Chapter 23: Shadows of Betrayal
After returning to the Lin residence , Lin Jun refused food and sat in silence within the courtyard pavilion. From midday until sunset, and then into the dead of night, he remained unmoving, his grief weighing heavier than stone. The steward tried to persuade him several times, but Lin Jun would not stir. Only when Duan Xu arrived late at night, walking directly to him, did Lin Jun finally snap out of his daze, rising in surprise. Duan Xu, dressed in a plain round-collared robe, bowed deeply. "Boss Lin, Shunxi is ashamed to face the Lin family ." Lin Jun quickly shook his head, helping him up. "General Duan, there’s no need for self-reproach… All men must die. My uncle, he…" His voice faltered, unable to continue. Duan Xu sighed softly. "I heard your father passed away early, and your uncle cared for you as a father would. The words he spoke beneath the city walls today were to spare you grief. I imagine he couldn’t bear to see you so despondent." Th...
