Chapter 49: Three Grand Gifts

Observing his reaction, Powell walked over to the second chest. This one was smaller and didn't look very heavy—a single servant could easily carry it.

With a click, the lock opened, revealing a sight even more dazzling than before. Various gems... no, not ordinary gems, but meticulously crafted jewelry from precious stones. The value of these items likely exceeded a hundred thousand gold coins.

Two lavish gifts in a row, and the third chest was even more exquisite, or perhaps 'box' was a better word for its size, but its lock was far more intricate, even enhanced with magic.

Xu Feng couldn't help but feel curious. What kind of precious gift could it be? Upon opening it, he found a book.

The slightly yellowed cover indicated its age.

"This is the work of an archmage from three hundred years ago, recording his lifework. The Duke acquired it by chance and now presents it to the Viscount."

The young man couldn't help but be profoundly impressed. As everyone knew, although Hailanxing was a magical world, there were no magic schools here, nor books recording magical incantations. Mages belonged to a privileged class, closely guarding their knowledge. Magic was passed down through the master-apprentice tradition.

When Xu Feng was first granted the title of Viscount, he had gone to great lengths to obtain an ancient magic book, but it only covered some basic introductory knowledge.

However, there were always exceptions. The author of this book was an eccentric archmage who never took on disciples. Instead, he recorded all his knowledge in a book.

Duke Walter had acquired it by chance, but this precious material was nothing more than a collectible antique to him. The reason was simple: as a power bestowed upon humans by the gods, very few people had the talent to learn magic. Even if ordinary people mastered the incantations, they couldn't sense the elements, rendering them useless.

For Xu Feng, however, the situation was different. Although he already had Kelaibafei, a first-rate master, as the saying goes, "Stones from other hills can polish jade." An archmage's personal notes were still incredibly valuable—indeed, they were priceless.

"Lord Viscount, these three gifts are a token of His Highness the Duke's gratitude for saving the young lady," Powell said, bowing.

Xu Feng sighed inwardly. Although he had saved Lingyuesi, gifts worth over two hundred thousand gold coins and a precious ancient magic book were far too generous. However, he had no intention of refusing. For one, the gifts were already at his doorstep, and rejecting them would be an insult. For another, he was genuinely tempted by such treasures.

"Thank His Highness the Duke!"

Having accepted so many gifts, Xu Feng naturally wore a broad smile. He instructed the servants to carry the chests into the mansion while inviting Powell inside.

The two arrived in the drawing room, where servants served fragrant tea. Xu Feng chatted amiably with Powell, asking him to convey his respects to Duke Walter.

After sitting for half an hour, Powell rose to take his leave. Xu Feng escorted him to the door. Just before boarding the carriage, Powell turned back. "Lord Viscount, His Highness has one more request."

"Please go ahead."

Xu Feng spoke politely, but he had already anticipated this. Such lavish gifts surely weren't just for saving Lingyuesi; the other party must have other intentions.

"It's like this: the Duke's beloved son, Master Lake, is paralyzed after accidentally consuming a poisonous mushroom. Hearing of your miraculous medical skills, His Highness wishes to invite you to the mansion tomorrow to examine the young master."

So that was it!

This explanation made perfect sense. The Duke wanted him to save his beloved son.

This was a spur-of-the-moment decision. Originally, the Duke had come to the capital merely to report on his duties, but he had heard of a miracle doctor in the capital. Even the Pope had been helpless when Princess Ailiya fell into a coma, yet this doctor had cured her effortlessly. This rekindled hope in Walter's heart.

He had originally intended to pass the title to Riva, but a nephew was, after all, a nephew—how could he compare to his own beloved son? Moreover, Riva was scheming, arrogant, and domineering, with little talent but a knack for causing trouble. The Duke couldn't bear to entrust the family to him.

He had only considered such a plan because he had no other heir. Now, hearing the capital's nobles praise Xu Feng to the skies, his hopes were rekindled.

Besides, he had met the Viscount once before and found him to be an extraordinary young man.

Perhaps he really could save Lake...

Upon hearing the request, Xu Feng quickly calculated in his mind. He already had a feud with Baron Riva, and their relationship was that of bitter enemies. Although such a playboy was nothing but a fool, Xu Feng wasn't afraid of him. However, if Riva were to inherit the dukedom, it would be very troublesome for him.

Xu Feng preferred to nip dangers in the bud. Since that was the case, why not go with the flow and pull the rug out from under his enemy?

If he cured Lake, Riva would naturally have to bid farewell to the title of heir. Then, this enemy of his would become a tiger with its claws pulled out. He could deal with him however he pleased, and the danger would be eliminated.

That was the first benefit.

The second benefit: as the leader of the southern nobility, Duke Walter belonged to one of the empire's oldest and most prestigious families. Saving their heir would naturally earn him their goodwill. Maintaining a good relationship with such a powerful family was absolutely beneficial!

Moreover... having accepted such lavish gifts, he couldn't possibly refuse.

Since it was a win-win situation, Xu Feng nodded and smiled. "Very well. Please inform the Duke that I will visit the mansion tomorrow."

"Thank you, Your Excellency."

Powell was overjoyed, his expression filled with sincere gratitude.

After seeing off the guest, the young man returned to the inner courtyard.

"Brother Xu Feng!"

A clear, melodious voice called out. Turning around, he saw a familiar, lovely face. The pointed ears were both alluring and sensual, and the delicate features told the world that this was an elven girl.

"Sha Sha!"

Xu Feng smiled and took the girl's jade-like hand. It was soft and boneless, as tender as cotton candy!

"Brother Xu Feng, I heard someone just brought you gifts!"

"You little rascal, your ears are really sharp."

Xu Feng gently smoothed the girl's wind-tousled hair and kissed her tempting cherry lips.

"Stop it, we're outside."

Although she had been Xu Feng's girlfriend for several months, Yu Sha was still quite shy. Even though this was the inner residence, maids often passed through the garden. Being seen by them would be too embarrassing.