As Su Yan stood before Xuan Liang in the dimly lit study, the weight of his revelations hung heavy in the air. With a solemn expression, he began to recount the harrowing tale of Li Rong's trials and tribulations within the walls of the Rong mansion.
"General Xuan," Su Yan began, his voice low and measured, "the hardships that Li Rong has endured are beyond comprehension. His mother's passing, the torment inflicted upon him by his stepmother, and the treacherous schemes of his own siblings... it is a wonder that he has survived as long as he has."
Xuan Liang listened intently, his brow furrowed with concern as Su Yan detailed the horrors that had befallen his betrothed. The revelation of Li Rong's poisoned state sent a chill down his spine, a stark reminder of the dangers that lurked within the confines of the Rong mansion.
"And Mao Rong," Xuan Liang interjected, his voice tinged with anger, "she is the one responsible for orchestrating the bandit attack that nearly cost Li Rong his life?"
Su Yan nodded solemnly. "Yes, General. It was Mao Rong's vile machinations that led to the ambush. Fortunately, Li Rong managed to escape, though he unwittingly stumbled into the treacherous depths of the Cloud Chained Valley."
Xuan Liang's heart sank at the mention of Li Rong's precarious situation. Though he had escaped the clutches of his tormentors, it seemed that fate had led him into an even greater peril.
"And Minister Rong..." Xuan Liang prompted, his voice heavy with anticipation.
Su Yan hesitated before continuing, his gaze unwavering. "Minister Rong's collusion with the Western General is a matter of grave concern. It appears that he agreed to the alliance as a condition for marrying his daughter, Wu Rong's second wife. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Li Rong had any knowledge of his father's treachery."
Xuan Liang's mind raced as he processed the information. The pieces of the puzzle were falling into place, revealing a web of deceit and betrayal that stretched far beyond the walls of the Rong mansion.
"And Li Rong's whereabouts?" Xuan Liang inquired, his voice tinged with urgency.
Su Yan shook his head. "I am afraid that Li Rong's exact location remains unknown. He entered the Cloud Chained Valley, but whether he is still within its confines or has ventured elsewhere is uncertain."
Xuan Liang clenched his fists, his resolve hardening with determination. "We must find him, Su Yan. If we do not bring Li Rong back to the Liang residence, I fear that the Emperor will force me to marry the oldest princess."
Su Yan nodded in agreement, his expression grave. "I understand, General. I have already dispatched a few of my subordinates to keep watch over Li Rong, ensuring his safety until we can locate him."
With Su Yan's report in hand, General Xuan wasted no time developing his plans to locate Li Rong and ensure his safety. However, even as he prepared to embark on this crucial mission, another pressing matter weighed heavily on his mind—the need to marry Li Rong before the truth of his family's involvement in the rebellion came to light.
Knowing that time was of the essence, General Xuan swiftly set his plans into motion. He dispatched additional shadows to infiltrate the Rong mansion, situated outside the capital, with orders to gather intelligence on the inner workings of the family and their involvement in the rebellion. These operatives were handpicked for their discretion and resourcefulness, and they were tasked with uncovering any secrets that might threaten Li Rong's safety or tarnish his own reputation.
As the shadows set out on their mission, General Xuan turned his attention to the task of locating Li Rong. Drawing upon his extensive network of contacts and informants, he began to piece together clues and rumours that might guide him to his elusive betrothed.
Even as he delved deeper into the mystery surrounding Li Rong's whereabouts, General Xuan could not shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at his insides. The revelation of his family's involvement in the rebellion casts a shadow over their betrothal, threatening to unravel the fragile alliance that bound them together.
Despite the challenges that lay ahead, General Xuan remained resolute in his determination to protect Li Rong and secure their future together. For he knew that their union held the key to unlocking his own ambitions—to ascend to the world beyond the four continents, where extraordinary cultivators roamed free and mortals dared not tread.
With this lofty goal driving him forward, General Xuan set out on his quest to find Li Rong and ensure that their betrothal remained intact.