[Chapter Twelve] Lin Xiaoyang Sends People to Protect Huang Minhua
41
The weekend flea market along the Seine River was crowded, bustling with extraordinary liveliness. Sunlight filtered through the shadows of trees and fell upon the stalls of secondhand goods; antiques, clothing, and various small ornaments glittered under the sunlight, and the air of the market was filled with the aroma of coffee and street snacks. Tourists wandered through the market, aimlessly admiring and selecting treasures from each stall.
Huang Minhua wore a pink dress, her hair cascading like a waterfall as she moved through the crowd. Her clear and delicate appearance caused nearby tourists to unconsciously pause in their steps. Behind her, three white men quietly followed, their gazes full of appraisal and excitement. Huang Minhua did not notice this; she focused on the items at the stalls, occasionally raising her eyes to exchange a few simple words in French with the vendors.
When she walked to a beverage stall, the three white men immediately surged forward, surrounding her. The first man, with curly blond hair, spoke to her with a casual smile:
“Madam, may I offer you a beer? I promise you will not be disappointed.”
His tone carried a hint of teasing, but his eyes showed clear flirtation.
Huang Minhua slightly furrowed her brows and shook her head gently, speaking in a calm tone:
“Thank you, I do not drink.”
She felt a little uncomfortable but still maintained an elegant posture.
The second man, wearing a blue T-shirt, lifted the corners of his mouth and said:
“Then, perhaps an iced coffee? In this weather, it should be refreshing.”
His tone grew a bit resentful.
Huang Minhua smiled, speaking in a peaceful tone:
“Thank you, if I need it, I will buy it myself.”
She stepped back a few paces, trying to escape from the circle formed around her.
However, the third man, a white man of medium build, wore an unhappy expression, his tone tinged with provocation:
“Oriental ladies are always so cold? You do not repel all of us?”
His tone was full of disdain.
Huang Minhua took a deep breath and answered calmly:
“That depends on the person. If I do not like being surrounded, please let me pass.”
Though her tone was calm, a trace of determination flashed unconsciously in her eyes.
The first white man chuckled lightly, trying to ease the atmosphere:
“We have no ill intentions, madam.”
His hand waved gently, signaling that he did not mean to cause trouble.
Huang Minhua continued to maintain her composure, her tone becoming slightly firmer:
“Excuse me, I like to move freely here without being disturbed.”
However, the second white man did not give up and continued:
“We just wanted to become friends; is that really disturbing?”
Huang Minhua gave a faint, helpless smile:
“Yes, it is disturbing. I have heard that French men are generally very gallant; you should know how to show more tact.”
Her tone carried a hint of sarcasm.
The third man, somewhat angry, could not help but retort:
“We are gentlemen, but why are you so difficult to approach?”
Huang Minhua’s tone was no longer so polite; her voice rose slightly:
“Please let me pass, alright?”
Her tone was firm, already showing obvious impatience.
The three men exchanged glances with one another, a rogue-like smile appearing on their faces, and they did not immediately retreat. The surrounding vendors and tourists noticed the commotion and cast unusual glances in their direction; some whispered and chuckled, while others displayed expressions of disapproval.
At that moment, Qiu Shenzhi arrived, saw the situation was wrong, and immediately stepped forward to intervene:
“Young men, your behavior seems impolite toward this lady.”
His tone was serious, standing straight, his gaze stern and sharp.
The third man sneered, pointing a finger at Qiu Shenzhi:
“What business is it of yours, old Asian man?”
His tone was coarse, openly showing his contempt.
A cold smile flickered in Qiu Shenzhi’s eyes. Suddenly, he picked up the paintbrush in his hand and quickly drew a large “X” on the man’s face. The gathered crowd erupted into laughter, and the white man froze.
The man’s face first registered shock, then his anger flared. He swung his fist at Qiu Shenzhi. Qiu Shenzhi lightly dodged, tapping the man’s arm with his paintbrush. Instantly, the man’s entire body stiffened, unable to move, only able to rotate his eyes.
White men A and B saw this, and the smiles on their faces vanished, replaced by panic. They shouted urgently:
“Oh my God! What did you do to my friend?”
Qiu Shenzhi’s lips curved slightly, his tone calm:
“Nothing special, just a little lesson for him—a punishment for not respecting ladies. Do you two want to try?”
His calm tone conveyed that he did not even regard the men before him as a threat.
White man A’s face showed fear; clearly, he no longer dared to challenge. They helped the now-stiff white man C up and awkwardly left the scene.
The surrounding vendors and tourists, seeing the matter resolved, applauded Qiu Shenzhi warmly, showing their admiration for his courage in defending what was right.
Qiu Shenzhi turned his head, smiling at Huang Minhua, and asked with concern:
“Miss, you were not scared, were you?”
Huang Minhua breathed a sigh of relief, smiling as she adjusted her sleeve:
Qiu Shenzhi smiled:“There are sometimes these scoundrels here. Judging by your accent, you are Chinese, aren’t you?”
Huang Minhua nodded, her tone gentle:“Yes, I come from Taiwan.”
Qiu Shenzhi smiled, then switched to fluent Chinese:“I see. There are often tourists from Taiwan here.”
Huang Minhua asked curiously:“Sir, are you also a painter?”
Qiu Shenzhi smiled modestly:“I wouldn’t call myself a painter, just a street artist trying to get by.”
Huang Minhua showed a trace of surprise:“I came to Paris to study painting.”
Qiu Shenzhi spoke kindly:“So we are in the same field. I am from Shanghai, though that was a long time ago.”
Huang Minhua paused for a moment, then laughed:“Sir, you are from Shanghai? What a coincidence! My grandfather was also from Shanghai, and he studied fine arts too.”
A flicker of surprise crossed Qiu Shenzhi’s eyes:“Huang Lihua? Your grandfather’s name is Huang Lihua?”
Huang Minhua was also surprised:“Sir, do you know my grandfather?”
Qiu Shenzhi hesitated slightly, then shook his head:“No, I don’t know him, but I have heard of him.”
He thought to himself silently:“What a narrow world. Huang Lihua’s granddaughter happens to meet me here…”
Qiu Shenzhi then asked:“At which university are you studying art in Paris?”
Huang Minhua nodded:“Yes, the University of Paris, School of Fine Arts.”
Qiu Shenzhi continued:“Do you live in the school dormitory?”
Huang Minhua replied:“Yes, I live in the school dormitory.”
Qiu Shenzhi showed a faint smile:“Would you be interested in, like me, drawing portraits for tourists here to earn some living expenses?”
Huang Minhua hesitated slightly:“I’m afraid not, my schedule is already very full.”
Qiu Shenzhi did not give up, continuing:“Then, on holidays, would you like me to guide you? There are many museums here worth visiting.”
Huang Minhua smiled and politely declined:“Thank you for your kindness, but the department has planned visits for us.”
Qiu Shenzhi thought to himself:“This girl is cautious by nature. I need to find a way to get her phone number…”
He smiled lightly and asked:“Then, would it be convenient for you to leave me your phone number? When free, we could have dinner together.”
Huang Minhua smiled slightly and replied:“Alright, but I may not often be free.”
She took out a notepad, wrote down her name and phone number, and handed it to Qiu Shenzhi.
Qiu Shenzhi smiled as he accepted it:“No problem. If you have time, you can also take the initiative to invite me.”
Huang Minhua waved to him, saying:“Thank you, sir. We will probably see each other again.”
She turned lightly and continued walking deeper into the market.
Qiu Shenzhi watched her retreating figure and thought silently:“This encounter does not seem coincidental…”
In the evening, Lin Xiaoyang arrived at the school gate to pick up Huang Minhua after class. Minhua got into the car.
Huang Minhua immediately asked:“Your tone on the phone was so urgent. First, you said Annie is Xie Huijun, then you said Annie claimed to be a vampire. You’ve really confused me!”
Lin Xiaoyang handed the diary to Huang Minhua. After reading, Minhua sighed:“I really admire Annie! Truly admire her! Even if she is a vampire, she is a vampire with a conscience…”
Lin Xiaoyang spoke emotionally:“During the past two days with Annie, I felt conflicted—hoping she really was the missing Huijun, yet worrying about hurting you…”
Huang Minhua smiled:“My feelings were the same! I worried about becoming a third party interfering in your emotional world.”
Lin Xiaoyang said:“Annie said she is a vampire. After thinking it through, I finally sorted out some clues.”
Huang Minhua asked:“Oh? Tell me!”
Lin Xiaoyang recounted calmly:“Huijun traveled alone to Europe, very likely unfortunately fell into the hands of vampires, and was magically manipulated, erasing her previous memories. When she said she had a mission to approach me, it was likely under the instruction of those vampires controlling her.”
Huang Minhua nodded:“Your analysis makes sense. Annie leaving you voluntarily was probably because your deep affection for Huijun moved her and awakened her conscience. You can only think positively—your bond with Huijun is deep but your fate together is shallow.”
Lin Xiaoyang sighed heavily:“Alas! If I hadn’t acted rashly back then and argued with her, she wouldn’t have been forced to become a vampire…”
Huang Minhua suddenly remembered what the old man Qiu Shenzhi said:
“This morning at the Seine market, I met a Chinese portrait artist who can perform magic…”
Lin Xiaoyang interrupted:“That man is Qiu Shenzhi, claiming to be a student of your grandfather, Huang. I was right, wasn’t I?”
Huang Minhua asked in surprise:“What? You have already met him?”
Lin Xiaoyang warned:“You must be careful around Qiu; he is also a vampire and an enemy of your grandfather.”
Huang Minhua shivered, saying:“That’s so scary! I’m just walking on the street and could randomly encounter vampires?”
Lin Xiaoyang smiled:“Exactly. Your grandfather and I both do not want you involved. Your grandfather gave you a cross before; always carry it. When I am not around, it can protect you in my stead.”
Huang Minhua continued:“Oh no, that old Mr. Qiu… that Qiu asked about my school, my department, and my dorm. What should I do?”
“No, it’s fine, thank you for your help.”
Qiu Shenzhi smiled:“There are sometimes these scoundrels here. Judging by your accent, you are Chinese, aren’t you?”
Huang Minhua nodded, her tone gentle:“Yes, I come from Taiwan.”
Qiu Shenzhi smiled, then switched to fluent Chinese:“I see. There are often tourists from Taiwan here.”
Huang Minhua asked curiously:“Sir, are you also a painter?”
Qiu Shenzhi smiled modestly:“I wouldn’t call myself a painter, just a street artist trying to get by.”
Huang Minhua showed a trace of surprise:“I came to Paris to study painting.”
Qiu Shenzhi spoke kindly:“So we are in the same field. I am from Shanghai, though that was a long time ago.”
Huang Minhua paused for a moment, then laughed:“Sir, you are from Shanghai? What a coincidence! My grandfather was also from Shanghai, and he studied fine arts too.”
A flicker of surprise crossed Qiu Shenzhi’s eyes:“Huang Lihua? Your grandfather’s name is Huang Lihua?”
Huang Minhua was also surprised:“Sir, do you know my grandfather?”
Qiu Shenzhi hesitated slightly, then shook his head:“No, I don’t know him, but I have heard of him.”
He thought to himself silently:“What a narrow world. Huang Lihua’s granddaughter happens to meet me here…”
Qiu Shenzhi then asked:“At which university are you studying art in Paris?”
Huang Minhua nodded:“Yes, the University of Paris, School of Fine Arts.”
Qiu Shenzhi continued:
“Do you live in the school dormitory?”
Huang Minhua replied:“Yes, I live in the school dormitory.”
Qiu Shenzhi showed a faint smile:“Would you be interested in, like me, drawing portraits for tourists here to earn some living expenses?”
Huang Minhua hesitated slightly:“I’m afraid not, my schedule is already very full.”
Qiu Shenzhi did not give up, continuing:“Then, on holidays, would you like me to guide you? There are many museums here worth visiting.”
Huang Minhua smiled and politely declined:“Thank you for your kindness, but the department has planned visits for us.”
Qiu Shenzhi thought to himself:“This girl is cautious by nature. I need to find a way to get her phone number…”
He smiled lightly and asked:“Then, would it be convenient for you to leave me your phone number? When free, we could have dinner together.”
Huang Minhua smiled slightly and replied:“Alright, but I may not often be free.”
She took out a notepad, wrote down her name and phone number, and handed it to Qiu Shenzhi.
Qiu Shenzhi smiled as he accepted it:“No problem. If you have time, you can also take the initiative to invite me.”
Huang Minhua waved to him, saying:“Thank you, sir. We will probably see each other again.”
She turned lightly and continued walking deeper into the market.
Qiu Shenzhi watched her retreating figure and thought silently:“This encounter does not seem coincidental…”
In the evening, Lin Xiaoyang arrived at the school gate to pick up Huang Minhua after class. Minhua got into the car.
Huang Minhua immediately asked:“Your tone on the phone was so urgent. First, you said Annie is Xie Huijun, then you said Annie claimed to be a vampire. You’ve really confused me!”
Lin Xiaoyang handed the diary to Huang Minhua. After reading, Minhua sighed:
“I really admire Annie! Truly admire her! Even if she is a vampire, she is a vampire with a conscience…”
Lin Xiaoyang spoke emotionally:“During the past two days with Annie, I felt conflicted—hoping she really was the missing Huijun, yet worrying about hurting you…”
Huang Minhua smiled:“My feelings were the same! I worried about becoming a third party interfering in your emotional world.”
Lin Xiaoyang said:“Annie said she is a vampire. After thinking it through, I finally sorted out some clues.”
Huang Minhua asked:“Oh? Tell me!”
Lin Xiaoyang recounted calmly:“Huijun traveled alone to Europe, very likely unfortunately fell into the hands of vampires, and was magically manipulated, erasing her previous memories. When she said she had a mission to approach me, it was likely under the instruction of those vampires controlling her.”
Huang Minhua nodded:“Your analysis makes sense. Annie leaving you voluntarily was probably because your deep affection for Huijun moved her and awakened her conscience. You can only think positively—your bond with Huijun is deep but your fate together is shallow.”
Lin Xiaoyang sighed heavily:“Alas! If I hadn’t acted rashly back then and argued with her, she wouldn’t have been forced to become a vampire…”
Huang Minhua suddenly remembered what the old man Qiu Shenzhi said:
“This morning at the Seine market, I met a Chinese portrait artist who can perform magic…”
Lin Xiaoyang interrupted:“That man is Qiu Shenzhi, claiming to be a student of your grandfather, Huang. I was right, wasn’t I?”
Huang Minhua asked in surprise:“What? You have already met him?”
Lin Xiaoyang warned:“You must be careful around Qiu; he is also a vampire and an enemy of your grandfather.”
Huang Minhua shivered, saying:“That’s so scary! I’m just walking on the street and could randomly encounter vampires?”
Lin Xiaoyang smiled:“Exactly. Your grandfather and I both do not want you involved. Your grandfather gave you a cross before; always carry it. When I am not around, it can protect you in my stead.”
Huang Minhua continued:“Oh no, that old Mr. Qiu… that Qiu asked about my school, my department, and my dorm. What should I do?”
“You are alone out there, so you must always be cautious of others,” Lin Xiaoyang thought for a moment and then continued, “For now, try not to go out alone whenever possible, and make sure to have classmates accompany you whenever you leave school.”
Huang Minhua pleaded, “Xiaoyang, can’t you stay and accompany me?”
Lin Xiaoyang said, “I have to return to Switzerland; there are still some matters waiting for me to handle there.”
Huang Minhua said anxiously, “But people will be scared!”
Lin Xiaoyang said, “Alright then! I will find a trustworthy female employee to stay with you. You can move to the place where I am currently living.”
Huang Minhua asked, “The place where you are currently living? Isn’t that the apartment Annie left you?”
Lin Xiaoyang said, “Yes! Today I will accompany you back to the dormitory, help you move all your luggage to the apartment, and once the person I arranged arrives, I will return to Switzerland.”
“Thank you, Xiaoyang.” Huang Minhua leaned close, kissed Xiaoyang on the cheek, and felt very warm inside at his thoughtful arrangement.
Margaret, after receiving Lin Xiaoyang’s call, quickly reported the situation to Wilson, immediately packed a simple bag, and boarded the train, her heart full of anxiety and determination.
The air in Paris carried a faint mist, night gradually descended, and the streetlights flickered uncertainly in the hazy light.
As the train traveled, the scenery outside the window passed rapidly, and her heartbeat quickened as the destination drew closer.
Finally, she arrived beneath Huang Minhua’s apartment building, her steps light yet cautious, as if ready to face a sudden storm at any moment.
She slightly raised her head, looking at the old building, silently determined that no matter what she faced, she would do everything possible to protect Huang Minhua.
She found the inconspicuous apartment door and knocked lightly. The door opened, and Lin Xiaoyang was already there waiting for her.
“Maggie, you’ve arrived.” Lin Xiaoyang’s voice was low and carried a trace of fatigue, yet his eyes were full of responsibility.
Margaret nodded, quickly stowed her luggage, followed him into the apartment, and carefully scanned the surroundings. Her gaze was like a sharp blade, sweeping through every corner, afraid of missing even the slightest sign of danger.
“Maggie, from now on, you must closely protect Miss Huang and make sure she never leaves your line of sight.” Lin Xiaoyang’s tone was firm, his eyes deep, as if every word carried a heavy burden of responsibility.
Margaret slightly bowed, bending her elbows, crossing her hands over her chest, and responded in her signature way: “Yes, boss.”
Though her tone was calm, her fingers trembled slightly, showing the tension in her heart. She was used to every mission, but this time felt distinctly different.
Lin Xiaoyang remained silent for a moment, then walked to the window, gazing at the night sky, his eyes distant and cold.
He turned around, his gaze sharpening:
“If you encounter Qiu Shenzhi, be cautious and do not let Miss Huang be harmed.”
Margaret frowned slightly, her expression firming, and replied in a low voice:
“Boss, I will do everything to protect Miss Huang’s safety.”
Her words were full of strength, her hands clenched into fists, as if the vow had been deeply buried in her heart, a responsibility she could not escape no matter what she faced.
Lin Xiaoyang nodded, seemingly comforted by Margaret’s determination. He approached the door, turned around, showing a faint, almost imperceptible smile, though his eyes still held endless concern.
Lin Xiaoyang stepped into the door of the Paradise Hotel. He was not greeted by the usual tranquility, but by Robert’s familiar smile and warm greeting.
“Boss, you are back!”
Robert stood behind the reception desk, raising the towel in his hand, his smile warm like an old friend of many years.
Lin Xiaoyang slightly nodded, asking in a low voice:
“Where are Wilson and Huang Lihua?”
Robert leaned in, voice almost a whisper:
“The princess has called them to a meeting. They will be back soon.”
As he spoke, his eyes scanned around, as if worried someone might overhear.
Lin Xiaoyang raised a slight eyebrow, a flash of alertness in his eyes:
“Have there been any suspicious people in the shop recently?”
Robert spread his hands, tone slightly serious:
“A few of Anderson’s henchmen came here on vacation. But it doesn’t look like they are here to gather information.”
He added, seemingly unconcerned about these people.
Lin Xiaoyang nodded, a faint smile appearing on his lips:
“Good work, old friend.”
He patted Robert’s shoulder, gratitude evident, and walked back to room 504. Lin Xiaoyang put down his laptop and camera and sat on the sofa. He was about to rest when the mural on the living room wall trembled slightly. Then a door seemed to open in the painting, and Huang Lihua, Wilson, and Adorno stepped out one after another.
Lin Xiaoyang looked at them, smiling, and asked:
“You’re back?”
Huang Lihua squinted, raising an eyebrow:
“How long have you been back?”
“I just arrived,” Lin Xiaoyang explained, “The innkeeper said the princess called you to a meeting.”
Huang Lihua nodded and casually said:
“Yes, Princess Maria gave us some instructions in person.”
Lin Xiaoyang asked curiously:
“Oh? What did the princess say?”
Wilson pretended to be mysterious, a small smile at the corner of his mouth:
“The princess said everything is already in place; we only need to follow her instructions, dear boss.”
His tone carried a slight teasing.
Lin Xiaoyang slightly frowned:
“And me? What should I cooperate with you on?”
Adorno’s expression became serious:
“The princess said your seal has been lifted and she predicted that you will play a decisive role at the crucial moment.”
Lin Xiaoyang smiled wryly, shaking his head and muttering to himself:
“This princess is really remarkable. I just broke the seal, how did she already know?”
Huang Lihua looked at him, a trace of understanding in his eyes:
“It’s not surprising; the princess and you were married in a past life, your souls are connected.”
Lin Xiaoyang seemed to suddenly see clearly, his eyes brightening, “I see! But I still cannot feel her presence.”
Huang Lihua smiled, his tone gentle, “Since you moved into this room, the princess has always been by your side; this mural is actually a pair of the princess’s eyes.”
Lin Xiaoyang sighed, rubbing his forehead, “Then I don’t even have a bit of privacy, do I?”
Wilson raised an eyebrow and said in a relaxed tone, “Boss, the princess wants you to go to Rome, to the Vatican, to deliver her handwritten letter to a Chinese priest named John Chen. Father Chen is a legend in the religious world, a true hunter of demonic creatures—zombies, vampires, nothing escapes him. He is a close friend of Princess Maria. Once he reads her letter, he will agree to join us and lend us his assistance.”
Adorno added, “During the ten days of your absence, we will finalize all preparations, Boss.”
Lin Xiaoyang pondered for a moment, then finally nodded, “Alright! Since the princess has already arranged everything, I will act as a courier this time.”
Huang Lihua’s gaze grew even deeper, “Actually, the princess sending you to meet John Chen has another purpose as well.”
A trace of confusion flashed in Lin Xiaoyang’s eyes, “Another purpose? Senior Huang, you must know.”
Huang Lihua smiled slightly, “Of course I know the princess’s purpose, but this is something you must experience in person.”
Lin Xiaoyang laughed helplessly, “Alright! Each of you is more mysterious than the next, and I’m the only fool here.”
