Chapter Forty-Two: A Short Rest

We settled down for the moment, temporarily free from one trouble. However, considering the current situation, another problem loomed: Linglu could intercede for Daoist Lingyun, which indicated they were in cahoots. Regardless of whether the Immortal knew about this connection, exposing Daoist Lingyun would be difficult without solid evidence. Additionally, his high reputation in Luoyang was another obstacle.

I sat in my room, leaning on my elbows, deep in thought, drinking cup after cup of cool tea. Suddenly, I heard a few knocks at the door. I got up to open it, and there stood the Immortal.

"Why are you here, Immortal? I was just thinking about something. Your knock made me forget what I was just about to figure out."

"What matter has you so engrossed that you've forgotten to come down for dinner?" The Immortal frowned slightly, gently pulling me by the hand. "Your health is important. No matter how urgent the issue, you need to fill your stomach first." His voice was extremely gentle but carried an undeniable firmness.

No, no, if I eat, I won't be able to think straight. Any ideas I've barely managed to form will be lost with the meal. I need to figure out a solid plan before discussing it with the Immortal and Brother Luo Xi.

"Immortal, no need. I just… don't feel like eating right now." I thought this response was quite tactful.

He looked down at me and asked, "Are you worried that Linglu might change tomorrow's plans?"

It seemed the Immortal wasn't aware of the connection between Linglu and Daoist Lingyun. Linglu's actions must have been prompted by a tip-off; otherwise, her attitude today would have been entirely different.

Considering this, there might be ties between Daoist Lingyun and the Xinghuo Hall. Linglu's attempt to dismiss the matter as a "misunderstanding" aimed to protect Daoist Lingyun and Lingyun Temple, proving her involvement with Xinghuo Hall. Yi'er had also warned me to be cautious before. Uncovering this further might implicate more than just Daoist Lingyun; Linglu was undoubtedly involved.

We couldn't act rashly, nor could we let the matter slide.

I decided to seek the Immortal's advice and asked, "Immortal, what is your plan?"

When I looked up into the Immortal's eyes, they shone like scattered stars in a twilight sky. "Qingyue, rest assured. Since I promised to go to Lingyun Temple tomorrow, I will make sure Daoist Lingyun gives you an explanation. I won't easily change my promise because of someone's status or reasons." The Immortal spoke calmly, his gaze steady and comforting.

"No matter the outcome, I trust you, Immortal. That has never changed," I said, choosing to trust him completely.

The Immortal smiled gently and said, "Then let's eat. Don't worry too much about tomorrow; leave it to me, alright?"

I returned his smile naturally and stepped out of the room. "Alright, Immortal, tell me what's for dinner tonight?"

"I ordered six of the house specialties. Luo Xi is already downstairs eating. If you hurry, you might still get some Longjing Shrimp."

"What?!" Thinking of the house specialties and my favorite Longjing Shrimp, I quickly rolled up my sleeves and dashed downstairs, ready for "battle."

After a fierce struggle, my stomach declared defeat, unable to fit even a single kernel of corn.