Chapter 357: 364: Must Not Lose

The man in black grew somewhat anxious, yet, in deference to his master’s orders, he dared not act on his own initiative and awaited Sikong Ling’s command. For other matters, he might have a rough idea of his master’s decision-making. But when it came to Miss Su, the normally astute master became somewhat unpredictable, leaving him unsure of what decision would be made.

Sikong Ling nodded, “Have them follow behind and protect Miss Su and her party. They must not fail.”

The man in black saw Sikong Ling nod and felt a surge of relief, thinking that his master indeed understood the stakes and would not let a woman interfere with important matters. However, upon hearing the subsequent order, his face twitched. Fortunately, he was accustomed to his master’s exceptional behavior concerning matters involving Miss Su, so he was not overly surprised.

“Master, the Colorful exquisite lamp is vital to you, and should those people get their hands on it, the situation could turn unfavorable for you.” The man in black dared not contravene his master’s will, but the issue at hand was far too important; he could not bear to see his master sidetracked by a woman, especially as it concerned the great undertaking of the Sikong Family.

Sikong Ling glanced coolly at his subordinate, “Do as I say. Since when is it your place to question my decisions?”

“Yes, as you command.” The man in black might be worried, but he did not dare show any further reluctance and took his orders.

“Those people have sent quite a few experts for the Colorful exquisite lamp. Han Yu and the Shangguan Family are not to be underestimated either. You may not win even if you try to fight for it. It’s better to protect the group instead. The Han Family and I have some connections; if I were to approach them, they would grant me some respect despite the price to pay, which is a more secure approach,” Sikong Ling explained briefly. He was concerned that his subordinate might overthink and become lax in carrying out the tasks, though, of course, his actions were not entirely without influence from Su Wenyue, as long as they did not impede the bigger picture.

After discussing with Shangguan Wuyou for a moment, Han Yu decided to head back to the Han Family together. They both regarded the lamp as rightfully won by Su Wenyue, and as a person of integrity, Shangguan Wuyou was not inclined to take advantage of Su Wenyue in this matter. However, the couple was indeed curious about the Colorful exquisite lamp and wanted to accompany Mr. and Mrs. Han Yu back home. Even if they couldn’t possess it, having the chance to examine and study the lamp would at least satisfy their curiosity.

Han Yu intended to have his subordinates take the Colorful exquisite lamp and leave first, while he protected their daughters-in-law together with Shangguan Wuyou. After all, in his view, the Colorful exquisite lamp was not as important as his daughter-in-law. Those lurking in the shadows were after the lamp, and as long as it was not with them, there wouldn’t be much danger. However, his daughter-in-law clutched the box tightly, refusing to let go.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Han Yu felt helpless as his usually stubborn wife, who was sensible during critical moments, was now being so obstinate. No matter how much he tried to persuade her, she would not part with the box.

“Daughter-in-law, listen to me. It’s too dangerous to carry this box. I’ll have someone take it and leave first; I promise it will be returned to your hands later.”

Yet Su Wenyue still shook her head. It wasn’t that she didn’t understand; everyone had their obsessions. Moreover, nobody knew the doubts and restlessness in her heart. She had to open the Colorful exquisite lamp to confirm her suspicions. Now that the object was in her possession, it was safest with her. If it were stolen, whom would she turn to for solace?

Seeing Su Wenyue’s insistence caused Han Yu much concern. He contemplated forcibly taking the item, yet his wife’s unprecedented attitude made him unable to come to a decision.

Upon seeing Su Wenyue’s stance result in a stalemate, Shangguan Wuyou spoke up, “If the younger sister-in-law insists on keeping it, then so be it. With our protection, there should be no issue.”

Hearing this from Shangguan Wuyou, Han Yu could only nod and begin to escort his wife dow　n from the stage. A path had been cleared below, and the protectors lurking in the shadows drew closer, safeguarding their departure. They hadn’t gone far when, as expected, someone attempted to snatch the box from Su Wenyue. The assailants were more skilled than those who had tried to steal the lamp before. Thankfully, Han Yu and Shangguan Wuyou had made arrangements in advance, calling upon numerous experts to defend them, so there was no need for Han Yu or Shangguan Wuyou to intervene.

Seeing the situation, Su Wenyue pursed her lips, knowing she had caused trouble for Han Yu. Yet she could not bring herself to give up the lamp, at least not until she had her answers.

“It seems this is indeed the Colorful exquisite lamp. The people who’ve come for the lamp this time are much more formidable. Sister Yue, you’ve really stumbled upon a treasure,” Ye Xinxin said without a trace of fear, her excitement evident and bringing some cheer to Su Wenyue, who felt somewhat comforted.

Regrettably, no sooner had Ye Xinxin finished her words than another group of men in black arrived, and their numbers were far from few. Shangguan Wuyou and Han Yu exchanged glances, their expressions growing more somber. It wasn’t a lack of confidence in dealing with these men in black but the presence of two unarmed and vulnerable women by their sides that they feared they couldn’t fully protect.

And when another group of men in black approached, Shangguan Wuyou and Han Yu’s expressions darkened further. Seeing this, Su Wenyue considered giving up the Colorful exquisite lamp. After all, even if her obsession and doubts were significant, they paled in comparison to the importance of her life. Her previous resolve was under the belief that Han Yu could handle the situation, but now, with two groups of skilled men in black arriving, even Han Yu and Shangguan Wuyou, despite their formidable abilities, would likely struggle to cope.

“You go ahead, I’ll deal with these people.” As the man in black approached Su Wenyue, Han Yu tightened his grip on his sword, but before he could react, the two groups of men in black clashed.

“What are you standing around for? Lead the people out of here now.” The man in black was somewhat reluctant to rescue them, even if his master had provided a reason. He knew that it was somewhat because of Su Wenyue that he issued the command, and so he spoke to Han Yu irritably.

Han Yu, recognizing the martial arts style and the somewhat familiar tone and attitude of the man in black, suddenly understood who had sent this group. Although he was not pleased with the situation, a sense of relief washed over him.

“Well, look at that, Big Brother Han, you know these people. Tsk tsk, you really gave me quite a scare. I thought we were going to meet our end on the streets today,” Ye Xinxin quipped, not entirely heartless. Despite the tension when the men in black descended, she hadn’t expected such a dramatic turn of events and was amazed.

Shangguan Wuyou, overhearing Ye Xinxin’s unabashed remarks, had his face darken but was already accustomed to his wife’s surprising candor. He turned his gaze to Han Yu, a certain look flashing in his eyes.

With others covering for them, Shangguan Wuyou and Han Yu wasted no time in escorting their wives away. They would only be safer upon reaching the Han Mansion. At this point, Su Wenyue was likely more concerned about the small box than the surprise. Nevertheless, she followed Han Yu as they hurried off.