Chapter 3 - Chapter 3: Three Hall Trial

In the main hall of the front courtyard, the patriarch of the Gu family sat in the central seat, flanked by elders on both sides. There was also a senior member of the foundational cultivation realm who rarely appeared unless necessary. Most of the Gu family members were present, creating a crowded atmosphere. As Gu Yao and Chi Changye entered, their presence drew varied reactions from the onlookers.

Gu Yao, unabashed, mocked, "I wonder why I was summoned, grandfather."

Gu Zhi Ming, infuriated, accused Gu Yao of bringing shame to the family. Chi Changye, observing the reactions, understood the implications and didn't refuse, aligning with Gu Yao in this family confrontation.

Gu Yao, without hesitation, admitted to his actions, sarcastically acknowledging his alleged misdeeds during his grandfather's celebration. This unexpected confession left many bewildered, and Gu Yao subtly shifted blame, implying he was manipulated.

Amidst the reactions, Gu Zhi Ming, the third elder, and others displayed a range of emotions. Gu Yao's admission seemed to hint at a deeper plot, challenging the assumption that he willingly disgraced the family.

The confrontation escalated as Gu Yao addressed his grandfather directly, questioning the family's treatment and the withheld resources. Tensions rose, but Chi Changye's intervention eased the pressure momentarily.

As Gu Zhi Ming tried to defend the family's honor, Gu Yao's revelation hinted at hidden truths, creating uncertainty. The family head, finally breaking his silence, exerted his cultivation power, demanding resolution. Gu Yao, trembling but resilient, withstood the pressure, refusing to kneel and signaling a potential shift in the family dynamics.

Chi Changye's supportive gesture further defused the situation, prompting the family head to dismiss most members, leaving only the central figures for a decisive discussion. The scene set the stage for a complex family reckoning.
Gu Xing and Gu Chen, this twin pair, knew that despite all they had done, in the end, they were merely making bridal clothes for their cousin.

Gu Yao, like a fish pulled from water, could only stand with the support of Chi Changye. The head of the Gu family frowned as he looked at this man. Gu Yao noticed and sneered, "Someone went to great lengths to give me to this person. I've agreed to their wishes. From now on, Chi Changye is part of my family."

"You... shameless! I don't have a son like you!" scolded Gu Zhiming.

Gu Yao's expression turned cold, locking eyes with Gu Zhiming. He didn't want a father like this!

Gu Zhiming, for some reason, felt uneasy under his gaze and was about to continue scolding when the elder Gu silenced him with a glance.

"I see this young man lacks any cultivation. He's not fit for the Gu family," said the elder.

"He used the Drunken Beauty, so naturally, I married him," mocked Gu Yao.

"Do you want to break away from the Gu family?" the elder asked coldly.

"Aren't you all disgusted that I've disgraced the Gu family? This way, everyone can be happy," replied Gu Yao.

The elder, stroking his beard, said, "You can leave, but leave your belongings."

Gu Yao burst into laughter. Indeed, the younger generation of the Gu family might have seen through his calculations. As long as he entered those families, with Gu family at the forefront, who wouldn't follow suit?

"Dad?" Gu Zhiming looked at his father in confusion.

The elder reprimanded, "From now on, properly discipline Gu Xing and Gu Chen. Look at the deeds they've done, using such means against their elder brother. What else might they do to the clan in the future? Do you think I, as the family head, am too old and blind to see what they've done?"

The elder didn't mince words, leaving Gu Zhiming embarrassed and at a loss for words. It seemed that, according to his father, Gu Xing and Gu Chen were behind these actions. Though reluctant to accept it, the elder's words hinted that it was likely true. Yet, he couldn't bring himself to blame the twins he had always favored. It was Gu Yao who had made them siblings embarrass themselves.