Chapter 229 Law Enforcement Elder Guards the World (43)

Fang Xingyun called aside Su Wen, Kong Qing, Sheng Mingchu, and Sheng Tingfeng, speaking in hushed tones, their conversation a quiet murmur.

Zhong Jin said, “I felt quite good, Master. I did my best to protect the people of Floating Cloud Town, and they were very endearing.”

Shen Zhuo frowned and said, “It was not very pleasant.”

Bai Tang raised an eyebrow. “Little disciple, tell me, what made it unpleasant?”

Shen Zhuo’s frown deepened. “They… they kept giving me purses.”

Zhong Jin added, “Master, when we left, the young ladies were very eager to present embroidered purses with mandarin ducks to little Junior Brother.”

Shen Zhuo said, “Very repulsive.”

Zhong Jin: “…”

Bai Tang laughed and asked, “Why does A’Zhuo find it repulsive?”

Shen Zhuo answered honestly, “It felt insincere.”

Bai Tang spoke softly, “In this world, emotions are inescapable—family, friendship, and romantic love. Some are superficial and fail under scrutiny, while others are genuine and unbreakable. A’Jin and A’Zhuo, you are both excellent, with great talents, promising futures, and high cultivation. Naturally, you will attract many admirers, whether they are captivated by your appearance or your inner qualities.”

“There may be some who are insincere, but others may offer the rarest, most sincere feelings. I have repeatedly emphasized that you should not be overly sentimental, make promises lightly, or be fickle. Each point reflects well on you.”

Zhong Jin promptly stated, “Master’s teachings are firmly remembered by this disciple. To be honest, I also wish to meet someone I love, so that Master may have the opportunity to make an effort on my behalf.”

Bai Tang replied, “That’s something that cannot be rushed. It depends on the kind of person you fall in love with.”

Zhong Jin responded cheerfully, “Don’t worry, Master. With my discerning eye, it will be fine. And with you overseeing it, I have nothing to worry about!”

Shen Zhuo, on the other hand, showed clear aversion. “I don’t like it. It’s very repulsive.”

Bai Tang sighed in resignation. “When it comes to matters of the heart, I can only offer advice based on my experiences in dealing with people. I have no personal experience in love, having always been alone. As for you, little disciples, if you don’t wish for it, you don’t have to pursue it. Others cannot force it upon you.”

Shen Zhuo was somewhat surprised. He had thought Bai Tang, being so old, would have had experience with romantic matters. It seemed that such affairs were indeed troublesome.

Shen Zhuo simply responded with a “Yes”, his resolve growing stronger that romantic matters were best avoided.

They continued their journey, passing through a bustling city where Zhong Jin decided to pause for half a day.

The group agreed to reconvene at the inn and then went their separate ways.

Shen Zhuo walked alone, his demeanor a mix of resignation and frustration. The elegant figure in white drew curious glances from passersby, his mood seeming out of place amid the bustling city streets.

Amid the noise and vibrancy, Shen Zhuo’s gaze fell upon a young artist who had just finished a painting. To his surprise, the portrait was of his Master. 

Shen Zhuo approached the artist with a rigid tone, “Have you seen this woman before?”

The young artist looked at him with admiration. “Young master, you must be from out of town. Two months ago, a woman came here—this very person in the painting. Her presence was unforgettable and left a lasting impression.”

Shen Zhuo’s eyes darkened with irritation. “How bold of you! You think Master is for you to fantasize about?”

Zhong Jin quickly intervened, “Junior Brother, don’t be angry.”

He handed some silver to the artist. “With this amount of silver, I bought this painting. The person depicted is our Master, who possesses great strength and is unmatched by ordinary people.”

——