RIN

Chapter 140

A thin slice of ascending light arced across the dark sky. The new moon appears, its edges behind clouds and silver stars shining brightly around it. Snow dusted the camp's tents and huts, yellow chrysanthemum blossoms clotted below, surrounded by the swollen night.

At that moment, the heavy boot of a guard crushes the blossoms beneath his feet, as he rushes toward a hut to relay orders.

The news of An Sun's death had finally spread amongst the other clan members. While others were surprised, most merely snorted contemptuously from the news.

There was no remorse or grief that day. Only scorn and relief for the bastard son's death.

Unaware, but even An Hongyu felt relieved.

Having raised the young man by his side, he couldn't deny the fact that he neglected him. When only a few years passed and he had seen the boy's achievements, he was surprised and remorseful.

An Sun had grown more powerful and wiser than many of the other children in the clan, attracting the emotions of envy and resentment. When An Hongyu thought to take him under his wing once more, he was cautious.

One knows a little neglect may breed great mischief.

An Hongyu felt it was only wise to cut off his resources and restrain An Sun while he still had power.

Now, An Sun was dead. All his feelings of caution and regret were no more.

Only relief and slight discomfort. After all, he was a son he took in, how could he not feel grief?

While lost in thought, An Hongyu heeded the voice of the guard in front of the tent requesting permission to enter.

"Come in, what is it you have to say?"

The guard entered with cupped fists and lowered his head.

"Great An, the trader Mister Wei is here."

An Hongyu's eyes brightened. "Does he have the items requested?"

"Yes, my Lord."

The previous gloominess in the clan leader's eyes vanished as he laughed.

"Well then, let's not keep Mister Wei waiting. Bring out the finest wines and meats for our guest!"

The guard nodded before stepping out.

Meanwhile, a frail middle-aged man with a wooden stick in his hand waited patiently in front of the camp's entrance. Not a second later, he perceived the sound of footsteps approaching.

"Mister Wei, the Great An accepts your presence. Please follow me."

"Oh, thank you." Wei Jingyi chuckled.

The guard nodded and glanced at the brown falcon on the man's shoulder. As if sensing his gaze, the bird flashed its beady eyes at him and tilted his head. Thinking nothing of it, the guard escorts the man forward into the camp.

With his back turned to the man, he missed the dull smile on the middle-aged man's lips.

...

At dawn, Rin carried out her errands at the market, earning the sales of various shops around her. Walking passed civilians; their eyes couldn't help but follow wherever she went.

However, what attracted her the most was not the girl's outstanding looks, but the pair of moist, bright eyes she carried. A single look seemed capable of seeing through anything, even human hearts.

While her young, rare features captured the hearts of many, it also attracted the envious.

A group of young girls crowded near a shop and saw the girl enter the market. They all cast a look of disdain towards Rin.