Chapter 1587: He Knew Ten Years Ago

Editor: Henyee Translations

Yesterday’s expressions of gratitude were mere formalities.

While General Sun’s words seemed initiated by politeness, Zheng Sangge couldn’t afford to be criticized for mistreating his savior. Despite General Sun’s status, he felt compelled to honor the invitation.

However, with the recent suicides of the uncle and nephew in the Heavenly Mansion’s prison, any potential leverage that General Sun and the Second Prince could exploit had dissipated. Given these circumstances, Zheng Sangge questioned whether General Sun would still extend his goodwill.

Familiar with the duplicity and varied behaviors of dignitaries a decade ago, Zheng Sangge’s understanding deepened over time.

After sipping tea and engaging in a brief conversation with the butler, Zheng Sangge rose to depart. Before leaving, he expressed gratitude, making clear his reluctance to return to officialdom. He emphasized that he appreciated General Sun’s kindness but had no intention of resuming his bureaucratic duties.

“I will always be grateful, and I hope for your success and fulfillment of your desires!” he added.

The butler, somewhat relieved, awkwardly smiled and assured Zheng Sangge that he would convey the message to General Sun. Notably, he refrained from attempting to persuade Zheng Sangge to stay, revealing General Sun’s apprehension about any potential insistence on repayment for the life-saving grace.

Expressing his thanks, Zheng Sangge received a small silver token of appreciation from the butler. “Here is three hundred taels of silver,” the butler said, acknowledging Zheng Sangge’s challenging situation. “This is a modest gesture of our gratitude. Please accept it, General Zheng, and don’t feel obliged to decline.”

Zheng Sangge had no desire for it whatsoever.

A decade ago, he would have steadfastly refused any form of assistance. Now, after a moment’s hesitation, he accepted the envelope containing the banknotes. “Thank you, General!”

He recognized that declining might not bring him peace of mind. Besides, with people of various ages, ailments, disabilities, and lacking in essentials, three hundred taels held significant value–it would prove beneficial to take it back.

Expressing sincere thanks, Zheng Sangge couldn’t ignore the potential intentions behind General Sun’s gesture. Nevertheless, he had gained something from the encounter, and gratitude was only natural.

As Zheng Sangge left, General Sun emerged from behind the partition.

“Old Master…”

The butler hastened forward and bowed, conveying, “This man is quite astute. He doesn’t linger on matters unnecessarily.”

Having prepared various words, the butler found himself with no opportunity to share them.

General Sun’s eyes flickered, a sense of inexplicable frustration settling in.

The feeling of hitting cotton did little to uplift his mood, and he recognized a deeper turmoil within himself.

“Let it be!”

After a brief pause, General Sun uttered these words and walked away with firm strides.