ebookland Chapter 60 "No one shall bully my people!"
Chapter 60 "No one shall bully my people!"
As the afterglow on the horizon gradually faded, it was getting late, and Lin Qianqian and Murong Yi were about to set off back to the palace.
As she was about to leave, Lin Qianqian moved gracefully to her father's side. She tilted her head slightly, looking at his face, which was filled with weariness and anger, and whispered, "Father, although Yueyue is a bit willful, she is still a member of the Lin family. No one is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. She is still young, and perhaps she made a mistake on impulse. I hope you won't be angry anymore."
Lin Qianqian spoke earnestly, her eyes filled with worry and pleading. She knew her father was getting old, and if he were to get angry all the time, it would harm his health. In the Lin family, her father was like the pillar of the family; his well-being was related to the rise and fall of the entire clan.
Prime Minister Lin listened quietly to Lin Qianqian's words of advice. His tightly furrowed brows gradually relaxed, and a glimmer of light seemed to shine in his eyes—a light that reflected his appreciation for his daughter's understanding and kindness, and even more so, his relief at her concern for him. He nodded slightly, the anger on his face completely vanishing, replaced by an expression of tenderness and relief. It was as if, in that instant, all his troubles had disappeared because of his daughter's heartfelt words.
Prime Minister Lin sighed softly, raised his hand and lovingly stroked Lin Qianqian's head, his eyes filled with relief and emotion: "Qianqian, I am very pleased that you are so understanding and righteous. You have been kind-hearted and reasonable since childhood, and now you are even more sensible. I know how to handle this, and I will not harm my health because of a moment of anger. You can go back to the palace with peace of mind, and do not worry about things at home."
Murong Yi stood tall to the side, taking in the entire scene. His face was calm and serene, like a profound painting. He didn't utter a word, but a gentle tenderness, like moonlight, quietly flowed from his deep eyes. It seemed as if he was touched by Lin Qianqian's pure kindness and filial piety, or as if ripples were spreading in his heart, and he was quietly captivated by her beautiful qualities.
Lin Qianqian solemnly bid farewell to her father, and then, with Xiaodie's gentle support, gracefully walked towards the sedan chair that was already waiting nearby. Her figure was elegant, her clothes fluttered, and her lotus-like steps revealed her gentle grace.
Murong Yi turned slightly to the side, his gaze following her the whole time. Only when she approached did they both get into the sedan chair. With a low shout from the sedan chair bearers, the sedan chair slowly lifted up and began its swaying journey back to the Prince's mansion.
On the way back to the Prince's Mansion, the atmosphere in the cramped sedan chair was as if shrouded in frost, still as awkward and unbearable as ever.
Murong Yi sat upright, his expression unchanged, his cold face turned towards the outside of the sedan chair, seemingly ignoring Lin Qianqian beside him. Lin Qianqian pondered for a long time before finally glancing at him, taking a deep breath as if gathering immense courage, and then cautiously whispered, "Um... thank you for today!"
Murong Yi, like a startled bird, slowly turned his head, his gaze falling on her face. His brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of doubt filled his eyes as he asked, "What?" His deep voice echoed in the quiet sedan chair, adding to the tense atmosphere.
Lin Qianqian sat up slightly, looking sincerely at Murong Yi, and said earnestly, "Your Highness, today in the manor... if it weren't for Your Highness standing up for me, I really wouldn't know how to handle it. Your words were like a ray of light in the darkness, dispelling my fear and helplessness. I am filled with gratitude, and Qianqian will never forget this kindness." After speaking, she lowered her head, her face slightly flushed, like a ripe apple.
Upon hearing this, Murong Yi's expression remained unchanged, still cold and aloof. He spoke calmly, "No need to worry. Now that you are my queen, I will protect you. Although we are forced into marriage by circumstances, as those in positions of power, certain formalities must be performed. My people will not be allowed to be bullied at will; this is my duty, so you need not concern yourself." After speaking, he shifted his gaze, as if what he had just said was merely a routine matter. However, his slightly clenched fists seemed to inadvertently reveal a trace of unspoken emotion within him.
Upon hearing Murong Yi's response, Lin Qianqian's delicate brows furrowed slightly, like two crescent moons shrouded in a light mist. A fleeting hint of disappointment flashed in her eyes, before she fell into deep thought. Her gaze seemed to pierce through the sedan curtains, drifting towards an unknown distance, attempting to discern any sincerity behind Murong Yi's seemingly cold words. Yet, ultimately, she grew increasingly lost in this turbulent vortex of emotions.
Outside the sedan chair, a biting wind howled past, making the withered branches by the roadside tremble as if uttering a painful groan. The sky was darkening, and heavy, leaden clouds hung low in the air, as if they might collapse at any moment.
In the oppressive atmosphere, the distant mountains were only outlined in a blur. The snow piled up dirty on both sides of the road. Occasionally, a few crows flapped their wings and flew by, emitting a few hoarse cries, which added to the loneliness and desolation. It was as if everything in the world was infected by this awkward and subtle atmosphere, exuding an indescribable coldness.