The Aloof Lord's Mysterious Wife
Chapter 375: Either Die Outside the Manor

Chapter 375: Either Die Outside the Manor

Chu Hanming, typically a coward, suddenly deciding to commit suicide caught everyone off guard. However, Nanli, being the closest, quickly stepped forward and grabbed his collar as he moved.

Chu Hanming, initially resolute in his intent to die, struggled forward despite being yanked back. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t move an inch. Thankfully, the quality of his clothing held up, preventing it from tearing.

After a brief struggle, he was drenched in sweat and panting heavily. "Can’t even die if I want to?!" he exclaimed, collapsing onto the floor, glaring at Nanli. Her strength was astonishing!

Nanli, with a serious expression, said, "Uncle, if you die inside the manor, you’ll become a vengeful ghost, tainting our family estate." Then she added, "Why don’t you go die outside?"

Chu Hanming was stunned, not expecting such harsh words from Nanli. He looked around and saw that, aside from the unwilling expressions of the Grand Lady and Madam Shen, the others were either impatient or rolling their eyes. Only Lady Tian spoke up, "A’Li, your uncle made mistakes, but you can’t be so heartless."

Sending someone outside to die was not something a junior should say.

Nanli released her grip and said, "It’s normal to bear the consequences of one’s own actions."

Chu Hanming, initially determined to die, now felt fear creeping in. He had heard that those who commit suicide bear heavy sins, destined for a painful next life or endless suffering. Although he was mediocre, he lived a life of comfort far better than many others. It would be foolish to throw it away prematurely.

He finally relented, pleading, "A’Li, I realize my mistakes now and will never repeat them! Mother, I promise to turn over a new leaf and become a better person!"

Being his biological son, the Grand Lady couldn’t help but feel alarmed when he tried to kill himself. But seeing him now, groveling and begging, she rolled her eyes in exasperation. "With your courage and determination, you’ll never achieve anything."

Chu Hanming, feeling aggrieved, said, "But I’m still your son."

The Grand Lady nearly spat out the words "you’re a disgrace," but she held back. "If you don’t want to face family discipline, then stop being a Chu and leave the manor immediately."

Chu Hanming’s mind went blank, and he hurriedly replied, "No! I was born a Chu and will die a Chu! I can take the punishment!"

If he were expelled from the family, how would he live a comfortable life?

Nanli raised an eyebrow. "Uncle, you seem quite clear-headed now."

Chu Hanming, not daring to argue, replied, "It’s not about being clear-headed; I realize my mistakes and genuinely repent."

Seeing his demeanor, the Grand Lady sighed heavily. "Fine, administer the family discipline!"

The guards stepped forward again.

But Nanli suddenly called out, "Wait."

Chu Hanming, hopeful, said, "A’Li, I knew all those times I gave you chicken soup weren’t in vain. I knew you cared."

He knew that Nanli held significant sway in the household. If she didn’t pursue the matter, his mother would likely show leniency.

However, Nanli continued, "Grandmother, let’s postpone the punishment for a few days. I want Uncle to deliver that True Word Talisman to grand manager Wang and see what he’s up to."

Chu Hanming’s mouth twitched. This was worse than dying quickly.

The Grand Lady nodded. "Alright, since you want to get to the bottom of this, let him deliver it."

Everyone knew that the Mansion of Marquis Anyang was not to be trifled with, but if grand manager Wang dared to plot against them, there must be something unusual about the matter.

Chu Hanming asked meekly, "If I cooperate fully, can the punishment be reduced?"

The Grand Lady’s face darkened.

Chu Hanming quickly waved his hands. "Never mind, never mind. I’ll take the full punishment."

The Grand Lady snorted, her gaze sharp. "Today, I make it clear: anyone who covets Nanli’s talismans is against me. Anyone with ulterior motives will be expelled and removed from the family register!"

Madam Shen and the Chu brothers quickly agreed.

It was late, so the Grand Lady retired to rest.

Chu Hanming continued to weep, clinging to Lady Tian and lamenting his fate.

Nanli snapped, "Uncle, if your eyes are swollen tomorrow, how will you deliver the talisman? grand manager Wang will immediately suspect something."

Chu Hanming sniffled, "But I can’t help it. What can I do?"

Nanli took a deep breath. "I’ll ask Grandmother to reduce your punishment by five strokes. Is that okay?"

Chu Hanming immediately stopped crying, eyes wide. "Really? You mean it?"

Nanli nodded.

Chu Hanming, now cheerful, laughed. "A’Li, I trust you. I’ll handle the delivery well tomorrow."

He even used a towel to reduce the swelling in his eyes, ensuring no mistakes.

After most people left, Zhi Mi approached Nanli, looking dejected. "Senior Sister, I’m sorry. This is partly my fault for letting Uncle steal the talisman."

"It is your fault," Nanli said sternly. "You have so many powerful talismans. If someone with bad intentions stole them, it could cause serious consequences."

Zhi Mi felt even more downcast.

Last time, he was tricked into losing a Thunder Talisman. This time, Chu Hanming used a diversion to steal the Soul-Burning Talisman. He felt utterly useless, unworthy of the powerful talismans Nanli drew.

"Senior Sister, I..."

"This actually gave me an idea," Nanli said, brightening up. "I could create a contract talisman. Only those who form a contract with it can access its contents, preventing others from taking it."

"Huh?" Zhi Mi was surprised by the turn of events.

Xie Beihan joined in. "Sixth Sister is amazing! That’s like the blood contract in stories!"

Nanli, not swayed by the praise, said, "It’ll cost you."

Xie Beihan’s face fell. "Why are you biased? You don’t charge Zhi Mi, but you charge me."

Nanli put a hand on Zhi Mi’s shoulder, raising her chin slightly. "Zhi Mi is my junior. Who else should I spoil?"

"Senior Sister..." Zhi Mi’s eyes reddened. "You’re so good to me. I don’t know how to repay you."

During his time at the mansion, he had greatly improved thanks to her guidance. He hadn’t had a chance to properly thank her.

Nanli smiled. "When we were at Xuanyue Temple, you often cooked for me. It’s normal for me to return the favor."