Han Yan had developed a habit by now: whenever she felt hesitant or deep in thought, she would subconsciously caress the Star Illusion Thousand Machine, and this time was no exception.
Just as she was feeling a bit uncertain, a faint light quietly flashed on the Star Plate: trustworthy.
Han Yan was astonished to discover that in addition to its knowledge of astronomy and geography, this thing could also read people. She had unreserved trust in the Star Illusion Thousand Machine, and of course, she didnât have much to reserve anyway. Even her current strength was a gift from it, and if it wanted to kill her, it would be no more difficult than toying with her, right? Was there any need for reservations?
Since the Star Illusion Thousand Machine said it was trustworthy, then it must be. Thus, Han Yan let her guard down.
Sixth Rank, not Fifth Rank, but Sixth Rank! Apparently, the impossible really could happen. Che Xiangâs mouth hung open in shock, suddenly feeling as if the whole world had turned upside down.
Seeing Che Xiangâs astonished expression, Huayue, Zirong, and Mu Nan couldnât help but burst into laughter. They recalled how stunned they were when they first witnessed Han Yanâs strength, and now, seeing Che Xiang with his mouth agape wide enough to fit two duck eggs, they enjoyed a sense of satisfaction from knowing the secret before others, taking delight in it.
"Donât let anyone know about this," Han Yan still cautioned, even though the Star Illusion Thousand Machine had said Che Xiang was trustworthy.
"Oh, donât worry, my lord, even if it kills me, I will not reveal a single word," Che Xiang remembered that this was Han Yanâs secret, known by very few, and now he was one of them.
Only a few days since they met, and Han Yan was placing such trust in him. Che Xiang was touched and excited, puffing out his chest as he spoke. Coming from a humble background, though he had worked his way up to the status of Swordsman First Rank, in othersâ eyes, he was always seen as lower-class, someone not worthy of their attention, let alone their trust.
Such trust might be trivial for many, even used as leverage over others, but for someone like Che Xiang, it was the most precious thing in the world, worth guarding with his life.
It was as if something was clogging Che Xiangâs chest, a heat surging within, so intense that it was nearly unbearable, yet his eyes were moistening.
If at first, his following of Han Yan was out of gratitude, then at this moment, even if he were to die, he wouldnât hesitate. It was all because of this trust, and this emotional bond.
Huayue and Zirong stopped laughing, contemplative upon seeing the tears in Che Xiangâs eyes.
"Itâs not that serious. If it really comes down to life and death, just spill it. I wonât blame you," Han Yan had sworn not to easily trust anyone, nor to open up to anyone readily. Yet when she saw the look in Che Xiangâs eyes, she was moved, half-jokingly she said.
"Mhm," Che Xiang nodded vigorously. However, it seemed like Han Yanâs words only firmer Che Xiangâs resolve to keep the secret.
As for this, Han Yan was helpless.
"By the way, my lord, why bother hiding your strength?" Che Xiang asked curiously.
Now wholeheartedly loyal to Han Yan, Che Xiang shared her sense of honor and disgrace, feeling indignant on Han Yanâs behalf. With such strength, why should she have to keep up the facade of a frivolous and incompetent playboy? Even he felt aggrieved for Han Yan.
"Isnât that simple? Just for kicks," said Zirong, rolling her eyes and joining in on the joke.