I am actually incognito as of the moment. Hence, the alias. I'm on a trip to inspect the key cities of the territory. We took a shortcut to Cloud Forest because I also needed to check up on the gemstone mines. However, due to some mishaps I got seperated with my retainers and stumbled upon your daughter.”

Chalice explained to him, her tone nonchalant. Feng Jin nodded in understanding.

”I see. That is why. Thank you for the enlightenment.”

She waved her hand signifying that it was nothing. Chalice then turned to him, her demeanor changing from languidness to an earnest one.

”Chief Jin has said that you are willing to reciprocate my saving your daughter. There is indeed something that I require your assistance to.”

Chalice said slowly. Feng Jin signalled for her to continue. With that, Chalice took out the piece of the rough jade and slowly set it for him to see.

It did not take a long while before the Feng Jin's eyes widened, his face incredulous as he held the rock in his hands.