After four years of contact with the Immortal Statue, Niu Dali had come to understand some of his nature. Being pointed out as disobedient naturally led him to many associations; the loss of his son might just be a warning from the Immortal Statue.
As soon as he voiced his question, he regretted it. However, anger quickly took its place. The more he thought about it, the more convinced he became that this was indeed the case. Even the royal family seemed wary of him. Who in the city, besides the Immortal Statue, would dare to target his son, whom he had longed for over four years?
Niu Dali swept all the offerings off the altar in a fit of rage, his eyes bloodshot. "Everyone respects you as an immortal, but do you really think you are one? I may not know all your secret methods, but I have caught glimpses. Shouldn't I be afraid of you? Shouldn't I be on guard?"
For these past few years, while he appeared to be thriving, he was merely serving a new master. In front of the Immortal Statue, he had been even more diligent than when serving the royal family. His humility was solely for the sake of having a home. What was wrong with protecting his young son?
Even without merit, there was suffering involved. If you resort to despicable means, do you not fear losing people's hearts? Most of what happens outside is managed by me. If my heart is hurt and I lose focus on my duties, then daily offerings will cease.
You dare to threaten me!
Niu Dali quickly responded, "I wouldn't dare!" He truly did not dare; the power and wealth he had fought hard to obtain were not something he could easily give up. Not to mention, the other party's strength was unfathomable.
His angry words were merely a humble expression of his dissatisfaction. He was afraid—losing one son was already enough; if this continued to happen repeatedly, he would go mad.
Today's recklessness was simply a plea for assurance.
He needed not only a descendant but also one that was healthy and free from manipulation. Thus, he planned to take a foolish risk.
"How could I possibly threaten you?" Niu Dali's expression turned submissive as tears began to fall. His voice choked as he spoke, "Today’s calamity has left me heartbroken and disoriented; that’s why I spoke without thinking. Please forgive me."
Before the Immortal Statue could respond about whether to forgive him or not, Niu Dali knelt heavily on the ground. The sound of his knee hitting the floor echoed painfully; it sounded like bone striking stone. Yet in reality, it was merely a technique learned from serving in the palace.
Upon hearing this, some of the Immortal Statue's anger dissipated.
Niu Dali pleaded on his knees, "Considering my hard work for you over these years, please help me find the murderer and grant me another son. If you could also assist with this stillborn Underworld matter, that would be even better."
"Hmph! Who is the master and who is the servant? How dare you make demands of your master! This damned servant is really pushing it!"
Niu Dali continued, "Don’t think my requests are excessive or unreasonable. Everyone in Ginger knows I am your person; killing my son is equivalent to slapping your face."
"You are powerful yet cannot protect even an infant? If word gets out, what will people think?"
The Immortal Statue gritted his teeth. "What will they think?"
"You are an immortal; who would dare slander you publicly? But so many eyes are watching. If this matter isn’t handled properly—forget my own grief and anger—I won’t have any motivation left."
"The main issue is that it would tarnish your reputation and hinder your important affairs; that would be a grave sin."
Niu Dali spoke with humble language and attitude, each word seemingly considerate yet laced with threats. The Immortal Statue remained silent for a long time before deciding to stabilize him first with words: "Over these years, you've made quite a few enemies; they are merely those people. My identity does not allow me to meddle in mortal disputes."
"With my support, you have amassed considerable power; capturing a murderer is just a small matter. If you still expect me to intervene further, then you are truly hopeless. Why should I continue wasting my energy on you?"
I will give you some face regarding the matters of your Dead Infant and communicate with the Underworld. As for the issue of offspring, at this time, you will be able to fulfill your wishes. After all, you are my most capable servant, and I will take care of your descendants in the future. I can't truly let you feel disheartened.
Comment 0 Comment Count