Chapter 230: Hidden Schemes, A Sudden Arrival
Several burly men entered the room and stood guard by the door, their expressions stern and imposing, like gatekeepers. Their sudden appearance startled the maid, who instinctively took a step back.
A middle-aged man with graying temples followed them, dressed in an embroidered official robe, his face stern and commanding, radiating an aura of authority.
Cheng Yishi, as if anticipating their arrival, smiled faintly and curtsied. “Greetings, Governor.”
“You recognize me?”
The middle-aged man’s lips curled into a slight smile, his eyebrows raised in curiosity.
“There have been many visitors to our county lately. I’ve naturally heard of your arrival, Governor.”
Cheng Yishi replied calmly. “And in this Ascension Immortal Restaurant, only someone of your stature would command such a presence. Others wouldn’t dare to approach this private room.”
“You’re quite observant.”
The governor nodded slightly, his eyes scanning her discreetly. “There’s no need for formalities. I came here out of curiosity, to see the famed beauty of Changling.”
His eyes widened slightly, a look of admiration on his face. “And the rumors are true. You’re truly captivating, Miss Cheng.”
Although she wasn’t dressed in luxurious attire, just a simple yet elegant robe and a fur shawl, her beauty was undeniable, her figure graceful and slender, her face as flawless as jade, her aura ethereal and otherworldly.
And most importantly…
Her demeanor was captivating, her every movement radiating a unique charm, despite her youth.
No wonder he had heard her name mentioned so often since arriving in Changling County.
Such beauty was rare, even in the entire Xima Prefecture.
The governor understood now.
No wonder Prince Pei’s son, known for his refined taste and gentle nature, was interested in a commoner. Faced with such beauty, no man could resist. And he had heard that Miss Cheng was also intelligent and capable, single-handedly managing her family’s business after her father’s death.
Such an accomplished woman, to be chosen by the prince… it was a good match.
“You flatter me, Governor. Those are just rumors.” Cheng Yishi lowered her eyes and curtsied slightly. “There are many women in Changling more beautiful than I am. This ‘first beauty’ title is just an exaggeration.”
“Your humility is commendable.”
The governor nodded approvingly. “I didn’t come here to exchange pleasantries, Miss Cheng. I came to offer you some advice. You’re an intelligent woman. You can see through the rumors and gossip in this town, discerning truth from falsehood.
Don’t let this opportunity slip away. It’s a blessing, a gift from fate.”
He gestured to the two burly men beside him, who stepped forward and opened the numerous boxes they were carrying.
A dazzling array of jewels, precious herbs, silk, and even gold, glittered before them.
“Please accept these small gifts, Miss Cheng. I know you’re not interested in material wealth, but your family needs support. Consider this a small token of my goodwill.”
But Cheng Yishi just glanced at the treasures and said calmly, “Thank you for your kindness, Governor, but I can’t accept your gifts. I’m afraid I can’t fulfill your expectations.”
The governor frowned. “What do you mean?”
“I—”
“Fancy meeting you here, Xue.”
A deep voice, laced with amusement, suddenly interrupted them.
“Hmm?”
The governor’s expression changed, and he turned around to see a familiar figure approaching.
“Stop him!”
The burly men stepped forward, blocking the newcomer’s path.
But the governor quickly waved them away. “Stand down! Let him pass!”
“Huh?”
The guards were surprised by his sudden outburst.
But they obeyed without question, stepping aside.
The man at the door entered the private room. It was an elderly man with a white beard, his demeanor refined and scholarly. He smiled and stroked his beard. “It’s been a while, Xue. You’ve become quite the mature man.”
The governor took a deep breath.
He bowed deeply and respectfully. “Master, I didn’t know you were here. I apologize for not visiting you sooner.”
“There’s no need for such formalities. I don’t care about such trivial matters.”
Master?!
Everyone in the room was startled.
“Elder Nie?”
Cheng Yishi’s eyes widened in surprise.
This elderly man was Nie Qingyuan, Lin Tianlu’s neighbor. Although she knew he was a scholar from a respectable family, and had held a prominent position in his youth, she hadn’t expected him to be… the governor’s teacher?!
“Miss Cheng, it’s been a while. You’ve become even more beautiful.”
Nie Qingyuan smiled and stroked his beard. “When Master Lin returns to Changling, you should spend some time with him.”
“Y-yes, Elder Nie.” Cheng Yishi quickly curtsied.
The governor’s eyes flickered, his face a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. “Master, have you been living here all these years?”
“Changling is my hometown. Where else would I spend my retirement?”
Nie Qinghe sighed. “It’s been so many years, Xue. You’ve changed. You’re not as carefree and mischievous as you used to be.”
“Master…”
The governor was speechless, a deep sigh escaping his lips, his heart filled with memories and regrets.
“It seems your career hasn’t been easy.”
“Indeed, Master.” He bowed his head and sighed. “I was full of youthful ambition, but reality is harsh. The compromises, the betrayals… it’s exhausting. I’ve realized that my dreams were just illusions. And your teachings, Master, they’ve become even more profound and meaningful with time.”
“It’s good that you’ve gained such wisdom.”
Nie Qingyuan chuckled. “We should catch up when we have time, Xue. Share our stories. If you’re still troubled by anything, I can offer you some guidance.”
The governor’s eyes lit up with joy, tears welling up. He bowed deeply. “Thank you, Master!”
“You’re still so sentimental…”
“I-I just haven’t seen you in so long, Master. Please forgive my outburst.” The governor wiped his eyes and chuckled. “But I’m so happy to see you again, even if it means shedding a few tears.”
“…”
The guards standing nearby were astonished.
They had never seen their usually stoic and reserved governor so emotional.
“But before we reminisce, there’s something I need to discuss with you, Xue.”
Nie Qingyuan’s expression turned serious. “Do you know a scholar named Lin Tianlu?”
“Lin Tianlu?”
The governor paused. “I just arrived in Changling today. I’ve heard his name mentioned. He seems to be quite talented. But I heard he’s been away for a while.”
“He and Miss Cheng here are in love.”
“What?”
The governor’s brow furrowed, and he turned to Cheng Yishi. “Is this true?”
Cheng Yishi sighed. “Elder Nie is right. Master Lin and I are in love.”
“But the prince—”
The governor stopped abruptly, his eyes narrowing.
Prince Pei’s son had been visiting the Cheng residence frequently. He couldn’t possibly be unaware of this.
And yet, knowing that she was in love with another man, he had continued to pursue her?
Was it simply admiration?
Impossible.
Prince Pei’s son was known for his gentle nature and refined character. He had never been involved in any scandals and was still unmarried. He wouldn’t try to steal another man’s lover, not so publicly.
No, something wasn’t right.
The governor quickly realized the disparity in their social status.
How could the Cheng family dare to publicize their relationship with Master Lin, knowing that the prince’s son was interested in her? And how would the common people dare to gossip about it? If she dared to reject the prince, the consequences would be severe.
In just a few moments, countless thoughts raced through the governor’s mind, his expression turning grim.
“Miss Cheng, what are your intentions?”
Cheng Yishi glanced at Nie Qingyuan, whose expression was serious, then replied calmly, “I have no interest in the prince, nor do I desire wealth or power. I just want this situation to be resolved peacefully. I wish he would leave me alone.”
“So that’s how you feel.”
The governor’s voice was filled with surprise. “Then why didn’t you—”
“Openly defying him would only put me and my family in danger.”
Cheng Yishi said calmly, “I’m just a commoner. I can’t afford to offend someone so powerful. Sometimes, silence is the best course of action. Any resistance would only make things worse.”
Of course, there was more to it than that.
But there was no point in revealing her connection to the supernatural.
“You’re… a very intelligent woman.”
The governor sighed in admiration.
For an ordinary woman to remain so calm and composed in the presence of royalty, to resist the advances of a prince… it was truly remarkable.
How many women could resist the allure of wealth and power?
“Xue, I came here for you as well.”
Nie Qingyuan’s voice broke the silence. “Although Master Lin has no official title or noble lineage, he’s a good friend of mine. I can’t just stand by and watch as his future wife is taken from him by force.
I don’t know what that prince is thinking, but perhaps you, Xue, with your connections and influence, can help resolve this situation. There’s no need for a direct confrontation. Just whisper a few words in his ear, perhaps even some… unflattering rumors. As long as he loses interest in Miss Cheng, it will be enough.”
“I…”
The governor hesitated. “I’ll try, Master. But I can’t guarantee that he’ll listen.”
Cheng Yishi’s eyes flickered, and she said softly, “If you can help us, Governor, perhaps…”
“It seems you have quite a lively gathering here, Miss Cheng.”
A cheerful voice suddenly interrupted them.
Everyone in the room froze, turning to look towards the door.
The handsome prince stood there, a gentle smile on his face, his fan swaying gently. “Governor Xue, I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Your Highness—”
“There’s no need for formalities. I didn’t bring my entourage, and this has nothing to do with my father. Just call me Pei Yan.”
The prince waved his hand dismissively.
Then he turned to Cheng Yishi, his eyes curious. “Are you enjoying the food, Miss Cheng?”
“It’s fine.”
Cheng Yishi’s response was curt and indifferent.
“I’m glad you like it.”
Pei Yan smiled brightly, then glanced at Nie Qingyuan. “And who is this gentleman—?”
“He’s my teacher, Your Highness. A brilliant scholar, a true master.” The governor answered quickly.
“I see.”
Pei Yan nodded, then gestured towards the seats. “Please, have a seat. I’ve been socializing for a while now, and I’m quite tired. It would be nice to relax and chat with you all.”
He walked towards Cheng Yishi, his smile warm and inviting. “Please have a seat, Miss Cheng. You must be tired from standing.”
Cheng Yishi’s expression remained unchanged as she discreetly tried to avoid his outstretched hand.
But Pei Yan’s face suddenly paled.
Because a hand had grabbed his wrist.
He turned to see a stranger standing beside him.
“Who are—”
Bang!
Before he could finish speaking, a fist connected with his face, sending him flying backwards, blood spraying through the air!
“…”
“You asked… who I am?”
Lin Tianlu calmly dusted off his sleeve. “I am… a warrior of love.”
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