Blossom in Adversity

C121. Bai Lin's Power.

Chapter 121 Bai Lin's Power

Hua Bailin and Yang Sui'an divided into two paths, with Yang Sui'an taking the shortcut through the back door to prepare for his mother's departure from the Yang family. If the Yang family tried to stop him, he would coordinate with his younger cousin.

Meanwhile, Hua Bailin rode on horseback with forty imposing bodyguards along the main road, accompanied by a sedan chair to attract attention. Many households even sent their own bodyguards to follow behind, curious about the sudden appearance of the usually low-profile Hua family.

The sight of this procession frightened the Yang family, who quickly closed their doors and sent someone inside to report the situation.

Hua Bailin dismounted and announced, "This is Hua Bailin from the Hua family, here to retrieve the daughter of the Hua family."

This declaration caused a stir, as people wondered why the Hua family was bringing back a daughter they had already married off. The leader of the group, a young boy, appeared immature, sparking further speculation about the state of the Hua family.

Ignoring the murmurs, Hua Bailin repeated, "This is Hua Bailin from the Hua family, here to retrieve the daughter of Hua family."

The Hua family guards shouted in unison to demonstrate their resolve. It was clear that the Hua family had no intentions of backing down.

With no choice but to face the situation head-on, the Yang family opened their gates, and the fourth-ranked official, Yang Zheng, emerged in a new coat with a stern expression. He was followed by his entourage of male relatives, all looking displeased at Hua Bailin's audacity.

Yang Zheng asked, "What brings the young master of the Hua family to our doorstep?"

Yang Zheng thought he could easily dismiss the situation, underestimating Hua Bailin's intelligence and resolve instilled by his sister, Hua Zhi.

Hua Zhi had taught him to face challenges with strength rather than deceit, and to uphold principles even in difficult situations. She had imparted the wisdom of thousands of years of Chinese history, emphasizing the importance of integrity even in times of adversity.

Hua Bailin remained composed as he addressed Yang Zheng with respect, "I am ashamed to have forced my way here. I have heard that my aunt has been mourning for my grandmother for too long, affecting her health. My aunt sheds tears every day, causing concern for my concubine-grandmother. I wish to bring my aunt home to rest for a while. Although she is a daughter-in-law of the Yang family, I do not want the Yang family to think of us as insincere. Therefore, I have brought these people to show our sincerity and hope that you, Sir, can understand our earnest intentions."

What does it mean to lie with open eyes?

This was a masterful display of logic and persuasion, leaving Yang Zheng with no room for argument. Hua Bailin's every word was calculated to convey one message: the Hua family wanted to care for their ailing daughter, without casting any blame on the Yang family, and even displaying a sense of sincerity.

Yang Zheng had no reason to stop them, and he saw no harm in allowing his daughter-in-law to return to her maternal home for a few days. He had no intention of completely severing ties with the Hua family at this moment. Giving in now could earn him a reputation of being accommodating to the weaker party, which was not a bad move.

As he was about to agree, his eldest son Yang Qi suddenly whispered, "Father, we cannot agree to this."

Yang Zheng turned to look at him, silently questioning him with his eyes.

Yang Qi shook his head without saying a word. Yang Zheng realized that there must have been something that Yang Qi had done to upset the Hua family. They likely knew that Hua Xian had suffered some losses and were now demanding retribution.

Giving his son a harsh look, Yang Zheng felt disappointed. The Hua family might have fallen, but their in-laws, the Zhu family, were still standing. The numerous scholars behind the Hua family were also not to be underestimated.

Who in the city didn't know the scene on the day of the old lady's funeral?

A fool!

Despite his disappointment, Yang Zheng had no choice but to agree. With a smile, he said, "I understand the intentions of the young master Hua. However, as you said, Hua Xian is still a daughter-in-law of the Yang family. Even if she is unwell, she should stay at the Yang household. There is no reason for her to recuperate at her maternal home. If this news were to spread, it would make our family appear strict towards our daughter-in-law."

Hua Bailin pretended to ponder for a moment and asked, "May I visit my aunt then?"

Yang Zheng couldn't refuse the request. He nodded in agreement, saying, "Of course."

"Father..."

"Be silent," Yang Zheng commanded, stepping aside to allow Hua Bailin to enter. He appeared courteous, but he had already set a trap in motion.

Hua Bailin, accompanied by Su Mama, four sturdy maids, and four servants, ascended the steps towards the entrance. When they were just a step away from Yang Zheng, Hua Bailin made a gesture indicating he wouldn't cross the line.

Yang Zheng admired Hua Bailin's demeanor, comparing him to his own younger family members with a sense of relief. Fortunately, Yang Sui'an had always performed well, so he wasn't completely overshadowed.

Obviously, Yang Zheng couldn't accompany a junior member of the family the entire time. After entering the mansion, he left. Yang Qi signaled to his servant, who understood and discreetly left ahead of them.

Suyun Mama noticed this and subtly tugged at the sixth master's sleeve.

Hua Bailin understood and declined Yang Qi's invitation to visit the study to observe the rare book. "My apologies, Uncle. I am truly concerned about my aunt's well-being. I will see to her first, then join you later, if that's acceptable?"

Yang Qi didn't want to let Hua Bailin in just yet, so he urged, "This rare book is truly extraordinary, written by the late Mr. Sun. My father paid a high price for it, hoping to seek your insight. Otherwise, he wouldn't be so eager for your arrival."

The late Mr. Sun from the previous dynasty was a renowned scholar and a victim of the former emperor's purge. His significant work was destroyed in a fire, and if this rare book was indeed his, it would be invaluable.

Under normal circumstances, Hua Bailin would have been interested in seeing it. But today was different.

Hua Bailin smiled, "At my aunt's request, I must visit her first. In the meantime, if you're in a hurry, why not bring the rare book to my aunt's room? I have seen the authentic works of Mr. Sun at my grandfather's place, so I should be able to recognize them."

Specifically, he had seen them at his eldest sister's place, the true heirlooms of Mr. Sun, which their grandfather had given to her.

After a respectful bow, Hua Bailin led Su Mama and the maids into the inner chambers, leaving the servants at the second gate. Before leaving, he glanced back at them, and they nodded in understanding.

The leading maid appeared to have received a hint and intended to take Hua Bailin on a detour. With a wide smile, Hua Bailin said, "I know the way to my aunt's courtyard. No need to trouble yourself, sister."

The maid was startled and quickly lowered her head, refraining from further action. As soon as they left, she hurried out of the second gate. Yang Qi, who had been pacing back and forth, noticed her expression change and pulled her aside, whispering, "Why are you back so soon?"

The maid looked dejected, "Young Master Hua said he knew the way and sent us off."

Yang Qi furrowed his brows. The boy had only visited a few years ago and was still quite young. Could he really remember the way so clearly?

"Quick, go to the old lady and make sure she finds a way to make them stay."

"Yes."

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