The Reign of Zane Gardner

Chapter 3 - Lasting Impression

It took Zane weeks to acclimate to his new life. The grandiose mansion was now his, gifted by his grandfather. As he explored the vast property, he discovered hidden treasures and learned more about the legacy that had been bestowed upon him. 

One day, Alfred, the loyal butler of the family, handed Zane a sleek black card with his name engraved in elegant gold letters.

With a sly smile, Alfred revealed the contents of the card - a whopping USD 10 million at Zane's disposal.

Zane was stunned to see what Alfred gave him. "Alfred, this is a lot of money."

"Sir, your grandfather's wealth is actually greater than this. However, some enemies managed to take away some of your grandfather's wealth."

Zane was stunned to hear Alfred's explanation, he couldn't imagine how rich his family used to be.

Zane nodded slowly, trying to digest the information provided by Alfred. There seemed to be many things, and enemies he might encounter in the future. And he tried to prepare himself for everything that might happen next.

The sum of money was unimaginable, far beyond what Zane had ever dreamed of possessing. But he knew that it was not an endless supply, and if he wasn't careful, it could all disappear. So he made a vow to use every penny wisely, in order to build upon his fortune and achieve even greater success.

Alfred said, "But young master, you don't need to worry about money. With the cultivation inheritance passed down by your grandfather, you can make more money. Just like your grandfather and father did."

"Thank you, Alfred." He answered.

Zane looked and held a black card in his hand.

Zane filled his days with morning runs up the mountainside, followed by morning meditations. He learned more about Cultivation, which can be trained through meditation and physical exercise. And this could all happen because the human body absorbs a unique energy called Qi.

Armed with the knowledge passed down from his grandfather's ancient tome, Zane's skills had vastly improved. He could now do extraordinary things, such as curing illnesses that modern medicine deemed incurable or performing feats of strength and speed. As he delved deeper into the realm of Qi Adept, Zane realized that his potential was limitless, and exciting possibilities lay ahead for him to explore and conquer.

Zane sat on the hard, cold rock at the top of the hill, his body and mind still as he focused on his breathing. He was deep in meditation when he heard soft footsteps approaching. Slowly, he opened his eyes and turned to see Cecilia, a young woman dressed in a black maid outfit with her blonde hair neatly tied behind her back. A warm smile graced her face as she held a tray with a steaming teapot and two delicate glasses filled with tea.

"Master Zane, I'm terribly sorry for interrupting your peaceful moment," Cecilia spoke softly, her tone laced with genuine concern.

Zane shook his head, dismissing her apology. "No need to apologize, Cecilia. I have finished my morning training," he said as he stood up from the rock.

Cecilia placed the tray on a nearby table and gestured for Zane to take a seat on the wooden chair next to it. He obliged and settled into the chair while Cecilia remained standing.

"Please, sit down with me, Cecilia. Keep me company while we chat," Zane invited warmly.

Cecilia's cheeks flushed slightly at being offered such an intimate gesture from her Master.

"Of course, Master," she said, grateful for the opportunity to spend time with him.

She gracefully took a seat across from Zane, and they began to talk about various topics - from Zane's training to Cecilia's duties in the household.

Cecilia's awe and admiration were evident in her words as she spoke to Zane. "In just one month, you have surpassed all expectations and absorbed a vast amount of knowledge from your grandfather's books. You are truly remarkable, Master."

"Thank you, Cecilia," he replied, humbly accepting her praise. "I never would have thought that these things actually existed in our world. Now that I know the truth, I am completely engrossed in learning about it all."

Cecilia's curiosity was piqued. "But what do you plan on doing after this, Master?"

A determined glint shone in his eyes as he declared, "I have both money and this powerful Cultivation. I want to achieve everything, conquer anything, and leave my mark on this world. But before that, I must first make sure that the Amber Family will regret ever crossing me."

Cecilia's expression softened with sympathy. "I can't even begin to imagine the cruelty they must have inflicted upon you, Master. Know that I will use all of my abilities to support you and help you achieve your goals."

Alfred had rescued Cecilia and Cedric from the cold, sterile walls of the orphanage, taking them under his wing and molding them into the perfect servants for Zane.

Cecilia, her soft hands accustomed to cleaning and cooking, also possessed a sharp mind for numbers and administration. She handled all matters within the household with precision and efficiency, ensuring that everything ran smoothly for Zane's benefit. Meanwhile, Cedric was trained in the art of espionage and combat, becoming an indispensable asset to Zane's schemes.

Together, as brother and sister, they complemented each other perfectly in their service to Zane. He had found the ultimate combination of intelligence, resourcefulness, and obedience in these two siblings, making him more than satisfied with them. With them by his side, he knew he could achieve anything he desired.

Cecilia's voice was barely above a whisper as she said. "Master..." She began, her gaze never wavering from his stoic face. "You said, just one week ago, about your desire to enter the inner circle of the city's elite?"

He nodded slowly. "Yes, do you have any updates?"

"Well," Cecilia continued, her voice growing more animated. "I have confirmed that the prestigious charity event will take place in just a few days. And I have secured an invitation for you."

"There, among the elite and influential guests, you can charm and mingle with those who are also connected to the Amber Family - the very same company that has wronged you. I'm certain that this will be your chance to make connections and pave your way towards success and ultimately...revenge."

"Thanks, Cecilia."

Zane's lips curled into a cold smile as he thanked Cecilia for her unwavering support. The wheels of retribution were set in motion, and nothing would stand in his way now.

"I can't wait to imagine the expressions of people who look down on you," she said. Her voice was filled with unwavering loyalty.

Zane smiled at her words.

The long awaited moment finally arrived. Zane's black luxury car stopped in front of a six-star hotel in the heart of the bustling Sunhaven city. He stepped out of the vehicle, a luxuriously tailored black suit, tailored perfectly to fit his toned physique. Her black hair was styled with precision, shining under the bright city lights.

His arrival that night attracted the attention of many people.