The Aloof Lord's Mysterious Wife
Chapter 259: Who Dares to Challenge My Authority

Chapter 259: Who Dares to Challenge My Authority

Without the need for their master’s command, Qing Feng understood perfectly what was expected of him. He drew his sword and advanced swiftly, intercepting Jiang Yang’s attempt to flee by promptly kicking him to the ground.

With Jiang Yang’s wrist pinned beneath his boot, terror etched across his face, he barely managed to utter a plea before the cold steel descended, splattering crimson.

Even as Jiang Yang’s severed hand twitched slightly, his cries echoed as he writhed on the ground, soon to be dragged away by the Black Armor Guards. Blood stained the ground, causing Lu Yanyan to nearly retch, prompting Chu Shuo to urge her away from the grisly sight. Guests paled in shock.

However, Ye Siheng remained composed, taking a sip of tea before calmly remarking, "Those who wish to depart may do so."

By now, it was clear to all present that Ye Siheng’s initial decision to not expel the guests was not for their entertainment. Instead, it served as a warning: anyone who dared to harm the An’yang Marquisate’s people should carefully consider their fate.

Ye Siheng had long been known as a formidable figure, albeit rarely did he administer such public lessons. Yet, this was done for the sake of his consort’s maternal family, truly a demonstration of his deep affection. With minds racing, guests began to depart one by one.

Duke of Ming, on the other hand, was drenched in cold sweat, seeming as though a mere gust of wind could topple his elderly frame. Ye Siheng raised his gaze. "Marquis, rest assured. I have settled accounts with Jiang Yang. There will be no further trouble for the Marquisate." Duke of Ming breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Your Highness."

However, his expression soon turned troubled as he turned to Nanli. "My Lady, what about the water spirit in the pond?"

"That water spirit is no longer in the pond," Nanli replied. "This pond is fed by living water, and she has escaped elsewhere along its currents." Due to the complex underwater currents, capturing the water spirit would prove to be quite challenging. Duke of Ming wasn’t entirely pleased. "If it’s living water, then she can leave. Doesn’t that mean she could return?"

"That’s a valid concern," Nanli nodded. Duke of Ming suddenly felt at a loss. He looked at Nanli eagerly. "My Lady, if she returns, what shall we do?"

He had heard tales of water spirits—malevolent beings unable to reincarnate, lurking beneath the waters, enticing or directly drowning the living to act as substitutes so they could reincarnate themselves.

"I will set up several formations in your mansion’s pond and well," Nanli said. "Even if she returns, she won’t be able to cause harm." However, this was merely a temporary solution. They still needed to devise a plan to lure her out and eliminate her, lest she remain a threat.

Duke of Ming felt somewhat reassured. "Thank you, Ninth Princess." But soon, his wrinkled face betrayed his lingering unease. "As for the funds... we may have to owe for now, is that acceptable?" He had heard that even Nanli’s personally drawn talismans fetched dozens of taels of silver, let alone setting up formations now. The Marquisate was truly in dire financial straits! While Nanli harbored no ill feelings toward Duke of Ming’s household apart from Jiang Yang, she agreed, "That’s fine, we can settle the debt later."

Duke of Ming breathed another sigh of relief, once again expressing gratitude. After setting up the formations, Nanli also inscribed several talismans with her Tianxing pen and cast them into the water. When Ye Siheng, passing by, noticed, he couldn’t help but be surprised. "Talismans that withstand water?"

"The book Master Lingzhen gifted me, I studied it and can now inscribe talismans that resist water," Nanli said, raising her eyebrows with some satisfaction, albeit it required more effort. Her radiant smile struck Ye Siheng’s heart, and he smiled in return. "My A’Li, truly remarkable."

"Naturally," Nanli replied without hesitation.

After completing their tasks, they escorted Chu Shuo back to her mansion. En route, Nanli reinforced Chu Shuo’s protective talisman within his body. This matter was not trivial, and before Chu Shuo had even returned home, everyone there already knew about it. Coincidentally, Chu Hanlin returned home today. After assessing Chu Shuo’s well-being, he said, "Go and rest."

Chu Shuo nodded and withdrew.

"I wonder if His Highness is free to play a game of chess with me?" Chu Hanlin asked.

"If Father-in-law is so inclined, I shall accompany him," Ye Siheng replied calmly.

Nanli glanced at the two men, furrowing her brows slightly, but then Shen called her to Xianghe Courtyard to pay respects to the Dowager. She left with reluctance.

In the study, a servant arranged the chessboard and pieces meticulously. The gilded incense burner emitted wisps of fragrant smoke, intertwining before dissipating into the air. With a casual move, Chu Hanlin made his move on the chessboard, his expression grave as he spoke directly, "Today’s actions by Your Highness, though they sought justice for Shuo’er, may invite criticism upon you."

Ye Siheng had long anticipated Chu Hanlin’s intentions. Knowing it wasn’t a genuine invitation to play chess, he made his move on the board without much thought. "Thank you for your concern, Father-in-law. However, having taken this course of action, I am not afraid of criticism," he said, his expression calm but warmed by a sense of righteousness.

Chu Hanlin furrowed his brows, still worried. "Your intentions were noble, but I fear some may speak ill of you in court."

"Firstly, Jiang Yang harbored malicious intentions. Such punishment is both lawful and justified. Secondly, while the Crown Prince’s health may not be robust, his faculties are clear, unlike before," Ye Siheng explained. "In court, who would dare to question me?"

His words carried a strong sense of authority. Chu Hanlin felt somewhat embarrassed; having a son-in-law with such overwhelming power was a unique feeling. He nodded, continuing his advice, "Your Highness holds significant influence now, but please consider everything carefully for A’Li’s sake."

"Naturally," Ye Siheng replied earnestly. "Without A’Li’s influence, I would have publicly taken Jiang Yang’s life instead of merely intimidating him."

Chu Hanlin nodded. "Shuo’er is safe, and this punishment suffices. Going further might lead to undesirable consequences."

He had nearly lost his son, and he genuinely loathed Jiang Yang. However, public opinion was formidable. Even though his son-in-law was at the peak of his power, caution was necessary at all times.

"Father-in-law, rest assured, I will exercise discretion," Ye Siheng assured him.

Chu Hanlin felt somewhat reassured by his words.

After Ye Siheng and Nanli departed, Chu Hanlin called a few of his sons over.

His expression turned serious as he addressed them, "Your sixth sister is married to the Ninth Prince. Now, all eyes are on the An’yang Marquisate. If you take advantage of the Prince’s influence to act recklessly outside, I will personally break your legs!"

Chu Ye was still in the camps near the capital, so there were only Chu Shuo’s four brothers present in the hall.

Chu Shuo muttered, "We’ve always been obedient."

Chu Huan, now a government official, was more composed, "Father, rest assured, your son understands the stakes."

Chu Yang and Chu Yan echoed their assurances.

With great power comes great responsibility. Since his sixth sister’s engagement to the Ninth Prince, they understood this principle well. They might not have achieved much yet, but they wouldn’t be foolish enough to burden their sister.

Chu Hanlin nodded approvingly.

Chu Huan was currently serving in the Imperial Academy. Initially, others might have shown him favor due to his connection to the Ninth Prince. He wasn’t comfortable with it, but words were futile; he preferred to prove himself through actions. He diligently completed tasks assigned to him and offered assistance even when not asked.