"Shi Yun," she shouted in anger, "how many times do I have to say it before you accept this fact? Shi Dingyang is our son! He is dead!"
"He was punished for his mistakes; it is not unjust. His death is also partly my fault, and after I die, the Underworld will bear that sin."
"I have tolerated your nonsense over the years and even covered for you on several occasions. Although the recent case was cleared up beforehand, traces remain. Do you really think I couldn't implicate the Cui Family?"
"It’s only because of Shi Yang that I spared you once more. Now I clearly tell you, this is the last time. If you remain stubborn, don’t blame me for being ruthless!"
Cui Lan roared, "Shi Yun! You beast! You are unworthy of being a father; both of your sons have died because of you. You are a cursed star, bringing death to everyone around you. The only one left, this grandson, I doubt he will live long either."
Shi Yun chose to ignore the madwoman and ordered someone to drag her away.
As she was taken out, she continued to shout, "Why should a sudden wild child receive all your favoritism? My Yang'er grew up by your side, yet all you gave him was strictness and disapproval. He never saw you smile even once while growing up."
"I thought you treated everyone like this; it turns out there was an exception. Shi Yun, I curse that little brat to die by your hand too! Why should my son live in darkness and despair?"
Though it seemed her mouth had been shut, the implication of her words forced Shi Yun to think deeply. Coupled with his grandson's recent actions, he couldn't help but break into a cold sweat.
He sat alone in the room until nightfall, neglecting to light a lamp.
It was only when his great-grandson returned that he lit the lamp for him.
What had he been thinking all afternoon?
"Don't take Cui Lan's ramblings seriously," he reassured himself. "I often mingle with Miss Sang and the others; if I were to be cursed, she would surely inform me. With her abilities, dispelling it wouldn't be difficult."
Suddenly, Shi Yun asked, "Is Shi Dingyang still alive?"
Wang Kuan did not answer immediately; instead, he placed a lunch box on the table and opened it, laying out several dishes.
"I heard you're the most diligent official in the Court, often working ten hours straight or even staying up all night. Eating must feel like a waste of time for you."
"Since you've probably never tasted the food from Miss Sang's Small Tavern, I've bought some of their specialties today. Shall we have a drink together?"
Shi Yun took a deep breath and smiled. "I've had it before; Yongxin Marquis often brings it into the palace as a gift from His Majesty. It does taste quite good."
He picked up his chopsticks but found no joy in eating; his mind was preoccupied with other matters. "Tomorrow I'll tell everyone I mistook someone and that my assets will still go to you. After severing this connection with Yamen, you should leave Beijing quickly."
"I've heard you're quite good at small business ventures; turn my assets into cash if you can. Being a wealthy merchant isn’t bad either. The Court is full of troubles; if you're not careful, you'll lose everything. I don't expect much from you—just live safely and soundly."
"If you still wish to take the Imperial Examination, wait a few more years. You're only nineteen; wait another ten years until things settle down before making your move."
"The royal physician might not be available anymore; the doctor you hired for your mother was excellent. However, medicinal herbs are costly and rare. I'll send someone to help prepare more for you in these days."
Moreover, if something were to happen to me, you all should take care of yourselves and not worry about me. I have worked diligently for so many years and have made significant contributions. My fate is destined to be preserved; I just fear that it might bring trouble to you.
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