Lanling had always been efficient.
Once the thought of eloping took root, he saw no reason to waste time. He reported to Lixuan without delay, stating that he was ready to meet the dragon at any time.
The reaction was worth it.
For the first time in ages, he got to witness his father's utterly shocked expression in real time—a sight that filled him with an odd sense of accomplishment.
Normally, Lixuan would have questioned his sudden eagerness. But fearing Lanling might change his mind, he quickly set things into motion.
Fortunately, preparations had already begun days ago. The sifting of the treasury alone had taken three whole days, but with that hurdle cleared, there were only two days left to wait.
Still, Lanling couldn't get used to his father's careful considerations.
'All dragons are the same. They just want gold. He didn't need to make the servants dig out the shiniest gemstones.'
