Villain: Gouging Out the Heroine’s Spiritual Eyes at the Beginning

Chapter 6: A Visit to the Palace, Meeting Qian Rou:

Watching the girl crawling on the ground, her former glory as a cherished daughter of heaven shattered in an instant, Shen Yuan felt no sympathy.

Since ancient times, the strong have preyed on the weak. If he didn’t weaken Shen Xiao’er and Qin Yang’s power today, they would undoubtedly bring destruction upon him and the Shen family tomorrow. With such stakes, there was no room for hesitation.

When Shen Yuan looked at Qin Yang again, he noticed the golden aura surrounding him had dimmed slightly.

As expected, removing Shen Xiao’er’s Thousand Illusion Spirit Eyes had indirectly weakened Qin Yang’s heavenly fortune.

A shadow of cold intent flickered in Shen Yuan’s eyes. When your heavenly fortune is completely extinguished, that will be the day you meet your end.

Enemies must be eradicated completely to ensure peace of mind, mustn’t they?

Seeing Qin Yang hesitate, Shen Yuan spoke mockingly: “What’s the matter? I’ve already approved your marriage to Shen Xiao’er. Why haven’t you taken her away yet? I’m still waiting to drink at your wedding feast.”

Turning to Pei Duan, Shen Yuan offered a polite apology. “Xiao Pei, I regret that this family matter caused you trouble. When time allows, I’ll visit your residence to make amends.”

Pei Duan was speechless. 

He had always known his Patriarch Shen was ruthless, but he hadn’t expected him to be so decisive and coldhearted.

“Patriarch Shen, you’ve taken away Xiao’er’s eyes. Now, no one can care for her. Qin Yang isn’t dependable, but Xiao’er, I’ll never abandon you. Even if you’ve lost your sight, I’ll treat you well for the rest of your life if you’ll marry me.”

A glimmer of hope appeared on Shen Xiao’er’s face. She hadn’t expected Pei Duan—the so-called frivolous scion of the Pei family—to remain steadfast when she was at her lowest.

In contrast, Qin Yang had distanced himself the moment she lost her sight.

Despite her current predicament, Shen Xiao’er’s hatred wasn’t directed at Qin Yang. Instead, she loathed Shen Yuan and You Ruo. After all, it was Shen Yuan who ordered her eyes removed, and You Ruo who carried out the act.

‘I’ll never forgive them! No matter the cost, I’ll avenge the loss of my eyes!’

Shen Yuan, sensing her growing hatred, dismissed it. 

Qin Yang was his real target. Shen Xiao’er’s life was already forfeit in his plans—she was merely a pawn to gain favor with the Pei family.

Once Qin Yang’s heavenly fortune was thoroughly drained, Shen Yuan would send him to meet the King of Hell. If Shen Xiao’er remained defiant at that time, he wouldn’t hesitate to send her along with Qin Yang.

“Pei… Pei Duan… You really don’t despise me?” Shen Xiao’er asked weakly.

“Rest assured, Xiao’er. No matter what happens to you, I’ll stay true to my feelings,” Pei Duan replied sincerely.

Finally letting her guard down, Shen Xiao’er leaned into Pei Duan’s embrace.

Qin Yang watched, his expression stiff and unnatural, but he said nothing. Instead, he turned to Shen Yuan.

“Patriarch Shen, I’ve thought it over. Since Young Master Pei is so devoted to Xiao’er, and as the saying goes, a true gentleman helps others achieve their happiness, I’m willing to step aside.”

“Enough with the excuses. Just admit you’re unwilling to marry a blind woman,” Shen Yuan interrupted coldly.

Qin Yang’s face flushed with embarrassment and anger, but he had no argument to offer.

“On the other hand, Xiao Pei, your loyalty and devotion are truly touching,” Shen Yuan continued. “Since that’s the case, I’ll grant you this favor. I approve of your marriage to her. Make your preparations soon.”

Carrying Shen Xiao’er in his arms, Pei Duan replied, “Don’t worry, Shen. Whether it’s a marriage proposal or betrothal gifts, I’ll make sure not a single detail is overlooked.”

Shen Yuan waved dismissively. As one of the wealthiest families, the Shen family had no need for such formalities.

“I’ve already stated, once Shen Xiao’er’s Thousand Illusion Spirit Eyes were removed, she ceased to have any ties to the Shen family. She is no longer one of us, and there’s no need for you to send any betrothal gifts.”

Turning to Shen Xiao’er, Shen Yuan declared, “I hereby strip you of the honorable Shen surname. From now on, you are no longer part of the Shen family.”

“A woman who betrays her family and acts selfishly has no place among us. Let this serve as a warning to all members of the Shen family.”

Shen Xiao’er’s heart filled with regret. 

For Qin Yang, she had severed ties with her family, never expecting to end up in such a miserable state.

And the most ironic part? 

When she needed him most, Qin Yang had abandoned her.

Though blind, she now saw everything clearly. Shen Yuan’s kindness in childhood had been a facade; his heart was devoted solely to the family. Qin Yang’s vows of eternal love had been lies; he only desired her Thousand Illusion Spirit Eyes.

Only Pei Duan had shown her true sincerity.

Shen Yuan dismissed them all. “Xiao Pei, take her and go. Qin Yang, since you’ve decided not to choose Xiao’er, I won’t trouble you. To me, you’ve simply made a rational and correct decision. You’re free to leave as well.”

Pei Duan didn’t linger. Embracing Shen Xiao’er tenderly, he hurried to find a healer for her injuries.

‘What a devoted fool. No wonder, in the original novel, Shen Xiao’er manipulated Pei Duan into betraying his father, turning Pei Jianghai into Qin Yang’s stepping stone.’ Shen Yuan thought.

Qin Yang left as well, his shoulders slumped.

Watching him go, Shen Yuan’s eyes glinted with cold killing intent.

You Ruo, attuned to her master’s thoughts, leaned in and whispered so only he could hear, “Master, after Qin Yang’s insolence today, should we…?”

She made a slicing motion across her neck.

Shen Yuan smiled faintly. “No rush. A small fish like him can’t stir up much trouble. For now, take the Thousand Illusion Spirit Eyes to the family vault. Then head to the market and buy some toys and snacks suitable for little girls.”

You Ruo’s eyes flickered with confusion but didn’t question his orders.

“As you wish.”

Efficient as always, she left immediately to carry out his instructions.

As for Shen Yuan, he returned to his quarters.

“All of you, disperse. Those who need to train, train. Those with tasks, complete them.”

“Yes!” the Shen family disciples answered in unison before hurrying away.

Back in his room, Shen Yuan retrieved some silk, cotton, needles, and scissors. Carefully cutting the silk, he stuffed it with cotton and stitched it together.

Before long, a delicate teddy bear took shape in his hands, lifelike and perfect.