ALL NOVEL Chapter 13: Chapter 13: Farewell on the Court and Hidden Worries
The morning glow bathed the palace of Zhou Kingdom in a golden light, streaming through the latticed windows and casting its radiance on the marble floor of the court. Zhang Hao stood tall amidst the assembly, his figure highlighted by the interplay of light and shadow. His gaze swept across the faces of the courtiers before finally resting on the throne of King Zhou.
"Your Majesty, your servant Bi Gan has a request to make today," Zhang Hao's voice echoed through the court, breaking the tranquility of the early morning.
King Zhou's eyes were as sharp as an eagle's as he leaned forward slightly and inquired, "Bi Gan, what is it that you seek?"
"I wish to journey to Qingchuan Sect to further my studies and return with greater strength to better serve Your Majesty," Zhang Hao's words were firm and powerful, each syllable reaching every ear present. However, his true intentions were more complex; he knew that only by becoming stronger could he protect himself and his loved ones, and even, if necessary, overthrow this tyrannical rule.
A low murmur immediately filled the court as the ministers whispered to each other, some in surprise, others in concern, and a few with a flicker of envy in their eyes. King Zhou's brow furrowed as he scrutinized Zhang Hao for a moment, seemingly weighing something in his mind.
"Qingchuan Sect…" King Zhou pondered, the name stirring a ripple in his thoughts. As the ruler of a nation, King Zhou naturally had dealings with Qingchuan Sect. He was well aware of the sect's strength, and his court even housed experts sent by the sect, individuals whose prowess could match that of ten men. He spoke in a deep voice, "Bi Gan, are you aware of the long and uncertain journey that lies ahead?" There was a hint of warning in King Zhou's tone.
Zhang Hao nodded, showing no sign of retreat in his eyes: "I am well aware of the difficulties, but for the sake of Zhou Kingdom, for Your Majesty, I am willing to take the risk."
King Zhou fell silent, recognizing the resolve set in Zhang Hao's heart. Finally, he spoke slowly, "So be it, I grant your request. But remember, no matter where you go, Zhou Kingdom will always be your home."
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Zhang Hao bowed respectfully before turning and leaving the court, his departure leaving behind a chorus of discussions.
After Zhang Hao's exit, King Zhou turned his gaze to Daji, whose eyes sparkled with cunning. Daji let out a soft laugh, her voice sweet and enticing, "Your Majesty, Bi Gan's power grows rapidly. Should he become a future threat, what then?" Her smile played with the idea, and with her laughter, her figure trembled slightly, her ample bosom quivering, both alluring and enigmatic.
A flicker of concern crossed King Zhou's eyes, acknowledging the wisdom in Daji's words. He replied solemnly, "I have my measures."
Following his farewell at the court, Zhang Hao visited Gu's clan's residence. They met in the garden where tears glistened in her eyes as she clutched Zhang Hao's hand tightly, whispering, "Brother Bi Gan, must you really leave?"
Zhang Hao gently held her hand, feeling the warmth and slight tremble in her palm. His eyes were filled with tenderness, "Yes, I must. But I will return, stronger than ever, to protect you and change all of this."
Tears streamed down Gu's clan's face as she embraced Zhang Hao, pressing close to him, feeling his strength and warmth. Her voice was low and emotional, "I will wait for you, for your return. Promise me you will come back safely."
A surge of strong emotion welled up in Zhang Hao's heart as he held Gu's clan close, feeling her soft body and faint scent. His hand gently stroked her back as he whispered, "I will, for you, I will come back safely."
Their embrace lasted for a long while until Gu's clan's emotions slightly subsided. She looked up at Zhang Hao with tear-filled eyes and softly said, "Brother Bi Gan, I will pray for you every day, wishing for your swift return, successful in your studies."
Zhang Hao nodded, a glimmer of tears in his own eyes. He lightly kissed Gu's clan's forehead and reluctantly released her. He knew this parting was for a better reunion.
After leaving Gu's clan's residence, Zhang Hao embarked on his journey to Qingchuan Sect. His heart was filled with determination; he aimed to become stronger for himself, for Gu's clan, and for those who looked forward to his return.
Reflecting on King Zhou's rule after leaving the court, Zhang Hao recalled the ruler's indulgence in pleasure at banquets, neglecting state affairs, and often absenting himself from the morning court, leaving the nation's business unattended. The lives of the common people grew increasingly difficult, yet King Zhou turned a blind eye, focused only on his own enjoyment. These scenes filled Zhang Hao's heart with anger and disappointment, strengthening his resolve to change it all.
In his farewell to Gu's clan, Zhang Hao felt her deep attachment to him. Her tears, her trembling, caused him great pain. He knew his departure would bring her much unease and worry, but he also understood that only by becoming stronger could he protect her and this country.
At the moment of his departure, Gu's clan suddenly held his hand, her eyes filled with reluctance and longing. She whispered, "Brother Bi Gan, can you hold me once more before you go?" Zhang Hao nodded and pulled her tightly into his embrace. Their figures intertwined in the garden, as if their hearts were connected at that moment.
Zhang Hao's heart was filled with complex emotions. He knew this parting was not only for his cultivation but also for the future ability to change the fate of this country. He took a deep breath, set aside his emotions for now, and embarked on his journey to Qingchuan Sect.