The Princess of Northern Land
Chapter 429 Threat (6)_1

Chapter 429: Chapter 429 Threat (6)_1

"Ah, I understand." Lin Changshu replied respectfully.

"Ziyin is preoccupied with important matters. She can’t divide her attention to manage household affairs. As her older brother, you must shoulder more responsibilities. Instead of being preoccupied with some imaginary issues all day long, it’s better to think about how to manage our household affairs." The old patriarch glanced at his furrowed brow, understanding there were still worries within Lin Changshu’s heart.

The old patriarch sighed secretly. His eldest grandson was good in every way, but he was too naïve and honest. He couldn’t compare to Ziyin’s foresight, nor Zige’s boldness. This naivety was fine most of the time, but when it came to critical situations... At this thought, the old patriarch shook his head. He felt his past decisions were correct.

Even if all the Lin Family’s wealth had been earned by Ziyin, and even if the property was inherited from their ancestors, he would not let Changshu shouldered it alone. Indecisive and softhearted people were not fit for great things, and Lin Changshu clearly belonged to this category.

After Lin Changshu left to attend his duties, the old patriarch stood up, his hands clasped behind his back, and for the first time set foot in the backyard.

"Master, the young lady is in the room." The gatekeeper, Jue Hui, accorded the utmost respect to the old patriarch and did not dare to slack off.

"I’ll go in and have a look," the old Patriarch said as he headed inside.

Inside the room, Lin Ziyin was intently working with her tools, oblivious to the old Patriarch’s arrival.

"Take a break," the patriarch spoke.

"Grandfather." Hearing the voice, Lin Ziyin turned her head to see the old patriarch and her solemn face immediately broke into a smile.

"Go get some fresh air," suggested Ziyin. Qiaoqiao, who was assisting her, sensed that the two had something to discuss. She politely excused herself with a smile.

"Is this a crossbow?" the old patriarch asked, picking up a finished crossbow, an expression of astonishment on his face.

"Yes," Lin Ziyin nodded, "It can fire five bolts consecutively."

"Good, good, good," the old patriarch commended excitedly, repeating it thrice, "We are people of the Northern Land and it’s our responsibility to defend our home. You are doing well!"

"Does grandfather have something to tell me?" Ziyin, being astute, guessed that the old patriarch hadn’t come to find her for no reason.

"You’re really unwilling to enter the Wang residence?" The patriarch didn’t beat around the bush.

Lin Ziyin nodded, "What I want is a lifelong companion, a price the prince cannot afford."

The old patriarch nodded, "Handle your own affairs yourself. You are not alone. Whatever decision you make, we, the Lin Family, will not oppose."

No one knew how complicated the old patriarch’s feelings were as he said these words. Perhaps, if he hadn’t come in and heard Ziyin’s heartfelt words, he wouldn’t feel such bitterness. But after seeing the consecutive-firing crossbow, his heart trembled.

Being an intelligent and experienced elder, he could foresee that every person in power would not let Ziyin go after seeing her talent.

Perhaps, refusing the prince could cost the entire Lin family, but the old patriarch didn’t regret it and would not allow any other family member to regret it either. He was a righteous and shrewd elder, and also held an air of arrogance. In his view, if the Lin descendants benefited from the wealth Ziyin accumulated, they should bear the corresponding risks when she faced trouble.

"Prince," outside came the voices of Jue Hui and others suddenly.

"Where’s the young lady?" Chu Suifeng’s voice carried a trace of fatigue.