Chapter 27 The Marquis' Fury Chapter 27 The Marquis' Fury "If you leave this estate once more in the coming days, I will ensure you cannot walk for a month! "Guards! Return Master Han to the mansion at once! Lock him in his library until the poetry contest begins!" +10 Free Coins The command echoed across the courtyard. Guards immediately seized Li Han, pulling him from his mother's desperate grasp as they began marching him toward the gates. "Father, I apologize! I sincerely beg your forgiveness! Please, Father!" Li Han's terrified pleas weren't for the confinement but for the crushing disappointment he had seen in his father's eyes moments earlier. His public shame intensified when he nearly collided with Li Guan just outside the gates, who was calmly carrying several books. What troubles you, Li Han? Li Guan inquired with false concern, though a sly understanding showed in his eyes. "Shall I ask Father to show you mercy?" Being witnessed in such humiliation by his greatest rival shattered Li Han's remaining control. He fought against the guards restraining him, straining toward Li Guan while shouting vicious insults. "You disgusting fraud! You enjoy seeing me disgraced! Remember this-the heir's position will always belong to me!" Li Guan's face adopted a wounded expression. "Why would you say such horrible things, Li Han?" "Stop pretending, you deceitful insect! Your mother was nothing but a-!" A sharp slap across the face from the Marquis cut Li Han's sentence short. The sound rang clearly through the air. "If you would call your own brother an insect, then what does that make me? A bug?" Confronted by his father's rage, Li Han realized every ugly word had been overheard. He tried to form an explanation, but fear left him trembling and speechless. Li Guan rushed forward and knelt humbly. "Father, please do not punish Li Han! This is my fault for being here. I should have avoided him. I ask you to pardon him." The marquis observed his younger son kneeling respectfully beside his eldest son, who was now cowering in shame. The difference between them deepened his dissatisfaction with Li Han. Lady Chen watched the scene with pure hatred directed at Li Guan. "Witness your brother's behavior! Then examine your own! You bring shame upon this family! You will spend your confinement considering your actions!" The marquis issued the command firmly and motioned for the guards to remove Li Han. Lady Chen, concerned for her son, moved to accompany them. 1/2 D 6:11 pm & 0 0 Chapter 27 The Marquis' Fury +10 Free Coins The marquis' voice halted her instantly. "You will remain here! His behavior results from your constant indulgence! You are forbidden from seeing him during his isolation!" Lady Chen turned to appeal for leniency, but the marquis' stormy expression revealed his serious anger. She produced a strained smile and adopted a gentle tone. "I understand completely. I will arrange the silver payment immediately. I hope you will calm your anger, for the sake of your health." The marquis acknowledged her words with a brief sound before signaling Li Guan to stand. "Your brother's words were disgraceful. Yet you requested forgiveness for him." A brief coldness flickered in Li Guan's eyes before being replaced by his usual modest demeanor. "Li Han has endured many recent difficulties. If insulting me relieves his frustration, then he will not distress you further, Father." This explanation softened the marquis' anger. He noticed the books his younger son carried. "Did you transcribe these yourself?" Li Guan appeared startled by the question and timidly offered the texts. A faint hope showed in his expression. The marquis reviewed several pages, genuine surprise appearing on his face. "You created these poems during your free time?" Li Guan looked down modestly. "I lack Li Han's brilliance, Father. These are only simple writings from my spare hours. They are undeserving of your attention." Internally, the marquis was impressed. The writing demonstrated greater skill than Li Han's work. He decided to observe his younger son more closely. Perhaps his household could gain another civil official among its ranks. He kept his thoughts private and returned the book with a significant look. "As you currently hold the heir's responsibilities, you must learn about governance. Beginning tomorrow, await me in my study. You will learn essential administration and behavior to avoid disgracing our family name." Joy spread across Li Guan's face. "Thank you, Father!" The marquis smiled briefly and patted Li Guan's shoulder before departing. Once the marquis disappeared, Li Guan's humble expression vanished. His face became emotionless as he glanced at the book in his hand. Walking past the garden pond, he tossed the volume into the water without hesitation. He observed the book sinking beneath the surface before continuing to the Late Spring Yard. He approached an older woman admiring blossoms beneath a tree and spoke respectfully. "Mother." "Did your father grant you access to his study?" 2/2 6:11 pm DO