Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
Madam Liuâs sudden illness cast a pall over the Ye residence. Her complexion turned pale and wan, leaving the family doctor baffled by her condition.
At dinner, Rong Qi cast concerned glances at Madam Liu. Madam Liuâs face was alarmingly sallow, her listlessness so profound that she hardly registered the conversation. Repeating words several times barely garnered her attention.
Eventually, Old Master Ye intervened, suggesting she excuse herself from the nightly family banquets until her health improved.
Despite her absence, Madam Liuâs condition showed no signs of recovery. Rong Qi occasionally caught glimpses of her, noting her vacant gaze, devoid of any spirit.
Rong Qi furrowed her brow in thought. If Madam Liu was feigning illness, her act was convincingly distressing. However, given her current pregnancy and the recent bizarre events, Mrs. Hong had restricted her from wandering and kept a vigilant eye on her.
Soon, a wave of similar illnesses swept through the Ye residence, affecting even the usually robust Mrs. Ye Sr.. Strangely, those afflicted were predominantly close to Rong Qi and Ye Rongâs residence, including several from Ye Rongâs own courtyard.
The dinner atmosphere grew increasingly tense. Servants trembled and held their breaths, the air thick with unspoken fears.
Old Master Ye, sensing the unease, finally addressed the elephant in the room. âWhatâs wrong with everyone? Why such gloomy faces?â
Mrs. Ye Sr., mustering her strength to attend dinner despite her ailment, responded in a grave tone. âSomething unsettling has happened. A large flock of crows was seen circling the roofs of Ye Nanshenâs and Ye Rongâs quarters. Shortly after, people started falling ill. It almost seems⦠supernatural.â
Ye Nanshenâs eyes narrowed at her words.
âNonsense!â Old Master Ye barked. âSince when have we given in to superstitions? If youâre ill, seek treatment. Donât spread baseless fears!â
But Mrs. Ye Sr. persisted, âCanât we at least investigate? Most of the sick are from Ye Rongâs courtyard and nearby. Itâs unnerving.â
Old Master Ye frowned deeply. âFine, Iâll look into it. Nanshen, since youâre close to them, find out whatâs really happening. If thereâs foul play, show no mercy.â
âYes,â Ye Nanshen acknowledged, his expression unreadable.
Ye Nanshen was skeptical of superstitions, but with Rong Qi by his side, he couldnât afford to overlook any potential threats.
Post-meal, Ye Nanshen escorted Rong Qi back to their quarters, keeping a protective watch over her these past days.
âNanshen, Rong Qi, heading to rest?â Ye Shaochen inquired, trailing behind them.
Rong Qi and Ye Nanshen exchanged a glance, choosing to ignore him. But Ye Shaochen, seemingly oblivious, followed closely.
âMr. Ye, itâs late. Are you planning to work overtime tonight?â Rong Qi finally asked.
Ye Shaochen paused. âNo, just reminding you to be careful. The place seems⦠off lately.â
Rong Qi offered a parting shot. âIf youâve done nothing wrong, youâve nothing to fear. Take care, Mr. Ye.â
Leaving Ye Shaochen behind, Rong Qi and Ye Nanshen continued on their way. Once out of sight, Ye Shaochenâs face broke into a cryptic smile, hinting at unspoken thoughts..