Ao Cunxin, standing to the side, saw Yang Jian standing there in a daze. Naturally, she understood how he felt. When Yang Jian had split the mountain to save his mother, Ao Cunxin had been nearby as well. Back then, Yang Jian's pain had been plain for her to see.
Reaching out, Ao Cunxin took Yang Jian's hand, offering him a small measure of comfort.
Taishang Laojun sat opposite them, watching quietly. From Yang Jian's eyes, he could see just how deeply Yang Jian suffered.
He had not expected that, after so many years, Yang Jian's heart would still ache so badly.
"The Heavenly Court has its rules. Back then, your mother descended to the mortal world without permission and married a mortal. Naturally, she had to face the Heavenly Court's punishment."
Taishang Laojun paused before continuing.
"The Jade Emperor did not kill your mother then. After all, she was his own younger sister. So he imprisoned her beneath Peach Mountain. But you defied heaven and split the mountain to save your mother. That truly should not have been done."
Yang Jian said, "Laojun, do you know that, as a son, when his own mother is suffering beneath a mountain, can he truly live in peace? Can he refuse to save his mother?"
Taishang Laojun nodded. "I understand what you mean. From a mortal's perspective, you were not wrong to do so. But from the Heavenly Court's perspective, you committed a grave offense."
Yang Jian fell silent. Laojun's words made sense, and he had no wish to argue.
Taishang Laojun said, "It seems you are still deeply saddened by your mother's death. Would you be willing to bring your mother back to life?"
Yang Jian abruptly raised his head and stared at Taishang Laojun, astonishment flashing through his eyes. "Laojun,