Chapter 97: Why Has It Come to This? (Please Subscribe)

Under the watchful gaze of Cheng Guang, Liu Hao inexplicably felt extremely nervous, beads of sweat the size of soybeans trickling uncontrollably down his forehead. Wiping the sweat from his brow, he spoke in a somewhat hoarse voice:

“Young Master, my third daughter, Yu Ting, had considerable contact with Zhang Shunlong before, and it seemed there was an intention of a secret engagement. Although we did not hold much regard for Zhang Shunlong’s family, at first we had no objections. But then… a nobleman passing through Ping’an County took a liking to Yu Ting…”

“With that, how could Zhang Shunlong’s family possibly be worthy of our Liu household? We intended for Zhang Shunlong to give up hope, but instead, he refused and even planned to elope with Yu Ting. This angered the nobleman, who said, ‘Zhang Shunlong is a matter for us to handle.’”

“The nobleman’s words weigh like a mountain upon us commoners,” Liu Hao continued gravely.

“We dare not defy them.”

Upon hearing this, Cheng Guang’s mind instantly conjured a melodramatic scene: the so-called nobleman, having taken a fancy to Liu’s third daughter, intended to forcibly marry her. Yet, in an era of parental arrangements and matchmakers, it was hardly a matter of force. To the Liu family, having a nobleman interested in their daughter was akin to a windfall from the heavens.

Thus, they sent their daughter directly to the noble’s residence.

As for Zhang Shunlong, he was merely a scapegoat. The nobleman probably never regarded Zhang seriously; otherwise, Zhang would not have survived this long. Perhaps it was a casual remark, but even so, Liu Hao and his family dared not disobey. They meticulously plotted to crush Zhang Shunlong’s family.

Therefore, the silver theft case must have involved Liu Hao and his associates behind the scenes.

Moreover, besides the Liu household, there seemed to be cooperation from other county officials.

At the same time, Li Mingtang, the magistrate of Ping’an County, also understood the situation clearly.

It turned out that Zhang Shunlong’s family was indeed wrongfully accused of the silver theft.

The Liu household had truly gone to great lengths to deal with Zhang Shunlong’s family.

Li Mingtang also realized that the Liu family alone could hardly have stolen silver from the county treasury without the collusion of some officials.

Thinking this over, Li Mingtang frowned helplessly, feeling the matter was a complete mess.

The nobleman was not involved in such affairs. If he truly wished to eliminate Zhang Shunlong, he could have done so directly, no matter the effort.

All of this seemed to be the Liu family’s handiwork, scheming to please the nobleman with a single word.

It was all too real.

Li Mingtang felt a surge of sympathy for Liu Hao’s actions, but at the same time, he dared not speak out openly to assert his position.

They could handle Zhang Shunlong’s family, but to act against Liu Hao directly was another matter.

After all, the Liu family’s third daughter was married to that nobleman. Whether the marriage was formal or not, it was irrelevant—at the very least, she was part of the nobleman’s entourage.

No matter how lowly her status, it was incomparable to his own.

If the Young Master wished to help Zhang Shunlong, he would inevitably have to deal with that nobleman.

This was a battle of gods, far beyond a humble magistrate’s reach.

Li Mingtang mulled over this, choosing to keep a low profile, his thoughts drifting elsewhere.

Cheng Guang furrowed his brows slightly and asked, “Who exactly is this nobleman you mentioned?”

Upon hearing this, Qing Luan also fixed her gaze on Liu Hao, curious about the identity of such an influential man who could casually break up a couple and marry off the Liu daughter.

Under Cheng Guang’s scrutiny, Liu Hao wiped the sweat from his forehead again, his lips twitching as if about to speak, but no words came out.

He knew that if he revealed the nobleman’s name, the Young Master might seek trouble with him.

If the nobleman turned against him, even if his daughter had married into that family, she would gain no benefits.

Liu Hao did not want to respond, but the situation left him no escape.

He dared not offend that nobleman; nor could he afford to offend the esteemed Young Master before him.

After a moment’s silence, Liu Hao sighed deeply, his face ashen, and slowly said, “He is Lin Yunzhen, son of the current Chancellor, Right Chancellor Lin Gongfu.”

“Lin Yunzhen?” Cheng Guang’s brow furrowed.

He was unfamiliar with the name.

In the capital, he only interacted with a select few, and ordinary people had no qualifications to approach him.

So when he heard Lin Yunzhen’s name, he couldn’t place it.

However, he did know the current Chancellor, Right Chancellor Lin Gongfu.

Lin Gongfu was a cunning old fox, upright yet ruthless, a major power in the court. His stern demeanor, backed by his status as a veteran of two dynasties, allowed him to look down on many younger officials.

Most officials opposing the powerful Directorate of Light belonged to Lin’s faction.

For such a minister, his offspring naturally held significant status.

Though not as prestigious as Cheng Guang, it was still considerable.

No wonder Liu Hao and his family were so deeply wary of Lin Yunzhen.

Cheng Guang stroked his chin, then looked at Qing Luan. “Qing Luan, do you know Lin Yunzhen?”

“Who is he?” she pondered briefly, then lowered her eyes. “Young Master, Lin Yunzhen has a good reputation in the capital. He is known for his philanthropy and is a scholar of the Great Zhou Academy, famed for his talents in poetry and prose. Many noble families’ daughters admire him.”

“That’s strange,” Cheng Guang mused. “If Lin Yunzhen is such a man, surely he wouldn’t lack women. How could he just pass through Ping’an County and take a fancy to a woman there?”

Though crude, his words made sense.

Qing Luan nodded slightly, her eyes filled with doubt.

“Perhaps… the Liu daughter must be exceptionally beautiful?”

Cheng Guang frowned. This was not merely about looks. Even the most beautiful woman was common among the nobility. What mattered most was status and family background.

Among the many noble daughters in the capital, Lin Yunzhen ignoring them all to favor a daughter from Ping’an County was unusual.

Either Lin Yunzhen was peculiar, or Liu’s daughter possessed something distinctly alluring.

Cheng Guang then turned to Li Mingtang. “Magistrate Li, you heard what was said. Handle the silver theft case back at the county.”

Li Mingtang, hearing himself mentioned, could no longer feign ignorance and quickly agreed.

Aside from the Liu family’s involvement under Lin Yunzhen’s shadow, those county officials secretly aiding the Liu household to curry favor must not be spared.

Cheng Guang then looked at Liu Hao. “Head of the Liu family.”

Hearing his name, Liu Hao’s expression turned tense, like a child caught in wrongdoing. He stiffened, nervously wringing his clothing, at a loss for words.

He could only obediently respond and await Cheng Guang’s instructions.

Cheng Guang said, “Arrange for Zhang Shunlong to be cleaned up, treated for his injuries, and dressed in fresh clothes. Soon, I will take him to the Chancellor’s residence to see your daughter.”

Upon hearing this, Liu Hao’s previously restrained demeanor shifted instantly.

He realized that Cheng Guang, the noble Young Master of the National Protectorate, likely intended to help Zhang Shunlong—perhaps to snatch his daughter back from the Chancellor’s mansion.

Liu Hao’s expression complicated; he hesitated before cautiously saying, “Young Master, perhaps that’s not appropriate…”

“My third daughter has been living at the Chancellor’s residence. Lin is a renowned scion of the capital. For my daughter to marry into his family is already quite a catch.”

Liu Hao was reluctant to give up on Lin Yunzhen.

Since his daughter married Lin Yunzhen, she had been the talk of Ping’an County. Wherever she went, whether known or not, people showed respect upon hearing her husband was the Chancellor’s son.

Compared to Zhang Shunlong, a mere son of a lowly officer, it was a world apart.

Cheng Guang smiled knowingly. “Do you really think your daughter is living well at the Chancellor’s residence?”

His words caused Liu Hao and the rest of the Liu household to freeze momentarily.

To them, marrying into the Chancellor’s family, even if not favored, was entering the door of power and luxury.

They could not imagine she was living poorly.

Cheng Guang shook his head silently.

From his understanding, an ordinary person could not marry into a noble family.

The Liu daughter might have been ‘married’ into the Chancellor’s residence, but more likely was treated as a plaything by Lin Yunzhen.

A plaything without dignity.

After so many days, Cheng Guang dared not imagine what had become of Liu Yu Ting.

It was infuriating.

The nobility of this world truly treated human lives as nothing.

A single careless word could crush an ordinary person.

A single action could determine a family’s fate.

Cheng Guang sighed, “Enough. I hope your third daughter is safe. Go ahead and make arrangements; bring Zhang Shunlong to me later.”

Liu Hao nodded heavily, immediately ordering a woman nearby to fetch Zhang Shunlong from his dilapidated hut for cleaning and simple treatment.

Originally, Liu Hao thought it was a blessing from heaven that his daughter was favored by Lin Yunzhen.

But now, hearing the Young Master’s words, it no longer seemed so fortunate.

Could it be that his third daughter was truly suffering at the Chancellor’s residence?

A bad premonition settled in Liu Hao’s heart.

A woman nearby, Wu Shi, also seemed to realize something, tears shimmering in her eyes as she grasped Liu Hao’s sleeve.

“Master, since Yu Ting was taken to the capital by that nobleman, she hasn’t written a letter home.”

Liu Hao’s headache deepened. “Madam, don’t worry yet. Yu Ting has only been with Lin for a little over a month. It’s not long; she might be busy and hasn’t had time to write.”

Wu Shi drew a deep breath, worry flickering in her eyes. “I hope that’s the case. Before, I didn’t feel uneasy, but hearing what the Young Master said just now, my heart feels unsettled.”

“That nobleman is not someone we can aspire to.”

“We should have let Yu Ting elope with Zhang Shunlong back then…”

Liu Hao waved his robe irritably. “At a time like this, why say such things?”

“Enough, don’t mention it again.”

But Wu Shi was not willing to let it go, looking at Cheng Guang with pleading eyes.

“Young Master, will you take Zhang Shunlong to the Chancellor’s residence to see my Yu Ting?”

Cheng Guang nodded slightly.

Wu Shi hurriedly added, “Could you take us with you to the Chancellor’s residence as well?”

Liu Hao’s expression changed swiftly, interrupting, “Madam, why say such things?”

To Liu Hao, Cheng Guang, as the noble Young Master, would likely bring Yu Ting back from the Chancellor’s residence to marry Zhang Shunlong.

Though he did not know Cheng Guang’s exact intentions or how Yu Ting was faring there, it was surely better than marrying Zhang Shunlong.

If his wife accompanied Cheng Guang to the Chancellor’s residence, it would imply their family intended to back out of the marriage.

But the matter was settled; a woman could not marry twice.

Liu Hao felt a headache coming on.

Wu Shi, however, cared little for appearances. Their daughter’s safety was paramount.

A month had passed with no news from their daughter.

The Chancellor’s residence was an impenetrable fortress; they could scarcely approach, let alone enter.

Without her letters, they had no way to know her fate.

In this situation, Wu Shi’s anxiety was understandable.

Her pleading gaze locked onto Cheng Guang, her eyes trembling as though fearful of refusal.

She knew it was rare for a nobleman like Cheng Guang to grant such a request.

She had prepared herself for rejection.

Under her watchful eyes, Cheng Guang stroked his chin thoughtfully.

He was not necessarily going to refuse. Since he was helping Zhang Shunlong anyway, it made little difference to bring a few extras along.

His main concern was whether Wu Shi could bear the news if anything happened to Liu’s third daughter.

Also, he wondered if Zhang Shunlong himself could endure such a blow.

But without Zhang Shunlong, the matter could not be resolved.

Cheng Guang pondered silently.

After a long pause, Wu Shi gradually despaired, forcing a bitter smile.

“I am but a foolish woman. I hope the Young Master will not mind my words…”

She was about to turn away when Cheng Guang’s voice whispered in her ear.

“Very well.”

Looking up, Cheng Guang saw it was still early; if they hurried, they could reach the capital before nightfall.

“Prepare the horses. Once Zhang Shunlong is ready, we depart for the capital.”

Wu Shi blinked in surprise and joy, evidently not expecting the noble Young Master to grant her modest request.

She quickly ordered the horses to be prepared.

Liu Hao, seeing this, felt a headache but could say nothing, sighing silently.

“Well, at least we can see Yu Ting. She hasn’t written in a long time…”

His feelings were complex: reluctant to lose Lin Yunzhen as a son-in-law, yet afraid to offend Cheng Guang.

Caught between two powers, he could only remain silent.

When Wu Shi’s servants brought horses, Liu Hao felt tempted to accompany them to the Chancellor’s residence himself.

If he had the chance, he could explain to Lin Yunzhen that it was Cheng Guang’s doing, not entirely the Liu family’s intention.

Cheng Guang was unaware of Liu Hao’s thoughts and indifferent.

He stood silently with Qing Luan, Lin Cheng, and others, waiting.

Soon, Zhang Shunlong was brought in by Liu’s servants.

He was freshly dressed and washed, his lean face somewhat handsome.

He seemed to understand that Cheng Guang intended to take him to see Liu Yu Ting at the Chancellor’s residence.

He became inexplicably tense and cautious, unaware of Cheng Guang’s true motives.

He didn’t know why Cheng Guang, a noble Young Master, would seek him out or go to the effort on his behalf.

Still, Zhang Shunlong sensed Cheng Guang’s goodwill, unlike Lin Yunzhen’s refined but ruthless demeanor.

Approaching Cheng Guang, Zhang Shunlong nervously greeted, “Young Master.”

Though he still harbored resentment toward the nobility, he held no ill will toward Cheng Guang.

Cheng Guang could almost see words floating above Zhang Shunlong’s head:

[Zhang Shunlong +10 favorability]

Was he trying to charm a man now?

Cheng Guang found the thought amusing and shook his head.

“Let’s go.”

He led the group out of the Liu residence, mounted his horse with Qing Luan, and rode toward the capital.

Zhang Shunlong, Liu Hao, and Wu Shi followed on horseback.

On the carriage, Zhang Shunlong’s eyes fixed on the vast city of the capital—the grand metropolis of Great Zhou and the dream of all nobles.

It was also the home of his beloved.

But in just over a month, Yu Ting had become a married woman.

Zhang Shunlong knew Cheng Guang’s intent was likely to snatch Yu Ting back from the Chancellor’s mansion.

But he was unwilling.

First, even for the Young Master, this was a costly endeavor, not worth the trouble for a lowly man like him.

Second, he had to admit Lin Yunzhen’s status far surpassed his own.

If Yu Ting was living well there, no matter his pain, he would not dare to ask for more.

As long as she was happy, it was enough.

He only wished for a proper farewell.

So much had been done on his behalf; how could he repay the Young Master?

His life was worthless; what could he offer in return?

Zhang Shunlong sighed, his lean face conflicted, then replaced by nervousness.

Soon, he would reach the capital and see Yu Ting again.

Their last meeting was under the peach blossoms, her hand in his, eyes full of love, defying nobles and family, ready to leave with him.

But now...

Everything had changed.

She was now a wife, and he a slave.

He did not know how to face her, smoothing his clothes nervously, trying to steady himself.

He only hoped to meet her in good spirits.

In the same carriage, Wu Shi was equally tense—nervous about entering the Chancellor’s mansion and concerned for her daughter.

Liu Hao, meanwhile, cast hostile glances at Zhang Shunlong, warning him not to speak out of turn at the mansion.

Yu Ting was no longer someone he could approach.

Zhang Shunlong noticed Liu Hao’s gaze but only frowned slightly, saying nothing.

The atmosphere was heavy; all remained silent.

The carriage ride back seemed shorter than the journey out, taking only a few hours to reach the capital.

The Chancellor’s residence lay across several streets from the National Protectorate’s mansion, on the opposite side of the royal city.

Cheng Guang had never visited this place before.

Upon arrival, dusk was falling.

The grand gates of the Chancellor’s residence stood tall, painted deep red, exquisitely decorated.

Two imposing stone lions guarded either side, exuding solemn dignity.

Cheng Guang dismounted before the gates.

The guards, recognizing him, widened their eyes in surprise and asked respectfully, “Young Master, may I ask if you seek the Chancellor?”

Cheng Guang shook his head. “No, I am here to see Lin Yunzhen.”

Upon hearing this, the guards quickly stepped aside and opened the gates with reverence, inviting Cheng Guang inside.

At the same time, the mansion’s steward received word of Cheng Guang’s arrival and hurried to greet him.

“Young Master, I have summoned the young lord. He was at the academy studying and just returned. Please rest in the main hall for a moment.”

Cheng Guang nodded slightly.

As the steward prepared tea, he noticed the company accompanying Cheng Guang: Qing Luan, several guards, and a few individuals exuding the air of commoners.

Upon entering the National Protectorate's mansion, these commoners looked uneasy and kept their heads lowered.

“Young Master, who are these people?” the steward, Yang Tiexin, cautiously inquired.

Cheng Guang glanced sideways. “Do I need to explain?”

Yang Tiexin immediately slapped his own face, smiling nervously. “No, no need.”

“Please rest a while, Young Master.”

With that, he withdrew to summon Lin Yunzhen.

Cheng Guang looked at Zhang Shunlong.

Since entering the mansion, Zhang Shunlong had not been as reserved as Liu Hao or Wu Shi, instead scanning the surroundings as if searching for someone.

Cheng Guang shook his head; it was unlikely to find anyone at this time.

Most women resided in the rear courtyard.

They would have to wait for Lin Yunzhen to arrive or forcibly bring the woman out.

Cheng Guang said nothing, sipping the tea.

The tea was rich and invigorating—a sign of the mansion’s wealth and extravagance.

At that moment, a clear, aged voice rang out.

“I was not expecting the Young Master’s visit; I apologize for the lack of welcome.”

Though the man’s face was aged, his hair was jet black, and his posture erect—hardly fitting for one of advanced years.

A smile adorned his face, but his aura was sharp and chilling.

His eyes were deep pools, and meeting his gaze felt like being stared down by a venomous snake.

This was Lin Gongfu, the Chancellor of Great Zhou, a veteran of two dynasties.

Cheng Guang smiled. “I came unexpectedly. I hope the Chancellor does not find my visit rude.”

Lin Gongfu’s expression paused, then his smile grew warmer as he waved a hand.

“Not at all, Young Master. What brings you to my residence?”

His gaze fixed intently on Cheng Guang, knowing the noble Young Master would not come without purpose.

Cheng Guang remained composed, smiling. “I have no great matter, only seeking someone for a friend.”

“Seeking someone? Who?” Lin Gongfu asked, puzzled.

He knew Cheng Guang first came for Lin Yunzhen, but suspected his true purpose was elsewhere.

As far as he knew, his son and Cheng Guang had no connection.

So, who was Cheng Guang really here for?

Lin Gongfu was baffled.

Cheng Guang smiled but did not answer.

Lin Gongfu’s gaze remained fixed, unable to read the Young Master’s intentions—a terrifying depth of cunning beyond his expectations.

At that moment, the steward announced from outside:

“Chancellor, Young Master Lin has returned.”

Lin Gongfu stood and smiled at Cheng Guang.

“Young Master, my son Lin Yunzhen has arrived. I heard you came and wished to see him.”

Cheng Guang said nothing, eyes on the doorway.

Outside, a noble youth in splendid robes slowly entered.

Though not as handsome as Cheng Guang, he was striking—tall, graceful, and elegant.

Cheng Guang recognized him instantly as Lin Yunzhen.

Lin Yunzhen’s gaze first fell on Lin Gongfu, addressing him respectfully as “Father” before turning to Cheng Guang with curiosity.

He did not understand why the noble Young Master would come to the Chancellor’s residence and specifically ask for him.

His gaze shifted to Liu Hao, Wu Shi, and Zhang Shunlong.

He felt a strange familiarity with Liu Hao and Wu Shi but considered them outsiders.

He paid them little mind.

What concerned him more was Zhang Shunlong’s gaze, which concealed hatred deep beneath the surface.

Lin Yunzhen was not foolish; he had his own understanding.

Seeing Zhang Shunlong, he roughly guessed why Cheng Guang had come.

He also could not recall who Zhang Shunlong was.

Even if he had offended him, he did not believe Cheng Guang would trouble himself over such a lowly person.

Thus, Lin Yunzhen smiled politely and bowed slightly to Cheng Guang.

“Greetings, Young Master. Why have you come to see me today?”

Cheng Guang, seeing Lin Yunzhen was present, wasted no time.

“I am here for Liu’s third daughter.”

“The one you recently took into your household—Liu Yu Ting.”

Cheng Guang expected some reaction, whether welcoming or resistant.

But to his surprise, Lin Yunzhen looked confused.

“Liu’s third daughter? The one I married? No, Young Master, you must be mistaken. I have not married anyone yet.”

Lin Gongfu, standing aside, was also unclear on the situation.

His keen instincts told him to watch the Liu family carefully.

Lin Yunzhen’s denial sent a shudder through the Liu group.

Liu Hao stared in disbelief.

How could Lin Yunzhen say such things?

What did he mean, ‘not married’?

Their daughter was surely married into the Chancellor’s household.

Wu Shi trembled, clutching her clothes tightly, her premonitions worsening.

Zhang Shunlong’s breath caught; he had thought Yu Ting lived well in the Chancellor’s mansion, but Lin Yunzhen’s words made it seem she never existed there.

Though Liu Hao and Wu Shi dared not offend Lin Yunzhen, Zhang Shunlong, knowing himself to be worthless, boldly asked,

“Then where is the young lady you took from Ping’an County a month ago?”

Lin Yunzhen raised an eyebrow, regarding Zhang Shunlong with disdain.

He did not answer but instead asked Cheng Guang,

“Young Master, who is this man?”

If not for Cheng Guang’s presence, Lin Yunzhen was ready to crush this rude commoner.

A commoner daring to question him was intolerable.

He could tolerate Cheng Guang’s inquiry but not this man’s insolence.

Yet hearing Zhang Shunlong’s words, Lin Yunzhen recalled the woman brought from Ping’an County.

Looking at Zhang Shunlong, Liu Hao, and Wu Shi, his expression darkened.

He had not expected these commoners to dare come to the Chancellor’s mansion over a mere woman.

And the Young Master was involved.

Why?

Lin Yunzhen could not understand.

Cheng Guang glanced at Lin Yunzhen indifferently.

“You do not need to concern yourself with this man’s identity. Just answer his question.”

Lin Yunzhen’s expression shifted uncomfortably.

He glanced at Lin Gongfu, who seemed to realize Cheng Guang would not relent without achieving his goal.

Curious as well about what Lin Yunzhen had done to warrant this visit.

Lin Gongfu said, “Yunzhen, answer clearly. Did you bring a woman from Ping’an County?”

Lin Yunzhen’s lips twitched involuntarily.

“Yes. But I did not marry her. I only intended to keep her as a bed warmer. I didn’t expect her to be so childish.”

“I did nothing to her, but she made a fuss. After a few nights together, I lost interest and casually gave her to the household servants.”

“As for whether her name was Liu Yu Ting, I don’t know.”

His words struck Liu Hao like a blow; his body trembled, eyes wide with disbelief.

He thought his daughter had married into the Chancellor’s family and become a lady of the house.

But instead...

She wasn’t even a bed warmer.

Compared to that, Liu Hao thought bitterly of the benefits he had procured through his supposed family ties.

If outsiders learned that his daughter was not married to Lin Yunzhen but merely a bed warmer, or worse, given away to servants...

It was humiliating!

Shameful!

Embarrassing!

A flood of emotions overwhelmed Liu Hao; he could barely lift his head.

Wu Shi, hearing this, felt as if struck violently; tears poured uncontrollably, dripping down her cheeks.

“Yu Ting… where is she? Where is she?”

“We don’t want to be connected to the Chancellor’s family anymore. Master, let’s bring Yu Ting home, please.”

Wu Shi gripped Liu Hao’s arm so tightly her fingers turned blue.

Liu Hao’s face twisted; his lips moved but no words came.

Their daughter was now the Chancellor’s property.

Her fate was no longer in their hands.

Retrieving her would be no easy matter.

Only the Young Master might accomplish it.

Meanwhile, Lin Yunzhen’s words struck Zhang Shunlong like lightning.

His face turned deathly pale as he stared at Lin Yunzhen’s refined, noble visage in disbelief.

This nobleman had taken Yu Ting from him, then treated her carelessly, not even remembering her name before discarding her.

Why!?

Why could a nobleman treat someone so!

Why!?

Why did this happen to my Yu Ting!?

Zhang Shunlong’s breathing quickened, his eyes reddening as he stared fiercely at Lin Yunzhen.

If a gaze could kill, Lin Yunzhen would have died many times over.

Lin Yunzhen noticed and frowned, then smiled at Cheng Guang.

“Your Highness, this man’s gaze makes me uncomfortable. If it were convenient, I would like to gouge out his eyes.”

Though Lin Yunzhen’s status was inferior to Cheng Guang’s, it was still considerable.

His father, after all, was the Chancellor, one of the most powerful men in Great Zhou.

Thus, he could straighten his back slightly in Cheng Guang’s presence.

Lin Gongfu heard his son’s words, looked at Zhang Shunlong briefly, then closed his eyes, ignoring his son’s insolence.

Cheng Guang smiled.

“That might not be convenient.”

Lin Yunzhen sighed. “Young Master is quite kind to this lowly man.”

Cheng Guang said nothing more, tapping the chair back lightly.

“Bring the woman here.”

Lin Yunzhen felt stifled but had no choice but to obey, ordering servants to fetch the woman he brought back a month ago.

If not for Cheng Guang’s visit, he would have nearly forgotten.

The servant hurried off.

Moments later, he returned hurriedly.

“Bad news, Young Master. That woman is no longer here.”

“Gone?”

Lin Yunzhen was stunned.

Zhang Shunlong whipped his head around, staring at the servant.

Behind him, several servants carefully carried a delicate figure draped in white cloth, speaking quietly.

“This young lady… took her own life long ago.”

“Took her own life…?”

Zhang Shunlong’s mind went blank; the world turned pale.

Wu Shi’s cries and the surrounding voices faded from his ears.

He stared at the white-draped figure.

In a daze, he saw a gentle beauty smiling at him.

“Shunlong, do you think my long hair or short hair looks better?”

The beauty’s face was full of hope and light.

“Shunlong, when we marry, I want you to carry me out of the Liu household.”

Her lips puckered thoughtfully.

“Shunlong, after we marry, we must have many children. The elders say if we don’t have them young, it will be harder when we are old.”

She wore a worried expression.

“Shunlong… my father said a nobleman took a liking to me…”

“Shunlong, will you take me away?”

Her eyes filled with tears and sorrow.

Zhang Shunlong looked into the distance, his world reduced to white.

Unconsciously, tears streamed down his face.

“Let’s go… let’s go…”

He reached out blindly, grasping at nothing.

“Yu Ting, where can we go?”

He whispered through tears, “In this vast world, where can we possibly go?”

“Why… why must it be this way?”

“Why is the world like this?”

At that moment, Zhang Shunlong, like a child who never grows up, sobbed loudly.

The vast hall seemed to echo only his cries.

…

(End of chapter)