Green Mountain

In the winter air so cold it scraped the bones, Zhang Zhuo, clad in a green robe, waved from afar at Chen Liqin, his face wearing the cordial smile of reuniting with an old friend.

Yet Chen Liqin’s expression subtly changed, "Lord Zhang, forgive my bluntness, but you and I are not of the same path. Why insist on returning to the Imperial Capital together?"

Zhang Zhuo laughed heartily, "Mr. Chen, what are you saying? If you and I from Luocheng City do not return to the Imperial Capital together, others will think neither of us has the broad-mindedness and tolerance to coexist."

Chen Liqin replied grumpily, "Lord Zhang, there’s no need for veiled criticism or indirect insults. We have no private relationship; it would be better not to start the journey together."

Zhang Zhuo stroked his beard, his interest piqued as he asked, "Mr. Chen, are you worried that with me by Chen Ji’s side, you’ll be outshone as a father?"

Chen Liqin retorted angrily, "Lord Zhang, do not make groundless speculations! I see your Zhang Family’s caravan is so vast and impressive; I dare not get too close!"

The Chen family valued their reputation and the dignity of their household, priding themselves on their nobility. How could Chen Liqin possibly wish to embark on a journey together with Zhang Zhuo flaunting such ostentatious wealth as he departed from office?

If seen by others, they might even think he was in cahoots with Zhang Zhuo in embezzlement!

Zhang Zhuo wasn’t offended. He stepped forward to take Chen Liqin’s hand in a gesture of intimacy, but Chen Liqin quickly withdrew it back into his sleeve, "Lord Zhang, speak plainly if you have something to say!"

Zhang Zhuo chuckled, "Mr. Chen need not worry so much. Later, the Chen Family’s caravan can lead the way, and the Zhang Family will follow behind at a distance. This way, nobody will misunderstand you!"

Chen Liqin became suspicious, "Lord Zhang, why do you so insist on accompanying me?"