Chapter 86
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Lu Shi was instantly frightened and knelt down, not daring to hide anything. “Master, I’ve been gathering information around the residence since last night, trying to understand the situation inside.”
Lu Yi knew about this; he was responsible for squatting near the master, while Lu Shi hid in various places to figure out every corner of Marquis An Nan’s residence.
“Then… then I heard many rumors. Lin Qingyang is actually a homosexual; he likes men. The servants in the residence spread rumors that he has been coveting you, and they say he used to bully you, forcing you to submit. Now, you have such a close relationship with him, taking care of him personally and sticking to him all the time. He must have… Master, how can you endure such insult? It’s absolutely not acceptable! So, Master, you can’t move out with him just to repay his kindness for saving you. If that’s the case, I’d rather let that guy stab me with two swords in return.”
Lu Shi idolized the Crown Prince the most, treating him like a celestial being. To hear such things said about his celestial being behind his back, and the thought of Lin Qingyang possibly having feelings for Chu Lishu made Lu Shi almost cry. What worried him even more was that during the period when Chu Lishu had no martial skills, if he was really bullied, it would be their dereliction of duty. They would be deserving of a thousand deaths for failing to atone.
Upon hearing this, Lu Yi’s face also turned pale, but after some consideration, he felt that something was off… Their master didn’t seem like someone who would passively submit, right?
Carefully observing the changing expressions on their master’s face, the astute Lu Yi sensed that something was amiss and couldn’t help but interject, “Lin Qingyang seems to treat our master quite well. Servants’ rumors are often exaggerated and unreliable.”
However Lu Shi paid no attention and became increasingly enraged, his eyes turning red.
“He’s inviting you to move out together for what reason? Without the restraint of elders, he can do whatever he wants. Otherwise, bringing his mother and eldest sister along would make sense, but bringing you, what does that mean? Even in the best relationships, take, for example, the young masters of the Yue and Huo families, they wouldn’t suggest living together! What does he take you for?”
“There was also a young attendant who came to their door, and he ended up dead for no apparent reason. I went to Secluded Courtyard Pavilion to investigate, my goodness, what kind of person is he! Master, you must not be deceived.”
“Enough, Lu Shi!” Lu Yi, seeing their master’s increasingly hostile expression, quickly intervened.
Only then did Lu Shi shut up, looking at Chu Lishu with a mix of grievance and unwillingness.
“In your eyes, am I someone who is easily deceived or compliant?” Chu Lishu said coldly.
Lu Yi and Lu Shi instinctively had solemn expressions.
Chu Lishu put down his pen, slowly sat down, and directly said, “Forget it, I’ll tell you, so there won’t be any misunderstandings.”
Lu Yi and Lu Shi stared at Chu Lishu with anticipation. They naturally hoped that it was all a misunderstanding, that their master was living well, and that Lin Qingyang was a good person.
Chu Lishu, however, remained calm and said, “He does like me.”
Lu Yi was stunned, and Lu Shi drew his sword directly, saying, “I’ll go and kill that delusional guy, daring to covet…”
“I also accept his affection.” Chu Lishu displayed an indifferent and insightful attitude.
Lu Yi and Lu Shi were frozen, both wearing bewildered expressions on their faces.
“After I returned to the capital, isolated and helpless, I encountered many troubles. He helped me many times, risking his life for me, and it’s not just the incident with your sword. Even though in his eyes, I’m just a relative from a declining family, he unconditionally trusts me. If a woman treated you like that, how would you feel?”
The answers in the minds of Lu Yi and Lu Shi were natural: Not to disappoint such deep affection.
“But… he is a man… he…”
“His affection for me is very pure and without malice. Even now, he has not expressed anything explicitly, just caused a misunderstanding once. He has a silent admiration for me and doesn’t really want to do anything to me. We’ve always treated each other as siblings. Why can’t we respect and acknowledge that? Since I used this identity, let’s consider ourselves as brothers.”
In the past, there were not a few people who liked or even were infatuated with Yuan Ran. However, Lin Qingyang was different from them. His feelings were given freely, without asking for anything in return. The only somewhat whimsical request was probably just wanting to stick by his side all the time and see him every day.
This kind of humility made Chu Lishu even feel as if not liking men was his own fault.
It also added an indescribable warmth to Chu Lishu, who was filled with hatred, easing the pain and agony in his mind.
Lu Shi was dumbfounded.
Coughing slightly, Lu Yi said, “Looking at it this way, it’s not harmful to us. Instead, it gives our master another loyal subject. It’s good, as long as he doesn’t cross any boundaries.”
Chu Lishu nodded, smiling bitterly, “Besides, he has secretly admired the former Yuan Ran, even though Yuan Ran’s reputation is now tarnished.”
This revelation even shook Lu Shi, considering that, in the past three years, how many people dared to speak well of Prince Yuan Ran?
“Alright, let’s stop discussing Lin Qingyang. In the future, remember to respect him and take care of him. Now, let’s talk about the main matters…” Chu Lishu’s expression gradually turned fierce.
With Lu Yi and Lu Shi by his side, many matters that Chu Lishu found inconvenient to handle before could now be delegated to them. Lu Yi and Lu Shi immediately listened respectfully and took note of all the instructions given by their lord.
“By the way, who was in charge of investigating Blood Abyss Pavilion before?”
Back when Crown Prince Yuan Ran had been targeted in an assassination attempt by Blood Abyss Pavilion, he had specifically ordered the Shadow Wolves to investigate the origins of the organization.
Lu Yi promptly responded, “It was under my responsibility. The investigation at that time revealed a possible connection between its establishment and the influential figures in the capital. However, we didn’t have the chance to thoroughly uncover the specific details as we joined you in the expedition.”
“If the lead from back then is still available, continue the investigation.”
“Yes!” Lu Yi immediately acknowledged.
“Are those two from the other day?” Lu Shi recalled.
Chu Lishu nodded, “Firstly, I dislike having people eyeing those close to me. Secondly, if we can find out Blood Abyss Pavilion’s connections, it would be a useful tool for assassination. I need these hidden forces now.”
Following the rules of Blood Abyss Pavilion, it was nearly impossible to identify the perpetrator behind the attempted assassination of Lin Qingyang. The only feasible approach was to trace the issue back to its roots.
Before the day was over, Chu Lishu had already sorted out many matters. In the evening, Shuncai came to find him.
“Young Master Chu, the Young Master has something to discuss with you.”
Chu Lishu checked the time, and frowned slightly, feeling somewhat helpless. He had left in the morning, and it seemed he couldn’t last a day without seeing him?
“Now that it’s getting late, it might not be suitable to go to Aunt’s courtyard at this hour. If cousin doesn’t have anything urgent, I’ll go see him tomorrow,” Chu Lishu calmly stated.
Shuncai immediately looked troubled, “That might not be good. The Young Master surely has something urgent to discuss with you. If you don’t go, he might come himself.”
Chu Lishu sighed reluctantly, “Well, I’ll go.”
Soon, Chu Lishu arrived at the temporary residence where Lin Qingyang was staying. As soon as he entered, he met Lin Qingyang’s anxious and expectant gaze.
It was clear that Lin Qingyang had been watching the door, anticipating his arrival.
This eager expression caused Chu Lishu, who had just decided not to move out together, to feel a sudden pang in his chest.
“Cousin… how’s the wound?” Chu Lishu asked somewhat awkwardly.
“I used the medicine from mother’s place, the one bestowed by the imperial court. The physician who just came to change the bandages said it’s healing well. I should be able to get out of bed in a couple of days. It’s just that I need to be careful with my diet. Now, I’m using the same recipes as Mother,” Lin Qingyang said with a smile.
“That’s good. Did Cousin have something specific to discuss with me?” Chu Lishu sat down by the bedside.
However, when he inquired further, Lin Qingyang hesitated. Chu Lishu couldn’t help but feel resigned. It seemed like his cousin just wanted to see him, and that was it.
Chu Lishu tilted his head, looking puzzled, as if questioning why Lin Qingyang didn’t mention a reason as if it was inappropriate.
The reason Lin Qingyang had in mind was undoubtedly reasonable and justified, but it was just not convenient to say.
After calculating the time since Chu Lishu left in the morning, Lin Qingyang realized that the check-in time and intensity might not be sufficient. So, he decided to come and make up for it in the evening.
“About… we still have an unresolved issue, right? It’s about that… moving out together thing.” Lin Qingyang explained his plan, “That… you…”
Chu Lishu, observing Lin Qingyang’s demeanor, found it hard to voice a refusal. In his mind, various thoughts flashed by, contemplating the means by which he could achieve their goal if they were to move out together.
Before Chu Lishu could fully form his thoughts, he heard Lin Qingyang say, “I was wrong. I initially thought that if we moved out together, we could be more carefree and not be restricted by Marquis An Nan’s residence. However, I forgot that there still needs to be some etiquette and distance between you and my eldest sister.”
Chu Lishu’s eyes flickered, “It’s good that you’ve thought about it. I do have this concern, and it’s not that I… don’t want to.”
Lin Qingyang smiled, “I knew you would be willing. After all, our relationship is so close, right? Haha.”
Chu Lishu nodded without saying much.
Then, Lin Qingyang took out the land deeds obtained during the day and discussed them with Chu Lishu. Apparently, even if Chu Lishu didn’t move out with them, he was still consulted for his opinion.
Chu Lishu, not very interested, offered some advice, and they finally settled on a good place.
It’s a secluded estate, surrounded by other people’s estates. On the left is the General’s estate, and on the right is the official’s estate. The status is extraordinary, although it’s not lively on regular days. The security is strict enough, ensuring safety and tranquility. It basically eliminates the possibility of anyone causing trouble. Most importantly, it’s far from Marquis An Nan’s residence. It takes one or two hours just by carriage. Even someone with Lishi’s status wouldn’t risk coming all this way to bother County Princess Yawen.
Taking out the blueprint of the estate, examining it closely, Lin Qingyang smiled and said, ‘This is good. Not too many courtyards, not too few. This one is for Mother, this one for my eldest sister, this one for me, and there are three guest courtyards. This one…'”
Just now, Chu Lishu, in order to look at the blueprints together with him, had to cooperate and lay down on the side. Watching Lin Qingyang’s fingers glide over the blueprint, he couldn’t help but feel sleepy. It had been a long time since he last slept, and his body clearly couldn’t hold on any longer; his mind was becoming a bit fuzzy.
Suddenly, Lin Qingyang’s voice broke through, “How about I leave this one for you, is it okay?”
“In an instant, Chu Lishu was startled awake. He turned his head to look down, and at the same time, Lin Qingyang tilted his head to look up. The two exchanged a gaze.
For some reason, Lin Qingyang felt that the black pupils in Chu Lishu’s eyes seemed to have suddenly deepened, causing his heart to race for a moment.
“Uh, it’s not like I’m asking you to move in,” he hurriedly clarified. “I’ll definitely invite you over often to hang out. We can reserve a courtyard just for you, a place to put your things. It’ll be more convenient that way.”
As Lin Qingyang spoke, he began to reflect on whether he was overstepping again. His gaze couldn’t help but awkwardly shift downward, moving precisely to Chu Lishu’s Adam’s apple.
Chu Lishu’s neck was slender and fair, and the shape of the Adam’s apple was also alluring and attractive. In this moment, there was a sudden up-and-down movement.
Lin Qingyang thought he was about to speak, but after a while, he heard a somewhat hoarse voice slowly say, “Alright, leave it for me.”
Lin Qingyang felt delighted; as long as Chu Lishu didn’t object, it meant that in the future, he could still insist on spending time together when they didn’t live together.
The two of them resumed discussing various arrangements for the future.
Listening from above, Lu Shi’s teeth ground until they ached.
“Don’t eavesdrop on the master’s conversation. We’re only responsible for protection,” Lu Yi frowned, making it clear to Lu Shi about the rules.
However, Lu Shi couldn’t help but anxiously say, “Didn’t you hear? Even though the master said that earlier, this guy… this guy’s thoughts are just too obvious! The master actually agreed, and if you didn’t know any better, you’d think they were a couple discussing how to build their future love nest.”
“You’re becoming more and more unruly in your speech. When you were a child, we let it slide, but now it’s just the two of us. You should know what the Shadow Wolves should and shouldn’t manage.” Lu Yi frowned.
Lu Shi felt a pain in his chest from being blocked, but he was also internally upset. If Lin Qingyang was thin and delicate, with a more feminine demeanor, maybe he wouldn’t feel so uncomfortable. However, no matter how he thought about it, in Lin Qingyang’s imagination, the master was the one in the submissive role. How could he endure this? Especially after Lu Shi had gone to the Secluded Courtyard Pavilion and was frightened, he couldn’t tolerate it even more.
Lu Yi didn’t know what poor Lu Shi had seen, just lying on the roof, saying, “I have things to take care of tomorrow. I’ll rest for a while. Call me when the master leaves.”
Lu Shi was about to agree when he was suddenly stunned and slapped Lu Yi frantically. “The master actually slept beside him. You can’t sleep. We’ll watch it together. As long as Lin Qingyang dares to make a move on the master, we’ll rush in and kill that guy, take the master away!”
Lin Qingyang certainly wouldn’t do anything inappropriate to the male lead, and he even had a headache. How could he fall asleep?
But thinking that this person had taken care of him all night without sleep and seemed to have not rested during the day, Lin Qingyang eventually gave up after shouting a couple of times. He comforted himself that it was okay; he would get half of the check-in done with a good night’s sleep, and then he helped cover Chu Lishu with a blanket.
Until the next morning.
Chu Lishu naturally got up and directly asked, “The three-day holiday is over, today is the day to return to the academy. You can’t go back temporarily. How many days do you plan to take off? Considering your physical condition, I suggest you just wait until after the New Year to return.”
Now there are fifteen days left until the New Year, and ten days during the New Year period.
With only 13 points left, Lin Qingyang exclaimed: !!!!!!!!
At this point, Lin Qingyang’s expression was in a panic, resembling the famous painting “The Scream.” He was anxious as he couldn’t avoid taking leave, and then he had to arrange the moving process.
However, Chu Lishu had no reason to take leave with him!
“F-five… five days! At most five days!”
Chu Lishu frowned slightly, seemingly disapproving.
But Lin Qingyang was on the verge of tears from anxiety. “I’ve made up my mind. You don’t need to say anything more.”
Five days! He couldn’t bear it, even for five days! It suddenly dropped below the safety line!
Chu Lishu quickly turned serious. “Cousin, your injury is not a joke. Do you intend to leave behind sequelae?”
Although he knew you were doing it for my own good, big brother, the issue is not about sequelae. I’m afraid I won’t make it to the day when there are sequelae!
However, Lin Qingyang had also become more clever. He didn’t argue with Chu Lishu. He figured that when the time came, he would go on his own, and Chu Lishu couldn’t stop him.
Seeing Lin Qingyang silent, Chu Lishu thought he agreed and stood up. “I’ll leave after the physician changes your dressing.”
Lin Qingyang watched anxiously as Chu Lishu got up and tidied his clothes, wanting to say something but hesitating.
Seeing Lin Qingyang looking at him, Chu Lishu thought for a moment and decided to also take a two-day leave. During these two days, he would help Lin Qingyang arrange everything related to moving. When the time came, Lin Qingyang could inform Marquis An Nan directly, and County Princess Yawen and Lin Qinglan could leave first. This way, Lin Qingyang wouldn’t have to deal with these matters while still recovering.
Chu Lishu would take care of everything, and Lin Qingyang naturally entrusted him with full authority. Plus, he could save up two points, which was great.
Two days later, Chu Lishu went to the academy, and everything related to the new residence had been settled. They just needed to wait for Lin Qingyang to be able to get out of bed so he could inform Marquis An Nan.
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Oh boy i cant wait for the day when cls finally acknowledges the feeling he has…ur in love bro idk what to tell u