Li Feng, his voice steady, looked at the family. "I accept being a part of this family," he began, "but I have my own path. I won't use the family's influence or resources."

Li Yuan's wife, the elderly matriarch, spoke up, her voice filled with confusion. "Why would you refuse the advantages of our family? It's a privilege that many would envy."

Li Feng met her gaze, his expression resolute. "I want to be free just how i was till now."

Li Yuan, his gaze filled with understanding, addressed Li Feng. "We understand, young man. You've endured hardship because of our tradition. But we wouldn't leave you adrift." His eyes flickered pointedly towards Li Feng's mother, a silent message passing between them.

"Here's what we propose," Li Yuan continued. "Take some time to reflect on your path. Meanwhile, why not enroll in a prestigious finance program at a university in Xinzhou? Our family primarily operates in larger countries like Ameria and Britannia, but you can establish yourself here and study independently."

Li Feng nodded, his mind racing. 'A finance degree, huh? 'he thought. 'That could be useful. I can use that knowledge to manage the system's funds. 'He smiled inwardly, a plan forming in his mind.

With Li Feng's tacit agreement, the meeting concluded. As the family members moved towards the dining hall, Li Feng couldn't help but notice the absence of his mother. She had excused herself, citing urgent business.

The grand dining hall was a sight to behold. A long, ornate table was laden with a sumptuous feast, prepared by world-renowned chefs. Delicate porcelain plates held exquisite dishes, each a masterpiece of culinary art.

As the family gathered around the table, a lively conversation ensued. Li Wei and Li Yan, the twins, were particularly chatty, sharing stories of their latest adventures and discussing their ambitious plans for the future. Li Chen, on the other hand, was more reserved, speaking only when necessary, his words measured and deliberate.

Li Feng found himself drawn to Li Xue, who sat across from him. Her beauty was striking, but her demeanor was distant and aloof. She ate silently, her gaze fixed on her plate.

The grand dinner concluded with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation. As the family members began to depart, Li Yuan turned to Li Feng. "Well, our work here is done. If you need anything, Chen will be your personal secretary. Perhaps you might need a female secretary to assist you as well?" he joked, a twinkle in his eye.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

One by one, the family members left, each in their luxurious vehicles, escorted by a fleet of security cars. Li Yuan and Li Hua departed in a classic, vintage car, its timeless elegance a testament to the family's wealth and history.

Li Feng was left alone with his father, Li Ming. As they stood by the grand entrance, Li Ming pulled his son into a warm embrace. Surprised, Li Feng returned the hug, feeling a surge of emotion he hadn't experienced in years. "Welcome back, son," Li Ming said, his voice filled with affection.

Li Ming then handed Li Feng a sleek, black card, its surface shimmering with a subtle purple hue. "This is your personal card. I'll transfer a monthly allowance to it. If you need more, just let me know." With a final nod, Li Ming turned and left, disappearing into the night.

Li Feng, still processing the events of the day, turned to Chen. The usually stoic secretary's eyes widened slightly as he took in the sight of the luxurious car and the unique bank card. He quickly regained his composure, his expression professional once more. "Shall we head inside, Young Master?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Li Feng, still adjusting to his newfound family, looked at Chen with an eyebrow raised. "Am I not going to my home?"

Chen, ever the efficient secretary, was momentarily confused. He didn't understand and asked back "Home, sir?" he inquired politely.

Li Feng, seeing the blank expression on Chen's face, realized the misunderstanding. "Ah," he said, "I have a small rental studio apartment in Bay City."

A flicker of comprehension crossed Chen's features. "Of course," he said, adjusting his glasses. "However, perhaps there's no need for you to--"

His words were cut short by the shrill buzz of Li Feng's phone. With a slight nod towards Chen, Li Feng answered the call. "Hello?"

A gruff voice responded on the other end. "Are you Li Feng?"

"Yes, this is Li Feng. Who is this speaking?"

"This is Chen Mei, the landlord of the apartment you rent in Bay City."

Li Feng's brow furrowed slightly. "Oh, yes, that's right. I'll be moving out soon, actually."

The voice on the other end turned sharp. "No, you won't be."

Li Feng's confusion deepened. "What do you mean? I've already paid a two-month deposit and a month's rent."

"Doesn't matter," the voice scoffed. "You're not moving in here. Don't even think about getting your deposit back. You'll have to jump through hoops for that, and frankly, it's not worth the hassle. Just forget about it."

Li Feng's jaw clenched. "But why? That's not fair!"

The landlord let out a humorless chuckle. "Fairness doesn't exist in this world, kid. Now listen well – stay away from Bay City. And don't bother calling back." Before Li Feng could get another word in, the call ended abruptly.

Li Feng stared at the phone, his face a mix of anger and disbelief. "What was that all about?" he muttered, looking at Chen, who shared his bewildered expression.

Li Feng sighed, his frustration evident. "Forget it," he muttered, dismissing the incident.

Chen, sensing his employer's discomfort, changed the subject. "This is your home, Young Master. If you wish to visit your other properties in different cities, we can arrange that."

Li Feng nodded, his mind still reeling from the strange phone call. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was amiss. But for now, he decided to focus on the present and the extraordinary journey that lay ahead.