Chapter 41: Heart to Heart?

That beautiful face suddenly flashed in the prince's mind, and his eyebrows sank slightly.

Sheng Mingcheng was still bowing. Seeing that the prince didn't respond for a long time, he couldn't help but boldly raised his head.

The prince quickly calmed down and asked calmly: "Since Mr. Sheng wants to grant a marriage, why don't you let Mr. Qing directly present it to my father?"

Sheng Mingcheng smiled bitterly when he heard this, "To be honest with the prince, my father does not want me to marry Miss Xiao, so I want a gift of marriage."

The prince raised his eyebrows slightly, "Why is this?"

Of course, Sheng Mingcheng didn't dare to say it, because the Hussar General was an upright man, and there were too many secrets hidden in the Qingguo Palace, and his father was afraid of being known by outsiders.

But Sheng Mingcheng really liked the eldest daughter of the Xiao family, and he lost control the moment he saw her.

Ever since I saw that gorgeous face, all the girls at home have become vulgar and vulgar, which is really "hard to swallow"!

Facing the prince's questioning, Sheng Mingcheng had already thought of an excuse.

"I dare not hide this from you, Your Highness. My father feels that the general's family is too high, and it is appropriate for the Duke of Qing to marry a lowly person, so he does not agree."

This reason is quite reasonable. High-ranking families in Beijing often have the habit of marrying low and marrying high.

The prince's eyes darkened when he heard this, and he suddenly asked: "Does Miss Xiao know your thoughts?"

Sheng Mingcheng was slightly startled, not expecting the prince to ask such a question.

Of course, the eldest daughter of the Xiao family didn't know what he was thinking. He just glanced at her from a distance and couldn't help but feel admiration for her.

He didn't even have a chance to say a word to the eldest lady of the Xiao family!

However, in order to get the prince to agree to the marriage, he had no choice but to resort to any means.

Otherwise, dad will definitely not let go!

Thinking of this, Sheng Mingcheng lowered his head slightly, looking embarrassed and shy.

"Your Highness, to tell you the truth, Miss Xiao and I have been close to each other for a long time, but we have always followed etiquette and never given or received privately."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, she almost went crazy.

[Holy crap, this Sheng Mingcheng is definitely telling lies! What a heart-to-heart relationship, fart! Miss Xiao only has feelings for the prince! 】

[Prince, don't believe his lies! This Sheng Mingcheng must be coveting Miss Xiao's beauty! If Miss Xiao gets married, she will really fall into a pit of fire! 】

Unfortunately, the prince couldn't hear Qiao Jiaojiao's thoughts at all.

When he heard Sheng Mingcheng's words, his eyebrows suddenly sank, and the breath on his body became a bit colder.

"Are our hearts connected?"

Sheng Mingcheng was a little frightened, but in order to win the beauty back, he boldly nodded, "Your Highness, please do it!"

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but curse.

【I'll help you, you ghost! You pervert! Damn dude! A lustful bastard! 】

The prince stood there quietly, neither agreeing nor refusing.

"Mr. Sheng, please go back first. I will consider your proposal carefully."

The matter of the Crown Princess has not been announced to the public, and now no one except the Qiao family knows that Miss Xiao is also among the candidates for the Crown Princess.

Sheng Mingcheng did not get the prince's approval. Although he was disappointed, he finally had some hope.

"Thank you, Your Highness. Is it my honor to be able to invite Your Highness to have a meal at the small pavilion in the eastern suburbs?"

The prince shook his head, "No need, I have already made an appointment with the two young masters of the Qiao family."

Sheng Mingcheng asked for trouble and could only retreat in anger.

The prince stood in a daze under the peach tree for a moment, and then he spoke calmly:

"Has she actually become attached to the husband of the Sheng family?"

Qiao Jiaojiao is so anxious.

[It's true that you spread rumors with just one mouth, and then you lose your legs by trying to refute them! Prince, don't believe it! If it doesn't work, you can just ask Miss Xiao. She may not even know Sheng Mingcheng! 】

The prince walked out of the peach grove with Qiao Jiaojiao in his arms, and Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi immediately greeted him.

They immediately heard Qiao Jiaojiao's indignant complaints.

[Oh my god, today is an eye-opener for me, that shameless Sheng Mingcheng...]

Qiao Jiaojiao chattered a lot, and Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi skillfully extracted useful information from it.

Therefore, Sheng Mingcheng wanted to be granted a marriage by the Holy Father, and the object was Xiao Qianlan, the concubine of the future crown prince. In order to achieve his goal, he also lied that he and Xiao Qianlan were in love.

The most important thing is that the prince seems to believe it!

Hiss, so tricky?

Qiao Tianjing couldn't help but have a headache. How to solve this kind of thing?

He and his second brother are both men, so it is impossible for him to talk to the two young ladies of the Xiao family rashly...

Qiao Jiaojiao was also racking her brains. She was thinking about it, and suddenly her eyes lit up.

[Well, I don't know if my eldest sister-in-law has any dealings with Miss Xiao. If so, it would be good to let my eldest sister-in-law be the middleman! 】

Thinking of this, Qiao Jiaojiao suddenly felt discouraged again.

[So what if the eldest sister-in-law really has a relationship with Miss Xiao? I can't speak. How can I ask the eldest sister-in-law to help me with this? 】

[Now I can only place my hope on the prince himself. I hope he will calm down and don't believe Sheng Mingcheng's words. Instead, he will send someone to investigate. 】

[Alas—it's such a long journey! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao leaned on the prince's shoulder listlessly, feeling very depressed.

But after Qiao Tianjing heard Qiao Jiaojiao's words, his eyes suddenly lit up.

This is indeed a good idea!

It's just that in this case, I have to go out of my way and meet her in private...

Thinking of this, Qiao Tianjing's heart started to feel hot.

After lunch, Qiao Jiaojiao was carried into the carriage by Aunt Liu.

She had used her brain too much this morning, and Qiao Jiaojiao was also very sleepy. She fell asleep as soon as she closed her eyes.

Qiao Tianjing asked Qiao Diyi to guard Qiao Jiaojiao while he quietly walked towards the peach forest in the distance.

At this time, many people were recuperating in the carriage and preparing for the afternoon poetry meeting.

Most of them sit on the bank of the river in twos and threes, chatting and making friends.

Qiao Tianjing walked all the way into the depths of the peach forest, a faint blush appearing at the base of his ears.

This place is deserted, so she must be not far away.

Qiao Tianjing slowly walked lightly, crossing a peach tree in full bloom in front of him, and a slender figure with lotus root powder came into view.

Qiao Tianjing's heart skipped a beat and he paused.

"Han...Miss Han."

Qiao Tianjing actually stuttered a little.

Hanya Xian slowly turned around, her quiet face stained with a touch of shame, it was really a human face with peach blossoms complementing each other.

"You...why are you looking for me?"

Although they were engaged, it was still against the rules to have a secret meeting before marriage.

If the boy beside him hadn't repeatedly emphasized that there was something extremely important, she would definitely not have come.

Qiao Tianjing also knew that his move was very inappropriate, so he stopped stepping forward and even bowed lightly to Hanya Xian.

"Miss Han, I was really rude this time."

Seeing this, Hanya Xian hurriedly took two steps forward to help him up, but the color of the road suddenly turned red halfway and stopped again.

"You...you don't have to be like this, just say what's important."

The breeze blows, and the fallen flowers are colorful.

Qiao Tianjing's face was solemn, and he started talking about the business.

His voice was so soft that no one could hear him except Hanya Xian, which was covered by the swaying of the branches.

Chapter 42 Sister-in-law is so awesome!

After a while, Hanya Xian had suppressed her shyness. She looked serious and nodded lightly.

"Since you trust me so much, I'll give it a try."

Qiao Tianjing was convinced and felt extremely grateful to Hanya Xian.

"How about we settle under the willow tree next to the three pavilions in the eastern suburbs?"

"good."

Hanya Xian nodded again, and there was silence between the two.

Qiao Tianjing seemed to hear his rapid heartbeat again, and he suddenly said stupidly:

"This hairpin suits you very well."

Hanya Xian subconsciously raised her hand and touched the hairpin in her bun.

The next moment, both people's faces turned red at the same time.

"Then...that's settled." Qiao Tianjing said nervously.

"Yeah." Hanya responded quickly.

Qiao Tianjing couldn't stay any longer, so he left in a hurry, even his neck was crimson.

That hairpin was carefully chosen by him.

It was the first time in his life that he chose a gift for a woman, and he chose again and again, carefully.

He put the hairpin into the gift given to the Han family. Unexpectedly, Miss Han would pick it out and wear it on her head today.

This feeling is hard to describe, as if my carefully prepared thoughts have been cherished, my heart is sweet, and my steps are unconsciously brisk.

Hanya Xian heard the footsteps retreating behind her and couldn't help but turn around and take a peek, her heart beating wildly.

This fool.

Who would give a bamboo-shaped hairpin with small characters engraved on it as a gift? It's obvious that it was his handiwork.

Miss Han couldn't help but stroke the hairpin on her head, feeling indescribably sweet in her heart.

————

Qiao Jiaojiao fell into a deep sleep, and when she woke up, she felt extremely refreshed.

Aunt Liu wiped Qiao Jiaojiao's face thoughtfully, combed her two little Tweets again, and sent her to Qiao Diyi's arms.

"Second brother, there is still half an hour before the afternoon poetry meeting. How about we go for a walk on the river embankment?"

Qiao Tian said it casually, and secretly winked at Qiao Diyi.

Qiao Diyi understood, "It would be better to call Brother Shen!"

When the brothers found the prince with Qiao Jiaojiao in their arms, the prince was reading in the carriage.

Qiao Diyi was carefree and enthusiastic, "Brother Shen, would you like to go out for a walk together?"

The prince curled his lips and smiled. Looking at the entire court, only the second son of the Qiao family dared to be so forthright in front of him, but he liked this kind of casualness very much.

"That's fine."

The prince stepped out of the carriage, led by Qiao Tianjing, and walked eastward along the river embankment.

If they really wanted to chat, Qiao Tianjing, who was full of knowledge, could chat better with the prince.

Qiao Diyi hugged Qiao Jiaojiao, looking at the flowers on the roadside and teasing the birds on the tree, making Qiao Jiaojiao giggle.

The prince was originally in a dull mood, but now he looked at the spring scenery in front of his eyes and listened to the carefree laughter of children in his ears, and his eyebrows gradually relaxed.

In the distance, they saw a pavilion.

Qiao Tianjing's heart moved slightly, "Your Highness, we still have plenty of time, let's go sit in the pavilion."

The prince was obedient and nodded slowly.

The four of them walked to the pavilion and suddenly heard soft voices.

Qiao Tianjing's heart skipped a beat, and a wave of joy surged up.

is her!

Sure enough, she invited the Xiao sisters here!

From Qiao Tianjing's position, they could not see the speaker because of the obstruction of a big willow tree.

There was just a faint hem of skirt peeking out from behind the tree, and it looked light blue.

Qiao Jiaojiao was looking around just now, but now she suddenly became excited.

[This...this seems to be the voice of my sister-in-law! Wait, that skirt, that color, it couldn't be the eldest daughter of the Xiao family, right? 】

The prince had already made a gesture of silence and motioned for Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi to leave with him.

But when he accidentally glanced at the skirt, his steps could not help but pause slightly.

Just at this moment, a gentle voice sounded.

"Miss Han, I haven't congratulated you yet. I heard that you have found a good husband."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, her eyes lit up completely.

[She is really the eldest lady of the Xiao family! 】

I heard her talking to the second young lady of the Xiao family on horseback before, and this was the right tone!

When Qiao Tianjing heard this, he couldn't help but blush slightly.

He couldn't help but wonder, what was her look like at this moment?

"Ms. Xiao, even you are teasing me." Hanya Xian's shy and timid voice sounded.

"Miss Han, I like your temperament very much, so I'll call you Sister Han. I'm not making fun of you. All the ladies in the capital are probably envious of you."

"The Qiao family has a clean and upright family tradition, and you can tell from a glance that they are a very good family."

Xiao Qianlan's voice sounded slowly, with a gentle tone that made people feel like a spring breeze.

Hanya Xian estimated that the time agreed with Qiao Tianjing was almost here, so she brought the topic to Xiao Qianlan as agreed in the peach forest.

"Sister Xiao, you are the queen of the general family, you have a noble status, and you are also known as the most beautiful woman in the capital. To tell you the truth, I don't know which son in this capital can be called you."

"Miss Han is right! My sister is the best woman in the world, and I can't see anyone in the whole capital who can match her!"

A hearty voice suddenly broke in, and it was the voice of Xiao Qianyue, the second young lady of the Xiao family.

"Sister, don't talk nonsense!"

Xiao Qianlan stopped Xiao Qianyue a little harshly, and then her tone softened.

"Sister Han, you can't say this. It's up to your parents to make the decision on this kind of thing."

Hanya Xian also knew that she was being abrupt. Normally, she would never say such out-of-bounds words.

But Qiao Lang said that this matter was really important, and she had to make people uncomfortable for once.

So she quietly serious, took Xiao Qianlan's hand and said:

"Sister Xiao, don't think I'm nosy. It's true that I heard some rubbish at the poetry meeting this morning, and I'm worried that your reputation will be harmed."

When Xiao Qianlan heard this, she couldn't help but frown.

After this contact, she knew that Hanya Xian was a very measured and well-educated woman, so she became somewhat close to her.

She guessed that Hanya Xian meant no harm, so she nodded lightly and said, "Sister Han, please speak."

Hanya Xian took a slight breath and seemed a little embarrassed to speak. After a while, she hesitated and asked, "Sister Xiao, do you know Mr. Sheng Lang from the Duke of Qing's Palace?"

The prince heard them talking about boudoir talk and was already planning to turn around and leave.

When I heard this, my heart skipped a beat. I knew that eavesdropping was not a gentleman's behavior, but I couldn't move forward.

Qiao Jiaojiao's heart beat faster than the prince's!

[Oh my god, how can my sister-in-law be so awesome! Could this be God's arrangement for the prince and Miss Xiao to resolve their misunderstanding and the lovers to finally get married? 】

【Very good! No bloody love story, a smooth one is best! 】

When Qiao Tianjing heard this, he calmly raised his lips.

It all depends on people——

Chapter 43 The best man in the world

"Mr. Shenglang?"

Xiao Qianlan's slightly confused voice sounded.

"I know that there is a husband in Duke Qing's mansion, but Duke Qing has no relationship with my family, so I only know his name but not his person."

"Why did my sister suddenly mention the husband of the Sheng family?"

Hanya Xian felt relieved when she heard this. This should be the answer Qiao Lang wanted to hear, right?

If he had been nearby, this would have been done.

Seeing Xiao Qianlan looking at him doubtfully, Hanya Xian lowered her voice and said:

"Sister Xiao, I was sitting at the poetry meeting today and heard that Mr. Sheng seemed to be interested in you, and there were some rumors."

"I see that you are a good person like pearls and jade, and you don't want to believe their words. However, you also know that it is the hardest to prove your innocence, so I took the liberty to find you. I hope Sister Xiao can be more considerate."

"These words today are really presumptuous. Please don't blame Sister Xiao for being speechless."

When Xiao Qianlan heard this, her expression changed drastically.

"How could such a ridiculous thing happen? This is really a huge injustice. I don't know that Mr. Sheng at all!"

When Xiao Qianyue heard this, she was so angry that her eyebrows stood up!

"Who is such a bastard who dares to slander my sister's reputation? Who is the husband of the Sheng family? He dares to rely on my sister!"

"Miss Han, tell me who those gossipers are, and I, Xiao Qianyue, will beat them up right now!"

Hanya Xian looked embarrassed when she heard this, "Miss Xiao Er, I don't usually hang out with everyone. I can't recognize those people's faces."

Xiao Qianyue suddenly remembered Mr. Han's reputation in Beijing circles and couldn't help but choke slightly.

At this time, Xiao Qianlan quickly stood up and stopped Xiao Qianyue.

"Sister, didn't you just listen to what Sister Han said? It's the hardest thing to prove your innocence."

"Now everyone just talks about it privately. I keep my integrity and I am not afraid of these rumors."

"If you make a big fuss and make it known to everyone, our Xiao family will be really shameless."

"That's all, those who are clean will be cleansed themselves, let them be."

Xiao Qianlan's words are gentle but firm, neither impatient nor impatient, and very calm.

Seeing this, Hanya Xian couldn't help but nodded secretly.

As expected of the well-known Miss Xiao, she indeed has a measured approach and extraordinary magnanimity.

"Sister Han, thank you for being willing to tell me about this. I know that with your temperament, you must have been in trouble for a long time."

At this time, Xiao Qianlan did not forget to thank Hanya Xian and understand her difficulties.

Hanya Xian's face suddenly turned red when she heard this, and she felt ashamed in her heart.

There is such a beautiful woman in the world, but I lied to her. What a sin.

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, she almost couldn't help clapping her hands!

The misunderstanding is resolved!

She leaned forward to look at the prince's face again, and saw that his eyebrows were stretched, his eyes were bright, and he seemed to be in a very good mood.

[Tsk tsk tsk, look, look, look, I'm happy, proud, my wife is back! 】

[Uuuuuuuuuah, how come there are so many such good sisters and sisters-in-law, but all of them end badly! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao was secretly feeling sorry for herself when suddenly a rapid exclamation came from the distance, and then -

Something fell into the water!

The exclamations disturbed Hanya Xian and the Xiao sisters behind the tree.

They looked at each other and hurried over. Unexpectedly, they saw three figures when they looked up.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince!"

Xiao Qianlan whispered and quickly pulled Xiao Qianyue to salute.

Hanya Xian looked at Qiao Tianjing calmly, and then both looked away in an instant.

Xiao Qianlan didn't know how long the prince and the others had been standing here. Thinking of the conversation between her and Hanya Xian, her face turned pale.

Prince...should you have listened to them all?

So does he know about the rumors between her and Sheng Langjun? He...will he misunderstand her?

Xiao Qianlan was worried, so she could be frank and frank without fear of others' words.

But now in front of the person he admires, he can't help but feel a little timid and worried.

A year ago, the prince received the decree from the Holy Emperor and went to the Xiao Mansion to issue it in person.

That was the first time Xiao Qianlan met the prince.

The young man has a tall and straight posture and a graceful appearance. His body already has the royal majesty that cannot be concealed, but he is also a gentleman, graceful and elegant.

The most rare thing is that the prince is gentle and approachable, and he is also polite to his parents.

At that time, Xiao Qianlan couldn't help but think, this must be the best man in the world.

It's just that the status of the prince is noble, and the position of the princess is even more important. Even she, the eldest daughter of the hussar general, may not have this blessing.

Moreover, her father, as a general, has military power and has been an important and feared object of the Tian family since ancient times. She really does not dare to hope for this, and she does not want her father to be more suppressed and restricted for this reason.

As soon as they met each other, Xiao Qianlan had thousands of thoughts flashing through her mind, but she quickly calmed down and looked respectful and polite.

The prince looked a little embarrassed.

Oops, the eavesdropping was discovered...

"I and the husbands of the Qiao family have just arrived here, but I don't know that the three young ladies are also here."

The prince explained dryly.

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but chuckle.

[No matter how precocious the prince is, he still has to act foolishly in front of his sweetheart. Isn't this because there is no silver in this place? It's better not to explain. 】

The prince obviously realized this immediately.

Hmm...what to do?

Miss Xiao won't think that I have bad character and glib tongue, right?

Xiao Qianyue, the second young lady of the Xiao family, does not have such a keen mind.

She poked her head forward and saw that no one was talking, so she took the initiative to speak:

"Your Highness, I just heard the sound and it seemed like someone fell into the water. Why don't we go take a look first?"

She really didn't know what a group of people were doing here with their eyes wide open.

Qiao Diyi believed deeply and nodded heavily, "Miss Xiao Er is right!"

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help laughing.

[Yes, second brother, you will only say this in front of your second sister-in-law from now on. 】

[Miss Xiao Er is right now, and my wife will be right in the future! 】

[Haha, my second brother and sister-in-law are a pair of treasures in the Beijing circle! 】

When Qiao Diyi heard this, not only was he not shy, but his eyes were bright.

Look, that's my future wife, she's so cute!

Prince: Thank you Miss Xiao Er for the steps.

"Okay, let's go and see it together."

Qiao Jiaojiao thought about it carefully. There seemed to be no plot of falling into the water in the original work. Could it be that some unlucky guy made a mistake?

The group of people hurriedly walked towards the place where the sound came from. When they got closer, they heard the sound of splashing water.

A few people turned around a thick willow tree, and the scene beside the river embankment came into view.

Qiao Jiaojiao roared.

[This is the ancient version of bullying! 】

I saw seven or eight young ladies standing proudly on the shore, the most conspicuous of which was Miss Sheng Xiuran from the Sheng family.

Her gorgeous long dress shone with tiny colorful lights in the sun, which was very eye-catching.

Qiao Jiaojiao muttered.

[Let me see who the unlucky guy who was bullied is. 】

Chapter 44 The Bullied Heroine

Standing next to the river embankment was a nun with a thick waist and round arms. She squatted by the water with her back to everyone. As soon as the person's head emerged from the river, she stretched out her thick arms and pushed him into the water.

That's why Qiao Jiaojiao and the others only heard the sound of falling into the water, but not the cry for help.

At this time, the ladies on the shore were still laughing.

"Look at how proud she was just now. She also said that we were bullying and committing crimes. It was really hilarious!"

"I've been thinking about being in the limelight since I was young. I really don't know how much I weigh."

"Tsk, I can write a sour poem, and after getting a word of approval from His Highness the Crown Prince, I will be in a state of confusion!"

"You still dare to clamor and compete with Sister Sheng, and you don't even look at the lintels of the two families. The Qingguo Duke's house is enough to make the Meng family drink a pot!"

Qiao Jiaojiao had already heard it. She didn't expect that this unlucky guy who was bullied was the heroine!

[Let me go, that's Meng Guxue in the river! 】

[Originally according to the normal plot development, Meng Guxue and the male protagonist had already made up their minds in Taolin at this time. 】

[Although Sheng Xiuran has always hated the female protagonist, because of the protection of the male protagonist, Sheng Xiuran has no way to succeed. 】

[Now the heroine has lost the protection of the hero, and she is also in the limelight at the poetry festival. As the saying goes, a big tree attracts wind, and this will cause trouble. 】

Seeing Meng Guxue trying her best to surface again, only to be pushed into the water again by the nanny, Xiao Qianyue on the side couldn't stand it anymore.

She is warm-hearted and accepting of death.

These people are simply bullying the few!

And it can be heard from their conversation that Miss Meng did not do anything heinous at all. Why would she kill a living person just because of jealousy?

Qiao Diyi was originally enthusiastic, otherwise he would not have gone into the water to save Meng Guxue's life.

But he already knew from Qiao Jiaojiao's heart that Meng Guxue was one of the culprits who caused their Qiao family to become full, so he just stood there with a sullen face at the moment.

Don't say that nothing happened, Meng Guxue is still innocent.

Things have developed to the point where they are today because of their family's step-by-step efforts to change based on the little sister's wishes.

If they didn't get the instructions from their little sister, then Meng Guxue would be going smoothly at this time, and it would soon be time to show his fangs to the Qiao family!

"Stop! What are you doing! Are you taking human life seriously?"

Xiao Qianyue stepped out and spoke in a loud voice.

This sonorous and powerful sound scared the ladies on the shore and turned their heads to look over.

When they looked past Xiao Qianyue and saw the prince behind them, they all turned pale with fear and knelt down in panic.

"Meet His Highness the Crown Prince!"

The nanny by the water was startled by the word "prince". Her feet slipped and she fell into the water with a splash.

Meng Guxue finally surfaced and finally saw a glimmer of hope. She immediately screamed for help in a hoarse voice.

"Your Highness! Your Highness the Crown Prince, save me!"

Xiao Qianyue rushed to the shore in a few steps, grabbed Meng Guxue's shoulders and lifted her up.

She is good at martial arts and her strength is not inferior to that of ordinary men.

Meng Guxue only felt a strong force pulling her upward. She immediately clung to Xiao Qianyue's hand as if she had grasped a life-saving straw.

Wow——

Meng Guxue was dragged ashore by Xiao Qianyue.

She lay trembling on the ground, her wet clothes clinging tightly to her thin body, and her complexion was pale and bloodless in the March weather.

Wet hair stuck randomly to Meng Guxue's face, making her look like a puppy that had been soaked in the rain, looking miserable.

Xiao Qianlan couldn't stand it anymore, so she also walked over, took off her cloak and covered Meng Guxue.

The sudden warmth made Meng Guxue tremble all over. When she looked up, she saw Xiao Qianlan looking at her with worry.

"Miss Meng, where is your maid? I asked her to get you a pair of clean clothes quickly."

When Meng Guxue heard such a voice of concern when she was in the most desperate and embarrassed state, tears rolled down her face, and she burst into tears.

She didn't understand why, as a time-traveling woman, she had such a miserable life in this ignorant and backward ancient times!

She had obviously made a splash at the poetry festival according to her original plan, so why didn't she get the thousands of people she expected to follow her, and why was she still being bullied by others!

Looking at Xiao Qianlan who was as gentle as water in front of her, although Meng Guxue was very grateful to her, her unwillingness still surged up uncontrollably.

Since God chose her to travel through time, why not let her wear it on a lady with distinguished status and outstanding appearance like Xiao Qianlan!

In this way, she can easily have everything she wants even without working hard!

Xiao Qianlan calmly arranged the cloak covering Meng Guxue's body, and inadvertently met Meng Guxue's eyes while lowering her eyes.

At this moment, Xiao Qianlan couldn't help but look slightly startled.

These are such a pair of ambitious eyes, filled with unwillingness and resentment, which is frightening to look at.

These are not the eyes that a ten-year-old boudoir lady should have...

When Xiao Qianlan thought of this, although the expression on her face remained unchanged, the sympathy and softness in her eyes slowly disappeared.

This Miss Meng... looks like she's not a simple person.

Meng Guxue is still feeling sorry for herself in her heart, and she has no idea where her maid is now!

Damn Sheng Xiuran, she deceived her in the name of the prince, saying that the prince admired her poetic talent and wanted to have an in-depth discussion with her.

But the maid next to her was sent by Mrs. Meng, that cheap girl, to keep an eye on her. For the sake of convenience, she deliberately sent the maid elsewhere.

Who would have thought that when she rushed to the river bank full of joy, Sheng Xiuran and a group of ladies were waiting for her!

Thinking of this, Meng Guxue shook her head aggrievedly, "I don't know, and I don't know where my maid is."

"Hey, it's okay. I'll ask someone to get my clothes and let you wear them!"

Xiao Qianyue couldn't see the weak being bullied, so she raised her hand and prepared to call someone.

Xiao Qianlan suddenly stood up. She calmly pressed Xiao Qianyue's hand and winked at her.

It's best not to get involved with Miss Meng's family, especially borrowing clothes. Who knows if there will be any trouble in the future.

Although Xiao Qianyue didn't understand her sister's intention, she knew in her heart that her sister was the smartest person. Her sister shook her head, that means it couldn't work.

So she retracted her hand in pretense of embarrassment and murmured: "Oops, I didn't bring the maid here either."

Qiao Jiaojiao originally watched all this with cold eyes, but when she heard that Xiao Qianyue wanted to lend clothes to Meng Guxue, her heart skipped a beat.

As a result, before she could wave her hand, Xiao Qianlan had already stopped Xiao Qianyue.

Seeing this, Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but feel a little respect in her heart.

[As expected of a woman who can harmonize with the prince, Miss Xiao is so transparent! 】

Meng Guxue has always looked down on the people of this dynasty, thinking that they are ignorant and ignorant ancient people. He comes from the new era, so he always thinks he is superior.

But Qiao Jiaojiao and Meng Guxue had completely different ideas.

Children born in modern society are too well protected, and there is always a clear stupidity in their eyes, commonly known as innocence.

The young masters and young ladies trained by these high-ranking families with all their efforts are not only precocious, but also live in complicated living environments, and their minds are truly unfathomable.

Only by always being in awe and pretending to be a pig and eating a tiger can you go further in this strange world.

It's a pity that Meng Guxue can't see through this truth at all.

Chapter 45: Kill yourself

The prince didn't expect to see such a farce, and his face suddenly darkened, showing no signs of anger.

He grew up in the palace and had never seen any dirty tricks. He could see through the thoughts of these ladies at a glance.

At first glance, this group of people was headed by Sheng Xiuran. How could such a jealous and vicious young lady be qualified to be his crown princess!

Moreover, in order to get Miss Xiao, the husband of the Sheng family dared to lie in front of him and slander the reputation of an innocent young lady with his mouth open. How abominable!

"Sheng family..."

The prince murmured softly, and suddenly raised the corners of his mouth coldly.

The tutors in the Sheng family are really "excellent".

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard the prince's murmur, her eyes lit up.

[The prince is dissatisfied with the Sheng family! If the Chunwei fraud case is made public again, the Qingguo Palace will really be in trouble! 】

Hearing this, Qiao Tianjing's eyes instantly ignited with fighting spirit.

Soon! The results will be released next month. If Qing Guo Gong seeks death on his own, Dad will never be lenient!

Meng Guxue was lying on the ground at this time, shaking into a sieve.

Although it was not a winter day in March, the wind was blowing and it was really freezing cold.

Meng Guxue sneezed several times in succession, feeling resentful in her heart.

Can't the Xiao sisters help others to the end and find her a set of dry clothes as soon as possible?

And the prince, who praised her at the poetry gathering in the morning, turned a blind eye to her suffering now. Are the royal people really so heartless?

Meng Guxue resented others endlessly, but she couldn't bear to find problems in herself.

Sheng Xiuran knelt at the front of the ladies, feeling uneasy in her heart at this time.

She had always carefully maintained her dignified, noble, and courteous image in front of outsiders, but now she was shattered by the prince himself!

It's all because that Meng Guxue had such a loud voice, but he just pushed her into the water and taught her a lesson. I really want to shout at Potian!

Meng Guxue really couldn't hold on any longer. She was already feeling dizzy, and the wind blowing from the river felt like it was getting into the seams of her bones.

I heard that in ancient times, a cold wind could kill someone!

Thinking of this, Meng Guxue suddenly trembled and begged for help: "Your Highness, you have to make the decision for me! Please help me quickly, I'm so cold!"

"Your Highness, Sheng Xiuran invited me to the river embankment in your name. I went to the appointment with great joy. However, she stayed here with many ladies, and then ordered the evil slave to push me into the water!"

"Your Highness, you must seek justice for me!"

Qiao Jiaojiao: "..."

[Why should we emphasize going to appointments with joy...]

[And if you think about it a little, how could the prince disregard etiquette and ask a boudoir lady to meet alone in private? 】

When the prince heard this, his expression became darker.

"Ms. Sheng, do you mean what Ms. Meng said?"

Sheng Xiuran was frightened, and immediately kowtowed and denied, "If I go back to His Highness the Crown Prince, I would give my daughter a hundred courages, and I would not dare to act in your name, Your Highness!"

"I do have some grudges with this Miss Meng. My daughter pushed her into the river. This joke was really too much. If Your Highness wants to pursue it, I will definitely accept the punishment."

"But Miss Meng used such a heart-wrenching excuse to slander my daughter, my daughter will never admit it!"

When Meng Guxue heard this, she was instantly filled with anger.

"Sheng Xiuran, how dare you quibble! It was obviously you who asked a maid to come over and deliver a message to me——"

"Ms. Meng, you are talking nonsense. Do you have any evidence? Maid? Can you point out which maid to me? Or do you have any other witnesses?"

Sheng Xiuran turned around and interrupted Meng Guxue's words.

Meng Guxue was startled when she heard this and froze on the spot.

The maid who conveyed the message was sent by Sheng Xiuran. She must have sent that maid far away long ago.

As soon as she heard the word "Prince", she hurriedly sent the maids around her away.

There is no evidence, she has no evidence at all...

Thinking of this, Meng Guxue felt a chill in her heart. She raised her head and met Sheng Xiuran's proud and contemptuous eyes, as if to say:

Meng Guxue, how can you fight with me?

As soon as Qiao Jiaojiao saw Meng Guxue's speechless look, she knew that she had been carefully plotted by Sheng Xiuran.

[Look, that clear stupidity has come out again. If it weren't for the aura of the heroine, with Meng Guxue's current acting style, it would be difficult for her to survive to the finale, right? 】

[I guess you don't have to wait until I grow up before taking action. Meng Guxue has already tried to kill himself. 】

[Well, I feel like my life has been pretty smooth so far...]

Qiao Tianjing couldn't help laughing when he heard this.

Of course, little sister, you think it went smoothly because our whole family was busy behind the scenes!

And don't say such vicissitudes of life, you were only born half a year ago...

On the other side, Meng Guxue murmured for a long time, unable to find any favorable evidence at all, so she could only keep repeating:

"Your Highness, I'm not lying! I swear! It's Sheng Xiuran who is doing the trick!"

The prince looked impatient. He had seen too much in the palace, so he was very tired of this kind of intrigue.

"alright."

The prince spoke solemnly. When Meng Guxue faced this majestic face, her throat suddenly choked and she was speechless.

"Miss Sheng, since you have admitted that you ordered your servants to push Miss Meng into the river, apologize and then put Miss Meng in a good place."

Although Sheng Xiuran was unwilling to accept it, she also knew that this was the lightest punishment.

She was actually a little proud in her heart.

Look, their Duke of Qing is the most prominent one in the capital, and she is also her grandfather's favorite granddaughter. Now even the prince is not willing to punish her!

Thinking of this, she responded happily, and then pretended to apologize to Meng Guxue.

"Ms. Meng, it is true that I went too far this time, and I will apologize to you here."

"Come here, give Miss Meng some clean clothes!"

Meng Guxue's teeth kept chattering, and her little face turned snow-white from the cold.

She looked at the prince not far away in disbelief, full of resentment and unwillingness.

that's all?

Is it enough to just apologize lightly like this? Sheng Xiuran almost killed her!

Why! Just because Sheng Xiuran is beautiful, just because Sheng Xiuran has a high family status?

The prince did not look at Meng Guxue again.

The maid hurriedly sent the clothes to Meng Guxue. When the prince saw Xiao Qianlan taking back her cloak, he turned and left.

Seeing this, Qiao Tianjing and others also left closely behind.

Meng Guxue lay on the ground, letting Sheng Xiuran's maid roughly put clothes on her, her eyes still fixed on the prince's leaving back.

At this moment, she couldn't help but dig her fingers into the grass beneath her.

She will never forget the humiliation of this day. One day, she will become a master!

And everyone present today will be crushed under her feet.

Including the prince!

Chapter 46: Dinner date with Tan Hanchi

Because of this incident at noon, the prince also lost the enthusiasm to continue participating in the poetry meeting.

"That's it for today."

As soon as the prince said this, Hanya Xian and the Xiao sisters bowed and left.

Qiao Jiaojiao glanced at the six people present, and suddenly realized that there were exactly three pairs of CPs in front of her!

Seeing the three ladies Shi Shiran leaving, Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help covering her mouth and snickering.

[It is said that spring is the season when the heart of spring blooms. It is true at all. The souls of the three of them were lost! 】

Qiao Tianjing was thin-skinned and was the first to look away.

Qiao Diyi is very magnanimous. Although she is not my wife yet, she will eventually become my wife!

Prince: Go back and discuss with your mother, and we can decide on the choice of Crown Princess.

Because she left in the middle of the poetry meeting, the way back was smooth. As soon as Qiao Jiaojiao arrived home, she fell into Mrs. Qiao's fragrant and soft arms.

She sat in Mrs. Qiao's arms and danced, babbling and talking about today's interesting things. Although she knew that Mrs. Qiao didn't understand what she was saying, it didn't stop her from sharing the joy.

[Mom, you don't know, I met my sister-in-law today! I also met two sisters from the Xiao family. One of them is the crown prince's concubine, and the other is my second sister-in-law! 】

Mrs. Qiao's eyes were wide with a smile, and she hugged Qiao Jiaojiao and listened with great interest.

In this way, the choice of the Crown Princess must be decided, and the Queen's wish can be regarded as fulfilled.

As a mother, Mrs. Qiao can sympathize with the Queen's feelings for the prince. Isn't she so worried about the boss's marriage?

Speaking of which, it's time for the boss's wedding date to be decided.

Three days later, Mrs. Yang came to the door happily.

"Hey, I heard that my sister has chosen a good day?"

Mrs. Qiao greeted her with a smile on her face, "Sister, we have chosen September 10th. After all, it is the best day! I have to trouble my sister to bring the wedding date to the Han family."

Mrs. Yang was very happy for her sister, "It's easy to talk, don't forget to ask the newlyweds to offer a glass of wine to me, the great matchmaker."

Mrs. Qiao held Mrs. Yang's hand affectionately, "It goes without saying! Not only that, my husband and I also want to toast my sister with a glass of wine!"

Mrs. Yang waved her hands after hearing this, "Forget it about your guy, I'm not qualified to drink the wine he toasted! Okay, just wait for my good news!"

In the afternoon, Mrs. Yang asked someone to send a message, and the Han family responded!

Mrs. Qiao was extremely happy. In addition to taking care of Qiao Jiaojiao these days, she also prepared generous betrothal gifts for her future daughter-in-law.

The appointment date is the tenth day of August. There seems to be plenty of time, but there are a lot of things to prepare, and Mrs. Qiao is also very busy.

In a blink of an eye, it was the day before Chunwei released the results, and Qiao Jiaojiao became nervous.

Qiao Zhongguo knew that Qiao Jiaojiao had been thinking about him, so the first thing he mentioned when he entered the house was Tan Hanchi.

"Madam, the boss and the second brother won't be back for dinner tonight."

Mrs. Qiao raised her head pretending to be confused, "What's wrong? Is there any entertainment?"

After the couple had a tender moment last night, Mrs. Qiao leaned in Qiao Zhongguo's arms and mentioned Qiao Jiaojiao.

"Husband, Jiaojiao has been talking about Tan Hanchi lately. Is there any problem there?"

Qiao Zhongguo thoughtfully wiped the sweat from his wife's forehead and said with a smile:

"Don't worry, madam, everything is ready, but we can't let Jiaojiao worry like this all the time."

"Let's do this. We will reveal it in front of Jiaojiao tomorrow so that she can feel at ease."

Hence the current scene.

Qiao Zhongguo nodded, "Tomorrow is the spring semester when the results will be released. The two brothers said they were going to congratulate the student named Tan in advance. They are afraid they won't be able to return home until late at night."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, her eyes suddenly lit up.

【That's great! God helps me, Qiao Mansion! The second brother's martial arts skills are so strong. If the people from Duke Qing's side dare to take action, the second brother will definitely be able to save Tan Hanchi! 】

[Thank God, this is the best result. Even if Tan Hanchi finally comes to Prince Jing's side, given his current friendship with his two brothers, he probably won't plot against Qiao Mansion. 】

Seeing Qiao Jiaojiao's happy look, Qiao Zhongguo and Mrs. Qiao looked at each other secretly and couldn't help but smile in agreement.

On the other side, Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi have made an appointment with Tan Hanchi.

It was either a prestigious restaurant or a small, affordable restaurant frequented by students taking exams, which made Tan Hanchi feel particularly at home.

Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi were taught by Qiao Zhongguo since they were young. Not to mention such delicious and delicious restaurants, in order to train the two brothers, Qiao Zhongguo let them eat even the bark of trees.

Tan Hanchi admired Qiao Tianjing's literary talent and talent very much, and Qiao Diyi was a bold and unruly person. The friendship between the three of them was indeed excellent.

"Brother Tan, the results will be released tomorrow. I am here to congratulate you first!"

Tan Hanchi waved his hands repeatedly, "The results haven't come out yet, so it's too early for Brother Qiao to say this."

Qiao Tianjing shook his head seriously, "I have seen Brother Tan's literary talents. The court should not miss a talent like yours."

This is what Qiao Tianjing said from the bottom of his heart.

If Duke Qing hadn't interfered, Tan Hanchi wouldn't have become just a shady adviser beside the second prince.

He will rely on his talents and full of justice to shine in the court and plead for the people wholeheartedly.

In fact, Tan Hanchi is also confident in his article. Just now he was just speaking modestly. Now seeing Qiao Tianjing recognizing him so much, Tan Hanchi can't help but feel warm in his heart.

"Brother Qiao, I hope I will have the honor to work with you in the future, serve the court and benefit the people!"

Hearing this, Qiao Tianjing nodded heavily.

After all, that's why he and his second brother came here!

The three of them had enough tea and food, and chatted for a while. Seeing that the restaurant was about to close, Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi let them go.

"Brother Tan, let's go together."

The inn where Tan Hanchi stayed was on the only way back to Qiao Mansion.

"Of course that's great."

Tan Hanchi smiled. The two Qiao brothers had chatted with him for so long tonight, and he felt very happy.

On the way back, Qiao Diyi was always alert.

Tomorrow is the day when the results will be released, so tonight is the last chance for the Qingguo Duke's thieves to take action!

The ride back to the inn was uneventful.

Qiao Diyi knew it well. It seemed that the thief was planning to attack in the inn!

When they arrived at the inn, Tan Hanchi said goodbye to the Qiao brothers and promised to send a greeting note to the Qiao family as soon as possible if there was good news tomorrow.

Seeing Tan Hanchi turn left and walk into the lower room of the inn, Qiao Diyi winked at Qiao Tianjing.

At midnight, everyone was fast asleep.

Tan Hanchi was thinking about the release of the results tomorrow and couldn't sleep for a long time.

At this time, he suddenly heard the bolt of the window being pried, which frightened him in the dead of night.

But at this time, Tan Hanchi never expected that someone would come to take his life. After all, he was just a small Zhuozhou examinee now.

It must be a mouse.

After all, this is a lower-class room, next to the inn's kitchen.

Thinking of this, Tan Hanchi cautiously got out of bed to check, but as soon as he put his head over, a stream of drug sprayed right on his face.

Chapter 47 Who is against him?

Tan Hanchi felt his eyes blur, and then a feeling of weakness and stiffness slowly spread throughout his body.

His heart suddenly panicked, he was drugged! ?

Although he was filled with shock and doubt, Tan Hanchi was able to maintain his composure.

His feet weakened and he stepped back again and again, but calmly fell towards the table and chairs.

As soon as his waist reached the corner of the table, he bit the tip of his tongue and used his last strength to lift the kettle on the table, pouring it all onto his head.

It was April, and the nights were still cold. After drinking this pot of cold water, Tan Hanchi suddenly became more awake.

He became angry and suddenly shouted: "There is a thief!"

"No! This kid can still withstand the effects of the medicine!"

"No matter what, just use the money to do things and do it!"

Two tall and mighty figures suddenly broke open the window, and the cold knife tips under the moonlight were frightening.

Tan Hanchi's expression suddenly changed. Seeing that he had called for help, but no one came, he had a bad feeling in his heart.

Since arriving in Beijing, he has been living in a lower-class room at the other end of the inn. The innkeeper asked him to move to this room for a few days on the grounds that he needed to get rid of mites.

It is adjacent to the kitchen and warehouse, and there are no guest rooms nearby...

It turned out to be a premeditated plan!

At this time, Tan Hanchi's brain could still function, but he could not figure out who in the capital wanted to kill him.

Seeing the tip of the knife approaching the front door, Tan Hanchi violently overturned the table, stumbled open the door, and ran out.

"Don't run!"

There was a shout of surprise from behind, and Tan Hanchi was blown away by the cold night wind, which gave him a little strength.

Escape! He wants to escape!

Han Chuang has been studying hard for more than ten years, but he has not yet realized his ambition. He cannot die here!

Tan Hanchi clenched his hands and stumbled along the way. When he saw the back door of the inn, he pushed it open without hesitation.

At this time, he was so anxious to escape that he didn't even have time to react. Why was the back door of the inn not closed at all at night?

Bang——

The sound of the door hitting the wall made Tan Hanchi's head tighten, and there was confusion on his face for a moment.

Where can he go?

Is there any place in this capital that can make him feel at ease?

At this moment, without any hesitation, two words came to his mind - Qiao Mansion.

Yes, find Brother Qiao!

Tan Hanchi gritted his teeth, even biting his lips to bleed in order to stay awake.

He ran away in the alley behind the inn, but his legs felt as heavy as lead.

He was such a smart person, but he didn't have the time to think about why the two strong killers didn't catch up with him, the drugged scholar.

The sound of breathing became heavier and heavier, and the cold and pain could not suppress the surging dizziness.

Tan Hanchi couldn't help but stand supporting the wall, but the next moment his vision went dark and he fell directly at the entrance of the alley.

"Brother, Brother Tan fainted."

A low voice suddenly sounded, and a handsome face poked out from the darkness, it was Qiao Diyi!

"Quickly, take him back to Qiao Mansion!"

Qiao Tianjing leaned over to help Tan Hanchi up with a solemn expression and put him on Qiao Diyi's back.

It would be terrible if he was caught by the second prince!

"Okay, let's go!"

The route of the Jinwu Guard's night patrol had already been clearly understood by Qiao Zhongguo. Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi hurriedly walked through the night, and their figures instantly disappeared into the night.

As for the two killers who rushed into the inn, they had already been caught by the Qiao family's secret guards who were ambushing in the yard.

This is called the mantis stalking the cicada, with the oriole behind!

As for the back door of the inn, it was specially reserved for Tan Hanchi by the Qiao family's secret guards.

Less than half a quarter of an hour after everything was handled, several black figures landed in the alley behind the inn.

"Zhufeng, didn't you say you found out that Sheng Mingcheng would take action tonight?"

The voice was clear and cold, and the beautiful face was astonishing under the moonlight. It was none other than the male protagonist Shen Yuanbai!

"Go back to the master, I will tell you tonight only after I heard with my own ears the manpower arranged by Sheng Mingcheng. There will be no mistake!"

A dark figure bowed in front of Shen Yuanbai, with fear in his voice.

Shen Yuanbai frowned suddenly, "Go in and take a look."

Several people crossed the back wall of the inn and walked into the lower room where Tan Hanchi was. Except for a pool of wet water stains on the ground, everything else was as it was and nothing could be seen.

Zhufeng became more and more frightened, "Master, please go out and take a look!"

Shen Yuanbai stood in the room, his eyes dark.

"No need, there are people who can move faster than us."

The water stains on the ground can prove that something must have happened in the house just now, but since the tables and chairs are not messy at all, it means that someone has taken care of the aftermath.

Zhufeng couldn't help but look shocked when he heard this, "My subordinates lurked around Sheng Mingcheng for several months before getting this information. Who can do it faster than us?"

A hint of evil flashed in Shen Yuanbai's eyes, and he murmured: "Yeah, I'm also very curious, who is so powerful..."

In order to seize Duke Qing's leverage and use him for his own use, he had been planning for nearly half a year.

Who is it that is against him!

————

At noon on the second day, Tan Hanchi opened his eyes in a daze and felt a splitting headache!

"hiss--"

He sat up slowly and rubbed his head vigorously. When he saw the unfamiliar decorations in front of him, the shock of last night suddenly came to his mind.

"not good!"

Tan Hanchi screamed and heard a babbling baby cry.

He suddenly turned his head and saw Qiao Zhongguo holding Qiao Jiaojiao, with Qiao Tianjing and Qiao Diyi standing beside him.

"Brother Qiao! General Qiao!"

Tan Hanchi stood up suddenly, but almost fell down again because of dizziness.

"Brother Tan, be careful, don't worry, you are already safe."

Qiao Tianjing quickly stepped forward to support Tan Hanchi, but Tan Hanchi held Qiao Tianjing's arm tightly.

"Brother Qiao, look at the weather. Have the results been released? Did I...did I pass the exam?"

Qiao Tianjing's face darkened slightly when he heard this. Tan Hanchi observed his words and couldn't help but close his eyes slightly, unable to hide his disappointment.

"Is that so-"

Seeing Tan Hanchi's appearance, Qiao Jiaojiao was so anxious that she spoke.

[Tan Hanchi, don't be disappointed! You don't know, you're the top scorer! Someone faked your article! 】

Tan Hanchi slowly sat back on the couch. He knew that he should pay homage to General Qiao first, but his mind was so confused that he couldn't stand still at all.

Qiao Zhongguo cherished talents very much. He already knew from Qiao Jiaojiao that Tan Hanchi was the best among people, so he took the initiative to speak:

"You were found fainted at the entrance of the alley last night. Diyi wanted to invite you to see the list early in the morning, and he happened to bring you back. What happened to you?"

Seeing that Qiao Zhongguo wanted to make the decision for him, Tan Hanchi felt very grateful and immediately told him everything about last night.

Qiao Zhongguo pondered for a moment after hearing this, and then said, "Have you ever thought about who wants to kill you?"

Tan Hanchi also looked confused when he heard this, "General Qiao, I really can't think of anyone who I have offended in this capital."

Qiao Zhongguo's expression didn't change when he heard this, and he said in a deep voice: "Is it possible that it's because of Chunwei?"

Chapter 48 It's so reassuring

When Tan Hanchi heard this, his expression changed greatly, "This..."

He was extremely smart, and he understood what Qiao Zhongguo meant with just a moment's thought, but because of this, he found it even more unbelievable.

"General Qiao, Chunwei is selecting talents for the imperial court. It is related to the country. How can anyone dare to tamper with this!"

When Qiao Zhongguo saw Tan Hanchi reacting so quickly, he admired him even more.

"Dalang once told me that your literary talent and insights are top-notch. I just ask you, are you confident in your article?"

Tan Hanchi was shocked when he heard this.

First, he didn't expect Qiao Tianjing to think so highly of him.

Second, listening to General Qiao's wishes, he was actually willing to find out the truth for him?

This is Chunwei. If it is as General Qiao expected, then the enemy they must face must be extremely powerful!

When Tan Hanchi thought of this, he couldn't help but tremble slightly, not with fear, but with excitement!

If he can help General Qiao get rid of this cancer in the imperial court, even if Tan Hanchi's career will be cut off in the future, it will pave the way for future people with lofty ideals!

People live this life not for fame or wealth, but for a clear conscience and to admire the heaven and earth!

With his thoughts at this point, Tan Hanchi faced the great hero admired by all the people in front of him and nodded solemnly.

"General Qiao, the common people were addicted to learning when they were young, and they never let go of the papers. They studied hard in the cold window, and got the first place in both the child examination and the provincial examination."

"The common people know that there are many talented people in the country, and there are countless talented people in Beijing, but the common people have this confidence. Even if I am not listed in the first-class list, I, Tan Hanchi, should have a place in the second-class list!"

"good!"

Qiao Zhongguo shouted low and gave Tan Hanchi an extremely approving look.

This person is not only talented in literature, but also extremely intelligent. What is more rare is that he is neither humble nor arrogant, and has self-esteem and self-confidence.

Such a person, even if he followed him to the Jinluan Palace to confront Duke Qing, he would definitely not show any cowardice!

Qiao Zhongguo knew it well, so he asked again: "Can you reproduce the article written by Chun Wei? It doesn't have to be every word, but it can't be too different from the original work."

Tan Hanchi shook his head.

Qiao Zhongguo couldn't help but feel a little disappointed when he saw this, "Is it still too reluctant?"

At this moment, Tan Hanchi finally had a smile on his face.

"General Qiao, that article has already been as deep in my heart as a knife and an axe. People can just say it silently now and make sure it is word for word."

When Qiao Zhongguo heard this, his eyebrows straightened and he said, "Good boy, you are really promising!"

Qiao Zhongguo was so excited that he patted Tan Hanchi's shoulder hard and almost pushed him to the ground.

Qiao Tianjing, with quick eyesight and quick hands, quickly gave Tan Hanchi a support and couldn't help laughing:

"Dad, the medicine in Brother Tan's body has not dissipated yet, so you should be gentler."

Qiao Zhongguo laughed loudly when he heard this, "This boy is good at everything, but he is too thin."

Tan Hanchi couldn't help but smile bitterly when he heard this.

Although he has no martial arts skills, he has never failed to keep fit. In General Qiao's eyes, he turned out to be thin?

"Brother Tan, it's okay. I'll take you to practice more in the future to make sure you're full of tendons!"

Qiao Diyi flexed his arms, looking eager to try.

Tan Hanchi couldn't help but smile heartily when he saw this.

Now that he was in Qiao Mansion, and General Qiao was willing to believe in him and work for him, at this moment, Tan Hanchi felt an indescribable sense of peace of mind.

Qiao Jiaojiao's eyes were bright, especially when she saw the harmonious atmosphere in the room, she was extremely happy.

[Great, Tan Hanchi belongs to our Qiao family! 】

[His article belongs to one of the first and third articles. It is to be sent to the emperor in person for his purpose. The prince must also be able to see it. 】

[If Tan Hanchi can really write out the article he wrote silently, then dad can go to the prince to vent his anger. 】

[Prince Bai Yueguang is a virtuous prince. He will definitely not tolerate a moron like Duke Qing. By then, he will be able to solve the biggest spring fraud case in history! 】

[Although I can't speak now, my wise and powerful father should have taken these things into consideration. I feel so relieved! 】

When Qiao Zhongguo heard this, he was immediately elated!

Although he may not think carefully about some things, he has his daughter beside him who secretly reveals them to him!

Jiaojiao is sweet and considerate. She is simply the most precious treasure given to the Qiao family by God!

It's so reassuring——

————

On the other side, the Qingguo Duke's Mansion.

Sheng Mingcheng waited and waited until the two killers who went to kill Tan Hanchi came back to kill him.

He felt uneasy. Seeing that the lists were released, he sent two more people in succession.

One day, he went to the inn to find out the whereabouts of Tan Hanchi, and the other day he went to guard the place. If he saw Tan Hanchi show up, find an opportunity to kill him!

Before the two men came back to answer their orders, Duke Qing had already sent someone to look for them.

Sheng Mingcheng was terrified, and beads of sweat appeared on his forehead.

In order to get his grandfather to agree to marry the eldest daughter of the Xiao family, he had to perform a lot during this period, so he took over the task of dealing with the substitute candidates.

The remaining 12 people have been successfully solved, but something went wrong with the most important one, Tan Hanchi.

His article is top-notch, and he is going to face the Holy Spirit to take part in the palace examination!

When Sheng Mingcheng arrived at the main hall, Duke Qingguo was sitting in the main seat, stroking a top-quality jade ring in his hand.

"Cheng'er, have everything been handled properly?"

Duke Qing has just turned sixty this year. Although his temples are white, he has a handsome figure and looks in great spirits.

His face was serious, and his slightly narrowed triangular eyes looked majestic.

Sheng Mingcheng's heart trembled slightly when he heard this. At this time, even if it was not for the sake of his marriage to the Xiao family, it was for his own sake that he could not admit that something had gone wrong.

Otherwise, with his grandfather's methods, he will inevitably be punished. The most important thing is that he will probably lose his grandfather's favor!

He is just a Zhuozhou candidate with no relatives in Beijing, so he will definitely not be able to escape!

At worst, if he sends some more people out, they will definitely be able to deal with Tan Hanchi!

Thinking of this, Sheng Mingcheng replied respectfully: "Grandpa, everything has been taken care of."

Duke Qing asked specifically, "Has the one from Zhuozhou been solved as well?"

Sheng Mingcheng's heart trembled suddenly, and he nodded again, "Solved!"

"good!"

Duke Qing suddenly stood up, walked up to Sheng Mingcheng, reached out and patted his shoulder.

"Cheng'er, you are much more promising than your useless father. The Duke of Daqing now has a successor."

"Grandpa also didn't expect that the candidate you selected from Zhuozhou was so ambitious that he actually got an A grade. The number originally agreed with him has tripled!"

There was a smile on Duke Qing's face. He made a five-finger gesture with his right hand, and then took it back.

"Okay, I have been keeping you under control for this period of time. Now that you have made great achievements, grandpa will give you a few days off to play."

When Sheng Mingcheng saw that his grandfather valued him so much and his tone of voice became much more intimate, a look of joy immediately appeared on his face.

"Thank you, grandpa."

Sheng Mingcheng resigned and left the main hall, his steps became more and more hurried.

No, we have to make amends as soon as possible!

If grandpa finds out that he is not doing things well, he will definitely skin him!

Where did that Tan Hanchi die?

Chapter 49 Goodbye Silly Baitian

Qiao Mansion.

After Tan Hanchi waited for the medicine to dissipate, he started writing.

Qiao Zhongguo was worried that Qiao Jiaojiao would be bored, so he took her back to Mrs. Qiao.

Just after lunch, someone suddenly came to the palace.

Mrs. Qiao was inevitably a little uneasy. Today's summons came a bit unexpectedly.

The palace attendant who delivered the order seemed to have received the instruction. After delivering the order, he immediately said with a smile:

"Mrs. Qiao, it's a good thing. The Queen wants to see you."

Mrs. Qiao's mind changed slightly, and Qiao Jiaojiao's eyes were already shining.

【ah! Has the Crown Princess been chosen? The Queen wants to share the joy with her! 】

Mrs. Qiao and Qiao Jiaojiao thought of going together.

"In this case, Rong Chen's wife should freshen up."

The palace man said hurriedly and politely: "Mrs. Qiao, just take your time. Your Majesty said there is no rush."

Mrs. Qiao nodded, but her hands and feet became more and more agile.

The Queen was considerate of her, but she couldn't let her wait any longer.

About two-quarters of an hour later, Mrs. Qiao had finished packing. She was about to go out when Qiao Zhongguo walked into the room.

"Madam, let Dalang take you there."

Qiao Zhongguo did not hide the important matters of the previous dynasty from Mrs. Qiao. Upon hearing this, Mrs. Qiao said keenly: "But do you want Da Lang to meet His Highness the Crown Prince?"

Upon hearing this, Qiao Zhongguo stepped forward and took Mrs. Qiao's hand, and said with a smile: "Madam is indeed smart."

"My husband is a courtier after all, and it is not appropriate for me to be too close to His Highness. However, the Dalang and the Crown Prince are of the same age, and his friendship with the Crown Prince is obvious to everyone in the capital, so it will be more convenient for him to act."

"Then Tan Hanchi has been silent for most of the time. I want Dalang to take it to the prince to see it first, tell the whole story, and then listen to the prince's plan."

"But Da Lang is a foreign minister after all and cannot enter the harem, so he wants to invite his wife..."

Upon hearing this, Mrs. Qiao took Qiao Zhongguo's hand and nodded gently, "Don't worry, husband, I understand everything."

Qiao Zhongguo felt anxious after hearing this. Having a good wife at home was Qiao Zhongguo's greatest blessing.

Mrs. Qiao hugged Qiao Jiaojiao and got into the carriage. Qiao Tianjing rode beside her, and the group soon arrived outside the palace gate.

Mrs. Qiao and Qiao Jiaojiao followed the palace servants onto the sedan chair. Qiao Tianjing looked gentle and nodded in greeting.

"Mom, my son is waiting for you here."

Mrs. Qiao smiled tenderly at her son and lowered the curtain of the sedan chair.

Qiao Jiaojiao had experience this time. She lay obediently in Mrs. Qiao's arms until she heard the palace attendant shouting "Yikun Palace has arrived", then she sat up happily.

After getting off the sedan chair, they saw the Queen herself walking out of the palace, followed by Her Royal Highness.

Mrs. Qiao was frightened and hurried forward to greet him.

"Don't you dare bother me to go here?"

The Queen Mother came to help her with a smile on her face, "Mrs. Qiao doesn't need to be so polite."

Qiao Jiaojiao raised her head and took a closer look, and saw that the Queen's face was rosy, with bright joy between her eyebrows. She was obviously looking much better than the last time they met.

"Jiaojiao, you are such a good girl, I have been thinking about you for a long time."

The Empress stretched out her hand to Qiao Jiaojiao, and Qiao Jiaojiao immediately threw herself into the Empress' arms with a giggle.

The queen weighed it gently, with a wider smile on her face.

"You've grown a lot. Look at it. From now on, I will definitely follow your mother's lead."

Mrs. Qiao greeted the prince again, and the prince immediately helped him.

When Mrs. Qiao stood up, she lowered her voice and said respectfully: "Your Highness, it was Dalang who sent me here today."

The prince was stunned for a moment, and understood in an instant.

"Since we parted ways with Dalang at the last poetry meeting, we have all been in the court hall. I haven't had a good chat with Dalang for a long time."

Mrs. Qiao felt much relieved when she saw that the message had been brought.

After entering the palace, the Queen congratulated Mrs. Qiao and brought many children's toys to entertain Qiao Jiaojiao.

"Xiao Si found out all of them personally after he heard that Jiaojiao was coming. Everything is his favorite."

Qiao Jiaojiao picked up a lifelike little tiger and couldn't help mumbling.

[I haven't seen that silly Baitian for a long time. He was with Di Zaiying all day long, so he wasn't eaten alive, right? 】

Seeing Qiao Jiaojiao's curiosity, Mrs. Qiao asked on her behalf, "Your Majesty, why don't you see the Fourth Prince?"

Hearing this, the Empress showed a trace of distress on her face, "Xiao Si is enlightened. His husband is very strict, and he is still being restrained from practicing calligraphy at this time."

The queen felt very sorry for the fourth prince, and the prince was very hardworking at that time, but he was the eldest son and the crown prince, so the queen would not say much even if she felt sorry for him.

But the fourth prince did not have such a heavy burden on his shoulders, and the queen would rather her youngest son live a more relaxed life.

Unexpectedly, the emperor chose such a serious and serious gentleman and restrained the fourth prince, who was as lively as a bird, in the room.

When the queen saw the fourth prince's palms that were red and swollen from practicing calligraphy for a long time, her heart couldn't help but ache.

When the prince heard this, he thought that the fourth prince was thinking about Qiao Jiaojiao, so he spoke warmly:

"Mother, let me hold Jiaojiao and go see Xiaosi."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, she immediately sat up straight.

【I wanna go! I want to see what kind of person Di Zaiying is! 】

The queen also felt sorry for the fourth prince, and couldn't help turning her head to look at Mrs. Qiao after hearing this.

"Mrs. Qiao, look?"

Of course Mrs. Qiao would not refuse, "Jiaojiao is lively and lively. I hope it will not disturb the fourth prince."

Upon hearing this, the prince leaned over and picked up Qiao Jiaojiao on the couch, and took her out of Yikun Palace.

In the palace, the Queen then talked to Mrs. Qiao about the Crown Princess.

"At the last poetry meeting, the prince saw the temperament of the daughter of the Duke of Qing. He was very unhappy. But when he talked about the eldest daughter of the Xiao family, his face was full of smiles."

"After hearing about this, His Majesty agreed to give the position of Crown Princess to the eldest daughter of the Xiao family."

When Mrs. Qiao heard this, she couldn't help but feel happy.

According to Jiaojiao's feelings, the eldest daughter of the Xiao family is the best candidate for the crown princess!

"Congratulations to the empress, congratulations to the prince."

The queen was also very happy, "The prince can find a caring person. As a mother, I am also happy for him."

"However, the Holy One has still decided to give Miss Sheng the position of concubine. The decree should be sent out after the Spring Festival is officially over."

Mrs. Qiao immediately remembered what her husband and son were busy doing, and quickly raised her eyebrows to hide her expression.

It is still open to question whether the concubine of the Duke of Qing's palace can become the crown prince's concubine.

On the other side, the prince and Qiao Jiaojiao walked slowly all the way to the upper study room where the princes studied and practiced calligraphy.

From a distance, Qiao Jiaojiao saw an extremely upright figure through the open door.

Even though he was still a child, his feet couldn't even reach the ground when he sat on the chair.

But even so, he had already straightened his back, holding the pen in a decent manner, and concentrated on practicing calligraphy on the table.

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but let out a sigh.

【It's so silly and sweet! 】

The sudden baby sound attracted the attention of the people in the room.

The fourth prince slowly raised his head, and when he saw the prince standing at the door holding Qiao Jiaojiao, joy instantly appeared on his little face.

At this moment, he instantly changed from a little adult to a carefree child. He put down his pen and jumped off the chair.

"Brother! Sister Qiao!"

Chapter 50 Danger!

The prince carried Qiao Jiaojiao and walked into the study room. The fourth prince had already jumped to greet him.

"Brother, let me see my sister quickly!"

He pulled down the prince's hem, hoping to get a closer look at Qiao Jiaojiao.

The prince shook his head and smiled fondly, and squatted down the next moment.

"Wow, my sister has grown up. She was only this big last time I saw her!"

The fourth prince stretched out his hands to gesture, smiling brightly.

"See His Highness the Crown Prince."

At this time, a deep voice came from the side.

Qiao Jiaojiao immediately turned around and saw a kneeling middle-aged man who looked in his mid-30s.

Although the ends of his eyes and forehead have the traces of time, his face is still as white as jade, and he looks elegant and dignified.

【Ouch! Could this be Di Zaiying? 】

[As expected of Princess Yuliu's sweetheart, he looked as good as my elder brother when he was young! 】

[But isn't he from the North? The facial features should be a little deeper, why don't they look much different from the people of the Yong Dynasty now? 】

"Mr. Di, please wake up. Xiao Si has a guest. Can you please let him relax for a while?"

The prince's tone was gentle. After all, the Mr. Di in front of him was invited by the emperor.

Di Zaiying nodded respectfully, "Go back to Your Highness, this is natural, but the fourth prince's afternoon homework is to be submitted to the Holy One, so..."

The prince nodded understandingly, "This is the daughter of the Qiao family. She won't be able to keep her for too long. Let Xiaosi go to the study here and play with her for a while."

When Di Zaiying heard this, his hands hidden under his sleeves trembled slightly.

Qiao family!

There is only one prominent Qiao family in the entire capital, and it is the Qiao family whose hands are stained with the blood of his compatriots from the North!

If it weren't for Qiao Zhongguo, the God of Killing, it would be unknown if today's Great Yong Dynasty would have been owned by his Northern Kingdom!

If it weren't for Qiao Zhongguo, his Yu Liu wouldn't have to...

Thinking of this, even though she had been dormant for many years and had already developed the ability to keep her expression calm, Di Zaiying couldn't help but twitch the corners of her mouth slightly, unable to hide the burning feeling in her chest.

The baby in front of me is Qiao Zhongguo's daughter!

There is a rumor in the capital that Qiao Zhongguo loves his daughter as much as her life. If he kills Qiao Zhongguo's daughter, will Qiao Zhongguo be heartbroken and miserable?

"Your Highness, let the fourth prince and Miss Qiao go play in the inner room."

The back room of the upper study room has a bed specially designed for the prince to rest.

The prince also had this intention. He carried Qiao Jiaojiao and walked inside, followed by the fourth prince happily.

Di Zaiying clenched his hands and looked at Qiao's delicate and tender back, a very sinister thought flashed through his heart.

He suddenly turned around and walked towards the book box he carried with him, took out an inconspicuous white bag from a very hidden compartment, and then carefully put it into his waistband.

This was originally intended for the Fourth Prince to use during the Dragon Boat Festival, but now it seems that Miss Qiao will enjoy it first.

Hearing the innocent laughter coming from inside, Di Zaiying took a deep breath and decided to take the risk!

He walked to the window and whistled softly.

During this time in the palace, he spent huge sums of money to buy some people, and he originally planned to use them during the Dragon Boat Festival.

But if he didn't take action today, he might never have the chance to contact the Qiao family again!

After a while, a young eunuch hurried over and shouted softly outside the upper study: "Your Highness the Crown Prince!"

The prince heard the sound and stepped out.

"What's the matter?"

The little eunuch rested his forehead on the ground and said respectfully: "Your Highness, the Holy One has summoned you to go to the Imperial Study Room immediately."

The prince was a little surprised when he heard this. Why would his father summon him at this moment?

"Father, can you tell me what happened?"

The young eunuch shook his head in fear, "I don't know."

The prince glanced at Li Jian with some embarrassment, and then Di Zaiying immediately stepped forward.

"Your Highness, since you are called by the Holy One, you can go ahead. Your subordinates will take good care of the Fourth Prince and Miss Qiao."

The prince never expected that there would be someone in this palace who would dare to falsely convey the Holy Will, let alone that someone would take him away to deal with Qiao Jiaojiao.

The top three in Chunwei have just been settled today, so my father must be discussing the palace examination with him.

Everything is old-fashioned and should be back soon.

Thinking of this, the prince nodded slightly, "I'll trouble Mr. Di now. If you need anything, just send someone to send a message to Yikun Palace."

Di Zaiying nodded respectfully and watched the prince striding away. He was so excited that his shoulders began to tremble.

Until the prince's purple figure completely disappeared around the corner, Di Zaiying immediately turned around and entered the upper study.

When he walked into the inner room, Qiao Jiaojiao was sitting on the couch, and the fourth prince was sitting cross-legged next to Qiao Jiaojiao, trying his best to make her happy.

Hearing the footsteps, Qiao Jiaojiao and the fourth prince looked at the door, only to find that the person coming was not the prince, but Di Zaiying.

The fourth prince looked puzzled, "Mr. Di, where is the prince's brother?"

Di Zaiying walked closer with a gentle smile on his face.

"The Holy One has something to do and has called the prince to the imperial study. The prince asked me to guard His Highness and Miss Qiao here."

"All right."

It was a common thing for the emperor to summon him. The fourth prince had long been accustomed to it, but Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but feel excited all over.

【etc! The prince is gone and there is no one to serve here. Wouldn't it mean to let her and Sha Baitian face the big bad wolf alone? 】

[It was my father who attacked outside the capital of the Northern Kingdom and forced the old Northern King to sacrifice Princess Yuliu. Doesn't Di Zaiying hate the Qiao family to the core? 】

[This...the direction of this matter was unexpected! 】

Just as Qiao Jiaojiao was thinking of this, she suddenly saw Di Zaiying take out a small white bag from her waistband in front of her.

【Ah ah ah! Is he about to take action? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao sat on the bed, facing outside, while the fourth prince turned his back to the outside and faced Qiao Jiaojiao.

Seeing Qiao Jiaojiao suddenly babbling and screaming, the silly Baitian thought Qiao Jiaojiao was playing with him, so she danced along.

Qiao Jiaojiao's scalp was already numb.

This Di Zaiying thought she was just an ordinary seven-month-old baby, so he blatantly took out the murder weapon in front of her!

Qiao Jiaojiao saw him carefully opening the white bag layer by layer, revealing the innermost contents.

That's a needle!

A needle glowing with black light!

Qiao Jiaojiao was so frightened that her eyes widened. She pointed her finger at Di Zaiying and screamed.

【Needle! It's a needle! You're not going to stab me, are you? 】

[Silly Baitian, stop teasing me! You should look back! 】

Di Zaiying held the black needle through the white cloth and approached the bed step by step.

Qiao Jiaojiao saw that Di Zaiying's elegant face was distorted due to excessive excitement.

There was a fierce light in his eyes, and the hatred that had been accumulated for more than ten years suddenly burst out, and he appeared to be crazy!

Seeing that he was already close to the bed, Qiao Jiaojiao knew that she couldn't rely on anyone else.

She urgently summoned the Merit Mall, and she was already familiar with the products unlocked in it.

"Your current merit points are - 140 points. Do you want to redeem them?"

Qiao Jiaojiao nodded wildly.

【Change, exchange, exchange! Redeem the rebound charm quickly! 】