Plotting with You: The Forensic Scientist in Ancient Times!-Chapter 331 - 330: The Old Steward

Although Yan Shu’s words weren’t directly aimed at Lu Zhang, everyone knew who she was referring to.

Previously, whether they didn’t know each other’s true identities or after their identities were revealed, they rarely spoke to each other, even in such indirect conversations.

Lu Zhang’s expression was somewhat displeased; being mocked by his brother was one thing, but being scorned by his "never met" new wife was something else entirely.

He opened his mouth awkwardly, not out of anger, but more out of feeling helpless.

Yan Shu’s bravery and demeanor had been witnessed by Lu Zhang all along, particularly her exquisite riding skills, which set her apart from the women of Jin Country with a distinctly different aura.

All these left him with nothing to retort, nor any way to express dissatisfaction.

Lu Zhang glanced at Zhu Yu, recalling what Lu Qing had said earlier. He pursed his lips uneasily and mustered his courage to echo, "Exactly right, I was indeed inconsiderate just now.

Brother Yan Wei is skilled in riding and archery, naturally, he won’t hold anyone back, but be a great help instead."

Unlike Zhu Yu’s appreciative acceptance of Lu Qing’s words, Yan Shu coldly rolled her eyes at him, showing no gratitude.

However, the topic ended there and then as Lu Zhang decided not to push further. When Lu Yan came back prepared, no mockery was found, which gave Lu Zhang a sigh of relief.

The group had a simple discussion before setting off in disguise.

As they were pretending to be merchants, it was inappropriate for Lu Qing and Lu Yan to carry their usual swords.

As martial artists, their swords were typically broad and long, practical for combat, lacking any ornate decorations.

This was significantly different from the smaller, decorative swords that hung on belts, thus not suitable for merchants traveling abroad.

So, they all switched to some concealed weapons like daggers for stealth.

To be safe, Yan Daoxin secretly slipped a small mechanism to Zhu Yu, capable of releasing a few poison needles in an emergency, to aid in an escape.

After completing all preparations and giving instructions for matters within the camp, the group mounted their horses and set off.

Because they had encountered some farmers the previous day, to avoid arousing suspicion, they planned to follow Lu Yan’s route, heading straight to Immortal Castle, bypassing the farmers working outside, and directly entering the fortress looking for an opportunity to investigate thoroughly.

Lu Qing led the way at the front. Despite being an adopted son and not of Emperor Jin’s lineage, and never claiming the status of the eldest son, he was older than Lu Zhang and Lu Yan, so neither had any objections.

After all, having Lu Zhang in front would unsettle Lu Yan, and the reverse would discomfort Lu Zhang.

Zhu Yu, walking in front of Lu Qing, couldn’t hold her curiosity after some distance and asked, "Earlier, was that really what you thought?"

"Hmm?" Lu Qing turned his face slightly, puzzled, to look at her.

"About Prince Yi’s proposal—do you really find it unacceptable?"

"Of course." Lu Qing smirked, eyes forward, riding steadily onward, "We can’t predict the situation over at Immortal Castle. Yan Daoxin may handle living matters, but if someone dies under mysterious circumstances, even he won’t help."

Zhu Yu neither confirmed nor denied this, knowing Yan Daoxin to be adept; however, when it came to postmortem examinations, undoubtedly she was unparalleled.

"That’s one reason." Just as she thought the conversation had ended, Lu Qing spoke again, "The second and most crucial reason is that people of importance should be kept nearby, for the utmost safety.

Some argue that keeping someone close poses a risk, not realizing that accidents typically occur when they’re far away—when help is out of reach.

I can’t trust anyone with this, except myself."

Zhu Yu chuckled silently at his words.

How coincidental, she also disliked the perceived notion of protection through distancing.

If two people are united in purpose, they should face any adversity together.

Casually dismissing women as burdens, under the guise of protection, who are they underestimating?

And so, the group of eight bypassed obstacles to reach the front of Immortal Castle. As Lu Yan described, a high wall stood firm, not quite a city gate, yet not much shorter, exuding an air of seriousness.

Above the tall gate, a wooden plaque with "Immortal Castle" in bold letters hung, beneath which two large brass gates were shut tight. Beside them stood a man in simple attire, holding a wooden stick, looking like a Protector.

The two leaned their sticks against the ground, basking sleepily under the warm sun. Upon hearing horse hooves, they awoke and squinted to see strangers in plain clothes, raising their sticks crossed ahead of the brass gate.

"Who are you? Why come to our Immortal Castle?" One of the Protectors asked loudly.

Lu Qing cheerfully cupped his hands toward them: "We are merchants from the Capital, here to acquire dyes and silk from Immortal Castle.

Would you kindly inform your Fortress Lord?"

As he spoke, Lu Qing signaled to Zhu Yu, who dismounted, approached, and slipped two small pieces of silver to the Protectors without a word: "Big brothers, guarding outside must be tiring. Today’s sun is harsh, so take the opportunity to have tea and soothe your throats."

The two exchanged glances, but quickly accepted the silver, tucking it into their cloth belts.

"Wait here while I inform our steward." One said, softening his tone before pushing open a heavy bronze door to slip inside, disappearing from sight.

The group dismounted, waiting briefly until the Protector returned accompanied by an older gentleman in luxurious silk robes, exuding a sense of grandeur.

"This is our steward," the Protector introduced to Lu Qing and the others.