Chapter 1585: Suicide

Editor: Henyee Translations

How could Head Steward Wen fail to grasp the Fourth Prince’s intentions? It became glaringly apparent as Commander Wei spoke, confirming the grim reality. Head Steward Wen realized he was truly in dire straits this time.

“It’s my fault! It’s all my fault! I was foolish, utterly foolish!”

Regret overwhelmed him. Head Steward Wen lunged at Wen Fuxin, unleashing a torrent of furious blows and kicks. His hoarse voice reverberated with anger as he berated him relentlessly.

Wen Fuxin, defenseless against the onslaught, could only cower, clutching his head, and pleading for mercy while addressing him as “Uncle.” He, too, regretted his actions. If he had foreseen this outcome, he wouldn’t have been so reckless, venting his frustration on those youngsters.

Little did he know that behind those seemingly insignificant youngsters lurked figures more menacing than beggars. Had he been aware, he wouldn’t have dared trouble them, not even at the cost of his life.

He felt duped by those youths–who, in his opinion, should have kept their mouths shut. The realization of his own folly weighed heavily on Wen Fuxin.

Commander Wei, amused by the unfolding drama between uncle and nephew, sneered and signaled a few expressionless men in black to step forward.

In a swift turn of events, two “suicides” materialized in the prison overnight, appearing to have hanged themselves from the beam, their bodies swaying lifelessly.

The following morning, Lord Qin, who had spent the night sleepless with a pounding headache, was met with an even more staggering revelation. Head Steward Wen and his nephew had apparently taken their own lives in the Heavenly Mansion’s prison.

The shock was so intense that Lord Qin nearly lost his footing.

A wave of frustration washed over Lord Qin.

He berated himself for his carelessness; the events of the previous night had left him so bewildered that he failed to consider the consequences. Lord Qin couldn’t fathom why the Crown Prince would resort to suicide out of fear of punishment; it seemed an unnecessary act. More likely, the Fourth Prince had silenced him to prevent disclosure of sensitive information.

As Head Steward of the prince’s residence, Head Steward Wen likely held numerous secrets about the Fourth Prince, making a swift decision from the prince understandable. However, with the death occurring in his domain, Lord Qin faced the repercussions. The dilemma weighed heavily on him, and he pondered his next course of action.

Enduring his headache, Lord Qin ordered the removal of the corpses, instructing their proper placement. Simultaneously, he summoned two Grandmasters to strategize. Following the discussion, he dispatched messengers to report to the Fourth Prince’s residence in the East Palace.

Ultimately, Lord Qin personally visited the East Palace to apprise the Crown Prince of the situation and extend his apologies. He acknowledged that had he been more vigilant, the tragedy might have been averted.

The Crown Prince sighed, expressing his regret. “They possessed some courage, but this extreme step was unnecessary. Nonetheless, if they’ve chosen this path, there’s little we can do to dissuade them. Let’s conclude the matter here. Proceed to my Fourth Brother’s residence to discuss closing the case, then inform Officer Shao and General Zheng.”

“Yes, Crown Prince. Your understanding is deeply appreciated. I am truly sorry,” Lord Qin replied.

The Crown Prince’s words established the tone for the situation, providing Lord Qin with some relief. Yet, a sense of bewilderment lingered–was the Crown Prince’s sigh genuine or feigned? Lord Qin found himself unable to discern the Crown Prince’s true sentiments, contemplating the enigma of the higher-ups’ thinking.

In the end, he sighed in resignation. The Crown Prince remained an enigma, his thoughts unfathomable.