Chapter 362: 362. Actually, I want to hit him.

Translator: 549690339

The rain grew heavier, and the wind blew the rain into the pavilion, hitting Situ Jing’s face.

The sound of the wind and rain, together with the sound of the lake in the storm, made him temporarily unsure whether the sentence he just heard was true.

“What did you say?” Situ Jing stared intently at Gu Ling and asked.

Gu Ling saw a figure moving behind a large tree not far away, without an umbrella, undoubtedly soaked through. He couldn’t see the person clearly, but he saw a fish, head up and tail down, swaying and jumping in mid-air…

“Oh,” Gu Ling said indifferently, “Do you dare or not?”

He repeated what he said earlier, but not entirely.

Situ Jing’s heart sank and then rose suddenly. His fists clenched subconsciously, “Are you… playing a joke on me?”

Gu Ling withdrew his gaze, frowning slightly, “Do you think I am very idle?”

“Let me stay in Qian Country? As before, be a military commander, lead soldiers to fight for Qian Country?” Situ Jing still dared not believe what Gu Ling had just said and asked again.

Gu Ling didn’t say anything unpleasant, in fact, he didn’t say anything at all, just nodding his head to confirm.

“Why?” Situ Jing stared fiercely into Gu Ling’s eyes, seemingly trying to glimpse some bizarre conspiracy in this unexpected and shocking incident.

“Because,” Gu Ling pondered, looking at the space between Situ Jing’s eyebrows, “you are too impulsive and emotional. You are not suitable to be a spy.”

The truth. Situ Jing’s problem lies here. He failed as a spy for Liang Country for this reason, and if he became a spy for Qian Country, it would still be the same. Having been manipulated for many years, he struggled and wavered in contradictions, lost and confused between emotions and rationality. A moment’s lapse could completely destroy the “Cai Beibei” with a conscience in his heart.

Situ Xie was waiting for Situ Jing to be reborn after destruction, becoming the chess piece he truly desired.

Meanwhile, Su Liang and Gu Ling decided to pull him out of the quagmire and guide him back to the right path.

The reason they could not let Situ Jing return to Liang Country was not that they could not control him, but that he could not control himself. In the environment in which the Liang Country’s Royal Family schemed and fought each other, it was unclear if he could resist the temptation after constant vicious attacks disguised as blood ties and family affection. In fact, it had already begun.

Situ Jing’s strength was great, and his intelligence was also high, otherwise, Situ Xie would not be reluctant to give him up until now. However, the environment, the people around him, the things he did, and his life goals were all very important to him.

Gu Ling’s assessment made Situ Jing somewhat annoyed, but after slightly calming down, he knew that every word Gu Ling said was correct.

Just as Gu Ling was prejudiced against Situ Jing, Situ Jing didn’t like him either, so his emotions were more easily affected when facing him.

At this moment, Situ Jing was very clear that he was not suitable for returning to Liang Country. The key point was: did Gu Ling and Su Liang really intend to let him stay? Allow him to become a Qian Country citizen? Even trust him to continue as a military commander? Let him lead soldiers in battles? As if he had never been Situ Xie’s grandson, Situ Han’s son; as if his past as a spy was just a dream; as if the ridiculous and pathetic wish he had yesterday in Cai Beibei’s mother’s embrace, hoping that he was really a child of the Che Family, had suddenly come true, even better than that!

“You trust me? I don’t believe it.” Situ Jing couldn’t believe it.

Gu Ling’s expression was somewhat impatient, “I asked if you dare or not?”

“I…” Situ Jing almost blurted out and stopped, feeling that Gu Ling was using reverse psychology on him, but he was indeed “hit” by the words and wanted to save face. He pulled a corner of his mouth and smiled awkwardly, “If you dare, why wouldn’t I?”

“Good.” Gu Ling nodded, got up, and prepared to leave.

Situ Jing stood up immediately as well, “How could Emperor Qian possibly trust me?”

Gu Ling shook his head slightly, “You don’t need to worry about that.”

Situ Jing saw Gu Ling open his umbrella, about to leave, and couldn’t help but ask one more question, “Does Lian Shun know about this?”

Gu Ling stood on the last step of the pavilion, holding an umbrella and turning around. He looked at Situ Jing and said, “Lian Shun doesn’t like men. He already has someone he loves; give up.”

As Gu Ling floated away into the rain, Situ Jing’s face stiffened. By the time he reacted and felt angry enough to curse, Gu Ling was already far away.

“Sick! Sick! Sick!” Situ Jing pounded on the pillar of the pavilion with his clenched fists. When he said it for the third time, he wasn’t thinking about Gu Ling’s joke that he harbored such feelings for Lian Shun, but about Gu Ling and Su Liang’s plan to keep him.

At this moment, Situ Jing still felt as if he was in a dream.

Situ Xie believed that Su Liang and Gu Ling could not accept Situ Jing again, and Situ Jing himself believed so too, although he could not deny that there was still some wishful thinking in his heart.

Overnight, something seemed to have changed, and there must be a reason, but Situ Jing couldn’t figure it out…

Qiao Cong rushed over with a fish, suddenly grabbing Situ Jing’s arm before he could react.

“Grandpa,” Situ Jing instinctively called out, only then noticing that Qiao Cong was soaked through. The old man’s eyes, which were usually squinted when looking at people, were now wide open, full of raindrops clinging to his long, curly white eyebrows. The eyes beneath them were frighteningly bright.

Situ Jing quickly realized that Qiao Cong must have been eavesdropping nearby just now, but because of the rain, he probably didn’t hear much. No wonder Gu Ling glanced in his direction earlier.

“Jingjing, what did Xiaogu say to you? Was it he who asked you to come? Does he have any important tasks for you?” Qiao Cong seemed happy, even excited, simply because Gu Ling took the initiative to see Situ Jing. Even if Gu Ling asked Situ Jing to join him in the most dangerous situations, Qiao Cong would think it was better than being ignored now.

Situ Jing stared at Qiao Cong as if seeing him for the first time, indeed this was the first time he saw Qiao Cong like this, disheveled from the rain and without any trace of the aloof demeanor of a master. His cold and detached air was gone.

Only at this moment, Situ Jing could finally feel the blood ties between him and the old man.

Back when Situ Jing asked Qiao Cong to capture Su Liang, and Qiao Cong agreed and did so, Situ Jing didn’t feel happy or loved unconditionally. Deep down he even thought: Qiao Cong must be the same kind of person as Nangong Lin, unable to distinguish right from wrong. What kind feelings could they possibly have?

Throughout his life, Situ Jing has been struggling with confusion about right and wrong and feelings. His moral shackles were self-imposed, the main reason he has never lost his conscience.

Therefore, when Situ Jing evaluates someone, he subconsciously considers their morality first, then talks about their feelings. This is because the so-called family members, Situ Xie and Che’s parents, only offered him false emotions devoid of morality.

Qiao Cong was indeed selfish in the past. Although he was biased towards Situ Jing, this made Situ Jing subconsciously think that Qiao Cong wasn’t a good person either.

However, now Situ Jing’s thoughts were focused on the Qiao Cong he met again on that island.

At that time, Qiao Cong fell in love with Su Liang and his attitude towards Situ Jing changed dramatically. He always criticized Situ Jing and hoped he could repair his relationship with Su Liang and Gu Ling. He didn’t want him to go back to Liang Country, and he wanted him to do the right thing. At the same time, Qiao Cong asked Su Liang to heal Situ Jing and protect him. Before he left for Liang Country, Qiao Cong earnestly tried to persuade him to stay. This time, Qiao Cong also went to the post station and never gave up on persuading him, even if he said he wouldn’t get involved the day before. The next day when Situ Jing visited, he could still see the expectation in Qiao Cong’s eyes…

Yes, expectation. That’s what filled Qiao Cong’s eyes at this very moment.

Situ Jing wondered what Qiao Cong was expecting? What was he seeking from him?

But as he thought about it, he was certain that the old man in front of him, his grandfather by blood, had no utilitarian demands, no selfish desires, and no intention of using him.

His grandfather just wanted him to be alive and well from the beginning to the end.

Was this not what he had always wanted? This was a real family member, who hoped for his well-being and nothing else.

Just now, Gu Ling had given him an opportunity he had longed for but thought impossible—a chance to turn back.

Even though it was raining, Situ Jing’s cold heart warmed for the first time in a long while.

He didn’t answer Qiao Cong’s question, raised his hand, and wiped the rainwater from Qiao Cong’s face with his sleeve. He called “Grandpa” again, took a deep breath, and said, “I’m sorry.”

Qiao Cong looked at Situ Jing, the fish in his hand fell to the ground and started to flop around. He hugged Situ Jing and cried, his old tears streaming down his face.

Gu Ling silently approached, holding an umbrella, walked into the pavilion, picked up the fish on the ground, and silently left.

Just now, Qiuyue came to the Yuanming Pavilion to inform them that Qiao Cong had bought two fish and wanted to send one to Gu Ling to cook for Su Liang. Qiuyue specifically came to ask if they needed help killing the fish. Her cooking skills were now very proficient, and she was very good at killing fish and chickens.

Gu Ling said that the fish had lost its way, so he would go out to find it.

At lunchtime, Qiao Cong, Cen Man, Situ Jing, and Nangong Qian sat together, with the three generations enjoying a rare harmonious atmosphere.

The delight on Qiao Cong’s face never left. He already knew the purpose of Gu Ling’s visit to Situ Jing today and knew Situ Jing’s answer.

“I’ve never seen Grandpa so happy before.” Nangong Qian smiled as she added food to Situ Jing’s plate, “Brother, you don’t know how Grandpa used to worry about you, always looking sad whenever he mentioned you.”

Qiao Cong coughed lightly, “What sadness? Qianqian, don’t talk nonsense.”

Cen Man spoke seriously, “Qianqian is telling the truth. Ajing, it wasn’t easy for Xiaoliang and Xiaogu to take the initiative to find you this time. You must think clearly about your future path.”

Situ Jing nodded: Indeed, even thinking about it now, he still found their actions today somewhat incredible.

Qiao Cong snorted, “What’s there to think about the future path? Just do whatever Xiaoliang asks you to do. It’s not controlling you, it’s all for your own good. Don’t make any more mistakes!”

Situ Jing didn’t say anything, and Qiao Cong grabbed his collar, pulling him closer, “You’re still not happy?”

Situ Jing looked helpless, “Grandpa, I didn’t say I’m unwilling.”

“Then you better say you’re willing!” Qiao Cong didn’t let go of his grip.

Cen Man knew Qiao Cong had drunk too much and was too happy. He started drinking alcohol even before the dishes were served, one cup after another, and now he was drunk. He was quite adorable and somewhat resembled old Mu.

Situ Jing nodded, “Willing, I’m willing.”

“That’s more like it.” Qiao Cong finally let go of Situ Jing, picked up his wine cup, and drank it in one gulp. “Today is a good day!”

Nangong Qian secretly tugged at Situ Jing’s sleeve. Situ Jing lowered his head, and Nangong Qian whispered in his ear, “Grandpa always goes to Huguo Temple and asks the Bodhisattva to bless my brother. He must go there to fulfill his vow tomorrow.”

Situ Jing looked a little dazed, and then he heard Qiao Cong laughing, “I must go to Huguo Temple this afternoon.”

Cen Man tried to help the unsteady Qiao Cong, but he leaned against her.

Nangong Qian chuckled lightly, “Grandma Cen, just leave Grandpa alone, let’s eat. The dishes are getting cold.”

Feeling embarrassed in front of the younger generation, Cen Man tried to get Qiao Cong to sit up, but he seemed determined to sleep and refused to get up.

Helpless, Cen Man asked Situ Jing to take Qiao Cong back to his room.

Situ Jing came over, lifted Qiao Cong horizontally, and found that the old man, who looked quite tall, wasn’t heavy at all.

Situ Jing carried Qiao Cong back to his room and put him on the bed. He could also hear Qiao Cong mumbling, “Xiaoliang… please pity my old bones… forgive my grandson…”

Situ Jing sighed softly in his heart. He was wrong to think that no one cared about him.

As for why Su Liang and Gu Ling suddenly changed their minds, Situ Jing believed that it had something to do with Qiao Cong’s refusal to give up on him.

As for what would happen next… Situ Jing went out, stood under the eaves, and looked at the dense curtain of rain, feeling relaxed. Just let things be. Anyway, whatever decision the couple makes, he could accept it either way, because it would always be for the best.

Liang Country’s inn.

Situ Jing and Situ Yao knew that Situ Jing had gone to Su Mansion. It was past noon, and he still hadn’t returned.

Situ Jing had not brought the attendant arranged for him by Situ Xie, and Situ Jing felt that something was wrong. He sent someone to Su Mansion to ask when Situ Jing would return, saying that he had something to discuss with him.

The messenger arrived at Su Mansion and explained his purpose. After Qi Jun asked Situ Jing, he told the man that Situ Jing would return later in the afternoon.

In the afternoon, Duanmu Chen was reviewing memorials in the palace when Gu Ling dropped down from the sky again.

Duanmu Chen was already quite used to Gu Ling’s unconventional approach. He glanced at him and continued reading the memorial in hand before asking, “What’s the matter?”

“Situ Jing wants to stay in Qian Country and become a military commander.” Gu Ling got straight to the point.

Duanmu Chen looked at him with a strange expression, “What? Situ Jing? He is now the second prince of Liang Country. Why would he stay in Qian Country? And become a military commander? Have you all gone mad?”

Gu Ling’s expression was indifferent, “If there’s a problem, I’ll take responsibility.”

Duanmu Chen’s eyes narrowed, “Why? If you still consider him as a friend, why wait until now? What has happened?”

Gu Ling shook his head, “Nothing. I just suddenly find him less annoying.”

Duanmu Chen: …

“Don’t push your luck. I’ve been tolerant enough towards you two,” Duanmu Chen firmly refused.

Gu Ling nodded, “Alright. Just don’t regret it when he becomes a military commander in Liang Country, Your Majesty.”

Duanmu Chen’s face stiffened, “Can’t you just kill him outright? Wouldn’t that be better?”

Gu Ling’s expression remained calm, “Having the son who has just been publicly acknowledged by Situ Han betray him and Liang Country to help Qian Country defend its borders is very interesting.”

Upon hearing his words, Duanmu Chen had to admit that he was starting to be enticed… If Gu Ling and Su Liang could truly guarantee that Situ Jing would not betray Qian Country, this would be very interesting indeed!

Letting a prince of Liang Country serve as a military commander for Qian Country to fight against Liang Country would certainly make Situ Xie and Situ Han’s faces very colorful when they found out…

“If there’s a problem, you’re responsible.” Duanmu Chen stared at Gu Ling with a serious expression, “Remember your words. It’s out of trust for you and Su Liang that I’m willing to take this risk.”

Gu Ling nodded, “Alright.”

Su Mansion.

Situ Jing knew that Gu Ling had gone to the palace and that it was for his sake. Qiao Cong didn’t sleep for long. He woke up, drank the hangover soup, and specifically went to ask Su Liang.

So both Qiao Cong and Situ Jing were waiting for Gu Ling to return. If Emperor Qian absolutely refused to employ him again, then Gu Ling’s plan would not work.

Qiao Cong comforted Situ Jing, “What’s wrong with not being a military commander? It’s a good opportunity to have some leisure time and enjoy a peaceful life.”

Situ Jing nodded, “I understand.” However, he still hoped that he could do something, as Gu Ling said, to atone for his sins. He also wanted to continue his past ideals and settle the score with Situ Xie for his years of suffering and torment.

Being a military commander of Qian Country meant completely abandoning the identity of the prince who had tortured him for years, which was exactly what he had been dreaming of.

Finally, Gu Ling’s figure appeared at the entrance.

Qiao Cong immediately stood up and went to greet him, “How did it go?”

Gu Ling walked past Qiao Cong, placed a box of fresh fruits he had taken from Duanmu Chen’s dragon case next to Su Liang, sat down, and calmly said, “The Emperor has agreed.”

Situ Jing was overjoyed in his heart and breathed a long sigh of relief.

Qiao Cong clapped his hands, “Great! But why did Emperor Qian agree so easily? Did he set any conditions?”

Gu Ling shook his head, “No conditions. I vouched for Situ Jing.”

Situ Jing was stunned. He didn’t quite understand why Gu Ling would suddenly change his attitude towards him and even be willing to take risks for him. If they were just talking about friendship, it was always he and Su Liang, and his relationship with Gu Ling had never been good…

Qiao Cong patted his chest, “Don’t worry, Xiaogu. I’ll keep an eye on him. If he causes any more trouble, I’ll give you my head as compensation!”

“Going to the southern border or the northern border?” Situ Jing asked Gu Ling.

Gu Ling’s expression was indifferent, “I’ve told you not to think about Lian Ershan. He won’t be interested in you.”

Su Liang almost choked on the water she was drinking. Qiao Cong narrowed his eyes and looked at Situ Jing with suspicion.

Situ Jing snapped angrily, “I want to go to the northern border! I was just asking if the emperor had other arrangements! I don’t want to find Lian Shun!”

“Why are you so agitated?” Gu Ling’s expression was still calm. “You can leave now.”

Situ Jing left the room angrily, and Qiao Cong followed him out. “Jingjing, I thought you liked Xiaoliang? Could it be that the one you really like is the boy from the Lin family?”

Su Liang couldn’t help smiling, “Great God, I didn’t expect you to have such a bad sense of humor.”

Gu Ling used a small knife to peel the fruit. He peeled the skin into thin, long strips, coiling them down without breaking them. “Actually, I want to hit him.”

Su Liang supported her forehead, “Great God, you intentionally said those words to provoke him. You wanted him to make a move so that you could fight back and beat him up?”

Gu Ling cut the peeled fruit into small pieces, placed them on a plate, and handed it to Su Liang. He nodded and said, “That’s right.”

“You could just hit him directly. His grandpa wouldn’t mind.” Su Liang said earnestly.

Gu Ling shook his head, “I don’t want Xiaoshen to think I’m bullying people for no reason.”

Su Liang chuckled, “What if I want to see the Great God bully people?”

Gu Ling put down the fruit knife, stood up, “I’ll bring him over and beat him up right now.”