Chapter 411: A Fierce Horse

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

The young prince looked at Qu Xinwei. “Guard Qu, from now on, you will serve closely by my side.”

Qu Xinwei was taken aback. “So… am I to be a child’s playmate?”

“I fear I may not be able to serve Your Highness well. Perhaps you might reconsider?” he suggested humbly.

Jia, Yi, and Bing, three other guards, envied Qu Xinwei’s sudden promotion but saw him trying to decline. They would have eagerly taken his place.

The young prince, slightly displeased by the refusal, insisted, “I have taken a liking to you, and you cannot refuse.”

He then withdrew into the carriage, instructing, “Guard Qu, get on the carriage quickly.”

Qu Xinwei thought to herself that she really didn’t want to coddle a child, but still, she ended up sitting on the carriage shaft.

Forget it, I’ll endure it for five days.

Jia, Yi, and Bing led the way on horseback, followed by the young prince’s carriage, heading out of the city.

At a certain mansion, a subordinate reported to his master, “Sir, Qu Xinwei just saved the young prince and has been promoted to be his personal guard.” “Yuan,” the master, remained silent for a moment before instructing, “Ask him to find a way to control the young prince and make the prince obedient to him.” The prince’s horse farm was renowned for its fine steeds, adjacent to a fertile manor perfectly suited for cultivating Afu Rong.

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The subordinate cupped his hands. “Yes, Master.”

Qu Xinwei’s act of saving the young prince quickly became the talk of many… Tang Jinghong, deeply concerned, was relieved to hear from his spies that Qu Xinwei was unharmed and had been promoted. He continued dealing with his state affairs.

The young prince and his entourage were en route to the horse farm outside the city.

Curious about Qu Xinwei, the prince, having calmed down, lifted the carriage curtain and asked, “Who taught you your horse-riding skills?”

Qu Xinwei, leaning casually against the carriage, one leg dangling and the other bent, answered, “Why do you ask?”

The prince thought to himself that this guard was unlike any other. While most fawned over him, Qu Xinwei’s relaxed demeanor was refreshing and enjoyable. “Just asking, can you tell me?” inquired the prince, treating Qu Xinwei almost as an equal.

Qu Xinwei glanced back at the prince, ‘”’It’s quite simple, you just need to ensure your presence is more imposing than that of the horse.”

The prince, puzzled, asked, “Is that how you made the horse leap over those two girls?”

Indeed, that leap had earned considerable applause.

Qu Xinwei raised an eyebrow, “Yes, but not many can learn this trick. Better give up, Your Highness. Delving too deep yields no fruit.”

The prince felt slightly dejected, as he had been considering learning, but Qu Xinwei seemed to imply he couldn’t. Nonetheless, he persisted, “Guard Qu, will you teach me? If you do, I’ll give you anything you want, as long as I have it.” Jia, Yi, and Bing, along with the coachman, looked on in disbelief and envy at Qu Xinwei’s good fortune in receiving such a promise from the young prince.

Qu Xinwei, neither accepting nor rejecting the offer, asked, “Why do you wish to learn?”

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The prince, feeling a bit guilty, admitted, “I don’t want to make a fool of myself again.”

Qu Xinwei agreed, “Alright, I’ll teach you.”

The prince looked up, surprised and pleased, “Guard Qu, you agreed?”

Qu Xinwei nodded, “I have. But next time, don’t gallop through the streets. It’s risky, even for yourself.”

The prince promised, “I assure you, I won’t ride in the city again.”

“Good.”

Pleased, the prince brought out some pastries from a hidden compartment, offering them to Qu Xinwei. “Here, have some.”

The others swallowed hard in envy. Qu Xinwei had quickly won the prince’s favor. They could only dream of such treatment.

Qu Xinwei, who had reached the peak of her career as a guard, accepted a piece of hoof-shaped cake, “Your Highness, you should eat as well.”

The prince nodded happily, “Alright.”

Together, they finished the plate of pastries.

The coachman drooled at the sight.

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Upon reaching the horse farm…

The carriage stopped. n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Qu Xinwei hopped off the carriage, followed by the young prince. Jia, Yi, and Bing dismounted and escorted the prince into the farm.

The farm manager, hearing of the prince’s arrival, led his people to welcome them. “Greetings, Your Highness.”

The prince promptly requested, “Take me to see that fierce horse.”

“Yes, Your Highness,” responded the manager.

The horse, known for biting and housed separately, had a violent temperament, often ramming into the stable walls.

The group arrived at the stable housing the fierce horse…

Qu Xinwei immediately recognized it as the herd leader, a pure black steed, taller than any horse in the farm.

The horse, after observing the group, suddenly charged out of the stable towards them.

Jia, Yi, and Bing quickly shielded the young prince, ready for any threat. However, the horse stopped in front of Qu Xinwei, its wild eyes conveying a plea for help.

Qu Xinwei stroked the horse’s head, understanding its message. “Your Highness, let it go.”

The manager protested, “This horse cost us three hundred taels. We can’t just release it.”

Qu Xinwei ignored the manager, focusing on the prince.

The prince, puzzled, asked, “Guard Qu, is there a reason for this?”

Qu Xinwei looked at the anxious horse, “If you wish to know, let’s follow and

The prince, inherently kind, agreed, “Then let’s go and see..”

Chapter 412: A Pile of Dates

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

The butler, seeing the young prince favoring Qu Xinwei over his advice, felt a twinge of displeasure and approached them.

“Your Highness, the sellers said they captured the horse on Mount Wangwu, which is a half-hour journey from here. Why not ride there?” he suggested secretly, thinking Qu Xinwei, who had arrived in a carriage, probably couldn’t ride a horse and would embarrass himself.

The prince’s eyes brightened at the mention of riding but hesitated, recalling his lack of riding skills. He turned to Qu Xinwei, “Can we ride together?”

Qu Xinwei, of course, would not agree. It would have been acceptable if the prince were only five, but at fifteen, it was inappropriate. “Your Highness, perhaps we should walk instead?”

After a moment’s thought, the prince agreed, “I’ve never hiked a mountain in my life. Since it’s still early, let’s give it a try.” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Qu Xinwei paid a compliment, saying, “Nowadays, it’s hard to find many young masters like the young prince who are willing to endure hardship.”

The prince, pleased by the praise, said cheerfully, “Let’s go.”

“Hold on, Your Highness,” Qu Xinwei gestured towards the butler, deliberately giving orders, “Prepare some water for us to bring along.”

The butler knew he was being deliberately ordered around. He thought, “Why should I do all the work while they get all the benefits?”

He reluctantly went to prepare the water.

As soon as the black horse left the stable, it headed into the woods, in the direction of Mount Wangwu. Surprisingly, it still knew the way.

The young prince followed eagerly. “Guard Qu, why did the horse run towards you?”

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Her aura made animals feel comfortable and naturally drawn to her. Qu Xinwei replied casually, “I probably look the friendliest and most likely to help it.”

The other guards didn’t know what to say.

Did they look fierce and vicious?

The young prince glanced at the four guards, thinking that although Qu Guard looked the most imposing and unapproachable, such an appearance might be what animals liked, “I understand now.”

Following the black horse, they entered the forest, traversing hills and mountains…

At first, the young prince’s spirits were high, but having never endured hardship, he was exhausted after a short while.

Qu Xinwei suggested, “Your Highness, sit down, drink some water, and rest for a bit.”

The prince, unburdened by status, chose a rock to sit on, opened the water bag, and drank a few gulps.

Qu Xinwei surveyed the surroundings, “Your Highness, wait here for a moment. There’s a date tree over there, I’ll go pick some dates.”

The prince objected, “Don’t go, just sit and rest, let them do it.”

The three guards were speechless.

Qu Xinwei glanced at their resentful looks and refused, “I’ll go, just wait a bit, I’ll be right back.”

She leaped towards the date tree.

Upon reaching the tree, a light shake sent the reddish-brown dates raining down, caught by a net formed by her spiritual energy.

As he prepared to descend, the sound of rolling wheels were heard.

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She looked ahead…

On the official road, a caravan was passing by, with familiar-looking boxes on the carriages.

Qu Xinwei thought for a moment. Probably “Yun” force was transporting opium to the capital again, but it was unclear which line this was.

Unable to pursue now, he informed Tang Jinghong of the news, asking him to track the caravan to see if the opium was also being sent to the Minister of War’s residence.

Tang Jinghong immediately acted upon receiving the message.

Qu Xinwei descended from the date tree, collected the dates, and returned.

The prince exclaimed in surprise, “Wow, you picked so many dates in such a short time?”

“Yes, these dates are very sweet. Let’s all eat.” Qu Xinwei distributed some dates to the four, kept a few for herself, and fed the rest to the black horse.

Three guards were eating dates and exchanged glances, realizing they had been too narrow-minded. The three of them dissolved their resentment towards Qu Xinwei with a few dates.

After eating the dates, they continued their journey.

Crossing a stream and climbing a hill, they finally arrived at Mount Wangwu.

The mountain had a feel of a primitive forest and was peculiar, with half being a forest and half a grassland suitable for horses. The vast grassland felt almost like a prairie, surrounded by hills and forests, with no end in sight.

Aside from hunters, ordinary people dared not venture here.

Standing at the edge of the grassland, they watched the black horse run towards the herd, its speed like a swift wind.

Horses have a strong sense of hierarchy, and as the lead horse returned, the others made way.

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There in the center of the herd, a black mare was giving birth.

The black horse approached the birthing mare, opened its mouth full of dates, and spat them out, creating a small pile on the ground.

The prince, wide-eyed, speculated, “Qu Guard, did it refuse to be tamed because it wanted to escape back here for its family?”

Qu Xinwei succinctly replied, “As you see, Your Highness.”

The prince was touched. “This horse is incredibly sentient.”

The mare, seeing the lead horse return, gained strength from exhaustion and gave birth with a low neigh.

The herd erupted in excitement, as if cheering.

Qu Xinwei, witnessing this, smiled, “Your Highness, let’s go back.”

The prince nodded happily, “Let’s go.”

On the way back, the prince glanced back several times, as if having understood something.

When the black horse saw Qu Xinwei and the others leave, it turned to look at them with a hint of struggle in its eyes.

After a moment, it looked back at its family, then towards the departing group, and ultimately decided to run towards them.

When everyone heard the sound of hooves, they stopped in their tracks.

The black horse approached Qu Xinwei, nudged her hand with its head, indicating its willingness to go with her.

Qu Xinwei gently stroked the horse’s head, her eyes warm, “Go back and take care of your family. I don’t need you for now.”

The black horse snorted, then stood watching them leave.

On the way back, the young prince did not seem to be afraid of getting tired. “Guard Qu, let’s go pick some dates?”

Qu Xinwei asked, “Your Highness, do you still want to eat?”

The young prince shook his head. “I want to pick some for my mother personally.”

Qu Xinwei agreed. “Okay..”

Chapter 413: Donning Another Disguise

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Qu Xinwei spent the day playing with the young prince, returning to the residence only after dark.

Upon entering her room, she noticed an extra food box on the table.

Smiling, she approached the table, took out the meal from the box – three dishes, a bowl of rice, a pair of chopsticks, and a note that read, “Eat well, I’ll come to see you tonight.”

The meal, still warm, was sent by Jinghong.

Qu Xinwei’s smile deepened. She lit the lamp on the table and sat down to eat leisurely.

Suddenly, footsteps approached…

Qu Xinwei made a hand seal to cover up the things on the table. At the same time, there was a knock on the door. “Guard Qu, His Highness wants you to go over for dinner.”

Reluctant, Qu Xinwei asked, “May I decline?”

The butler’s expression turned solemn. “Guard Qu, His Highness values you.

It’s your honor to dine with him. Don’t push your luck.”

The butler’s voice suddenly softened. “The emperor has sent you a reward. Aren’t you going to receive it?”

A reward? Qu Xinwei, puzzled, opened the door and asked, “Why would the emperor reward me?”

The butler explained warmly, “The emperor cherishes His Highness. Your rescue has shown your loyalty, and thus he rewards you.”

No matter what, there was no reason to push money away. Qu Xinwei followed the butler to the front hall.

The young prince was generous, giving Qu Xinwei a fine dagger and a hundred taels of silver, which was a substantial reward.

“I have another reward for you,” said the prince.

Qu Xinwei raised an eyebrow, jokingly asking, “What reward do you plan to give me, Your Highness?”

The prince mysteriously replied, “I’ll tell you later. First, dine with me.”

Qu Xinwei hesitated, “Is that appropriate?”

Dining with the prince would surely attract envy, and she preferred to keep a low profile.

“It’s fine, let’s go.” The prince reached out to pull Qu Xinwei’s hand.

The young prince’s meal was exceptional, featuring a table spread with dishes, each exquisitely plated.

“Guard Qu, eat as you please,” the prince urged. He usually ate alone and wanted companionship at meals.

Since she was already seated, Qu Xinwei started eating without fuss, planning to eat Jinghong’s meal later.

However, she felt uncomfortable as maids kept staring disapprovingly, as if saying a guard shouldn’t dine with the prince. It was a breach of etiquette.

She turned to them and asked, “You are staring at me like that. Do you want some too?”

The maids hurriedly lowered their heads.

Protective of Qu Xinwei, the prince dismissed them, “Leave us. We don’t need your service here.”

The prince reassured Qu, “From now on, dine with me every day. Don’t mind them.”

Qu Xinwei was speechless. If he dined daily, he’d become everyone’s enemy in the mansion!

Back in her room half an hour later, Qu Xinwei resumed eating Jinghong’s meal.

After eating, she pondered his next move…

Being passive wouldn’t do. She had to be proactive in actions. With opium heading to the black market tonight, would “Yuan” be there too?

She might as well go to the black market and see if she could get any clues.

Qu Xinwei was about to change when a person flew into his room. She turned to see a figure in ghostly attire, a member of the Yun force.

Unsure of the visitor’s identity and not wanting to speak rashly, Qu Xinwei remained silent, fitting her role as the quiet “Jiu.”

The visitor spoke rapidly, “Master Yuan wants you to control the young prince, making him obedient and securing the horse farm and manor for him.” Was this Master Yuan’s messenger?

Fortune favors the bold. Qu Xinwei could now learn more about “Yuan”.

If he were to send a message for “Yuan”, he would definitely know a lot about “Yuan.”

Qu Xinwei flipped her hand and the bell appeared in her hand. In the next second, the sound of the bell spread throughout the room… n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

The visitor’s pupils dilated slightly and quickly lost focus.

Seated, Qu began her interrogation…

The visitor, “Yuan’s” envoy, was responsible for relaying messages – from others to “Yuan” and “Yuan’s” orders to them.

There were four such envoys, each managing a direction in the capital; this one in charge of the west.

As she asked, Qu Xinwei obtained a very important clue as to how to find “Yuan”.

As an envoy, he had to transmit information at all times. His connection with “Yuan” was no longer one-way, but two-way.

Now he could go straight to “Yuan”.

She also obtained a list detailing the poison incense distribution plan, targeting the capital’s west side, where the elite resided.

The list included the palace, followed by various high-ranking officials. Those already marked off likely meant that they had been poisoned.

If the incense plan succeeded, the Daling Dynasty might face a regime change.

Qu Xinwei looked at the list and thought to himself, ‘Do your parents know that you’re so ambitious?’

She put the list away and thought about the next step.

She could not let the western envoy go back. After thinking for a long time, she decided to don another disguise. Anyway, she had nothing much to do during the day and could handle the extra task.

With the identity of the western envoy, many things became simple.

Now, everything could wait until she saw “Yuan.”

Checking the time, there was still an hour before the black market opened, so Qu Xinwei sat down and continued to question the western envoy, particularly asking about specific details to better understand the situation, which would make it easier for her to disguise.

Just like that, about five minutes later, Qu Xinwei, who had been monitoring Prince Rui’s mansion, realized that someone had sneaked into the mansion and then into Madam Xin’s room.

She looked at the person carefully but couldn’t identify who it was.

However, the comer’s identity was soon clear to her. She saw Madam Xin welcoming him warmly. Madam Xin was dressed in a red dress, revealing half of her breasts. It was a seductive scene.

Madam Xin called out coquettishly, “Ziming.”

Lu Ziming?

Chapter 414: Ancient Family

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Is this Lu Ziming?

As soon as Lu Ziming arrived in the capital, he went straight to look for Madam Xin, and now he was visiting her again.

In the room, Madam Xin seduced him. Lu Ziming couldn’t resist it and quickly surrendered.

Afterwards, Lu Ziming, holding Madam Xin, could no longer restrain his desire for the map. “When do you plan to give me the item?”

Madam Xin lay beside Lu Ziming, her fingers slowly tracing over his chest. “I can give you the item, but you need to tell me what you will do with it.”

Since it had already come to this, she needed to understand why.

A glint of dark light flashed in Lu Ziming’s eyes. People really do change over the years. “Knowing will bring you no good. Are you sure you want to hear it?”

Madam Xin felt a chill in her heart, but kept a nonchalant facade. “What’s the harm in knowing the truth?”

Lu Ziming was silent for a moment, then grasping Madam Xin’s hand, his tone grew serious. “Since you want to know, I’ll tell you, but you must bear the consequences.”

Madam Xin stiffened but remained calm on the surface. “Oh, just say it. Why hesitate?”

Lu Ziming turned to face Madam Xin and slowly began, “I need to enter the imperial palace to find something.”

Lady Xin met Lu Ziming’s gaze, her heart racing. “What is it you want to find?”

Lu Ziming averted his gaze, staring into the void. “In the palace’s library, there’s a book called ‘The Record of Wonders’, which conceals a great secret…” He paused. “Over three hundred years ago, an ancient family in the eastern border was destroyed overnight due to a land movement.”

“This ancient family had a heritage of over seven hundred years, with countless treasures. It’s said that ‘The Record of Wonders’ details the exact location of this family.”

Madam Xin’s mouth fell open in disbelief. “Where did you hear this news?”

Lu Ziming’s eyes were filled with suppressed madness and greed. “I obtained the other half of ‘The Record of Wonders’. It is this book that guides me.”

Madam Xin was greedy but also skeptical. “An event from over three hundred years ago could be false, right?”

“You may believe it or not,” Lu Ziming replied, indifferent to Madam Xin’s skepticism. He was only interested in obtaining the map to enter the palace. “Can you give me the map now?”

After a moment of thought, knowing the secret, Madam Xin decided to give Lu Ziming the map. “Wait here. I’ll fetch it for you.”

As she said this, she put on her clothes, got out of bed, and handed Lu Ziming the map. “Here you go.”

Taking the map, Lu Ziming trembled with excitement. He unfolded the map, his hands shaking. “Finally, I have the map… finally…”

In his excitement, he pulled Madam Xin to him, forcibly taking her on the bed, and then… he strangled her to death.

Madam Xin’s life ended painfully in the midst of pleasure.

Qu Xinwei just listened to the commotion without looking at the scene in the room, but when Madam Xin was killed, she still knew it immediately.”

Madam Xin, being a concubine of Prince Rui, engaged in extramarital affairs at night. She wasn’t a good person, and there’s no need to save her.

As for Lu Ziming, Qu Xinwei decided to ignore him for now, as he wasn’t in her way yet.

Honestly, Qu Xinwei was quite interested in the ancient family. Since Lu Ziming was actively searching, she let him continue, hoping he would uncover more clues, which would ultimately save her the trouble.

Thus, Qu Xinwei decided to turn a blind eye to the whole affair.

Lu Ziming disguised Madam Xin’s death as a suicide, cleaned the scene, and left the way he came.

Soon after, Tang Jinghong arrived at Qu Xinwei’s room.

Tang Jinghong spoke with concern, “Qingzhi, have you eaten the meal I brought you?”

As soon as Tang Jinghong arrived, Chu Qingzhi reverted to her own appearance, “I’ve eaten it, finished it all. It was particularly delicious, thank you Jinghong.” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Tang Jinghong gently patted Chu Qingzhi’s head, his voice tender, “From now on, I’ll bring your meals to you.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled. “Okay.”

“Do you have any plans for tonight? I’ve arranged everything on my end, so I can join you for whatever you have planned this evening.”

“Going to the black market…” Chu Qingzhi informed Tang Jinghong about her encounter with the Western envoy and what she had heard about the ancient family.

It took Tang Jinghong five seconds to digest Chu Qingzhi’s words. He stored the information about the ancient family at the back of his mind, considering it too elusive to address immediately. Instead, he focused on the Western envoy. “I’m impressed that you could gather so much information just by accompanying the young prince for a day. I feel quite inadequate compared to you.”

Chu Qingzhi reassured him, “You don’t need to compare yourself to me.”

Tang Jinghong still admired her, “Then let’s go.”

Chu Qingzhi nodded. “Okay.”

The Ministry of Revenue in the capital had ten storehouses, where most of the cloth, money, and grain of the Daling Dynasty were stored.

Among these ten storehouses, three held gold and silver treasures: the Inner Treasury for the imperial palace’s financial needs, the Household Department’s Treasury, and the National Treasury of the Ministry of Revenue.

The National Treasury was the financial heart of the Daling Dynasty, handling all major expenditures. All the wealth and treasures contributed as tributes to the imperial court were also stored here. It was of utmost importance, guarded strictly by appointed officials and regularly audited to ensure its integrity.

Cao Changsheng had emptied the National Treasury of the Ministry of Revenue.

His position in the Ministry allowed him to orchestrate the emptying of the National Treasury, which inevitably involved collusion at various levels. Nevertheless, the fact remained: the treasury had been emptied.

At this moment, the Emperor, accompanied by senior ministers from the Ministry of Revenue, prepared to secretly open the National Treasury. He wanted to see if Cao Changsheng was audacious enough to tamper with the foundation of the Daling Dynasty.

The Emperor had not disclosed the emptying of the treasury. He simply stated his desire to see if the amount of silver had increased during his three-year reign.

When the late Emperor passed away, he left seven million taels of silver. The National Treasury was not depleted, but it was not particularly abundant either.

The National Treasury was underground, resembling a secret chamber, secured with multiple locks.

Seeing those locks, the Emperor did not want to believe that there had been any issue with the treasury. After all, if the foundation was undermined, he couldn’t escape responsibility.

As each door was opened, the Emperor entered the innermost chamber where the silver was stored.

Here, large boxes were stacked neatly, giving the appearance of being undisturbed. However, a closer inspection revealed the problem.

The dust on the boxes, which should have been thick due to the long-term sealing of the storehouse, was sparse. Moreover, there were distinct traces of them being moved..

Chapter 415: Ending It All

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

The Emperor silently observed everything, feeling annoyed and frustrated. He took a deep breath and tried to appear calm, “Open all the boxes for me.”

The officials from the Ministry of Revenue didn’t dare delay and immediately started opening the boxes.

Inside the boxes, each silver ingot weighed fifty taels, neatly arranged. Under the light, they reflected a bright silver sheen, somewhat dazzling to the eyes. The Emperor handed one to the Minister of Revenue, “Try to see if it’s real or fake.”

The Minister bit the ingot and after examining it, declared, “Your Majesty, it’s real.”

The Emperor felt slightly relieved and ordered, “Bring out the box in the farthest corner and check it. The rest of you, don’t just stand there; start counting the silver in the treasury overnight. If there’s any shortage, you’ll make up for it.”

The officials of the Ministry of Revenue didn’t understand what the Emperor was up to, but the only thing they could do was follow his orders. Soon, everyone busily started counting the silver.

Li Fei brought over a stool, “Your Majesty, please sit.”

The Emperor sat down and personally supervised the process.

Li Fei served the Emperor a cup of tea and then retreated, guarding the main door to ensure no one could enter.

At the Black Market

The Black Market was brightly lit, with figures like “ghosts” walking along the streets, as bustling as ever.

Chu Qingzhi and Tang Jinghong, like ghosts themselves, entered the Black Market. After arriving, they looked around, searching for the iconic ten large boxes.

Fortunately, they quickly located them in a corner, waiting to be collected.

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The two found a corner and secretly monitored the situation.

After about half an hour, a group of people arrived. After a short talk, the group picked up the boxes and left.

Chu Qingzhi asked, “Jinghong, will your men follow them?”

Tang Jinghong nodded, “They’re on it.”

With no worries left behind, Chu Qingzhi said, “Let’s go and find ‘Yuan’.”

Chu Qingzhi performed a hand gesture, transforming Tang Jinghong into “Nine” and herself into “Western Envoy”. Though they were wearing cloaks, it was better to be cautious.

Chu Qingzhi emerged from the corner and headed straight for the second floor of the gambling den, where the group carrying the boxes had come out.

However, to their surprise, the second floor of the gambling den was empty!

Chu Qingzhi immediately reflected on where they might have made a mistake and suddenly remembered something.

The Western Envoy, after being sent out to give orders, would definitely need to report back, but she had neglected this until now.

“Damn, the other party must have realized something,” Chu Qingzhi thought and hurriedly said to Tang Jinghong, “Follow me, I’ll explain on the way.”

Chu Qingzhi’s speculation was correct. Master Yuan and the four special envoys had a two-way communication, and they had a secret base right in the bustling Joy House.

At this time, in an inconspicuous room of Joy House, a middle-aged man sat beside a table, with three envoys standing beside him, creating a tense atmosphere.

The Eastern Envoy asked, “Master, has something happened to the Western Envoy?”

They had never encountered any trouble before, which made Master Yuan uncertain. “Let’s wait a bit longer. If he doesn’t return by midnight, we’ll temporarily halt our plan, and everyone should lie low for now.”

It’s always best to be cautious, especially at this critical moment. Any mistake could be disastrous.

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The other two envoys listened silently, without any comments.

After a while, footsteps were heard, and the four in the room became alert.

A knock on the door followed, then the Western Envoy’s voice, “Master.”

After confirming that it was Western Envoy’s voice, everyone relaxed.

The middle-aged man said, “Come in.”

The Western Envoy entered the room, discreetly glancing around. Noticing everyone’s faces were covered, she thought, “They’re cautious, but it’s good that they’re all here. I can end this in one fell swoop.”

Chu Qingzhi closed the door and turned around with a bell in hand, shaking it vigorously.

The bell’s sound, like ripples of white light, spread out, and the four people in the room lost their consciousness, standing motionless.

Chu Qingzhi shook the bell again to solidify their state and then opened the door for Tang Jinghong to enter.

Tang Jinghong, seeing the situation inside, couldn’t help but feel elated. Having control over them meant they almost had the entire ‘Yun’ force in their hands, “Qingzhi, you’ve achieved a great feat again!”

Chu Qingzhi was indifferent to the credit, her only desire was to assist Tang Jinghong, “Jinghong, let’s get to work.”

Having still four days left, it seemed feasible to uproot this force entirely.

Tang Jinghong said, “Okay.” n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

After interrogating, Chu Qingzhi and Tang Jinghong learned that Master Yun had a list of his subordinates, which was right here. With “Yuan” guiding them, it was easy to find everyone on the list.

The list contained ten names, each being Master Yun’s direct subordinate.

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Their codenames, real names, identities, and addresses were all clearly listed.

Chu Qingzhi gave the list to Tang Jinghong, ‘Catch these people according to this list, do it secretly. After capturing them, interrogate them to find out their subordinates. Arrest them layer by layer. If you need help, just tell me. We aim to finish this within four days. Oh, and make sure to take over all the opium and destroy it…'”

Tang Jinghong agreed to each point, “I’ll do as you said.”

Chu Qingzhi said, “Now there’s only one problem.” She paused, “Who is passing messages to ‘Yuan’?”

‘Yuan’ definitely listens to Master Yun, so who is Master Yun sending to relay messages?

If they could identify this person, they might be able to trace the roots back to the eastern border.

The root of this issue was in the eastern border. Even if the entire force here in the capital was eradicated, they could easily make a comeback. This was the real headache.

Chu Qingzhi thought for a while but gave up, deciding not to think too far ahead. It was better to get through the current crisis first.

At the Treasury.

Suddenly, the Emperor felt a severe headache, his body itching like ant bites. He quickly broke into a cold sweat. A thought emerged in his mind: he wanted to inhale the fragrant incense.

The minister beside him was startled to see the emperor in distress and exclaimed, ‘Your Majesty, Your Majesty, what’s wrong?”

The Emperor knew he was affected by opium, as Tang Jinghong had already informed him, “Li Fei, Li Fei…”

Li Fei hurried over, “Your Majesty, what’s wrong?”

The Emperor struggled to stand, feeling dizzy and nauseous. He was in great discomfort, “Back to the palace.”

Seeing the Emperor’s condition, Li Fei didn’t dare to delay. He carried the Emperor, who could hardly walk, back to the palace.

After returning, Li Fei immediately called for Yuan Hongjun.

Yuan Hongjun was secretly investigating the incense issue in the palace. Hearing the Emperor’s discomfort, he rushed to the Emperor’s bedroom.

After taking the Emperor’s pulse, he realized it was indeed an addiction. He had only heard about it from his master and had never treated such a condition before. What should he do now?

The Emperor, curled up in pain, soaked his clothes and hair in sweat, pleaded painfully, “Quickly light the incense for me.”

Li Fei, unaware that the incense was addictive, was about to light it.

Yuan Hongjun urgently stopped him, “You can’t light it, or it will definitely worsen His Majesty’s condition!”

Chapter 416: Drug Addiction

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Li Fei looked worriedly at the Emperor and asked Yuan Hongjun, the young divine doctor, “Is there a problem with the incense? Why can’t it be lit?”

Yuan Hongjun pulled Li Fei aside and whispered to him about the issue with the incense.

Li Fei, who had been taking care of the Emperor for twenty-one years, was a trusted figure. Upon hearing the news, Li Fei’s face turned pale with anger, “Who would dare to do such a thing?!”

Realizing there was something more urgent, he quickly added, “Young divine doctor, if the incense can’t be lit, think of a way to alleviate His Majesty’s suffering.”

Usually, when the Emperor handled state affairs, Li Fei would wait outside the Imperial Study. Otherwise, he himself would’ve been poisoned as well.

Yuan Hongjun said in difficulty, “Only my master can solve this.”

Li Fei was astonished, wondering when the famous young divine doctor of the Daling Dynasty had taken a master.

He urged, “Please invite your master to the palace immediately. His Majesty can’t wait.”

“Don’t worry, I will invite her right away.” Yuan Hongjun took out a whistle from his sleeve, walked under the eaves, and blew it. Soon, an eagle circled down from the sky.

Li Fei watched in amazement.

Yuan Hongjun extended his arm to catch the eagle, went inside to write a note, and tied it to the eagle’s leg, “Little eagle, please take this note to my master.” The eagle seemed a bit annoyed at Yuan Hongjun but then spread its wings and flew away.

Li Fei, watching the eagle disappear into the night sky, thought to himself, “Who is this master that can use an eagle to send messages? This is incredible!”

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Yuan Hongjun reassured Li Fei. “My master will come soon.”

Li Fei looked up at the sky, his curiosity about the young divine doctor’s master growing.

Tang Jinghong immediately arranged for a secret investigation upon receiving the list, while Chu Qingzhi, having some free time, went to the inn.

Ge Lihua had gone to Fengxin County to send the young girl home and had not yet returned.

Chu Xujin was having a late-night snack with others, taking the opportunity to enjoy some of the capital’s special cuisine.

At this moment, the lobby of the inn was very lively.

Chu Qingzhi, always dazzling, caught everyone’s attention as she entered the inn.

Chu Xujin quickly put down his chopsticks and approached Chu Qingzhi, asking with concern, “Fifth sister, arc you hungry? There’s still a lot of food left, why don’t you have some?”

Chu Qingzhi, expecting him to ask about the Yun faction, was surprised he was concerned about whether she was hungry. “Sure, I’m actually quite hungry.”

“Come, have a seat,” Chu Xujin said, leading Chu Qingzhi back to the table and serving her various snacks.

Chu Qingzhi began to taste each dish: golden ginger shredded pork, honey fried dough twists that looked like ears, ring-shaped fried dough, and a seemingly plain but delicious noodle.

Chu Xujin saw that Chu Qingzhi had eaten some before asking about serious matters. “Fifth Sister, how is it?”

Chu Qingzhi smiled and said, “There’s no big problem.”

Chu Xujin heaved a sigh of relief. “That’s good, that’s good.”

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Chu Qingzhi packed some snacks for Tang Jinghong after tasting each dish, “Third brother, be careful when going out in the capital these days.”

“Don’t worry, fifth sister, we’ll be careful,” Chu Xujin replied, aware of his limits and not wanting to cause trouble.

Chu Qingzhi noticed someone was missing, “Where’s Lihua, third brother?”

Chu Xujin’s eyes showed worry and longing, “She went to send Miss Lin back to Fengxin County.”

Chu Qingzhi was surprised, “That young girl is from Fengxin County?” n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Chu Xujin nodded, “Yes, she said she is the daughter of the second branch of the Lin family.”

“The second branch of the Lin family. What a coincidence.” Chu Qingzhi was not very curious. Now that the matter had been properly resolved, she did not continue on this topic. “Third Brother, why didn’t you go with them?”

Third Brother could not wait to follow Lihua wherever she went. It was strange that he didn’t follow this time. Could it be that they had a quarrel?

Chu Xujin admitted, “I wanted to, but Lihua asked me to stay here in case you needed help.”

So that was the case. Chu Qingzhi smiled. “Third Brother, I promise that we’ll go back to the Chu Village in four days.”

Chu Xujin was pleasantly surprised. “We can go back in four days? That’s great!”

Chu Qingzhi said helplessly, “In order to not let Brother postpone the wedding, we have to return in time no matter what.”

Chu Xujin smiled. “That’s right. We can’t let them wait for us.”

Chu Qingzhi nodded, “Third brother, if you’re bored, you can buy some gifts for our parents. Yuting is also in the capital. You can pay him a visit.”

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Chu Xujin felt happy. Fifth Sister was already so busy, but she was still concerned about him. “Fifth Sister, I understand.”

Chu Qingzhi changed the topic. “The people who came with us can return to the

Chu Village. Third Brother, make arrangements tomorrow.”

Chu Xujin responded seriously, “Don’t worry, fifth sister, I’ll take care of it.”

“Okay,” Chu Qingzhi finished her late-night snack and put down her chopsticks, “I have to go now, third brother. There’s still some work to do.”

Chu Xujin stood up, “Let me see you out.”

After leaving the inn, Chu Qingzhi planned to find Bao Linjiang.

She had already given the name list of people who would be poisoned to Bao Linjiang, and now Yuan Hongjun was in charge of investigating the poisonous incense in the palace, while Bao Linjiang was responsible for checking the ministers’ homes to find if there was the poisonous incense.

Just as she stepped onto the street, she saw the eagle flying towards her.

She extended her arm to catch it.

The eagle lowered its head and pecked at the letter, picking it up for Chu Qingzhi. It seemed to be very intelligent

Chu Qingzhi smiled and stroked the eagle’s head, then took the letter to read it. ‘So fast, he’s already addicted.'”

With a wave of the letter, it turned into ashes. Chu Qingzhi informed Tang Jinghong and rushed to the palace.

Li Fei, worried about the Emperor, waited at the palace gate with Yuan Hongjun for his master. When he saw a beautiful young girl approaching, he immediately instructed the palace guards to stop Chu Qingzhi, “This is the palace. Commoner, step back.”

Yuan Hongjun turned to Li Fei with an awkward smile, “She is my master.”

Li Fei was visibly shocked. In his mind, Yuan Hongjun’s master should be a white-robed, celestial figure. How could this young girl, similar in age to Yuan Hongjun, be a master?

Chu Qingzhi ignored Li Fei and walked straight to Yuan Hongjun, “Let’s go.”

Yuan Hongjun respectfully said, “Please, master,” and they headed towards the palace.

Li Fei followed, still unable to accept that the young divine doctor’s master was a young girl.

However, he remained silent and observed quietly. He thought, “The young divine doctor is no fool; he wouldn’t randomly take a young girl as a master. This girl must have extraordinary abilities. Let’s wait and see..”

Chapter 417: A Pearl

Translator: Henyee Translations

Editor: Henyee Translations

He didn’t realize that the girl before him was the extraordinary woman he had always wanted to meet.

When the Emperor bestowed the title of a baroness upon Chu Qingzhi, he was also present. In the Daling Dynasty, women’s status was not particularly high, yet some industries saw the presence of outstanding women. However, Chu Qingzhi was the first woman to be granted the status of a baroness. Since then, Eunuch Li Fei had developed a strong interest in her, longing to meet this unprecedented woman.

Now that he had met her, he didn’t recognize her.

In the imperial bedroom, the Emperor started to convulse slightly, and his headache intensified. If not for the painkiller, he might have screamed out in pain.

Upon entering the bedroom, Chu Qingzhi approached the dragon bed, took the Emperor’s pulse, and infused a few wisps of spiritual energy into his body. The Emperor’s addiction wasn’t severe, and a few wisps of spiritual energy were enough to detoxify him.

Detoxification could also be achieved through medication, but it would be slower, and the Emperor needed to handle state affairs. Any delay might affect Tang Jinghong’s secret mission.

Under the influence of spiritual energy, the Emperor slowly recovered, showing no signs of just being poisoned.

Sitting up, the Emperor looked at his disheveled appearance and clenched his teeth in secret anger. He vowed to execute the mastermind behind this by lingchi (death by a thousand cuts)!

Chu Qingzhi went to write a prescription, and Yuan Hongjun approached to ask, “Your Majesty, are you alright now?”

“I’m fine,” the Emperor replied, taking a handkerchief from Li Fei to wipe his sweat. His emotions didn’t show, “Hongjun, you cured me. What reward would you like?”

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Yuan Hongjun stepped aside, pointing to Chu Qingzhi, who was writing the prescription, “Your Majesty, it was my master who cured you.”

“Your master?” The Emperor turned in surprise to see the young girl in a light green dress, her hair neatly tied up with a silver hairpin, her beauty radiant like a shining pearl.

“She’s your master?” Even the Emperor, who had seen many beauties, was taken aback by Chu Qingzhi’s appearance.

“Yes,” Yuan Hongjun replied, noticing the Emperor’s stare. He quickly whispered, “She’s also Brother Tang’s fiancee.”

The Emperor was stunned. What luck did Tang Jinghong have to find such a pearl?

Chu Qingzhi handed the prescription to Li Fei, “Eunuch, administer to His Majesty this twice a day…”

Li Fei received the prescription with both hands. “Thank you, Miss.”

After bowing, he arranged for two eunuchs to serve the Emperor and personally went to the Imperial Hospital to prepare the medicine.

Chu Qingzhi approached the Emperor, “There must be others in the palace suffering from the same addiction. To prevent panic, Your Majesty should immediately arrange for their treatment.”

In her eyes, the Emperor was no different from any other person.

The Emperor scrutinized Chu Qingzhi closely. Her exceptional beauty was one thing, but more importantly, it was her innate composure and the absence of pretense that impressed him. She seemed better at concealing her emotions than him, and she was still young. People who could control their emotions at such a level were usually extraordinary individuals.

Tang Jinghong’s choice in women was indeed exceptional, and she was unlike any ordinary woman.

Realizing this, the Emperor understood why Tang Jinghong rejected the princess. Even a princess couldn’t compare to her.

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“Thank you for your treatment, Miss.”

“No need to be polite,” Chu Qingzhi replied, then turned to Yuan Hongjun, “I’ve written two copies of the prescription. You handle the rest.”

Yuan Hongjun nodded solemnly, “Rest assured, master. I’ll take care of everything.” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

“If there’s any issue, send me a message. I’m leaving now.” After delegating the task, Chu Qingzhi prepared to leave the palace.

The Emperor watched Chu Qingzhi as she left and couldn’t help but feel puzzled. He wondered how this young lady could converse with him so casually.

Just then, the Empress rushed into the bedroom, anxiously holding the little crown prince, “Your Majesty, look at our son. What’s wrong with him?”

As Chu Qingzhi was stepping out of the bedroom, the Empress, running fast, nearly collided with her. However, Chu Qingzhi reacted quickly and dodged.

However, the empress was still startled. She hugged the crown prince and fell forward. “Ah—”

This scene left the guards stationed at the palace gate and Li Fei breathless, with their hearts in their throats

Chu Qingzhi quickly went forward to support the empress and the crown prince.

The Empress’s face turned pale. After she stabilized herself, it took her a while to react.

Chu Qingzhi didn’t wait for her to react and immediately picked up the crown prince in her arms

The crown prince had also inhaled the incense and was currently experiencing withdrawal symptoms. He was covered in cold sweat, convulsing all over, and his complexion was pale, resembling someone suffering from a severe medical emergency

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The Empress did not like incense, so she escaped.

Chu Qingzhi placed the crown prince on the dragon couch, checked his pulse, and discreetly infused him with a few wisps of spiritual energy, relieving the crown prince’s withdrawal symptoms.

The crown prince was only three years old, a tiny and chubby toddler, looking adorable and dignified from head to toe.

This was a child born into an extremely noble family, different from others from the moment of birth, living a life of great privilege.

Chu Qingzhi did not want to see such a cute little guy suffer.

After the poison was removed, the crown prince woke up. He opened his big watery eyes and raised his small hand to pat his head. “It doesn’t hurt anymore.”

Shortly after, he noticed Chu Qingzhi, a big sister he had never seen before. Why was she in the palace? Did she save him?

Seeing that the little crown prince was really cute, Chu Qingzhi couldn’t help but pat his little head. “It’s fine.”

The crown prince looked very puzzled, his eyes fixed on Chu Qingzhi. His head was one of the most noble heads in the world, second only to his father’s. How dare she touch his head? This left the little prince quite perplexed. ‘Who are you?

Chu Qingzhi pinched the crown prince’s face again and smiled. “I saved you just now. Shouldn’t you call me sister?”

When Li Fei and the other palace servants saw this scene, they held their breaths. This was the little crown prince, not a child of an ordinary family. She was touching his head and pinching his face. She even asked him to call her sister. Hiss, she was too bold!

“The emperor and empress also watched with curiosity. Their son was not one to easily get close to people, but at this moment, he seemed uncharacteristically unbothered

The crown prince looked at Chu Qingzhi and rolled his big watery eyes. “Big Sister, thank you for saving me.”

“Good boy…” Chu Qingzhi smiled and stroked the crown prince’s head. “Drink the medicine obediently. I’m leaving first.”

The crown prince grabbed Chu Qingzhi’s sleeve. “Why don’t you stay in the palace?”

Everyone was surprised.

Chu Qingzhi turned around and looked at the little crown prince. She smiled and asked, “Why did you let me stay?”

The crown prince said. “Because, because I want you to stay..”

Chapter 418: Si Family Story

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Qingzhi gently advised, “I can’t stay, you be good, drink your medicine properly, okay?”

The young crown prince clutched Chu Qingzhi’s clothes tightly, asking with hope, “Then can you come to see me again?”

Chu Qingzhi found the young crown prince clingy but cute, “I am a doctor, and

I usually don’t see people easily. Seeing someone means they are ill.”

The emperor felt a twinge of jealousy as his son was not even this affectionate with him, “My son, let Sister go for now. She has other matters to attend to. When she has free time, she will come to see you.”

The young crown prince looked at the emperor and then at Chu Qingzhi, his dark eyes filled with hesitation, “Sister, will you come to see me again?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “If I don’t come, you can come to see me.”

This statement dawned on the young crown prince, and he slowly let go of her hand, his face lit up with joy, “Deal then.”

“Alright.” Chu Qingzhi smiled faintly, patting the young crown prince’s head, thinking to herself how well-behaved he was.

To Chu Qingzhi’s surprise, none of the ministers’ households seemed to be suffering from withdrawal symptoms because their houses were infused with the aroma of the incense at all times.

In the homes of these high-ranking officials, using scented incense like this was such a small matter that it didn’t arouse anyone’s suspicion.

Chu Qingzhi wondered whether, upon learning that they had also become addicted, they would still wholeheartedly support the organization in its nefarious deeds.

As she moved stealthily on the rooftops, she arrived at the residence of Prime Minister where Bao Linjiang was investigating.

Bao Linjiang was currently inspecting the storehouse. When he saw Chu Qingzhi approach, he was overjoyed, “Master.”

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“Shh!” Chu Qingzhi whispered, “How is the investigation going?”

Bao Linjiang furrowed his brow, “There are too many items in the storehouse. I’m still searching. I found one box of incense earlier, but it didn’t contain any opium.”

Chu Qingzhi asked, “Did you check all the incense in the box, or just a few of them?”

Bao Linjiang replied, “I checked all of them.” He handed the box to Chu Qingzhi.

The box was a finely crafted brown wooden box. Chu Qingzhi opened it and examined the incense blocks inside; there were three layers in total.

Why were there only three layers?

Chu Qingzhi gestured the height of the box with her hand; it was at least three inches high, and it could contain way more than three layers of incense blocks.

She carefully examined the box and, during that, she pressed a slightly darker square on the box’s lid, and a hidden compartment silently popped out at the bottom.

Seeing this, Chu Qingzhi once again confirmed that “Yun” had assistance from someone skilled in mechanisms.

Bao Linjiang asked in amazement, “Master, how did you know there was a mechanism?”

He vaguely felt that something was wrong with the box, but after looking at it and not finding anything, he ignored it.

Chu Qingzhi replied, “Just a lucky guess.” She took out an incense block from the hidden compartment, put it in the water, and the water turned purple.

Chu Qingzhi said, “Linjiang, look for more boxes like this.”

Bao Linjiang agreed, “Yes.”

The two of them searched the storeroom together. With a target in mind, the search seemed much easier, and they eventually found ten similar boxes hidden in various corners of the storeroom, totaling about five kilos of scented incense.

Bao Linjiang asked, “Master, should we take away all the incense?”

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“No, put them back first.” Jinghong was secretly arresting people. If they took the things away now, wouldn’t they be scaring these people off? The people of this force had done many evil things. She couldn’t let any of them go.

Bao Linjiang obediently left the incense untouched, “Master, where do we go next?”

Chu Qingzhi said, “To the mansion of the Grand Tutor.”

On Tang Jinghong’s side, all nine of Master Yuan’s henchmen had been secretly apprehended and thrown into the dungeon.

These men appeared calm on the surface, but they were secretly panicking.

They wracked their brains but couldn’t figure out they had exposed their identities.

How could they know that it was all because Master Yuan had been caught?

“We didn’t commit any crimes and violated the law. What right do you have to arrest us?” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

“That’s right. Is it a crime to sleep now?”

“Is this how the government abuses its power these days? They can just arrest anyone they want?”

The jailers who threw them into the cell were bewildered but decided to remain silent since they knew Tang Jinghong wouldn’t arrest them without reason.

Tang Jinghong, accompanied by Ren Buqing and a group of skilled interrogators, entered the cell. “Tell me the whereabouts of the list, and after the mission is accomplished, there will be rewards for everyone.”

In unison, the group replied, “Yes, General Tang.”

The nine interrogators started interrogating, and it didn’t take long to get results.

Chu Qingzhi also sent the list of “Nine’s” subordinates over. After Tang Jinghong saw it, he immediately sent his trusted aides to arrest them.

Tang Jinghong arrived at the cell where Master Yuan was imprisoned.

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Master Yuan revealed his true face. No one expected him to be the brothel madam in the capital.

Yes, all along, the madams of high-end brothels had been men disguised as women. It was an ingenious tactic, and no one had suspected it.

Unfortunately, their clever strategy had met its match in Chu Qingzhi.

Tang Jinghong got straight to the point, “I just want to ask you one question: Why did you assist the nefarious activities of ‘Yun’?”

The critical questions had already been asked by Chu Qingzhi, so there was no need to repeat it.

Master Yuan looked up at Tang Jinghong but didn’t respond to his question, “Defeated by you, I have nothing to say. I just didn’t expect to be defeated so quickly.”

Tang Jinghong said, “It’s been more than a year. I don’t consider that quick enough.”

Master Yuan smiled, filled with a sense of resignation. After a while, he calmed down and began to recollect his thoughts.

His true name was Si Shijiang, the head butler of the Si family, yes, the butler of the Si family.

Back then, the Si family had been brutally purged by the imperial court, and only a newborn baby had been left behind.

At that time, he was seriously injured and didn’t know when he would wake up, but the moment he woke up, he heard the baby crying. He hurriedly escaped with the baby to the eastern border.

The eastern border was vast and sparsely populated. It was the easiest to hide people.

He arrived at a village and told a lie to settle down there.

After settling down in the village, he made a living by growing medicinal herbs. This peaceful life had continued for ten years.

One day, he fell ill, so he asked Young Si to deliver the medicinal herbs to the medical halls.

It was a place they frequently visited, and the county had always been peaceful, so he thought nothing would go wrong. However, trouble did find them.

Young Si encountered a group of thugs in the county who wanted to rob him.

Young Si couldn’t possibly hand over the money to them, so the thugs beat him and stole the money. When Young Si returned home, he was bruised and battered, crying in Si Shijiang’s arms.

Si Sijiang and Young Si relied on each other. All these years, he had long treated Young Si as his biological grandson. At that moment, he wanted to kill the thugs to avenge Young Si. Of course, he did that.

When he recovered, he came to the county at night and killed all the thugs who had bullied Young Si.

Unexpectedly, a few days later, a person came to his house in the middle of the night and asked him to join “Yun”..

Chapter 419: Despair

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

After the other party explained what “Yun” was all about, he almost didn’t hesitate to join.

The imperial court had killed the entire Si family, including his own family. With such a deep-seated grudge, how could he not seek revenge?

Once he joined “Yun,” he dedicated himself entirely to planning for his master. During that time, “Yun” had grown significantly, and he successfully secured an opportunity to carry out a mission in the capital city.

The plan to expand the “Yun” faction to the capital city was, in fact, his idea. Initially, Master Yun only wanted to tighten his grip on his own territory, but ambitious men couldn’t resist the temptation of power. Eventually, Master Yun wavered.

Over the course of a year or so, their power had been developing smoothly, and no one even knew about the existence of such a clandestine force in the capital city.

However, just as they entered a critical phase, a traitor emerged, leading to a confrontation with Chu Qingzhi, causing their entire plan to crumble.

Upon hearing this, Tang Jinghong felt complex. He felt sympathy, regret, and helplessness. If it were him, he might have done the same for the sake of seeking revenge and justice.

But now, his attention was drawn to Master Yun’s identity. “You were the butler of the Si family. Do you know the young masters of the Si family?”

“I do. I watched every one of them grow up, and I even held them in my arms when they were just born. I’m quite familiar with them,” Si Shijiang replied with a hint of curiosity, finding the question odd.

“Do you know Si Yingzong?” While speaking, Tang Jinghong observed Si Shijiang’s reaction closely.

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Si Shijiang was momentarily stunned, then excitedly asked, “You know Young Master Yingzong?”

Tang Jinghong continued, “He, like you, was planning for revenge. When we were in the Northern Border, I recruited him as one of my subordinates. He’s now helping me develop crossbows and arrows in Shuiyun County.”

Si Shijiang was overjoyed. “Young Master Yingzong is alive! This is great!…”

Tang Jinghong added, “Do you want to see him? He asked me to find his nephew for him. The Young Si you mentioned should be his nephew, right?”

Si Shijiang’s eyes lit up. “Can I see him?” He knelt down. “General Tang, please arrange for us to meet. I’ll tell you Young Si’s whereabouts immediately.” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

“I’ll arrange for you to meet him tomorrow.” Tang Jinghong instructed his men to go to the military camp and bring Yingzong to the capital.

“Thank you, General Tang.” Si Shijiang knelt on the ground, tears streaming down his face. He couldn’t believe that he’d have a chance to see Young Master Yingzong before he died. Heaven had been kind to him!

Fengxin County ? Lin Family.

Sounds came from the study…

Second Madam Lin spoke with a mixture of helplessness and regret, “Second Master, Wanning has been abducted, and her innocence is probably lost. It’s better to hurry and marry her off. What’s the use of dragging this out?”

Second Madam Lin was the second wife and also Lin Wanning’s biological mother’s cousin. Lin Wanning had been raised by her since she was young.

After Second Master Lin heard this, he nodded. “Indeed, the entire Fengxin County knows about this incident now. To preserve the family’s reputation, we should marry her off early. What if she becomes pregnant…”

Second Madam Lin, sensing that Second Lord Lin had thought further ahead than her, smiled secretly. “Second Master, speaking of marriages, there is a good family in the county.”

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Second Master Lin asked, “Which family?”

Second Madam Lin laughed lightly. “The Bai family on the east side of the city. The Bai family has two sons. The elder son may be a bit slow, but the younger son is excellent. He has already passed the county examination and is currently preparing for the next level. I have a close relationship with Madam Bai, and she is currently looking for brides for her sons.”

The Bai family was wealthier than the Lin family, and this was just one of their branches. The main branch was in the capital, and they had family members serving in the imperial court.

Second Master Lin was very tempted. “Are you serious?”

Second Madam Lin confidently said, “Absolutely. Madam Bai has clearly expressed her desire to have Wanning marry her elder son and Wanqing marry her younger son.”

Second Master Lin was very excited. “In that case, you should go and inquire more tomorrow. If it’s feasible, we should make arrangements immediately.”

Second Madam Lin suppressed a smile. “Yes, Master.”

Little did they know that their conversation had been overheard by Wanning, who was incensed and humiliated. How could her parents treat her like this? She was innocent!

Unable to bear the indignity and disgrace, she pushed open the door heavily, her voice trembling as she cried out, “I am innocent, Father! How can you marry me off like this? I’m innocent!”

Second Master Lin frowned. “This matter is not up to you to decide. It just so happens that you’re almost 15 years old. It’s time to discuss marriage.”

Lin Wanning’s tears fell in large drops, splashing onto the ground and shattering into tiny water droplets. She pleaded, “Father, I’m your own daughter. How could you marry me off to a fool?”

In the county, who didn’t know that Eldest Young Master Bai was a simpleton?

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Second Master Lin rebuked, “Although Eldest Young Master Bai is a simpleton, he is more than suitable for you, Wanning. You should be content.”

Wanning weakly defended herself, “Father, I truly am innocent. If you don’t believe me, you can invite a midwife to verify. Please don’t marry me off to a simpleton.”

“Invite a midwife to verify?” Second Master Lin was furious. “Do you want to bring disgrace to the family? By doing that, how will your sisters ever find suitable husbands?”

Lin Wanning knelt down, using all her strength to plead, “Father, I implore you to believe me. I’ve not done anything to disgrace the Lin family. I haven’t lost my innocence.”

Seeing Lin Wanning like this, Second Master Lin wavered. If Wanning was truly innocent, then marrying her to a simpleton would indeed be unfair.

At this moment, Second Madam Lin spoke, “Wanning, enough of that. Even if you want to marry Eldest Young Master Bai, he might not be willing, given your current reputation.”

Her words were a subtle reminder to Second Master Lin that Wanning’s innocence was no longer important, and the key issue was her damaged reputation. Marrying into a good family was now unlikely.

Second Master Lin finally realized it and softened his tone. “Wanning, listen to your mother. Go back.”

“Father…”

“Go back!”

Lin Wanning grabbed her sleeve tightly. After a while, she slowly let go of her fingers. Her heart was desolate. Even her own father did not believe her. Hehe, what was the point of living?

She stood up and left the study like a walking corpse.

Lin Wanning returned to her room and sat in front of the dressing table in a daze.

She sat there for two hours, her eyes slowly dead. She put on beautiful makeup, put on her favorite bun, and changed into a brand new white dress. She took out three feet of white silk from the wardrobe and left through the back door.

She walked aimlessly until she came to a forest. She chose a tall tree and hung it with white silk.

“Mother, I’m coming to accompany you.”

Tears streamed down her face as the moonlight cast a cold and desolate glow upon her. She resolutely kicked away the stone beneath her feet.

The suffocating feeling was painful, like drowning, but she accepted her death calmly, with almost no struggle..

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Chapter 420: Needle in a haystack

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

As Lin Wanning closed her tear-blurred eyes, a sword flew past, cutting through the white silk rope.

Lin Wanning fell to the ground, rolling several times before stopping, coughing violently.

A young man in black leapt down from a tree, landing beside Lin Wanning. He crouched down and helped her up, “Miss…”

Lin Wanning rubbed her neck, still coughing.

The young man in black… Si Yuheng took out his water flask, opened it, and offered it to Lin Wanning, “Would you like some water?”

Feeling uncomfortable, Lin Wanning didn’t hesitate, taking the flask and drinking a few sips, “Cough, thank you.” She returned the flask to Si Yuheng.

Si Yuheng looked at Lin Wanning, perplexed, “Why are you seeking death in the middle of the night here?”

Lin Wanning regained her composure, “And why are you here?”

Si Yuheng pointed to the tree, a bit embarrassed, “I was resting in the tree. No choice, I can’t afford to stay in an inn.”

Lin Wanning glanced at the tree, then at the severed silk, “Tied together, it might still be usable.”

She got up and walked towards the silk.

Si Yuheng followed, advising, “You’re so young, why throw away your life so easily? Aren’t you afraid of hurting your family?”

“Family?” Lin Wanning retorted sarcastically, “What family? Those who don’t protect you, but instead stab you in the back…?”

Si Yuheng guessed to himself that this girl’s loathing for her family probably drove her to suicide. Better not to uncover old wounds.

“Why seek death? You could just walk away from your family if they are not important to you.”

Lin Wanning paused as if something had dawned on her. There were indeed other solutions than death – escape for instance, but she had concerns, “But as a woman alone, if I encounter human traffickers, it might be worse than death.”

Si Yuheng confidently patted his chest, “With me here, if any trafficker dares touch you, I’ll make sure they regret it.”

“You will protect me?” Lin Wanning said, thinking to herself, this young man has saved me, and his words and actions are very well-behaved. Why not choose to believe him and fight for her life? She looked at Bai Ling again. It was indeed a loss to die like this.

Si Yuheng earnestly said, “Of course, I’ll protect you if I take you away.”

Lin Wanning was tempted, pondering. If she were to run away, she’d need money. “Wait for me, I’ll go home and pack some things, then I’ll come with you.”

Si Yuheng looked around, “Where’s your home? Shall I use my Qing Gong to take you there?”

Lin Wanning led Si Yuheng out of the woods, pointing in the direction of the Lin family, “Over there.”

Si Yuheng wrapped his arm around Lin Wanning’s waist and flew over.

Lin Wanning, frightened, reflexively hugged Si Yuheng, pressing close to his chest with her eyes shut tightly and teeth clenched…

She’s funny, Si Yuheng thought. Not afraid of hanging herself in the wilderness at night, but scared of flying like this.

They landed at the back door of the Lin family house.

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Lin Wanning, feet on solid ground, slowly released Si Yuheng, embarrassed as she said, “Wait for me, I’ll be right out.”

Si Yuheng said, “No rush, take your time.”

Lin Wanning glanced at Si Yuheng, tiptoed through the door into the Lin house.

At this time, everyone was in deep sleep. Lin Wanning smoothly returned to her room, gathered her jewelry and valuables, then sneaked into her father’s study and took all his banknotes.

Since her father didn’t care whether she lived or died, she felt no obligation to be a dutiful daughter anymore.

Quickly scavenging the banknotes, she left the study.

Unexpectedly, someone was standing at the door. Lin Wanning was so startled she almost died of fright on the spot.

Ge Lihua quickly covered her mouth and pulled her into the shadows.

As a martial artist, Ge Lihua’s senses were sharp and alert, especially in someone else’s house. Restless and unable to sleep, she heard stealthy footsteps and followed them here.

To her surprise, it was Lin Wanning.

Seeing it was Ge Lihua, Lin Wanning relaxed, “Sister.”

Ge Lihua whispered, “Why are you up in the middle of the night?”

It was hard to explain. Lin Wanning’s expression darkened. “Sister, let’s leave here first. I’ll tell you the reason after we leave, okay?”

In theory, she had fulfilled her task by delivering the person back to the Lin family. However, after spending two days together, she couldn’t help but feel sorry for Lin Wanning and wanted to protect her.

Ge Lihua pulled her and flew out of the Lin house with her Qing Gong. They arrived at an alley. “Can you tell me now?”

Lin Wanning did not hide anything and told her everything, even about the young man.

In her heart, Ge Lihua was a friend and was worth trusting wholeheartedly.

Ge Lihua patted Lin Wanning’s head sympathetically. She was really a girl with an ill fate. “Since your family can’t tolerate you, let’s go somewhere else.”

Lin Wanning hugged Ge Lihua. “Sister, thank you for not objecting.”

Ge Lihua smiled faintly and said, “What’s there to object to? We’re all girls. You know how girls feel. Most of the time, we don’t have a choice. But no matter what the outside world thinks, we have to fight for what we have to fight for so that we don’t regret living in this world.”

Lin Wanning could not help but cry again. “Sister, I’ll remember what you said.”

Ge Lihua patted Lin Wanning’s head. “Silly girl.”

Lin Wanning hugged Ge Lihua again, then the two of them went to meet Si Yuheng.

When Si Yuheng heard the sound of footsteps coming from the side, he immediately hid himself vigilantly, so Ge Lihua and Lin Wanning did not see him.

Ge Lihua was also a martial artist. She stood rooted to the ground and looked to the side.

A needle suddenly appeared in her lowered hand. Then, she raised her hand at lightning speed and shot the needle in the direction she was looking at.

Si Yuheng was shocked. With danger approaching, he had no choice but to reveal himself. He had been wandering around the world for more than a year, but this was the first time he had encountered a girl who was so good at using hidden weapons. He almost died.

When Lin Wanning saw Si Yuheng, she quickly pulled Ge Lihua back. “Sister, he’s Si Yuheng. He’s one of us.”

Si Yuheng was on guard, but he quickly said, “I saved the girl beside you just now.”

Ge Lihua stopped attacking. “I’m sorry.” n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Si Yuheng bowed. “Greetings, Miss. I’m Si Yuheng. May I know your name?”

Ge Lihua sized up Si Yuheng. “Ge Lihua!”

Qingzhi told her to pay more attention if she met someone with the surname Si. There were not many people with the surname Si in the Daling Dynasty.. What if he was Si Yingzong’s nephew?