CHAPTER 426: CHAPTER 426: PARALLAX

Faced with such a situation, no one could say anything.

The bond between Ji Yu and her son was undoubtedly deep.

But their most pressing concern now was the fact that someone had come to inspect this area today.

"You absolutely cannot show yourself. If you do, they’ll definitely discover you."

The Old Madam was deeply helpless. After all, they had grown accustomed to such incidents, but suddenly encountering a situation like this was still distressing.

"I understand. Just being able to inform me about this already helps me immensely. For the time being, I’ll be sure to hide myself well—I definitely won’t let myself be discovered."

"If they discover your presence, then just say you’re Zhiyuan’s wife. That’ll do." The Old Madam had already thought of a contingency plan, but it seemed a bit clumsy.

Ji Yu shook her head. "If it’s really those people, they’ll definitely recognize me. If I claim to be Lin Zhiyuan’s wife, it’ll only bring him unnecessary trouble. I’d better find another solution."

They had already saved her life. To implicate them any further would only add to her guilt.

Seeing her determination, they could only abandon this idea for now.

Sure enough, the inspectors came that evening. It was clear they were searching for something, though no one could figure out what exactly.

Ji Yu was already quite familiar with these people. After all, it was they who had forced her to leap off the cliff. Now they had come for her again—likely sent by Jiang Huai to find her.

Hiding in the shadows, she observed their movements. She understood that their investigation here must be because of her presence.

"Have you seen any suspicious individuals around recently?"

In truth, even they were weary of this pursuit, but Jiang Huai’s orders left them no choice. Ignoring the matter would only bring more trouble later on.

"Of course no strange persons could have made their way into our village. If you don’t believe me, you’re welcome to search," the Old Madam said with a confident demeanor, as if there was nothing to hide.

In reality, their visit was more a matter of holding onto a sliver of hope. They were more convinced Ji Yu had already been dragged off by wild beasts.

"We’re not doubting your word. It’s just that this matter is of utmost importance. If you can provide any leads, it might be possible for you to earn favor and leave this place."

Such empty promises had been made countless times before, so this time the Old Madam paid them no mind.

Ji Yu understood the gravity of the situation. Thus, she avoided any interaction with these people.

"If you’re looking for someone, then search based on your own deductions. There’s no way anyone from outside could hide among us."

The Old Madam persisted in denying that anyone had passed through the village, though the looks on the inspectors’ faces suggested they had their suspicions.

Ji Yu’s heart raced to her throat, fearing the truth might be exposed at any moment.

Still, perhaps they had grown desensitized over time. They didn’t wish to dwell on the issue any longer. Upon noticing nothing unusual, they let the matter drop.

After searching thoroughly and finding no trace of anyone, the inspectors left without pursuing further. They merely instructed the villagers to stay focused on gathering medicinal herbs, promising they would be well-rewarded for their cooperation.

Ji Yu took a deep breath, grasping how difficult this ordeal truly was. Even so, this outcome was a small blessing, bringing them a chance—an opportunity to escape.

Seizing this moment to flee would likely go smoothly, as their pursuers’ attention was solely focused on her. If they managed to leave now, the inspectors wouldn’t notice a thing.

"Brother Lin, tonight is the best time to get out of here. I believe they’ve already bought into your claims."

Having accepted their explanation, the pursuers were unlikely to entertain further suspicions.

Their escape would still require time and preparation.

"If you truly want to leave, then start getting ready right away."

Ji Yu harbored no great hope for success. Yet, having come this far, she had no choice but to try—regret would be unbearable otherwise.

Seeing that both of them were prepared, the Old Madam stopped trying to dissuade them and urged them to leave.

"Don’t hesitate any longer. These old bones of mine will be just fine staying here."

She didn’t intend to leave with them. Having grown used to this life, she had come to accept many things over time. There was no point in dwelling on the past anymore.

"Mother, wait for me. If you won’t come with us, I swear I’ll be back for you." Lin Zhiyuan couldn’t bear to leave his mother behind. He knew this would likely be a one-way journey, so he firmly pushed the Old Madam to join them.

Ji Yu, also at a loss, said to the Old Madam, "This might be the perfect time for us all to leave. Why won’t you come? I believe you want to personally pass on those things to your family outside."

She knew that, deep down, the Old Madam longed for her distant home.

"Yes, I do want to hand over those things myself. But someone has to stay behind to cover for you."

At this moment, she felt she was the most suitable candidate. She couldn’t drag others down with her.

"If you think you’re wasting time arguing with me, then stop. I’ve already decided. I’ll stay behind to buy you time—you won’t face any danger."

Ji Yu hadn’t expected the Old Madam to take this stance, feeling helpless as well.

"Grandma, you’ve already done so much. Please don’t feel compelled to do this. I know what’s in your heart."

But realistically, there was no better solution. Leaving together would be better.

"These people are ruthless killers. If you stay, they’ll capture you for sure."

Attempting escape was better than certain doom.

"You’re too naive, girl."