Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio
Wu Hongtao knew that his current excuses would not deceive Liang Jin, so he shifted the blame onto Su Yingxue. âLord Liang, Su Yingxue has also committed a serious crime. You must not tolerate it!â
In Liang Jinâs eyes, Wu Hongtaoâs disregard for familial relations was even more shameful than Su Yingxueâs actions.
With a stern face, Liang Jin responded, âI will make my judgment.â
He sat down and contemplated how to handle the situation.
After half an hour, Liang Jin looked at Wu Hongtao and Su Yingxue. âBoth of you are plaintiffs and defendants, and both of you have made mistakes. Therefore, I have decided to take both of you back to the Capital Prefecture for custody and schedule a court hearing at a later date.â
Wu Hongtao couldnât stay silent any longer. âLord Liang, this⦠I am an appointed official of the court. How can I be placed under custody? If this news spreads, I will lose my reputation! This cannot be!â
On the other hand, Su Yingxue appeared relatively calm. âI am willing to go with Lord Liang.â
She was very clear about Liang Jinâs reputation as an impartial and just official. She was confident that when the court hearing took place, she would ensure Wu Hongtao confessed and faced justice.
In Liang Jinâs eyes, he developed a slight admiration for Su Yingxue. Her composure and demeanor were truly remarkable.
On the contrary, Wu Hongtao received a harsh scolding from Liang Jin. âIf you care so much about your reputation, why didnât you properly discipline your daughter? Itâs only now, when lives are at stake, that you suddenly care about your reputation. Itâs too late!â
Wu Hongtaoâs face was completely flushed, experiencing unprecedented humiliation.
All of this was due to Su Yingxue!
Su Dingheng felt a surge of delight when he saw Su Yingxue being taken away.
He even pretended to be a loving father and instructed Su Yingxue, âYingxue, since Lord Liang is taking you into custody, I will take care of your clinic and shop on your behalf. While you are in the Capital Prefecture, reflect on your crimes! Donât provoke Lord Liang again.â
Su Yingxue shattered his illusions without any mercy. âFather, there are professionals to manage the clinic and the shop. Even if Iâm not around, you donât have to worry.â
âWhat⦠What are you saying? Are you afraid that your father will embezzle your money?â Su Dingheng became furious.
Su Yingxue didnât hide her intentions at all. âIndeed, thatâs the case. So, Father, please donât meddle in my affairs.â
âYou unfilial daughter!â Su Dingheng exploded!
He wished for Liang Jin to take Su Yingxue away and never let her return!
âHold on.â
Just as Liang Jin was about to leave with his entourage, Chu Yihan entered the Marquisâs Manor.
As a renowned war hero, respected by everyone in the Great Cheng Dynasty, Chu Yihan was highly regarded even though there were no more battles, and he was no longer seen in his armor. Liang Jin held great respect for him.
He quickly knelt to pay his respects. âGreetings, Your Highness.â
He reminded Su Dingheng and Wu Hongtao, who also knelt before Chu Yihan. âGreetings, Your Highness.â
Chu Yihan nodded and walked over. He supported Su Yingxue, who was about to kneel before him, and softly said, âYou donât need to kneel before me.â
These words whispered into her ear, were ambiguous and provocative, causing her tender earlobes to blush.
Chu Yihan took his seat in the main position. Three appointed officials of the imperial court remained kneeling in the hall, while Su Yingxue stood. The atmosphere was exceedingly peculiar.
However, since Chu Yihan had forbidden Su Yingxue to kneel, Liang Jin and the others dared not utter a word.
Noticing that Su Yingxue was still standing, Chu Yihanâs voice turned colder as he said, âSit down!â
Su Yingxue was speechless.
Her father and Liang Jin were still kneeling. It didnât seem good.
Seeing that she was still standing, Chu Yihan said coldly, âSit down!â