A Crimson Oath
At the same time, in Industry City, at the Giant Whale Residence, Shen Zhuohan agreed to his ancestor's request. Rising to his feet, he said, "I've already settled him at the manor in Lakeside City. He's waiting for me there. I'll speak with him properly about this matter."
"But do I really have to agree to let him try wearing the Giant's Crown? Ancestor, after all, he doesn't bear the Shen name, so I think this matter—"
"Of course he isn't qualified to wear the Giant's Crown!"
His ancestor's reply carried a trace of sinister chill. "I already have someone in mind. You needn't probe my thoughts."
"I can tell you plainly that we are not as conflicted as the one at Jinshui Manor, nor do we need to bring in so many candidates just to go through the motions. Only the person I choose may wear the Giant's Crown.
"You merely need to honestly inherit your own titles. When the Duke appears, you will naturally rise with the tide. Since you needn't entertain such delusions, you won't suffer from disappointment afterward."
"Still, when you tell him, naturally choose words that sound pleasant."
He spoke coldly. "Perhaps that is the only reason that can persuade him to serve in this matter."
"Yes—"
Shen Zhuohan sighed, bowed to his ancestor, and hurried outside.
Watching his retreating figure, the old man sat quietly behind the curtain. Beside him, a faint rustling seemed to arise, as though some beast could barely restrain its desire.
The old man sighed softly as well and slowly raised a hand, seemingly stroking something as he murmured in consolation, "Soon, soon. We've already come this far. Very soon—"
"Is he still there?"
The moment Shen Zhuohan left the ancestral residence, he hurriedly took out his