Chapter 161: The Truth

Chapter 161: The Truth

Su Yan walked into Spring Fragrance Teahouse and saw a middle-aged man sitting by the window, sipping tea while watching the crowd below. Lord Nie disliked private rooms—he preferred sitting by the window in the main hall, where he could observe the street below.

Su Yan’s gaze lingered on Lord Nie. After scanning the crowded hall, he stepped forward and cupped his hands in greeting. "This junior official pays respects to Lord Nie."

Lord Nie looked up and acknowledged the unfamiliar young man with a nod.

Su Yan ventured, "Would Lord Nie permit this junior official to share his table?"

Lord Nie studied Su Yan’s face before nodding. It was only natural for a young man to seek connection. His gaze remained fixed a moment too long.

When the server approached with the tea, Su Yan requested a pot of Biluochun.

In his youth, Lord Nie had favored Biluochun, but after rising in rank, he had switched to Da Hong Pao. He asked, "Where do you serve?"

"This junior official is from the Hanlin Academy, currently on temporary assignment assisting Lord Du at the Ministry of Justice," Su Yan replied calmly. Even facing the man who might be his birth father, he kept his composure.

He needed more evidence—mere words wouldn’t convince Lord Nie.

The night before, Su Yan had examined himself and discovered a burn-like birthmark on his arm. Parents always took special note of their children's birthmarks.

Lord Nie asked a few more questions, and Su Yan answered smoothly, earning an approving nod.

The server approached with the tea. "Young master, your Biluochun—"

Su Yan reached out, but they collided, sending scalding tea splashing onto himself. The server hastily apologized.

"There's still half a pot remaining—you may withdraw," Su Yan said with a smile.

His right sleeve was soaked. As he rolled it up, he chuckled awkwardly. "My apologies for this unsightly display, Lord Nie."

"Is that a burn on your arm?"

"A birthmark, my lord. At first I believed it was an injury from play. I've no recollection of anything before age three—my parents had to tell me it was a birthmark."

Lord Nie sighed. "Children rarely remember much before three."

Nie Hua, at three, had been mischievous—burning his face and cracking his skull, leaving him withdrawn. Only the capital's finest physicians prevented permanent scarring.

Nie Hua had stayed in the capital for treatment while Lord Nie was dispatched to the provinces. By his return, three years had passed.

Su Yan's fingers tensed around the teapot before loosening.

"I should have visited you sooner, Lord Nie. You and Lady Nie saved my future. Were it not for her sheltering my mother and voiding her indenture, I’d be of slave status—barred from the imperial exams."

Lord Nie's eyes clouded with memory before clearing. "So it’s you. I remember you as a child, your head bandaged, standing at our gates for your mother. After that, I never saw you again."

An ache of longing swelled in Su Yan's chest, his eyes reddening. He dipped his head to conceal his trembling.

Such emotions were not lost on Lord Nie, who studied Su Yan’s face intently. "Your eyes… they're the very image of my wife’s. Your features seem faintly familiar. If I didn’t know who you were, I might mistake you for kin."

Su Yan looked up with a strained smile. "I dare not claim such honor. The Nie family is a century-old lineage, with young Master Nie as its only son. How could I be kin? Please don’t jest, Lord Nie. No one has ever cherished me—none would claim me as their pride."

Minister Nie knit his brows.

"My father said he wanted his son to live in silks and delicacies... In my youth, I lived like an ordinary person, never enjoying riches or wearing fine clothes." Su Yan seemed to snap back to reality, stammering, "M-Minister Nie, I was delirious—pay no mind to my rambling."

Su Yan hastily bid farewell to Minister Nie and bolted like a startled hare.

Once outside Chunfang Tower, Su Yan’s feigned panic melted away. If he had outright told Minister Nie, the minister would still have doubts. Only the truth uncovered by Minister Nie himself would bring a sense of security.

Su Yan’s heart was filled with hatred, and this hatred had forced him to mature quickly.

Meanwhile, Minister Nie was still pondering Su Yan’s every move. As the Minister of Justice, he had investigated many cases. Su Yan’s emotions were off—at the very least, his earlier words shouldn’t have been spoken to a stranger, let alone his commanding officer.

Minister Nie left Chunfang Tower, mentally cataloging Su Yan’s features, his claim of losing memories before the age of three, and the birthmark on his right arm. Upon returning home, Minister Nie asked, "Where is the young master?"

"Master, the young master has gone out."

Minister Nie nodded and headed to his study. After a while, he summoned his retainer.

"Have the spies in the capital keep an eye on Nie Hua, as well as Su Dalang and Yun Niang. If they meet, notify me immediately. If I’m not here, record their conversations," Minister Nie instructed.

The retainer accepted the order and left.

In the evening, Nie Hua returned for dinner. Though he was a hellion, he still feared Minister Nie and made sure to dine with his parents every night. A maid accidentally spilled soup on his right arm.

"How careless!" Nie Hua snarled.

Minister Nie said, "Enough. Change your clothes first, then come back to eat."

"I’m too furious to eat—I’ve had enough anger." With that, Nie Hua stormed off to his chambers.

Madam Nie worried about her son. "Isn’t he fond of Lion’s Head meatballs? Have this dish sent to his room later."

Minister Nie continued eating. "Let’s put Hua’er’s betrothal on ice for now. He’s still so immature, lacking any sense of responsibility, and keeps frequenting those pleasure quarters. He should establish himself before settling down."

Madam Nie replied, "People usually marry first and then build their careers. I was hoping Miss Chu could help discipline Hua’er once she enters our household."

Though the Chu family held no official posts in the capital, Chu the Great Scholar had disciples everywhere and was highly respected.

Miss Chu was comely and cultivated, and would make an excellent daughter-in-law.

"Listen to me this time. Do you think I’d harm our son?" Minister Nie’s voice turned flinty, and Madam Nie dared not argue further.

Nie Hua remained unaware that his engagement had been delayed. He had the servants draw his bath and soaked in the tub, though it wasn’t the same without a warm companion.

Nie Hua never allowed anyone to assist him during baths. As he leaned back in the tub, someone on the roof lifted a roof tile, staring intently at his right arm.

...

After finishing his duties at the Ministry of Revenue, Zheng Shanci went to the docks to inspect the ships. Even as the evening glow faded, many vessels still crowded the river.

Teams of trackers pulled the ships along. Zheng Shanci glanced at the cargo—jewelry, silk, grain, coal, fish, and more. He even picked up five pounds of fresh fish.

"Boss, I noticed all these ships have their merchant names displayed at the stern. Why is that?"

The fish seller, happy for the business, eagerly explained, "It’s to advertise their patronage. Take the Xu family’s merchant ships, for example—their backer is a prince. Pirates and grasping river inspectors know better than to cross them. Though they pay a fee to the Xu family, it saves them a lot of trouble."

"And those blue flags? That’s the Liu family’s emblem. They’re backed by Prince Zhennan’s estate. Even corrupt river officials wouldn’t dare skim too deep."

Zheng Shanci said with a smile, "Shopkeeper, you really know a lot."

The fish vendor, feeling pleased, couldn’t help but add more: "Though these canal officers are only eighth-rank, they can make 30,000 to 40,000 taels of silver a year. Those with bolder appetites can even pocket a hundred thousand. For instance, during the Emperor’s birthday celebrations, local regions present rare treasures, and transporting them requires bribing the canal officers—otherwise, they’ll hold up shipments. Local officials usually grudgingly accept it to avoid trouble. Every official takes a cut, so naturally, they line their pockets. If you want to know who understands local officials best, it’s these eighth-rank canal officers. They know exactly which officials have backing and can’t be provoked and which ones can be squeezed a little."

Zheng Shanci: "It seems doing business isn’t easy either. I’ve heard pirates also run rampant at sea."

The fish vendor sighed: "We usually avoid those waters when sailing. The pirates there are resourceful, and every time the court sends forces to suppress them, they either fail or catch only minor players. Pirates also recognize merchant affiliations—they don’t dare provoke the big players. So, smaller merchant ships pay tribute to the Xu and Liu families to sail under their convoy. After deducting the fees, they still make a handsome profit."

"So, according to you, there are many ins and outs in canal transport."

"Plenty. But without backing, you’re just a small fish to be bullied. You, young master, cut an impressive figure. If you’re interested in canal transport, secure a powerful backer—you’ll surely prosper." The fish vendor chuckled.

"I do have some interest in canal transport and want to make money. Could you recommend a few docks to me?" Zheng Shanci said, strategically purchasing another ten catties of fish.

The fish vendor squinted with a smile: "If you’ll indulge me, I’ll share a few names."

"Aside from the Xu and Liu families, there’s the Bai, Ma, and Fang families… Their patrons wield serious influence too—the Assistant Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, the Censorate, the Court of Judicial Review, the Ministry of Rites. If your coffers are deep, aim for a powerful backer. If your funds are limited, opt for a lesser one." The fish vendor took a few puffs of his pipe. "In the end, these families pull strings in the shadows. If you can secure backing from the Ministry of Revenue, that’d be even more secure."

Zheng Shanci: "..."

Wang Fu thought to himself—the biggest backer in the Ministry of Revenue is standing right in front of you.

"Too bad Lord Zheng is untouchable. Plus, with the land survey these past few months, the noble families see him as a menace. If you could gain the Minister of Revenue’s protection, the waterways would be open season for you." The fish vendor smacked his lips.

Zheng Shanci didn’t know how to respond, so he bought some fresh lobsters instead.

Wang Fu’s arms were laden.

"Keep some for ourselves, send some to Father and Dad, and deliver the rest to the Yu residence. These fish and shrimp were caught early—still fresh."

Wang Fu muttered in reply.

Zheng Shanci’s trip to the docks proved fruitful. While Wang Fu handled the deliveries, Zheng Shanci strolled the streets alone. Spotting a vendor selling whistles, he bought one for Xiao Pingan to play with.

He then visited a shop to pick up pearl-infused powder for Yu Lanyi. The shopkeeper enthusiastically recommended other items, so Zheng Shanci also bought eyebrow pencils, rouge, and scented balm.

Carrying his purchases home, Zheng Shanci turned into an alley and saw Su Yan seeing a young man to the door.

Su Yan turned and, noticing Zheng Shanci, flashed a look of surprise.

"Greetings, Lord Zheng."

Zheng Shanci remained silent, but Su Yan hesitated before speaking: "Lord Zheng, thank you for your words the other day."

Zheng Shanci smiled. "Brother Du and Brother Xiao have praised you. You’ve been diligent and steadfast in your work under me. Keep it up—Brother Du is a good superior. You’ve made a fine impression on us all."

Su Yan looked stunned, then nodded with a smile.

He never imagined Lords Xiao, Du, and Zheng would discuss him—his heart swelled with joy.

Zheng Shanci glanced at the plaque above the door where Su Yan had stood earlier: the Chu residence.

Returning home, Zheng Shanci handed the whistle to Xiao Pingan, who loved it and immediately began blowing it.

He then gave the pearl-infused powder and other items to Yu Lanyi, who glanced at him. "What made you buy these today?"

"Your pearl-infused powder is running low. On my way back from the docks alone, I suddenly thought of you. I wanted to treat you even better, to buy you things. So I did."

Yu Lanyi placed the items on the dressing table, looped her arms around Zheng Shanci’s neck, and kissed his lips.

Zheng Shanci opened his mouth.

Yu Lanyi reached out a hand to touch his face.

Zheng Shanci breathed heavily but controlled as the two separated.

"I prefer using pearl powder, not any lip rouge. See? My lips are plenty red already," Yu Lanyi said.

Zheng Shanci gazed at Yu Lanyi's lips and murmured softly, "That’s because I kissed them red."

Yu Lanyi glared at him. "Couldn’t you just say I look healthy?"

Zheng Shanci wrapped an arm around his waist. "You look great, and you *are* great."

Yu Lanyi was happy from Zheng Shanci’s sweet talk.

Zheng Shanci rested his chin on Yu Lanyi's shoulder, half-closing his eyes lazily.

Yu Lanyi poked Zheng Shanci's waist.

"You're too heavy," Yu Lanyi complained.

Zheng Shanci released Yu Lanyi and took his hand instead, interlacing their fingers.

So mushy, Yu Lanyi thought—not that he minded. He even happily swung their joined hands a little.

"I got lobsters today—I’ll shell them for you," Zheng Shanci said.

"I want garlic-butter lobster," Yu Lanyi replied.

Zheng Shanci nodded and told a servant to let the cook know.

Yu Lanyi took the opportunity to lay the account book on the table, asking Zheng Shanci to help with the calculations.

While Zheng Shanci worked on the accounts, Yu Lanyi rested his chin in his hands and watched him.

That evening, Zheng Shanci shelled lobsters for Yu Lanyi, while Xiao Pingan had a servant do it for him. Both loved lobsters, though Zheng Shanci preferred hairy crab.

Even after being together for so long, Yu Lanyi was still crazy about Zheng Shanci, always wanting to be by his side without ever growing tired of it. Yu Lanyi cherished every moment with Zheng Shanci, his heart full of nothing but peace and happiness.

After finishing his meal, Xiao Pingan started tooting the whistle Zheng Shanci had given him, running off to play in the garden.

Before bedtime, Xiao Pingan was still tooting the whistle in bed. He slept alone in his room, giggling while tooting the whistle in the dark, having the time of his life.

Yu Lanyi knocked on the door with a lantern in hand.

Xiao Pingan went quiet as a mouse.

"Pingan, go to sleep. You have school tomorrow—stop blowing that whistle. The whole yard’s echoing with it."

Xiao Pingan buried his head into the pillow in shame, his butt in the air.

"Yes, Dad."

Yu Lanyi returned to his room, still smiling at Xiao Pingan’s happy tooting. The kid was over the moon with just a whistle, unable to rest even at night.

"Is Pingan asleep?"

"I gave him a talking-to. He’ll keep it down at night now." Yu Lanyi lifted the blanket and slipped inside. The weather had turned cold, and the cozy bed was just the thing.

Yu Lanyi heard another whistle.

Yu Lanyi peeked out from the blankets like a curious cat.

The whistle was too close, and Yu Lanyi shot Zheng Shanci an annoyed look.

Zheng Shanci took several playful punches.

Zheng Shanci was just testing it out.

Zheng Shanci settled down.

Yu Lanyi yawned and curled up in Zheng Shanci's arms to sleep.

Zheng Shanci held Yu Lanyi, providing warmth, and Yu Lanyi slept soundly until dawn. After getting up and having breakfast, he was off to another banquet today.

His schedule was packed—while Zheng Shanci navigated official affairs, Yu Lanyi had to work the banquet circuit.

At banquets, when lost in conversation, he could just lower his head and sip tea—that way, it wouldn’t seem like he was clueless. The conversations at these events were always couched in riddles.

This time, Mr. Yu and An Geer had come too, so Yu Lanyi went to find his father.

Mr. Yu mentioned how Zheng Shanci had delivered seafood to their home the night before.

Yu Lanyi: "He went to the docks to check things out and bought them on the way. The lobster was especially tender."

"The taste was indeed good, but the gesture meant the most," Mr. Yu said with a smile.

An Geer was spacing out, and Yu Lanyi had to call his name several times before he came to.

"I didn’t sleep well last night, so I’m out of sorts today," An Geer explained.

The night before, Yu Zhangxing had suddenly told him that the barbarians at the border were getting restless. An Geer wasn’t foolish—if Yu Zhangxing mentioned this, it likely meant there was some trouble at the frontier. Otherwise, the news wouldn’t have reached the capital.

His father and uncle were already old, and if the Yu family’s army needed to mobilize, only Yu Zhangxing and his two cousins were left.

An Geer didn’t want Yu Zhangxing to go to the border. Being the commander of the imperial guards in the palace was much better.

"Sister-in-law, I told Father that we’ll visit Grandfather and Grandmother at the Duke’s manor later."

"Alright," An Geer agreed.

The elderly couple’s health was worsening, and the Old Duke had been bedridden recently.

Yu Lanyi visited with the elderly couple at the Duke’s manor.

Meanwhile, at morning court, Zheng Shanci heard Minister of War Cao mention disturbances at the border, reporting that the barbarians were showing unusual movements.

Emperor Wuming said, "Minister Zheng, keep close tabs on provisions for the border. Also, Minister Cao, come to the Panlong Hall after court."

This meant a private discussion.

When Minister Cao arrived, he first paid his respects before elaborating: "The barbarian king has five sons. They were originally fighting for power, but following Your Majesty’s instructions, we supported the third prince. Unfortunately, he was too weak, and the fifth prince became the new barbarian king. The fifth prince’s birth was illegitimate—his mother was a palace maid. To divert internal conflicts, they’ve turned their aggression toward the Great Yan Dynasty."

Emperor Wuming listened without panic: "Just have General Sha at the border stay vigilant. I suspect the barbarians will raid the borders but won’t formally declare war on Great Yan."

Minister Cao: "Understood, Your Majesty."

Emperor Wuming waved his hand, dismissing Minister Cao. Though Minister Cao still worried about a barbarian invasion, he didn’t realize Emperor Wuming was actually considering absorbing the barbarian territories into his own empire.

The new emperor's reign is still unstable. Winter is approaching soon, and as a nomadic people, the barbarians struggle most during this season.

Emperor Wuming mused for a moment and had Feng De summon Zheng Shanci.

"Your Majesty."

"Lord Zheng, no ceremony necessary. Report to me: how much silver remains in the national treasury?"

Zheng Shanci reported the figures: "Your Majesty, the treasury currently holds ten million taels of silver. This year's budget is eight million taels, leaving a surplus of two million. However, these two million must be reserved for emergencies."

Emperor Wuming deflated.

This wouldn't cover war expenses.

Wearily, Emperor Wuming said, "You're dismissed, Lord Zheng."

Zheng Shanci respectfully withdrew.

Emperor Wuming mused that, given the state of the treasury, no time would be right.

A thousand taels was already a considerable sum, and the recent Ministers of Revenue had done well.

After leaving the Panlong Hall, Zheng Shanci called the officials from the Ministry of Revenue together for a brief meeting regarding canal transport.

"Canal transport is of great importance, but if we fail to provide merchants with a sense of security, we have not done our duty." Zheng Shanci pointed out a few individuals: "You and your teams will investigate around the capital to expose any corruption by the canal officials."

He expounded further on canal affairs and later met with the Minister of War to discuss the issue of pirates.

"Minister Cao, I understand pirates are difficult to eradicate, and I share your concerns. Today, after summoning you, His Majesty called me in to inquire about the treasury's funds, and I couldn't give a good answer. Canal transport is a profit center, but with pirates plundering, fewer merchants operate, and they pay fewer taxes. How can the treasury prosper under such circumstances?"

Minister Cao, recognizing an opportunity, advised Zheng Shanci. The Ministry of War had lacked achievements this past year, and Zheng Shanci was essentially handing him a solution.

"Rest assured, Lord Zheng. Let us collaborate and handle this matter effectively."

"With your assurance, Minister Cao, I am at ease."

Zheng Shanci knew his limits, understanding that only the Ministry of War could resolve the pirate issue. Minister Cao now viewed him more positively, finding him astute.

Eager for credit, Minister Cao swiftly mobilized troops and wiped out the pirates along the capital's waterways within days, thanks to Zheng Shanci's cooperation. Zheng Shanci helped them blend in with merchants unnoticed to capture the pirates.

Minister Cao said cheerfully, "Lord Zheng, should such matters arise again, do remember me."

Zheng Shanci cupped his hands in gratitude. "This time, I must thank you, Minister Cao."

Had anyone else raised the pirate issue, Minister Cao might have dismissed it. But coming from Zheng Shanci, it carried weight—though troublesome, it was also an achievement. Moreover, he could not afford to disregard Zheng Shanci's influence.

Zheng Shanci could not oversee every canal official but put them on notice. In officialdom, many turned a blind eye, but the canal officials had grown too audacious in recent years.

Their annual bribes amounted to tens of thousands of taels—no wonder it was considered a lucrative post.

If merchant houses could profit by planting flags, why couldn't the Ministry of Revenue do the same?

The flags of the Great Yan Dynasty were sold by the Ministry of Revenue—one tael per flag. In cases of injustice or harassment, reports could be filed directly with the Ministry.

Hundreds of taels were earned daily from these sales.

Within a few nights, the capital became aware that Zheng Shanci was scrutinizing canal transport. His collaboration with Minister Cao of the Ministry of War had eradicated the pirates. Those who escaped now dared not cause trouble, keeping their heads down at sea.

The pirates had been scared off, and those canal officials with connections, aware that Minister Zheng was keeping a close eye on canal transport matters, had also restrained themselves, too scared to ask for bribes anymore.

"Still dare to ask? Be careful you don’t lose your life," one canal official rolled his eyes.

"There was one reckless fool who kept demanding money, even risking his life for it. He happened to run into officials disguised as merchants and was arrested on the spot—no one bothered with words."

"Now, whenever I see these merchant ships, I can’t help but wonder if they’re officials in disguise," one official said, still shaken.

They let a few big, lucrative targets pass by, gaining nothing, and they were downright miserable.

Merchant ships hoisted the flags of the Great Yan Dynasty, their light vessels docking smoothly at the piers. This time, the sea was calm, and the canal officials didn’t demand any protection money. The journey was smooth all the way.

It felt too good to be true.

Only after delivering the goods and receiving their silver did it finally feel real.

For major merchants, these bribes were pocket change, but for small traders like them, it was a significant expense. Now, no more bribes—only legit taxes now.

And if anyone refused to pay taxes, they’d end up in jail.

The merchants left the docks joyfully, they couldn’t thank Zheng Shanci enough. Such small matters had never been addressed before, but now that the Minister of Revenue was watching, these officials didn’t dare act recklessly.

They got to keep every penny, and they could even buy some snacks on the streets.

The canal issues would take time to resolve, but they’d started fixing the obvious issues.

Zheng Shanci was satisfied with his efforts in rectifying canal transport. He had also gotten chummy with Minister Cao. Meanwhile, Minister Nie got a tip from his informants.

Minister Nie slipped out of the palace and arrived at a secluded alley.

"Aren’t you supposed to be marrying the Chu family’s boy? Why hasn’t it happened yet?" It was Yun Niang’s voice.

Nie Hua: "I don’t know what my parents are thinking. They say I should achieve something in my career first before marrying. Chu Geer is good-looking, but he’s such a stiff prude—nothing like the flirty boys at brothels."

Hearing Nie Hua refer to the Nie family as his parents, Yun Niang’s chest tightened: "You should strive to improve yourself. Don’t squander your position."

Nie Hua replied impatiently, "This identity is enough for me. I’m Father’s only son now. After a hundred years, all of the Nie family’s wealth will be mine. If not for this identity, I wouldn’t have gritted my teeth as a child to have my face scarred or drilled into me like some damn recital."

"Just keep Su Yan out of my sight. I won’t hold his imperial exam ambitions against him—someone like him will never amount to much. He’s just a servant’s son, not even fit to lick my boots. Don’t come looking for me anymore, especially not about my marriage. What does it have to do with you? Even after I marry, my spouse will only call Madam Nie 'Mother.'"

The spy’s blood ran cold upon hearing this exchange.

Just as the two were about to part ways, Nie Hua spotted Su Yan in his official robe, walking and laughing with Chu Geer.

Nie Hua saw red.

"Thank you, Lord Su, for helping me find my hairpin," Chu Geer curtsied sweetly to Su Yan.

Su Yan: "It was nothing, Young Master Chu. No need for formalities."

Nie Hua bellowed Su Yan’s name and threw a punch at him. Su Yan put on a show of surprise while smirking inside.

"Master Nie, what are you—?" Su Yan blocked Nie Hua’s fist.

"You backstabbing snakes!" Nie Hua let loose a stream of filth. Seeing Su Yan resist, he swung again. Su Yan, ready to retaliate, clenched his fist, and the two went at each other.

Su Yan overpowered Nie Hua. Having worked hard labor since childhood, Su Yan was naturally stronger than the spoiled rotten Nie Hua, whose sleazy lifestyle left him soft.

Su Yan’s hands were stained with blood as he coldly met Nie Hua’s gaze. Who did this trash think he was?!

You trash.

Su Yan gave Nie Hua a taunting, provoking smirk.

Yun Niang couldn’t stay in the alley any longer. She rushed out to stop Su Yan, obviously siding against him.

Minister Nie would not tolerate this. He ordered his attendant to restrain Yun Niang.

Chu Geer also pleaded for them to stop fighting, as frantic as a cockroach on a griddle. When he saw Minister Nie, he blurted out, "Uncle Nie, why are you here?"

Hearing Chu Geer’s words, Su Yan released Nie Hua.

Nie Hua, seeing this, felt a surge of delight and shouted, "Dad’s here—now you’re screwed! Father, look at how this lowly bastard Su Yan beat me up. You must stand up for me! Our family owns his ass, yet he dares to hit me. And this Chu Geer—he’s a loose cannon. I’ll never wed such disgrace."

Chu Geer paled at Nie Hua's words.

"Uncle Nie, there’s nothing between Lord Su and me!"

"Cut the bullshit," Minister Nie snapped before Nie Hua could finish the word "bastard." A backhanded slap struck him.

Nie Hua, who had been standing, was sent reeling by Minister Nie’s strike, his left cheek bleeding.

Yun Niang gasped and struggled frantically.

Minister Nie said, "Say that shit again. I dare you."

Nie Hua, aggrieved—Minister Nie had never hit him like this before—still failed to grasp the severity of the situation. He muttered, "Ugh, fine! I’ll lay off Chu Geer!"

Minister Nie clarified, "I meant—say that shit about Su Yan again."

Nie Hua’s eyes widened, his left cheek still swollen, unable to process Minister Nie’s words.

Yun Niang’s blood turned to ice.

Minister Nie enunciated each word: "If you so much as touch him, I’ll break every bone in your body."