Help! I'm the Plot Device: Just Here to Save the Heroes

Kitty, Pour Me Another Cup

"Still," Ran Yi pressed, "lashing out was reckless."

"I know." Yuanzhou's lips tightened. "But I couldn't stop myself." His eyes flicked past Ran Yi's shoulder. His steps slowed. He had spotted Yan An entering the tavern-Yichen trailing after.

🧶

Moonlight Tavern

The tavern was noisy, lantern light spilling golden across rough tables. The air was thick with wine, roasted meat, and laughter.

Jerry followed Yan An inside, tugging his borrowed cloak tighter around his shoulders. His mind whispered escape routes, but his gut told him it was already too late.

"Host," the System muttered, "do you really think it's a good idea to follow him?"

Jerry's lips twitched into a crooked smile. "Do you think if I run... he'll just let me off?"

Yan An turned, sharp eyes narrowing. "Did you say something?"

Jerry shook his head quickly. "No, nope. Nothing. Air's nice tonight, isn't it?" Yan An didn't press.

The air was thick with wine and grilled meat. In a shadowed corner, Yan An settled at a table, gesturing for the serving boy. A jug of wine appeared between them with two cups and dishes.

"Can you drink?" Yan An asked, voice soft, almost casual.

Jerry puffed up, slapping his palm on the table. "Of cour-course I can. I'm... really good at it. Hah."

The System groaned. "Prince Yichen could drink a hundred cups, but you, host-you sure you could hold."

Jerry coughed into his sleeve. "...I can't."

"Host!"

"But-" Jerry leaned forward, whispering, "I don't have another option."

Yan An poured the first cup, sliding it across. Jerry took it, inhaled, then swallowed. Fire clawed down his throat; his eyes watered instantly. He slammed the cup down with a shaky grin.

"This-this is good! See? Easy!"

Yan An's lips curved, unreadable. He refilled the cup. "Then you should drink more."

The second cup hit harder. The third, Jerry's head bobbed. By the fourth, he was swaying, hiccupping, cheeks flushed.

"Hic-another! Pour... pour me one more!"

He collapsed forward, cheek pressed against the cool table. The tavern blurred, voices buzzing like bees. Yan An sipped calmly, while Jerry stirred, his head lifting groggily.

"Prince Yichen..." Yan An murmured, testing.

Jerry hiccupped, raised his head, and slurred, "Pour me... pour me 'nother one..."

Host, you're losing it-"

Jerry pressed a finger to his lips. "Shhh-shut up. I'm fine."

Yan An tilted his head. "You dare tell me to shut up?"

Jerry sat bolt upright. "No, no- hic-. Not you. You-carry on, kitty."

"...Kitty?"

Jerry leaned closer, eyes glassy. "Yeah, you."

Yan An's smile cooled. "Did the Crown Prince send you to spy on me?"

Jerry shook his head violently. "Nooo. He doesn't know who you are. Only I know."

Yan An's brows arched. "Then, how did you know who I am?"

Jerry blinked. "I read about you."

Yan An leaned forward. "Read?"