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Chapter 43: Gentleman's Negotiation

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Mister Qin laughed heartily, saying, "It's rare to see Brother Xiao. Since we're staying in the same residence currently, this Qin would like to take the opportunity to have a good chat with Brother Xiao, so I was impulsive in coming over. Brother Xiao, please understand."

Xiao FengHan smiled slightly as he replied, "What kind of words are those, Brother Qin? For you to grace my quarters with your presence is to overwhelm this little me with favor! Please, take a seat."

Glancing at the side, Ling Tian had sat down on a chair long ago and even placed a leg under his buttocks to cushion them while sitting down, being totally uncouth. Casually swiping the snacks on the table, he put them in his mouth and spat them out with a "peipei" sound, saying, "Not nice! Not nice!" Mister Qin turned towards the latter, coughing loudly twice.

Xiao FengHan felt even more unhappy and could only reluctantly hold his loathing in his heart as he spoke, "Young master, to visit this old man in the night, may I know what matter you have?"

Ling Tian scratched his little head before replying, "A moment ago, I just thought of it. Xiao… oops, Grandpa Xiao, you brought out the topic of annulling the marriage agreement today, this, this… it seems a little inappropriate."

Thunder flashed across Xiao FengHan's face as he retorted, "What is inappropriate about it? This is already a foregone conclusion, and besides, it should be your grandfather coming to look for me instead!" He implied that as a kid, he did not have the authority!

Ling Tian, however, shook his head, "Grandpa Xiao, you are mistaken. Whether the marriage goes through or fails is part of Ling Tian's life blessings, so even if my grandfather were to intercede on my behalf, he would not be able to express my heart's thoughts."

This made Xiao FengHan blow up! Ever since he had taken the position of family head in the last decade, this was the first time someone dared to tell him in his face that he was wrong! His face immediately fell as he snapped, "Then, according to you, what should we do?"

Ling Tian merely smiled, "I heard that the marriage arrangement that year was facilitated by grandpa Xiao yourself, is that true?"

Xiao FengHan had an icy expression, "Yes, that's right! That year, it was this old man's idea that both of us families become relatives."

Ling Tian smiled brightly as he continued, "That being the case, the arrangement was also cancelled by grandpa Xiao today, and this matter was also heard by all others there, including this little one, am I wrong for saying so?"

Xiao FengHan was growing ever impatient, and hearing him speak more nonsense, he wanted to pick him up and throw him out. Forcefully regaining his composure, he replied again, "Yes! That was done by this old man." However, he was thinking: If it wasn't for the fact that you were too disappointing, why would I be the bad guy and do such a thing?

The same Cheshire cat grin was still plastered on Ling Tian's face as he pressed on, "Thus, the reason why Grandpa Xiao wanted to annul the marriage was because Ling Tian is too disappointing, and you're afraid that I would interfere with Miss Xiao's happiness, am I correct?"

With a face of disdain, Xiao FengHan replied, "Seems like you are not completely unaware of everything." What he implied was that Ling Tian had hit the jackpot.

Ling Tian's face fell and his body straightened up as he spoke, "If that is the case, then grandpa Xiao would be engaging and annulling as and when he sees fit. For what reason, we shall not say, but the truth is that for both families' matters, all decisions were made by grandpa Xiao alone, as though the clouds come when your palm faces up and the rain comes when your palm faces down. Doing whatever you like, totally uncaring of the feelings of the Ling family?" This sentence completely showed off Ling Tian's ability, domineering beyond belief!

"Impudent!" Xiao FengHan would never have imagined that this little kid could actually come up with such a sentence. If this matter got leaked out, how much waves would it actually cause? Thus, he definitely lost control! Smashing a palm down on the table in front of Ling Tian with a violent bang, the sturdy table actually turned into a pile of wood chips!

Inner strength!

Ling Tian's pupils contracted, his heart seeming like it was struck with a heavy blow from a steel hammer! Damn it! Since when did this world have such a thing?! Why was it that this old fellow in front of him could use it as and when he liked?

Ling Tian believed his vision did not fail him, and that in his fury, Xiao FengHan had actually performed an internal cultivator's inner Qi! It was only that it was conspicuously mixed, unable to hold a candle to the orthodox Qi produced by the Divine Shocking Dragon Formula that Ling Tian practiced. Furthermore, it did not look like his internal strength was deep, more like he had just scratched the surface.

However, Ling Tian remained unblinking, smiling coldly as he said, "Don't tell me that whatever I said just now was fabrication? My questions a moment ago, grandpa Xiao answered all of them."

Never did Xiao FengHan expect that a mere five-year-old child could actually dig such a big pitfall for him, and that he even jumped in unhesitatingly without any form of preparations. For a short moment, he was so angered he could not speak. Upon hearing the commotion, the guards outside barged in loudly.

Taking a deep breath, Xiao FengHan waved his sleeve while saying, "You may go out, there's nothing wrong here." Unhurriedly seating himself once more, he stared at Ling Tian with the eyes of an eagle, as though it was the first time he had actually seen him. "You, what are you actually driving towards?"

Ling Tian smirked, "The Xiao family has huge influence over the finances, and our Ling family cannot afford to provoke you. Even if this grandson wants to do something, so long as grandpa Xiao does not agree, then everything is just empty words." His words implied that Xiao FengHan had taken matters into his own hands in dealing with the affairs of the two households, and he did not relax from this stance one bit.

Xiao FengHan was gradually feeling as though this fellow was not an easy target, and even though he was burning inside, he smiled instead, "Go ahead with whatever you want to say. It does not matter even if it is inadequate." I had better figure out Ling Tian's intention before anything else.

Ling Tian's eyes chilled, "While my Ling family is incomparable to the Xiao Family, we are also not so weak that we allow someone to step over us! Grandpa Xiao can cover the skies with one hand. By going back on your words just based on a single sentence, even for the matters of two families, I'm not sure if grandpa Xiao treats my Ling family as another place you possess? Or do you not even place the Ling family in your eyes? Are we just meat on a chopping block to you?"

With such a bad labelling dropped onto him, this made Xiao FengHan apoplectic with rage until his body trembled. He thought to himself darkly, Today's matters were actually a bit overboard. If the Ling family were to misunderstand because of this, then there would be hell to pay. The reason he had stayed over at the Ling's was that he had taken this into consideration, and to think that this little kid in front of him had taken the words out of his own mouth.

Stabilizing his mental state with difficulty, he leisurely spoke, "Ling Tian, you should also know that if such words get leaked, no matter the Ling or Xiao family, what will the aftermath be? Can you bear the responsibility?"

Ling Tian gave a relaxed smile, "This grandson here is still a kid, so what's this talk about responsibility? However, if grandpa Xiao does not want the words to travel out, then Tian'er would naturally wish for the same thing."

Xiao FengHan finally understood, that the purpose of Ling Tian coming here today was to talk terms with him!

Xiao FengHan unhurriedly replied, "Regarding today's matters, were they your idea, or someone else's?" When he spoke, his tone was cold, as though he wanted to freeze everyone into ice directly.

Ling Tian laughed in return, "Judging by how grandpa Xiao has been friends with my grandfather for so many years, do you think this could be from him?" Ling Tian did not directly answer the question, but instead posed another question back to him.

Gently nodding his head, Xiao FengHan said, "Definitely not. However, this old man does not believe that at your age, you can come up with such words."

Lifting his head high, his eyes bright and clear, and staring straight at Xiao FengHan, he spoke unflinchingly, "This matter started because of my marriage. The person who loses out the most in this is me, Ling Tian, not the Ling family! Does grandpa Xiao intend to deny that?"

Xiao FengHan stared back in return, thinking that this child's eyes were immensely acute, hiding his thoughts very well. He could only give up and turn his head, saying, "If you put it this way, I can't very well disagree."

Ling Tian began to laugh heartily, "If that's so, then things will be much more easily settled. Grandpa Xiao facilitated my marriage that year by yourself, and today, grandpa Xiao once again dissolved my marriage by yourself; putting it like that isn't wrong, is it?" Ling Tian's words were extremely crafty, sealing the fact that he had no relationship with the Ling family and that today's matters were all his idea, without any relation with the rest of his family.

Being the crafty old fox, how could Xiao FengHan not catch on to the meaning? However, what he wanted most now was this: to prevent any possible implications between the two families, so as to prevent future troubles. As such, he nodded his head, saying, "That's right," while he thought, Whatever methods you have, just bring them out. This old man has travelled unhindered under the heavens. Don't tell me I can't take care of a child like you?

With a cunning smile, Ling Tian dropped the bomb, "Grandpa Xiao, as a senior, you created such a huge mishap for this grandson here by not only letting my allocated future wife disappear without a trace, but also letting this grandson become the laughingstock of this entire capital. For such a huge loss, don't tell me that senior doesn't have any intention of repaying this grandson here?"

Chapter 44: I Want a Compensation

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

After going around in circles for half a day, spinning the Xiao family head deep into it, Ling Tian finally self-righteously dropped the bombshell. For a moment, he felt overjoyed in his heart.

However, Xiao FengHan was knotted with anger! To think that with his own intelligence, he had actually been dancing in the palm of a little kid's hand today! For that moment, his heart was unbearably depressed and could only rage impotently, "The marriage has already been annulled and there is no possibility of it ever happening again, so what kind of compensation do you want? Say it out, as long as this old man is able to achieve it, I would go to all lengths to get it for you."

Ling Tian answered with a loud laugh, "Don't tell me there are things that grandpa Xiao cannot achieve in this world?" This sentence was a blatant labelling. As long as Xiao FengHan were to acknowledge as such, then it would be as good as letting Ling Tian do as he wished!

Thus, how could Xiao FengHan not know the weight of this sentence? Deeply sighing, he said, "As long as it is within this old man's capabilities, I will comply without exception." In this sentence, even he himself did not realize that he had unknowingly started to treat the little child in front of him as someone on his level of playing field!

"Pa!" Slapping his palms together, Ling Tian looked extremely happy as he spoke, "Since grandpa Xiao has spoken as such, then, let this matter come to an end."

Xiao FengHan snorted, "You have not specified what you want yet!"

Ling Tian only answered, "What this grandson wants is insignificant to grandpa Xiao, and to the Xiao family, it is merely the hairs on a cow."

With a face full of doubt, Xiao FengHan continued staring at Ling Tian.

Ling Tian laughed and said, "I heard that grandpa Xiao has a property in the capital and that it is a building workshop which is extremely run down. As grandpa Xiao is situated so far away, it would be considered beyond your influence to manage it. So could this grandson have the fortune to temporarily inherit it in order to take care of it on your behalf for the next few years?"

Yet another bombshell!

Never in his dreams did Xiao FengHan think that Ling Tian would actually want a military workshop in which the Ling family had absolutely no use for! Both generations of Ling were people of authority within the military, so if they needed weapons, they could directly draw them from the empire's armory. No one would bother to gossip no matter how much they took! Thus, to Xiao FengHan, for the Ling family to request for the military workshop, it was practically useless.

However, while that workshop was of little use to the Ling family, it was actually a secret military base as well as an important supply line! If they were to lose this base, it would definitely affect the Xiao family's entire deployment strategy, especially the strategic position of being placed within the capital of the Sky Bearing Empire. The whole plan of revolting against the Sky Bearing Empire would have to be recalculated, and the previous plans would have to be scrapped! From this, one could tell the importance of this military workshop.

Ling Tian smiled to himself. Of course, he wanted to use one move to completely disrupt the enemy's plans! This young master here hasn't grown up yet, but you want to mess around here and there? That's impossible! Furthermore, if Ling Tian were to obtain this military workshop, then all sorts of fine and delicate weapons would definitely appear from within. Just based on the skills Ling Tian possessed in his past life, his methods of forging metal definitely far outstripped anyone from this world.

Xiao FengHan finally became aware of how he should not have despised the little doll in front of him. Just a casual move rendered him into a trap with no choice but to agree. Moreover, Ling Tian had definitely done his preparations, using words to drive him into a corner. If he were to disagree now, this would make him a shameless person. First, arranging the marriage, then annulling it, then even rejecting the other party's requests….

Seeing how Xiao FengHan was muttering irresolutely to himself, appearing to be in difficulty, Ling Tian only laughed, and within his slight laugh contained traces of ridicule. "Hahaha, what a Xiao family! What a person whose words are worth enormous weight, as the head of the family of the top financial magnate in this world! Ling Tian finally understood as to why the Xiao family can become the number one under heavens! The secret is to take this and want that, going back against their words, and only allowing entry but not exit! Even if you bullied someone, who under the heavens would dare to breathe a word? Hahaha, so what if it is the grandson of a sworn brother? Gains come first, the rest can be thrown aside like rubbish! HAHAHA!"

This sentence was not only sly, but also vicious and poisonous! Each word was like a steel knife viciously stabbing deep into Xiao FengHan's heart! To be teased by a person with such a big age gap between, how could one endure it? Xiao FengHan's face alternated between red and green concurrently, and he almost flew into a rage due to his humiliation. He fiercely shouted, "I originally thought you were going to take advantage of the situation, never did I think that you only wanted a small workshop that the Xiao family had long wanted to discard! This has certainly surprised this old man here! The Xiao family has tens of thousands of them that I do not even place this small workshop in my eye! Why don't I just gift it to you instead?"

Taking the chance to cling onto this sentence, Ling Tian immediately followed up, "Gentleman's word?"

Without hesitation, Xiao FengHan immediately replied back in his rage, "Once spoken, will not be taken back!"

Ling Tian could let go of the burden in his heart at last. He heartily laughed, "This grandson had known it all along, that grandpa Xiao is of an outspoken and straightforward character, and can spend money as though it is water. He values relations above all else, and each promise is worth its weight in gold! Indeed, this is as the rumors say! Please forgive this grandson for his rudeness just now. Taking into account that grandson is still young and ignorant, I'm sure you will forgive me, right, grandpa Xiao?" With a sincere tone and a sincere expression, it was as if the words he just spoke were absolute truths!

In his rage, Xiao FengHan was impetuous and did not even process what he was saying, hence the phrase, "Once spoken will not be taken back," came out from his mouth. After speaking those words, only a while later did Xiao FengHan finally clear his head; recounting what exactly happened, he felt utterly despondent!

A sentence spoken out was just like spilled water! While it was only a few simple words, they represented a rearrangement which would cost the Xiao family at least two years of time! During such chaotic times, when the current political system was still unknown, two years of time was enough to change both the heavens and earth!

Thinking up to here, he could not help but wish he could give himself a few tight slaps. As though he was a ball that had lost its air, he fell back onto his chair, his eyes vacant. However, inside, he was rapidly processing this new information, devising a plan to redeem himself from this situation. However, no matter how much he thought, he was at his wits' end!

Looking at how Ling Tian's face obviously wore the expression of someone that had prepared in advance, Xiao FengHan felt as though he had swallowed a huge steamed bun which got lodged inside his throat; he could not swallow and neither could he spit it out! It was extremely uncomfortable.

For the arrangement within the Sky Bearing Empire's capital, he went to the trouble of travelling such a long distance personally, armed with an array of strategies, to fix the appropriate measures. Furthermore, he gave immensely generous terms to the other huge family clans, all to create a suitable backdrop for his grand plan. How was he to know that after all of this was completed, he himself would actually throw the plan away at such a critical juncture!

In that moment, Xiao FengHan had the desire to look at the heavens and sigh! The eyes he used to look at Ling Tian had also become incomparably focused. Recalling Ling Tian's every action and movement when he stepped into the room, he could not help but be enlightened all of a sudden!

From the moment he had questioned Ling Tian this sentence, "Based on your views, what would you do?", he had already unknowingly taken a disadvantageous position! All the talks after that were guided by Ling Tian himself, leading him into a dead end step by step!

To think that he had walked unhindered through the business world, yet lost to a child today! Furthermore, it was an utter defeat! Although he had not placed him in his eyes at the start, underestimating his enemy; however, even with this sort of attitude, how many under the heavens could actually calculate his moves and behavior?

He could not help but suddenly remember the heroic bet made with Madam Ling right after he had annulled the marriage! At this moment, Xiao FengHan truly understood, there was no need to wait for ten years for the bet between him and Madam Ling to come to fruition. He had already lost right here and now! Even though Ling Tian and Xiao YanXue would not walk side by side in the future, he still lost, and miserably indeed!

Having eyes but not being able to see! Taking a treasured jade as rubble, this sort of preposterous event could actually happen to himself!

Xiao FengHan could not help but let out a bitter laugh at this scenario.

Meanwhile, Ling Tian who was about to step out of the door, suddenly turned around and faced a certain direction in the room and let out a grin. This grin was just like a greeting, but also an understanding smile, as though he knew everything like the back of his hand, and there was even a hint of wit and playfulness. However, the strange part was that in the direction he faced, there was nobody at all!

Chapter 45: Gain Some, Lose Some

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Seeing Ling Tian bring the document with his seal of family head away, Xiao FengHan felt extremely at peace with himself! Because there was no shame in him losing! Know yourself and know thy enemy, only then can you emerge victorious! In the battle just now, it was his opponent that had understood him completely, even his temper and innate disposition, to the point where he could predict every single reaction he would make based on that. However, he was absolutely clueless about his opponent! Thus when his opponent had already come knocking, he still arrogantly chose to underestimate him!

With deep thoughts and meticulous planning, coupled with an arrogant opponent who had let down his guard, if one still could not win, that would be the biggest joke on earth!

A strip of black shadow noiselessly appeared behind Xiao FengHan at this time. Xiao FengHan did not turn back, but rather, let out a bitter laugh, "The matters just now, you saw them all, right?"

The black shadow was a skinny middle-aged man. Upon hearing Xiao FengHan speak, he merely nodded his head slightly, refraining from talking.

Xiao FengHan laughed mockingly at himself, "Do you find me laughable?"

With a serious expression, the black shadow replied, "This child, no matter his wisdom or shrewdness, all are beyond ordinary. He is definitely a rare genius."

Xiao FengHan could only sigh, saying, "That's right, this old man feels this way as well. Today's annulling of the marriage could be said to be a mistake of epic proportions. If we had been able to nurture this sort of person into an adult, then he could bring us assistance of unimaginable proportions! Ai, what a pity!"

The black shadow, however, muttered to himself irresolutely for a while before unhurriedly replying, "I don't see it this way."

Xiao FengHan let out a cry of surprise, "Oh?"

The black shadow continued, "From the surface, Family Head, you have utterly lost! However, if we were to observe from a bigger point of view, it is indeed a cause to rejoice."

Xiao FengHan seemed to have grasped hold of something, saying, "Elaborate more."

The black shadow said, "From the immediate point, annulling the marriage and losing a genius; even being extorted and losing the military workshop and throwing a wrench in all our plans, it seems to be a thorough disaster. However, even though this plan was a failure, if we were to look at the long term effects, we have just avoided a danger that could potentially result in the Xiao family being annihilated!"

Xiao FengHan muttered to himself, "Annihilated… annihilated…" His eyes suddenly lit up!

The black shadow unceasingly continued, "For someone like him who is head and shoulders above all others since childhood, showing extraordinary talent, his actions would definitely be firm and ruthless without hesitation. How could such a person be willing to be shackled down, living under someone's rule? If the marriage problem remains unsolved, then if a problem were to occur, the Ling family would definitely stand with our family, and this sort of person would definitely become the nucleus of our great army. After a long while, given the intellect and stratagems of such a person, hahaha…" The black shadow did not continue after saying this point, only using his laughter to complete the sentence.

Xiao FengHan's eyes lit up at this, saying, "That's right! Hahaha, in the end he's still a kid and his thinking is not mature enough; if he continues to endure silently, not purposely showing off his silkpants side, then the marriage will proceed as per normal. When he grows up and marries Xue'er, then he could use the entire Xiao family to open up a new rule under him… hahaha, how dangerous! How dangerous!" Though his mouth was saying how dangerous it could have been, his facial expression revealed he was actually happily laughing without any worries.

It was a mere two years of effort, but in the process, he had inadvertently gotten rid of a cancerous tumor! Xiao FengHan exchanged a look with the black shadow, both letting out a smile, their hearts shouting in celebration. Even losing the military workshop which served as a base of operations suddenly felt as though it was worth it.

For quite a while, the black shadow's concentration was placed towards the direction in which Ling Tian had left. His heart was filled with suspicion: Was that smile that he gave as he left directed at me? Though that smile was gentle and felt like a spring breeze, from the black shadow's point of view, it looked like a flash of lightning, piercing through his defences at the least he expected it. That smile was obviously… a warning! A severe warning! Don't tell me, he can really sense me? In this world, outside of my sect, are there really still people who have mastered such mystical skills? The black shadow was filled with doubts.

Due to him not being able to confirm if Ling Tian had really spotted himself, moreover, deep in his heart, he felt that it was impossible for a mere five-year-old child to actually see through his disguise. Arrogance long ingrained within made him push this matter to the back after a brief moment of suspicion and doubt.

In reality, in this world, the black shadow felt that things that were capable of letting him place within his heart were but few. As such, he did not mention this matter to Xiao FengHan. However, little did he know that his arrogance today would lead to his own sect literally being extinguished!

Ling Tian's mood was joyous. With this sort of capital in his hands, he could finally be able to attack, albeit with difficulty. Today's events went like a rehearsed play, completely according to how he had expected it to be as though he had arranged it methodically. The ending was perfect beyond his expectations. Not only did Ling Tian get what he wanted, but also an unexpected bounty. And that was that Madam Ling had also joined Ling Tian's faction. With his grandmother's support, this gave Ling Tian the confidence to carry out the next step of his plan.

Mister Qin was by his side, and from start to end, he silently watched the whole process without talking once. From the time Ling Tian walked into the room, his arrogant and disrespectful attitude successfully roused the hate of Xiao FengHan, followed by his effortless control of the entire conversation, knowing when to press and when to relax. All of this inexorably led Xiao FengHan to an unrecoverable trap, finally succeeding.

The whole process went like moving clouds and flowing water, with Ling Tian firmly holding onto Xiao FengHan, playing this ruthless character around the palm of his hand. This sort of feeling was difficult to describe. Mister Qin found out that Ling Tian's intellect was more and more akin to the vast ocean; no wonder he was the chosen one sent from heaven! This caused Mister Qin's eyes to shine with a pious light.

The most ingenious method from Ling Tian would be the fact that he separated himself from the Ling family step by step; this was incredibly funny. Ling Tian rode on the name of the Ling family, using their status to negotiate with Xiao FengHan. But in the end, Xiao FengHan was reduced to the point that he did not even have the right to look for trouble with the Ling family… Once Xiao FengHan realized this point, he would definitely be overcome with depression!

Seeing that Mister Qin was silent throughout, Ling Tian curiously asked, "Mister, what are you thinking that makes you so entranced?"

Mister Qin let out a full breath of admiration and was just about to speak before he remembered a point, "Tian'er, if you do it like this, this will result in a huge blow to the relations between both families! In the end, you're still Duke Ling's grandson. If Xiao FengHan goes to look for your grandfather to condemn him and explains this matter, I'm afraid we will not know how Duke Ling will react."

Ling Tian smiled in a relaxed way, "Mister is overthinking. I dare to guarantee that for this matter, Xiao FengHan will not be able to announce it and can only let it rot in his guts!"

In confusion, Mister Qin asked, "Why is that so? Such a huge loss, and with you, the Ling family would rise to the pinnacle. How could he swallow such a matter so easily?"

Chapter 46: My Brother

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Ling Tian merely laughed, "It would be stranger if he did not swallow this matter easily! If this matter were to leak out, everyone would know that Xiao FengHan had been taken advantage of by a five-year-old kid, then where would the face of the number one financial magnate go? No matter the Xiao family, or Xiao FengHan himself, they cannot afford to do so! Thus, even though he has a lot of pent-up grievances, he can only grin and bear it! He has no other choice! As for the relationship for both families," Ling Tian smiled coldly at this and continued, "Ever since Xiao FengHan took my Ling family as a chess piece for him to rule all under heaven, he had already lost the right to talk about friendship in front of my Ling family!"

Mister Qin was enlightened.

Ling Tian continued, "However, Xiao FengHan totally underestimated me today and took one wrong step after another, being led by the nose all this while. Furthermore, I did not give him the chance to take a breath and retaliate. Thus, today's matters could be considered lucky! If we were to meet again, I don't have the certainty to triumph over him."

Mister Qin replied emotionally, "That's right, Xiao FengHan's intellect is beyond ordinary and you should not belittle him. Also, regarding today's matters, Xiao FengHan suffered such a loss in vain. Although he can't say anything about it, we can't rule out the fact that he might try to assassinate you. Your performance today has given Xiao FengHan too many warning alarms, enough to make him take you seriously. Thus we have to take precautions."

Ling Tian nodded his head in affirmation, "That's right. Although I have a 90 percent guarantee that Xiao FengHan would not resort to any underhand methods, one must always take precautions. There's no harm in being careful."

As he spoke, Ling Tian revealed a secretive smile. Just as Mister Qin was still wrapping his mind around the whole thing, Ling Tian brainlessly spoke a random sentence. "I believe Xiao FengHan would be extremely happy right now, hahaha…"

"Happy?" Mister Qin stared in astonishment, completely unable to understand the meaning behind why Xiao FengHan would be happy; in his point of view, after receiving such a terrible loss and a humiliating defeat, enduring and not hanging himself was already difficult enough, let alone being happy. Mister Qin really could not fathom why Xiao FengHan could be happy under such circumstances.

Stepping forward, Ling Tian spoke whilst drawing out each word, "This is because Xiao FengHan is a shrewd and intelligent man with foresight!"

"Oh…" Mister Qin increasingly felt like a stupid monk, unable to even feel his head. However, Ling Tian did not elaborate, instead turning his head to look at the clear skies as well as the half moon. The night is still young. Seeing how they had reached the split between both the guest room and his own room, he turned towards Mister Qin and said, "Mister, if you have nothing on tonight, would you be willing to come over to Tian'er's room to have a talk?"

Mister Qin voiced his approval. He had long understood every word that this student of his spoke had its own unique meaning. In some areas, he could in fact be his mentor instead. For this invitation by Ling Tian, he had already guessed that there was some matter that Ling Tian needed to discuss with him. Thus he readily agreed.

"Oh… This is?" Opening the door, Mister Qin received a shock. Inside the room, a scrawny little kid was only wearing a thin cotton-padded jacket in this mid-winter season. Furthermore, his whole body was full of sweat, with steam coming out of his head. He was inside the room doing some weird action, and seeing the duo enter, he only shifted himself to the corner of the room before continuing that strange action. Towards the only young master of the house, Ling Tian, he acted as though he had not seen him at all.

However, Mister Qin saw clearly the expression the scrawny kid used to stare at Ling Tian; it was full of admiration and gratitude, as though an ordinary mortal had seen a deity. It was precisely this sort of pious expression!

The brazier was originally placed in the middle of the room, but after Ling Jian had moved in, Ling Tian commanded people to add another small bed in his room. The brazier was also moved to the middle of the two beds.

It was not that there was no room. Given the size of the Ling residence, not even talking about one Ling Jian, even a thousand of him would be able to stay in separate houses. The problem was that Ling Tian felt that Ling Jian's foundation was too weak, and with Ling Jian himself being the sort of idiot that would forgo his life for training, Ling Tian was afraid that he would run into problems and thus let him stay in his room.

Right now, seeing how Mister Qin was staring at Ling Jian with his mouth agape and his expression of shock, Ling Tian did not mind and merely smiled, gesturing Mister Qin to sit down beside him, casually introducing, "This is Ling Jian, he's a brother whom I brought back."

"Brother!" Ling Jian, standing at the side currently training as though there was no one, suddenly jerked as though he had received an electric shock, his whole body tightening up completely. The pair of troubled slender eyes suddenly burst out in an expression of broiling heat! Both his lips also began to tremble emotionally.

Young Noble said that he was his brother! Young Noble said that he was his brother!! In that moment, these words rose up from deep within Ling Jian's heart like a tsunami, filling his eyes with tears! This moment, Ling Jian basked in the emotions of bliss, pride and satisfaction. These earth-shattering emotions surged up violently and threatened to drown him within!

As Ling Tian said those words, his tone was natural, as though in his heart he had long considered Ling Jian as his brother. The way he spoke was as though it was a given. However, this ordinary sentence made Ling Jian's heart feel as though it was being overturned by waves!

"Mister, please come over here, Ling Tian has something to conceal, and yet has no one to ask for help with, thus could only invite Mister over to discuss instead." Ling Tian spoke respectfully. Towards Mister Qin's personal integrity, Ling Tian only had the utmost respect from deep within him.

Mister Qin laughed in return, "Young Noble need not be too polite, just speak your mind."

Ling Tian smiled and dropped the courteous words, getting straight to the point, "Mister has also heard the whole thing just now; we are about to take over a military workshop, thus we are in need of workers. Since I do not have anyone under me right now, I will need Mister to recommend some talents to me."

With an "oh" from Mister Qin, he stroked his beard as he thought deeply.

Ling Tian continued, "In addition, I still need a residence in a secluded area. The quieter, the better. I'm not too familiar regarding the procedures to apply for one. Furthermore, for confidentiality, all this needs to be done covertly, thus I have to trouble Mister a lot."

Mister Qin cheerfully smiled, "Young Noble, you want to break and scatter this bunch of old bones, right?" It could be seen that even though he spoke thus, Mister Qin was actually glad that Ling Tian had given such an important role to him. This was because Mister Qin could feel that Ling Tian did not try to hide any secrets from him. He secretly swore in his heart: No matter the case, both of these matters need to be done beautifully.

Chapter 47: Begin Planning

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Ling Tian jumped in exultation, Mister Qin actually agreed so readily. In that case, both matters should not be a problem if he left them to Mister Qin. This was because Ling Tian had neglected a point: Mister Qin's students were far and plenty, not just for an ordinary noble house; even for the current Imperial Court, many of them were actually under Mister Qin's tutelage! So long as Mister Qin was willing to open his mouth, this sort of matter like Ling Tian's was not worth a fart to him!

Ling Tian smiled, "Since that's the case, I can put myself at ease. Tomorrow I shall get some banknotes from grandma and pass them to Mister Qin for you to use as you see fit. Hmm, I estimate 5 million taels should do the job."

"Five million?!" Mister Qin staggered, nearly slipping and falling! Even if one wanted to buy a large residence, one would not need so much! Five million taels, this was enough to build a palace!

"Mm." Ling Tian nodded his head, smiling at Mister Qin as he continued, "Mister, regarding the military workshop left to me by the Xiao family, I will only need a few of the experienced smithers. If I were to take them all, the Xiao family would not be able to bear it, while I would have reservations even in using them."

Mister Qin sucked in a breath of cold air, "In that case, I need to find two thousand people to replace those inside at least?"

Ling Tian grinned, "Mister does not need to panic for as long as the laborers have strength, that would be good. Two thousand people will not be difficult to find; the majority of the silver would be spent on the residence. The residence must firstly be big, as big as possible. Secondly, it has to be deserted, best outside the city where it will not attract anyone's attention. Thirdly, the location must be good, being able to account for an all-round defense. Yep, just these three. After you have found one that fits, no matter what the residence is, I will still give it a total facelift. And the silver will be mostly used for the facelift!"

Mister Qin let out a breath in relief, "So that's the case." However, he furrowed his brows soon after, saying, "For those requirements that you have stated before, this old man does have a place which will fit in all three criteria."

"Oh?" Ling Tian's interest was piqued and he hurriedly asked, "Where is it?"

Mister Qin replied, "It's at a forested riverside, south of the city, below Mount Victory. It is the Liang dynasty's King Fu's Courtyard. The position is strategic, with mountains on a side and a river on the other, making it hard to attack but easy to defend. It is just that this is built by the Liang dynasty emperor for his royal brother. However, before it had finished building, the Liang dynasty was annihilated by our army and thus, people started to claim that it was an ominous land. Although the location is good, the place has literally turned into ruins, with nobody showing interest. The foundations are still intact, with a bit of renovations and building, it would be considered to be barely fit for use. As long as young noble wills it, we do not even need the silver to buy it. We only need to send people to fix it and there would be no one poking their noses in."

Ling Tian rested his chin on one hand and thought for a while, before saying, "If that is so, Mister, how about I follow you out of the city to visit your friends tomorrow?"

Mister Qin blanked out for a while before coming to an understanding. Ling Tian wanted to make use of this time to check if the King Fu's courtyard was up to his expectations or not. And to use the excuse of visiting friends would be the perfect cover! Who said that a student could not accompany his teacher to visit his friends? Thus, Ling Tian planned to go there in an upright and righteous fashion, and he could even avoid scrutiny and undue concern. A flawless plan!

This was even more true now that Ling Tian had just flipped the entire residence upside down, and thus he had to lie low a while, else he would be stuck at Ling Zhan and Ling Xiao's side listening to them nag, or even worse, getting beaten up. In addition, given that Xiao FengHan was still staying inside the Ling residence, Ling Tian did not want to see that shrewd old thing come out with stunts to wreck his plans.

After realizing this point, Mister Qin gave a bright smile, looking at Ling Tian with an undisguised mischief in his eyes.

Now that matters were settled, Mister Qin had no reason to stay, and after a few teasing words, he bade farewell and left for his own room. On the other side, Ling Jian who had been training non-stop while the other two were discussing, had almost reached his bodily limits, looking entirely as though he had been pulled out from the water. Every strand of his hair stuck onto his scalp and his body constantly emitted steam. Ling Tian let out a smile of praise when he saw this, and threw a few more pieces of charcoal into the brazier, letting the dying embers blaze up once again. In just a few short moments, the room was so warm that people did not need to wear clothes any longer.

At this point, Ling Tian realized that he forgot to refill the brazier whilst in discussion with Mister Qin. No wonder Mister Qin did not bother staying on afterwards, it was because he felt cold….

Shaking his head, Ling Tian smiled, "Ling Jian, slow down your pace and recover step by step. Walk towards the brazier and change your clothes." Ling Tian was very clear that for this sort of grueling training for Ling Jian, if he did not take a break, he would never reach maximum effectiveness for the training. Instead, he would even end up injuring himself greatly if his body was not warmed.

With a sound of acknowledgment, Ling Jian slowly halted his movements. When he stopped, without waiting for him to come over, Ling Tian had already thrown an overcoat over his body, bringing him close to the brazier to sit down. Ling Jian's lips trembled, saying, "Many thanks, Young Noble!"

Ling Tian stared deeply at him, saying, "Ling Jian, if there was one day that you die protecting me, I would not say thanks! Do you understand what I mean?"

Ling Jian, however, replied emotionally, "To die while protecting the Young Noble, that is my honor!"

Ling Tian patted his shoulder, saying, "Thus, you don't need to thank me either."

Pausing a while, Ling Tian turned his head over and said, "Between men, there is no need for thanks. Using just the mouth, you can never express yourself fully. It's too bland!"

Ling Jian's eyes twinkled and he lowered his head, "Understood!" Even though Ling Jian did not fully understand what Ling Tian meant with that sentence, he stored it in his heart. To him, every word and action of his young noble was worth the effort to learn. Even if he did not understand now, there would come a day when he would. And when the time came, he would definitely understand the intentions behind his young noble. That was what he thought.

The next day, dawn. Ling Tian first made his way into Madam Ling's room, where they had a conversation, muttering about god-knows-what. This was followed by him bringing Ling Jian as well as a bodyguard, and following Mister Qin into his carriage to visit his friend.

Behind him, by the doors of the great hall, stood several people. All of them had various forms of expressions. Ling Zhan was still depressed and did not even bother stepping out. Ling Xiao was, on the other hand, still angry, and looked as though he could not wait to grab Ling Tian to give him a thorough beating. Chu Ting'er had an expression of concern while Madam Ling's was one of pride. Further back, a silhouette watched the tiny shadow of Ling Tian with a heavy face, appearing as though he was meeting his lifelong enemy! Carrying this face of deep probing and investigation was naturally Xiao FengHan.

Watching this scene, Xiao FengHan said, "The little fellow is moving out, there must be something going on. Follow him and tell me what he does." While there was nobody behind him, not even a shadow, the moment he finished talking, a barely noticeable body shape flickered in the sunlight before disappearing. He only left a word hanging in the air, "Yes!"

Ling Kong rushed back to his run, his emotions in an eager mess. Bending over the case, his hand casually grabbed the piece of paper and wrote a few words on it. "The flowing river surrounded by trees, below Mount Victory, obstruct and kill Ling Tian. No mistakes are tolerated!"

In a jiffy, a pure white carrier pigeon took flight from the Ling residence. It flew in a circle on top of the residence before heading south. Looking at the carrier pigeon soar through the air, a flash of happiness shone in Ling Kong's eyes, and his malevolent face was suffused with excitement.

Within the Ling residence, in the tallest attic, was the location Madam Ling used to recite her Buddhist prayers daily. Currently, Madam Ling stood at the window, her hand holding on to a scripture book, yet her eyes were facing east. Seeing the carrier pigeon suddenly rise from the East Striding Courtyard, her eyes flashed with a coldness akin to ice! Her killing intent flowed out unchecked!

Chapter 48: Fighting on the Streets

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Two horse carriages, one in front with the other behind, moved slowly on the streets. The four horses which dragged the carriage along had already indicated that this was a super luxurious carriage. There were plenty of bells which hanged all around the carriage, ringing as they went along the streets. This was the trademark of the Ling mansion, the famous Gold Wind Chimes which was famous across the world!

In the carriage, it was extremely spacious inside. Mister Qin held a scroll of yellow colored pages, reading it with enjoyment by the side. Ling Tian sat in a relaxed position with his eyes shut and a calm face; no one could tell what exactly he was thinking about. Ling Jian sat behind Ling Tian with his back straight with all his muscles tensed up. Ling Jian would remember a single phrase which Ling Tian said: No matter what, training must never stop! Currently, Ling Jian was using his actions to live out this phrase.

After leaving the Ling family mansion, the carriage proceeded slowly to the south. The carriage swayed gently, giving one the feeling that he was in a baby's cradle. At least, Ling Tian felt that way as he closed his eyes and went to sleep. These few days of hard work was indeed not easy for him. Despite him having the mental age carried over from his past life, he was still in the body of a five year old child. Despite being trained in martial arts, it was also extremely taxing for him to be overstretched for the past few days. With such a good opportunity to take a break during the journey, Ling Tian would definitely not let go of it.

Just when he was gradually about to fall asleep, the carriage suddenly stopped as a commotion sounded outside as though there were people fighting.

Ling Tian was startled awake; the feeling of wanting to sleep but being pulled out of your dreams by a shock sent Ling Tian into a fit of rage! Mmm, such a rage is called morning blues in his previous life!

A weird voice then sounded, as though it was a chicken who had its neck strangled, "Get lost, get lost. Get off the road. I'm talking about you. Dammit, are you deaf?"

Following which, he heard the hoarse voice of Ling Da who was driving his carriage, "Bullshit! You should be the one to get lost! Open up your eyes before you want to bully someone! Look at which family this carriage belongs to!"

Ling Tian grunted in his heart, "The people blocking us must definitely be from the Yang family! In this large capital, only the Yang family would have the guts to block the carriage with the Ling family's Gold Wind Chimes!"

Ling Tian stretched out his hands to lift up the curtains. Then, he looked back at the furious Mister Qin and gave a mischievous smile. Mister Qin was originally extremely angry, but after seeing Ling Tian's expression, he knew that the Yang family who was blocking the way were going to be in trouble. He could not help but laugh as he pulled Ling Jian who wanted to follow Ling Tian down, "Let the young noble handle this matter, it is not appropriate for any of us to handle this matter."

Ling Jian was first stunned for a while before understanding what Mister Qin meant. He then sat down obediently and looked out of the window.

Ling Tian got off the carriage as he looked up in the skies and said with arrogance., "Ling Da! Which blind person dares to block the carriage of my Ling family? Go and ask him if he thinks that he has too many heads growing on his neck and wants to get rid of one?" As this arrogant command sounded, everyone by the sides all became silent.

The guard of the Ling family was stunned for a moment before laughing, "Oi, my young noble is asking you a question. Do you have two heads on your neck? Hahaha…"

On the opposite, the carriage also had four horses pulling on it with a fair and round fatty driving the carriage; this was the fat driver that was the one shouting previously. The moment he saw that the young master of the Ling family was the one in the carriage, he knew that this matter could not be settled by him. Before his master said anything, it was best for him to just feign deaf and hide like a tortoise.

The veils on the opposite carriage were then lifted as a 13 to 14 year old teen walked down. His hair was in a mess with triangular eyes. Before even taking a few steps, his body had already began to shake as though he was drunk. It was obvious that he was exactly like how Ling Tian was acting: Someone who only knew how to rely on the strength of the family, arrogant to the point he did not even know how to walk properly! This was the young master of the Yang family, Yang Wei.

As everyone saw this teen walk down, they felt that they were in luck. They had unknowingly chanced upon a good show between the two infamous brats in the city fighting over the road! The crowd then began to grow larger as they all watched with excited eyes.

This road was the main street of the capital. Not to mention two horse carriages, even if it was four or six of carriages of this size, the road was more than enough to fit them all. But, whenever the Ling family or Yang family's carriage were on the streets, they would definitely be in the center of the streets! They had met with each other many times before and had fought countless of times with both families having their fair share of wins and losses. But for the younger generation from both family to meet at the same time, this was the first ever since they were born! It seems that there would definitely be an exciting show.

Now, both the young masters were surrounded by guards, mumbling something as they stared to the skies with disdain on their faces.

While still staring at the sky, Ling Tian calmly said, "Woah, I wondered who had such guts. So it is just a little lamb." His clear voice sounded, completely filled with disdain. The crowds broke out into commotion! This young master of the Ling family is so bold!

Yang Wei's body continue to sway, as though he would not be able to show his status and unique charisma if he did not do so, as he retorted, "Aiyah, where did this little brat come from? He actually copies after others like a little dog and walked in the middle of the streets? He actually dares to snatch the road with this young master? He actually began to bark first? Tsk tsk tsk, you have guts, you have guts!" He used a total of three 'he actually', as though he was extremely surprised.

Ling Tian then replied, "Young master Yang, what are you shivering about? Don't tell me you are getting fits? Its best you return home quickly. I heard that it isn't good to come in contact with too much wind with this illness," with a tone filled with concern. As Mister Qin saw how Yang Wei was acting together with Ling Tian's sarcasm, he almost burst out into laughter.

Yang Wei's swaying immediately stopped as he scolded in frustration, "Little dog, hurry up and let the path out to this young master, I do not have the time to play with you! Scram back to your kennel! This young master is magnanimous and will not be calculative with you. I will let you off today." As he said that, he snatched the horse whip from the fatty and whipped it in the air, making a loud smack. Following which, he walked forward with the whip with a vicious look filled with excitement, as though he wanted to whip Ling Tian on the spot.

Seeing the malevolent look on Yan Wei's face, Ling Tian knew that he had successfully incited Yan Wei's rage. He then snickered in his heart, "Let's see if you will fall for it or not!" Following which, he pretended to be in fear as he stuttered, "You...what are you so fierce for? Be careful that I will complain to my aunt's husband...you…" These words of his was purposefully spoken softly as his voice trembled, as though he was frightened by Yang Wei. The moment he said 'aunt's husband', it was soft to the point only Yang Wei was able to hear it.

As Ling Tian said that, everyone was surprised! This young master of the Ling family was so fierce when they first met! Why is it such that after Yang Wei became ferocious, Ling Tian knees turned completely soft? They all could not help but feel disdain in their heart. For him to admit his weakness in front of everyone, how would the Ling family reputation suffer? Many people could not help but shake their heads as they thought to themselves, "General Ling is so heroic and courageous, but his son actually turned out like that! This is really a tiger father with a dog son, the downfall of the family!"

Yang Wei was extremely pleased in his heart! Whenever their Yang family fought the Ling family, their family was always on the losing end. But when he came out today, he was actually able to scare the young master of the Ling family silent! Although he was bullying the young, it was still obvious to the crowds that the Yang family was a head above the Ling family. In excitement, blood rushed towards his head as he did not pay much attention to what Ling Tian said.

Seeing Ling Tian respond so weakly, Yang Wei broke out into a crazed laughter, "Your aunt's husband? HAHAHA, what can your aunt's husband amount to? He dares to interfere with the affairs of my Yang family? Is he tired of living? This young master will be waiting here! Brat, go and call your aunt's husband over and this young master will see if he will have to kowtow to me for mercy! WAHAHAHA…" A wave of maniacal laughter sounded.

Ling Tian shouted out, obviously extremely angry, "You dare scold my aunt's husband? You have guts!"

Yang Wei then spat on the ground as he said, "What can your aunt's husband be considered? Not only do this young master dare to scold him, I also dare to beat him up!"

Ling Tian then chuckled as his face changed to one of seriousness and coldness. With a sharp glare, he shouted, "Everyone heard that, this person is extremely bold and dares to scold the emperor! He does not place the emperor in his sights at all! It is obvious that his Yang family is disloyal and wants to rebel! Men, capture all of these people from the Yang family, don't let any of them off! If they dare to retaliate, kill them without mercy for the crime of treason!"

Only then did everyone realize that Duke Ling only had a single daughter, and this daughter of his was married to the emperor! Then, Ling Tian's aunt's husband would be the emperor! Although he was being a little unreasonable and trying to force a crime unto Yang Wei, everyone present can be witnesses to the fact that Yang Wei scolded Ling Tian's aunt's husband...

Chapter 49: Crime of Rebellion

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Everyone felt baffled at the scene — the two children were arguing a while ago with everyone watching them in enjoyment, how did the winds change and suddenly bring in the topic of the Emperor? To insult the Emperor, and harbor plans of rebelling was a crime which would cause the extermination of all nine generations of one's family! How did Young Master Yang not know this and proceed to insult the other party's uncle-in-law?

Because Ling Tian's voice was too soft, so everyone did not hear Ling Tian saying "tell that to my aunt's husband". They only heard Young Noble Yang suddenly burst out scolding the other party's uncle-in-law, and even venomously so, and furthermore fluently cursing!

Shit has hit the fan!

Everyone present only saw the Young Master Yang standing there stock still in shock. Then, the audience hurriedly moved their legs to escape. Are you kidding me? In just a blink of an eye, an old hen transformed into a duck! Since the topic went to rebelling, why would the people of their caliber stay when the only option there was death?

Ling Tian shifted his vision, and glanced towards Ling Yi — Ling Yi was a bodyguard of the Ling family, and also one which had constantly opposed the Yang Family for many years. While he worked as a coachman on the surface, he had virtually seen all the struggles of the two families over the years. Of course, Ling Tian had to consult him to understand how he should proceed in order to reap the full benefits.

Under their tacit agreement, Ling Tian suddenly jumped onto the chariot, shouting: "All are not to move! Those present here are all witnesses! If anyone dares to move, he or she will be dealt with in the same crime of rebellion! The punishment will be the extermination of your nine generations!" Once he spoke, those on the street froze like blocks of wood! Everyone had an expression of dread, with their limbs shaking as they screamed in their hearts: "Why am I so unlucky!"

"I came here to watch a good show but got turned into a witness for a crime of rebellion! What is the reasoning behind this suffering!" Many of them secretly swore; even if there was a beautiful lady doing a striptease on the streets in future, they would not even stay there to observe! This sort of matter was death-inducing!

Behind the Yang Family's chariot, a servant suddenly pushed apart the crowd and sped off. In a blink of an eye not even his shadow could be seen. Obviously, he had gone back to the Yang Residence to report the matter.

However, Ling Tian did not even bat an eyelid, as though he had not noticed the blatant escape. He did not think that the Yang Family will be destroyed by this, and only thought he could use this chance to bring the Yang's Young Master down a notch. Secretly throwing Ling Yi a glance, he gave a tacit signal, and Ling Yi immediately sliced off the bridle of one of the horses pulling the chariot. He then got on the horse and speed along towards the Ling Residence.

"Little thing, how dare you try to climb up my head! Watch how this little grandpa play you to death!" Ling Tian thought to himself happily. However, his facial expression remained chilly as he scolded, "Men, what are you still waiting for! Tie them all up! No one shall be exempted!"

Yang Wei's pitch went up by an octave as he shouted: "You dare!"

A wave of disdain surfaced in Ling Tian's heart. Waving his hands, he continued: "Anyone who resists would be considered a rebel! Kill them without mercy! Men, hurry up!"

"Yes!" The various guards of the Ling Residence shouted out their acknowledgement, pouncing towards the people like wolves and tigers. The moment they grabbed onto someone, they would first give them a good beating before tying them up; finally the ropes ran out, and they started to take out the belts of the unfortunate victims to use as a rope… in that moment, all the Ling bodyguards were high-spirited, delightedly carrying themselves without restraint. After fighting with the Yang Family for 3 decades, this was the first time they could let loose all their frustrations.

How would the Yang Family's bodyguard and butler know that just a single sentence from their Young Master would land them in such trouble! Right now, everyone was behaving similarly, not daring to move, allowing themselves to be tied up. Thinking of moving? You must be joking, it would be counted as treason! Ling Tian was completely willing to kill on the streets! Furthermore, even if they were killed, it would be just and proper and no one would say a word against him.

Glancing at the audiences lying wrapped like dumplings on the floor in satisfaction, Ling Tian nodded his head. He then slowly walked in front of Yang Wei, saying: "Young Master Yang, I just thought of it, I have not asked for your name yet."

Yang Wei had on a face of viciousness, coldly snorting: "Kid, don't be too happy! I won't let you go, definitely not!"

Ling Tian now smiled, his grin remaining on his face as he stood back up. Suddenly, he stretched out a leg, kicking him to the ground. Walking up to him, he stretched out his right leg, slowly and firmly pressing it on Yang Wei's face, viciously grinding it such that the latter's mouth was buried in the snow piled up on the street. Contemptuously laughing, he continued: "Young Master Yang, you aren't willing to let me go?" As he spoke he slowly lifted up his leg, before placing it down, lift up, push down… "You must know that for today's matters, even if I were to kill you right now, your grandfather would still have to personally come over to the Ling Residence to thank me! Do you really think that you are some big shot? Hehehaha…" Ling Tian felt as though he was basking in too much of the limelight today. In his laughter, he purposely added a touch of bossiness to it, making it look like an evildoer who had gotten what he wanted!

Yang Wei's mouth was filled with soil, with muffled sounds coming from within his mouth. Upon hearing Ling Tian's cold ridicule, he finally could not resist the fear growing in his heart, and two streams of tears flowed out from his eyes. As he thought of the seriousness of the matter just now, he got more and more afraid. The humiliation added on was the breaking point for him, making him burst into tears.

"My God! You're crying from this? How pathetic!" Ling Tian slowly brought his leg down, then turned to face another bodyguard of the Yang Family, smiling as he spoke: "What is the name of your Young Master?"

Despite the cute smile on Ling Tian's face, the bodyguard felt the chills deep in his heart. He could not help but hiccup as he stuttered: "Young Master's name is… is called Yang Wei…"

EH?!

Ling Tian's mouth dropped wide open, his expression fantastic to behold! After a while, he finally could not take it any longer, bursting out into laughter!

Impotent? [1] How could someone actually be given such a dogshit name? Ling Tian laughed till the tears flowed down from his face, his body wracked with shivers. He was really full of respect for Yang KongQun! This man, his standard at giving names was in a league of its own!

From afar, the sound of frenzied horse clops sounded, and a group of people on horseback came from opposite directions, from the North and South!

"Both houses really live up their name of being decade-old enemies, even having such synchronization in appearing at the scene." Ling Tian mused to himself. Seeing both parties close to arriving as he glanced sideways, he immediately dived into the chariot. For the following matter, Ling Tian was not willing to stand out any further. However, the Yang Family would not, even in their dreams, think that inside his chariot was still hidden another witness that could be considered a heavyweight character! That was Mister Qin.

Both families had sent out their heavyweight characters as well! On the Ling Family's side, there was the Duke Ling Zhan and Ling Tian's Father Ling Xiao. Furthermore there was another who came to watch the fun, the Xiao Family's Xiao FengHan! Standing beside Duke Ling was a beardless middle-aged man, who was the Ling Family's Chief Advisor, Li ZhengChong — otherwise known as Mister Li.

When Duke Ling heard the news that Ling Tian had caught a few of the Yang Family members who had showed signs of rebellion, Li ZhengChong who had happened to be beside him immediately thought of this as a golden opportunity to undermine the Yang Family's strength. How could the latter let it go? Xiao FengHan, who just happened to be playing chess with Ling Zhan naturally would not miss the chance for such a good show. In fact, when Xiao FengHan heard the news, the first thought that ran through his mind was: "Yet another opportunity presented itself to that little devil's mouth!"

Similar to the Ling Family, the lineup of the Yang Family's members was in no way inferior. Other than the Family Head — Yang KongQun, there was also Yang Wei's father — Yang Lei, his uncle — Yang Chen, as well as several experts and officials. It was as though they came out in full force, with all of them having flustered expressions. Looking at the bedraggled appearance of Yang Wei, all of them were brimming with fury.

The audience gathered around in a huge ring. In the ring was seven to eight Yang family members with depressed looks, trussed up like turkeys. Everyone of them even had a bright steel sword on their necks. Although Yang Wei did not have any steel sword placed on him, his face was full of mud and soil, with his hair in disarray and his body covered in filth. Because it just snowed, and the weather today was considered relatively warm, the piled up snow started to melt. Since Yang Wei had been pushed down and stepped on by Ling Tian, he naturally took the 'grand prize'! In Ling Tian's eyes, this Young Noble Yang now looked like a refugee from Africa….

[1] The author is playing with homonyms here. Yang Wei (杨伟) has the same pronunciation as Yang Wei (阳痿) which means that one is impotent.

Chapter 50: Concrete Evidence

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

Yang KongQun's face turned dark as he bellowed, "What is going on?!" Seeing how pitiful his grandson was, he felt a wave of heartache, "Hurry and release him!" The servant who reported the matter to the family had only said that young master Yang Wei and the young master of the Ling family had a conflict, with Ling Tian catching Yang Wei by slandering him for humiliating the emperor. Yang KongQun felt that something was wrong but the servant just did not dare to explain the whole incident. After all, how would a mere servant dare to talk about humiliating the emperor? Thus, Yang KongQun still did not know what happened exactly and only knew that it was a serious matter rushing over in exasperation. If Yang Wei had offended any other family, Yang KongQun could not be bothered with it. But the moment he heard that the Ling family was the other party, he had no choice but to make a personal appearance.

"Wait!" Seeing how the people of the Yang family actually ignored everyone around and wanted to free Yang Wei, Ling Zhan roared, "It is best for us to clarify what happened first before doing anything."

Yang KongQun retorted, "Old man Ling, the one being tied up is my grandson!" What he meant was: He isn't your grandson, obviously you don't feel the heartache!

Ling Zhan replied coldly, "I know he does not have the surname 'Ling'. But, he will not die even if he is tied up for a while more."

Yang KongQun trembled in anger and managed to barely suppress his anger after taking a few deep breaths.

All of a sudden, there was the sound of horses accompanied by flurried footsteps approaching from the east as a squadron of guards dressed in armour approached! The Capital Law Enforcement Squadron! The Yang family stared at them until their eyeballs almost fell off!

The Capital Law Enforcement Squadron was a special force in the capital and can be said to be the most powerful force entity apart from the regular force. Their combat prowess was even stronger than the regular army! Ever since this squadron was founded, it has always been in the control of the imperial family. Towards the various powers and government officials in the capital, it carried a strong sense of intimidation.

Everyone from the Ling family then revealed a delighted look as Yang KongQun turned his head around, "What exactly happened?" His hand stretched out as he grabbed the fat driver and brought the driver to his side.

The fat driver explained the whole event with a depressed expression. However, even he did not hear what Ling Tian said which caused Yang Wei to scold Ling Tian's uncle-in-law. Since Yang KongQun was the one interrogating him, he could only reply honestly about how the young master was the one who began scolding Ling Tian's uncle-in-law...

Yang KongQun took a deep breath of cold air! This matter can be big or small depending on the situation. If the Ling family insists that Yang Wei insulted the emperor, this grandson of his is finished for sure.

Yang KongQun was both angered and frustrated as he stepped on Yang Wei, "Are you an idiot? He dug such an obvious trap for you and you jumped into it without hesitation?" He has his uncle-in-law, don't you have one too? Both of your uncle-in-laws are the same person! Bastard!" Yang KongQun was angered by his grandson to the point he went silly! Yang Wei scolded Ling Tian's uncle-in-law? Isn't that the same as scolding his own uncle-in-law?

Yang KongQun also felt that there was definitely something that was wrong in this incident! Although Yang Wei was not extremely bright, he wasn't so stupid either. There must definitely be a hidden explanation behind this.

An official from the Capital Law Enforcement Squadron then walked over with a cold expression, "What is going on here? Ah? Elder Ling? Elder Yang? What are you two elders doing here?" The second half of his sentence was filled with shock.

Ling Zhan then laughed as he said, "This old man heard that there was a mad man here who dared to humiliate the emperor in public. In a fit of rage, this old man came to take a look."

That official then paid his compliments to the different people present before walking to the center and asking, "What is going on here?" In fact, he was also extremely worried in his heart. While the Capital Law Enforcement Squadron belonged to the imperial family and had a high status, the two people here were not figures that he could offend. Even if they would not want to offend the Capital Law Enforcement Squadron, it was nothing difficult for them to deal with a small officer like him.

As he saw that both Ling Zhan and Yang KongQun was present, he was completely filled with regret! This was obviously a conflict between both their families and even the emperor would not be able to defuse it so easily, much less him. He then began to search within the crowd as he thought to himself, "F**k! Where did that fellow who gave me the news disappear to? If this daddy here sees him, I will definitely shred him into pieces!"

From the Ling family carriage which did not moved for a long time, an old man who was holding the hand of a little boy suddenly came out from within. His face was lean as his beard reached his chest, "Hahaha, why not you ask this old man. This old man had been here all this while and had witnessed the whole incident. Besides, there are over hundreds of people here who can be the witness to this event as well. If this old man is unfair with my words, there will naturally be someone from the crowd to step out and disagree with me."

The moment Yang KongQun saw that he was the one stepping out from the carriage, Yang KongQun felt his head go into a whirl. Why is it him? Things are now bad! If he is the one who planned it all, this wouldn't be surprising.

Mister Qin always had always been indifferent to fame and fortune, and did not have any government posts. However, his reputation in the world was unrivaled. Together with him being a teacher for many years, he has many talented students all over the world. Even in the current ministerial court, there were many officials who were once under Mister Qin's tutelage. A few days ago, Yang KongQun heard that Ling Zhan personally invited Mister Qin into the Ling family to be the teacher of Ling Tian. Yang KongQun never imagined that this old man would come out right at this crucial period of time!

In front of both the family heads and the Capital Law Enforcement Squadron, Mister Qin repeated the whole incident truthfully. Even the words which Yang Wei used were recited out by him word for word without concealing it in the slightest!

Mister Qin always had an extremely good reputation. Together with the fact that what he said was completely truthful, everyone understood what happened after a short explanation.

Yang KongQun's face turned paler and paler as he heard the story, to the point his face was completely white when the story ended. He had originally felt the matter to be extremely strange —

this meeting was obviously coincidental, yet it was made used of so perfectly by someone, forcing his Yang family into a corner! The intricate calculations, sharp foresight and powerful means were all so baffling! Even if someone were to beat Yang KongQun to death, he would never believe that the whole affair today was planned out by the mischievous brat of the Ling family! Only after he saw Mister Qin did Yang KongQun felt like his doubts were answered. So it was this old man who was controlling the scenes from the back! It is no wonder that my Yang family suffered such a great loss this time! With Yang Wei's pitiful intellect, he completely lacked any form of flexibility. Together with this sly and cunning old man and how sudden this matter was, it was no surprise that Yang Wei fell for Mister Qin's plans.

After Yang KongQun saw Mister Qin, he inevitably shoved all of the responsibility for the matters today onto him. In that instant, a vicious glare filled his eyes as he stared at Mister Qin while thinking to himself, "Darn old thing. I did not place you in my sights initially. But I never thought that you would help the Ling family. Taking the initiative to attack? Hahaha, let us wait and see! In this capital, the Ling family is not the only one here!"

Yang Wei's father, Yang Lei felt that the matters were becoming more and more disadvantageous for his son and could not help but retort, "The young master of the Ling family had always been arrogant and conceited, who in the capital does not know that? This matter may be started by Ling Tian, forcing my son, Yang Wei, to retaliate. It is all within reason."

Everyone then turned to look at Ling Tian whose hand was being held by Mister Qin; his eyes was still filled with tears as his eyes were red, obviously crying before this. Currently, his eyes were still looking around anxiously as his body retreated behind Mister Qin. It was obvious that Ling Tian was extremely frightened. Such a child would start this matter? You're still slandering him? Everyone present came to an immediate conclusion: The young master of the Yang family was definitely the one who bullied Ling Tian but had accidentally have a slip of his tongue. After all, for a 13 year old teen to fight a five year old child, everyone did not need to think to guess what the result would be.

Looking at Ling Tian's pitiful appearance, looking as though he would cry at any moment, all of the senior present could not help but want to hug and console him. They had all came to a conclusion in their hearts that the Yang family went too far this time! They had actually sent a 13 year old teen to bully a five year old child!

As they all understood what was going on, everyone present were kept behind as witnesses. The victim of the incident also gave his statement of what happened, and there was concrete evidence!

The faces of those from the Yang family turned ashen!

Chapter 51: Truth

Translator: DavidT Editor: celllll

At this point, Young Master Yang finally had a chance to speak. After furiously spitting out the mud inside his mouth, he shouted, "It's that little bastard who is setting me up, I'm innocent! …" He barely got the sentence out before he was viciously slapped by the ashamed Yang KongQun who shouted back: "Shut your mouth!"

Ling Xiao's eyes were suffused with coldness which everyone could see. "To think that jerk dared to call my son a 'little bastard!' Such a humiliation! To think he dared to be so unbridled even after carrying such a heavy crime!" Ling Xiao could not help but want to step in, to teach him a lesson.

Yang KongQun stood ramrod straight in front of his grandson, saying: "Although things have come to such a stage, all of us have only heard one side of the story. Doesn't everyone want to hear the other party explain themselves?"

Standing by the side, Li ZhengChong guffawed heartily, saying: "It doesn't matter what Young Master Yang says regarding this sort of matter, however, if Sire Yang is not resigned to this fact, you can let your grandson speak out, there's no harm in doing so!" Li ZhengChong realized that the Yang Family would be in quite a predicament this time round and he could not help but feel amazed in his heart.

This was an originally minor incident, of two children from opposing families arguing. However, under some premeditated guidance, what was originally chicken feed evolved into something which involved all levels of the imperial court, thoroughly putting the Yang Family in an embarrassing spot! In particular, the person's ability to grasp the opportune timing, and his judgement was impeccably accurate, leading to such an astonishing scene.

The most wonderful part of this was not the fact that Yang Wei was set up, but rather in which the timing was so precisely calculated that both the Yang and Ling Families' reinforcements arrived at the exact same time. This was totally mind blowing!

One must know that if any of the Families had arrived earlier than the other, the end result would not be like this. If the Yang Family were to arrive first, then they would disperse the crowd of witnesses at the first instant and save their people. Only then would they formulate their counterattack. If the Ling Family were to arrive first, the Yang Family would also have an excuse, saying that all these witnesses were planted by the Ling Family deliberately. The Ling Family might even be marked with bogus accusations.

However, now that both the families had arrived at the same time despite the distance being substantially different, the situation had also become more complex. Right now, both families did not dare to ask the witnesses to disperse in order to deal with this situation. The moment one side opened their mouth it would mean giving the other party an excuse to strike, and say that the offending party had a guilty conscience. As such, either family could use such a scenario to turn the tables onto the other.

And the most crucial factor was that even the Capital Law Enforcement Squadron was also called over. The moment the Law Enforcement Squadron had heard that there was someone showing signs of rebellion as well as insulting the Emperor, they immediately rushed to the scene, attempting to try and net some merit. However, it was unfortunate that they ended up as a pincushion against the fights of the two Great Families! If the Law Enforcement Squadron had not appeared, both families would have brought their people back and forgot about this matter after fighting for a few rounds. Even if both families were to flip the skies upside down, the Imperial Family would still adopt the position of a bystander and not get involved, waiting for reap the benefits of both families weakening. However, now that the team representing the imperial authority had already awkwardly inserted themselves into this matter, that former idea obviously would not work anymore.

At this juncture, the only solution to this seemed to be to report the matter to the Emperor, and await his judgement. However, the fact that Yang Wei had blatantly insulted the Emperor meant that he would not be able to escape punishment. One of them was viciously scolding, while the other trying his best to defend the name. Both families were poles apart! At this juncture, which family the Emperor would lean towards was obvious at a glance!

No matter how this matter was settled, it was undeniable that the Ling family would gain the upper hand. Not only would they win the lawsuit, they would also receive the Emperor's favor as well as his reward. On the other hand, even if Yang Wei would be given grace, and stop the pursuit of this matter, Yang Wei's life would already be considered finished due to this tiny incident! Not only did the Yang Family have to swallow all these pent-up grievances, they had to swallow them with joyous expressions on the surface with half a word of complaint! If they wanted to seek revenge from the Ling Family, they could only do so discreetly and not out in the open. However, both families were already locked in constant strife with each other, so why would the Ling Family be afraid of this revenge from the Yang family?

Expert! To be able to extrapolate such a trivial matter into such a heaven defying result, this could only be the work of gods or devils!

Upon realizing all this, the Head Advisor, Li ZhengChong had a face full of reverence. As though he was witnessing the first rays of sunlight on top of a tall mountain, he looked at Mister Qin! Though this fellow seemed to be law-abiding and scholarly, no one would have imagined that beneath this restrained appearance was someone who was bold and shrewd! One indeed cannot judge a book by its cover!

No one would even imagine, let alone believe, that this matter was actually orchestrated by the teary-eyed, gutless child standing by the side!

At this moment, Yang Wei was narrating the whole process in which the argument had developed: "... then he said, he said, he was going to tell his aunt's husband about this, and let him take care of me… so I just… I just…" Saying up till here, he secretly lifted up his head to see his grandfather's expression, and tactfully did not continue talking.

Thankfully, Yang KongQun did not die from anger from this! Yang KongQun repeatedly cursed in his heart: "How could I have such a idiotic grandson! You would be better off not speaking in this case!" In his heart, he had already understood what exactly happened. In a verbal exchange, it would be natural for one's tongue to inadvertently slip. If it were a normal person, that would be the end of it, however the person in question was Ling Tian! The 'aunt's husband' that Ling Tian had brought out, was someone not in the capacity of Yang Wei to even criticize!

All the surrounding audience all felt the same way; if a child was being bullied, he would naturally look for an adult to protect him. As to why Ling Tian had mentioned his uncle-in-law, it was a matter of fact. In every child's heart, only the mightiest adult would have the capability to help and protect him. In Ling Tian's case, among all the people he knew, the first person in his mind would definitely be the Emperor!

This also meant that the Emperor, to Ling Tian, was a figure he respected and was close to! Thus, Yang Wei's retaliatory sentence not only sealed his fate, but also increased Ling Tian's reputation in the eyes of the Emperor!

When the crowd separates, word of this would spread to the Emperor's ears, and his impression of the Ling Family would also improve by a few points! One would definitely think: "Why would such a small child like Ling Tian be able to speak of asking his uncle-in-law for help? It could only be that their family teachings were good!" Furthermore, this would speak volumes about the loyalty of the Ling Family towards the Emperor. It was the combination of all these factors that made Yang KongQun nearly faint from the anger!

Such a small matter, was reflected into such a big problem, and could even result in long term repercussions! If one were to manipulate it properly, this would be enough to determine the success and failure of both the families! The crowd were not fools — after pondering for awhile, they could not help but show a change in their expressions. In that instant, it was as if all of them were suffering from suffocation, and they collectively sucked in a long breath of cold air! The suction was so great it was as if the entire street had turned into a vacuum in that very moment...

As the commander of the Law Enforcement Squadron, Wan ShiFang, saw how the matters had already progressed to such a stage, he could only prudently observe Yang KongQun's expression as he suggested, "This matter is out of this small one's jurisdiction, might I suggest that the two Sires instead pay a visit to the Emperor, and seek divine judgement."

The crowd remained silent. At this point, who could not guess what the Emperor would say and deal with this matter? What so-called divine judgement was all a formality. However, the solution that Wan ShiFang suggested was the only plausible route to take in order to solve this problem! Even though both Ling Zhan and Yang KongQun possessed enough manpower to overflow the heavens in their lifetime, they did not have the ability to resolve this problem amicably.

The two old fellows exchanged a glance. One of them had an expression full of glee, while the other was angered beyond words, with a depressed expression! Both nodded their heads at the same time.

Xiao FengHan only hid behind Ling Zhan from start to the end, coldly watching on as a bystander. Having suffered from a disadvantage before, he naturally could tell with a glance that this matter was, without doubt, another masterpiece created by that little demon! To think he could still reveal such a pitiful look to win the audience's pity! Today's matter did not just severely wound the Yang Family, it also greatly boosted the development of the Ling Family. The ingenious part of this was that Ling Tian's escaped from the spotlight the moment Mister Qin stepped out of the carriage! Thus, Ling Tian managed to continue concealing himself, with the brunt of the impact being taken by Mister Qin.

Such a brilliant plan! The more Xiao FengHan evaluated the successes and failures of this plan, the more he felt as though that pitiful child had an intellect that was as deep as the ocean, vast and unfathomable! He could only suck in a breath of air, and once more seriously reconsider his viewpoint of Ling Tian. As he focused on Ling Tian, he saw Ling Tian turn his head towards him, the corners of his mouth rising upwards in a crafty smile...