Qi Shan's pupils trembled faintly.
He reached up to stroke Su Shang's thick fur, not even noticing how badly his hand was shaking. In all his thirty-odd years of life, he had rarely looked so flustered and helpless. Qi Shan's death was one such occasion, and Huai Xu's murder was another...
The greatest wish of his life was simply that this person and this cat could live long, healthy lives before passing away peacefully. Su Shang seemed intent on completing this rare "feat" for them, but Qi Shan panicked first.
When Su Shang placed a forepaw on his wrist and applied a little pressure, Qi Shan suddenly came to his senses. He scooped up the cat with one hand and hurriedly threw on his clothes. Outside, a servant was carrying a basin of water. Hearing the commotion inside, he was about to ask permission to enter and attend to him when a blurry gust of wind swept past. Could that... have been the Patriarch?
"Patriarch, Patriarch—"
"Where are you going?"
"Court begins in less than an hour!"
Being late for duty meant receiving a demerit and having his salary docked!
The servant carried the basin after him, but before long, the Patriarch came panting back and said, "Attend to my washing first."
He washed his face and rinsed his mouth, then combed his hair and put on his crown.
After arranging his court robes, he prepared to leave for Court Session.
The steward saw Qi Shan hurry out and board the carriage. Thinking the kitchen's breakfast had not suited his appetite, he called worriedly, "Patriarch, it's still early. Why not eat a few bites before you go?"
Qi Shan said, "No need. I don't need to eat."
Ordinary people needed food to replenish the energy required for activity, but he