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Yet, why was she feeling so nervous?

Gu Changjin's subtle and unhurried gaze swept across her face before settling on her clear, dark eyes.

They were spotless, carrying a gentle and demure smile.

Gu Changjin tapped his long fingers against his leg, deep in thought.

Rationally, he shouldn't have agreed.

Madam Jin's body was currently resting in an inn at the outskirts of the city. Empress Qi had shown mercy by granting her a cypress coffin for a proper burial and allowed Li'er to escort the coffin to Daci'en Temple for a 49-day mourning period.

Daci'en Temple was a place where only royalty could hold funerals. Empress Qi had made an exception out of sympathy for Madam Jin's maternal love.

Li'er was staying in an inn not far from the inn tonight. Tomorrow morning, the inn staff would send her to the inn to personally accompany the coffin to Daci'en Temple.

Rong Shu had expected the man's silence.

In her previous life, when Li'er and Madam Jin were still in prison, Rong Shu had once asked if she could send them some food and clothes.

Back then, Gu Changjin had coldly refused.

This request today was far more unconventional than sending food or clothes; he would surely decline.

In truth, Rong Shu had no intention of meeting Xu Li'er.

She only wanted to use Gu Changjin's hand to save Xu Li'er.

Xu Li'er's death wasn't as straightforward as it seemed.

Everyone claimed she had hanged herself, but Rong Shu knew there was something suspicious about her demise.

If not for her intervention in the previous life, Xu Li'er might not have died.

Long ago, she had planned to make a request that Gu Changjin would reject. After he turned it down, she would propose a less outrageous one, and he would likely agree then.

That was how it always worked. Once he denied her one thing, he tended to acquiesce to the next.

Loosening her grip on the lamp handle slightly, Rong Shu sensed that the moment was ripe. The words she had mulled over for so long were almost on the tip of her tongue when the man in the green robe, with his stern expression, suddenly relaxed his brows and spoke softly:

"Chang Ji, prepare the carriage. I'm taking Lady out for a ride."

Chapter 23

The setting sun retreated, leaving behind the last vestiges of twilight.

The carriage rolled through the night, heading towards the inn outside the city gates.

Rong Shu held a wooden box in her arms, still somewhat in disbelief.

Gu Changjin had actually agreed?

He was... unexpectedly accommodating?

This was truly like a maiden sitting on a sedan chair for the first time.

She had intended to ask Gu Changjin to deliver the Ginseng Essence Pills to the inn on her behalf. Based on her understanding of him, once he refused her request to see Li'er, he would certainly agree to send the medicine for her.

To her surprise, he not only didn't refuse but also accompanied her personally.

Rong Shu lifted her gaze to glance across at him.

The man was still clad in his emerald green official robe, his head tilted as he gazed out the window. His cold jade-like face revealed no emotion.

Ever since they had boarded the carriage, he had maintained this position.

This aloof and reticent Gu Changjin was the one Rong Shu knew well.

Though they were silent, Rong Shu found contentment in their silence.

The corners of her lips curved slightly, her peach blossom eyes transforming into crescents, like the moon reflected on spring tides.

In her previous life, she had grieved for Xu Li'er's death for quite some time, feeling a profound guilt that she had indirectly caused Boren's demise.

On the night Xu Li'er took her own life, Gu Changjin had initially intended for Heng Ping to guard the inn on the outskirts of the capital.

Coincidentally, it was on that very night that she brought up Yang Xu's adopted son. Gu Changjin promptly went to his study, and half an hour later, Chang Ji and Heng Ping hastily left the Gu residence. Neither of them headed straight to the inn, and by the time they finished their errands, Xu Li'er had already passed away.

Rong Shu had often wondered, if she hadn't spoken up that night and postponed the conversation, Heng Ping might have reached the inn in time, and perhaps, he could have saved Xu Li'er.

She had carried this guilt for a long time. Nurse Zhang had consoled her, saying that it was precisely because of Xu Li'er's suicide and the blood-stained letter she left behind that the people of Obeying Heaven Mansion had grown to despise the Imperial Guards.

That had all happened after Xu Li'er had hung herself.

On the first day of the tenth lunar month, the Cold Food Festival, thousands upon thousands of citizens gathered beneath the "Eternal Fame" plaque at the entrance of the Eastern Depot, vociferously cursing the door and demanding that Yang Xu avenge Xu Li'er and her daughter.

Ever since Emperor Jiande established the Eastern Depot and the Imperial Guards, these two institutions had functioned as the emperor's eyes and ears, stirring countless storms of blood and violence throughout Great Yin.

For many years, the guards had wielded an intimidating power in Great Yin; how could they tolerate such brazen defiance from the common folk?

The head of the Eastern Depot's torture unit then led a dozen or so enforcers to violently beat the most vocal citizens into submission. However, this attempt at intimidation only fueled the people's anger instead of silencing them.

Tens of thousands of civilians swarmed forward, mercilessly killing the head of the torture unit and several enforcers. The incident escalated dramatically, eventually drawing in the Imperial Guards.

It was precisely due to this massive uproar that Gu Changjin later managed to so effortlessly overthrow Yang Xu's faction.

That was why Mama Zhang told Rong Shu that Li'er's death served a purpose.

"This poor girl had been ravaged by Yang Rong, her reputation ruined. After her mother passed away, she found herself alone in the world with no one to turn to. She had little hope left in life, so it was perhaps better for her to die swiftly. By sparking such a turmoil, her death could be said to have had some meaning."

In Mama Zhang's words, there was both sighing and contemplation, but no sense of regret.

Perhaps this was how most people in the world thought: Once a woman lost her innocence and reputation, her life was ruined, and it would be better to end it with a white silk rope.

Rong Shu wasn't oblivious to the meaning behind Mama Zhang's words, but she always felt that it shouldn't be like this.

For someone who didn't deserve to die, there was no such thing as a "rightful death."

Death meant the loss of everything.

Rong Shu had tasted death once before. What was so good about it?

Even ants cling to life.

In her previous life, if she hadn't known that there was no escape from her fate, she would never have drunk that cup of poison. How she wished to have acted coquettishly with her mother more times, enjoyed more delicious delicacies, and seen more of the world's magnificent landscapes.

After he mentioned the word "substitute," Han Huang's expression clearly turned more blank.

Lin Shuicheng looked at him calmly, lowering his eyes as if he didn't wish to continue the conversation.

"Han Huang, if it wasn't a substitute, then what about Chu Shihan?" Han Huang found it hard to believe.

Exhaustion washed over Lin Shuicheng, and in that moment, he felt as if he was back in his conversation with Xu Kong, or perhaps the enigmatic driver who spoke to him.

Two years ago, when Chu Shihan first disappeared, Lin Shuicheng refused to believe he wouldn't reach out if he were alive. Yet, there was no way to prove that something had happened to him.

Back then, he repeated those words and actions every day, searching for anyone who might know something, explaining his concerns to everyone he knew. But nobody believed him.

It was the note with the cemetery address that put an end to his desperate search, closing the door on his hopeless quest. Now, the same group of people had delivered a second note, telling him: You can only go this far, not beyond.

He spoke softly, "He passed away."

Han Huang's shock intensified.

In just a few short minutes, he had seen and learned things that far exceeded his imagination. The reality was too much for Han Huang to absorb all at once.

Lost in thought, he didn't know what to say. After a long while, he resumed his actions. Lowering his head, he continued to fish out the simmering fish from the bubbling pot, meticulously removing the bones before piling them onto a clean plate. He then ladled a spoonful of steaming broth over the fish and pushed it towards Lin Shuicheng.

Lin Shuicheng replied, "It's not necessary."

Han Huang insisted, "Eat it, I picked it for you. I have nothing else to do, and I'm already full."

Lin Shuicheng didn't touch the translucent fish dish. Instead, he silently sipped a bowl of soup and said, "If there's nothing else, classmate Han, I'll be leaving now."

He glanced in the direction where Fu Luoyin was sitting. "He... he's still waiting for me."

Standing up, Lin Shuicheng prompted Han Huang to follow suit.

Han Huang's lips moved as if he wanted to say something, but he realized that anything he might say seemed inappropriate given his current position.

Han Huang whispered softly, "Take care, senior."

Lin Shuicheng accompanied Han Huang to the door. It should've been his turn to pay the bill, but when Lin Shuicheng went to settle the account, he discovered that their table had already been paid for at some point.

The waiter informed him, "The gentleman who entered with you just now settled the bill. He's currently at Table 23."

Lin Shuicheng lowered his head and saw the scribbled "Fu" on the bill presented by the receptionist, barely recognizable.

Turning around, Lin Shuicheng searched for Table 23.

Fu Luoyin had ordered a mountain of dishes. Upon seeing him, he waved him over, "Come, have some."

Lin Shuicheng replied, "I've already eaten."

"You didn't have enough," Fu Luoyin narrowed his eyes. "You don't eat seafood or freshwater fish, except for shrimp. Chief didn't inherit that from you." He continued, "If that guy wants to pursue you and can't even do basic research, spoiling your dinner with an awkward confession, I doubt he'll succeed, wouldn't you say?"

He raised an eyebrow, smiling playfully at Lin Shuicheng.

He seemed to be teasing him, talking about the Chief as if discussing a regular family member, in a subtle and amusing manner, as if Lin Shuicheng were a delicate and delightful kitten.

Silent, Lin Shuicheng picked up the bowl of rice that Fu Luoyin had prepared for him and resumed eating.

Fu Luoyin had ordered mushroom chicken soup, spicy stir-fried spare ribs, salt and pepper potatoes, and stir-fried prawns with scallions for Lin Shuicheng, while he slowly sipped on a bowl of bone broth himself.

Lin Shuicheng's phone vibrated. He took it out and glanced at the message, which was from Han Huang.

Han Huang: "Senior, I don't know what you've been through, but it's best if you don't continue being with this... boyfriend of yours. I mean it sincerely. Anyone else would be fine, but this person isn't suitable for you. The Lin Shuicheng I know is strong, independent, and free-spirited. I don't wish for him to one day be trapped in the past, numbing himself. It might seem abrupt for me to say this, but please understand, Senior, that I genuinely hope you can be happier than anyone else."

Lin Shuicheng looked on for a while without responding, only sighing softly.

Fu Luoyin glanced at him, continuing to sip his soup calmly, but inwardly plotting how to deal with him later.

Lin Shuicheng's behavior tonight was far from satisfactory.

Not only did he leave him alone to eat, but after being confessed to by a junior, he seemed utterly lost. The more silent and vulnerable Lin Shuicheng became, the more Fu Luoyin struggled to control himself – the surging possessiveness and desire to conquer overwhelmed him, making him want to provoke tears from Shuicheng.

After Lin Shuicheng finished eating, Fu Luoyin drove them back home.

Throughout the journey, he didn't touch Lin Shuicheng, not even coming close or holding hands. Unaware, Lin Shuicheng walked silently by his side, seemingly deep in thought, completely oblivious to the intense desire lurking near him and the impending danger – in his eyes, Fu Luoyin was simply driving quietly as usual.

It wasn't until they arrived home that Lin Shuicheng realized just how intense Fu Luoyin's desires had been that day.

Caught off guard, he was swept into the vortex of Fu Luoyin's pent-up longing. Struggling to break free, searching for a moment to catch his breath, he found his rationality relentlessly washed away by the tangible pleasure and overpowering possession.

The Chief Meowed loudly from a corner, believing that Fu Luoyin was bullying Lin Shuicheng. It anxiously tried to jump up to intervene but ultimately hesitated, only watching them with its bright green eyes.

He felt dizzy, with his temples pulsating as if a tide was flooding his chest. He initially thought it was a residual effect of a concussion or that Fu Luoyin was gently covering his mouth and nose with a pillow. But he soon realized that wasn't the case.

It was Fu Luoyin kissing him.

A deep and prolonged kiss, forcing entry past his teeth, licking his warm lips and tongue, their breaths intertwining in a rushed yet intoxicating rhythm.

Previously, Fu Luoyin had never kissed him in bed. This unexpected action allowed Lin Shuicheng to catch a brief respite from the near-suffocation, only for the cold air he inhaled to be immediately enveloped by the minty fragrance of Fu Luoyin's body. It was a thrilling sensation, one that held him captive, forbidding any escape.

Fu Luoyin was an aggressively assertive person, a fact that became increasingly apparent to Lin Shuicheng as they spent more time together.

He pleaded, "Slow down, Fu... Fu Luoyin, please slow down... Be gentle, I'm in pain."

Startled, Fu Luoyin's eyes reddened with excitement as he croaked, "What did you say? Call me again?"

His actions didn't cease for a moment. Unable to bear the stimulation that seemed to burst through his skin, Lin Shuicheng had no other anchor but to cling onto the man before him. Unconsciously, he had scratched Fu Luoyin's back, leaving several bloody marks. Yet, neither of them noticed.

Tears welled up in Lin Shuicheng's eyes as he looked at him, his voice choked with sobs, "Fu... Fu Luoyin!"

Driven nearly mad by Lin Shuicheng's clinginess, Fu Luoyin whispered, "Don't cry! Don't call out, I'll really hurt you if you keep going, good student."

Lin Shuicheng was sobbing too hard to speak. Fu Luoyin had momentarily forgotten that he was the one who had just asked for repetition. Lin Shuicheng's pleading for mercy did not earn him any leniency.

It was only later that Fu Luoyin realized Lin Shuicheng couldn't stop crying – he had come out of his initial fervor and regained some self-control, beginning to treat Lin Shuicheng more gently. But he discovered that Lin Shuicheng was shedding real tears, not the kind where he would cry from being teased before, but rather an uncontrollable, heart-wrenching weeping as if something significant had upset him.

Fu Luoyin panicked slightly, thinking he might have gone too far. He hastily picked Lin Shuicheng up, cradling him in his arms and soothing him, reaching for a tissue to wipe away his tears while asking, "What's wrong? Don't cry, okay? I was in the wrong, alright? I promise I won't do this again, please don't cry."

Lin Shuicheng remained silent, and Fu Luoyin couldn't figure out what he was thinking. He continued to softly coax, "Shall I carry you to take a bath?"

Just like last time, Fu Luoyin treated Lin Shuicheng as if he were a bundle of cabbage, washing and scrubbing him gently, then wrapping him in a towel and tossing him onto the bed.

Lin Shuicheng had stopped crying. When Fu Luoyin asked if he should dry his hair, he merely gave a muffled "Mm."

After blow-drying Lin Shuicheng's hair, Fu Luoyin went to freshen up. By the time he returned to bed, Lin Shuicheng had already fallen asleep, lying with his back to Fu Luoyin, looking fragile and pitiful.

Moving closer, Fu Luoyin enveloped him in his embrace. As sleepiness overtook him, he murmured softly, "Lin Shuicheng, my little kitten, where do all these sorrows come from?"

He didn't expect an answer from Lin Shuicheng; he simply held onto him and drifted off to sleep peacefully.

The next morning, when Lin Shuicheng woke up, Fu Luoyin had already left. It was a workday, and he had to go to the office as usual, at his regular time.

Their roles seemed to have reversed – with Lin Shuicheng's irregular schedule, it was now Fu Luoyin who prepared breakfast and left it for him.

Supporting his aching body, Lin Shuicheng got out of bed and dressed. He glanced at the uneaten meal in the dining room, then rubbed his head and walked back to gently push open the door to the workspace.

The light blue storm glass on the desk had not been changed for a long time.

There were still no crystals forming inside.

Lin Shuicheng walked over and sat down in front of the storm glass, lost in thought for a while.

After a long time, he rubbed his head, stood up, and took the storm glass towards the door, where there was a trash can.

He took a deep breath, hesitated for a moment in front of the bin, but eventually put the storm glass back where it belonged.

Then, he pulled out a drawer and found an envelope containing a black card – Fu Luoyin had given it to him two years ago, and he had never used it.

He went to pack his clothes.

He didn't usually buy many clothes for himself; he was content with having enough for daily use and occasional changes. The branded garments hanging in his closet, still bearing their price tags, were all gifts from Zhou Heng.

Lin Shuicheng opened his phone's memo app, meticulously noting down the styles and brands. After researching their prices, he added each entry to his list.

Calculating these items was quite tedious, as there were numerous entries in total.

The final amount Lin Shuicheng recorded was 372 Alliance Credits, the sum that Fu Luoyin had paid on his behalf the previous night.

Chapter 75: The Banquet (3100+)

There is another person, Gu Heting.

Luo Le attempted to activate his intelligent brain, but found himself unable to establish any connection.

Has he possibly brought Chen Chen home?

It's not entirely out of the question.

Upon returning home, Luo Le found it utterly empty.

There wasn't a single piece of information in the intelligent brain either.

Luo Le gazed at the open door. They had lived together for a while; Chen Chen should be safe with him.

Moreover, Gu Heting's purpose is to have him reminisce about his family.

For some inexplicable reason, he still felt an inexplicable sense of anxiety.

Luo Le was unaware of the new name Gu Shi had taken in the Empire, nor did he know the locations of those research institutes.

The only thing he knew was that cemetery.

After sitting for over ten minutes, Luo Le still got up and left.

Just like before, he found no one there.

Luo Le stared blankly at the fleeting scenery outside the window, his soul seemingly lost.

The messages he sent to Gu Heting all fell on deaf ears.

It doesn't make sense. The sole purpose of Gu Heting taking Chen Chen away was to find him, so it's impossible that he wouldn't send any messages.

Could something have happened to them?

Upon thinking of this, Luo Le's heart suddenly felt suspended, as this was the only explanation that made sense.

It's imperative to locate them swiftly.

Alighting from the vehicle, he couldn't be bothered with anything else and immediately contacted his mentor.

Yet, before the call could connect, a familiar voice suddenly rang from behind, "Senior Brother? It really is you. When did you return?"

Luo Le turned around and saw Qin Runzhi, his face radiant with joy behind his sunglasses.

"I am, Qin Runzhi," he said, removing his sunglasses as he approached, his gaze landing on Luo Le's username in the chat.

"Are you looking for your mentor? I believe he's on an expedition to the Hetbrak Desert to study the Kersah Hawks. It's an uninhabited area, so you won't be able to get in touch with him."

Luo Le's eyes dimmed slightly as his hand lingered over another set of digits on the ID string.

"Senior, do you need something from him? Before he left, he granted me all his permissions. Perhaps I can be of assistance," Qin Runzhi said, sliding his sunglasses onto his chest and curving the corners of his lips.

After a moment of hesitation, Luo Le dismissed the screen. "Could you trouble yourself to help me look up someone?"

"Go ahead," Qin Runzhi replied.

"Gu Heting."

Qin Runzhi nods. "I'll ask them to look into it. Don't worry."

At this point, there's no use in panicking.

Luo Le took a moment to size him up and down, noticing that he was dressed in an unusually formal manner, which was uncharacteristic of him.

"Are you occupied soon? If so, feel free to leave. They can directly contact me once they have any updates."

Qin Runzhi waved it off. "It's no big deal, just attending a small dinner party. I'm afraid I might get busy later and forget. Come with me, so I can give you feedback easily whenever needed."

Luo Le frowned. "No need."

"Don't worry about it. They make great desserts there. Senior Brother, you should try them. Otherwise, I'd have to bring some over for you later anyway."

Luo Le felt embarrassed. This person treated their host's place like a restaurant, even considering takeaways.

"Come on, come on."

Qin Runzhi promptly came up and hooked his arm, nudging him towards the car.

Luo Le pushed away his hand. "Don't touch me."

Qin Runzhi shrugged. Seeing the look in Luo Le's eyes as he gazed at the car, he chuckled. "I'll send you back later, don't worry."

Luo Le reluctantly agreed.

The banquet was held at a villa halfway up the mountain.

After circling around a grand fountain, the car parked in a garden.

As soon as they got out, Luo Le noticed that all the cars parked there were ultra-luxurious models worth tens of millions. It seemed like those attending this event were either extremely wealthy or influential figures, making it more than just a simple gathering.

He couldn't help but ask, "What kind of banquet is this exactly?"

Qin Runzhi pondered for a moment before answering, "It's a charity dinner hosted by the Chen family. I think there's also an announcement to be made."

Fifty percent of the empire's real estate sector was under the Chen family's control.

Luo Le had heard of this man before. He had built his fortune thanks to his wife, who then mysteriously fell ill and passed away after his success.

Many believed that he was responsible for her death.

But these were just speculations without concrete evidence.

One thing Luo Le was certain about was that this man was a businessman who operated on the fringes of the law, relentless in achieving his goals.

Huo Fei had mentioned that his methods were filthy, which was why they had never collaborated over the years.

Her judgment was usually astute, and Luo Le trusted her instincts.

"How is it? Have you found anything?"

Regardless of whether it was the Chen or Li family, Luo Le's only concern now was locating Chen Chen.

Qin Runzhi glanced at his smart device. "Nothing... Senior Brother, are you sure it's him? There's no news of him entering the country."

Luo Le furrowed his brow. "How could that be?"

Could it be that Gu Heting used a false identity?

After pondering for a moment, he directly sent over Gu Heting's account number.

"He's using this account."

"Very well, I'll have them look into it further."

Observing Luo Le's contemplative gaze, Qin Runzhi didn't disturb her further.

The gatekeeper requested, "May I see your invitation, please?"

Qin Runzhi retrieved the invitation from his chest and handed it over.

Upon recognizing the name on the invitation, the gatekeeper's expression shifted, "Ah..."

Qin Runzhi placed his index finger to his lips and shook his head, indicating silence.

The gatekeeper immediately fell silent, signaling to the attendants behind him with a subtle gesture.

"Entertain them well," Qin Runzhi instructed softly, relieved that Luo Le hadn't noticed the incident.

Following the guiding robot, they were seated in no time.

A charity gala was essentially an auction of the host's collection - rather dull, but the snacks were indeed delectable.

"Senior, there's something odd about the account you gave me," Qin Runzhi said, his expression intriguing as he read the message on his device.

Luo Le leaned in. "What is it?"

"This account was terminated three years ago."

Luo Le was taken aback. "How could that be?"

They were in contact just yesterday. How could he have deactivated his account three years ago?

"Someone from the Huo family is here too?"

Suddenly, there was commotion from the side.

The Huo family?

Luo Le turned to look and saw Huo Lanjing. Why was he here?

Could it be... he had been following her?

Huo Lanjing had a stern expression as if he hadn't seen her. He took a seat at the front row.

"The next item up for auction is our final piece..."

It was the last item, so why would Huo Lanjing come here?

Luo Le currently had no desire to meet him.

After some thought, he got up, covered his mouth, and left with his head lowered.

His action was so abrupt that Qin Runzhi failed to react in time, grasping at thin air. He glanced at Huo Lanjing's position ahead, sighed, and rose to pursue him.

With the risk of being overheard, he whispered, "Senior Brother, where are you headed?"

Luo Le turned around and caught sight of a figure in the distance.

—Gu Heting.

He was still holding Chen Chen in his arms.

Luo Le halted his actions, staring blankly at the stage.

"Senior Brother, what are you looking at?"

Luo Le murmured, "Found it."

His eyes were dark and mysterious. What was Gu Heting doing by bringing Chen Chen here?

Has Huo Lanjing come here due to receiving some information?

A sense of powerlessness welled up within him. If he hadn't encountered Qin Runzhi today, he would have remained utterly ignorant.

Qin Runzhi followed his gaze and also witnessed the scene.

"Is that the person Senior Brother has been looking for?"

Luo Le nodded.

Qin Runzhi observed that Luo Le's gaze seemed to be fixed on the child, wondering about their relationship. However, upon seeing Luo Le's expression, he decided against asking.

Silently, Qin Runzhi also turned his attention to the stage.

"I appreciate everyone's effort in coming here today. I, Chen, have one more matter to announce."

Many of those present had come specifically for this announcement.

"First, let me introduce my good friend, Mr. Gu."

Gu Heting, holding Chen Chen in his arms, stepped onto the stage one step at a time.

Those below, witnessing this scene, whispered to one another, each trying to speculate the identity of this enigmatic figure.

Gu Heting smiled down, but he didn't say anything.

Chen Chen had been instructed beforehand not to speak, so he nestled against Gu Heting's neck without uttering a word.

"{Chen Ke} has decided that all research buildings under the Chen Group, both currently in operation and those yet to be launched, will henceforth fall under the Gu family's jurisdiction."

After a lengthy discourse, Chen Ke made this unexpected announcement.

The audience was immediately abuzz with excitement.

The Chen Group's research facilities, with their backing by the imperial palace and favorable policies, as well as their proximity to major corporations' research centers, held immense potential for growth. This new development would only serve to enhance their prospects.

Among them were those who had struggled arduously to secure a place in the research lab. What did Chen Ke mean by this now?

The contract they signed stipulated that if the Chens breached the agreement, they would be the ones suffering losses, not them.

"In all my time in this empire, I've never heard of any Gu family. What do you mean by this? We bought this building with our hard-earned money. Why should we surrender it just because you've arrived?"

Upon hearing this, the crowd below chimed in with agreement.

"Please remain calm, I'm the acting head of the Gu Corporation. This young gentleman here is our CEO's child, Young Master Gu. The Gu Corporation primarily operates in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and mecha manufacturing. If you choose to collaborate with us in the future, those who have already purchased properties can continue to use them, and those who wish to apply for one may proceed."

Gu Heting directly stated his purpose.

To continue utilizing the Chen Institute, collaboration with the Gu corporation is indispensable.

Indeed, you've calculated your moves ingeniously.

Chen Chen felt a slight ache in his neck. He sat up, shaking his head to relieve the discomfort, and caught a glimpse of Luo Le standing by the door.

He clung to Gu Heting and pointed to the door, saying, "Uncle, Father."

Though his voice was barely audible, the few people at the very front managed to catch it.

By "Father" he refers to the head of the Gu family, I presume?

And so, they all turned their heads to search.

Upon hearing this, Huo Lanjing's eyes shimmered with a captivating light. His ring-adorned index finger tapped gently against his knee.

Upon hearing this, Gu Heting smiled at Luo Le by the door, as if to say that whether to return to the Gu family or not was not up to him.

He set Chen Chen down. "Go find your father."

Chen Chen nodded and turned to descend the platform, dashing toward the man.

Huo Lanjing crouched in front of him, and Chen Chen ran straight into his arms, to be lifted up.

This scene left the onlookers stunned. This child's father was actually General Huo?

The Huo family had a Gu in their employ?

Gu Heting's face turned green with anger as he shouted, "What do you mean by that?"

Huo Lanjing held Chen Chen's small hand tightly.

Chen Chen immediately recalled that Huo Lanjing had previously mentioned this secret matter. Upon seeing his father frowning at the entrance, he obediently halted his actions.

Noticing his compliance, Huo Lanjing released his grip and lifted his eyes lazily, fixating on him. "Do you want to go against the Huo family?"

Gu Heting's body tensed up. Although the Gu family had more or less recovered to its previous state, it still couldn't compare to the Huo family.

To go against the Hao family is to court death on one's own accord.

Gu Heting gritted his teeth and said, "My family matters have nothing to do with you, right?"

Huo Lanjing said, "Then give it a try."

With those words, he scooped up Chen Chen and departed. Upon reaching the door, he paused for a moment before stepping outside.

The crowd was perplexed. It seemed as if his purpose for coming here was merely to pick up a child.

Luo Le glanced back at Gu Heting, his emotions inscrutable, and turned away from the chaotic guests to leave.

Qin Runzhi followed closely behind.

Gu Heting watched as they walked away, clutching his hands tightly, a fleeting look of madness flashing across his face.

Chapter 123 - Accusations

The chaos on the scene intensified.

Madame Shen, Shen Xingzhuo, and others became the main targets of media bombardment.

As Shen Hongyuan was being stretchered off the stage, reporters persisted in asking him questions:

"Are you trying to evade responsibility, sir?"

...

This much-anticipated signing ceremony ended in a way that nobody could have predicted. The absurd spectacle quickly swept through the entire business circle.

Lu Ran also learned about the outcome.

He received the news while he was in the laboratory, holding a micropipette in his hand.

With unwavering hands, Lu Ran meticulously transferred samples into test tubes and discarded the pipette tips into the trash bin.

Only then did he lift his gaze to meet Fang Chen, who had rushed into the laboratory.

"Your father didn't sign, did he?" Lu Ran inquired.

Fang Chen shook his head with a pout. "Of course not. My dad was almost livid; I've never seen him so upset before."

He turned to Lu Ran and continued, "You knew about the financial issues at the Shen Corporation, right? That's why you asked me to remind my dad to conduct a thorough investigation?"

Fang Chen couldn't help but express his indignation. "When I mentioned it to my dad, he got angry and told me not to meddle in adult affairs."

"Well, look how close you came to getting into trouble!"

Exiting the laboratory, Lu Ran listened as Fang Chen grumbled on about the situation.

"Didn't the Shens show any reaction?" Lu Ran asked.

Fang Chen had long noticed that when Lu Ran mentioned the Shen family, he never bothered to use their names directly.

He referred to them as "people from the Shen family."

This way of addressing them clearly defined the boundary between himself and the Shen family.

"Fang Chen said, "But this time, my father was genuinely furious. He refused to see anyone."

Lu Ran's lips curved into a faint smile.

By the time they returned to the Ji residence, Ji Min had already finished work and was waiting for him on the living room sofa.

Of course, Ji Min was well aware of such significant events.

Lu Ran even suspected that Ji Min might have been behind those two sensational headlines that couldn't be suppressed. Perhaps there were even people arranged by him at the signing ceremony.

Yet the man didn't say anything. He simply took Lu Ran's backpack and asked, "How was your session with the psychiatrist today?"

Lu Ran fell silent, contemplating how to tactfully convey his thoughts that it had been utterly useless.

Noticing his hesitation, Ji Min sighed and drew the young man into his embrace.

After a moment of deliberation, Ji Min inquired, "Do you want... to go back to the hospital for another checkup?"

Lu Ran promptly stood up, ready to leave. "I don't want to."

Ji Min clicked his tongue, pulling Lu Ran back.

He said, "When you accompanied me during my rehabilitation, you went to the hospital every day without any resistance. Why is it different now?"

"Well, that building you were staying in didn't look like a hospital at all," Lu Ran rolled his eyes.

"And besides, watching you bounce around during rehab was quite entertaining," he added.

"Then, will you go to the hospital? I'll continue my exercises for you when you return?" Ji Min coaxed playfully.

Lu Ran couldn't help but chuckle. "Do you take me for a child? I have no intention of watching you fall!"

With that, Lu Ran made an effort to jump off the man's body.

Ji Min held onto his waist, pulling him back up.

He had quite some strength, and despite Lu Ran flailing about for a while, it was all in vain.

The sensation of having one's waist grasped and lifted like this easily evoked certain inappropriate scenarios.

After struggling for a moment, Lu Ran subsided.

"Are you done fooling around?" Ji Min raised an eyebrow.

"Was it me who was being playful?" Lu Ran narrowed his eyes at him.

Ji Min chuckled softly and fell silent.

After a while, Ji Min remained somewhat concerned. "It can't be good for you to keep enduring this pain."

"It doesn't actually hurt. It's just my mind making me believe it does," Lu Ran comforted him.

Ji Min sighed. "You do have a clear understanding."

Thinking about Lu Ran's aversion to hospitals, he still found it somewhat perplexing.

Yet feeling somewhat helpless, he could only gently pinch the youth's waist, saying,

"Are you scared of hospitals because you had a traumatic experience with injections when you were young?"

Lu Ran paused, then nonchalantly suggested, "Perhaps it's because I spent my previous life lying in a hospital bed until it induced a physiological aversion."

The words struck Ji Min rather unpleasantly, and he reached out to pat the youth, chiding,

"What nonsense are you talking? You shouldn't speak of anything but good fortune."

Lu Ran chuckled and skillfully changed the subject.

Abandoned halfway, the signing ceremony left the Shen family in a state of chaos.

Shen Hongyuan was hospitalized in a coma.

The doctors diagnosed it as a stroke resulting from extreme emotional fluctuations.

Once the internal issues of the company were exposed, an investigation team promptly arrived to scrutinize the situation.

Outside, the media resembled vultures sensing blood, camping outside Shen Corporation and the residential area, fearful of missing any updates.

The hospital required family members to step forward, while the company had to address the public regarding the scandal and stabilize its workforce, who were now shaken by the news.

Moreover, there was the issue of technology leakage to contend with.

Leno Group approached with aggressive intentions.

Amidst all this chaos, Shen Xingyu was utterly overwhelmed.

Three days later, Madam Shen and Shen Xingzhuo rushed to the hospital.

She was bundled up in a hat and scarf, concealing herself thoroughly,

but still, she was recognized by the media when she entered the hospital.

A crowd instantly swarmed towards her.

Mrs. Shen was still wearing that limited edition necklace from an ultra-luxury brand.

On the day of the signing ceremony, this necklace had drawn countless envious glances and praises.

However, at this moment, news of Shen Corporation's financial irregularities had surfaced.

A sharp-eyed journalist spotted the accessory on her and promptly asked,

"Madam, what is your view on the company's financial issues?"

"According to current information, it appears that your husband has made multiple withdrawals under various pretexts. Were you aware of this?"

"Given your frequent purchases of luxury items, could these be related to the funds in question?"

These questions left Madam Shen utterly bewildered.

Upon hearing the last one, she couldn't help but directly confront the journalist who had just spoken, "What do you mean by that?!"

But instead of being intimidated, the journalist became even more enthusiastic due to her response, "Are you saying you were unaware?"

"Does this imply that you acknowledge suspicions of your husband's extramarital affair?"

More questions rained down on her.

Madam Shen found herself unable to defend herself, "No, that's not what I meant!"

She had been living a life of privilege for far too long.

Caught off guard by the sudden turn of events, she was completely unprepared and unsure how to respond.

Upon arriving at the hospital and witnessing this scene, Shen Xingzhuo couldn't help but feel a surge of anger.

Approaching directly, he reached out to slap the camera away from Madam Shen's face.

The sound of the impact added to the chaos in the scene.

After a noisy commotion, Madam Shen and Shen Xingzhuo finally arrived outside Shen Hongyuan's hospital room.

Madam Shen's hat was askew on her head.

Shen Xingzhuo's brows were furrowed, his anger barely contained but with no clear outlet for it.

A while later, the elevator on the floor opened.

Shen Xingyu stepped out.

His suit jacket was draped over his arm, and his shirt was slightly creased.

The well-groomed fringe on his forehead had a few strands that had escaped the hold of the hair gel, now hanging loosely.

Almost three days without sleep had left its mark on Shen Xingyu's face, evident to the naked eye.

He walked slowly and wearily to the hospital room, taking a seat on an iron chair nearby.

Without much ado, Shen Xingyu instructed in a calm and measured tone, "The reporters are swarming the front entrance. Remember to leave through the east gate later; I've arranged a car for you."

"Why can't we just walk out? Are you spoiling these reporters for having a sickness?" Shen Xingzhuo grumbled unhappily.

Seeing her eldest son, Madam Shen couldn't help but complain as if he were her pillar of support, "Do you know what they asked me? They actually asked if my necklace was bought with public funds. I..."

The cacophony of voices rose once more.

Shen Xingyu lifted his hand to press against his forehead, his fingers intertwining deeply into his hair before he released a heavy sigh and withdrew his hand.

He sighed, seemingly trying to calm himself down.

But when he spoke, he still couldn't hold back a trace of suppressed desperation.

He lifted his head and looked at the necklace around Madam Shen's neck, enunciating each word carefully:

"Can I not wear these things when I go out now?"

Madam Shen was startled by his tone and closed her mouth, taking a step back.

She hastily removed the necklace, putting it in her bag, and then couldn't help justifying herself:

"I, I didn't think about these things. Didn't you also not tell me?"

Shen Xingzhuo also reacted instinctively: "Enough, you don't know how hard Mom just had it."

But after speaking, Shen Xingzhuo paused again.

He always unconsciously opposed Shen Xingyu.

Especially in front of their parents.

But now, looking at Shen Xingyu's reaction, Shen Xingzhuo felt that perhaps he shouldn't have said anything.

At that moment, the door to the hospital room opened.

A nurse poked her head in and looked at the family with a peculiar gaze. "The patient has regained consciousness."

Only then did the Shen family cease their conversation and file into the room.

On the bed, Shen Hongyuan lay stiffly.

Though he had regained consciousness, it was clear that he had lost the ability to move.

Not to mention his limbs, he couldn't even control his facial features now.

His eyes and mouth twitched strangely, and saliva dripped uncontrollably from the corner of his mouth.

Seeing her husband in such a state, Mrs. Shen was startled. She quickly went to the bedside and held onto Shen Hongyuan's hand.

Shen Hongyuan's arm trembled as he raised it.

But instead, he carelessly waved off Madam Shen's hand.

He fumbled unsteadily for the cup on the bedside table and hurled it forcefully at Shen Xingyu.

However, his movements were clearly restricted now. The cup barely traveled half a meter before it fell to the ground.

Water splashed everywhere.

"You, what's wrong with you? Do you want some water? Why are you throwing things at Xingyu?!"

Madam Shen was terrified and quickly called for the doctor.

The doctor gave a light cough and mentioned that the patient was emotionally unstable. After giving a couple more instructions, he left.

Shen Xingyu hadn't expected Shen Hongyuan to react this way upon seeing him either.

After a moment of stunned silence, he instructed the nurse to clean up the mess.

When only the Shen family members remained in the room, Shen Xingyu closed the door and instructed his assistant to keep watch outside.

Sitting down, he sighed, "Let's talk about recent events."

Shen Hongyuan smashed a glass but eventually calmed down.

Despite his stroke, his mind was still relatively clear.

Shen Xingyu began discussing the company's situation, "Until the investigation results come out, I'll be on temporary leave."

Pausing for a moment, he continued, "In a couple of days, someone will likely visit the hospital to inquire about certain matters."

"What matters? He's in this state, and they still need to ask?" Mrs. Shen remarked.

Shen Xingyu felt a headache coming on but pressed on with the main issue at hand,

"The company's data, as well as the recent financial irregularities, were deliberately leaked to the media."

He raised his head, "This kind of information isn't accessible to the average person. Even high-ranking executives wouldn't have simultaneous access to both sets of data."

Up to this point, Shen Xingyu's message was clear as day.

Unexpectedly, the most shocked reaction came from Shen Hongyuan.

With the only limb he could move, he slapped the bed vigorously and slurred, "Impossible!"

Shen Xingzhuo followed suit, albeit a beat slower, finally realizing the implications.

He instinctively said, "He wouldn't do that. Although..."

But halfway through his sentence, Shen Xingzhuo's expression shifted, and he fell silent with a grim look on his face.

Only Madam Shen remained somewhat confused.

She asked, bewildered, "What are you talking about? Did someone from our family leak this information?"

Neither Shen Xingyu nor Shen Xingzhuo responded.

Shen Hongyuan continued to mumble incoherently, "Impossible, he has to rely on the Shen family, he..."

After listening for a while, Madam Shen gradually realized, "You're talking about Ranran?"

She then laughed in disbelief, "How could it be Ranran? I've raised him since he was little. He was still worrying about the company's affairs yesterday, and he's so young. How could he possibly know…?"

Madam Shen froze as she spoke.

Because she remembered that Shen Xingran had requested to intern at the company after summer vacation.

Shen Hongyuan didn't make him start from the bottom but arranged a position as an assistant specifically for him.

Madam Shen felt dizzy and confused.

She continued as if nothing was amiss, "All of you think it's Ranran? How can you brothers think that way about him?"

"Besides… isn't there also Lu Ran! Apart from Ranran and him…"

In her panic, Madam Shen blurted out, "Yes, Lu Ran has been by Ji Min's side lately. Recently, Ranran even mentioned that he's gotten quite close to that young master from the Fang family…"

Upon saying this, Madam Shen suddenly broke down.

"Why aren't you suspecting Lu Ran?!"

The ward fell into a hush.

That was because everyone knew it was impossible for Lu Ran to do such a thing. Even if he managed to obtain some information, he wouldn't have access to precise data.

The latest breakthrough technology was the foundation of the Shen Corporation, and the data was strictly guarded.

Not even Ji Min could have acquired the information so swiftly and passed it on to the Lino family coincidentally.

Apart from the Shens, no one else could have done it.

There was no need to distinguish whether it was Shen Xingran or not, for Shen Xingran hadn't shown up that day.

A few more days passed.

After the turmoil in the Shen family, they fell into a persistent state of decline.

Shen Hongyuan's newly acquired investors, sensing the unfavorable situation, began to demand their owed payments through various means.

Shen Xingyu was running around tirelessly, but to no avail.

As for Shen Xingran, he finally returned to the Shen family home.

This time, he probably realized that there was no point in hiding anything, and there was nothing left to hide.

He decided to confront them head-on, asking Jin Linuo to drive him straight to the entrance of the Shen family residence.

Upon arrival, Shen Xingran and Jin hugged openly before entering the villa.

Shen Xingzhuo stood on the balcony on the second floor, witnessing every move Shen Xingran made.

He rushed down the stairs and arrived just in time to see Shen Xingran enter the living room.

Fixing Shen Xingran with a somber gaze, Shen Xingzhuo asked, "What brings you back here?"

Shen Xingran gave him a faint smile. "I'll just tidy up my belongings."

With that, he sauntered past Shen Xingzhuo and headed upstairs.

After packing some of his things on the third floor, he descended to encounter Shen Xingyu.

Shen Xingyu's expression was relatively calm, but there was an undeniable fatigue lingering in his gaze.

Looking at Shen Xingran, he said,

"I recall that the Shen family owes you nothing."

Shen Xingran had once been terrified of Shen Xingyu because he knew all too well that in Shen Xingyu's eyes, he held no significance.

At best, he was merely a soothing balm for Madam Shen.

Probably, in this elder brother's mind, his only purpose was to provide some occupation for Madam Shen, keeping her from flying off the handle at home all the time.

Thus, Shen Xingran had always diligently fulfilled his "duties."

Now, no longer reliant on the Shen family, Shen Xingran was entirely unshackled.

He sneered at Shen Xingyu and said,

"You know well whether you owe me or not. By your logic, I don't owe the Shen family anything either. Now, we're just engaged in normal business competition."

"Business competition?"

Shen Xingyu glanced at the suitcase in Shen Xingran's hand and said,

"The Shen family raised you. Do you think you deserve to bear the name Shen Xingran after saying something like that?"

Shen Xingran couldn't help but laugh.

"I'm not worthy, then who is? Lu Ran? If you asked Lu Ran to take on the role of Shen Xingran now, do you think he'd be willing?"

Shen Xingyu's gaze darkened.

Shen Xingran looked at Shen Xingyu and said,

"I saw you talking to Lu Ran. As his caring elder brother, you've always been thinking of bringing him back to the Shen family, haven't you?"

"Shen Hongyuan will die sooner or later, and the Shen family will eventually be under your control. Will there still be a place for me then?"

"That's what Lu Ran deserves," Shen Xingyu said in a grave tone.

Shen Xingran scoffed.

He glanced at Shen Xingyu and taunted,

"Stop putting on an act in front of me. Do you really think you're a good elder brother? You were so concerned about Lu Ran, yet when he was missing for over a decade, didn't I see you making any serious effort to find him?"

"Playing both sides, aren't you? Isn't that disgusting?"

"Slap!"

A sharp sound interrupted Shen Xingran's words.

It was Shen Xingzhuo who had suddenly lashed out.

Shen Xingran was slapped to the side.

He reached out to cover his face, straightened up, and slapped Shen Xingzhuo back.

"What right do you have to hit me!"

"I'm your brother!" Shen Xingzhuo roared.

He and Shen Xingran had grown up together since childhood.

No matter within the Shen family or outside, he had always protected Shen Xingran.

Even because Shen Xingran disliked dogs, he had suppressed his own fondness to the point of nearly causing Big Yellow's death.

Despite knowing that Shen Xingran had some bad habits, Shen Xingzhuo had never imagined that Shen Xingran would betray the entire Shen family.

Shen Xingran rolled his eyes.

"You're so eager to be a good elder brother, so shouldn't I help you fulfill that role?"

"Are you talking nonsense?" Shen Xingzhuo was taken aback.

Shen Xingran chuckled.

He glanced at Shen Xingzhuo and then at Shen Xingyu before saying,

"Shen Xingzhuo, since we were young, did you genuinely treat me well? When have I not provoked you by mentioning Shen Xingyu?"

Shen Xingzhuo's expression suddenly turned terrible.

"Stop talking!" he said.

Shen Xingran found his reaction amusing and continued,

"Well, if we're not talking about me, let's discuss Lu Ran. You treat him like a younger brother, yet how could you go to his school and cause trouble just because you suspected he was getting too close to Shen Xingyu?"

Shen Xingzhuo's lips trembled, leaving him speechless.

Looking at his expression, Shen Xingran laughed with immense delight.

He said, "Shen Xingzhuo, you're the worst among the entire Shen family. You can't compete with Shen Xingyu in any other aspect, so you can only desperately try to surpass him when it comes to being an elder brother."

After enjoying the reactions on Shen Xingyu and Shen Xingzhuo's faces, Shen Xingran continued dragging his suitcase towards the door.

Just as he was about to exit the living room, Mrs. Shen's voice suddenly echoed from upstairs.

"What about me?!"

Mrs. Shen looked pale, dressed less elegantly than usual for the first time.

She emerged from her bedroom, dressed simply.

Step by step, she descended the stairs.

Gazing at the foster son she had doted on for over a decade downstairs, Mrs. Shen asked, "Aren't I good enough to you?"

"Whether it's Shen Xingyu or Shen Xingzhuo, haven't I always stood by your side when they had conflicts with you?" Mrs. Shen said with a trembling voice.

She truly doted on Shen Xingran more than any of her biological sons.

She treated him almost like the perfect mother would.

Even when Shen Xingran had spread rumors about Lu Ran being an illegitimate child, causing her great embarrassment, she eventually forgave him.

Looking up at Mrs. Shen upstairs, Shen Xingran paused in his steps.

After a moment of silence, he said, "You have been quite good to me."

Upon hearing this, Mrs. Shen couldn't help but harbor a glimmer of hope within her.

Then,

Shen Xingran looked at her and said,

"Lu Ran is your biological son. You treat your own flesh and blood like this...

"How can I know what intentions you have behind your actions?"

Chapter 60: This Seat Has Discovered a Secret

The enchanted ship moved swiftly, and by the following dawn, they had arrived at Yangzhou's harbor. An immortal envoy was already there to greet them, accompanied by several fine steeds.

After breakfast at the dock, the Feathered People, who didn't require sustenance, sat by the ferry wharf with their eyes closed, resting. It was just dawn, and not many merchants or travelers were passing by yet. However, the boatmen were up and about, gathered in small groups eating porridge and buns, casting curious glances at the newcomers from time to time.

As the burly men in brown shortsleeved attire sipped their porridge, snippets of their conversation drifted into Mo Ran's ears.

"Hey hey, I recognize their clothing. They're from the Lower Realm."

"The Lower Realm is so far away, and they don't often interact with our sects here. How do you know?"

"Look at the emblem on their bracers. Isn't it identical to the one on Night Traveler?"

"You mean that demon-repelling wooden armor?" Someone glanced at Xue Meng's sleeve, munching on pickles as they exclaimed, "Oh, it really is! Who made that Night Traveler?"

"It's said that Elder Yu Heng of Death's Peak crafted it."

"Who's this Elder Yu Heng? Is he as powerful as our Sect Leader Jiang from Solitary Moon Night?"

"Hehe, who knows? It's hard to tell with cultivators."

The boatmen spoke in a soothing tone that was difficult for Mo Ran and the others to understand, but Chu Wanning could grasp their conversation. He learned that his Night Traveler had successfully spread among the common folk, which brought him comfort. Thus, he planned to create more practical wooden oxen and flowing horses when he returned, performing good deeds.

After breakfast, they rode swiftly, reaching Jiu Hua Mountain in just two hours. The sun was still high in the sky, casting golden rays like sheer silk across the snow-covered peaks, illuminating them with dazzling light. Hundreds of evergreen cypress and pine trees stood resiliently on the mountain slopes, resembling reclusive immortals with their sleeves hanging down and eyes closed, standing quietly along the mountain path.

At the summit of Jiu Hua Mountain, mortals referred to it as "not of this world," and it wasn't an exaggeration.

The Feathered people blew three whistles at the foot of the mountain, and a gorgeously plumed golden oriole descended gracefully from the snowy peaks. Following the bird's guidance, they headed west until they reached a roaring waterfall.

"Immortal Lords, please step back first."

The leader of the Feathered people took the lead, her fingers forming a flower gesture as she silently chanted a spell. Suddenly, she pursed her lips and gently exhaled into the wind, summoning a fire dragon that soared into the sky and struck the waterfall, splitting it in half!

She turned her head with a charming smile and said softly, "Please, follow me to Peach Blossom Spring."

They followed the Feathered people through the waterfall and beyond the barrier, revealing a vast landscape that seemed like another dimension of the mortal world. Peach Blossom Spring was a hidden paradise unrelated to the cultivation world. Although it couldn't compare to the true immortal realm or the divine realm, it was still abundant in spiritual energy. The scenery within resembled a watercolor painting, with subtle and elegant colors. As they walked, they discovered that the seasons changed unpredictably here.

Guided by the Feathered people, they first passed through wilderness, where they saw surging rivers and heard the cries of apes on both banks. They then arrived at the outskirts of a city, observing orderly fields and ripening wheat. Finally, they entered the city, where they were greeted by well-structured buildings with intricately carved eaves.

The Peaches and Plums Capital was magnificent and resplendent, its city walls and facilities as grand as any prosperous metropolis on earth. However, it was adorned with floating petals dancing alongside snowflakes, emerald birds soaring alongside immortal cranes. The passing Feathered beings all had elongated necks and graceful figures, their silhouettes swaying in the wind like divine maidens stepping out of a painting.

Despite finding the scene enchanting, Xue Meng's group didn't react excessively, having already witnessed the wonders of Jin Chengchi.

Reaching a fork in the road, they saw a Feathered being dressed in a white robe embroidered with a golden phoenix standing beside a towering tree. The flame pattern on her forehead was deeper than others, indicating her far superior magical powers compared to other Feathereds.

The guiding immortal servant led them to her and bowed, saying, "Great Immortal Lord, the four Immortal Lords from the Summit of Life and Death have arrived."

"You've worked hard. You may withdraw."

"As you wish."

The elegantly dressed Feathered smiled slightly, her voice as melodious as a fledgling phoenix's chirp.

"I am called Eighteen, honored to hold the position of Great Immortal Lord of Peach Blossom Haven due to the favor of my Immortal Master. I am humbled and fortunate that you all have graced us with your presence for cultivation. If there are any inadequacies during your stay, please bear with us and do not hesitate to speak up."

Her stunning appearance and courteous manner were truly endearing.

Though Xue Meng didn't prefer men over himself, he was at an age where he appreciated beauty. Thus, he smiled and said, "Immortal Lord, your politeness is appreciated. However, 'Eighteen' is quite an unusual name. May I ask for your esteemed family name?"

Eighteen spoke gently, "I have no family name, just Eighteen."

Mo Ran laughed heartily, "If you're called Eighteen, does that mean there's someone named Seventeen?"

It was meant as a jest, but to his surprise, Eighteen couldn't help but smile, "Immortal Lord is sharp-witted. Seventeen is my elder sister."

Mo Ran: "...."

Eighteen explained, "We Feathered People are born from the downy feathers shed by the Vermilion Bird, the divine bird. When our cultivation is shallow, we often take the form of a crested ibis. Our Ancestor Immortal was the first to assume a human form, and the rest of us Feathered People were named in order of our transformation, One, Two... I am the eighteenth, hence the name Eighteen."

"..."

Mo Ran was speechless upon hearing this. He had initially thought that Xue Zhengyong's naming skills were terrible, but now he realized there was someone even worse – one who simply numbered themselves.

However, what Eighteen said next completely stunned him.

"Let's get down to business. Since the Immortal Lords have just arrived, you might not be familiar with the cultivation rules of Peach Blossom Spring," Eighteen began. "In the mortal world, cultivation has mostly been divided into sects for hundreds of years. But here, it's different. Among us Feathered, our roles are clearly defined. Some specialize in 'defense,' others in 'offense,' and still others in 'healing.' There are only three categories in total. Your cultivation will follow these three paths."

Mo Ran chuckled. "That sounds good."

Eighteen nodded at him. "Thank you, Little Immortal Lord, for your agreement. You know, cultivators from Solitary Moon Night also came here the other day. When they heard about this cultivation method, they frowned deeply."

Mo Ran was puzzled. "Guarding is guarding, attacking is attacking, and healing is healing. Isn't it clearer this way? What's their problem?"

Eighteen explained, "Well, there's a Mister Duan from Solitary Moon Night who specializes in guarding. He has to live with other guarding Immortal Lords, while his senior sister specializes in attacking and has to practice and reside with other attacking Immortal Lords. Although I don't quite understand mortal emotions, I can tell that this young master doesn't want to be separated from his foster sister."

"Haha, what—wait, what did you say?!" Mo Ran laughed halfway through, then suddenly realized what it meant, his eyes widening in shock. "Not only do people of different attributes have to train separately, they have to live separately too?"

Eighteen didn't understand why Mo Ran had suddenly turned pale. He replied blankly, "Yes."

Mo Ran's face turned green. "…"

What kind of joke was this?

Half an hour later, after failing to negotiate with Eighteen, Mo Ran stood dazedly in a spacious courtyard, falling into a long silence.

He, Xue Meng, and Xia Sini were all attackers and were assigned to the east side of Peach Blossom Land. The 'east side' wasn't just a small area; it was where Immortal Lords specializing in attacking resided. There were over twenty courtyards like this one, along with mountains, lakes, alleys, and markets that resembled those in the mortal world. Presumably, knowing that they would be staying here for a long time, these features were built to alleviate their homesickness.

As for Shi Mo, because he specialized in healing, he was sent to the southern part of Peach Blossom Land, far away from where Mo Ran and the others lived. A barrier separated them, and only a scepter could open it. This meant that although Mo Ran and Shi Mo were both in Peach Blossom Land, they could only meet during the daily Feathered race introductory meditation practice for Immortals of the three attributes. Otherwise, there was no chance for them to see each other.

And it wasn't even the worst part.

Mo Ran suddenly lifted his gaze, looking through his thick eyelashes at Xue Meng pacing around the courtyard, clearly intent on selecting the most comfortable room for himself. A vein throbbed in Mo Ran's forehead.

Xue Meng...

Yes, damn it, he would have to share a courtyard with Xue Meng every day from now on! The Eight Sufferings of Life—separation from loved ones and being united with enemies—would be all too real for him in the coming days...

The Feathered people had been chosen last in the selection from the Upper Realms to the Lower Realms, so they arrived at the Edge of Life and Death almost at the end of the rotation. As a result, members from other sects had already settled in. Xue Meng soon discovered that one of the small houses in their quadrangle courtyard was already occupied.

"Strange, I wonder who's living here already?" Xue Meng said, glancing at the bedding hanging out to dry in the yard.

Mo Ran replied, " Whoever it is, they probably aren't a nitpicky person."

"How do you figure?"

Mo Ran asked, "Which room did you choose to live in?"

Xue Meng's expression became wary. "What are you up to? I've already picked mine, the one facing south with its back to the north. If you try to snatch it from me, I'll..."

Before he could ponder it further, Mo Ran interrupted with a smile, "I don't prefer large rooms, so I won't compete with you. But let me ask, if this house is still unoccupied—" He tapped the small cottage that someone had already moved into and continued, "Would you be willing to switch with him?"

Xue Meng first glanced at the simple thatched cottage before glaring at Mo Ran. "Do you take me for a fool? Of course, I'm not switching."

Mo Ran chuckled. "That's why I said the person must be someone who doesn't quibble over trivial matters. Look, when he arrived, all four houses were empty, yet he didn't choose the best one. He only picked the smallest, humblest cottage. If he's not foolish, then he must be a modest gentleman."

"..."

While Mo Ran's analysis was spot on, Xue Meng felt as if his face had been ruthlessly exposed by Mo Ran's cunning smile. If the other person was a gentleman, choosing to live in a dilapidated cottage instead of a good house, didn't that make him, Xue Meng, a despicable, stingy person?

But Mo Ran hadn't mentioned Xue Meng at all, leaving Young Master Xue unable to retaliate or endure the embarrassment, his face flushing red.

"I've always been accustomed to living well," Xue Meng huffed, his expression grim. "I just can't adapt to living in shabby places. Whoever wants to be that gentleman can have it. I don't care."

With that, he stormed off.

Thus, each of the four distinct dwellings in the courtyard found their occupants.

Xue Meng chose the northern pavilion with its pink walls and black tiles, adorned with a golden threshold, the most elegant and luxurious of them all. Mo Ran settled for the western stone-built cottage, where a peach blossom tree stood by the entrance, blooming brightly. Chu Wanning requested the eastern bamboo building; as the sun set, the gentle green bamboo seemed to radiate like jade.

To the south stood a humble cottage, where the unseen "gentleman" resided.

Chu Wanning was still recovering from his fever, his head spinning severely. He retreated early to the bamboo lodge for rest. Xue Meng accompanied him for a while, but this young junior brother neither pouted nor enjoyed listening to stories. Instead, he wrapped himself up like a little dumpling and dozed off on his own. Xue Meng sat by the bedside for a bit, finding it dull, and then left with a pat on his buttocks.

In the courtyard, Mo Ran carried out a chair and sat with his legs crossed, resting his arms behind his head as he leisurely watched the golden crows sink in the west, the remaining sunlight fading away.

Spotting Xue Meng, he asked, "Has Junior Brother Xia fallen asleep?"

"Mm-hmm."

"Has his fever subsided?"

"If you're concerned, just go in and check for yourself."

Mo Ran laughed heartily. "I'm afraid the little one isn't sound asleep yet, and I might clumsily wake him up."

Xue Meng glanced at him and said, "Rarely do you show such self-awareness. I thought you'd only laze around in the yard like my mother's cats and dogs."

"Ha ha, how do you know I'm slacking off?" Mo Ran twirled a peach blossom between his fingers and lifted his gaze with a smile. "While I was lounging in the yard, I stumbled upon an earth-shattering secret."

Xue Meng clearly didn't want to ask, but his curiosity got the better of him. After holding back for a while, he reluctantly approached with a forced nonchalant expression and murmured, "What big secret?"

Mo Ran waved at him and narrowed his eyes. "Come closer, I'll whisper it to you."

"..." Xue Meng reluctantly leaned in. As Mo Ran drew near, he chuckled softly. "Hehe, fell for it, didn't you, silly Mengmeng?"

Xue Meng's eyes widened abruptly, and he flew into a rage, grabbing Mo Ran's collar. "You tricked me? How childish are you?!"

Mo Ran laughed heartily. "Where did I lie? I really did discover a secret, but I also really don't want to tell you."

Xue Meng's brows knitted together. "If I believe you again, I truly would be a fool!"

As they bickered like two squabbling children, Mo Ran was about to say something else to further provoke Xue Meng when an unfamiliar voice sounded behind them, questioning with slight confusion, "Hm?" followed by, "Are the two of you new fellow cultivators?"

The man's voice was clear and resonant, cleaner and more refined than that of an average young man.

Mo Ran and Xue Meng turned their heads simultaneously to see a man in martial attire standing against the backdrop of the setting sun, his figure bathed in blood-red light.

The man had deep, chiseled features, dark eyes, and wore a black jade hairpin. His honey-colored face was handsome and energetic. Though not towering or exceptionally muscular, his posture was incredibly upright, surpassing even the sturdiness of cypress and pine trees. Most strikingly, his long legs were encased in black leggings, highlighting their slender strength and straight, heroic form.

Mo Ran's expression shifted instantly, as if a flashback of past bloodshed and sins had flashed before his eyes.

He seemed to see a figure kneeling amidst a storm of blood and stench, with their pipa bones pierced through and half their face torn apart, yet still refusing to surrender or yield.

A tremor stirred in his heart, like a drop of pristine, translucent dew settling on a leaf. Mo Ran couldn't quite describe the emotions he was feeling.

If he had admired anyone in his previous life, then this person before him now would certainly have been one of them.

So it turned out that the gentle, windswept scholar who was to share a residence with them... was none other than him...

Author's Notes:

School has started, and little Mo Fei Yu has arrived at the Jiuhua Mountain Avian University, settling into a joyous four-person dormitory room.

Mo Ran: Greetings! I'm Mo Weiyu from Xiangtan, Hunan! I specialize in philosophy! Please guide me with your wisdom!

Chu Wanning: I am Chu Wanning, hailing from Lin'an. The pile of clothes and socks that went missing from the balcony of our dormitory room are all mine. I'll make sure to wash them in the washing machine tonight. However, I'm not skilled in fitting bed sheets - could one of you kindly lend a hand? Thank you.

Mo Ran: ...

Xue Meng: Xue Ziming, don't provoke me, alright? My father holds the economic lifeline of the entire Lower Cultivation Realm. If any of you dare to bully me, he can crash all the stocks in your parents' portfolios, including Moutai.

Mo Ran: ...

At this moment...

The dormitory door swung open! The dorm leader, who had gone to wash clothes and mosquito nets, was back!

So, is he Mei Hanxue, a side character, or Ye Wangxi? This is a giveaway question, 2333333.

Chapter 151: A Solution

"The demons will continue their investigation, but we can't slack off on educating the ordinary people," the councilor said. "Xiao Le, you should prepare yourself for shooting the spin-off TV series based on that demon mobile game."

Xiao Le instinctively replied, "Shouldn't we avoid wasting time on shooting a TV series now?"

"Who says no?" the councilor frowned. "This is for educational purposes, so ordinary people can better understand the world of demons and exorcists."

"Wouldn't it be faster to make lecture videos or short clips for education? TV series take a long time to shoot and air," Xiao Le thought the councilor's words were odd. "The public is eager to learn now, and a TV series would be like a distant water that can't put out a nearby fire."

"The narrative of a TV series will leave a stronger impression on the public. They'll quickly forget about short videos or educational lectures," the exorcist sitting across from Xiao Le said. "What you're saying is valid, but fast-food culture won't make a deep impact."

The logic seemed sound, but upon closer inspection, it was absurd. Before Xiao Le could voice his thoughts, the councilor spoke up, "That's settled then. Let's move on to discussing the personnel arrangements."

...

After Wen Ying broke the divine stone, he had little to do. With too many exorcists getting into trouble lately, those who collaborated with the extremist party had become more cautious, halting most of their activities. As a result, they, as demons in Mu City, couldn't find new targets to score points.

The human world, agitated by the emergence of new powers, was in chaos, while they, as demons from the Realm of Devils, were entering a period of relaxation.

Wen Ying stealthily sneaked back to his home, concealing his aura and magical energy. Recently, Mu City was under strict surveillance, with exorcists monitoring for any abnormal magical reactions everywhere.

He had openly gone to other people's homes with his puppet body for them to touch the divine stone, but now he felt like a thief when returning home, not daring to make a sound.

Lin Tianbao wasn't at home; only Wen Qinxue was in the room, scripting. Wen Ying hovered by the door and tapped on it while looking up.

"Mom."

Wen Qinxue turned around in surprise, stood up from her chair, and quickly walked over.

"Exorcists have been patrolling Mu City lately. Are you alright?" Placing Wen Ying in the palm of her hand, she examined him almost from every angle.

Wen Ying spread his arms wide for a clearer view, speaking with confidence, "I'm completely fine, Mom. Don't worry. By the way, has Grandfather visited recently?"

Wen Qinxue fell silent for a few seconds before whispering, "After the black hole appeared in Mu City a few days ago, he called and said he would come over. But the next day, he called again and said he wouldn't. Moreover, he moved even farther away."

Wen Ying: "..." That was something his unreliable great-grandfather would do.

"Mom, be extra cautious these days. It's best to stay at home, and don't trust exorcists too much, especially those from the Church," Wen Ying advised.

The Extremists have more interaction with the Church, but the Exorcist Association's exorcists seem to have little contact with them.

"Be careful as well," Wen Qinxue frowned, her eyes filled with concern. "You haven't traveled far from home much since you were young. Now that you're out on your own, I'm very worried. Your great-grandfather isn't... ahem, reliable. In the Realm of Devils, neither your father nor I can be of much help. You'll have to rely on yourself."

You mean he's unreliable, right? Right?

It seemed that not only he thought Wen Dingjue was unreliable, Wen Ying mused inwardly.

"There shouldn't be anything major happening in Mu City recently," Wen Ying said. "Many people have been keeping an eye on this place lately, and those who have collaborated with the Devil Realm's wanted criminals have gone into hiding."

"Will devils from the Devil Realm frequently appear in the human world from now on?"

Wen Ying pondered for a moment before answering, "I don't think so. At least not in the short term. Mom, you don't need to worry too much, and tell Dad not to be too afraid. Fear might attract devils."

If it weren't for the fear of being detected by exorcists, Wen Ying would have left Wen Qinxue a few of his magic cards for self-defense.

As Wen Qinxue was talking with Wen Ying, her phone rang in the room. She walked over to retrieve it and, before answering, told Wen Ying, "It's your great-grandfather."

Seeing Wen Ying's curious expression, Wen Qinxue put the call on speakerphone.

"Grandfather, do you have any new instructions for us?"

Wen Dingjue's voice rang out from the speaker of the phone: "I see Mu City is currently testing the talents of those under 25. Has anyone from our family gone there?"

Starting from nine o'clock this morning, the government, along with church and association members, had arranged talent assessments in the square for the public. Those found to possess a talent would be asked if they wished to attend school or join an "interest class."

Enrollment, as the name suggests, referred to attending a magic academy. After the exorcists agreed to become teachers, the Flower Planting Nation's government promptly established such an academy, which not only included classrooms for exorcists but also cultural courses taught by regular educators.

The nation's top officials keenly sensed that the world was on the brink of change, and the power of exorcists might soon become a new form of military strength that needed to be nurtured in advance.

Graduates of the magic academy would be required to serve in the military after graduation, and even if they left, they would still need to work in government-designated departments. Some found these rules too restrictive and thus opted for interest classes, which were similar to learning piano or painting, with a few lessons per week. The government had no requirements for them, of course, except that they couldn't use magic for criminal purposes.

The notification was issued yesterday, stating that it would begin at nine today. However, if one were to arrive punctually at nine, they would find the square already packed with people, forming dozens of concentric circles, all heads swaying in the crowd.

No one knew when the first person had arrived. Wen Ying had taken a look in the morning and was astounded. It was such a lively scene, truly fitting for magic, with its immense allure.

Wen Qinxue replied to Wen Dingjue, "Not yet. Xin Xin and the others originally planned to go, but they were intimidated by the massive crowd..."

Before Wen Qinxue could finish her sentence, Wen Dingjue raised his voice to interrupt her: "Tell them none of them are allowed to go! No one from our family should attend!"

Wen Dingjue's voice was filled with anxiety and fear, which piqued Wen Ying's curiosity as he interrupted, "Grandfather, why can't Elder Sister Xin Xin and the others go?"

Hearing Wen Ying's voice, Wen Dingjue was taken aback, "Aren't you supposed to be in the Demon Realm? Qinxue, why is Little Ying here?"

"According to them, it's for an end-of-term task," Wen Qinxue glanced at Wen Ying, "Grandfather, why can't we go?"

In truth, she had already guessed that their demonic genes might cause problems during the talent test.

Wen Dingjue's tone couldn't hide his anxiety, "Because you have my bloodline within you. Although it hasn't shown, your magical talents are definitely higher than ordinary people. It's normal for one person to have this, but if many in the family do, then it's not. Only exorcist families would have such a situation, and those exorcists will surely sense something's off and investigate our entire family."

"If they investigate me, then we're all done for." Wen Dingjue fretfully scratched his head. Which damn bastard had triggered this change!

Wen Ying sneezed and rubbed his nose, "Grandfather, don't be so anxious. Your tone made me think that the talent test would reveal us as hybrids."

It had made his heart skip a beat.

"You don't know how paranoid those exorcists are. They'll dig until they uncover every single abnormality," Wen Dingjue grumbled, seemingly from personal experience.

Wen Ying reassured, "You don't need to worry about Mu City, those guys from the Church are too busy to bother with this right now."

"You have no idea," Wen Dingjue immediately countered. "Those guys are as sharp as bloodhounds. You need to be cautious too. If you encounter an exorcist, run as fast as you can. Our powers are restrained in the Human Realm."

Wen Ying remained silent. Was there a possibility that his great-grandson didn't just run away from an exorcist but actually defeated them?

Listening to Wen Dingjue's anxious rambling, though it was out of concern for him, the overall message was clear—be a turtle and hide your head in your shell.

He couldn't help but wonder what Wen Dingjue had gone through when he first arrived in the Human Realm to hold such a deep fear of exorcists.

Wanting to maintain his image as a good son, Wen Ying glanced at Qinxue. He didn't want her to know that her once gentle and weak son was now involved in fights and brawls. So, he simply acknowledged Wen Dingjue's words with a series of "mm-hmms."

Wen Dingjue droned on for an entire hour, nearly numbing Wen Ying's responses. Just before hanging up, he reiterated the absolute necessity of avoiding any talent tests.

Qinxue let out a sigh of relief after ending the call. There was a mix of frustration from listening to the nagging and worry for her family's future.

In their circle, most were highly attuned to societal changes. Learning magic had now become inevitable, and those with magical abilities would soon become commonplace in society. This was an unstoppable trend. If not a single member of their family could wield magic, they would undoubtedly be looked down upon.

Magic would inevitably bring about new industries, and their family might be pushed aside. How could Qinxue not be worried? It was especially frustrating that they did possess some magical talent, making the situation even more painful.

Wen Qinxue sighed. "Not studying magic isn't that simple, the surroundings won't permit it."

"Worry less, Mom. We'll take one step at a time," Wen Ying reassured. "Besides, aren't I here? Our family has some support."

"Focus on your own safety first," Wen Qinxue said helplessly. "Be extra cautious in the Demon Realm. Your great-grandfather mentioned that there are many powerful demons there. Remember to avoid them and don't provoke conflicts."

Wen Ying replied, "...Okay."

Although he could defeat a bunch of high-bloodline demons in the academy, he was still an inferior Bloodline Demon Mirror.

"Still, Mom, we can't fully believe everything great-grandfather says. At least go and check out the magic academy to see its development."

"I'll discuss this with them at an appropriate time. Focus on your end-of-term mission for now, and don't fail."

Wen Ying declared proudly, "Not just passing, I might even come in first place."

Wen Qinxue chuckled and shook her head, dismissing his boast as a child's vanity. "Remember to stay safe."

Wen Ying stayed until evening, met his father, then left. He went to the square and found that at six o'clock, the line of people waiting was so long that it couldn't be seen from one end.

Wen Ying sighed. "Truly outrageous."

Back at the Yang residence, Yang Rixi noticed his return and immediately asked, "Mr. Demon, do you think we should test our talents?"

Yang Shiming was also present, his eyes wide with anticipation.

Wen Ying had left early in the morning, leaving the Yang brothers pent up with questions all day. Asking the aloof black-haired demon was useless; he had spent the entire day resting with his eyes closed. So they told Wen Ying to ask the other demon instead.

Upon returning and meeting their eager gazes, Wen Ying nearly thought they had developed feelings for him. Upon hearing their question, he replied, "A talent test is fine, but you can't attend the magic academy."

Yang Shiming's heart shattered. He asked reluctantly, "Why not?"

Wen Ying looked at him in surprise. "You've already been practicing, so it'll be impossible to hide that at the magic academy. A talent test only checks for magical potential, but if you go there, the teachers will conduct a more thorough examination. Would you really think a middle schooler attending kindergarten could hide their abnormal height from teachers who aren't blind?"

Yang Shiming visibly deflated before their eyes. He slumped down, hugging himself, a gloomy despair surrounding him. His original reason for making a pact with Boreas was his desire to learn magic. Now, because he had learned it prematurely, he couldn't receive systematic instruction. It was a huge loss.

Yang Rixi, on the other hand, wasn't too disheartened. If he hadn't made a pact with a demon, he would still be trapped under Yang Shize's oppressive rule.

Seeing Yang Shiming on the verge of tears, Wen Ying alighted on his shoulder and patted him, saying, "But you two can enroll in an extracurricular club. Pretend to be learning magic cultivation techniques there. You don't have to attend frequently. After some time, use your family connections to get yourselves into a magic academy."

Yang Shiming's expression was one of disbelief. "We can do that?"

"We'll be leaving eventually. Once we're gone, act as if you've never met us before," Wen Ying chuckled. "As long as you don't mention it, the exorcists won't find out."

Chapter 197 - Gentleness

Liu Dalang was speechless.

At dawn, Chen Dashan knocked on the door, leading such a large group to the entrance. Without Shen Lie's assistance, it would have been impossible. When Shen Lie returned, he brought back this message for Sang Luo.

Yesterday, only Wang Chunniang was mute. But within half a night, another one had joined her? It was none other than the usually inconspicuous Liu Dalang.

If Madam Liu really intended to take action, she could have easily dealt with both Wang Chunniang and Liu Dalang simultaneously. The sequential order of events was intriguing.

"In times of adversity, one can truly see the depths of human hearts."

Sang Luo thought about the five children of the Liu family and concluded that it was probably for the best that they were silenced.

...

Unbeknownst to Wang Chunniang, who had narrowly escaped death, another person in the imperial city of the capital, the supreme ruler of the entire land, did not escape the fate of being smothered to death by two eunuchs with soft pillows and luxurious quilts. His head was then hung on the city tower of the imperial city, which had been constructed with the lives of countless citizens.

In an era where dynasties rose and fell like flowing water, the once mighty Great Kan Dynasty had long decayed. Its collapse came as no surprise to anyone. Amidst the current situation, besides the now-deceased Great Kan Emperor, who among the aristocratic families and lords did not have their own schemes? Those with military power established their own territories, while those without sought higher ranks and positions amidst the chaos, each using their own abilities to secure their future. Even the concubines in the palace, whether they died or were captured, were those without any support. Those whose families held power had already secured their escape routes.

The imperial city and the capital were far from peaceful that night. Scores of rebellious kings emerged, and true aspirants to power who had been biding their time finally seized a legitimate opportunity. In this era of great contention, the struggle for supremacy intensified.

Of course, countless villagers like Shen Liesangluo, hiding deep in the mountains to escape calamity, were oblivious to these developments. Even if they knew, those suffering would only rejoice at the demise of their oppressors and eagerly wish for a strong ruler to swiftly restore order to the chaotic world.

The world outside had changed, but in the remote southern mountains, news traveled much slower. Those in hiding here were primarily concerned with sustenance and safety.

The Lius of the main family left quietly, as they had never ventured beyond the valley. Chen Dashan and Liu ErLang's departure did cause some unease, but the impact was limited.

That very night, Shen Yinfeng fell ill with a fever. Sharing a bed with him, Shen An noticed something amiss as dawn approached. Touching his forehead, Shen An leaped out of bed in alarm and rushed to call his elder brother and sister-in-law.

The child had seldom taken medicine since infancy, so the fever reducer was quite effective. There was still some fluctuation that night, but after another dose the next day, the fever subsided.

When the Lu brothers escorted the head of the Lu family out of the valley, Feng Liuniang returned. Old Man Lu and Old Lady Lu were still busy with farm work until all the rice was harvested, at which point they both fell ill. Feng Liuniang and Ah Wu attended to them, while families from around the valley paid their visits. Old Lady Lu lay in bed for several days before she held her daughter-in-law and remaining grandchild, Ah Wu, in a heartfelt cry. After a few more days of rest, she gradually recovered.

By the time Shen Yin was well, Shen Lie informed Sang Luo of his plan to take Shen An, Shen Jin, and Chen Ershan out of the valley for training. Actually, it wasn't just those three; there were others like the Shi brothers, Da Niu and Er Niu, the Xu brothers, Wenhong and Wenqing, and Si Lang from the Zhou village chief's family whom Shen Lie believed could be trained. However, he intended to consult each family first about their willingness to participate.

After witnessing the situation with the Lu family, Sang Luo couldn't agree more. But instead of responding to Shen Lie, she turned to Shen Ning and asked, "Will you learn, Ah Ning?"

Shen Lie was momentarily taken aback, instinctively wanting to say that this was different from archery practice and would be very tough. Then he remembered that Sang Luo was no stranger to hardship. In this chaotic world, she always advocated that girls should learn how to protect themselves. So, he also asked Shen Ning, "Do you want to learn, Ah Ning?"

Shen Ning had been deeply influenced by Sang Luo in this aspect, so how could she refuse? She immediately nodded and asked, "Are you really going to take me out of the valley?"

Sang Luo nodded. "Of course, why wouldn't I? In the past, your big brother and I were mistaken. We can't just stay cooped up in this valley because of it. Not only can we not guard against every possible situation, but I'm more afraid that we'll spoil you all."

If they raised a cowardly Lu Da, where would they even cry?

"It's best to make yourself strong. Living with me, you can learn too."

This was very much like Sang Luo.

Jin Lei couldn't help but laugh. "Yes, it's perfect. You can practice together with your big sister-in-law."

Shen An had been outside before and knew that the cave wasn't spacious. Hearing this, he asked, "Big Sister-in-law, where will Little Jin and I live? Should we build a wooden house? One that's big enough for a bed and to stand two people."

Jin Lei nodded. "Sure, squeeze in with Uncle You Tian for a few days first. There's another empty cave that can be used as well. Later on, you can build your own house."

Cutting trees, carrying logs, and building a house—practical skills were also a form of training. Previously, the heavy labor had been handled by the young and strong. It was just right to let these half-grown boys do some work as well.

After the family had reached an agreement, Jin Lei went up to ask his brothers, Jin, for their opinions.

Are Shen Jin and Shen Yin willing?

Absolutely. For the two brothers, their greatest sense of security now was to become stronger themselves. Shen Yin was still young and had Shen Tie, so only Shen Jin would be allowed to go out. Shen Lie informed the Chen family as well. Although Shen Jin was going out, Shen Yin and Shen Tie could take care of themselves, but it wouldn't be entirely reassuring. He entrusted Old Lady Chen with looking after them.

Old Lady Chen was more than willing. Second Mountain had also left the valley, leaving her with only Little Ya at home. The rice had been harvested, and they needed to plant some vegetables and raise chickens for winter preparations. There wasn't much work to do.

As for the other families, the Shi family's three adults were away. Shen Lie first asked the Zhou family. The Zhou family had five sons, named Ming, Li, Jian, Gong, and He, in descending order. The eldest three, Zhou Changming, Zhou Changli, and Zhou Changjian, were all outside the village. The youngest was too young to mention, and the fourth, aged thirteen, had never left because he had older brothers.

Upon hearing that Shen Lie would personally teach, Zhou Village Chief's eyes nearly lit up. Before he could respond, a youngster rushed out, "Study, study, Brother Lie, no, Teacher! I'll kowtow to you right now, you can't change your mind!"

It was none other than Zhou Changgong, the fourth son, afraid that his father wouldn't let him go.

Zhou Village Chief laughed heartily. "Ah Lie, there's no turning back now. I'll prepare the apprenticeship ceremony immediately. You can take this boy tonight."

Looking at the Lu family, wasn't Lu Dali obviously unsuitable before? It wasn't apparent. Only when faced with life-and-death situations would hidden qualities emerge. After this incident, who would dare to shield their children too much? Exposing them to the elements was the best thing.

If not for Wu Lang being too young, merely six years old, he would have sent even the youngest one out. In the small valley, any movement couldn't be concealed, especially among the children who had close relationships. Shen Lie hadn't yet asked the other families when their kids already got wind of the news. Da Niu and Er Niu from the Shi family, whose parents weren't home, dragged their aunt along. From the Xu family, Xu Wenhong, Xu Wenbo, and Wang Yunzheng came, followed by Wei Qinghe, whose age clearly set him apart from the group of children.

Madam Xu and her daughter-in-law also arrived, with Xu Wenying still holding onto Xu Wen Yin, who had been pestering her mother for a while after hearing that Shen Ning and Sang Luo would be learning. Wei Lingzhen, considering the vulnerable position of women outside, hesitated for a moment despite her traditional belief that young ladies should be gentle and quiet. After getting her mother-in-law's approval, she finally agreed.

"Learn then. It's always good to have some self-defense skills, especially with Shen Ning and Sang Luo learning together."

The pair also came prepared with gifts for their mentor.

...

The outskirts of the village became bustling overnight.

All the boys in the valley above the age of ten, including the nine-year-old Shen Jin, joined in. Even Wei Qinghe, who didn't possess much talent, tagged along. Xu Wenqing, who usually couldn't wait to dive into the mountains, refused to leave and insisted on finding a master. The martial arts enthusiasts, Second Brother Zhou and Third Brother Zhou, shared the same sentiment.

In the past few months, families had ventured out of the village for food and had started farming and raising livestock outside the valley. Thus, it made sense for them to stay, and Shopkeeper Xu, Uncle Xu, and First Brother Zhou could accompany Da Lang Shi and Chen Youtian in exploring the nearby area, allowing them to follow their hearts.

As a result, within a day, Shen Lie received a group of disciples, young and old, all calling him "Master." Even Wei Qinghe bowed to him with a smile, paying his respects as a disciple.

He never imagined things would unfold this way.

Unlike their initial training in Shili Village that focused on physical strength, endurance, archery, hunting, and tree-climbing, this time, Shen Lie emphasized not only these fundamentals but also taught the basic saber techniques, staff skills, and military formations he had honed during his years in the army.

Of course, those with high talent, such as Xu Wenqing, Zhou Changli, and Zhou Changjian, whose basic strength was adequate due to their age, Shen Lie took out a few sabers from his family's collection and directly taught them basic saber techniques. Xu Wenqing, with his exceptional talent and comprehension, would often prompt Shen Lie to share some of the killing techniques he had learned through life-and-death battles.

At this point, Sangluo and Shen Ning could only keep up with Shen An and the others. The Xu siblings found it more challenging, but perhaps due to their prolonged stay in the valley and hearing about the outside world from their elders, they all understood the importance of learning survival and self-defense skills. None of them shied away from hard work, including the newly initiated Xu Wenying.

The first day's training consisted of two-hour sessions in the morning and afternoon. Given their lack of exercise, any longer would be too much. After some rest, they were assigned the task of chopping trees and transporting wood. As the sun set, each returned to their respective caves, too exhausted even for basic hygiene, let alone a comfortable sleep.

Sangluo, Shen Ning, and Xu Wenying were fortunate; they didn't join in the tree-cutting. Instead, after a brief rest, they practiced archery at the targets Chen Youtian had helped set up. Gan, who had been observing from the outskirts of the village for quite some time, finally approached to join in the fun.

After dinner, everyone had a small task: to whittle a long staff for their upcoming practice. Shen Lie explained the requirements and instructed them to find suitable materials from the logs they had brought back. He had already selected the ones for his teaching and Sangluo's assistance. Before returning to their cave, the two of them started working.

Sangluo, playfully teasing Shen Lie, asked with a straight face, "Should I call you 'Master' too, given how everyone else in the outer village does?"

Shen Lie almost sliced the wood crookedly. Turning to look at Sangluo, he paused for a moment before responding, "Why don't you try it?"

She was becoming cheeky.

Sangluo smiled, ready to tease him further. As she opened her mouth, Shen Lie quickly placed the back of his hand against her lips, startled. "You're serious?"

At this moment, even common folk understood the principles of morality. If she were to genuinely call him "Master," his longing would be utterly shattered.

It was only when he felt the soft warmth near the wrist of his hand that Shen Lie became aware of what he had done, and he froze in place.

Sang Luo also froze, as if the air around them had thickened. Her heartbeat quickened.

Just then, footsteps echoed in the distance, followed by Shen An's voice as he announced that they had chosen the wood for the staff.

Sang Luo abruptly regained her senses, stepping back slightly to create some distance.

Shen Lie's wrist grew slightly cool where it had been warm, yet the tenderness and heat seemed to have seared into his heart, leaving him with an electrifying sensation that softened his bones and melted his heart.

"Big Brother, do you think this one is suitable?"

As the younger ones approached, Shen Lie hastily withdrew his hand. In perfect unison, one focused on carving the untouched staff, while the other turned to observe Shen An and his siblings.

Seeing Shen Lie earnestly presenting the wood to the three children, now with his side facing her, Sang Luo's lips curved into a smile.

Chapter 109: Stop 23: Human Sacrifice

The centipede shuddered at this realization!

Its previous judgments of Yan Qiling were all based on the assumption that he was at least human or retained some vestiges of humanity.

Therefore, it didn't believe it had no chance of winning.

As long as one was human and still possessed humanity, they had weaknesses.

But Yan Qiling was not human!

In body and soul, he had completely shed the traits that defined him as such.

His previous tenderness, thoughtfulness, and willingness to sacrifice for others were merely a disguise that conformed to human nature.

Like a chameleon.

When he blended into a crowd, he would instinctively don this disguise, seamlessly assimilating himself, despite occasional anomalies that didn't seem out of place.

Perhaps at times he acted so convincingly that he himself became immersed in the role.

But when the moment came for him to truly let go of that facade, he could abandon it without hesitation for the sake of his objective, feeling no shame and even considering it justified.

To him, people were occasional playthings to be toyed with.

And to the Unseen Master, they were an endless supply of pawns to be manipulated.

Nothing held genuine meaning.

It could not fathom anything capable of touching this man's heart.

And so, in that instant, it suddenly realized that its fate had reached a dead end, with no room for redemption.

It had always assumed the other was the prey.

In reality, from the moment they entered the game, this person had already woven an intricate web of traps for it.

"It seems you've understood as well."

Yan Qiling stood up with a gentle smile on his face:

"Why do you think I've never been worried about them triggering the marriage rule?"

He held his closed fan against his lower lip, looking down from above:

"Because as long as the Wen and Bai families vanish, there'll be no need for weddings anymore."

With a swoosh, the fan opened, and a fissure suddenly appeared behind him, distorting everything around it as if an eye had just widened!

The surrounding houses and temples turned into two-dimensional ruins, swept into the fissure by that terrifying twisting force!

As the fissure rose, the chaotic debris followed, forming a shattered staircase to the sky, reaching the level of the clouds in everyone's sight.

Bai Changfeng had already been carried high into the sky by the airflow.

Unaffected by the gale were Yan Qiling, the centipede, and the scattered, undead limbs strewn across the ground.

Yan Qiling gazed at the expanding full moon above and chuckled.

"I've actually been paying attention to this moon. It keeps growing bigger day by day."

"Then it dawned on me. We're all within your stomach, and that moon is our exit."

"You placed the exit in the sky—what an imaginative idea. I quite like this design, so as a trade, I'll ensure your death isn't as painful."

-

As two servants approached Si Shuhao and Su Bo, Ming Yiyang sensed that things were taking a turn for the worse. However, before he could intervene, Lin Yongjian had already stepped forward, blocking their path with an unyielding command.

"Scram!"

Having gone through such emotional turmoil, Lin Yongjian exuded a newfound decisiveness and ruthlessness. His sharp features bore a cold, stern demeanor, exuding an aura of authority without even trying.

The servants exchanged glances and said, "The auspicious time has arrived. It's time for the two ladies to change into their wedding attire and board the sedan chairs."

As they attempted to move forward, they found themselves confronted by a polished wooden blade, its surface reflective like a mirror.

The young man with the knife stepped away slowly, creating a distance between himself and the others around him.

His face was expressionless as he said, "Not everyone is here yet. What's the point of an auspicious time when Madam Old Bai and Young Master aren't even present? In a marriage ceremony, how can the parents and elders not be there? Whatever it is, let's wait until Madam Old Bai comes out."

At that moment, his ring glinted ominously.

Ming Yiyang had a foreboding feeling that Madam Old Bai might not be able to leave the Longevity Hall.

What exactly was Yan Qiling up to?

He didn't have an answer, but his immediate priority was to protect Si Shuhao.

The servants were in a dilemma, clearly swayed by Ming Yiyang's words.

However, Xi Yi had somehow appeared behind the two of them, watching them with a sinister gaze while still maintaining his fake smile, "Miss, what are you waiting for?"

None of them realized the implications behind that "Young Miss."

By the time they did, Su Bo had already wrapped her hands around Si Shuhao's neck and, without hesitation, slashed the silver dagger concealed in her sleeve across the young girl's throat!

Si Shuhao's eyes widened in disbelief as she reached up to cover the gushing wound on her neck.

...She was being slit throat? !

With blood on her face and tears in her eyes, Su Bo wore a smile.

She whispered softly,

"Don't worry, Shuhao. It will be over quickly. You'll just suffocate for a bit, and then it will all be over..."

Si Shuhao collapsed to the ground with her eyes wide open, clutching desperately at the source of the blood. She wanted to speak, but she knew it would be futile to struggle now.

However, Su Bo understood the look in her eyes.

The girl stuffed the bloody knife back into her sleeve, ignoring the outrage and shouts from those around her. As everyone crowded around Si Shuhao, Su Bo began to slowly retreat in Xi Yi's direction.

Tears streaming down her face, she retreated, saying,

"Don't blame me, Si Shuhao. You have everything compared to me... You're wealthy, and even in this godforsaken place, your family is willing to hire bodyguards for you."

"Brother Ming's team isn't cheap, I'm sure the money your family can casually part with could sustain my entire family for a year."

"Try to understand me too. My father is a hopeless gambler, and my mother left him long ago. My little sister is just starting primary school... If I don't go back alive, she'll either starve or be killed by our father when he's drunk. I can't abandon her."

"You can call me selfish or a traitor, but I really don't want it to be this way. Sometimes, the world can be so cruel. Death is cruel to you, but survival is cruel to me... Even if my life is worthless, I still want to live."

"Please, don't blame me, Si Shuhao."

She reached Xi Yi's side and was stopped by his icy arm. Her tears fell like rain as she pleaded,

"You've been far luckier than me. Just let me have this one chance, alright?"

Ming Yiyang was the first to react. He didn't touch Si Shuhao but covered her hand with his own, whispering,

"Move your hand aside, I'll take care of it."

Si Shuhao forcefully suppressed her instinct for survival, pulling her hand away. Immediately after, she sensed Ming Yiyang swiftly pressing on several points, and the chilling sensation on her neck seemed to alleviate slightly.

However, the sensation of suffocation was already surging, followed swiftly by dizziness from rapid blood loss.

For the first time, she realized how close death truly was.

And the one bringing her to the brink wasn't the monster she had been guarding against day and night, but rather... someone she believed to be a friend, someone who had weathered two worlds together with her.

Tears welled up instantly in her eyes.

She hated herself for being so foolish as to trust such a person, and was angered by how the other had turned into this. They hadn't always been like this, had they? In the beginning, Su Bo was indeed a kind-hearted soul!

Her bleeding still didn't stop.

She knew all too well that with no modern first-aid equipment available, there was no way to save someone from a throat slash.

Yet, she couldn't move Ming Yiyang's hand either.

...She, too, wanted to live!

Xi Yi embraced the trembling Su Bo beside him and said coldly, "Second Miss is no more, now paired with Scholar Wen in death. Eldest Miss is of the mortal world and cannot wed the Wens. Thus, the engagement is annulled, and she's free to leave. The sky is vast, the sea deep—fly as you wish."

Liao Xinya was utterly stunned. She glanced at Su Bo, who was trying to hide her face, still maintaining a semblance of composure. "You traded Si Shuhao's life for yours, but how do you plan to leave? Besides, in the Realm of No Return, those killed by outsiders turn into vengeful spirits seeking retribution. How can you ensure your own safety?"

Xi Yi smiled again, about to speak.

His smiling face and head moved forward together, rolling onto the ground with a thud!

Su Bo let out a startled scream, and even Lin Yongjian couldn't help but take a step back.

"Su Bo, you're still so hypocritical," Xi Yi's torso fell forward rigidly, revealing the man with the blue-eyed Tang suit behind him.

The man wore a faint smile, grabbed the floating golden orb, and stuffed it into his mouth. Then, he turned his head to look at Su Bo, who was just an arm's length away:

Truly deserving of your reputation. I knew I wasn't wrong about you. You and I are cut from the same cloth."

Suo Bo was seized by panic.

"You... Yan Qiling?!"

"No, not quite," the man replied.

His blue eyes seemed to glow with a deep crimson hue as he reached up to caress his own cheek.

The captivating face lost its flawless perfection, and in an instant, his black hair transformed into a vibrant and fierce red.

Yao Kunrui's face suddenly appeared before everyone's eyes!

"Yao Kunrui!"

Suo Bo was on the verge of screaming!

She had witnessed this person's death with her own eyes – not just death, but the most horrifying kind – being torn apart by monsters into a pool of mush!

But what was happening now? !

Why could this person be standing here unscathed, even wearing Yan Qiling's face and wandering around earlier?!

This couldn't be happening!!

"Yao Kunrui" chuckled and said,

"You called the wrong name. I'm Number 50. The name Yao Kunrui sounds somewhat familiar, shouldn't it count as part of me? But even so, that's still me."

Suo Bo tried to run without listening to the end of the conversation, but he was tightly bound by the red threads shot from Wuling's fingertips!

"Why are you running? If you were so scared, you shouldn't have acted rashly just now. Now I have to save you, how troublesome."

Wuling walked up to Ming Yiyang. As he moved forward, the red threads extending from his fingertips continued to stretch infinitely, still tightly binding the struggling Suo Bo.

He took out a gourd from his sleeve, shook its contents, and sighed,

"Sigh, there's not much left... You got lucky. Ming Yiyang, let go."

Min Yiyang had no idea what was inside the gourd, but he was well aware that all he could do now was to slightly slow down Si Shuhao's blood loss. If things continued like this, death would be the only outcome for Si Shuhao.

At this point, they had no choice but to try anything, even if it seemed hopeless.

Although he still felt uneasy about the transformation of the man's face and had reservations about this strangely sourced individual, he eventually reluctantly released his grip.

This document was clearly far more detailed than the one they obtained from the police department. The previous uncertainties, such as the lack of investigation into Chu Shihan's social connections and his emotional status, were now thoroughly addressed.

Previously, Lin Shuicheng's name had been missing, but now it appeared in a long list of fellow students from different grades, albeit ranked quite low. The few lines about him read, "Relationship with the subject: Minimal. Motive for the crime: None." The rest provided background information on his identity.

Though Chu Shihan's emotional status was listed as "none," it was accompanied by a detailed account. It mentioned that he hadn't had any significant romantic relationships growing up, but there were numerous people who pursued him. The document even listed all the names of those who had chased after Chu Shihan, along with potential individuals who might have been irritated by these emotional connections, followed by over a hundred pages of additional data.

It was impossible to digest so much information immediately. Fu Luoyin and Dong Shuoye scanned through it once, speculating that this was likely the original investigation record.

Rubbing his temples, Fu Luoyin said, "Read through it all and help me check later. I'll be busy for a few days, probably won't have time for this."

Dong Shuoye chuckled. "You really treat me like a human hard drive, huh? It'll take me days to go through all this."

"Then come back anytime to continue. We can't take this document out, and there's no rush for now," Fu Luoyin replied. "I've got plenty of work at my research base, and you don't need to rush either. Besides, there seems to be an issue with the old man's attitude. I'm not sure what he's thinking."

Dong Shuoye raised an eyebrow, expressing his confusion.

Fu Luoyin pondered before responding, "I can't be certain. He previously refused to let me investigate, but he didn't actually hinder me from restarting the case on my brother. Now, this authentic file doesn't contain any clear conclusions. I suspect he's buying time. But why he's doing so and for what purpose is hard to tell."

Dong Shuoye said, "Uncle is currently at the Defense Bureau, and previously he was with Department Nine. There must be plenty of information we don't have access to. Perhaps we shouldn't worry too much about it."

"I agree, but since the case has been reopened, even if the conclusion remains an accident, we need to investigate thoroughly," Fu Luoyin replied.

The Chief came over, circling around his feet.

There was a guest in the house—although Chief had visited once before, it seemed the cat had no recollection of Dong Shuoye.

In the presence of a stranger on its territory, the Chief was on high alert—without Lin Shuicheng around, it came to inspect Fu Luoyin's presence, gazing at him with its emerald eyes.

Fu Luoyin inquired, "What are you doing?"

The leader stared at him for a while, circled around a few times, and then leaped onto the coffee table.

Fu Luoyin observed the feline's unmistakable inclination to use the file bag as a scratching post, prompting him to swiftly intervene and lift it down.

The leader swiftly scratched his hand with a claw, then fiercely leaped away. Fu Luoyin drew in a sharp breath and narrowed his eyes, smiling mischievously. "Naughty little thing, don't get too cocky. I'll make sure Lin Shuicheng comes back to give you a bath."

The Commander detests bathing with profound aversion, yet this particular little kitten is rather disinclined to grooming itself, rendering it more prone to getting dirtier than other cats. Fu Luoyin has had the privilege of witnessing Lin Shuicheng bathe the cat; in Shuicheng's hands, the Commander appears both exceptionally docile and utterly submissive, meowing loudly yet daring not resist. It is indeed a pitiful sight, yet equally comical.

Fu Luoyin glanced at the mark on his hand; there was no blood, just a faint scratch. He didn't pay much attention to it and simply crouched down, extending his hand for the leader to examine. "Look, look, what have you done to me? Calling you 'Leader' was indeed appropriate, just like my father's awful temper."

Having grown up alongside Dong Shuoye, he was naturally familiar with his feline servitude. He merely shook his head and chuckled in resignation. Then, as if something had just occurred to him, he asked, "Where's your wife? Not at home? Didn't their department shut down? Does she still have work to attend to?"

While attempting to appeal to the leader's emotions and reason, Fu Luoyin said, "He must be busy, that's how good students are. Oh, by the way, what time is it now?"

Dong Shuoye remarked, "It's almost six in the afternoon."

Fu Luoyin vaguely recalled his promise to pick up Lin Shuicheng - he couldn't pinpoint the exact time, but only remembered making such an arrangement.

Recalling this incident, Fu Luoyin, for some reason, suddenly found himself in an exceptionally good mood.

Lin Shuicheng was still unaware that Fu Luoyin had spoken up for him in front of Fu Kai earlier, or that he had mentioned him to Chu Jingshu.

This was tantamount to preparing to introduce Lin Shuicheng to his family. If Lin Shuicheng knew, would he be overjoyed?

Fu Luoyin believed that Lin Shuicheng probably would be.

However, it was too early to share this joy with Lin Shuicheng. He didn't wish for Lin Shuicheng to know about Fu Kai's dissatisfaction. For the sake of balancing family dynamics, Fu Luoyin deemed it appropriate to keep it to himself for now.

When his parents were ready to accept Lin Shuicheng, he would then tell him about it.

As Fu Luoyin thought of this, he realized that he hadn't seen Lin Shuicheng for almost an entire day.

He felt as if Lin Shuicheng had been absent for ages.

Even petting the cat didn't feel as enjoyable anymore. He withdrew his hand and stood up, saying to Dong Shuoye, "I need to pick him up. I'll be leaving first. Are you coming with me or will you stay here for a while before leaving on your own?"

Dong Shuoye replied, "What? You called me over and now you're not even feeding me? Su Yu keeps raving about your sister-in-law's cooking, but I haven't had a chance to try it yet."

A smile tugged at the corner of Fu Luoyin's lips. "That's just bad luck for you. Lin Shuicheng cooks for me every day, and it's tiring for him too. Let's talk about it next time."

Lin Shuicheng arrived right on time, five minutes earlier than scheduled.

Despite still recovering from a concussion and feeling unwell, he had still made the effort to come.

Han Huang had chosen a place that Lin Shuicheng had never been to before. They sat by the window on the second floor, overlooking a half-transparent wall adorned with flowers. The dining area was in a private room, providing an elegant atmosphere.

Before entering, Lin Shuicheng scanned the surroundings. It seemed like couples frequented this place, as each table was adorned with a bouquet of roses, and the lighting was warm and dim, creating a cozy ambiance. However, this ambiance didn't quite match the pervasive scent of delicious food wafting through the air.

By the time he arrived, Han Huang was already waiting.

After ordering their food, Lin Shuicheng politely expressed his gratitude to the student council for their repeated assistance.

Han Huang's smile was radiant. "It was merely a small favor, Senior. You're also a student of our university, so it's our duty to help. There's no need to be so formal. Honestly, I just wanted to have a meal with you and bask in the radiance of the academic deity."

Truly worthy of being the president, Han Huang never seemed to run out of conversation topics. He could engage anyone in a lively chat without causing annoyance.

Han Huang was a celebrity on the Star University campus, and he was good-looking, with rosy lips and pearly whites. Even here, quite a few people recognized him and approached to greet him.

There was also a student union officer who passed by and whistled maliciously: "Hello, Chairman! The Chairman is on a date! I finally have a date with Lin Shen!"

Upon noticing Han Huang, everyone's attention was inevitably drawn to Lin Shuicheng as well.

Both individuals possessed a captivating appearance that demanded attention, and Lin Shuicheng's distinctive teardrop mole made him easily recognizable to those familiar with him.

With a righteous expression, Han Huang chided, "Off with you. Show some respect to the Academic God. I'm treating Senior to dinner over here."

He turned back to apologize to Lin Shuicheng, speaking openly and sincerely, "Senior, I'm sorry. The people in our club don't really know how to choose their words. Please don't take it to heart."

Lin Shuicheng pursed his lips, glancing around at Han Huang and the few students in the corner who were desperately trying to catch a glimpse of them. He lowered his eyes and smiled softly.

Seeing that Lin Shuicheng seemed unwell and had barely eaten anything, Han Huang asked, "Senior, are you not feeling well?"

Lin Shuicheng shook his head. "I didn't sleep very well."

"Must be because you're too busy with research and reviewing manuscripts. Being a genius isn't easy," Han Huang sighed.

This was the second time he had brought up this topic today. Lin Shuicheng chuckled, taking the conversation further. "Aren't you the same? I've seen the threads about you on the forum. You withdrew from school once, retook your exams, changed your major once, studied robotics and finance, and…"

"And chemistry," Han Huang picked up a piece of fish with his chopsticks, finding a clean plate to meticulously remove the bones. "I started with robotics, but then I fell for someone and transferred to the Jiangnan branch for him. But after two years, I still haven't managed to make him remember me… He entered the lab with a famous professor right from his undergraduate studies, so there weren't many opportunities to run into him in class. I wanted to join the lab too, but I was a year below him. After his batch, their professor stopped taking undergraduate students."

Lin Shuicheng was taken aback.

In the Chemistry Department of the Jiangnan branch, only Yang Zhiwei recruited undergraduate students into his lab.

And it was after accepting Lin Shuicheng that Yang Zhiwei decided not to take any more undergraduate students, instead devoting himself to nurturing Lin Shuicheng as his protégé.

Han Huang's repeated attentiveness and assistance towards him, as well as the attitude of those around him, had not escaped Lin Shuicheng's notice. He had vaguely guessed some things, but he hadn't expected Han Huang to be so straightforward.

Though he tended to overlook such matters, he wasn't an idiot.

Han Huang was clever. He had almost spelled it out, yet left room for both of them to retreat gracefully.

Lin Shuicheng maintained his composed expression. "So that's why you changed your major. It seems we weren't fated to meet, and spending two years searching for direction isn't really worth it."

Looking at Lin Shuicheng's calm demeanor, a hint of disappointment flickered in Han Huang's eyes. "Is that so? You think so too? You believe it was a waste of time?"

Lin Shuicheng still smiled gently. "You're not graduates yet, so you might not realize this: fresh graduates' time is precious. A year of experience earlier means more opportunities. Younger students are generally favored. Even putting that aside, two years is ample time for an outstanding entrepreneur to make groundbreaking changes."

He spoke politely, effectively resetting their relationship back to that of ordinary senior and junior, making the conversation sound like a mere exchange of experiences.

Taking a sip of water, Lin Shuicheng continued, "My boyfriend and I often regret wasting too much time searching for our paths in the past. Looking back now, it seems rather pointless."

His tactful rejection was evident — including the unnecessary addition at the end.

Lin Shuicheng, as a person, sometimes displayed an unwitting charm and straightforwardness that was easy to read, while at other times, he seemed enigmatic and inscrutable.

Both fell silent, the atmosphere turning slightly muted.

"So you still..." Han Huang paused for a moment before softly inquiring, "Are you still with Chu Shihan?"

Three years have passed, and now the enchanted beasts have lost their vibrant green luster, bearing only withered and bleak yellow hues.

Gu Changjin received the two creatures with great solemnity.

"Many thanks, Miss Xu. Lord Guan is currently not in the capital. When I meet him, I will surely pass on this enchanted beast to your esteemed mother on your behalf."

Xu Li'er felt a sting in her nose, her eyes welling up completely with tears.

She was merely a girl of fifteen or sixteen, once possessed of remarkable beauty. But the hardships she endured over the past nine months had left her unnaturally thin and haggard.

With a handkerchief, Xu Li'er wiped away her tears. Once her emotions had somewhat settled, she solemnly bowed in gratitude to Gu Changjin for saving her life.

The two magical beasts in his hands felt as heavy as a thousand pounds. Looking at Xu Li'er, Gu Changjin spoke softly, "Empress Dowager is known for her compassion towards the vulnerable, especially women and children. If Miss Xu were to enter the palace, it would be wise to request an imperial favor from Her Majesty, asking to serve by her side."

Though Yang Rong was imprisoned, Yang Xu's faction still roamed free. Changping Prefecture was Yang Xu's hometown, where the Yang family held immense power. If Xu Li'er returned there, she wouldn't be able to protect herself.

Not just in Changping Prefecture, as long as Yang Xu lived, there would likely be no safe haven for Xu Li'er in this world, unless someone even Yang Xu feared could offer her shelter.

There was a suitable candidate at hand—

Empress Qi of the Kunning Palace.

Gu Changjin conversed briefly with Xu Li'er before returning to his office, engrossing himself silently in paperwork.

In the evening, Chang Ji came to fetch him, and the two traveled back in silence.

Upon alighting from the carriage, Gu Changjin strode hastily forward, with Chang Ji following in quiet companionship.

It wasn't until Gu Changjin took a wrong turn at a fork in the road that Chang Ji finally spoke up, "Master, that path leads to Songsi Courtyard."

The man abruptly halted.

He was supposed to return to his study. For the past few days, he had gone straight there after his duties, avoiding Songsi Courtyard. Just now, when he got off the carriage, his mind had instructed him to head for the study.

Strangely, his body seemed to have a will of its own, yearning only for Songsi Courtyard. Had it not been for Chang Ji's reminder, he might not have noticed his deviation.

As if, going to Songsi Courtyard had never been a wrong choice.

Gu Changjin turned around, not looking at Chang Ji, and walked silently towards his study.

It was the still hour of dusk when shadows danced among the trees, and the setting sun slumbered quietly on the tips of the phoenix trees.

Underneath the phoenix tree, a young maiden held a lamp with a green gauze shade, counting the fallen leaves in silence.

Gu Changjin paused, gazing at the slender and delicate figure beneath the tree.

Then, strangely, the flames that raged within his flesh and bones seemed to be soothed, subsiding obediently into stillness.

The pain vanished, and even the heavy, oppressive gloom in his heart evaporated instantly. In its place, his heart throbbed with a "thump, thump" sensation.

As evening shadows crept across his brows and eyes, the maiden's lamp grew brighter, casting a gentle glow that illuminated the moment she looked back. Her eyes appeared to hold an endless expanse of stars.

Gu Changjin's breath hitched slightly.

Rong Shu had not seen Gu Changjin for quite some time now.

He had spent only one night in the Songsi Courtyard. Since that day, he had returned to his study, leaving early and coming home late each day. Not a single word had passed between them.

On this day, Emperor Jia You ordered the verdict of the Xue Li'er case to be displayed outside the Criminal Ministry, drawing crowds of citizens from across the capital to witness it.

Countless commoners cheered, with some bold ones even waiting along the route to the Tai Li Shi Prison where Yang Rong was being escorted, throwing stones at his prison carriage.

Yingyue and Ying Que were discussing the matter early in the morning. If not for Mother Zhang's intervention, Ying Que would have sneaked out to watch Yang Rong suffer the stone-throwing on the streets.

Rong Shu had actually been anticipating this day.

In her previous life, Jin died, Yang Rong was taken to the Tai Li Shi Prison, and Xue Li'er was found hanged the next day in an inn, leaving behind a letter written in blood.

The content of the blood letter was unknown to Rong Shu, and Gu Changjin had never mentioned it to her.

But back then, the people of the entire capital whispered that Xue Li'er, overwhelmed by the grief of losing her mother and enraged by Yang Xu, Yang Rong's uncle, who held sway over the Eastern Depot and allowed its agents and those of the Northern Inspectorate to cause her mother's death, had left the blood letter as a testament before taking her own life.

Xue Li'er's suicide caused a great uproar in the capital. The citizens no longer applauded the verdict displayed outside the ministry. Instead, they all spoke of how the real culprit had yet to face justice, leaving both Xue Li'er and Jin with unsatisfied spirits.

Rong Shu remembered that Xue Li'er's body was discovered at dawn, less than three hours after her death.

This meant that Xue Li'er had hanged herself during the midnight hour. And now, there were still more than two hours until that fateful moment.

In the darkness, Rong Shu held a square wooden box in the hand that wasn't holding the lantern. Gu Changjin recognized it as the Cangrong Pill she had brought back from the Marquis residence on the day she returned home.

The man's lips curled slightly.

Was she here to give him more Cangrong Pills again?

Didn't she know he was already taking medicine and couldn't consume these pills?

Rong Shu was unaware of the man's misunderstanding.

She walked gracefully towards him with the lantern, giving a faint smile as she said, "I've heard that the case you were working on has finally been solved. I have a favor to ask of you, my lord."

A favor?

Gu Changjin glanced at the box in her fair, delicate hand and replied coolly, "What is it? Speak."

"Miss Xu's mother passed away today. She must be suffering greatly. She also endured hardships at the Yang Rong residence previously. With such a sudden loss, her body might not be able to withstand it. So, I thought of sending her some Cangrong Pills to express my condolences."

Rong Shu had rehearsed this speech for an entire afternoon, and she spoke without any sign of strain or blushing. She captured the tone of indignation, sympathy, and sorrow perfectly.

Yet inwardly, she was uncertain, and her grip on the long bamboo lantern handle tightened involuntarily.

Gu Changjin's eyes narrowed slightly.

The last time she mentioned Yang Xu's adopted son to him, she had displayed this tiny gesture as well.

This was likely a subconscious habit of hers that she wasn't even aware of; whenever she felt nervous, her delicate fingers, like slender scallions, would instinctively clasp onto something.