Ji Jin's heart immediately sank when he heard Guo Ying's words. Before Zhang Yu could speak, he hastily said:
"Master Guo is merely too concerned about young An. She also lacks understanding of the path of cultivation, so her words were somewhat harsh, but she bears no ill intent. I hope Inspector Zhang will not take offense."
He then looked up at Zhang Yu and said, "Though Ji is an assistant clerk of the Heavenly Punishment Bureau, compared to facing one another in court, I would rather form good ties with others."
Guo Ying was somewhat displeased, but she could at least see that Ji Jin was helping her. Besides, she had already said what needed to be said, so she did not speak again.
Zhang Yu glanced at Ji Jin and said calmly, "You two have come from afar as well. It is already late today, and this is not suitable for a lengthy discussion. You may first partake in dinner and rest here for the night. We can discuss this matter again tomorrow."
Ji Jin hurriedly said, "Indeed. I have felt rather weary from the journey here. Then I shall shamelessly trouble Inspector Zhang."
Zhang Yu nodded and said, "Please make yourselves at home," then rose from his seat and departed.
Azure Sunlight stepped forward, gave the two of them a deep curtsy, and said, "Honored guests, please come with me."
This newly furnished residence was spacious. Ji Jin and Guo Ying followed Azure Sunlight out of the main hall and along an outer corridor to a three-story pavilion overlooking distant mountains. The setting sun was nearing the hills, the clouds burned like fire, a fresh breeze drifted in, and flowering trees swayed gently. The scene held a certain poetic charm.
Yet neither of them was in the