Chapter 21 - 21

Chapter 201 PreparationTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2303 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-25 17:30:02

However, compared with Davis's relaxation, Professor Hartman and his wife tossed and turned in bed.

"Julius, do you think Davis can stay this time?" Mrs. Hartman asked softly, her tone revealing concern and uneasiness.

Professor Julius Hartmann lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling. He was silent for a moment before he whispered, "Emma, ​​I don't know either. When he first decided to travel, I actually supported him. I knew that a place like Tingen couldn't keep a talented kid like him. But then the letters stopped for more than half a year, and then I really felt scared."

Emma sighed softly and turned to look at her husband. "I just hope he can settle down and stop wandering. Backlund has great opportunities, and he came back at a good time, just in time for this academic exchange meeting. If he can use this opportunity to establish his reputation, I believe he can gain a foothold in Backlund."

Julius nodded, frowning slightly. "This is indeed a good opportunity. His research is profound enough. As long as he can perform well enough, he will definitely attract the attention of more scholars."

Emma's voice was firm: "Julius, you should guide him well tomorrow and help him sort out his thoughts. You must make sure he has a firm foothold in Backlund. All we can do is pave the way for him as much as possible."

Julius pondered for a moment, then nodded. "You're right. I'll look up some information tomorrow and make some preparations to try to help him gain a better chance of winning. This kid has shown his academic talent since he was young. All he needs is a platform and a little push."

The couple looked at each other in silence, their hearts filled with concern and expectations for Davis. This was not only their responsibility to a student, but also their earnest hope for a young man's future. They hoped that Davis could take advantage of this opportunity to not only gain a firm foothold, but also to establish his own reputation in Backlund's academic community.

It was late at night, the snow was still falling outside the window, and the fire in the room gradually went out, leaving a slightly warm room. In this slightly warm room, the Hartmans fell into deep thought and could not sleep for a long time.

The next day, early morning.

Davis woke up early. The world outside the window was covered with thick snow, which looked particularly pure against the rising sun. He sat up, walked to the window, and took a look at the street scene after the snow. The wind and snow at night seemed to have completely stopped. The whole city was wrapped in snow-white tranquility, as if even the air was filled with a fresh chill.

He stretched, changed his clothes, tidied himself up briefly, and then walked down the stairs. A faint breakfast aroma wafted from the kitchen, warm and familiar, dispelling the chill of the early morning. In the living room, Professor Hartman was sitting on the sofa, holding a few organized materials in his hands, with a focused expression, as if he had been waiting for a long time.

"Good morning, professor, ma'am." Davis smiled slightly, with a hint of gentleness in his voice as if he had just woken up.

"Good morning, Davis." Mrs. Hartman poked her head out of the kitchen with a warm smile on her face. "Breakfast will be ready soon. It's a nice day today. The snow has stopped."

Professor Hartman put down the information in his hand and looked up at Davis with expectation in his eyes: "Did you sleep well? The journey has just ended, and getting a good rest is the most important thing."

"I slept well. Better than I thought." Davis nodded, feeling a subtle sense of comfort in his heart.

The professor smiled slightly, then handed him a few sheets of paper. "This is the information I compiled last night, some content about the exchange meeting. I think these will be helpful to you."

Davis took the information and looked through it. He found that it not only contained the topics and general process of the exchange meeting, but also the background information of some well-known scholars in the field of architecture and their recent research trends. This information was so detailed and professional that he was a little surprised.

"Professor, you've prepared so carefully, it's been a great help." Davis said sincerely, with gratitude in his eyes.

"This exchange meeting is very important to you," Professor Hartman said calmly but with some expectations. "You need not only to showcase your own research, but also to communicate and exchange ideas with your peers. Backlund is a place full of opportunities. It is crucial to stand out in such an environment and show your strength."

Davis nodded and carefully put the information away, with a complex feeling rising in his heart. He knew that the professor's expectations were not only academic, but also hoped that he could take root in this city and find his own place.

"Thank you, professor. I will prepare seriously." There was a hint of firmness in his tone, as if he was not only responding to the professor but also making a promise to himself.

"Well, don't let thinking take up your breakfast time." Mrs. Hartman came over with a plate of hot breakfast and said with a smile, "Eat first. Today is a busy day."

Davis smiled slightly and sat at the dining table. While enjoying breakfast, he silently sorted out the information handed over by the professor. His mind was like an accurate archive, quickly classifying and summarizing the key points in the information, and at the same time constructing a clear blueprint for the Backlund Academic Exchange Conference.

As a Sequence 7 detective, the reader's ability greatly enhanced his learning and analytical abilities. His eyes quickly swept over each line of text, and the details seemed to be spontaneously imprinted into his memory. In less than a morning, he had thoroughly understood the materials prepared by the professor, and further optimized them with his own experience. However, in order not to appear too abrupt, he had already thought of an excuse to explain.

In the afternoon, Professor Hartman sat on a chair in the study with a cup of tea in his hand. He looked at the information in Davis's hand and asked, "What do you think of these contents? Is there anything you need to add or something you don't understand?"

Davis raised his head with a thoughtful smile on his face, and said in a calm but confident tone: "Professor, I have also read some information in these areas during my travels. For example, the evolution of Emperor Roselle's style of architecture, and the emphasis on functionality in modern architecture. I have personally observed some cases."

Professor Hartman's eyes flashed with approval, and his tone was somewhat gratified: "It seems that your travels have indeed broadened your horizons, and this has also made your academic foundation more comprehensive."

Davis nodded and continued, "Yes, professor. During my travels, I also discovered that architectural styles in different regions have their own characteristics due to the influence of history, culture, and technology. These materials have given me a more systematic understanding of these influences."

The professor smiled slightly, put down his teacup, and said in a relaxed tone: "It seems that you are almost ready. In addition to showcasing your research, the more important thing about this exchange meeting is the interaction and communication with your peers. Especially the academic community in Backlund, they are very receptive to new ideas and new perspectives, but at the same time they also require the research to be of sufficient depth."

Davis nodded seriously, looking extremely focused: "I understand, Professor. This is a precious opportunity. I will definitely do my best and live up to your expectations."

The professor smiled with satisfaction, then stood up and patted Davis on the shoulder. "Davis, I am very pleased with your efforts. This academic exchange meeting is not only a personal showcase for you, but also an opportunity to inject new blood into our architectural research line. I believe you can do it."

Davis smiled slightly and responded firmly, "I will, Professor."Chapter 202 OrphanageTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2363 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-26 17:30:02

Davis paused for a moment, sorted out his thoughts, and then slowly said, "Professor, this afternoon I want to visit the orphanage where I grew up, and visit the old director."

His tone was calm and his eyes were firm, as if this was just an ordinary request. After all, as a child who grew up in an orphanage, it was natural for him to go back and see the place that once took care of him. For Greylint, this was not just a simple request for a return visit, but also a part of his wish to fulfill the identity of "Davis". Since he had inherited Davis' identity, he should fulfill the feelings of this former child towards his homeland.

Professor Hartman was silent for a moment, his heart slightly moved. He had always regarded Davis as a rational, calm person who could calmly deal with all challenges, especially in the academic field. In his eyes, Davis was a scholar with great prospects, who had always been immersed in the world of theory and exploration and seemed to have little time to pay attention to the connection with his past. However, this request today made the professor realize that Davis' heart was not as tough and indifferent as he saw it, and some of the past emotions and memories were still deeply rooted in his heart.

"That's good." The professor muttered to himself, thinking. In fact, he had always been worried that Davis's overly rationality and calmness might make him ignore some important emotions in life. After all, a person of this age should have some emotional connections and foundations, rather than just relying on academics and logic. If Davis could have the opportunity to look back on the past and reconnect with the places and people where he grew up, it might be more beneficial for his future growth.

The professor did not reveal his thoughts, and he still maintained that rigorous and gentle attitude. "Go, Davis," he finally spoke, his voice still calm and clear, "If you really need this, then go. When you come back, maybe you will have new discoveries." He paused for a moment and added, "But remember, academic matters still cannot be delayed, don't let these things distract you."

Davis nodded, sensing the hidden meaning in the professor's words. "Thank you, professor. I will." He said no more, turned around and left, with a pursuit of the past and a firmness for the future.

The professor looked at Davis' back and sighed softly. Although the young man's eyes were tough, he also had a fragile side. He hoped that Davis could gain something from this return visit, perhaps more self-identification, or perhaps further thinking about the future. In any case, he understood that such an emotional connection was more important to Davis than any academic achievement.

As Davis left, the professor returned to his study, but his thoughts were somewhat far away. The materials and books on the table were still piled up like a mountain, waiting for him to continue his research. And the snow outside was still falling quietly, as if in this silent snow scene, his unspoken care and expectations were also buried.

Davis walked out of Professor Hartman's house and stepped onto the street that was still covered with thick snow. The air was cold, and there was a chill in the air, but it was surprisingly fresh. The buildings on both sides of the street still maintained their ancient style, and the faint light from the street lamps left a faint mark on the snow. Snowflakes still fell from the gray sky, sprinkling on this ancient city, as if covering the land with a layer of silver-white gauze.

Davis's pace was not fast, but it was very firm. As a Sequence 7 detective, his observation and intuition were already sharper than those of ordinary people. He did not completely focus on the snowy scenery and the surrounding environment, but was deeply immersed in his destination - the orphanage where "Davis" had grown up.

The memories of the orphanage are both familiar and strange to him. As the successor of that identity, he returns here not only to fulfill Davis' wish, but also to find some fragments that may have been forgotten. Perhaps here, he can find more clues about Davis' past, or, through this memory, re-sort out his relationship with the world.

After walking along the familiar street for about half an hour, he finally saw the orphanage. The building was located at the end of a quiet alley. The wooden gate was a little old, but it still retained its solemnity. The walls were covered with vines, and some places seemed to have begun to peel off. The traces of time quietly flowed here. Although it was cold outside, the orphanage was surprisingly quiet, as if in this quietness, there were many stories that had never been known to the world.

Davis stood in front of the gate, with some complicated emotions in his heart. For the former "Davis", this place was undoubtedly full of warmth and security, and it was his only home during his childhood. But for Grellint, the orphanage meant the starting point of a strange identity, a place where he needed to continue walking on this land and hide himself.

"This is just a memory from the past." Davis thought silently in his heart, took a deep breath, and walked towards the door.

He knocked gently on the gate, and soon an old woman in plain clothes appeared at the door. Her eyes were clear and kind, as if she saw a familiar face she hadn't seen for a long time, and a hint of surprise and relief appeared on her face.

"Is it you, Davis?" The old woman's voice trembled slightly, as if she was a little surprised, but also as if she had already expected the arrival of a familiar visitor.

"It's me, Aunt Irene." Davis smiled and spoke gently, as if he had returned to his carefree childhood.

The old woman looked at him, her eyes flashing with mixed emotions. She stood for a moment, and finally spoke: "You have grown up, time flies. Come in, child, it's a little cold in the yard, we haven't seen each other for a long time."

Davis nodded slightly and walked into the gate. Walking into this place that has long been worn by time, he was greeted by the familiar smell of wood and gusts of faint warm wind. The orphanage still has some signs of disrepair, but these details seem to make Davis feel more at home - this was once Davis' home and his only support.

"Do you want to sit down and chat?" Aunt Irene pointed to a corner of the yard where there was an old wooden table and several wooden chairs.

"Okay," Davis agreed, then walked over to the table and sat down.

They sat down in silence, and there seemed to be some subtle silence in the atmosphere. Aunt Irene stared at him, with a lot of unspoken care and emotion in her eyes, as if she wanted to see some stories from him that he had never said. Davis sighed softly, lowered his head, was silent for a moment, and finally spoke: "Aunt, do you remember those things when I was a child?"

Aunt Irene looked at him with a trace of nostalgia in her eyes: "Of course I remember. You are a good boy. Although fate is not fair to you, you never give up." She smiled slightly, her tone full of tenderness and kindness, "You have been unhappy many times, but you are always so strong."

Davis was silent for a while, feeling the deep love and care in Aunt Irene's eyes. He nodded slightly and continued, "I seem to be a little different now."

"Yes, child, time has changed many things and taken away many things." Aunt Irene's words were still warm, as if she was telling her thoughts, and as if she was telling Davis - even if time passes, some things will still remain in the heart.

There was a brief silence in the air; the snowflakes were still falling and the cold wind was blowing gently through the yard.Chapter 203 ReturnTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2361 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-27 17:30:02

Weiss didn't know how to start, so he could only sit there silently, and Aunt Irene didn't seem to want to break the silence. The two of them just sat there in silence, with only the faint breathing sounds in the air and the ticking sound of the old clock on the wall.

The sunlight outside the window slowly turned yellow, dyeing the mottled walls of the orphanage with a soft golden color. Davis finally moved. He stood up gently, brushed off the snowflakes on his shoulders and coat, and said in a low but sincere voice: "Auntie, thank you for letting me come back to see this place. I think I will keep today's conversation in my heart."

After he finished speaking, his eyes fell on the old building of the orphanage that was eroded by time. The faded wooden door, the shaky windows, and the bare trees in the yard seemed to be telling an old but warm memory.

Aunt Irene nodded slightly, with a complicated expression on her face. She seemed to want to say something, but hesitated to speak, as if she was waiting, but she didn't seem anxious. Finally, she sighed and said, "Davis, the child should be fine."

This sentence made Davis pause, his figure froze for a moment, but he did not turn back. He was silent for a moment, nodded slightly, but did not say much. At that moment, Aunt Irene's eyes seemed to flash with a hint of relief, mixed with a hint of regret.

After leaving the orphanage, Davis stood at the door for a while and looked up at the dilapidated sign of the orphanage. The words on the sign were a little blurry, but the fragments in his memory were still clear.

He smiled bitterly and muttered to himself: "No matter how well I disguise myself, I will eventually be seen through..."

He raised his head, took a deep breath, and suppressed all the complicated emotions in his heart. His eyes became calm again. He knew that in front of some people, no matter how well he pretended, he was not that person after all - just like facing Aunt Irene or Audrey.

And perhaps, it also includes the Hartmans. Thinking of them, Davis's mouth curled up slightly, with a hint of helplessness and a little warmth. He could imagine what the couple looked like now - Professor Julius might be frowning, thinking seriously about how to use academic logic to convince others so that he could stay in Backlund, while Madam Emma would hold a cup of hot tea and encourage the professor with her unique gentleness.

"Their persistence is even more rigorous than the theory of architecture." Davis whispered to himself with a hint of emotion in his tone.

He shook his head and looked back at the orphanage. The wind blew gently, bringing up a flurry of snow, as if isolating the small courtyard from the outside world into two different worlds. The old courtyard gate and mottled walls gradually blurred into a picture in his eyes, and the frozen time and those silent memories intertwined into an indescribable emotion.

Davis did not stay any longer and turned to leave. The sound of each step he took seemed unusually heavy, as if even his footsteps were telling him that this past was destined to be difficult to let go. After walking a few steps, he could not help but stop, take a deep breath, and look back at the gate of the orphanage.

The door stood quietly, as if waiting for the return of a soul that once belonged here.

"Maybe one day, Davis will come back by himself." He thought silently in his heart, his eyes resting on the outline of the orphanage again, and a trace of unfulfilled desire flashed through his heart. But soon, his thoughts turned, and his calm rationality made him sigh softly.

"Unfortunately, the plan has to change. Let's not take any risks in this identity." Davis said to himself, with a hint of helplessness in his tone, but also a decisive and clear determination.

He stopped and looked at the gradually darkening sky in the distance, a feeling of determination gradually rising in his heart.

"The next step is to prepare to go to Backlund." He secretly planned the future path in his mind, and his eyes became more determined.

…

In the noisy crowd at Backlund Station, Davis stood on the familiar platform with his luggage. He looked around at the familiar scenes and felt a little emotional for a moment.

This city holds too many of his memories and too many people he is familiar with—Audrey, Mr. Wright, Miss Nancy, and even some names that have gradually faded away, all of which are deeply intertwined with this city.

"Nothing here seems to have changed." He whispered in his heart, but felt an indescribable heaviness.

Originally, he could have waited until tomorrow to set off and arrived at the most reasonable time. However, he asked the Hartmanns to set off a day in advance, worrying that the fatigue of the journey would affect the meeting. Although they were a little confused, they did not ask too many questions and readily agreed to his arrangement. Professor Julius even told him to rest after arriving in Backlund, and Madam Emma carefully prepared dry food for him on the road.

But Davis knew in his heart that this was not the real reason why he set out early.

He was afraid that the longer he stayed, the greater the chance that he would be seen through. He knew that the Hartmans were not stupid people, and Professor Julius's observation was even sharper and more profound. Although he had tried his best to perfectly play the role of "Davis", some subtle details were difficult to cover up. Those slightly unfamiliar habits, those actions that were slightly different from the past, could become clues to being exposed.

"I'm not Davis, I'm just living like him." He admitted silently in his heart, with a complex look in his eyes, with both faint guilt and firm calmness. He has come to this point, there is no way back.

He took a deep breath, picked up his luggage, walked quickly towards the station exit, and blended into the crowd, as if trying to use this busyness to cover up his true emotions.

Outside, Backlund's air was still damp and cold, the dim street lights were hazy in the mist, and the snow on the road was trampled into mud.

Standing on the street, he raised his hand to call a carriage. The driver was a middle-aged man wearing a tattered hat, looking down to adjust the old blanket draped over his shoulders. After hearing Davis announce the destination, he raised his head and silently gestured for him to get in the carriage.

Davis got into the carriage and leaned against the wooden wall, letting the wheels creak as they rolled over the stone pavement. Outside the window, the dim lights on Backlund's streets and the occasional pedestrians kept passing by. The night in this city was still busy and heavy, like a huge machine that never stopped.

"A hotel near the venue of the meeting." Davis silently recited his plan in his mind. The hotel he chose was not far from the venue of the meeting. The environment was quiet and private, and would not attract too much attention. For him, this was a safe choice and the key to his first step after entering the city.

He lowered his head, holding the handle of the suitcase tightly with both hands, and quickly thought about the next action in his mind. The meeting was just a beginning, and he had to find an opportunity to further advance his plan through it, while hiding his identity so that no one could detect the real purpose.

The carriage bumped along the road, the lights and buildings outside the window receded one by one, and the hustle and bustle of the street was gradually swallowed up by the wind. Davis leaned back in his seat, his eyes slightly narrowed, seemingly resting, but in fact his heart was already turbulent.

His thoughts became clearer, like the moonlight after the haze, calm and thorough. He knew that he had to be careful in every step he took. Any mistake would put him in an irreversible situation. This disguise had just begun, and the complex relationships and potential threats lurking in this city would test his ability step by step.

Backlund is the perfect stage for this game.Chapter 204 Academic ConferenceTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2434 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-28 17:30:01

The carriage jolted gently at a corner, and Davis raised his head and looked out the window. It was the bustling district of Backlund, and the dim street lights flickered in the thick fog, like a pair of hidden eyes, staring at him coldly, as if the city itself was secretly examining everyone who came.

"Let me see who will have the last laugh." The corners of his mouth slightly raised a cold arc, and his eyes revealed a cold but deep look. His fingers unconsciously tightened the handle of the suitcase, as if to confirm that it was still firmly in his hands.

Soon, the carriage stopped at the door of the hotel. After the coachman stopped the carriage steadily, Davis walked out of the carriage and looked up at the exterior of the hotel. It was like a microcosm of the city - low-key and elegant, but with a hint of calmness that could not be ignored. Although it was not luxurious, every detail revealed refinement and taste.

He put away his thoughts, quickly paid the fare, and turned to walk towards the hotel entrance. The street lamp on the side of the entrance stretched his shadow slender, and in the mist drifting with the wind, the shadow seemed to be split into two different existences from him.

The waiter at the door had already noticed his arrival and quickly came over to greet him. After a slight bow, he politely extended his hand: "Sir, let me help you with your luggage."

Davis nodded slightly, handed the suitcase to the other party, and said calmly: "Thank you for your help."

After the waiter took the suitcase, he lifted it easily and led Davis into the hotel lobby. The warm lighting contrasted sharply with the chill of the street, and the soft carpet absorbed the sound of every step, making it particularly quiet. The lobby was not large, but the furnishings were exquisite, and the paintings and decorations on the wall just showed the taste of this place.

Davis walked to the front desk and simply confirmed his check-in information. The whole process was smooth and natural, and there was not a single unnecessary movement in his behavior, as if he was really an ordinary guest attending an academic conference. His apparent calmness concealed his inner vigilance. Behind every contact and every conversation, there was his well-thought-out vigilance.

However, despite this, his eyes still involuntarily swept around every corner, observing every face and every detail. The hotel lobby was simply but exquisitely decorated, with several guests talking in low voices and several employees busy at the side. All this seemed ordinary, but in fact it was conveying a message to Davis all the time - this was a superficial tranquility.

"Everything is normal." He laughed at himself in his heart, feeling that he was a little suspicious. After all, this was an academic conference, not a business transaction, and there were no extraordinary people involved. Any ordinary meeting would not attract too much attention, and there was nothing for him to be overly nervous about.

The waiter politely escorted him to the door of the room, gently put down his luggage, stood up straight, smiled and bowed again: "If you need anything, please feel free to let us know, I wish you a pleasant stay."

"Thank you." Davis nodded slightly and smiled politely. When the waiter turned and left and the door of the room slowly closed, he was completely relieved. Finally, he was slightly freed from that superficial restraint.

The light in the room was soft and bright, and the warm light made every object in the corner of the room exceptionally clear. He gently put down his luggage, took off his coat, walked to the window, and looked at the misty street outside. The mist was diffuse, blurring the scene in the distance, and it also seemed to erase some of the uneasiness in his heart.

His thoughts gradually sank into the depths. Backlund, every corner of this city was filled with secrets that he had never touched, whirlpools hidden in the calm, like a deep sea that could drag him in at any time. His sight fell on the light mist outside the window, as if he was peeking through it to see some answer deep in the city.

But he quickly shook his head and looked away. He knew that overthinking would only increase his anxiety. Many things were far more complicated than he imagined. It was important to plan ahead, but the most important thing at the moment was to take each step carefully.

Davis stood up and drew the curtains to isolate the light from the fog. Then he turned off the lights in the room, and the room suddenly fell into a soft darkness, with only the faint light coming in from the window.

"Don't think too much about it," he whispered to himself, as if to comfort himself, "Just do what's happening now."

He sat gently on the bed, slowly lay down, relaxed his body, and gradually cleared his messy thoughts. He knew that there might be more unknown challenges waiting for him tomorrow, but at this moment, only rest could keep him awake and calm enough. In the dark room, Davis's breathing gradually stabilized, and the waves in his heart gradually subsided.

The next day, the sun shone into the room through the gaps in the curtains, and Davis was ready to go. After washing up, he changed into a decent suit and walked to the meeting place. His steps were steady, with a faint smile on his face. He looked like an ordinary scholar, but every time he glanced around, his eyes were filled with careful observation.

The venue of the academic conference was well decorated. The golden chandelier illuminated the entire venue brightly but not glaringly. The warm wooden floor and elegant furnishings exuded a sense of solemnity. Most of the participants were well-dressed, and the voices of their low conversations merged into one, but they always maintained courtesy and restraint.

Davis quickly blended into the scene. He did not deliberately attract attention, but he showed great professionalism and insight into the topic of discussion - the theoretical development and practical application of architecture. His speech was logically clear and concise, but he always hit the point, showing his deep knowledge and depth of thinking in the field.

His performance naturally attracted the attention of many people, especially several prominent scholars and nobles. Several nobles in gorgeous clothes showed great interest in him, and some even took the initiative to talk to him during the meeting. These people were obviously not only interested in architecture, but their eyes were more of exploration and probing, as if they were evaluating his potential and background.

"Mr. Davis, your point of view is really refreshing." A middle-aged nobleman in a dark blue suit said with a smile, "My family has a real estate project in the suburbs recently. Maybe I will have the opportunity to ask you for some specific design suggestions."

Davis smiled and responded politely: "You are too kind. I just expressed some superficial opinions. It is my honor to have the opportunity to participate in a project like yours."

The middle-aged noble nodded with satisfaction, a hint of interest in his eyes, and then said: "Very good, I will let the butler contact you. This kind of project requires a professional with insight like you."

Davis remained calm when he heard this, but his heart was slightly moved. He knew that the other party's simple words were not only an invitation, but also a test and preliminary recognition. He bowed his head slightly, with a hint of humility in his tone: "Then I look forward to hearing from you. It will be my honor to contribute to your project."

The noble gentleman smiled with satisfaction, and then exchanged pleasantries with the people around him, while Davis took the opportunity to withdraw from the conversation. He knew that this exchange had achieved the effect he wanted - it was neither urgent nor enough for the other party to remember him.

In the subsequent small-scale discussion, Davis continued to maintain a low-key but professional attitude, positioning himself as a young architectural scholar who is focused on academics and practice. This image can both integrate into the academic circle and not cause too much criticism and vigilance.

After the meeting, Davis walked out of the venue, thinking about the possible developments in his mind. The so-called project of the other party might be true, or it might just be a test. But in any case, the attention of this noble family meant that he had begun to enter the higher-level social circle of Backlund, and this was an important step in his plan.Chapter 205 ConsultantTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2302 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-29 17:30:06

The next morning, Davis walked from his room to the hotel lobby. As soon as he entered the lobby, he saw a butler in a dark suit standing at the door, his hands folded on his chest, with a solemn expression. The butler saw him come in, nodded slightly, and then said politely: "Mr. Davis, Sir Hardwell asked me to pass on a message that he will let you participate in their family's project planning as soon as possible, and I will help arrange the relevant matters."

Davis smiled calmly, a bright light flashing in his eyes, and secretly evaluated the significance of this news.

Sir Hardwell really acted quickly, and was obviously more eager than he expected. This quick action meant that he had already recognized Davis's ability to a certain extent, or that he saw the potential value behind Davis. Davis was not too excited about this, but instead thought more calmly about the next response. At the moment, this seemed to be a good start - the next key was how to gain a foothold in this noble family's project and further promote his plan.

The butler led him out of the hotel, and the carriage quietly parked outside the door caught Davis' attention. The carriage looked inconspicuous, with a simple and plain design without any gorgeous decorations. It didn't seem like the convoys of traditional aristocratic families with a long history. Davis's eyes swept over the carriage, and he instantly made some judgments in his mind. Since it was a carriage that didn't seem to have any aristocratic decorations, it meant that Sir Hardwell might be a newly promoted aristocrat who had not yet accumulated the glory and symbols of traditional aristocrats.

This also made Davis think that Sir Hardwell might be looking for a new identity, or that he was eager to enhance his social status through something fresh and influential. As shown in the meeting yesterday, Sir Hardwell's interest and investment in architecture and innovative thinking clearly revealed that he was dissatisfied with the traditional aristocratic image, and even intended to establish a new aristocratic identity for himself through more modern and avant-garde projects.

Davis immediately realized that he was in a suitable position - he could not only make use of the resources of these nobles, but also use their power to advance his own plans.

Davis pondered for a moment, then followed the butler into the carriage. The interior of the carriage was small, but decorated simply and elegantly. The butler handed Davis an exquisite invitation letter in the carriage. The brief and formal text stated the purpose of the meeting: to further discuss the details of the family real estate project and Davis' specific responsibilities as an architectural consultant.

As the carriage slowly drove away from the hotel, Davis's thoughts were not completely focused on the invitation letter, but on the academic conference last night. The noble Sir Hardwell's attitude was gentle and firm. Although he did not directly reveal too many personal ideas, from his frequent questions to Davis, he was obviously verifying some of his own ideas and directions through Davis's opinions and views. Davis's performance in the meeting was exactly what he hoped for - showing his professionalism without rushing to show his ambitions and goals.

However, all this was no longer a simple academic discussion. Davis knew clearly that the next conversation would be more strategic. How to maintain his unique value as an architectural scholar in the eyes of Sir Hardwell, how to display his abilities in the next project, and ensure that he could occupy a place in the aristocratic society and gain a foothold in Backlund, a city full of complex interests and power games, would be the challenge he faced.

Davis sighed softly, adjusted his sitting position, and looked out the window at the city scene that was gradually moving away. He knew that every step on this road required extreme caution, and any negligence could lead to a change in the entire situation. However, he was not afraid. The emergence of this new opportunity was his first step towards Backlund's upper class society.

The carriage slowly drove into Sir Hardwell's manor. The scenery along the way was magnificent, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh flowers and plants. Davis' thoughts gradually withdrew from the outside world, but he became more and more aware that this was not just a discussion about architectural design, but also a critical moment for him to gain a foothold in Backlund's upper class society.

He tightened his coat and followed the butler into the hall of the manor. In the spacious hall, light poured in through the tall windows, shining on the exquisite carpets and ancient furniture. The whole space revealed an elegance that had been carved by time. Obviously, this manor was not just a residence, but also a symbol of noble honor and status.

As soon as he entered the reception room, Davis saw Sir Hardwell standing up and smiling to greet him. The sir had a slender figure, a face with a hint of delicate confidence, and was well-dressed. He was obviously different from those nobles with a long family background. His dress was noble but not exaggerated, and he looked both solemn and modern. Davis knew that such details could often reveal the owner's personality and taste, especially for a character like Sir Hardwell who was seeking a new noble status. All of this was conveying a message - he wanted to keep up with the times and stand at the forefront of the times.

"Mr. Davis, welcome." Sir Hardwell's voice was gentle and magnetic. He extended his hand to Davis, and his smile was kind. "Thank you for taking the time to participate in our discussion. I have been looking forward to in-depth exchanges with you. I am deeply inspired by your views."

Davis smiled back politely, shook the hand extended by the Sir, and said modestly: "Thank you for the invitation, Sir. It is my honor to be able to participate in your project. I benefited a lot from yesterday's academic conference, and I am very happy to continue to discuss some ideas about architecture and design with you."

Sir Hardwell nodded with satisfaction and motioned Davis to sit down. "I have heard that you have extraordinary achievements in architecture. I am impressed by your insights and way of thinking." He paused for a moment, and his tone became a little more steady. "Our family has several real estate projects. Although our family does not have a long history, we have always been committed to building some iconic buildings in Backlund and the surrounding areas to enhance the social status of our family. My idea is that your professional ability is exactly what we need, and I hope you can provide us with some unique insights."

Davis nodded slightly, silently analyzing Sir Hardwell's words in his heart. Although his words were sincere, they were also full of potential tentativeness. On the one hand, the Sir expressed his recognition of Davis's ability, and on the other hand, he also hinted that he had a clear plan for the future of the family and even hoped that Davis could play an important role in this plan.

Such an opportunity is certainly worth cherishing, but it also means that Davis must be careful in the subsequent conversation to ensure that he can provide value to the project without revealing his purpose too early.

"The Jazz's plan is very ambitious, and I feel very honored to be involved in such a project." Davis said calmly and confidently, "If I can build some buildings for your family that conform to modern concepts and carry the family's traditional values, I think it will be a win-win for both of us."Chapter 206 ArchitectureTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2422 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-30 17:30:06

Sir Hardwell's eyes flashed with relief. He sat back in his seat, motioned the butler to hand over exquisite refreshments, and said softly, "I have always believed that architecture is not only about the combination of aesthetics and functionality, but also a reflection of social culture and historical accumulation. We must not only provide comfortable living spaces for the residents of Backlund, but also make these buildings a symbol of the times, capable of carrying the values ​​and glory of our family."

Davis nodded slightly, sensing Sir Hardwell's ambition. Such a project was undoubtedly full of challenges and opportunities. To the outside world, this might just be a noble real estate development project, but for Davis, it was a breakthrough into Backlund's upper class. He needed to seize this opportunity to demonstrate his abilities, but he also had to carefully assess the possibilities and risks of cooperating with Sir Hardwell.

"I admire your vision deeply," Davis said slowly and steadily. "In this city, architecture is not only the construction of physical space, but also a social and cultural expression. For your family, such a project is not only an accumulation of wealth, but also a symbol of family inheritance. If I can participate in it, I am willing to provide you with all my knowledge and creativity in architecture."

Sir Hardwell smiled with satisfaction, obviously pleased with Davis' words. He stood up, walked to the table, picked out a few drawings from a pile of documents, and handed them to Davis. "These are several projects that our family is currently planning, and we plan to complete them in the next few years. I hope to get your opinion and see if these designs can fit your ideas."

Davis took the blueprint and carefully observed the complex design and planning on it. Although these designs already had a preliminary framework, Davis could see the shortcomings at a glance - the layout of some building structures was inefficient, and some details were not handled delicately enough, which were exactly the areas where he was good at.

He raised his head and met Sir Hardwell's gaze, his tone still calm: "These designs already have a fairly solid foundation, but if we want to reach a higher level, I suggest optimizing some functional zoning and architectural details. For example, how to improve space utilization by optimizing the building structure, how to use new materials to enhance the durability and aesthetic effect of the building, these can be directions for our further exploration."

Sir Hardwell was silent for a moment, then smiled and nodded: "I believe your advice will be of great help to us." A trace of trust flashed in his eyes, "Then, Mr. Davis, are you willing to officially join our team and become one of the main consultants for the project?"

Sir Hardwell's eyes were deep, as if he was waiting for Davis' answer, but Davis' heart was surging. Although he remained calm on the outside, his heartbeat accelerated. This moment was the breakthrough he had carefully planned for a long time. Becoming a consultant for Sir Hardwell's project meant that he could finally use the power of this new nobleman to enter the core circle of Backlund's upper class.

He took a deep breath, quickly sorted out his thoughts, looked up at Sir Hardwell with a smile, and said in a firm and confident tone: "Of course, this is my honor and my dream."

Although this sentence is simple, it is full of sincerity and determination. Davis knows that the next few days will be full of challenges. He must not only handle the relationship with Sir Hardwell and his family members, but also ensure that his professional opinions can play the greatest value in the project. More importantly, he must always be vigilant, guard against any potential risks, and ensure that he can find his place in this complex social and power network.

Sir Hardwell smiled slightly and nodded with satisfaction, seeming to be very satisfied with Davis's answer. He said softly: "I believe that your joining will inject new vitality into our project. Your ability and vision are exactly what we need. Welcome to join our team, Mr. Davis." He then extended his hand and motioned Davis to walk to the desk with him to discuss the details of the project.

Davis stood up and walked gracefully to Sir Hardwell's desk. There, more design drawings and planning documents were prepared. Obviously, all of this was prepared for him. He looked down at the drawings, remaining calm on the surface, but in his heart he had already begun to plan his next steps.

"These are the preliminary blueprints of our family's project," Sir Hardwell continued, "We hope that these buildings can represent the future of our family and also reflect some innovative spirit that is different from traditional aristocratic families. We plan to develop several plots in Backlund's prosperous area and suburbs. The goal is not only to accumulate wealth, but also to symbolize the family's status."

Davis nodded and carefully read through each drawing. Several designs have shown a certain degree of avant-garde, but in his eyes, the layout of these buildings still seems a bit traditional, lacking sufficient uniqueness and personality. Davis frowned slightly, and began to think about how to improve on the existing basis, so that these buildings can keep pace with the times while retaining the classic temperament of the nobility.

"Sir," Davis finally spoke, his tone calm and methodical, "these design foundations are already quite good, but I think they can be further optimized in several aspects. First, the functional zoning of the building can be more flexible, especially the planning of public spaces. How to make people feel comfortable and natural when flowing through the space is the key to improving the comfort of the building. Secondly, the selection of materials and the optimization of structure can make the building more in line with modern durability requirements, while also better conveying aristocratic temperament and taste. Finally, I think some new elements can be introduced into the design, such as more natural light and interaction with outdoor spaces, to enhance the vitality of the building."

Sir Hardwell listened to Davis's opinions with an approving look in his eyes. He nodded immediately, obviously agreeing with Davis's suggestions for improvement: "These suggestions are very good, Mr. Davis. We should really work on these details to enhance the uniqueness and functionality of the building. This is exactly the innovative perspective we need."

Davis' heart moved. He knew that he had successfully planted the seeds of trust in Sir Hardwell's heart. Next, he just needed to continue to demonstrate his abilities, consolidate this position, and play a greater role in this family's project. His plan was progressing steadily.

"We can start the detailed planning phase next week," Sir Hardwell continued. "I hope you can work closely with our team of architects to implement your ideas."

"I will, sir," Davis replied without hesitation, his tone full of confidence and determination. "I look forward to working with your team to create a building that your family can be proud of."

Sir Hardwell's smile became gentler. He knew that this young architect was not only an academic expert, but also a person with strategic vision. It was undoubtedly a wise choice for the family to work with a partner like Davis.

"I believe, Mr. Davis, that you will be able to bring new glory to our family." Sir Hardwell's eyes were deep, as if he saw a grand blueprint for the future. "In the coming days, you are welcome to put forward your opinions and ideas at any time. Let's work together to accomplish this great cause."

Davis lowered his head slightly, secretly sketching out a blueprint for the future in his mind. He knew that this step was the beginning of his path to a higher level and a broader stage.Chapter 207 WanderingTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2163 wordsUpdate time: 2024-12-31 17:30:07

A few days later, Davis stood in front of his desk, examining the design drawings he had completed. Although these drawings did not have too many gorgeous decorations, they undoubtedly showed his new understanding of architectural space. Combined with his memories before the time travel, Davis could naturally create a building that was completely different from Backlund's traditional style - a design that was more in line with modern aesthetics and had strong functionality.

He flipped through the drawings, thinking about how to put these designs into practical use. Sir Hardwell was very interested in innovation, and Davis knew that this opportunity was very important. He needed to gradually convince the Sir and other relevant people to accept these unusual design concepts, especially in the aristocratic circles with a strong traditional atmosphere.

Just as he was thinking, the butler's voice broke the silence: "Mr. Davis, Sir Hardwell wants you to come over."

Davis nodded, put down the blueprint, straightened his collar, and followed the butler to the knight's study. He knew that the discussion that followed would determine his role in the project.

After entering the study, Sir Hardwell stood in front of the window, took the design drawings handed over by Davis, and flipped through them. After a moment, he looked up, with a flash of recognition in his eyes: "These designs have great potential, Mr. Davis. I believe that your plan can bring significant changes to the project."

Davis smiled slightly, and the tension in his heart eased a little. This was the recognition he had hoped for. Next, he only needed to continue to demonstrate his abilities and ensure that the project went smoothly.

"Thank you, Jazz. I will keep working hard." Davis responded concisely, but he had already started planning his next move in his mind.

After leaving the manor, Davis took out his pocket watch and looked at the time. It was 14:25, so it was still early. Thinking of this, he decided to go to the city first and visit some old friends.

The carriage slowly drove away from the manor, passed through the fields outside the city, and entered the city of Backlund. The streets of the city began to become lively, with shops and pedestrians. Davis looked out the window. The architectural style on both sides of the street was still mainly in the style of William VI's period, with high roofs, exquisite window frames, and thick brick walls, exuding an elegant and ancient atmosphere.

He knew that it was no easy task to introduce modern design concepts into this traditional city. The nobles of Backlund were keen to maintain the dignity and tradition of their family, and these ancient architectural styles were the symbol of their status. Davis knew that in order to break this situation, he needed not only professional design, but also sufficient patience and strategy.

The carriage stopped on the main street of the city. Davis jumped out and took a deep breath, feeling the atmosphere of the city. Although he had been in Backlund for some time, there were still many places in this city that were worth his re-examination.

But now, there are some places he really wants to go. Those are traces of his previous identities left in Backlund. They have nothing to do with his current identity. Even rationally speaking, he shouldn't go there. Unfortunately, he is a human after all, and it is inevitable that he will be bound by emotions and memories.

Davis stood on the street, paused briefly, and then decided to follow his intuition. He knew there were many reasons why he shouldn't set foot in these places, but certain memories and old connections often came to his mind, like shadows that had never been completely erased.

He turned around casually, crossed several streets, and headed towards the East District of Backlund. The streets here seemed a bit shabby, and the narrow alleys were often filled with the noise of people and carriages. Davis's eyes swept over the familiar shops on the corners and the buildings that had left traces of him. Every step seemed to be loaded with heavy memories.

After walking for an unknown amount of time, Davis was surprised to find that he had actually walked here - the school in the East District was the first place where he left his mark in this world. Suddenly, a complex emotion came over him. This building was once a place he and a close friend had co-founded.

He stood at the door, and couldn't help but recall the moments he had spent with his friends at that time. Even so, these memories still couldn't change his decision now - turn around and leave, saying goodbye to the past.

"I am no longer that viscount." He whispered to himself, his voice a little hollow.

Davis took a deep breath, turned around and left the school, his steps brisk but his eyes determined. Today's emotions seemed to be somewhat released, and he knew that he had completed the first step of saying goodbye to the past.

The next stop was a grocery store, or more precisely, "Klein Trading Company - Rare Goods Supply". This is a store that specializes in supplying all kinds of rare goods, antiques, and exotic goods. The store has a wide variety of goods, from various mechanical parts to rare minerals and ancient books. It is located on a small street in Backlund. It doesn't look very impressive, but it often attracts people with special needs.

On the surface, it was this place that seemed to have caught Davis' attention, but in his heart he knew that this shop, simple in appearance, was full of hidden history – it was the very shop he had founded under his previous identity.

Although he now appears in this city with a new identity, he still has a special feeling for this store.

Just as he was lost in thought, a gentle greeting came from inside the store: "Hello, sir, how can I help you?" The familiar and calm voice broke his memory. Davis raised his head and looked at the source of the voice. It was indeed Henry, the clerk he had personally selected and trusted.

Henry still looked familiar, wearing a simple clerk uniform, with a professional smile on his face, and a steady demeanor, looking like everything was normal. Davis' heart was slightly moved, he knew that Henry would not recognize him. After all, Davis' appearance and temperament had changed dramatically during this period of time.

Davis smiled and replied casually, "Hello, I'm just looking around. I wonder if there are any new goods around here." His tone was calm and he acted as if nothing had happened, as if he was just an ordinary customer.

Henry nodded politely and said with a smile, "We have some new goods here, rare treasures from Intis, as well as some rare minerals and mechanical parts. If you are interested in anything, feel free to take a look."

"Thank you, I am interested in some ancient books." Davis nodded slightly, pretending to walk casually towards a row of neatly arranged bookshelves, and browsed through several books on them easily. His eyes occasionally swept across the covers of those ancient books, and his fingertips gently brushed across them, as if he was looking for a special book.

Henry saw that he was concentrating on the ancient books on the bookshelf, so he began to introduce them to him one by one: "Most of these books are documents from Intis and the Four Emperors period, and the prices and rarities vary. There are some materials related to architecture and mechanical technology, as well as records about magic and ancient civilizations." He looked at Davis with a hint of professional enthusiasm in his eyes.Chapter 208 QueensTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2536 wordsUpdate time: 2025-01-01 17:30:06

Davis' eyes lit up slightly, and he stopped what he was doing, pretending to be thoughtful: "Oh? I'm surprised you have this kind of book here." His tone was flat with a hint of interest, but his movements were still calm, as if he was enjoying the pleasure of discovering something by accident rather than deliberately looking for it.

He was not in a hurry to choose books, but showed a nonchalant attitude and asked casually: "Are these books about the combination of ancient architecture and machinery, or records of lost civilizations?" His tone was neither fast nor slow, but he accurately cut into an area that ordinary people rarely dabble in.

Henry was stunned when he heard this, and was obviously a little surprised that Davis would mention such a specific topic. He looked at the guest in front of him for a moment, as if he was re-evaluating his identity. However, he quickly regained his proper smile as a professional clerk: "Of course, sir. If you are interested, the books on the bookshelf next to you are about this subject. They were recently purchased from a used bookstore in the East, and some of the content is quite rare."

Davis said "hmm" lightly, and glanced at the bookshelf Henry pointed to. He walked over slowly, his movements light but steady, as if he didn't notice the inquiry in the clerk's words. He casually opened a yellowed book, his fingertips slid across the rough cover, his eyes lingered on the ancient handwriting on the title page, as if immersed in those dusty years.

After flipping through the books casually, he picked out a book with rich content, looked up and asked politely, "How much is this?"

Henry smiled and quoted the price, then added: "Sir, the content of this book is very special, I believe it will satisfy your interest. If you need other similar books, please feel free to visit us."

Davis nodded, paid without hesitation, took the packed books, and nodded slightly to show his gratitude. He walked out of the store calmly, paused at the door, looked back at the store, raised the corners of his mouth slightly, with a hint of satisfaction in his eyes, and whispered: "Henry did a good job."

He walked slowly along the street to the curb and raised his hand to call an ordinary horse-drawn carriage. This kind of horse-drawn carriage that can be seen everywhere is not very eye-catching. The driver is old and the carriage is slightly shabby, which is very consistent with the East District of Backlund. Davis got in the car, reported the address of "Queens", and leaned in the carriage, while casually adjusting the position of the book, his eyes casually swept across the street scene outside the car window.

Queens, Backlund's richest district, is also the most direct embodiment of the city's history and power. Davis's purpose is not simply to provide advice to the new nobility, but to learn and draw inspiration from the perspective of architecture. Each building here has a unique design style. They not only represent the tastes of different nobility, but also epitomize the architectural art of each period. For an architectural scholar, this place is undoubtedly a living textbook.

The carriage rumbled along, gradually transitioning from the crowded and noisy East Side to the neat and solemn Upper Town, and finally entering Queens. When Davis got off the carriage, he handed the fare to the driver and took out a few coins from his pocket as a tip, which earned him a grateful smile. He then looked up and saw a street paved with neat stone bricks, with buildings on both sides arranged neatly, revealing solemnity and elegance.

Each villa has its own courtyard and fence. From the exterior, the design styles vary. Some are based on the complex carvings of the Four Emperors period, some show the simple lines of neoclassicism, and some are more modern attempts. Even after years of baptism, these buildings are still well preserved, like silent witnesses of history.

Davis walked slowly along the street, his eyes focused and calm, as if everything around him was being deconstructed and analyzed in his sight. His fingers gently slid across the cover of the book from time to time, as if preparing for the design ideas that kept emerging in his mind. By observing each building, he could not only see the historical period it belonged to, but also capture the architect's inspiration when designing it.

He stopped in front of a Tudor-style villa for a moment. The building's towering spires, intricate stone carvings and hollow window frames all exuded a solemn and mysterious temperament. Davis raised his eyebrows slightly and silently recorded the details in his mind: "The style of this villa combines the solemnity of the early Tudor style and the romantic tendency of the middle period. The owner obviously wants to find a balance between authority and art."

Continuing forward, he saw a building with a strong William VI style. The beautifully decorated balconies and columns showed the owner's luxurious taste, while the more modern villa next to it reflected the new aristocracy's pursuit of the trend of the times. He secretly sighed: "These buildings are not only a symbol of status, but also a silent competition among aristocrats."

Davis was not in a hurry to contact anyone, but tried to keep a low profile and disguise himself as an ordinary architecture enthusiast. He shuttled through the streets and alleys, carefully observing the details of each building, as if he was talking to these silent boulders. With every step he took, his vision seemed to be opened to a new window, and he could feel that every building here contained the nobles' pursuit of power, history and art.

As the afterglow of the setting sun shone on the street, Davis sighed softly, his eyes deep: "Backlund's wealth is not only in money, but also in its rich history." These buildings are like scrolls, telling of glorious times. With respect and curiosity for these buildings, he turned around and left, and a new design blueprint had already begun to be outlined in his mind.

He walked slowly along the street, his eyes sometimes lingering on the patterns of a certain building, sometimes looking aimlessly into the distance, his thoughts spreading like ripples. At this moment, he raised his head, and the scene in front of him made him slightly stunned - the familiar courtyard, the classic columns, the lintel carved with the ancient family emblem... He actually walked to the door of the Glerint family villa without realizing it.

Davis stood there, with a complicated expression, and his eyes slowly swept over everything in front of him. The familiar courtyard was still tidy, and the ancient sculptures were still standing there, as if time had never left a trace here. But he knew that the real change had already happened, and this place no longer belonged to him.

He slowly raised his eyes and stared at the heavy iron door. The exquisite family emblem on the iron pattern remained the same, carrying the glory and pride of the past. The scenes in his memory gradually emerged, and he seemed to see his former self again - the young man who had just come to this world. Although he did not show it, he always believed that he was the protagonist, and thought that with the protection of his family and his own efforts, he could write his own legend on this land.

"What a irony..." Davis sighed silently in his heart. At that time, he never thought that one day he would stand here in this identity, looking at his former home through a door. Now, his name has been erased from the nobility register, and his status, identity, and even the legitimacy of his existence have been declared "dead" by the royal family in cold words. In order to survive, he had to bury the past, hide in a new identity, and walk the streets of Backlund like a ghost.

He looked down at his hands, which were weathered but still steady. But he knew very well that these hands could no longer open the door or touch things that once belonged to him. This villa might belong to someone else now, and it was dangerous for him to even get close.

"Perhaps I am too naive..." He murmured in a low voice, with a hint of sarcasm and self-mockery in his tone. He raised his head and looked at the door again, his eyes were mixed with complex emotions, regret, anger, but more of a faint sense of relief.

The glory of the past had long since turned into a wisp of smoke, and all that remained was the indifference and alienation of the building in front of him. Davis knew that he could no longer go back to the past, and he didn't need to dwell on things that had long since passed away.

He took a deep breath, straightened his back, turned around slowly, and left the familiar yet unfamiliar courtyard. His steps were steady and firm, as if he was telling himself with his actions: the past is the past, and the important thing is to keep moving forward.Chapter 209 EncounterTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2209 wordsUpdate time: 2025-01-02 17:30:03

A few days later, the gray light from the sky shone through the window onto the table. Davis was still buried in thick materials, his pen rustling on the paper, as if he was shut out from the whole world.

"Davis, stop working so hard and go out for a walk." Eric leaned on the table, looking at him with concern, his tone revealing a hint of helplessness.

"Eric, you're not going to teach kids in the East District school again, are you? And you want to bring Davis with you!" The companion next to him joked, with a hint of ridicule in his tone, "Don't you think about it? If others know that you always go there, will they kick you out of this circle?"

Eric heard this, turned his head and glanced at the man, and said with a smile: "Yeah, it doesn't matter if you are kicked out. But I think that scholars like Davis should really pay more attention to those children. They are the ones who really need education."

Davis raised his head and stopped writing. He glanced between Eric and his companions, and a faint smile appeared on his face: "I don't think there is anything shameful about this. Education should not be limited to class or region. What we do is to let those who have no opportunities see hope."

"That's easy for you to say." The companion next to him sneered, with a hint of ridicule in his tone, but his hands did not stop moving. He pulled Davis up from the chair and said, "Come on, Davis, don't bury your head in work all the time. Although Eric's idea sounds a bit whimsical, at least it allows you to move around and not exhaust yourself."

Davis stood up, shook his shoulders which were a little stiff from sitting for a long time, and dusted himself off. He raised his head and said calmly but firmly, "What we have done may not have any effect now, but someone will definitely appreciate it in the future."

The people in the room were silent for a moment, and then someone smiled softly, but did not speak again. They understood what Davis said, and the significance of his insistence. Although they always said something mocking and indifferent, in fact, these colleagues never stopped silently helping the children in the East District.

Davis knew very well that these companions seemed ordinary, but each of them had a deep understanding of knowledge and a persistent belief in the future. As a new noble, Sir Hartley had a weak foundation and could not attract scholars with backgrounds, so he could only look to people like Davis who came from ordinary backgrounds but had real talents and knowledge. Davis knew that because of their experiences, they could better understand the importance of knowledge in changing their destiny.

"Okay, Eric," Davis smiled and said in a more relaxed tone, "Since you said so, I'll accompany you to the East District. But don't expect me to be with you every time."

Eric shrugged and smiled with satisfaction. "That's more like it. We can't let all this idealism rest on you alone."

The people in the room continued to sort out the documents on the table, laughing and joking with a sense of ease and anticipation. Davis sorted out the last piece of paper on the table, turned around and nodded to Eric: "Let's go, I want to see what the East District school you always talk about is like."

The two walked out of the classroom and headed toward the East District along Backlund's busy streets. On the way, Eric enthusiastically told Davis about the history of the East District School.

"You know, when this school was first established, almost no one was optimistic about it." Eric said excitedly as he walked. "The environment in the East District is too bad. Most people there barely make ends meet. How can they care about their children's education? But in such a place, someone insisted on building a school."

Davis's eyebrows moved slightly, and he turned his head to look at Eric. He was a little disturbed. Although he knew the origin of this school better than anyone else, after all, this was one of the plans he had promoted as a noble, he still pretended to be ignorant and asked, "Who is the one who insisted on doing this? How can he do this on his own?"

Eric smiled, with a hint of admiration in his tone: "Miss Audrey Hall, you must have heard of her name? The daughter of the Hall family, a true noble lady."

Davis' eyes flickered slightly, but his expression remained calm. He nodded slightly, with a hint of curiosity in his tone: "Miss Hall? Why does she care about the East District?"

Eric's face showed admiration, and his voice was filled with emotion: "This is what makes her special. Miss Hall is not just a noble, she is a true idealist. Not only did she donate to the school, she also personally participated in the planning and preparation. In order to understand the real needs of the East District, she even visited the school in person many times. This school, it can be said, is inseparable from her efforts."

"She is indeed admirable." Davis nodded in agreement, with a hint of sincere approval unconsciously in his tone.

Eric couldn't help but sighed, "That's right! I saw her once from a distance when I was in school. She is really...both her temperament and her manners are completely different from those of ordinary nobles. That kind of elegance, with her sincere concern for these children, completely overturned my impression of nobles."

Davis listened to this, his mouth slightly raised, and he smiled faintly. He did not respond, but his eyes fell on the East District School that was gradually emerging not far away. There was a slight ripple in his heart. Audrey Hall, this name was not unfamiliar in his memory - she had been such a vivid presence.

"Audrey seems to have changed a bit," he thought silently in his heart. In the past, Audrey was more like an exquisite painting, noble and elegant but far from reality. But now, listening to Eric's description, she seems to have already integrated into a part of this city. She is no longer just a noble lady in an ivory tower, but a person who truly takes action for the East District and these children.

Such a change gave Davis a complex feeling. Perhaps it was relief, perhaps it was recognition, or perhaps it was the rekindling of some common belief. He knew very well that education was not something that could produce immediate results, but it was the most powerful seed of hope, and Audrey's persistence undoubtedly made these hopes more vivid.

Eric continued to describe Miss Hall in his eyes, his voice full of admiration and curiosity: "You don't know, she is really the most special noble lady I have ever seen. That kind of pure and elegant temperament is completely different from those nobles who only know how to show off their status. She always has a gentleness and determination that cannot be ignored, as if she can find vitality even in the most barren land."

Davis listened silently, occasionally nodding in response, but his eyes unconsciously looked forward, and his pace quickened. Although he looked calm on the surface, he had a vague premonition in his heart - perhaps fate was quietly arranging an unexpected encounter.

When the two walked through several rows of classrooms and came to the open space in the middle of the school, the sun shone through the slightly cold clouds and sprinkled on the ground. A group of children gathered around the open space, laughing happily. In the middle of these children, stood an elegant and beautiful figure.Chapter 210 Davis and AudreyTitle of the Book:Secret: The Story Hidden Under DestinyAuthor: Little Fish Listening to the RainChapter word count: 2351 wordsUpdate time: 2025-01-03 17:30:04

Audrey Hall.

Her blonde hair looked like flowing honey gold in the sun, and her emerald green eyes seemed to be illuminated by the faint light, deep as the sea, yet gentle and clear. She was wearing a simple yet noble dress, and she looked like she had walked out of a painting, with a warm smile on her face, and she was talking softly to the children around her. Her smile was like a spring breeze, with some indescribable warmth and healing, as if anyone standing in front of her, all the troubles and tensions could be temporarily calmed down.

Davis's steps suddenly stopped. At that moment, his eyes were fixed on her, and a strange emotion flashed in his eyes that was difficult to conceal - complex, nostalgic, and a trace of untouched throbbing. Although he tried hard to suppress himself, Audrey could not escape the perception of this momentary fluctuation.

She noticed it.

Her eyes narrowed slightly, as if she had caught a wave in an instant, as if a breeze had passed over the lake, stirring up ripples. Audrey's heart was slightly shaken, and the familiar feeling made her stunned for a moment. She did not rush to react, but slightly tilted her head, still communicating with the children around her, with a gentle smile on her face, but those eyes seemed to hide an insight that could not be ignored.

She was an "audience", an extraordinary person who was good at observing emotions and minds. She caught the familiar breath from Davis' eyes - the breath of Greylint. Her heart was immediately stirred, but she still kept a decent smile on her face, as if she didn't notice anything.

She knew that if she reacted excessively, it would expose all her secrets. So she chose to silently endure the shock, suppress it in her heart, and pretend nothing happened.

"Davis, come here quickly!" Eric's voice suddenly broke the silence.

He pulled Davis' arm and pulled him back from his daze, "Ms. Hall! This is the friend I mentioned to you, Davis. He also has in-depth research on education."

Audrey turned around and her eyes naturally fell on Davis. Her smile was still gentle, and her tone was calm but with hidden meaning: "Nice to meet you, Mr. Davis. Welcome here." Her voice was soft and clear, as if every word was carefully carved, with some invisible power, gently plucking Davis' heartstrings. Her "welcome" was like saying to him: "I know who you are, and there is no need to hide anything."

Davis stood there, bowed slightly, and tried his best to maintain a calm demeanor: "Miss Hall, I have long heard of your great name. Today, I see that you are indeed worthy of your reputation." His understated words carried a hint of courtesy and an elusive calmness. In this moment of silence, Audrey's eyes swept over him, as if silently saying something that had not been said.

Their eyes briefly met in the air, as if a silent conversation was unfolding in their hearts. In Audrey's eyes, in addition to the calm appearance, there was a hidden wave of deep emotion - she had confirmed that Grallint had really returned.

At this moment, time seemed to slow down. Davis felt the insight and tolerance in Audrey's eyes, but his heart was filled with complicated emotions. He knew that his identity had been discovered by her, but Audrey did not point it out, and remained as elegant and calm as usual. Her tolerance seemed to have become a barrier, trapping him inside, but also giving him a strange sense of relief.

Davis did not communicate with Audrey. He turned to the children and said, "Hello everyone, my name is Davis, and I'm an architecture scholar." His voice was steady and low, trying to return to his daily role, but the fluctuations in his heart were still difficult to suppress.

"Architecture, building houses?" An innocent voice came from among the children, breaking the brief frozen air.

Davis was slightly stunned, then looked down at the curious child, a warm smile flashing in his eyes. He cleared his throat, trying to suppress the fluctuations in his heart, adjusted his breathing, and made himself look more calm: "Of course you can say that." His tone was soft and calm, with a hint of relaxed joking, as if the tension and complex emotions just now were swept away by the innocent laughter of the children.

He bent down, his eyes level with the children, with a gentle light in his eyes: "But it's not just about repairing the house, we also have to design the house to make it beautiful and practical and meet people's needs." Davis' words were gentle and patient, as if he was conveying to the children a world of creativity and imagination. His tone unconsciously revealed a long-lost enthusiasm, as if he was no longer the man living in the shadows, but a person who could find joy in simple interactions.

The children's eyes lit up instantly, and they gathered around and asked a series of curious questions: "How do you know how to build a house?" "What kind of house is the most comfortable?" "Can you draw?"

Davis couldn't help but laugh, shook his head slightly, and replied softly, "I can draw pictures and think of many different designs, but the most important thing is to understand what people really need." He paused, his eyes involuntarily swept in the direction of Audrey, his heart moved slightly, and then turned back with a relaxed smile on his face, "Just like we are now, sitting together with everyone, talking about where we live, and listening to your ideas."

There was an indescribable sense of ease and joy in his words, as if through this moment of communication, he had regained his connection with the world, even if it was only for a short time. Although the sense of belonging was always vague, in front of the children's innocence, he seemed to be able to let go of the burden in his heart a little. The long-lost warmth quietly bloomed at this moment.

"Then I want a big house!" A child raised his hand excitedly, his eyes shining, as if he was full of longing for Davis' topic.

The children's voices continued to sound, discussing their dream houses with each other. Davis couldn't help but smile, secretly sighing in his heart that this kind of simple joy and desire was so real and beautiful.

Audrey stood aside, watching Davis' interaction with the children with a gentle look. Her brows were slightly furrowed, as if she was thinking about something, with a hint of indescribable complex emotions in her eyes. She witnessed Davis's relaxed and natural smile, and listened to his conversation with the children. The long-lost warmth and sincerity made her heart slightly shaken.

However, after a moment, she unconsciously relaxed her expression and put on a decent smile again. She tried to look calm and hide her inner fluctuations, but her eyes still showed a trace of uncontrollable emotions. She sighed softly in her heart and thought silently: "No matter what, he is still the same, how good." She took a deep breath and tried to calm down this thought.

As Davis and the children's laughter merged into one, a faint worry suddenly flashed through Audrey's heart, like a raindrop falling quietly: "I hope he can always maintain this purity."

Today, she saw Davis' true brilliance, the warmth that flowed from deep inside his heart. His sincere smile and his interaction with the children seemed to show her the kindness and purity he once possessed. Her eyes moistened slightly, and the vague worry in her heart was slowly replaced by warm emotions, as if all the pain and doubts she had experienced were comforted at this moment.

He was still himself. Despite all he had gone through, he had not been swallowed up by the dark forces, nor assimilated by the potion.