"There's no need to initiate the removal procedure." Su Qishan opened his eyes, his voice hoarse. "I will abide by the meeting's decision."
He had failed to protect Qianxue's happiness. He could not lose his position as clan head too, or his branch would be at the mercy of others in the Su Clan.
He turned and walked out of the ancestral hall. At the doorway, he paused and said without looking back, "But I will choose who goes to bring Qianxue back. At least let her keep her dignity."
Su Boyong fell silent for a moment, then nodded.
Su Qishan pushed the door open and stepped outside. He lowered his head to look at his hands. At some point, his clenched fists had left deep red marks in his palms.
I'm sorry, Qianxue. This is all your father can do.
After Su Qishan left the ancestral hall, Su Boyong did not rise immediately. He waved a hand, signaling for the members of the collateral branches to leave, keeping only Su Zhenchuan and Su Zhenhai behind.
The doors of the ancestral hall closed again. Candle flames flickered in the silence, casting shifting light and shadow over his wrinkled face.
"Zhenchuan, keep a discreet eye on whoever Qishan sends to fetch Qianxue," Su Boyong said slowly. His voice was quiet, but every word carried unquestionable weight.
"He says he will abide by the meeting's decision, but he may not truly mean it. Whoever he sends will most likely be an old retainer from his branch. They're bound to soften when they see Qianxue. They might even help her stall for time."
"Take two Transcendent Level retainers and follow them in secret. Keep it quiet. If Qianxue cooperates, bring her back courteously."
"If she refuses to cooperate, have the two retainers act.