Buying a Life, So What If It Is Rough and Savage

Kill!

Just that one word, no other clue. Serena Feng stared at it for ages, unable to figure out what it meant. Just as she was about to put the note away, a flash of inspiration hit—she smiled, crumpled the paper in her palm, stood up, and said, "Summon Owen to see me."

"Yes, ma'am." One of the Eighteen Riders answered from outside. Moments later, Dorian Owen burst in, eyes sparkling, excitement all over his face: "Serena, you called me so late—is it good news? Am I finally going to war?"

"You wish!" Serena snorted. "Help me send a message to the Assassin Alliance: one hundred thousand taels of gold for Third Young Master Cui's head."

"Huh? You're buying a life—why bother with silver?" Dorian was stunned, face exaggerated. "Old Master said I should obey you. The Assassin Alliance will follow any order you give—even if you want to kill the Emperor."

"Who said I'm actually paying?" Serena shot Dorian a look. "Just spread the word for me—tell your master to make as much noise as possible. Whether or not Cui actually dies doesn't matter; I just want him to never have a moment's peace."

Just like when someone bought her life before—not enough to kill her, but enough to keep her on edge, never able to relax, always feeling a blade hanging over her head.

Of course, if Third Young Master Cui really does die, all the better. If not, so be it—as long as he's kept busy, that's enough.

"Oh..." Dorian looked utterly confused, dragging out the word. He mumbled, "So are you killing him, or not?"

Dorian's IQ really was worrying. Serena sighed. "Don't worry about it. Just do as I say. Once you're done, don't come back—go straight to Night City and report to General Warren Yu. He'll arrange a military post for you."

Beanie didn’t care if he messed up Serena’s plans; what really mattered was getting to Night City. If he arrived and the war was already over, he’d lose out big time.

Just what she was waiting for.

Take Mira Tang with you—she’ll look after you on the road. Just listen to her." Serena mused to herself: War is the best time to make a fortune. Ninth Royal Uncle is sending troops to Night City—if I don’t cash in, I’d be missing a golden opportunity.

She and Vincent Su controlled most of Night City’s economy. When the time came, they’d coordinate inside and out—and Night City would soon be history.

Okay. I’ll get everything ready. Ling Mo—I’ll have Snow Wolf keep an eye on him; he won’t run off.' Beanie thumped his chest, all seriousness. Serena nodded, wanting to check on Ling Mo herself, but her back hurt every time she moved.

Tell Ling Mo to rest and heal—no one will find out he’s here.' In the end, Serena could only have Beanie pass on the message, hoping he’d deliver it properly.

Soon after Beanie left, Mira Tang arrived. Serena handed her a small box: "Take care of this. When you come back, I want half of Night City’s shops under my name." (The other half would surely belong to Vincent Su.)

Yes.' Mira Tang didn’t ask questions—she took the box and left. Once back in her room, she opened it to see what was inside.

Serena hadn’t given Mira much—just deeds, shop contracts, and some supply lists and vendor contacts.

These were all of Serena’s holdings in Night City—not much, but every piece was essential for people’s daily needs.

Mira couldn’t help but sigh when she saw everything. She’d always thought Feng Manor had little foundation, but now it turned out their assets were richer than she’d imagined. Just Night City’s holdings alone could feed the whole clan for two generations.

Mira knew this trip was a huge responsibility. After studying the documents and making sure she understood everything, she went to Serena to ask for permission to visit Vincent Su.

The Su family and Serena were partners in Night City. If they could work together this time, the result would be far greater than just the sum of their parts.

Go ahead, but don’t use my name.' Serena agreed readily, then sent Spring and Autumn off to handle other matters and told Winter to bring Feng Jin to her room to play.

By the time Serena could stand and walk again, it was already afternoon. She had the Eighteen Riders take over Beanie’s job, guarding Ling Mo and Feng Jin, and tightening security around Feng Manor.

Once Third Young Master Cui learned she’d hired assassins, he’d definitely retaliate. For her family’s safety, Serena had to make arrangements in advance; if needed, she’d even call on the military for protection.

Use your privileges while you can—don’t let them go to waste. After fighting for them so hard, it’d be a shame not to use them.

Once everything was settled and she’d made sure nothing was missed, Serena finally relaxed. She supported her injured back, ready to rest—when Vincent Su showed up.

If Serena could spot a business opportunity, Vincent Su certainly could too. Even if Mira didn’t visit him today, he’d come to Serena in the next day or two to discuss Night City.

Meat in your mouth—you can’t spit it out.' (Or: 'When the prize is right in front of you, don’t let it go.')

Vincent Su and Mira had already worked out the details. Now he came to ask Serena for a favor—to look after Ethan Su Wenhang.

Serena, Night City’s situation changes by the hour. I need to go there myself. Wenhang’s just recovered from a serious illness, and I’m worried about him. Would you let him stay at your manor for a while?' Vincent Su got straight to the point.

Vincent Su wanted Wenhang to stay at Feng Manor—not just so Serena could keep an eye on him, but also to make Wenhang happy. He knew Wenhang loved spending time with Serena, and as his brother, Vincent would do everything he could to give him the best.

Serena nodded, understanding Vincent’s worries. She smiled, "Of course. Wenhang can stay here as long as he likes. I’ll make sure he’s well taken care of."

Vincent Su looked relieved. "Thank you, Serena. I owe you one."

Serena waved him off with a grin. "Just remember this favor next time you want to negotiate."

Vincent Su laughed. "Deal." Then, with a final nod, he left to make his preparations for Night City.

Serena watched him go, her mind already spinning with plans. She glanced at the word Nolan had left on her table—'Kill.' It was her license to go all out.

She smiled, feeling a surge of ruthless energy. This time, she wouldn’t hold back.

With everything set, Serena finally allowed herself to relax. For now, she had the upper hand.

But she knew the peace wouldn’t last. The moment Third Young Master Cui heard about the bounty on his head, he’d make his move.

Serena straightened her back, determination burning in her eyes. She was ready for whatever came next.

No matter how rough or wild things got—she’d make sure she came out on top.