The golden rays of dawn stretched across the Jiang Estate, casting intricate patterns on the polished marble floors of Jiang Chen's private study.
Seated by the tall windows, he traced a finger over the ornate edge of a jade tea cup, his thoughts running deep.
The Villain System's latest notification lingered in his mind.
[Current Objectives Updated:
Further destabilize Lin Fan's social and emotional support network.Identify and counter hidden allies within Lin Fan's life.Acquire a valuable artifact from the Holy Sect to unlock the next system feature.]
The last objective intrigued him. Artifacts of the Holy Sect were known to possess profound power, most of which were deeply tied to the plotlines of those favored by destiny.
That the system would steer him toward one meant this item could potentially alter the balance of power between him and Lin Fan.
As he pondered, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed in the hall. Moments later, one of his shadow guards appeared, kneeling before him.
"Speak," Jiang Chen commanded, his tone sharp but calm.
"Lord Jiang, the rumor regarding Lin Zhen has spread throughout the Holy Sect's outer disciples.
Lin Fan has begun making moves to clear his father's name, seeking aid from various elders and leveraging his limited connections."
Jiang Chen smirked, setting the tea aside.
"As expected. A protagonist never shies away from a challenge. However, we won't make it that easy for him. What of Luo Qing'er?"
"She has returned to the sect but has been unusually quiet since her visit here.
It seems your words have left an impression. She hasn't openly sided with Lin Fan yet, but she is keeping an eye on the situation."
Jiang Chen leaned back; his gaze distant.
"She's clever but also inexperienced. We'll need to ensure she continues to waver. Let's begin the next phase."
The shadow guard bowed, awaiting instructions.
"Send word to Elder Mo of the Holy Sect," Jiang Chen began.
"Tell him I've come across rumors of a spiritual herb field guarded by demonic beasts near the sect's outer region.
Suggest to him that Lin Fan might know of it. If we plant the right seeds, Lin Fan will walk directly into the trap."
The guard nodded and disappeared as quickly as he had arrived.
Jiang Chen rose, walking toward the study's balcony. The morning air carried a hint of the upcoming storm—both in the skies and within the sect.
At the Holy Sect
Lin Fan stood before the towering gates of the inner compound, his expression resolute.
The events of the previous day had left his family's name shrouded in disgrace, and his father's suspension weighed heavily on his heart.
"Lin Zhen," he muttered under his breath. "I will clear your name, Father. No matter what it takes."
As he made his way toward the outer disciples' training ground, a voice called out to him.
"Lin Fan!"
Turning, he saw Luo Qing'er approaching, her figure graceful yet exuding authority.
Her eyes carried a flicker of doubt, but her determination was evident.
"Senior Sister Qing'er," Lin Fan greeted her with a slight bow.
She studied him for a moment before speaking.
"There's a rumor spreading about a demonic herb field near the sect. Some elders believe it could explain the resources your father was accused of mismanaging."
Lin Fan's eyes narrowed.
"A demonic herb field? That's absurd. My father would never—"
"I know," she interrupted. "But the elders might not. If this rumor gains traction, it could further harm your family's reputation."
Lin Fan's jaw tightened, his hands clenched into fists.
"If such a place exists, I'll find it and bring the truth to light. I won't let anyone tarnish my father's name any further."
Luo Qing'er hesitated before nodding.
"Be cautious, Lin Fan. The sect is filled with people who won't hesitate to exploit your situation."
Meanwhile, in Jiang Chen's Estate
The Villain System chimed once again.
[Objective progress: Lin Fan has taken the bait. Luck Points harvested: 70.]
Jiang Chen chuckled, savoring the notification.
"And so the dance begins."
He summoned another of his shadow guards, a wiry figure cloaked in black.
"Ensure the beasts guarding that field are sufficiently provoked.
If Lin Fan arrives, make it a life-or-death situation for him. But don't kill him.
A cornered protagonist often becomes stronger. Let him struggle, let him suffer. It's in his despair that we'll reap the most Luck Points."
The guard bowed and vanished into the shadows.
Jiang Chen's lips curled into a satisfied smile as he picked up a scroll detailing the sect's recent events.
Among the reports was mention of an upcoming gathering of outer disciples—an event that would draw significant attention and provide ample opportunity for him to manipulate the narrative further.
Jiang's plan
The forest surrounding the supposed herb field was dense, the air heavy with the scent of damp earth and the faint metallic tang of blood.
Lin Fan, accompanied by two junior disciples who had insisted on joining him, moved cautiously through the undergrowth.
"Lin Fan, are you sure this is the place?" one of the disciples asked nervously, his eyes darting around.
"This matches the description," Lin Fan replied, his voice steady.
"Stay close, and don't let your guard down."
As they ventured deeper, the sound of rustling leaves and low growls grew louder.
Suddenly, a massive figure emerged from the shadows—a Spirit Fang Tiger, its crimson eyes locked onto the intruders.
"Demonic beast!" one of the disciples shouted, drawing his weapon.
The tiger lunged, its claws glinting in the dim light.
Lin Fan stepped forward, channeling his spiritual energy into his blade. The clash of steel and claw echoed through the forest as he fought to protect his companions.
Just as the tiger fell, a second beast appeared, followed by another. It became clear this was no ordinary herb field but a trap laden with danger.
Lin Fan gritted his teeth, his energy reserves dwindling as the battle raged on.
"Hold your ground!" he shouted to his companions, determination burning in his eyes.
Back at the Jiang Estate
The Villain System's notification appeared once more.
[Lin Fan is engaged in a perilous battle. Luck Points harvested: 150.]
Jiang Chen chuckled darkly.
"Good. Let him taste despair."
He poured himself another cup of wine, savoring the progress.
The heavens had given Lin Fan a script for greatness, but Jiang Chen was rewriting it line by line, ensuring the protagonist's path was littered with obstacles, heartbreak, and loss.
"This is only the beginning," he mused. "Let the heavens try to stop me."