After Ning Que finished speaking, the space around them fell utterly silent.
Lu Tong froze, staring at Ning Que in astonishment.
A faint smile rested on Ning Que's face. Unlike Lu Tong, he had not spoken through gritted teeth, but as lightly as drifting clouds in a gentle breeze.
Anyone who could speak of such bitter hatred so calmly had either let it go completely or personally endured the darkest hour of his life.
Then emerged from it like a butterfly from its chrysalis.
Looking into Lu Tong's eyes, Ning Que continued, "I used to be an ordinary soldier in the Dynasty I belonged to. Once, I took pride in fighting and shedding blood for my Dynasty. I wanted to give my life for it.
"But my wife was forced by the court into a diplomatic marriage. The weight of an entire Dynasty rested on her shoulders alone.
"I don't know how much pain she suffered then, but I know that the country I loved most betrayed me.
"I once loved this Dynasty more than anything. But now, all I want is to destroy it."
Only Ning Que's calm words echoed through the silent space.
His expression remained composed, without a trace of anger. Yet that very composure touched Lu Tong deeply.
He recalled what Ning Que had said earlier: "I understand."
He truly did understand.
He understood Lu Tong's anger.
After a long silence, the way Lu Tong looked at Ning Que changed.
There was no more anger, no more hostility.
"Very well. Go."
"The rumors outside aren't wrong. There really is treasure in my cenotaph."
After a pause, Lu Tong continued, "It's in the deepest part of the ruins. Only by obtaining my treasure can you leave this place."
"Young man, do me one last favor..."
Lu Tong