Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 51 Part 4

Regret gnawed at Chang Jin. This was a mistake. Though not all eight had been invited, Qin Rong had invited herself.  

"Rongrong didn’t mean it," Qin Ruiwen interceded, aware of his sister’s crush on Wei Jing.  

"I didn’t know this was your brother’s place!" Qin Rong pouted.  

"Let’s get inside." Ren Boying, the eldest and most dependable of the group, shouldered his bag and clapped Wei Jing’s shoulder.  

Wei Jing’s expression softened. "Brother Ren, welcome."  

"This place must have something special, right?" Ren Boying knew Wei Jing wouldn’t bring them to just any farmstead.  

"You’ll see." Wei Jing reached for Ren Boying’s luggage, but he waved him off.  

"What’s so special about some rural farm?" Qin Rong muttered.  

The answer came swiftly. Ascending the bamboo house’s steps, they were greeted by two pots of vibrant Sanse Shiba Xueshi camellias in full bloom. 

[三色十八学士 (sān sè shíbā xuéshì): A rare, prized camellia cultivar with tricolor petals, symbolizing refinement] 

"These are stunning! My grandfather would love them." Meng Fan circled the flowers eagerly.  

"Just weeds. Tacky colors," Qin Rong sniffed.  

"Shut up if you’re clueless," Tang Yu snapped.  

Inside, a cozy living area awaited—antique furniture, elegant orchids, all modern fixtures artfully concealed. The ambiance transported them to an ancient pastoral retreat.  

Four bedrooms per house meant no sharing. "Keys here. Sort yourselves out," Wei Jing said.  

"Perfect! Your friend’s so thoughtful," Tang Yu beamed.  

"More surprises await. Freshen up, dinner’s next. Tonight’s barbecue will win you over." Wei Jing was confident they’d come around.  

"Bro-brother Wei… Are these orchids real?" Meng Fan stammered, gaping at the exquisite blooms.  

"Yes, all the orchids my grandfather sold were grown by Jiajia." Wei Jing had anticipated their shock.  

"Each pot here must be worth at least tens of thousands, right? Your friend is incredible." Meng Fan was utterly stunned.  

"At least 100,000 yuan, with the most expensive ones exceeding a million. So look but don’t touch, I don’t want anything damaged." Wei Jing warned.  

"How is that possible? This has to be an exaggeration!" Qin Rong refused to believe these flowers could be so valuable.  

Chang Jin, never one to miss a chance to clash with Qin Rong, shot back, "If you’re ignorant, keep quiet. No need to advertise your stupidity."  

Yang Jiabo no longer needed money, so he rarely sold his orchids. Cultivating them had become a hobby. He decorated rooms with them not to show off but simply because he liked their beauty.  

Wei Jing had suggested using more common varieties, but Yang Jiabo didn’t care. He genuinely valued Wei Jing’s friends and wanted to offer them the best. Wei Jing appreciated the gesture, but the group’s initial rudeness had soured the mood, leaving him feeling guilty.  

After settling everyone in, Wei Jing returned to Yang Jiabo’s bamboo house, only to find him absent—likely still at the restaurant. He rejoined his friends and chatted with Ren Boying. They planned to co-found a company, and Wei Jing had already shared the proposal.  

"Your ideas are solid and feasible. But why partner with me? You have the skills and resources to start your own firm."  

"Brother Ren, I trust you, that’s one reason. Also, I want someone to share the load. I refuse to chain myself to work. Relentless grind might bring wealth and success, but what kind of life is that? Everyone needs personal time for hobbies or just unwinding." Wei Jing’s years abroad had influenced his outlook.  

But Yang Jiabo’s pursuit of tranquility had impacted him most. Gradually, he’d grown fond of the peaceful rhythm of life here. Still young and ambitious, he couldn’t fully embrace pastoral living, yet he no longer saw nonstop work as the only path.  

"Understood. Looking forward to working together." Ren Boying extended his hand. The proposal intrigued him, and Wei Jing’s competence made partnership appealing.  

"Likewise." Wei Jing shook it firmly. "But no work talk during the trip. Relax, we’ll have plenty to handle later."  

"I admire your approach. Maybe I should learn from you." Ren Boying chuckled.  

"Brother Wei, what’s for lunch? The last two days were a nightmare—bad food, worse sleep." Meng Fan, the youngest, whined childishly.  

"You’ll see." Truthfully, Wei Jing didn’t know what Yang Jiabo had prepared.  

"The rooms are amazing. Hope the food matches, or this trip’s a waste."  

"Whose idea was the road trip?"  

"Chang Jin’s! He scored that Hummer and had to show it off. I’m flying back, he can drive alone."  

"Traitor." Chang Jin emerged, dripping wet, and tackled Meng Fan, shaking water onto him.  

"Ugh, get off!" Meng Fan shoved futilely as Chang Jin clung like a leech.  

Wei Jing exchanged a sympathetic glance with Ren Boying. "Rough journey?"  

"Tang Yu managed them."  

"Meng-three-year-old, Chang-five-year-old, olanning to flunk kindergarten forever?" Tang Yu smiled sweetly, but her eyes glinted.  

"Sister Tang, we’re innocent!" The duo straightened instantly.  

Outsiders saw them as sharp-tongued professionals. In private? Total man-children.  

"Check if the others are ready." Wei Jing said.  

"Pass. Qin Ruiwen’s fine, but his plus-one is insufferable." Meng Fan slouched.  

"Qin Rong acts like the world revolves around her. Thank god she’s not into me. Sister Tang is way better—smart, capable, and gorgeous. Keep it in the family, one of you marry her!" Chang Jin’s gaze bounced between Wei Jing and Ren Boying.  

Tang Yu flushed and flicked his forehead. "Think I’m desperate? Stop matchmaking!"  

"Sister Tang, snag a good man fast. Otherwise, they’ll all be taken...or gay." Chang Jin sighed dramatically.  

"Relax. If I’m single forever, I’ll settle for you." She smirked.  

"...Wait, seriously?" Chang Jin paled.  

"Dead serious."  

"HA! Serves you right!" Meng Fan howled.  

"But you just called me an immature two-faced brat!"  

"Exactly. Better than some controlling guy." Tang Yu huffed. Was she that scary?  

"You said it." Chang Jin turned to the others. "Witnesses! Hold her to it."  

Meng Fan gaped. "What just happened?"  

"Sister Tang, since you’re clearly unmarriageable, let’s pair up. Dating with intent to wed. Engage by year-end, marry next year, kids the following—" Chang Jin rattled off, painting their future with alarming speed.  

Meng Fan’s jaw hit the floor. Tang Yu short-circuited. Had she just been proposed to? Wei Jing and Ren Boying shared an amused look.  

"You set me up?" Tang Yu finally processed.  

"Nope. You proposed. They’ll back me up." Chang Jin blinked innocently.  

"That’s not—I never—!"  

"Too late. You’re my girlfriend, my future wife."  

"Ugh! I’m getting the others." She stormed out.  

"Tang-tang, wait up!" Chang Jin chased her.  

"Who’s ‘Tang-tang’? Disgusting!" Her voice carried back.  

"What... just happened?" Meng Fan remained shell-shocked.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 25

Chapter 25: Corpse Insect Seeks Evidence

"You— what nonsense are you spouting?! Clearly, all of this is a scheme by your Mu family!" Mo Shanshan's face flushed crimson with indignation at the false accusation, her eyes brimming with tears.  

"Miss Mo, we're merely stating facts. Everyone in Chuanzhong knows of your pursuit of Elder Brother. How can you claim our Mu family would resort to such underhanded tactics to break off the engagement?" Mu Xiaolin replied coolly, his eyes devoid of any emotion.  

Having trained in the Mu family for some time, he naturally knew how to handle people and understood that, when facing outsiders, the family needed to present a "united front."  

Though he longed to drag Mu Lichuan down, now was not the right moment. Once his mother married into the Mu family and his spiritual roots were tested, nothing would stand in his way, certainly not Mu Lichuan.  

"Exactly. Father, were you aware of the arranged marriage between our families?" Mu Lichuan followed up, turning the question to his father.  

Mu Changnian was indeed aware, but the matter wasn’t so simple. He had originally intended for the two younger generations to develop feelings naturally. Never did he imagine that Miss Mo’s purity would be ruined. Had his eldest son not awakened his Yin-Yang Eyes, it might not have been an issue. But now that he had become the family’s key focus for cultivation, his future wife couldn't be someone tainted. Otherwise, the Mu family would become a laughingstock.  

"This matter cannot be resolved based solely on the claims of either side. Miss Mo, do you have any evidence?" Though Mu Changnian directed the question at Mo Shanshan, his gaze lingered on Mo Xiangxiong.  

Mo Xiangxiong’s expression darkened at these words. "Patriarch Mu, regardless of my daughter’s reasons for going to the cemetery, the fact remains that she was violated, and it’s closely tied to someone in your Mu family."  

If the Mu family thought they could shirk responsibility, he would never yield. His daughter might be spoiled, but she wouldn’t dare lie to his face.  

"Xiaolin!" Mu Changnian fixed his eyes on his second son. "Did you go to the cemetery or not?"  

Mu Xiaolin’s heart skipped a beat, but his face twisted into an aggrieved expression. "Father, I’m just an ordinary middle-schooler. Why would I go to a cemetery at night? Anyone hearing that would laugh themselves silly. Besides, I was with Mother the entire night." The implication was clear, if they didn’t believe him, they could summon her for questioning.  

"Patriarch Mo, my second son has an alibi." Mu Changnian was satisfied with this outcome. "Rest assured, even if Miss Mo was violated, our Mu family will not casually break off the engagement."  

Mo Xiangxiong sneered. "An alibi? From your own Mu family? How credible is that? I have a corpse insect here. Anyone who has been to a cemetery within the past month, especially those who’ve dug up graves, will carry a scent it can detect. Does the Mu family’s Second Young Master dare to test it?"  

If he didn’t have some means, he wouldn’t dare challenge the Mu family like this.  

The moment these words were spoken, Mu Xiaolin’s face paled. He forced a smile. "Patriarch Mo, I’m allergic to insects."  

"Second Brother, for the sake of the Mu family’s integrity, you should let Patriarch Mo conduct the test." Mu Lichuan spoke slowly. "If you’ve done nothing wrong, there’s no need to fear this corpse insect, is there?"  

"To prove the Mu family’s innocence, let the corpse insect examine me as well."  

Sure enough, upon hearing this, Mo Xiangxiong’s lips curled into a faint smile. "As expected of the Mu family’s heir. Such magnanimity is unmatched by others." He then placed the corpse insect on the ground.  

The insect ignored Mu Lichuan entirely. Instead, it crawled straight toward Mu Xiaolin…  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 94 Part 2

    While the Wei family celebrated their homecoming, the palace was anything but joyful.  

    Yue Heng had accompanied Emperor Changde back to his chambers. With no outsiders present, neither father nor son felt compelled to maintain pretenses. The emperor pointed a shaking finger at Yue Heng and roared, "If I’d known you were such a treacherous beast, I would never have elevated you to rival the Crown Prince! You vile, ungrateful white eyed wolf! I should have had you executed!"  

    Yue Heng remained unruffled, even seating himself beside the emperor and echoing his words. "True, what a pity you didn’t."  

    Emperor Changde’s wariness spiked. "What schemes are you plotting now? I haven’t even settled today’s accounts. You, colluding with Wei Yunzhao and those officials! If you dare stir more trouble, don’t expect any mercy from me!"  

    Yue Heng smiled faintly. "Since when have you ever shown mercy? Weren’t you just lamenting not killing me earlier?"  

    "But don’t worry. I’m a filial son. I won’t make you suffer the loss of another child. I’ll simply have them mourn you in sackcloth and send you off properly."  

    Emperor Changde recoiled instinctively, his fingers trembling. "You wouldn’t dare!"  

    Yue Heng stood, spreading his hands. "I dared to threaten you before the entire court. What wouldn’t I dare?"  

    "Patricide and regicide, even if you seized the throne, your reign would be illegitimate! The people won’t accept you, nor will the officials! You’re courting death!"  

    Yue Heng: "Who said I want the throne?"  

    Emperor Changde was stunned, then scoffed. "Impossible! After all your scheming, how could you not covet it?"  

    "Want to know why I don’t?"  

    Without waiting for an answer, Yue Heng supplied it himself. "Because you sat on it. And that disgusts me."  

    Emperor Changde’s expression twisted, but he still sought to put distance between them. Yet Yue Heng’s hand, resting lightly on his shoulder, rendered him immobile.  

    "Enough chatter. Let’s discuss serious matters. You knew about what happened back then, even encouraged Empress Cao, didn’t you?"  

    It wasn’t a question but a statement.  

    "Ridiculous! How could I have known? Had I known, I would never have allowed that vicious woman to—Concubine Li was my concubine! Why would I let her be murdered?!"  

    "Oh? Have you forgotten how you sent my mother to the cold palace without letting her defend herself?"  

    Emperor Changde cut in, justifying himself. "She gave birth an object of ill omen (stillborn child)! I acted out of caution! Besides, it was her midwife and maids who testified against her, what defense was needed?!"  

    His tone was almost righteous.  

    "Is that so? Well, I choose to believe you knew. And now, I’ll hold you accountable. What will you do about it?"  

    Seeing the danger in Yue Heng’s eyes, the emperor’s fear grew. No longer did he bluster about what Yue Heng dared. He frantically denied involvement, even offering to execute Cao Lan'er and her accomplices immediately.  

    Yue Heng laughed at his terror, but the laughter soon twisted into something darker. He gripped the emperor’s neck. "My mother begged you just like this. She pleaded her innocence, begged you to investigate. And what did you do?"  

    "You think I’ve only hated the deposed empress all these years? No, I’ve hated you just as much. I’d gladly tear you and Cao Lan'er limb from limb for her!"  

    "You can’t! This is regic-" The emperor’s protests were cut short as Yue Heng released him with a dismissive pat.  

    "Relax, I won’t kill you yet. I’ll just make you wish you were dead."  

    From a small vial, Yue Heng produced a pill and forced it down the emperor’s throat. "How long you live depends on how obedient you are. Cause any more trouble, and you’ll be holding your funeral."  

    "Don’t bother summoning the physicians. This poison was crafted especially for you over the years. You won't be able to find antidote for this poison, but I still have one." He dangled a second pill before the emperor’s eyes. "Unless you’d prefer it go to waste."  

    The emperor’s fury peaked, but before he could spew curses, a searing pain lanced through his gut, draining the color from his face.  

    Yue Heng smiled kindly. "Don’t get agitated. The angrier you are, the worse it hurts."  

    With that, he strode from the chambers, ignoring the emperor’s enraged bellows for Gan Yongfu. The eunuch’s frantic cries for the imperial physicians soon followed.  

    Yue Heng glanced back at the chaos of scurrying servants and smiled.  

    He didn’t leave the palace immediately. First, he visited Changning Palace to retrieve an item, then made his way out, but not to his estate. Instead, he headed for the Ministry of Justice’s dungeon to see its newest inmate: the deposed empress, raving and screaming for release.  

    Cao Lan'er’s reaction to Yue Heng was violent. She clawed at the air, hurling curses. He waited patiently outside her cell until her tantrum subsided, then had the jailer unlock the door.  

    "You vile spawn of that whore," she hissed. "I should’ve strangled you at birth!"  

    Yue Heng remained unruffled. "The man in the palace said the same thing - regrets, regrets for not killing me sooner."  

    "Then why don’t you die?!" she shrieked.  

    "Wrong, you’re the one who’ll die." From his sleeve, he produced a small lacquered box. "Recognize this? Oh, you must. It’s an old friend."  

    Cao Lan'er recoiled in horror. "Stay back! Don’t come near me!"  

    Swallowing hard, she spat, "I implanted the child half of a mother-child gu in you years ago! If I die, you die with me! Don’t even think—"  

    "Have years without rivals made you naive?" Yue Heng’s smile was icy. "Did you think I’d bring the Bloodbone Worm here unprepared?"  

    "Don’t worry. Long after you’re bones, I’ll still be thriving."  

    He beckoned. "Come, it's time to taste it for yourself."  

    "No! Stay away! I won’t!" She scrambled for the cell door, screaming for help. But the Bloodbone Worm needed only a drop of blood to burrow in. A tiny scratch, and the larva slithered beneath her skin.  

    Collapsing to the floor, Cao Lan'er turned ashen.  

    "Hold on, now," Yue Heng murmured, placing the box beside her. "It’d be a shame if you died before your execution."  

    As he stepped out, her hoarse curses followed: "You heartless monster! May you die wretchedly in this life and every next!"  

    Yue Heng paused at the threshold, smiling. "Likewise, Your Majesty."  

    The drought had passed, and the evening breeze carried a hint of coolness. The setting sun painted the sky in gold.  

    Gazing into the distance, Yue Heng whispered to the wind, "Mother… your son has avenged you."  

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 135

Chapter 135 Extra Ruijin 3 

    Luo Yuxing took a step back at the sound, his heart tightening. Once he realized who was outside, his body instinctively leaned closer to the wall, but then he remembered the unpleasantness of the past few months and retreated again, standing silently.  

    "Young Master?"  

    "Shh!"  

    Seeing the maid rushing over in a fluster, Luo Yuxing quickly stopped her.  

    The maid covered her mouth and lowered her voice. "Young master, is it Young Master Ruijin?"  

    Luo Yuxing didn’t answer. Glancing at the high wall, he pinched his index finger, hesitated for a moment, then whispered to the maid, "Tell him I’ve already gone to bed."  

    "Oh, oh." The maid nodded foolishly, then raised her voice slightly. "Young Master Ruijin, our young master says he’s already asleep."  

    Luo Yuxing’s eyes widened in shock. Flustered, he wanted to cover the maid’s mouth, but Ruijin’s voice came from outside again: "Yuxing, can I see you?"  

    "It’s so late. You should go back."  

    "I won’t leave until I see you."  

    Luo Yuxing bit his lower lip. Why was this man being so stubborn? "And how do you plan to see me? By digging a hole in the wall?"  

    "There’s a ladder in the storeroom."  

    Luo Yuxing was stunned on the other side of the wall, unable to believe that Ruijin who had always been proper and disciplined would suggest something as reckless as climbing over a wall in the middle of the night, and with such calm assurance.  

    He pressed his lips together. He must have picked up bad habits in the capital.  

    "Come back tomorrow."  

    "I have something urgent to tell you."  

    "What could possibly be so urgent that it can’t wait until tomorrow?"  

    Silence lingered outside the wall for a while before Ruijin spoke again. "If you don’t want to see me, then I’ll just say it from out here."  

    Ruijin glanced at the empty, quiet alley. "Though the night watchman will be passing by soon. If you don’t mind—"  

    Luo Yuxing stiffened. "Y-You! Don’t say another word!"  

    The maid cautiously approached. "Young Master, should I fetch the ladder for Young Master Ruijin?"  

    Luo Yuxing didn’t answer, but he gave a slight tilt of his chin. Watching the maid hurry off, he called after her, "Be quiet about it."  

    Ruijin waited patiently outside. It took about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn before a ladder was slowly extended over the wall, carefully lowered to avoid making noise. He reached out and caught it.  

    Before long, Luo Yuxing stood nervously in the garden with his hands tucked into his sleeves, and saw Ruijin climb over the wall, bathed in moonlight, then drop down with a thud. His heart skipped a beat in fright, and the maid quickly retrieved the ladder.  

    "You always act so proper and restrained, but deep down, you’re just as reckless as Ruili." Luo Yuxing looked at the crouching figure and chided him.  

    "If it weren’t for a certain someone, I wouldn’t have abandoned my principles like this."  

    Luo Yuxing frowned. "Are you blaming me?"  

    Ruijin watched as his face puffed up in anger, his gaze softening. "Aren’t you going to help me up?"  

    "Figure it out yourself."  

    "I’m injured."  

    Luo Yuxing’s expression immediately tensed with concern. He rushed over to support him. "Did you hurt your foot?"  

    "No, not that."  

    Luo Yuxing’s worried expression vanished, and he immediately let go.  

    "I was injured during the imperial exams."  

    Luo Yuxing frowned again. "Where?"  

    "It wasn’t too serious. My horse panicked and threw me off on the way there. I hit a rock, but it’s fine now."  

    "How is that ‘fine’?!" Luo Yuxing’s face paled. "Why didn’t you tell me sooner?"  

    "I’m perfectly capable of speaking and walking now, aren’t I?" Ruijin sighed as he saw Luo Yuxing’s eyes redden in an instant. "Your tears come as easily as if they cost nothing. That’s exactly why I didn’t tell you. It’s been over half a year, I’m truly fine now. If you don’t believe me, I’ll show you."  

    He reached out to take Luo Yuxing’s hand. When distressed, Luo Yuxing became gentle and pliant, no longer stubborn, allowing himself to be led.  

    Ruijin was familiar with the Luo family’s layout. Though he had never been to Luo Yuxing’s room, he knew its location. Guiding him there now felt as natural as if he were leading him into his own home.  

    "Who said you could come in?"  

    Ruijin looked at the ger who only protested once they were inside the room and pinched his cheek. "Would you rather I sleep outside?"  

    Luo Yuxing’s eyes widened. "Y-You’re staying the night?"  

    He quickly stepped back. The maid, tactfully, hadn't followed them in. Alone in the room, Luo Yuxing instinctively wrapped his arms around himself. "This isn’t proper."  

    Ruijin sat on the nearby daybed, watching him calmly. "You’re quick to pick up on details."  

    Luo Yuxing’s face flushed slightly. Ruijin beckoned him. "Come here."  

    "I know why you’ve been avoiding me these past months, claiming illness to stay secluded at home."  

    Luo Yuxing sat down beside him, his heart aching at the memory. "You were gone for so long. You knew I’d worry, yet you didn’t send a single letter. I suppose the capital was just too captivating, perhaps you were dazzled by its temptations."  

    "I injured my hand when I fell from the horse on the way to the exams. The letters sent home were written by someone else. I even paid extra to have them mimic my handwriting so my family wouldn’t worry." Ruijin looked at Luo Yuxing. "I wanted to send you letters too, but you’re so well-read and sharp, you’d have noticed immediately it wasn’t my handwriting."  

    "Besides… the things I wanted to say to you weren’t exactly appropriate for someone else to write down."  

    Luo Yuxing’s face burned even hotter. He lowered his gaze, not daring to meet Ruijin’s eyes. After a long silence, he finally asked, "Then how did you take the exams?"  

    "Luckily, it happened early in the journey, so I still had time to recover before reaching the capital. I rested for over half a month, using medicine daily until I could move well enough by exam time."  

    "Bone and muscle injuries don’t heal in just half a month."  

    Luo Yuxing thought of how cold the capital must have been then, and how harsh the examination halls were compared to inns or restaurants. The thought of Ruijin enduring the exams while injured made his heart ache. He couldn’t imagine how he had managed.  

    "Because of this, I disappointed our teacher, I only ranked in the second tier."  

    "Nonsense! Grandfather was very pleased with your results. Even in the Imperial College, where there are so many outstanding scholars, ranking high in the second tier is rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns."  

    Ruijin’s expression softened as Yuxing defended him. "As long as you’re not disappointed."  

    "How could I be?"  

    Ruijin moved closer. "After the exams, waiting for results, then the palace examination, time flew by. By the time I returned, my hand had already recovered. I thought, Finally, I can write you a proper letter. But when I picked up the brush, I couldn’t bring myself to write."  

    He looked at Luo Yuxing. "I realized, after not writing for so long, you must have worried constantly. And if you were worrying about me, it meant you weren’t distracted by other things. So, in a way, it was good that you kept thinking of me."  

    Luo Yuxing glared. "You’re too cunning."  

    Ruijin nodded unapologetically. "The Zhang family has always been this way."  

    Then, he pulled out a stack of envelopes from his chest. "Consider this making up for it."  

    Luo Yuxing’s heart fluttered. He carefully took the letters and gently opened one. His brows furrowed as he saw the contents, because page after page filled with nothing but a single name: Luo Yuxing.  

    The early letters showed shaky, strained handwriting, but gradually, the strokes became smooth again, then elegant and unrestrained… Dozens of letters, thousands of repetitions of his name.  

    "Ruijin…"  

    Luo Yuxing’s throat tightened. "I-"  

    Before he could finish, hurried footsteps approached. His personal maid burst in, panicked. "Young Master, the master is coming!"  

    Luo Yuxing froze, standing dumbly. He stared at the tall figure sitting on the daybed. Someone who had always made him feel safe, but now only made him flustered. He quickly pulled Ruijin up. "H-Hide! Quick!"  

    Ruijin wanted to say there was no need, sooner or later they’d share a home anyway. But considering he had climbed the wall, he obliged to avoid startling the old man. He moved behind the screen as instructed, only for Luo Yuxing to suddenly shove him onto the bed.  

    Soft blankets were thrown over his head, followed by a heavy cloak when that wasn’t enough. If not for the chilly autumn night, being buried like this would have been unbearable.  

    But he had to admit… Luo Yuxing’s bed was warm and smelled nice.  

    "Grandfather, why are you here so late?"  

    Luo Yan entered, noticing Luo Yuxing’s slightly red eyes and uneasy expression. "I sobered up after washing up and thought you seemed upset earlier, so I came to check on you."  

    "Were you crying again?"  

    Luo Yuxing quickly shook his head. "It’s just late, and my eyes are tired."  

    "Do you think I don’t know you?" Luo Yan sighed. "Tomorrow, I’ll talk to Ruijin."  

    Luo Yuxing shook his head vigorously. "It’s really nothing. I was just about to sleep, Grandfather."  

    "Are you sure?"  

    "Yes." Luo Yuxing stood. "You drank quite a bit tonight. You should rest early too."  

    Luo Yan felt something was off but couldn’t pinpoint what. "Alright. Sleep well."  

    Luo Yuxing nodded, watching until his grandfather left the courtyard before turning back. He hurried to the bed, yanked the curtains open, and dug Ruijin out from under the covers.  

    "Was hiding me that necessary?"  

    Ruijin lay on the bed, smirking up at him.  

    "If Grandfather knew you came here like this in the middle of the night, he’d think all those years teaching you propriety were wasted."  

    Ruijin didn’t answer, just stared at him intently. Suddenly, he grabbed Yuxing’s wrist and pulled him onto the bed.  

    "What are you—?! You should leave!"  

    "Leave? You stuffed me into your bed. Even if I were dense, I’d know how to respond to that."  

    "Th-That’s not what I meant!"  

    Before he could finish, Ruijin began loosening his clothes. Yuxing panicked, covering his eyes. "Affection has its limits! Don’t you dare misbehave!"  

    But nothing happened. After a moment, he peeked through his fingers, only to see Ruijin fully dressed, watching him with amusement.  

    He lowered his hands, embarrassed, and turned away, exhaling quietly. A tiny, traitorous part of him felt… just a little disappointed.  

    "Yuxing."  

    "Hmm?"  

    Ruijin leaned in and kissed the corner of his lips. "I’ve already prepared the betrothal gifts. Can I come propose tomorrow?"  

    Luo Yuxing was stunned. "When did you prepare them?"  

    "A long time ago."  

    The first time I taught you to ride a horse, I was already planning our future.  

-End-

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 24

Chapter 24: Confrontation

From the very beginning, Mu Lichuan had wanted to deal with Mo Shanshan. Unfortunately, he had been completely unaware of his own "arranged marriage" until his supernatural abilities awakened, and his great-grandfather finally informed him.  

In his past life, it was also Mo Shanshan who had approached him after his mother’s death. At that time, his heart had been at its lowest point. Otherwise, how could he have been so easily swayed? That was how the engagement had come about. Now, looking back, it was all part of someone else’s scheme.  

"Miss Mo, I hope you will be honest." Mu Changnian was no pushover, and her words were full of holes.  

A high school student, even if she was part of an occult family, she was still just an ordinary person who hadn’t learned any skills at all. Yet she had gone to the cemetery in the dead of night, there was no way there wasn’t some scheme behind it.  

"Why would I go to the cemetery? That’s not the issue here! The real question is why he led that lustful ghost to possess me!" Mo Shanshan’s face twisted with fury. The Mu family was being far too aggressive.  

As soon as she said this, even Mo Xiangxiong frowned slightly. An ordinary person with nothing to do would never go to a cemetery at night. After all, the yin energy was much stronger then than during the day.  

"Miss Mo, even though you’re a student, you’ve had some exposure to society and things beyond the ordinary. Don’t you think what you’re saying sounds incredibly naive? If you hadn’t gone to the cemetery, wouldn’t nothing have happened?" Mu Lichuan’s sharp gaze bore into the girl before him.  

Mo Shanshan was utterly hypocritical. In his past life, she had been an excellent actress. If he hadn’t caught her in an affair with Mu Xiaolin, they would have married, and who knows how many times he would’ve been cuckolded. Thinking about it now, he was lucky to have exposed her before the wedding, it had at least salvaged his dignity.  

Seeing Mu Lichuan target her so directly, Mo Shanshan shot him a venomous glare before finally saying, "I wanted to raise a little ghost."

[小鬼 (xiǎo guǐ): lit. little ghost; fig. a spirit familiar, often used in dark magic for personal gain]

The Mo family knew how to raise little ghost. Once a little ghost matured, it could change one’s fortune and even carry out tasks. Of course, if raised improperly, the little ghost could turn on its master.  

Mo Xiangxiong’s face showed surprise, but this was an internal matter of the Mo family, best resolved privately. However, his daughter had been possessed by a ghost and even lost her purity, so this had to be settled. "Patriarch Mu, regardless of why my daughter went to the cemetery, the fact remains that her purity was ruined, and the Second Young Master…" He trailed off, his gaze shifting meaningfully.  

Mu Xiaolin seethed inwardly but replied respectfully, "Patriarch Mo, I’m just an ordinary person. How could I possibly use magic to lure a lustful ghost onto Miss Mo? Even if she’s eager to marry into the Mu family, she can’t just make baseless accusations, can she?"  

He wasn’t wrong. Though this sister was beautiful, if this matter were confirmed, his standing in the Mu family would be ruined.  

"An ordinary person?" Mo Xiangxiong looked at Mu Changnian. "Has Patriarch Mu tested him yet?" Even if he couldn’t discern other people's spiritual roots, the Mo family had some sensitivity to such things, and the Mu family’s Second Young Master didn’t seem ordinary.  

At these words, Mu Changnian grew visibly excited. "I haven’t had the time to test him yet. Thank you for the reminder, Patriarch Mo."  

Mo Shanshan, realizing the conversation had derailed, snapped, "Since when did I ever want to marry into the Mu family?" Her voice was shrill and harsh.  

"If you don’t want to marry in, then why have you been relentlessly pursuing my brother? Could it be that because he treated you coldly, you held a grudge and risked going to the cemetery to capture a little ghost?" Mu Xiaolin’s tone was calm, but his words were razor-sharp.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 155 Part 1

Chapter 155  

    The first snow of early winter drifted down in the morning. The sky was gloomy, darker than usual. Snowflakes landed on the ground and rooftops, only to be swept up again by the wind. Before long, the snow grew heavier.  

    Those who had curled up in their quilts all night, finally warming their hands and feet, now faced the moment of getting up. Though their eyes remained closed and they were unaware of the snow outside, many could keenly feel the cold. Most country folk had never studied books, and among them, the more ill-tempered men wrapped their quilts tighter, clinging to the precious warmth they had managed to gather. Muttering curses under their breath at the damned weather, they thought of how little work there was to do in the fields during winter’s idleness, then rolled over and went back to sleep. Only the women and fulangs responsible for sweeping, cooking, and family chores got up.  

    From the large house built by the second branch of the Shen family in the southeast of Qingxi Village came a few barks of dogs, which soon quieted down.  

    In the room, light seeped through the thick paper pasted over the windows, dim and far from bright.  

    The figure on the bed stirred. Lu Gu poked his head out from under the quilt. In the middle of the night, he had felt cold and, without realizing it, buried himself deeper. Now, as he emerged, the chill attacked his face. Listening to the wind outside, he thought to himself that today was even colder.  

    Shen Xuanqing, lying beside him, woke up too. They had gone to bed early the night before, and with two tangpozis in the quilt and two thick cotton blankets piled on top, they had slept more soundly and comfortably than most, undisturbed by the cold all night.  

    Hearing the wind, Shen Xuanqing remarked casually, “Might be snowing.”  

    As he spoke, Lu Gu sat up to put on his clothes. Since they shared a quilt, such a movement inevitably let cold air in, so Shen Xuanqing sat up as well, retrieving the clothes they had left between the two blankets to keep warm.  

    Normally, Lu Gu would take a moment to shake off sleepiness after waking, but today was so cold that the moment his feet touched the floor, the chill jolted him fully awake. Rubbing his face, he noted how dark the room still was, unlit by any lamp. “I’ll light the clay stove. What do you want for breakfast? There’s still some red bean glutinous rice cake from yesterday, we can steam it on the clay pot lid while the water boils.”  

    “Alright.” Shen Xuanqing nodded in agreement. Seeing Lu Gu rub his cheeks twice, he reached out as well, cupping Lu Gu’s face in his hands and giving it a good squeeze, they were soft and smooth to the touch.  

    His grip was a bit too firm, squishing Lu Gu’s face out of shape.  

    Feeling the strength in those hands, Lu Gu frowned slightly. It didn’t hurt, but he swatted Shen Xuanqing’s wrist in protest.  

    Shen Xuanqing released him with a laugh, utterly unrepentant. Now Lu Gu understood why Shen Yan said her second brother could be so annoying. After their little scuffle, they went outside together and discovered that it really was snowing.  

    When the front and back doors of the main hall were opened, cold wind rushed in. Guaizi, curled up on a hemp sack, buried his head deeper, unwilling to get up. Lu Gu didn’t disturb the lazy dog, closing both doors halfway to leave only a small gap for ventilation.  

    He crouched by the clay stove, striking flint to start a fire, while Shen Xuanqing went to the woodshed at the back and brought in a bundle of kindling.  

    Ever since Shen Xuanqing returned, the two of them had been sleeping here at night.  

    When this house was built, the plot of land had been large, with the rabbit hutches, cattle and sheep sheds, and chicken and duck coops in the backyard all set far from the main hall. The courtyard was spacious, so the various smells only became noticeable when the wind blew south. In winter, the odors were much lighter than in summer.  

    The new house had many livestock, so someone needed to stay overnight anyway. With three sturdy blue-tiled rooms - each larger than those in the old house, Shen Xuanqing temporarily set aside his plans to build another new house after living there for a few days.  

    He had originally thought that since Shen Yan was growing up without a proper room of her own, squeezed in with her mother, and with his elder brother and sister-in-law now having Zhao’er, the family was gradually expanding. Perhaps he and Lu Gu should build a new house and move out. It wouldn’t be a full separation, they’d still share the land and livestock, as managing everything alone would be impossible.  

    But the real reason for this idea was mostly his own private desire.  

    Back when he and Lu Gu lived in the mountains, they had never needed to restrain themselves at night. Returning home had changed that, he was always afraid of being overheard. But now things were better. The new house was just the two of them, more spacious and comfortable than the old one, saving them the expense of building another.  

    Soon, the stove fire burned vigorously. Lu Gu took four pieces of red bean glutinous rice cake from the bamboo basket and placed them on the clay pot lid. By the time the water boiled, the cakes would be warm.  

    The cakes could be eaten cold, but in such freezing weather, warming them up made more sense, they were gentler on the stomach that way.  

    The red beans and glutinous rice had been bought by Wei Lanxiang in town. She had made a small batch of cakes just two days prior. With little to do during winter’s idleness and money to spare, she busied herself finding ways to treat the younger ones at home. The red bean glutinous rice cakes were something she’d heard about from villagers, and in a burst of enthusiasm, she tried making them. Though not as pretty as the ones sold in the town, they tasted just as good.  

    With snow falling, wind blowing, and the sky still dim, Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing sat by the clay stove, boiling water and warming themselves.  

    Dahui, who had been sleeping on the hemp sack, stood up, shook himself, and walked toward the stove. Unfortunately, Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing occupied the prime spots, leaving no room for him. After circling once, he settled by the back door to watch the snow instead.  

    By the time Guaizi stretched, yawned, and got up, the snow had grown heavy.  

    The water boiled. Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing washed their faces and brushed their teeth with green salt, of which they still had plenty, enough to last two or three months.  

    Thanks to the wind, the snow hadn’t yet accumulated much on the ground. Dahui walked a lap around the front yard, leaving a trail of paw prints in the thin layer of snow. Flakes clung to his fur, and when he returned to the main hall to find Shen Xuanqing and Lu Gu no longer by the stove, he squeezed next to Guaizi. Soon, the snow melted into water, dampening his coat.  

    Dabai and Dahei were also awake. The four dogs jostled for space by the stove, growling low in their throats as they shoved one another. Hearing the commotion after washing his face, Shen Xuanqing saw they were on the verge of fighting and barked a sharp reprimand, silencing them at once.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 23

Chapter 23: Relentless Pursuit 

"Please bring that young man from earlier here." Mo Shanshan composed herself, she wasn’t the type to make unreasonable demands, especially not in the Mo family’s residence.  

"If your Mu family didn’t intend to break off the engagement, why lure a ghost onto me, only for you, the Mu family’s eldest young master, to ‘solve’ it later?"  

After hearing his daughter’s words, Mo Xiangxiong’s mind raced, and his face darkened. "The Mu family has gone too far in bullying others!"  

His daughter had been pure and innocent, yet the Mu family had resorted to such underhanded methods to break the engagement. He would never let them off easily.  

"Patriach Mo, the facts are not yet clear. Please refrain from baseless accusations." Mu Changnian had his temper too, no one would take kindly to being publicly cursed at like this.  

"Uncle Mo, the person Miss Mo wishes to summon is Mu Xiaolin, the Mu family’s second young master. Let him confront her directly." Mu Lichuan’s expression was stern. "The Mu family will not tolerate slander."  

Mo Xiangxiong motioned for his daughter to stay calm. If the truth was as she claimed, the Mo family would fight to the death to make the Mu family pay.  

Mo Shanshan nodded. She knew her reputation was already ruined, her only chance was to pin the blame firmly on the Mu family. She had been too impulsive earlier, but the thought of these two men ganging up on her, a helpless girl, made her hatred unbearable.  

Soon, Mu Xiaolin was brought in by a servant. "Father, Elder Brother, Patriach Mo, Miss Mo." The servant had briefed him on who was present, so he made no mistakes in addressing them.  

"Miss Mo, now that both brothers are here, please explain exactly what happened. If they truly wronged you, the Mu family will not let it slide. But the same applies in reverse!" Mu Changnian spoke with the authority of a patriarch, his imposing demeanor making it clear that the Mu family would not tolerate false accusations.  

"Shanshan, since Patriarch Mu has given his word, you need not hide anything. Speak the truth. Your father will protect you at all costs." Mo Xiangxiong bolstered his daughter’s courage.  

Mo Shanshan glanced at them, then spoke rapidly, her voice tinged with fear. "That night, I went to the cemetery and saw him. After I returned home, I fell unconscious..."  

When she finished her account, Mu Xiaolin responded, "Father, how could I have gone to the cemetery? Especially at night. Could Miss Mo have been mistaken? Or perhaps the ghost possessing her never left." 

She lost her purity and now wants to pin it on me, does she think I’m an idiot who’ll just take the blame? 

Since childhood, he had been called a bastard. Now that he was part of the Mu family, he would never let himself be trampled on again.  

"Young Master Mu, mind your words. The Mo family is a lineage of metaphysics," Mo Xiangxiong warned, pressuring Mu Xiaolin to back down.  

"How could I have been mistaken? It was you. I saw you flash by, and then I was overwhelmed with terror!" Mo Shanshan shrieked.  

"Wait a moment I’d like to ask, Miss Mo, what was a young lady like you doing at a cemetery late at night?" Mu Lichuan countered coolly. 

She definitely has ulterior motives toward me. I always found it strange that she didn’t pester me again after that humiliation.

When confronted with this question, Mo Shanshan paled, stammering incoherently.  

"Miss Mo, lying isn’t a good habit. Right, Father?" Mu Lichuan glanced at his father meaningfully. Once the truth came out, the engagement would be dissolved naturally.  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 51 Part 3

The restaurant was bustling, with many tables already served. Regulars spotted Yang Jiabo and insisted he drink with them. Before even reaching Wei Jing’s reserved room, he’d downed two shots. He escaped before more could be forced on him.  

"Your stomach is weak, don’t drink on an empty stomach," Wei Jing chided.  

"I usually avoid coming at mealtimes. At most, I’ll join for tea in the afternoon. But my alcohol tolerance’s great, I could drink you under the table."  

"Sure, but then you’d end up on an IV drip."  

"Don’t underestimate me."  

"I’m not. I’m underestimating your stomach. The guy who got hospitalized after eating plums shouldn’t push his luck."  

"It’s almost dinner, can we not talk about this?" Yang Jiabo grimaced. For some reason, plums always gave him diarrhea.  

"Fine, I got you milk."  

"Too late now that I’ve already drunk alcohol."  

"We’ll drink. You stick to milk."  

"That’s embarrassing."  

"Most guests are doctors. It’d be more embarrassing if you got hospitalized."  

"Then… I’ll go to a different hospital," Yang Jiabo muttered. His stomach had betrayed him since childhood, yearly hospitalizations were usually due to diarrhea.  

"They’re doctors. They’ll understand."  

As they crossed a wooden bridge and passed a rock garden, they entered a spacious private room. The guests had arrived, Wei Changdong and Song Yufang were chatting with them.  

"Mom, Dad, Uncle Li, Auntie Chen…" Wei Jing greeted everyone before introducing Yang Jiabo.  

Yang Jiabo smiled warmly. These people were department heads and senior doctors. Good connections to have when illness struck.  

"So you’re Wei Jing’s friend! No wonder the elusive Little Boss is here," a regular teased.  

"Jiajia, sit by me." Song Yufang waved him over. "Your place is wonderful. When your Uncle Wei and I take leave, we'll stay here. Even Wei Jing came straight here instead of going home."  

"You’re always welcome, Auntie."  

"The air’s great, the food’s delicious, the water’s clean, hope Little Boss doesn’t mind us visiting," another guest praised.  

Yang Jiabo: "Any friends of Uncle Wei and Auntie Song are welcome anytime."  

During the meal, a can of Wangzai Little Milk was placed before Yang Jiabo. He glared at Wei Jing, who shrugged innocently. He’d only asked for milk, not this.  

The dinner flowed smoothly. The guests, all socially adept, kept the atmosphere lively. After finishing his milk, Yang Jiabo joined in with a few drinks.  

As the party dispersed, Yang Jiabo and Wei Jing saw them off. Song Yufang fixed Wei Jing with a stare. "Visit home when you have time. Don’t just enjoy yourself here while we’re left empty-nesting."  

"Got it. I’ll go back tomorrow," Wei Jing promised.  

"And stop troubling Jiajia all the time." She turned to Yang Jiabo. "Jiajia, don’t indulge him so much."  

"Don’t worry, Auntie. I won’t."  

After bidding everyone farewell, the slightly tipsy pair returned to the bamboo house. Yang Jianjun was already asleep. Fresh from their shower and wide awake, they snuggled up on the couch to watch Starship Troopers, a classic sci-fi film that had been groundbreaking in its time.

"I thought you were scared of these?" Wei Jing teased.  

"I'm not afraid of bugs, so why would this scare me? I even watch horror movies now. Once you grow up and realize it's all fake, there's nothing to be afraid of." Yang Jiabo rummaged through a box of chocolates Wei Jing had brought back and popped one into his mouth.  

"Eating chocolate this late at night, how do you never gain weight?"  

Yang Jiabo preened. "Born beautiful and impossible to give up, want one?"  

"Is it really that good?" Wei Jing watched Yang Jiabo’s blissful expression and couldn’t resist trying.  

"Here, taste it." Without waiting for a reply, Yang Jiabo shoved one into Wei Jing’s mouth.  

"Too sweet." Wei Jing frowned but swallowed it anyway. "Don’t eat too many, or you'll get cavities."  

"For the sake of my precious sweets, I take very good care of my teeth."  

Soon, their attention shifted to the movie. Before long, Yang Jiabo was nodding off, slumping drowsily against Wei Jing. Wei Jing considered carrying him to bed but decided against it, shaking him awake instead.  

"Wake up. Brush your teeth first."  

Still half-asleep, Yang Jiabo obediently brushed his teeth before climbed into bed. Wei Jing observed the entire process, realizing just how docile Yang Jiabo became after drinking. If this happened outside, someone could kidnap him and he wouldn’t even notice.  

Before his illness, alcohol had simply made Yang Jiabo sleep. Afterward, it plunged him into uncontrollable weeping. His current state was an improvement - less sorrow, or perhaps just temporarily forgotten.  

____

Three days later, Wei Jing’s friends arrived. Yang Jiabo was decorating the bamboo houses with fresh flowers when Uncle Liu called from the gate to say they had arrived.

Wei Jing, helping arrange the flowers, took his time finishing before heading out with Yang Jiabo to greet them.  

Six men and two women stepped out of two SUVs - a Hummer and a BMW, parked on the stone path.  

Zhang Yunwei scanned the surroundings and scoffed, "Nice scenery, but Beijing has plenty of this. Why drag us out here?"  

"Ugh, I’m exhausted. Who knew driving could be this tiring?" Meng Fan slumped against the car.  

"Brother Ren, how does this compare to your courtyard house?" Qin Ruiwen asked the tall, imposing man beside him.  

Before Ren Boying could answer, the refined-looking Xu Chen cut in with a smirk, "Really? You’re comparing his siheyuan to your villa?"  

[Siheyuan (四合院): traditional Chinese courtyard residence, typically found in northern China, especially Beijing

"I told you we should’ve flown. This ride was awful," Qin Rong whined, looking queasy.  

"No one forced you to come," Chang Jin retorted, rolling her eyes.  

"If it weren’t for Brother Jing, I’d never come to a place like this." Qin Rong’s haughty tone reeked of spoiled entitlement.  

Wei Jing arrived just in time,  his face darkening. "The exit is that way. Those staying, follow me."  

"Brother Jing, I didn’t mean, Chang Jin provoked me!" Qin Rong flustered.  

"Not my fault everyone knows you’re a pampered princess. Tag along quietly or leave." Chang Jin refused to indulge her.  

Yang Jiabo’s good mood halved. These privileged brats are nothing but trouble. Modern youth craved excitement and trends, this tranquil retreat was lost on them. His enthusiasm for hosting evaporated, replaced by reluctance to engage.  

"Brother, here are the keys. Settle them in. I’ll check on dinner." Yang Jiabo handed Wei Jing the keys.  

"Got it. Don’t mind their rudeness." Wei Jing apologized quietly.  

"Wouldn’t waste the energy." Yang Jiabo offered the group a polite smile. "Rest after your journey. Dinner will be ready soon." With that, he left. Wei Jing’s friends was Wei Jing’s problem.  

"Who was that? Pretty high-strung," Chang Jin mused.  

"Yang Jiabo, this farmstead’s owner and my brother. Be grateful he didn’t kick you out." Wei Jing’s mild tone carried unmistakable displeasure.  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 94 Part 1

Chapter 94 

    The only thing Emperor Changde accomplished today was having Cao Lan'er taken away and imprisoned in the Ministry of Justice's dungeon. Because he succeeded, it made him restless, itching to deal with the others as well.  

    However, when he saw the amused smile on Yue Heng's face, Emperor Changde's heart trembled. Whether out of genuine fear or feigned weakness, he covered his mouth and began coughing violently, so severely it was frightening.  

    Gan Yongfu hurried forward to support the emperor, patting his back to soothe him and urging him to return and rest. The court officials, sensing that this matter was truly over, once again requested to take their leave.  

    Emperor Changde granted permission and, supported by Gan Yongfu, descended the steps. As he passed Yue Heng, Yue Heng casually reached out to steady him. "Your son will escort you back."  

    The emperor instinctively tried to shake off Yue Heng's hand, but he gave him no chance, giving a warning tap on his arm. Forced him to accept this filial gesture, Emperor Changde had no choice but to endure his sixth son's "kindness."  

    Only after watching the emperor and his entourage leave did the court officials file out of the Hall of Governance.  

    Jiang Lin, pushing Wei Yunzhao in his wheelchair and accompanied by Su Qiao and the others, walked last. Aside from Yin Ji waiting outside for them, the other high-ranking officials had already left. On the surface, they wouldn't associate themselves with the Wei family. Even if they had spoken in Wei Yunzhao's defense today, it could be dismissed as deference to the sixth prince.  

    Being friendly with the Wei family and showing face to the sixth prince carried entirely different implications.  

    Still, the Wei family now owed them a favor, one they would have to find a way to repay in the future.  

    As for Yin Ji, who had waited for them, his face was long with displeasure. He said nothing, merely glaring at Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao as they walked, making them increasingly uneasy.  

    Only after exiting the palace gates did Jiang Lin offer an ingratiating smile. "Many thanks to Lord Yin today. Your great kindness is etched in our hearts. If there's ever anything we can do for you in the future, just say the word, we'll make sure it's done properly."  

    Yin Ji snorted heavily. "I dare not trouble the two of you. Who knows if the entire Yin family would be enough to fill the debt of such a 'great kindness'?"  

    Wei Yunzhao cupped his hands in salute. "Lord Yin, we were at fault this time. We should have informed you beforehand. Please accompany us to our residence for tea so we may offer our apologies."  

    Yin Ji sneered. "I wouldn’t dare step foot in the Wei mansion. I have only one demand: my daughter’s betrothal to the Crown Prince remains, and the wedding date approaches. If you can find a way to annul it, then the matter of you scheming against me today will be settled. As for the future… we’ll see."  

    Yin Ji’s involvement had indeed been part of their plan. They knew that, upon seeing Emperor Changde dispatch the Imperial Guards to arrest them, Yin Ji wouldn’t stand idly by, he would rally other officials to intervene. With their prior arrangements, the ministers’ entry into the palace had gone smoothly, and today’s events proceeded without a hitch. But they had undeniably incurred a significant debt to Yin Ji.  

    "Lord Yin, rest assured. Miss Yin is a dear friend of our younger sister. For that reason alone, we would never allow her to marry the Crown Prince."  

    Despite his lingering anger, Yin Ji stiffly offered his thanks before striding away.  

    Next was arranging accommodations for the families of the soldiers. Xun Qi was waiting outside the palace, so Jiang Lin tasked him with leading them to temporary lodgings. Meanwhile, he, Wei Yunzhao, and Su Qiao headed to the Sixth Prince’s residence to retrieve someone.  

    To retrieve the Wei family members who had been sent there in advance.  

    They had anticipated Emperor Changde’s actions upon his recovery and had preemptively relocated the Wei family to Yue Heng’s estate. Since their association with him was kept private, even if their plans had gone awry or the emperor had discovered the Wei family’s absence and launched a search, it would have taken time before anyone thought to look in the Sixth Prince’s residence.  

    Moreover, a prince’s estate wasn’t so easily searched. The delay would have given them ample time to hide.  

    Fortunately, everything had gone smoothly.  

    The carriage halted before the gates of the Wei mansion. The aunts from the second, third, and fourth branches stepped down together. Second Aunt gazed at the grand entrance and sighed. "I thought we might never return."  

    Before sending the family to Yue Heng’s residence, Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao had explained the truth behind Wei Su’s death and their plans to seek justice. Forcing the emperor to admit his wrongdoing was no small feat, anyone with sense knew the risks.  

    While the younger girls had agreed immediately, the others had hesitated. But they soon came around, realizing that the peace they now enjoyed was owed to Wei Yunzhao’s efforts. They had no right to stop him, nor could they.  

    The sole dissenter was Wei Yunzhao’s mother. Too afraid to confront her son directly, she had privately approached Wei Yunzhao’s younger siblings, Wei Yunxia and Wei Yunqi, urging them to persuade him to abandon his plans and settle for their current peaceful life.  

    Wei Yunqi, though young, was sharp-witted and argued against his mother’s stance. Wei Yunxia, however, had immediately reported the matter to Wei Yunzhao and openly berated their father for his past blindness.  

    Wei Yunzhao had been angered by his mother’s reaction. Of all people, she had the least right to oppose their mission. Worse still, she had manipulated the children instead of speaking her mind directly - a despicable act.  

    After a private conversation with her, Wei Yunzhao had left her bedridden. She had been carried into the Sixth Prince’s residence in poor health and had yet to recover.  

    As the gates swung open, Jiang Lin tapped Wei Yunzhao’s shoulder. "Let’s go in. At this point, we have nothing left to fear."  

    Wei Yunzhao stood and nodded. "Alright." Then, gripping Jiang Lin’s hand tightly, he said, "I’ll walk with you home, my wife."  

    Fingers intertwined, they stepped forward side by side, crossing the threshold of the Wei mansion.  

    Gasps rose behind them - shock, disbelief, then overwhelming joy.  

    Wei Yunzhao turned, still holding Jiang Lin’s hand, and raised the imperial decree written by Emperor Changde himself. "My legs are healed. And today, we’ve also secured justice for Father."  

    He stated it as fact.  

    The Wei family erupted into tears and laughter.  

    Wei Yunzhao turned his head, gazing tenderly at Jiang Lin. "My wife… thank you."  

    There were too many things to thank him for, yet when the moment came, a thousand words condensed into four simple ones.  

    Jiang Lin swung their clasped hands playfully. "Mm, repay me in bed."  

    Wei Yunzhao chuckled softly. "Alright."  

    It was time to begin preparations for their wedding.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 22

Chapter 22: Diverting Disaster 

"You're the one who’s lost your mind ! Your whole family has lost their minds!" Mo Shanshan’s face was filled with resentment. If her greatest hatred was for Mu Lichuan, then the person before her, Mu Xiaolin, was the chief culprit - someone she wished she could tear to pieces.  

"Pretty sister, you should be careful with your words." The smile on Mu Xiaolin’s face had completely chilled.  

He found it extremely strange, what exactly was the relationship between this girl and Mu Lichuan? Just moments ago, he had seen them acting very intimate, but the moment he arrived, Mu Lichuan had quickly stepped away.  

Mo Shanshan’s eyes burned with fury. "I know, I know, this is all a scheme by your Mu family!" They wanted to ruin her reputation.  

"Pretty sister, our Mu family has done nothing to wrong you. Why slander us like this?" Mu Xiaolin’s mind raced. "Besides, from the looks of it, you and my elder brother seemed quite close."  

When Mo Shanshan met the boy’s gaze, she shuddered violently. In a flustered panic, she turned and fled. The thought that the lustful ghost haunting her had been summoned by him filled her with terror.  

"Shanshan, what’s wrong? Why are you covered in cold sweat?" Mo Xiangxiong rose from the sofa at the sight of his disheveled daughter.  

Mo Shanshan’s lips trembled. "I… Dad… I saw… that person transferred it onto me, I…" Originally, this matter was a secret, known only to a few in the Mo family and Mu Lichuan.  

"What?!" Mo Xiangxiong’s face darkened. So, this was all a Mu family conspiracy. Was it because the Mu family’s eldest young master possessed Ying Yang  eyes that they had sullied his daughter’s purity to justify breaking off the engagement?  

"Dad…" Mo Shanshan could barely speak, her face streaked with tears. "You have to stand up for me!"  

Mu Changnian had no idea what was happening, but seeing the Mo family’s daughter in such distress, as if she had suffered a grave injustice, he said, "Patriarch Mo, don’t be hasty. I’ll summon Lichuan and find out how he wronged Shanshan."  

He immediately ordered a servant to fetch the eldest young master. When Mu Lichuan saw Mo Shanshan’s pitiful act, he felt sickened, but he still feigned confusion. "Father, Uncle Mo, Miss Mo, what’s…?"  

"Speak! Did you bully Shanshan?" Mu Changnian demanded harshly before Mo Xiangxiong could speak.  

"Father, how could you say that? I was taking Miss Mo for a stroll in the garden when we ran into Second Brother. Then, due to personal needs, I excused myself and asked Second Brother to keep Miss Mo company," Mu Lichuan replied calmly. "Isn’t that right, Miss Mo?"  

By now, Mo Shanshan had regained control of her emotions. She glared at Mu Lichuan with hatred. "Yes, you did abandon me! But this is all your Mu family’s scheme!"  

"Mu Lichuan, if you wanted to break off the engagement, you could have said so openly! Was it necessary to resort to such underhanded methods? Even going so far as to ruin my reputation!" Her voice dripped with venom. If not for Mu Changnian’s presence, she would have been screaming hysterically.  

Mu Lichuan’s expression darkened. "Miss Mo, if you’re going to slander the Mu family, at least bring evidence. Just your word alone isn’t enough to claim we’re breaking the engagement. Isn’t that ridiculous?"  

He had never intended to initiate breaking the engagement, he wanted the Mo family to be the one at fault. But he would never play with a girl’s purity, no matter how detestable Mo Shanshan was. Of course, the truth was that a ghost had ruined her, it had nothing to do with anyone.