Chapter 71 Acting and doing the whole thing

The prince lowered his head slightly, his face unchanged after hearing these words, as if he was just a serious bystander.

The second prince spoke sincerely and looked sincere, and said in a clear voice: "Brother, the prince, is extremely generous to my son and minister. He is known for his wisdom and benevolence. He is also his father's right-hand man. It is absolutely impossible for my son and minister to have such treacherous thoughts." "

"Sheng Mingcheng slandered me so much that I wanted to ask him if he was instigated by others and what his intentions were!"

At this moment, the second prince even began to turn his back on guests.

Qiao Zhongguo stared steadily at the handsome young figure in front of him.

With such an unfavorable start, and in such a short period of time, the second prince had already come up with such a wonderful rhetoric, every word of which was precise and clear.

But if you look into some things deeply, there are still loopholes.

For example, yesterday at the court meeting, the second prince offered to pick up Tan Hanchi. You should know that the second prince would never take the initiative to speak in the palace.

Also, Sheng Mingcheng was so sure that the second prince knew about the list, he must have received instructions from Duke Qing.

Sheng Mingcheng is stupid. He may misunderstand the second prince's meaning, but will an old fox like Duke Qing be confused on such a life-and-death matter?

Listening to Sheng Mingcheng's wishes, Duke Qing clearly placed his bet on the second prince!

Now, it depends on the Holy Spirit's attitude.

If the Holy One is willing to dig deeper, he will naturally be able to find clues that the second prince is treasonous.

If the Holy One is harboring this, then even if this evidence is put to His Majesty's lips, the Holy One will push it away without any hesitation.

Emperor Yong pondered for a while and then spoke slowly: "There are many doubts about this matter, so we should not make any rash decisions at the moment."

When Qiao Zhongguo heard this, his heart suddenly became cold, and then he heard Emperor Yong continue to say:

"Second brother, even if you are innocent, since Sheng Mingcheng accuses you, you have some integrity."

"Otherwise there are so many people in the court, why would he throw dirty water on you?"

"Until this matter is clarified, you should stay in your Chonghua Palace."

This is what grounding means.

When Qiao Zhongguo heard this, he felt like a basin of cold water was poured down his head, and his heart was completely chilled towards Emperor Yong.

As Jiaojiao said, Emperor Yong loved Princess Yuliu to the core and protected her son to the utmost. He was even willing to hand over the great Yongjiang Mountain into the hands of the second prince...

At this moment, Qiao Zhongguo stood in the splendid imperial study room, and he realized clearly that the real enemy who destroyed the entire Qiao family was the emperor!

"Okay, everyone, please step aside, Huang Pei, and you will personally take Sheng Mingcheng to prison and have him interrogated!"

Huang Pei accepted his life and quickly had someone drag the screaming Sheng Mingcheng down.

The second prince knew how to put on a show. He suddenly knelt down and said in a loud voice:

"Father, Sheng Mingcheng has been arrested and brought to justice. Now...Miss Sheng is still hiding out. I want to ask for a favor from Miss Sheng!"

Emperor Yong looked at his son with some inquiring eyes, and suddenly asked: "Do you really pity her?"

The second prince nodded without hesitation.

There was a hint of embarrassment on Emperor Yong's face. Sheng Xiuran was originally destined to be the crown prince's concubine. Now that something happened to Duke Qing, Sheng Xiuran was not qualified to enter the royal family anyway.

However, his second son is a love interest just like him.

He couldn't stay with the one he loved in this life, but he couldn't bear to let his second child suffer this pain.

Thinking of this, Emperor Yong actually glanced at the prince with meaning.

The candidates for the crown prince and the crown prince's concubine have not been announced, and he only mentioned it to the prince. He must not have any affection for the Miss Sheng family, right?

The prince's heart was filled with indescribable coldness. He was extremely intelligent, and how could he not understand the look in Emperor Yong's eyes, which meant that he wanted to give Sheng Xiuran to the second prince.

Naturally, he didn't care about Sheng Xiuran, but his father's blatant preference for his second brother broke his admiring heart into pieces.

The prince nodded gently towards Emperor Yong. This small movement seemed to take a lot of effort on his part.

When Emperor Yong saw this, a look of satisfaction appeared on his brows, and he immediately spoke:

"Then Sheng Xiuran is already the daughter of a guilty minister. She is absolutely not qualified to be included in my royal jade certificate. If you are really happy, just let her enter your Chonghua Palace as a concubine."

When the second prince heard this, a look of struggle suddenly appeared on his face, as if he couldn't bear the woman he loved becoming a mere concubine.

But in the blink of an eye, he seemed to be relieved again, and said with a grateful face: "Thank you, father, for making it possible!"

In this way, the play is complete.

Emperor Yong waved his hand, and the prince, second prince and Qiao Zhongguo respectfully withdrew.

The second prince said something sincerely in front of the prince. The prince naturally looked forgiving and comforted the second prince with a gentle voice.

Qiao Zhongguo looked calm and saluted the prince and the second prince. Just as he was about to retreat, he saw Eunuch Huang coming back in a hurry from a distance!

Qiao Zhongguo's eyes flashed slightly.

As the most useful person around the Holy Emperor, Eunuch Huang has seen all kinds of storms and waves, but now he showed such a panicky look?

He just took Sheng Mingcheng to prison under the holy order. Is there anyone special in the prison?

With his thoughts at this point, Qiao Zhongguo suddenly realized, could it be related to Di Zaiying?

According to Jiaojiao, that Di Zaiying is Princess Yuliu's real sweetheart!

It was a pity that Qiao Zhongguo could not stay for long. He passed by Eunuch Huang and walked out of the palace.

In the imperial study, Emperor Yong was staring at the wall in a daze.

"Yu Liu, Bai'er has grown up, and he also has a sweetheart. However, Miss Sheng is the daughter of a sinner, so she can only stay with Bai'er without any name or status."

"But, it doesn't matter. There are countless good girls in the capital. I will choose a good girl with impeccable family background and character to match Bai'er."

"It's a pity that there are no girls of the right age in Qiao Zhong's country. Otherwise, with Qiao Zhong's ability and prestige, I would very much like Bai'er to have such a husband to help her."

"Yu Liu, I'm really torn in my heart. I want to give our children the best in the world, but the prince is so powerful. He has been the crown prince for so many years, and I really can't find any fault... ."

"Now Bai'er seems to be thinking about it. He wants to fight for it. Who should I choose..."

Emperor Yong murmured, with a very troubled look on his face.

At this time, Huang Pei's respectful and urgent voice came from outside the door: "Your Majesty, I have something important to report!"

Emperor Yong frowned slightly and said dissatisfied: "Come in."

Huang Pei hurriedly entered the imperial study, walked to Emperor Yong's side, and lowered his voice and said, "Your Majesty, Di Zaiying looks like he is going to die."

Emperor Yong waved his hand impatiently, "How much can you do to repay such a small thing?"

Huang Pei's heart suddenly tightened, and he suddenly knelt down on his knees and said cautiously: "Your Majesty, it's really... it's really Di Zaiying who is treasonous. He was unconscious and kept shouting... Just call..."

"What are you calling me?" Emperor Yong asked with his eyebrows raised.

Huang Pei's heart trembled slightly, "Di Zaiying called... Empress Yu Liu's maiden name!"

Chapter 72 The big secret!

"What!?"

Emperor Yong stood up suddenly, with a terrifying look on his face.

Eunuch Huang lowered his head, his body trembling slightly.

He has been serving the Holy Sage for more than thirty years. Although the Holy Sage has a strong temperament, he is rarely moody. Only when it comes to Lady Yu Liu, he often loses his mind.

"Huang Pei, did you hear me clearly?"

Huang Pei nodded tremblingly, "I was afraid that I heard wrongly, so I stood in front of Di Zaiying for a long time."

There are some secrets that others don't know, but Eunuch Huang knows them.

Yuliu was the title given to the empress in the Northern Kingdom, and she continued to use it after she came to Yong Dynasty to get married.

In fact, the northern royal family's surname is Jin, and Empress Yu Liu's maiden name is Jin Liuling!

When he just passed by the cell where Di Zaiying was imprisoned, he saw that the panels all over his body were ulcerated, and he secretly remarked that he deserved it.

As a result, before he had taken a few steps, he suddenly heard Na Di Zaiying shouting loudly: "Liu Ling, I'll take you away!"

This frightened him so much that he almost fell to the ground!

Who would have thought that this northerner who sneaked into the palace with the intention of assassinating the fourth prince was actually an old friend of Empress Yu Liu!

And listening to the familiar and affectionate name, it seems that Di Zaiying has a close friendship with Empress Yuliu!

Thinking of this, he didn't dare to delay any longer, and came to report to the saint in a hurry.

"Let's go to prison!"

Emperor Yong couldn't stand any longer. He lifted up his hem and walked out.

Eunuch Huang crawled behind him and ordered the guards on the side to run quickly and escort Di Zaiying to the interrogation room first.

Don't let others listen to what the Holy One wants to ask!

The prison was gloomy, without any stench, only a fishy smell of iron chains and blood.

Emperor Yong stepped into the interrogation room and saw Di Zaiying tied to the rack, his eyes suddenly filled with disgust.

Di Zaiying didn't know what kind of strange poison was on the poisonous needle, and now the flesh and blood all over her body has festered terribly.

Eunuch Huang dismissed everyone, picked up a bucket of water and poured it on Di Zaiying.

Di Zaiying suddenly trembled and raised his head in a daze, but he could no longer see the person in front of him clearly.

"Do you know Liu Ling?"

Emperor Yong's eyebrows were heavy and the color on his face was very ugly.

Upon hearing the word "Liu Ling", Di Zaiying trembled all over and suddenly shouted:

"Liu Ling! Ling'er, don't leave me!"

"It's because I'm useless. It's because I couldn't protect you and made you marry that dog emperor!"

"You come with me! I will take you far away!"

When Emperor Yong heard this, his expression suddenly darkened.

"Huang Pei, get out."

Eunuch Huang was so excited that he withdrew without hesitation.

He was not curious at all. Even he could not listen to what Emperor Yong had to say.

Some secrets are better not known!

Eunuch Huang slowly closed the door of the interrogation room, but Emperor Yong couldn't wait for a moment. He lowered his voice and asked in the most vicious and vicious tone:

"Did Ling'er's chastity be given to you?"

Eunuch Huang trembled all over, and by the time the door was closed tightly, his face was pale with fright and his legs were weak!

He...he heard...

When Empress Yu Liu came to get married, she was no longer perfect!

Even so, is the Holy Emperor still so obsessed with Empress Yu Liu?

You know, losing your virginity before marriage, and also marrying a princess, this completely lacks the sincerity of the marriage!

At that time, General Qiao had not yet withdrawn his troops on the border of the Northern Kingdom. If His Majesty gave the order, General Qiao would definitely use all his strength to capture the Northern Kingdom again!

Eunuch Huang was leaning against the cold wall, his mind completely confused.

Holy lord... what exactly do you want...

Emperor Yong's gloomy roars could be heard from time to time in the interrogation room, and Eunuch Huang even heard the second prince's name.

His thoughts were drawn back to the past, and Eunuch Huang remembered that the time when his wife was pregnant with the second prince was a rare time of harmony between the Holy Emperor and his wife.

At that time, the empress finally had a smile on her face. She looked so beautiful and charming, she was really the most beautiful beauty in the world.

At that time, the Holy One said to him: "Huang Pei, Yu Liu is finally happy. As long as she is willing to stay with me, I will give her anything."

boom--

The door of the interrogation room was suddenly opened violently, and Huang Pei was so frightened that he almost sat on the ground.

He hurriedly greeted him and saw that Emperor Yong's expression had calmed down.

"Dispose of him, chop him into pieces, and feed him to the dogs." Emperor Yong said calmly.

Eunuch Huang quickly nodded in agreement, and then heard Emperor Yong add: "Huang Pei, go and deal with him yourself, and don't let others hear what they shouldn't hear."

"Don't worry, Your Majesty." Eunuch Huang assured.

Emperor Yong nodded and walked out.

Huang Pei watched Emperor Yong leave, and then walked into the interrogation room tremblingly. When he looked up, he was suddenly frightened.

Di Zaiying just hung on the interrogation stand, with all the skin and flesh peeling off, looking like a dead person.

A bloody whip was thrown on the ground, with a little bloody flesh on it, which looked horrifying.

Eunuch Huang secretly took a breath. After so many years of crawling around in the palace, he had done this for Emperor Yong countless times. He must ensure that his technique is clean and neat!

He walked over with catlike steps, took down a dagger from the shelf, and quietly approached Di Zaiying.

He likes to use sneak attacks to kill with one move, because this way the prey will not struggle and the blood will not splash on him.

Eunuch Huang stood silently in front of Di Zaiying. Just as he raised the dagger in his hand, he suddenly heard a low laughter rising from Di Zaiying's throat.

"Ho...ho ho ho..."

"Hahaha......."

Di Zaiying just heard the footsteps of Emperor Yong leaving and thought there was no one around.

He knew that he was bound to die. In the rare moment of clarity, even though his whole body was in severe pain, he was so happy that he couldn't help laughing.

The Dog Emperor just asked him if he had seen Yu Liu since Yu Liu entered the palace and got married.

He shook his head, he denied it, he knew what the Dog Emperor was suspecting.

If the Dog Emperor didn't ask today, he wouldn't even dare to think about it!

Smiling and laughing, Di Zaiying cried again.

He could no longer shed tears, and sobs filled his mouth.

Liu Ling, Liu Ling, you have deceived the Dog Emperor, and you have also deceived me.

We have clearly seen each other before. On that extremely soft bed, we blended with each other and expressed our longing for each other wantonly.

But for the sake of the Northern Kingdom, you were unwilling to come with me, so you imprisoned yourself next to the Dog Emperor.

Why didn't you tell me?

Otherwise, I will try my best to find a chance to meet him.

It's too late, it's too late...

But it doesn't matter, as long as he lives well, that idiot Dog Emperor will take good care of him...

"Bai...Bai'er..."

Di Zaiying murmured, crushing these two words into pieces and rolling them over and over again on his lips.

When Eunuch Huang heard this, his eyes widened instantly, and the expression on his face was slightly distorted, as if he had guessed some big secret.

The next moment, he no longer dared to hesitate, raised the dagger and plunged it into Di Zaiying's heart, so fast and urgent that not even a drop of blood spattered out.

Chapter 73 Whose son is the second prince?

Eunuch Huang took care of it and went back to take a bath. When he returned to the imperial study, Emperor Yong was reading the memorial.

He ducked in and whispered, "Your Majesty, everything is ready."

When Eunuch Huang said this, he carefully looked at Emperor Yong's face.

Emperor Yong nodded indifferently, suddenly remembered something, and said lightly:

"Then after the daughter of the Sheng family enters the palace, she will be sent directly to Chonghua Palace. Although the second child is banned, don't wrong him. You can send something to me privately."

Eunuch Huang buried his head deeply, with a myriad of thoughts in his mind.

On the way to the Imperial Study Room just now, he racked his brains and really recalled a lot of past events.

One month before Empress Yu Liu was diagnosed with pregnancy, she did spend some time intensively sleeping with her.

According to the rules, a princess from an enemy country could not give birth to a dragon heir, but the Holy Emperor doted on Empress Yu Liu and never allowed her to drink the Bizi Soup.

During that time, Empress Yu Liu was also docile, without the resistance and cold face she had when she first came.

The Holy Lord Long Yan was so pleased that he even rewarded him with an Eastern Pearl for the first time.

But just now after listening to Di Zaiying's dying words, he seemed to be convinced that the second prince was his son...

After thinking about it for a while, Eunuch Huang couldn't tell who the biological father of the second prince was.

With his thoughts at this point, Eunuch Huang no longer dared to think deeply, so he only respectfully said yes.

Di Zaiying is dead, and there is no proof of this matter.

If he rashly reminded her, given His Majesty's infatuation with Empress Yu Liu, he would be executed immediately even if he had served the Holy Majesty for more than thirty years!

At this moment, Eunuch Huang wished so much that he had never heard Di Zaiying's murmurs before his death!

"Huang Pei, please pass on the order and wait for Chunwei's ranking to be verified and the palace examination will be held immediately. This matter has been delayed for long enough."

Emperor Yong spoke in a deep voice.

"That Tan Hanchi is a talented person. I have to think about where to place him..."

————

Chonghua Palace.

The second prince was dressed in a white robe, sitting upright behind a long desk, holding a book in his hand.

Although he was grounded, there was no annoyance on his face and he looked extremely calm.

Standing next to him was a maid in palace attire. Although her appearance was ordinary, her back was straight and her eyes were sharp. She was obviously not an ordinary person.

"Back to Your Highness, the palace sent someone to pick up Miss Sheng. According to Sheng Mingcheng, the brother and sister fainted and appeared in the eastern suburbs courtyard when they woke up."

Hearing this, Shen Yuanbai put down the book in his hand and tapped his fingertips on the case, seeming to be thinking about something.

Seeing this, the maid hesitated for a while, then asked: "Your Highness, where will Miss Sheng be placed after she arrives?"

When Shen Yuanbai heard this, a trace of impatience appeared on his brows.

"Let's just arrange it in the side hall. Since I'm using her as a shield, I have to pretend anyway."

"You are responsible for her daily life. Don't let her go out of the palace on weekdays."

At this time, Uncle Zhou walked in from outside the hall, holding a tray with a cup of hot soup on it.

Shen Yuanbai frowned immediately when he saw this, "Uncle Zhou, I already told you that you don't need to do these tasks."

Uncle Zhou was married from the Northern Kingdom. He used to be his mother's personal guard, and he was indeed devoted to him.

Although Uncle Zhou did something bad during the last Lantern Festival and caused him to lose Zhucui Pavilion, Shen Yuanbai was not willing to scold Uncle Zhou harshly.

After all, when he was struggling in the palace at a young age, it was Uncle Zhou who risked his life to take care of him so that he could grow up safely.

"Your Highness, I am worried about leaving your food and daily life to others."

Uncle Zhou walked to the desk with a smile and was about to put down the tray when the maid next to him continued to speak:

"Your Highness, there is one more thing. Di Zaiying, a northerner who assassinated the fourth prince a few days ago, was chopped into pieces and fed to dogs by His Majesty's order today."

crackling——

Uncle Zhou trembled without warning, and even the tray was not stable, causing the cup of hot soup to fall directly to the ground and break into several pieces.

"Uncle Zhou!"

Shen Yuanbai stood up suddenly and hurriedly helped Uncle Zhou aside.

But what shocked Shen Yuanbai was that Uncle Zhou's whole body was trembling violently, and his lips turned white at the sight.

Shen Yuanbai was shocked and hurriedly wanted to call the imperial doctor, but Uncle Zhou suddenly grabbed Shen Yuanbai's hand.

He turned around stiffly and asked the maid in a trembling voice: "Liuyun, what did you just say about the northerner?"

Liuyun was a little frightened and repeated in a low voice: "My name is Di Zaiying."

"He was hired by the Holy One to be the initiation teacher for the Fourth Prince. However, he suddenly had a seizure a few days ago and wanted to assassinate the Fourth Prince and Miss Qiao. The Prince arrived in time and caught him."

Uncle Zhou shook his whole body, feeling unbearably sad for a moment.

It's him......

After not seeing each other for more than ten years, why did he enter the palace again! How could he be so stupid!

Shen Yuanbai saw the tears in the corners of Uncle Zhou's eyes and couldn't help but look solemn.

"Uncle Zhou, is Di Zaiying your old friend?"

Hearing this, Uncle Zhou suddenly looked up at Shen Yuanbai and asked quickly: "Your Highness, have you...have you seen him? Have you seen him!"

Shen Yuanbai shook his head in confusion. He had stopped going to the study a long time ago, so naturally he had never seen Di Zaiying.

When Uncle Zhou heard this, he closed his eyes tightly and felt dizzy.

never seen it......

They haven't even met each other!

How heartbroken and regretful it must be to know that the princess knows something under the spring!

"Uncle Zhou, what's wrong with you?"

Uncle Zhou rarely looked so panicked, which made Shen Yuanbai, who cared about him very much, a little anxious.

Uncle Zhou knew that Shen Yuanbai was smart and was afraid that he would send someone to investigate in private, so he made up a lie.

"Your Highness, that...that is the old slave's old friend in the North Country, a close friend. Now that I heard the bad news, I really can't calm down."

He really couldn't bear to let His Highness know the truth! This is really cruel to His Highness!

"Your Highness, this old slave is really fine. Just go back and rest."

Shen Yuanbai didn't have too much doubt in his heart.

Because Uncle Zhou really had deep feelings for the North Country, when Uncle Liu who came with him died of illness, Uncle Zhou felt uncomfortable for a long time.

He sighed softly, "Uncle Zhou, my condolences."

When Uncle Zhou heard this, his whole body trembled, and he burst into tears.

The scene from that year is still vivid in my mind.

After the princess married Emperor Yong, she had been depressed.

After discussing with Liu Xi and others, he risked beheading, cleared all the checkpoints, and secretly brought Di Zaiying in.

That night, all of them were on tenterhooks, but the lights were brightly lit in the palace.

He knew what was going on inside, and he only wanted the princess to be happy.

Soon after that, the princess became pregnant.

Although the dog emperor had forced the princess several times before, all of them firmly believed that the child was Di Zaiying's!

That was the first time the princess showed her smile in the palace of Yong Kingdom. He looked sad but extremely happy.

At that time, he thought everything was fine and the princess could live happily...

"Uncle Zhou, let me help you go back and rest."

Shen Yuanbai's words interrupted Uncle Zhou's memories.

He squeezed Shen Yuanbai's hand and suppressed all the pain deeply into his heart.

"No need, Your Highness, you are busy, I will be fine tomorrow."

Uncle Zhou let go of Shen Yuanbai's hand and walked out staggeringly.

Shen Yuanbai looked at it quietly for a while, then turned around and told Liu Yun coldly: "From now on, don't mention anything in front of Uncle Zhou."

Liuyun was frightened and hurriedly knelt down, "I obey the order."

Chapter 74 Jiaojiao can call her daddy!

When Qiao Zhongguo returned to his mansion, he found that his family was waiting for him.

His heart suddenly warmed up, and he showed a sincere smile.

"Madam, my husband is hungry!"

Seeing him yelling, Mrs. Qiao couldn't help but look at him with annoyance.

"The food has been prepared a long time ago and is waiting for you."

Qiao Zhongguo laughed and couldn't wait to take Jiaojiao from Qiao Tianjing's arms.

Qiao Jiaojiao's big black eyes stared straight at Qiao Zhongguo, for fear that her father would be in a bad mood.

Qiao Zhongguo didn't want Qiao Jiaojiao to worry. Seeing that there was no one else around, he said bluntly:

"The second prince has been grounded. Sheng Mingcheng probably won't survive. The second prince asked for a favor from the Holy Master and asked to take Sheng Xiuran as his concubine."

【What? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao was a little confused when she heard this, but when she thought about it, she suddenly understood.

[Tsk, tsk, this male protagonist is such a thief! Are you using Sheng Xiuran as a shield? 】

Qiao Zhongguo secretly gave Qiao Jiaojiao a thumbs up in his heart.

"The second prince has met Sheng Mingcheng in private. If Sheng Xiuran is not brought out, he will not be able to explain it."

Qiao Jiaojiao showed an expression that was indeed true.

[Sheng Xiuran has been obsessed with the second prince for so long, but she didn't expect that she would get her wish when her whole family was wiped out. It's so ironic...]

[If she is really a pure-bred love brain, then there is nothing to say, just stay with the second prince and be an unfavored concubine. 】

[If she has some backbone, even if it is for her brother, she can at least leave some hidden dangers for the second prince, and maybe he can take advantage of her...]

Qiao Jiaojiao thought a little too deeply. Qiao Tianjing's eyes lit up and he nodded repeatedly, but Qiao Diyi felt horrified.

It's over, the little sister has the tendency of the big brother, they all like to play tricks and play tricks!

He won't be the only one with a straight heart in the family from now on, right?

Qiao Zhongguo would not restrain Qiao Jiaojiao.

Jiaojiao can live however she likes. As a father, he is just worried that his daughter will have a hard life.

The food is served.

Although Mrs. Qiao was in the inner house, Qiao Zhongguo hid nothing from her. She listened to Qiao Jiaojiao's thoughts and understood a lot.

She knew that her husband must be feeling uncomfortable today, so she specially ordered the kitchen to cook Qiao Zhongguo's favorite big elbow. The shiny look made Qiao Zhongguo move his index fingers.

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but giggle when she saw this.

Dad suffered so much on the battlefield that he even chewed grass roots. Now that all the hardships are over, his favorite thing is the big elbow, which can fill his mouth with meat!

Seeing Qiao Zhongguo's impatient look, Qiao Jiaojiao grinned and suddenly said:

"father......"

Qiao Zhongguo's extended hand suddenly paused, and he suddenly lowered his head and looked at Qiao Jiaojiao in shock.

Qiao Jiaojiao smiled even happier and repeated over and over again:

"Daddy...Daddy, daddy..."

Qiao Zhongguo hugged Qiao Jiao and stood up with a cry, feeling surprised and relieved.

"Jiaojiao can call me daddy! Madam, Jiaojiao can call me now!"

"Good girl, good baby, oh, daddy's heart almost melts!"

When Mrs. Qiao, Qiao Tianjing, and Qiao Diyi saw this scene, they looked at each other with their eyebrows curved.

No matter how turbulent the situation is, no matter how intrigues are outside, as long as they are together as a family, it is the sweetest moment.

————

When it was dark at night, Sheng Xiuran was carried into Chonghua Palace on a small sedan.

She was sitting in the bumpy sedan, still confused.

After her brother went out early this morning, he never came back until the afternoon. She was so frightened that something happened to her brother.

As a result, a little later, a group of people suddenly rushed in, saying that the Holy Spirit had given her grace and allowed her to be the concubine of the second prince.

When Sheng Xiuran heard this, her face turned pale with fright.

She used to be the concubine of the Duke of Qing's palace. Her grandfather hired a female teacher to teach her carefully. She knew everything from etiquette, justice, integrity, music, chess, calligraphy and painting.

Since ancient times, wives have been noble, concubines have been humble, and concubines have been humble.

She wanted to be the second prince's real wife, not a concubine who had no status and was just like a plaything!

However, the guards did not allow her to refuse at all, and roughly pushed her into the carriage.

She wanted to ask where her brother was, but no one wanted to talk to her.

"Miss Sheng, get off the sedan."

A female voice sounded outside the sedan, pulling Sheng Xiuran back from her thoughts.

She opened the curtain with a pale face and saw a maid with an average appearance but a slender figure.

"This...where is this?" Sheng Xiuran asked timidly.

The maid's expression was dull, "Miss Sheng, my servant Liuyun, I will be your maid from now on. This is His Highness's Chonghua Palace. From now on, you will be His Highness's concubine."

Sheng Xiuran's feet went weak, and she immediately shouted: "Where is the second prince! I want to see the second prince! I don't want to be a concubine!"

A faint sarcastic smile appeared on Liu Yun's face.

She knew that this girl Sheng had always coveted His Highness. After all, the heroic rescue of the beauty was planned by His Highness.

And among all the women in the world, no one can escape the charm of His Highness!

"Miss Sheng, the Qingguo Duke's family has been executed. Even Mr. Sheng will be executed in the near future. You can be an exception. It is the favor that the second prince has asked for."

"If you are grateful, just stay in this Chonghua Palace. Your Highness will never treat you badly in terms of food and clothing."

When Sheng Xiuran heard this, she felt like the world was spinning.

"What! You said...you said my brother..."

Speaking of Sheng Mingcheng, Liu Yun had a cold look on his face.

"Mr. Sheng was so obsessed that he went to Denwen Drum Courtyard to sue His Highness. He made things out of nothing and caused His Highness to be grounded by the Holy One. Even if he was executed a hundred times, it would not be a pity to die!"

Liuyun shouldn't have said so many words, but as she said, there is no woman in the world who can't help but love His Highness, including herself.

That bitch Sheng Mingcheng actually dared to speak rudely to His Highness and almost harmed His Highness. She had long wanted Sheng Mingcheng to die!

"So Miss Sheng, I advise you to be honest and don't have extravagant hopes, let alone have any unreasonable thoughts about His Highness!"

After Liu Yun finished speaking, he came over to pull Sheng Xiuran.

She looked at the thin and frail man, but with surprisingly strong strength in her hands, she dragged Sheng Xiuran, who was in a daze, into the side hall.

Sheng Xiuran was thrown onto the bed, and the dull pain in her wrist woke her up.

She suddenly screamed: "I want to see His Highness! My brother cannot die! Please take me to see His Highness. I ask His Highness to save my brother!"

Liu Yun sneered in his heart, he is really stupid.

"Miss Sheng, please rest well. There is someone guarding the door at all times. I advise you not to have any evil intentions!"

Chapter 75 She...she heard it!

After the food was delivered, Sheng Xiuran was really hungry. After eating all she could, she began to frequently ask to see the second prince.

There were two tall guards at the door. No matter what Sheng Xiuran said, they would block her back.

Sheng Xiuran saw that it was getting dark outside, feeling panic and despair in her heart.

Brother...brother is about to be executed. He is the brother who loves her to the core. He has taken care of her since childhood and cannot bear the slightest harm to her.

In fact, Sheng Xiuran had already seen through in her heart that His Highness had no affection for her at all, otherwise he would not have allowed a maid to look down on her, let alone put her under house arrest in this side palace.

The dream in her heart was shattered, and now she didn't ask for the second prince's favor, she just wanted to save her brother!

Seeing that the guard at the door was unmoved, Sheng Xiuran turned his attention to the window of the back hall.

As the concubine of a wealthy family, she had never done anything outrageous like climbing out of a window, but in order to see His Highness, she didn't care!

Thinking of this, Sheng Xiuran moved the soft stool, opened the window, and turned it out with difficulty.

Behind the side hall was a gloomy grove. Sheng Xiuran was extremely frightened, but she still groped towards the light.

Suddenly, she heard a whimpering sound. She was so frightened that the hair on her body stood up, and she stood there without daring to move.

The cries were high and low, accompanied by hoarse voices, and a special smell of burning paper money wafted in the wind.

Sheng Xiuran was shocked. She knew that there were rules in the palace not to pay tribute in private. Who dared to do this in Chonghua Palace?

No matter what, she was worried that no one would show her the way!

Thinking of this, Sheng Xiuran quietly groped over and finally saw a cluster of fire.

It was a hidden, semi-surrounded rockery, and she vaguely caught sight of an old figure.

Sheng Xiuran got closer, and then she heard clearly the words murmured in the old man's mouth.

"Why are you so stupid! Didn't I tell you to fly away back then?"

"I heard that there are no bones left. You are like this. I can't even collect your body."

"You value love and justice so much, yet I, an old man like me, have managed to survive to this day. How ashamed I am."

At this point, the sobs suddenly became louder and were immediately suppressed.

"After you go down, reunite with the princess as soon as possible."

"Don't worry, I will take good care of His Highness. It's a pity that you didn't get to meet him in the end."

Sheng Xiuran heard this in confusion and had no idea who the old man was paying homage to.

However, she vaguely knew that the princess in the old man's words should be the late Yuliu Empress, the princess of the Northern Kingdom back then.

Sheng Xiuran was extremely happy to hear that the old man really knew His Highness.

He broke the palace rules and paid homage to others privately at night. She just used this opportunity to tease the old man and ask him where his royal palace was!

Thinking of this, Sheng Xiuran carefully walked to the rockery.

As a result, at this time, the old man suddenly opened his mouth and said in a very low tone:

"I'm sorry, I really can't tell His Highness the truth. Zaiying, please forgive me."

"If His Highness knew that his biological father died so tragically and that he never even saw his last face, he would really collapse."

"I'm sorry, Jae-ying, I'm really sorry."

Sheng Xiuran's steps suddenly paused, her eyes widened, and the blood all over her body froze instantly.

She... what did she hear?

Such a secret fell into her ears, and Sheng Xiuran's whole body was trembling with fear. This moment was like falling into an ice cave!

Second...the biological father of the second prince is actually someone else!

If the Holy Emperor discovers this matter, not to mention the second prince, even she, the insider, will die!

Sheng Xiuran was not stupid, she was just too obsessed with the second prince. She had already understood the twists and turns in the inner palace.

At this moment, Sheng Xiuran had only one thought in her mind:

No, she cannot be discovered by this old man. If she dies, no one will really save her brother!

Thinking of this, Sheng Xiuran was more cautious than when she came, and slowly retreated step by step, using the flickering light of the fire to avoid the branches on the ground, and quietly retreated into the woods.

As she retreated, she secretly prayed in her heart not to be discovered. Only when she was completely away from the light and the surroundings were dark, did she suddenly collapse to the ground, tears streaming down her face.

Why...why things turned out like this.

Obviously, just yesterday, she still had a noble status, endless glory, and a family who loved her...

Why should she encounter this...

Sheng Xiuran did not dare to cry out, so she could only cover her mouth desperately, trembling like a helpless cub in the dark.

After a while, she stumbled to her feet again, changed direction and continued walking.

She wants to see the second prince, and she wants to save her brother!

————

When the second prince heard Liu Yun come to report that Sheng Xiuran was missing, Fang walked out of the bathtub.

He frowned, "Sou, don't let her leave Chonghua Palace."

Liu Yun had some hesitation on his face.

Shen Yuanbai said while dressing: "If there is anything else, please tell me."

He has not been able to get close to women since he was a child, so he has never needed maids to serve him in his bathing and daily life. Liu Yun has martial arts and can do things conveniently in the palace, which is the only exception around him.

"Your Highness, Miss Sheng seems unwilling to give up without seeing you. You see..."

Shen Yuanbai's face darkened slightly, "Then bring her here. I just want to save Sheng Mingcheng and make her give up."

Liuyun got the right words, his brows relaxed slightly, and he immediately retreated.

With the help of the entire palace, Sheng Xiuran was quickly found.

She was so blind that she almost touched the gate of Chonghua Palace!

When she was caught, Sheng Xiuran was still struggling fiercely, but Liuyun came over and said that the second prince was willing to see her, and Sheng Xiuran immediately calmed down.

When she saw the second prince in the brightly lit hall, Sheng Xiuran's eyes were stabbed hard.

He was still so noble and handsome, and he had appeared in her beautiful dreams countless times.

Sheng Xiuran knelt down with a bang and said loudly: "Your Highness, please save my brother. I no longer dare to expect to be with Your Highness."

"As long as you let my brother go, we, brother and sister, will definitely flee to the ends of the earth and never appear in front of you!"

"Your Highness, I only have my brother, please have mercy on me!"

Sheng Xiuran had never begged someone like this, but just when she stumbled forward in the dark night, she figured it out.

She only has her brother as a relative, and nothing else matters. She just wants her brother to be alive!

Shen Yuanbai lowered his eyes slightly, looked at Sheng Xiuran who was kowtowing desperately, and said lightly:

"The Duke of Qing was already sentenced to be executed. Moreover, Sheng Mingcheng was beating the drum indiscriminately, slandering the prince, and inciting public opinion. He has been imprisoned by his father and ordered to be executed tomorrow. No one can change this. of."

When Sheng Xiuran heard the words "executed tomorrow", her whole body softened suddenly, and tears rolled down her eyes instantly.

"Your Highness, Your Highness, please help me beg for mercy again! You want me to be a cow or a horse. You are the prince, and the Holy Emperor will be willing to listen to you!"

Boom, boom, boom!

Sheng Xiuran knocked her head loudly, and soon there was blood on her forehead.

Chapter 76 The new champion is paraded through the streets

When Shen Yuanbai saw this, not only was he not moved at all, but he felt that Sheng Xiuran looked very dirty, which made him feel uncomfortable all over.

"Miss Sheng, your brother harmed me first. Why do you think that I will repay evil with kindness and risk your life to save him?"

"Because of his nonsense, this palace is still banned."

"Sheng Mingcheng must die. If you want to live, just stay in this Chonghua Palace peacefully. If you want to die, Bai Ling can use poison to swallow gold."

Shen Yuanbai spoke coldly, and then stood up impatiently.

He wanted to take a bath again, but seeing Sheng Xiuran's dirty look, he felt that he had just washed in vain.

Sheng Xiuran looked up with a look of despair and saw the look of disgust on Shen Yuanbai's face.

Her heart trembled suddenly. At this moment, thousands of thoughts were mixed together, and she felt regret and hatred.

Her brother had always said that it was the second prince who had harmed their Qingguo Palace, and she had always held on to a trace of fantasy. She could not believe that the god-like man had such a vicious heart!

Seeing that the second prince had already stepped out, she shouted and asked the last question.

"At Huguo Temple in the southern suburbs half a year ago, did you really save me, or did you do it deliberately?"

The second prince didn't even bother to turn his head, and just said lightly, "Don't you already have the answer in your heart?"

When Sheng Xiuran heard this, her stretched out body suddenly sank. The next moment, all the strength in her body seemed to be taken away, and she fell heavily to the ground.

She whimpered a few times, and couldn't help but burst into tears.

Fake! all fake!

He deliberately approached her for the sake of the power of the Duke of Qing! Such a heartless and cold-hearted man deceived her of her sincerity, and even caused the Duke of Qing's family to be executed!

Brother...Brother is hopeless! She has no relatives anymore!

Sheng Xiuran cried louder and louder. Seeing that Shen Yuanbai's figure was about to disappear into the shadows, she suddenly opened her mouth wide and wanted to shout out everything she heard on the rockery in revenge.

You are not His Majesty's son at all!

You're a bastard!

You are the hybrid between Princess Yuliu and a dog man!

Sheng Xiuran stretched out her hand, wishing to catch Shen Yuanbai back and throw these words in his face, seeing that he was as miserable as she was.

However, her remaining sense told her not to be impulsive.

She has nothing left. If she shouts here, she will definitely die, but the second prince will only be indifferent, and he is still the noble second highness!

No, she wants to live, she wants revenge!

She has to wait for the most suitable opportunity to give this heartless and despicable man the most fatal blow!

Sheng Xiuran's bright face was distorted in the candlelight, and when tears fell down, she took away her last trace of tenderness and innocence.

elder brother......

I can't save you.

But I will avenge the whole family of our Qingguo Palace!

————

On March 20th, all Chunwei's rankings had been verified. Even Tan Hanchi, Sheng Qishan and Xin Ruizhi frantically bought and sold thirteen rankings!

Among them, except Tan Hanchi, all twelve of them suffered, and none of them survived.

The Holy Emperor was so furious that he appeased and compensated the families of the twelve deceased persons, and then severely punished all the buyers, including the extremely wealthy Gu family of Qingzhou.

In addition, at the suggestion of the prince, the Holy Sage issued the "Notice to the People of the World", clearly informing the people of the Chunwei fraud, and even rarely admitted the court's mistakes!

Thanks to the prince's move, the boiling anger of the students and officials was finally suppressed.

On March 21st, the palace examination officially began, and was presided over by Emperor Yong himself.

On March 22, the news came out that Emperor Yong designated Tan Hanchi as the first in the first class, and immediately issued a gold medal and hung it at the gate of the palace.

On March 23, Emperor Yong held a passing ceremony in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, conferring the titles of No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3 Flowers to the top three.

Later, an edict was issued, granting the number one scholar Tan Hanchi the post of editor of the Sixth Rank Imperial Academy, and conferring the post of editor of the seventh rank Hanlin Academy on the second place, Tanhuazheng.

This sixth-grade official position may not seem high, but his job is to compile the emperor's true records, record the emperor's words and deeds, and even draft documents for the emperor.

This position meant that Tan Hanchi became a close minister of the emperor and reached the sky in one step!

Next, there is the much-anticipated spectacle of the No. 1 scholar parading through the streets on horseback!

Qiao Jiaojiao had been held by Qiao Diyi for a long time and was sitting in the private room of the largest restaurant on Putian Street. She was leaning against the window and looking at the scene.

When the royal honor guard arrived at Putian Street, the people waiting on both sides of the road cheered.

Everyone consciously gave way to the middle road. At this moment, everyone was squeezing each other, and I was squeezing you. The noise almost broke through the sky.

[Second brother, let me stick out a little more! 】

[Hey, hey, I saw the red card! Coming soon! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao screamed loudly, and everyone cheered excitedly!

Qiao Jiaojiao had never seen such a grand scene in her previous life, and it couldn't be compared to the sparse extras in TV series.

The Great Yong Dynasty favored martial arts as well as literature. A new top scholar like Tan Hanchi was admired by students all over the world!

The adoring cheers of the people on the street almost burst Qiao Jiaojiao's eardrums!

There was a roar of gongs and drums, firecrackers opened the way, and Qiao Jiaojiao finally saw Tan Hanchi!

He is riding a tall horse with two wings on his head. He is dressed in a brocade robe and a cross-red flower. He is holding a soft gold whip and carries an extraordinary handsome figure!

"Ahhhhh——"

It's no exaggeration, Qiao Jiaojiao heard the woman's screams.

Qiao Jiaojiao smiled and narrowed her eyes, feeling happy for Tan Hanchi from the bottom of her heart.

This kind of honor is what Tan Hanchi deserves.

In the original work, he was plotted by Duke Qing and used by the second prince, causing the pearl to fall into dust. Now he finally got his wish!

【Ah ah ah! Tan Hanchi, you are awesome! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao screamed, while Tan Hanchi sat on a tall horse, facing everyone's pursuit, and felt filled with emotions in his heart.

He glanced across the entire venue, looking at the restaurants and teahouses on both sides, and unexpectedly saw two familiar faces.

It's Qiao Erlang and Miss Qiao's family!

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

He, Tan Hanchi, can be where he is today only because of the help of the Qiao family and Miss Qiao...

If it weren't for her magical power, climbing the 30 big boards of Wenguyuan that day would have killed half of his life, let alone insisting on going to the Jinluan Hall to express his love in front of the Holy Master.

Tan Hanchi will never forget the great kindness of the Qiao family. In this life, he will definitely repay the kindness with a ring of grass in his head!

Thinking of this, Tan Hanchi raised his hands and saluted in all directions, pausing specifically in the direction of Qiao Diyi and Qiao Jiaojiao.

Qiao Diyi understood this and showed his big white teeth at Tan Hanchi, smiling sincerely.

Brother Tan is now a close official of the emperor, and the Qiao family cannot be too close to him anymore.

Brother Tan is such a cheerful and intelligent person, it's a pity that we won't be able to have wine and chat with him more often in the future!

Qiao Jiaojiao smiled so hard when she saw this scene.

She knew that Tan Hanchi was definitely not a faggot. He valued love and righteousness very much. He had always been on the side of the Qiao family for the rest of his life!

[Get a great counselor! The fate-defying team has added another strong member! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao was giggling, her big eyes rolled around, and she didn't expect to see a familiar figure in the teahouse opposite!

Chapter 77 Will my aunt meet an old friend?

【etc! etc! Isn't that aunt in the building opposite? 】

Although it was just a glance, Qiao Jiaojiao firmly believed that she would never admit her mistake. Just now her aunt waved in front of the window!

Hearing this, Qiao Diyi followed Qiao Jiaojiao's gaze and suddenly raised his eyebrows slightly, "Isn't that cousin An Ning?"

A girl wearing a veil was leaning against the second-floor window of the teahouse opposite.

She was wearing a lavender bra and was looking at the No. 1 Scholar who was passing by downstairs, with seriousness and curiosity in her expression.

Qiao Jiaojiao was slightly shocked, it turned out that this was Zuo Anning!

She later went to Duke Yan's mansion several times, but because her aunt and mother had broken up, she had never seen her cousin Zuo Anning.

Now, looking from a distance, one can only see that her face is fair and her eyebrows are beautiful.

[Could it be that my aunt also brought cousin An Ning out to watch the fun? 】

In fact, because Mrs. Zuo was the key figure in the destruction of the Qiao family in the original work, Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't help but care about her.

I'm afraid she'll do something wrong again!

[No, I still feel uneasy! 】

Qiao Diyi saw Qiao Jiaojiao's anxiety and simply raised his hand and called out: "Cousin An Ning!"

Zuo Anning was also fifteen years old, but was born a few months later than Qiao Diyi.

The sound was so loud that it happened to fall in the ears of Tan Hanchi who was walking downstairs.

He instinctively followed Qiao Diyi's gaze and looked up, and saw a beautiful girl covered with a veil by the window on the second floor.

With just one glance, Tan Hanchi realized something was wrong and quickly looked away.

Hearing someone calling him, Zuo Anning looked around curiously. When his eyes touched Qiao Diyi, his face instantly turned red.

She had long known about the falling out between her mother and her aunt, because her cousin Qiao looked down on her and chose a girl from the Han family as his wife.

It doesn't matter at all. The marriage cannot be achieved, after all, the blood relationship is still there.

However, her mother had made a promise to her before that her future husband-in-law must be cousin Qiao. When she heard this, she had thoughts that she shouldn't have.

Later, her hope failed, and she inevitably cried a lot. As a result, her mother stabbed her in front of her aunt again, making her embarrassed to see anyone.

But now that second cousin Qiao takes the initiative to greet her, no matter how shy she is, she still wants to return the greeting.

It is not good for a lady to shout in public, so Zuo Anning stepped back slightly and saluted Qiao Diyi.

Qiao Jiaojiao probably knew Zuo Anning's mood at this time, and she had no objection to this cousin.

After all, what my aunt did had nothing to do with this innocent cousin.

[Cousin Zuo is actually a rare sober person. 】

[After she overheard her uncle and aunt's plans for our Qiao family, she felt scared and angry, and she wanted to tell her grandfather immediately. 】

[Unexpectedly, my aunt discovered Cousin Zuo's intention and locked her in the house. No matter how much her cousin begged, she refused to open the door. She didn't let her out until the entire Qiao family was destroyed. 】

[After my cousin learned what her father and mother had done, she felt extremely sad. Finally, she decided to kill her parents out of righteousness, hoping to expose her father and mother's crimes to her grandfather. 】

[Seeing that the matter could no longer be concealed, my aunt took advantage of the fact that my grandfather was heartbroken and seriously ill, and actually gave cousin An Ning to the second prince as a concubine! 】

[As a result, the second prince turned around and gave cousin An Ning to the guards around him... Oh, it was so uncomfortable. 】

When Qiao Diyi heard this, he pinched the window frame in front of him and was so angry that he was shaking all over.

frenzied!

My uncle and aunt are absolutely crazy!

[Brother said hello to cousin An Ning, but my aunt didn't even peek her head in. Could it be that she's not in the private room now? 】

[But I just saw my aunt clearly! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao was secretly wondering when Qiao Diyi had already raised his voice and shouted: "Cousin An Ning, I'm coming to find you!"

If your aunt is there, wouldn't you know if you go over and take a look?

Qiao Jiaojiao really likes Qiao Diyi's style, clean and neat!

Qiao Diyi did what he said, hugged Qiao Jiaojiao and went downstairs. He passed through the crowd and entered the teahouse opposite. He went upstairs and knocked on the quiet room where Zuo Anning was.

Qiao Diyi and Zuo Anning are cousins, so they don't have to avoid suspicion like outsiders.

Zuo Anning came over and opened the door, her face was hot and she looked very embarrassed.

Qiao Jiaojiao immediately raised her eyes and looked around. There was only Zuo Anning and a maid in the room.

[Hey, my aunt is not here. Could it be that I made a mistake? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao murmured secretly. Seeing Zuo Anning's embarrassed look, she smiled sweetly at her.

[Cousin An Ning is sorry. In fact, her elder brother's matter really has nothing to do with her. 】

[Moreover, my mother still likes cousin An Ning very much. She was talking about it not long ago, saying that cousin An Ning is so good and she doesn't know what kind of family she should find to be a good match. 】

Qiao Diyi was also a polite person. Even though he was a cousin, he did not step forward too much. He just said with a smile:

"Cousin An Ning, we haven't seen each other for a long time. My mother was thinking about you some time ago. Come and play at our house when you have time."

Zuo Anning was surprised and pleasantly surprised when she heard this. After all, her mother had said a lot of bad things about her aunt in front of her, and also said that her aunt would not allow her to come to the house.

Qiao Diyi saw Zuo Anning's concerns and smiled heartily.

"Cousin An Ning, the grudges of the previous generation have nothing to do with our younger generation. My mother is thinking of you in her heart. If you are worried about your aunt scolding you, come secretly by yourself when the time comes, and I promise to pick you up!"

When Zuo Anning heard this, he couldn't help but burst into laughter, and finally the embarrassment on his face disappeared.

"Second cousin, you haven't changed at all."

Qiao Diyi smiled naively, and then asked curiously: "Cousin An Ning, did you come out alone? There are so many people today, it's too dangerous."

Hearing this, Zuo Anning quickly waved her hand, "No, no, it was my mother who brought me out, but she just saw an old friend and said she was going to reminisce about the past."

"Here, it's the room at the end of the corridor."

【Old friend? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao's mind suddenly changed, and she had a bad feeling.

[I'll go, it won't be what I think, right? 】

Qiao Diyi and Qiao Jiaojiao immediately thought of being together.

After all, after the family confessed that they could hear the little sister's voice, they communicated with each other. There is a big hidden danger on the aunt's side!

Thinking of this, Qiao Diyi immediately smiled and said: "Although mother and aunt no longer interact, we juniors must not forget the etiquette. We still have to pay our respects no matter what."

"My aunt's friend must be a well-known lady in the capital, right? She should be greeted with greetings."

"Cousin An Ning, please take me to knock on the door."

Zuo Anning naturally hopes that her mother and her aunt can repair their relationship, and according to etiquette, she should also pay a visit to her mother's old friend's wife.

Thinking of this, Zuo Anning nodded slightly, "Second cousin, come with me."

Chapter 78 It's clear who looks like whom

Zuo Anning and Qiao Diyi stood in front of the quiet room at the end of the corridor.

Qiao Jiaojiao felt a little excited.

[Don't look at my second brother's rough hands and feet, and he doesn't like to use his brain at ordinary times, but he is really reliable at critical moments! 】

[With such thorough etiquette and impeccable manners, he found his way to his aunt easily! 】

Qiao Diyi puffed up his chest when he heard this.

That is!

Who knows that there is such a smart big brother in front of him, but he has become lazy.

But if something really calls for him, he can do it!

Tuk-tuk-tuk——

Zuo Anning knocked on the door.

"Mom, it's me. I met my second cousin, and he wants to come and meet you."

Bang bang!

Suddenly the sound of tables and chairs colliding was heard in the room, and it sounded extremely panicked.

Zuo Anning's heart suddenly thought, "Mom, what's wrong with you?"

Qiao Diyi's ears perked up slightly, and his face immediately became solemn.

There's something wrong with the sound in the house!

"Aunt, it's my brother-in-law. What's wrong with you? I pushed the door open and came in!"

As soon as he finished speaking, Qiao Diyi opened the door without hesitation.

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't wait to look up, and saw her aunt standing slightly bent over the table, looking at them with red eyes, and there was panic on her face that she couldn't hide in time.

The windows of the quiet room were creaking, which was especially strange in the silence.

Qiao Jiaojiao narrowed her eyes slightly.

[My aunt is the only one in the room...Why does the window keep ringing...]

"Mom! Why are you crying!"

Zuo Anning hurried forward to greet her. Seeing Mrs. Zuo's face still stained with tears, her heart and eyes were full of heartache.

Mrs. Zuo looked panicked. She pressed the corner of her eyes with a handkerchief and pretended to be calm and said, "I just remembered something sad and couldn't hold it back. Ning'er doesn't need to worry."

Zuo Anning looked around and couldn't help but ask with confusion: "Mom, where is the old friend you mentioned? Ning'er hasn't met that lady yet."

Mrs. Zuo's expression froze slightly, and then she squeezed out a smile from the corner of her mouth.

"She left just now. She said she had something to do at home. She left in a hurry, so Mom didn't call you."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, she already knew what was going on.

[This old friend is none other than Li Xusheng! 】

[My aunt took the opportunity to have a private meeting with Li Xusheng on the pretext of bringing cousin An Ning out to watch the champion parade! The two of them talked freely here, and they felt deeply in their hearts and couldn't help but burst into tears! 】

【Absolutely so! That Li Xusheng was so skilled in martial arts that he must have jumped out of the window and ran away in a hurry! 】

[Tsk, what was supposed to come has come. My aunt actually got in touch with Li Xusheng so quickly! 】

At this time, Qiao Diyi stepped forward to greet Mrs. Zuo and politely called her aunt.

Mrs. Zuo felt guilty and could not put on a cold face, so she responded with a smile.

"What a coincidence, Erlang is here too."

Qiao Diyi nodded respectfully and walked to the window while exchanging pleasantries.

"Yes, auntie, the number one scholar is paraded through the streets today. It's a rare event. My nephew doesn't want to miss it."

"Coincidentally, I saw cousin An Ning in the building opposite, so my nephew came here eagerly."

"My nephew, look where the number one scholar has gone."

Having said this, Qiao Diyi naturally leaned out half of his body from the window.

Qiao Jiaojiao lay on Qiao Diyi's shoulder and looked at Mrs. Zuo's expression, only to see her tightly clutching the handkerchief in her hand, looking very nervous.

【It's real! The person my aunt met was definitely Li Xusheng! 】

[The male protagonist is really restless. Even if he is grounded, it will not affect his tricks! He must have started to care about our Qiao family! 】

[Our family has been reorganized and is now monolithic. He couldn't find any influencers, so he started to take a roundabout route, starting from the Yanguo Duke's Mansion. It's really stupid! 】

Qiao Diyi glanced around the street and didn't see any suspicious figures, so he turned around with a smile.

"We have almost reached the end of Putian Street. It seems that we have finished seeing the excitement today."

When Madam Zuo saw this, her whole body relaxed suddenly, and then she put on a smile: "I had already seen him when I walked downstairs. No matter how many times I see him, it will be like that."

Qiao Diyi nodded in agreement, greeted Mrs. Zuo a few more words, and then said goodbye politely.

On the way back to Qiao's house, Qiao Jiaojiao held a small biscuit and kept eating it while murmuring in her heart.

[Tsk, tsk, tsk, this Li Xusheng moves really fast! Does he know why his Li family suffered so much back then? 】

[You don't think it was the Duke of Yan who did it, do you? That Chun Chun regarded her grandfather and uncle as the wronged offspring. 】

[However, it does not rule out that Li Xusheng had long known that it was his aunt's family who was responsible, but for the sake of the second prince's great cause, he decided to endure the humiliation and coax his aunt and let her be used by the second prince! 】

[Hmm...this guess is more reasonable. Now that my aunt has broken up with my family, she can't easily enter Qiao's house, but she is always a hidden danger. 】

[We can't just sit back and wait for death in this matter, it's better to take a counterattack! 】

[For example, let your aunt gain the trust of the other side, and then secretly reveal some false information at a critical node, giving the second prince a false and true story, catching him off guard! 】

Thinking of this, Qiao Jiaojiao waved her hands excitedly, and the biscuits flew out in a flash.

[Ooohhh, my little biscuit! My favorite flavor! Woohoo! 】

Qiao Diyi: "..."

Fragmented, too fragmented.

Just now, I was analyzing in a clear and logical manner, and my mind is as good as that of my elder brother. Now I am crying over a piece of biscuit...

"Be good, little sister. My second brother will go back and get you a lot of biscuits."

Qiao Diyi hugged Qiao Jiaojiao into his arms and swayed gently.

Qiao Jiaojiao feels that she has been a baby for a long time, and sometimes her mind really regresses, so she likes to act coquettishly and let everyone coax her, which makes her feel very happy and satisfied.

Seeing that Qiao Diyi's usually cheerful voice was tense, she couldn't help but grin.

[Second brother loves me the most! 】

【I want to eat grape flavor! The kind with dried fruit! 】

After returning to Qiao Mansion, Qiao Jiaojiao fell asleep quickly.

She had just watched Tan Hanchi parade in the street, and she was so excited that her small body was already exhausted.

Seeing this, Qiao Diyi hurriedly told what happened when he met his aunt today.

He deliberately didn't tell Qiao Jiaojiao what he had planned on the carriage just now, just to see what his elder brother had in mind.

It turned out that the elder brother was very eloquent, and every point coincided with the younger sister's, even the last countermeasure was exactly the same!

Qiao Di was silent.

They are all children of the Qiao family, why is he the only one stupid!

He looked at his father with a resentful look.

Qiao Zhongguo raised his eyebrows, "Why do you have such a grimace on your face? Why are you eating and drinking because of me?"

Qiao Diyi's face was full of grievance, "Why is it that if my eldest brother is born like my mother, I have to be like my father?"

Qiao Zhongguo continued to raise his eyebrows, "Isn't it good to be like me?"

Qiao Diyi shook his head honestly, "No, I'm not smart."

Qiao Zhongguo was stunned for a moment, then suddenly jumped up in anger.

"Damn boy, are you just calling me stupid in a different way? Don't move! I'll break your legs!"

There's a lot of excitement here.

Mrs. Qiao and Qiao Tianjing were not surprised. The mother and son continued to eat gracefully, and the years were quiet.

Na——

It's clear who looks like who.

Chapter 79 Jiaojiao is the most kind-hearted child

Before Qiao Jiaojiao was born, Mrs. Qiao went to the Huguo Temple in the southern suburbs to make a wish, praying that God would give the Qiao family a precious daughter.

After Qiao Jiaojiao was one month old, Mrs. Qiao went to Huguo Temple to fulfill her wish.

Now that Qiao Jiaojiao has grown up to seven months old safely, Mrs. Qiao is always thinking about what Qiao Jiaojiao said about her premature death at the age of three, so she decided to take advantage of the fine weather today to take Qiao Jiaojiao to burn incense again.

Qiao Di's official position was small and he could go home after completing the training in the camp, so he escorted the mother and daughter out today.

After leaving the south city gate, the official road was wide and smooth. Qiao Jiaojiao sat alone on the cushion and ate biscuits one by one.

Mrs. Qiao looked at Qiao Jiaojiao lovingly, taking out her handkerchief to wipe her face from time to time.

Aunt Liu opened a corner of the curtain and looked outside, and suddenly whispered: "Madam, the relief hall is not far away."

"My slave has asked someone to hand over the money on time every month. The old mother in the relief hall is very grateful to you. Would you like to go and have a look?"

When she heard the word "relief hall", Qiao Jiaojiao suddenly stopped moving her mouth.

She had no father or mother in her previous life and grew up in an orphanage.

Mother Jiang from the orphanage told her that she was placed at the door of the orphanage during the winter.

He was wearing a red jacket and had a piece of paper in his arms, with the date of birth scrawled on it, without even a name.

Jiang's mother took her in and went to the police station to report the case. However, until her untimely death, her biological parents were not found.

[There are many fatherless and motherless children in the relief hall, right? It's really pitiful. 】

Mother Jiang also loves her very much, but Mother Jiang needs to share her love with many, many children.

[Mom, let's go take a look~]

Qiao Jiaojiao couldn't speak complicated words yet. She just called her mother and then tugged on Mrs. Qiao's sleeve.

Mrs. Qiao knew that Qiao Jiaojiao had no father or mother in her last life. She hugged Qiao Jiaojiao lovingly and said warmly:

"Mama Liu, come over and take a look. It's just a good idea to see what those children are still missing. Ask someone to buy some and send them over."

When Qiao Jiaojiao heard this, her heart was sour, and she lowered her head and buried herself in Mrs. Qiao's arms.

[Mother, you are the best. My mother is so kind, and God will bless her. 】

When I was in the orphanage, every kindness was precious.

She went to school with the support of kind-hearted people, and because she is grateful, she will try her best to help others within her ability.

Good causes lead to good results, maybe that's what they say.

Mrs. Qiao patted Qiao Jiaojiao's back gently, her eyes as gentle as water.

Jiaojiao, mother only hopes that God can give you all the blessings, so that our Jiaojiao can grow up safely...

Hearing the arrival of Mrs. Qiao, the old mother in the relief hall was frightened and happy at the same time, and hurriedly ran to the door to greet her.

Mrs. Qiao hugged Qiao Jiaojiao and got out of the carriage. When she saw the old mother saluting her, she hurriedly stepped forward to help her.

"Is it Mama Rong? My grandma often mentions you, so you don't have to be so polite."

Seeing Rong's mother insisting, Mrs. Qiao immediately looked serious:

"Mother Rong, you are a good person with great merits. I really can't bear your gift."

Qiao Jiaojiao raised her eyes and saw that Rong's mother was a middle-aged woman with a round face. She was wearing coarse clothes and her face was stained by wind and frost, but her round eyes were full of tenderness and kindness.

She really looks like Mother Jiang...

Qiao Jiaojiao's eyes were slightly sour, and most of the good-hearted people in the world had a similar look of kindness.

Rong's mother was a little cautious and said, "Mrs. Qiao, it's a little too simple inside. Don't dislike it."

Rong's mother also didn't expect that Mrs. Qiao, who had been supporting them, turned out to be such a bodhisattva.

Mrs. Qiao held Qiao Jiaojiao with one hand, and held Mama Rong affectionately with the other hand.

"How could it be? Let mom take me in and have a look."

Seeing Mrs. Qiao being so easygoing, Mother Rong's tense expression relaxed slightly, and then she smiled.

Mrs. Qiao stepped into the threshold of the relief hall. Just as Rong's mother said, the interior was very simple and could be seen at a glance, but it was clean and tidy.

There were many women inside, some taking care of babies, some washing clothes, and the room full of children chattering and playing around.

There is another room further inside, which is much quieter. They are older children who are still unable to live independently. They help with odd jobs to earn some money to support the relief hall.

When they heard the noise, the children looked up and looked over. When they saw Mrs. Qiao, their eyes were full of surprise and admiration, as if they had never seen such a beautiful lady.

When Mrs. Qiao saw this, she felt very sad.

Jiaojiao is her precious daughter, the apple of the Qiao family's eye, and has been favored by many since she was born.

These children in front of us are also born as human beings, but they have to go through countless hardships.

Their stature is so thin, some children are not even tall enough to stand on the stage, but they are already working hard.

Mrs. Qiao couldn't bear to look any longer and withdrew with red eyes.

"Mother Rong, the relief hall is more difficult than I thought. From now on, I will ask Aunt Liu to send more money every month."

"And these children, please compile their figures into a book and give it to Aunt Liu, and I will make some clothes for them."

When Rong's mother heard this, her eyes instantly filled with tears, "Mrs. Qiao is so kind, thank you Mrs. Qiao."

Seeing such a familiar scene, Qiao Jiaojiao was deeply touched.

[Material relief can temporarily relieve their survival pressure, but it cannot change their fate. 】

[If they are allowed to waste time like this, they will repeat their current life when they get older and continue to rely on coolies to make a living. 】

[From ancient times to the present, having poems, books and skills close to you is the best way to change your destiny. 】

This is what Qiao Jiaojiao realized in the orphanage.

So when there were kind-hearted people who funded her studies, she desperately seized the opportunity, studied harder than anyone else, and achieved excellent academic results.

If she had not died early, she might have been able to change her destiny through reading.

[The children there are all of appropriate age. If we can teach students in accordance with their aptitude, provide financial support for those who want to go to school, and help those who are not interested in school to learn a good trade, perhaps this relief hall will get better and better in the future. 】

When Mrs. Qiao heard this, her steps suddenly stopped.

She knew in her heart that what Jiaojiao said made sense, and that this was a good way to treat the root cause.

[It's a pity that I can't speak now. When I can speak, I will take out all my private money and try my best to help you children! 】

When Mrs. Qiao heard this, her heart was extremely soft.

Jiaojiao is the most kind-hearted and good child.

It's just that this matter needs to be handled carefully. She will discuss it with her husband when she gets back and follow what Jiaojiao said and arrange a good way out for these children!

Chapter 80: Merit Mall is so reasonable!

After coming out of the relief hall, the carriage continued to the Huguo Temple.

When we arrived at the gate of Huguo Temple, a young novice monk got the message and was waiting here early.

Mrs. Qiao hugged Qiao Jiaojiao and got out of the car.

Qiao Jiaojiao looked around curiously and found several carriages parked at the base of the wall not far away.

[Hey, there are quite a lot of people here today! 】

When Mrs. Qiao heard this, she turned around and looked over. The little novice explained in time: "There are many pilgrims in the temple today. Mrs. Meng and Mrs. Xiao just arrived."

[Mrs. Meng and Mrs. Xiao? Isn't that the mother of Meng Guxue and the mothers of the two sisters of the Xiao family? 】

[Meng Guxue will not talk about it for now, but I don't know if the second sister of the Xiao family is here! 】

[Mom, you don't know, the second sister of the Xiao family is my second sister-in-law! I saw her at the last poetry meeting. She is lively, cheerful and hates evil. She is a perfect match for my second brother! 】

Mrs. Qiao's eyes suddenly lit up when she heard this, and she glanced back at Qiao Diyi with meaning.

Qiao Diyi blushed slightly, but now his face was filled with anticipation.

If you like this kind of thing, as long as it is in line with etiquette and candidly.

The last time he saw the second young lady of the Xiao family, he was so happy, riding his horse and whipping his whip in a carefree and carefree manner, how lovable he was!

Mrs. Qiao knew her son well, and when she saw Qiao Di's righteous eyebrows, she couldn't help but feel a little more hopeful.

The Miss Han family whom I met last time is an excellent daughter-in-law. If God favors her and gives her two good daughters-in-law, she will really be able to sleep and dream from ear to ear!

A group of people walked into Huguo Temple and first went to the main hall to burn incense. Unexpectedly, they met Mrs. Meng who had just finished burning incense.

Following behind her was Meng Guxue, whom she had not seen for a long time.

"Mrs. Joe."

"Mrs. Meng."

The two ladies greeted him politely and exchanged a few casual greetings.

Qiao Jiaojiao looked at Meng Guxue curiously, feeling that there was something different about her.

[The heroine looks much more stable and her eyes don't wander around anymore! 】

At this time, Mrs. Meng and Meng Guxue came up to greet her. She behaved well and looked much better than the last full moon banquet.

Qiao Jiaojiao frowned slightly when she saw this. She was not afraid of the enemy going crazy, but afraid that the enemy would be restrained. Could it be that the last poetry fair stimulated her too much?

At this time, a young novice came forward with a basin of water.

Before offering incense, you must purify your hands first. This is a sign of respect for the Bodhisattva.

Upon seeing this, Mrs. Meng was about to leave, but Meng Guxue suddenly said sharply: "Mrs. Qiao, I have a special soap here, which is very clean for hand washing. Do you want to try it?"

Mrs. Meng's face darkened when she heard this. The soap made by Xue'er was indeed good, but it was really abrupt to speak rashly.

Thinking of this, she quietly tugged on Meng Guxue's sleeve.

Meng Guxue's expression did not change, and she still looked at Mrs. Qiao expectantly.

Cheap girl is really short-sighted!

She finally made the soap, and she will make a lot of money in the future, but she is worried about her reputation!

Mrs. Qiao has a high status and many friends. If she can use her mouth to spread the word, wouldn't it be possible to achieve mass production and become rich in minutes?

There is no need to talk about etiquette, justice and shame in sales. If you can negotiate an order, it is an order!

Qiao Jiaojiao was shocked!

[Meng Guxue actually made soap so quickly? 】

[I remember that it was only in the middle period when the second prince did not have enough funds to develop his power that Meng Guxue thought of using modern chemistry knowledge to make soap, perfume and lipstick! 】

[This Meng Guxue is a bit weird. Did she suddenly become enlightened? 】

When Mrs. Qiao heard that this soap was of great importance, she immediately nodded.

"Since Miss Meng has such a good thing, I will give it a try."

Meng Guxue's eyes suddenly lit up when she heard this.

Look, look, active promotion is always right!

She took out a small white round cake from the sachet at her waist. Qiao Jiaojiao took a quick look and saw that it was indeed soap.

At this time, most of the Yong Dynasty used acacia, which needed to be ground before use, which was far less convenient than soap.

"Mrs. Qiao, please wet your hands first, then put the soap in your hands and rub it together. White foam will form immediately. I also added some fragrant powder to it. It smells good."

Mrs. Qiao carried Qiao Jiaojiao to Nanny Liu beside her, and followed Meng Guxue's method to clean her hands. It was indeed convenient and clean.

She was slightly shocked, no wonder Jiaojiao said, this can make a lot of money!

Meng Guxue is still very confident in soap. In this backward dynasty, these bumpkins have never seen modern good things!

Now she is just waiting to get the reputation of soap out, and she is ready to do it in a glorious way!

When the time comes, she doesn't have to bother to contact him, Shen Lang will naturally come to her!

Qiao Jiaojiao's small face was still tightly knitted, but now she looked at Meng Guxue, and her frown quietly relaxed again.

[Although I don't know why Meng Guxue made the soap in advance, looking at her proud and superior demeanor, it's true that her true nature is hard to change! 】

[However, no matter what, we cannot let her grow bigger, otherwise she will still be a cancer when she and the second prince join forces! 】

[Damn it, I know how to make this soap, perfume, and lipstick, but I just can't speak, I'm so anxious! 】

[Otherwise, I will give the production method to my father and elder brother, and I will make it bigger and stronger first. I don't know how fun it will be! 】

[Wait... maybe it's not impossible! Let me see! 】

Qiao Jiaojiao called out the Merit Mall in a hurry.

Because all the merit points were spent on saving Tan Hanchi last time, Qiao Jiaojiao didn't click in for a while.

[Let me see if there is anything I can use. Although the merit is gone now, I can find a way to save it as soon as possible. Although it is a bit utilitarian, but...]

【Eh! ! ! I am not wrong, right? Where did the 60 merits come from? Why is it there again? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao suddenly looked shocked, her mouth opened wide.

She just glanced at it casually, and then saw the two shining numbers "60" in the upper right corner of the Gongde Mall panel!

[The last time I saved Tan Hanchi, I obviously used up the last 60 points! etc! etc! yes! Isn't saving Tan Hanchi a meritorious deed? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao realized it!

[The merit points did not increase last time when I redeemed the rebound talisman in the study room, because it was self-rescue and the merit points were used on myself. 】

[But when I went to Wenguyuan, the merit points were used on Tan Hanchi, and each time I used them, I was saved, so the merit points were added back to me! 】

【Wonderful! This merit mall is so reasonable, does the old King of Hell know? 】

Qiao Jiaojiao was so excited that she hurriedly scrolled through the product list to see if there was anything that could materialize her idea.

This request was a bit tricky. Qiao Jiaojiao was not in a hurry and patiently examined them one by one. Suddenly her eyes suddenly froze.

[Wait a minute, let's see what this Nian Zhuan Talisman is! 】