𝐅𝐞𝐢┃18+

┃61┃

In the solemn atmosphere of the decision hall, the weight of the situation pressed heavily on the gathering. The air was thick with the tension of unspoken judgments as the advisors sat with stern faces.

Sheng Yinghao, known for his straightforwardness, did not delay in voicing his concerns.

“Master Yang,” he began, his voice carrying the gravity of the situation, “Lu Junting’s men have been nothing but trouble. Their actions have caused more harm than good, and we are all suffering the consequences. This is not a matter that can be brushed aside.”

Yang sat upright, his demeanor unshaken. His expression was composed, his gaze steady, absorbing the sharp words without a flinch.

His posture, relaxed yet attentive, spoke of a man accustomed to bearing the weight of others’ expectations.

Head Tao, observing with narrowed eyes, spoke solemnly. “I commend your loyalty to your father’s word, marrying into the Lu family to maintain peace. But, my child, this situation has spiraled out of control. Your decision has brought us nothing but trouble. Where does your loyalty lie now?”

The words hung heavily in the air, but Yang remained calm, betraying none of the turmoil that might have been brewing inside.

His response was measured, his voice steady. “I understand the concerns, and I do not deny the issues at hand. But I stand by my decisions. The actions of others do not define my loyalty, nor do they dictate my responsibilities. I will address this matter, and it will be resolved.”

Li Siheng and Tao Lan exchanged glances, quietly assessing Yang’s resolve. They had seen stronger men buckle under similar pressures, yet Yang remained untouched by the storm swirling around him.

As the discussion wore on, with criticisms and suggestions directed at Yang, he remained a pillar of composure. Despite the mountain air carrying the weight of their accusations, Yang’s demeanor stayed resilient and poised.

The hours dragged on, each minute weighed down by tense exchanges and icy stares.

The advisors, their expressions as cold as the stone walls around them, continued to press Yang with relentless criticism.

Sheng Yinghao’s earlier mockery lost its sting in the face of Yang’s unwavering calmness.

When the meeting finally ended, the advisors dispersed, their faces etched with the strain of hours spent in intense discussion.

Yang, however, appeared unchanged by the ordeal. He stepped outside, the cool mountain air a welcome relief from the stifling atmosphere inside. His eyes gazed out over the distant landscape, a serene expression settling on his face.

As he stood there, lost in thought, he sensed a familiar presence approaching. Without turning, he knew who it was. A smirk slowly curved his lips as Tao Lan came into view.

“Done observing from the shadows?” Yang taunted, his voice light despite the tension he had just endured. “Or do you have something more to say now that the dust has settled?”

“Well, the young master always knows where the dust is gliding,” Tao Lan retorted smoothly, a knowing smile on his lips. “But tell me, did you enjoy watching them squirm, or was it just another day at work?”

Yang let out a low chuckle, turning slightly to meet Tao Lan’s gaze. “Squirming is the least of their problems. But I suppose you enjoyed the show as much as I did, even if you won’t admit it.”

Tao Lan chuckled softly, leaning casually against a nearby pillar. “Admit it? Well, it’s quite true that I thrive on watching you dance through their traps. But you might want to keep an eye on Sheng Yinghao—he’s not one to let go of a grudge easily.”