Chapter 58
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When Lin Qingyang thought about this, he wished to make the carriage move faster. His eyes lit up, and suddenly, a bright idea flashed in his mind. His scheming thoughts began to stir.
“Cousin, you and my eldest cousin are both intelligent people. If you collaborate, it will surely be the most powerful. How about I give you all my money, and we do business together?”
This was the future consortium that would support the entire Great Zhou Dynasty. Regardless of who would ultimately wield power, investing now would secure freedom in the future. Even if it wasn’t the young marquis, one could still live freely and happily.
“For me?” Chu Lishu was momentarily stunned.
“Is it okay? I don’t really understand these things, so I feel more at ease leaving it all to you.”
Chu Lishu chuckled, “Aren’t you afraid of losing everything if it goes wrong?”
“It’s okay, it doesn’t matter even if there are losses.” It was just a joke; how could the future Chen Lan Merchant Agency possibly incur losses?
Seeing Lin Qingyang’s trusting gaze, Chu Lishu felt comfortable. “If we can really collaborate, I assure you there won’t be any losses.”
Lin Qingyang nodded, expressing absolute trust.
They quickly arrived at the city gate, and as they were about to bid farewell, Lin Qingyang spoke directly, “Since you’ve all come, why don’t I go and catch up with your master.”
Upon hearing this, the five individuals showed surprise, exchanging glances with each other.
Lin Qingyang assumed an air of profound understanding as if he had known this all along, stabilizing the five individuals.
The one who seemed a bit older stepped forward and whispered, “In that case, Young Master Lin, accompany us alone for a trip. Considering the special status of our master, he cannot enter the capital and should avoid being near it. It’s better for fewer people to know about it.”
Lin Qingyang naturally understood and then pointed to Chu Lishu, who had also alighted from the carriage behind him, “He is my cousin, one of us. I want to bring him along, just the two of us.”
After settling it, Lin Qingyang and Chu Lishu mounted their horses and followed the group out of the city. They continued until they reached a small teahouse by the roadside, gradually stopping. Looking at the carriages outside the teahouse, they presumed the person they were meeting was there.
Following the five individuals into the teahouse, just as they crossed the threshold, they saw a figure sitting upright in front of the main entrance. Wearing a jade crown and with hair neatly tied, adorned in a brocade robe, the person exuded an outstanding temperament, refined and elegant. Sitting alone at the table, engrossed in reading with a book in hand, Lin Qingyang’s memory was instantly triggered.
A gentle and refined eldest brother figure gradually emerged, but in the original body’s memories, he wasn’t very close to this cousin. It seemed that the eldest cousin occasionally lectured and advised him to study, which clashed with the original body’s self-centered and academically indifferent personality. The original body, with his arrogant and indolent character, might not even listen to Marquis An Nan, let alone a cousin. So, he had been unwilling to meet this eldest cousin who also had a superior status.
The teahouse had been reserved in advance, so there was only him inside. Hearing movement outside the door, Liu Jingchen slowly raised his head. When his eyes met Lin Qingyang’s face, his pupils contracted for a moment, as if he couldn’t believe it, freezing for a while.
Lin Qingyang smiled and approached, bowing respectfully. “Eldest cousin, how are you?”
“Qingyang?” Liu Jingchen seemed to have just come to his senses. He immediately stood up and walked over, supporting Lin Qingyang, who was bowing. “Qingyang, how did you…?”
Liu Jingchen looked towards the others.
The older one stepped forward and reported, “It was Young Master Lin who found out on his own and wanted to come out of the city to meet with you with us.”
Liu Jingchen was somewhat surprised. He knew what kind of person his younger cousin was. Without anyone informing him, how could Lin Qingyang know that he was outside the city?
“Qingyang, how did you… come to see me? Is there something going on?” Liu Jingchen and Lin Qingyang hadn’t seen each other for two years, and their relationship had been somewhat distant before. So, there was a bit of awkwardness at first.
“What’s this? Eldest cousin comes to this area, doesn’t inform us, and then blames his little cousin for coming out to meet you?”
Lin Qingyang’s composed demeanor surprised Liu Jingchen; it seemed like his younger cousin had become much more mature.
“Qingyang, you know our situation. Although meeting outside is not illegal, if it’s known to others, it might be used against you. I don’t want to involve you,” Liu Jingchen spoke frankly.
Lin Qingyang sighed, “I understand, but don’t you really want to see my mother and eldest sister? If you’re willing, I can send someone to notify them right now. They miss you a lot.”
However, Liu Jingchen shook his head firmly, “Aunt is unwell, and Qinglan… she probably shouldn’t move around either. It’s better not to let them know I came.”
Lin Qingyang understood that his cousin was genuinely considering their well-being. His visit to the outskirts of the city was probably prompted by the letter, and he was concerned they might be facing real trouble. Being nearby, he could make temporary arrangements to help them.
“Alright then, I’ll stand in for my mother and eldest sister and catch up with you.” Lin Qingyang smiled.
Liu Jingchen naturally didn’t refuse, but at the same time, he noticed the person who came with Lin Qingyang. With such a stunning appearance and attire befitting a master, this person was not someone he recognized. Liu Jingchen was quite curious.
Lin Qingyang took the opportunity to introduce him, “Cousin, this is my paternal aunt’s cousin, Chu Lishu. He currently resides in Marquis An Nan’s residence. He played a crucial role in helping with eldest sister’s situation this time. Without him, the consequences would have been unimaginable. Now, he’s the person I trust the most.”
Lin Qingyang thought that since Qiu Qing and the others had already met Liu Jingchen, he must be aware of Lin Qinglan’s situation. By bringing up Lin Qinglan’s matter, he could potentially create a positive impression on Chu Lishu and maybe facilitate their cooperation.
“Chu Lishu?” Liu Jingchen suddenly questioned.
“Yes,” Lin Qingyang nodded.
When Lin Qingyang introduced him, Chu Lishu had a smile on his face. However, when Liu Jingchen raised a question, Chu Lishu’s smile froze as if it had been suddenly chilled. His eyes became elusive and unreadable.
“Cousin, I’ll wait outside. It’s been a long time since you brothers met, and I’m sure there’s a lot to talk about. I wouldn’t want to disturb…” After saying this, Chu Lishu unexpectedly lowered his head, preparing to leave.
Lin Qingyang looked completely puzzled. What’s going on? Didn’t we agree to cooperate?
If you leave like this, what about the mission? I don’t have another chance to avoid failure and deduction of points.
Seeing that Chu Lishu was really about to leave, Lin Qingyang panicked and hurriedly stepped forward to try to stop him.
However, the next moment, Lin Qingyang’s arm was firmly grabbed by Liu Jingchen.
Although Liu Jingchen didn’t know martial arts, he exerted considerable force to pull Lin Qingyang behind him.
“Seize him!” Liu Jingchen suddenly changed his expression and gave a direct order to the guards by his side.
Though the guards were a bit confused, they understood their master’s intent was to capture Chu Lishu. Without a second thought, they moved forward to apprehend him.
Upon hearing the commotion, Chu Lishu immediately tried to dodge but outnumbered and with his inner strength depleted, his moves were merely for show, lacking any real effectiveness. Almost by the time Lin Qingyang realized what was happening, Chu Lishu had been captured in a sorry state, pressed before the two.
Chu Lishu raised his head, his eyes coldly suppressing the flames of anger.
Lin Qingyang’s mind was filled with exclamation marks.
Heavens, what’s happening? Eldest cousin, do you even know who you’re dealing with?
“Let him go!” Lin Qingyang rushed forward in a panic, fearing he would hear the sound of mission failure in the next second. The original plot didn’t have them fighting as soon as they met.
“Don’t move, Qingyang!” Liu Jingchen tried to stop Lin Qingyang.
But Lin Qingyang practically threw himself forward, abruptly embracing Chu Lishu. He pressed Chu Lishu’s head against his chest as if sheltering a chick. Turning his head, he glared at Liu Jingchen, “Eldest cousin! What are you doing? Did he offend you?”
“Qingyang, it’s dangerous. Let him go. Do you know who he is? He’s not…” Liu Jingchen was also anxious; Lin Qingyang was too close to a dangerous person.
Lin Qingyang’s pupils slightly dilated. This statement… Lin Qingyang’s brain instantly worked in overdrive.
Could it be that Liu Jingchen knew that the male lead wasn’t the real Chu Lishu?
Not good!
Seeing Liu Jingchen about to say something, Lin Qingyang quickly shouted to interrupt, “Of course, I know who he is! He’s saved me several times and also saved my eldest sister. As long as I’m here, no one is allowed to harm him!”
The person who had been struggling in Lin Qingyang’s arms suddenly stiffened.
Thinking that Chu Lishu was afraid of his identity being exposed, Lin Qingyang quickly hugged him tighter.
“Release him!”
Seeing Lin Qingyang almost desperately defending this person, Liu Jingchen was also dumbfounded. “You… you have no idea, he…”
“I said let him go!” Lin Qingyang interrupted once again.
Eldest cousin, please don’t say anything. I can’t hear it, or we’ll both end up dead!
But the one with the most intense emotions at this moment was Chu Lishu.
The moment he saw Liu Jingchen’s expression, he knew that his identity had been exposed for some reason. Liu Jingchen knew he wasn’t the real Chu Lishu, which was why he intervened to protect Lin Qingyang.
For a moment, he couldn’t think of any other solution, and all he could do was retreat. However, he was caught. Although he had faced crises before, this time… Lin Qingyang was right here.
Lin Qingyang was about to find out.
To find out that he wasn’t Chu Lishu!
What would they do?
Especially with Lin Qingyang protecting him like this, a moment of panic overwhelmed Chu Lishu, and his emotions, long restrained, momentarily lost control. The eyes buried in Lin Qingyang’s chest were almost completely bloodshot.
Unable to control the tearing impulse in his brain, he abruptly pulled his wrist out of the person holding him, and with a cracking sound, his arm dislocated. The person who let go was stunned for a moment, not expecting Chu Lishu to be so ruthless. By the time they reacted, they saw Chu Lishu lifting his dislocated arm, knocking Lin Qingyang unconscious.
As Lin Qingyang collapsed, Chu Lishu immediately held onto him. Despite the intense pain in his arm, he didn’t let go of Lin Qingyang. He seemed to have seen Lin Qingyang’s eyes turning red a moment ago. This level of protection and trust pacified the turmoil in Chu Lishu’s mind.
Because he was sure Lin Qingyang couldn’t hear at the moment, Chu Lishu gradually calmed down.
“Release my cousin!”
Hearing the voice, Chu Lishu abruptly looked at Liu Jingchen, a restrained and ominous aura hidden in his eyes.
Liu Jingchen thought he was going to hold Lin Qingyang hostage, and his guard immediately went up.
“Liu Jingchen, you can tie me up, but I hope you give me some time. Let’s talk privately.”
Liu Jingchen watched him warily for a moment, but seeing that he genuinely didn’t intend to harm Lin Qingyang, he calmed down and said slowly, “Fine, let them take Qingyang out.”
Chu Lishu nodded. The people nearby went to support Lin Qingyang, but Chu Lishu’s gaze couldn’t move away until he saw Lin Qingyang being taken out. Only then did he retract his gaze.
Chu Lishu’s concern for Lin Qingyang naturally didn’t escape Liu Jingchen’s notice, adding to Liu Jingchen’s confusion.
He didn’t bind Chu Lishu but allowed him to sit across from him, focusing on resetting his own joints.
With a cracking sound, Chu Lishu’s face remained unchanged, as if he were treating someone else’s injury. A person who could endure so much pain must be someone extraordinary.
“Who exactly are you? When the Chu family went to the capital and borrowed money from me, I met Chu Lishu once. You are clearly not Chu Lishu. You used his identity to stay in Marquis An Nan’s residence and get close to my cousin. What’s your motive?”
Chu Lishu straightforwardly said, “You’re right; I’m not him. Who I am and what I want? If you find out, even if I can’t kill to cover it up, once my identity is exposed, neither the Jiangnan Liu family nor Marquis An Nan’s residence will be able to survive.”
Liu Jingchen’s eyes flickered slightly, seemingly weighing the implications of his words.
“My goal is not you, and I won’t actively harm you. I’m just borrowing this identity temporarily.”
“Do you think I can believe you just because you say so? Your background is unclear, and I can’t trust you staying in Marquis An Nan’s residence. Unless you leave, I might consider not exposing you, pretending that nothing happened.” Liu Jingchen never liked the Chu family or the Lin family. As long as they didn’t harm his loved ones, he didn’t care about the others.
“I need to continue using this identity. Soon, I will enter the palace as a prince’s study companion. Since Lin Qingyang won’t go, it’s as if I’ve left Marquis An Nan’s residence. Is that acceptable?”
Chu Lishu casually dropped a line, making Liu Jingchen speculate. This person with an unclear background was only borrowing the identity of a fallen aristocrat. How could he be more confident than the legitimate eldest son of a marquis to enter the palace?
Although Liu Jingchen was full of suspicions, he didn’t delve too deeply. “Then I have to let Qingyang know.”
Chu Lishu’s negotiating gaze instantly changed, as if it were filled with a sudden fierceness. “No.”
Liu Jingchen scrutinized Chu Lishu’s attitude and noticed that he seemed particularly afraid of Lin Qingyang learning the truth.
Knowing that Liu Jingchen was a businessman, Chu Lishu understood the need for good bargaining chips in negotiations. He restrained his temper, which had been uncontrollable when Lin Qingyang was mentioned, and said, “How about we make a deal?”
“Oh? What do you want to exchange?”
“Do you want to bring the Liu family back to the capital with honor?” Chu Lishu slowly lifted his eyes, his gaze almost penetrating Liu Jingchen’s thoughts. Seeing the uncontrollable change in his expression, Chu Lishu smiled and said, “I can help you achieve that.”
“By you?” Liu Jingchen’s emotions were immediately stirred. He found it ridiculous. Even he had no solution to the problem. How could this young kid dare to boast so shamelessly?
However, as Liu Jingchen looked at Chu Lishu’s almost unchanged expression, his mocking and belittling emotions were suddenly frozen.
“Tell me then, if it’s a good idea, I might consider it.”
Chu Lishu slowly laid out his plan, and as his crystal-clear voice filled the room like drops of water splashing on jade, Liu Jingchen’s expression gradually fractured.
His eyes widened, staring at Chu Lishu in disbelief.
“This method…”
“I told you, I will enter the palace as a prince’s study companion. Everything is possible.” Chu Lishu’s tone carried an air of strategic planning, forcing Liu Jingchen before him to acknowledge the meticulousness of his plan. However, it all hinged on everything going smoothly.
But someone with such a scheme, how could they be casually bluffing him?
“Just to make me keep your secret, you’re helping the Liu family plan so meticulously? Do you know what crime the Liu family has committed?”
Chu Lishu suddenly chuckled, “Has the Liu family committed a crime?”
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