A Courtyard Worth a Billion

After the plane took off, Xiao Yao’s emotions remained unsettled. Courtyards in the capital had always been scarce resources, and the thought that he would soon inherit a courtyard worth a billion filled him with exhilaration.

Although nearly a week had passed since he was to receive Pan Wu’s inheritance, and he had already absorbed all of Pan Wu’s memories, Xiao Yao was still, at heart, an ordinary man—not yet at the stage where he viewed wealth as mere dirt. Even though the courtyard in the capital was but a trifling part of Pan Wu’s estate, he couldn’t help but feel anticipation and excitement.

Housekeeper Lu had arranged for the family driver to pick them up at the airport. After a brief introduction, the driver took the luggage, and the group proceeded outside.

Thanks to Pan Wu’s memories, Xiao Yao was already familiar with the four luxury cars stored in the capital courtyard, but seeing the Rolls-Royce that came to meet him still took him aback. The courtyard boasted four vehicles; the least expensive was a Rolls-Royce Phantom, priced at fourteen million. Third was the Maybach Landaulet, one of only twenty worldwide, costing twenty-six million. Second was the Bugatti Veyron Hermes Special Edition, priced at forty-three million.

But the Rolls-Royce Vision parked before him was a specially commissioned edition—only one in existence—valued at eighty-eight million!

At first glance, the car was breathtakingly beautiful. Its classic Parthenon-style grille paired with round headlights exuded solemnity. The iconic Spirit of Ecstasy was crafted from matte material, making it exceptionally rare. The Vision featured a large coupe body, an exaggerated fastback design, a glass roof for panoramic views, and a retro swept-back tail. The window curves were pronounced, setting it apart from conventional modern vehicles.

The car’s striking appearance drew a crowd; many stopped to admire it, some snapping photos with their phones.

With only two seats, Xiao Yao took his place, while Housekeeper Lu rode in another Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Inside, the car was equally lavish. The designer had combined walnut and ebony, achieving a style both luxurious and understated. The seats were upholstered in pure deerskin, finer than cowhide, ergonomically designed for supreme comfort.

None of these four cars—including the Rolls-Royce Vision—were purchased by Pan Wu himself; all had been gifted by others.

In the eyes of high society, Pan Wu was not only astonishingly wealthy but, to those in the know, a mysterious master. People from all walks of life sought his insight, whether for fortune-telling, medicine, or talismans. Pan Wu was a true master, difficult to approach and rarely willing to act. Those seeking his favor spared no expense or gift to gain his attention.

In recent days, Xiao Yao had felt content merely driving a Mercedes worth over two million; now, his ride had suddenly upgraded to the pinnacle of luxury, and he found himself in a car worth nearly a hundred million. To say his heart wasn’t racing would be a lie.

On the surface, his expression was calm, almost indifferent, but inwardly he longed to shout and release his excitement. Had he not wished to avoid appearing nouveau riche before the driver, he surely would have.

The courtyard he was to inherit was on the north shore of Houhai. When the car stopped at the gate, Housekeeper Lu quickly got out, jogged over to open the door, and invited him to alight.

Two imposing stone lions stood guard at the entrance; the bronze-studded wooden doors were grand and ancient. Led by Housekeeper Lu, Xiao Yao stepped into the courtyard.

Upon entering, the housekeeper didn’t immediately show him around. Instead, he called all the staff together and introduced them one by one. Though Pan Wu was notoriously frugal, he knew how to enjoy life; as his permanent residence, the courtyard was fully staffed: drivers, security, chefs, cleaners, gardeners—a total of twelve.

After meeting the household staff, the housekeeper led him on a tour.

The enormous courtyard had been reconstructed by demolishing several smaller ones, blending traditional style with many modern elements. The estate covered more than 2,600 square meters, yet only a three-section courtyard had been built. The first and third courtyards were modest, but the second spanned a full 1,300 square meters.

The grounds were lush with flowers and greenery, featuring rockeries, ponds, pavilions, and winding bridges, all arranged with masterful skill.

Stepping into the second courtyard, Xiao Yao was instantly taken with its design.

The first section housed the staff; Xiao Yao merely glanced over it, while the housekeeper focused on showing him the latter two.

The second section was the master’s daily residence, with architecture that honored classical style yet prioritized modern comfort. Above ground were bedrooms, living room, and study; below, a wine cellar, gym, cinema, and collection room. Xiao Yao was thoroughly satisfied with his new living environment.

The third section was for leisure and gatherings, hosting a billiard room, bowling alley, cigar lounge, karaoke, and even a swimming pool. Though Pan Wu never used these facilities, they remained perfectly preserved.

All valuable antiques had been stored away in the Soul Ring, but the modern rosewood furniture was left intact. The total value of the rosewood pieces throughout the three sections exceeded two hundred million—a staggering fortune in itself.

For Xiao Yao, this was an unexpected delight.

The formalities for transferring the courtyard, with professional lawyers involved, were nearly complete—only his signature was needed. Within the morning, all paperwork was settled; in at most three days, he would receive the property certificate in his name.

Housekeeper Lu had notified the chefs two days in advance of Xiao Yao’s arrival. The two chefs had prepared all manner of ingredients and were eager to impress their new master with their skills at lunch.

Xiao Yao was genuinely satisfied with their culinary artistry. Both chefs had been carefully selected by Housekeeper Lu, and each had been personally instructed by Pan Wu. Their skills surpassed those of five-star hotel chefs.