Leaving everything else aside, he could never have killed his younger brother and imprisoned his father.
Thus, he felt there was something suspicious about Yuan Xi coming to seek refuge with him now and bringing him this intelligence.
"How can I trust your words?"
Yuan Tan narrowed his eyes at Yuan Xi, his gaze full of scrutiny.
"Elder Brother!"
A trace of grief and indignation appeared on Yuan Xi's battered, swollen face. "We're brothers whose blood is thicker than water! In my heart, I've always regarded you as my dearest, most beloved elder brother! How can you not believe me?"
"I only killed our younger brother and imprisoned Father because Father wanted to make Third Brother his heir! Had Father chosen you, Elder Brother, I wouldn't have had a single complaint. I would gladly have served as a pawn before your horse!"
Tears and snot streamed down Yuan Xi's face. He looked utterly sincere.
As he spoke, he lifted his upper garment, exposing his scar-covered body. A vicious gleam entered his eyes as he said through gritted teeth, "That bastard Zhang Liao tore down the bridge after crossing the river! He beat me into this state. I wish I could devour his flesh and sleep on his skin!"
"If I can't have the Son of Heaven to myself, then I can't let him succeed either. Whatever happens, I can't let an outsider reap the benefits!"
The hatred for Zhang Liao in Yuan Xi's voice did not sound feigned.
Or rather, it was entirely real.
After all, Zhang Liao had truly beaten him. Every wound on his body was genuine, without the slightest falsification. How could he possibly bear no resentment?
Seeing this and considering the intelligence his scouts had brought back, Yuan Tan believed him a little more.
Yuan Xi