Chapter 4: The Head Wolf

Murong Yan also sighed and said: "To be honest, at the time of my departure, my father the king issued a command, stating that the national treasury is empty, and for this disaster relief, I fear that everyone will need to contribute their efforts to weather this difficult time together"

In the evening, Zuo Canglang still had to watch over the two of them. Leng Feiyan had no intention of leaving at all. Yang Lianting kicked her and said, "Hey, how long are you planning to stay here?" Leng Feiyan impatiently brushed aside his foot and replied, "Stop talking nonsense. I'm staying here to recuperate, which is a huge favor to you. Not only are you ungrateful, but you also dare to complain!"

Murong Yan lowered his head, carefully examining the wounds on the incomplete corpse, smiled, and said: "I am starting to genuinely like her a bit."

The voice was so close that she could almost feel his breath, right by her ear, the lingering sound echoing, refusing to dissipate. Zuo Canglang's mind buzzed with a sound, as if countless sparks were scattering and bursting. Murong Yan said: "Come again"

Zuo Canglang put away the arrow, and Yang Lianting was waiting ahead. Upon seeing the two of them approach, he asked: "What did the master say to you, being so close?"

The gentry finally breathed a sigh of relief, repeatedly expressing gratitude. Murong Yan did not look at him again and slowly walked into the inn. Wang Yunzhao hurriedly fetched clothes for him to change into. Once the door was closed, Murong Yan suddenly said: "That Zuo Canglang is quite impressive"

Upon hearing this, these individuals found it feasible. Murong Yan ordered the prefect to personally draft a memorial, which was jointly submitted by the others. Subsequently, a roster was secretly handed to Zuo Canglang, who was instructed in a low voice: "Notify Fei Yan to bring people to these households for a search, but do not harm anyone"

The youth is gradually growing up, and the clothes from before are slowly becoming smaller. Murong Yan makes new clothes for them every year. However, the food here has always been sufficient for only half of the total number of people. Therefore, every year, many silently disappear. Hunger is an inescapable nightmare, and even tender grass leaves can serve to stave off hunger

The three words "Zuo Canglang" rolled off his tongue, melodious and enchanting, akin to the most beautiful melody in the world. Zuo Canglang could hear his own heartbeat, heavy as a drum, as if it would leap out of his chest in the next moment. It felt as though he was separated from the world by a sound barrier, and he could only hear him softly say again: "It sounds familiar, there is a sense of déjà vu."

Although Fangcheng and Tang County were affected by the disaster, Tangfeng Tower still retained its elegance. As soon as Murong Yan arrived, he immediately ordered the entire Tangfeng Tower to be reserved and instructed Wang Yunzhao to summon all the young women from the nearby entertainment district. The local gentry and officials had heard about this commotion; some who had initially planned not to attend were now tempted—if they could find any clues and report them, it would earn them some merit in front of the Queen and the Crown Prince.

Murong Yan responded with a sound of acknowledgment, and the county magistrate hurried to take action

Zuo Canglang walked straight ahead, completely oblivious. Yang Lianting glanced at Leng Feiyan, who scoffed, "Don't pay her any mind, she's just a lovesick fool. If the master says a word to her, she could savor it for a year"

The warmth of his palm expanded along his veins on his shoulder. Left Canglang felt as if he were frozen, losing all recollection of what he had said.

The person immediately turned red in the face and said, "I will definitely take action against the villain."

Murong Yan turned his head, and the household servants accompanying the child were already dumbfounded. Although he was not favored, he was still a prince. Normally, being somewhat aloof would likely not attract scrutiny from above, but such an open insult, if labeled as contempt against the imperial family, would indeed be a serious matter

Zuo Canglang hurriedly stepped forward, took the kettle and cup, and poured tea for him. However, it was boiling water. It was her first time serving someone, and lacking experience, she poured it so full that it seemed as if she wanted to pile it up into a peak on the cup. Murong Yan stared at the tea cup, his face filled with astonishment, and after a while, he burst into laughter

He spoke of deserving death a thousand times, yet his expression conveyed otherwise. Murong Yan said, "It is of no concern, you are the magistrate of Tang County, and it is only natural for you to be busy when Tang County is afflicted by disaster"

As soon as he left, Wang Yunzhao exclaimed, "This despicable creature with dog-like eyes! How could he leave His Highness here unattended!" Left Canglang could not help but feel a pang of sadness; for such a prince, if outsiders treated him this way, one could only imagine how he endured his days within the palace walls.

Zuo Canglang responded affirmatively, swiftly cleaning the bath tub, and then went to the outer room to keep watch for him. The inn had only sent a few rough servants to take care of him, but someone like Murong Yan would certainly not be willing to have these strangers handle his personal belongings. Therefore, these individuals were of little use.

Murong Yan nodded and asked, "What is your name?" Zuo Canglang lowered his head; the wind and rain were cold, yet his blood was boiling hot: "I... I am called Zuo Canglang."

Murong Yan occupied the seat of honor, observing that the entire Tang Feng Building was nearly full, his smile becoming even more gentle. He stood up, raised his glass, and said: "Thank you all for gracing us with your presence. I have long heard that the Tang County area has been suffering from drought for quite some time, and it has not been easy for all of you. I would like to propose a toast to everyone."

His voice was as clear and shallow as a mountain spring, mingling with the fresh aroma of tea, weaving together in a way that was somewhat intoxicating. His long and clean hands held a jade pestle, slowly stirring the tea leaves, both elegant and pleasing to the eye. Once the tea was brewed, he poured a cup for her as well, saying: "Here."

Yang Lianting, having received special treatment from Murong Yan, inevitably garnered a higher regard from his masters. It was very convenient for him to enter and exit the Zangshu Pillow Ink Pavilion, and among the three, he was the only one who spent every day immersed in it, with the majority of his readings still focused on medical texts.

Leng Feiyan and others then sat down at the table, with Murong Yan sitting to the right of him, next to the Canglang. The attendant poured the wine, and Murong Yan said: "The conditions here are harsh, but throughout history, those who have achieved great things are often individuals of humble beginnings. Back in the day, I gathered you from various places and brought you here, but I cannot save anyone's life. I can only extend the time, allowing you the ability to choose your own fate. That is all." I can only extend the time, allowing you the ability to choose your own fate. That is all.

Before returning to the orphan camp, Murong Yan sent two great scholars to teach at the orphan camp. These scholars arrived with their eyes covered, suggesting that the journey here was not particularly friendly. Murong Yan sent many books to Zuo Canglang, who would come over two or three times a month. Each time he came, all the youths would put in extra effort during their martial arts training. Everyone knew that this person could determine their fate. Murong Yan sent many books to Zuo Canglang, who would come over two or three times a month. Each time he came, all the youths would put in extra effort during their martial arts training. Everyone knew that this person could determine their fate.

He lay on the bed for a while, a strange bed, and although the bedding was all new, he found it difficult to fall asleep. The weather was still a bit cold, and his room was the warmest, while the outside still carried a hint of chill. The silhouette of the left wolf faintly reflected through the carved wooden door, and he stared at that shadow in boredom, gradually drifting off to sleep.

For a moment, everyone was stunned. The crime of deceiving the emperor could cost one their head. After much deliberation, these individuals had no choice but to withdraw the case regarding the theft. Murong Yan used all of this wealth for disaster relief. In an instant, this resolved the awkwardness of the disaster relief being conducted with empty hands. Only the local gentry and wealthy families secretly ground their teeth in resentment.

By the time it was midnight, the gathering finally dispersed as the wine ran out. Upon returning home, everyone was greatly astonished. The next day, they led people to the government office to file a complaint. Murong Yan instructed that a complete list of the stolen items be compiled, and the head of the household was made to affix their fingerprint. Only then was the petition, which also bore the fingerprint, presented—if the list of stolen items was genuine, then the statement on the petition claiming "no surplus grain at home, no possessions to speak of" would be an act of deceiving the emperor.

In the morning, Zuo Canglang was accustomed to practicing archery, perhaps due to her childhood days spent hunting in the mountains. Her archery skills were exceptionally precise. Her arms were also stronger than those of an average boy, and she had no trouble wielding the hard bow used by adult soldiers. However, when Murong Yan stood behind her, her arrows, which usually hit the mark every time, inexplicably failed to aim at the bullseye and went off target. Zuo Canglang bit her lip, her palms sweating.

He did not delay much along the way, traveling day and night, and after half a month, he arrived at the borders of Tang County. Surprisingly, there was no official from the state to welcome him at the county gate. Zuo Canglang couldn't help but feel a bit puzzled. On the road, Murong Yan had explained the situation in the court to her, and she knew that Murong Yan was not favored; the current King of Yan favored Queen Li. Queen Li's eldest legitimate son, Murong Ruo, was the crown prince of the current dynasty, while Murong Yan, the second prince, was like a thorn in their side.

She did not dare to look back, nor did she even dare to think about the expression of the person behind her. As she drew the bow again, her body trembled slightly. Suddenly, her hands felt warm, and she was momentarily taken aback, discovering a pair of long, gentle hands coming from behind her, resting on the back of her hands. Murong Yan readjusted her aim at the target and softly said: "No matter when, do not panic; when your heart is steady, the arrow will be steady."

Speaking of which, she is merely a stranger, yet the dream remains calm and serene

The three of them couldn't help but swallow. Murong Yan said softly, "It's cold, and you are all injured, so I came to check on you."

Wang Yunzhao was taken aback and said, "The orphan camp is indeed perilous. Since Your Highness is so fond of her, would it be possible to transfer her to the residence?"

The left gray wolf did not hold it against her. After this incident, the three of them became acquainted through their unintentional conflict and often spent time together. It was not unusual for them to occasionally sleep in the same dormitory at night. As young individuals, they gradually began to understand certain matters. Some people spread scandalous rumors about the relationship among the three, but they remained indifferent. After all, no one dared to gossip in front of them.

Delicious delicacies were continuously served, and the young ladies around made every effort to persuade others to drink. These individuals were immersed in a gentle and indulgent atmosphere, and since Murong Yan had no intention of asking them to contribute money for disaster relief, everyone indulged in feasting and drinking. The beautiful women sang with flowing sleeves, and Murong Yan also did his utmost to encourage drinking, creating an exceptionally lively atmosphere.

On that morning, Murong Yan arrived at the orphan camp and gathered the "masters" together, saying: "Many of them are quite good, but I only need the fastest knife. Therefore, among them, I only want one."

Leng Feiyan laughed heartily, her wounds bursting open, blood seeping out. She covered her wounds, laughing while gritting her teeth. Yang Lianting, being from a family of physicians, with the heart of a healer, immediately reached out to press down on her wounds, then forced herself to get up to change her dressings.

Beneath the cliff outside the orphan camp, Murong Yan stood before a corpse that had been so mangled by wild beasts that it was barely recognizable. Behind him, the guard Feng Ping said: "Your Highness, the fatal wound is in the throat; someone shot him in the neck from behind. The archery is very precise, but the bamboo arrow..."

Murong Yan said: "Wang Yunzhao, I like her. She has the temperament of a lead wolf." Wang Yunzhao muttered: "Then why doesn't Your Highness directly greet Feng Ping and the others, so they can take more care of her usually, to avoid..."

Murong Yan was also examining the corpse, and after a long while, he said: "As long as it is not the Crown Prince."

The county magistrate bowed and said: "Thank you, Your Highness, for your understanding"

Murong Yan shook his head again and said, "In the bitter cold land, even the fur of birds and beasts becomes denser and thicker, which is more beneficial for her in the orphan camp"

The three individuals expressed their gratitude once more, and Murong Yan said, "There is no need to be formal, come and sit."

If his one sentence is merely a reminiscence of a year, then what should be done with the remaining years of this life?

Zuo Canglang was already in a fluster, and when he smiled, she became even more flustered. Murong Yan, however, simply poured out the water, took a pot for himself, and said softly: "Do not panic, you are very clever, and these things are quite simple." After saying this, he slightly raised his hand, signaling her to sit down

The left gray wolf gently took a sip, the fragrance of the tea enchanted him, to the point that he was unaware of the heat.

At this moment, Zuo Canglang finally came to his senses, merely smiling

Left Canglang kicked out, she merely smiled

After speaking, he instructed the young men to collect their clothes. The garments, of course, varied; some were for little beggars, while others were styled for household servants. The outfit that Zuo Canglang received was a set of ordinary maid's attire. Before she could utter a word, her "master" behind her had already begun to speak, saying: "This time, you will attend to the Second Prince, and it goes without saying that you will serve tea and water. Moreover, you must remain vigilant and cautious at all times."

Zuo Canglang responded affirmatively, and the master turned to leave. Just after he departed, Leng Feiyan approached and said, "A personal maid, huh, tsk tsk tsk." Zuo Canglang ignored her, and Leng Feiyan continued, "I feel that he has some ill intentions towards you."

Leng Feiyan's gaze swept back and forth between the two. Although Murong Yan's voice was soft, the other two could still hear it clearly at such a close distance. However, at that moment, they did not dare to speak and could only lower their heads to eat.

However, she still did not expect that these officials would be so bold. After all, he was the flesh and blood of the Prince of Yan, and he personally came here, yet no one came to greet him. Murong Yan seemed indifferent and said, "Go to the county office"

The instructors have fallen silent

Although Zuo Canglang did not understand the intention behind this action, he still agreed and quietly left Tangfeng Building

When she returned to the dormitory, the door closed, and the world lost that flicker of light, plunging back into darkness. Murong Yan walked ahead, with Chief Steward Wang Yunzhao holding an umbrella for him, while he himself was completely drenched. Murong Yan took out a silk handkerchief and wiped the hand that had just rested on the shoulder of the left Canglang. Wang Yunzhao whispered, "Your Highness, they are just a few children; why must you come at this time? It's pouring rain, the road is dark and slippery, you mustn't catch a cold..."

Yang Lianting was at a loss for words: "But I am, after all, a man. It doesn't seem appropriate for us, a solitary man and woman, to lie on the same bed, does it?"

Murong Yan sat very upright, and whatever dishes they had touched, he did not touch again, only occasionally drinking a little wine with them. The early spring weather was still quite cold, and there was nothing in the dormitory to provide warmth; a bit of wine did indeed help to warm the body significantly

After three rounds of drinks, he stood up and said: "I will take my leave now. You are all quite good, but there is still a gap between unrefined jade and beautiful jade; do not become complacent."

Everyone fell silent, for they all knew that this year the national treasury was empty. Although Murong Yuan had sent Murong Yan to provide disaster relief, not a single penny had been allocated. Zuo Canglang was also hearing this for the first time and was immediately taken aback.

The three members of the Left Cang Wolf exchanged glances, and Murong Yan smiled again, saying: "You all are quite good, come, let's have a drink"

Zuo Canglang stood quietly outside the screen, without making a sound. Murong Yan almost thought she had fallen asleep, but when he came out after his bath, he saw her still standing straight in the outer room. He appreciated this silence and said, "You must be tired too, why don't you rest for a while"

At night, Zuo Canglang prepared a bucket of hot water for him, which surprised Murong Yan a bit. In the past, he was not accustomed to having maids do such things. However, seeing Zuo Canglang naturally hang his changed clothes on the rack, he said nothing more and went to bathe behind the screen.

Zuo Canglang's face flushed bright red, yet he still rose to escort her to the door. Outside, the night rain had not ceased, and the cool wind blew in gusts. A person resembling a steward approached and draped a cloak over Murong Yan. Zuo Canglang stood at the door and saluted: "I respectfully send you off, Your Majesty"

On this day, Zuo Canglang and Leng Feiyan were practicing against each other, while Yang Lianting observed from the side. Suddenly, a "master" approached with a serious expression and said: "This year, the Fangcheng and Tang County areas are experiencing a severe drought. The Second Prince has been ordered to go and provide disaster relief. You are to protect him in secret." The young men exchanged glances, each with a spark of excitement in their eyes, as they all understood that this was a rare opportunity for them to undergo a trial.

As soon as these words were spoken, the crowd below erupted in an uproar. There were countless who lamented their poverty. Murong Yan raised his hand to signal for silence and said: "I am aware of everyone's difficulties. This imperial decree from my father indeed places a considerable burden on us. However, as a subject and a son, I cannot openly contradict my sovereign father, can I? Now that we have reached this point and have a better understanding of the situation, why don't we draft a memorial together to report the true state of our household's finances to my father, and then consider how to proceed?"

Murong Yan casually remarked, "Let us first go to Tangfeng Tower"

On a rainy night, he still wore a black robe adorned with golden hooks and jade ornaments. Without the need for words, his demeanor exuded elegance. Leng Feiyan and the other two approached to pay their respects, and he slightly waved his hand, signaling them not to be overly formal. A servant brought in a table, setting out food and wine, the aroma spreading throughout the small dormitory.

Thus, in a moment, all local officials, gentry, and wealthy households gathered at Tangfeng Tower

Feng Ping gazed at the scene: "Though the person is not significant, their audacity is remarkable; they dare to kill and dispose of the body. Are you all made of paper?"

Leng Feiyan leaned closer to her, scrutinizing her face, and then, seemingly lost in thought, remarked with a look of disdain: "No wonder he agreed to treat Yang Lianting, it turns out you all... ugh..."

The county magistrate, seeing his humble words and recalling Prince Murong Yuan of Yan, could only say: "In that case, I shall gather the local gentry and wealthy households at Tangfeng Tower, which can be considered as a welcome banquet for the two princes."

The servant hurriedly came forward to apologize, while Murong Yan maintained a stern expression and remained silent. Although he had been enduring all this way, even a clay figurine retains some of its earthy nature; he was genuinely angry.

Leng Feiyan wore an indifferent expression and said, "Don't worry, I won't ruin your reputation." Yang Lianting no longer wished to converse with her. However, Leng Feiyan suddenly remarked, "Hey, I think you look quite good. What future do you have following that dullard Zuo Canglang? You might as well follow me instead." She slid her fingertip across Yang Lianting's face, teasing him with a wicked grin. Yang Lianting, infuriated, felt his hair stand on end and exclaimed, "Leng Feiyan!"

As soon as the words left his mouth, Murong Yan could not help but smile, the gloom in his eyes finally dissipating. He said, "Well then, the gentleman should still be a bit cautious; throughout history, there have been many instances where children have inadvertently brought disaster upon themselves."

The three individuals were taken aback, yet they still drank the cup of wine with him. Murong Yan gestured for them to eat. Zuo Canglang, sitting beside him, felt at a loss as to where to place his hands and feet. However, Murong Yan suddenly leaned close to her ear and whispered, "I made you a few sets of clothes; I wonder if they will fit. Try them on tomorrow."

She parted her lips but still did not speak. Murong Yan placed his right hand on her shoulder and said softly: "I like capable people; strive to become that kind of person"

Zuo Canglang slightly pursed her lips, forcing herself to remain calm, and shot another arrow, hitting the bullseye. Murong Yan stood behind her, and each arrow she shot carried an indomitable force. Murong Yan nodded slightly and turned to leave. Before long, Leng Feiyan ran over: "Let's go, it's time to eat"

Murong Yan said: "This person has the demeanor of a great general"

"Master" naturally observed the expressions of everyone and said: "This is your first time carrying out a mission, and it is also a rare opportunity for you to demonstrate yourselves in front of the palace. Cherish it yourself"

In the dormitory, Zuo Canglang entered and closed the door. Leng Feiyan and Yang Lianting both stared at her. Zuo Canglang's cheeks were as radiant as the morning glow, and upon seeing the gazes of the two, she immediately said, "No questions allowed"

Zuo Canglang kicked up and said: "Leng Feiyan, you must be a yellow croaker, how yellow you are!"

At this time, the young ladies also sought out the familiar adults to persuade them to drink. Each of these individuals had their own motives, which was certainly not excessive. The governor of Tang County said: "Your Highness, you have come to provide disaster relief on the king's orders, so I will not beat around the bush. May I ask, how much money and grain has the court allocated for your Highness to assist the disaster victims?"

If the memorial is true, then the list of stolen items must be false

Several instructors were taken aback, and someone whispered, "But Your Highness, among these people, Leng Feiyan has the highest martial arts skills. Zuo Canglang... I'm afraid... may not survive under her hands." In recent days, he had been particularly attentive to Zuo Canglang, which everyone could see. Murong Yan slowly asked, "So what?"

Zuo Canglang was completely stunned, even forgetting to express his gratitude. Murong Yan smiled: "No need for thanks, I have always treated my people well"

Zuo Canglang gave a slight gesture, and Leng Feiyan had already grasped the short sword in hand, hiding behind the door, and opened it with a reverse motion. Zuo Canglang stood at the farthest diagonal from the door, the bowstring fully drawn. As the person outside pushed the door and entered, the three people inside were completely stunned. After a moment, Zuo Canglang finally spoke softly: "My lord?" The visitor turned out to be Murong Yan!

The child's father is indeed a local gentry from Tang County. It seems he has spoken ill of him in private before his son, which the child has remembered. He kneels before Murong Yan, pleading for mercy, his forehead beaded with sweat. Zuo Canglang leans in, wipes the dirt from the hem of Murong Yan's garment, glances at his expression, and lightly laughs, saying: "The gentleman is too lax in educating your young master, to the point of throwing meat buns at me. Fortunately, my name is Zuo Canglang; had I been named Zuo Cangdog, this bun would have been thrown at me and vanished without a trace. Where would Your Highness find it then?"

Next to Feng Ping, a "master" from the orphan camp said cautiously: "This arrow... belongs to the girl named Zuo Canglang in the camp."

The three naturally knelt down to respectfully send him off. Murong Yan smiled and then said to Zuo Canglang: "The master is leaving, aren't you going to see him off? This servant is not fulfilling his duties"

Wang Yunzhao, Feng Ping, and Zhou Zhuo all had difficulty concealing their anger on their faces. However, seeing that he said nothing, they could only suppress their fury. The carriage arrived at the entrance of the county office, where someone finally came out to greet them. The county magistrate of Tang County bowed and said, "I was unaware of the arrival of the two princes. Due to my busy schedule with disaster relief efforts, I failed to personally welcome you, which is truly a grave offense. I humbly ask for your forgiveness."

Wang Yunzhao smiled and said, "How could someone chosen by Your Highness be lacking in any way"

Zuo Canglang sat down opposite him. Although the carriage was moving forward, it was very stable. Murong Yan placed a delicate ceramic pot on the small stove and said: "This is roasted tea. Place the tea cake inside, crush it, and when the tea leaves turn golden brown and the aroma wafts out, pour in boiling water..."

On the way to Fangcheng, Murong Yan had no large entourage. He was a light sleeper, and even the slightest sound from the carriage would wake him. Zuo Canglang had no choice but to minimize any noise. Several times, Murong Yan felt as if he were the only person in the carriage, but upon opening his eyes and seeing her standing guard at the foot of the carriage, he inexplicably felt a sense of peace.

On the second day, the young men each took on their respective roles, departing one by one from the East Gate of Jinyang, breaking into smaller groups. Murong Yan only brought along the steward Wang Yunzhao, the guard Zhou Zhuo, and two others, Feng Ping. Zuo Canglang, dressed in plain white clothing, awkwardly tugged at the hem of her skirt. Murong Yan smiled at her, signaling her to get on the carriage

In his usual idle time, he often gathered some herbs. Whenever someone in the orphanage had a headache or fever, they gradually became accustomed to seeking him out. This Young Master Yang, being from a family of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, despite his young age, has never misdiagnosed any ailments he has encountered

The left gray wolf sat at the foot of the bed, allowing them to make a commotion. The dim light inside the room resembled a flickering bean, while outside, it was unknown when the rain had begun to fall. The raindrops struck the old eaves, their sound akin to the splashing of pearls.

On that evening, Murong Yan returned to the inn together with Zuo Canglang. The weather was gloomy, and a cold wind swept through, bringing a hint of chill. Suddenly, from the shadows, a child shouted, "Bad person!" and threw a few buns over. Feng Ping drew his sword to block, and the buns were sliced open by the blade, with half of the meat filling scattering onto Zuo Canglang and the other half sticking to the hem of Murong Yan's clothing

Murong Yan waited until the memorial was completed, and everyone had pressed their seals. Only then did he raise his cup and say: "In this way, I can also breathe a sigh of relief. The important matters have been settled, and it is indeed a stroke of fate to meet all of you today. The expenses for today's banquet have already been covered, so I invite all the esteemed officials to drink heartily, as a reward for everyone's hard work over the past few days"

In the early hours of the night, within the orphan camp. Zuo Canglang was originally lying down fully clothed, but suddenly stood up. The sound of clothing rubbing outside was indistinct amidst the rain, yet at such a moment, she had to be exceptionally cautious. Leng Feiyan also got up, and Yang Lianting felt somewhat anxious: "Who could it be at this hour?"

Murong Yan smiled and said: "However busy you may be, since Father has sent me here to provide disaster relief, I must still meet with the people. Some matters can only be discussed and handled together."

Zuo Canglang's face was slightly flushed as he knelt with his head bowed below. Knowing that he was sizing her up, he did not dare to lift his head. After a long while, Murong Yan said: "This outfit does not suit you." Zuo Canglang did not know how to respond, and he continued: "As a maid, you should at least pour me wine and serve tea."

The next day, the guards indeed brought several sets of clothes. Upon seeing them, Leng Feiyan snatched away two sets. This fellow, when unfamiliar, is aloof and proud, but once acquainted, he truly becomes shameless.

Murong Yan smiled: "Those who perish on the path of competition cannot possibly be the leading wolves"

These gentry and wealthy households are easy to locate. Leng Feiyan immediately led his men, masked, and rushed in to carry out a thorough robbery. All family members were bound hand and foot, with their mouths stuffed with rags. No gold, silver, or valuables were left behind