Early on the third morning, sunlight spilled through the gaps in the curtains onto the bed. Chen Xiaojun rose early for his morning exercises.
He drew a deep breath, feeling the fresh air flow through his lungs and sweep away the last traces of sleepiness.
After finishing his exercises, Chen Xiaojun went to Chen Cong's room and knocked softly on the door.
"Second Granduncle, I'm heading out," he said briefly before turning and leaving through the front gate.
Chen Xiaojun stepped outside and boarded the carriage that had already been prepared.
The carriage set off slowly along the streets. After nearly half an hour of jolting, it finally arrived at No. 18 Great Yong Street.
The mansion was magnificent. Two enormous stone lions stood imposingly before its gates, proclaiming its owner's power and status.
Chen Xiaojun alighted from the carriage and looked up at the Ji Residence. The Ji Family certainly cut an impressive figure.
"Sir, may I ask who you are? What brings you to the Ji Residence?" a gatekeeper asked as he approached, his gaze wary.
Chen Xiaojun smiled faintly, his appearance presentable and his manner calm and natural.
"I'm Chen Xiaojun. I'm here to see Ji Boda."
"You're looking for the Eldest Young Master?" The gatekeeper paused, seemingly surprised.
"Yes, we arranged to meet," Chen Xiaojun replied.
"Of course. Please wait a moment!" The gatekeeper turned and went inside to announce him.
Chen Xiaojun waited outside the gate, unable to suppress a little unease as he carefully thought through what he needed to do.
Before long, the gatekeeper returned.
"The Eldest Young Master invites you in," he said, leading Chen Xiaojun into the Ji Residence.
Chen Xiaojun followed the gatekeeper through a splendid courtyard to a quiet study.
The study was elegantly furnished, steeped in the fragrance