Chapter 51: Lady Lan Arrives at Tianhai

This was, in fact, Hetian's first time playing the role of a bodyguard! It was a stark contrast to his previous assignments—a complete reversal of position, like the difference between client and contractor. In the past, Hetian had always been the one to strike first, advancing relentlessly toward his target. But now… he found himself waiting passively, focused on defense instead. It was an entirely new way of operating.

Yet, despite his lack of experience in this arena, Hetian’s keen observation skills and exceptional qualities made him more than capable. To complete the task of a bodyguard and ensure his charge’s safety posed no real difficulty for him—unless, of course, he encountered a force beyond his capacity. But here in Donghai, in broad daylight, the likelihood of such a situation was virtually zero. If any country in the modern world could claim almost seamless control over its internal affairs, it was undoubtedly China.

After waiting about twelve or thirteen minutes, the airport’s public address system announced the arrival of the flight from Beijing to Tianhai. Hetian took Wang Xinyou by the hand and headed for the arrival gate. The area was crowded with people—a prime opportunity for trouble, if someone were watching. Hetian appeared utterly relaxed and at ease on the surface, but beneath that calm exterior, he was alert and vigilant, attuned to the slightest movement or disturbance in his surroundings.

From Botswana in Africa to Tianhai, there was no direct flight; it required several connections. First, a flight to South Africa, then from there to Paris, from Paris to Beijing, and finally from Beijing to Tianhai. Of course, one could also fly straight from Paris to Tianhai, but it was clear Lan Ji had not chosen that route. Hetian had checked the flight schedules—flying directly from Paris would mean arriving almost a day later. Clearly, Lan Ji wanted to reach Tianhai as quickly as possible, which greatly pleased Hetian.

This was the Lan Ji he knew: once she had a goal, she would devote herself to it entirely, executing every step with meticulous precision. That was why Hetian had summoned Lan Ji to look after Wang Xinyou—he believed Lan Ji would make an outstanding bodyguard, freeing Hetian from the need to shadow Wang Xinyou every moment.

As the crowd began pouring out from the arrivals gate, Hetian’s sharp eyes quickly picked out Lan Ji. But at that moment, he was taken aback—Lan Ji’s appearance was nothing like he remembered. She was dressed as a chic city woman, with sunglasses covering half her face and long hair cascading over her shoulders—so different from the Lan Ji in his memory, clad in mercenary fatigues, a cap, a gun slung over her shoulder, a knife at her hip. The contrast was so great that Hetian almost doubted his own recognition.

“Lan Ji!” Hetian waved her over.

Wang Xinyou was scanning the arriving passengers, especially the women, still thinking to herself that Hetian was exaggerating—was there really a woman more beautiful than herself? She might be a bit immature by comparison, but she was young, after all. But the moment Hetian waved, and a tall, striking woman with an excited expression began running over, dragging her suitcase, Wang Xinyou felt a pang of defeat. Even with most of her face hidden behind sunglasses, she could tell—this was a first-class beauty. The woman’s figure, her long, slender legs, and her…well, Wang Xinyou compared herself and felt her confidence wane. The gap was simply too wide.

If Hetian had known that Wang Xinyou was comparing herself to Lan Ji in every way at that very moment, he would have been most intrigued—perhaps even eager to join in personally.

“Hetian, the King of Soldiers!” Lan Ji let go of her suitcase and flung herself at Hetian.

Wang Xinyou’s heart seethed with jealousy, especially when she saw Hetian open his arms to embrace the stunning woman. She was nearly fuming with anger. But when she heard the woman call Hetian “King of Soldiers,” her rage subsided, replaced by curiosity. Her eyes darted back and forth, sizing up Hetian, trying to decipher what “King of Soldiers” could mean.

“Could it be that Hetian is a soldier?” was all Wang Xinyou could deduce from the title.

“Lan Ji, call me Hetian. The title ‘King of Soldiers’ is never to be mentioned again,” Hetian whispered as he hugged Lan Ji.

“I was just too happy and forgot,” Lan Ji said, sticking out her tongue and ending the embrace.

“Let me introduce you,” Hetian said, smiling at Wang Xinyou.

“Hmph…” Wang Xinyou snorted and turned away.

“Come on,” Hetian said with a wry smile, hurrying after her.

Lan Ji quickly grabbed her suitcase and followed, a slight frown on her face. She already felt annoyed and resentful toward Wang Xinyou—how dare she treat Hetian like that? In Lan Ji’s mind, there was no such thing as Wang Xinyou being just a girl, or a young girl at that. All that mattered was whether someone respected Hetian or not—nothing else was worth her consideration.

Wang Xinyou stormed into the car. Hetian didn’t rush after her; he’d only followed before to prevent any mishap. Now that she was safely in the car and he was present, her security was assured. He turned to see Lan Ji approaching briskly with her suitcase, a smile returning to his face.

“She’s so rude,” Lan Ji said sharply, glaring at Wang Xinyou in the car.

Hetian slapped his forehead, realizing he’d forgotten something important. He quickly said, “Lan Ji, I’ll keep this brief. From now on, she is your principal. No matter what, under any circumstances, you must guarantee her safety. Understand?”

“Yes!” Lan Ji was surprised that Hetian had brought her here just to protect a young girl, but her nature compelled her to accept the order without hesitation.

“Very good!” Hetian nodded approvingly at her decisiveness.

“But, Hetian, why do I need to protect her? I’ve never worked as a bodyguard before,” Lan Ji asked.

“There’s no need to ask why. Just remember your assignment,” Hetian replied with a smile. “Don’t I know you? Lack of experience is hardly an obstacle for you.”

“I’m willing to do anything to help you,” Lan Ji said, dropping the subject.

“Good, Lan Ji. Just as you’ve changed your outfit, I need you to adjust your mentality. Blend in with the ordinary people—this is a long-term assignment. Don’t let anyone immediately guess you’re military,” Hetian reminded her. As she was now, Lan Ji still stood out too much; anyone with some experience could tell she was a soldier. That wouldn't do. She needed to be an unobtrusive bodyguard—ideally, no one would even suspect her true role.

“Is that necessary?” Lan Ji blinked, and with that, her aura transformed—the military bearing vanished, replaced by the demeanor of a city woman.

“Excellent!” Hetian was thoroughly pleased.

“Let’s get in,” Hetian said, helping her with her suitcase.

“Hetian… that girl seems to like you,” Lan Ji remarked before getting in.

“You noticed, did you? But she’s stubborn and won’t admit it. What can I do? Wherever I go, I’m surrounded by a flock of admirers,” Hetian joked.

“Still refusing to accept? Just like you rejected me before,” Lan Ji said, a touch of wistfulness on her face.

“It’s not the same,” Hetian shook his head and opened the car door.

Lan Ji ended the conversation at just the right moment. With the car door closed and their voices low, there was no risk of Wang Xinyou overhearing them. But now, with the door open, it was a different matter.

Wang Xinyou was fuming—truly furious—especially seeing Hetian and this Lan Ji chatting and laughing outside the car. The woman’s very name had led Wang Xinyou to lump her into the “enchantress” category—her animosity only grew.

“Xinyou, let me introduce you,” Hetian said cheerily. “This is Lan Ji, the bodyguard I’ve arranged for you. She’ll be responsible for your safety from now on.” He turned to Lan Ji and added, “This is Wang Xinyou. Just call her Xinyou. Don’t mind her being upset—she’s just jealous. Once she gets over it, everything will be fine.”

“I’m not jealous!” Wang Xinyou glared at Hetian, but quickly asked, “So you hired a female bodyguard for me—what about you? Are you leaving me alone?”

“No, things will be as usual. But sometimes I have to step away to handle other matters, and I can’t always take you with me. During those times, I need someone I trust to keep you safe. That’s why Lan Ji is here,” Hetian explained with a smile. “Don’t underestimate her—she’s a real expert!”

“An expert?” Wang Xinyou’s anger faded as she realized Hetian’s intentions were for her own safety. Still, she harbored some doubts about Lan Ji’s supposed prowess.

“Don’t listen to Hetian exaggerate. I’m hardly an expert! Xinyou, nice to meet you. Please take care of me from now on. Your safety is my responsibility—unless I die, no one will harm you,” Lan Ji said, her smile turning solemn at the end.

These words stunned Wang Xinyou—unless I die, no one will harm you. She wasn’t swayed by the bravado, but rather by the deep sense of care behind them—regardless of the reason for that care. In that instant, Wang Xinyou found Lan Ji much more agreeable.

“I want to sit in the back,” Wang Xinyou declared, getting out and moving to the rear seat.

“Lan Ji, your name is so unique! Can I call you Sister Lan Ji?” Wang Xinyou asked, taking her hand.

“Of course. I’m an orphan—Bill gave me this name. Don’t you think it sounds nice?” Lan Ji replied with a smile.

“It’s nice… but it does sound a little mystical,” Wang Xinyou said honestly.

“Haha, a touch of mystery isn’t so bad. Let me tell you, it attracts men!” Lan Ji whispered in her ear.

“Really?” Wang Xinyou eyed Hetian behind the wheel and leaned in closer to Lan Ji for more advice…