By chance, Ji Yuan became Lu Chen’s concubine.
But Lu Chen was bound to a System from a matriarchal world, which forced him to woo Ji Yuan. He resisted to no avail, and had no choice but to pursue her.
Ji Yuan knew Lu Chen was trying to win her over, but she had something to gain, so she could only pretend to be charmed by him.
And so the two went through the motions: he wooed her unwillingly, awkwardly and reluctantly; she knew the truth, but pretended to be won over.
However, the matriarchal System gauged affection based not on their actions, but on their true feelings. Their daily interactions went something like this:
Lu Chen: “I suppose it wouldn’t be impossible for you to become my wife. But do you love me?”
Ji Yuan: “Of course I do.”
System: Ji Yuan’s favorability detected: 1. Current favorability increase: 0.
Lu Chen inwardly flew into a rage. What a liar, saying one thing and meaning another.
Lu Chen: “Zhilu Workshop really is the best shop for making spirit weapons.”
Ji Yuan, delighted: “You think Zhilu Workshop is the best shop, Pavilion Master?”
Lu Chen: “Of course not. The best shops belong to my Yun Que Pavilion! But if you like Zhilu Workshop, I can buy it and give it to you.”
Ji Yuan thought, It’s already mine. Why would I need you to give it to me? But she smiled sweetly all the same. “Thank you, Pavilion Master.”
System: Ji Yuan’s favorability detected: 0. Current favorability increase: -1.
Lu Chen inwardly fumed. What a woman, always pretending to be something she’s not.
The two kept pushing and pulling, tormenting each other as they did, until feelings slowly began to blossom between them.
