Chapter 373: Revealing the Truth About His Background - Yun Zhao Recognizes His Parentage (3)
Chapter 373: Revealing the Truth About His Background - Yun Zhao Recognizes His Parentage (3)
Although there was a slight grudge towards Yun Zhao for initially manipulating Zhen'er, after a few months of getting to know each other, that grudge gradually dissipated. Putting herself in his shoes, Mo Yan might have done the same.
However, now that they were a family, it was essential to clarify the Yun siblings' background. Mo Yan knew they were driven out by their stepmother and had irreconcilable conflicts with their family. The capital was neither too large nor too small; if they were to encounter trouble in the future, it was crucial to be prepared.
After lunch, Mo Yan called Yun Zhao to her courtyard. She explained the potential issues and allowed him to choose whether to share his story.
Yun Zhao's expression changed, looking somewhat troubled. He had been so eager to become part of the Mo family that he hadn’t considered the complications that might arise when facing the family that had disheartened him. He regretted not thinking it through and smacked his head in frustration.
Seeing this, Mo Yan's heart sank, and her tone became unusually stern, "If you consider me your sister, you should tell me everything honestly."
Yun Zhao clenched his fists, furrowing his brows, and hesitated, unsure whether to reveal the truth.
Despite his mature demeanor, Yun Zhao was just a seven-year-old child. Having faced neglect from his biological father and cruelty from his stepmother, he lacked a sense of security. He feared that once he shared his story, the Mo family might reject them, and the hard-won familial warmth would vanish. The pain of gaining and then losing such affection was too much to bear.
Sensing his hesitation and unease, Mo Yan realized she had been too harsh. She gently patted his head and reassured him, "Sister Yan has no other intention. If you don't want to tell, I won't force you. Whenever you feel ready, you can come and talk to me."
"Sister Yan, there's no need to wait. I'll tell you everything now," Yun Zhao said gratefully. He understood that Mo Yan was looking out for him, and continuing to hide the truth would be ungrateful.
Mo Yan patted his shoulder, poured him a cup of tea, and signaled him to take his time.
Yun Zhao took a few small sips from the cup. Encouraged by Mo Yan's attentive gaze, he slowly revealed his background.
Yun Zhao’s original surname was Mu, with Yun being his mother's maiden name. After learning the true cause of his mother’s death, he developed an intense hatred for the entire Mu family. Following his expulsion from the Mu family by his stepmother, he and his sister changed their surname to Yun.
The Mu family was a second-tier noble family in the capital, with a history even longer than the Da Chu dynasty. Many members rose to prominence through their scholarly achievements, with a few passing the imperial examinations each generation. The highest position held within the family was currently a second-rank official.
The Yun family, on the other hand, was once a first-tier noble family in the capital, known for producing numerous talented individuals in both civil and military fields. However, a few years ago, the Yun family, who guarded the border, was accused of embezzling millions of taels of military funds and colluding with the enemy, causing a scandal that shocked the court.
Emperor Hui An was initially skeptical and ordered a thorough investigation to avoid wrongfully accusing loyal subjects. However, all the evidence was against the Yun family, and after six months of scrutiny, their guilt was confirmed.
The crimes committed by the Yun family warranted the execution of the entire clan. Considering their past contributions to the kingdom, Emperor Hui An decreed the confiscation of their property and the execution of all direct male descendants. The collateral branches were exiled, with a prohibition on holding office or entering the palace for three generations.
As a direct descendant, Yun Zhao's mother, Lady Yun, escaped execution. However, the Mu family had married her to gain ties with the powerful Yun family. With the Yun family's downfall, Lady Yun was now a burden due to her status as a criminal’s daughter.
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