《The Sickly Scion s Petite Wife Is Sweet And Cool》


 Chapter 1

    The 19th year of Chong¡¯an¡¯s reign.


    A squad of Imperial Guards hurried down Chang¡¯an Avenue.


    The vendors and pedestrians on the streets seemed to be used to it, and moved aside slightly. Once the guards passed, the lively atmosphere immediately returned.


    ¡°This is the fifth one already, isn¡¯t it?¡± a vendor asked someone beside him casually.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ve been setting up shop here for a few days, and I counted. It¡¯s the fifth one.¡±


    ¡°I wonder who¡¯s the unlucky one this time.¡± He wasn¡¯t gloating, he was simply curious about the gossip.


    ¡°Who else could it be? It¡¯s definitely one of those officials from the crown prince¡¯s faction.¡±


    Speaking of bad luck, who could be as unlucky as the Bulwark Duke Residence?


    They were just holding a wedding banquet in their manor, but before they could complete the ceremony, the crown prince and the duke were captured by the Ministry of Justice. It¡¯s a pity that the old duke had been fighting for our Great Xia his whole life.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Now that you mention it, doesn¡¯t it seem like that new bride is the unluckiest of them all?


    The crown prince¡¯s rebellion would definitely implicate the Bulwark Duke¡¯s family, as they were the crown prince¡¯s maternal relatives.


    ¡°But this new bride¡­¡± Upon saying that, the man clicked his tongue and said seriously, ¡°She was taken away as soon as she entered the manor. She might even be beheaded!¡±


    That didn¡¯t make sense to anyone listening.


    Putting aside whether the crown prince was really plotting a rebellion, this bride was really unlucky. No matter what the outcome was, she would be tainted by bad luck¡­


    At the Bulwark Duke Residence.


    Ever since the crown prince and the duke were taken away on the day of the wedding banquet.


    The Imperial Guards surrounded the residence and did not allow anyone to enter or leave. There was no news from outside.


    This caused the people in the residence to panic, thinking that the duke¡¯s residence was probably doomed.


    Furthermore, Madam Li, the old duchess, was sick in bed and could not carry out her duties.


    The servants were even more careless. The food that they delivered to their masters was often cold.


    Fortunately, no one would pursue the matter now.


    ¡°I heard that the Old Master left the residence today.¡±


    Two young maids from the west courtyard were chatting while walking down the corridor.


    ¡°Really? Didn¡¯t the officers outside the mansion stop him?¡±


    The young maid who spoke first said uncertainly, ¡°They stopped him, but let him pass soon after.¡±


    ¡°Does that mean our Duke and the Crown Prince will be released soon?¡± Her tone was filled with joy.


    In this residence, the old duke was like a stabilizing force, more so than the crown prince.


    After all, the old duke had fought on the battlefield with the late emperor! He had even spent half his life protecting Great Xia.


    Only when the country was at peace and no country dared to invade the border did he step down from the court.


    To put it bluntly, half of this country was built by the old duke.


    In their hearts, if the old duke took action, things would definitely be resolved.


    At this point, the two of them stopped slacking off and returned to their duties.


    The conversation between the two maids in the corridor outside the door could be heard clearly from within the room.


    Shen Yijia, who had just woken up, frowned.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I get hit by a car while trying to avoid being captured by those people at the Institute?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Did I get transmigrated?¡±


    When she opened her eyes, she saw the color red, and nothing else.


    She pushed aside the red cloth, revealing a small face that was a little unbearable to look at.


    Half of her face was covered in blood, and there were some weird chunks smeared on her face.


    Her big and bright eyes couldn¡¯t hide the dark eye circles underneath them.


    Thankfully there was no one else around, otherwise, they would definitely scream upon seeing her.

 Chapter 2

    However, Shen Yijia could not see any of this. She continued to look around the room curiously.


    What she saw was an ancient-looking room, decorated in a festive manner.


    The bedsheets were red and embroidered with mandarin ducks, while the bed canopy was embroidered with dragons and phoenixes. Under her was a wooden bed, and the exquisitely carved decorations were obviously expensive.


    To the right was a dresser plastered with blessings of happiness.


    On a nearby table was a pair of red wedding candles that had not been lit yet.


    Looking down, Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze was attracted by the exquisite snacks, cinnamon buns, peanuts, and other food on the table.


    Shen Yijia gulped and sat up quickly. However, before she could run over excitedly, she felt a dull pain in her head.


    Her body fell limp again.


    A series of unfamiliar memories rushed into her head.


    Shen Yijia gasped in pain. She held her injured forehead and dared not move around too much.


    After a while, the pain disappeared. She tilted her head and her eyes lit up. She said excitedly, ¡°Not only did I transmigrate, but I even have a husband now?¡±


    Then, she shook her head regretfully and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that Da Hua isn¡¯t here, or I¡¯d tell her to take a good look. Who said that I could never get married?¡±


    Then she looked up with a smug expression.


    If Da Hua were here, she would definitely have shouted at her. ¡°I¡¯m saying that if you continue to be so ferocious, you won¡¯t be able to get married.¡±


    Unfortunately, Shen Yijia had the habit of only listening to half of what others said to her, hence she only remembered the part about how she wouldn¡¯t be able to get married.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you glad now that you¡¯ve proven that you can get married?¡± she thought to herself.


    If not for the fact that her body didn¡¯t allow it now, she would have jumped up and spun around twice.


    Remembering something, Shen Yijia closed her eyes and thought carefully.


    Her eyes lit up even more when she realized that she had accumulated about a cup¡¯s worth of spiritual liquid within her body.


    She extended her right ring finger in midair. Soon, a drop of water slowly condensed on her fingertip.


    Seeing that it was about to drip, she quickly opened her mouth to catch it.


    She smacked her lips. This body was indeed too weak, one drop was not enough. After condensing two drops in a row, Shen Yijia finally stopped!


    It was not that she was stingy, but the spiritual liquid was too rare.


    It took three days to gather a drop. Even if she was rich now, she still had to use it sparingly.


    After ingesting three drops of spiritual liquid, the wound on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead healed visibly.


    Usually, Shen Yijia would not even take note of such a small wound, let alone waste spiritual liquid to heal it. Unfortunately, this body was too dilapidated.


    It was as soft and powerless as tofu, so she had no choice but to use the spiritual liquid.


    A growling sound came from her stomach.


    Her stomach protested, and Shen Yijia swallowed her saliva. She did not know how long this body had been starving for, and she could feel her stomach hurting.


    This time, she dared not be as reckless as before. She shook her head tentatively, more than once.


    After making sure that she was no longer dizzy, she jumped off the bed and went straight for the pastries. Reaching out, she picked up one of the pastries and stuffed it into her mouth.


    It was a little hard, and slightly rancid.


    Shen Yijia pouted, but she remembered that this was better than the medicine given to her by the bad old men in the research institute.


    She stopped being picky and started grabbing the pastries with both hands, stuffing her mouth with them.


    She took the time to pour herself a glass of water. Shen Yijia ate to her heart¡¯s content. No one tried to snatch her food away, so she liked it here.

 Chapter 3

    The Bulwark Duke Residence had been waiting for news of the old master ever since he left the mansion.


    Even past noon, there was still no news from outside.


    Madam Li patiently accompanied Song Jinghao and Song Jinghuan for lunch, then coaxed them to sleep.


    She was about to go out and take a look when a maidservant stumbled in. Her eyes were red and she had obviously rushed back while crying.


    Madam Li¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Is there any news? What exactly happened?¡± she asked anxiously.


    The young maid fell to her knees. ¡°The¡­ the old master¡­ he¡¯s gone.¡±


    Madam Li felt her head buzz. She stepped forward and grabbed the maidservant¡¯s hand anxiously. ¡°What did you say? Tell me clearly, what happened to the old master? Where are the old master and the crown prince? Are they back?¡±


    The young maid was frightened by Madam Li¡¯s behavior. She had never lost her composure like this before.


    Wiping away her tears, she lowered her head even further and said with a choked voice, ¡°The officers and soldiers outside the residence have all retreated, and the rumors outside are spreading like wildfire. I heard from the door that¡­ that His Highness the Crown Prince and our master were plotting a rebellion. They found a privately created dragon robe in the Eastern Palace, and letters of correspondence with our master. Grand Tutor Zhao reported it, and the Minister of Revenue, Lord Hong, came out to testify.¡±


    At this point, the little servant girl was so frightened that her voice started to tremble. She stammered, ¡°His Majesty was so angry that he banished the empress to the Cold Palace and deposed the crown prince. The old master entered the palace with the Absolution Token given by the late emperor, the one which could absolve him of a crime punishable by death. Then, to prove his innocence, he¡­ he committed suicide in the throne room.¡±


    By the time she finished speaking, the maidservant was already sobbing uncontrollably.


    She was the daughter of a family in the residence. If misfortune befell the masters, the servants would be even worse off.


    The other maidservants also turned pale when they heard this. Some of them were worried about the master, while others were worried about their future.


    Madam Li¡¯s vision turned dark. She secretly bit the tip of her tongue until it bled to prevent herself from fainting.


    She muttered to herself, ¡°How¡­ How can this be? Grand Tutor Zhao is the crown prince¡¯s mentor, and Lord Hong is also a member of the crown prince¡¯s faction¡­¡±


    Without questioning the servant girl further, she walked past her and headed for the front courtyard.


    At this moment, the main doors of the Bulwark Duke Residence opened.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s personal eunuch, Eunuch Li, entered first and gestured to someone behind him.


    Immediately, a few officers carried in two corpses.


    Following closely behind was the crown prince, Song Jingchen. His eyes were tightly shut, and one couldn¡¯t be certain if he was still alive. Song Jingchen was still wearing the same red clothes as the day before.


    His red clothes were dyed dark red with blood, and his face was pallid. He was being carried into the residence like a rag doll.


    When Madam Li arrived at the front yard and witnessed this scene, she burst into tears and fell to the ground.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Eunuch Li cleared his throat to regain Madam Li¡¯s attention before saying, ¡°Duchess, my condolences. I¡¯m here on His Majesty¡¯s orders to announce the imperial edict. Please get everyone in the residence to come out and receive it!¡±


    Madam Lee blinked to clear her vision and tried to say something.


    However, when she opened her mouth, she did not utter a sound. Uncle Yang, the loyal servant who had returned with the corpses, could only endure his grief and instruct someone to make the arrangements.


    Shen Yijia swallowed the last pastry and burped.


    She looked at the remaining dried fruits with pity. She was thinking about using something to pack them up.


    An anxious voice came from outside. ¡°Come quickly, a eunuch from the imperial palace is here to announce the imperial edict. Everyone, go to the front hall and wait!¡±


    This was followed by the sound of people moving.


    Shen Yijia paused and smacked her forehead. She was so focused on eating, she almost forgot that her husband had been caught.


    ¡°There¡¯s also the Shen family. Hmph.¡± she thought.

 Chapter 4

    It had to be said that the head of the Shen family, Shen Pingxiu, was only a fifth-grade director in the Ministry of Rites. On the other hand, the head of the Song family had already been a highly ranked general since the late emperor was in power.


    The late emperor granted Song Li, the general¡¯s only daughter, a marriage with Emperor Chong¡¯an, who was still the crown prince at that time. He even granted the title of Bulwark Duke to the old duke.


    These two families should never have crossed paths, let alone become in-laws.


    When the original host¡¯s mother, Madam Wang, was still alive, she went to Hidden Spirit Temple to offer incense and was trapped there because of the heavy rain.


    Coincidentally, Duchess Li, who was pregnant at that time, also went to fulfill her wish. She was knocked down by someone and went into labor prematurely.


    Even though she risked offending the Bulwark Duke Residence, Madam Wang stepped forward to help deliver the child. Thus, she saved the lives of both Duchess Li and her child.


    From then on, the two of them interacted more. Later on, Madam Wang gave birth to a baby girl.


    The Li family then said that they wanted to become in-laws. It was only when Madam Wang passed away from an illness that the two families slowly drifted apart.


    In the beginning, Duchess Li would often send someone to bring the original host to their residence for a short stay. After the host went twice, she refused to go again, so they did not force her to visit.


    Even so, the duchess would still still send someone to deliver something to little Yijia every year.


    In doing so, she hoped that little Yijia would not live too miserably in the residence after losing her mother.


    The duchess would also visit Shen Yijia when she had the time. However, ever since Madam Wang¡¯s death, little Yijia seemed to have become a different person. She was very resistant to Duchess Li¡¯s visits.


    When the two of them were alone, the duchess asked little Yijia if she was being bullied in the residence, but the child said that she had not.


    Duchess Li thought that little Yijia did not like her, so she visited her less often.


    Despite the duchess sending Shen Yijia gifts and greetings every year, the original host never responded. Thus, she slowly stopped caring.


    However,Duchess Li did not know that the things that she had sent over had never reached little Yijia. All of them were taken by the new mistress, Madam Chen, and given to her daughter, Shen Ruyun.


    Although the host¡¯s actions disappointed the duchess, she still remembered Madam Wang¡¯s kindness back then. When Song Jingchen reached a marriageable age, she talked to him about this matter.


    It was also because she wanted to respect her son¡¯s wishes. Song Jingchen practiced martial arts every day and spent his free time playing with some of the rich and powerful children in the capital.


    How could he be in the mood for love? Since marriage was inescapable, it made no difference who he married.


    He did not want his mother to be troubled, so he asked her to raise the marriage proposal according to her wishes.


    No one knew what Madam Chen said at that time. In any case, Shen Ruyun became his fianc¨¦e.


    For this reason, Shen Ruyun showed off in front of the host on purpose, and made a name for herself in the capital city.


    Song Jingchen was the ideal bachelor that half of the women in the capital dreamed of marrying.


    He stood tall like a jade tree and smiled as bright as the moon.


    Who wouldn¡¯t be tempted by such a husband?


    Even Imperial Concubine Liu¡¯s daughter, Princess Linghui, admired him. Unfortunately, Princess Linghui¡¯s brother was the Eldest Prince, and was thus destined to be enemies with the Crown Prince.


    It was impossible for Concubine Liu to let her marry Song Jingchen. If that happened, no noble lady would dare to dream of marrying him.


    However, in the end, he got engaged to the daughter of a mere fifth-grade official! Anyone would feel jealousy and hatred towards her.


    Although Shen Ruyun was famous for her beauty and talent, she was nothing compared to Song Jingchen!


    Madam Li had been doted on since she was young. After she got married, her husband did not have any concubines to make things difficult for her, so she knew very little about the dirty matters within a household.


    Therefore, she did not know that little Yijia did not dare to get close to her because she was threatened by Madam Chen. She simply thought that Shen Yijia was unwilling to marry her son.


    The submissive personality of the original host was indeed unsuitable for becoming the mistress of the household.


    She even thought of arranging a suitable marriage for Shen Yijia in the future. As long as it was not a marriage with her eldest son or grandson, Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t need to lead the household, and she would be able to live well.


    The original host was unaware of these matters.

 Chapter 5

    If the two of them became husband and wife, it would have nothing to do with the original owner. Who would have thought that a month before the marriage, Madam Chen would hear of some rumors about the impending tragedy?


    After holding a secret conversation with her husband, son, and daughter for two hours, this marriage inexplicably fell on the host again.


    They changed their tune and insisted to everyone that the bride-to-be had always been Shen Yijia, not Shen Ruyun.


    Firstly, Madam Chen could not suddenly break off this marriage between the two families. Secondly, she did not want her daughter to marry into the family and die.


    They did not care if Shen Yijia was dead or alive after marrying into the family, as long as it did not affect Shen Ruyun¡¯s reputation.


    However, the Song family had been busy preparing for the wedding this month.


    The marriage of the eldest son or grandson was a major event for the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. Madam Li was not the only one being busy, the entire residence was frantically preparing for the wedding.


    Therefore, the Song family was kept in the dark regarding Madam Chen¡¯s schemes.


    Others did not know what kind of life the original host had at home, but Shen Yijia could see it clearly.


    There was no such thing as a free lunch in this world, and even if there was, Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t dare eat it.


    Therefore, the host started to become paranoid. It was unknown if she was lucky or unlucky.


    Shen Yijia happened to hear some clues from Shen Ruyun¡¯s conversation with her maidservant.


    At that time, Shen Ruyun said to her maidservant in disdain, ¡°That fool probably thinks she¡¯s getting a free lunch. She doesn¡¯t know that she¡¯s going to die if she marries him.¡±


    There was pity and reluctance hidden in her tone. However, those emotions were definitely not reserved for the host.


    That sentence alone scared the original host so much that she fell sick.


    Shen Yijia was ill on the day of her wedding. Unfortunately, in her sickly state, she died from being pushed around in the chaos.


    What the original host could not see through, Shen Yijia could not see through either.


    All she knew was that the Shen family had been bullying the original host, and indirectly caused her death. Furthermore, Shen Ruyun had almost snatched her husband away.


    Now that she had transmigrated into this body, bullying the original host was equivalent to bullying her. Stealing the host¡¯s husband was also equivalent to stealing hers.


    She narrowed her eyes. She had to find an opportunity to beat them up to vent her anger. She cheerfully made that decision.


    These thoughts only flashed through Shen Yijia¡¯s mind for a moment. The most important thing now was to find someone and ask where her husband was.


    After gulping down a glass of water, Shen Yijia rushed outside.


    The courtyard was empty. From the corner of her eye, she could see a group of people facing away from her.


    She turned to follow them.


    By the time she reached the front courtyard, it was full of people kneeling.


    Shen Yijia felt that the atmosphere was very oppressive. She glanced around and saw Song Jingchen being carried in the crowd.


    Her eyes lit up. He was dressed in red clothes, he should be her husband, right?


    ¡°He looks handsome!¡± she thought to herself.


    There was a reason why he was admired by all the noble ladies in the capital. He was beautiful.


    At this moment, he looked refined and harmless with his eyes closed.


    The bloody clothes gave him a strange sickly beauty.


    Shen Yijia, who loved beautiful things, immediately wanted to keep this person as her own.


    ¡°I could make him into one of those specimens in a lab.¡± she thought.


    However, Shen Yijia frowned as she continued looking. Her husband seemed to have been beaten up by someone.


    Without a word, she took a few steps forward and snatched Song Jingchen from the hands of the officials.


    The 1.8-meter-tall man was easily carried in her arms. She shook him lightly.


    ¡°Oh my god, he¡¯s quite well-built.¡± she thought.


    The surrounding people were stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s actions. When they looked up and saw her face, they were doubly shocked.


    There were two corpses on the ground, and Shen Yijia looked like a ghost. How could anyone not be shocked?

 Chapter 6

    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at those people and carried Song Jingchen to Madam Li¡¯s side.


    Realizing that Madam Li was also looking at her in surprise, she pursed her lips and called out tentatively, ¡°Mother?¡±


    ¡°I suppose that¡¯s what I should call her.¡± she thought.


    Madam Li¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    She finally realized what she had overlooked in the past few days. She had forgotten about the bride who had just entered the house.


    She looked at the girl who was still wearing a red wedding dress.


    After trying hard to distinguish her features for a long time, she finally found a trace of familiarity on the bloodstained face. ¡°Yijia? Why¡­ Why is it you? Shouldn¡¯t it be Ruyun?¡±


    No one could be blamed for being horrified by that face.


    When she put on her makeup, the original host had a sickly look on her face. In order to cover it up, the bridesmaid applied layer after layer of makeup.


    The original host had cried so much that her makeup was ruined. When her head was injured, blood slid down her forehead, covering it with red and white.


    Fortunately, she did not have time to look in the mirror. Otherwise, Shen Yijia would have given herself nightmares.


    Shen Yijia was just thinking about something when she was interrupted by two little children who suddenly appeared out of nowhere.


    The two of them first saw their big brother was covered in injuries, then saw that their big brother was being carried by a female ghost dressed in red. They were so frightened that they burst into tears and threw themselves into Madam Li¡¯s arms.


    Madam Li also burst into tears. The three of them hugged each other and cried bitterly.


    Sounds of people sobbing echoed through the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. She was very confused and did not understand what was going on.


    Everyone was crying, which made her heart feel stuffy and uncomfortable.


    She was completely unaware that the situation in front of her was a chain reaction, caused by her scaring the two children into tears.


    Shen Yijia, suddenly felt a little awkward. She really couldn¡¯t bring herself to cry with them.


    Besides, she could only think about her injured husband. She had to quickly bring him back inside to rest.


    She looked around and saw the person standing directly in front of her while holding a bright yellow scroll. Their eyes met.


    ¡°Oh, I think he¡¯s here to read the imperial edict. He can¡¯t leave until he¡¯s finished.¡± she thought.


    Reluctantly, she nodded at the man. ¡°Read it!¡±


    Eunuch Li choked when he saw Madam Li and her children crying.


    He wanted to reprimand them, but decided against it.


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. This family is already pitiful enough. Let¡¯s not force the issue.¡± he thought.


    He cleared his throat and raised his voice.


    As Eunuch Li¡¯s voice rang out, the sobbing stopped. All of them knelt quietly.


    Only then did the two children see their father and grandfather lying on the ground beside Eunuch Li. Their eyes widened in fear and they wanted to go forward to the corpses.


    Madam Li stopped them firmly.


    In an instant, apart from Eunuch Li, only Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen, who were both dressed in red, were left standing.


    Eunuch Li spoke loudly enough for everyone to hear.


    Even the servants and commoners who were eavesdropping outside the residence heard everything.


    There was a long string of words, but Eunuch Li read them without stumbling.


    Shen Yijia tried her best to prick up her ears and listen, roughly guessing what it meant.


    ¡°The Bulwark Duke and the Crown Prince privately made dragon robes and plotted a rebellion. Now, the evidence is conclusive.¡±


    ¡°However, His Majesty was benevolent and remembered the Old Duke¡¯s contributions to Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°The dead can be forgiven, but the living criminals cannot escape punishment.¡±


    ¡°The title of Bulwark Duke is to be stripped away, their family assets confiscated, all official positions revoked, and everyone in the residence sent back to their hometowns. Even in future generations, they will not be allowed to enter the court as officials!¡±


    After reading the imperial edict, Eunuch Li looked at the pitiful state of the duke¡¯s residence and sighed.

 Chapter 7

    Perhaps because he could not bear it, Eunuch Li cleared his throat and said, ¡°Madam Song, His Majesty is merciful. He has given you permission to hold a funeral in the residence. You have to take care of yourself. After all, these two children are still so young. If you fall, what will happen to them?¡±


    Feeling the trembling bodies of the two children beside her, Madam Li closed her eyes, gritted her teeth, and knelt down. She raised her hands to receive the decree.


    In a trembling voice, she said, ¡°The wife of the sinner, Madam Li, accepts the decree. Thank you, Your Majesty¡­ for your kindness¡­¡±


    Eunuch Li nodded and did not nag any further. He handed over the imperial edict.


    Looking around at the kneeling servants, he gestured at the people behind him. ¡°Take away all those who are registered as slaves by the government.¡±


    The large group of people were already worried, but they were even more terrified now.


    They instantly collapsed to the ground, their faces pale.


    Once they left this residence, they would become guilty slaves. Choosing their new masters was out of the question, any family that was even slightly prominent would not want them.


    However, their opinions didn¡¯t matter.


    When an official finished reading the list of names, they were immediately captured.


    Without even giving them time to pack up, the group of slaves was quickly taken away.


    Only a few people who had been released from their status as slaves were left kneeling there.


    Uncle Yang repeated the list of names.


    The front yard, which had been crowded just a moment earlier, suddenly became empty. A gust of wind blew past. It was clearly summer.


    However, those who witnessed this scene felt a chill down their spines, and they shivered unconsciously.


    The Duke¡¯s Residence, which had been very imposing a few days ago, suddenly looked depressing.


    The decorations from the wedding ceremony were dirty from being stepped on, and scattered on the ground.


    The red silk that had yet to be removed under the eaves looked more like a joke at this moment.


    ¡°Father, Grandfather, please get up¡­¡± When no one was looking, Brother Hao and Sister Huan ran to the two corpses lying on the ground.


    Tears ran down their faces as they each tugged at one of them, stubbornly trying to pull the two silent men off the ground.


    But no matter how hard they tried, the two of them remained motionless.


    Brother Hao turned to look at his mother in confusion and said uneasily, ¡°Mother, please ask Father and Grandfather to get up. Father promised to make a small wooden horse for us when he returned¡­¡±


    As he spoke, he sobbed again. ¡°And Grandpa, he said that he would teach me martial arts when I grow up, and make me as powerful as Big Brother¡­¡±


    Hearing these childish words, the surrounding people could not help but tear up again.


    Madam Li took a deep breath and suppressed tears that welled up in her eyes. She subconsciously tightened her grip on the imperial edict in her hand until her fingertips turned white.


    Then, she forced himself to stand straight up and said to the remaining people, ¡°I¡¯ll have to trouble everyone here. After this matter is settled, let¡¯s disperse!¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am ¡­¡±


    Madam Li waved her hand to stop them from interrupting, and she continued. ¡°Uncle Yang, please invite a doctor back to take a look at Brother Chen.¡±


    ¡°Aye!¡± Uncle Yang immediately got to work.


    After instructing Shen Yijia to send Song Jingchen back to his room, she turned to look at the twins. ¡°Brother Hao, Sister Huan, your father and grandfather have passed on. Will you accompany your mother to send them off?¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± The nine-year-olds could more or less understand what she meant, and immediately burst into tears.


    Although there weren¡¯t many people left, everyone still got to work according to Madam Li¡¯s arrangements.


    Before night fell, white banners had already been hung in the residence and a mourning hall had been set up.

 Chapter 8

    On the other side, Shen Yijia had just carried Song Jingchen back to his room when Madam Li¡¯s eldest maidservant, Bi Zhu, walked in with two sets of mourning robes.


    Although she was shocked when she first saw Shen Yijia¡¯s face, Bi Zhu could now face her calmly.


    She bowed to Shen Yijia. ¡°Young Madam, Madam Li asked me to send these robes over for you to change into.¡±


    Looking at the clothes, Shen Yijia did not object. She tilted her head and said, ¡°I want to take a shower first. Can you get me some water first?¡±


    It was unknown how long it had been since this body last bathed, but Shen Yijia could smell it.


    She was covered in blood again just now. The smell was really unpleasant. Even Shen Yijia, who was not usually concerned about such matters, could not stand it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to bring water over.¡± As she spoke, she quickly left the house.


    She didn¡¯t have to wait long before someone carried the water to the bathroom next door.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen, who was still unconscious on the bed. She tilted her head and thought for a moment, then walked over and condensed two drops of spiritual liquid to feed him.


    She comforted herself silently, telling herself that her heart didn¡¯t ache. This was her husband. If he died, everything would be lost.


    Her husband was so good-looking that she had no intention of replacing him just yet.


    Someone had already filled the bathtub with water. It was still steaming hot.


    Shen Yijia was amazed. This mobility¡­


    When Shen Yijia finally saw her own reflection in the water, she was shocked. She even forgot to take off her clothes before submerging herself in the water.


    Oh my, who was this demon in the water?


    She was so dirty that it took her an hour to wash up.


    Her face was now clean, revealing her original appearance.


    Perhaps because she was malnourished all year round, her face was only the size of a palm. Fortunately, her facial features were exquisite, and she was a delicate and lively beauty.


    Perhaps because she had bathed for too long, her face was red and slightly puffy. Her eyes were as clear and lively.


    The maidservant who had been waiting outside the door was stunned.


    She reacted and quickly lowered her head, not daring to look again.


    When Shen Yijia returned to her room, Uncle Yang had just arrived with the doctor and was helping Song Jingchen to wash up.


    If it was in the past, it would not have taken so long to find a doctor. They would have rushed over.


    However, at this moment, many of them dared not come for fear of getting into trouble.


    What a world.


    The wounds on Song Jingchen¡¯s body had been left untreated for too long. The dried blood had already glued his clothes and flesh together.


    Helpless, Uncle Yang could only get a pair of scissors and cut his clothes apart piece by piece.


    Even though he was being extra careful, every time he tore off a piece of cloth, blood would keep flowing out of the wounds.


    Shen Yijia, who was watching from the side, was shocked. She swallowed the words that were about to come out of her mouth.


    After cleaning him up, Song Jingchen¡¯s wounds were revealed.


    The most serious injuries were the deep whip marks on his back and legs. There were also many other wounds, but they were completely negligible compared to these two areas.


    Shen Yijia stood at the side, her frown deepening. How painful it must¡¯ve been!


    The doctor checked and sighed. ¡°The heir¡¯s life is not in danger. The wounds on his back will be healed with some medicine. However, these injuries might leave scars in the future¡­¡±


    At this point, he paused before continuing, ¡°The problem is with his legs. I¡¯m afraid he will never be able to stand up again!¡±


    Shen Yijia fell silent and subconsciously pinched her fingers without saying anything.


    After applying the medicine for Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia was left alone with him in the room.


    She walked to the bed and looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s good-looking face. She couldn¡¯t help herself. She poked him and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s time to wake up!¡±

 Chapter 9

    The mourning hall was set in the front courtyard, and two coffins were placed side by side in the middle.


    Madam Li kept vigil with the twins.


    Aside from her initial collapse, Madam Li had been unusually calm.


    Perhaps she was only left with peace after going through extreme grief.


    The twins knelt at the side. Affected by the surrounding atmosphere, they did not dare to cry loudly anymore.


    They just kept sobbing softly, their small bodies trembling. They looked extremely pitiful.


    By the time Madam Li regained her senses, the two children had already fallen asleep on the ground. However, they would still sob from time to time.


    Madam Li¡¯s heart ached when she saw this. She quickly got someone to send them back to their rooms to rest. In an instant, only Madam Li was left in the mourning hall.


    Her fingertips caressed the rock-like coffin. It was bone-chilling.


    Madam Li came from a military family and had been influenced since she was young. Naturally, she was different from those women who only knew about matters within a household.


    At first, it was too sudden. Furthermore, there was no news at all, so she couldn¡¯t react in time.


    Now that she thought about it, she understood.


    His Majesty couldn¡¯t tolerate the Song family anymore. The old master must have known this, so he went all out.


    From the moment he walked out of the residence, the old duke had no intention of coming back alive, because this was the only way to protect the descendants of the Song family.


    Otherwise, his entire family would have been executed by now.


    The duke and the old master were gone, Brother Chen¡¯s legs were crippled, the two children were still young, and she was a woman. Thus, His Majesty could spare their lives.


    Just like the Li family in the past. Her father and three brothers went to the battlefield, and none of them survived.


    Her mother died of grief, and her sisters-in-law remarried because they had no children.


    From then on, she was the only orphan in the Li family.


    For a moment, she seemed to have returned to that year when her father and brother¡¯s coffins were sent back from the border. The sky was filled with white paper and copper coins. The suppressed sobs around her that could never be forgotten.


    How similar her fate was to her mother¡¯s! To think that both her father and father-in-law were loyal to such an emperor.


    How could she not hate him!


    His father and brother¡¯s deaths could be called an unlucky tragedy, but what about her husband and father-in-law? Her father-in-law had protected Great Xia all his life. Her husband was talented, but he suffered because of His Majesty¡¯s suspicion.


    Even in this state, His Majesty was still unwilling to let their family off. Before her husband died, he was still slandered with accusations of plotting rebellion.


    She hated him!


    She hated him!


    She wished she could eat his flesh, drink his blood, pull out his tendons, and turn Emperor Chong¡¯an into ashes.


    But she couldn¡¯t even show her hatred. She even had to kneel and thank him.


    Because she had three children to protect. She dared not, and she could not show it!


    It was already midnight when Song Jingchen woke up. When he opened his eyes and saw the familiar environment, he suddenly remembered what had happened in the prison of the Ministry of Justice.


    He hurriedly tried to get up.


    However, he realized that he could not feel his lower body. Before he could call for help, he heard a surprised voice.


    ¡°You¡¯re finally awake!¡± Shen Yijia leaned over with a look of surprise. His eyes were really beautiful.


    Song Jingchen frowned and looked at Shen Yijia warily. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my husband, so of course I¡¯m your wife. We got married a few days ago. Did you forget?¡± Shen Yijia was unhappy. She heard from the doctor that he might have a fever at night, so she had to be careful.


    She had been staying by his side this whole time.


    Song Jingchen frowned. He had seen Shen Ruyun once before, but she didn¡¯t look like this.


    Uncle Yang did not trust Shen Yijia and had been guarding the door. When he heard the commotion, he quickly pushed the door open and entered.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Madam.¡±


    Seeing Uncle Yang, Song Jingchen lowered his guard slightly and hurriedly asked, ¡°My father and grandfather¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, he noticed the grief on Uncle Yang¡¯s face.


    There was a pause before he continued. ¡°Are they¡­ all okay?¡±


    He was still hoping that what had happened before was just a dream.

 Chapter 10

    Seeing the once confident young man like this, Uncle Yang cried, ¡°Young Master, my condolences!¡±


    The sixteen-year-old¡¯s eyes turned red at those words.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen closed his eyes.


    When he opened his eyes again, his face had regained its usual calmness, as if what happened was just an illusion.


    Turning his gaze to his legs, he murmured, ¡°My legs are crippled now?¡±


    It sounded like a question, but felt more like a statement.


    Uncle Yang couldn¡¯t bear to say it aloud, so he just nodded.


    For some reason, Shen Yijia, who had always been insensitive to emotions, felt a little sorry for Song Jingchen.


    He was not crying or making a fuss. He simply looked calm as if nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia took a few steps over and held his tightly clenched hand. She looked into his eyes seriously and said, ¡°You¡¯ll get better, trust me.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face was still calm, and he didn¡¯t say whether he believed it or not. He only silently withdrew his hand and instructed Uncle Yang, ¡°Get someone to arrange a room for her to rest first.¡±


    Uncle Yang responded and quickly brought in a maidservant.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that this was her room, but after thinking about it, it didn¡¯t matter to her where she slept. He was sick, so she had to compromise a little.


    After comforting herself, she obediently followed the maidservant out of the room.


    Only Uncle Yang and Song Jingchen were left in the room. They discussed everything that had happened in the past few days.


    Uncle Yang took out a letter and handed it over. ¡°The old master knew that this would be the outcome. Before he left, he wrote this letter. He said that it would be good if the young master can live a peaceful life without using the things inside it.¡±


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and didn¡¯t answer. He opened the envelope and a tiger-shaped object tumbled out of it.


    Apart from him and Old Master Song, no one knew about the existence and meaning of this item.


    Not even his father knew.


    This was a Commander¡¯s Seal that could command the 50,000 private troops of the Song family. Its original purpose was to serve as the last line of defense to protect the royal family of Great Xia!


    It was established by the late emperor when he was still alive.


    These troops could not be mobilized unless all other hope was lost.


    He was worried that someone would use this army. Perhaps even Emperor Chong¡¯an did not know of its existence.


    Uncle Yang only knew about this because he was once part of those troops.


    Song Jingchen held it in his hand and found it ridiculous.


    The person they wanted to protect was also the executioner who wanted his family destroyed.


    He pulled out a thin sheet of paper from the envelope. Surprisingly, it was the old master¡¯s handwriting.


    ¡°His Majesty¡¯s actions are within my expectations.


    Since ancient times, accompanying a ruler was like accompanying a tiger. The fates of most people with great achievements are often similar to ours. I only hope that my family has the chance to survive this incident.


    Grandfather knows you are a man of great ambition, so I will not ask you to live like your father.


    However, I also hoped that you, my grandson, will remember that the citizens of this country are innocent. Do not needlessly cause misery and death!


    Today, Grandfather will bestow upon you the name ¡®Shenzhi¡¯. I hope you will think carefully before you act.


    If you can live your life peacefully, I would be very relieved. I only wish my grandson a peaceful and happy life!¡±


    Song Jingchen continued to stare at these words for the next 15 minutes.


    He asked Uncle Yang to bring over a candle, and personally burnt the letter.


    Under the flickering firelight, Uncle Yang felt that his young master seemed to have grown up overnight. He could not predict what the young master was thinking.


    At dawn, Song Jingchen insisted on keeping vigil despite Madam Li¡¯s objections.


    Since he could not kneel, he sat in the mourning hall. The mother and son kept vigil silently without speaking to each other.


    On this night, other than the twins, only the big-hearted Shen Yijia was sleeping in her room.


    However, Shen Yijia¡¯s sleep was not restful. It was unknown what she was dreaming about, but her hands kept waving in the air¡­

 Chapter 11

    Before transmigrating here, Shen Yijia was an orphan.


    For as long as she could remember, she had lived in a private research institute that appeared to be a mental hospital, but was actually someone¡¯s private research institute.


    There were many people like her in Nanshan Mental Hospital who had special abilities and were captured for research. There were also many patients with real mental problems.


    However, she was different from the people who had been captured. Not only were those locked up, they were also injected with drugs that prevented them from using their abilities.


    She was the only one who could walk freely around the compound like a normal patient. She also took various medications along with three meals a day like a regular patient.


    Because she had been with those patients since she was young, she also thought that there was something wrong with her.


    This self-perception made it impossible for her to think of escaping, nor did she yearn for the outside world.


    To her, that compound was her whole world.


    How could a child who had never tasted sugar betray her own world simply because someone said the outside world was sweet?


    Perhaps this was the reason those people were at ease with letting her be.


    There, they laughed when they were happy and cried when they were unhappy. They even fought each other when there was a disagreement.


    When she was young, despite her strength and speed, she was often beaten up by a group of mentally ill patients.


    Those people did not know restraint, and often beat her up badly.


    Afterwards, she would secretly drink a drop of spiritual liquid and recover before going to seek revenge.


    This went on and on. When she grew older, no one in the compound could defeat her.


    The spiritual liquid had always been her secret. A voice in her heart told her not to let the bad old men in the research institute know about it, so she kept it hidden from everyone.


    Those people had always thought that she was just naturally strong, fast, and had a strong recovery ability.


    Aside from the fact that they took her blood for tests once every three days and made her take pills from time to time, she was quite happy with her life there.


    All the patients put together were no match for her, and she wouldn¡¯t even get hurt. There was also plenty of time for her to do the tricks she loved, and this lifestyle seemed ideal to her.


    This continued until she met Da Hua, a woman who¡¯d been captured due to her telekinetic ability.


    She taught Shen Yijia many things. She told her about the outside world, a complete world that Shen Yijia had never known.


    This complete picture was much more attractive to her than the vague concept of ¡°the world outside¡±!


    Only then did she realize how big the world outside this institute really was. There were many delicacies that she had never eaten, or things she¡¯d never seen or played with!


    These were enough to upend her worldview.


    She began to yearn to go outside!


    Hence, she told Da Hua the secret of the spiritual liquid. She also used the spiritual liquid to help Da Hua negate the side effects of the medicine prescribed to her.


    Working together, they finally escaped that place.


    Everything outside was so fresh and new. She finally knew what sugar tasted like, and she never wanted to go back to that place.


    Unfortunately, how could those people bear to let them go? A month after going wild with Da Hua in the outside world, they were found by those people again.


    She didn¡¯t want to go back. She was a normal person, not the mentally ill person everyone else thought she was.


    So she ran for her life. While running away, she was hit by a car and sent flying¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t arrest me¡­¡± Shen Yijia bolted upright on the bed.


    She looked around and sighed in relief.


    Then, she muttered indignantly, ¡°I¡¯ve already transmigrated, yet you still want to capture me in my dreams. If you have the ability, then transmigrate over and try to catch me! Why are you haunting my dreams!¡±


    It was already bright outside, so she got up instead of going back to sleep.

 Chapter 12

    Shen Yijia put on her clothes and went out for a walk. She found no trace of anyone around.


    She then walked to the front courtyard and saw only an empty mourning hall. The coffin that had been there was gone.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia smacked her forehead. Yesterday, the eunuch said that he would send everyone back to their hometowns in three days.


    Since they were leaving tomorrow, the funeral had to be held today. How could she have forgotten something so important?


    She wasn¡¯t fully to blame. No one had told her.


    Shen Yijia belatedly realized that she seemed to have been forgotten again¡­


    The capital city has always been the most prosperous place in the country.


    The streets of Chang¡¯an were usually bustling with people.


    However, today was an exception.


    The entire street was quiet. Both sides of the road were filled with commoners, all looking sadly at the funeral procession that was slowly approaching.


    There were also many commoners who hung white lanterns outside their houses!


    As far as these people were concerned, it was none of their business whether the deceased were plotting a rebellion or not. Who became emperor was even less of a concern to them.


    All they knew was that the God of War, who had protected them their entire lives, had left.


    He had protected them all their lives so that they could live in a time of peace. It was only right that they came to see him off.


    Song Jingchen was carried in a chair at the front of the procession, followed by Madam Li and the crying twins.


    The entire funeral procession added up to no more than ten people, looking extremely comical.


    If not for the fact that the procession had come out of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, who would have thought that the person lying there would be the old Duke, who was once second only to the emperor of Great Xia?


    The commoners¡¯ eyes turned red. When the group passed by, they spontaneously followed behind.


    When the team reached the city gate, it was already a rather spectacular scene.


    Seeing the citizens behaving like this, Madam Li¡¯s dry eyes turned red again.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand, which was holding the memorial tablet, secretly tightened. The words in his grandfather¡¯s letter came to his mind.


    ¡°Yes, the people of this country are innocent.¡± he thought to himself.


    This scene was shocking to many people, but to the lightly-dressed Emperor Chong¡¯an, it was extremely ironic.


    Anyone with a brain would understand that someone must have framed the victims.


    After all, the Crown Prince was not stupid enough to place the incriminating evidence in the Eastern Palace where it could easily be found.


    So what? He was the emperor, and all of Great Xia belonged to him. As long as he believed it, then it was the truth.


    What these citizens were doing now was simply a slap in the face.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an sat in the carriage and looked at the growing funeral procession.


    He snorted. ¡°Do you think this group of people will be the same in a hundred years?¡±


    How could Eunuch Li dare to answer that? If he did, wouldn¡¯t he be cursing Emperor Chong¡¯an to die?


    If he gave the wrong response, then he probably wouldn¡¯t live to see the day.


    He would probably go missing from the carriage on the way back to the palace later.


    Everyone knew that he was the most popular person by Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s side. However, no one knew how tiring it was for him to wrack his brains to survive every day.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see how much gray hair I¡¯ve grown in the past two years?¡± Eunuch Li thought to himself.


    Eunuch Li was sweating with anxiety. Fortunately, Emperor Chong¡¯an did not seem to expect him to answer.


    With a disdainful smile, he continued. ¡°This is the reason why.¡±


    These citizens only recognized the old duke, even daring to disrespect the emperor to join the funeral procession.


    If he really let his crippled son sit on the throne, it was hard to say if his surname would be Shangguan or Song.


    He did not say this, but Eunuch Li understood.


    When the birds are gone, the good bow is stashed away. When the cunning rabbit dies, the dogs are cooked and eaten.


    He was willing to sacrifice his son to achieve his goal.


    Therefore, it was natural for everyone to say that there were no familial ties in the royal family.

 Chapter 13

    Paper money filled the air and fluttered to the ground.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an felt that this was an eyesore. His gaze shifted from the commoners to Song Jingchen, who was at the front, and stopped at his legs for a moment. ¡°Are you sure he¡¯s crippled?¡±


    Eunuch Li hurriedly nodded. ¡°The imperial physician has personally confirmed it. Unless he has a divine pill, he can forget about standing up in this lifetime!¡±


    ¡°What a pity!¡± Although he said it was a pity, Eunuch Li could tell that Emperor Chong¡¯an was very satisfied with this outcome. Even the anger he had felt because of the commoners had dissipated.


    Wasn¡¯t it a pity? He was once such a talented boy, a young man who always had a smile on his face while riding a horse.


    Before he could become as majestic as an eagle, his pride was broken.


    He remembered that even when the young man was no more than twelve years old, he had already been dealing with the provocations from other countries without the slightest hint of fear.


    He galloped across the training grounds and slapped the envoy in the face!


    This scene made many noble ladies in the capital secretly fall in love.


    It was still fresh in his mind after all these years.


    The scene was solemn but refreshing.


    However, the young man in his memories would probably never exist again.


    What a pity!


    How pathetic!


    What a shame!


    Emperor Chong¡¯an took one last look at the funeral procession and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go back!¡±


    Eunuch Li responded respectfully. When he lowered the curtain, he looked at the two coffins that were being escorted by the masses, and a trace of grief flashed across his eyes.


    It disappeared as though it was an illusion.


    When Shen Yijia went outside, she only saw the tail end of the procession, but she did not follow.


    She turned around. Following her memories, she retraced her footsteps to the Shen Residence. She was leaving tomorrowa€| However, she was a person who kept her word.


    a€|


    By the time she returned to the duke¡¯s residence, it was already ten o¡¯clock in the evening.


    The original host had never gone out since she was young. The only time she left her home was when she was carried to the Duke¡¯s Mansion in a bridal sedan.


    Therefore, she knew where the Shen family¡¯s gate was, but she did not know how to get there.


    After so much trouble, she finally found the place, but the person she was looking for was not at home!


    She waited patiently for the Shen family to return. Once she finished her job, she rushed back to the duke¡¯s residence.


    Instead of going to the room Song Jingchen had arranged for her yesterday, Shen Yijia went straight to Song Jingchen¡¯s courtyard.


    She had no choice. She realized that her presence was too insignificant. To prevent her husband from forgetting her at the drop of a hat, she felt that she should make her presence known more often.


    As soon as she entered, she saw the remaining servants standing in the courtyard.


    What was everyone doing in this courtyard?


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks. Seeing that the maidservant who had been guarding the door while she was bathing yesterday was also there, she quietly walked over.


    Lowering her voice, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why is everyone gathered here?¡±


    That maidservant was also the eldest maidservant who served Madam Li along with Bi Zhu. Her name was Bi Tao.


    However, there wasn¡¯t enough manpower in the residence these two days, so the maidservants basically went wherever they were needed.


    Everyone helped out wherever they could.


    Shocked by her, Bi Tao almost screamed. Fortunately, she restrained himself.


    Seeing that it was Shen Yijia, she hurriedly bowed and said, ¡°Not long after Eldest Young Master returned, he instructed me to wait here, but he fainted before he could say anything else. The doctor just went in. Madam Li, Young Master, and Young Miss are also inside. It¡¯s just that the masters didn¡¯t say anything else, so I didn¡¯t dare to leave my post without permission.¡±


    Hearing that it was Song Jingchen who had fainted, Shen Yijia was shocked and wanted to follow him in.


    Suddenly, she thought of something and stopped in her tracks. She turned around and said to the servants waiting there, ¡°Go and do what you need to do. If there¡¯s anything we need here, you can come over again. Aren¡¯t you tired of waiting here?¡±


    Although the sun had already set, it was still quite hot outside.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. These people were really stupid.

 Chapter 14

    In the room, the doctor was about to take Song Jingchen¡¯s pulse, but he could feel that Song Jingchen¡¯s skin was boiling hot.


    He was so frightened that his heart skipped a beat. He asked Uncle Yang to help him remove Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes and saw that there was already a lot of blood soaking through the bandage on his back.


    He couldn¡¯t help but shout, ¡°What nonsense! Wounds can get infected easily in this weather. I even specifically instructed you to inform me in time if there were any symptoms of fever. It¡¯s obvious that the fever has been going on for a long time. Moreover, he¡¯s so seriously injured, but he didn¡¯t take the time to rest. It doesn¡¯t matter how healthy he was, he can¡¯t keep ruining his body like this¡­¡±


    At this point, the doctor paused and his expression became unnatural. Then, he said helplessly, ¡°I¡¯ll give him a prescription first. Get someone to fetch the medicine as soon as possible and boil it for him. Use more water to wipe his body and lower his temperature. I¡¯ll change the bandages for him. If there¡¯s an infection, I¡¯ll shave it off the infected areas before it spreads. As for what happens next, we can only do our best and listen to fate!¡±


    Uncle Yang quickly took the prescription and left.


    Madam Li¡¯s heart ached when she saw this.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡¯s faces turned pale when they saw so much blood. They remembered how their father and grandfather were also covered in blood when they were sent back, and right after that, someone told them that their father and grandfather had passed on¡­


    Huan¡¯er threw herself into Madam Li¡¯s arms with a terrified expression and cried, ¡°Mother, will Eldest Brother be alright? Please ask Eldest Brother to get up. I¡¯ll be obedient in the future, I won¡¯t be naughty and make Eldest Brother angry anymore. I don¡¯t want Eldest Brother to become like Father and Grandfather¡­¡±


    ¡°As for me¡­ I¡¯ll diligently study and practice martial arts in the future. I won¡¯t slack off behind Big Brother¡¯s back anymore¡­¡± Brother Hao hurriedly added, as if his Big Brother would really die if he didn¡¯t say it quickly.


    When Shen Yijia heard this, her eyelids twitched. She interrupted, ¡°Of course your big brother will be fine. You have to have confidence in him, do you understand?¡±


    Sister Huan¡¯er stopped crying and burped. She shrank into Madam Li¡¯s arms and asked cautiously, ¡°Is¡­ is that true?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s true!¡± After saying that, she turned to Madam Li and said, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. My husband will definitely live to a ripe old age.¡±


    Madam Li nodded. She trusted her son.


    She patted Shen Yijia¡¯s hand gently and said with a tired expression, ¡°You¡¯re a good child. It¡¯s a shame that our family has implicated you!¡±


    Previously, Madam Li had not paid much attention to Shen Yijia. Now that she took a closer look, she realized that the girl in front of her was completely different from the one she had seen in the past.


    Her face was still the same, but her eyes sparkled when she looked at you. She was no longer the girl who would only lower her head and dared not look at anyone.


    However, after thinking about it carefully, she understood. How could Madam Chen be a good person if they could do such a thing?


    This girl was probably already having a hard time in the residence. If she performed too well, she would be treated even more harshly.


    Now that she had left the Shen family, there was for Shen Yijia to pretend to be weak anymore.


    Once her suspicions were raised, Madam Li recalled all the abnormalities she saw in little Yijia. Apart from feeling guilty and angry at the Madam Li,


    She was more angry at herself for not realizing it sooner¡­


    And so a wonderful misunderstanding arose.


    Shen Yijia had no idea that she had almost been exposed. However, Madam Li¡¯s imagination ran wild and covered her tracks.


    If Shen Yijia knew what Madam Li was thinking, she would probably exclaim at how imaginative she was.


    However, even if others suspected that she was a different person, she was not afraid. The skin was still the same, just that there was a new core inside.


    Coupled with her straightforward personality, she did not think about these possibilities at all, and she had yet to learn the roundabout way in which matters were conducted.


    Shen Yijia was still not used to having her hand being held by someone. When she met Madam Li¡¯s gentle gaze, she wanted to draw back her hand.

 Chapter 15

    The doctor scraped away the rotten meat in Song Jingchen¡¯s wounds and bandaged him up again. He opened his mouth to remind Song Jingchen to take care.


    However, he thought twice about it. This person might not even be able to recover from this and survive. Even if he did, he probably wouldn¡¯t have a chance to recuperate properly.


    He could not be bothered to waste his breath, so he left two bottles of ointment and left.


    Shen Yijia had been ¡°lucky¡± enough to experience the pain of having her flesh cut away and knew how painful it was, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t wake up during this period.


    Uncle Yang personally brewed the medicine and brought it in. Shen Yijia quickly took the medicine before Madam Li could reach out, and smiled awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯ll do it. Mother, take a rest.¡±


    With that, she walked straight to the bed with the medicine.


    In a place where no one could see, she secretly put a drop of spiritual liquid in.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s collapse was sudden, and the doctor also mentioned that it was a dangerous time for him. Everyone was already prepared to stay awake overnight to watch over him.


    Unexpectedly, after drinking the bowl of medicine, the excessive heat in Song Jingchen¡¯s body slowly dissipated.


    This was naturally because Shen Yijia had added something to it.


    Shen Yijia was quite surprised. She had already fed him two drops before. Although two drops couldn¡¯t make the wounds on his body disappear immediately, it should at least strengthen his body, right? However, Song Jingchen still managed to fall sick.


    Part of her wondered if the spiritual liquid had expired due to her transmigration. Thankfully, the drop of spiritual liquid showed obvious effects this time, which cleared away her suspicions.


    In her previous life, she was able to avoid being beaten to death by those lunatics in the hospital because of this spiritual liquid.


    It was hard to determine all of its possible effects, but she knew for sure that it could detoxify, heal, and strengthen the body.


    She didn¡¯t know if it could cure Song Jingchen¡¯s crippled legs. Even if it could, it would take a lot of spiritual liquid to do so.


    Shen Yijia decided to give it a try in the future.


    After everyone finished their simple meal, Song Jingchen woke up.


    ¡°Mother, thank you for your concern. Take the twins with you and get some rest.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s face was still very pale, but he looked much better.


    He was also very surprised. There seemed to be something wrong with his body.


    He knew his own condition better than anyone else. Previously, when he was in the prison, those people had nearly tortured him to death without saying anything.


    Of course, he knew who instructed them to do such a thing.


    If not for the fact that he had practiced martial arts since he was young and had a strong body, it would have been impossible for him to come out alive. It was obvious how serious his injuries were.


    He had already vaguely sensed that something was off when he woke up yesterday. Today, he felt even more certain that something was wrong. The weakness he felt when he fainted previously had been greatly reduced.


    Furthermore, even the internal injuries in his body had recovered quite a bit¡­


    Hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s words, Madam Li glanced at Shen Yijia.


    She wanted to say something, but she noticed the determination on her son¡¯s face. She had no choice but to say, ¡°Alright, rest well.¡±


    Shen Yijia naturally saw Madam Li¡¯s glance before she left.


    Blinking, she moved to the bed of her own accord. ¡°Is there something you want to tell me?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. He just calmly took out an envelope and handed it to her.


    He felt that as long as Shen Yijia saw it, she should understand what he meant. There was no need for him to say anything else.


    However, Shen Yijia¡¯s next words almost made him lose his cool.


    ¡°Is this for me? I can¡¯t read though. What does it say?¡± After saying that, Shen Yijia scratched her head in embarrassment and blushed.


    She couldn¡¯t read in her previous life, but Da Hua had taught her a lot.


    After all, those old men wanted her to grow into a tool that knew nothing. Naturally, they would not teach her how to read.


    Moreover, the original host didn¡¯t seem to have studied before. She didn¡¯t have any memories before the age of five.


    After the original host¡¯s mother died at the age of five, she had no chance to learn how to read in the residence. The original host was even worse off than Shen Yijia¡­


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened as she carefully read the three words on the envelope.


    The words that Da Hua taught her were not so complicated.

 Chapter 16

    Song Jingchen was silent. He couldn¡¯t figure out why a young lady from an official¡¯s family couldn¡¯t read. He had heard that most commoner women couldn¡¯t read because they were poor.


    However, Shen Pingxiu was also a government official in the capital, and had even come from a scholar¡¯s background. How could he have raised his daughter to be so ignorant?


    The room was quiet for a moment.


    After a long time, she heard Song Jingchen¡¯s low and hoarse voice. ¡°This is the divorce agreement. I¡¯ve asked Uncle Yang to investigate it. You married into the Song family because you had no choice. Now, not only can the Song family not protect you, but we will also drag you down. Moreover, everyone in the capital knows about the incident that happened to me on the day of the wedding. It won¡¯t affect you much even if you wish to marry again in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She had gotten this husband, and now she was going to lose him?


    ¡°No, you can¡¯t divorce me.¡± Although Song Jingchen had explained that it was for her own good, Shen Yijia was still a little angry.


    If not for the fact that he was good-looking and that he was her husband, would she have wasted those three drops of spiritual liquid? Absolutely not.


    Go back to the Shen family? Thinking about how the original host had lived in the past, she didn¡¯t want to go back.


    Even if she could fight and was not afraid, she couldn¡¯t spend every day beating people up. What would be the difference between that and her previous life in the institute?


    In Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, if she went back, the Shen family would definitely bully her just like they used to.


    However, she would definitely not endure it silently like the original host did. She would definitely fight back. Wouldn¡¯t that be equivalent to fighting three times a day?


    So she refused without thinking further.


    Song Jingchen was once again speechless.


    Before this, he had always thought that Shen Yijia would immediately leave happily after receiving the divorce agreement.


    This situation was unexpected.


    Song Jingchen remained silent. Shen Yijia was so angry that she puffed up her cheeks and gritted her teeth.


    Should she just knock him out?


    She quickly pinched her right hand using her left hand and tried her best to control her restless heart.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know if it was simply his imagination, but he suddenly felt that he was in danger.


    This was an intuition that he had honed from years of training in the military. However, this girl was the only other person in this room.


    ¡°It was definitely an illusion, right?¡± he thought to himself.


    He tried to ignore the strange feeling.


    He assumed that Shen Yijia was unwilling to leave because she didn¡¯t understand how complex the problem was.


    He had no choice but to say patiently, ¡°We have to go back to the countryside tomorrow. We can¡¯t take anything away from the residence. There are no servants to serve us there. We can only have simple meals every day. We¡­ might not even have enough to eat.¡±


    ¡°Not having enough to eat? It¡¯s that serious?¡± Shen Yijia was shocked by Song Jingchen¡¯s words. The first part wasn¡¯t a big problem, but not having enough to eat was a little tragic¡­


    Therefore, she no longer cared about being angry or feeling sorry for those three drops of spiritual liquid. She started to weigh the options seriously in her heart.


    Song Jingchen fell silent again. ¡°Was the problem of food really the main point here?¡± he thought. He realized that he couldn¡¯t treat this girl as a regular daughter of an official¡¯s family anymore.


    Shen Yijia felt dizzy from thinking so much, but she still did not want to go back to the Shen family.


    She wondered if it was the influence of the original host. She was repulsed by the idea of living in that place.


    ¡°If I insist on following you, would you lock me in the house and not let me out?¡± Shen Yijia asked tentatively.


    Song Jingchen was once again speechless.


    ¡°Why would I want to lock her up?¡± he thought.


    He shook his head. ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. The Shen family would definitely lock her up, but he wouldn¡¯t! If that was the case, she could go out and earn money.


    Then she asked, ¡°Would you deliberately starve me?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face felt numb. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Would you make me kneel as punishment during the winter and summer?¡±


    Song Jingchen responded. ¡°No!¡±


    The scales in Shen Yijia¡¯s heart could not tilt any further than this. She took another look at Song Jingchen¡¯s handsome face and made her final decision. ¡°Then I don¡¯t want a divorce. I want you to be my husband. I¡¯ll make money in the future, and I won¡¯t let you starve.¡±

 Chapter 17

    At first, he didn¡¯t understand why Shen Yijia was asking those strange questions, but now, he finally understood.


    She must have experienced those things in the Shen family!


    It seemed that it was indeed better not to go back.


    He stopped trying to persuade her. He simply said, ¡°There¡¯s still one night left. You can consider it carefully. If¡­ if you still decide not to return to the Shen family, then you¡¯ll be my official wife in the future!¡±


    As usual, Shen Yijia automatically ignored the first half of the sentence and only heard the words, ¡°You¡¯re my wife.¡±


    Her eyes sparkled. Good-looking people were indeed different. When these words came out of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth, Shen Yijia found them especially pleasant to the ear.


    She wasn¡¯t going to consider any other option. Raising her hand, she set the so-called divorce letter on fire.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even have time to stop her.


    Shen Yijia rushed back to her room.


    Thinking about her future, she looked for Bi Tao and asked for the things she brought from the Shen estate.


    After taking a look, she realized that they were all useless junk. The only notable item was a small wooden box left behind by the original host¡¯s mother. In it were a few pieces of jewelry and more than a hundred taels of silver that the original host had saved over the years.


    She sulked for a while.


    Then, she went back to her room and rummaged around until midnight.


    In the Imperial Palace.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was sitting in Yangxin Hall and reviewing memorials when he suddenly raised his head and glanced at Eunuch Li.


    Eunuch Li was shocked and hurriedly knelt down.


    It was not until Eunuch Li¡¯s forehead was covered in a layer of sweat that the emperor slowly said, ¡°I heard that when Father was alive, he once issued a secret decree to Old Master Song. I remember that Father¡¯s eunuch, Eunuch Song, is from your hometown, right? Have you ever heard him mention anything?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, I didn¡¯t hear Eunuch Song mention anything about a secret decree¡­¡± He paused and continued trembling, ¡°The rumors might not be credible¡­¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked away and stopped mentioning the secret decree.


    He changed the topic and said, ¡°Arrange for a team to escort them tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Majesty is merciful!¡±


    ¡°Alright, stop trying to flatter me.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an waved his hand to get Eunuch Li to stand up. He continued reading the memorial.


    He added casually, ¡°After all, it¡¯s a long journey to the Min Continent. There will definitely be bandits along the way. They¡¯re old, young, and disabled. If they encounter any bandits, they won¡¯t be able to deal with them¡­¡±


    Eunuch Li¡¯s heart skipped a beat, but he smiled along and said, ¡°Your Majesty is so thoughtful.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an ignored Eunuch Li¡¯s flattery and continued to ask, ¡°Has the disinherited prince been well-behaved these few days?¡±


    ¡°I heard from my subordinates that at first, he was still clamoring to see His Majesty. However, these few days, he¡¯s become quiet. He simply drinks in the Eastern Palace all day. The Second Prince went to visit once and came out after less than ten minutes,¡± Eunuch Li replied respectfully.


    The Second Prince, Shangguan Yu, could be said to be the least competitive among the princes.


    His biological mother was only a palace maid, but she became pregnant when the emperor took a fancy to her one night.


    She was conferred the title of Concubine Li and looked like a person with great fortune. Unfortunately, she was unlucky and didn¡¯t survive the childbirth.


    Shangguan Yu was then placed in the care of the Empress, who was childless back then.


    When Shangguan Yu was three years old, the Empress gave birth to a legitimate son, and the two princes grew up together.


    Although they were not born from the same mother, the two of them had always been close. They were not much different from the Eldest and Fourth Princes who were born from imperial concubines.

 Chapter 18

    Emperor Chong¡¯an sneered. ¡°Yu¡¯er is too kind. He actually came to me to plead for that unfilial son. Forget it. He¡¯s my son after all. I won¡¯t take his life.¡±


    ¡°Since he¡¯s already been disinherited, it¡¯s not appropriate for him to continue living in the Eastern Palace. Tomorrow, go and pass on a decree from me. Confer the title of Lord An Le upon the disinherited crown prince and grant him Xunyang. He¡¯ll have to set off immediately, and will not be allowed to enter the capital without being summoned.¡±


    Eunuch Li hurriedly agreed, but internally, he was fretting about it.


    Xunyang was in the north. It was the poorest region in the country, with the Huns gathering right next to the region.


    The people there suffered from the burning, killing, and plundering by the Huns all year round. Sending a pampered prince over was equivalent to sending him to his death.


    Song Jingchen was being sent to Danzhou in the south, while the disinherited crown prince was arranged to stay in Xunyang in the north. The emperor was still wary of them.


    At this moment, a servant walked in and interrupted Eunuch Li¡¯s thoughts. The servant whispered something in Eunuch Li¡¯s ear and retreated.


    Eunuch Li wiped the sweat from his forehead and said carefully, ¡°Your Majesty, someone from the Eternal Spring Palace said that the Imperial Consort personally cooked your favorite dishes today and invited you to try them! Look¡­¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an did not answer. He only stood up after approving the last memorial. ¡°Set off to the Eternal Spring Palace!¡±


    The next day.


    Perhaps being worried that she would be forgotten again, Shen Yijia woke up early.


    The moment Song Jingchen opened his eyes, he saw Shen Yijia carrying a small bag on her back and sitting by his bed, staring at him.


    There was no need to ask about her decision. The result was obvious.


    At this moment, he did not know how to describe his feelings.


    It was said that the moment one had fallen from grace, everyone would leave them behind, regardless of how well they got along before. Just look at the young masters who used to play together with him. Not a single one of them came to see him.


    Only this silly girl wouldn¡¯t leave even if he told her to¡­


    Madam Li brought the two children over to eat. When she saw Shen Yijia, she was also stunned.


    She quickly reacted and felt much better.


    Less than ten minutes after they finished their breakfast, a team of officers entered the residence.


    The person in the lead was Eunuch Li. The twins were already traumatized by these people and were trying their best to hide in Madam Li¡¯s arms.


    When Eunuch Li explained his intentions, Song Jingchen¡¯s expression remained indifferent, as if he had already expected this.


    Madam Li was about to lead her men to pack up when Eunuch Li stopped her. ¡°His Majesty meant that it¡¯s not convenient to bring too many things since the mountain is high and the road is so long¡­¡±


    In reality, those words meant that they could not take anything from the residence.


    Madam Li suppressed the anger in her heart and said mockingly, ¡°We have to bring a few sets of clothes to change into. His Majesty is so benevolent. He wouldn¡¯t possibly keep us from doing so, right?¡±


    Eunuch Li smiled. ¡°Naturally.¡±


    After saying that, he waved his hand and got an attendant to follow Madam Li.


    The intent was clear.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. This emperor was really petty.


    Seeing that Eunuch Li¡¯s gaze was fixated on her bag, she pursed his lips and said, ¡°This is the dowry I brought from the Shen residence. Do you want to deduct my dowry? Is your emperor really that poor?¡±


    Eunuch Li flushed bright red at Shen Yijia¡¯s straightforward words. He continued smiling and averted his gaze.


    As expected, Madam Li only packed two sets of plain clothes for everyone.


    Eunuch Li glanced at the other eunuch and saw him nod. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. The journey is long. Madam, you should get going now.¡±


    With that, Eunuch Li was about to get someone to carry Song Jingchen when Shen Yijia quickly picked him up from the chair.


    She glared at Eunuch Li and headed for the door.


    Eunuch Li was speechless.


    Song Jingchen was also speechless.


    No one said anything about it.

 Chapter 19

    This was not the first time Madam Li had seen Shen Yijia carry Song Jingchen. She simply accepted it and followed behind them with the two children.


    The twins had also seen this scene before.


    They were filled with terror back then, but now that they saw it again¡­


    Their eyes sparked, and the twins shared the same thought. Their sister-in-law was amazing.


    No matter how mature Song Jingchen was, he was still stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s actions. He only managed to react when he was almost out of the door, and his face immediately turned red.


    He was a seven-foot-tall man. However, his wife was carrying him so easily¡­ Who would believe him?


    And where did Shen Yijia get her strength from?


    Two carriages were parked at the entrance of the mansion. They both looked especially luxurious.


    The carriages definitely belonged to rich people.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened and he temporarily forgot about the awkwardness brought about by Shen Yijia.


    Noticing his expression, Shen Yijia opened her mouth to ask what was wrong.


    Song Jingchen shook his head to stop her.


    Eunuch Li followed them out and saw them standing in front of the carriage.


    He groaned inwardly. ¡°Your Majesty, you really know how to make things difficult for others,¡± he thought to himself.


    However, he still said proudly, ¡°His Majesty is kind. Considering that the heir¡­ Oh wait, I meant Young Master Song. Considering that Young Master Song is currently not in good health, he was worried that you would be tired from the journey, so he specially chose these carriages. Young Master Song, you have to remember His Majesty¡¯s kindness.¡±


    A trace of mockery flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°I dare not forget His Majesty¡¯s kindness.¡±


    With that, he gestured for Shen Yijia to carry him into the carriage.


    It really wasn¡¯t a good look for him to be carried by a girl like this.


    After sitting down, he turned around and said to Madam Li, ¡°Mother, this carriage is big enough. You can all sit here together.¡±


    Madam Li nodded. Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s actions made her feel uneasy. It was safer for the family to stay together.


    The carriage was quite big. It was not crowded for Song Jingchen even with a couple of extra people in the carriage.


    Uncle Yang sat on the shaft of the carriage.


    At this moment, the remaining maidservants also came out with bags on their backs.


    They all knelt down and kowtowed three times to the people in the carriage.


    After waking up yesterday, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t visit these people again, and only instructed Uncle Yang to make arrangements.


    These people had their own families. It was impossible for them to follow them all the way to the south.


    Song Jingchen and Madam Li did not intend to bring them along either.


    He lifted the curtain and glanced at the gates of the Duke¡¯s Residence.


    Madam Li could not help but tear up. Sister Huan blurted out, ¡°Will we come back in the future?¡±


    Brother Hao was a boy and was more mature than Sister Huan. When he heard this, he immediately said, ¡°As long as our family is together, it doesn¡¯t matter where we go. What does it matter if we don¡¯t come back?¡±


    After saying that, he glanced at Madam Li carefully.


    Knowing that her son was trying to comfort her, Madam Li forced a smile. ¡°Our Brother Hao is right. As long as our family is together, anywhere can be considered home.¡±


    They rode in a carriage, followed on horseback by ten other Imperial Guardsmen dressed as regular guards.


    There were too many pedestrians as they walked through the downtown area, so they slowed down significantly.


    Seeing such a majestic carriage pass by, many citizens stopped to watch out of curiosity.


    ¡°Hey, what kind of big shot is in that carriage?¡± a civilian asked.


    A quick-witted person at the side immediately said in a loud voice, ¡°You guys don¡¯t know about this, right? The person in the car is the former master of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. Don¡¯t you know about what happened a few days ago?


    ¡°Even though the Bulwark Duke joined forces with the disinherited crown prince to stage a rebellion, His Majesty still kept in mind the former duke¡¯s contributions to our Great Xia, so he specially sent people to escort them.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Our emperor is indeed merciful. If someone wanted to murder me and steal my property, they¡¯d be considered lucky if I don¡¯t kill their entire family.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. Our Majesty is indeed merciful¡­¡±


    The few of them spoke out quickly, praising Emperor Chong¡¯an for his benevolence.

 Chapter 20

    Some of the commoners shook their heads and did not participate, but some still listened.


    They thought about it and felt that it made sense. If they encountered thieves, they would definitely not let the thieves off easily.


    Why were the disinherited crown prince and the Bulwark Duke so rash and hungry for power? Couldn¡¯t they have waited for the emperor to abdicate?


    ¡­


    The discussion outside could be heard clearly in the carriage, and the atmosphere in the carriage instantly became ice cold.


    Song Jingchen had been resting with his eyes closed since he got into the carriage. He didn¡¯t open his eyes, but his fists were tightly clenched.


    Perhaps he was trying his best to be as calm as he appeared.


    In a private room on the third floor of Yuelai Restaurant, a handsome man in white robes stood there.


    He listened to the discussions of the people below, but his gaze kept following the luxurious carriage.


    ¡°Thank you, Second Young Master, for helping my sister escape.¡± A feminine-looking man beside him said gratefully.


    The young man in white smiled warmly, his peach blossom curving slightly. He shook his head and said, ¡°I just can¡¯t bear to see a beauty in prison.¡±


    After saying that, he picked up a teacup and took a sip.


    His movements were extremely elegant and pleasing to the eye.


    At this moment, the commoners changed the topic again.


    ¡°By the way, did you hear that there was a huge incident in the capital yesterday? A thief entered Director Shen¡¯s residence.


    Madam Shen and her eldest daughter were beaten up in a sack in their own residence. Moreover, it was done in broad daylight! I wonder who did it.¡±


    ¡°Did he offend someone?¡±


    ¡°Who knows? My granduncle was invited to the Shen residence for a consultation yesterday. Oh my god, I heard that Miss Shen was beaten up so badly that her face resembles a pig now.¡± The person gestured exaggeratedly.


    ¡°Oh my, that thief is so ruthless. The young miss didn¡¯t get disfigured, right?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°I can¡¯t be sure about that¡­¡±


    Everyone took it as a joke.


    In the carriage, Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth cracked wide open.


    Song Jingchen, who had been quiet, suddenly opened his eyes.


    Shen Yijia quickly stopped smiling and acted demurely. She lowered her head in guilt and fiddled with her clothes uncomfortably.


    Song Jingchen was silent. He didn¡¯t suspect the person in front of him at first.


    However, when he heard about the Shen Residence, hhe subconsciously glanced at Shen Yijia. There was something he couldn¡¯t understand.


    No wonder he hadn¡¯t seen Shen Yijia when he returned to the mansion yesterday.


    The carriage moved slowly out of the downtown area and out of the city gates.


    The twins had been up since early today, and they were beginning to feel sleepy from the swaying of the carriage.


    With Sister Huan in Madam Li¡¯s arms, Brother Hao leaned against Song Jingchen and started dozing off.


    Shen Yijia was worried that Brother Hao would accidentally press against Song Jingchen¡¯s leg, so she carried him in her arms.


    Brother Hao opened his eyes in a daze and took a look. His eyes widened and he blushed.


    Stuttering, he said, ¡°Big¡­ Sister-in-law¡­ M-m-men and women shouldn¡¯t touch each other¡­ I¡¯m not going to sleep anymore.¡±


    ¡°Pfft.¡± Shen Yijia was amused. How could this child be so funny? She flicked his head and said with a smile, ¡°How old are you? You¡¯re already aware that men and women shouldn¡¯t touch each other? I¡¯m your sister-in-law. Isn¡¯t there a saying that a sister-in-law is like a mother? Are you also this picky when hugging your mother?¡±


    Hao was taken aback. ¡°Was there really such a saying?¡± he thought.


    But it made a lot of sense.


    However, the blush on his face did not fade. He stammered, ¡°Thank¡­ Thank you, Sister-in-law.¡±


    Perhaps it was because he was too sleepy and was confused by Shen Yijia¡¯s words, he fell asleep shortly after.


    Shen Yijia looked at him and smiled.

 Chapter 21

    Brother Hao still looked a little like Song Jingchen. Shen Yijia wondered if Song Jingchen was also this cute when he was young.


    She imagined Song Jingchen sleeping in her arms like this, and couldn¡¯t help but want to laugh.


    Afraid of disturbing others, she endured it with all her might, her shoulders shaking slightly.


    She successfully attracted the attention of both Madam Li and Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia laughed dryly and said, ¡°Brother Hao is so cute.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and didn¡¯t say anything. He was really worried that Brother Hao would be raised with questionable morals in the future.


    He stopped resting and took out a book to read.


    On the other hand, Madam Li seemed to be in better spirits when her son was mentioned. She added, ¡°That¡¯s right. Brother Hao was born at the same time as Sister Huan, but he thinks that as a boy, he¡¯s more sensible than a girl. He¡¯s been the butt of many jokes since he was young.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s interest was piqued. She glanced at Song Jingchen, who was reading, and quietly sat closer to Madam Li. She lowered her voice and asked, ¡°What about Song Jingchen? Was he this cute when he was young?¡±


    She thought her voice was soft, but it was still loud enough in a confined space like the carriage.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t deaf, so could definitely hear it. Besides, he had been practicing martial arts since he was young, so his senses were sharp.


    Madam Li was also amused by Shen Yijia and showed her first true smile in the past few days. She said, ¡°Brother Chen wasn¡¯t like Brother Hao when he was young. He loved to cause trouble. As soon as he learned to walk, he brought the servants along with him to dig out bird nests in the trees. He didn¡¯t allow anyone to help him and insisted on climbing up by himself. But he was still young, how could he have had the strength to climb up? It was only later that his father¡­¡±


    Madam Li paused for a moment before continuing, ¡°It was his father who lifted him up and let him take the bird¡¯s nest himself¡­¡±


    As she spoke, Madam Li¡¯s eyes turned red again.


    Shen Yijia remained silent.


    Sensing Song Jiang Chen¡¯s gaze, she could only brace herself and comfort Madam Li. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be sad. In the future, I can also carry Song Jingchen to dig out bird nests. I¡¯m very strong!¡±


    She nodded seriously as he spoke.


    Although she didn¡¯t understand what was so fun about digging out a bird¡¯s nest, if Song Jingchen liked it, she would humor him.


    Madam Li was speechless.


    Song Jingchen was also speechless.


    What kind of demonic wife was this?


    Although Shen Yijia¡¯s words of consolation missed the main point, it had to be said that her words were quite effective.


    That was because Madam Li no longer felt as sad as before. She even felt like laughing for some reason.


    The carriage continued to head south.


    Apart from occasionally stopping at towns to replenish their supplies and food, they would rather sleep in the wilderness than rest in an inn.


    It felt like their guards were escorting them as prisoners rather than protecting them.


    This went on for five days.


    The carriage was hot and stuffy, and there was no way to rest properly.


    Madam Li and Song Jingchen, who had yet to recover, were both tormented.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s fever repeatedly flared up.


    Shen Yijia was anxious, but she knew she could not beat these guards up. She endured it a few times until her firsts turned red.


    She could only dilute the spiritual liquid in water for everyone to drink. While worrying about them, her heart also ached for the spiritual liquid.


    On the sixth night, the carriage once again stopped in the middle of nowhere.


    Madam Li got out of the car with the two children to take a breather. Shen Yijia carried Song Jingchen out of the car as she usually did.


    After being carried a few times, Song Jingchen was nearly immune to Shen Yijia¡¯s behavior.


    But this time, he stopped her and said weakly, ¡°Let Uncle Yang in.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia got out of the car and called Uncle Yang over.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Mom asked me to give it to you!¡± As soon as they got off the carriage, Brother Hao handed her a biscuit.

 Chapter 22

    From the time Shen Yijia hugged him to sleep, Brother Hao had clearly become closer to Shen Yijia.


    Every time he saw that Shen Yijia could carry his big brother, he would look at her in admiration.


    On the other hand, Sister Huan was still a little shy, but she often glanced at her secretly.


    If she was discovered, she would shrink into Madam Li¡¯s arms again. Shen Yijia often teased her like this and had a lot of fun along the way.


    ¡°Thank you, Brother Hao!¡± Shen Yijia took a bite of the pastry.


    The food was sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s subordinates.


    After all, apart from a few clothes, they were penniless.


    Shen Yijia had more than a hundred taels, but she couldn¡¯t buy anything at the moment.


    They traveled nonstop, and they only had time to buy food whenever the carriage stopped.


    Shen Yijia was depressed for a long time.


    At this point, she didn¡¯t know that she could bribe the guards. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be so conflicted.


    After eating, she saw Uncle Yang get out of the carriage and enter the forest alone.


    The officers didn¡¯t stop him. After all, everyone had to relieve themselves at some point. They were used to it.


    Besides, Uncle Yang was not under their jurisdiction.


    When Uncle Yang returned, he entered the carriage again. It was almost time for a break.


    Shen Yijia hugged Brother Hao and leaned against the wall of the car, sleeping soundly. Suddenly, she heard many footsteps.


    Shen Yijia suddenly opened her eyes and met Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was wide awake, she guessed that he had not slept.


    ¡°Big Brother, look. I told you that a big catch was going to pass by our Putuo Mountain soon. Do you believe me now?¡±


    An extremely wretched voice came from outside the carriage.


    Immediately after, a rough voice sounded. It was probably the big brother that the wretched man mentioned.


    ¡°Hahaha, you brat. Sure. You¡¯ll be rewarded after this job is done.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked, her eyes lighting up.


    This scene¡­ why did it seem like they had encountered bandits!


    Shen Yijia secretly lifted a corner of the curtain and saw that the carriage was surrounded by about 40 people.


    Except for a scar-faced man sitting on a horse, everyone else was holding a torch.


    Then, she looked at the people on her side. Ten guards stood in a row in front of the carriage.


    Uncle Yang was still sitting alone on the shaft of the carriage.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue.


    She thought to herself that these bandits were really unprofessional. How could they not mention the most classic line often used by bandits? ¡°I paved this road and planted this tree! Hand over your money!¡±


    Madam Li and the two children were also woken by the ruckus. Before the two children could scream, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia hurriedly covered their mouths to prevent them from making a sound.


    They reached out at the same time and glanced at each other.


    Surprise flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. Shen Yijia was puzzled and bared her teeth at him silently.


    ¡°How dare you! Do you know who¡¯s sitting in this carriage?¡±


    The leader of the guards shouted, and the ten officers drew their long sabers.


    It was unknown if the guard did it on purpose. His words were so vague that anyone who heard it would think that the person in the carriage was some big shot.


    And of course, the big shot would obviously be rich.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes silently.


    In fact, there was no big shot in the carriage. Weren¡¯t all of them criminals in their eyes?


    This carriage was probably the most valuable thing among their little group.


    The bandit leader smiled disdainfully and said, ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you¡¯re the gods. Listen up, Mount Putuo is my territory. If you want to pass through, you¡¯ll need my approval first.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother, why are you wasting your breath on them? There are so few of them, they¡¯re no match for us. Big Brother, wait here and rest. I¡¯ll lead our people to kill these travelers blocking our road,¡± the wretched man said.


    ¡°That¡¯s right!¡± The people around laughed and agreed with him.


    The tension outside increased. A fierce battle was about to break out.

 Chapter 23

    In the carriage, Madam Li and the two children were trembling in fear.


    On the contrary, Shen Yijia was a little excited. Even Song Jingchen saw her in a different light.


    When Madam Li was young, she had learned a few fancy moves from her father and brothers. When she saw this scene, she was shocked.


    Where did Shen Yijia get the confidence to be so excited?


    How could he have known that Shen Yijia was holding it in? There hadn¡¯t been any chances to see her fight before this.


    She had to endure instead of beating up the guards that accompanied them. Now that she could fight openly to vent her anger, of course she was excited!


    ¡°Don¡¯t act rashly!¡± Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but remind her. He was really worried that Shen Yijia would rush out like a steel cannonball if he wasn¡¯t careful.


    Shen pouted and turned away from him.


    At this moment, there was also fighting outside, but strangely, the sounds of fighting were getting further and further away.


    Shen Yijia could not help but lift the curtain to take a look.


    The ten officers were caught up in the fight with a dozen bandits and left the scene, leaving a lonely carriage surrounded by the remaining twenty or so bandits.


    A look of surprise flashed across the bandit leader¡¯s eyes.


    Seeing this, Song Jingchen took out the simple bow and arrow that he had instructed Uncle Yang to make at the last minute. He signaled Shen Yijia to hang up the curtain.


    The moment she did that, the people in the carriage were instantly exposed to the bandits.


    Seeing the plain clothes of the people in the carriage, a flicker of suspicion crossed the bandit leader¡¯s face and he spat on the ground.


    He cursed angrily, ¡°What kind of bullsh*t ¡®big catch¡¯ is this? Did they use their whole fortune to decorate this carriage?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not big shots, and we don¡¯t have any money on us. If you like this carriage, we can give it to you. Can you please be magnanimous and spare us?¡± Uncle Yang shouted without needing Song Jingchen to instruct him. His tone was neither servile nor overbearing, and he did not seem to be flustered.


    The bandit leader said disdainfully, ¡°Don¡¯t try my patience. You don¡¯t have money, right? I see that the people in the carriage are all thin and tender. They can probably be sold for a lot of money. It just so happens that I lack a wife, so that young lady will stay here and serve me. As for the rest¡­ men and women alike, you¡¯ll all be sold to brothels.


    These words caused the lackeys around him to roar with laughter again.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. Before he could instruct Uncle Yang to attack,


    He felt something fly out before his eyes.


    ¡°Sister Jia¡­¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡±


    Madam Li and the two children had been behind Shen Yijia the entire time, so they could see everything clearly.


    Their first reaction was to scream.


    It was so fast that even Uncle Yang could not react.


    Song Jingchen was shocked and tried to look for the petite figure in the crowd.


    No one knew how Shen Yijia did it.


    In just a few seconds, when Song Jingchen finally caught a glimpse of her, she had already run to the bandit leader¡¯s side.


    Without a word, she violently pulled the burly man off his horse.


    Everyone present was stunned.


    Before anyone could react, Shen Yijia punched him. ¡°Have you heard of the saying that villains die because they talk too much? It¡¯s for people like you,¡± she said impatiently.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a look at yourself in the mirror? You want me to serve you. I¡¯ll let you experience the service from my fists.¡±


    ¡°You even want to sell my husband. You¡¯re so ugly, how could your dreams be so idealistic?¡±


    ¡°As for my mother, my younger siblings. You want to sell them for money, don¡¯t you! You¡¯re quite imaginative. Why don¡¯t you start daydreaming right now? Any scenario would be more realistic than that.¡±


    ¡°All of you have hands and feet. You¡¯re capable of doing anything, and yet you chose to be bandits.¡±


    ¡°¡­¡±

 Chapter 24

    Shen Yijia spoke unhurriedly. Every time she spoke, she threw a punch. Her fist was fair and tender.


    The punches seemed weak to the onlookers. Only the bandit leader, who was on the receiving end, knew how painful they were. Every punch made his head buzz.


    Shen Yijia continuously aimed for his face.


    The punches were fast and savage, raining down on his face. She had his collar in her grip, making it impossible for him to resist.


    After a few punches, the bandit leader¡¯s face was covered in blood.


    If not for the fact that he couldn¡¯t speak due to this onslaught, he would¡¯ve wanted to shout at her to stop hitting his face.


    At this moment, the other bandits finally reacted. When they saw their boss¡¯s expression, they gulped nervously.


    As one, they silently stepped back.


    Madam Li heaved a sigh of relief.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s initial worry turned into surprise. Then, when he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words, he couldn¡¯t help but smile as he found it funny.


    As if he¡¯d suddenly thought of something, he sized up the woman who had surprised him again and again.


    Her speed from earlier¡­ Shen Yijia was faster than he was even at his peak. Moreover, when he considered her performance tonight.


    Was it really something a pampered lady could do?


    Judging from her skills, she did not look like she could be bullied by a few wives of the Inner Residence.


    ¡°If she lied to me previously, then what was her motive? What did she want with me?¡±


    Song Jingchen laughed at himself. Was there any value left in him for anyone to scheme against?


    No, there was something else.


    Thinking of this, a dark glint flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan had completely forgotten about their fear. Their eyes were filled with stars.


    If not for the fact that this wasn¡¯t the right occasion, they would have applauded and cheered.


    ¡°Damn¡­ you¡¯re all dead¡­¡± When he spat out his fifth tooth, the bandit leader finally found the right moment to speak. However, as soon as he opened his mouth, the fist smashed down upon him again.


    The bandit leader was speechless.


    ¡°Can you let me finish?¡± he thought.


    But his words proved to be slightly useful.


    Two of the bandits mustered their courage and slashed at Shen Yijia from both sides.


    Song Jingchen hesitated for a moment, but he still gritted his teeth and shot an arrow at the person behind Shen Yijia. At the same time, he reminded her, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    Uncle Yang also wanted to rush up immediately, but before he could do so¡­


    Shen Yijia raised the bandit leader and slammed him against the man¡¯s blade. He was like a light paper figure in her hand.


    Two muffled groans could be heard at the same time. One came naturally from the bandit leader¡¯s mouth, and the other¡­


    Shen Yijia turned around. Oh my.


    The person behind her had a bamboo arrow stuck in his forehead. His eyes widened in disbelief. He fell back and died.


    This made the remaining bandits even more terrified. It turned out that this weak-looking girl was not the only freak here. The sickly-looking man was a freak too.


    What kind of demons have they provoked this time?


    Shen Yijia blinked.


    Could she scream right now?


    She took a deep breath and suppressed it. She threw the bandit leader, whose left arm had been slashed open, to the ground and stomped on him.


    She gave a thumbs-up to the person who had fallen to the ground in fear. Shen Yijia said sincerely, ¡°You¡¯re amazing. You even stabbed your own boss. He¡¯s not dead yet though. Do you want to stab him again? This way, you can take his place and become the boss when you go back.¡±


    That person was already scared out of his wits. When he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words, his legs went weak and he trembled as he defended himself. ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t. It¡¯s you¡­ you used Boss as a shield against my sword.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at him. ¡°I¡¯m your enemy. If I don¡¯t use him as a shield, what am I supposed to do? Should I just stand here and let you stab me? However, you¡¯re different. The two of you are on the same side.¡±

 Chapter 25

    The bandit leader, who was forced to lie on the ground, coughed out a large mouthful of blood.


    He begged, ¡°I¡¯ve made a mistake. I shouldn¡¯t have messed with you. Please have mercy and forgive me!¡±


    Because a few of his teeth had been knocked out, the bandit leader spoke with a lisp.


    Shen Yijia had to think about it a few times before she could understand what he was saying.


    She snorted. ¡°So you wouldn¡¯t show us mercy earlier, and now you want me to have mercy on you? If you can beg hard enough to satisfy me, I¡¯ll let you go.¡±


    The bandit leader groaned. Was this karma? He continued to beg for mercy. ¡°I was wrong. What do you want? I¡¯ll do anything¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t say anything and simply looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    With a dry cough, he used his hands to prop up his lower body and moved forward a little before looking down at the bandit leader. ¡°You¡¯ve seen the state of our party. Those guards weren¡¯t really there to protect us. The rest of us here are old and sick. Except for a few sets of clothes, there is nothing left in the carriage. I don¡¯t know who told you we¡¯d pass through here, but it¡¯s likely that you¡¯re being used.¡±


    As he spoke, he could not help but cough softly. His ill health was obvious.


    The bandits present, including the bandit leader, thought to themselves, ¡°How can you call yourselves old and weak? What about us? Are we trash?¡±


    But they didn¡¯t dare say that.


    However, Song Jingchen¡¯s words reminded the bandit leader that the wretched man had been gone for so long and had yet to return.


    It was that wretched man from earlier who tipped him off about this catch.


    Thinking of his brothers who were still in the stronghold, he cursed inwardly. He had been set up.


    He was anxious, and it showed clearly on his face. He endured the pain in his body and struggled to break free from Shen Yijia¡¯s feet.


    Shen Yijia thought that he was trying to pull another trick, so she raised her fist to punch him again.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He was really worried that she would kill him. He quickly called out, ¡°Yijia, come here!¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned.


    This was the first time Song Jingchen had called her name. Shen Yijia retracted her fist and walked over in a daze¡­


    When Shen Yijia came back to her senses, she found that she was already standing beside Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth curled up slightly. He couldn¡¯t help but rub Shen Yijia¡¯s head.


    It was the first time she saw Song Jingchen smile. Although it disappeared in a flash, Shen Yijia still caught a glimpse of it.


    Her mind was filled with thoughts about how good looking her husband was.


    She instantly forgot what she had just done.


    She couldn¡¯t help but break into a wide smile.


    Madam Li rubbed her temples as she watched from the side. Although she had hoped that the two of them could get along well, she could not help but wonder if they could get along on different occasions.


    She silently covered the eyes of the two fascinated children.


    ¡°Y-You won¡¯t be beating us up anymore, right?¡± The bandit leader asked cautiously after someone helped him up.


    He wanted to just sneak away quietly, but when he thought about the speed of the female demon just now, he didn¡¯t dare.


    His voice brought back Song Jingchen¡¯s attention. When he realized what he had just done, he was also shocked.


    He looked away awkwardly and nodded. ¡°Of course. We didn¡¯t want to have a conflict with you. My wife was just protecting us.¡±


    What he meant was that she was forced to attack. Since Song Jingchen let them off today, the bandits couldn¡¯t hold a grudge against them either..


    ¡°I understand¡­ I understand!¡± The bandit leader nodded hurriedly. Did he dare to hold a grudge against the demoness? He would have to be tired of living to do so.


    He heaved a sigh of relief and felt a sense of relief.

 Chapter 26

    Just like that, the fierce battle that was supposed to happen ended dramatically.


    The sun was rising, and everyone was no longer sleepy. They simply sat in a circle to rest.


    Ever since that group of people left, Uncle Yang had been hesitating to speak.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to notice. He said calmly, ¡°Uncle Yang, no one has eaten well recently. Please go and get some food.¡±


    Uncle Yang acknowledged this and picked up the bow and arrow that Song Jingchen had placed at the side.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the bow and muttered, ¡°I did better than that!¡±


    The voice was too soft for Song Jingchen to hear clearly.


    Soon, Uncle Yang returned with two rabbits that had been skinned.


    Shen Yijia looked at the two skinned rabbits with joy.


    She hadn¡¯t eaten meat since she¡¯d transmigrated.


    Seeing the two rabbits crackling over the fire, Madam Li suddenly said, ¡°We¡¯re still in the mourning period¡­¡±


    ¡°The kids are still young and need nutrition. Besides, we can¡¯t let them starve. I don¡¯t think Grandfather and Father will blame us,¡± Song Jingchen replied indifferently.


    When Madam Li saw the two children staring at the roasted rabbit meat while drooling, she decided not to say any more.


    ¡°Young Master, those bandits have done many evil deeds. We shouldn¡¯t have¡­¡± After enduring for a long time, Uncle Yang couldn¡¯t help but speak.


    Before he could finish, Song Jingchen sneered, ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have let them go? Uncle Yang, do you expect me to go up the mountain to eliminate the bandits like this?¡±


    Uncle Yang wanted to say more.


    Song Jingchen was slightly embarrassed and said coldly, ¡°Uncle Yang, I¡¯m no longer the heir who has to protect the safety of the people of Great Xia. I¡¯m just a cripple who¡¯s worse off than a commoner. The commoners can still have ideals and aspirations, they can even make a name for themselves in the imperial examination. However, Brother Hao and I can¡¯t do that. Even our future descendants have been barred from the exams. Besides, my grandfather has been fighting for Great Xia all his life, but just look at what happened to him.


    ¡°So¡­ what do the actions of these bandits have to do with me?¡±


    As he spoke, his eyes turned red. He closed his eyes and suppressed the violence in his heart. Then he said, ¡°I can choose not to stir up trouble, as per Grandfather¡¯s wishes. However, I won¡¯t take on any responsibilities beyond that.¡±


    ¡°I agree with Brother Chen,¡± Madam Li added.


    Shen Yijia stared at the meat and nodded hurriedly. ¡°Husband is right.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that it was foolish to care about others when she could not even guarantee her own safety.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression softened. Uncle Yang sighed and didn¡¯t say anything else.


    There was a momentary silence, broken only by the crackling of the fire.


    ¡°Can we eat now? We should be able to eat now, right?¡± Shen Yijia was so focused on the roasted meat that she did not notice anything else.


    Nothing was more important than eating meat.


    As soon as they ate the meat, footsteps came from the forest.


    The newcomers were clearly surprised to see them.


    Shen Yijia took a bite out of the rabbit leg she was holding.


    She bared her teeth at the group of guards and said in a muffled voice, ¡°It¡¯s such a coincidence that you guys are back. There¡¯s only enough meat for us. If you want to eat it, go hunt for it yourself.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, you only give us stale pastries every day, you¡¯re awful.¡± she thought to herself.


    She sighed. ¡°Bunnies are so cute. How could they also taste so delicious?¡±


    The guards said nothing.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temple and became uncertain about his suspicions.


    After all, was Shen Yijia really capable of scheming against others?


    Forget it, there was still a long road ahead. A fox would expose its tail eventually.

 Chapter 27

    Song Jingchen glanced at the ten guards coldly and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re back, let¡¯s keep moving. We¡¯ll go to the next town and sell the carriage for another one.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a question. It was a statement.


    Although the leader of the guards, Lin Mu, felt guilty, he still braced himself and said, ¡°That would be inappropriate. This is a gift from His Majesty. Besides¡­ completing the journey quickly is more important.¡±


    Shen Yijia was unhappy. She swallowed the meat in his mouth and said angrily, ¡°Hmph, you think that completing the journey quickly is important? We¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time. Moreover, that group of bandits was attracted by this carriage. Do you want to keep this carriage to attract more bandits to rob us?¡±


    Shen Yijia only thought about things at the surface level, so she meant what she said.


    However, those guilty people would think that Shen Yijia was mocking them.


    Only Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t mean it that way.


    Ignoring what those people were thinking, he said directly, ¡°There are many bandits around here. You are all sacrificing yourselves to protect this party filled with the old, weak, sick, and disabled. His Majesty wouldn¡¯t blame you when he finds out, right?¡±


    He was basically implying that they should listen to him or die.


    Song Jingchen followed Lin Mu¡¯s arrangements along the way not because he was afraid of them, but because he couldn¡¯t be bothered.


    Since they¡¯ve had a falling out, there was no need to be polite to them any longer.


    Lin Mu knew that what Song Jingchen said was the truth. Even if he would be punished when he returned, it was better than losing his life here.


    They initially thought that Song Jingchen, whose legs were crippled, was nothing to be afraid of. After this incident, he understood that even if the ten of them worked together, they might not be able to take down these people.


    Shen Yijia was about to go over and pick up Song Jingchen like she usually did. However, he unexpectedly tilted his body slightly and avoided her hand.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen in confusion.


    Song Jingchen coughed awkwardly and turned his head away. ¡°Let Uncle Yang do it.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. He had let her carry him before.


    It was noon when they arrived at the next town.


    Song Jingchen ignored Lin Mu and the others behind him, and asked Uncle Yang to stop the carriage in front of an inn.


    This time, without being instructed, Uncle Yang got into the carriage and carried Song Jingchen down.


    He did not notice that Shen Yijia, who had a resentful expression, was gritting her teeth.


    Madam Li found it funny, but she did not expose her. She simply got out of the car with the two children.


    ¡°Let¡¯s stay here. We won¡¯t be traveling today. Everyone should get some proper rest,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Except for the ten people following behind, no one had any objections.


    After asking for four rooms, Uncle Yang was about to take out his money bag to pay when Shen Yijia pushed his hand away.


    She gestured to Lin Mu who was standing behind her. ¡°They¡¯re with us. Ask him for the money.¡±


    The shopkeeper looked awkwardly at Lin Mu.


    Lin Mu said nothing.


    He could only resign himself to paying.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia, who was as happy as a cat who had successfully stolen a fish, and a smile flashed across his eyes.


    Shen Yijia had a room for herself. She took a shower and fell asleep.


    She was exhausted. She didn¡¯t even get up for dinner.


    The next morning, Shen Yijia opened the door and went downstairs.


    Everyone was present. They sat at two separate tables.


    Shen Yijia had just sat down when a money bag was placed in front of her.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled. She opened it and saw two hundred-tael notes and some silver pieces.


    The silver pieces added up to more than 30 taels.


    ¡°Is¡­ is this for me?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen because he was the one who took out the money bag.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything.

 Chapter 28

    There was a moment of silence.


    Madam Li had no choice but to explain, ¡°Uncle Yang sold that carriage this morning for about 400 taels. He also bought two more carriages and spent about 200 taels. The rest are all there. Brother Chen wants you to take care of the family, you¡¯ll be in charge of the finances.¡±


    ¡°That much?¡± The original host had about a hundred taels over a decade. This single carriage was worth so much. She blurted out, ¡°If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have returned the other carriage¡­¡±


    Madam Li was speechless.


    Hearing Shen Yijia say that made Madam Li feel like it was a waste too.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat!¡± Song Jingchen interrupted Shen Yijia¡¯s unrealistic daydreams and said indifferently.


    As for why he let Shen Yijia take the money, Song Jingchen told himself that this would make her feel that he trusted her, therefore giving herself away sooner.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, Madam Li led Brother Hao and Sister Huan into one of the carriages.


    This carriage wasn¡¯t as big as their original carriage. Thus, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen had to share the other carriage.


    This was the first time she was alone with her husband. Shen Yijia laughed to herself.


    Unfortunately, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t give her a chance to get closer to him. He closed his eyes to rest right after getting into the carriage.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She wanted to curse, but she didn¡¯t know if she should.


    The rest of the journey was much slower than before.


    If they reached the town at noon, Song Jingchen would get everyone to stop for lunch.


    At night, Song Jingchen would arrange for the party to stay at an inn.


    The opinions of Lin Mu and the other guards didn¡¯t matter to him.


    Although they were still being jolted around in the carriage, everyone¡¯s spirits were obviously much better.


    Along the way, they stopped and admired the scenery. By the time they entered Danzhou, an entire month had passed.


    The Song family¡¯s ancestral home was in Xiagou Village in Minzhou.


    Although it was his ancestral home, Song Jingchen had only visited once when he was young.


    His great-grandmother had passed away and he came to pay his respects. From then on, no one from the Song family visited again.


    Granny Song had two sons. The old duke was the eldest son.


    At that time, the world was in chaos. Her husband and her 15-year-old son were both captured and sent to the army. Only her youngest son, Song Dahai who was eight years old at the time, was left behind. Thus, Granny Song and Song Dahai relied on each other.


    At first, the mother and son had a hard time.


    Later on, her husband died in battle and she received some compensation for it. Additionally, her eldest son sent home every single cent he earned.


    Grandma Song and her son became the wealthiest family in the village.


    Perhaps because her eldest son was not by her side, she doted on her youngest son.


    Due to his wealthy upbringing, Song Dahai gradually became a loafer and lecherous hooligan.


    He used to sneak into widows¡¯ rooms in the village.


    His reputation was so rotten that no maiden from a good family was willing to marry him, so Granny Song bought him a wife.


    She assumed that he would turn over a new leaf once he had children.


    That girl was quite resilient. Within three years, she had given birth to a son and a daughter for Song Dahai.


    Unfortunately, not only did Song Dahai not restrain himself, he even beat up his wife over trivial matters.


    Song Dahai even pushed her over and killed her by accident while he was drunk.


    Around this time, the ten-year-long war had subsided.


    As soon as Great Xia was established, Granny Song¡¯s eldest son was conferred the title of ¡®Bulwark General¡¯.


    The first thing he did was to bring Granny Song and his younger brother to the capital.


    This was supposed to be a good thing, but the old duke did not expect his younger brother to be so pathetic.


    When he asked about the mother of Song Dahai¡¯s two children, Granny Song lied and told him that she passed away from an illness.


    Since they were family, the old duke naturally did not doubt her.


    Song Dahai, who once dominated the village, now had the backing of the Bulwark General.


    Naturally, Song Dahai¡¯s behavior worsened.

 Chapter 29

    The old duke found out when someone sent the emperor a complaint letter.


    The letter of accusation, which was written in blood, was thrown at the old duke¡¯s feet by the furious late emperor.


    After a final investigation, they found that Song Dahai had snatched five women away from their families within half a year of entering the capital. Four of them committed suicide after being defiled.


    The fifth woman also committed suicide after leaving the bloody letter.


    As for why no one dared to complain before this, it was naturally because of the Bulwark General¡¯s existence.


    The old duke, who had lived a morally upright life, was unable to raise his head due to the shame he felt.


    Initially, he wanted to behead Song Dahai in public, but his mother begged him not to, and said that she would willingly die alongside Song Dahai.


    Due to his filial piety, the old duke had no choice but to personally break Song Dahai¡¯s legs and bring him to those families to apologize.


    He knelt in front of the late emperor for 24 hours in order to spare Song Dahai¡¯s life.


    However, even after saving his younger brother¡¯s life, Grandma Song and Song Dahai greatly resented him.


    When the old duke sent Song Dahai and his family back to their hometown, Granny Song insisted on following them, and threatened to sever ties with the old duke.


    The old duke was bitterly disappointed and left them alone.


    It was only when Granny Song passed away that the old duke brought his family to visit the ancestral home.


    The two families were like enemies now. Of course, this was only due to Song Dahai¡¯s unilateral thoughts.


    The old duke had never taken these people seriously.


    ¡­


    It had been summer when they set out. It¡¯s autumn now.


    Shen Yijia, who was initially happy to be alone with Song Jingchen, was lying in a corner.


    She no longer made a fuss and asked questions whenever she saw something new.


    After two days of silence, Song Jingchen felt unused to it.


    ¡°If you¡¯re bored, you can read a book,¡± Song Jingchen suggested.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up for a moment before dimming again. She turned her back to Song Jingchen and said in a muffled voice, ¡°You know I can¡¯t read. I¡¯d just be staring at the pages.¡±


    Song Jingchen fell silent. He had totally forgotten¡­


    Tentatively, he said, ¡°Why don¡¯t I teach you to read?¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± Shen Yijia straightened up and sat beside Song Jingchen. Her speed was still astonishing.


    Song Jingchen, who didn¡¯t expect Shen Yijia to agree, was speechless.


    Having spent more time with him, Shen Yijia could more or less tell what he was thinking based on his expression.


    She narrowed her eyes and stared at him without blinking.


    She pinched her fingers out of habit and said, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re not lying to me, are you?¡±


    This familiar feeling made Song Jingchen recall the scene when he gave Shen Yijia the divorce letter.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temple. The hunch he got back then wasn¡¯t wrong at all.


    Shaking his head, he said, ¡°Not really. I just thought you¡¯d find it boring.¡±


    Shen Yijia was satisfied and retorted, ¡°It¡¯s very boring, but it¡¯s different if you¡¯re the one teaching me! Besides, if you write to me in the future, it won¡¯t be good if I can¡¯t read it!¡±


    Song Jingchen said nothing.


    ¡°The letter from before didn¡¯t count. It was a divorce letter. I won¡¯t write to you again.¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen met Shen Yijia¡¯s sparkling eyes.


    He kept telling himself that he was doing this because Shen Yijia¡¯s sullen mood was severely affecting his own mood.


    It definitely wasn¡¯t because he liked seeing her so lively.


    ¡°Hubby, when do we start?¡± Shen Yijia whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear.


    Her lively voice was like fresh water trickling from a spring.


    The word ¡°hubby¡± also seemed to flow into Song Jingchen¡¯s heart, causing ripples.

 Chapter 30

    After a long time, Song Jingchen said, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused. ¡°What?¡±


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyelids, making it impossible to see his expression. His voice sounded normal as he said, ¡°Grandfather gave me the name ¡®Shenzhi¡¯ before he died. You can call me that in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked casually, ¡°Isn¡¯t hubby nice?¡±


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to answer, she cheered up again. ¡°But Shenzhi sounds good. Then I¡¯ll call you Shenzhi in the future.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Shenzhi!¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Shenzhi!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here!¡±


    ¡°Shenzhi¡­¡± Shen Yijia deliberately dragged out the last word. After shouting, she laughed out loud.


    Song Jingchen said nothing.


    There was a feeling of shooting himself in the foot. He probably didn¡¯t want to hear those words again anytime soon¡­


    After passing another town, they had an additional set of the Four Treasures of the Study and a few young children¡¯s enrichment books in their carriage.


    The car was bumpy and not suitable for writing.


    Song Jingchen decided to teach her how to read first.


    Starting from the Three Character Classic, Song Jingchen would read the words aloud, then Shen Yijia would repeat after him.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was low and attractive. Just like Song Jingchen himself, it made people easily intoxicated.


    The two of them continued this way. Slowly, Shen Yijia¡¯s voice became softer and softer until it could be ignored.


    Song Jingchen felt a weight on him as Shen Yijia¡¯s head slumped onto his shoulder.


    Song Jingchen was slightly stunned. He turned his head and saw that Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were closed under her curled eyelashes. She was still muttering the words he read to her under her breath, ¡°If the jade is not cut, it is useless. If a person doesn¡¯t learn, he won¡¯t know loyalty¡­¡±


    This was the first time Song Jingchen had looked at Shen Yijia so closely. Perhaps it was because she had eaten too well recently, but Shen Yijia had some baby fat on her face.


    She didn¡¯t look like her usual lively self, nor did she look as fierce as she did whenever she fought.


    At this moment, she was quiet and unusually docile. Anyone would want to protect her under their wings.


    With such looks, who would have thought that she had the ability to send a grown man flying with a single punch?


    He didn¡¯t know where that strength came from.


    Song Jingchen shook his head and called back his thoughts. He reached out to wake her up.


    As soon as his hand touched Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead, he stopped.


    The skin he felt on his fingertips was as smooth as jade. He retracted her hand as if he had been scalded.


    But that warmth seemed to linger.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his eyebrows and picked up the blanket beside him as if he had accepted his fate. He gently covered Shen Yijia with it.


    Then, he leaned against the wall of the car and closed his eyes to rest.


    Naturally, no one saw the touching scene in the carriage¡­


    Shen Yijia was awakened by a thunderclap.


    When she opened her eyes, she saw Song Jingchen gently covering her ears with his hands¡­


    He seemed to be afraid that he would wake her up if he used too much strength.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    After pausing for five seconds, she pounced into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms, her small body trembling exceptionally hard.


    ¡°Shenzhi, I¡¯m scared! Boohoo!¡±


    That¡¯s how it was written in novels. Heavy rain, thunder, as well as a man and a woman alone in a room. The heroine pounces on the hero.


    Wow, the timing was perfect! Shen Yijia was overjoyed and her body trembled even more.


    Song Jingchen was speechless. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you at least suppress your smile before saying that?¡± he thought to himself.


    This girl wore her heart on her sleeve. If she was really placed by his side as a spy, the person who assigned her must¡¯ve been too lenient!


    The body in his arms felt weak. He knew that she was just acting, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t push her away.


    He stiffened up.


    Only when another thunderclap sounded did Song Jingchen wake up.


    He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulders and pushed her out of his embrace.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips, looking at him like he was a heartless jerk.

 Chapter 31

    Unfortunately, Song Jingchen had already turned his gaze away from her.


    Even if he saw her expression, he wouldn¡¯t have understood.


    ¡°Young Master Song, the rain is too heavy. Something bad might happen if we continued moving. There¡¯s a dilapidated temple ahead. Why don¡¯t I drive the carriage there to avoid the rain for now?¡± The coachman¡¯s voice could be heard through the rain.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Song Jingchen replied.


    Their carriage was leading the way. Uncle Yang was carrying the three others in the second carriage, so he could protect them if anything happened.


    They entered the ruined temple, and the others behind them followed.


    The five people sitting in the car were fine. Meanwhile, the rest had their clothes soaked from the rain.


    Shen Yijia saw that Uncle Yang was drenched and got back into the carriage happily.


    She said eagerly, ¡°Uncle Yang¡¯s clothes are wet. You don¡¯t want to get wet too, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen said nothing.


    He could stay in the carriage and not get down.


    Since Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything, Shen Yijia assumed that he had agreed. She grinned.


    She leisurely carried Song Jingchen down from the carriage.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to be happy about?¡± Song Jingchen was really puzzled. He thought that his reasoning might be different from what Shen Yijia thought, so he asked directly.


    Everyone else did their best to stay away from a cripple like him. She was the only exception.


    Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly, ¡°I¡¯m the strongest. Besides, you¡¯re my husband, so of course I have to carry you myself!¡±


    Sure enough, the reason was simple and crude.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know what was going on in Song Jingchen¡¯s mind. She placed him down on the straw mat that Madam Li had prepared.


    Seeing that Sister Huan was peeking at her from behind Madam Li again, she reached out and rubbed her hair. Shen Yijia teased her, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Sister Huan lowered her head shyly, her face flushed.


    However, she could not help but look up at Shen Yijia. After a moment, she made up her mind and said, ¡°Sister-in-law is so powerful. When I grow up, I want to be as powerful as you!¡±


    ¡°Sure! But it¡¯s impossible to be as powerful as I am. But it¡¯s possible to be just a little weaker than me.¡± After all, she had been born with her abilities. It wasn¡¯t something that you could gain just by training.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if it¡¯s just slightly worse than Sister-in-law. Just a little bit!¡± As she spoke, she even pinched her fingers together to indicate the tiny distance.


    Amused, Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°Okay, you can definitely do it.¡±


    She did not know that this girl, who could have grown into a graceful lady, would be led astray by her words.


    She would eventually grow to become a female Rakshasa that no one in the army dared to underestimate.


    However, that¡¯s a story for another time.


    The rain did not stop even when night fell. Tonight, they could only rest in this dilapidated temple.


    Fortunately, the carriage was stocked with rations. The situation became more bearable once they got a fire going.


    The inside of the carriage was too narrow. The two children lay sleeping inside while the others rested against the walls of the temple.


    Perhaps because she had slept during the day, Shen Yijia did not feel sleepy.


    There was light breathing all around. With this sound, Shen Yijia finally started to get drowsy.


    Suddenly, she heard a whoosh.


    In the blink of an eye, Shen Yijia had already vanished.


    She reappeared in front of Song Jingchen.


    She was holding an arrow that was less than half a foot away from Song Jingchen¡¯s shoulder.


    Song Jingchen was also awake and looking at Shen Yijia in disbelief.


    This arrow was originally aimed at his head. He wanted to dodge it, but unfortunately, he couldn¡¯t use his legs and could only tilt his body.


    He thought that he would inevitably be injured this time, but he did not expect Shen Yijia to arrive so quickly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s speed reminded Song Jingchen of her abilities.

 Chapter 32

    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia and pulled her into his arms. She was still staring at the arrow in her hand with a curious expression.


    He rolled to the side with her in his arms.


    There were a few more whooshing sounds. Shen Yijia took the opportunity to look back and saw three arrows stuck in the place where the two of them were a moment ago.


    The arrow was still quivering.


    Before Shen Yijia could react, Song Jingchen had already snatched the arrow from her hand and hurled it.


    With a ¡®thwack¡¯ sound, the arrow thrown by Song Jingchen collided with the arrow flying towards them, and the two arrows fell to the ground at the same time.


    Shen Yijia was dumbfounded. She looked up at Song Jingchen and blurted out, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re amazing.¡±


    ¡°Stop daydreaming. Help me up.¡± Song Jingchen really wanted to split open Shen Yijia¡¯s head to see what was inside. How could she be infatuated at a time like this?


    ¡°Oh, right¡­¡± Shen Yijia quickly nodded.


    Then someone shouted, ¡°Assassins!¡± and the others woke up.


    Uncle Yang rushed to Song Jingchen¡¯s side and helped him sit up.


    Shen Yijia quickly got up and stared at the dark curtain of rain outside.


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but remind Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and tilted her head in confusion. Then, she suddenly understood and patted Song Jingchen¡¯s head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll protect you.¡±


    After saying that, she looked around, picked up a wooden stick from the corner, and stood in front of Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Taking a deep breath, he turned around and instructed Uncle Yang, ¡°Go and protect my mother and siblings. Tell them to stay in the carriage.¡±


    Then, he said to Lin Mu and the others, ¡°You can try to see if these people will let you off.¡±


    As soon as he said this, the guards with ulterior motives looked at each other. Finally, under Lin Mu¡¯s gaze, they pulled out their swords and approached Song Jingchen and the others.


    Uncle Yang glanced at Song Jingchen worriedly, but in the end, he still obeyed the instructions he¡¯d been given.


    A moment later, more than twenty men in black rushed in.


    Without a word, they raised their swords and charged.


    The two sides fought fiercely.


    This group of men in black was clearly not on the same level as the bandits from before. Lin Mu and the others were completely outmatched.


    Furthermore, the attackers had an advantage in numbers.


    At first, Shen Yijia stayed beside Song Jingchen to guard him, so she didn¡¯t attack. She watched as Lin Mu and the other guards got injured.


    She could not hold it in anymore. Although Lin Mu and the others had their own motives, they were still the ones who had to bear the travel expenses along the way.


    Debts had to be repaid. She was a grateful person.


    Glancing at Song Jingchen behind her, Shen Yijia quickly picked him up and brought him to Madam Li¡¯s carriage.


    She stuffed the stick into Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go help them.¡±


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to reply, she rushed into the battlefield.


    She picked up a wounded guard and snatched his sword.


    Then, she casually threw him out of the conflict zone.


    Shen Yijia did not have many fighting techniques. She only relied on her speed and strength.


    Using the back of the sword, she knocked an enemy unconscious before he could catch her.


    While doing that, she continued to toss the injured guards to safety.


    The originally one-sided situation was instantly reversed by Shen Yijia¡¯s involvement.


    Song Jingchen sat on the shaft of the carriage and locked his gaze on the small figure shuttling through the black-clothed people.


    The hand by his leg secretly pinched his unfeeling thigh. He had mixed feelings.

 Chapter 33

    After knocking out the last assassin, Shen Yijia threw away the sword in her hand.


    She was about to say something when her ears pricked up. Her gaze shifted to the night, and she shot off into the rain.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t stop her in time and watched as the figure disappeared into the night.


    Once again, he felt helpless.


    Before he could worry for long, Shen Yijia returned. She was drenched, and carried one black-clothed man in each arm.


    Tossing them into the group of people she¡¯d knocked unconscious, she wiped the rain from her face.


    Looking in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction, she smiled proudly and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t let them escape.¡±


    After saying that, she kicked the attackers a few more times. It was these two people who had almost injured her husband with their arrows.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and motioned for Shen Yijia to come over. He took her hand and examined it carefully. ¡°Are you injured?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. She puffed out his chest and said sincerely, ¡°They can¡¯t hurt me!¡±


    Song Jingchen was so amused by antics that he wanted to laugh. He glanced down and noticed the slight curves under her wet clothes.


    Awkwardly, he looked away.


    Madam Li called Shen Yijia into the carriage to change her clothes.


    Shen Yijia went over obediently, not noticing Song Jingchen¡¯s slightly red ears.


    When she came out after changing, she saw that Song Jingchen was getting someone to pull off the black cloth on those people¡¯s faces.


    Shen Yijia walked over and said in surprise, ¡°Eh, why is there a moon on their faces?¡±


    The appearance of the last man in black was exposed. Without exception, everyone had a crescent mark on their right cheek.


    ¡°Young Master, they are¡­¡± Uncle Yang looked at Song Jingchen solemnly.


    Song Jingchen waved his hand to stop Uncle Yang and said indifferently, ¡°Kill them all.¡±


    This was not the first time suicide warriors with a crescent mark on their faces tried to assassinate him. However, he never found out who was behind them. The only thing he could confirm was that these people were not sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    After a pause, he looked at Shen Yijia and suddenly added, ¡°These people are all suicide warriors. From the moment they receive the mission, unless they die, they will not stop until they complete it.¡±


    Shen Yijia only knocked these people unconscious and didn¡¯t kill them. Song Jingchen assumed that Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t bear to kill them.


    He couldn¡¯t help but explain it to her.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment before she reacted. ¡°Then just kill them! I¡­ I¡¯m just not used to killing people¡­¡±


    After all, she¡¯d grown up in the twenty-first century. No matter how deranged the people in the compound were, they wouldn¡¯t kill anyone openly, let alone so many people.


    Song Jingchen took a deep look at Shen Yijia and didn¡¯t say anything. He glanced at Uncle Yang, signaling for him to kill them.


    The rain did not stop until noon the next day. Three of the ten guards were too injured to travel.


    Lin Mu assigned two people to bring them to a nearby town to recuperate.


    Shen Yijia did not know if it was her imagination, but she felt that these people were much more polite to her than before.


    For example, if the carriage passed by a certain town, as long as she lifted the curtain and looked at the food with a drooling expression, a guard would bring the food to her.


    Furthermore, if they stayed in an inn, one of the guards would go up and pay the bill without her reminding them.


    At first, Shen Yijia found it interesting, until she realized that every time someone gave her something, Song Jingchen¡¯s face would darken for a long time.


    Thinking that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t like these guards, she stopped lifting the curtain and looking around.


    In the end, she saw that some snacks would be prepared in the carriage every day.


    Shen Yijia felt a sweetness in her heart. She did not know why, but she felt that it was better than the food those guards bought for her.

 Chapter 34

    Another ten days passed in a flash.


    They finally arrived at their destination, Xiagou Village. Most of the people living there had the surname ¡®Song¡¯.


    There were only a few foreign surnames.


    It was noon, and the people working in the fields were returning home for lunch.


    When they saw the two carriages, they stopped and watched curiously.


    After all, no one in their village could afford a carriage. It was already a luxury to own an ox cart, and this was the first time a carriage had come to their village.


    They all wondered if some rich relative had come back to visit.


    The carriage stopped. One of the accompanying guards said something to the man inside.


    Then, the guards asked the closest man a few questions. He then led the way and the group headed for the village.


    Once they left, a curious woman leaned over to the young man and asked, ¡°Dongzi, what did that person say to you just now?¡±


    ¡°They asked for directions.¡± Without looking at the woman, Andong picked up his bow and headed directly for the mountains.


    ¡°Tsk, this jinx. I haven¡¯t finished talking¡­¡± The woman cursed.


    Led by Lin Mu, the carriage stopped in front of the village chief¡¯s house.


    Shen Yijia looked around. Xiagou Village was surrounded by mountains. Most of the families in the village had adobe-style houses. Only the village chief¡¯s house and a few houses in the middle of the village were built with bricks.


    It seemed to Shen Yijia that this village was even poorer than she had imagined. Fortunately, she had a few hundred taels of silver in her hands now. There was no need to panic.


    ¡°It¡¯s not convenient here. Why don¡¯t you stay in the carriage later?¡± Shen Yijia suggested.


    It wasn¡¯t that she found it troublesome, but she had seen and learnt a lot along the way.


    For example, every time Song Jingchen got off the carriage at an inn, the people around him would look at him strangely.


    Every time that happened, although Song Jingchen¡¯s face remained expressionless, Shen Yijia still felt the atmosphere around him become gloomy.


    Moreover, she didn¡¯t like others looking at Song Jingchen like that.


    Along the way, she often fed Song Jingchen the spiritual liquid, using up a lot of it.


    However, there was still no reaction from Song Jingchen¡¯s legs. However, his body wasn¡¯t as sickly as before.


    Shen Yijia was not someone who could hide her thoughts. Seeing her expression, there was still something Song Jingchen didn¡¯t understand.


    He felt a slight warmth in his heart. He reached out and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. ¡°Do you know what to say later?¡±


    She wondered why Song Jingchen liked to rub her head so much.


    Shen Yijia nodded docilely. ¡°I know. I need to tell them that we¡¯ll be staying here in the future. Mother will also be there.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t refuse her kindness.


    At this moment, the village chief and his family were sitting in the courtyard having lunch when they heard a commotion at the door.


    The village chief¡¯s wife, Madam Cui, glanced at her daughter-in-law Madam Zeng. Madam Zeng was feeding her daughter. She threw down her chopsticks and said, ¡°Hey, go and see who¡¯s here. Why is a little girl eating so much every day?¡±


    Madam Zeng cowered and silently put down her daughter, who had just taken two bites of food. She stood up to open the door.


    Behind him, Madam Cui could be heard complaining, ¡°You can¡¯t even give birth to a son. You¡¯re always hugging this worthless child like she¡¯s gold¡­¡±


    Madam Zeng acted as if she did not hear her and slowly pulled open the courtyard door.


    Seeing two carriages parked outside the door, she rubbed her hands nervously and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    Cui¡¯s voice was not soft, and Shen Yijia heard it from outside the door. When she saw the person involved, she rubbed her nose awkwardly. ¡°We¡¯re here to look for the village chief.¡±

 Chapter 35

    ¡°Give me a moment.¡±


    With that, Madam Zeng went in again. Soon, the courtyard door opened again and a man in his fifties or sixties walked out.


    Even though Madam Zeng had mentioned it just now, the man was still shocked when he saw the scene at the entrance. ¡°I¡¯m the village chief of this village, Song Tiegen. Why are you looking for me?¡±


    Madam Li took a step forward and said, ¡°We¡¯re from the Song family in the capital. We¡¯ll be staying in this village in the future. I want to ask if there are any empty houses in the village that can be sold to us. It doesn¡¯t have to be too big.¡±


    The family had already discussed these things before coming.


    The old house had been originally given to Song Dahai¡¯s family. The two families had not interacted for so many years, and there was a feud between them.


    Naturally, they wouldn¡¯t go to the other family to complain.


    ¡°The Song family in the capital?¡± Song Tiegen was so shocked that his voice rose a few octaves. He asked again in disbelief, ¡°Song Daniu¡¯s family?¡±


    Shen Yijia was curious about who this Song Daniu was and looked at Madam Li.


    Madam Li was also stunned for a moment. It took her a while to remember that her father-in-law¡¯s name was Song Daniu.


    When he fought alongside the former emperor, the former emperor found the name ugly, so he changed it to Song Kunhong.


    She nodded and said, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m his daughter-in-law¡­¡±


    ¡°Could it be that what they said a while ago was true?¡± Song Tiegen muttered and looked up at the people in front of him.


    After some thought, he said, ¡°My old house is still empty. There are three rooms that can accommodate people. Do you want to take a look? If it¡¯s suitable, I¡¯ll give it to you for ten taels of silver.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. They could stay in the three rooms even if they had to squeeze together. Besides, they would definitely have to rebuild the house in the future. This was just a temporary solution. Ten taels of silver was not expensive, so she wanted to pay up.


    A stern voice suddenly sounded. ¡°We can¡¯t let them stay in our village.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and frowned. She looked in the direction of the voice and saw a large group of people walking over.


    The leaders were a few old men in their fifties, but what caught Shen Yijia¡¯s attention was a shrewd-looking middle-aged man walking among them. The man was supporting an old man who was holding a cane.


    Those words came from that man¡¯s mouth.


    When he saw them, Song Tiegen quickly went up to them. ¡°Clan Leader, why are you here?¡±


    The old man who was being supported was the most senior clan leader in this generation.


    The clan leader snorted. ¡°I heard that Daniu¡¯s family is coming back to stay in our village?¡±


    ¡®Aye, right, we¡¯re not talking about that. It just so happens that my old house is empty ¡­¡¯


    ¡°You fool.¡± Clan Leader Song struck his cane against the ground several times. His white beard trembled and his spittle flew. ¡°I heard from the three boys of the Dajiang family that Song Daniu¡¯s family was chased out of the capital by His Majesty for committing a crime. How can such a family live in our village? You may be the village chief, but don¡¯t forget that Xiagou Village belongs to all of us. Have you asked the opinions of the others in the village?¡±


    ¡°We disagree with this decision.¡±


    ¡°Exactly. We don¡¯t agree¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Chief. If we let them stay here, no girl will be willing to marry into our village.¡±


    The village chief stayed silent.


    As soon as Clan Leader Song finished speaking, the villagers behind him began to feel indignant. They started talking over each other, expressing their opposition.


    Some people even wanted to rush up and push them away, and the scene suddenly became chaotic.


    Uncle Yang, Lin Mu, and the others hurriedly stood in front of Madam Li and Shen Yijia.


    When Brother Hao and Sister Huan saw this, they also shrank behind Madam Li in fear.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and did not miss the gloating look in the middle-aged man¡¯s eyes.


    She wondered who this person was and if he had a grudge against the Song family. Shen Yijia ignored him for the time being.

 Chapter 36

    Shen Yijia pushed away the people in front of her and took a few steps forward. She imitated Song Jingchen¡¯s usual behavior and said disdainfully, ¡°You don¡¯t agree with us living in this village?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was not loud, but it instantly silenced the villagers. Shen Yijia¡¯s aura was overwhelming, and it intimidated many people.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°No wonder my husband is always like this. It works really well.¡±


    Hearing the commotion outside, Song Jingchen, who was about to lift the curtain, paused when he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s voice.


    He leaned back again.


    Clan Leader Song¡¯s turbid eyes sized up Shen Yijia for a long time. Seeing that it was a little girl, he said angrily, ¡°Of course. How many years has it been since Song Daniu returned to our village? He¡¯s no longer a member of Xiagou Village. We have the right to reject you from staying here.¡±


    He naturally wouldn¡¯t mention all the benefits the people of Xiagou Village had enjoyed by using the name of Duke Song.


    Shen Yijia snorted and said, ¡°Then you¡¯re trying to disobey the imperial decree! We were ordered to return to our hometown.¡±


    With that, Shen Yijia frowned and pondered for a moment. He pointed at Lin Mu and the others behind him and said, ¡°Do you see these people with swords? They were specially sent by His Majesty to escort us back. So what now? Could it be that your words carry more weight than the emperor¡¯s?¡±


    She remembered that everyone had to listen to the emperor in this era of imperial power. Could a mere clan leader disregard the emperor¡¯s authority?


    Lin Mu and the others stayed silent.


    Lin Mu was used to it by now. He had been a money bag and an errand boy throughout this journey. It didn¡¯t seem so hard to accept being used as a shield this time.


    They seemed to have forgotten why Emperor Chong¡¯an had sent them along.


    Chief Song choked. How could he dare to say such disrespectful words? His hand trembled as he pointed at Shen Yijia.


    The villagers behind him were also shocked when they heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words. They took a step back and looked at Lin Mu and the others differently.


    The middle-aged man¡¯s eyes flashed with a gloomy aura when he saw that the villagers were useless.


    He stood up angrily and shouted, ¡°Which junior of the Song family are you? How can you speak to the patriarch like that? Hurry up and apologize to the patriarch!¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°And who are you?¡±


    She thought to herself, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t he introduce himself before asking who I am? This person is so rude, I want to hit him.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± The man was furious. He took a deep breath and continued,¡± I¡¯m Song Dahai¡¯s son, Song Dajiang.¡±


    ¡°Who? I don¡¯t know him!¡± Shen Yijia looked innocent. She had never heard of him. She really didn¡¯t know who he was.


    Song Dajiang was stunned by her words and almost fainted.


    Madam Li felt embarrassed for Song Dajiang as she watched from the side.Since they had to live here in the future, it would be good to at least maintain a cordial relationship with the rest of the village.


    She stepped up and introduced him to Shen Yijia. ¡°Song Dahai is the younger brother of Brother Chen¡¯s grandfather. Technically speaking, he would be your granduncle, but you should address him as your uncle.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly realized that they were relatives, not enemies. The son of his grandfather¡¯s brother. What a complicated relationship.


    Before Shen Yijia could say anything, Song Dajiang immediately turned his anger onto Madam Li as a way to escape this situation.


    ¡°You¡¯re Song Yi¡¯s wife, right? So this is your daughter-in-law? Is this how you discipline your daughter-in-law? How can she interrupt an elder like that? Your family is badly educated.¡±


    Song Dajiang was a few years older than Song Yi. When Song Dahai entered the capital, Song Dajiang followed him. At that time, Song Yi hadn¡¯t been born yet.


    He spoke like an elder lecturing a junior.


    No matter how good-tempered Madam Li was, they were still angered by Song Dajiang¡¯s scolding. This was no longer just about her and Sister Jia, but also an insult to the entire Song family in the capital.

 Chapter 37

    ¡°Uncle?¡± Song Jingchen suddenly called out from the carriage. His tone was indifferent, making it impossible to tell how he felt.


    However, everyone present subconsciously held their breaths when they heard this voice.


    The voice continued, ¡°His Majesty¡¯s decree states that the descendants of the Song family are not allowed to enter the court as officials for the rest of their lives. Are you sure you want to be our elder?¡±


    Lin Mu and the others continued to be silent. It turns out that Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s imperial edict could be used like this. This couple had really broadened their horizons.


    Song Dajiang was shocked. He had not expected this. A trace of panic flashed across his face.


    How could he do that? His third son had just become a scholar and had to take the imperial examination this year.


    He gritted his teeth and didn¡¯t answer.


    He made up his mind and said to Clan Leader Song, ¡°Clan Leader, since we can¡¯t chase these people away, they can stay. But our family can¡¯t be burdened by these people. We have to excommunicate them. They will have nothing to do with us in the future.¡±


    Clan Leader Song¡¯s eyes lit up. This was a good idea.


    But he still pretended to hesitate. ¡°Well¡­¡±


    ¡°Dajiang is right. We have to eliminate them from the clan. Otherwise, we don¡¯t know how we will be implicated in the future. Our juniors are capable, we can¡¯t let them be implicated like this.¡± A short old man beside Clan Leader Song added.


    The others nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Alright, then we¡¯ll excommunicate them.¡± Clan Leader Song made the final decision and announced it to everyone. ¡°We¡¯ll go to the ancestral hall and invite the scribe to eliminate Song Daniu¡¯s lineage from our family tree.¡±


    As he spoke, he was about to take them away. Song Tiegen looked troubled and quickly stopped them. ¡°Then they¡­¡±


    Chief Song said angrily, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear that they have an imperial edict? We can¡¯t chase them away. You can arrange it however you want.¡±


    The group of people left, leaving behind some curious children to watch.


    Without that group of people causing trouble, Song Tiegen ignored Madam Cui¡¯s gaze and brought Shen Yijia and the others to his old house.


    These ten taels of silver were actually worth a lot.


    A family of farmers could only earn five to six taels of silver a year.


    No one would live in the old house even if it was left there. To Song Tiegen, this was pretty much free money.


    The old house was at the end of the village. Few people lived in this area, but there was a house adjacent to the old house. The door was closed, it was hard to tell if anyone lived inside.


    There was a crooked tree in front of the house. It was different from the brick house that Song Tiegen was living in. This building didn¡¯t even have a courtyard wall. It was surrounded by bamboo as tall as an adult¡¯s waist.


    The courtyard door was a bamboo fence gate. Shen Yijia suddenly thought of the saying that a gentleman should not have to guard against villains.


    Well, there was no way to guard against them with a fence like this.


    ¡°I just came to repair the roof of this house a while ago. Even if it rains, the roof won¡¯t leak. It¡¯s just that there¡¯s not much furniture in the house, so you have to buy it yourself.¡±


    Song Tiegen unbolted the fence gate and pushed it open.


    It was obvious that no one had lived in this house for a long time. The courtyard was overgrown with weeds. There was a well in the middle.


    Song Tiegen scratched his head awkwardly and said, ¡°No one has lived here for a while. If you want to live here, just clean up a little. There¡¯s also a well here. You don¡¯t have to go to the village entrance to get water!¡±


    If you ignored the weeds on the ground and the potholes on the walls.


    The layout of this house was quite good. It was lined up on the north-south axis.


    To the north was the main building, with a wing to the east and west.


    A room on the south side had a stove built into it. That was probably the kitchen.


    There was also a central room in the middle, used for dining and entertaining guests.


    At the back was an outhouse made of thatch.


    Shen Yijia looked around and walked in to remove the iron chains tied to the doors of every house. Sure enough, it was empty inside. There wasn¡¯t even a bed.


    However, thinking about the attitude of the other villagers, they didn¡¯t have a choice. She immediately took out ten taels of silver and exchanged it for the deed of the house.


    Next, they would go to the county office and change the ownership of the house.

 Chapter 38

    When she returned to the courtyard, Shen Yijia saw Brother Hao and Sister Huan standing there with conflicted expressions.


    Shen Yijia chuckled and said, ¡°This will be our home from now on. Do you like it?¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡± Brother Hao pouted, looking like he was about to cry.


    ¡°Haha!¡± Shen Yijia could not help but laugh out loud. Noticing that Madam Li was distracted, she hurriedly asked, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Madam Li shook her head silently.


    Coincidentally, Uncle Yang came in with Song Jingchen on his back. Shen Yijia quickly shifted a big rock in the corner of the courtyard for Song Jingchen to sit on.


    ¡°Mother, being expelled from the clan might not be a bad thing! Even if Father and Grandfather knew about this, they would have agreed!¡± Song Jingchen said after sitting down.


    After all, it was better not to have such clansmen.


    Madam Li sighed. ¡°I hope so.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly realized that Madam Li was conflicted about this. She could not figure out what there was to be conflicted about.


    It was obvious that those people were not good people. Should they have stood quietly and let the clansmen lecture them simply because they were elders?


    Shen Yijia would have to decline politely.


    Did Lin Mu and the others think that their mission was over?


    Shen Yijia could only laugh at them for being too naive.


    Shen Yijia was becoming adept at making them work for her.


    They ate some simple pastries for lunch.


    Shen Yijia arranged for someone to follow Uncle Yang to the town to buy pots, pans, rice, grain oil, tables, stools, and other daily necessities. At the same time, he took care of the deed transfer for them.


    They also bought mattresses. Since the mattresses couldn¡¯t fit in their carriages, they arranged for someone to send it over.


    As for why two people had to go. Well, there were too many things to buy. A single carriage could not fit them all.


    Shen Yijia expressed that she was not afraid at all.


    Fortunately, she had a conscience, and gave Lin Mu and the guards some money to spend on these necessities.


    Shen Yijia did not know if it was an illusion, but she clearly felt that the guards heaved a sigh of relief after she took out the silver taels.


    ¡°This is puzzling.¡± she thought to herself.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and wondered if she had gone overboard before.


    But¡­ Oh dear, the weeds needed to be pulled and the rooms had to be cleaned up.


    Song Jingchen sat at the side and watched as Shen Yijia ordered the imperial guards around.


    The gloom in his heart from the Song Clan¡¯s attitude had dissipated, and he couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    The saying that there was strength in numbers was indeed true. Under the instructions of Shen Yijia, as well as some support from Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡­


    The house had changed dramatically before the sun set.


    The merchant had delivered the beds, since they bought the ready-made ones. The things they had asked Uncle Yang to buy had also arrived.


    It wasn¡¯t like the old days. Everything was bought cheaply.


    Even so, the delivery of truckloads of items attracted the envy of many people in the village.


    They all guessed that Song Jingchen and the others had brought back a lot of money.


    However, none of them knew about this. Even if they knew, they wouldn¡¯t care.


    Shen Yijia counted the money that had returned to her purse. This trip had cost nearly 30 taels of silver.


    It took nearly five taels to go through the household registration office.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself that this money was easily spent. Forty taels of silver were gone in a single day.


    She had already spent some money on the way here. Thus, she only had less than 300 taels of silver left.


    If there was no source of income, it would really be like what Song Jingchen said¡­ They might have to starve in the future.


    When everything had been arranged properly, Shen Yijia checked it again. She thought to herself, ¡°At least it looks like a home now.¡±


    Uncle Yang had packed dinner from the town, and everyone had a good meal.


    Before the sky turned dark, Shen Yijia wanted Lin Mu and the others to go up the mountain to cut a load of firewood.


    They each boiled water and washed up, but sleep became a problem.


    There were too many people, but too few rooms¡­


    In the end, Madam Li decided that Uncle Yang, Lin Mu, and the others would spend the night in the west wing. Anyway, Lin Mu and the others would be returning to the capital tomorrow.


    Madam Li brought Brother Hao and Sister Huan to the main room while Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen stayed in the east wing.


    This arrangement made Shen Yijia blush.


    ¡°Are¡­ are we going to share a bed?¡± she thought to herself.


    On the other hand, unlike what Madam Li had expected, Song Jingchen silently agreed.

 Chapter 39

    The night was silent except for the occasional chirping of cicadas from outside.


    Shen Yijia, who usually fell asleep immediately, was unable to sleep.


    In the beginning, she was a little shy, but now, she was too excited to sleep.


    The bed was not big. There was only an arm¡¯s length of space between the two of them.


    She could clearly hear the steady breathing of the person beside her.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes and tilted her head slightly to look at the person beside her.


    The moonlight shone in through the window, adding a hazy look to Song Jingchen¡¯s side profile. He was so good looking that he looked like a person from a painting.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart beat faster as she watched.


    She quickly covered her wildly beating heart and wondered if she was sick.


    She waited for a while before her heartbeat returned to normal. Shen Yijia was relieved. She looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s perfect profile again.


    She called out tentatively, ¡°Hubby, are you asleep?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t react.


    ¡°Shenzhi, are you asleep?¡± Shen Yijia called out again, raising her voice slightly.


    There was still no response.


    After confirming that Song Jingchen was asleep, a sly look flashed across Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes.


    She carefully moved closer to Song Jingchen.


    She propped her head up with his elbow. Now she could see Song Jingchen¡¯s entire face.


    Looking at this almost perfect and handsome face, Shen Yijia felt her mouth go dry and she swallowed silently.


    Holding her breath, she reached out her other hand and secretly reached for Song Jingchen¡¯s face.


    She gently pinched him.


    ¡°Ahhhhhhh, my husband¡¯s skin is so good!¡±


    Shen Yijia squealed in her head.


    Every time she pinched Brother Hao¡¯s face, she had imagined pinching Song Jingchen¡¯s face one day.


    She hadn¡¯t expected it to happen so soon.


    Although there wasn¡¯t as much meat on Song Jingchen¡¯s face compared to Brother Hao¡¯s, it felt good. Shen Yijia was very satisfied.


    After pinching him again, Shen Yijia touched Song Jingchen¡¯s face a few times..


    Satisfied, she retreated to her position and closed her eyes.


    Not long after, Shen Yijia fell asleep.


    Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen was asleep, but he suddenly opened his eyes. His eyes were clear, and he didn¡¯t look like he had just woken up.


    Song Jingchen tilted his head and looked at Shen Yijia, who was snoring from time to time. He couldn¡¯t help but reach out to touch his cheek that had just been pinched. His expression was indescribable.


    After spending some time together, he began to waver in his suspicions. He wondered if Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t make her move since there were too many people around.


    Therefore, when Madam Li suggested that he share a room with Shen Yijia, he did not object.


    After returning to her room, he pretended to fall asleep early in order to create an opportunity for Shen Yijia to attack him.


    But he didn¡¯t anticipate this situation.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples helplessly and wondered if he was wrong.


    Ever since his father and grandfather died, he simply couldn¡¯t bring himself to casually trust someone who treated him well for no apparent reason.


    If Shen Yijia knew what Song Jingchen was thinking, she would definitely chastise him. She would¡¯ve said, ¡°Isn¡¯t my motive obvious! I covet your beauty!¡±


    In a certain mansion in the capital, a handsome man sat in a pavilion while playing a zither.


    The beautiful sound of the zither sounded from his slender fingers.


    There was a man in black kneeling respectfully in front of him.


    If Song Jingchen were here, he would realize that this man in black also had a crescent moon mark on his face.


    The handsome man didn¡¯t seem to see the man in black. He continued to focus on playing the zither in his hand.


    When the last note fell, he looked up at the kneeling person.


    He had a face that could charm anyone at first sight.

 Chapter 40

    The man was still smiling gently, but the man in black felt a chill down his spine.


    He quickly lowered his head, not daring to look again.


    The man did not seem to notice. He picked up a handkerchief and carefully wiped his fingers clean one by one.


    After a long time, he said softly, ¡°Speak.¡±


    The man in black trembled and hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ve checked all the paths they could have taken and¡­ I didn¡¯t find any of our people. I heard¡­ I heard that the Song family has arrived at Xiagou Village unscathed¡­¡±


    The man sneered and said unhurriedly, ¡°You mean that not only did the twenty-odd suicide warriors not injure the old and weak at all, but they were instead killed?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t found their corpses yet. Perhaps¡­¡± The man in black hurriedly defended himself.


    A slender white hand seized his throat.


    The man who was still sitting earlier had already appeared in front of him. The man in black widened his eyes in fear, but he did not dare to resist.


    ¡°Perhaps what? Perhaps those twenty or so people disobeyed their orders? Perhaps they fled and disappeared?¡± The man¡¯s voice was as gentle as ever, and there was even a smile on his lips.


    However, the man in black felt as if death had descended upon him. The veins on his face bulged because it was difficult for him to breathe.


    With difficulty, he spat out, ¡°I, I, will¡­ wasn¡¯t able to succeed. I beg¡­ Young Master¡­ to¡­ give¡­ me¡­ another chance¡­ to¡­ contribute!¡±


    The elegant man casually threw the man in black onto a nearby pillar. The man in black tumbled onto the ground and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    However, the man in black heaved a sigh of relief and did not even have the courage to wipe the blood off his mouth. He hurriedly knelt down again. ¡°Thank you for your mercy, Young Master.¡±


    Without looking at him, the man sat back down and took out a handkerchief again to wipe his fingers.


    He said, ¡°It¡¯s time for your men to practice. As for that side, get someone to monitor it for the time being. Don¡¯t act rashly.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    After the man in black left, the man looked up to the south and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s the eighth time now!¡±


    Shen Yijia felt like she was lying on a furnace. The endless heat around her seemed to be roasting her.


    She opened his eyes and saw a white chest.


    Her mind went blank for a moment, and she looked up. Her gaze fell upon a handsome sleeping face.


    ¡°Being attacked by such beauty so early in the morning?¡± she thought. After a moment of silence, Shen Yijia decided to bow to reality.


    She wanted to push Song Jingchen away. However, her hands didn¡¯t move.


    Shen Yijia could feel that her hands were stiff from being clasped behind Song Jingchen¡¯s back. So, what exactly happened last night?


    Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes were almost the same as before, albeit with a few more wrinkles. However, his chest was not fully covered.


    It couldn¡¯t be that she pulled his clothes open while she slept, right?


    It was a hot day. If she wanted to undo someone¡¯s clothes, it should have been her own.


    At the thought of this, Shen Yijia suddenly realized that her husband must have felt hot and pulled his own clothes open.


    As for why her hands were clasped around him, Shen Yijia decided not to think about it.


    Sensing a gaze above her head, Shen Yijia looked up guiltily.


    She grinned. ¡°Good morning, hubby!¡±


    As she had just woken up, she had a childish voice.


    Song Jingchen looked exhausted. The dark circles under his eyes seemed to be complaining to Shen Yijia silently.


    This was the first time Song Jingchen was looking at her like this. Shen Yijia gulped and wondered if she should say something to break this awkward atmosphere.

 Chapter 41 - Embarrassment

    She blurted out, ¡°Did you sleep well last night?¡±


    After saying that, Shen Yijia regretted it and almost bit her tongue.


    ¡°I should have let go of his hand first!¡± she thought.


    Hearing this, Song Jingchen immediately thought of her hands touching him and her head burrowing into his arms.


    Song Jingchen felt his chest swell. He released his grip on Shen Yijia as if nothing had happened and turned around to continue sleeping.


    If one ignored the tips of his ears which were slightly red¡­


    Uncle Yang woke up early in the morning to prepare breakfast. There was plain porridge and a small plate of pickled vegetables. Meanwhile, Lin Mu and the others had already left before dawn.


    When Uncle Yang mentioned it, Shen Yijia found it strange, so she asked, ¡°There¡¯s nothing urgent, why did they leave so early?¡±


    Uncle Yang looked at Shen Yijia meaningfully and lowered his head to eat his porridge.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled and looked at Madam Li.


    Madam Li coughed dryly and changed the topic. ¡°Is Brother Chen still asleep?¡±


    Typically, they wouldn¡¯t chat while eating, but they dined with Shen Yijia during the journey.


    She kept chatting while eating. She would comment on how the dishes tasted, or tease Brother Hao and Sister Huan.


    Everyone was used to it by now, so they stopped following the typical dining etiquette.


    ¡°Not yet. Hubby didn¡¯t sleep well last night. I¡¯ll leave some for him to eat when he wakes up,¡± Shen Yijia replied honestly.


    Madam Li didn¡¯t think too much about it when she heard this, although Song Jingchen usually looked like he was fine.


    However, as a mother, Madam Li could clearly feel that her son had a lot on his mind every day.


    Because of the deaths of her husband and father-in-law, and also because he would never be able to stand again.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, is your hand injured?¡± Brother Hao looked at Shen Yijia with concern.


    The moment he said that, everyone at the table, including Sister Huan, looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    Shen Yijia used her chopsticks with trembling hands. The pickle that she picked up fell onto the table.


    She rubbed her nose awkwardly and waved her hand. ¡°No, I¡¯m not injured¡­ My hands are just a little sore.¡±


    As soon as Shen Yijia finished speaking, Uncle Yang choked and coughed violently.


    Madam Li suddenly remembered that her son didn¡¯t like sleeping in, and her face turned red.


    She looked at Shen Yijia reproachfully. Why did this child blurt everything out?


    Shen Yijia fell silent.


    ¡°Did I say anything wrong?¡± she thought to herself.


    ¡°What the hell are you guys thinking?¡±


    Something was off.


    Their meal ended in silence.


    After breakfast, Shen Yijia and Madam Li finished washing the clothes they had changed out of yesterday. They were about to hang them up to dry.


    There was a sudden loud noise from the room. Shen Yijia quickly put down her clothes and ran towards the room.


    She saw a shattered teacup on the ground. Fortunately, Song Jingchen was half-leaning on the bed.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Shenzhi, why didn¡¯t you call me if you wanted to drink water?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not far. I thought I could reach it!¡± Song Jingchen lowered his eyes, his voice filled with defeat.


    They had overcome so many challenges along the way, but this trivial matter made Song Jingchen realize that he was truly crippled.


    When Madam Li heard this, she stopped walking towards the room.


    Wiping the corners of her eyes, she took a deep breath and left silently.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, this is only temporary. You¡¯ll get better.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen seriously.


    When he met those eyes, for some reason, Song Jingchen was suddenly thankful that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t entertain the thought of a divorce back then.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia exclaimed, ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Song Jingchen asked curiously.


    ¡°It¡¯s a wheelchair. Do you know about wheelchairs? With a wheelchair, you can move around the courtyard on your own even if no one carries you.¡± Shen Yijia was annoyed at herself for not thinking of it earlier.

 Chapter 42 - Searching for the Carpenter

    However, Gu poison wasn¡¯t easy to cure. At the moment, all Xu Qing could do was nurse Xu Sizhi¡¯s body. Otherwise, when the Gu poison was really expelled, no matter how powerful Xu Sizhi¡¯s internal energy was, he wouldn¡¯t be able to withstand it.


    Xu Qing made a bucket of medicinal bath and let Xu Sizhi soak in it. Then, she started to apply the needle. The first needle pierced into the top of his head. In an instant, Xu Sizhi bit his lips in pain. When Xu Qing finished administering the needle for him, he fell unconscious. Xu Qing almost fell to the ground out of exhaustion.


    ¡°My stamina is lacking.¡± Xu Qing gritted her teeth and her face paled. Fortunately, she succeeded in the end. She temporarily restrained the Gu poison in Xu Sizhi¡¯s body. After a period of recuperation, she would be able to completely expel all the Gu poison for him.


    The next morning.


    Qiao Yanhui and Xu Sizhi worked energetically, while Xu Qing looked weak.


    Xu Qing was very angry about this. She was clearly not the one who was sick, but she was the weakest!!!


    ¡°Honey, it¡¯s time to eat.¡± Qiao Yanhui held a bowl of black porridge and smiled innocently.


    Xu Qing almost vomited. She shouldn¡¯t have believed that these two men could cook!


    ¡°Don¡¯t you like it? This porridge was personally cooked by me¡­¡± Qiao Yanhui said as he showed his burnt finger for Xu Qing to see. He looked very pitiful.


    Xu Qing¡¯s heart softened. She braced herself and was about to drink it all. From the corner of her eye, she saw that Auntie Wu was here. Xu Qing hurriedly put down the bowl of porridge in front of her, as if she had seen her savior.


    In an instant, Qiao Yanhui squatted in the corner aggrievedly.


    Xu Qing really didn¡¯t expect herself to be so weak. Perhaps it was because she had suffered when she gave birth. She was just a little tired yesterday, but she fell ill today. If she drank Qiao Yanhui¡¯s porridge now, she would probably die. Therefore, Xu Qing chose to ignore his grievances.


    It was also because Xu Qing was sick that Xu Sizhi felt very guilty. He took care of Xu Qing and the three children even more diligently.


    As for Qiao Yanhui, he had been accompanying Xu Qing in all sorts of ways these past few days. At night, he even took off his clothes to warm Xu Qing¡¯s bed! Xu Qing was enraged. If not for the fact that she had a fever and lacked strength, she really wanted to kick Qiao Yanhui to death.


    In the morning, when Xu Qing woke up again, she saw Qiao Yanhui shaking the crib and smiling at the three children like a fool.


    The second son, Xu Tingdeng, and the younger sister, Xu Hanxue, cooperated and replied to Qiao Yanhui with bright smiles. Only the eldest son, Xu Yuanguang, turned his head with a look of disdain, as if he couldn¡¯t bear to look at Qiao Yanhui.


    Qiao Yanhui didn¡¯t understand and teased Xu Yuanguang even more. ¡°Yuan¡¯er, smile like Daddy!¡± After saying that, Qiao Yanhui laughed even more exaggeratedly.


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Xu Yuanguang snorted and closed his eyes to sleep.


    ¡°Yuan¡¯er isn¡¯t cute at all! I¡¯m ignoring you. I¡¯ll dote on Ting¡¯er and Hanxue even more in the future,¡± Qiao Yanhui said as he made a face at Xu Yuandeng.


    Xu Qing originally thought that the scene in front of her was very heartwarming and was in a good mood. However, when she heard Qiao Yanhui call himself the children¡¯s father, she immediately sat up angrily. ¡°Little Hui? Who allowed you to let the children call you daddy?¡±


    Qiao Yanhui said excitedly, ¡°Little Zhi said it. I¡¯m your husband, so I¡¯m the children¡¯s father.¡± He had long forgotten that Xu Sizhi had specifically instructed him not to let Xu Qing know that he had said it. In the end, Qiao Yanhui, who was slow-witted, said it directly.


    When Xu Sizhi entered the straw hut, he saw Xu Qing¡¯s murderous gaze and instantly felt a chill down his spine. ¡°I still have some business to attend to. I¡¯ll leave first!¡±


    ¡°Xu Sizhi!¡± Xu Qing¡¯s roared, but Xu Sizhi had long disappeared.


    Xu Qing looked at Qiao Yanhui, who was playing with the children happily, and felt even angrier. However, she felt that this scene was heartwarming. Xu Qing was shocked by her sudden thought, then she turned around unhappily and continued to sleep. She had to recuperate first.


    Xu Qing rested for a few more days and felt much better. She asked Xu Sizhi about the matter she had instructed him to do.


    Xu Sizhi replied, ¡°There are three carpenters in the village. One is Old Master Chen, and the other is his son, Chen Shanxing. The other is your second uncle, Xu Jiangnan.¡±


    Xu Qing was a little surprised. She didn¡¯t expect Xu Jiangnan to be a carpenter. However, with his crafty ways, she definitely couldn¡¯t use him. Moreover, Xu Qing didn¡¯t want to be entangled with the Xu family. After all, she wanted to find a carpenter because she wanted to open a shop in town. She couldn¡¯t delay earning money anymore.

 Chapter 43 - Too Biased

    Xu Qing thought about it and decided to use Chen Shanxing and his son. After all, she still wanted to integrate into this village. This would be where she would live in the future, so they needed to help each other. After all, getting pregnant out of wedlock was a topic of discussion no matter where it happened. In that case, she might as well stay here. At least she still had the Host¡¯s parents.


    Moreover, Xu Qing didn¡¯t want to leave this place for the time being. This leisurely rural life was very suitable for her children. Of course, if she wanted to live here forever, she had to hide her identity.


    ¡°Sizhi, I¡¯ll leave this to you. Tell the outside world that a man called Bei Shu will work with them. This is the contract,¡± Xu Qing instructed. At this time, the Xu family¡¯s parents hadn¡¯t completely separated from the Xu family, so she couldn¡¯t let the Xu family know yet.


    Xu Sizhi looked at the blueprint Xu Qing gave him with an excited expression. She trusted him so much.


    The things on the blueprint were all used by children. There were numbers engraved on every component. There were also the words ¡°Babe Sunshine¡± beside the numbers. One reason for doing this was to prevent others from copying it, and the other was to make it more convenient to assemble. When the time came, even if someone copied it, it would take time to learn. At that time, Babe Sunshine¡¯s reputation would have already spread, so Xu Qing wouldn¡¯t be afraid that no one would buy anything from her anymore.


    Before long, Xu Sizhi returned with the contract signed by the Chen family. The Chen family wanted to come to thank them, but they were all stopped by Xu Sizhi. The Chen family could only come and thank them again when they had the chance in the future. After all, Xu Qing had introduced such an opportunity to the Chen family because the Chen family had helped her in the past. Otherwise, Xu Qing would definitely have recommended someone else. The Chen family was extremely grateful. Recently, the Chen family hadn¡¯t been able to receive any carpenter work and could barely make a living. Who would have thought that Xu Qing would give them a chance?


    At this moment, Xu Qing was lying on the bed and looking at the contract in her hand. She nodded in satisfaction. Xu Sizhi was indeed very efficient. Now that there was a carpenter, she had to buy a suitable shop next.


    Xu Qing was in a hurry to buy a shop since she needed money now. She summoned Qiao Yanhui and Xu Sizhi to go up the mountain. Xu Qing calculated the time. The grapes in the mountain were almost ready to be picked. When she made wine, she could sell them for money.


    Xu Sizhi looked at the extraordinary villa in front of him and was instantly shocked. He couldn¡¯t imagine such a beautiful place in the wilderness.


    Qiao Yanhui only felt that it looked gorgeous and ran around with a smile. He really looked like a mentally retarded child.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t bring you two here for fun. Hurry up and work.¡± Xu Qing looked at the two of them helplessly.


    Xu Sizhi composed himself and hurriedly picked the grapes with the basket. Qiao Yanhui followed suit. However, halfway through, he suddenly stood by the stone table and stared at the half-played chessboard without moving.


    Xu Qing had already filled a few baskets with Xu Sizhi. She turned around and saw Qiao Yanhui standing by the stone table without moving. She strode forward and pulled Qiao Yanhui¡¯s ear. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Qiao Yanhui had just thought of how to break the stalemate on the chessboard when he was pulled by Xu Qing. He instantly forgot about the move he had in mind. ¡°Gee! Honey, it hurts.¡± Qiao Yanhui looked aggrieved.


    Xu Qing looked at his eyes and felt guilty for a moment. She felt like she was bullying a child. She curled her lips and put down his ear. ¡°Pick the grapes.¡±


    ¡°Okay, honey.¡± Qiao Yanhui skipped as he went to pick the grapes.


    Xu Qing looked at his gleeful appearance and couldn¡¯t help but laugh. However, when she turned to look at the chessboard on the stone table, Xu Qing¡¯s eyes flickered. Qiao Yanhui seemed to be lucid just now, but in the blink of an eye, his consciousness became blurry. So this man probably had deep memories about chessboards.


    Thinking of this, Xu Qing shook her head helplessly. She should quickly pick the grapes since she still had to wash them and dry them. She was very busy.


    In the end, Xu Qing only brought a basket of grapes down the mountain and planned to eat them as snacks with Auntie Wu.


    However, as soon as she entered the house, she saw Wu Xiao¡¯an running towards Xu Qing with an angry expression. ¡°Xu Qing, I passed by the Xu family¡¯s house today. Your grandparents are really too outrageous.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, Wu Xiao¡¯an hesitated for a moment. Seeing that Xu Qing was expressionless, he continued, ¡°They¡¯re worried that your family will regret mentioning leaving the family and plan to go to town to look for your father.¡±


    ¡°Why is the Xu family so heartless?!¡± Auntie Wu sighed. She didn¡¯t understand how parents could be so biased.

 Chapter 44 - Becoming the Wolf King

    After watching the siblings leave, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    Perhaps it was because of her childhood environment and the people she interacted with, she could not get along with those who looked gentle.


    In addition, the girls of this era were sensible and elegant. They smiled without showing their teeth, along with other customs.


    She felt out of place after interacting with these people.


    It was as if a voice in her heart kept reminding her that she was an anomaly.


    Sensing that their sister-in-law was not in a good mood, Brother Hao and Sister Huan looked at each other.


    The two of them exchanged glances. In the end, Sister Huan asked carefully, ¡°Sister-in-law, are we still going to catch fish?¡±


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and rubbed Sister Huan¡¯s head. She smiled and said, ¡°Of course. When have I ever gone back on my promises?¡±


    As she spoke, she wanted to kick off her shoes. However, after thinking twice, she decided that it wasn¡¯t good to expose her feet.


    Looking around, she picked up a slightly sharp stick from the ground and shook it.


    She said confidently to the twins, ¡°Today, I¡¯ll show you what it means to be good at catching fish.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you can do it!¡± The two of them clapped happily.


    Although they did not know what it meant to be good at catching fish, this did not stop them from supporting their sister-in-law.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia raised her wooden stick and walked towards the river in high spirits.


    Initially, Shen Yijia was not sure if there were fish in the river, so she was relieved after seeing An Dong¡¯s harvest.


    The fact that the fish in the river could grow so big meant that very few people in this village came here to catch fish. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have had a chance to grow up.


    There must be lots of fish in the river too.


    Shen Yijia gave herself full marks for her theoretical knowledge.


    After finding a more cooling place, Shen Yijia held her breath and looked into the water.


    She was pleasantly surprised to find that there was indeed fish in there.


    The fish she saw weren¡¯t as big as the one in An Dong¡¯s basket, but she could definitely catch more fish than he did.


    Seeing a fish swim past her eyes, Shen Yijia quickly stabbed the wooden stick into the water.


    When she raised it again, there was a fish impaled on it.


    The children had long known that their sister-in-law was incredible, but they did not expect her to be so good at catching fish.


    Seeing Shen Yijia catch the fish, the two children jumped up in excitement. They cheered, ¡°Sister-in-law is so powerful.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled proudly and said without any modesty, ¡°Of course!¡±


    It was almost time for lunch, but Shen Yijia had yet to bring the two children back.


    Madam Li was just about to go out to look for them when she saw Brother Hao rushing back.


    His voice reached her first. ¡°Mother, Sister-in-law is amazing. She caught so many fish.¡±


    As he spoke, he bounced excitedly around Madam Li, his face flushed red with excitement.


    Madam Li felt a little helpless, but she was also glad that this child did not become depressed because of the change in the environment.


    She took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped the sweat off his forehead. ¡°Look at you. You¡¯re covered in sweat from running. Are you not bothered by the heat? Go wash your face, you stink.¡±


    Brother Hao didn¡¯t mind being chastised by his mother at all. He chuckled and went to Song Jingchen¡¯s room to tell him about Shen Yijia¡¯s achievements.


    He was chastised once more by his big brother before he obediently went to wash up.


    Shen Yijia and Sister Huan followed closely behind.


    Shen Yijia was holding a string of fish on each hand. There were four to five fish on each string.


    Madam Li was shocked upon seeing it, even though Brother Huan had already informed her beforehand.


    ¡°Why did they catch so much? We won¡¯t be able to finish it in the next few days!¡± she thought to herself.


    ¡°Mother, Sister-in-law said that we can make pickled fish. It won¡¯t spoil even if we can¡¯t finish it,¡± Sister Huan added.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll listen to your sister-in-law. The two of you, quickly wash your faces. You¡¯re acting like monkeys.¡±


    ¡°Hey!¡± Shen Yijia and Sister Huan looked at each other and stuck out their tongues at Madam Li.


    Due to the small number of family members in the Duke¡¯s Residence, Madam Li often cooked for her family when she was in the residence.


    Her culinary skills were quite good, so cooking fish was not difficult for her.


    At noon, the family had a beautiful all-fish banquet.

 Chapter 45 - Writing Words

    At night, Shen Yijia returned to her room after washing up.


    Song Jingchen was leaning against the headboard and reading a book.


    Seeing the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone on the table beside the bed, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was focused on reading, she quietly walked over and placed her hands on both sides of the table.


    Song Jingchen flipped a page of the book, scaring Shen Yijia so much that she immediately put her hands behind her back.


    After waiting quietly for a moment, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t react. She heaved a sigh of relief, gritted her teeth, lifted the table, and quickly walked away from the bed.


    She placed the table in the corner farthest from the bed. Her movements were smooth and swift.


    Shen Yijia patted her chest.


    This was more tiring than a brawl.


    She turned around and saw that her husband was immersed in his book.


    She quietly took off her coat and crawled into the bed. She pulled the blanket over her and closed her eyes to sleep.


    Song Jingchen tilted his head and looked at her guilty expression, finding it funny.


    Initially, Song Jingchen wanted to urge Shen Yijia to learn how to write. However, seeing that she had been in low spirits all afternoon, he couldn¡¯t bear to force her.


    When the person beside him started breathing deeply, Song Jingchen closed the book and lay down.


    He counted to ten in his head.


    Shen Yijia rolled over, recalling yesterday¡¯s experience.


    Song Jingchen instantly caught Shen Yijia and pulled her into his arms, preventing her from struggling.


    The next day, Song Jingchen taught Shen Yijia that she couldn¡¯t hide forever.


    After breakfast, she was forced to write a hundred words.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia handed the ten full pages to Song Jingchen.


    Looking at the words that were worse than those written by a three-year-old child, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows twitched.


    He silently decided to make Shen Yijia write at least 200 words a day in the future.


    Shen Yijia did not know that her good days were over.


    She went out for a walk and realized that no one was home.


    Curious, she asked, ¡°Where are Mother and the others?¡±


    ¡°Auntie Tian said that she was going up the mountain to pick some mushrooms and fungi, so Mother went with her. Brother Hao and Sister Huan also went to play.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look up.


    ¡°Oh! What about Uncle Yang?¡± Shen Yijia asked again.


    Song Jingchen looked up at Shen Yijia for such a long time that Shen Yijia thought he wouldn¡¯t answer.


    Then, he said casually, ¡°I asked him to go out and do something. He won¡¯t be back for a while.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia pouted.


    She noticed that Song Jingchen¡¯s book seemed to have a piece of paper stuck within it.


    She took it out and was instantly petrified. Then, she screamed in surprise, ¡°Ahhh, this¡­ this¡­!¡±


    She slapped the paper in her hand in front of Song Jingchen and said, ¡°The wheelchair I¡¯m talking about is like this. There are two wheels under the chair¡­¡±


    After saying that, she picked it up curiously and looked at it carefully. The more she looked at it, the more surprised she became. It was exactly the same as the wheelchair she had seen in her previous life. She muttered, ¡°Why is there a blueprint for a wheelchair here?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her as if she was an idiot and said, ¡°I drew it. Why else would it be here?¡±


    ¡°You drew it?¡± Shen Yijia choked. Then, she felt embarrassed and huffed, ¡°I thought you didn¡¯t understand?¡±


    ¡°I was just teasing you!¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She gritted her teeth and thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re good-looking, so I¡¯ll let you off the hook.¡±


    She threw the blueprint back to Song Jingchen and turned around.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Song Jingchen quickly asked, worried that he made her angry.


    Without looking back, Shen Yijia said from afar, ¡°I¡¯m going to cut down a tree and make a wheelchair!¡±


    ¡°You can draw the blueprint, but I¡¯m the one making it. I¡¯m better than you.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen chuckled.

 Chapter 46 - Wild Boar

    Shen Yijia carried a machete and headed straight for the mountains.


    In her previous life, apart from fighting, there was nothing else she could do in the courtyard. She could only occasionally make some small toys.


    However, at that time, the materials were limited. What she made were palm-sized mini-machines, which were much more difficult to make than a wheelchair.


    There was no air pollution in this area, so Shen Yijia could smell the refreshing fragrance from the plants.


    Afraid that she would get lost, she did not dare to go too deep into the forest. She did not know much about wood, she only knew that pine could be used as furniture.


    Fortunately, before long, Shen Yijia saw a small pine forest.


    She chose a few trees with thicker trunks and raised her machete to chop down a few.


    She estimated how much wood she would need to build the wheelchair. Remembering the assassination attempt, she also wanted to make a few crossbows for Song Jingchen to protect himself.


    She shaved off the excess branches of the pine tree and casually tied the logs up with a vine. Shen Yijia was about to carry it down the mountain.


    However, just as she turned around, she saw a figure running towards her from the depths of the mountain. It was as if she was being chased by a ghost.


    She took a closer look and saw that it was none other than the handsome young man she had just met yesterday.


    Song Jingchen mentioned Auntie Tian in the morning. She was An Dong¡¯s mother.


    Before Shen Yijia could greet him, An Dong saw her.


    He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Run,¡± he roared urgently.


    With that, he gritted his teeth and ran in a different direction.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her head in confusion and decided to ignore him.


    As this thought flashed through her mind, she noticed a pig running behind An Dong.


    It was probably an adult wild boar. It was too fast, so Shen Yijia did not see it clearly. Based on its size, it was definitely an adult.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She placed the pine tree on the ground and followed him with her machete.


    An Dong¡¯s family had moved to Xiagou Village ten years ago. They were refugees from Qingping Town which suffered from a famine.


    In the end, they stayed in Xiagou Village. The villagers had never liked outsiders like them.


    An Dong¡¯s father was a good hunter. In the early years, he often gave some of his game to the villagers.


    The villagers benefited from the An family, so they were too embarrassed to target them.


    There were also some villagers who were jealous and wanted to try their luck by going up the mountain. However, they were unlucky and ran into a herd of wild boars.


    An Dong¡¯s father happened to encounter them while hunting in the mountains, and he wouldn¡¯t leave them behind.


    In the end, An Dong¡¯s father saved the villagers, but he lost a leg. His whole body was injured and now he had to take medicinal supplements every day.


    Not only were the villagers not grateful to the Andong family, they also blamed him. They said that no one in the village would have gone hunting in the mountains before the An family moved in. In their minds, it was An Dong¡¯s father who led the village astray.


    Not only did the rescue not end well, but it also made the villagers dislike them even more. They received no support, and the four of them almost died.


    It was the young An Dong who picked up his father¡¯s bow and shouldered the responsibility of supporting the family.


    An Dong felt really unlucky today. He had hunted a few wild boars over the years.


    However, his bow suddenly broke today. He didn¡¯t think he had the ability to fight a wild boar with his bare hands, so he could only retreat.


    As he ran, An Dong realized that something was wrong. Why was it so quiet?


    He looked back.


    The wild boar that had been chasing him a moment ago was nowhere to be seen.


    He remembered the lady he saw while running and his heart stopped for a moment. He gritted her teeth and ran in the direction he came from.

 Chapter 47 - Jealousy

    Shen Yijia looked at the wild boar that had its head split open and was lying on the ground. It probably weighed about 300 pounds.


    Clapping her hands together, she picked up the boar and left.


    An Dong followed her footprints and saw a thin girl walking leisurely while carrying a wild boar more than three times her size.


    Pig blood dripped down and stained her clothes, but the girl didn¡¯t seem to mind at all. Instead, her eyes were sparkling and she was grinning happily.


    For a moment, he wondered if his eyes were playing tricks on him. He rubbed his eyes.


    His eyes were working just fine, because the girl had already walked up to him. Her expression seemed to be a little conflicted.


    Shen Yijia frowned and said in resignation, ¡°Although you were the one who lured this wild boar, I killed it. How about we split it evenly?¡±


    Although it was a negotiation, Shen Yijia decided that if this person didn¡¯t agree, she would¡­ beat him up until he agreed.


    1


    An Dong came back to his senses and quickly waved his hand. ¡°No, that¡¯s not necessary. Without you, I might have been injured. You saved me. I have to thank you. This boar belongs to you alone.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him briefly and left without looking back.


    She had to come back and carry the pine trees later. She didn¡¯t have time to waste on this person.


    She ignored him, but An Dong followed her on his own.


    He felt that it was not easy for a girl to carry a wild boar, so he said, ¡°You saved me. Let me help you carry it down the mountain.¡±


    He completely forgot who was being chased by this wild boar and who killed it.


    Shen Yijia stopped and glanced at An Dong. She confirmed that this person was indeed here to help and not to snatch her meat.


    After thinking for a moment, she nodded. ¡°Alright, help me carry it down the mountain. I¡¯ll give you a piece of meat.¡±


    She was a very reasonable person indeed.


    An Dong wanted to say no, but seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s serious expression, he swallowed his words.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was carrying it so easily, he assumed that the boar wasn¡¯t heavy at all. When he took it from her hands, he almost staggered and fell.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him, her eyes asking silently, ¡°Can you do it?¡±


    Even though An Dong had tanned skin, it was obvious that his face was flushed red.


    Madam Li had just finished cooking and brought the food to Song Jingchen¡¯s room.


    She heard Brother Hao and Sister Huan exclaim with delight.


    The door of the room was not closed. The two of them looked out together and saw Shen Yijia carrying a few thick pine trees back. Behind her was a young man carrying a wild boar on his shoulder.


    The two of them entered together, and Shen Yijia had a wide smile on her face. For some reason, Song Jingchen felt his heart ache.


    ¡°Oh my god! Sister Jia, why are you covered in blood? Where are you injured?¡± Madam Li hurriedly ran out.


    After throwing the pine trees into the courtyard, Shen Yijia turned around and helped An Dong put down the wild boar on his shoulder. ¡°Mother, I¡¯m not injured. It¡¯s all this wild boar¡¯s blood.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ hunted it?¡± Madam Li¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly and glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s room. ¡°Yes, I went up the mountain to cut down trees and saw him being chased by wild boars. I killed it along the way.¡±


    ¡°Thankfully she was there today,¡± An Dong quickly added.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re amazing.¡± Brother Hao gave her a thumbs up.


    Sister Huan felt that something was wrong with that statement and interrupted, ¡°Sister-in-law has always been very amazing!¡±


    ¡°The two of you are so sweet. I¡¯ll get Mother to cook meat for you tonight!¡± Shen Yijia was flattered by the praise. When she realized that An Dong was still standing there, she waved her hand to chase him away. ¡°Go back first. I¡¯ll send the meat over to you later.¡±

 Chapter 48 - : The Old Residence

    An Dong said nothing.


    Did she think that he craved boar meat that badly? He didn¡¯t want it at all!


    He rubbed her nose awkwardly and explained, ¡°I wanted to say that this wild boar is so big that you won¡¯t be able to finish it. I usually send it to the restaurants in town when I hunt. If you want to sell it, I can help introduce you to the buyers!¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Madam Li and nodded. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll keep some for ourselves. I¡¯ll leave the rest to you. You can drive our carriage there.¡±


    Then she remembered that she had never been to town before. Just as she was about to suggest going with him, the sound of porcelain shattering could be heard.


    Shen Yijia left An Dong behind and ran into the room.


    Without waiting for Shen Yijia to speak, Song Jingchen explained, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just accidentally touched it.¡±


    After saying that, he lowered his head in frustration. How could he have done such a childish thing?


    In Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, Song Jingchen was feeling down because it was inconvenient for him to move around.


    She comforted him. ¡°It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s just a cup. I¡¯ll help you make your wheelchair in the next two days.¡±


    She knew that the wheelchair could at most make it easier for Song Jingchen to move around, but it couldn¡¯t make him stand up.


    She had to think of a way to treat his legs.


    It seemed that simply drinking spiritual liquid wouldn¡¯t work. Didn¡¯t they say in her previous life that it was better to apply it internally and externally? Maybe she could soak his feet in the spiritual liquid in the future.


    Perhaps Song Jingchen¡¯s legs would recover after this.


    ¡°How clever of me!¡± she thought.


    She swept away the debris on the ground and poured Song Jingchen a glass of water.


    The family sat down to eat.


    At the Song family¡¯s old residence.


    Madam Liu, Song Dajiang¡¯s wife, had just finished cooking with her two daughters-in-law when the men who had gone to work in the fields returned.


    She took the food to the central room and set the dishes.


    Madam Liu wiped her hands and entered the house to call her youngest son, Song Maolin, and daughter, Song Jiayue, out for dinner.


    Song Dajiang had three sons and one daughter. The eldest son, Song Dalin, was married to Madam Liu¡¯s niece. Everyone in the village called her Little Madam Liu. The two had a three-year-old son, Fu Bao.


    The second son, Song Erlin, had just gotten married last year to Madam Chen from Shanghe Village. Madam Chen had just gotten pregnant.


    Next on the list were Song Maolin and the youngest, Song Jiayue.


    In the early years, the Song family had been living well because of the silver given to them by the old duke.


    The old duke also let them take a lot of money with them. However, Granny Song knew what Song Dahai was like.


    As soon as they returned to the village, they built a green brick house with that sum of money. They kept some of the remaining money for the family and bought fields for planting crops.


    They could earn a sizable amount by renting the fields to the farmers.


    They were indeed rich, but after paying for Song Maolin¡¯s studies at school, they could not make ends meet.


    Especially after Song Maolin became a scholar, he sold more than half of his family¡¯s fields to give gifts.


    Song Maolin usually wore clothes made of fine cotton.


    Compared to the coarse linen that everyone usually wore, which cost ten copper coins a foot, the fine linen was much more expensive, being thirty-five copper coins a foot. Not many people in the countryside could afford it.


    Coupled with the brush, ink, and paper he used, as well as the social events with his classmates, the money that his family earned was not enough for him.


    The Song family only had a superficial reputation now.


    It was only because the academy was on holiday today that Song Maolin could return home for a meal.


    They had meat stew with radishes, and the air was filled with the rich fragrance of meat.


    But it wasn¡¯t much. They could barely have two pieces each.


    The family sat down. Song Dajiang picked up his chopsticks and picked up a piece each for Song Dalin and Song Erlin.


    Looking at Fu Bao, who was drooling over the meat, he picked a small piece and placed it in his bowl, then picked another piece for Song Jiayue.


    He didn¡¯t eat much, only taking one piece for himself. He gave the rest to Song Maolin.

 Chapter 49 - Schemes

    Little Madam Liu glanced at Song Maolin¡¯s share of the meat and felt a little envious.


    However, she did not dare to oppose her brother-in-law. She watched resentfully as her husband stuffed the meat into his mouth.


    She lowered her head and took a bite of rice before turning her gaze back to her son¡¯s bowl. Her eyes darted around, and she reached out with her chopsticks to take the meat away from his bowl.


    She coaxed, ¡°Fu Bao, I¡¯ll feed you!¡±


    After saying that, she bit half of it before giving it to Fu Bao.


    Song Maolin frowned and instantly lost his appetite.


    Noticing his expression, Song Dajiang glared at Madam Liu.


    Madam Liu felt wronged. She was so angry that she slapped the back of Little Madam Liu¡¯s head and scolded, ¡°You greedy woman. I was blind to let Dalin marry you.¡±


    Little Madam Liu argued, ¡°Aunt, I didn¡¯t do anything. I just fed Fu Bao!¡±


    Madam Liu spat. ¡°What do you mean by that? Fu Bao is already three years old and can eat by himself, yet you¡¯re suddenly thinking of feeding him today?¡±


    Little Madam Liu smiled awkwardly and lowered her head to eat.


    ¡°Wife, you¡¯re pregnant. I¡¯ll give it to you!¡± Song Erlin gave Madam Chen his meat.


    Madam Chen smiled gently at him.


    Song Jiayue rolled her eyes and said, ¡°Mother, I went up the mountain with Zhao Zhao to pick up fungi today. Guess what we saw?¡±


    Zhao Zhao was the village chief¡¯s daughter, Song Mingzhao.


    Having successfully attracted the attention of the family, Song Jiayue didn¡¯t keep them in suspense and continued, ¡°I saw An Dong send a big wild boar over to the outcasts.¡±


    ¡°You must be mistaken. The An family lives next door. They were probably returning to their own home.¡± Madam Liu obviously didn¡¯t believe it. Only a fool would give so much meat to others.


    Song Jiayue panicked. ¡°How could that be? Zhaozhao and I specially watched over that house. When he came out, he wasn¡¯t holding anything. Oh right, there was also that weird girl from that day. The two of them came down from the mountain together.¡±


    Madam Liu clicked her tongue. ¡°A man and a woman coming down from the mountain alone, it can¡¯t be anything good. Don¡¯t meddle in their affairs.¡±


    Little Madam Liu was focused on something different. She interrupted, ¡°Aunt, do you think they would give us some meat if we asked them for it?¡±


    Song Erlin usually didn¡¯t like to care about other people¡¯s affairs. At this moment, he couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Sister-in-law, you wish. Even without mentioning what happened in the past, just look at how the atmosphere was like when they returned. It¡¯s already a blessing that they didn¡¯t stab you. Besides, haven¡¯t we already severed ties with them? Why should they give us any meat?¡±


    ¡°Even though they¡¯ve been excommunicated, their surname is still Song. Our father is an elder. Even if we don¡¯t acknowledge them, they still need to be filial to father? You didn¡¯t see it, but that day, they brought a lot of things home and received a lot of money¡­¡±


    Madam Liu was a little tempted when she heard that.


    However, the news had spread throughout the village. It was said that a starving camel was still bigger than a horse. They bought so many things at once, so they must have brought back a lot of money.


    If they took all that money from the outcasts, they wouldn¡¯t have to worry about their third son¡¯s future. Their daughter¡¯s dowry would also increase in the future.


    She glanced at Song Dajiang and saw that he only ate without making a sound. After being married for so many years, how could Madam Liu not understand what he meant? He didn¡¯t object to her visiting the outcasts.


    She interrupted their argument with a dry cough, pretending to be conflicted. ¡°Little Madam Liu is right. We¡¯re still affiliated. I¡¯ll go over there to take a look after dinner.¡±


    Little Madam Liu hurriedly tried to get on her good side. ¡°Aunt, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Madam Liu glared at her angrily. ¡°You¡¯re such a busybody. You¡¯re everywhere.¡±


    But she didn¡¯t object.


    Song Jiayue and Song Maolin looked at each other and didn¡¯t say anything.

 Chapter 50 - Killing a Pig

    Shen Yijia did not know that someone was already eyeing her meat and wallet.


    She was dealing with the wild boar in the courtyard.


    Although she had eaten a lot of meat, she had never killed a boar before. Thus, she moved Song Jingchen to the courtyard and let him read his book while giving her instructions.


    Madam Li boiled water while the twins helped to peel the boar¡¯s fur. The family worked hard.


    ¡°Mother, let¡¯s keep the four legs and sell the rest in the restaurant. I¡¯ll go up the mountain to hunt again after we¡¯re done eating.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts were simple. It was convenient to cut off the four legs.


    Besides, she felt that it was too easy for her to hunt in the mountains and get meat for her family.


    ¡°I agree to sell it, but how can a girl like you keep running into the mountains? It¡¯s so dangerous.¡± Madam Li was amused by Shen Yijia¡¯s words.


    Shen Yijia stuck out her tongue and muttered, ¡°I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be in more danger than the prey in the mountains.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at her, his lips moving, but he didn¡¯t say anything in the end.


    He finally realized that it was not easy to make Shen Yijia give up on something.


    Together, they cleaned up the wild boar.


    Shen Yijia raised her knife and cut off the wild boar¡¯s four legs along its abdomen. Each leg weighed about 15 pounds.


    The pig¡¯s head and body were still there. Blood kept flowing from the stumps of the boar¡¯s legs, and soon it was all over the ground.


    Shen Yijia patted her head. Its blood was edible. She quickly ran to the kitchen and got four basins to collect the blood.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows twitched. Brother Hao and Sister Huan weren¡¯t so subtle. They were so frightened that they retreated away from Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. The meat was going to be eaten, did it matter how she cut it?


    Anyway, it wasn¡¯t important to her.


    Madam Li took a basin and prepared to move the four legs to the kitchen.


    Shen Yijia picked out two of the smaller legs and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t An Dong help out? I promised to send some meat to his family. I¡¯ll send these two over.¡±


    As for the others, she wasn¡¯t familiar with them and had no intention of giving them any meat.


    Song Jingchen paused and said casually, ¡°You¡¯ve been working hard today. Let Brother Hao and Sister Huan go.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked uncertainly, ¡°Are you sure the two of them can carry it?¡±


    Was it really a good idea to use child labor?


    Song Jingchen glanced at Brother Hao and Sister Huan. The two of them shrank away and said in unison, ¡°Sister-in-law, we can do it.¡±


    Not again. Not again.


    When they were still in the capital, their big brother liked to look at them like this whenever they made a mistake. Then, he would punish them severely.


    It had been a long time since he looked at them like that, but this gaze had long been engraved in their bones.


    Shen Yijia blinked and did not object.


    Seeing the two little ones run out with the boar trotters, she tilted her head and bent down to face Song Jingchen.


    She narrowed her eyes and concluded, ¡°Something is off about you.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the little face in front of him and tried his best to ignore his wildly beating heart. He pretended to be calm and said, ¡°No, you¡¯re mistaken.¡±


    After a pause, he changed the topic. ¡°You stink. Go take a shower and change your clothes.¡±


    Shen Yijia blushed and took a few steps back from Song Jingchen. She lowered her head and sniffed herself.


    She argued indignantly, ¡°I¡¯m not the one who stinks. It¡¯s that pig.¡±


    As she spoke, she ran towards the kitchen. When she reached the door, she turned around and glared at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯m not going to shower. I¡¯m going to hug you to sleep tonight. You¡¯re gonna stink as much as I do. Hmph!¡±


    Song Jingchen remembered the scene of them sleeping together for the past two nights and blushed. Then, he laughed.

 Chapter 51 - Looking for Trouble

    ¡°Yo, are you guys busy?¡±


    A sharp voice broke the silence in the courtyard.


    Madam Li and Song Jingchen looked up at the same time and saw an old woman and a young woman entering their courtyard.


    The two of them looked somewhat similar, especially their eyes. They had inverted triangular eyes. Perhaps it was because they had worked hard all year round, but their skin was dry and tanned.


    Song Jingchen glanced at the two of them and frowned slightly before lowering his head to continue reading.


    From the moment she entered, Little Madam Liu¡¯s gaze was fixed on the wild boar that was missing its limbs. Greed flashed across her eyes.


    Madam Liu secretly pinched her and gestured for her to restrain herself. She turned around and said to Madam Li with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t remember me. I¡¯m Dajiang¡¯s wife.¡±


    Due to her upbringing, Madam Li could bring herself to chase her out. She could only say, ¡°I didn¡¯t forget. Sister-in-law, why did you come over today?¡±


    Madam Liu smiled awkwardly. ¡°I should have come over to visit long ago, but unfortunately, I happened to be feeling unwell on the day you returned. I came over today because I¡¯m feeling better.¡±


    Her eyes darted around before she continued, ¡°I¡¯m not here for any particular reason. I just wanted to see if you needed anything.¡±


    Madam Li¡¯s expression was indifferent. She did not think that Madam Liu was really that kind. She said, ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re too kind. We don¡¯t lack anything here. Even if we did, we can take care of it in the next few days.


    Madam Liu paused and cursed in her heart, but she smiled. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s only natural for us to help each other out.¡±


    She glanced at the wild boar on the ground and exclaimed, ¡°Oh my, how can you deal with this wild boar like this? Isn¡¯t it a waste of meat? I guess it makes sense as there¡¯s no man in your family to take care of it. Why didn¡¯t you tell your family to get my brats to come over and help? They have so much free time that they¡¯re about to start growing moss from sitting around!¡±


    Madam Li¡¯s heart ached. Her expression turned cold. ¡°Brother Chen is still fine. I wouldn¡¯t dare to trouble my nephews.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re treating me like an outsider.¡± She glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s legs in disdain and said with a fake smile, ¡°I heard that Eldest Nephew¡¯s legs are injured!¡±


    She was implying that Song Jingchen was a cripple.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, go back if you have no other business here. I¡¯m still busy, so I don¡¯t have the time to entertain you.¡± Even Madam Li, who was usually good-natured, could not help but chase them away.


    Without achieving her goal, how could Madam Liu leave so easily? She pretended not to understand. ¡°Sister-in-law, what are you talking about? We¡¯re a family.¡±


    Glancing at Little Madam Liu, the girl immediately understood and ran into the central room to get a chair for her to sit down.


    Sighing, Madam Liu changed the topic and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to be honest with you, sister-in-law. Our family has been having a hard time these past few years. We don¡¯t see meat or fish much every year.¡±


    As she spoke, she even pretended to wipe the nonexistent tears from the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. ¡°Fortunately, my third son is an ambitious person and has just passed the county-level examination. Our family wants him to make a name for himself even though we have to cut down on our spending, how pitiful¡­¡±


    Ignoring the fact that Madam Li was not on good terms with her, Madam Liu continued to nag for a long time. Her words implied that her family was having a hard time and lacked money and meat.


    ¡°In that case, Eldest Aunt shouldn¡¯t have come today. I think Eldest Uncle did the right thing, preventing Cousin¡¯s reputation from being ruined because of us.¡± A voice suddenly interrupted Madam Liu.


    Song Jingchen originally wanted to ignore her, but Madam Liu was too noisy and affected his reading.


    Madam Liu choked. She wanted to say, ¡°You¡¯ve all been expelled from the clan. You can¡¯t implicate our third son anyway.¡±


    However, she held her tongue and said reproachfully, ¡°Oh my, Eldest Nephew, don¡¯t say that. However, she held her tongue and said reproachfully, ¡°Oh my, Eldest Nephew, don¡¯t say that. That¡¯s the decision of the elders. Your uncle can¡¯t do anything about it. Besides, blood is thicker than water. No matter what, you still have the blood of our Song family flowing in your veins.¡±


    ¡°I can cut open your veins and help you check if the same blood flows through your veins!¡± a woman¡¯s voice sounded from inside the house.

 Chapter 52 - Packing Up

    Shen Yijia¡¯s hair was still dripping with water. She wiped her hair with a towel and walked straight to Song Jingchen¡¯s side.


    Just now, she heard Madam Liu say that blood was thicker than water. She also said that the blood of the Song family flowed in them. She had already guessed that the person was from the old residence.


    She was curious why the two of them were here, didn¡¯t they already cut ties? She asked, ¡°Why are they here?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned when he saw her expression. He didn¡¯t hide his inner thoughts and said frankly, ¡°She probably wants to take your boar meat.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s almond-shaped eyes widened. These people had crossed the line. Song Jingchen added, ¡°And your silver.¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and glared at Madam Liu and her daughter-in-law.


    The two of them were quite thick-skinned, but upon hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s words, they still felt a little embarrassed.


    Unable to pretend anymore, she said angrily, ¡°Eldest Nephew, how can you say that? Isn¡¯t it only right for a family to help each other?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and stuffed her towel into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. She placed her hands on her hips and said disdainfully, ¡°What family? Aren¡¯t we no longer family? Why are you so thick-skinned? You only claim that we¡¯re family when you want something from us. Where was this solidarity when we got excommunicated?¡±


    Not long ago, these people even joined forces with their clansmen to chase them out, but now, they had the audacity to ask her for something.


    Shen Yijia sized up Madam Liu. She was indeed shameless.


    She didn¡¯t want to waste her breath on them. She picked up the machete from earlier and prepared to chase them away. ¡°Go, go, go. You won¡¯t be able to find any family members here. Look elsewhere!¡±


    Madam Liu was shocked. She saw that Shen Yijia was just a skinny little girl. How could she have the guts to kill someone when she had such skinny arms and legs?


    She was no longer afraid. She grabbed Little Madam Liu¡¯s arm, and cursed this useless brat in her heart.


    She said at the top of her lungs, ¡°Even if I didn¡¯t come today, you should have taken the initiative to send the meat and silver to my house. Don¡¯t forget that my father-in-law died early because his legs were broken by Song Daniu. This is what your family owes us.¡±


    1


    She recalled how Song Dahai hated the Song family in the capital when he died. He hated them to his last breath.


    Madam Liu shuddered upon remembering the past.


    She suddenly glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s legs and sneered at Madam Li. ¡°I think this is retribution. Back then, your family broke my father-in-law¡¯s legs, so this is retribution on your son. You should pray that your son doesn¡¯t die early like my father-in-law¡­¡±


    Before Madam Liu could finish speaking, she heard a whoosh above her head. She felt her head get lighter and a chill ran down her spine.


    Before she could react, Little Madam Liu screamed, ¡°Ah¡­ Murderer! Murderer¡­¡±


    Madam Liu turned around and saw that the machete that Shen Yijia had been holding was nailed to the wall close to her.


    Dazed, she touched her head. All she could feel was her bare scalp. Her vision went dark and she almost fainted.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. How dare they come to her house to snatch her things? She walked towards the two women.


    The two of them were so frightened that they pulled at each other and staggered out. They kept shouting that Shen Yijia was a murderer.


    Shen Yijia ignored them and picked up the machete.


    Madam Liu, who was about to curse, quickly shut her mouth. She turned around and saw An Dong and the twins.


    Madam Liu felt embarrassed and yelled angrily in Shen Yijia¡¯s direction, ¡°Don¡¯t think that we don¡¯t know where you got this meat from. You¡¯re a shameless piece of trash. Only your family can eat it.¡±


    After saying that, she was afraid that Shen Yijia would chase after them, so she pulled Little Madam Liu and ran.

 Chapter 53 - Warmth

    Shen Yijia did not care about what Madam Liu meant. Where could the meat have come from? Didn¡¯t she come from hunting in the mountains? Could it have fallen from the sky?


    Seeing Madam Liu flee with a bald head, she couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°Mother, leave this to me in the future. I guarantee that they won¡¯t dare to mess with our family in the future.¡±


    Madam Li glanced at Shen Yijia¡¯s smug expression and sighed. ¡°You can¡¯t scare people with a knife again. What if you really hurt someone?¡±


    ¡°I know. Next time, I¡¯ll use my fists!¡± As she spoke, she even clenched her fists.


    Madam Li choked and turned to glare at Song Jingchen. She then called out to An Dong, who was standing outside the door and was too embarrassed to enter.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose, feeling puzzled by her glare. Thinking of what Madam Liu had said before she left, his eyes darkened.


    ¡°Dongzi is coming over.¡±


    ¡°Auntie Li! I¡¯m here to help deliver the meat to town.¡±


    ¡°Then come in quickly. Look at Sister Jia. She¡¯s ruined the meat.¡±


    When An Dong saw this, his lips twitched. Yup, this definitely looked like her handiwork.


    He said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll just clean it up a little.¡±


    He could not help but glance at Shen Yijia and saw that she had not even combed her hair.


    He looked away and didn¡¯t dare to look again. Coincidentally, his gaze met Song Jingchen¡¯s.


    The other party was clearly just a person who couldn¡¯t walk and didn¡¯t look aggressive, but he didn¡¯t feel weak at all. Instead, he had an invisible but terrifying aura.


    Just one look from him made An Dong feel pressured.


    The thoughts that had just sprouted in his heart seemed to have nowhere to hide beneath that gaze.


    An Dong quickly lowered his head, picked up his knife, and started to clean up the wild boar.


    Song Jingchen withdrew his gaze and saw that Shen Yijia was about to move closer to An Dong.


    1


    Reaching for her, he said firmly, ¡°Sit down.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Although she was puzzled, she still obediently squatted down in front of Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen smiled. He picked up the towel and started to dry her hair.


    The atmosphere between the two of them instantly became warm.


    Shen Yijia looked up and saw that Song Jingchen was seriously drying her hair, as if he was focusing on something important. Her heart beat faster.


    Feeling those slender fingers run through her hair, Shen Yijia soon began to feel sleepy.


    Shen Yijia simply laid her head on Song Jingchen¡¯s lap and let him do whatever he wanted.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hands paused. He could no longer feel his legs after becoming a cripple, but at this moment, he felt like his legs were burning. He even seemed to feel Shen Yijia¡¯s gentle breath on his legs.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan secretly smiled. An Dong noticed it from the corner of his eye and felt bitter yet relieved.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t wake up even after he finished drying her hair.


    Song Jingchen fumed at the fact that he was crippled now. He was also worried that Shen Yijia would fall if her legs grew numb from squatting for too long. He could only wake her up.


    ¡°Go inside and sleep!¡± There was a gentleness in his voice that even he did not notice.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze and rubbed her eyes. She looked around and remembered how she fell asleep. She muttered softly, ¡°Thank you, hubby!¡±


    With that, she went back into the house in a daze to catch up on her sleep.


    Things were peaceful on their side, but the old residence was in chaos.


    As soon as Madam Liu returned home, she complained about Shen Yijia¡¯s crimes and how Song Jingchen looked down on her.


    The more she vented the angrier she became. In the end, she took her anger out on Little Madam Liu and blamed her for not saying a word.


    Otherwise, why was she the only one with her hair shaved off?


    2


    Song Dajiang sat in the central room with a dark expression and didn¡¯t say a word. Noticing his expression, Madam Liu shrank back and stopped yelling.


    ¡°Father, we can¡¯t let this matter rest!¡± It was Song Maolin who spoke. He was the only one in the family who dared to interrupt Song Dajiang.


    ¡°Of course we can¡¯t just let it go,¡± Song Dajiang said sinisterly.


    ¡­

 Chapter 54 - Planning

    An Dong helped sell the remaining boar meat for four taels of silver. When Shen Yijia woke up, he had just sent the money over and left.


    Holding the silver that Madam Li handed over, Shen Yijia casually muttered, ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to him this time.¡±


    After saying that, Shen Yijia picked up a piece of silver and bit it. It hurt a little.


    However, Shen Yijia did not mind at all. Instead, she grinned. This was the first time she¡¯d earned an income since she came to this world, and she was very satisfied.


    Song Jingchen ignored the strange feeling in his heart and asked casually, ¡°Are you that happy?¡±


    ¡°Of course. This isn¡¯t just four taels of silver. It¡¯s also the source of our income. We won¡¯t have to worry about not being able to eat in the future.¡± She still remembered what Song Jingchen had said to her when he gave her the divorce letter.


    With this, she did not believe that she would ever starve in the future.


    Shen Yijia divided the silver pieces into five portions, since there were five of them. ¡°Come, one for each person.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Elder Brother said that you¡¯re in charge of this family now, I don¡¯t want the silver.¡± Brother Hao looked at the money in front of him and said.


    In the past, he had casually rewarded his servants with more money than this. Now that his sister-in-law carried this burden of feeding them, Brother Hao felt depressed and uncomfortable.


    Seeing her brother say this, Sister Huan put the silver back in embarrassment. ¡°I don¡¯t want it either.¡±


    Shen Yijia reached out and smacked their heads gently. ¡°This silver is different. No matter what, it¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve earned money. You have to keep it, understand? I¡¯ll keep all the money I earn in the future.¡±


    Afraid that the two children would overthink, Shen Yijia promised, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, our family will have more and more money. I guarantee that none of us will starve.¡±


    The two of them were still a little hesitant. Song Jingchen coughed dryly and put his share into his wallet. ¡°Put them away! I¡¯ll also think of a way to earn money in the future.¡±


    Seeing this, Madam Li also took the lead and picked up her share. ¡°Me too. I heard from Auntie Tian that we can go to town to pick up some embroidery work and bring it back to complete it. When the time comes, Mother can also subsidize the household by doing some embroidery work.¡±


    ¡°Then what can Sister Huan and I do?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and said, ¡°I see that many families in the village raise chickens. Why don¡¯t we raise a few too? When the time comes, you and Sister Huan will be in charge of catching insects for them. When the chickens lay eggs, we can eat them ourselves or sell them for money.¡±


    Hearing that they could also contribute to this family, Brother Hao and Sister Huan did not hesitate to accept the money. At the same time, they secretly swore to catch more insects and let the chickens lay more eggs.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. I¡¯ll go to Auntie Tian¡¯s house tomorrow and ask where I can buy chickens. There¡¯s still an empty space behind the house, I think we can reclaim it and grow some vegetables,¡± Madam Li said.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go and tidy up tomorrow.¡± Although she had never been to that area, she had seen it. To Shen Yijia, anything that could be resolved with strength was not a problem.


    ¡°We can help pull the weeds¡ª¡±


    Song Jingchen watched as Shen Yijia and his family made plans for the household¡¯s future.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart felt warm. If his father and grandfather were fine, this simple life was not bad at all. Unfortunately, there was no chance of that anymore¡­


    ¡°You¡¯ve been sitting outside all afternoon. Do you want me to carry you in and rest for a while?¡± Seeing that Song Jingchen was silent, Shen Yijia thought that he was tired.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°Let¡¯s go in after dinner.¡±


    ¡°That works too.¡±


    Thinking that she wouldn¡¯t be able to do much work even if she dug out the vegetable field tonight, Shen Yijia simply went to fiddle with her pile of wood.


    The wheelchair had to be made as soon as possible.

 Chapter 55 - The An Family

    At the An family¡¯s residence.


    An Xiu¡¯er was cooking the two pig trotters in the kitchen, while An Dong helped with the fire.


    The aroma of meat filled the kitchen, and An Xiu¡¯er sniffed. Although An Dong often went hunting in the mountains, he didn¡¯t always manage to catch something. Even if he did, he would exchange most of it for money to buy medicine for their father.


    She would only make some soup for her father to nourish him. It was very rare for them to have so much meat. Thinking of the origins of these two pig trotters, An Xiu¡¯er couldn¡¯t help but remind him, ¡°Big Brother, be careful when you go up the mountain next time. It¡¯s all thanks to that girl this time. Don¡¯t forget that our father was bitten by a wild boar back then.¡±


    Thinking of the scene at that time, fear still lingered in An Dong¡¯s heart. He was even more grateful to Shen Yijia. He nodded. ¡°I understand.¡±


    ¡°Dongzi encountered wild boars again when he went up the mountain today?¡± Suddenly, a weak voice sounded.


    It turned out that Father An wanted to ask what was going on when he saw that the bow in the courtyard was broken. He did not expect to hear the siblings¡¯ conversation before he entered the kitchen.


    When he remembered the sight of the broken bow, he understood everything.


    With that, he started coughing violently.


    ¡°Father, don¡¯t be anxious. An Dong is fine.¡± Hearing the commotion, Auntie Tian quickly came out of the house to pat his back.


    An Dong was shocked and glared at An Xiu¡¯er. He poured a cup of tea and handed it over. ¡°Father, it was a coincidence that my bow and arrow were broken today. Besides, I¡¯m perfectly fine right now.¡±


    Father An waved away An Dong¡¯s hand. ¡°You won¡¯t be so lucky every time. I wonder what would have happened if we hadn¡¯t met a good person this time. Why don¡¯t you stop hunting in the mountains in the future? Our family still has two acres of land. If we rent two more acres, we can plant enough crops to get by.¡±


    If Shen Yijia was involved in this conversation, she would¡¯ve said immediately, ¡°No, I¡¯m not a good person. I just wanted that wild boar.¡±


    Auntie Tian felt that Father An¡¯s words made sense. She hesitated and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t you listen to your father?¡±


    ¡°No way, where will I get the money for father¡¯s medicine if I don¡¯t go hunting?¡± An Dong refused immediately.


    Everyone fell silent at his words.


    Father An wanted to say that the medicine didn¡¯t improve his health at all, so why drag his family down? However, when he thought about his son¡¯s temper, he could only sigh heavily.


    Auntie Tian discreetly wiped her tears.


    An Xiu¡¯er did not expect that her words would almost make the family quarrel. She was so anxious that tears streamed down her face.


    ¡°Father, Mother. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve been fine for so many years. I¡¯ll be more careful next time.¡± Not knowing how to persuade them, An Dong could only reassure them again.


    After saying that, he glanced at An Xiu¡¯er.


    An Xiu¡¯er quickly wiped her tears and walked over to hold Father An¡¯s hand. ¡°Father, don¡¯t think too much. Big Brother has always been sensible.¡±


    Father An waved his hand helplessly. ¡°Go and thank that person properly tomorrow.¡±


    With that, he limped to the courtyard and picked up the broken bow to repair it.


    In the end, he was the one who implicated this family. He had two filial children, what was there for him to be dissatisfied with?


    Shen Yijia did not know that the two pig trotters she gave had caused such a fuss within the An family.


    She spread the logs in the courtyard to dry them.


    Without her noticing, the sky had already turned dark. Madam Li had already brought the two children back to their room to sleep.


    Because Uncle Yang was not around, there was an empty room. Madam Li asked Brother Hao to stay in it, saying that Brother Hao was a boy after all.


    Shen Yijia believed Madam Li¡¯s words. Only Song Jingchen knew the reason behind Madam Li¡¯s actions.


    ¡°Alright, it¡¯s time to rest. It¡¯s not too late to do it tomorrow.¡± Song Jingchen stopped Shen Yijia from continuing.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the sky and realized that she had been busy for the whole day.


    She stretched and carried Song Jingchen back to their room.


    When they returned to the house, the two of them remembered something at the same time and looked at each other. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes sparkled.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.

 Chapter 56 - Secretly Looking

    In the dark room, Shen Yijia leaned against the edge of the wooden barrel and scooped up some water with her hands.


    Her eyes were fixed on Song Jingchen, who was leaning against the bed and reading.


    ¡°Hubby, are you really not going to take a shower?¡± Shen Yijia asked seriously.


    Song Jingchen turned around indifferently and ignored her.


    Shen Yijia refused to give up. She ran over and bent down to whisper in his ear, ¡°If Uncle Yang isn¡¯t here today, you won¡¯t take a shower. Uncle Yang won¡¯t be back for a long time, are you going to avoid showering until he gets back?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lowered eyes trembled slightly.


    They were so close that her breath landed on his earlobe.


    Shen Yijia continued to coax him. ¡°The weather is so hot. If you don¡¯t take a shower for half a month, you¡¯ll stink.¡±


    As she spoke, she deliberately sniffed his neck.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Of course, they were husband and wife. Back then, he had also said that he would treat her as his wife if she stayed. It was reasonable for a couple to be honest with each other, but he just felt conflicted.


    Perhaps¡­ it was because he was the only one who would be seen naked?


    As soon as this thought appeared, Song Jingchen¡¯s face instantly flushed red, and he felt terrible.


    He slammed the book shut.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and thought that Song Jingchen was angry. She took a step back and said softly, ¡°I¡¯m doing this for your own good. You can avoid showering, but you¡¯ll have to use the toilet anyway.¡±


    Speaking of toilets, Shen Yijia realized that Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t resolved his physiological needs for the entire day. Thinking about how he didn¡¯t eat much during dinner and didn¡¯t drink much water, she instantly had an epiphany.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, Song Jingchen knew that she was letting her imagination run wild again.


    He closed her eyes and tried her best to ignore the discomfort in his heart. He said indifferently, ¡°Help me undress.¡±


    Shen Yijia was right. It was impossible for him not to take a shower until Uncle Yang returned.


    Even if Shen Yijia could stand it, he wouldn¡¯t be able to. Since he had to¡­


    ¡°Why should I be shy now? We¡¯re husband and wife anyway.¡± he thought.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia thought she had heard wrongly. When she met Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes, she realized that he¡¯d agreed.


    Suddenly, she felt embarrassed instead.


    She secretly clenched her fists.


    ¡°Shen Yijia, you can¡¯t be a coward.¡± she thought to herself. The opportunity to see that man¡¯s naked body was right in front of her, she had to stay calm.


    1


    Shen Yijia mustered up her courage and reached out her trembling hand.


    Seeing her timid behavior, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t feel shy anymore and simply stretched out his hands.


    Shen Yijia lowered her head and helped Song Jingchen take off his coat with trembling hands. She reached out to take off his clothes.


    He grabbed her hands.


    The two of them paused at the same time. Song Jingchen sighed and said, ¡°Just carry me into the bathtub like this.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Oh.¡± She sounded a little disappointed.


    It was true that she was shy, but it was also true that she wanted to see his body. It was a pity that she¡¯d lost her chance.


    Song Jingchen almost laughed out loud from his frustration. He was clearly being considerate, but this girl¡­


    After carrying Song Jingchen into the bathtub, Shen Yijia dripped two drops of spiritual liquid into it. There was a little too much water, so she was afraid that just one single drop wouldn¡¯t work well.


    If Da Hua knew that Shen Yijia, who had always been incredibly stingy with her spiritual fluid, was using it so freely, she would probably slap her to death.


    ¡°What an ungrateful brat.¡± she would¡¯ve thought.


    Song Jingchen raised his hand to take off his clothes, but Shen Yijia was still standing in front of him. He rubbed his forehead helplessly and looked up at her.


    Shen Yijia was not embarrassed even though he¡¯d realized what she was thinking. She smiled and said, ¡°Hubby, wash up first. I¡¯ll get you a cup of tea.¡±


    She had to give him the spiritual liquid both internally and externally.


    Looking within herself, she realized that only a third of the spiritual liquid was left. The speed at which the spiritual liquid was being accumulated could not keep up with the speed at which it was being used.


    She hoped that she could give him a drop of spiritual liquid every day.

 Chapter 57 - The Wheelchair Is Completed

    There was no more water in the room. Shen Yijia poured the tea and brought it into the room as quickly as she could, but she still couldn¡¯t make it in time.


    She only managed to see a small part of Song Jingchen¡¯s body. Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen resentfully and gave him the cup of tea.


    She sat at the table and looked at him. Seeing a little bit of him was better than nothing!


    The scars on Song Jingchen¡¯s body had long been repaired by the spiritual liquid. Since Song Jingchen didn¡¯t ask, Shen Yijia pretended not to know.


    Under Shen Yijia¡¯s burning gaze, Song Jingchen finished bathing. He took a robe from the side and casually put it on. He coughed dryly. ¡°I¡¯m done.¡±


    Oh my, there was such a thing. Shen Yijia, who thought she could see a beauty come out of the shower, was speechless.


    She was so disappointed.


    ¡°Shenzhi, do you want to go to the toilet?¡± This time, Shen Yijia definitely didn¡¯t have any other thoughts. She was simply afraid that Song Jingchen would hold it in because he was too embarrassed to say anything.


    Song Jingchen nodded softly, looking defeated.


    Actually, when they first moved in, Uncle Yang had already prepared a toilet bowl in the corner of the toilet. There was no need for Shen Yijia to do anything.


    After he used the toilet, Shen Yijia helped Song Jingchen dry his hair. Only then did the two of them rest.


    Shen Yijia did not know if it was her imagination, but she felt that the two of them had become closer tonight.


    As expected, using the bathroom together had an extraordinary effect on a relationship.


    Early the next morning, Shen Yijia carried a hoe and sorted out the plot of land that Madam Li wanted to use for planting crops.


    It might be a tiring job for others, but it was quite easy for Shen Yijia.


    Madam Li originally wanted to buy a few chickens, but Auntie Tian said that a batch of chicks had just hatched at home. In order to thank Shen Yijia for saving An Dong¡¯s life, she gave them the chicks and refused to accept the money.


    Shen Yijia built a chicken coop in the backyard.


    The two children finally had something to do. They surrounded the chicks and sized them up happily for a long time before running out to look for insects.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t care which vegetables were going to be planted in the vegetable field. The wood had dried up, and she was in a hurry to make the wheelchair.


    It was not difficult to make a wheelchair, but it still took Shen Yijia a lot of effort to cut wood and make wheels.


    Coupled with the fact that it was her first time making it, it took her six days to finish. This was even with Song Jingchen¡¯s help. If Shen Yijia was alone, it would have taken even longer.


    It wasn¡¯t completed yet. Shen Yijia carefully polished and waxed it twice before considering it complete.


    Looking at the strange-looking chair, the two children and Madam Li found it interesting.


    She couldn¡¯t tell what Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were working on all day, but she found it magical.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, can Big Brother walk on his own now that he has this chair?¡± Brother Hao was happy for his big brother. His big brother must¡¯ve felt terrible staying in his room every day. Even if he came out, he could only sit in one place in the courtyard and had to be carried around by Shen Yijia.


    With this chair, things would be different.


    Shen Yijia nodded and started explaining matter-of-factly, ¡°Of course. This is called a wheelchair. Do you see the two wheels below¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia introduced the wheelchair in detail. To prevent any accidents, there was a button installed on the armrest. As long as someone pressed the button, the wheelchair would stop.


    This design was added because she had seen too many patients in the courtyard get injured while playing with wheelchairs. She didn¡¯t want her husband to get injured because of the wheelchair.


    More than that, she had made a secret compartment in the armrest. She pulled a sword from one side of it and a short dagger from the other.


    Everyone present exclaimed in surprise. Shen Yijia smiled in satisfaction and raised her eyebrows at Song Jingchen.

 Chapter 58 - Ingenious

    She didn¡¯t let Song Jingchen participate in the final part of building the wheelchair because she wanted to give him a surprise.


    She stuffed the hidden weapons into Song Jingchen¡¯s hands and waited for his praise with sparkling eyes.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He didn¡¯t expect the carefree Shen Yijia to be so attentive. He was touched. He clenched the sleeve crossbow in his hand and said in a choked voice, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She just wanted to get a compliment, but she didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to say this. Shen Yijia rubbed her head in embarrassment. ¡°I¡¯ll teach you how to use it.¡±


    She demonstrated it again. Not only Brother Hao and Sister Huan, but even Song Jingchen was a little surprised.


    This sleeve crossbow was different from the ones he had seen in the past. It used small needle-like arrows as projectiles. It was more exquisite and could automatically adjust the number of needles released at once. This alone could catch the enemy off guard.


    Furthermore, there was a small groove in the arrow compartment that could be filled with poison or drugs. There was no need to soak the needles in poisons or other drugs in advance. The substance would be applied on the needles when it passed through the compartment.


    Although he could only load it with fifteen needles at a time, it was enough.


    Song Jingchen still wanted to study it, but Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t let him. She stuffed the sleeve crossbow into the armrest. It was unknown how she did it, but she fumbled around in the back of the chair and pulled out another larger crossbow.


    Song Jingchen had been curious about why there was such a thing carved on the backrest, but now he understood. It wasn¡¯t carved. It was clearly a mold of a crossbow, then embedded with a real crossbow.


    Her thoughts were ingenious. Although it looked like an ordinary wheelchair, it was actually filled with secret weapons.


    It was unknown if it was because Shen Yijia had given him too many surprises, but Song Jingchen was no longer surprised when he saw her demonstrate how to use the crossbow.


    Was this really the rumored cowardly Miss Shen?


    If it wasn¡¯t her, who was this person in front of him? Did she really have other motives? If that was the case, why would she do all this for him?


    Song Jingchen was no longer sure of himself.


    ¡°Finally, let¡¯s try this wheelchair again,¡± Shen Yijia announced. This was the first big piece of work she had completed, and it was also the first time she had shown one of her inventions to someone other than Da Hua. Shen Yijia was also excited.


    Therefore, she didn¡¯t notice Song Jingchen¡¯s abnormal behavior.


    Song Jingchen only came back to his senses after sitting in the wheelchair. He had drawn the blueprint of the wheels before, so he naturally knew how to use them. He placed his hands on the wheels on both sides and turned them. The chair automatically moved some distance away.


    Song Jingchen looked back at Shen Yijia and smiled at her.


    At this moment, Song Jingchen decided to follow the voice in his heart and trust this person in front of him. Even if he lost the bet, he wouldn¡¯t regret it.


    So what if this person was not the second daughter of the Shen family? It did not matter where she came from. As long as she stayed by his side, he would believe her.


    ¡°Ahhh! My husband smiled at me.¡± Shen Yijia thought to herself, and her mind went blank.


    Her heart began to pound again, more violently than ever. Shen Yijia suspected that it would jump out at any moment.


    She quickly reached out and pressed on her chest. She frowned in confusion. Was there something wrong with her heart?


    In order to celebrate, Madam Li specially took out the pork trotters and fish that she had stored previously to make a delicious dinner.


    After dinner, Shen Yijia removed all the doorsteps that would hinder the wheelchair¡¯s movements. She dug up some soil from the backyard and filled in all the places with stairs to make them into more accessible slopes.


    She compacted the soil. It was complete.


    It was rare to see Brother Hao and Sister Huan following Shen Yijia around instead of taking care of the chickens.


    Shen Yijia found it funny. ¡°Do you have anything to say to me?¡±


    Brother Hao thought to himself, ¡°Sister-in-law is indeed amazing. She even knows that we have something to say.¡±


    Sister Huan thought to herself, ¡°As expected of her sister-in-law. She¡¯s as smart as Big Brother.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, we¡­ we want a sleeve crossbow too.¡±

 Chapter 59 - Request

    Why did they want sleeve crossbows instead of regular crossbows? Of course, it was because they were still young. It would be easier for them to carry the sleeve crossbows which were smaller and lighter.


    ¡°That¡¯s all?¡± Shen Yijia was speechless. They hesitated for so long to bring this up. They were even distracted while eating dinner earlier.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re willing to make some for us?¡± Brother Hao could not believe it. He thought that his sister-in-law would definitely say that it was dangerous for children to carry it.


    To think that he and Sister Huan had spent half a day secretly discussing how to convince her.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s not a difficult task. Coincidentally, there¡¯s still some wood left. I¡¯ll help you make it tomorrow.¡± Shen Yijia did not think that this was a big deal. When she was still young, she had already been fighting with all the patients in the courtyard.


    Thinking about it now, if she had such a hidden weapon back then, she wouldn¡¯t have suffered so many injuries.


    Shen Yijia agreed. Brother Hao should have been happy, but he hesitated. ¡°Will Big Brother agree?¡±


    He didn¡¯t want his brother and sister-in-law to quarrel because of them.


    ¡°Well¡­ it¡¯s hard to say.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s was in a tough position. If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t agree, she wouldn¡¯t be able to make the sleeve crossbows for the two of them.


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡± Sister Huan immediately used her trump card and acted cute.


    Shen Yijia felt even more troubled. She wondered where Sister Huan had learned this trick. She used to be so afraid of her.


    However, she fell for it and could only surrender. ¡°I¡¯ll help you ask him tonight.¡±


    ¡°I knew that you were the best, Sister-in-law.¡± Sister Huan stuck out her tongue and ran off with Brother Hao.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    For some reason, she felt like she had been tricked.


    Even though she knew it would be difficult, Shen Yijia mentioned it when she was soaking Song Jingchen¡¯s feet.


    After all, she was the best sister-in-law in the world.


    To Shen Yijia¡¯s surprise, Song Jingchen agreed without thinking.


    Shen Yijia believed that adults always prevented children from coming into contact with anything dangerous.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s confusion, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t explain.


    It didn¡¯t matter if it was in the past or in the future, danger would always be lurking around the corner. He might not be able to protect his family in his current state.


    He naturally wouldn¡¯t object to them having more things to protect themselves with.


    He was glad that Shen Yijia was a strong warrior, and not the Miss Shen from the rumors.


    However, on second thought, if it was that person from the rumors, she would probably have left with the letter of divorce when he left the capital.


    ¡°Shenzhi! Shenzhi¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s voice pulled Song Jingchen back to reality.


    ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°I said, why don¡¯t I teach you how to make these devices! That way, you won¡¯t be bored alone at home.¡± She had relied on this to pass the time back in her previous life.


    Song Jingchen fell silent. Did she really not know how precious the thing in his hand was? She was going to give away her trade secrets so easily.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like doing this?¡± Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer, Shen Yijia thought that he wasn¡¯t willing to learn.


    It was just like how she didn¡¯t like to write, but Song Jingchen still made her write 200 words a day.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°No, but are you sure you can teach me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my husband. Of course I believe you.¡± This sounded a little childish. She had just come to this world and was unfamiliar with the place. She only knew that she had him as her husband. Furthermore, he was so good-looking.


    Shen Yijia naturally treated Song Jingchen as the person closest to her in this world.


    This was also the reason why she used the spiritual liquid to save him in the beginning.

 Chapter 60 - An Xiuers Visit

    Song Jingchen should have expected this. What else would this girl be thinking? She had always been simple and direct.


    He took a handkerchief and dried himself.


    Shen Yijia poured more water into the tub.


    ¡°Rest early. You have to get up tomorrow morning to practice your calligraphy.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She was so frustrated.


    Seeing her angry expression, Song Jingchen added, ¡°You¡¯ve improved recently. The words you wrote are quite pleasing to the eye.¡±


    This was actually a little exaggerated, but it was true that she had improved. He used to be unable to tell what she was trying to write, but now he could recognize her words with some guesswork.


    He really did not want to disappoint her. Brother Hao and Sister Huan were also learning from him, but Shen Yijia¡¯s handwriting was the ugliest among the three of them.


    1


    ¡°Really?¡± Although she asked this, Shen Yijia¡¯s lips were already curled up into a smile.


    Song Jingchen nodded helplessly.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll start teaching you how to make simple machines tomorrow. You can¡¯t stay idle while I practice writing. I¡¯ll leave Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡¯s sleeve crossbows to you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was now in a good mood, and she rolled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    She slept like this every day. Shen Yijia was already used to it.


    She found a comfortable spot and closed her eyes.


    Seeing that she had fallen asleep without warning, Song Jingchen reached out and gently brushed Shen Yijia¡¯s curled eyelashes, pulling her into his arms.


    When Shen Yijia woke up, Song Jingchen was already gone.


    In the past, she would always see Song Jingchen reading when she opened her eyes.


    This was the first time this had happened.


    Shen Yijia panicked and ran out without thinking.


    The first thing she saw was Song Jingchen sitting in the courtyard, fiddling with her pile of wood.


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. How could she have forgotten about the wheelchair she had just made?


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you put on some proper clothes before coming out?¡± Shen Yijia was about to quietly retreat when Song Jingchen¡¯s voice came from behind.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and said as if nothing had happened, ¡°I forgot about it. I¡¯ll go back and wear it now.¡±


    After breakfast, Shen Yijia prepared to teach Song Jingchen some basics about machinery. However, she realized that Song Jingchen had already completed most of the components of the sleeve crossbow.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She wasn¡¯t angry. Her husband should be as outstanding as she was, but why did she not feel a sense of accomplishment?


    Shen Yijia had no choice but to take a brush, ink, paper, and inkstone, draw a few sheets of blueprints, and give it to Song Jingchen for reference. She went back to writing.


    In the afternoon, Shen Yijia was about to go up the mountain when An Xiu¡¯er arrived.


    It turned out that Madam Li had bought the embroidered thread pouches and other things that she needed for embroidery.


    Shen Yijia invited her into the courtyard.


    Song Jingchen seemed to be extremely interested in the simple machinery. He spent the entire day playing with those things.


    He glanced at the guest for a moment and went back to work.


    Seeing that there was a man in the courtyard, An Xiu¡¯er was originally a little nervous, but when she saw Song Jingchen¡¯s face, her face instantly turned red.


    2


    Because of her good looks, many people in the village had designs on her. In the past few years, she rarely went out. Naturally, there were very few opportunities for her to see other men¡­


    ¡°My mother brought Brother Hao and the others up the mountain to dig for wild vegetables. I don¡¯t know when they¡¯ll be back. Why don¡¯t you go in and sit down?¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t notice An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s strange expression.


    ¡°Ah¡­ Alright. Thank you, Sister Shen.¡± An Xiu¡¯er came back to her senses and lowered her head, not daring to look again.


    ¡°By the way, it¡¯s all thanks to you saving my brother that day. Otherwise, my parents would have been so sad,¡± An Xiu¡¯er suddenly added.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head guiltily.


    This issue was being brought up again. She got the chicks for free because of her actions, but her motive that day was not to save someone¡­


    She suddenly felt a little guilty about being called a savior.


    However, An Dong escaped any injuries because of her. ¡°Well, I did save his life.¡± Shen Yijia thought, and quickly convinced herself.

 Chapter 61 - Rumors

    Shen Yijia chatted with An Xiu¡¯er until Madam Li returned.


    She returned earlier than Shen Yijia had expected.


    Seeing that Madam Li¡¯s basket was empty, Shen Yijia was quite curious. Because the vegetables at home had just been planted, Madam Li would bring Brother Hao and Sister Huan up the mountain every day to dig up some wild vegetables for some variety in their meals. This was the first time she had returned empty-handed.


    ¡°Xiu¡¯er is here?¡± Seeing that there were guests at home, Madam Li paused.


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that Brother Hao and Sister Huan were both angry.


    ¡°My mother asked me to send over the embroidery thread that Madam Li wanted.¡± Perhaps realizing that the atmosphere was off, An Xiu¡¯er didn¡¯t stay any longer. After explaining the embroidery patterns to Madam Li, she bade farewell and left.


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡± As soon as An Xiu¡¯er left, Sister Huan threw herself into Shen Yijia¡¯s arms and sobbed pitifully.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± She¡¯d been fine when she left the house.


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. She¡¯s just throwing a tantrum like a child.¡± Madam Li put away the embroidery thread and said listlessly.


    Shen Yijia did not believe her and looked at Brother Hao.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, Brother Hao clenched his fists and said angrily, ¡°It¡¯s all because of those people. They said that Sister-in-law is indecent. They said you were flirting with other men so that you could get meat to feed us. They said that we were basically eating the meat that you sold your body for.¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t quite understand what he was saying, Brother Hao still repeated what he had heard. Afraid that Shen Yijia would be unhappy, he continued, ¡°Sister-in-law isn¡¯t that kind of person. You¡¯re the best sister-in-law!¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°Who was I fooling around with? What¡¯s this nonsense about selling my body, were they talking about me?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Sister Jia, don¡¯t worry about what the others say. Our family will live our own lives behind closed doors.¡± Madam Li also comforted her.


    Although she said that, Madam Li was still worried. She was not worried about anything else, but she was afraid that Shen Yijia would feel awful. She knew very well how important a woman¡¯s reputation was.


    Many women in wealthy families had unhappy endings because of their bad reputation.


    Not to mention that no one was stepped up to quell the rumors in this rural area. The rumors became more and more ridiculous.


    ¡°Mother, are they talking about me and An Dong?¡± Shen Yijia finally understood what was going on. She had been here for so long, but she had only seen An Dong a few times and barely spoke to him. The only other man she¡¯d spoken to was the village chief.


    Thinking of the village chief¡¯s wrinkled face, Shen Yijia shivered and quickly shook her head to chase away this terrifying thought.


    Without waiting for Madam Li to answer, Shen Yijia said in disbelief, ¡°How blind do they think I am? He¡¯s not as good-looking as my husband. Why would I leave the delicacies at home and eat the lackluster side dishes outside? Besides, if my family wants to eat meat, I can hunt it myself.¡±


    As soon as Shen Yijia finished speaking, there was a dry cough at the door. The few of them looked out of the house.


    An Dong and Song Jingchen were both at the doorway.


    It turned out that An Dong had also heard the rumors when he came down from the mountain today. Afraid that the Song family would misunderstand Shen Yijia, he specially came to explain.


    Unfortunately, he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words.


    Even though An Dong had stopped thinking about Shen Yijia, he was still a little hurt when he heard this. He glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s face and felt doubly hurt.


    Shen Yijia had always been magnanimous towards people. Moreover, she felt that she didn¡¯t say anything wrong, so she didn¡¯t feel awkward.


    As soon as she saw An Dong, she remembered what Brother Hao had said. ¡°Why are you here?¡± she blurted out.


    Song Jingchen hid the smile on his face and said indifferently, ¡°He¡¯s here to borrow a book.¡±


    As long as you aren¡¯t embarrassed, only the other party would feel embarrassed.


    An Dong felt so embarrassed that he wished he had never been here. It seemed that he didn¡¯t need to explain anything. He could only take the book that Song Jingchen handed him and say with a flushed face, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here to borrow a book.¡±


    The An family had a good life before Father An¡¯s accident. He did go to school for a few years, so the idea of him borrowing a book was quite believable, although it had been a while since he touched a book.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know if it was her imagination, but she realized that Song Jingchen¡¯s was suddenly in a good mood.


    1


    Even when she said she didn¡¯t want to practice writing, he gave her a day off, even though he doubled the amount of words she needed to write the next day.


    ¡°I guess I was mistaken,¡± she grumbled to herself when she got her assignment the next day.

 Chapter 62 - Free Ride

    The rumors outside were nothing to Shen Yijia, so she naturally ignored them.


    She continued going up the mountain to hunt.


    Although she didn¡¯t encounter any more wild boars, she still managed to hunt other animals.


    When the villagers saw Shen Yijia walking in and out of the mountain with prey in her hands, they realized that Shen Yijia was skilled, so they stopped gossiping. The people in the old residence were so angry that they did not sleep well for a few days.


    Early this morning, Shen Yijia carried the prey she had accumulated over the past few days into the carriage and prepared to sell them in town.


    Madam Li had to marinate those that were accidentally killed and keep them at home to eat. The rest of her prey were all injured but alive.


    Winter was coming, so everyone in the family had to prepare their cotton clothes and blankets in advance. They also had to stock up on food.


    Madam Li¡¯s embroidery work was also done, and she planned to go with Shen Yijia.


    Before setting off, Shen Yijia specially went to the An family to ask about the restaurant that collected prey. Auntie Tian also wanted to sell embroidery, so she joined them in the carriage.


    The carriage drove all the way to the village entrance, where an ox cart was parked. It was already full.


    There were a few women standing beside the ox cart. It seemed like there wasn¡¯t enough space.


    There were only a few ox carts in the village. After all, not everyone went to town every day. Not everyone was willing to pay two copper coins for a cart.


    Usually, everyone would discuss when they would go into town, then arrange for an ox cart to bring them to town at the same time. Today¡¯s ox cart happened to belong to the old residence, and the driver was Song Erlin.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and was about to go over when a woman stopped her.


    ¡°Hey, big sister, are you heading towards the town too? I¡¯m going the same way, may I hitch a ride?¡±


    Once she opened her mouth, and the other women who did not manage to get a seat in the ox cart were also tempted.


    The people who had gossiped about Shen Yijia were too ashamed to speak up, but they didn¡¯t leave either. They all thought that if Shen Yijia promised to bring someone else, they would be able to hitch a ride too.


    The thick-skinned villagers opened their mouths. ¡°That¡¯s right. We¡¯re all from the same village. You¡¯re going anyway, and the carriage is empty anyway. Why don¡¯t you bring us along? We¡¯ll remember your kindness.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at those people and stopped the carriage.


    The women looked delighted. They did not expect to save money on the ox cart and get a free ride on the carriage.


    They all fought to get into the carriage.


    Shen Yijia reached out and stopped the woman in front. She asked in confusion, ¡°Why do I need you to remember my kindness? Would you send me food or clothes in return?¡±


    After saying that, she rolled her eyes and pointed at one of the women. ¡°You were the one who said that you wanted to chase us out of the village the other day. Now you want to take my carriage? Aren¡¯t you afraid of being implicated by our family?¡±


    ¡°And you, you and you.¡± She pointed out a few more. ¡°Yesterday, I heard the two of you gossiping about me together. Have you forgotten?¡±


    She remembered very clearly. Although she didn¡¯t care about the rumors, she wasn¡¯t a fool. She wasn¡¯t about to help someone who wanted to trample on her reputation.


    She had ignored them previously because she was not good at arguing with others. She did not think it was necessary to fight them yet.


    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t go easy on them if they went overboard.


    With that, Shen Yijia ignored the women and raised her whip. The carriage started moving again and quickly disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight.


    The women were left stunned and ashamed. Why did she stop the carriage if she wasn¡¯t going to agree to their request?


    ¡°I just wanted to remind all of you to stop being so shameless.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    ¡°Pfft, what¡¯s so great about having a carriage? They¡¯re still forced to settle down in this poor village.¡± A woman cursed angrily.


    Regaining her dignity, the woman called out to the others indignantly, ¡°Let¡¯s go. We have legs. It¡¯s not like we can¡¯t reach the town on foot.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s indeed great. We have two carriages, not just one. It¡¯s just that Uncle Yang is using the other one right now.¡± Shen Yijia thought.

 Chapter 63 - Selling Prey

    When they arrived in town, Madam Li and Auntie Tian went to the embroidery shop to sell their works. Shen Yijia drove the carriage to the restaurant that An Dong had mentioned.


    As soon as the carriage stopped, a waiter greeted them warmly. Those who could afford a carriage could afford to eat, even if they weren¡¯t nobility.


    ¡°Sir, leave this carriage to me. Please come in.¡±


    Shen Yijia avoided the waiter¡¯s hand that was about to take the reins and went straight to the point. ¡°I¡¯m here to sell prey. Do you accept it?¡±


    ¡°I guess even those who can afford a carriage might not necessarily be here to eat.¡± the waiter thought to himself.


    However, the waiter did not change his expression because of this. He scratched his head awkwardly. ¡°We accept prey here. Please wait a moment. I¡¯ll call our shopkeeper over.¡±


    Soon, the waiter came out with a middle-aged man with a big belly.


    ¡°Young lady, do you have prey to sell?¡± The shopkeeper did not expect it to be a delicate and pretty girl. Surprise flashed across his eyes.


    Shen Yijia nodded and lifted the curtain for him to see. She said expressionlessly, ¡°Five rabbits, three pheasants, and a mule. Do you want them all?¡±


    1


    She had always remembered what Da Hua had said. When negotiating, you have to put on a serious front, lest others think that you¡¯re easy to manipulate.


    To Shen Yijia, being serious was equivalent to not smiling, just like Song Jingchen.


    The shopkeeper was indeed intimidated by Shen Yijia. He put away his contempt and looked at the things in the carriage. He was delighted and hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ll take them. If you have more, you can send them all over.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely. This restaurant was not big. Would they be able to use so much meat?


    Having been a shopkeeper for many years, how could he not have good judgment? The fat shopkeeper laughed and said, ¡°To be honest, it¡¯s Old Master Liu¡¯s 50th birthday in our town in half a month. He¡¯s booked our Full Fortune Restaurant to prepare a banquet. That Old Master Liu likes the taste of wild meat. A few days ago, Young Master Liu came to visit and asked us to prepare more wild meat for cooking.¡±


    The fat shopkeeper entered the carriage and was even more satisfied when he saw that these prey were only injured and that it would not be a problem for them to stay alive for a few more days.


    He couldn¡¯t help but ask curiously, ¡°Who hunted these prey? The wounds don¡¯t look like they were caused by a trap.¡±


    ¡°I hit them with a rock. Is there a problem?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She didn¡¯t know how to set traps either. ¡°Why would you care about this when you¡¯re just collecting prey? Just take the prey and give me the money.¡± she thought.


    ¡°No, there¡¯s no problem,¡± the fat shopkeeper said, shaking his head. He did a double take and said in surprise, ¡°You¡­ you hit these animals with a rock?¡±


    He could not help but size up Shen Yijia again. He could not tell what she was capable of.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°How about this? If you can still guarantee that they¡¯ll be sent over in this condition, I¡¯ll add three copper coins to the market price for each type of prey. How about that?¡± The fat shopkeeper¡¯s principle in doing business was to befriend as many capable people as possible. Even if he couldn¡¯t befriend them, he would avoid becoming enemies with them. Moreover, he needed a lot of meat. Ordinary hunters really couldn¡¯t provide them in this condition.


    ¡°Sure, that¡¯s all for today. I¡¯ll send you more tomorrow.¡± Not only did he not scam her, but he also gave her more money. Shen Yijia¡¯s impression of this fat shopkeeper instantly improved.


    The rabbit meat was originally fifteen copper coins a catty. For each catty, it was seventeen copper coins for the pheasant, and twenty copper coins for the deer. The fat shopkeeper added three copper coins to each catty.


    After weighing it, the fat shopkeeper took out two pieces of silver with a smile. ¡°A total of 1.35 taels of silver for the meat, I¡¯ll make it 1.4 taels to round it up. Including these furs, I¡¯ll give you a total of two taels. Count them.¡±


    Shen Yijia took the money. Although it was only two taels of silver, she was already very satisfied. After all, it was impossible to have the luck to encounter wild boars every time.

 Chapter 64 - Local Gangsters

    However, this also made Shen Yijia realize that hunting for money was not a long-term solution. It wasn¡¯t about the danger, she was confident in herself. Anyway, if she couldn¡¯t beat him, she could run.


    However, animals were also intelligent. If she hunted them too often, they would definitely run deep into the mountains. Also, if it snowed in winter, it would be difficult to hunt in the mountains.


    She couldn¡¯t just sit back and do nothing when the time came. She still wanted to knock down the house and rebuild it before winter. Otherwise, winter would be too cold for the family.


    It seemed like she had to think of another way to make a living.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had thought so hard about a problem. She couldn¡¯t think of a good solution even after thinking for a long time.


    She walked to the entrance of Full Fortune Restaurant and was about to get into the carriage when she saw a bookstore from the corner of her eye.


    Thinking about how Song Jingchen had already flipped through the books at home several times, she decided to go in and buy a few books for him.


    When she walked in and saw the neatly arranged books on the shelves, Shen Yijia felt dizzy. She didn¡¯t know what kind of books Song Jingchen liked to read.


    She had no choice but to call the shopkeeper over. ¡°Which are the bestsellers recently? Tell me which books are popular and help me get three of them.¡±


    It wouldn¡¯t be wrong to buy something that everyone liked.


    The shopkeeper glanced at Shen Yijia strangely and did not say anything else.


    While waiting, Shen Yijia looked around and was inexplicably attracted by an old book in the corner that was covered in a thick layer of dust.


    For some reason, Shen Yijia picked up the book instinctively.


    ¡°No one can understand that. If you want it, I¡¯ll give it to you at a discount when you buy these three books.¡± The shopkeeper wrapped up the books and handed them to Shen Yijia. ¡°A total of two taels of silver.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She suspected that the shopkeeper knew how much money she had earned today, but she had no proof.


    Feeling the pinch, she handed the money to the shopkeeper. Shen Yijia looked at the old book in her hand and felt better.


    Her desire to earn money grew stronger.


    Seeing that it was getting late and there were still many things to buy, Shen Yijia did not stay any longer and drove the carriage to the rice and flour shop.


    She spent a tael of silver to buy some rice and noodles. There were also cheap coarse grains. Not to mention the others in the family, she was also not used to them. Thus, Shen Yijia decided to buy the grains which had better quality.


    She did not want to make herself suffer in this aspect. In her previous life, she had heard that money was earned, not saved. Shen Yijia felt that it made sense.


    After coming out of the shop, Shen Yijia was about to get into the carriage when a few ruffians surrounded her.


    ¡°Yo, when did such a hot girl come to our town?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. This is the first time I¡¯ve seen such a hot young lady. Do you want to play with us?¡±


    The two people at the front, one tall and one short, reached out their groping hands to Shen Yijia as they spoke. The people behind them also laughed.


    When the surrounding pedestrians saw this situation, they avoided her. They looked at Shen Yijia with sympathy. Clearly, this was not the first time this had happened.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Just as the two hands were about to touch the corner of her clothes, she took a step back, reached out, and shouted, ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    They both paused and were about to get mad.


    Shen Yijia continued, ¡°There are too many people here. Let¡¯s find a less crowded place.¡±


    ¡°Haha, did I hear wrongly? This young lady wants to find a quiet place to play with us.¡± The tall man even dug his ears.


    ¡°Big Brother, I heard it too.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know she knew how to play.¡± The tall man¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Sure. Come with me. We promise to satisfy you.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded seriously. She did not forget to ask the waiter to help look after the carriage.


    She followed the group without looking back.


    They watched as the little girl followed the group of hooligans into an alley and disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight.


    Many people shook their heads and sighed.


    ¡°Unfortunately, this girl won¡¯t be coming back¡­¡±

 Chapter 65 - Venting

    ¡°Young lady, are you satisfied with this place?¡± The tall man stopped and looked back at Shen Yijia lecherously. He even rubbed his hands together.


    Shen Yijia looked around. It was an alley that could only accommodate three people. There were no outsiders here. Strictly speaking, it was not spacious enough, but it would be a waste of time to change places. It was fine.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia nodded obediently.


    The ruffians laughed again, and tacitly let the tall man go first.


    The tall man reached out to Shen Yijia again.


    There was a click.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡±


    Immediately after, a scream sounded. Everyone was shocked.


    Shen Yijia did not give anyone a chance to react. She grabbed the tall man¡¯s collar and threw him over her shoulder, throwing him against the wall and knocking him unconscious.


    The others reacted and pounced on her. Shen Yijia dodged one of them and swept her foot downwards. The man fell flat on his face.


    Then, she grabbed one of them by the collar and threw him at the other gangsters.


    The three of them were neatly stacked like a small mountain. Shen Yijia placed her hands on her hips and stepped on them, preventing them from moving.


    However, at this moment, the person suddenly picked up a brick from the ground and swung it at the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s head¡­


    However, Shen Yijia seemed to have eyes behind her back. She spun around and kicked the person away.


    Of the five people, two had fainted. The other three were unable to move under her feet. Satisfied, Shen Yijia retracted her feet and squatted down in front of the wailing three people.


    She smiled at them and raised her hand to punch them.


    She clapped her hands and was about to leave when she thought of something. She squatted down and groped around again.


    ¡°Tsk, there¡¯s less than two taels of silver. They¡¯re so poor.¡±


    She left, satisfied. She had finally vented the anger which had built up because of the villagers in Xiagou Village.


    When she returned to the rice shop, there were still many people waiting to see the results. When they saw Shen Yijia return unscathed, they were all puzzled.


    Shen Yijia did not intend to explain. She thanked the waiter and drove the carriage away.


    After she left, the townspeople glanced at each other.


    Someone headed towards the alley out of curiosity and was shocked to see what was in the alley.


    This, this was¡­


    Shen Yijia drove the carriage to the embroidery workshop to pick up Madam Li and Auntie Tian. Seeing that Shen Yijia had come so late, Madam Li did not ask further although she was curious.


    At the embroidery shop, they bought enough wool and cotton for the family to make two sets of winter clothes each. It cost nearly five taels of silver.


    They stuffed the goods into the carriage before returning to the village.


    Auntie Tian looked at the things in the carriage and was secretly speechless. This thin cotton cost 30 copper coins per foot. She felt that it was better to buy coarse cloth.


    When they returned to the village, it was already past lunchtime. They did not expect it to take so long, so Madam Li did not prepare any food in advance.


    She thought that Song Jingchen and the others were going to starve¡­


    However, as soon as she entered the courtyard, she saw Song Jingchen and the twins eating in the central room.


    Shen Yijia was quite curious.


    ¡°Mother, Sister-in-law, you¡¯re back.¡± Brother Hao sat facing the door and saw them immediately.


    Only then did Song Jingchen turn around.


    Shen Yijia was also extremely hungry. She asked curiously, ¡°Who cooked this? It looks quite delicious.¡±


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth and was about to answer when footsteps came from the kitchen. An Xiu¡¯er walked in with a bowl of soup.


    Seeing the situation in the central room, An Xiu¡¯er paused and greeted them with a red face. ¡°Madam Li, Sister Shen, you¡¯re back. You haven¡¯t eaten yet, right? I just finished cooking. Sit down and eat.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and watched as An Xiu¡¯er placed the soup on the table and naturally filled a bowl for each of the three of them. An Xiu¡¯er then turned around and went to the kitchen to get two sets of cutlery.

 Chapter 66 - Took in a Little Brother

    Even after dinner, Shen Yijia still could not react.


    Why would An Xiu¡¯er come to the house to cook and even serve Song Jingchen soup and rice?


    Furthermore¡­ Why did she feel so uncomfortable? She clearly didn¡¯t sense any malice from An Xiu¡¯er. Everything was normal.


    She originally wanted to tell Song Jingchen about what had happened in town and the prey that Full Fortune Restaurant wanted, and also ask him if he had any good ways to earn money.


    Now, Shen Yijia was in no mood to do so. However, she could not figure out why. She put away the things in the carriage and picked up a basket. She said, ¡°I¡¯m going to take a look around the mountain.¡± Then she left.


    Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s back, Song Jingchen frowned and paused.


    In the past, Shen Yijia did not go deep into the mountains. He figured that she wanted to hunt for more things, so he didn¡¯t worry too much.


    After walking for fifteen minutes, Shen Yijia stopped. ¡°Come out, or I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    It was unknown how long she had been followed. It was her fault for being distracted.


    ¡°Don¡¯t¡­ I¡¯m coming out.¡± A dirty young man walked out from behind a tree.


    Shen Yijia looked carefully at the young man and confirmed that she did not know him. She said angrily, ¡°Who are you? Why are you following me?¡±


    ¡°You¡­ you don¡¯t remember me? We¡¯ve met a few times. I was standing at the back of the crowd the day you moved into the village. Then when you dragged the prey down the mountain¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop!¡± Shen Yijia hurriedly interrupted the person¡¯s stammering. She was really not in the mood to listen to anyone¡¯s nonsense today. She could easily lose control of her fists. ¡°Get to the point.¡±


    ¡°Oh, my name is Li Shen. Everyone calls me Bruiser. I¡¯m the son of Widow Wang in the village. I happened to see you when you were fighting those hooligans in town today. I want to acknowledge you as my master and learn martial arts from you.¡± Bruiser immediately stood straight and quickly introduced himself.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know martial arts, so I won¡¯t take in disciples.¡± Shen Yijia refused coldly. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to follow me anymore, or I¡¯ll beat you up!¡±


    With that, she ignored him and continued deeper into the mountains.


    Bruiser was about to follow when Shen Yijia stopped. Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to disappear, he hurriedly shouted, ¡°I know where to make money quickly.¡±


    These words pierced Shen Yijia¡¯s heart. She wanted to ignore him, but the prospect of money did not allow her to.


    Shen Yijia did not turn around, but she did not continue walking.


    Seeing that there was a chance, Bruiser quickly ran over. ¡°I know you want to make money. I can take you there.¡±


    ¡°Continue.¡± Shen Yijia said coldly.


    ¡°There¡¯s an underground arena in the town. As long as you participate in the competition there, you¡¯ll get ten taels of silver if you win a match. After winning twenty matches in a row, the amount of silver will be doubled. If you can become the lord of the arena, you¡¯ll be directly rewarded with a hundred taels of silver. If anyone challenges you, you¡¯ll get fifty taels of silver if you win a match.¡±


    Shen Yijia was delighted. Wasn¡¯t this tailor-made for her? However, she frowned. ¡°Anyone can participate?¡±


    Bruiser quickly nodded. ¡°You have to pay five taels of silver to enter for the first time. You can even place a bet inside. If the person you bet on wins, you can earn money.¡±


    ¡°Sure, but I really don¡¯t know how to teach.¡± Shen Yijia had already decided to take a look at the arena, but she couldn¡¯t leave him hanging.


    Bruiser shrugged, thinking that Shen Yijia looked down on him.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and said, ¡°I can take you in as my underling. If anyone bullies you in the future, come find me. I¡¯ll help you teach them a lesson.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Bruiser¡¯s eyes lit up, and he smiled widely.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her forehead. His expression changed so quickly. She waved her hand and chased him away. ¡°Yes, yes. I still have to hunt some prey. You can go back now.¡±


    ¡°Boss, let me go with you. I can help you carry the prey.¡± He had just been accepted, so he had to be proactive.

 Chapter 67 - Returning Late

    As Shen Yijia walked, she went after any prey that she saw. In the past, she could do whatever she wanted with them. This time, she controlled her strength so that the prey would be captured alive.


    The first few times, she accidentally killed two pheasants. After that, they never appeared again.


    However, they were all pheasants and rabbits, there wasn¡¯t a single big animal. It was unknown if they were deliberately avoiding her.


    For a moment, she was immersed in the joy of the harvest, until she heard a panting voice behind him. ¡°Boss, that¡¯s enough for today. We can barely carry these.¡±


    At first, Bruiser was shocked by Shen Yijia¡¯s rock-throwing. Later on, he became used to it.


    It was so tiring.


    Shen Yijia turned around unhappily. She saw that there was a belt of prey tied to Bruiser¡¯s waist. There wasn¡¯t space for any more. There was also a string of prey tied around his chest.


    There was so much prey hanging on him that she could no longer see his dirty clothes.


    She rubbed her nose in embarrassment and looked at the sky. If they didn¡¯t go back now, they would have to feel their way through the mountains in the dark. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go back.¡±


    Bruiser heaved a sigh of relief. As expected of an underling.


    If Shen Yijia was alone, she would definitely be able to reach home before dark. However, she had a burden following her. His speed was not much faster than a turtle.


    Unable to stand it anymore, Shen Yijia stopped and looked at Bruiser, who was panting heavily. ¡°Give me some. I¡¯ll take them.¡±


    ¡°No, no. I can do it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. It seemed like he was going to collapse. She picked up the string of prey on his chest and left.


    Even though their pace was much faster afterwards, it was already dark when they arrived home.


    From afar, they saw a faint light at the door of the house.


    Shen Yijia paused before walking over. She saw Song Jingchen sitting at the door with an oil lamp in his hand.


    His expression did not change after seeing her. He glanced at Bruiser, who was behind Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia felt inexplicably guilty and rubbed her nose. ¡°Why are you sitting here? Aren¡¯t you cold?¡±


    ¡°I was waiting for you.¡± Song Jingchen retracted his gaze and turned his wheelchair into the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat and she quickly followed him in.


    Bruiser wiped his sweat. That look from Song Jingchen was too terrifying.


    He wanted to leave immediately, but he still had a lot of prey tied to him, so he could only brace himself and follow.


    ¡°Sister Jia, why are you back so late? We were worried about you.¡± Madam Li came out to welcome her.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I forgot the time and came back late.¡± It felt good to be cared for. Shen Yijia obediently admitted her mistake.


    ¡°This child. It¡¯s good that you¡¯re back. You can¡¯t do this again. Brother Chen insisted on waiting for you at the door and refused to come in. He¡¯s not in good health to begin with.¡±


    Why was he waiting for her? Shen Yijia stole a glance at Song Jingchen, who simply turned his head away.


    ¡°Mother, I won¡¯t do it again.¡± Shen Yijia wanted to hold Madam Li¡¯s arm, she remembered how dirty she was, so she stopped herself.


    Bruiser was dumbfounded. He suspected that this obedient and cute person in front of him was a fake.


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡± Madam Li asked Bruiser.


    ¡°Ah, him. Bruiser, the son of Widow Wang in the village. He got lost in the mountains and I brought him back. I asked him to help me carry some prey.¡± As she spoke, Shen Yijia gave Bruiser a look.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s all thanks to Miss Shen. I¡¯ve delivered these, so I¡¯ll get going first.¡± He put down the animals and was about to leave.


    ¡°Hey, wait.¡± Shen Yijia stopped Bruiser and took out the two dead pheasants from her basket. She handed one to him. ¡°Take it home and eat it.¡±


    ¡°No, no need¡­¡± Bruiser waved his hand in refusal.


    Shen Yijia glared at him, and Bruiser immediately cowered. He took it obediently. ¡°Then, thank you, Sister. Auntie, Brother Song, I¡¯ll go home first.¡±


    Song Jingchen saw the interaction between the two of them and lowered his eyes without saying a word.

 Chapter 68 - Underground Battle Arena

    After a fight in the morning, Shen Yijia went into the mountains in the afternoon. Shen Yijia was exhausted and had long forgotten about the unhappiness brought about by An Xiu¡¯er. As soon as she got into bed, she started to fall asleep.


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia for a long time, waiting for her to fall asleep. She started to snore, but she didn¡¯t roll into his arms.


    He ignored the strange feeling in his heart and turned away from Shen Yijia.


    He glanced at Shen Yijia and turned his back to her again. In the end, Song Jingchen resigned himself to fate and pulled Shen Yijia into his arms.


    Now he felt at ease.


    Shen Yijia vaguely seemed to hear Song Jingchen say something in her ear, but she fell asleep before she could hear what he was saying.


    Since she went to bed early, Shen Yijia woke up exceptionally early the next day, even earlier than Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia quietly left Song Jingchen¡¯s arms, got out of bed, and changed her clothes.


    She turned around and heaved a sigh of relief when she saw that she didn¡¯t wake Song Jingchen up.


    Madam Li was already preparing breakfast in the kitchen. In the beginning, Shen Yijia used to help out with the meals.


    However, for some reason, even though they were doing the same thing, and Madam Li was guiding her from the side, the food would still taste especially bad in Shen Yijia¡¯s hands.


    1


    After wasting food a few times, Madam Li stopped Shen Yijia from touching the food in the kitchen.


    Some people were born to be good at something. Shen Yijia felt that she was born to be good at cooking questionable cuisines.


    1


    Madam Li was making steamed buns. Shen Yijia informed Madam Li that she was going to town to deliver the prey. She took a piece of cloth, wrapped three of the steamed buns in it, and left with the carriage.


    When they arrived at the village entrance, Bruiser was already waiting there. He looked clean today, and his true appearance was revealed. He had seemingly changed from a sloppy beggar to a delicate young man. He looked to be about thirteen or fourteen years old, and had obviously been cleaned up.


    However, his clothes were still old and obviously patched up. Shen Yijia felt a headache coming on when she saw him.


    As soon as the carriage stopped, without Shen Yijia¡¯s reminder, Bruiser jumped into the carriage and took over the driving. He said obsequiously, ¡°I know how to do this. I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him suspiciously but she did not refuse. She opened her cloth bag and threw a white steamed bun at him. ¡°Eat,¡± she said.


    With that, she started eating a steamed bun too.


    Bruiser was stunned. His eyes turned red as he looked at the steamed bun.


    As was mentioned earlier, Xiagou Village was prone to excluding to outsiders, let alone a widow with a son.


    Their family didn¡¯t have any fields, so Widow Wang relied on sewing and mending to earn some money. She didn¡¯t have time to take care of the children. Bruiser had been wandering in every corner of the town since he was young. He had basically grown up fighting.


    When they arrived in town, they first sent the prey to Full Fortune Restaurant. This time, there was more prey than last time, and they sold their catch for five taels of silver.


    After leaving the carriage at Full Fortune Restaurant, Shen Yijia and Bruiser entered a ready-to-wear shop. When they came out again, they were disguised as two young men. Bruiser had been in town for a long time and was afraid of being recognized, so he specially painted his face with a tan.


    Shen Yijia also forced him to change out of his old clothes.


    The two of them were both dressed in rough clothes. This was because Bruiser had said that it was best to keep a low profile when going to such a place.


    Shen Yijia had no objections.


    After turning left and right, they finally found the so-called underground arena. It looked exactly like what you¡¯d expect an underground arena to look like.


    Inside was a small residence with a secret passage leading underground. Oil lamps were placed all around, so it wasn¡¯t dark.


    One had to register before entering the arena. Those who came for the first time had to pay five taels of silver first.


    Shen Yijia took out ten taels. The doorman pressed a button after they registered. A stone door slowly opened, and instantly, a commotion could be heard from inside.


    There were roars and cheers. Shen Yijia was shocked by the scene before her.


    From afar, she could see three tall platforms surrounded by iron railings. Two of them had people fighting on them, and many people were watching from below the platforms.

 Chapter 69 - The Battle

    It had been a while since Song Jingchen stayed in his room without roaming around on his wheelchair.


    He couldn¡¯t seem to focus on the book in his hand.


    He noticed a blue cloth package on top of a box in the corner.


    Song Jingchen took it out.


    ¡°Big Brother, what¡¯s this? You¡¯ve been looking at it for a long time.¡± Brother Hao suddenly stuck his head out from behind Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen, who was still struggling to open it, came back to his senses.


    ¡°Have you finished writing?¡± Song Jingchen asked indifferently.


    Brother Hao cringed. ¡°I just came out for a break. I¡¯ll continue writing right away.¡±


    Brother Hao ran out quickly, cursing in his heart. He didn¡¯t know what was wrong with his big brother today.


    He actually wanted him and Sister Huan to write 500 words. Usually, the two of them only needed to write 100 words.


    He suddenly missed studying with her sister-in-law.


    At this moment, Shen Yijia had already gotten a queue number. Because it was still early, not many people went on stage. Soon, it was her turn.


    Bruiser had known this place for a long time, but this was the first time he had really come here. Seeing that the people fighting on the stage were all stronger than bulls, he was nervous and regretted bringing Shen Yijia along.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to go up, Bruiser couldn¡¯t help but grab her sleeve. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, he gulped and said, ¡°Boss, why don¡¯t we go back?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him as if he was an idiot and reminded him, ¡°Remember to bet on my victory.¡± With that, she walked onto the stage without looking back.


    As soon as Shen Yijia got on the stage, the noisy crowd instantly fell silent.


    Shen Yijia was simply too petite. Compared to the burly man opposite her, he looked like a child who had yet to grow up. Her arms and legs were so thin that the audience wondered if Shen Yijia could withstand a single move from him.


    These people were here to watch the excitement. They had never been interested in such a straightforward competition.


    After a moment of silence, they started chatting again. ¡°Who is this? He dares to fight in that state? He must be tired of living.¡±


    ¡°Haha, that¡¯s right. Isn¡¯t his opponent the second kid from the Lin family?¡±


    ¡°No, that¡¯s someone different. That kid is just here to warm up and have fun.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I saw him come by today.¡±


    ¡°After being beaten up like that yesterday, he¡¯d have to crawl in here on all fours.¡±


    ¡°Haha¡­¡±


    The people below were busy gossiping, but Shen Yijia acted as if she did not hear them. She looked at the burly man opposite her expressionlessly.


    The burly man wanted to mock Shen Yijia when he heard the words of the people below, but at this moment, he turned numb from Shen Yijia¡¯s stare.


    The betting process resumed. Almost everyone was betting that the burly man would win. Bruiser¡¯s forehead was covered in cold sweat. He found Shen Yijia¡¯s fake name and placed a hundred taels on it.


    Once again, everyone looked at him like he was a fool. Even the banker glanced at him. Bruiser wanted to cry.


    The competition on the stage began, but the people below were not interested. They gathered in groups of two or three and chatted.


    Only Bruiser was extremely nervous. He stared at Shen Yijia on the stage without blinking.


    The burly man cupped his fists. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to die, admit defeat as soon as possible. I won¡¯t show mercy just because you¡¯re handsome.¡±


    With that, he rushed towards Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. She understood. There was no need to show mercy.


    Seeing that the burly man was about to reach her, Shen Yijia remained standing where she was.


    The people below the stage seemed to be able to imagine Shen Yijia¡¯s blood splattering across the stage. They didn¡¯t feel any pity for her, instead, they gloated.


    Shen Yijia, who was originally expressionless, suddenly grinned and stretched out her hand to block the burly man¡¯s punch.


    A look of surprise flashed across the burly man¡¯s face, and he suddenly felt a chill down his spine. It was too late for him to retract his fist. He could only watch as Shen Yijia tilted her body. She grabbed his wrist after blocking his punch.


    Shen Yijia moved in the blink of an eye. The burly man couldn¡¯t even see her move, and he almost forgot to cry out in pain.


    The clear sound of bones breaking could be heard. The audience was so quiet that one could hear a pin drop. They were all shocked by this change.


    The next moment, excited cheers erupted.


    The burly man came back to his senses and tried to pull his arm back. However, he realized that his opponent was unbelievably strong. He could not pull his arm away from Shen Yijia at all.


    He could only extend his other hand to grab Shen Yijia. However, Shen Yijia did not give him a chance to touch her. She pulled, causing the burly man to stagger a few steps forward. She twisted his wrist and did a flip over his head, landing behind him.


    There was another crack, and the burly man¡¯s entire arm was dislocated.


    The burly man screamed in pain.


    After yesterday¡¯s experience, Shen Yijia did not dare to go home too late.


    Bruiser, who was driving the carriage, was flushed and obviously still excited.


    Shen Yijia was also very happy. She had fought five matches today. She lent Bruiser 100 taels of silver so he could bet on her, earning a total of 600 taels.


    This was only because the odds of betting on her in the next two rounds had become extremely low. Otherwise, there would have been more.


    Initially, they had to leave the arena earlier. However, someone was tailing them, and the two of them had to make many detours to shake off the stalker.


    When they arrived at the village entrance, Shen Yijia generously gave Bruiser fifty taels before he got off the carriage, and drove the carriage home.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen was waiting at the door again.


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty. What she had done today seemed to be nothing serious.


    Fortunately, she had no intention of going to that kind of place often. She¡¯d already been followed after her first time there. She was not afraid, but she did not want to bring any danger to her family.


    More importantly, she had made enough money to last them for a while.


    When Shen Yijia told Bruiser about it, he thought it was a pity. However, Shen Yijia was not swayed.


    After tying the horse to the crooked tree, Shen Yijia jumped off the carriage and walked to Song Jingchen. She pretended to be calm and joked, ¡°Why are you waiting here again? What would you do if I didn¡¯t come back?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her fixedly, as if he wanted to see into Shen Yijia¡¯s heart. After a long time, he asked, ¡°Would you disappear?¡±


    Shen Yijia expected Song Jingchen to coldly smack the back of her head again. She scratched her head. She wasn¡¯t expecting this response.


    She walked over and pushed the wheelchair. ¡°Of course not. This is my home.¡±


    ¡°You said it yourself,¡± Song Jingchen said in a low voice.


    His voice was so soft that Shen Yijia could not hear him clearly. She asked curiously, ¡°What did you say?¡±


    Unfortunately, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t speak again.


    After dinner, the family sat around the dining table. Shen Yijia took out three banknotes and placed them on the table with a mysterious expression.


    Madam Li asked, ¡°Sister Jia, where did you get so much money from?¡±


    ¡°I saved someone on the way to town today. This was a thank you gift,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    She wanted to build a new house. She¡¯d have to reveal this money sooner or later, so she¡¯d thought of an excuse early on.


    Since she had already ¡°saved¡± An Dong and Bruiser, it wasn¡¯t unexpected for her to ¡°save¡± another person.


    As for why she didn¡¯t reveal all of the money she¡¯d earned, she was afraid that it would arouse suspicion.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia coughed uncomfortably. ¡°I think it¡¯s fine to live in this house now, but it¡¯s a little dangerous when it rains. Moreover, it¡¯s going to be winter soon, so it¡¯ll be too cold to live in. Sister Huan has grown up and needs her own room. We might as well build another house.¡±


    Madam Li looked at Song Jingchen hesitantly. Shen Yijia was the one who earned this money. How could she use her daughter-in-law¡¯s money to build a house? Wouldn¡¯t she be taking advantage of her?


    Shen Yijia also looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.

 Chapter 70 - Explanation

    Shen Yijia did not think too much about it. Seeing that no one said anything, she could only continue to explain her plans. ¡°I originally wanted to knock down and rebuild this house, but if we do that, we won¡¯t have anywhere to live while the house is being rebuilt. I want to buy the empty space around the house and the new house there. After the new house is built, we¡¯ll move in and empty out the old house to make a big courtyard.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll accompany you to buy land from the village chief tomorrow,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. Actually, she could go alone. From Song Jingchen¡¯s usual behavior, it was obvious that he didn¡¯t like to go out. Since he took the initiative to accompany her this time, she couldn¡¯t refuse even though she was curious.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen had agreed, Madam Li naturally didn¡¯t say anything else.


    There was no need to mention the two children. They could not be happier with a new house.


    Shen Yijia thought that she could let the matter of the silver taels go just like that. She just needed to buy a plot of land and build a house.


    In the end, she returned to her room and helped Song Jingchen soak his legs. However, he didn¡¯t sleep or read as usual. Instead, he stared at her.


    Shen Yijia went numb when she saw this. He finally spoke. ¡°Tell me, where did the money come from?¡±


    Shen Yijia struggled internally and laughed. ¡°I told you, I saved someone. He gave me three hundred taels directly. Perhaps he¡¯s stupid and rich.¡±


    Song Jingchen continued to stare at her. Shen Yijia admitted defeat. She lowered her head and said without much confidence, ¡°I went to the underground fighting arena to fight.¡±


    She struggled a little before adding, ¡°I didn¡¯t gamble or rob anyone.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    However, seeing her terrified expression, he sighed helplessly. ¡°Are you injured?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head vigorously. ¡°No, no. They¡¯re not my match. With one punch¡­¡±


    In a moment of complacency, Shen Yijia could not help but show off her achievements. As she spoke, she even gestured a few times.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples. He could tell that Shen Yijia loved to fight. Although he knew that Shen Yijia might not listen to him, he couldn¡¯t help but remind her, ¡°Don¡¯t go there again. The desires of others can be more complicated than you think. If anything happens, I won¡¯t be able to save you in time.¡±


    Underground fighting arenas were not uncommon in Great Xia. He had heard from people in the capital that it was mostly a place for the children of the rich and powerful to have fun.


    There were poor families who took the initiative to participate in the competition for money, but most of the fighters were slaves captured from foreign countries.


    To put it bluntly, it was a different kind of casino. Anyone who could support such a place definitely had ulterior motives. He didn¡¯t expect there to be an arena in a small place like Qingyang Town.


    It seemed that this place was even more complicated than he had imagined.


    Shen Yijia felt that all was well as long as he didn¡¯t blame her. She stopped talking and nodded obediently. ¡°I¡¯ll protect myself well.¡±


    She originally wanted to show off that she had beaten up a few hooligans, but now, Shen Yijia no longer had such thoughts. She was afraid that Song Jingchen would stop her from roaming around outside in the future.


    ¡°You earned more than that, right?¡± Song Jingchen suddenly asked.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re incredible.¡± she thought to herself.


    She obediently took out all the banknotes she had. Including the ones from before, she had 700 to 800 taels of silver.


    ¡°Were you followed when you came out?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. He suspected that her husband was following her, but she had no evidence.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, Song Jingchen knew that he had guessed correctly.


    Shen Yijia quickly said, ¡°I got rid of them. Besides, I disguised myself as a man when I went in. I guarantee that no one will recognize me.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. She had already learned how to disguise herself, so she wasn¡¯t as stupid as he thought.

 Chapter 71 - Gifting Books

    ¡°You didn¡¯t go by yourself, right?¡± Song Jingchen hit her with another curveball.


    Shen Yijia was completely impressed by her husband¡¯s brain. She didn¡¯t say anything, but he knew everything.


    She decided to come clean. ¡°Bruiser brought me there. That¡¯s the guy who came by yesterday. I didn¡¯t save him. He followed me into the mountains and said that he wanted to acknowledge me as his master. However, you know that I don¡¯t know any proper martial arts, so I definitely couldn¡¯t lead him on. I rejected him at that time. He said that he would bring me to earn money, so I agreed to take him in as my disciple.¡±


    After saying that, Shen Yijia sighed. Now, she really didn¡¯t have anything to hide.


    Song Jingchen smiled coldly. ¡°Nothing else?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s really nothing else. I swear I¡¯ll tell you everything in the future.¡± In her mind, she was thinking desperately. ¡°Stop staring at me coldly like that. Please let me off the hook.¡±


    As if hearing Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts, Song Jingchen looked away.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and scratched her head in a dilemma. Her gaze wavered as she said, ¡°Then¡­ then why was An Xiu¡¯er at our house yesterday?¡±


    Her tone was a little sour.


    Song Jingchen paused and felt inexplicably happy, but he didn¡¯t show it on his face. He explained, ¡°She said that you liked her pickled vegetables and sent some over.


    ¡°Since none of you were home, Brother Hao and Sister Huan were starving¡­¡±


    ¡°Then why did she serve you the food and soup?¡± Shen Yijia pouted.


    Shen Yijia found it strange that An Xiu¡¯er knew they weren¡¯t at home, but she did not think too much about it.


    ¡°The maidservants at home used to do the same,¡± Song Jingchen said honestly as he glanced at a corner.


    Shen Yijia choked. She wanted to say that An Xiu¡¯er was not his maidservant, but the inexplicable frustration in her heart disappeared.


    Following his gaze, she saw the package in the corner. She said in surprise, ¡°Aren¡¯t those the books I bought for you? You didn¡¯t read it.¡±


    She walked over and picked up the package.


    Song Jingchen was expressionless. ¡°Are you sure you bought it for me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I saw that you¡¯ve almost worn out the few books at home, so I specially asked the bookstore owner to pick them out for you. I heard that these were the bestsellers, and they cost me two taels of silver.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached when she thought about it. Two taels of silver was enough to buy a lot of meat.


    She stuffed the package into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and gestured for him to open it quickly to see if he liked it.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand trembled and he asked, ¡°You¡¯ve read them?¡±


    ¡°No, I bought it for you to read. Besides, I don¡¯t know many words.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand why Song Jingchen had so many questions. It was just a few books.


    Song Jingchen choked up a little and stuffed the package under his pillow. He pulled Shen Yijia to lie down with him. ¡°I¡¯ll take a look when I¡¯m free. Let¡¯s sleep first.¡±


    Shen Yijia refused to give up. ¡°Then tell me if you like it. I¡¯ll buy you a few more copies.¡±


    Song Jingchen stayed silent.


    There was no need for that. He didn¡¯t like it. Besides¡­ These books were enough to last him a long time.


    1


    The room was silent for a while. Suddenly, Shen Yijia sat up, startling Song Jingchen.


    However, before he could ask, Shen Yijia had already put on her shoes and rushed out.


    Song Jingchen quickly propped himself up and wanted to sit in the wheelchair to follow her out, but Shen Yijia had already returned.


    She was holding an old book.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. She¡¯d bought more than three books. Before he could stop her, Shen Yijia opened the book.


    Shen Yijia only remembered that she had casually thrown this book into the carriage because she was in a hurry. Later on, she had to sort a lot of things out, so she completely forgot about it. Fortunately, she did not lose it.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples.

 Chapter 72 - Buying Land

    Song Jingchen originally thought that he would see Shen Yijia throw away her book with a flushed face, but the more he looked at her, the brighter her eyes became.


    Could it be that he was mistaken and it wasn¡¯t the same kind of book?


    ¡°I understand.¡± Shen Yijia threw herself into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms excitedly and said incoherently, ¡°I¡¯m saved. This is great.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought that he was smarter than others, but he still couldn¡¯t understand what Shen Yijia was saying. He took the book from her hand and looked at it.


    He got even more confused.


    Shen Yijia was amused by Song Jingchen¡¯s appearance. She hugged his arm and shook it in a good mood. She deliberately asked, ¡°Can you understand it?¡±


    Only then did Song Jingchen realize how ambiguous they looked, and he wasn¡¯t in the mood to think about what the book meant. He awkwardly pulled his hand out of Shen Yijia¡¯s grip and stuffed the book back into her hands. He pretended to be calm and said, ¡°I don¡¯t understand it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you don¡¯t understand.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t mind and lay down quietly.


    She hugged the book tightly to her chest.


    Song Jingchen thought that Shen Yijia would explain, but in the end, she simply rolled into his arms.


    Song Jingchen looked down and shook his head helplessly.


    He gently pulled the book out of Shen Yijia¡¯s arms and opened it again. There were only a few thin pages inside, and they were written in words he had never seen before.


    Judging from Shen Yijia¡¯s reaction, it seemed like she knew these words. However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t intend to get to the bottom of it this time. Since he trusted her, he wouldn¡¯t suspect her anymore.


    The reason why he had asked her about the origins of the banknotes was because he was worried that she would encounter danger or be deceived without realizing it.


    After breakfast, Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen to the village chief¡¯s house.


    When they passed by the An family, An Xiu¡¯er came out to fetch some water and saw this scene. She was stunned for a moment.


    It wasn¡¯t until she heard Father An¡¯s cough from inside the house that An Xiu¡¯er came back to her senses. She glanced at their silhouettes.


    She looked down at her rough and washed-out linen clothes. She closed her eyes for a moment.


    At this time, most people in the village had already eaten breakfast and gone to work. This was the first time Song Jingchen had appeared in front of everyone. When they saw him sitting in a strange chair, they all looked curious.


    Thinking about how the Song family had spread the news that Song Jingchen was crippled, she suddenly understood.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen ignored those people and went straight to the village chief¡¯s house.


    ¡°Can I help you?¡± It was Madam Zeng who opened the door.


    ¡°We¡¯re here to look for the village chief,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently.


    ¡°Oh, wait a moment.¡±


    After a while, Madam Zeng opened the door again. ¡°Come in.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re finally willing to invite us in.¡± Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but think to herself.


    There were still bowls and chopsticks in the courtyard that had yet to be washed. It seemed that this family had just finished breakfast.


    Madam Zeng led them into the central room. When they passed the threshold, she paused.


    Shen Yijia lifted the wheelchair and stepped in.


    Madam Zeng was dumbfounded.


    Song Tiegen glanced at Shen Yijia in surprise. He completely believed the rumors that this girl could kill a wild boar. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°We want to build a few more houses around the area we¡¯re living in now. We want to know how to buy land in this village.¡±


    ¡°Is the house not big enough for you?¡± Song Tiegen asked casually. ¡°How big do you want it to be? The common land in the village is shared by everyone. Eight taels of silver per unit of land. The money from this sale will be split equally among everyone.¡±


    No one would use the land anyway. It usually wouldn¡¯t cost money to acquire land for a house in the village. However, the villagers had a lot of opinions about this family. If they were to take the land for free, it would inevitably cause trouble.

 Chapter 73 - : Fight

    In order to avoid unnecessary disputes, Song Tiegen suggested this. It didn¡¯t matter to him if they didn¡¯t buy it because it was expensive. If they bought it, they could also give every family in the village some money. If the villagers benefited from it, they wouldn¡¯t make a fuss.


    Song Jingchen guessed the underlying specifics of the matter. He also didn¡¯t want to cause trouble, so he thought for a moment and said, ¡°Three units of land then.¡±


    Song Tiegen was shocked. This was not a small sum. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll follow you to your house to measure the land.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer. He glanced at Shen Yijia, who immediately took out two silver ingots and five taels.


    Song Jingchen took it and handed it to Song Tiegen. ¡°Village Chief, please give me a contract and a receipt. Take the extra one tael of silver as a thank-you gift.¡±


    Song Tiegen was about to refuse when Madam Cui walked out of the inner room and took the money. She smiled. ¡°Oh my, Eldest Nephew, you¡¯re too polite. You¡¯re welcome. I¡¯ll settle it for you now.¡±


    Song Tiegen glared at his wife, but could only do as Song Jingchen said.


    After writing, they were about to go out to measure the land when Song Tiegen¡¯s eldest son ran in, sweating profusely. He pulled Song Tiegen away and said, ¡°Father, go and take a look. There¡¯s a fight in the field.¡±


    ¡°Why are they fighting?¡± Song Tiegen hurriedly followed. After taking a few steps, he turned around and said to Song Jingchen, ¡°You guys go back first. I¡¯ll go to your house later.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded indifferently. Although Shen Yijia liked to fight, she didn¡¯t feel the need to get involved in a matter that had nothing to do with her. She simply pushed Song Jingchen home in his wheelchair.


    Madam Cui returned to the room happily with the banknotes. Seeing that her daughter was still staring outside, she slapped Song Mingzhao¡¯s back angrily. ¡°Wretched girl, what are you looking at?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, I¡¯m not looking at anything. There¡¯s nothing to see anyway.¡± Song Mingzhao said guiltily.


    ¡°I¡¯m warning you, don¡¯t try anything funny.¡± Madam Cui knew her daughter well.


    Song Mingzhao was so embarrassed that she became furious. ¡°I¡¯m not going to try anything funny. He¡¯s just a cripple. No matter how good-looking he is, I won¡¯t like him.¡±


    After confirming that Song Mingzhao was telling the truth, Madam Cui let her go.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia thought that the fight outside had nothing to do with them.


    However, they did not know that they were the cause of this fight.


    It turned out that many people had seen Song Jingchen sitting in a wheelchair. There were some who said that the young couple was quite compatible, while others claimed that it was a pity that Song Jingchen was a cripple, and Shen Yijia made a mistake marrying him.


    Song Dajiang brought his wife and son to the fields to hear their discussion. Madam Liu hated Shen Yijia for cutting her hair last time, causing her to only be able to go out with a headscarf.


    However, no one had said anything about the rumors that she deliberately spread about Shen Yijia and An Dong.


    How could she let go of such a good opportunity now? She said at the top of her lungs, ¡°I think she¡¯s happy to be married to him. Since her man can¡¯t do anything, she¡¯s not afraid of causing trouble outside. Otherwise, how could the daughter of a wealthy family follow a cripple to this godforsaken place? She would have left long ago.¡±


    As she spoke, she spat in disdain. ¡°Don¡¯t be fooled by how innocent she looks. You don¡¯t know how flirtatious she is in private¡­¡±


    The more Madam Liu spoke, the more excited she became. The surrounding people also found it interesting and started talking.


    All of them felt as if they had seen Shen Yijia commit adultery with their own eyes.


    It would¡¯ve been fine for them to gossip since Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t hear them, but someone else heard them.


    Coincidentally, Bruiser, who had just eaten breakfast and gone out for a walk, heard it. Who was Shen Yijia to him? She was the boss he had just acknowledged. Besides, he was blindly infatuated with Shen Yijia.


    How could he let these people gossip about Shen Yijia?


    Bruiser, who had grown up in a lawless place, was not about to hold back. Without a word, he picked up the soil on the ground and threw it at the crowd. A messy scene was about to break out.

 Chapter 74 - Visit

    Shen Yijia found out about the incident through Bruiser.


    Shen Yijia felt heartened. Indeed, she did not take in this underling for nothing. However, when she found out that Bruiser had been sent home after losing the battle, she felt embarrassed instead.


    However, what could she do? No matter how embarrassing it was, she had already accepted him as her subordinate. He was under her protection.


    Moreover, he had fought for her. She had to avenge him.


    After Song Tiegen left, Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen guiltily.


    Song Jingchen closed the book in his hand. ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, you always read my mind.¡± she thought to herself.


    She also wondered what was up with him today. Why did her husband, who usually didn¡¯t like to go out, suddenly change his usual behavior and want to accompany her several times?


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen strangely and opened her mouth to say that she could go alone.


    Before she could say anything, Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate for you to visit a man alone.¡±


    Of course, Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t believe the rumors outside, but he also didn¡¯t want to see Shen Yijia being criticized.


    Since Song Jingchen had already said that, could Shen Yijia refute him? No.


    As soon as the two of them left, Madam Li chased after them with a basket. ¡°There¡¯s a piece of cured meat and some dried mushrooms inside. Bring it over as a thank you gift.¡±


    Shen Yijia took the basket and nodded obediently. ¡°Thank you, Mother.¡±


    Bruiser family¡¯s residence was on the other side of the village from the Song family¡¯s residence. It took them nearly 15 minutes to arrive. Perhaps because the incident at noon had caused a huge commotion, the people who saw the two of them on the way pretended not to see them. They didn¡¯t point at them like they did in the morning.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. It seemed that Bruiser¡¯s fight was not useless, so she could only blame herself for being too kind.


    There were still a few families living in the village, but Shen Yijia could tell at a glance which one was Bruiser¡¯s family.


    The reason was simple. From afar, she could hear Bruiser¡¯s cries and howls.


    ¡°Ouch¡­ Oh my god, be gentle. It hurts¡­¡±


    ¡°You brat, now you feel pain? Why did you fight earlier then? You¡¯re just a young brat, yet you dare to rush into a crowd and fight a whole group of people. I think you¡¯re tired of living and want me to send you off. If I had known this would happen, I would have stuffed you into the coffin with your father when he died. It would have saved me a lot of money.¡±


    1


    ¡°It¡¯s their fault for shooting their mouths off¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop talking back to me!¡±


    ¡°Ah! Gently, gently¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia, who was standing awkwardly in front of the dilapidated courtyard door, was at a loss for words.


    If Bruiser was really beaten to death like this, she wouldn¡¯t mind paying for the coffin.


    1


    Song Jingchen turned around and glanced at Shen Yijia. He thought that she was feeling guilty. He gently shook her hand and quickly let go. He comforted her, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m here.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Although she could not understand where these words came from, her heart felt inexplicably warm.


    She was about to knock when the courtyard door opened.


    The door was opened by a slightly plump middle-aged woman holding a basin of clothes. When she saw them, the woman paused and asked, ¡°You are?¡±


    Hearing this voice, Shen Yijia knew that it was the same person who had said that she would stuff Bruiser into the coffin. Shen Yijia rubbed her nose, not knowing how to answer.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°We¡¯re from the Song family at the end of the village. My wife and I specially came to thank you.¡±


    Widow Wang had actually guessed who they were when she saw the wheelchair. With their confirmation, she immediately smiled. ¡°What¡¯s there to thank? I heard from my brat that Miss Song had taken care of him these past two days.¡±


    Thinking of the remaining chicken soup in the pot and the fifty taels of silver in the box, Widow Wang warmly welcomed the two of them into the house. She didn¡¯t look like she had just given Bruiser a good scolding.

 Chapter 75 - Visit (2)

    Not to mention Shen Yijia, even Song Jingchen was surprised by Widow Wang¡¯s behavior. He thought that she would vent her anger on them.


    Shen Yijia handed the thing in her hand to Widow Wang. Widow Wang lifted the cloth on it and took a look. she smiled, but she said reproachfully, ¡°You can just drop by, why did you bring gifts?¡±


    As she spoke, she placed the basket aside and led them into the house.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen looked at each other and followed silently.


    Bruiser was still sniffling. When he heard the commotion, he thought that his mother had returned. He was about to complain when he met Song Jingchen¡¯s phoenix eyes. He was shocked and glanced up at Shen Yijia.


    He was so excited that he wanted to jump out of bed. ¡°B-Boss, why are you here?¡±


    Before he could get up, he fell back onto the bed.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Seeing that Bruiser¡¯s head was wrapped up like a dumpling, she said in disdain, ¡°Just lie down. I came with my husband to see you. Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Those people just relied on their numbers to win. Otherwise, I would¡¯ve beaten them.¡± Although he said that, Bruiser still lay down obediently.


    Widow Wang, who had wanted to maintain a gentle image to leave a good impression on her guests, couldn¡¯t help but curse when she heard this. ¡°You¡¯re still thinking of beating others? When you recover from your injuries, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Widow Wang in admiration. The latter choked at her gaze and smiled awkwardly. ¡°You guys chat. I¡¯ll go and do the laundry¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia saw Widow Wang¡¯s expression change and found it interesting.


    ¡°Boss, make yourself at home.¡± Bruiser stopped sniffling and said excitedly.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the stool that could fall apart at any moment and shook her head in resistance. ¡°I¡¯m not sitting. Tell me everything that happened today. Who did it?¡±


    That was why she was here. As for visiting Bruiser, well, that was just something extra.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and glanced at Shen Yijia, who smiled back at him.


    At the mention of this, Bruiser seemed to forget about the pain and sat up. He gritted his teeth and recounted the entire incident, sounding indignant.


    Especially how he fought with others, who he bit, who he kicked, and whose hair he pulled. It made Shen Yijia feel as if she was there at the scene. She nodded from time to time and praised him for his good kicks.


    Song Jingchen wanted to laugh as he watched from the side. It was such a pity that Bruiser didn¡¯t work as a storyteller. Fortunately, Bruiser was still a child. Otherwise, he would really be worried about the two of them being together.


    When he got tired of talking, Shen Yijia kindly poured a glass of water and handed it over.


    Towards the end, Bruiser¡¯s voice clearly lowered. ¡°In the end, they injured my head and I had to be brought back¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and looked at his head again. She gritted her teeth. Why are you talking so much when you had to be carried back?


    He was almost led astray.


    She would never admit that she was listening with relish. She straightened my back and glanced at Bruiser mysteriously. ¡°Alright, I understand. Rest at home and recuperate. Don¡¯t worry about anything else.¡±


    With that, she pushed Song Jingchen away.


    ¡°Hey, Boss, I was so fierce back then. Why didn¡¯t you listen for a while longer?¡± Bruiser was anxious. If he had known she¡¯d leave so soon, he wouldn¡¯t have summarized it so quickly. He could have made up more stories¡­


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said without looking back, ¡°Call me Sister from now on.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t a gang leader, why did he keep calling her boss?


    Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen out of the house, but she could still hear Bruiser¡¯s excited voice. ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law, take care. Come often in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°He¡¯s a fool.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth curled up slightly. He was clearly very satisfied with being called brother-in-law.

 Chapter 76 - Attack

    After returning home, the two of them did not mention this matter again. Knowing that Bruiser was fine, Madam Li was relieved.


    For the next two days, Shen Yijia quietly stayed at home while Song Jingchen drew the blueprint for the new house. She was just waiting for someone to come and start work.


    However, the two of them had a tacit understanding not to invite anyone from Xiagou Village.


    Apart from that, Shen Yijia, who didn¡¯t like to read, kept reading that lousy book. Song Jingchen wondered if Shen Yijia could really understand it. How could she read a few thin pages for so long?


    However, every time Brother Hao or Sister Huan asked Shen Yijia about it, she would say that it was a secret. Song Jingchen could only suppress his curiosity.


    The only change in the family was that apart from interacting with Auntie Tian next door, they started to talk to Widow Wang too. Of course, it was Widow Wang who took the initiative to make friends with them.


    Perhaps it was because Widow Wang¡¯s personality was more to Madam Li¡¯s liking, but Shen Yijia realized that the two of them got along very well in just two days. Sometimes, even Auntie Tian was excluded from their activities.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself. ¡°Women¡¯s friendship comes and goes like a gust of wind.¡±


    It was only from Widow Wang that they found out that there were indeed people in the village who had caused a ruckus because the village chief had sold his land to the Song family.


    Most people had no objections to the nearly one tael of silver that was distributed. However, there were always some greedy people who felt that the Song family was rich and that it was too cheap to sell them for eight taels per unit.


    However, they did not expect that people would value this unwanted land so highly.


    Some people simply didn¡¯t want them to be happy, such as the old Song residence.


    However, no matter how they argued, it had nothing to do with Song Jingchen anymore. He had asked Song Tiegen to open a contract and a written pledge to prevent this from happening.


    This matter could only give Song Tiegen¡¯s family a headache. He wondered if Madam Cui regretted agreeing to give him these credentials because of the one tael of silver.


    At night, Shen Yijia lay down and prepared to sleep as usual. Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°If you want to go, go early.¡±


    Shen Yijia was almost moved to tears. She looked at Song Jingchen with teary eyes. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    Then, she sat up and got out of bed to change her clothes. After taking a few steps, she turned around and smiled at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    Seeing her reaction, Song Jingchen chuckled. If he was really as good as Shen Yijia said, he wouldn¡¯t have teased her by waiting for her to fall asleep before going to sleep himself, which prevented her from sneaking out secretly.


    It wasn¡¯t that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to take revenge for Bruiser.


    In fact, she wanted to wait for Song Jingchen to fall asleep and sneak out every night. However, every time she waited, she would fall asleep. For this reason, Shen Yijia would be annoyed for a while when she woke up.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t worried about Shen Yijia since she could take on more than twenty suicide warriors alone. However, he didn¡¯t sleep.


    He went to the courtyard alone in the wheelchair and started carving something under the moonlight.


    When he finished carving, there was a series of deliberately soft footsteps coming from outside the courtyard. It was easy to overlook. Song Jingchen only heard it because he had practiced martial arts in his early years.


    Song Jingchen looked up at the person who jumped in from outside the courtyard. Without asking for any details, he said indifferently, ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±


    The hazy moonlight shone on Song Jingchen, making him look noble and elegant.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart, which had just calmed down from the night breeze, started beating violently again. How could her husband be so good-looking? This was against the rules.


    When Shen Yijia came back to her senses, Song Jingchen had already arrived in front of her and stuffed something into her hand.


    She looked down and saw a wooden hairpin with the word ¡°Jia¡± engraved on it.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°For me?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. He had originally planned to give it to her when she returned from town that day. He didn¡¯t expect Shen Yijia to come back so late at night because of An Xiu¡¯er, so this matter was put aside.


    He had added the words on it just now.

 Chapter 77 - Menstruation

    ¡°Thank you, Hubby. I like it very much.¡± This was the first time she had received a gift in her two lifetimes.


    The more she looked at it, the more she liked it. She couldn¡¯t help but kiss Song Jingchen¡¯s face.


    Her husband was indeed the best husband in the world.


    He did not expect Shen Yijia to¡­


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    ¡°She- she doesn¡¯t understand the concept of being shy at all.¡± he thought to himself frantically.


    He wanted to remind her not to do this in the future, but when he looked up and met Shen Yijia¡¯s glowing eyes, Song Jingchen felt a numbing sensation surge through his entire body.


    He swallowed his words and took the wooden hairpin from Shen Yijia.


    With a gentle twist at the end of the hairpin, it split into two sections. Only then did Shen Yijia realize that this was actually a mini dagger made into a hairpin.


    Song Jingchen coughed dryly and explained, ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to draw those blueprints. I can only make a simple one for you for the time being.¡±


    Shen Yijia could make anything from her own blueprints. Song Jingchen wanted to give her something different.


    This was also the first item he made. He made the sleeve crossbows for Brother Hao and Sister Huan after he completed the hairpin.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re amazing.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t see Song Jingchen¡¯s slightly red ears and praised him sincerely.


    She kept praising Song Jingchen in her heart. Not only was he good-looking, but he was also smart. He was indeed her husband.


    Shen Yijia was in a good mood. Unfortunately, when she woke up later in the middle of the night, her mood had turned sour.


    Her stomach ached.


    Shen Yijia held her stomach in pain and groaned in bed.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen was woken up by the noise. He smelled blood and his heart trembled. He quickly hugged Shen Yijia¡¯s trembling body and asked anxiously, ¡°Are you injured? Where are you injured?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine,¡± Shen Yijia said weakly.


    Song Jingchen had never seen Shen Yijia like this. She was usually lively and could kill a wild boar with a single punch. How could she be fine when she suddenly became like a little lamb?


    He immediately sat up and lit the oil lamp. Because it was inconvenient for Song Jingchen to move, there was a small table beside their bed.


    Even Song Jingchen, who could remain calm on the day of the raid, panicked for the first time. He accidentally knocked over the teacup on the table.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have the energy to care about the teacup at this moment. He lit the oil lamp.


    Only then did he see that Shen Yijia was covered in sweat and her face was pale. She held her stomach and curled up into a ball.


    ¡°Where are you hurt? Huh?¡± Song Jingchen tried his best not to sound anxious. He gently pulled Shen Yijia into his arms, as if she were a fragile porcelain doll.


    Shen Yijia buried her head in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and secretly fed herself a drop of spiritual liquid. When the pain subsided, she said in a muffled voice, ¡°I¡¯m not injured. Call Mother over.¡±


    After being here for so long, she had almost forgotten that this body had to menstruate.


    This was the first time this body experienced it even though it was already fifteen years old. Anyone could tell that the original owner of this body had suffered a lot.


    Song Jingchen wanted to ask why she was bleeding if she wasn¡¯t injured. She was clearly bleeding, so it was useless even if his mother came.


    Then, his mind suddenly went blank.


    When he reacted, Song Jingchen was stunned.


    In Shen Yijia¡¯s mind, this wasn¡¯t something shameful. Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t react, she thought that he didn¡¯t understand. She endured the pain and explained, ¡°I¡¯m on my period. Well¡­ I didn¡¯t prepare menstrual products. Mother should have some.¡±


    Song Jingchen stayed quiet.

 Chapter 78 - Coquettish

    Song Jingchen did not know how he got into the wheelchair. By the time he reacted, he had already arrived at Madam Li¡¯s room.


    Looking at the closed door, he felt his cheeks heat up.


    After taking a few deep breaths, he reached out and knocked.


    At this time, the sky was still dark, and Madam Li was woken up by a knock on the door. She put on a coat and opened the door. When she saw that it was Song Jingchen, she asked curiously, ¡°Brother Chen, why are you up so early? What happened?¡±


    ¡°She¡­ her period started. Her stomach hurts badly. Mother, go over and take a look,¡± Song Jingchen said calmly.


    When Madam Li heard this, her first reaction was to be happy about it. Living under the same roof, Madam Li naturally knew that Shen Yijia hadn¡¯t been having her period. Since Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were crippled, and the two of them were still in the mourning period, she naturally wouldn¡¯t think that Shen Yijia was pregnant.


    Thus, Madam Li had been worried that there was something wrong with Shen Yijia¡¯s body, but she did not dare to ask, afraid that she would make Shen Yijia sad. Now that Shen Yijia had started menstruating, although it was a little late, it meant that she could still have children.


    However, when she heard that Shen Yijia was in great pain, Madam Li quickly brought her period supplies to Shen Yijia¡¯s room.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t follow her. He turned his wheelchair into the courtyard and exhaled to calm himself down.


    His wife had grown up.


    Madam Li helped Shen Yijia change out of her dirty clothes and went to the kitchen to boil a bowl of brown sugar water. When she saw Song Jingchen in a daze in the courtyard, she found it funny.


    She walked over with the brown sugar water. ¡°Brother Chen, let Sister Jia drink this. Her stomach will feel better. She¡¯s not feeling well. Tell her to lie in the house for the rest of the day.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. ¡°Mother, I saw you walk to the door and then turn back.¡± he thought.


    ¡°Go quickly, child.¡± Madam Li urged.


    Song Jingchen had no choice but to take the bowl and bring it into the house. Shen Yijia lay on the bed, limp and weak.


    Song Jingchen placed the bowl on the table without looking sideways. ¡°Mother said that your stomach won¡¯t hurt so much after drinking this.¡±


    Shen Yijia took a look and shook her hand to show that she had no strength. She huffed. ¡°Feed me.¡±


    1


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t have much hope in it. The spiritual liquid didn¡¯t work, so what was the use of a bowl of brown sugar water? However, when she saw Song Jingchen¡¯s rare moment of awkwardness, she couldn¡¯t help but tease him.


    Song Jingchen paused. Seeing how pitiful Shen Yijia was, he couldn¡¯t bear to leave her alone. He could only lean over and feed her spoonful after spoonful.


    She didn¡¯t know if it was a psychological effect, but after drinking the bowl of brown sugar water, Shen Yijia¡¯s stomach didn¡¯t hurt so much anymore. Her body felt warm and comfortable. She was also drowsy. She opened her eyes and glanced at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, sleep with me for a while more.¡±


    After saying that, she closed his eyes. Perhaps it was because Shen Yijia didn¡¯t make a big deal out of it, but Song Jingchen felt less awkward. Seeing Shen Yijia like this, he lay back down.


    Shen Yijia rolled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    At dawn, screams sounded in Xiagou Village. The screams came from more than one place and spread throughout the village.


    It instantly broke the morning silence.


    At the Song family¡¯s old residence.


    Song Erlin¡¯s wife, Madam Chen, got up early to go to the toilet because she was pregnant. When she passed by the courtyard and saw three people lying on the ground like corpses, she screamed in fear.


    This sound woke the others up to investigate. When they saw Madam Chen sitting on the ground with a pale face, clutching her stomach, they fell over again.

 Chapter 79 - Determined

    Similar scenes appeared in several families.


    When the villagers heard the commotion, they went out to check what was going on. It was rare for Xiagou Village to be lively so early in the morning.


    When they found out what had happened, they were all terrified. The people who were targeted were clearly sleeping in their houses, but they were found lying in their courtyard in their undergarments early in the morning. They were even beaten black and blue. Who knew if they would be next?


    The doctors in the village were ordered around. Fortunately, no one¡¯s lives were in danger. They just fainted. However, when the victims woke up and were asked what had happened, they were all confused.


    This matter caused an uproar in Xiagou Village. They were all injured and wanted to seek justice from the village chief, but they didn¡¯t even know who the culprit was. How could Song Tiegen deal with this?


    Moreover, Song Tiegen was extremely annoyed by the sale of the land a few days ago, so he was unwilling to interfere in this matter. He simply asked whether they knew who did it and sent them away.


    Some of the villagers also went around the village to investigate. When they realized that the people who were in trouble were either the women who usually talked nonsense or the people who hit Bruiser that day, they had a clue. However, since they saw what happened to these people, they felt a chill down their spines and dared not stand up for them.


    In the end, most people could only swallow this grievance.


    However, the people in the Song family¡¯s old residence were different. They were certain that Shen Yijia was the culprit.


    After all, the only person in the village who had a grudge against them and had the ability to hunt alone was Shen Yijia.


    ¡°It must have been that b*tch. I knew that b*tch was not a good person¡­ She dared to do it, but she didn¡¯t dare to let anyone talk about it.¡± Madam Liu gritted her teeth and cursed.


    Song Dajiang, who was lying beside her with a swollen face, was getting impatient. He kicked Madam Liu with a dark expression and shouted, ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Madam Liu trembled in fear and immediately dared not make another sound. Even when she was in so much pain, she could only cry out softly.


    The couple in Song Dalin¡¯s house also started arguing. The reason was that Song Dalin blamed Little Madam Liu for sleeping so soundly that she didn¡¯t even know that someone had entered the house.


    Little Madam Liu felt wronged. ¡°You were beaten up so badly that you didn¡¯t even wake up in the courtyard. How could I have woken up? I wasn¡¯t even the one being beaten up.¡± she thought to herself indignantly.


    Coincidentally, it was the academy¡¯s holiday today. When Song Maolin returned home, he felt that the atmosphere was amiss. Before he could enter the central room, Song Jiayue stuck her head out of the room and secretly waved at him.


    Although Song Maolin found it strange, he still walked over. The two of them muttered for a while before going to the main house where Song Dajiang and his wife lived.


    Shen Yijia had no idea about the bloodbath outside. She slept until noon before getting up.


    Although her stomach still ached from time to time, it was much better than before. At least, it was within Shen Yijia¡¯s range of tolerance.


    However, she listened to Madam Li¡¯s advice and did not run around. She obediently moved a recliner into the courtyard and basked in the sun comfortably while eating the wild fruits that the twins had picked.


    From time to time, she would look at Song Jingchen, who was thinking about new mechanisms, and sigh happily. ¡°It¡¯s so delicious.¡±


    Song Jingchen was helpless, but he didn¡¯t say anything against her.


    A person limped over from outside the courtyard. When he saw the two people in the courtyard, he shouted excitedly, ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law, you¡¯re both at home.¡±


    Shen Yijia merely glanced at Bruiser for a moment before turning back to continue looking at her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look up.


    Bruiser didn¡¯t mind. Seeing that the courtyard door wasn¡¯t closed, he walked in. If not for the fact that his legs hadn¡¯t recovered, Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t have been surprised even if he jumped in.

 Chapter 80 - : Flattery

    It was unknown if it was because of the pain or excitement, but Bruiser was sweating profusely.


    Seeing that he was still running around restlessly, Shen Yijia said angrily, ¡°Why are you here instead of staying at home?¡±


    Their houses were quite far apart, and Shen Yijia actually marveled at this kid¡¯s tenacity.


    ¡°Hehe, Sister, I know everything.¡± Bruiser grinned and sat down. He looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s mysterious smile, as if saying, ¡°I know your secret.¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. This brat was acting like a good child after she did so much for him. She threw a piece of fruit into her mouth and fed Song Jingchen one before saying, ¡°Why are you here? If you have something to say, say it quickly.¡±


    Bruiser laughed with a silly smile on his face. He gave Shen Yijia a thumbs up. ¡°Sister, you¡¯re really amazing. You don¡¯t know how chaotic the village is. Some people even think that it¡¯s haunted.¡±


    ¡°Do you think everyone is like you? Don¡¯t you know who I am?¡± It had to be said that Bruiser¡¯s flattery made Shen Yijia feel good. If there was a tail behind her, she would probably be wagging it.


    ¡°Of course. How else would I have acknowledged you as my boss? I didn¡¯t say yes to any number of people in town who wanted to take me in as their disciple. You¡¯re better than all of them even with your hands tied behind your back.¡±


    Shen Yijia was in a good mood after being praised. She picked out the smallest fruit from the basket and threw it to Bruiser. She said proudly, ¡°Of course. How can they compare themselves with me?¡±


    2


    He watched as Shen Yijia fed the biggest and most juicy slice of fruit to Song Jingchen, but she gave him the smallest one. Bruiser was furious. He wanted to say that Boss was being too biased.


    However, looking at Song Jingchen and then at Shen Yijia, he didn¡¯t have the courage to say it.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia glanced at Bruiser and asked, ¡°You know many people in town, right?¡±


    As he ate, Bruiser nodded and said in a muffled voice, ¡°Yes, Boss. If you need me to do anything, just say the word. I¡¯ll do anything.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Did this child become a dummy all of a sudden?


    She said directly, ¡°We bought some land recently. Do you know anyone who knows how to build a house?¡±


    Initially, she wanted to go to town and ask around herself, but she had to be around in case they had a change of plans. Since she had a lackey, it would be a waste not to use him.


    Bruiser recalled the commotion in the village a few days ago. He was about to ask why the villagers didn¡¯t come to help, but then he understood.


    However, the people he knew were all ignorant and idle people. How could he know any skilled craftsmen?


    However, he did not want to fail in his first task. He scratched his head and thought about it seriously.


    Thinking of someone, he slapped his brain. ¡°I do know one, but he¡¯s not from the town. He¡¯s from the neighboring village. Is that okay?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious?¡± Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but smack him.


    As soon as she smacked him, Song Jingchen looked up.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She immediately hid her hand behind her back and sat down obediently, not forgetting to put on a smile.


    Bruiser was speechless. He was the one who got beaten up. Why was she looking at him like that? Besides, his brother-in-law¡¯s gaze was so scary.


    Song Jingchen was satisfied and continued to work as if nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia and Bruiser heaved a sigh of relief.


    After a moment of silence, Bruiser braced himself and said, ¡°Then¡­ I¡¯ll help you ask Third Uncle He in the afternoon. If he¡¯s free, he can come over tomorrow. Do you think¡­ that¡¯s fine?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it when your legs recover,¡± Shen Yijia said in a rare moment of compassion.


    Bruiser was touched. He had not acknowledged this boss for nothing. Not only did she help him take revenge, but she also cared about him. He immediately patted his chest and promised, ¡°My leg is fine. Sister, leave it to me. I promise to complete the mission.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him as if he was an idiot and stopped talking. Anyway, she wasn¡¯t the one in pain.

 Chapter 81 - Trouble

    The next day, instead of the skilled craftsman that Bruiser had mentioned, Shen Yijia saw a group of angry villagers.


    It seemed as if most of the villagers had arrived. Leading the way were Clan Leader Song and the village chief, Song Tiegen. The family from the old Song residence was also there. Shen Yijia had seen the people at the back before, but she could not name them.


    Many of these people had injuries on their faces, and some of them were even limping. Without exception, they all had angry expressions, as if they would pounce on her and Song Jingchen and tear them apart at any moment.


    This scene reminded Shen Yijia of when she first entered the village. She did not expect this scene to appear again so soon.


    She thought to herself that it was a good thing that Madam Li had brought the two children to town to sell her embroidery. Otherwise, they would have been frightened.


    Without greeting them, the mob entered the courtyard. A large group of people instantly crowded the small courtyard.


    Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t afraid of them. It wasn¡¯t as if numbers mattered. She raised her eyebrows and shielded Song Jingchen behind her. She said disdainfully, ¡°What? Are you here to fight?¡±


    With so many people coming to her door, Shen Yijia could not think of anything else besides looking for a fight.


    The villagers, who were already filled with anger, were even angrier when they saw Shen Yijia¡¯s attitude. They rubbed their fists and wanted to rush over.


    There were so many of them. Why would they be afraid of a little girl and a cripple?


    Song Tie was worried that the situation would spiral out of control, so he quickly comforted them. ¡°Everyone, calm down. We have to find out what happened.¡±


    With that, he looked at Clan Leader Song. ¡°Clan Leader, say something.¡±


    Clan Leader Song had been looking at this courtyard from the moment he entered. When he heard Song Tiegen¡¯s words, he coughed dryly.


    After everyone quieted down, he said, ¡°Wife of the Song family, someone said that you beat Dajiang and the others up last night and threw them in the courtyard. Is that true?¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and glanced at Song Dajiang, who was looking at her with gloomy eyes. She thought to herself that she had gone too easy on him. She was about to nod and admit it when Song Jingchen grabbed her hand from behind.


    Shen Yijia turned around and looked at Song Jingchen in confusion, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t look at her. He turned his wheelchair around and came to Shen Yijia¡¯s side. He glanced at the people in front of him and said indifferently, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. She¡¯s the one who did it. Who else has a grudge against us other than her?¡± Madam Liu shouted, ¡°She even dared to slash people with a knife before. What else is there that she doesn¡¯t dare to do? Don¡¯t think that everything will be fine just because you don¡¯t admit it. We have the final say in this village.¡±


    Song Dajiang echoed, ¡°That¡¯s right. Why did this happen as soon as you moved into our village? You have to give us an explanation today.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look at the two of them and continued, ¡°My wife is just a girl. The accusation that she injured so many of you without anyone knowing seems unbelievable. Instead of suspecting an innocent person, why don¡¯t you think about what you¡¯ve done to deserve this outcome?¡±


    Many people¡¯s faces turned red at Song Jingchen¡¯s words. Was he badmouthing Shen Yijia?


    ¡°Who doesn¡¯t know that this girl can kill wild boars? She¡¯s evil. Of course she would do such terrible things while we¡¯re all asleep!¡± Song Dajiang retorted.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for him to convince the villagers that Shen Yijia was the culprit. He also brought along the clan leader and village chief to persuade them. How could he let Song Jingchen get away with just a few words?


    Clan Leader Song stroked his beard and glanced at Song Maolin, who was beside Song Dajiang. He nodded and said, ¡°Dajiang is right. You have to give everyone an explanation today. Otherwise, don¡¯t blame us for bringing you to the authorities.¡±

 Chapter 82 - Little Devils

    ¡°Since my wife isn¡¯t the culprit, we won¡¯t be afraid even if you go to the county office to report it. If you want an explanation, come back with the evidence.¡± Song Jingchen sneered, ¡°Otherwise, I¡¯ll sue you for defamation.¡±


    The people who met Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze felt a chill down their spines. There was an old saying that went, ¡°If you don¡¯t have the money, don¡¯t try and start trouble.¡±


    They did not have any evidence at all. Besides, everyone knew that the county magistrate of Anyang County was a muddle-headed official who preyed on the commoners. They were just trying to scare the Song family away by saying that they wanted to report the incident to the authorities.


    Now, they were instead worried that Song Jingchen would really report it to the authorities if he was forced into a corner. Wasn¡¯t there a saying that cornered animals are the most dangerous? If Song Jingchen fought them earnestly, no one would be able to escape unscathed.


    Clan Leader Song had the same thoughts as most people. He also retreated a little.


    Song Dajiang didn¡¯t want things to end like this. He wanted to say something, but Song Maolin, who had been stunned since he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance, regained his senses and interrupted, ¡°Cousin, you¡¯re right. Since it wasn¡¯t Sister-in-law who did it, we naturally won¡¯t malign her.¡±


    It had to be said that as the only person in Xiagou Village with a formal education, Song Maolin¡¯s words carried some weight.


    After the Song family¡¯s demise in the capital, the people in Xiagou Village were still willing to humor Song Dajiang because Song Maolin was a scholar.


    Chief Song was the most obvious example. Hearing that Song Maolin didn¡¯t want to pursue the matter, he said a few polite words and asked everyone to go home.


    Song Dajiang knew his son well. At this moment, he was also confused by his sudden change in attitude. It had clearly been his idea to convince everyone.


    Song Maolin turned around and glanced at Shen Yijia meaningfully. He said in hushed tones, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Father. I won¡¯t let you suffer for nothing.¡±


    He finally understood that these people were no match for Song Jingchen at all. There was no point in staying any longer. Besides, they didn¡¯t need to get their own hands dirty to get their revenge.


    After they left, Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose and said indignantly, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of them. They can¡¯t beat me anyway.¡±


    Why did she have to waste so much time talking to them? She could have just beaten them into submission.


    Song Jingchen shook his head helplessly. ¡°I know you¡¯re powerful, but not all problems can be solved by force. Besides, little devils like them are the most difficult to deal with.¡±


    ¡°Did I cause you trouble?¡± Although she asked this, Shen Yijia still felt a little aggrieved. They were the ones who had bad-mouthed her first.


    Knowing that Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts were simple and that she might not understand many things, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t explain further. He only comforted her, ¡°No. Even if you did cause trouble, I¡¯ll help you solve it.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s mood improved slightly.


    Bruiser walked into the courtyard with an honest-looking middle-aged man. As soon as he arrived, he said, ¡°Sister, why were those people here just now? Don¡¯t tell me they¡¯ve found out.¡±


    Before he could finish, Song Jingchen silenced him with a look.


    Realizing that he had misspoke, Bruiser scratched his head and pulled the middle-aged man beside him over to introduce him. ¡°This is Third Uncle He. He¡¯s from Shanghe Village next door. Everyone in that village consults him before building houses.¡±


    Shen Yijia brought over a short stool and asked Third Uncle He to sit down. Seeing that there was no seat for him, Bruiser ran to the central room to get a stool.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand how to build a house, so she quietly watched Song Jingchen and Third Uncle He discuss the details.


    Thinking about how their courtyard had been broken into several times, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia decided to build higher walls.

 Chapter 83 - Upgraded Spiritual Liquid

    The fact that there were many people in the house, coupled with the possibility of more people in the future, led to them deciding to build a two-in-one residence for guests. The kitchen and storeroom were in the front courtyard, and the back courtyard would be used as living quarters.


    In the end, Song Jingchen and Third Uncle He agreed that it would cost about 150 taels of silver. Third Uncle He prepared the materials, including 15 copper coins a day for each worker. Normally, it would be 13 copper coins, but since they didn¡¯t provide lunch, they added two copper coins.


    Bruiser was speechless. He also wanted to build a new house for his family. ¡°Sister, I¡¯ll build a house next door to yours in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Then do it, what are you telling me this for?¡± she thought to herself.


    Third Uncle He and his men began to build the house. The people of Xiagou Village were envious.


    Their village also had craftsmen and villagers who could do the job. The salary provided was more than ten copper coins a day, which was a lot for the villagers who worked in the fields all year round.


    Song Jingchen bypassed the people from Xiagou Village and gave the job to the people from the neighboring village. In their opinion, he was a traitor.


    However, it was their fault for excommunicating Song Jingchen¡¯s family when they first arrived. It was impossible to use the family rules to control him now.


    After being dragged out and beaten up in the middle of the night, no one dared to say anything openly even if they had objections. They could only mutter to themselves.


    After all, they were not fools and had a hunch that it was Shen Yijia who beat them up. However, they had no evidence, so they could only swallow this grievance.


    Song Tiegen was not too happy about this matter. This construction project would lead to comparisons being drawn between the two villages.


    He felt that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t giving him any respect.


    It was unknown what Auntie Tian had said to Madam Li, but An Dong was among the workers. Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had no objections to this.


    On the other hand, An Dong was a little uneasy because of what had happened.


    Shen Yijia stayed at home for a few days. Once her period was over, she could not sit still any longer.


    She had only sold her prey to the fat shopkeeper once.


    After telling Madam Li that she would not be home for lunch, she led Bruiser up the mountain.


    Shen Yijia was originally unwilling to bring him along. However, when she saw that the firewood at home was about to run out, she thought that she could let Bruiser gather firewood, so she reluctantly agreed to let him follow.


    ¡°Sister, are we really not going to the underground fighting pit anymore?¡± Bruiser felt that it was a pity. If he went there a few more times, he could build a house for his family too.


    Shen Yijia paused and thought about the contents of the book. Whether it was true or not, she felt that she had to try.


    The reason why Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t understand that book was very simple. It was written in a language from Shen Yijia¡¯s previous life. She didn¡¯t know why it appeared in this world, but she didn¡¯t intend to investigate further.


    1


    She was only concerned about the content inside. The book said that the spiritual liquid needed to be nourished and upgraded.


    And nurturing the body required precious herbs like ginseng, lingzhi, and so on. Because she didn¡¯t know its potential before, she had always been at the elementary level.


    At level two, one drop of spiritual liquid could be condensed every five days, and it could cure all poisons.


    At level three, which was the highest level, one drop could be condensed every fifteen days. It could revive parts of the body that had died and withered away, and reconstruct the meridians.


    Shen Yijia guessed that as long as one was still breathing, they could be saved using the spiritual liquid.


    As for Song Jingchen¡¯s situation, she should have to wait until she reached level three.


    Thus, she had to earn more money. Currently, she only knew how to earn money quickly by fighting in the underground arena.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll go tomorrow after delivering the prey.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say¡­¡± Bruiser didn¡¯t expect Shen Yijia to change her mind so quickly. He muttered to himself. Then, he became excited, as if he could see a large amount of money waving at him.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and arranged for Bruiser to gather firewood on the spot before heading into the mountains alone.


    In the novels she read in the past, there were protagonists who dug up wild ginseng in the mountains and became rich. Perhaps she could do the same.

 Chapter 84 - Raising a Bug

    As it turned out, ginseng was not something that could be found everywhere. Although she was being a little idealistic, she didn¡¯t return home empty handed.


    Bruiser saw that Shen Yijia was covered in more than a dozen prey of various sizes and was carrying a big bug on her shoulder.


    His legs went weak and he almost fell to his knees.


    ¡°B-boss, there¡¯s a bug, a massive bug.¡± Bruiser was so nervous that he forgot that Shen Yijia told him to stop calling her his boss.


    He pointed at the bug on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder.


    Shen Yijia did not like his cowardly look. The bug wasn¡¯t alive anyway. She said in disdain, ¡°I¡¯m not blind.¡±


    After taking a few steps, she saw that Bruiser was still in a daze. She rolled her eyes. ¡°What are you waiting for? Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    What she caught today should be quite valuable. She still had a lot of silver on her, so she should be able to buy a lot of ginseng.


    Bruiser came back to his senses and his eyes lit up. ¡°Oh my god, my boss is so fierce.¡± he thought.


    Just as he was about to follow her, he heard a humming sound coming from Shen Yijia¡¯s basket.


    Due to his wariness of Shen Yijia, he stopped and asked, ¡°Sister, what are you carrying in the basket?¡±


    ¡°This dead insect¡¯s offspring, it¡¯s probably just been born. Since the big insect died, the offspring probably won¡¯t live for long, so I¡¯m prepared to bring it home to raise it.¡± Shen Yijia was completely unconcerned.


    Bruiser swallowed hard.


    ¡°Oh my god! You killed its mother and you still dare to keep the offspring by your side. Aren¡¯t you afraid that it will take revenge when it grows up?¡± he thought.


    Bruiser really wanted to kneel down in front of Shen Yijia.


    On second thought, Shen Yijia had already beaten the insect to death. Why would she be afraid of its offspring? He stopped worrying.


    However, he did not dare to get close to Shen Yijia and insisted on staying more than ten steps behind.


    Shen Yijia did not know that he had so many thoughts in his mind. She was not the one who killed this big insect. She heard the little fellow¡¯s humming and looked over to see the dead bug.


    This little fellow was stuck under the big insect¡¯s body. If it was discovered any later, it would probably have died.


    There were bite marks on the big insect¡¯s body. Shen Yijia guessed that it had been bitten to death by another animal. As for why it did not eat it, Shen Yijia did not know.


    As they were about to leave the mountain, seeing that Shen Yijia was about to go back, Bruiser quickly stopped her. ¡°Sister, you¡¯ll scare people if you go back like this. You should hide it first and bring it home at night.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought about it and felt that it made sense. Their family was already at the center of attention in the village. Although she did not care, she could not let Madam Li and the others be put in a difficult position.


    The two of them found a hidden place to hide the dead bug before going down the mountain and returning home.


    1


    When they returned home, Madam Li was also shocked to see the infant. However, Brother Hao and Sister Huan were overjoyed.


    Unable to resist the two of them, Madam Li finally agreed to raise it. As for Song Jingchen, he had no objections at all. He only asked Shen Yijia several times if she was injured.


    The little bug was left behind to be named Tuan Zi.


    Bruiser felt that he was indeed too timid. He was even worse than a child younger than him.


    It was no wonder that Shen Yijia would give him a disdainful look from time to time.


    The next day, Shen Yijia and Bruiser sent the prey to Full Fortune Restaurant. The fat shopkeeper¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw the bug. Old Master Liu¡¯s birthday banquet was going to be held in the next two days.


    2


    He immediately gave Shen Yijia a high price of 300 taels. The other prey were sold for six taels. Shen Yijia¡¯s treasury expanded.


    After dressing up, the two of them went to the arena.


    Compared to the first time she came here, Shen Yijia clearly felt many gazes from the crowd sizing her up.

 Chapter 85 - Coming to the Arena Again

    It was mainly because Shen Yijia was petite and stood out among the men. It was difficult not to recognize her.


    At this moment, there were people fighting in all three arenas, so Shen Yijia could only wait for her turn.


    From time to time there were shouts and cheers from the crowd.


    Shen Yijia watched for a while and her attention was drawn to one of the fighters in the arena.


    The young man looked even smaller than Bruiser. He was thin and weak, but his opponent was a burly man.


    The young man was clearly no match for the burly man. He was beaten until he was covered in blood.


    However, he still refused to admit defeat and got up again and again.


    There was a murmur among the crowd.


    ¡°Why is that kid from the Lin family here again?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. He really doesn¡¯t want to live anymore. He can¡¯t win and still wants to fight. He¡¯ll definitely be thrown out later.¡±


    ¡°I heard that his family offended Feng Laoliu of our town. His parents are dead, and he¡¯s left with a sickly girl. Everyone is afraid of offending Feng Laoliu, so no one dares to hire him. In order to buy medicine for the girl, he can only come here.¡±


    His fight was treated like a warm-up match. Even if he lost a battle, he would still get a hundred coins.


    When the people in the stands saw this bloody scene, they all boiled up and shouted, ¡°Get up again!¡±


    The air was filled with the metallic smell of blood. Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose.


    She watched as the young man stared fiercely at the burly man. Just like a wolf cub. He got up again and again, and Shen Yijia felt as if she was seeing her younger self back in the mental hospital.


    Shen Yijia frowned and turned away.


    When Shen Yijia went on stage, she was seemingly affected by what she had seen.


    This time, Shen Yijia did not hold back at all. Her attacks were fast and ruthless.


    After ten rounds, no one dared to fight again. When Manager Feng saw this scene, he asked if they wanted to arrange for slaves to fight.


    Shen Yijia refused without thinking.


    She was inexplicably repulsed by slaves.


    She won 100 taels of silver from fighting and Bruiser bet nearly 300 taels of silver on the fights.


    Shen Yijia stopped decisively.


    Bruiser used the money Shen Yijia gave him as capital to earn twenty taels of silver. He refused to take money from Shen Yijia again.


    Shen Yijia could only give up. She shook off the stalker and changed back into her female clothes. She touched the wooden hairpin on her head. Realizing that she had not bought a gift for her family, she went to buy many things.


    In addition to the thin cotton cloth that was to be used to make two sets of clothes for each of the family members, Shen Yijia also specially chose a small navy blue brocade, planning to make a pouch for Song Jingchen later.


    She bought a gold hairpin for Madam Li. She didn¡¯t know which one to choose, so she just chose the heavy one.


    She also saw a jade hairpin that would suit Song Jingchen well, so she bought it.


    It was a joy to choose these gifts, but when it came to paying¡­


    ¡°My hands hurt. I wonder if I can pawn these if I run out of money in the future.¡± she thought.


    Bruiser was impressed. She was indeed his boss.


    As her underling, he felt that he could not embarrass himself. He reluctantly spent one tael of silver to buy a silver hairpin for Widow Wang.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Fortunately, Brother Hao and Sister Huan were still young. Shen Yijia thoughtfully bought a notebook for each of them.


    It was as if one could hear Brother Hao and Sister Huan saying, ¡°Sister-in-law, we don¡¯t need a gift.¡±


    Finally, she went to the rice shop to buy a few bags of rice.


    She spent nearly 15 taels of silver in total, and most of it was spent on Song Jingchen¡¯s jade hairpin. It cost eight taels of silver. According to the shopkeeper, it was the treasure of their shop.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself that it was expensive to take care of a beautiful husband.


    2


    While she was happily shopping, the people who were supposed to tail her returned to the underground arena. However, they had to suffer.


    ¡°Useless things. How did you lose a person? Do you think I raised you for nothing? This is the second time this happened.¡± Manager Feng stomped his feet in anger.

 Chapter 86 - Meeting Again

    The man who was beaten covered his numb cheek and explained, ¡°We really tried our best. Those two brats were so slippery that they disappeared the moment they left our arena.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Manager Feng. There¡¯s nothing we can do.¡±


    Manager Feng was furious. A fierce glint appeared in his shrewd eyes. ¡°You¡¯re still making excuses? Men, drag these useless things out and feed them to the dogs.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a few burly men immediately came in and picked them up.


    ¡°Manager Feng, please spare us. Please give us another chance¡­¡± The three of them begged for mercy, but before they could finish their words, they were gagged and dragged out.


    Soon there were terrified screams from outside.


    Manager Feng closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He suddenly sneered. ¡°I don¡¯t believe that kid can disappear just like that.¡±


    At this moment, an enchanting woman walked in, poured a cup of tea, and handed it over. ¡°He¡¯s just a brat who hasn¡¯t even hit puberty. Why are you so angry? Even without him, you can just find someone else.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all because Master is pressuring me to find him. A rare premium product came by, but it slipped away from our hands several times.¡± Thinking of something, Manager Feng asked, ¡°How¡¯s the matter with Sixth Brother?¡±


    ¡°That little girl is about to die of illness. That kid is only able to earn money from our arena now. I reckon he won¡¯t be able to hold on much longer. At that time, Master will give him a little more money. Perhaps he will be grateful enough to hand over the item.¡± After saying that, the enchanting woman chuckled.


    Manager Feng smiled in satisfaction and pulled her into his arms. He instructed, ¡°Get someone to pay attention, don¡¯t kill him by accident. Also, keep a close eye on the kid. That thing is something that Master specifically asked for. There can¡¯t be any mistakes.¡±


    Shen Yijia walked around and stuffed the carriage full before asking Bruiser to drive the carriage to the only pharmacy in town. She walked in alone.


    She thought that she could buy whatever she wanted with money, but she did not expect that there was no stock in the medicine shop at all. There were two ginsengs, but it was obvious that they were not of high quality. She asked for the price of two ginsengs, which was 30 taels of silver. There was no lingzhi.


    What Shen Yijia did not know was that in a poor place like Qingping Town, ordinary people could not afford these things.


    Even if there were high quality goods, those would be sent directly to the rich families in town. The pharmacy would only have one or two bottles in case of an emergency.


    Shen Yijia had no choice but to spend 30 taels of silver. She was about to leave when she reached the door.


    She was knocked over by someone.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze froze. She recognized the young man with the surname Lin she had just seen in the arena.


    It was not that Shen Yijia had a good memory. The young man had not even changed his clothes and was covered in injuries. It was difficult for her not to recognize him.


    ¡°Why are you here again? Go, go, go. Everyone says that there¡¯s no hope for your sister. If you have money, you might as well buy a better coffin for her.¡± Before the youth could enter, the apprentice at the door stopped him with a broom.


    ¡°I have money.¡± The young man clenched his fists, too stubborn to leave.


    The apprentice rolled his eyes impatiently and sneered. ¡°You have money? What can you do with that little money?¡±


    The young man did not seem to hear him. He only repeated, ¡°I have money. Get me the medicine.¡±


    ¡°Hey, what¡¯s wrong with you? I already said that your sister is hopeless. Hurry up and leave. Don¡¯t block our shop¡¯s business. What bad luck.¡± As the apprentice spoke, he raised his broom to hit him.


    Shen Yijia frowned and grabbed the broom. ¡°Isn¡¯t your pharmacy open for business? He said that he has money.¡±

 Chapter 87 - : Delivering Snacks

    The doctor, who had not appeared yet, was probably afraid that the matter would blow up. At this moment, the doctor walked out and explained, ¡°It¡¯s not that we don¡¯t want to sell him the medicine, but his sister is born deficient.¡±


    He continued. ¡°Even if we use good medicine, we can barely keep her alive. Besides, they can¡¯t afford good medicine. We didn¡¯t give him the medicine because we didn¡¯t want him to waste money.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that the doctor was reasonable and felt that what he said made sense. She let go of the apprentice.


    ¡°I have money. To get medicine for my sister.¡±


    Shen Yijia grit her teeth. She wondered if that was the only thing this person knew how to say.


    She wanted to ignore him, but her heart softened when she met the young man¡¯s scarlet eyes.


    Admittedly, she was not someone who willingly helped others for no reason.


    The reason she felt like this now was because the incident in her previous life had affected her too much.


    Scratching her head, she resigned herself to her fate. ¡°Take me to your sister.¡±


    Alarm flashed in the young man¡¯s eyes.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue. ¡°What can I do to you?¡±


    With this small body, she could poke him to death with one finger.


    Perhaps feeling that Shen Yijia¡¯s words made sense and that the pharmacy was really unwilling to sell the medicine to him, the young man had no choice but to nod. He walked in front and led the way.


    Seeing that the young man was struggling to take every step, Shen Yijia despised herself for being so damn kind.


    She waved at Bruiser, who had been looking at them curiously.


    The three of them took the carriage to the young man¡¯s house.


    In the car, Shen Yijia learned the young man¡¯s name. It was Lin Shao. That was all he said.


    Shen Yijia had been leaving early and returning late these two days.


    Song Jingchen felt unaccustomed to it for some reason. He almost hurt his hand a few times. He could see Tuan Zi snorting out of the corner of his eye.


    He shook his head helplessly and put it on his lap. He pushed the wheelchair out of the courtyard.


    An Xiu¡¯er came out of the house with a basket and was shocked to see Tuan Zi. In the end, she mustered her courage and stopped in front of Song Jingchen.


    She tried her best to ignore Tuan Zi¡¯s existence and smiled shyly at Song Jingchen. She lifted the cloth on the basket and handed it to Song Jingchen. ¡°Brother Song, I just made some snacks. Do you want to try them?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and refused coldly, ¡°No need.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er retracted her hand awkwardly and bit her lip. ¡°Sister Shen will probably like it. Why don¡¯t I help you bring it in?¡±


    Only then did Song Jingchen look up at An Xiu¡¯er. An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and her exquisite face turned red. ¡°Brother Song, you¡­¡±


    Disgust flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes as he said indifferently, ¡°She doesn¡¯t like it.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er choked and wanted to say something.


    An Dong¡¯s voice came suddenly. ¡°Xiu¡¯er, what are you doing here?¡±


    An Dong glanced at the two of them strangely.


    An Xiu¡¯er explained in a panic, ¡°I made some snacks at home and sent them over for Auntie Li and Sister Shen to try.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bring the snacks in. You can go home.¡± An Dong didn¡¯t suspect anything. He just felt that with Song Jingchen around, his sister should avoid arousing suspicion.


    An Xiu¡¯er glanced at Song Jingchen and hesitated. In the end, she turned around and left.


    ¡°My sister liked eating snacks since she was young. She doesn¡¯t have any bad intentions. Don¡¯t mind her,¡± An Dong said as he watched An Xiu¡¯er leave.


    1


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Shen Yijia arrived at Lin Shao¡¯s residence.


    Only then did she realize that the siblings actually lived in a dilapidated temple.


    The little girl, Lin Miaomiao, was lying on a blanket made of hay. It was unknown if she was asleep or unconscious.


    She looked to be about the same age as Sister Huan, and she was wearing tattered clothes. Her palm-sized face was red, and her condition was clearly abnormal.

 Chapter 88 - Support

    Lin Shao walked over with red eyes and carefully shook her hand. ¡°Miaomiao, Big Brother is back.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao opened her eyes and smiled sweetly at Lin Shao. She said weakly, ¡°Brother, Miaomiao didn¡¯t run around today.¡±


    ¡°I know. Miaomiao is a good child.¡±


    Bruiser cried as he watched from the side. It was such a touching scene.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She really wanted to beat this guy to death.


    The siblings¡¯ attention was attracted by Bruiser¡¯s sobbing. They glanced at each other and then at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. Why did she accept such an embarrassing underling? Not only was he timid, but he was also crying like a girl. However, it was too late for regrets.


    She kicked him angrily. ¡°Go and brew the medicine.¡±


    Bruiser shuddered and jumped far away from Shen Yijia. ¡°I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    After taking two steps, he turned around curiously and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s the medicine?¡±


    He clearly saw that the pharmacy did not give Lin Shao any medicine.


    Shen Yijia remained silent.


    She took out a ginseng and broke it in half before throwing it to him. ¡°Cook this.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t possibly drip the spiritual liquid into plain water and tell Lin Shao that it could treat his sister¡¯s illness.


    Then Lin Shao would probably think that she was sick too.


    Lin Shao saw what Bruiser was holding and suddenly walked up to Shen Yijia. He knelt down and kowtowed three times. ¡°Thank you, benefactor.¡±


    Shen Yijia stomped her feet. ¡°There¡¯s no need. Don¡¯t let me see you again next time.¡± she thought.


    She knew that once this sentence appeared in a novel, the person who spoke would want to cling to their benefactor. She wouldn¡¯t fall for it.


    Bruiser used a jar in the dilapidated temple to cook half a stick of ginseng. Shen Yijia carried it over and checked the temperature. She secretly added a drop of spiritual liquid to the jar before handing it to Lin Shao to feed Lin Miaomiao.


    ¡°Brother¡­¡± Lin Miaomiao looked at Shen Yijia uneasily.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. She¡¯s a good person,¡± Lin Shao soothed.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Did he just say I was a good person?¡± she thought.


    After drinking the ginseng soup, Lin Miaomiao immediately felt that her body seemed to be much lighter and warm. She said happily, ¡°Brother, am I going to live?¡±


    Lin Shao had no idea that Shen Yijia had used the spiritual liquid. He said with tears in his eyes, ¡°Yes, I won¡¯t let anything happen to you.¡±


    Shen Yijia sighed and took out a piece of silver, placing it next to them. ¡°We¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    With that, she gestured for Bruiser to leave.


    Lin Shao was stunned. He glanced at the silver and gritted his teeth as he pulled Lin Miaomiao to block Shen Yijia¡¯s path.


    He dropped to his knees. ¡°Please accept us. We can do anything if you give us a bowl of rice.¡±


    1


    In Lin Shao¡¯s opinion, Shen Yijia was definitely not a bad person since she willingly helped a stranger.


    He knew that he did not have the ability to support his sister. He only hoped that Shen Yijia could give him a place to stay.


    Bruiser¡¯s eyelids twitched as he suddenly felt threatened.


    Lin Miaomiao also knelt down. ¡°Big Sister, please accept me and Big Brother. I¡­ I don¡¯t eat much at all. I can work too.¡±


    ¡°The classic novel scene is here.¡± Shen Yijia thought to herself. ¡°What a joke. How could I be someone¡¯s benefactor?¡±


    ¡°Definitely not.¡±


    When Shen Yijia returned to the village, the workers had already returned home. She drove the carriage into the courtyard and stopped.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re back. Sister Xiu¡¯er sent over some delicious snacks today. Brother Hao and I didn¡¯t eat much. We saved them for you.¡± Sister Huan welcomed her excitedly.


    Shen Yijia blinked awkwardly and jumped out of the carriage.


    Two people got out of the carriage.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, who are they?¡± Sister Huan looked at the two skinny people curiously.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head, not knowing how to explain. ¡°Would anyone believe me if I said I picked them up from the streets?¡± she thought.


    1


    Indeed, she had brought them home in the end.

 Chapter 89 - Softhearted

    Song Jingchen came out and saw the two unfamiliar faces in the courtyard.


    He looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Come in with me.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded and followed Song Jingchen into Madam Li¡¯s house.


    Sister Huan looked at Shen Yijia and Lin Shao before following them into the house.


    Madam Li was doing embroidery while Brother Hao sat at the side practicing his calligraphy.


    She did not know that their household was about to expand. Seeing the two of them enter, Madam Li was quite curious. ¡°Sister Jia is back? What happened?¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head.


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Tell me, what happened?¡±


    With Shen Yijia¡¯s brain, Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but worry that she had been deceived.


    Shen Yijia lowered her head and twisted her fingers as she explained the situation.


    However, she didn¡¯t mention the underground arena. After all, she had just promised Song Jingchen that she wouldn¡¯t go.


    She only mentioned what she had encountered in the dilapidated temple on the way back. ¡°They were too pitiful, so I brought them back.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia suspiciously. He¡¯d always had the feeling that she wasn¡¯t a kind person.


    It was as if you could hear Shen Yijia thinking. ¡°No, I¡¯m genuinely being kind this time, although I made the decision on the spur of the moment.¡±


    Madam Li also looked hesitant when she heard that. She also felt that the two kids were pitiful, but their own family wasn¡¯t that well off. Was it really okay to raise two more people?


    ¡°Mother, those two siblings are so pitiful. Let¡¯s keep them. I can eat less in the future.¡± Sister Huan said. After all, Sister Huan was still young and didn¡¯t consider the full picture. She didn¡¯t know that raising two more people was different from raising Tuan Zi.


    Although Brother Hao didn¡¯t say anything, he clearly had the same intention as Sister Huan.


    Shen Yijia looked down at her fingers and said guiltily, ¡°If you don¡¯t agree¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen interrupted her. ¡°They can say. If you want to help them, we can let them stay with us.¡±


    Strictly speaking, Shen Yijia was providing for this family. If she could provide for their family, why couldn¡¯t she provide for two more people? He had no reason to refuse.


    Just in case, Song Jingchen called the two of them to his room alone.


    Shen Yijia looked at the closed door and wrinkled her nose. She unloaded the carriage.


    In the room, Song Jingchen sat behind the desk without a word.


    The siblings held hands nervously and stood at the side. Although Lin Shao had always acted like an adult, he was still a child who had just turned 12. He was quickly overwhelmed by the atmosphere in the room.


    He pulled Lin Miaomiao and they both knelt down. He said in a trembling voice, ¡°As long as you let us stay, I can give you our family¡¯s secret recipe.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. It seemed that things were not simple.


    It turned out that the Lin family used to make and sell incense powder. They had a secret recipe passed down from their ancestors.


    The incense that was produced was different from the powders that other businesses produced, so business had always been good.


    However, Father Lin also knew that having a treasured secret recipe would make them a target. He had always been very careful and only ran a small shop for more than ten years.


    The Lin family was low-key and careful.


    Unexpectedly, he was still targeted by the town¡¯s tyrant, Feng Laoliu. Father Lin would rather close the shop and stop making incense than hand it over to outsiders.


    However, how could those people let him off so easily? This led to the tragic death of the Lin couple and the fate of the siblings.


    Lin Shao blamed his father and hated that secret recipe.


    If not for that secret recipe or Mr. Lin handing over the items, their family would still be fine.


    But that was his father. Now he was gone. What else could he do?


    He was not stupid. He knew that Feng Laoliu had let the siblings live because he wanted to get something from them. He was waiting for them to hand it over when they were desperate.

 Chapter 90 - Stay

    Since Feng Laoliu was the cause of Mr. and Mrs. Lin¡¯s deaths, how could Lin Shao give the secret to him?


    Everyone was afraid of offending Feng Laoliu and ignored them. When Shen Yijia appeared, she was like a ray of light that shone into Lin Shao¡¯s dark world.


    Lin Shao wanted to take this opportunity.


    Instead of letting his enemy benefit from the recipe, it was better to exchange it for a bargaining chip to stay here.


    After understanding the inside story, Song Jingchen rubbed his temples. He didn¡¯t want to keep these two around as they would draw unwanted attention.


    However, he did not want Shen Yijia to be disappointed. Shen Yijia usually only knew how to solve problems with her fists and did not like to use her brain.


    However, she had strong principles. She must have had her reasons for bringing these kids back.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen said, ¡°You can stay. I don¡¯t want your secret formula, but if you cause any trouble, I¡¯ll personally hand you over to your enemy.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll leave on our own when the time comes,¡± Lin Shao promised firmly. Even if Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything, Lin Shao wouldn¡¯t implicate his savior.


    Lin Shao also knew that taking them in was equivalent to offending Feng Laoliu. However, if they didn¡¯t let the siblings stay, the siblings would easily freeze or starve to death even without Feng Laoliu taking action.


    Although Madam Li initially felt that it was a burden to have two more people at home, she saw that Lin Miaomiao, who was a year older than Sister Huan, was shorter than Sister Huan. Her thighs were even smaller than Sister Huan¡¯s arms.


    Lin Shao was a boy and was slightly taller. However, he was all skin and bones and his face was injured. Madam Li felt sorry for them.


    She kept thinking that if these were her children, her heart would ache badly for them.


    She gradually accepted the two new family members. Seeing that Shen Yijia had bought so much cloth, she decided to use it to make new clothes for the two of them.


    Madam Li¡¯s lips twitched at the gold hairpin that Shen Yijia had bought. She silently put it away. Anyway, Shen Yijia never saw her wearing it after that.


    The twins were very happy with this outcome. The children in the village were unwilling to play with them. They either followed Madam Li up the mountain or stayed at home.


    They were bored out of their minds. Now that two companions had come to accompany them, of course they would be happy.


    They even forgot about the slight resentment towards Shen Yijia for gifting them notebooks to practice writing with.


    Madam Li roughly understood the miserable past of the two siblings, and could not help but think of her husband¡¯s death. Her heart ached even more, so she specially prepared a sumptuous dinner that filled the entire table.


    Tears welled up in their eyes at the sight.


    During the meal, Madam Li told the two of them to eat whatever they wanted. However, the two of them were too busy eating their rice and did not take any meat or vegetables.


    It was rare for Shen Yijia to be so attentive. She picked up a big drumstick for each of them and added rice and soup to their plates. She was as enthusiastic as an mother hen.


    Song Jingchen watched silently, his face darkening.


    After dinner, Lin Shao rushed to clear the dishes, but Madam Li did not let him.


    She wanted him to play with Brother Hao and the others.


    There weren¡¯t enough rooms at home. Fortunately, the two of them were thin and small. Madam Li let Lin Miaomiao squeeze in with her and Sister Huan while Lin Shao stayed in the same room as Brother Hao.


    Shen Yijia did not bring back the two children¡¯s clothes because they were too tattered, so Madam Li altered Sister Huan¡¯s clothes for Lin Miaomiao to wear.


    She couldn¡¯t do the same for Lin Shao, since he was too big for Brother Hao¡¯s clothes.


    Madam Li worked overnight to make him another set to wear.


    Holding the new clothes, Lin Shao¡¯s tears fell. Madam Li was soft-hearted to begin with, and her heart ached terribly.


    Lin Shao and Lin Miaomiao finally settled down.


    When the people of Xiagou Village found out that the Song family had adopted two more half-grown children, they laughed at them behind their backs for being silly. It wasn¡¯t like they didn¡¯t have children. Taking them in meant more mouths to feed, which was simply laughable to them.

 Chapter 91 - Embroidered Pouch

    The news quickly reached the old residence.


    Ever since they spent all their money to send Song Maolin to the academy, their entire family could only eat wontons and vegetables every day. They were green with envy when they heard that Song Jingchen¡¯s family were eating well. If those outcasts had the spare money, they should have given it to the old Song family instead.


    Song Dajiang sat under the eaves and smoked his pipe. He recalled what Song Maolin had said before he left home.


    His eyes lit up. They just had to wait a bit longer. Someone would come and deal with that family. After that, everything would be theirs.


    Shen Yijia had been a little angry these past few days because she had been stuck doing embroidery. In order to give Song Jingchen a surprise, she even hid in Madam Li¡¯s room to embroider.


    The problem was that she didn¡¯t know how!


    She couldn¡¯t understand why her hands couldn¡¯t cooperate with her and embroider a small pouch.


    After countless stabs, Shen Yijia finally couldn¡¯t help but break the needle again.


    Madam Li, who was watching from the side, felt pain on her behalf. She opened her mouth but did not know how to comfort her. She had never seen someone do embroidery like that.


    Sister Huan could embroider a flower now.


    However, Sister Huan did not like embroidery either. She jumped up and down like a frisky monkey all day.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and took another needle to thread the thread. She scratched her head and looked at Madam Li with a red face. She discussed, ¡°Mother, why don¡¯t I change to another simple embroidery?¡±


    At first, Shen Yijia said that she wanted to embroider a pouch for Song Jingchen and asked Madam Li to teach her, so Madam Li asked her to choose an embroidery style first.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t hesitate to choose a crane pattern among the embroidery patterns. She felt that it echoed Song Jingchen¡¯s image in her heart.


    Although Madam Li could not figure out why she saw him as a crane, she did not say anything.


    After embroidering for a few days, Shen Yijia felt that the crane was too complicated. It was only natural, since she had just learned embroidery.


    She told Madam Li that she wanted to change her mind, so Madam Li asked her to choose again.


    Shen Yijia was frightened by the needles and did not dare to choose something too complicated. She chose a bamboo tree.


    The pattern was simple. It was just a bamboo stem in the middle with a few forks and leaves.


    Shen Yijia felt that she would definitely be able to embroider it well. Madam Li felt the same way.


    Obviously, the two of them thought too highly of Shen Yijia¡¯s skills.


    Madam Li did not seem too surprised by Shen Yijia¡¯s words. She looked at the cloth that had been ruined badly by Shen Yijia and the dense needle holes on it. She asked tentatively, ¡°What do you want to change it to?¡±


    She really didn¡¯t know what could be simpler than bamboo.


    Shen Yijia smiled awkwardly. ¡°Why don¡¯t we remove the leaves and embroider bamboo?¡±


    Seeing Madam Li¡¯s strange expression, Shen Yijia hurriedly explained, ¡°I want to embroider bamboo that hasn¡¯t fully grown yet. It hasn¡¯t grown leaves yet.¡±


    Madam Li almost laughed out loud. Afraid that Shen Yijia would be embarrassed, she covered it up with a handkerchief.


    After a long time, she stopped laughing and said, ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    She was a little curious about the expression on her son¡¯s face when he received this gift.


    This time, Shen Yijia did not make any mistakes.


    She cut a new cloth and finished the embroidery within a day.


    She asked Madam Li to guide her to make a pouch and put the spices that Lin Shao had given her into it.


    Looking at the pouch that took five days to make and left countless holes on her fingers, Shen Yijia almost burst into tears.


    It was too difficult for her. She would never touch needles again.


    Shen Yijia stood up and stretched.


    She heard Brother Hao call her, ¡°Sister-in-law, look what we brought back for you.¡±

 Chapter 92 - Monkey

    Shen Yijia opened the door and saw the kids led by Bruiser standing in a row in the courtyard. Each of them was holding a round piece of soil in their hands, and they were dirty.


    Even the usually taciturn Lin Shao was no exception.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched. She did not think it was delicious and did not want to eat it.


    As for why Bruiser was here, it was naturally because he felt that Lin Shao was threatening his status. He came to look for Shen Yijia every day instead of going to town to fool around.


    Bruiser earned money for his family and even bought gifts for them.


    Widow Wang was happy to see him spend time with the Song family.


    Shen Yijia was so annoyed that she tasked him with taking care of the children.


    At first, Bruiser was unhappy.


    However, after a few days, they got close and hung out together every day. Because of this, Shen Yijia regretted her arrangements.


    On the other hand, she didn¡¯t need to worry much about Lin Shao, who was younger than Bruiser.


    The children surrounded Shen Yijia nonchalantly.


    Shen Yijia grit her teeth. Before Bruiser came, these children were all clean. Why did they get covered in dirt the moment Bruiser came to visit?


    Every time they came back, it was as if they had been rolling in the mud. They thought that Madam Li would definitely nag at them when she saw them later.


    As expected, as soon as Shen Yijia thought of this, Madam Li¡¯s voice sounded. ¡°Where did you guys go again? All of you are so troublesome. It¡¯s fine if it¡¯s just you guys, but how can you bring Sister Huan and Miaomiao along to mess around with you¡­¡±


    In the past, Madam Li would naturally not say such things. However, she was forced to do so. These few people had successfully changed Madam Li in just a few days. Fortunately, she would only say that when faced with these troublesome kids.


    The few of them looked at each other and turned to look at Shen Yijia at the same time. The message in their eyes was obvious. They were asking her to save them from Madam Li.


    Shen Yijia laughed to herself and took a few steps back from them. She acted innocent and shrugged.


    The few of them sighed in disappointment and lowered their heads.


    Madam Li was still mumbling when Lin Shao stood up with a red face. ¡°Auntie, I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t look after my younger siblings.¡±


    Bruiser looked at Lin Shao and finally realized his motive.


    He had to show off in front of his boss. He put away his fearless expression and stood in front of Lin Shao. ¡°Auntie Li, I was the one who brought them to dig out the bird¡¯s nest. It has nothing to do with them.¡±


    With the two elder brothers saying that, the remaining three younger ones felt that they had to take responsibility.


    They quickly stood by Bruiser.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan said, ¡°Mother, I was the one who wanted to play.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao said, ¡°Auntie, I followed them myself.¡±


    Shen Yijia had fed Lin Miaomiao drops of spiritual liquid a few times. Lin Miaomiao¡¯s body was not much different from a normal child¡¯s now.


    Madam Li choked and did not know whether to laugh or cry. It was as if she was going to do something to them. She said angrily, ¡°Go take a shower and change your clothes. It¡¯s cold now. Aren¡¯t you afraid of freezing?¡±


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed to see them being taught a lesson. She glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s figure revealed from the window and found that he was staring at the people in the courtyard in a daze. She thought for a moment and walked into the room.


    The weather had gradually turned cold over the past few days, and Song Jingchen coughed a little.


    Shen Yijia did not let him out of the courtyard.


    She helped Song Jingchen find a few pieces of wood from the mountain and asked him to stay in the room.

 Chapter 93 - Heartache

    What impressed Shen Yijia the most was that Song Jingchen had already figured out how to make all the designs from her blueprints even without her guidance.


    So this was what the old saying was about family members being alike.


    However, Song Jingchen had mostly carved some ornaments and had almost filled a wooden box.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t notice Shen Yijia walking behind him.


    She stuck her head over his shoulder and followed Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Song Jingchen tilted his head and glanced at Shen Yijia. He said calmly, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I haven¡¯t seen my mother act like this in a long time. I think this is quite good.¡±


    He still remembered how mischievous he was when he was young. Madam Li would often be angered by him to this extent.


    Shen Yijia seemed to understand but did not probe further.


    She took two steps back and stood up straight. She took out the pouch and handed it to Song Jingchen. ¡°Here, this is for you.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked down and his lips twitched.


    It turned out that she had been hiding in Madam Li¡¯s room for the past few days to prepare this gift. Just as he was about to say something to tease her, he noticed the needle marks on her fingers. He reached out to grab it and stroked it gently. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Shen Yijia felt a numbing sensation on her hand. She curled her fingers awkwardly and said indifferently, ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt anymore. It just hurt for a while, but it immediately stopped.¡±


    But how many times had she been pricked?


    Song Jingchen sighed and pulled Shen Yijia, motioning for her to sit down.


    He took out the medicine from the cabinet and applied a thin layer on Shen Yijia¡¯s fingers. Then, she picked up the pouch beside her and said, ¡°I have this one. Don¡¯t do this again.¡±


    Ignoring the abnormal heartbeat again, Shen Yijia nodded obediently. She thought so too.


    Seeing Song Jingchen staring at the pouch, Shen Yijia asked proudly, ¡°Can you tell what it¡¯s embroidered?¡±


    Song Jingchen stayed silent. This was a little difficult for him.


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s sparkling eyes, Song Jingchen said with difficulty, ¡°Matchsticks.¡±


    1


    At the same time, Shen Yijia said, ¡°It¡¯s bamboo. Don¡¯t you think it looks realistic? There are bamboo joints on it.¡±


    ¡°If you hadn¡¯t mentioned it, I would have thought these were matchsticks. I wanted to praise it for being so lifelike¡­¡± he thought.


    But Shen Yijia said she embroidered bamboo.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She struggled to repeat her explanation to Madam Li when she picked the design. ¡°This bamboo is still small, so it doesn¡¯t have leaves.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He really did not want to discourage Shen Yijia. He looked at the embroidered pattern on the pouch again and nodded seriously. ¡°Now that you mention it, it does look like it.¡±


    ¡°Although you say that, I still feel unhappy.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen seemed to have guessed her thoughts. She reached out her hand for the pouch.


    However, Song Jingchen had already put the pouch in his pocket.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Although he looks disdainful, his reaction is quite honest.¡±


    Feeling embarrassed, Shen Yijia took out the jade hairpin she had bought last time.


    She wanted to give it to him but she couldn¡¯t find the right time, and eventually forgot about it.


    ¡°This is my present to you. As for the pouch, I was just¡­ teasing you.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and reached out to take it.


    He could tell at a glance that it wasn¡¯t cheap. He remembered that Shen Yijia had bought gifts for everyone after selling the prey that day, but she did not buy anything for herself.


    Song Jingchen suddenly felt uncomfortable.


    Back then, Shen Yijia followed them because she did not want to return to the Shen family. Now that she could live better alone, why didn¡¯t she leave?


    1


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think we¡¯re a burden to you?¡± he thought.

 Chapter 94 - Chapter 94: Entering the Mountain to Find

    Seeing that winter was coming soon, Shen Yijia went into the mountains more often.


    Apart from wanting to store more meat for the winter, she also wanted to find herbs like wild ginseng.


    She chewed on the two ginsengs she bought from the medicine shop. Not only did they taste bad, but they were also hard to chew, like tree roots. She almost lost a tooth.


    However, she did not discover any changes in the spiritual liquid. It was probably too little.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to get Bruiser to give up on following her, but she couldn¡¯t shake off Lin Shao.


    What made Shen Yijia glad was that Lin Shao seemed to know where to find medicinal herbs. The two of them went deep into the mountains, and he brought Shen Yijia to dig up a lot of wild ginseng.


    Normally, Lin Shao would not dare to enter the mountains. Now that Shen Yijia was around, he did not have to worry about his safety at all.


    During this period of time, Xiagou Village was also abnormally calm. They were probably preparing for winter, so no one caused any trouble.


    On this day, Shen Yijia greeted Madam Li then brought Lin Shao up the mountain as usual. This time, they went further away and found out from An Dong that no hunters dared to go there. They would probably have to stay in the mountains for a night before returning the next day.


    Before leaving, Shen Yijia specially told Song Jingchen. She didn¡¯t know if it was her imagination, but she felt that Song Jingchen had something on his mind recently, but when she asked him, he only said that he was fine.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, why are you looking for so many wild ginsengs?¡± Lin Shao also called Shen Yijia sister-in-law.


    After spending some time together, although Lin Shao still didn¡¯t say much, he wasn¡¯t as quiet as he was in the beginning.


    Apart from bringing Brother Hao and the others to help out with the family¡¯s work, he would also mix some spices for the family. He had completely integrated into this family.


    ¡°To eat them, of course,¡± Shen Yijia said honestly.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Lin Shao did not believe her. He felt that Shen Yijia was lying to him, but he did not pursue the matter.


    He could tell that his sister had miraculously recovered after meeting Shen Yijia.


    He didn¡¯t ask because he knew everyone had their secrets.


    He was no exception. However, if Shen Yijia wanted to know this secret, he would not hide it from her.


    Outsiders only knew that the incense made by the Lin family was extraordinary, but they did not know that their shops only sold ordinary spices. The secret recipes of the Lin family were actually formulas for poisonous incense and medicinal fragrance.


    During this period of time, he had found many herbs that could be used to make incense.


    He liked his life the way it was. He didn¡¯t want it to be ruined.


    So he was going to nip the potential danger in the bud.


    He still wanted to take revenge¡­ He wanted to use the incense he had personally mixed to avenge the deaths of his parents.


    After this period of calmness, Lin Shao seemed to understand his father¡¯s choice. He didn¡¯t want those people to use these things to harm others.


    After walking for more than four hours, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart suddenly skipped a beat.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Lin Shao asked.


    Shen Yijia did not say anything and reached out to touch her chest. She did not know why, but she suddenly felt very uncomfortable.


    It was like someone was rubbing her heart with one hand, making it hard to breathe.


    Shen Yijia squatted down uncomfortably. Suddenly, she thought of something and glanced in the direction of Xiagou Village.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡± With that, Shen Yijia ran back. In the blink of an eye, Lin Shao could no longer see her.


    Lin Shao looked around, gritted his teeth, and quickly followed.

 Chapter 95 - On The Doorstep

    Suddenly, a large group of people came to Xiagou Village. There were about fifty to sixty of them.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Feng Laoliu from town?¡± A villager recognized the leader and peed his pants in fear.


    The others were shocked and ran home.


    Feng Laoliu ignored them and went straight to the end of the village. He stopped in front of the Song family¡¯s house.


    The wall outside the new house had been built and the courtyard door was wide open. The people who were finishing up the construction work stopped what they were doing and looked at the group of people in front of them, at a loss of what to do.


    Third Uncle He calmed himself down and forced a smile. ¡°Gentlemen, how can we help you?¡±


    ¡°Get lost. It¡¯s none of your business.¡± The lackey beside Feng Laoliu pushed him away impatiently. Third Uncle He staggered and almost fell. Fortunately, An Dong quickly caught him.


    The lackey glanced at An Dong disdainfully. ¡°We¡¯re here to settle things with the family that lives here,¡± he said arrogantly. ¡°Those who have nothing to do with it better stay out of it.¡±


    Many people heaved a sigh of relief when they heard this and immediately retreated outside the courtyard wall.


    An Dong frowned and was about to speak when Auntie Tian, who had heard the commotion and was worried about her son, quickly squeezed through the crowd and pulled him away.


    An Dong struggled for a moment and met Auntie Tian¡¯s pleading gaze. He clenched his fists and finally obeyed his mother.


    For a moment, only Third Uncle He was still standing there. Seeing everyone¡¯s actions, Third Uncle He sighed. He knew that he could not control this matter alone, so he did not say anything else.


    Feng Laoliu was satisfied with these people¡¯s reactions. He sneered and said, ¡°Go, bring them out.¡±


    More than ten people immediately rushed into the Song family¡¯s house.


    Madam Li heard the commotion and came out. Someone immediately grabbed her arm and she said in surprise, ¡°Who are you? What do you want?¡±


    ¡°Let me go, let me go! Mother!¡±


    ¡°Mother, save me!¡±


    The three children who were feeding the chickens at the back were not spared either. They were carried like chickens and thrown in front of Feng Laoliu.


    Feng Laoliu looked around and didn¡¯t see the person he was looking for. However, he found Lin Miaomiao familiar.


    Previously, Lin Miaomiao¡¯s body had been sickly and skinny. However, during this period of time, she had become fair and tender. Feng Laoliu did not recognize her at first.


    However, Lin Miaomiao recognized him. When they came for her parents, Miaomiao and her brother were hiding in the cabinet. When she saw Feng Laoliu looking over, she quickly hid behind Sister Huan.


    Feng Laoliu thought that it was a normal reaction of a child being frightened and ignored it.


    ¡°Are you sure she lives here?¡± Feng Laoliu looked at the lackey beside him.


    The lackey changed his expression and licked his lips as he promised, ¡°I saw her come out of this house yesterday. There¡¯s no mistake.¡±


    As soon as he said that, he heard a scream. ¡°Ah! My eyes!¡±


    The two people who had entered the east wing earlier were trembling as they helped each other out step by step.


    Feng Laoliu¡¯s pupils constricted when he noticed that there was a short needle in each of their eyes.


    The group of thugs looked at the open door and saw a handsome man slowly coming out in a strange chair.


    Thinking of how that person said that there was a cripple at home, Feng Laoliu laughed out loud. ¡°I thought I had found the wrong person. I¡¯m relieved to see you.¡±


    After laughing, Feng Laoliu glared at Madam Li and grabbed her throat. He looked at Song Jingchen and said, ¡°Hand over that b*tch, or I¡¯ll kill her.¡±


    ¡°You evil man, let go of my mother.¡± Brother Hao tried to step forward, but someone pressed him to the ground.


    Sister Huan hugged the trembling Lin Miaomiao tightly and looked at Feng Laoliu angrily.


    If only Sister-in-law was here.


    If only she was as powerful as Sister-in-law.

 Chapter 96 - Rescue

    Song Jingchen paused and frowned. He glanced at Bruiser, who was hiding in the crowd.


    The latter met his gaze and ran away.


    Song Jingchen said unhurriedly, ¡°I don¡¯t know who you¡¯re looking for. As you can see, everyone in our family is here.¡±


    ¡°Brother, be careful. He has hidden weapons.¡±


    ¡°Right. We all watched him take it out of that chair,¡± the injured pair reminded him.


    Seeing that their faces were covered in blood, Feng Laoliu pushed Madam Li forward and instructed his subordinates, ¡°The two of you, go and capture him.¡±


    After giving the instructions, he warned, ¡°You¡¯d better not act rashly. Otherwise, I might lose my life if I¡¯m not careful.¡±


    1


    Song Jingchen secretly clenched his fists and looked at the two people who were getting closer and closer to him. In the end, he didn¡¯t move.


    There was a moment of silence.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Feng Laoliu suddenly screamed. The hand that was holding Madam Li was cut off at the shoulder, and a machete was nailed to the roof of the old house¡¯s main hall.


    Blood splattered all over Madam Li¡¯s face. Madam Li¡¯s eyes darkened and she was about to faint when a petite body caught her.


    ¡°Sister, Sister Jia¡­¡± Madam Li looked at the person who had suddenly appeared and suddenly calmed down.


    Bruiser also squeezed through the crowd and pushed away the person holding Brother Hao down while everyone was in a daze.


    ¡°Catch them!¡± Feng Laoliu covered his wound with his hand and roared with a ferocious expression.


    Someone reacted and quickly went to grab a few children. Shen Yijia pushed Madam Li back and blocked them.


    Glancing at Song Jingchen, who was dragged out of the wheelchair and pressed to the ground, Shen Yijia was furious. She raised her leg angrily and kicked the person in front of her.


    The man was kicked a few meters away and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Shen Yijia did not mind that she had killed someone. She cleared a path and asked Bruiser to bring the children back to the house.


    She arrived at Song Jingchen¡¯s side in a flash and grabbed the hand of the person holding him down. With a crack, she twisted the person¡¯s arm.


    Before he could cry out in pain, he fainted.


    Song Jingchen looked up at Shen Yijia, and his scarlet eyes stunned her.


    This was the first time she had seen Song Jingchen in such a sorry state. His hair was messy and his entire body was dirty.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached, and her eyes turned red. She turned her head, gritted her teeth, and carried Song Jingchen back to the wheelchair. She said softly, ¡°I won¡¯t let them off.¡±


    With that, she turned to look at Feng Laoliu.


    Even though the person he was looking for finally appeared, he didn¡¯t feel happy at all. Instead, he felt that a disaster was imminent.


    Remembering that he had brought many people with him, he suppressed the fear in his heart and glared at Shen Yijia. ¡°B*tch, I brought people here today. You¡¯d better kneel down and beg for mercy. If I¡¯m in a good mood, I can give you a quick death. Otherwise, if you fall into my hands, I¡¯ll definitely make you beg for death.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha!¡± Shen Yijia suddenly laughed. She tilted her head and asked innocently, ¡°How do you want to die? I can fulfill your wish right now.¡±


    Feng Laoliu felt a chill run down his spine from Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze. He even forgot the pain in his broken arm. He took a few steps back and did not forget to instruct his lackeys, ¡°Attack. Beat them to death.¡±


    The lackeys rushed towards Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia slowly removed the hairpin from her head, and her black hair fell down.


    She didn¡¯t mind. She turned the hairpin gently and put the other half in her pocket. She looked around at the onlookers.


    She bared her teeth and faced him.

 Chapter 97 - Massacre

    In the crowd, An Dong lowered his head in shame. If something happened to him, his family might not survive. He felt that he had made the right choice.


    However, when he saw that petite figure appear, it was as if he felt a slap on his face.


    For the first time, Shen Yijia moved with the intent to kill. She killed someone every strike. Her speed was so fast that no one had a chance to react. It was like cutting wheat. Soon, a large group of people fell.


    The remaining people had long wanted to retreat. They took several steps backward and looked at Shen Yijia, who was walking towards them, in fear.


    Shen Yijia did not intend to let them off. Her face and body were covered in blood. Her black hair fluttered in the wind, and she was still smiling. She looked like a demon that had crawled out of hell, but she did not let a single drop fall on the man behind her.


    When the last lackey fell, the entrance of the Song family¡¯s residence turned into a slaughterhouse. The onlookers were so frightened that they fell to the ground without the strength to leave.


    All the people he brought with him were killed with a single slash. Feng Laoliu looked at Shen Yijia, who was walking towards him slowly.


    He peed his pants and fell to his knees. He said incoherently, ¡°Let- let me go. I won¡¯t- I won¡¯t dare to trouble you again. I was wrong. Please don¡¯t kill me.¡±


    Shen Yijia ignored him and said calmly, ¡°I just said that you can choose a way to die. I meant what I said.¡±


    Feng Laoliu shook his head in a panic. ¡°No, you can¡¯t kill me. Otherwise, my master won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    ¡°Who asked you to come and cause trouble here?¡± A cold voice suddenly sounded.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks and looked at Song Jingchen in confusion.


    Song Jingchen had already recovered and looked at Shen Yijia with a comforting gaze.


    This silly girl clearly didn¡¯t dare to kill anyone before.


    At first, he thought that these people were here for Lin Shao and his sister. It was only when Feng Laoliu asked him to hand her over that he realized that they were not. These people were here for Shen Yijia.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s a scholar. I don¡¯t know him. I¡¯m holding this¡­¡± The word ¡°b*tch¡± almost slipped out of his mouth. Feng Laoliu hurriedly corrected himself. ¡°I was looking for someone in town with her portrait, but I couldn¡¯t find her. I gave up, but that scholar suddenly found me and said that he knew her. He asked us to come here to look for her.¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking for her?¡± Song Jingchen asked. He had a guess about the scholar Feng Laoliu was talking about.


    Feng Laoliu looked at Shen Yijia and stammered, ¡°That day in town, I brought people to tease her and was beaten up by her¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned at Shen Yijia. Why hadn¡¯t he heard of this before?


    It was only then that Shen Yijia remembered that the ruffian she had met in town was Feng Laoliu. She did not take this matter to heart at all and had long forgotten about him. She did not expect that she had almost harmed her entire family.


    If she hadn¡¯t made it back on time¡­ When she thought of the consequences, not only did she feel guilty, but she also hated Feng Laoliu.


    When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, Feng Laoliu regretted it. ¡°There¡¯s someone backing me. You can¡¯t kill me. Otherwise, you won¡¯t have an easy time.¡±


    ¡°How dare he be so arrogant after I¡¯d caught him?¡± Shen Yijia thought, sneering in disdain. Seeing that Song Jingchen no longer spoke, she approached him with deliberate steps.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± Shen Yijia stopped when she heard that.


    Feng Laoliu heaved a sigh of relief.

 Chapter 98 - Resolving the Situation

    When he saw the person who spoke, Feng Laoliu¡¯s last trace of relief was gone. His pupils dilated as he finally realized why the little girl he had seen before looked familiar.


    He saw the Lin siblings who had disappeared previously.


    If the situation were different, Feng Laoliu would probably laugh and say that he had finally found the kids after he searched high and low for them.


    But now he wished he had never come to Xiagou Village.


    Lin Shao squeezed through the crowd, panting. ¡°Sister-in-law, can you leave this person to me? I want to avenge my parents with my own hands.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen, who nodded.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and did not give Feng Laoliu a chance to speak again. With a few cracking sounds, she broke Feng Laoliu¡¯s other arm as well as both his legs.


    Feng Laoliu cried out in pain before he choked and fainted.


    Shen Yijia looked at Lin Shao and asked, ¡°Is it okay if he¡¯s not awake?¡±


    Lin Shao said gratefully, ¡°Thank you, Sister-in-law.¡±


    He knew that Shen Yijia did this because she was worried that Feng Laoliu would hurt him.


    He dragged Feng Laoliu by his legs to the storeroom in the backyard.


    Apart from Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen, there were only corpses lying on the ground and villagers watching from the roadside.


    Those people looked at Shen Yijia as if she was a monster.


    Song Jingchen glanced around.


    One of the construction workers trembled and said, ¡°Boss, I still have something on at home. I won¡¯t be coming over from tomorrow onwards.¡±


    ¡®Right, right. I¡¯ve got things to do at home, too. I¡¯m never coming back.¡¯


    ¡°Right, I¡¯ve got stuff going on too.¡±


    Soon, those people staggered away.


    Auntie Tian pulled An Dong home without a word.


    Third Uncle He did not leave. He looked around and tried his best to ignore the corpses on the ground. He mustered up his courage and said, ¡°Boss, don¡¯t worry. This house is almost completed. I can finish it in a few days.¡±


    He had thought about it. She only invited him because she trusted him. He really couldn¡¯t help her just now. Even if he was the only one working, he couldn¡¯t break his promise.


    Song Jingchen nodded indifferently. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble Third Uncle He. You can go back for today.¡±


    ¡°Aye. I¡¯ll come back tomorrow.¡±


    After Third Uncle He left, Shen Yijia looked at the corpses on the ground in distress, not knowing what to do.


    ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law, are you alright?¡± Bruiser walked out with Tuan Zi in his arms.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and said, ¡°Wait here for a while. Help me make a trip to town later.¡±


    With that, he looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Go take a shower and change your clothes first.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia glanced downwards and agreed.


    Song Jingchen sat at his desk and pondered for a long time. He rubbed his forehead and finally wrote a letter.


    He called Bruiser over and instructed him to send the letter out.


    In less than 15 minutes, the news that Shen Yijia had single-handedly killed 50 to 60 people spread throughout Xiagou Village. The corpses were still piled up in the courtyard.


    No one dared to look. Those who had to walk past the area chose to take a detour.


    However, no one dared to gossip about Shen Yijia anymore. They would probably stay away from her in the future.


    Of course, they couldn¡¯t just leave the corpses lying in the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia carried them away one by one. Madam Li and the children saw this and came out to help.


    Shen Yijia paused for a moment and said guiltily, ¡°Mother, it¡¯s all my fault this time. If not for me¡­¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡± Madam Li interrupted her. ¡°We¡¯re family. Not to mention that you rushed back to save us. Even if something really happened, Mother wouldn¡¯t blame you. These people are clearly the ones with evil intentions. You did the right thing. If not for you, we might not have been able to live safely to this day.¡±

 Chapter 99 - Reward

    ¡°Sister-in-law, don¡¯t be afraid. When I grow up, I¡¯ll beat up all the bad people with you.¡± Brother Hao comforted her.


    Shen Yijia was touched. So this was family.


    ¡°Are you guys busy? Let me help.¡± Widow Wang walked in with a loud voice. ¡°These bastards. Fortunately, Eldest Nephew¡¯s wife is capable. Otherwise¡­ I¡¯m scared just thinking about it.¡±


    Madam Li looked at her in surprise and asked, ¡°Sister Wang, why are you here? The house is in chaos.¡±


    ¡°Sister, what are you talking about? It¡¯s just a few corpses. I saw them a few years ago when there was a famine.¡±


    Widow Wang was well built from farming, so she could carry a corpse alone. ¡°Besides, corpses are not as scary as living people.¡±


    After a pause, she explained, ¡°Sister, don¡¯t blame me. I went to town this morning and only heard about this when I returned. I rushed over.¡±


    Madam Li wiped her tears. ¡°I can¡¯t thank you enough. Why would I blame you?¡±


    After saying that, Madam Li glanced at the tightly shut door of the An family¡¯s residence next door and sighed.


    Shen Yijia wanted to burn the corpses with fire, but she did not expect a group of officials to come just as they were done cleaning up.


    As soon as those people arrived, they carried the corpses onto a cart. After they were done, an official spoke, ¡°The county magistrate said that these hooligans have committed all kinds of crimes and deserve to be punished. You¡¯ve eliminated evil on behalf of the people today, so you should be rewarded.¡±


    With that, someone walked up with a tray containing silver ingots. Shen Yijia counted ten silver ingots. For a long time after the officials left, Shen Yijia still felt like she was in a dream.


    Didn¡¯t Feng Laoliu say that he was backed by the county magistrate? The situation was different from what she¡¯d imagined.


    In any case, it was a good thing that the county magistrate did not pursue the matter.


    Everyone heaved a sigh of relief. This matter could finally come to an end.


    In the underground arena.


    When Manager Feng heard about Feng Laoliu¡¯s death, he was so angry that he swept the things on the desk to the ground.


    He said angrily, ¡°I¡¯ve already reminded Feng Laoliu not to provoke women, or he would die at the hands of a woman sooner or later. Look, my warning came true!¡±


    Although Feng Laoliu¡¯s surname was also Feng, the two of them were not related by blood. He was actually from the same hometown as Manager Feng.


    Manager Feng was not angry because of Feng Laoliu¡¯s death. It was purely because Feng Laoliu was an obedient dog, and it would be difficult to find a replacement.


    The enchanting woman clearly knew this as well. She leaned her delicate body against Manager Feng and comforted him gently. ¡°It¡¯s not worth it to ruin your health because of a dog. If you lose this one, you can find another one.¡±


    Manager Feng waved the woman away angrily. ¡°Would I be so angry if he was the only one who died? We lost more than 60 people this time.¡±


    Seeing that he was really angry, the enchanting woman did not dare to tease him anymore. She asked tentatively, ¡°What did the Master say?¡±


    ¡°Master said that this matter ends here.¡± It would have been fine if she didn¡¯t mention this, but when she brought it up, he became even angrier.


    He cursed, ¡°Damn Feng Laoliu. Not only did he lose the Lin siblings, but he also found excuses to explain why he didn¡¯t bring them back. I think he was only thinking about women, so he didn¡¯t keep an eye on them. Now that he¡¯s dead, where am I supposed to find them?¡±


    The Master that they were talking about was sitting motionless at the desk. A letter that had been opened lay beside his hand.


    It was not until a servant¡¯s greeting came from outside that he was brought back to reality. He wiped the sweat off his forehead and hurriedly placed the envelope on the candle flame to light it.


    ¡°Is his lordship there?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Madam. Please wait a moment. I¡¯ll go in and inform him first.¡±

 Chapter 100 - Grievance

    At night, Shen Yijia lay on the bed and waited for a long time. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t return to the house. When she opened her eyes in a daze, it was already midnight.


    There was still no one beside her. She reached out and felt that the bed was cold. It was obvious that Song Jingchen had never returned.


    Shen Yijia frowned and gathered her clothes before leaving.


    After looking around, she saw Song Jingchen sitting in the backyard in a thin shirt.


    The moonlight was hazy, and the weak light shone on him, making it impossible to see his expression.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s started coughing, which brought Shen Yijia back to her senses.


    Before she could say anything, Song Jingchen had already noticed her.


    ¡°It¡¯s so cold. Why did you come out?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    His tone was as calm as ever.


    Song Jingchen seemed to act like this all the time. He hid all his emotions in the depths of his heart, giving others the illusion that he was fine.


    He had been like this ever since he first found out about the deaths of his father and his grandfather¡¯s, as well as his crippled legs.


    Today, he felt humiliated by his own helplessness when Feng Laoliu threatened him with Madam Li.


    How could a former prodigy like him be as calm as he appeared?


    Shen Yijia felt a lump in her throat. She took a few steps forward and threw herself into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. She said aggrievedly, ¡°Shenzhi, hug me.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt wronged, but she didn¡¯t know if she was feeling wronged for herself or for Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. His cold limbs seemed to be injected with a warm current, warming his cold heart until it regained its vitality. He subconsciously hugged the petite body in his arms tightly.


    Feeling a slight wetness on his chest, Song Jingchen helplessly reached out and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hair. ¡°It¡¯s cold outside. Let¡¯s go back. Don¡¯t catch a cold.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know when Feng Laoliu died or how he died.


    The next morning, Lin Shao and Bruiser threw a sack into the carriage. The two of them drove the carriage out. It was a long time before they returned.


    When she returned, Lin Shao¡¯s eyes were red. He had obviously been crying.


    The news about Feng Laoliu¡¯s death spread throughout the countryside. Many people who had been persecuted by him clapped and cheered.


    Those who had witnessed the massacre did not feel so good. They hid at home for a few days and did not dare to go out. Some even fell sick from fright for a few days.


    In the Song family¡¯s old residence, Madam Liu cursed Shen Yijia in her heart. Why didn¡¯t she die?


    However, after this incident, she did not dare to curse her anymore. She was afraid that Shen Yijia would kill her one day.


    Now that she thought about it, Shen Yijia had only shaved a handful of her hair back then. Should she burn incense and pray to Buddha?


    Song Dajiang was not so calm. He was so frightened that he smoked for the entire night and did not dare to close his eyes to sleep.


    He had been hiding in the crowd and watching secretly. When Feng Laoliu said that he did not know the informant, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    Third Uncle He came alone to Shen Yijia¡¯s house. As expected, the other workers did not come.


    Shen Yijia did not mind. Anyway, she was strong. She could do it herself.


    Lin Shao and Madam Li did not stay idle either. They helped out with any work that they could do.


    After a night with no incidents, the family had gotten over what had happened yesterday.


    After all, they had all seen the world beyond this village. Brother Hao and Sister Huan, who were the youngest, had also seen a similar incident twice on the way from the capital to Xiagou Village. They were not frightened. However, Lin Miaomiao had fallen sick. They fed her medicine and got the twins to guard the house.


    They were all busy. However, they would occasionally chat and laugh.


    Widow Wang watched as Shen Yijia easily lifted a load of tiles onto the roof. She clicked her tongue and said, ¡°Eldest Nephew¡¯s wife is really amazing. With this ability, no man can compare to her.¡±

 Chapter 101 - Moving to a New House

    Madam Li glanced at Shen Yijia and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s our family¡¯s blessing that Brother Chen can marry her.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, that¡¯s right, that¡¯s right.¡± Widow Wang smiled awkwardly. She was a good person, but it was hard to say if she was a good daughter-in-law.


    In any case, she did not dare to have such a powerful daughter-in-law. Widow Wang believed that she herself had a bad temper, and it would be terrible if the two of them were stuck together.


    She secretly decided that Bruiser would have to find a gentle and virtuous wife in the future.


    As they chatted, An Dong walked in.


    Madam Li asked, ¡°Dongzi, why are you here?¡±


    An Dong glanced at Shen Yijia and lowered his eyes. ¡°Auntie Li, let me help.¡±


    Madam Li paused for a moment and smiled bitterly. ¡°You¡¯re a good child.¡±


    Madam Li knew that it was human nature to seek benefits and avoid harm. If she had been in Auntie Tian¡¯s shoes, she might have made the same choice as Auntie Tian.


    An Dong said nothing more and went up the roof to help in silence.


    As there were not many people around, Madam Li asked everyone to stay for lunch.


    An Dong was unwilling to do so. Madam Li had no choice but to pack some food for him to bring back.


    Seeing how quiet An Dong was, Madam Li thought for a moment and chased after him. ¡°Dongzi, don¡¯t take what happened yesterday to heart. You did the right thing. At that time, even if you stood up for him, you wouldn¡¯t be able to gain anything. Instead, you might have lost your life for nothing. I don¡¯t blame you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Auntie. I understand.¡± An Dong¡¯s eyes turned red. He felt so guilty last night that he couldn¡¯t sleep.


    Even when he came over today, he wanted to make up for it. For this, Father An even quarreled with Auntie Tian because Auntie Tian didn¡¯t agree to let him come over again.


    2


    The new house was fully completed on the first day of winter. After experiencing it many times, they no longer cared about auspicious dates. The family moved in the next day.


    After all, so many people had died here. It was already filled with bad luck.


    It could be seen from the fact that the people of Xiagou Village did not dare to pass by here again after that day.


    What¡¯s more, every time they saw Shen Yijia, they would avoid her.


    Shen Yijia did not care about this at all. She was quite satisfied that no one was gossiping about her anymore.


    The housewarming party was arranged to be on the next day. Madam Li no longer had any hopes for the villagers, so she only invited Bruiser and Widow Wang.


    After all, the An family next door was their neighbor. Madam Li had specially come to visit them the day before.


    They believed that Auntie Tian wouldn¡¯t come, but they didn¡¯t expect her to come with Father An the next day.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen Father An. She could tell that he was an honest person. It was no wonder that he would sacrifice himself to save others.


    After the housewarming party, Madam Li and Auntie Tian seemed to have recovered their friendship.


    Shen Yijia felt that more people should be coming and going so that the house would seem more lively. Now, Auntie Tian would bring An Xiu¡¯er to look for Madam Li and do embroidery with her from time to time.


    It was worth mentioning that An Dong and Third Uncle He¡¯s youngest daughter, He Xinci, had gotten engaged. They were waiting for spring to hold the wedding ceremony.


    An Dong was the same age as Song Jingchen. Not only was the An family poor, but there was also Father An, who had large medical expenses. No girl was willing to marry into the family and be implicated. Because of this, Auntie Tian was chronically anxious, which led to her having sores in her mouth quite often.


    Third Uncle He had spent some time with An Dong and felt that he was not a bad person. The two families hit it off and the marriage became a success.


    ¡°Why are you in a daze again?¡± Song Jingchen knocked Shen Yijia on the head.


    It was too cold to let Brother Hao and the others go out again, so Song Jingchen forced them to write in the house. Bruiser was among them.


    Shen Yijia giggled and glanced at the five people who were engrossed in writing.


    She tossed aside the brush in her hand and whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear, ¡°I heard that Song Maolin is back.¡±

 Chapter 102 - Unlucky

    Shen Yijia heard the villagers discussing when she went to the mountain to gather firewood. They said that Song Maolin had returned and did not manage to become a High Scholar.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. He thought that Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t be able to guess who the scholar Feng Laoliu was talking about was. Seeing her mysterious look, he asked in amusement, ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Beat him up, of course.¡±


    She had been thinking about it this whole time. However, Song Maolin had gone out for an exam and hadn¡¯t returned. She couldn¡¯t blame his family for this.


    She was not that kind of person.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. ¡°As long as you¡¯re happy.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled and kissed Song Jingchen¡¯s cheek. ¡°I knew you were the best, Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    Although it wasn¡¯t the first time, he still wasn¡¯t used to it. Besides, there were so many people around.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses. When she turned around, she met five pairs of sparkling eyes. They almost blinded her.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything!¡± Sister Huan covered her eyes and said.


    ¡°Yes, I didn¡¯t see anything. You can continue.¡± Brother Hao stuck out his tongue.


    Lin Miaomiao followed suit and said weakly, ¡°Then, I didn¡¯t see it either.¡±


    Lin Shao said, ¡°I¡¯m writing seriously.¡±


    Bruiser was the oldest among them, so he wasn¡¯t bothered at all. He smiled mischievously and said, ¡°We all saw it. Sister, you kissed Brother-in-law.¡±


    He didn¡¯t manage to say anything else because Shen Yijia kicked him out in anger.


    The remaining people burst into laughter. Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but smile.


    The Song family¡¯s old residence had been shrouded in dark clouds since Song Maolin returned.


    When Song Erlin¡¯s wife, Madam Chen, gave birth to a daughter a few days ago, Madam Liu started to pick on her.


    She did not even allow her to celebrate the child¡¯s first month. She just threw more laundry to her to wash.


    It was winter. Song Erlin¡¯s heart ached for his wife, but he couldn¡¯t disobey his mother, so he could only help her secretly.


    The family was already in a mess. Song Maolin came back in the middle of the night.


    Song Maolin¡¯s did have some talent. He was able to pass the county-level examination in his teens, and the teachers in the academy thought highly of him. Logically speaking, he should have been able to pass the exam.


    The problem was that Song Maolin was unlucky.


    Perhaps to show his superiority, he did not travel with the other students. Instead, he rented a carriage alone.


    In the end, he encountered bandits blocking his way. Not only did they rob him of all his silver, but they also did not let go of his carriage.


    As a result, he was forced to return before he could enter the examination hall. The villagers did not know the truth and only thought that he had failed.


    Madam Liu¡¯s heart ached when she thought about how she had almost thrown her precious son out as a beggar that night. She kept putting food into Song Maolin¡¯s bowl. ¡°Third Son, don¡¯t be discouraged. You can take the exam again next time.¡±


    As soon as Madam Liu said this, the others at the table paused. It was easy to suggest supporting Song Maolin for the next exam, but they didn¡¯t want to keep eating bland food in order to save money on his behalf.


    Song Dajiang didn¡¯t seem to see his other two sons¡¯ reactions and comforted Song Maolin. ¡°Your mother is right. This matter isn¡¯t your fault. You can take the exam next time.¡±


    Song Maolin took a bite of his rice and glanced at his two brothers. A smug look flashed across his eyes, but in the next second, he put on a troubled expression. ¡°Why don¡¯t we forget about it? Not to mention wasting money, I might not even be able to pass the exam. Many of my classmates have gone to the county school. They can learn more than me while they¡¯re there. I definitely won¡¯t be able to catch up to them.¡±

 Chapter 103 - Settling Scores

    Song Dajiang wasn¡¯t well educated. How could he understand these twists and turns? He simply believed that the county school was definitely better than the school in town. After some thought, he said, ¡°Why don¡¯t you go to the county school next year?¡±


    ¡°How much money does a county school cost?¡± Song Dalin couldn¡¯t help but interrupt. ¡°All these years, our family has suffered so much for Third Brother. Father, Mother, it¡¯s easy for you to ask him to take the exam again, but you have to consider our circumstances.¡±


    Song Jiayue, who had always been close to Song Maolin, agreed with him in her heart. She wondered when her dowry would be ready.


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Song Dajiang threw down his chopsticks. He had always been the one to have the last word. How could he tolerate anyone disobeying him? ¡°I¡¯m not dead yet. You don¡¯t have the right to make decisions in this family.¡±


    ¡°Father, don¡¯t be angry. Brother is right. I¡¯ve been a burden to everyone for the past few years. Let¡¯s forget about it. Look at how glorious Eldest Grandpa was in the capital back then. And yet, he still ended up¡­¡± Song Maolin didn¡¯t finish his sentence, but everyone understood.


    ¡°What do you mean by that? If I say you¡¯ll go to the county school, then you¡¯ll go to the county school. You just have to focus on studying.¡± Song Dajiang was originally a little hesitant, but after being provoked by Song Maolin, he immediately made his decision.


    He still remembered the time when he was chased back from the capital with Song Dahai. He hated that family because of Song Dahai, but this issue had always been a sore spot for him.


    ¡°I- I understand.¡± Song Maolin pretended to be helpless and looked apologetically at his two brothers.


    ¡°Are you still eating? Did I come at the wrong time?¡± As they spoke, the courtyard door was kicked open.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Madam Liu jumped up from her stool and looked at the two people who had entered in horror.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and said aggrievedly, ¡°Aunt, didn¡¯t you say that we should tell you if there¡¯s anything we lack? I¡¯m here now. Why do you look so unhappy?¡±


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re mistaken. Auntie Liu is clearly overjoyed,¡± Bruiser replied obsequiously.


    Previously, he had said something wrong and suffered Shen Yijia¡¯s disdain for a few days. He was way more attentive now.


    ¡°My my, you little b*tch. Stop pretending and get lost from my house.¡± Madam Liu had no idea what Song Maolin had done, so she acted self-righteously.


    Song Dajiang knew the truth, so he was already sweating in fear. He was afraid that Madam Liu would anger this demon if she said the wrong thing. He slapped her. ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Although Song Dajiang was known to hit people when he was unhappy, Madam Liu still covered her face and looked at Song Dajiang in disbelief,


    Shouldn¡¯t he be on her side while she criticized Shen Yijia?


    Song Dajiang had no time to care about Madam Liu¡¯s inner thoughts. He coughed dryly and forced a smile at Shen Yijia. ¡°Nephew-in-law, why are you here? Tell me if you have any difficulties. I¡¯ll definitely settle it for you.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked down on his arrogant behavior. She rolled her eyes and suggested sincerely, ¡°You should stop smiling. You¡¯re so ugly.¡±


    Bruiser said, ¡°That¡¯s right. How ugly.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Song Dajiang¡¯s face contorted, but he didn¡¯t dare to flare up. Song Maolin had locked himself in his room ever since he came back, and only left his room for meals. He didn¡¯t know what had happened in the village recently.


    Seeing Song Dajiang like this, his heart skipped a beat. Those people that he sent should have arrived long ago, but Shen Yijia was standing here, perfectly fine. That meant¡­

 Chapter 104 - Abusing Trash

    Shen Yijia did not care what they were thinking and went straight to the point. ¡°I¡¯m here to look for him.¡±


    She pointed at Song Maolin.


    Song Maolin¡¯s pupils constricted. Other than Song Dajiang and Madam Liu, everyone heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Song Maolin curiously.


    ¡°May I know why Sister-in-law is looking for me?¡± Song Maolin was displeased by her gaze. He smirked and stood up.


    He acted polite.


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s nothing. I just don¡¯t like you, so I want to beat you up to stretch my muscles.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s tone was very relaxed, as if she was simply discussing what to eat for dinner.


    The people who heard this did not feel so good. Everyone in Shen Yijia¡¯s village was afraid of her.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Madam Liu ignored the pain on her cheek and stood in front of Song Maolin with her hands on her hips. She scolded sharply, ¡°Little b*tch, don¡¯t think that you can do whatever you want here just because you know some martial arts. If you dare to touch a single hair on my son¡¯s head, I¡¯ll sue you through the county magistrate even if I have to risk my life. The world can¡¯t be such a lawless place.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. This lady was so naggy. She wanted to shut Madam Liu up.


    After Madam Liu finished scolding her, Song Dajiang came out to play the good cop. ¡°Nephew-in-law, is there a misunderstanding? Maolin has been studying outside and only returned recently.¡±


    1


    He clearly remembered that Feng Laoliu did not say Song Maolin¡¯s name.


    ¡°Sister, he said it was a misunderstanding.¡± Bruiser tried to make his presence known.


    Shen Yijia dug her ears and said indifferently, ¡°So be it. If it¡¯s a misunderstanding, let¡¯s talk about it after I¡¯ve beaten him up.¡±


    She stopped listening to Song Dajiang and his wife. She flashed over and grabbed Song Maolin¡¯s collar. Under his terrified gaze, she punched him in the mouth.


    ¡°There, use your big mouth to report this incident.¡± she thought.


    Madam Liu screamed in fear and rushed over to hit Shen Yijia. How could Shen Yijia let her succeed? She grabbed Song Maolin and spun him around. Madam Liu¡¯s nails landed on Song Maolin.


    Song Maolin was in so much pain that he could not speak. Tears streamed down his face.


    Song Dalin and Song Erlin swallowed and took a step back with their wives.


    ¡°Stop, stop!¡± Song Dajiang was so anxious that he stomped his feet. However, he did not have the courage to rush forward. He was afraid that Shen Yijia would attack him too.


    In the end, he still loved himself the most. He only treated Song Maolin well because he wanted to lead a good life through Song Maolin in the future. If he died now, there would be no future for him.


    Shen Yijia sneered. She was extremely annoyed with Madam Liu, who kept pestering her. She didn¡¯t want to hurt the innocent.


    Madam Liu saw Shen Yijia raise her other hand. Then, she felt a pain in her neck and fainted.


    Shen Yijia nodded in satisfaction and blinked at the struggling Song Maolin. ¡°No one else will disturb me, right? I would get really annoyed if someone did.¡±


    This sentence silenced everyone present. No one dared to help Madam Liu up.


    After those words, it was time for Shen Yijia to torture Song Maolin.


    Thinking of what Song Maolin had done, Shen Yijia was furious. She wanted to beat him up so badly that he would never speak again.


    ¡°Sister, Sister. That¡¯s enough, that¡¯s enough. He¡¯s already in this state. If you continue hitting him, he¡¯s going to die.¡± Bruiser clenched his teeth when he saw this scene. This family was so cowardly that no one dared to say anything to stop Shen Yijia, so he had to step forward.

 Chapter 105 - Expulsion

    Shen Yijia ignored him as if she was possessed. Bruiser glanced at Song Maolin, who was foaming at his mouth, and gritted his teeth. ¡°You forgot what Brother-in-law said. You can¡¯t kill.¡±


    These words were like a switch that finally pulled Shen Yijia back to her senses.


    Shen Yijia retracted her fist and shook Song Maolin. Seeing that his eyes were still moving, she threw him aside guiltily. ¡°Well, he¡¯s not dead yet. He¡¯s still breathing.¡±


    With that, she stepped towards the door, ready to leave. After taking two steps, she thought of something and turned around. ¡°I heard that a scholar cares about his hands the most.¡±


    Song Dajiang was still wondering what this meant when he saw Shen Yijia squatting down beside Song Maolin and breaking his hands.


    Song Dajiang couldn¡¯t stay calm anymore. He pointed at Shen Yijia. ¡°You, you!¡±


    ¡°Me? What about me? You¡¯re welcome to look for me anytime.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at Song Dajiang arrogantly. This time, she left without looking back.


    What Song Maolin cared about the most were his hands, so she crippled his hands. After all, Song Maolin had nearly caused her to lose what she cared about the most.


    Bruiser took a look at Song Maolin¡¯s miserable appearance and gasped. He looked at Song Dajiang, who was looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s back with hatred. He did not forget his mission. He cleared his throat and said, ¡°My brother-in-law said that it¡¯s best to end this matter here. On the account that we¡¯re from the same lineage, he doesn¡¯t want to kill you all. Think about Feng Laoliu¡¯s outcome. Even the people behind him did not dare to stand up for him. You¡¯d better consider if you¡¯re more capable than Feng Laoliu.¡±


    With that, Bruiser followed Shen Yijia.


    Song Dajiang trembled and fell to the ground. Looking at the blood flowing out of Song Maolin¡¯s hands, he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. It¡¯s all over.¡±


    ¡°Sister, wait for me.¡± Bruiser was out of breath from running. ¡°Does that mean Scholar Song¡¯s hands can never recover?¡±


    Thinking about it, he still felt that it was too ruthless. This would ruin his life. It seemed to be worse than killing him.


    Shen Yijia stopped and rolled her eyes. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Well, he probably wouldn¡¯t be able to use his hands again.¡± Bruiser scratched his head, not knowing what to say. Shen Yijia was kind, but she could also kill dozens of people without batting an eye.


    One could say she was vicious, but she had brought the Lin siblings home.


    Even he himself had benefited a lot after acknowledging Shen Yijia as his boss.


    ¡°Who knows?¡± Shen Yijia smiled mysteriously.


    After all, there were no irreparable consequences. On account of her grandfather, whom she had never met, she decided to give them one last chance. Therefore, she only wanted to scare them. She didn¡¯t act as ruthlessly as she usually would. However, it would take a lot of money to treat those hands.


    Unfortunately, Shen Yijia did not know that some people were rotten to the core. No matter how many chances she gave them, they would continue to cause trouble.


    Many villagers saw Shen Yijia coming out of the old residence. They thought of the wails they had heard previously and looked at each other for a while before shivering.


    This matter was different from killing Feng Laoliu and the others. Feng Laoliu was not a good person to begin with, and he was the one who came to cause trouble.


    However, the Song family¡¯s old residence did not provoke Shen Yijia openly, and yet Shen Yijia came to cause trouble. Who knew if they would be the next victims?


    With this thought in mind, many people went to the village chief¡¯s house to complain. It would be best if they could expel this dangerous person from the village.

 Chapter 106 - Injured

    However, Song Jingchen had already asked Lin Shao to explain everything to the village chief before Shen Yijia left.


    Song Tiegen naturally didn¡¯t want anything to happen to the only scholar in the village, but he knew that he couldn¡¯t do anything to stop it.


    As he sat at home and sighed, the villagers arrived.


    Since the matter was already settled, Song Tiegen could only reveal the truth that Song Maolin was the one who summoned Feng Laoliu and his thugs.


    When the villagers heard this, they all looked incredulous.


    Usually, the old Song family would simply cause some trivial matters and take advantage of the situation.


    Who would have thought that Song Maolin, who usually looked gentle and polite, would be so ruthless?


    With the last bit of hope, Song Dajiang invited the town doctor.


    After the examination, it was confirmed that Song Maolin¡¯s hands could still be treated. Although he could no longer lift heavy objects in the future, his ability to write would not be affected.


    This made Song Dajiang heave a sigh of relief. He decided that no matter how expensive the herbs were, Song Maolin¡¯s hands had to be treated.


    As soon as he said this, the other two sons disagreed and wanted to split up the family. It was fine if Song Dajiang provided for Song Maolin¡¯s studies, since he could help the whole family out if he became a well-known scholar. However, they found it unfair that they had to help clean up the mess he caused.


    Song Erlin, who usually kept quiet, insisted on splitting the family even if he had to leave the house with nothing.


    During this period of time, Madam Liu would often complain that Song Erlin¡¯s wife, Madam Chen, was a burden because she had given birth to a good-for-nothing. When Song Maolin encountered bandits and failed to become a High Scholar, he also took out his frustrations on her.


    Song Erlin married Madam Chen back then because he loved her. He naturally couldn¡¯t bear to see his wife being treated like this, which was why he lost his temper.


    This caused another huge commotion. In the end, Song Dajiang almost chased Song Erlin¡¯s family out in anger.


    The old residence had suffered a huge blow this time. First, Song Erlin left the family with only the clothes on their backs. Then, in order to treat Song Maolin¡¯s injuries, Song Dajiang had to sell the last few acres of land they owned. Not only that, but Song Maolin¡¯s reputation in the village was also ruined.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, be careful.¡± Lin Shao looked worriedly at the blurry figure climbing the cliff and reminded her loudly.


    ¡°Yeah, I got it,¡± Shen Yijia replied casually as she pressed her limbs against the cliff. She stared unblinkingly at a lingzhi plant not far away.


    It was so close to her, but there weren¡¯t any ledges she could hold on to.


    Shen Yijia took a deep breath and grabbed the protruding rock on the left with her right hand. She let go of her left hand and placed her entire weight on her right hand. She slowly leaned towards the plant and stuck out her left hand¡­


    ¡°I got it!¡± Shen Yijia cried out excitedly.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she finished speaking, something happened. The stone could not withstand Shen Yijia¡¯s weight and fell.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Lin Shao screamed as he ran over.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s body slid down the cliff for a long time, and she barely grabbed onto a protruding sharp rock to stabilize herself. She heaved a sigh of relief and carefully put the lingzhi in her hand into her pocket to prevent it from falling.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was still in the mood to take out and admire the lingzhi after landing, Lin Shao wanted to ask if the herb was that important. However, he did not ask in the end. He handed over the cotton shirt that Shen Yijia had taken off previously.


    The cotton clothes were newly made by Madam Li, so everyone in the family had them. Shen Yijia took them off in advance because she was afraid that they would get torn while she was climbing. Moreover, it would hinder her movements.


    Shen Yijia felt that she had great foresight. She put on clothes that could cover up her arm which was scraped up and covered in blood. the blood that had just been scraped off.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, your arm¡­¡±

 Chapter 107 - Breaking Through

    At the foot of the mountain, Shen Yijia frowned and looked back thoughtfully.


    Madam Li had already prepared dinner and was waiting for them to return. When she saw them return, she quickly handed over the ginger soup that she had prepared.


    ¡°Hurry up and drink this. Why are you running up the mountain in the cold? It¡¯s not like our family is lacking food.¡±


    Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to receive the bowl with her right hand, but she thought of something and switched to her left hand instead.


    The ginger soup was at the perfect temperature. After gulping down the soup, Shen Yijia said, ¡°I didn¡¯t get anything today. I don¡¯t know why, but all the prey in the mountains have disappeared.¡±


    Song Jingchen saw her actions just now. His gaze had been on Shen Yijia¡¯s right hand, which was hidden in her sleeve. When he heard this, he suddenly looked up at her.


    ¡°They must be hiding in the middle of winter.¡± Madam Li did not mind.


    Lin Shao opened his mouth to say something, but Shen Yijia glared at him and he immediately shut his mouth.


    Shen Yijia was satisfied.


    Unexpectedly, Tuan Zi smelled blood and kept moving closer to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia grit her teeth and quickly made an excuse to go back to her room to change.


    After returning to the house, Shen Yijia was not in a hurry to change her clothes. She first took out the lingzhi and placed it in the box she kept the wild ginseng in.


    Under her persistence during this period, the wild ginseng had already filled up half of the box. Coupled with this lingzhi that was more than twice the size of her palm, the box was now full.


    This was because no one would usually go into the deep mountains. These wild ginsengs were not cheap, and were much bigger than the ones she had bought for 30 taels.


    Thinking that it was enough for her to upgrade the spiritual liquid, Shen Yijia decided to secretly eat it these few days.


    After some thought, she took out two wild ginsengs that were about 30 to 40 years old and decided to ask Madam Li to make soup with it.


    After placing the box back under the bed, Shen Yijia started to take off her clothes.


    Previously, because of his excitement, she did not pay much attention. However, at this moment, she felt a burning pain in her chest, and her right palm also hurt from being scratched up.


    ¡°Do I need to throw these clothes away?¡± Shen Yijia muttered. Her heart ached a little as she rolled the clothes into a ball and stuffed them into the cabinet. She planned to find an opportunity to destroy the evidence.


    Shen Yijia reached out her finger to condense the spiritual liquid, but she decided to hold back.


    It didn¡¯t matter if others couldn¡¯t see her injuries. She was just afraid that Lin Shao would treat her as a demon if he knew that her injuries had completely healed so soon.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration. She wouldn¡¯t have thought so much about it back when she first arrived in this world, but things were different now. She liked her current life, so she didn¡¯t want it to be ruined.


    She took out another set of clothes from the closet and was about to put them on when the door was suddenly pushed open.


    A cold wind blew in from the door. Shen Yijia turned around and met a pair of shocked eyes.


    Song Jingchen only found out about Shen Yijia¡¯s injury after asking Lin Shao. He didn¡¯t think too much about it and wanted to come and take a look.


    He did not expect to see such an awkward scene.


    At this moment, Shen Yijia only had an undergarment hanging loosely on her upper body. She had untied it when she was examining her injuries and had yet to put it on.


    Because of the wind that suddenly blew in, her undergarments fluttered and almost fell off.


    Song Jingchen could even vaguely see the curves of the girl in front of her. His breathing tightened and he quickly turned his head away, not daring to look around.


    Shen Yijia shivered in the cold wind and didn¡¯t notice Song Jingchen¡¯s red earlobes. She muttered, ¡°Close the door. I¡¯m freezing to death.¡±

 Chapter 108 - Teasing

    When Song Jingchen heard that she was cold, he subconsciously closed the door.


    After closing the door, he realized that something was wrong. He should have gone out first and closed the door.


    However, Shen Yijia was no longer looking at him. She turned around and put on her clothes.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know if he should stay or leave.


    He lowered his eyes and was about to turn the wheelchair around with his back facing Shen Yijia when he suddenly smelled a faint smell of blood. Song Jingchen frowned and remembered why he had come in.


    ¡°Are you¡­ injured?¡± His tone was serious.


    Shen Yijia paused for a moment. She gritted her teeth and cursed Lin Shao for being a traitor. ¡°Did he forget who his benefactor was? If I¡¯d known earlier, I wouldn¡¯t have¡­¡± she thought to herself.


    With this thought in mind, Shen Yijia sped up her movements. She quickly put on her clothes and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side. She handed him her right palm weakly and said aggrievedly, ¡°It hurts.¡±


    After spending so much time together, Shen Yijia realized that Song Jingchen was weak against this tactic of hers. In order to prevent Song Jingchen from getting angry, she decisively struck first and acted pitiful.


    How could Song Jingchen not see through her tricks? However, when he saw the few unsightly bloodstains on her fair palm, his heart couldn¡¯t help but ache.


    He forgot about the awkwardness from before and reached out to gently hold Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. The inexplicable frustration in his heart surged again.


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes and regained his composure before he opened them again.


    ¡°Go sit on the stool,¡± Song Jingchen said softly.


    Shen Yijia was very obedient and sat down.


    She looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes.


    After applying the medicine on her palm, Song Jingchen even bandaged her wound with a cloth to prevent it from getting wet.


    ¡°Make a bow. It looks good,¡± Shen Yijia suggested softly.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and didn¡¯t say anything. He silently untied the knot and tied the same knot again.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll tolerate it since you¡¯re good looking.¡± she thought to herself.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go up the mountain again.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t look at Shen Yijia¡¯s gritted teeth and lowered his eyes.


    ¡°I can¡¯t do that.¡± Shen Yijia was about to retort when she noticed that something was wrong with Song Jingchen. She comforted him, ¡°I¡¯m fine. It was an accident this time. Please let me go up the mountain, I promise I won¡¯t get hurt again. If I get hurt again, I¡¯ll listen to you and never go again¡­ No, there won¡¯t be a next time. I swear.¡±


    Song Jingchen knew that he couldn¡¯t stop her when he heard her tone. He sighed and looked up, wanting to say something.


    Because Shen Yijia was sitting on a stool, Song Jingchen saw a small scratch that extended from Shen Yijia¡¯s collar to her chin. His gaze froze.


    He reached out and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s chin, forcing her to raise her head.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself that Song Jingchen was being mean. She blinked and squeezed out a crocodile tear. She looked at Song Jingchen pitifully and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Song Jingchen suddenly relaxed and said in resignation, ¡°Apply the medicine yourself or I¡¯ll call Mom in. Make your choice.¡±


    ¡°I choose you.¡± Shen Yijia smiled, trying to get on his good side.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He suddenly recalled the scene he had seen earlier.


    He blushed. ¡°Then apply the medicine yourself.¡±


    Then he turned around, left the room, and closed the door.


    It would have looked more natural if the wheelchair didn¡¯t hit the door.


    Shen Yijia was amused by his reaction.

 Chapter 109 - Intentions

    Perhaps because he didn¡¯t want Madam Li to worry, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t tell her about Shen Yijia¡¯s injury. However, he couldn¡¯t hide the fact that her hand was bandaged.


    However, she only said that she was scratched by a tree branch. Even so, Madam Li had the same reaction as Song Jingchen and told Shen Yijia not to go up the mountain again.


    Shen Yijia tried her best to persuade Madam Li to relent, but the prerequisite was that she had to recover from her injuries.


    Shen Yijia had the same intentions. She was thinking of eating the wild ginseng and lingzhi she had dug up to digest them.


    Unfortunately, Lin Shao was glared at for the entire day because he betrayed Shen Yijia.


    Lin Shao felt wronged. Brother Song¡¯s gaze was so terrifying. Who could have withheld the truth from him? He had been under a lot of pressure, but he didn¡¯t tell anyone about Shen Yijia looking for wild ginseng and lingzhi.


    At night, just as Shen Yijia lay down, Song Jingchen suddenly raised his head from the book and asked her, ¡°You said that all the animals on the mountain disappeared today?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Shen Yijia nodded. After saying that, she felt strange. ¡°I saw a lot of them when I went up the mountain yesterday, but they suddenly disappeared today. They couldn¡¯t have been scared away by me, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia was simply joking. She knew she didn¡¯t have the ability to scare them away like that.


    Song Jingchen frowned and pondered. After a long time, he made up his mind and said, ¡°Take out some of the money at home and buy some rice and noodles.¡±


    ¡°Just rice and noodles?¡± Lying in the warm bed, Shen Yijia was a little sleepy and asked in a daze.


    This time, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll listen to you,¡± Shen Yijia muttered and completely sank into her dreams.


    The next day, Shen Yijia woke up early.


    She remembered what Song Jingchen had said before she went to bed yesterday. Although she didn¡¯t understand, based on what she knew about Song Jingchen, he definitely wouldn¡¯t say that if there wasn¡¯t a reason. After all, he usually didn¡¯t care about these things.


    After breakfast, Song Jingchen mentioned this matter again, and no one objected.


    Shen Yijia was about to leave with the silver when Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°Take the ornaments I made and sell them.¡±


    Shen Yijia was a little reluctant. Song Jingchen spent almost all his time carving those things. She watched him sit there alone making them.


    Now, Song Jingchen would only have time to read books when he took a break from carving. It could be seen how much effort those trinkets took.


    ¡°Our family is rich. Let¡¯s leave those at home,¡± Shen Yijia suggested.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°No need. If you like them, I¡¯ll make more for you in the future.¡±


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was still unwilling, Song Jingchen said, ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a piece of trash who only knows how to leech off my wife. My legs may be crippled, but I still have my hands.¡±


    Shen Yijia choked. She recalled what the people in the village had said about Song Jingchen. He must have planned to make these things in exchange for money.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t persuade him anymore. Song Jingchen wanted to help this family, so she shouldn¡¯t stop him. Otherwise, Song Jingchen would definitely overthink the situation.


    She carried the wooden box onto the carriage and was about to set off when Lin Shao chased after her with a box.


    ¡°Sister-in-law,¡± Lin Shao shouted. Because he spilled her secret, he didn¡¯t dare to look at Shen Yijia directly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s anger had long dissipated. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I want to go to town with you. I made some spices and can use them to exchange for some money to help the family.¡± The Song family was very good to him and his sister, so he wanted to help.


    Back then, he would not have dared to do so. However, that Feng Laoliu was dead, he felt more at ease.

 Chapter 110 - Helping The Household

    Shen Yijia glanced at the box in his hand and nodded. ¡°Get on the carriage, then.¡±


    Madam Li also chased after her. She held a wallet in her hand. ¡°This is the money I earned from selling embroidery recently. Take it.¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, come back early.¡± Madam Li interrupted Shen Yijia and urged her to set off.


    Shen Yijia could only accept it. Looking at the wallet, Shen Yijia¡¯s lips curled up slightly.


    When they passed by Bruiser¡¯s house, Shen Yijia thought about it and told him about her family¡¯s preparations to buy food.


    Bruiser¡¯s family didn¡¯t have any fields, so they had to spend money to buy crops for food. When Widow Wang heard this, she took out five taels of silver and asked Bruiser to follow them.


    Shen Yijia really didn¡¯t know where to sell Song Jingchen¡¯s ornaments. She was only familiar with the Full Fortune Restaurant in town, so she could only go there first.


    The waiter was already familiar with Shen Yijia. When he saw her carriage parked at the entrance, he immediately ran in and called for the fat shopkeeper.


    ¡°Miss Shen, what good stuff do you have today?¡± The fat shopkeeper walked out and asked with a smile.


    Most of the hunters did not enter the mountains in winter. In the past, the wild animals had long stopped at this time. Only this year, Shen Yijia had brought some over. It was enough for their restaurant to earn a profit. Therefore, he welcomed Shen Yijia¡¯s arrival.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°There¡¯s no prey today. I wanted to ask you something.¡±


    The fat shopkeeper did not show any disappointment. He said, ¡°You can ask me anything. There¡¯s really nothing in this town that I, Wang Zihong Full Fortune Restaurant, don¡¯t know.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely. She did not expect this person to be so narcissistic. She said dryly, ¡°Haha, Shopkeeper Hong¡­¡±


    The waiter beside her stifled a laugh.


    The fat shopkeeper glared at him and explained awkwardly, ¡°Haha, Young Lady Shen, you¡¯re really good at joking. My surname is Wang, and Wang Zihong is my name.¡±


    ¡°Pfft, haha!¡± As soon as Shopkeeper Wang finished speaking, Bruiser clutched his stomach and laughed.


    Shen Yijia secretly stepped on him to ask him to restrain himself. Bruiser immediately stopped, but his shoulders were still trembling.


    ¡°Ahem, he¡¯s not very smart. He¡¯s like this when he¡¯s sick.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and explained.


    Shopkeeper Wang touched his beardless chin and nodded to show that he understood. However, he thought to himself, ¡°Please find a better excuse, I¡¯ll willingly take your word for it.¡±


    The scene was a little awkward. Shen Yijia explained her intentions.


    Shopkeeper Wang thought for a moment and said, ¡°There aren¡¯t many shops in town that sell such expensive items. Why don¡¯t you show me? I have a relative in the county who¡¯s doing business. I can ask him for help.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. Bruiser and Lin Shao worked together to move the big box out of the carriage.


    Initially, Shopkeeper Wang didn¡¯t think much of it. When he saw the items inside, his eyes lit up. He picked up a decoration of the Five Blessings and looked at it carefully. Then, he said regretfully, ¡°This craftsmanship is not bad, but the wood is too ordinary. I¡¯m afraid it can¡¯t be sold for a good price, so I can only sell it at a low price.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she was a little unhappy. In her opinion, what her husband made was priceless.


    If Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t insisted, she wouldn¡¯t even have brought it out to sell.


    She thought for a moment before closing the lid. ¡°Then we¡¯re not selling.¡±


    ¡°Hey, Miss Shen, don¡¯t be anxious. Why don¡¯t you put these on display in our restaurant? If anyone asks, I¡¯ll help you sell them. I definitely won¡¯t let you suffer a loss.¡± Shopkeeper Wang said this because he really liked these items.


    For merchants, good things could only show their value in numbers.

 Chapter 111 - Storing Food

    Shen Yijia still wanted to refuse, but Song Jingchen¡¯s words inexplicably sounded in her mind. In the end, she reluctantly agreed.


    In the end, they agreed that they would only take 15% of the profits from the sale. After settling the trade, Shen Yijia and the other two prepared to go to the fragrance powder shop.


    As soon as the three of them left, the window of the private room on the second floor of Full Fortune Restaurant suddenly opened.


    ¡°Do you know them?¡± A young master dressed in luxurious clothes and holding a fan asked the middle-aged man beside him.


    The man leaned forward and looked at it for a long time. When the carriage disappeared from his sight, he replied respectfully, ¡°There¡¯s a kid inside who has something that Master wants. He suddenly disappeared a while ago. I thought he had left our Qingping Town, but I didn¡¯t expect to meet him here.¡±


    The young master was not interested in the person the manager was talking about. He licked his lips and asked, ¡°Do you know her?¡±


    The man frowned and pondered. He felt that the young lady looked familiar, but he could not remember where he had seen her before. He could only shake his head.


    The young master looked disappointed. He snapped his folding fan shut and instructed, ¡°Go and investigate.¡±


    He looked determined.


    There was a moment of silence.


    Compared to Song Jingchen¡¯s carvings, Lin Shao¡¯s spices were much more popular. In the past, many fragrant powder shops wanted to cooperate with the Lin family, but they were rejected by Mr. Lin. Now that Feng Laoliu was dead, there were naturally shops willing to accept them.


    Holding a silver ingot worth ten taels, Lin Shao revealed a rare look of joy. He handed it to Shen Yijia. ¡°Sister-in-law, this is for you.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and accepted it without saying anything. However, she was thinking about saving it for Lin Shao¡¯s future wife as a dowry.


    1


    After hearing Widow Wang nag about how Bruiser had yet to save the money to get married, Shen Yijia felt that it would cost a lot of money to marry here.


    It was a pity that she hadn¡¯t transmigrated when Song Jingchen married the original host. The Shen family had secretly withheld those betrothal gifts, but she would definitely have snatched them back. She didn¡¯t think of this when she was in the capital.


    When they arrived at the rice shop, there were still many people who took out some of their food to exchange for silver and winter clothes after the autumn harvest.


    The moment Shen Yijia entered, she wanted to buy 100 taels of silver worth of rice and noodles. The surrounding people looked at her differently.


    There were not many rich fools at a time like this.


    Bruiser held his forehead. Boss, you should at least keep a low profile.


    When the shopkeeper of the rice shop saw that a rich customer had arrived, he quickly welcomed them. Because Shen Yijia bought a lot, the shopkeeper gave them a discount of two copper coins per catty.


    A hundred taels of silver worth of rice and flour. It was not a small amount. Fortunately, the rice shop could send someone to deliver it.


    Bruiser bought coarse grain. Shen Yijia helped him bring it back home in the carriage.


    When she helped Bruiser put away the things and returned home, the rice shop had already sent the food over. There were three carts filled with food. The villagers didn¡¯t know what to think.


    It looked as if Shen Yijia had bought the entire rice shop.


    ¡°Sister Li, why did you buy so much food?¡± Auntie Tian asked.


    Madam Li buried her head in sewing and said with a smile, ¡°It¡¯s food for the winter. Sister Tian¡¯s family can also stock up more.¡±


    Auntie Tian smiled awkwardly and did not speak. She glanced at the bags of food and calculated the amount of money needed. She felt envious.


    Her family had just sold the excess grain a while ago. How could they be so stupid as to buy it back?


    The charcoal fire in the house was warm. An Xiu¡¯er listened to her mother and Madam Li¡¯s conversation and quietly buried her head in her embroidery. Occasionally, she would look up and inadvertently glance in the direction of the backyard.

 Chapter 112 - Discovery

    Since there was food at home, she didn¡¯t feel anxious at all. After sending off the shop assistant, Shen Yijia looked at the rice noodles that had piled up half a cellar and felt inexplicably at ease.


    After running errands for half a day, she still hadn¡¯t had a sip of water. She walked into the main room and greeted Auntie Tian. She poured herself a cup of tea and gulped it down.


    ¡°Drink slowly. No one is snatching it from you.¡± Madam Li rebuked.


    Shen Yijia was about to pour a second glass of water when she paused. She obediently slowed down and stuck out her tongue. ¡°I¡¯ll go see what my husband is doing.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead. I know you¡¯re not in the mood to watch our embroidery work.¡± Madam Li smiled.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. She had already suffered from embroidery work. Now, just looking at it hurts her eyes.


    ¡°You really dote on your daughter-in-law.¡± Auntie Tian looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s back and sighed.


    ¡°It¡¯s also because Sister Jia is sensible and lovable.¡± Madam Li did not deny it. Instead, she joked, ¡°You can dote on your daughter-in-law when Xin Ci enters the family next spring.¡±


    Auntie Tian said, ¡°That¡¯s right. I just hope that our Xiu¡¯er can find a good husband in the future.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er blushed and said, ¡°Mother, what nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Look, she¡¯s so shy whenever I bring up this topic,¡± Auntie Tian teased.


    Madam Li glanced at An Xiu¡¯er and casually teased, ¡°Xiu¡¯er is a good girl. It¡¯s a pity that my Brother Hao is still young. Otherwise, I really want to kidnap her into our family.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er paused, and the needle almost pricked her finger.


    There was a moment of silence.


    When he moved in, he had specially set up a study beside their room. Apart from reading, Song Jingchen also made his contraptions in the study most of the time.


    Shen Yijia pushed open the door and took a look. Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t react, she quietly closed the door and returned to her room.


    Taking out the box containing the wild ginseng, Shen Yijia took a deep breath and stuffed a ginseng into her mouth. She chewed it casually and swallowed it.


    She had eaten too much Chinese medicine in her previous life, so she really didn¡¯t like the taste. She swallowed a cup of water to suppress the taste.


    She smacked his lips a few times. The book didn¡¯t specify how to nourish the body, so she should be able to eat it directly, right?


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in distress and decided not to care anymore. She poured out everything in the box.


    She kept stuffing the herbs into her mouth.


    Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia had stopped by. He thought that she was trying to do something, but no one came into the study even after he waited for a long time.


    He was about to go out and take a look when a loud bang came from next door, like the sound of something heavy falling.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat and he pushed the wheelchair over.


    The moment he opened the door, he saw Shen Yijia lying on the ground with blood on her forehead.


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    He called out, but there was no response.


    Song Jingchen felt annoyed with his legs again. With much difficulty, he managed to pick her up and place her on the bed. He reached out and touched Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. She didn¡¯t have a fever.


    Song Jingchen panicked when there was still no response.


    He turned around and wanted to call someone over, but he saw the half-eaten lingzhi on the ground.


    He turned and saw the empty box on the table. There were a few wild ginsengs spread out beside it.


    1


    He had seen this box before, but he didn¡¯t have the habit of looking through other people¡¯s things, so he didn¡¯t open it.


    Shen Yijia must have brought these back from the mountains recently.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mind was filled with racing thoughts. Even someone as smart as him couldn¡¯t guess why Shen Yijia wanted to eat these.


    He turned around and glanced at her. This glance made Song Jingchen completely abandon the idea of calling someone over.


    He could see the wound on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead healing quickly.

 Chapter 113 - : Secret

    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils were constricted. His first reaction was not to panic in fear, but to quickly close and lock the door.


    When he came to the bed again, Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead was bright and clean. It was impossible to tell that she had been injured a moment ago. If not for the faint bloodstains on her forehead, Song Jingchen would have suspected that he had imagined it.


    When he looked at the bruise on Shen Yijia¡¯s chin, it was already gone.


    Song Jingchen composed himself and pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s right hand over. He looked at the bandage on it and paused for a moment before slowly undoing it.


    As he expected, the wound was gone, leaving only the blood on the cloth to indicate that there was indeed an injury here.


    ¡°How did this happen?¡±


    ¡°Who the hell are you?¡±


    ¡°Are you a demon?¡±


    These thoughts filled Song Jingchen¡¯s mind as his throat tightened. He was sure that the wild ginseng and lingzhi didn¡¯t have this effect. Unfortunately, no one would be able to answer his questions.


    He looked at Shen Yijia with a complicated expression.


    He suddenly remembered that the scar that the doctor had said would stay with him forever had mysteriously disappeared. Also, his body was clearly about to collapse back then, but he always felt fine after she visited him.


    He thought that it was because he had been practicing martial arts for many years. Now that he thought about it, it was obvious. This girl had probably been secretly healing him.


    ¡°But how did she do it?¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mind was in a mess, but he knew that he could never let a third person know about this secret.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know when Shen Yijia would wake up. Seeing that her breathing was even and her heartbeat was normal, he confirmed that her life wasn¡¯t in danger.


    But he didn¡¯t dare leave her alone in the room. He put the lingzhi and ginseng back into the box.


    Song Jingchen guessed that she had become like this because she ate these. Only Shen Yijia knew why she ate them.


    Now that he thought about it, her strength and speed were not something ordinary people could have. How many secrets did she have?


    Song Jingchen suddenly felt a little frustrated, but he couldn¡¯t understand why.


    When Brother Hao came to call them to eat, Song Jingchen realized that he had been staring at Shen Yijia for a long time.


    Rubbing his sore eyes, he asked Brother Hao to tell Madam Li that Shen Yijia had fallen asleep. He was not hungry, so he lay down beside Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia woke up before dawn the next day. When she opened her eyes, she was still a little confused.


    She stared blankly at the top of her head for a long time before remembering what happened before she fainted. She gritted her teeth and cursed the person who wrote that book. He didn¡¯t write anything clearly and didn¡¯t even write about something as important as being in a coma.


    Fortunately, she didn¡¯t think of eating it directly in the mountains. Otherwise, would she still have a chance to wake up? She would have become a snack for the wild beasts.


    But how did she get back to bed? Just as this question popped up, Shen Yijia turned around and met a pair of bloodshot eyes.


    She was shocked and only heaved a sigh of relief when she realized that it was Song Jingchen.


    Then, she was very curious. Seeing that Song Jingchen was still staring at her, Shen Yijia blinked and asked guiltily, ¡°Were you the one who carried me to the bed?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was still a little hoarse.


    Shen Yijia grit her teeth. ¡°Did he see the herbs?¡± she thought. Fortunately, those did not mean anything. She could just say that she liked eating them.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t been up all night, have you?¡±


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes. ¡°I was waiting for you to wake up.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Waiting for me? You didn¡¯t have to do that!¡± she thought.

 Chapter 114 - : Disappointment

    ¡°Did you see those wild ginsengs? I dug them up in the mountains with Lin Shao¡­¡± Shen Yijia paused and glanced at Song Jingchen, who was staring at her without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia braced herself and continued to make up stories. ¡°I thought they would be delicious.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to explain. Let¡¯s talk about it when you want to.¡± Song Jingchen interrupted her when he saw how uncomfortable she was.


    He turned around and faced Shen Yijia with her back. It would be a lie to say that he wasn¡¯t disappointed. He should¡¯ve known that it wasn¡¯t something she could talk about easily.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She scratched her head and realized that something was wrong.


    ¡°My- my hands.¡± she thought.


    She turned around and saw a strip of cloth placed at the side. The red color on it caught her attention.


    ¡°Did Song Jingchen see it?¡±


    The answer to this question was yes. Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know how to explain it to Song Jingchen.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t think of me as a demon, does he?¡±


    Shen Yijia remembered that she had hit her forehead before she fainted. Unwilling to give up, she reached out to touch it. Indeed, it was smooth.


    While leveling up, her injuries were healed.


    Song Jingchen probably checked her hand because of this.


    She wished that she didn¡¯t get healed.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia felt that her brain was working too well. She understood the situation, even though she didn¡¯t want to understand it.


    Song Jingchen was not calm either. Sensing the abnormality of the person behind him, he turned around and pulled Shen Yijia, who was still in a daze, into his arms. He said tiredly, ¡°Sleep a little longer. I don¡¯t know anything. Don¡¯t let anyone know about this either.¡±


    He could accept the fact that Shen Yijia was not human, but he could not guarantee that others could do the same.


    If someone knew about this secret, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    Shen ¡°Not a Human¡± Yijia was speechless.


    She didn¡¯t know what Song Jingchen was thinking, but his silence made Shen Yijia heave a sigh of relief.


    Shen Yijia fell asleep again, but Song Jingchen was still wide awake.


    He rested with his eyes closed when he suddenly heard a knock on the courtyard door.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s first reaction was to look at Shen Yijia. He saw that she had also opened her eyes. Their eyes met for a moment before they looked away.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and see who it is.¡± Shen Yijia got up and put on her clothes. It must be an emergency to knock on the door so early in the morning.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. Why did she feel that Song Jingchen was afraid that she would run away, so he wanted to follow her?


    Shaking her head to get rid of this thought, she waited for Song Jingchen before pushing him out the door on his wheelchair.


    As soon as she arrived at the front yard, she bumped into Madam Li, who had also heard the sound.


    ¡°Auntie Li, Brother Song¡­¡± A sobbing female voice came from outside the door.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°I think it¡¯s Xiu¡¯er.¡±


    ¡°Something must have happened so early in the morning,¡± Madam Li said as she quickly opened the courtyard door.


    An Xiu¡¯er rushed in and almost fell into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. Shen Yijia quickly caught her.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Madam Li asked.


    An Xiu¡¯er stabilized her swaying body and cried until she was out of breath. ¡°My father¡¯s old illness has relapsed. My brother hasn¡¯t returned from the mountain since yesterday. My mother and I don¡¯t know what to do. Please save my father¡­¡±


    When Madam Li heard that it was a matter of life and death, she hurriedly said, ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. I¡¯ll get Sister Jia to send your father to the doctor in town.¡±


    Shen Yijia subconsciously moved her fingers. She didn¡¯t know how effective the spiritual liquid was after it had just been upgraded. Was its original effect strengthened?


    Just as she thought this, Song Jingchen grabbed her hand.


    Song Jingchen looked up and stared into Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes. ¡°Come back early after you¡¯re done.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go.¡± she thought.

 Chapter 115 - A Happy Event

    Father An¡¯s situation was not as serious as An Xiu¡¯er had claimed. At least his life was not in danger.


    His health had always been poor, and he would fall sick when the weather turned cold.


    He couldn¡¯t live well, but he couldn¡¯t die either.


    Shen Yijia felt that her spiritual liquid could cure him.


    After grabbing the medicine, Shen Yijia planned to bring the three members of the An family back to the village. Just as she arrived at the city gate, the carriage was stopped by an acquaintance.


    It was the waiter from the Full Fortune Restaurant.


    Shen Yijia jumped out of the carriage. Before she could speak, the waiter rushed over. Perhaps because he was too anxious, he forgot the proper etiquette between men and women. He pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve and brought her to one side so they could speak privately.


    Shen Yijia did not care much.


    ¡°Miss Shen, I¡¯ve been waiting for you,¡± the waiter said. As he spoke, he looked around, as if he was afraid that others would see him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked in confusion.


    It was unknown if he was cold or nervous, but the waiter¡¯s teeth were chattering. ¡°My shopkeeper asked me to tell you not to come to town for the time being. Someone is looking for you.¡±


    He had been waiting here since early in the morning. Halfway through, he went to the toilet and missed Shen Yijia when she was entering the town.


    ¡°Looking for me? Who is it?¡± Shen Yijia was baffled. Did these people all look for her for fun? They were asking for a beating.


    ¡°The shopkeeper didn¡¯t say. He only said that it¡¯s someone we can¡¯t afford to offend. He told you to be careful.¡± With that, the waiter ran away.


    Shen Yijia was confused, but she still took it to heart.


    The curtain of the carriage swayed, but Shen Yijia did not care.


    She returned to the carriage and drove back to the village.


    Shen Yijia sent the An family members home. An Dong happened to come back and thanked her again for what she did. Shen Yijia was impatient, so she quickly nodded and went home.


    Due to what had happened with Feng Laoliu, Shen Yijia, who felt that she was not smart enough, told Song Jingchen everything the waiter had said.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened and he instructed, ¡°Don¡¯t go to town for the time being. We don¡¯t lack anything at home anyway.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Shen Yijia nodded hurriedly. She would go the next time she had to trade Shopkeeper Wang.


    In the Full Fortune Restaurant, Shopkeeper Wang was also anxious. When he saw the waiter return, he gave him a look to follow him to the backyard before asking, ¡°How was it? Did you meet Miss Shen?¡±


    The waiter explained the situation. Shopkeeper Wang sighed and said in a low voice, ¡°I hope that person will give up after a while.¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper, who is that person?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask what you shouldn¡¯t ask. Remember, you didn¡¯t go anywhere today. Otherwise, I won¡¯t be able to protect you. Our entire restaurant will suffer.¡± Shopkeeper Wang reminded him.


    With that, he returned to his office.


    There was a joyous occasion in Xiagou Village today. The Song family, who lived at the end of the village, heard the commotion.


    There was no need for Shen Yijia and the others to ask around. After noon, the widow brought Bruiser to visit her house.


    Now, Bruiser would come over every day to learn how to read. He spent more time here than at home, so he entered Brother Hao¡¯s study room without asking.


    Actually, he wanted to stick to Shen Yijia more, but he didn¡¯t have the guts to do so when Song Jingchen was around.


    Shen Yijia still found it strange every time. She was clearly the best fighter at home, so why was everyone afraid of Song Jingchen? Even Lin Shao listened to Song Jingchen.


    1


    ¡°I thought you were my underling, not his.¡± she thought to herself.


    Shen Yijia wanted to question why her husband, who was clearly such a gentle person, became a monster in their eyes.


    1

 Chapter 116 - Gossip

    Typically, Shen Yijia would avoid Auntie Tian whenever she came to the house. However, when Widow Wang came, she was very happy to interact with her.


    The reason was very simple. Every time Widow Wang came, she would bring gossip from Xiagou Village. She would talk about which family¡¯s young lady was with which young man, which family¡¯s wife was cheating on someone, and which family¡¯s man was blocking her bed. She could even tell which family¡¯s pig had given birth to piglets.


    2


    Shen Yijia listened with relish every time. Bruiser probably inherited this trait from Widow Wang.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know how lively the village is today. Most of the villagers went to the old Song residence to attend the wedding banquet.¡± Widow Wang smacked her lips and said, ¡°That table is already in the middle of the road.¡±


    Madam Li paused for a moment. ¡°Their third son is getting married?¡±


    ¡°How could that be? I heard that Song Maolin is going to marry a young lady from a wealthy family when he becomes an official in the future. Why would he take a fancy to a girl from a small place like ours? It¡¯s that girl, Song Jiayue, who¡¯s getting married.¡± Widow Wang leaned closer and lowered her voice as she continued, ¡°I heard that she¡¯s going to be sent to Old Master Liu in town to be his fifth concubine. It was her eldest sister-in-law who pulled the strings. Even so, she still dares to show off openly, as if she¡¯s afraid that others won¡¯t know that her daughter has become a concubine.¡±


    ¡°What? I remember that Jiayue hasn¡¯t reached marriageable age yet, right?¡± Madam Li was also shocked.


    She really couldn¡¯t figure out what kind of family would push their daughter into a fire pit.


    ¡°You¡¯re right she isn¡¯t. It¡¯s all because of the money.¡± Widow Wang suddenly glanced at Shen Yijia. Shen Yijia was puzzled and thought that Widow Wang was thirsty. She immediately poured a cup of tea and handed it over. She winked at her to continue.


    2


    Widow Wang choked. She took the tea and coughed dryly before continuing, ¡°Weren¡¯t the three of them injured previously?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She was the one who beat them up.


    ¡°Not only did they empty their pockets to treat their injuries, but they even chased their second son-in-law out to live in their father-in-law¡¯s house as a live-in son-in-law. However, this amount of money is still not enough. I didn¡¯t expect their eldest sister-in-law, who had been married for a few years, to suddenly come back. She came back just to arrange this marriage for Song Jiayue.¡±


    ¡°Old Master Liu is one of the richest people in our town. I heard that he gave the old Song family 300 taels of silver. Song Dajiang agreed to this marriage without hesitation.¡± With that, Widow Wang picked up her teacup and drank it in one gulp.


    Shen Yijia was dumbfounded. She did not expect Song Maolin to be so important in that family.


    At this moment, in the Song family¡¯s old residence, Song Maolin was listening to the laughter outside. His eyes were so full of malice that it seemed like poison would drip out of them.


    On the other hand, after An Xiu¡¯er returned home, she had been distracted. For a moment, Song Jingchen¡¯s face appeared in her mind, and in the next moment, she saw Shen Yijia pulling at a man.


    As she thought about it, she seemed to see herself entering the Song family in a bridal gown. In her daydream, Song Jingchen, who was also in wedding clothes, sat beside her and looked at her gently.


    1


    ¡°Xiu¡¯er, what are you thinking about?¡± An Dong was here to see if Father An¡¯s medicine was ready.


    An Xiu¡¯er came back to her senses. Her face was red as she said nervously, ¡°I¡¯m cooking medicine for Father.¡±


    ¡°The medicine has almost dried up. Are you feeling unwell? Your face is so red.¡±


    ¡°No, nothing. It¡¯s just warm here because of the fire. I¡¯ll go back to my room first.¡± With that, An Xiu¡¯er covered her face and ran away.


    An Dong frowned at her back.


    He suddenly recalled the day she went to the Song family to deliver snacks.

 Chapter 117 - Trouble

    The Song family had never interacted with the village, so none of them took the gossip to heart.


    Shen Yijia obediently did not go to town again. She only brought Tuan Zi and Lin Shao into the mountains every few days.


    Tuan Zi had grown up a lot now and often went into the mountains alone. At first, everyone was worried, but when they saw that Tuan Zi knew how to get back to their house safely, they let it be.


    Once, Shen Yijia happened to encounter it in the mountains. Ever since then, it wanted to follow Shen Yijia every time she went up the mountain.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t ask further about Shen Yijia running into the mountains. He only reminded her to come back early every day.


    Shen Yijia was baffled. No matter how hard she thought, she probably wouldn¡¯t have thought that Song Jingchen treated her as one of those demons who could fly. He was worried that she wouldn¡¯t come back, so he kept dropping hints and reminding her to come back.


    On this day, Shen Yijia came back from the mountain and passed by the An family¡¯s residence. She heard hoarse cries and sobbing.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks. Could something have happened to Father An?


    At this moment, Madam Li walked out of the An family. Song Jingchen was also there with her.


    The latter was expressionless, but Madam Li¡¯s eyes were red. It was obvious that she had cried.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She was worried that Madam Li might have found out the truth. She went over and asked, ¡°Mother, hubby, why are you here?¡±


    Madam Li rubbed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and sighed. ¡°Let¡¯s go home first.¡±


    When they returned home, Shen Yijia realized that something was wrong. Brother Hao and Lin Miaomiao were kneeling in the courtyard, but Sister Huan, who was usually inseparable from them, was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Lin Shao saw that his sister was also worried, but he stood quietly at the side.


    Madam Li was about to speak, but Song Jingchen spoke first. ¡°Mother, go and check on Sister Huan.¡±


    After Madam Li left, Song Jingchen looked at Brother Hao with a cold expression and said in a low voice, ¡°Explain what you¡¯ve done.¡±


    Brother Hao¡¯s body trembled, and the tears that he had been holding back for a long time flowed down. He choked and said, ¡°I¡­ I brought Sister Huan and Miaomiao to the river to play, causing Sister Huan to fall into the water. I was wrong and should be punished.¡±


    These two children were usually very obedient. It was impossible for them to go to the river to play for no reason. Shen Yijia thought about how she had muttered yesterday that she had not eaten fish for a long time and was able to guess why they went there.


    She couldn¡¯t help but ask worriedly, ¡°Where¡¯s Sister Huan? Is she alright?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°She happened to be saved by Father An, but Father An¡¯s health was poor to begin with. Now¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia had just heaved a sigh of relief when Song Jingchen¡¯s words raised it again. Everyone in Xiagou Village knew about Father An¡¯s condition. How could he be fine in this cold river?


    Brother Hao continued sobbing, and Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached when she heard it. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°It¡¯s not Brother Hao¡¯s fault. They went to the river because of me. Husband, if you want to punish someone, punish me.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief.


    Brother Hao interrupted, ¡°No, I brought Sister Huan and Miaomiao there myself.¡±


    ¡°Was it because you heard me say that I wanted to eat fish?¡± Shen Yijia was helpless. Why was this child so stubborn?


    Brother Hao hung his head in silent agreement.


    Although she had already guessed it, Shen Yijia still felt relieved after it was confirmed. However, this was not the time to feel touched.


    She looked at Song Jingchen and said guiltily, ¡°Husband, why don¡¯t you let them go back to their room first?¡±

 Chapter 118 - : Rescue

    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what to feel and didn¡¯t refute.


    Shen Yijia quickly signaled Lin Shao to bring them inside.


    ¡°Have you gotten a doctor to treat Father An?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Song Jingchen nodded and said, ¡°The situation isn¡¯t very good.¡±


    In fact, it would be difficult for him to live through the night.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and wanted to say something, but Song Jingchen guessed what she was going to say and said in a low voice, ¡°No.¡±


    He didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to risk exposing her secret for the sake of an outsider.


    Moreover, he did not know how Shen Yijia saved him. If her body was damaged in the process or someone noticed something was amiss, the consequences would be unimaginable.


    Shen Yijia choked and stammered, ¡°If anything happens to Father An, Brother Hao will be traumatized in the future. Besides¡­ I¡¯m responsible for this.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, leave it to me.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t let Song Jingchen continue.


    Previously, she had wanted to test the effect of this level-two spiritual liquid for Father An, but Song Jingchen stopped her. She didn¡¯t expect that she would still have to use it on him because of this incident.


    She turned around and went to the kitchen. Shen Yijia scooped some flour into a bowl and dripped a drop of spiritual liquid into it.


    After some thought, she mixed in some brown sugar and kneaded the flour mixed with spiritual liquid and brown sugar into the size of a pill. She brought it to the side of the stove to dry it. It really looked like a medicinal pill.


    Song Jingchen watched her from the kitchen door. Although he didn¡¯t see what she had added, he knew that she had a plan and didn¡¯t object.


    Shen Yijia rushed to the An family with the pills and told them that it was a life-saving medicine given by an expert.


    Auntie Tian was unwilling at first, but An Dong forced her to let Father An take the pill.


    Shen Yijia waited for a while. Seeing that she had nothing to do, she went home.


    She went to see Sister Huan first. She was already awake, but she was still a little weak. When she saw Shen Yijia enter, Sister Huan¡¯s eyes immediately turned red. ¡°Sister-in-law!¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m here. It¡¯s fine. Father An is fine too. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡± Shen Yijia pulled her into her arms.


    ¡°Really?¡± Sister Huan asked in a choked voice, her tone filled with hope.


    Shen Yijia scratched her nose. ¡°What do you think? When have I ever lied to you?¡±


    Sister Huan felt a little better. She frowned and said uncertainly, ¡°Sister-in-law¡­ Actually, I felt like someone hit my leg with something when we were by the river, but when Brother Hao and the others came over, they said that they didn¡¯t see anyone. I don¡¯t know if I¡¯m hallucinating.¡±


    1


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she also felt that Sister Huan might have been hallucinating. It was broad daylight. If there was really someone else there, why didn¡¯t Brother Hao and Lin Miaomiao see him? She comforted her and said, ¡°It¡¯s all in the past. Even if there¡¯s bad people around, I can chase them away.¡±


    After coaxing Sister Huan, she made her drink a cup of water mixed with spiritual liquid before letting her rest again.


    After returning to the house, Song Jingchen sat by the window, thinking about something.


    ¡°Father An will be fine,¡± Shen Yijia said firmly, thinking that he was worried about this.


    Besides, it was useless to worry about the situation when they had already done what they could.


    Song Jingchen looked back at her and suddenly asked, ¡°Are you going to leave?¡±


    The more mysterious Shen Yijia was, the more he felt that this person did not belong to this world. She was clearly very close to him, but he inexplicably felt that this person seemed so out of reach.


    He was always worried that she would disappear and he wouldn¡¯t be able to find her again.

 Chapter 119 - Mutiny

    Shen Yijia did not understand why he would ask such a strange question. However, seeing his solemn expression, she thought about it seriously.


    This place was pretty good. Why would she leave? She chose not to leave back then, so she obviously wouldn¡¯t leave now.


    She shook her head and said, ¡°No.¡±


    Even if she had to leave, she would bring the whole family with her.


    It was unknown if Song Jingchen believed her, but Shen Yijia could clearly feel that his mood had improved.


    The next day, Madam Li went to the An family residence to visit. Father An was fine. It was said that it was a blessing in disguise. Other than his original leg injuries, he had already recovered.


    Everyone owed it to Shen Yijia¡¯s medicinal pill. The An family was even more grateful to Shen Yijia.


    This matter finally came to an end.


    ¡°Furball, let¡¯s go up the mountain.¡± After breakfast, Shen Yijia stood under the roof and called out.


    Furball lay beside the charcoal basin in the central room and lazily opened its eyes to glance at her. It turned around and ignored her.


    Shen Yijia fell silent. She had given Furball less food these days because it was getting too fat.


    Now Furball was throwing a tantrum. Well, it was the one who chose to stay here.


    Looking at Bruiser and Lin Shao, who were sitting there obediently, Shen Yijia thought to herself that they were all traitors.


    Song Jingchen saw her standing there alone and stamping her feet. A smile flashed across his eyes as he said, ¡°The 200 words you owed yesterday have been added to your word count today. Are you sure you want to go up the mountain today?¡±


    Shen Yijia restrained herself and secretly gave Sister Huan a look. The latter silently lowered her head to avoid looking at her.


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes in disbelief. Even the little cutie who always said that her sister-in-law was the best had betrayed her!


    ¡°Didn¡¯t she say that she would help me write the 200 words? Hadn¡¯t she always done that in the past?¡± she thought to herself.


    ¡°I- I think I¡¯ve already written them.¡± Shen Yijia lied through her teeth. As she spoke, she walked to the desk and flipped through it.


    For convenience¡¯s sake, Song Jingchen specially made a desk for everyone, and Shen Yijia¡¯s desk happened to be beside Sister Huan¡¯s desk.


    Shen Yijia refused to give up. She felt that the little cutie would definitely not abandon her. One of her hands kept rummaging through the desk, but she gestured at Sister Huan using her other hand.


    Sister Huan secretly glanced at her brother, gritted her teeth, and placed a brush in Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    She didn¡¯t want to either, but if she dared to cheat for her sister-in-law again, her brother would make her write 500 more.


    After what had happened previously, Song Jingchen was now very strict with the children. They had to report to the adults when they went out, so they mostly stayed at home to study.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She didn¡¯t want a brush. She wanted the completed writings.


    1


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to notice her small actions and said, ¡°Since you¡¯re ready, let¡¯s make up for the words that you¡¯ve missed yesterday.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already prepared to go up the mountain.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Just as she thought this, she saw Lin Miaomiao quietly walk over and lay out a piece of rice paper for her. Brother Hao followed closely behind and helped her with the ink.


    Shen Yijia stammered, feeling terrible.


    ¡°So you guys won¡¯t let me go up the mountain today, right?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen suddenly looked up. Shen Yijia immediately forced a smile. ¡°Haha, you¡¯re quite prepared.¡±

 Chapter 120 - Love and Hate?

    However, this was not the end. Just as she sat down, Furball, who had been looking down on her, walked over.


    It wagged its tail and circled around her. Then, it glanced at her and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s feet.


    2


    Shen Yijia found it unbelievable. She saw a hint of gloating in Furball¡¯s eyes and she muttered angrily, ¡°Do you think you¡¯re a dog?¡±


    What Shen Yijia hated the most was definitely writing practice. ¡°I was the overlord of the mental hospital in my past life. Why do I have to know this? Isn¡¯t it enough that I know how to fight?¡± she thought.


    However, no matter how unwilling she was, she still obediently grabbed the brush and started writing.


    After writing for a while, Shen Yijia began to feel sleepy. She felt that every stroke was hypnotizing her.


    Suddenly, she heard a few knocks. Shen Yijia immediately stood up and saw Song Jingchen standing in front of her.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and argued weakly, ¡°Would you believe me if I said I was meditating?¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed and said helplessly, ¡°Sit down.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately sat down.


    Song Jingchen slowly approached her¡­


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart was pounding. Did her husband want to kiss her? There were so many people around. But this was the first time her husband had taken the initiative. What if she refused and hurt his pride? Should she close her eyes now?


    Looking at Song Jingchen¡¯s beautiful face getting closer and closer, Shen Yijia decisively closed her eyes.


    Then she heard muffled laughter, followed by something rubbing against her face.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes.


    Song Jingchen had already returned to his usual posture. He held her hand and placed a handkerchief with ink on it. He said seriously, ¡°You¡¯ve rubbed ink on your face.¡±


    He acted as if he hadn¡¯t been the one making fun of her just now.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned red. ¡°You- you¡­¡±


    ¡°Write properly. Even Bruiser writes better than you,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    ¡°Why did you have to mention me?¡± Bruiser thought to himself. He felt insulted, but he didn¡¯t dare to say it.


    Shen Yijia also felt that it was impossible for her to be inferior to Bruiser. His handwriting was terrible.


    The confident Shen Yijia decided to teach Song Jingchen a lesson and started practicing seriously.


    Soon, it was already noon. It was only when Madam Li prepared lunch and called them in for lunch that Shen Yijia realized that it had been so long.


    She immediately threw down her brush and held Madam Li¡¯s arm as if she had seen her savior. ¡°I¡¯ll accompany Mother to prepare the meal.¡±


    After saying that, she pulled Madam Li away, with Furball following closely behind.


    The remaining people looked at her back enviously, and then at Song Jingchen in unison.


    Song Jingchen coughed dryly. ¡°Alright, you can write a hundred words less today.¡±


    Poor Shen Yijia still did not know that the kids had taken advantage of her.


    After dinner, Shen Yijia thought that she could finally be free and was about to sneak out.


    Furball rushed out and blocked her way.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes angrily and lowered her voice. ¡°Furball, I added a huge piece of meat to your lunch. You can¡¯t repay kindness with ingratitude.¡±


    Furball indicated that it did not understand and stood firmly in front of her.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Big Brother asked me to call you back to practice your calligraphy.¡± Sister Huan¡¯s voice came from behind.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    ¡°This is how love disappears, isn¡¯t it? Why can¡¯t we go back to being a loving family?¡± she thought.

 Chapter 121 - Bluffing

    Shen Yijia did not know when these kids had colluded behind her back. For the past few days, she had been forced to practice calligraphy at home. Even though she could see her husband¡¯s handsome face when she looked up, she couldn¡¯t take it anymore. She felt dizzy the moment she saw the words.


    At the An family home, Father An leaned against the headboard. Auntie Tian kept nagging in his ear, ¡°Good things come to good people. We finally have something to look forward to.¡±


    His thoughts flew to the day of the accident.


    Why would someone who typically stayed at home suddenly go to the river in the middle of winter?


    He was actually there to commit suicide.


    An Dong wanted to marry and have children, and Xiu¡¯er also wanted to find a husband.


    He did not want to burden his family with this sickly body, so he wanted to commit suicide. Unexpectedly, he heard the child¡¯s cry for help.


    Perhaps this was fate.


    ¡°Old man, you¡¯ve just recovered. You can¡¯t think too much. If anything happens to you again, how will our family live¡­¡± Auntie Tian wiped away her tears.


    Father An sighed. ¡°Never mind. It could have been worse.¡± he thought.


    ¡°Little Furball, you want to go out too, don¡¯t you?¡± Shen Yijia squatted by the courtyard wall, holding a bone in her hand to tempt Furball, who was standing in front of her.


    She looked like a child trafficker trying to lure victims into following her.


    She realized that Furball was following her when she had finally managed to slip out of the bathroom. Fortunately, she was prepared.


    Shen Yijia waved the bone at it confidently.


    If push came to shove, she could have broken out, but she didn¡¯t want to. After all, they were family.


    Furball¡¯s whiskers quivered and it rolled its eyes, as if it was saying, ¡°I¡¯m not a dog.¡±


    It dug its front paws into the ground and raised its head, ready to bark and alert the other family members.


    Shen Yijia quickly closed its half-open mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t scream. I¡¯ll get you some prey to eat later.¡±


    Furball glanced at her disdainfully before turning around and walking to its kennel. It looked back at Shen Yijia before crawling in.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Unfortunately, she could vaguely understand what the creature meant.


    ¡°Am I the kind of person who climbs into dog kennels?¡± she thought.


    To Furball, it wasn¡¯t a dog kennel, it was a tiger¡¯s den.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the courtyard wall that had been built to guard against outsiders. She bent down and struggled to push her head into the hole¡­


    ¡°Big Brother, Sister-in-law has gone out.¡± Brother Hao ran back excitedly.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Song Jingchen replied. He was afraid that Shen Yijia would get restless if he trapped her at home again.


    1


    Song Jingchen drove his wheelchair out to take a breather. Even if Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t around, no one dared to attack their residence. There was no need for him to stay here. When he reached the door, he thought of something and suddenly said, ¡°Today, each of you will write an additional hundred words.¡±


    The kids were speechless.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, come back quickly!¡± they thought in unison.


    ¡°Please, come back quickly!¡±


    Unfortunately, Shen Yijia could not hear their cries. She ran happily in the mountains with Furball.


    After running for a while, Shen Yijia suddenly stopped. There were still no other creatures around, not even a bird.


    However, Shen Yijia did not mind. She was not here to hunt in the first place. She took out two small objects from her purse and handed them to Furball.


    ¡°Come, sniff this. Are there medicinal herbs like these in the mountains?¡± She had specially broken off a small piece of the wild ginseng and lingzhi. They were both leftovers from before.


    Furball turned its head away and lowered its eyelids lazily. It wasn¡¯t a dog. Only a dog would do such a stupid thing.

 Chapter 122 - Provoking Furball

    Shen Yijia scratched her head and persuaded Furball earnestly, ¡°I want to get you prey to eat, but there aren¡¯t any in the mountains right now. These herbs are very valuable, we can use them to earn money. Then, I can buy meat for you. It¡¯s called a strategic investment, do you understand?¡±


    Furball ignored her.


    1


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and condensed a drop of spiritual liquid from her fingertips. She said angrily, ¡°This should be enough, right?¡±


    If that didn¡¯t work, she would have to use a cane to educate him. If that didn¡¯t work, she could consider eating Furball meat tonight.


    It was unknown if Furball sensed danger or if it was attracted by the spiritual liquid.


    It leaned over and licked the spiritual liquid that had just condensed on Shen Yijia¡¯s fingertips.


    Shen Yijia had already thought about how to cook Furball. She only came back to her senses after her fingertips were scraped a few times and realized what Furball had done.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. ¡°Ah!¡± She screamed and took a big step back. She pointed at Furball and widened her eyes. ¡°You took advantage of me, you indecent tiger. You have to find all the goods in this mountain today. Otherwise, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson.¡±


    If Furball could speak, it would say, ¡°Your acting skills are really bad. If you want my help, just say so. You actually tried to scam me. It¡¯s really difficult to be a tiger!¡±


    2


    What Shen Yijia did not know was that less than two hours after she left, someone walked out from next door.


    An Xiu¡¯er stood hesitantly in front of the Song family¡¯s courtyard.


    1


    She looked up at the imposing mansion and finally made up her mind. She took a deep breath and slowly knocked on the courtyard door.


    She was wearing a decently new pink dress today. She had some makeup on her face, and her lips were red. Her black hair was loosely tied with a pink headband, and she looked more beautiful than usual.


    Not long after, the courtyard door was opened from the inside. The smile on Lin Shao¡¯s face immediately disappeared when he saw the person at the door.


    He initially thought that his sister-in-law had returned to save them.


    Nevertheless, he asked politely, ¡°Can I help you?¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er did not miss the change in Lin Shao¡¯s expression. She tightened her grip on the handkerchief and felt a little angry. In her opinion, Lin Shao and his sister were just wild children who had been picked up. However, Madam Li treated them like her own children.


    1


    However, An Xiu¡¯er didn¡¯t show it on her face. She smiled and said, ¡°I made some pancakes for everyone to try.¡±


    Lin Shao didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong. The two families interacted a lot, and it was common for them to give each other food. He thanked her and reached out to take the basket from An Xiu¡¯er.


    An Xiu¡¯er turned away slightly and said hesitantly, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen Sister Huan for a few days. I want to see her. Is it convenient for me to go in?¡±


    Lin Shao originally wanted to refuse. Madam Li had accompanied Widow Wang to the town to deliver embroidery work, and Shen Yijia was not around.


    Apart from Song Jingchen, who was an adult man, the rest of the family were all children. It was inappropriate to let a girl enter the house.


    But before he could speak, An Xiu¡¯er suddenly called out to Sister Huan and walked in. She had been here many times and knew that everyone was in the study at this time, so she walked all the way to the backyard.


    1


    Lin Shao frowned and followed.

 Chapter 123 - Hitting On Someone

    Sister Huan was practicing her calligraphy when she heard the commotion. She threw down her brush and stuck her head out of the study room. She said happily, ¡°Sister Xiu¡¯er, why are you here?¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er walked in with a smile. She was a little disappointed to see that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t there. She took out a few plates from the basket and said, ¡°These are freshly cooked pancakes. You guys can try them and take a break.¡±


    ¡°Sister Xiu¡¯er, you¡¯re the best.¡± Sister Huan happened to be hungry, so she spoke sweetly.


    When the others heard that they could rest, they also threw down their brushes and came over.


    An Xiu¡¯er rubbed Sister Huan¡¯s head. When they were almost done eating, she looked around and pretended to ask casually, ¡°Where¡¯s your big brother? I made a little too much, you won¡¯t be able to finish it. You can let him try it too.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother should be in the courtyard. Didn¡¯t you see him?¡± Sister Huan said vaguely. She didn¡¯t understand why her big brother didn¡¯t stay in the house on such a cold day.


    ¡°Maybe I didn¡¯t notice him just now. You guys eat first. I¡¯ll bring it to him.¡± After saying that, An Xiu¡¯er picked up an empty plate, and placed two pancakes on it before walking out.


    Bruiser bit off half a piece of cake and his cheeks bulged. He choked on it and coughed. At this moment, a cup of tea was handed over. Bruiser quickly took it and drank it. He stuffed the teacup back into Lin Miaomiao¡¯s hand and praised casually, ¡°Miaomiao treats me the best.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao blushed and lowered her head in embarrassment.


    Bruiser only cared about eating and didn¡¯t notice anything else. As he ate, he suddenly thought of something and looked up to meet Lin Shao¡¯s gaze.


    Something was wrong.


    The same thought occurred to them both.


    They immediately got up to follow Xiu¡¯er. Lin Shao reminded the others, ¡°Stay here.¡±


    After tearing down the original house, a huge courtyard was left in the middle. Madam Li and Shen Yijia cleaned it up and prepared to plant some vegetables in spring.


    At this moment, it was so empty that one could see the end of it. Thinking that she didn¡¯t see him when she came in, An Xiu¡¯er went around to the back of the house and saw Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was sitting facing the dog hole, concentrating on carving a wooden hairpin.


    He didn¡¯t care when he heard footsteps approaching. There were only these few people in the house.


    A delicate female voice suddenly sounded behind him. ¡°Brother Song¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand that was holding the carving knife paused and he frowned unhappily.


    An Xiu¡¯er walked up to Song Jingchen and met his face. Her face slowly turned red. ¡°Brother Song, it¡¯s all thanks to Sister Shen that my father can recover.¡±


    ¡°Your father saved Sister Huan first, and my wife gave him the medicine later. We¡¯re even,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted her and said coldly. He didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia¡¯s rescue to always be mentioned, worried that someone would remember it and question the abnormalities of the incident.


    An Xiu¡¯er choked and forced a smile. ¡°That¡¯s because Sister Shen saved our family.¡±


    She then handed the plate to Song Jingchen. ¡°I just made it. Try it. If it¡¯s delicious, I¡¯ll make more next time.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. There should be a distance between men and women. Miss An, you should leave.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    That girl didn¡¯t seem to like eating such dry food. Although she had never said it, it was obvious that she ate the least pancakes during meals.

 Chapter 124 - Bumped Right Into It

    An Xiu¡¯er paused. She didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to reject her immediately. She threw the reservedness that a woman should have to the back of her mind. She gritted her teeth and asked, ¡°Brother Song, do you not like me?¡±


    1


    Song Jingchen¡¯s thoughts were pulled back. He said impatiently, ¡°Miss, do you have a brain disease?¡±


    Otherwise, a normal girl would not have said such words.


    An Xiu¡¯er gritted her teeth. Father An was in good health, so Auntie Tian placed her attention on her. During this period of time, her family had been looking after her. They were only waiting for An Dong to get married before marrying her off.


    She knew that if she missed this opportunity, she would not have another. It had not been easy to get here, and she did not want to give up.


    2


    With this thought in mind, she cried out in surprise and staggered towards Song Jingchen.


    However, she saw Song Jingchen driving the wheelchair back a few feet as if he had seen a ferocious beast. An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s eyes flashed with disbelief, but it was too late for her to stabilize herself.


    Song Jingchen watched expressionlessly as she fell. He didn¡¯t even blink.


    Bruiser and the other man, who had just rushed over, happened to see this scene. They covered their cheeks in unison. It really hurt to look at.


    1


    At this moment, a bulging cloth bag suddenly flew in from outside the courtyard wall and smashed down at Song Jingchen.


    He instinctively wanted to avoid it. When he saw the familiar fabric, his lips twitched. He stopped himself and reached out to catch the cloth bag.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s nose was immediately filled with a strong earthy smell, mixed with a slightly familiar sweet fragrance. Seeing someone¡¯s cotton jacket appear in such a way, he knew what was inside without looking.


    Then, a small head emerged from the hole.


    Shen Yijia met the gaze of An Xiu¡¯er, who was lying on the ground. Before she could greet her, she felt a gaze on her. Shen Yijia braced herself and looked up.


    She forced a stiff smile. ¡°You¡¯re all here. It¡¯s- it¡¯s quite lively.¡±


    Was it too late for her to retreat now? No wonder Furball refused to crawl in just now. She thought that it had a conscience and let her go first.


    She was careless.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°Hurry and stand up.¡±


    What kind of demon was this girl? How could she be so stupid?


    ¡°Ah? Oh!¡± Shen Yijia felt a little guilty. She crawled in at a speed not much faster than a turtle. She lowered her head and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side, her small hands twisting the hem of her shirt.


    1


    Song Jingchen looked at the muddy person and sighed. He took off his outer robe and handed it to her. ¡°It¡¯s cold. Put it on.¡±


    Shen Yijia reached out to take it. When she noticed that her hands were covered in mud, she immediately retracted them and hid them behind her back.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Squat down.¡±


    Shen Yijia obediently did as she was told. She watched as Song Jingchen helped her put on her outer robe and carefully tied the belt for her.


    She coughed. The robe was tied so tightly it almost strangled her.


    1


    Facing Shen Yijia¡¯s accusation, Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and said awkwardly, ¡°Go back to the house and change your clothes.¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted and rolled her eyes. She decided not to stoop to his level.


    The two of them were so intimate that An Xiu¡¯er trembled with jealousy.


    At this moment, Shen Yijia also remembered that there was someone lying on the ground. She asked in confusion, ¡°Xiu¡¯er, did you also crawl in from here? Get up quickly. Be careful not to catch a cold.¡±


    1


    After saying that, she reached out to help An Xiu¡¯er up, but Song Jingchen grabbed her hand and said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s dirty.¡±


    2


    ¡°My hand is dirty too.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s words, An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s face turned pale. She stared at Song Jingchen in disbelief.


    She could not believe that this heavenly looking man would say such hurtful words.

 Chapter 125 - Fighting the Arena Master

    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look at her as he pulled Shen Yijia away.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia realized that her husband was so strong. She could only turn around and say to An Xiu¡¯er, ¡°Get up quickly. The ground is cold. You can just knock on the door next time. That hole is for Furball to crawl through.¡±


    1


    Shen Yijia wanted to express that her family would open the door for her. The hole was dirty and not suitable for crawling through, but An Xiu¡¯er found it ironic.


    She could still hear their conversation in the distance. The tips of An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s fingers turned white from clenching her hands.


    ¡°Have you finished both your homework?¡±


    Bruiser said, ¡°We came out to pee. We¡¯ll go back immediately.¡±


    Lin Shao said, ¡°Right, right.¡±


    ¡°Husband, can you let go of my hand?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    At this moment, there was another commotion at the entrance of the cave. An Xiu¡¯er looked and tried to get up with trembling legs.


    Furball looked at her and opened his mouth to howl.


    An Xiu¡¯er was so frightened that her eyes rolled back and she fainted.


    Furball gave her a disdainful look and left arrogantly, wiggling its butt.


    1


    An Xiu¡¯er was left lying on the ground alone.


    An Xiu¡¯er was carried back by Lin Shao and Bruiser.


    They heard that she fell sick for a few days and stopped visiting them for a long time. Perhaps because Shen Yijia had saved Father An¡¯s life, Auntie Tian¡¯s relationship with Madam Li was as usual.


    In the blink of an eye, a month had passed. Shen Yijia brought Bruiser to town in a carriage.


    Bruiser had not been here for a few days. As soon as he arrived in town, he went to look for his friends.


    When Shopkeeper Wang saw Shen Yijia, he was stunned for a moment. Then, he reacted and led her to the study.


    ¡°Shopkeeper Wang, how are those ornaments selling?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Shopkeeper Wang counted the days in his heart. It had been exactly a month as they had agreed. He thought to himself, ¡°Your memory is really good, but why didn¡¯t you take my advice to heart?¡±


    He took out a ledger from the side and handed it to Shen Yijia. ¡°Look, you¡¯re lucky. A foreign merchant came a while ago and saw that those items were exquisite, so he took them. They were sold for a total of 50 taels of silver. This is your 42.5 taels of silver.¡±


    As he spoke, he took out another money bag and handed it to her. ¡°Check it.¡±


    Based on what Shopkeeper Wang said last time, Shen Yijia thought that she would not be able to sell it for much money. She did not expect it to be so much more than she had expected.


    She did not care that Shopkeeper Wang was still around and directly poured out the silver from the money bag to count it carefully. This was what her husband had earned with difficulty, so she had to make sure to count it clearly.


    Shopkeeper Wang¡¯s face twitched. Where was the trust between people?


    1


    Shen Yijia put away the silver and bade farewell to Shopkeeper Wang. Just as she reached the door, she saw Bruiser running over.


    ¡°Sister, Sister¡­¡± Bruiser exhaled and whispered into Shen Yijia¡¯s ear,¡± There¡¯s a good show in the arena today. Shall we go? ¡±


    ¡°What show?¡± Shen Yijia expressed her doubts. This kid wanted her to bring him there every day to earn money. This was not a good sign.


    ¡°The previous arena lord started the arena today. If you win against him, you¡¯ll get a hundred taels of silver. Then, in the future, you¡¯ll be the new arena lord.¡± Bruiser was so excited that his voice rose a few octaves. In his mind, it was impossible for Shen Yijia to lose.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s interest was piqued. Money was secondary. The main thing was that those who could become arena masters were definitely not ordinary. She could fight to her hearts¡¯ content. Only by sparring could she improve.


    Shen Yijia found a perfect excuse for herself. She took out the male clothes she had prepared from the carriage and changed into them. She happily brought Bruiser to the arena.


    Winning a match would earn him a hundred taels of silver. How wonderful!


    2

 Chapter 126 - Fate?

    The arena was indeed more lively than usual today. There were usually many people, but it was not as crowded as this.


    Shen Yijia and Bruiser squeezed in, sweating profusely.


    The surrounding people were extremely excited. Their eyes lit up as they looked at the arena. They gestured and shouted. Shen Yijia rubbed her arms and was a little shocked.


    These people were like the lunatics who saw meat in her previous life, causing her to almost be assimilated.


    She collected her number and went on stage.


    Due to her previous two achievements, many people had a deep impression of Shen Yijia. At this moment, no one dared to underestimate her.


    In a special private room in the arena, a young master leaned against the soft couch. When he saw Shen Yijia on the stage, his eyes lit up.


    He stared at the petite figure and waved at Manager Feng. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you don¡¯t know that young lady from that day?¡±


    He had seen countless women and could tell at a glance that the young man on the stage was a woman.


    Manager Feng felt bitter. He did not understand why his young master was thinking about a village girl when he had so many beauties around him.


    Initially, he thought that he could kill two birds with one stone by capturing that kid from the Lin family after finding that young lady. However, he couldn¡¯t find out who that person was no matter how hard he tried.


    He was confused by the sudden question. He was about to shake his head when he noticed his young master¡¯s gaze.


    He looked over and his eyes widened in shock. ¡°So it¡¯s him.¡±


    No wonder he had found that young lady familiar. He never expected that the boy he had always wanted to catch was a woman, and that his young master had taken a fancy to her.


    ¡°Huh?¡± The young master glared at Manager Feng in dissatisfaction. He was useless. Fortunately, he was here today. Otherwise, he would have missed the beauty.


    He then looked at Shen Yijia, who had beaten the previous arena lord until he could not fight back. He gritted his teeth. He did not expect the beauty to be a little chili pepper. She was spicy. He liked her.


    ¡°My young master, you¡¯ve wronged me. I didn¡¯t know that he was a girl. I wanted to send him over to you.¡± Of course, that would depend on whether he could catch her or not.


    It was no wonder that the Lin siblings could escape from Feng Laoliu.


    Manager Feng still did not know that their ties with Shen Yijia were deeper than that. For example, Feng Laoliu was killed by Shen Yijia. If he had known earlier, he might have been even more cautious when he attacked Shen Yijia.


    ¡°I admit defeat.¡± The burly man spat out a mouthful of blood and shouted these three words with difficulty. His eyes rolled back and he fainted.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s fist stopped less than a finger¡¯s breadth away from the burly man.


    She breathed a sigh of relief. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t have been able to stop my fist if you¡¯d said it any later.¡± she thought.


    Cheers erupted from the audience. Bruiser was overjoyed, but he also felt a little uncomfortable.


    He was stuck in the middle of the crowd.


    However, the people around him were so tall that he was smothered by them. He could only jump up and wave at Shen Yijia to indicate that he was here.


    Shen Yijia had already seen him and rolled her eyes.


    She stepped off the stage and was about to go over when someone stepped out and blocked her way.


    Shen Yijia looked over unhappily. She had seen this person once. He seemed to be someone who worked here.


    Manager Feng smiled and cupped his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°Young Master, is my young master inviting you to meet him.¡±


    ¡°Who are you? Who is your young master?¡± Shen Yijia asked impatiently.


    She stuck his head out to look for Bruiser, but there were too many people. The man in front of her even deliberately blocked her way.

 Chapter 127 - Threat

    ¡°My surname is Feng, and I¡¯m the manager here. Young Master, you can call me Manager Feng. As for my young master¡­ you¡¯ll know when you get there.¡± Manager Feng did get mad with Shen Yijia because of her attitude and continued to smile.


    However, Shen Yijia felt uncomfortable from his smile. She had goosebumps. She felt that something was off with this person.


    She shook her head and refused. ¡°I don¡¯t know your young master. I still have something on. I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    ¡°Young Master, why are you in a hurry to refuse?¡± Manager Feng was not in a hurry. He pointed at a place and gestured for Shen Yijia to look. Then, he said, ¡°That little brother is your friend, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction he was pointing at and saw Bruiser, who had been jumping around happily in the crowd just now, being held by two burly men on both sides. There was a dagger on his neck.


    He was looking at her straight in the eye, stunned.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Was she being threatened? She remembered that Shopkeeper Wang had said that someone was asking about her.


    She turned to Manager Feng and smiled. ¡°Lead the way then.¡±


    Manager Feng smiled in satisfaction. ¡°Then please follow me.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed him and saw that he was about to leave the arena. She paused and asked, ¡°I want my friend to leave with me.¡±


    Manager Feng hesitated. He knew how difficult this little girl was to deal with. Without a hostage, what if she slipped away again¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t run away. I¡¯ll wait until I see your young master before leaving.¡± How dare he ask around for news about her? He had caused her to be ordered to stay at home by her husband, and now he even dared to threaten her. How could she not teach him a lesson? Of course, she wouldn¡¯t leave without doing so.


    Manager Feng had seen countless people and could tell that Shen Yijia was telling the truth. He waved his hand and asked someone to bring Bruiser along, but he still got someone to hold the knife to threaten Bruiser.


    Bruiser looked at Shen Yijia pitifully. His eyes were filled with tears. Coupled with his delicate face, he looked very pitiful.


    Shen Yijia felt a chill run down her spine. She glanced at him in disdain and did not say anything else.


    It was good that he had learned his lesson. He didn¡¯t have the ability, yet he still dared to keep tempting her into coming here. Did he think that everyone was as outstanding as her?


    After leaving the arena, they walked into another passageway. After walking for about 15 minutes, Manager Feng stopped at the end of the passageway.


    He fumbled with the wall, and the wall in front of him suddenly parted. Light shone in from outside, illuminating the originally dark passage.


    When she walked out, she saw a courtyard with carved beams. Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. It was good that it was not underground. Otherwise, she would have to find a way out after beating someone up. It was troublesome.


    Shen Yijia admired the courtyard as she walked. She was not in a hurry at all. From time to time, she would pluck a flower from the roadside.


    There were still so many flowers at this time. How rare.


    Manager Feng¡¯s eyes twitched when he saw this. Other than liking beauties, his young master only loved flowers and plants. Every flower in this pot was obtained at a high price.


    Moreover, it took a lot of effort to make these flowers bloom in this season.


    Now it was ruined.


    Shen Yijia noticed Manager Feng¡¯s expression from the corner of her eye. She blinked and thought for a moment. Then, she became even more ruthless.


    Manager Feng stopped in front of a door with his men. He could not help but turn around and look at the place they had passed by. His heart was bleeding.


    If not for the fact that his young master had taken a fancy to this woman, he would definitely¡­


    The path, which was originally filled with colorful flowers, was now bare from Shen Yijia¡¯s actions. Petals covered the entire path.

 Chapter 128 - Pack It Up and Take It Away

    Shen Yijia did not seem to see Manager Feng gritting his teeth. She said in a good mood, ¡°Where¡¯s your young master?¡±


    Manager Feng came back to his senses and smiled. ¡°My young master said to let Young Master Shen, no, Miss Shen.¡±


    ¡°My young master has instructed Miss Shen to change her clothes before going to see him.¡± With that, he clapped his hands and the door immediately opened from the inside.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What if I don¡¯t?¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a few young girls dressed as maidservants walked out of the room. Each of them held a tray with both hands.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously covered her eyes, almost blinded by the jewelry on the tray.


    When Manager Feng heard her refusal, he gave the person behind him a look. The person holding Bruiser pressed the dagger against his neck. Bruiser cried, ¡°Sister, Sister, save me¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia felt a headache coming on when she saw Bruiser¡¯s useless look. She rolled her eyes and said, ¡°It¡¯s just a change of clothes. I¡¯ll change.¡±


    ¡°Miss, please choose a set of jewelry first.¡± The leading maidservant stepped forward and said.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand generously. ¡°No need. They all look pretty good to me. Use them all.¡±


    Only children made choices. As for her, she wanted all of them.


    The maidservant choked and looked at Shen Yijia in disdain.


    After receiving Manager Feng¡¯s nod, she bowed perfunctorily and said, ¡°Then please follow me.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not move. She turned around and suddenly walked to Bruiser.


    The man holding Bruiser took a step back warily. Shen Yijia quickly said, ¡°I just want to talk to him.¡±


    Shen Yijia patted Bruiser¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Just wait here.¡±


    With that, she followed the maidservants into the room.


    With the matter of choosing jewelry just now, they did not ask which dress she wanted to wear and directly wanted to undress Shen Yijia.


    How could Shen Yijia let anyone touch her? She dodged and moved behind them, not giving them a chance to react. She knocked them out with a few hand strikes.


    She was in no hurry to go out. Her eyes lit up as she scanned through the jewelry.


    She looked around and finally took out the dress that they had prepared for her from an unconscious maidservant.


    Shen Yijia spread out her dress and muttered unhappily, ¡°Really? You¡¯re making me wear so little in the winter. Are you trying to freeze me to death? You really have ill intentions.¡±


    As she muttered, she didn¡¯t forget to take out all the jewelry and pack them up. She packed a simple bag and carried it on her back.


    They¡¯d offered her these, so she wasn¡¯t stealing them.


    Just as she finished thinking this, there was a knock on the door.


    Shen Yijia looked at the door and saw Bruiser poke his head in, followed by his entire body.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. ¡°Why do you look so guilty?¡±


    Bruiser scratched the back of his head and chuckled. ¡°Sister, the powder you gave me is really effective. I knocked everyone out the moment I scattered it.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s not good, would I give it to you?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. It was made by Lin Shao.


    After some thought, she took off the bag on her back and threw it to Bruiser. ¡°I¡¯ll send you out later. Wait for me at the Full Fortune Restaurant.¡±


    Bringing him along would easily distract her. It was better to send him away first.


    Bruiser shook the bag. ¡°Aren¡¯t we being thieves right now?¡± he thought.


    Hearing that he had to leave first, he immediately couldn¡¯t take it anymore. He raised his voice. ¡°You¡¯re not leaving with me? No, if you want to leave, we¡¯ll leave together.¡±

 Chapter 129 - Pervert

    She looked at Bruiser¡¯s expression. It was as if he was saying, ¡°How could a loyal person like me abandon you and run away?¡±


    Shen Yijia hit him on the head angrily and mercilessly exposed his fake masculinity. ¡°Why are you staying? Are you waiting to be arrested and threatened? Then should I save you or not?¡±


    Bruiser choked and lowered his head dejectedly. ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Only then was Shen Yijia satisfied. She dragged the bodies outside into the room and tied them up. Then, she led Bruiser out of the back wall.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you leave with me?¡± Bruiser was still worried.


    If anything happened to Shen Yijia, he felt that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t let him off.


    Shen Yijia glared at him. Bruiser immediately let go of her sleeve. ¡°Then, be careful.¡±


    ¡°Alright, stop being so wishy-washy. I¡¯ll find you quickly.¡±


    She had never been threatened like this before. Today, she would let that stupid young master know why some flowers could be poisonous.


    Shen Yijia did not return to the courtyard. She climbed up a tree and observed the layout of the entire residence. She found the most luxurious courtyard and swaggered in.


    ¡°Stop, who are you?¡± The guard stopped Shen Yijia and questioned her sternly.


    Shen Yijia spoke, ¡°Your young master asked Manager Feng to bring me to see him. What happened? Are you not letting me see him now?¡±


    If she didn¡¯t know that there was a tunnel here, she would have directly fought her way in. She was worried that the so-called young master would escape from the tunnel.


    The guard glanced behind Shen Yijia. There was no one there. He asked suspiciously, ¡°You said that our Young Master asked you to come. Where¡¯s Manager Feng?¡±


    ¡°Who am I supposed to ask? He said his stomach hurt and he ran away halfway. It took me a long time to find this place.¡±


    The guard was about to say something when a servant rushed over from the courtyard. He cupped his hands and bowed. ¡°My young master invites you in.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her chin at the guard, looking smug.


    She swaggered past the guard.


    The guard said nothing.


    When they reached the door, the servant stopped and pushed it open.


    Shen Yijia walked in and saw layers of gauze. Through the gauze, she could vaguely see a figure sitting inside.


    The tip of her nose was still filled with a nauseating fragrance. Shen Yijia wrinkled her delicate nose. Did this person have some perverted hobby?


    Just as this thought flashed through her mind, the door behind her was closed from the outside. Shen Yijia turned around.


    This was exactly what she wanted.


    She was not in a hurry to enter. She walked to the door and locked it. After thinking about it, she felt that it was not enough. She casually pulled off a gauze curtain and tied it tightly around the door.


    Looking at her masterpiece, Shen Yijia nodded in satisfaction.


    There was a saying that went, ¡°Close the door and beat the dog.¡± Unfortunately, she was missing a stick, so she had to make do with her fists.


    1


    ¡°Haha, are you afraid that someone will disturb us?¡± A frivolous voice came from behind her.


    Shen Yijia shivered when she heard that. She clenched her fists and chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s right. It wouldn¡¯t be fun to be disturbed.¡±


    After saying that, she walked in and tore off all the gauze curtains in her path.


    She thought that the layout of this room was coquettish enough until she saw the man leaning against the chaise lounge.

 Chapter 130 - Long Narrow Eyes

    The man¡¯s red clothes were loosely draped over his body, revealing a large area of skin on his chest. His black hair was untied and draped over his shoulders.


    He even had a smile on his face. It was obvious that he thought he could bewitch all living beings.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Are you all right, brother?¡± she thought.


    If a man as devilish as Song Jingchen was dressed like this, she might have considered going easy on him.


    However, the man in front of her¡­ Not to mention his shifty eyes, the soybean-sized mole at the corner of his mouth really hurt Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes.


    Also, did this man really like women? Why did Shen Yijia feel that he needed a man more?


    Shen Yijia regretted not covering her eyes just now. She was afraid that she would get a sty when she went back.


    1


    However, at this moment, the man said confidently, ¡°As long as you serve me well, I promise to let you live a good life in the future.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she was already worried that there would be something wrong with her eyes. At this moment, her anger was rising. She could no longer tolerate it.


    ¡°I¡¯ll beat you to death, you pervert.¡± With that, Shen Yijia wrapped her hand in a gauze and rushed over with a fist.


    However, just as she reached the man, she felt her legs go weak and she fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia looked down at her limp hands in disbelief. She had been tricked¡­


    ¡°My my, young lady, I¡¯ve seen how powerful you are. How can I not be on guard? But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve always been gentle to beauties¡­¡± The show-off laughed lecherously and reached out to Shen Yijia.


    Just as he was about to touch Shen Yijia¡¯s face, a small hand suddenly grabbed his wrist.


    This time, it was the flashy man¡¯s turn to be dumbfounded. He widened his eyes and looked at the owner of the small hand.


    Shen Yijia looked up and grinned. She tilted her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m not gentle with ugly people at all.¡±


    The flashy man was so frightened that he wanted to open his mouth to call for help. Shen Yijia quickly stuffed a ball of gauze into his mouth.


    The small fist followed closely behind and greeted his face. The flashy man was in so much pain that tears and snot flowed. He staggered and wanted to run.


    Shen Yijia was so disgusted that she kicked him to the ground. She picked up the gauze curtain and tied him up.


    The flashy man struggled with all his might and glared at Shen Yijia fiercely, unable to speak.


    Unfortunately, no matter how hard he stared, he couldn¡¯t do anything.


    Shen Yijia clapped her hands and stood up. She kicked him a few times. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault that you¡¯re ugly, but it¡¯s definitely your fault for coming out here with that face. How dare you threaten me and drug me.¡±


    The more Shen Yijia thought about it, the angrier she became.


    He even wanted her to serve him? Even her beautiful husband didn¡¯t dare to think that way. The audacity of this man.


    The commotion was too loud. The servant and guard outside the door looked at each other.


    ¡°Did something happen?¡± the guard asked worriedly.


    ¡°It¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know what our young master is like. However, this young lady is really amazing today. She didn¡¯t even scream.¡± The servant dug his ears and said indifferently.


    As his personal servant, he was obviously used to such things.


    ¡°It seems like it won¡¯t end anytime soon. Stay here and guard the place. I¡¯ll go and see why Manager Feng hasn¡¯t arrived yet.¡± After saying that, the servant left leisurely without waiting for the guard to return.


    The guard frowned, but he was still worried. He walked down the corridor and probed, ¡°Young Master, do you need me to come in and refill the tea?¡±

 Chapter 131 - Cleansing One’s Eyes

    The flashy man curled up into a ball in pain.


    The pain cleared his mind a little. When he heard the guard¡¯s voice, his eyes lit up and he tried his best to make a sound to let the people outside in.


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked the flashy man, ¡°You want him to come in?¡±


    She looked as if she was willing to negotiate.


    The flashy man made a few muffled sounds and kept nodding.


    When his people arrived, he would deal with this bitch.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin and thought for a while before nodding obediently. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you call him in.¡±


    The flashy man stopped struggling and looked at Shen Yijia suspiciously.


    Shen Yijia did not disappoint him. She walked to the door and removed the veil.


    If she had known this would happen, she wouldn¡¯t have tied the door up like that.


    She opened the door and stuck her head out. She happened to meet the guard¡¯s gaze.


    The guard took a step back in shock. Shen Yijia grinned at him calmly. ¡°Your young master asked you to come in.¡±


    The guard looked at Shen Yijia warily and touched the sword at his waist.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and pulled him in.


    She closed the door again.


    The guard was stunned.


    The flashy man was dumbfounded.


    Shen Yijia clapped her hands and sat down at the table in a good mood.


    The flashy man struggled.


    ¡°Young Master.¡± The guard came back to his senses and saw the situation in the room. He called out and drew his sword to attack Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia picked up the teacup and threw it at the guard. While the guard was dodging, she turned around and kicked him.


    The two of them fought for less than half an hour before Shen Yijia suddenly took a few steps back.


    The guard looked at her warily. Shen Yijia said, ¡°Fall.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the guard fell to his knees as if he had been cursed. The sword in his hand fell to the ground with a clang.


    The flashy man finally understood why Shen Yijia let people in and why she was stalling for time when dealing with the guards.


    What was left of his rationality made him shake his head repeatedly, his eyes wide with fear.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and dragged him to the guard¡¯s side. After waiting for a few seconds, she confirmed that the guard had been hit.


    Shen Yijia turned around and walked out of the room.


    Although she was a little curious, she didn¡¯t want to taint her eyes with this scene.


    She closed the door from the outside and hung up the lock that she had accidentally broken.


    She stood at the door for a while until there was a strange commotion inside. Only then did Shen Yijia climb over the wall and leave in satisfaction.


    Bruiser was extremely anxious. Seeing that Shen Yijia had returned safely, he heaved a sigh of relief and complained, ¡°Sister, don¡¯t make me leave first in the future. I¡¯ll get worried.¡±


    ¡°Stop, let¡¯s go home.¡± Shen Yijia interrupted Bruiser¡¯s nagging. She borrowed a private room from Shopkeeper Wang and changed her clothes before leaving with the carriage.


    Shopkeeper Wang wanted to speak a few times, but he did not have the chance. He watched as the carriage left.


    ¡°Sister, did they catch up to us?¡± Bruiser asked as he hugged the wall of the carriage.


    ¡°No.¡±


    Bruiser heaved a sigh of relief but was puzzled. ¡°Then why are you in such a hurry?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m in a hurry to go home and cleanse my eyes.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. With a whip, the carriage ran faster.


    Bruiser gripped the wall of the car tightly, his heart filled with suspicion.


    Why didn¡¯t she wash up at the Full Fortune Restaurant just now? Besides, her eyes weren¡¯t dirty.


    ¡°My eyes have been tainted.¡± she thought.


    When she got home, Shen Yijia cleansed her eyes seriously.


    She stared at Song Jingchen without blinking.


    Shen Yijia followed him wherever he went. Her gaze never left Song Jingchen.

 Chapter 132 - Avoid Them Like The Plague

    Not to mention the others in the family, even Song Jingchen felt uncomfortable.


    Bruiser, who knew the inside story, was speechless.


    So this was what it meant to wash one¡¯s eyes.


    He took pride in being the only one who knew the truth.


    Song Jingchen looked at Bruiser suspiciously. Bruiser, who had been warned by Shen Yijia in advance, trembled and glanced around.


    He stood up and stammered, ¡°I¡¯ll go home first.¡±


    With that, he ran, as if something terrifying was chasing him.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    At night, Song Jingchen lay in bed with his eyes closed.


    He suddenly opened his eyes and met a pair of wide eyes.


    It was especially strange in the dark night. Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He couldn¡¯t take it anymore and said, ¡°Have you seen enough?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head obediently. Afraid that he could not see clearly, she whispered, ¡°No.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°Why are you looking at me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re handsome.¡± Shen Yijia was a little tired from watching. She rubbed her eyes and continued watching.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    How could this girl say such frivolous words so easily? Were all demons so careless?


    Song Jingchen had never encountered one before and didn¡¯t know much about them.


    In the end, he sighed helplessly and reached out to pull her into his arms.


    Shen Yijia wanted to look up, but Song Jingchen pulled her head into his embrace and stopped her from moving.


    ¡°Hubby is so petty.¡± she thought to herself.


    In order to avoid being questioned by Song Jingchen, Bruiser didn¡¯t dare to come to their house for a few days in a row. There was one less troublemaker at home, and it was much quieter.


    Widow Wang was illiterate and had always hoped that Bruiser would be successful. However, not only was her family not well-to-do, but Bruiser was also disobedient.


    It was only when Shen Yijia appeared that Bruiser changed a lot. He could even learn how to read and write from Song Jingchen. Widow Wang was overjoyed and praised her son for being able to read.


    Widow Wang naturally didn¡¯t want Bruiser to stop visiting.


    At first, she thought that there was a conflict between children and thought that it would be fine after a while.


    One day, when she came to look for Madam Li to gossip, Lin Miaomiao asked her why Brother Bruiser didn¡¯t come.


    Only then did Widow Wang realize that it was not the case at all. When she returned home, she taught Bruiser a lesson and dragged him over to the Song family residence by the ear the next day.


    Bruiser was worried that he would be questioned by Song Jingchen, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t mention the incident at all.


    ¡°Have I been anxious for nothing?¡± Bruiser thought to himself.


    ¡°Big Brother, Sister-in-law sneaked out again,¡± Sister Huan shouted in Song Jingchen¡¯s general direction.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Sister Huan did not mind that her brother ignored her and sat back in front of the desk.


    She coughed and said solemnly, ¡°Everyone will write 100 more words today.¡±


    Everyone was silent.


    Such conversations happened almost every two days. Shen Yijia, who was slow to react, gradually understood that Song Jingchen had deliberately let her out.


    With this understanding, Shen Yijia naturally stopped worrying and just went out whenever she wanted.


    Every two days, she would openly bring Furball up the mountain. She had to praise Furball for having a good nose. She had almost wiped out all the wild ginseng and lingzhi in the nearby mountains.


    She had quite a bit of spiritual liquid. Song Jingchen had no use for it, so she let Furball have more.


    In the beginning, Shen Yijia did not let Furball appear in public. After going out more times, almost everyone in Xiagou Village knew that the Song family was raising a tiger.


    Everyone avoided their family like the plague.


    The people in the Song family¡¯s old residence were scared and hateful.

 Chapter 133 - People from the Capital

    Ever since that incident, Song Maolin had rarely appeared at home. After recovering from his injuries, he would occasionally come out with his head lowered and a gloomy expression.


    In Song Dajiang and his wife¡¯s hearts, all of this was caused by Shen Yijia. They wished they could curse Shen Yijia to die miserably every day.


    They wanted to spread rumors to sow discord, but no one in Xiagou Village dared to listen anymore.


    The weather was getting colder. After her first experience of nourishing her body and upgrading the spiritual liquid, Shen Yijia roughly understood the amount of medicinal herbs she needed. It seemed to be additional information that surfaced in her mind after the first upgrade.


    Shen Yijia was living a leisurely life here, completely unaware that someone in town had turned the town upside down to catch her.


    When she gathered enough medicinal herbs, there was less than a month left until the new year. Snow began to fall from the sky.


    Along with the snow were uninvited guests from the capital.


    The Second Prince, Shangguan Yu.


    He did not come alone. Apart from the guards, he was accompanied by the son and daughter of the current matriarch of the Shen family, Madam Chen.


    The seventeen-year-old eldest son, Shen Wenbo, and Shen Ruyun, who was two months older than Shen Yijia.


    The group of more than ten people entering the village attracted the villagers¡¯ attention.


    Everyone felt a chill in their hearts. Who else in Xiagou Village could have the ability to make these important-looking people come knocking on their door?


    Did this mean that the Song family still had a chance to rise again? The villagers had already offended them completely. If the Song family were to dig up the past, they wouldn¡¯t be able to repay their mistakes even with ten extra lives.


    Many people had this thought. Among them, the old residence was the most affected. Little Madam Liu even took her bag and returned to her mother¡¯s house.


    Putting all of that aside.


    Shen Yijia opened the door with an umbrella and saw a group of strangers standing outside the courtyard. She was stunned for a few seconds before she regained her senses and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    She didn¡¯t stay in the Shen residence for long after transmigrating, and the original host had never seen Shangguan Yu before either, so she naturally did not recognize him.


    At first glance, Shen Yijia felt that this person was quite good-looking. He was the most handsome person she had seen in this world besides Song Jingchen.


    He wore a white cloak, and his aura was as bright as the moon.


    As for Shen Wenbo and his sister, she hadn¡¯t seen them again after taking her revenge on them back in the capital.


    As for the Host¡¯s memories, Shen Yijia realized that since she could not remember the faces of those people from the Shen family, they were not important people. She did not dwell on it.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s question made Shangguan Yu pause. It was rude of them to visit without informing the household beforehand.


    He was about to explain who he was and why he was here.


    However, Su Ruyun had already stepped forward with red eyes. ¡°Second Sister, I¡¯m your big sister. Don¡¯t you recognize me?¡±


    As she spoke, she reached out to grasp Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    She was wearing a delicate embroidered orange dress in pink, a flowery cloud satin skirt in the same color, and a white brocade cloak trimmed with fur. She had a hollowed-out butterfly-shaped pin in her hair.


    Perhaps it was because it was too cold, but her face was a little stiff.


    Shen Yijia put her hands behind her back to avoid Shen Ruyun. She pretended to think seriously for a moment before shaking her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know you.¡±


    She made no attempt to hide her avoidance. Everyone could see it clearly.


    Hatred flashed across Su Ruyun¡¯s eyes, but then she looked like she was about to cry.


    She had a look on her face that said, ¡°How can you forget me? I¡¯m your dear sister. You¡¯re hurting my heart.¡±

 Chapter 134 - Asking for a Beating

    ¡°Second Sister, do you still blame me? It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t acknowledge me, but you can¡¯t ignore Big Brother, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia stood in front of her and clearly saw the hatred flash across Shen Ruyun¡¯s face.


    It was really an eye-opener. Compared to Widow Wang, who could not help but reveal her true nature when she faced Bruiser, this was a completely different level.


    Look at how natural her acting was.


    Shen Yijia applauded Shen Ruyun in her heart. She blinked and continued watching Su Ruyun¡¯s performance. ¡°Why don¡¯t you start crying?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    1


    Shen Ruyun choked and cursed in her heart that this brat had grown up.


    At first glance, she almost didn¡¯t recognize that this damn girl was even prettier than her.


    If Shen Yijia knew what she was thinking, she would probably roll her eyes and reply, ¡°You¡¯re so confident.¡±


    In the past, the original host looked pretty even after being abused. It could be seen how solid her appearance was.


    Now that Madam Li was making soup for her all day long to nourish her body, Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance naturally improved. Her body had also grown and was no longer malnourished, making her even more beautiful.


    One of the two women was about to cry, while the other stared at the one who was about to cry with a serious expression, as if she was waiting to see when she would shed tears.


    The scene became very awkward.


    Shen Wenbo could not bear to see his sister, whom he doted on, suffer. He took a step forward and shielded Su Ruyun behind him. He scolded, ¡°You have no manners. Is this how you talk to your eldest sister?¡±


    Shen Yijia tugged at her ears impatiently.


    These two were annoying.


    ¡°I¡¯m talking to you. What are you-¡±


    He trailed off.


    Shen Yijia raised her leg and kicked him away.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s kick was so sudden that the guards behind him did not have time to catch him.


    Even Su Ruyun, who was behind him, was implicated. She was knocked to the ground as a human cushion.


    Su Ruyun screamed.


    Her personal maidservant, Lian¡¯er, quickly went over to help her up.


    Shangguan Yu suddenly glanced at Shen Yijia and took a step forward. ¡°You must be Ah Chen¡¯s wife, Second Miss Shen. I¡¯m Shangguan Yu. These two are¡­¡±


    He did not seem to care that Shen Yijia had hurt someone. There was still a gentle smile on his face.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand to stop his introduction and nodded. ¡°I already believe you.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was puzzled. ¡°Sister-in-law, what do you mean?¡±


    Shen Yijia shrugged and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that they were my big brother and sister? I believe you now.¡±


    After all, only the Shen family could make her feel so disgusted.


    This was a grudge left behind by the original host.


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    ¡°Why did you hit them if you already believed me?¡± he thought to himself.


    ¡°Shen Yijia!¡± Shen Wenbo got up and roared through gritted teeth.


    When he saw Su Ruyun leaning against Lian¡¯er and crying, he was even angrier. He took out a long sword from his guard¡¯s waist and stabbed it at Shen Yijia. ¡°I¡¯ll let you know what it means to have seniority.¡±


    Shen Wenbo was currently studying in the Imperial College.


    Both the Chen family and the Shen family had high hopes for him. As a result, he had been practicing martial arts since he was young, so his martial arts skills were naturally not bad.


    Shangguan Yu frowned slightly. It was too late to stop him.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and was about to dodge when a yellow and black ball flew past her.


    Furball bit Shen Wenbo¡¯s wrist. The latter released his grip on the sword in pain and the sword fell to the ground with a clang.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was not injured, Shangguan Yu heaved a sigh of relief and looked down at the attacker carefully.


    Furball¡¯s appearance was so sudden that everyone was caught off guard.

 Chapter 135 - Meeting

    Shen Ruyun was the closest to Shen Wenbo. When Tuan Zi¡¯s tail swept past her, her eyes rolled back and she fainted.


    Lian¡¯er¡¯s body trembled as she held Su Ruyun tightly. She called out with a trembling voice, ¡°M-Miss¡­¡±


    Shen Wenbo was furious. He pulled out the dagger from his waist with his uninjured hand and was about to stab Furball¡¯s back.


    ¡°Little Furball.¡± A cold voice sounded. Little Furball immediately let go and retreated to Shen Yijia¡¯s side.


    Its forelimbs were slightly bent, ready for battle.


    Shen Wenbo missed. He held his bleeding hand and looked at the source of the voice with bloodshot eyes.


    ¡°Hubby, why are you out here too?¡± Shen Yijia turned around and saw Lin Shao pushing Song Jingchen out. She jogged over.


    Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and checked it carefully. After confirming that it was fine, he said, ¡°I wanted to come out and take a look when you didn¡¯t go back inside. Were you frightened?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and blinked in confusion. She had always been very powerful. How could she be frightened? It wasn¡¯t like her husband didn¡¯t know what she was capable of.


    ¡°Ah Chen!¡± Shangguan Yu walked forward slowly with a gentle smile on his lips.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and looked at the expression on Shangguan Yu¡¯s face. The confusion in her eyes intensified.


    This person seemed to be very familiar with her husband.


    Song Jingchen let go of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and bowed to Shangguan Yu. ¡°Greetings, Your Highness. I¡¯m disabled and can¡¯t bow. Please forgive me, Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu paused for a moment and reached out to hold Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. He shook his head and said in a familiar tone, ¡°Ah Chen, why are you being so formal towards me?¡±


    ¡°This commoner wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently, his face expressionless. Compared to Shangguan Yu, he looked much more indifferent.


    ¡°Ah Chen, you¡­¡± Shangguan Yu sighed.¡± No matter what, we¡¯re brothers. You shouldn¡¯t treat me like an outsider. ¡±


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip on his knees and lowered his eyes. ¡°This commoner wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Shangguan Yu shook his head helplessly and laughed at himself. ¡°Are you blaming me for not being able to stop my father?¡±


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, the attendant holding the umbrella for him couldn¡¯t help but cry out for him, ¡°Young Master Song, you¡¯ve wronged His Highness. Back then, in order to help you and the disinherited prince, His Highness knelt outside Yangxin Hall for an entire day and night¡­¡±


    ¡°Lianshan, shut up,¡± Shangguan Yu said unhappily.


    Lianshan knew that his master did not usually get angry easily. He had crossed a line.


    Lianshan hurriedly knelt on one knee. ¡°I¡¯ve spoken too much. Please punish me, Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu shook his head helplessly. ¡°Forget it, get up. Don¡¯t do it again.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, my sister¡­¡± Shen Wenbo went forward and probed.


    He was naturally unwilling to let Shen Yijia off, but he knew that he could not do anything to her for the time being.


    Shangguan Yu looked at Song Jingchen awkwardly. No matter what, these two people had followed him here. He couldn¡¯t leave them alone.


    However, he did not expect the three siblings to be so hostile towards each other.


    Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°My house is small and simple, so I won¡¯t be able to host you.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Shen Wenbo¡¯s face darkened. ¡°We braved the snow to come here. Now you¡¯re saying that we¡¯re not even allowed to enter. You¡¯re being too arrogant, do you think that you¡¯re still the once famous heir?¡± he thought.


    Shangguan Yu stopped him from saying anything else. He turned to Shen Yijia and smiled gently. ¡°I think it¡¯s all thanks to Sister-in-law taking care of Ah Chen these days. We were rude today. I apologize. Sister-in-law, please don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s my duty to take care of my husband. Besides, I¡¯m not injured. Why should I be angry?¡±

 Chapter 136 - The Truth

    Shen Yijia hoped that Shen Wenbo would have some backbone and continue attacking. Only then would she have a reason to deal with him.


    Speaking of which, Shen Wenbo had never bullied the Host. It was just that he always looked down on her.


    However, this also made the sensitive Host even more timid and unconfident.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s straightforward words made Shangguan Yu laugh. ¡°Sister-in-law is magnanimous. I¡¯m relieved.¡±


    After saying that, he looked at Song Jingchen and said gently, ¡°This time, I was ordered by the emperor to patrol the south. Along the way, I was lucky enough to meet a divine doctor who¡¯s good at treating leg diseases. I¡¯ll ask him to take a look at your legs another day.¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed and didn¡¯t comment on his insistence. He said, ¡°Your Highness, why bother? It¡¯s a good thing that my legs can¡¯t recover.¡±


    Shangguan Yu did not answer. He cupped his hands and prepared to leave.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly stopped him. After hesitating for a moment, he said, ¡°It¡¯s really not a wise move for Your Highness to meet me.¡±


    Although he did not say it explicitly, both of them understood what he meant.


    Shangguan Yu stopped in his tracks and smiled indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s fine. You know that my ambitions lie elsewhere. I couldn¡¯t help you back then and couldn¡¯t get over it. Just take it that I¡¯m doing this so that I can feel less guilty.¡±


    With that, he boarded the carriage and left with the group.


    Song Jingchen watched the carriage disappear into the snow. He lowered his eyes for a while before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen, not understanding why he said that to the prince. She walked behind him to take over Lin Shao¡¯s job. She pushed Song Jingchen back into the house.


    Perhaps because she suddenly saw Shen Wenbo and his sister, Shen Yijia had a dream that night.


    She dreamed of the time when the original host was still in the Shen family. The memories of the original host became crystal clear in her mind.


    The original host¡¯s mother, Madam Wang, came from a merchant family. She was the only child in the family and was quite favored in the family.


    The two elders were worried that Madam Wang would have no one to rely on after they passed away, so they chose Shen Pingxiu, who was only a poor scholar back then, as their son-in-law.


    They gave him enough money to help him. They thought that Shen Pingxiu would be able to protect Madam Wang in the future.


    Shen Pingxiu did not disappoint and became a High Scholar. However, the two elders died from illness not long after.


    Madam Wang was heartbroken, but Shen Pingxiu entered the bureaucracy smoothly.


    At the same time, he caught the eye of the daughter of the Minister of Personnel, Madam Chen. In order to have a father-in-law he could rely on, Shen Pingxiu married her.


    However, he did not think about how ridiculous it was for Madam Wang, whose parents supported him for so many years.


    But what could she do? Madam Wang was simply an orphan now, while the other party was the daughter of a minister. She was destined to suffer in silence.


    ¡°Stop.¡± Shen Yijia sat up from the bed and took in deep breaths of fresh air. She was sweating profusely in the cold weather.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen was woken up and asked worriedly.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously replied, ¡°I dreamed of her.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted. He suddenly grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s arm and asked hoarsely, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Shen Yijia woke up from the pain. She looked at Song Jingchen in a daze and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know either.¡±


    In her dream, she seemed to have become the real Shen Yijia and experienced what she had experienced again.


    To be precise, she felt more like a bystander. Her consciousness was dominated by the original host.


    The most important part was that she saw the memories of the original host.


    It turned out that Madam Wang did not die of illness at all. She was forced to death by Shen Pingxiu.

 Chapter 137 - Upgrade

    The original host, who was only five years old, made a small pouch and wanted to give it to Madam Wang. She happened to witness what Shen Pingxiu did to her mother.


    Afterwards, she fell ill. When she recovered, the lively little girl had become timid and afraid.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t pursue the matter. He let go of her hand and said in a gentle voice, ¡°It¡¯s just a dream. Don¡¯t mind it.¡±


    Shen Yijia bit the inside of her cheek. ¡°Since I¡¯ve already inherited this body, should I help the original host¡¯s mother take revenge and kill Shen Pingxiu?¡± she thought.


    Her head hurt.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not think about it. Things can be settled in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia lay down again, but she was no longer sleepy. She laid there with her eyes open for a long time.


    She suddenly turned to Song Jingchen and asked carefully, ¡°If your legs are cured, will you take revenge for Father and the others?¡±


    If he did, perhaps she would have a chance to see Shen Pingxiu again.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He obviously didn¡¯t expect her to suddenly ask this. He lowered his eyes.


    ¡°Can I ever stand on my legs again?¡± he thought. Not that it mattered to him. He wanted revenge no matter what.¡±


    After a long time, Shen Yijia thought that he would not answer, but he said, ¡°I¡¯ve never given up.¡±


    Since he wanted this person to stay by his side, Song Jingchen had no intention of hiding it. If she wanted to leave¡­


    There was still time.


    After saying this, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Shen Yijia understood what he meant. She leaned over and hugged Song Jingchen gently. ¡°Your legs will recover. I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t do anything else, but she was the best at fighting.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Song Jingchen had heard Shen Yijia say that his legs would recover. In the past, he didn¡¯t believe it, but when he thought about how this person in front of him wasn¡¯t human at all, he thought that perhaps demons like her really had a way.


    He turned around and met Shen Yijia¡¯s clear eyes. ¡°Will you be injured? Do you need to pay a price to cure others?¡±


    He had once read a strange book. It wrote that there was a demon core in a demon¡¯s body that could be used to save people. If it was taken out, the demon would die.


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    Why did she have to get injured for no reason? It was painful to get injured. She could not answer this question. No matter how good-looking her husband was, she simply didn¡¯t have an answer.


    Song Jingchen thought that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to expose her identity. Rather than his initial disappointment that day, now that he had thought it through, the only thing he was curious about was what kind of demon Shen Yijia was.


    Sometimes, she bared her fangs and brandished her claws, and sometimes she was obedient. She was a little like a cat demon.


    He rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head and sighed. ¡°If you need to pay a price to cure me, I wouldn¡¯t mind even if my legs don¡¯t recover. It doesn¡¯t matter.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°What the hell are you imagining? What do you mean it doesn¡¯t matter?¡± she thought. But she didn¡¯t dare ask. She was afraid that if she asked, she would have to reveal her secret.


    As for what she needed to pay, it was a large pile of wild ginseng that was difficult to swallow, as well as a drop of spiritual liquid that could only be condensed after 15 days.


    Although this process was a little uncomfortable, she could tolerate it for her beautiful husband.


    The two of them were on completely different wavelengths, but they tacitly stopped talking.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything because he was afraid that Shen Yijia would be put in a difficult position. He felt that he was prying into her identity.


    Shen Yijia wanted to protect her secret that had long been distorted by Song Jingchen.


    There was a moment of silence.


    The snow did not show any signs of stopping even after four days. The road to town was already covered in snow. Fortunately, there was enough food at home, so they did not have to worry about running out of food.


    In these four days, Shen Yijia insisted on chewing until her cheeks hurt before she wiped out the pile of wild ginseng.


    She successfully raised the spiritual liquid to level three and fell asleep for an entire day.

 Chapter 138 - Another Change

    After the first experience, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t panic anymore. He quietly waited for her in the room for the entire day.


    Shen Yijia woke up at noon on the fifth day. She blinked when she met Song Jingchen¡¯s tired eyes.


    Her first reaction was not to care about him, but to quickly check if there were any strange symptoms on her body, in case Song Jingchen realized that something was wrong.


    Fortunately, there wasn¡¯t any. Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    Song Jingchen stared at her with a strange expression.


    ¡°What, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia stroked her face and asked uneasily.


    Song Jingchen remained silent. He turned around and brought the bronze mirror on the dressing table to Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Shen Yijia screamed.


    She suddenly had a fiery red flower bud that was not much bigger than a rice grain between her eyebrows. She had never seen that pattern before.


    1


    It made her originally delicate and pretty face look even more flirtatious.


    Coupled with her enchanting eyes, she looked like a vixen.


    ¡°The gods have wronged me!¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at Song Jingchen and then at herself in the mirror. She repeated this a few times.


    Her hand shot to her forehead. ¡°I-¡±


    ¡°What if I can¡¯t cover up this incident?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll help you explain it to the others.¡±


    Although he had long known that Shen Yijia was inhuman, seeing a bud grow between her eyebrows with his own eyes, Song Jingchen was definitely not as calm as he looked.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Well, explain with whatever you¡¯ve understood then.¡± she thought.


    However, it was a good thing that she didn¡¯t have to make things up. If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t ask her, she would simply pretend that nothing had happened. She was really a smart girl.


    Song Jingchen left. Shen Yijia picked up the mirror and looked at the person in it carefully.


    ¡°Wow, am I a fairy? This looks so pretty!¡± she thought.


    When Shen Yijia cleaned up and walked out of the room, an hour had passed.


    It was all because she was too cold and had to wear too many clothes. She did not appreciate the fact that she had forgotten the time.


    ¡°Haha, Furball, don¡¯t run¡­¡±


    Just as Shen Yijia arrived at the front yard, she heard Sister Huan and the others laughing.


    Previously, she was worried that Song Jingchen¡¯s wheelchair would slip. Every day, Shen Yijia would clean up the snow with a shovel. This time, because she was unconscious, the snow had already piled up high, and there was already a lot of it piled up under the porch.


    The children weren¡¯t afraid of the cold. They threw themselves into the snow.


    It never snowed in the capital during winter. No wonder Brother Hao and Sister Huan were so excited.


    It had been snowing for a few days, but that had not worn down their enthusiasm.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, move quickly!¡± Brother Hao shouted.


    She looked in the direction of the voice and saw a large snow-white ball flying at her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s lips twitched as she reached out to block the ¡®ball¡¯.


    The color of the ball¡¯s fur could no longer be seen clearly. Its entire body was covered in snow. It howled a few times and flapped its front limbs, wanting to burrow into Shen Yijia¡¯s arms.


    How could Shen Yijia let it succeed? She grabbed its forelimbs and lifted it up.


    Furball stopped moving and hung from her hand like a salted fish. It was extremely obedient.


    ¡°Too late,¡± Shen Yijia sneered.


    She carried it to the corner where she had piled up the snow.


    Perhaps it was because it had drunk too much spiritual liquid, but Furball was very smart now and sensed danger.


    Little Furball acted cute and whined, looking at Shen Yijia with teary eyes.


    Previously, a wild cat had come to the house a few times, but it would always meow and beg for food. Little Furball had learned how to act cute like the cat.


    However, it ate a lot and exercised very little. It was a big creature, but it still acted cute and pitiful. Shen Yijia was disgusted.


    With a shudder, she let go. With a squelch, the Furball¡¯s entire body sank into the snow, and got covered completely.


    If Furball could speak, it would¡¯ve complained. ¡°Why can¡¯t you be gentler to me, like you are to that man?¡±

 Chapter 139 - Red Spider Lily

    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and watched as Furball stayed in the pile of snow, pretending to be dead.


    ¡°Haha!¡±


    Brother Hao and the others were amused. They held their stomachs and rolled on the ground. Soon, a few snowmen and a snow tiger appeared in the courtyard.


    In order to conserve the amount of coal they had, the family would gather in the central room during the day.


    Shen Yijia brought a few people in, followed by Furball, who was no longer pretending to be dead.


    Seeing that they were covered in snow, Madam Li quickly put down the embroidery rack and called out, ¡°Come in and warm yourself by the fire.¡±


    After saying that, she went to the kitchen to bring some ginger tea for Brother Hao and the others to drink. Furball also had a bowl.


    ¡°Mother, I wasn¡¯t playing with them. I don¡¯t need it,¡± Shen Yijia protested. Her mouth still tasted like medicine, and she didn¡¯t want to drink ginger soup right now.


    Madam Li rebuked, ¡°That won¡¯t do. Our bodies can¡¯t take the cold very well. Have you forgotten about your cramps during your period?


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. It only hurt the first time. After the spiritual liquid upgraded, it no longer hurt. She felt that her body was excellent.


    She looked at Song Jingchen for help. He coughed dryly. ¡°I seem to have caught a cold. Let me drink it.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately sent it over with a smile. She helped him finish it and even thoughtfully pressed the corner of his mouth with her sleeve.


    In the past, Shen Yijia¡¯s smile was like the sun. Now that she had a flower pattern on her forehead, it felt like every frown and smile of hers could tempt people to commit crimes.


    Song Jingchen coughed violently and looked away.


    Indeed, she was actually not a cat demon, but a vixen.


    Madam Li was helpless and amused, but she did not say anything else.


    ¡°Big Brother, are you still cold? I have another bowl.¡± Brother Hao leaned over and asked kindly.


    The others¡¯ eyes lit up.


    They immediately stopped drinking the soup and handed their bowls to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°If all of you dislike the taste, do you think I would enjoy drinking it?¡± he thought.


    With a straight face, he said, ¡°After you finish drinking, copy the homework you learned yesterday ten times.¡±


    Shen Yijia laughed gloatingly and received a wave of resentful gazes.


    The few of them wailed in their hearts. ¡°Brother Song is so biased!¡± they thought.


    ¡°Eh, Sister-in-law, what¡¯s that on your forehead? It¡¯s so beautiful,¡± Sister Huan suddenly said. Everyone stared at Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s smile disappeared. She didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I helped her tattoo the spider lily.¡±


    When they heard that it was a tattoo, everyone gasped. How painful would that be?


    Shen Yijia quickly added, ¡°Yes, yes. My husband is really amazing. I think it¡¯s very good-looking.¡±


    ¡°Then when I grow up, Big Brother, help me tattoo one too.¡± Sister Huan was Shen Yijia¡¯s number one fan. Even if she betrayed him occasionally, it would not change the fact.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and didn¡¯t answer.


    ¡°I see, it¡¯s quite pretty.¡± Madam Li added.


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed by the praise. The corners of her mouth almost reached the back of her head.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead.


    She was worried about being suspected a second ago, but she was overjoyed when she was praised.


    ¡°Should I praise her more in the future?¡± he thought.


    After lunch, the snow stopped.


    Shen Yijia brought Lin Shao along to shovel the snow. She didn¡¯t know when it would snow again. If she let it accumulate, it would be as tall as Sister Huan.


    There was a sudden knock on the courtyard door.


    ¡°Who else would come to visit in this weather?¡± Shen Yijia muttered. Didn¡¯t they see that Bruiser hadn¡¯t been coming over for the past few days?


    Lin Shao put down the shovel and said, ¡°Sister-in-law, I¡¯ll get the door.¡±


    Soon, Lin Shao came in with a group of people.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously looked at Song Jingchen, who happened to look up and see her.

 Chapter 140 - Miracle Doctor

    This time, Shangguan Yu brought the divine doctor to treat Song Jingchen¡¯s legs. However, for some reason, Shen Wenbo and his sister came with him again.


    ¡°Do they want to get beaten up again?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin.


    Although she couldn¡¯t beat up Shen Pingxiu right now, she could still beat up his children and collect some interest for the original host.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her palms together in anticipation. However, she did not expect the siblings to be so different today.


    Shen Wenbo had stopped looking down on her. He even smiled and shouted, ¡°Second Sister!¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked.


    ¡°Second Sister, how can you do this¡­¡± Shen Ruyun sobbed with a pained expression, but her eyes kept glancing at Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead.


    Many noble ladies in the capital would also put flowers on their foreheads, so no one would think too much about it.


    However, she was so beautiful that Shen Ruyun found her eye-catching.


    Shen Yijia ignored her pretense with a straight face.


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s expression froze. She felt that this fool who she used to bully had changed.


    Shangguan Yu nodded at Shen Yijia and said gently, ¡°Sister-in-law, sorry to disturb you.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°You said the same thing last time.¡± In her mind, she thought, ¡°If you¡¯re going to visit while knowing that you¡¯re a disturbance, then just skip the apology.¡±


    Considering that this person had specially brought a divine doctor to treat Song Jingchen¡¯s legs, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t say the last sentence out loud. The restraint she showed should be enough in this situation.


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    Song Jingchen hid the smile on his lips and coughed lightly. ¡°Please don¡¯t take offense, Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu choked. This was the first time he had seen his good friend so protective of someone.


    He shook his head and laughed. ¡°Ah Chen, you¡¯ve really changed.¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t stay the same forever,¡± Song Jingchen said expressionlessly.


    Shangguan Yu did not continue the topic.


    Madam Li did not want to see the people from the capital. The moment she saw them, she brought the three children back to the house through the back door.


    The group entered the central room and sat down.


    Shangguan Yu said apologetically, ¡°I should have come a few days ago. Unexpectedly, I caught a cold when I returned that day, so I delayed it until today.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡± Song Jingchen was still expressionless, but he wasn¡¯t as cold as he was a few days ago.


    Shangguan Yu shook his head and smiled, not answering. He pointed at an old man with white hair carrying a medicine box behind him and introduced, ¡°This is the divine doctor I told you about.¡±


    After saying that, he cupped his hands at the old man and said humbly, ¡°Divine Doctor Chang, thank you.¡±


    Divine Doctor Chang stroked his beard, as if he didn¡¯t think there was anything wrong with a prince being so polite. He said confidently, ¡°I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    Shen Yijia watched as the old man approached Song Jingchen and wanted to lift his pants. She frowned and wanted to stop him.


    Shen Ruyun suddenly said, ¡°Your Highness, I want to go out for a walk with my second sister.¡±


    After saying that, she glanced at Shen Yijia, looking like she wanted to say something.


    Shangguan Yu looked at Song Jingchen, as if she was asking for his opinion.


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia and said, ¡°If you want to go, go. If not, then you can just stay here.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s freezing outside. Where would you go for a walk? Are you seriously ill?¡±


    Suddenly, she thought of something and smiled. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Just as she got up and was about to go out, Shen Yijia turned around and glanced at Song Jingchen. She turned around and shouted at the empty courtyard, ¡°Furball!¡±


    When Furball heard Shen Yijia¡¯s voice, it immediately rushed in. Its whole body was drenched for some reason.


    Seeing this tiger again, Shen Ruyun was so frightened that her face turned pale. ¡°Second- Second Siste

 Chapter 141 - Threatening the Miracle Doctor

    Shen Yijia ignored her. She squatted down and rubbed Furball¡¯s head in disdain. She instructed seriously, ¡°Stay here and watch over my husband. If anyone dares to bully him, don¡¯t hesitate to bite them to death. When you¡¯re done, I¡¯ll reward you with a large piece of meat.¡±


    If Furball could speak, it would have complained. ¡°You haven¡¯t given me the meat you mentioned last time.¡±


    Since it couldn¡¯t speak, it just growled angrily.


    When it met Shen Yijia¡¯s meaningful gaze, it immediately walked obediently to Song Jingchen¡¯s feet and lay down. He glanced at the strangers before lazily lowering his eyes to rest.


    The people present found it unbelievable and looked at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia did not care what they thought. She narrowed her eyes and looked at Divine Doctor Chang, who was trembling in fear. She threatened, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you can¡¯t cure my husband. But if his condition gets worse because of you, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson.¡±


    After saying that, she turned around and left without waiting for Shen Ruyun, who was still trembling in fear.


    Shen Ruyun calmed herself down and quickly followed her.


    Divine Doctor Chang secretly wiped the sweat off his forehead and looked at Shangguan Yu awkwardly.


    Without waiting for Shangguan Yu to speak, Song Jingchen said, ¡°My wife is just joking. Divine Doctor Chang, let¡¯s begin.¡±


    ¡°Then tell the tiger under your feet to go away.¡± Miracle Doctor Chang thought to himself.


    However, he did not have the guts to say that.


    Shangguan Yu shook his head helplessly. However, in his heart, he was happy for his good friend.


    ¡°Second Sister, wait for me!¡± Shen Ruyun couldn¡¯t walk fast in embroidered shoes, let alone when the road was filled with slippery snow.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and slowed down her pace, not letting Shen Ruyun fall too far behind, but not letting her catch up either.


    After walking for a while, Shen Yijia was surprised to find that this person was quite calm. She found it boring. Indeed, it would¡¯ve been more exciting if Shen Ruyun tried to provoke her and start a fight.


    When she reached the chicken coop, she stopped walking and turned around to see Shen Ruyun approaching while panting.


    ¡°Second Sister, why are you leaving so quickly? I still want to talk to you properly.¡± Shen Ruyun held it in and almost broke her nails trying to hide her hatred.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°You can say it now.¡±


    ¡°Here?¡± Shen Ruyun picked up her handkerchief and covered her nose. ¡°Why don¡¯t we go to your house? It¡¯s quite cold here.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s the house I share with my husband. Do you think it¡¯s appropriate for an unmarried woman like you to go in?¡±


    She had specially chosen this place that smelled horrible. ¡°You want to change locations? Dream on.¡± she thought.


    1


    In fact, it didn¡¯t smell that bad. Because of the snow, the chickens had already been moved into the wooden shed by Brother Hao and the others. Since the chickens hadn¡¯t stayed in this chicken coop for a few days, the smell had almost dissipated.


    Shen Yijia actually wanted to bring Shen Ruyun to the wooden shed but she didn¡¯t want to make herself suffer. She wouldn¡¯t do anything stupid like implicating herself.


    Shen Ruyun clenched the handkerchief in her hand and forced a smile. ¡°Then¡­ What about the other houses?¡±


    ¡°No. If you have something to say, then say it. If you don¡¯t want to speak, I¡¯ll go back.¡±


    It was unforgivable for Shen Ruyun to take up the time she could be spending with her beautiful husband.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go, I¡¯ll talk.¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to leave, Shen Ruyun quickly stopped her.


    She seemed to be thinking about how to phrase her words. When Shen Yijia became impatient, Shen Ruyun said leisurely, ¡°Second Sister, I¡¯m actually here to help you.¡±


    ¡°Help me?¡± Shen Yijia paused. ¡°What kind of help do I even need?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯ve spoken correctly? I¡¯m sure you¡¯re here to harm me.¡±


    She relaxed her clenched fists behind her back and assumed an attentive look.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Shen Ruyun sighed. She wanted to show her affection by holding Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, but she thought of something and stopped.

 Chapter 142 - Bringing You Back to the Capital

    She casually adjusted her hair and said, ¡°Back then, you got married in a hurry and so much has happened. Father and Mother wanted to bring you back.¡±


    ¡°However, a thief broke into the house. By the time the family recovered, you had already left the capital,¡± she continued.


    Looking up, Shen Ruyun said, ¡°You don¡¯t know how worried father and mother have been these days¡­¡±


    At this point, Su Ruyun revealed a worried expression.


    1


    Shen Yijia blinked.


    ¡°A thief? You must be talking about me.¡± she thought.


    ¡°And?¡±


    Shen Ruyun choked. Since she had already explained the situation, shouldn¡¯t this wretched girl complain about how miserable her life was? She should also ask if the thief had injured anyone and if her parents were well.


    She took a deep breath, her expression almost twisting before she continued. ¡°This time, Big Brother and I are here to bring you back so that you don¡¯t have to suffer here.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her as if she was looking at an idiot. ¡°How is this helping me? Why don¡¯t you just say that you¡¯re here to harm me? Why are you still spouting nonsense?¡±


    ¡°Who are you trying to trick? Do I look like a fool to you?¡± she thought.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Shen Ruyun gritted her teeth and lowered her voice.¡± How can you say that? We¡¯re doing this for your own good. ¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll thank your entire family, but I don¡¯t need it.¡±


    Shen Ruyun felt that this was not a good thing. She was so angry that she broke a fingernail. When she realized what was going on, she gasped in pain.


    Seeing that Shen Ruyun had endured so much, Shen Yijia was in a good mood.


    Perhaps knowing that bringing Shen Yijia back would not work, Shen Ruyun suddenly changed the topic. ¡°Since you don¡¯t want to go back, so be it, Second Sister.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that father has been dreaming about your mother recently. I heard that your mother left you a box back then. Father said that if you don¡¯t want to go back, at least let me bring that box back so that he can have some memories of her.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned slightly. She smelled a scheme and was about to refuse.


    Shen Ruyun continued, ¡°We¡¯ll give you another 500 taels of silver as a dowry from your mother.¡±


    Since the emotional tactic didn¡¯t work, Shen Ruyun switched to using numbers.


    500 taels of silver was nothing to Shen Ruyun anyway.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°So much money¡­¡±


    Shen Ruyun thought that Shen Yijia would definitely agree next, and her eyes were filled with determination.


    ¡°A fool is a fool. No matter how good-looking she became, she could not become smart.¡± Shen Ruyun thought.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°I threw away that box a long time ago. The jewelry inside was pawned on the way from the capital. It was only pawned for less than 20 taels of silver. Why didn¡¯t you come earlier?¡±


    As she spoke, she clicked her tongue in pity. Her eyes lit up when she thought of something. ¡°Is it fine as long as it¡¯s a box? I can make an identical one. I¡¯ll give you 250 taels of silver. Keep it a secret for me.¡±


    Shen Ruyun was stunned for a long time. She did not even listen to Shen Yijia¡¯s last sentence. She said in disbelief, ¡°It¡¯s gone?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded.


    ¡°You¡¯re lying to me, right?¡± Shen Ruyun stared at Shen Yijia for confirmation.


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°I want to lie to you too. I¡¯ve never seen five hundred taels of silver in my life.¡±


    Seeing how confident she was, Shen Ruyun couldn¡¯t pretend anymore. ¡°Wretched girl, those were your mother¡¯s belongings. How dare you¡­¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I dare? If I don¡¯t have money to eat, I have to exchange something for it. Can the belongings of the dead compare to a living person?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    Shen Ruyun was already furious, but now she had completely lost her mind. Looking at that face, Shen Ruyun still wanted to bully the original host like she did in the residence. She raised her hand and slapped Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°It¡¯s here, it¡¯s here! She¡¯s finally exploded.¡± she thought.


    ¡°Stop!¡± said a warm voice.

 Chapter 143 - White Lotus

    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched as she saw a few people approaching them.


    She quickly grabbed Shen Ruyun¡¯s wrist and slapped her face. Under Shen Ruyun¡¯s shocked gaze, she pushed her to the side.


    She was secretly delighted to see her fall into the pit beside the chicken nest that Brother Hao and the others had dug up to raise earthworms.


    She turned around and met their gazes. She jogged to Song Jingchen¡¯s side and said aggrievedly, ¡°Husband, she bullied me.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He cooperated and held her hand. ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She looked at her left hand, which Song Jingchen was holding, and nodded. ¡°It hurts.¡±


    Should she remind her husband that she was clearly hitting Shen Ruyun with her right hand?


    ¡°Yun¡¯er!¡± Shen Wenbo glared at the two people who were lying through their teeth and quickly rushed over to pull up his sister who was struggling in the pit.


    Due to the snow, there was actually nothing inside. However, Furball would occasionally relieve itself there.


    1


    Once the pit was covered by the snow, nothing could be seen on the surface. This was specially prepared for her by Shen Yijia. No one could interfere.


    Shen Ruyun got up in a sorry state. There was a clear slap mark on her face, and her hair was in a mess. She no longer looked as dignified as she did when she first arrived.


    When she saw what was on her body, she screamed and fainted again.


    Shen Yijia was in a good mood. She could not help but smile.


    ¡°Shen Yijia!¡± Shen Wenbo picked his sister up and roared at Shen Yijia. He was so angry that his eyes turned red.


    Shen Yijia dug her ears and turned to look at him coldly. ¡°That¡¯s right. Keep calling me by my name. Hearing you call me ¡®Second Sister¡¯ makes me feel disgusted.¡±


    Shen Wenbo was annoyed. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, my house is quite small. Don¡¯t bring any random strangers here in the future,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Shen Wenbo could ignore the others, but he did not dare to be impudent in front of Shangguan Yu. He knew that Shangguan Yu would not stand up for him, so he immediately fell silent.


    As expected, Shangguan Yu looked guilty and said apologetically, ¡°I didn¡¯t think it through. I thought that since they were my sister-in-law¡¯s siblings¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen waved his hand and interrupted him. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Your Highness, you should go back early.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m setting off for the capital tomorrow. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely find a famous doctor to treat your legs.¡± Knowing that he was not welcomed, Shangguan Yu was not angry. After saying that, he was about to leave with the group.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth to say something, but in the end, he didn¡¯t stop them.


    Poor Shen Ruyun. She came twice here and had to be carried back twice.


    When he passed by Shen Yijia, Shen Wenbo suddenly paused and sneered. ¡°Are you really my second sister?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart was beating wildly. On the surface, she was as calm as an old dog. She bared her teeth at Shen Wenbo provocatively and said loudly, ¡°Shen Ruyun has a red mole on her butt.¡±


    Don¡¯t ask her how she knew. Back then, in order to bully the original host, Shen Ruyun had used her as a servant girl. It was common for the original host to serve Shen Ruyun in the bath. She was grateful to the original host for revealing everything to her in her dreams!


    Everyone was speechless.


    Shen Wenbo staggered and almost dropped Shen Ruyun. ¡°You-¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master Shen, enough is enough,¡± Shangguan Yu said unhappily. He had a good temper, but that didn¡¯t mean that he could tolerate others looking down on him time and time again.


    Shen Wenbo gritted his teeth and glared at the smug Shen Yijia. He stopped talking.

 Chapter 144 - Box

    The group finally left. Shen Yijia held her stomach and laughed. ¡°I¡¯m not done yet. That mole is on the right. Additionally, Shen Ruyun¡­¡±


    She laughed until tears came to her eyes. She turned to look.


    Song Jingchen and Lin Shao looked at her speechlessly.


    Shen Yijia fell silent.


    ¡°Oh no, I got carried away.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples and waved at Lin Shao.


    Lin Shao immediately pushed him back into the house. The snow-covered road was slippery. To prevent any accidents, Shen Yijia had already instructed him not to come out unless someone was with him.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. She wasn¡¯t talking about herself, although she really didn¡¯t know if she had a mole there as well.


    After letting her imagination run wild, she quickly chased after him.


    ¡°The divine doctor couldn¡¯t cure it?¡± Shen Yijia asked Lin Shao softly.


    Lin Shao glanced at Song Jingchen and nodded.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She thought that the old man was very powerful.


    In the end, she would have to step up and get the job done. Fortunately, she did not count on anyone else. If it had been a simple fracture, her spiritual liquid would have cured it long ago.


    Her heart ached at the thought, but she shook her head.


    After all, it was for the sake of her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what Shen Yijia was thinking. He didn¡¯t show it on his face, but he was still a little disappointed. It would naturally be good if he could stand up. After all, who would be willing to be a cripple for the rest of their lives? They couldn¡¯t even protect the people they wanted to protect¡­


    The two carriages left Xiagou Village slowly, covered with thick snow. Not long after leaving the village, the carriages suddenly stopped.


    Shangguan Yu stopped drinking his tea. Before he could ask, Lian Shan rode his horse closer to the window and said, ¡°Your Highness, there¡¯s a girl in front who seems to have sprained her ankle.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    At quarter past, it began to snow again.


    Shen Yijia was stuck in the kitchen because Furball was blocking her way. She tried to reason with it and said, ¡°I¡¯ll definitely give it to you next time, okay? I¡¯m giving you a bigger portion already.¡±


    They had not been to town for a few days. The meat they usually ate was marinated, but there was not much left.


    Furball swished its tail in protest and turned its head away in disdain.


    ¡°Then what do you want?¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. This fellow had become so smart after drinking spiritual liquid that it was difficult to fool him.


    Furball glanced at Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, its meaning obvious.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    He actually had designs on her spiritual liquid. She couldn¡¯t tolerate this anymore. Her husband¡¯s leg had yet to be treated. Moreover, she could only condense a drop of spiritual liquid every 15 days.


    Since soft tactics did not work, Shen Yijia had no choice but to use force. She dragged and threw Furball aside.


    Furball was stunned. It seemed to be thinking, ¡°This trick used to work, but why wasn¡¯t it working anymore?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because Song Jingchen didn¡¯t need the spiritual liquid back then, since it hadn¡¯t been upgraded yet.¡± Shen Yijia said.


    After dinner, everyone returned to their rooms early.


    Song Jingchen sat at the desk and wrote a letter. Shen Yijia didn¡¯t go over to disturb him. Thinking of Shen Ruyun and her brother¡¯s abnormality, she rummaged through the box that Madam Wang had left behind.


    Only Shen Ruyun took her for a fool. Shen Yijia was smarter than her sister thought.


    Song Jingchen put the letter into an envelope. Seeing that Shen Yijia had messed up the room, he held his forehead helplessly and went over to help her clean up. ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    Shen Yijia stuffed the box in her arms into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and said concisely, ¡°This was left behind by my mother. Shen Ruyun wanted it, but I lied to her and said that I lost it. I think something¡¯s wrong.¡±


    She had just taken a look. There were indeed only a few pieces of jewelry. There was nothing special, and the color was not very good. It was a little intriguing.


    Song Jingchen frowned and placed the things in the box on the table, carefully checking the box itself.

 Chapter 145 - Discovering Something Strange

    In the dim light of the oil lamp, their heads were close together. Neither of them made a sound.


    Song Jingchen looked at it for a while before putting the box aside.


    He picked up the jewelry one by one. There were four pieces in total. Two silver hairpins, a jade bracelet, and a pair of earrings.


    Seeing that he was looking at the jewelry carefully and seriously, Shen Yijia held her breath and asked softly, ¡°Did you discover anything?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She must be thinking too much. Her husband was smart. ¡°If he didn¡¯t discover any problems, then there was definitely no problem.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought firmly. Just as this thought flashed through her mind, she saw Song Jingchen pick up the two silver hairpins and shake them.


    He must have noticed something because he placed one of the sticks on the oil lamp to heat it up.


    After a while, the silver hairpin slowly melted like wax. Although it was very slow, Shen Yijia still noticed it.


    Her eyes lit up and she leaned over to take a closer look. Song Jingchen happened to turn around, and their lips touched without warning.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart was pounding. She blinked and didn¡¯t dare to move. She stared straight into Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes.


    Her lips felt numb. She pursed them instinctively.


    ¡°Ah, my husband¡¯s lips are so soft¡­¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s head buzzed, and all the blood in his body seemed to be rushing to one place. Which normal man could stand this?


    He tried his best to suppress the restlessness in his heart and not lose his composure. He tilted his head back with difficulty.


    Shen Yijia wanted to experience more, but it ended quickly. She looked at Song Jingchen bitterly.


    Her husband was so petty.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    How dare she look at him like that? Song Jingchen held his forehead. He wondered if Shen Yijia knew that she was playing with fire.


    Seeing that she looked regretful but didn¡¯t look shy, Song Jingchen felt inexplicably disappointed. Perhaps she didn¡¯t understand the matters between men and women at all.


    ¡°Ahem, you¡¯re still little,¡± Song Jingchen said vaguely.


    Little? Shen Yijia looked down. It was not little. It was just right.


    Besides, what did kissing have to do with her size?


    Song Jingchen was stunned by her gaze. ¡°Does she not know any shame?¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia had no idea that she had been labeled as shameless again. Unfortunately, she did not forget what she had to do. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°I think I saw that silver hairpin melt just now.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and tried his best to ignore the throbbing in his heart that had yet to subside. He turned around and picked up the hairpin again to heat it using the oil lamp.


    Since it could be melted so easily, it was naturally not real silver jewelry. Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t figure out what it was for the time being.


    After heating it for nearly 15 minutes, he finally managed to take off the outer layer. Inside was a key the length of a finger.


    Someone had melted the key into a liquid similar to silver and made a fake silver hairpin. If Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t carefully compared the weight of the two hairpins earlier, he wouldn¡¯t have discovered the trick.


    ¡°A key? What is it for?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her silently, as if to say, ¡°If you don¡¯t know, how would I know?¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and stopped asking. She picked up the box and looked at it.


    She first imitated Song Jingchen¡¯s antics and looked inside and out. Then, she knocked around but still didn¡¯t find anything. In the end, Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and placed it on the oil lamp to roast.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He reached out to stop it, but the box started burning as soon as it came into contact with the fire, not giving him a chance to stop it.

 Chapter 146 - Qilin Mountain

    Seeing that the fire was about to reach Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen subconsciously reached out and slapped it to the ground.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and watched as the box was burnt to ashes.


    Just as she was about to open her mouth, Song Jingchen grabbed her hand. Shen Yijia felt a little guilty and wanted to pull her hand back.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists tightly. After confirming that her hand was not injured, he heaved a sigh of relief and said solemnly, ¡°How can you be so rash?¡±


    Shen Yijia shrank back and blushed. How did she know that the box would burn so easily?


    Seeing that she still didn¡¯t recognize her mistake, Song Jingchen felt helpless and wanted to lecture her further.


    Shen Yijia suddenly exclaimed, ¡°There¡¯s something inside.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s thoughts were interrupted. He looked in the direction she was pointing at and saw that the box had been burned to ashes, leaving behind a black circular object.


    This time, Shen Yijia did not dare to be rash. She took a handkerchief and wrapped it up. After wiping it, she revealed its original color. It was a hollow iron tube. It should have been sealed with wax, but the wax was burned away along with the box.


    She took an item out of the tube. When she opened it, they saw that it was a palm-sized sheepskin with strange patterns on it. The two of them looked at each other.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t understand it. She handed it to Song Jingchen and asked, ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°It should be a map,¡± Song Jingchen said in a low voice. This map was drawn on the sheepskin. The person who made it must have done it to prevent it from rotting.


    According to Shen Yijia, this was left behind by her biological mother, Madam Wang. However, the Wang family was only a merchant. How could they have such a thing?


    ¡°Could it be a treasure map?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Wasn¡¯t the original host¡¯s mother¡¯s family a merchant? She must be very rich. The two elders of the Wang family were worried that Shen Pingxiu was an ingrate, so it was normal for them to hide the money for their descendants.


    In her dream, Shen Pingxiu kept asking Madam Wang where the items were. At first, Shen Yijia did not understand. Now that she connected the dots, she felt that she knew the truth.


    However, why did Shen Pingxiu suddenly think of this box when he had never suspected it before?


    The more Shen Yijia thought about it, the more confused she became.


    Song Jingchen frowned and didn¡¯t comment on Shen Yijia¡¯s guess. ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    ¡°Then where does this map guide us to?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze darkened. After a long time, he said, ¡°Qilin Mountain.¡±


    What he did not say was that the private army happened to be hiding in the Qilin Mountain.


    The Liang County where the Qilin Mountain was located was adjacent to Xunyang, where the disinherited crown prince, Shangguan Han, was located.


    According to the time, there should be news from Uncle Yang soon.


    ¡°Is it far?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously, not noticing that Song Jingchen¡¯s thoughts had long drifted away.


    She felt that the most important thing for her was not to learn how to write, but to understand the geography of the Great Xia Kingdom. Otherwise, she would not know how to go out and play one day.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and thought for a moment before saying honestly, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s very far, across the entire Great Xia Kingdom.¡±


    Hearing that it was so far away, Shen Yijia lost interest in it. On the way from the capital, she had already experienced what a long journey was like. She did not want to try it again.


    She stuffed everything into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°Keep this. It¡¯s useless to me. Anyway, you can¡¯t let that old thief Shen Pingxiu take it.¡±


    Shen Pingxiu wanted it, but she refused to give it to him. It was best if she could anger him to death, so she wouldn¡¯t even need to dirty her hands.


    With that, she went to the bed and crawled under the blanket.

 Chapter 147 - Blocked

    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t notice how Shen Yijia addressed Shen Pingxiu. He only watched in shock as she gave him the treasure map so easily. He didn¡¯t know what to think.


    It was unknown why this girl had transformed into the Second Miss of the Shen family and come to this world. She did not seem to understand the evils of the human heart at all.


    As expected, he had to keep her by his side. Otherwise, she might get taken advantage of.


    Although Shen Yijia was rude to Furball, she remembered what she had promised. After all, she was a person who kept her promises.


    Even if the promise was not made to a human.


    The next day, seeing that the snow was lighter, Shen Yijia drove the carriage and prepared to go to town to buy meat for it. She could also stock up some meat for her family.


    She wanted to buy fresh meat and bury it in the snow. When they wanted to eat it, they would cut some out and cook it. This way, they could keep the rest of the meat fresh for a long time. After all, the family members would get tired of eating cured meat if they ate it for too long.


    When the carriage passed by the An family, Shen Yijia vaguely heard Auntie Tian talking to An Xiu¡¯er.


    However, because they were in the carriage, the wind was too loud, so Shen Yijia did not hear it clearly. It was as if she was hallucinating.


    Shen Yijia thought that the road to town would be difficult to traverse after a few days of snow. She did not expect to be lucky. There were axle marks on the road, which must have been left recently by another carriage.


    Thus Shen Yijia could drive along the axle marks without worrying about falling into the pit.


    When they arrived in town, Shen Yijia went to the pawnshop first.


    She took out some jewelry and pawned it.


    It was obvious that the flashy man was not short of money. The jewelry she stole from him were all exquisite and not cheap.


    Shen Yijia did not bargain with the pawnshop owner and directly pawned it for 180 taels of silver. When she left, the pawnshop owner was still smiling so widely that his eyes could not be seen.


    The jewelry was 100% new. If he resold it, it would cost no less than 500 taels. How could he not be happy?


    The owner thought that he had met a fool, but he did not know that Shen Yijia hated these pieces of jewelry because of their origins. She was happy to be rid of them.


    She felt that she had already benefited from selling it for 180 yuan.


    Perhaps because of the weather, the town was a little deserted today.


    It was a little late when she left the house. In addition, the journey took a long time.


    In the past, there was not much meat left in the meat stall at this time. This time, when Shen Yijia arrived, she saw that it was still filled with meat, as if there were no customers at all.


    Thinking of Furball¡¯s appetite, she spent 20 taels of silver on pork at the meat stall. This was because domestic pigs were more oily than wild boars and were more expensive than wild boar meat.


    Today, the shop owner had killed two pigs to sell at this stall. Usually, he did not ask for so much. Perhaps it was because of the weather and the approaching new year, the price of the meat had increased.


    To Shen Yijia, who had just earned more than a hundred taels, this money was nothing.


    She quickly took out the money. Seeing that she had bought a lot, the stall owner kindly helped her put a piece of oil paper in the carriage to prevent the meat from staining the seats.


    After buying some other miscellaneous items, Shen Yijia drove the carriage home. However, not long after she left the city gate, she was stopped by a group of people.


    The curtain of a carriage in the middle was open. A man in red sat inside, his eyes gloomy.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and clicked her tongue. This person was really not afraid of death.


    ¡°B*tch, I¡¯ve finally caught you. I¡¯ll definitely kill you today.¡± The flashy man smiled sinisterly.


    Perhaps because he had suffered at Shen Yijia¡¯s hands before, the flashy man was much more cautious this time. After saying that, he waved his hand.


    The people he brought immediately split into two teams. One team surrounded Shen Yijia¡¯s carriage, while the other blocked the flashy man¡¯s carriage and aimed their bows at Shen Yijia.

 Chapter 148 - Kill

    It was obvious that they were planning to kill her with arrows.


    Seeing this, Shen Yijia knew that things would not end well today. This person had specially chosen such an empty place to stop her. Was he afraid that she would escape?


    ¡°Huh, am I that kind of person?¡± she thought to herself.


    Without wasting her breath on him, Shen Yijia flew out of the carriage with the whip in hand. She spun around and whipped the few people in front of her, immediately leaving an opening in the circle.


    She bent down and avoided the attacks of the others. Shen Yijia knocked out one of them and grabbed him. Before the gap was filled, she dragged him out of the first layer of encirclement.


    The flashy man did not expect that so many people could not even touch the corner of Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes. He was so anxious that he stomped his feet and kept shouting, ¡°Release the arrows! Kill her!¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and picked up the person in her hand to block the flying arrows. Before the next wave of arrows arrived, she threw him forward. Everyone saw a shadow flash past, but they could not see it clearly.


    A scream came from behind them. They turned around and gasped. The flashy man was lying there with his eyes wide in fear, a wooden hairpin firmly inserted in his neck.


    ¡°Is he- is he dead?¡± a timid guard muttered in disbelief as he dropped his bow.


    Shen Yijia pulled out the wooden hairpin and wiped the blood off the flashy man. When she heard this, she paused and raised her head to bare her teeth. ¡°He wanted to kill me. What¡¯s wrong with me killing him first? Anyone else who wants to kill me, come at me now.¡±


    Shen Yijia initially did not want to kill this person. It was too annoying. The flashy man could bring people to block her way today, but who knew when they would find their way to Xiagou Village? Thus, she decided to kill him.


    Blood was splattered on her face, and the flower on her forehead became even redder. It looked extremely strange.


    She was clearly such a petite person, but no one dared to step forward. They looked at each other and ran.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and did not chase after them. She picked up a handful of snow and washed her face.


    Then, she drove the carriage home.


    When the snow first fell, no one took it seriously. After a few days, many old houses in Xiagou Village collapsed from the snow. Only then did everyone realize that something was wrong. If this continued, they would freeze to death, let alone be able to go out.


    Madam Li still wanted to buy some new year goods in town, but too much snow had accumulated. The horses could not move through the snow properly, so she naturally couldn¡¯t go.


    The spiritual liquid had already been upgraded, and she was only waiting to condense it for Song Jingchen to consume. Moreover, it was too cold outside, so Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to go out. She stayed at home all day.


    At first, Song Jingchen asked them to practice calligraphy, but he didn¡¯t expect the ink to freeze in less than ten minutes. He had no choice but to give up.


    This made Shen Yijia and the others extremely happy.


    However, it was boring to stay at home. In the end, Sister Huan suggested that Shen Yijia teach them martial arts.


    It was not the first time Sister Huan had this thought. However, she usually saw that her sister-in-law was busy every day, so she did not dare to mention it.


    Shen Yijia was a little troubled, but everyone agreed, including Song Jingchen.


    In the end, Song Jingchen explained the concepts while Shen Yijia demonstrated the movements.


    Compared to practicing calligraphy, the few of them were clearly more interested in martial arts.


    They did not complain even though they were tired and sweaty in the winter. The kids were happy all day.


    Shen Yijia felt slightly troubled. She thought that these people would give up after a few days.


    They lived their own lives in seclusion, unaware that it was already a mess outside.


    It was mid-December.


    In the middle of the night, mixed with the rustling of snow, someone knocked on the courtyard door.

 Chapter 149 - Collapse

    At this time, everyone was sleeping soundly. Furball kept scratching at the door from outside.


    Song Jingchen opened his eyes and glanced at Shen Yijia, who was sleeping soundly.


    She lay on her side, her face chubby from the pressure, her mouth pouting.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart warmed slightly, and he called out softly, ¡°Little Furball.¡±


    It immediately fell silent outside.


    Furball was usually quite sensible. It wouldn¡¯t be like this unless there was something major.


    Song Jingchen carefully changed his clothes and sat in the wheelchair.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s soft voice came from behind. ¡°Hubby, where are you going?¡±


    ¡°Furball is making a fuss outside. I¡¯ll go out and take a look. Go back to sleep.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she immediately woke up. ¡°That won¡¯t do. It¡¯s still snowing outside. What if the wheelchair slips?¡±


    As she spoke, she had already put on her clothes and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side. ¡°Stay in the house. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    Song Jingchen grabbed her hand and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was silent and did not retort.


    Seeing that someone had finally come out, Furball barked a few times before leading the way to the front courtyard.


    Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen along.


    When she reached the front yard, she heard the intermittent knocking. Furball was leaning against the courtyard door and calling out to her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Since Little Furball was in such a hurry, it must be someone familiar.


    Apart from the few of them at home, the only one who was familiar with it was Bruiser.


    When she opened the courtyard door, he saw Bruiser lying outside, covered in snow. He was carrying someone on his back. It was Widow Wang.


    Shen Yijia quickly supported Widow Wang and brought her inside. Bruiser staggered and almost fell. He held onto the door frame to steady himself and said with a trembling voice, ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and said, ¡°Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±


    Widow Wang was a woman, so it was not good to put her in their room. There were a few empty rooms, but they hadn¡¯t been cleaned up, so they could only send her to Madam Li¡¯s room.


    By now, Madam Li had also woken up.


    Seeing the situation, she quickly got someone to put Widow Wang on the bed and made a few bowls of ginger soup for Bruiser, whose lips had turned purple.


    After a while, before Shen Yijia could ask, Bruiser explained the situation.


    It turned out that many old houses in the village had collapsed. Widow Wang was also worried about her family, so she got up every once in a while to look around.


    Unfortunately, their house had also started to collapse bit by bit.


    Widow Wang woke Bruiser up and ran out. Halfway through, she remembered that she had not taken the silver at home. She turned around and ran back to get it.


    She was fine when she brought the money out. Unexpectedly, Widow Wang wanted to go back again to move the food. However, just as she stepped in, the house completely collapsed. Widow Wang fainted from fright.


    Bruiser didn¡¯t dare to let his mother lie in the snow alone. He was afraid that his mother would turn into an ice sculpture by the time he found her. He could only carry her to the Song family¡¯s house at the end of the village.


    After hearing his story, Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth fell open for a long time. This was really a model example of someone who wanted money more than her life.


    Madam Li felt helpless. She now knew that Widow Wang had only fainted, so she was not too worried. She carried a bowl of ginger soup back to the house and prepared to let Widow Wang drink it.


    Bruiser was also a little flustered. It would have been reasonable if the house had suddenly collapsed and they were unable to get out. However, they had already left the house, but Widow Wang kept going back in to grab more things. In the end, she wasn¡¯t injured, but fainted from shock.


    She couldn¡¯t let Bruiser sit here all night. In the end, she brought him to Lin Shao and Brother Hao¡¯s room and let the three of them share the room for now.

 Chapter 150 - Out of Food

    However, this was not the most absurd part.. What left everyone at a loss for words was that Widow Wang woke up the next day and insisted on going back to dig up those grains.


    Apart from Song Jingchen, everyone thought that she was possessed.


    Widow Wang saw that everyone was looking at her with disapproval, so she explained.


    Shen Yijia had not been to town for a long time, so she did not know. However, Widow Wang¡¯s habit of visiting other people¡¯s houses to gossip was well known to everyone else.


    Not to mention the other regions, the price of food in Anyang County had been rising since five days ago.


    It was said that most of the rice shops had closed down yesterday and no longer sold grain.


    This was clearly a winter disaster. If they ran out of food, they would either freeze to death or starve to death.


    Widow Wang was glad that she had listened to Shen Yijia and bought the food in advance. How could she give up on the food that had been accumulated? The food was her life now.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change much. He only frowned slightly when he heard that the rice shop didn¡¯t sell grains, but he quickly relaxed. No one noticed this change.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t expect the matter to be so serious. She remembered that there was a pile of food in the cellar at home and secretly glanced at Song Jingchen. Did her husband predict that there would be a food shortage in advance?


    That was what she thought, but she didn¡¯t ask.


    Hearing Widow Wang¡¯s words, no one stopped her. Shen Yijia led the way. Widow Wang, Bruiser, and Lin Shao each carried a shovel and pushed a cart towards Bruiser¡¯s house.


    Widow Wang had foresight. As soon as she saw that someone¡¯s house in the village had collapsed, she piled up all the valuable items and food in one corner of the house.


    With her guidance, Shen Yijia dug it out alone.


    After moving everything onto the handcart, they went home together. No one could live here anymore.


    Widow Wang was not like the others. She wasn¡¯t related to anyone in Xiagou Village. She was a girl from the neighboring village who had married over. Since the house collapsed, she couldn¡¯t rely on anyone else.


    She was an outsider, and the wealth in her family had been passed down through the men from generation to generation. If the man died, the remaining family would have no relatives left. The mother and son could only stay in the Song family for the time being and start a new house in spring.


    As soon as they arrived home, they saw that Auntie Tian had also arrived.


    Seeing so many people enter, an unnatural expression flashed across Auntie Tian¡¯s face.


    1


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen, who was drinking tea in silence, and blinked. Her meaning was obvious. ¡°What is going on?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen found it funny, but he didn¡¯t show it on his face and shook his head indifferently.


    In fact, Auntie Tian had just sat down and hadn¡¯t had the chance to speak, but Song Jingchen more or less guessed it.


    Perhaps sensing that the atmosphere was off, Widow Wang used the excuse of having to pack her things and quickly left with Bruiser. Lin Shao took a look and quickly followed.


    There were only four people left in the central room, including Auntie Tian.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know when the snow will stop. Quickly sit down and have a cup of tea to warm yourself up.¡± Madam Li called out to Auntie Tian.


    Auntie Tian took the teacup but did not drink it. She wanted to say something but hesitated.


    This time, Madam Li could tell that something was wrong. She asked, ¡°What kind of difficulties did you encounter? Tell me, we are neighbors. If we can help, we¡¯ll definitely help.¡±


    ¡°Bruiser¡¯s house collapsed too?¡± Auntie Tian didn¡¯t say anything. Instead, she asked about something else.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Fortunately, no one got hit.¡± Madam Li still felt a lingering fear when she thought about it.


    She felt relieved since Shen Yijia was such a lucky charm. If she hadn¡¯t insisted on building a new house, their house would have collapsed too.


    Given their family¡¯s relationship with the village, they would have nowhere to stay.

 Chapter 151 - Acting Pitiful

    ¡°Then¡­¡± Auntie Tian¡¯s eyes darted around. She placed the teacup on the table and continued,¡± They¡¯re staying at your house? Food is quite expensive now. ¡±


    ¡°Oh dear, Sister Wang is also a pitiful person, with no relatives to rely on. My family happened to have a few more rooms to live in. As for the food, we prepared more previously. I think it won¡¯t be a problem for us to survive this period.¡± Madam Li did not mind. These were the only two people she could speak to here, so she naturally would not assume any hidden intentions from Auntie Tian.


    ¡°You¡¯re a kind person.¡± Auntie Tian¡¯s eyes suddenly turned red. She grabbed Madam Li¡¯s hand and said in a choked voice, ¡°To be honest, I was anxious when I saw so many houses in the village collapse. Now that we can¡¯t buy food outside, won¡¯t we be forcing our family to death?¡±


    Back then, when Madam Li reminded her to prepare more food, she thought that Madam Li was stupid and rich. Now, it was really a slap in the face.


    Madam Li paused for a moment and understood what Auntie Tian meant.


    ¡°Auntie Tian, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve seen your house. As long as you clear the snow off the roof often, it won¡¯t collapse,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Auntie Tian stopped him, as if she didn¡¯t believe him.


    Although Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand these things, if Song Jingchen said that it wouldn¡¯t collapse, it definitely wouldn¡¯t collapse.


    She echoed, ¡°My husband is right. Your house is solid, so it definitely won¡¯t collapse. It¡¯s simple if you¡¯re still worried. My house has a lot of materials from when it was built. Get An Dong to take them back and repair the house.¡±


    Auntie Tian smiled awkwardly. ¡°How embarrassing would that be?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Didn¡¯t my mother say that we¡¯re neighbors? We have to help.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand nonchalantly.


    Those things took up a lot of space, but she couldn¡¯t bear to throw them away. After all, she had spent money to buy them. Anyway, she had made the best use of them.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia was afraid that they would be too embarrassed to come and get it, so she simply said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for your An Dong to pick it up. I¡¯ll send it over when you go back later. I¡¯m strong anyway.¡±


    Auntie Tian choked and could not say anything else. She lowered her head and continued to wipe her tears at Madam Li. ¡°It¡¯s my fault for not listening to your advice back then. I didn¡¯t prepare more food for the family. Now, I can¡¯t buy it even if I wanted to. I really regret it.¡±


    Madam Li was in a difficult position. She had never been in charge of this family. She was afraid that Shen Yijia would be unhappy if she relented.


    After all, not to mention the current price of food, it was impossible to buy it even with money. The stockpile in this house was the lifeblood of the entire family.


    Who knew when this situation would finally be over?


    Song Jingchen saw Madam Li¡¯s dilemma. He calculated that there should be enough food at home, so he said, ¡°There should be some leftover food at home. We can sell some.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s so embarrassing. Besides, your family buys refined rice. Can our family afford it?¡±


    Auntie Tian¡¯s words were actually to test if the refined rice would be given to them at the same price as before or now.


    Now that Father An had recovered and no longer needed to take medicine, they could also use the medicine money that they had saved up in the past. Their finances weren¡¯t as strained as before.


    If they bought it at the same price as before, they could still exchange it for more brown rice in town.


    The price of refined rice had increased several times. One pound of refined rice could be exchanged for several pounds of brown rice.


    The extra could also be exchanged for a lot of money.


    ¡°That¡¯s easy. Bruiser¡¯s family bought brown rice. He and Auntie Wang won¡¯t need it at our house in the future. Just let her sell it to you.¡± Shen Yijia believed she had thought of a good idea and raised her chin proudly at Song Jingchen.


    1


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and hid the smile on his face.


    Auntie Tian had nothing to say in response.

 Chapter 152 - : Wanting to Eat

    In the end, Auntie Tian bought a lot of brown rice from Widow Wang. Although Widow Wang liked to take advantage of others, she had some standards. In her opinion, the An family was worse off compared to her own family. Their medical bills were a burden all year round.


    Therefore, she did not raise the price and simply sold it to Auntie Tian at the normal market price.


    Shen Yijia kept her word. While using the cart to help deliver the food, she also brought the remaining wood with her.


    As soon as she entered the An family¡¯s courtyard, she saw An Xiu¡¯er, whom she had not seen for a long time, passing by the corridor wearing a brand new jacket and carrying a birdcage.


    When An Xiu¡¯er saw Shen Yijia, she paused for a moment before returning to the house with the birdcage.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s wrong with this girl recently. She treats that bird like a treasure every day. Ignore her.¡± Auntie Tian tried to smooth things over for her daughter awkwardly.


    Shen Yijia did not mind. She licked her lips. It had been a long time since she had roasted bird meat. She wanted to eat it.


    Shen Yijia helped An Dong unload the items. She pushed the cart home, her mind still thinking about the smell of roasted meat.


    Auntie Tian sat by the fire in the central room. An Xiu¡¯er leaned over and asked, ¡°Mother, what did Auntie Li say?¡±


    Actually, she had already guessed it when she saw so much food, but she still refused to give up.


    Auntie Tian tapped her forehead angrily. ¡°It¡¯s not like we can¡¯t stay here. Why should we go to someone else¡¯s house?¡±


    She had no intention of borrowing the Song family¡¯s residence from the beginning. After all, An Dong and An Xiu¡¯er were not young anymore. Song Jingchen and his wife lived in the Song family¡¯s residence, so it was easy for gossip to spread.


    When she went out, An Xiu¡¯er coaxed her into mentioning it.


    ¡°You didn¡¯t mention it?¡± An Xiu¡¯er pouted in dissatisfaction.


    ¡°I did, but they didn¡¯t agree.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er fell silent.


    Auntie Tian glanced at her and thought of what An Dong had said about her being weird recently.


    Thinking of Song Jingchen¡¯s face, her heart dropped for a moment. She said sternly, ¡°You¡¯ve been embroidering wedding dresses in your room recently. I¡¯ll find you a good husband next spring.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to get married,¡± An Xiu¡¯er blurted out, her face pale.


    ¡°You¡¯re not getting married? Do you not want to marry a husband that I¡¯ve suggested, or do you just not want to marry at all? Are you prepared to be an unmarried woman at home for the rest of your life?¡± The more Auntie Tian looked at it, the more she felt that something was wrong. She was secretly angry at herself for not realizing it earlier.


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t want to get married yet.¡± With that, An Xiu¡¯er ran away with the birdcage.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want to get married? Do you want to spend the rest of your life with that pigeon?¡± Auntie Tian was furious, especially because of the guess in her heart.


    She couldn¡¯t help but complain, ¡°This child was fine in the past. How did she become like this? I don¡¯t know where she got a pigeon from, but she refused to stew it to nourish her father¡¯s body.¡±


    ¡°I want to eat roasted birds!¡± Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but mutter when she got home.


    Song Jingchen was reading at the side. When he heard this, he found it funny and couldn¡¯t help but expose her fantasy. ¡°Where can I catch birds for you in this weather?¡±


    ¡°I think Xiu¡¯er has one. It¡¯s fair and fat. It¡¯ll definitely taste good when roasted.¡± Shen Yijia retorted indignantly.


    ¡°I¡¯ll catch one to prove it to him tomorrow.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen frowned. He put down the book in his hand and looked up at Shen Yijia. ¡°You saw it? What breed is it?¡±


    ¡°How would I know what breed it is?¡± Thinking that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe her, Shen Yijia thought hard and said, ¡°It¡¯s fair and chubby. Oh, right, its eyes are red.¡±


    1


    She caught a glimpse of the bird when An Xiu¡¯er turned around.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze darkened and he stopped talking.

 Chapter 153 - Stealing Food

    Shen Yijia was thinking about where to catch a bird. When she thought about how the small animals in the mountains were all hiding in the winter, and how the birds must have flown somewhere else, she felt very disheartened.


    She learned from others and scattered a handful of rice in the courtyard to catch birds. In the end, after waiting for two days, she didn¡¯t even see a single feather.


    Instead, she almost caught a cold.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. At night, he waited until everyone went to sleep before pulling Shen Yijia to the kitchen.


    As soon as Shen Yijia arrived in the kitchen, she whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear, ¡°Are we here to steal food?¡±


    Her voice was as soft as a mosquito¡¯s. She really sounded like a thief.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t think of a reason to come to the kitchen to look for food. It couldn¡¯t be that he wanted to talk to her about his life¡¯s ideals in the middle of the night, right?


    Song Jingchen glanced at her speechlessly and drove the wheelchair to the stove.


    He bent down, picked up a wooden stick from the side, and reached into the stove.


    There was still a faint spark in the stove. The warm light shone on his face, making the usually cold person look more human.


    Soon, he pulled out a black block from the stove.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°My husband is so hungry that he¡¯s about to eat dirt?¡± she thought.


    1


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and fell silent. He took out a handkerchief, wrapped it around the black piece, and pinched it hard.


    Immediately, the fragrance of meat filled the air.


    Smelling the familiar fragrance, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She leaned over and said excitedly, ¡°Where did you get this?¡±


    Wasn¡¯t this the roasted bird that she had been dreaming about?


    ¡°It flew into the stove by itself. Perhaps it was cold outside and wanted to go in to warm up. I just happened to see it.¡± Song Jingchen was expressionless and tried to bluff her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Although I came out of a mental hospital, don¡¯t treat me like a fool.¡± she thought.


    There was a moment of silence.


    The two of them happily finished the pigeon meat.


    In fact, Shen Yijia ate it alone. Occasionally, she would stuff a few pieces of meat into Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth.


    After eating, Shen Yijia wiped her mouth in satisfaction. She did not forget to stuff the bones back into the stove and destroy the evidence.


    Song Jingchen looked at her natural actions and raised his eyebrows. It seemed that she had done these things often.


    After returning to her room, Shen Yijia fell asleep after eating and drinking.


    Song Jingchen sat up and took out a note from under his pillow. On it was a line of small words: ¡°I¡¯m safe, everything is going well.¡±


    He rubbed his brow, a weight lifted from his shoulders. He placed the note into the oil lamp and lit it.


    He extinguished the oil lamp and lay down. Everything fell silent again.


    Poor Uncle Yang, who was far away in the north, stared blankly at the sky every day.


    ¡°Uncle Yang, are you waiting for Eldest Young Master¡¯s letter again?¡± A girl in armor asked.


    Uncle Yang sighed and did not answer.


    He couldn¡¯t help but worry about Song Jingchen. Young Master suddenly sent two letters in a row.


    The content of the first letter was normal, but something was off with the second letter. Young Master asked him to send an extra pigeon.


    He originally thought that his young master had too many things to instruct him on, and that a single carrier pigeon was not enough. In the end, after waiting for a few days¡­


    ¡°Where did the pigeon go?¡± he thought.


    1


    In the blink of an eye, it was the fifteenth day after Shen Yijia¡¯s spiritual liquid reached level three. Shen Yijia woke up early.


    The first thing she did when she opened her eyes was to look inside her body. When she saw the golden spiritual liquid floating in her body, Shen Yijia almost cried tears of joy.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were saved.


    Before everyone got up, Shen Yijia got dressed and went into the kitchen.


    She decided to prepare breakfast for everyone today!


    Having observed Madam Li¡¯s cooking techniques for so long, Shen Yijia felt that she could at least cook some porridge.

 Chapter 154 - Feeding Spiritual Liquid

    She made this decision because she was too excited. When Widow Wang entered the kitchen and saw her, she felt that this girl was a little fierce, but she was diligent.


    However, when Madam Li saw this, her eyelids twitched and she felt dizzy.


    In the end, the entire family¡¯s faces turned dark early in the morning.


    Widow Wang swallowed the porridge mixed with cooked rice. She could not figure out why the rice wasn¡¯t evenly cooked even though it came from the same pot.


    Indeed, one couldn¡¯t judge a book by its cover. The food cooked by someone as beautiful as a flower was actually¡­


    Widow Wang glanced at the dumplings in the bowl, trying not to look directly at them. These dumplings weren¡¯t even fit for animal consumption.


    ¡°Hurry up and eat. Why are you looking at me?¡± Shen Yijia was extremely enthusiastic. She refused to eat and looked at the others with sparkling eyes. When she saw that their bowls were empty, she filled them up.


    Everyone who finally swallowed the porridge was speechless.


    It was supposed to be a happy breakfast time for the family, but it was unusually quiet today.


    1


    Seeing that everyone was only focused on eating the porridge and didn¡¯t praise her, Shen Yijia leaned over to Song Jingchen and asked, ¡°Hubby, does it taste good? I even specially added half a wild ginseng into it. Everyone can nourish themselves.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s pretty good.¡± Song Jingchen finished it without a change in expression. Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to refill his bowl, he softly added, ¡°I don¡¯t move often. One bowl is enough. Give it to Lin Shao and the others. They practice martial arts and consume a lot of energy.¡±


    Lin Shao and the others were speechless.


    ¡°What grudge do you hold against us? Why do you have to set us up like this?¡± they all thought.


    With resentment towards Song Jingchen, the children finished sharing the pot of porridge. After all, they couldn¡¯t waste it.


    After breakfast, everyone went about their own business.


    Shen Yijia followed Song Jingchen back to the house. She looked at his legs and suddenly calmed down.


    If Song Jingchen¡¯s leg suddenly recovered, how would she explain it?


    If she said it in advance but it didn¡¯t work, wouldn¡¯t the outcome be disappointing?


    ¡°Just say it.¡± Song Jingchen glanced at her.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. Was it that obvious?


    Glancing at Song Jingchen¡¯s legs again, Shen Yijia decided to go all out. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll get you a cup of tea.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her slightly flustered actions and frowned. He looked down at his legs.


    Suddenly, he said, ¡°Are you going to treat my legs?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia had just dripped the spiritual liquid into the teacup. When she heard this, her hand trembled and she almost threw the cup away.


    ¡°Are you going to treat my legs?¡± Song Jingchen repeated.


    ¡°You- You know everything?¡± Shen Yijia carefully placed the teacup on the table and scratched her head guiltily.


    Song Jingchen looked at her steadily, as if he wanted to see what she was thinking. At the same time, he whispered, ¡°What about after you treat my legs? Will you disappear?¡±


    Their conversation from before left a deep impression on him. He could not let Shen Yijia take this risk.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°What are you even saying?¡± she thought.


    She shook her head seriously. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to believe her, Shen Yijia felt a headache coming on. She explained, ¡°I didn¡¯t tell you because I was afraid that if it didn¡¯t work, I¡¯d raise your hopes for nothing.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes, really.¡± After saying that, she was afraid that Song Jingchen would continue to ask strange questions, so she raised the teacup to his mouth and said with a serious expression, ¡°Drink it.¡±


    If he didn¡¯t drink it now, she would knock him out and feed it to him.


    As soon as this thought flashed across her mind, Shen Yijia regretted it. She should have done that right from the start.


    Then, if Song Jingchen woke up and could move his legs, she would simply tell him that an immortal had treated him in his dream. If he wasn¡¯t cured, she would pretend that nothing had happened.


    1


    This way, there wouldn¡¯t be so much trouble.

 Chapter 155 - Knocked Out

    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before suddenly reaching out to grab Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. He took the teacup with his other hand and drank the tea in it.


    As soon as the tea entered his throat, Song Jingchen¡¯s body trembled, and the teacup in his hand fell to the ground with a shattering sound.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened. She asked anxiously, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    She had yet to experiment with it. ¡°What if the book lied? What if it had been upgraded to poison?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Did I end up murdering him? Is it too late for me to find the person who wrote the book and kill him?¡±


    ¡°But so what if I kill the author?¡±


    1


    By then, there would be no point. Her beautiful husband would already have been buried in the ground.


    ¡°Madam Li would make me pay with my life, right? When I die, can we still be a ghost couple?


    ¡°No, no. At that time, Song Jingchen would probably want to kill me.¡±


    ¡°Should I fight back, then? Would ghosts die? Do they turn into extra dead ghosts?¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that her mind was in a mess, and her thoughts were all jumbled up.


    The veins on Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead bulged. Soon, he was covered in sweat, and his grip on Shen Yijia tightened.


    The pain pulled Shen Yijia back from her thoughts. She felt that her hand was about to be broken.


    Her heart was pounding. It was different from the past when she was flustered from interacting with Song Jingchen. Now, it was as if something was stabbing at her heart, making it hurt.


    She couldn¡¯t tell if her heart ached more or her hands hurt more.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was filled with sobs, like a helpless and uneasy child who had done something wrong.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mind, which was originally occupied by pain, woke up a little. He opened his eyes and looked at Shen Yijia. When he noticed her slightly red eyes, he loosened his grip.


    He pulled Shen Yijia into his arms and hugged her tightly.


    Gritting his teeth to suppress the pain of his meridians being torn apart, he comforted her in a hoarse voice, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Don¡¯t cry.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia looked up at Song Jingchen with teary eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t need to become a ghost now?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s voice trembled as he nodded. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Seeing that he was suffering, Shen Yijia looked at her free hand. ¡°I¡¯ll knock you out so that you won¡¯t feel any pain.¡±


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t hear what she was saying anymore. He could only vaguely see Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth opening and closing. He thought that she was still worried and wanted to comfort her.


    However, he felt a pain in the back of his neck and fainted.


    Shen Yijia looked at her hand and opened her mouth wide.


    She seemed to have used too much strength just now.


    Shen Yijia carried him to the bed and laid him down.


    Even though he was unconscious, his brows were still tightly furrowed. In less than ten minutes, his clothes were drenched in cold sweat.


    Shen Yijia was afraid that he would catch a cold, so she stripped him naked.


    Looking at the naked person, Shen Yijia blushed slightly. She kept muttering in her heart, ¡°I didn¡¯t look, I didn¡¯t look, I didn¡¯t look.¡±


    However, her eyes could not help but glance at his chest.


    His figure was so good that she wanted to touch it¡­


    Song Jingchen grunted. Shen Yijia quickly shook her head and threw this very uncouth thought to the back of her mind. She leaned over and asked softly, ¡°Does it still hurt?¡±


    There was no answer.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and muttered, ¡°I¡¯ll get some water for you.¡±


    By the time she finished wiping Song Jingchen¡¯s body, Shen Yijia¡¯s face was as red as a tomato.


    However, she was relieved that Song Jingchen was no longer sweating.


    Afraid that he would suddenly wake up and realize that he had been seen naked, Shen Yijia quickly helped him change into clean clothes and sat at the side guiltily, waiting for him to wake up.

 Chapter 156 - Misunderstanding

    Obviously, she had underestimated her strength. After lunch, Sister Huan came to call for dinner, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t wake up.


    Shen Yijia had not eaten lunch and was extremely hungry. She had no choice but to eat first.


    The two of them had not left the room for a day. She thought she would be questioned.


    Shen Yijia had already thought of an excuse in her heart, but no one asked about it. They didn¡¯t even ask if Song Jingchen was coming for dinner.


    They kept putting food into her bowl and asking her to eat more. Under Widow Wang¡¯s strange gaze, Shen Yijia ate her fill.


    When she left the dining table, she heard Widow Wang whispering advice to Madam Li.


    ¡°Your son¡¯s body is too weak. You have to nourish him more. I know a prescription. Try it on him next time.¡±


    Madam Li¡¯s face turned red. She wanted to defend her son, but when she thought of Shen Yijia¡¯s strange strength, she muttered, ¡°Sister Jia¡¯s stamina is too good.¡±


    1


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Shen Yijia had no idea that she had been misunderstood as a female hooligan who had sucked her man dry. She slowly returned to her room.


    2


    Song Jingchen was still unconscious. At least he was still breathing.


    Otherwise, Shen Yijia would have suspected that she had become a young widow.


    Remembering the scene of Widow Wang fighting with Bruiser every day, Shen Yijia shivered.


    ¡°Wait, but I don¡¯t have children.¡± she thought.


    It had to be said that Shen Yijia¡¯s attack was really ruthless. When Song Jingchen woke up, it was already late in the morning.


    He opened his eyes and looked around before realizing where he was.


    Shen Yijia sat at the side, dozing off. She was wrapped in a blanket from head to toe, revealing only her face.


    It looked almost comical.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s hand was still holding his hand tightly. Song Jingchen even felt a numbing sensation in his hand.


    The inexplicable pain in his body had disappeared, replaced by a sharp pain at the back of his neck.


    Thinking of the scene before he fainted, Song Jingchen held his forehead helplessly.


    Although he didn¡¯t die from the pain, his neck was almost broken by this little girl.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was so tired from sleeping, Song Jingchen sat up and wanted to carry her.


    Only then did he realize that something was odd.


    He had exerted force on his thigh that couldn¡¯t move in the past.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. His heart was filled with mixed emotions. He was excited and confused, but he also couldn¡¯t believe Shen Yijia¡¯s abilities.


    1


    He subconsciously moved his hand and Shen Yijia and immediately woke up.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. It was good that he was still alive.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake? How do you feel? Does it still hurt?¡± Shen Yijia asked quickly. She even shook Song Jingchen¡¯s hand.


    The numbness in his hand made Song Jingchen gasp and quickly hold her restless hand.


    He shook her head, then nodded.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°Are you shaking your head or not? Does it hurt or not?¡± she thought.


    ¡°The back of my neck still hurts a little. It doesn¡¯t hurt anywhere else.¡± Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s hand meaningfully.


    Shen Yijia retracted her hand guiltily and rubbed her nose. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a side. What about your legs? Can you move them?¡±


    2


    After asking, Shen Yijia was still a little nervous. She looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s legs with a serious expression, afraid that she would hear a negative answer.


    She had always relied on her spiritual liquid. If even the spiritual liquid couldn¡¯t save Song Jingchen¡¯s leg, she didn¡¯t know what to do.


    Song Jingchen stared at her for a long time before suddenly smiling and nodding.

 Chapter 157 - Practice Walking

    ¡°I was able to move just now. I¡¯m sure it¡¯s only a matter of time before I can stand again.¡±


    After saying that, Song Jingchen even moved his thigh slightly.


    ¡°You can¡¯t stand up?¡± Shen Yijia initially heaved a sigh of relief when she heard the first half of the sentence. At the same time, she was happy for Song Jingchen.


    However, when she heard the second half of the sentence, Shen Yijia¡¯s face fell. If he could move, why couldn¡¯t he stand up?


    When he realized that his legs could feel something, Song Jingchen had secretly tried to move them. He could only move them slightly, but he didn¡¯t have the strength to stand up. As soon as he had this thought, his legs seemed to have lost their strength.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes.


    He thought about what had happened in the imperial prison.


    Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen was upset that he couldn¡¯t stand up. She scratched her head and comforted him. ¡°It¡¯s fine. This is only the first time. Let¡¯s try again in 15 days. Maybe it¡¯ll work next time.¡±


    If he couldn¡¯t do it the first time, she would give him the spiritual liquid again and again. He could definitely do it.


    She didn¡¯t explain why it would take fifteen days.


    Song Jingchen automatically understood that Shen Yijia needed to consume too much energy to treat him each time, and it would take 15 days for her to recover.


    He shook his head. ¡°It has nothing to do with you. My legs are healed. It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t stand up right away.¡±


    For one, he didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to spend any more energy.


    Additionally, Song Jingchen knew that he had to overcome the rest of the challenges himself. No one could help him.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s legs in confusion. ¡°You can¡¯t stand up? Are your legs disobedient?¡± she thought.


    1


    For disobedient people, she would just beat them up. However, she couldn¡¯t just beat Song Jingchen¡¯s legs up. What if she broke them again?


    Shen Yijia was frustrated.


    Due to the fact that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs hadn¡¯t completely recovered, Shen Yijia was depressed for several days.


    Although Song Jingchen said that his legs had recovered and it was only a matter of time before he could stand up, she was still anxious.


    The two of them did not tell the rest of the family, to prevent them from worrying.


    Every day when they returned to their room, Song Jingchen would ask Shen Yijia to help him stand up. Only then did Shen Yijia realize that Song Jingchen was really tall. She had to look up to see his face.


    After practicing for a few days, Song Jingchen¡¯s legs still didn¡¯t make any progress. If she let go of him, he would definitely fall.


    Shen Yijia was glad that she was strong. Otherwise, Song Jingchen would have been injured all over.


    In the end, Shen Yijia found a few wooden sticks and built a simple parallel frame in the neighboring study for him to practice walking.


    The end of the year was approaching. Song Jingchen¡¯s initial active practice had turned into him only practicing when Shen Yijia urged him to. Shen Yijia was so frustrated that she wanted to try using the spiritual liquid again, but fifteen days had yet to pass.


    Moreover, she felt that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to care about his legs anymore.


    In the past, it was obvious that he wanted to stand up again. Now that he was fine, he was in no hurry.


    Song Jingchen was not anxious, but Shen Yijia was.


    On the 29th of December, someone knocked on the courtyard door that had not been opened for a long time.


    The snow was still falling intermittently. Madam Li thought that it was New Year¡¯s Eve, so she brought her family to the kitchen early in the morning.


    If not for Furball¡¯s reminder, everyone would have ignored the knock on the door.


    In this weather, no one would go out unless they wanted to die.


    Shen Yijia stuffed a freshly fried dumpling into her mouth and said in a muffled voice, ¡°I¡¯ll open the door.¡±


    With that, she held the umbrella and went out.


    She opened the courtyard door.


    Many villagers of Xiagou Village were standing outside.


    After not seeing them for nearly a month, Shen Yijia almost did not recognize these people.


    It was strange that they could walk here with the snow on their bodies. What surprised her was that these people were all sallow and thin. Their cheeks were sunken and their cheekbones were prominent.


    If not for the fact that she was familiar with Song Tiegen, Shen Yijia would have thought that they were beggars.

 Chapter 158 - Borrowing Food

    Although he was poor in the past, he had at least eaten his fill. Now, it was different. Not only was he poor, he was also starving.


    Shen Yijia did not like these people. From the moment they entered the village, these people had deliberately targeted them. Although she didn¡¯t mock them, she didn¡¯t sympathize with them.


    She looked at Song Tiegen expressionlessly. ¡°Village Chief, why are you here?¡±


    Song Tiegen seemed to be freezing. He put his hand to his mouth and exhaled a mouthful of hot air. He rubbed his hands and said awkwardly, ¡°Miss Song, let us in first.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°That won¡¯t do. There are so many of you. If I let you in, what if something goes missing in the house? If you have something to say, say it quickly.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    The bone-chilling wind hurt their faces. Shen Yijia blocked the door, unmoved by Song Tiegen¡¯s words.


    She was not stupid. Madam Li kept saying, ¡°How many people will die if this snow continues to fall?¡±


    In the future, they would have to ration their food. In addition, Auntie Tian had come to their house to buy food previously, so she knew why they were here.


    These people were hungry. However, the Song family was cooking right now, and no good would come from letting them in. She couldn¡¯t beat them to death because of a bite of food. She would feel uncomfortable and disgusted if she couldn¡¯t kill them when something went wrong.


    It was best not to let anyone in.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was stubborn, Song Tiegen was a little dissatisfied. In the past, he had taken good care of this family, but now, he had a favor to ask.


    He had no choice but to ask, ¡°Where¡¯s the man of the family? I need to talk to him.¡±


    He did not want to tell Shen Yijia that she was too ferocious.


    He still felt that the man in charge of the family was the one he could negotiate with. Compared to Shen Yijia, who killed people for no reason, he clearly felt that Song Jingchen was easier to talk to.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°If you have something to say, just tell me. My husband has no time for you.¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Song Jingchen¡¯s voice came from behind. ¡°May I know why the village chief brought so many people to look for a cripple like me?¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. She didn¡¯t like to hear anyone call him a cripple, even if Song Jingchen said it himself.


    She secretly glared at Bruiser, who was pushing Song Jingchen out, and Lin Shao, who held an umbrella over him.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao stayed silent.


    As soon as they saw Song Jingchen appear, everyone looked at him in unison. Without waiting for Song Tiegen to speak, an older villager howled, ¡°Song family brat, you have to help the elders in our village.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°I don¡¯t remember having any relatives in this village. Did you come looking for the wrong person?¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled. How could her beautiful husband not understand? He was simply putting on an act.


    The villager turned red and muttered, ¡°No matter what, your surname is still Song. The fact that we¡¯re from the same sect can¡¯t be changed.¡±


    ¡°Oh? My name is on the family tree?¡± Song Jingchen sounded flattered, but the mockery on his face couldn¡¯t be hidden.


    ¡°We can add you back. Right now.¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± Song Jingchen sneered and interrupted the man. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that. If there¡¯s nothing else, please leave. It¡¯s cold here. It won¡¯t be good if you freeze to death.¡±


    He had already seen Shen Yijia rubbing her hands. Now, he just wanted to send these people away as soon as possible.


    The villagers were silent for a moment. The fragrance coming from the Song family¡¯s courtyard made them swallow involuntarily. They all looked at Song Tiegen, waiting for him to speak.

 Chapter 159 - Writing New Year Couplets

    Song Tiegen sighed. ¡°Kid, you know what¡¯s been going on in the village.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a bitter winter outside, and the road out of the village was blocked,¡± he continued.


    ¡°However, after the autumn harvest, everyone sold their grains. Now, even if they had money, they wouldn¡¯t be able to buy grains in town. I heard that your family prepared a lot of grains for winter. See if you can help.¡±


    ¡°Please spare us some rations and distribute them to us.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re from the same village. You don¡¯t want to see everyone starve to death, right?¡± With that, Song Tiegen ended his plea.


    ¡°I missed the part where that¡¯s my problem.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s tone was indifferent. He glanced at Song Dahai, who was hiding behind the crowd, and continued, ¡°Besides, we¡¯ve only prepared enough food for our own family. Do you want me to share the food with people who have nothing to do with me, and starve my own family instead?¡±


    Song Tiegen choked and glanced at Bruiser. He felt a little embarrassed. ¡°Then why did you take in Widow Wang¡¯s family?¡±


    ¡°I originally prepared a little more. With Auntie Wang and her son, the amount is just right.¡± Shen Yijia retorted angrily.


    Auntie Wang and her husband had sold a portion of the grain to the An family. Even if they didn¡¯t, the Song family could take in whoever they wanted. They were willing to do so.


    2


    ¡°This¡­¡± Song Tiegen was in a difficult position. He couldn¡¯t say that the Song family¡¯s lives weren¡¯t important.


    ¡°Are you really going to leave me in the lurch?¡± the person who answered Song Jingchen¡¯s question asked sternly when he saw that Song Tiegen was speechless.


    ¡°I can¡¯t even protect myself.¡±


    ¡°Alright, since you¡¯re so ruthless, we won¡¯t be able to live anyway. We¡¯ll drag you all down with us.¡± After saying that, a ruthless glint flashed across the man¡¯s eyes. He waved at everyone. ¡°They definitely have food in the house.¡±


    Before the person could finish speaking, a short arrow flew towards his forehead and pierced through his hair. From the corner of his eye, he could see the tail of the arrow tremble.


    The man¡¯s anger instantly died down, and his provocations stopped.


    There was a moment of silence. When they regained their senses, they looked at Song Jingchen fearfully.


    ¡°You-¡± That person pointed a trembling finger at Song Jingchen.


    To put it bluntly, no one took him seriously in the beginning. That was why they felt that he was easier to talk to than Shen Yijia. They felt that he was just a cripple.


    In addition, Song Jingchen always looked reasonable when dealing with them.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched indifferently, and he said, ¡°Instead of wasting time here, why don¡¯t you go home and pray that the government will start distributing food soon?¡±


    In the end, the group of people left dejectedly. When Madam Li found out about the situation outside, she was also worried.


    She wasn¡¯t afraid that they would starve. Rather, she was afraid that once they were forced into a corner, they would do anything.


    If this situation continued, it might cause a riot. If word got out that the Song family still had food, their family would become the first target.


    Since Madam Li was deep in thought, the family banquet became unusually silent.


    Only Shen Yijia was unaffected. She ate and drank.


    Seeing the villagers¡¯ appearances, she felt that she had to eat more. Otherwise, she would become ugly if she starved.


    The next day was New Year¡¯s Eve.


    Widow Wang brought over a few pieces of red paper and asked Song Jingchen to write a couplet.


    Shen Yijia had originally planned to buy it, but after a month of snow, the road to town was blocked.


    She did not expect Widow Wang to be so prepared.


    How did Widow Wang know that the price of red paper would increase before New Year¡¯s Eve? Widow Wang, who was used to living frugally, would prepare it a few months earlier every year. She dug it out of the rubble together with the grain.


    ¡°I¡¯ll cut the paper.¡± Shen Yijia took the red paper and went to Madam Li¡¯s room to look for scissors.


    Looking at the red paper that had been placed in front of him, Song Jingchen was still a little dazed.

 Chapter 160 - : Lively

    In the past, the Spring Festival couplets at home had been personally written by his grandfather. His grandfather had never gone to school when he was young, and he had only learned a few words from the late emperor. His handwriting was not good.


    However, he was never tired of writing couplets. After he was done, he would ask, ¡°Grandson, look at my handwriting. Has it improved since last year?¡±


    The person in his memory was no longer there. It had only been half a year, but Song Jingchen felt as if a lifetime had passed.


    After a long silence, Song Jingchen picked up his pen and wrote down a few pairs of words. They all had excellent meanings.


    She watched as the cold-looking young man wrote on the paper with vigor.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin.


    Why was her husband so good-looking? Even his handwriting was better than anyone else.


    Although she didn¡¯t recognize half the words, it didn¡¯t stop her from appreciating beautiful things.


    Madam Li came in with a small basket. When she saw the couplets on the table, she paused and sighed. ¡°It¡¯s time to paste them and cleanse away bad luck for this year.¡±


    Obviously, she was thinking about the same thing as Song Jingchen.


    She sighed and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Sister Jia, I made some date cakes and cloud cakes. Send some to Auntie Tian¡¯s house next door.¡±


    The An family relied on the coarse rice they had bought from Widow Wang to survive. There was probably nothing else to eat at home.


    Madam Li could not care less about the others in the village. She just wanted to take care of the ones she was on good terms with.


    Shen Yijia agreed and took the basket from Madam Li¡¯s hand. She carried a sled that she had just made last night and went out.


    This was inspired by the miserable state of the villagers yesterday. After making a few, Brother Hao and the others started playing early in the morning. With this, it was much easier to walk in the snow.


    Even Furball was given one. Furball, who used to stay in the charcoal basin every day, was now playing happily in the courtyard.


    Standing in front of the An family¡¯s courtyard, Shen Yijia knocked on the door and waited for a long time before someone opened it.


    It was An Xiu¡¯er.


    ¡°Thank you, Sister Shen.¡± An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s expression was unreadable. In any case, Shen Yijia could not understand it. She kept feeling that the gentle girl from before had changed into a different person, making her feel very uncomfortable.


    However, she did not mind. The two families were not very close to each other, and only Madam Li and Auntie Tian occasionally visited each other.


    Shen Yijia handed the things to An Xiu¡¯er and went home. At this moment, Madam Li and Widow Wang were cutting the window flowers with Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao.


    Bruiser and the other boys were posting couplets.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help too.¡± Looking at the couplets that Bruiser and the others had pasted crookedly, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes hurt and her heart ached for the couplets. After saying that, she went over to snatch the work from Bruiser.


    Bruiser glanced at her resentfully, not daring to protest.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, I¡¯ll help you too.¡± Sister Huan threw down the scissors and ran to Shen Yijia¡¯s side.


    Madam Li shook her head helplessly and sighed. ¡°This girl is always jumping around. I wonder who she learned it from.¡±


    She was just saying it casually, but Song Jingchen, who was reading at the side, paused. He glanced at Shen Yijia, who was leaning against the door frame, and a smile appeared on his face.


    According to tradition, they had to eat dumplings on New Year¡¯s Eve. Fortunately, there was still some preserved meat and dried vegetables from before. They even had meat and vegetable fillings.


    As soon as it was out of the pot, it emitted a fragrance that drifted far away. Fortunately, the An family was the only one left in the village. Otherwise, it would have aroused the anger of the people.


    Because there were many people, this New Year¡¯s Eve was especially lively.


    Especially for Shen Yijia, since she had never experienced this in her previous life. The group of patients did not know what New Year¡¯s Eve was. On the contrary, all the staff from the mental hospital went home for a reunion that day.


    Thus, none of the staff were around to prepare food. Everyone in the mental hospital would have to starve for a day, so Shen Yijia ate especially much this time.


    If Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t noticed that something was wrong, she would have eaten even more.

 Chapter 161 - Fu Bao

    The few of them stayed awake until midnight. Just as they were about to return to their rooms to rest, Furball started to howl uneasily.


    It wasn¡¯t the usual reminder that someone was coming. Instead, it sounded like a warning.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen looked at each other and asked Madam Li and Widow Wang to bring the children back to their rooms first. The two of them followed Furball to its hole that had long been frozen by the snow.


    As soon as the two of them approached the hole, they heard something digging outside the courtyard wall.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to react, Shen Yijia had already taken a few steps forward and punched into the hole.


    Snow poured out of the hole, and the entrance was revealed.


    At the same time, a cry of pain came from outside. It sounded like a child¡¯s.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen, rubbed her nose, and muttered, ¡°I thought it was a bad person.¡±


    ¡°Is anyone inside?¡± The child¡¯s voice was trembling.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen tacitly didn¡¯t speak and waited quietly for a while.


    A small head crawled in from the hole. Shen Yijia squatted down and blocked the child¡¯s way in.


    Fu Bao looked at the fierce-looking person squatting in front of him. His face turned pale and he wanted to leave.


    However, thinking of why he was here, he swallowed and stammered, ¡°I- I¡¯m Song Dajiang¡¯s grandson and Song Dalin¡¯s son. I¡¯m your eldest nephew. You can¡¯t kill me.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and glanced at Song Jingchen. The latter was also puzzled.


    After thinking for a moment, Shen Yijia reached out and grabbed Fu Bao¡¯s arm, pulling him in.


    Fu Bao¡¯s body was suspended in midair. He was so frightened that he kept kicking his legs and shouting with his eyes closed, ¡°Ah! Don¡¯t kill me. There are bad people entering the village. I¡¯m here to ask for your help.¡±


    ¡°Who asked you to come?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°No- no one. I came on my own. The village demon is powerful. I came to beg her to come with me to save someone.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was dissatisfied. Why was she being described as a demon?


    Fu Bao shuddered and quickly added, ¡°Aunt, I was wrong, I shouldn¡¯t have called you that. Please come with me to save them. Otherwise, they¡¯ll all die.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and his voice became serious. ¡°Tell me what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Shen Yijia stopped teasing him and placed him on the ground.


    Fu Bao heaved a sigh of relief and patted the snow off his body. He placed his hand to his mouth and sighed. ¡°I¡­ I wanted to look for my mother, so I sneaked out.¡±


    ¡°However, there was snow everywhere. I couldn¡¯t find my way home. I wanted to go home, but I saw many people entering the village with torches,¡± he continued.


    ¡°I had heard my mother say before that those were bandits. I was afraid that they would catch me, so I hid in a snowdrift.¡±


    ¡°They went from house to house to capture people. They tied them up and brought them to the ancestral hall. Auntie is so powerful. Please come and save my father.¡±


    He seemed to be freezing. Every time he said something, he would tremble. His words were incoherent, but Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen understood.


    There was a disaster outside, and the bandits could not survive on the mountain, so they thought of a way to sneak into the village to rob them.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡± Shen Yijia refused.


    ¡°But¡­¡± Fu Bao couldn¡¯t think of a good reason. He simply imitated his mother¡¯s usual threatening tone and said,¡± Your family looks very rich. Even if you don¡¯t go, they¡¯ll come and catch you. You¡¯re good-looking too, so they¡¯ll snatch you away. ¡±


    After saying that, he paused and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°You won¡¯t have a wife then.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched as he looked at Shen Yijia, who was smiling foolishly because of the praise.


    Sensing Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, Shen Yijia¡¯s smile disappeared. She tried her best to keep a straight face and asked unhappily, ¡°Is my husband not good-looking?¡±


    ¡°How could this child only praise me and not my beautiful husband? He looks like he wants to object to this.¡± she thought.

 Chapter 162 - Bandits Entering the Village

    Fu Bao was led astray by Shen Yijia. He looked at Song Jingchen seriously and nodded honestly. ¡°He¡¯s as good-looking as you.¡±


    ¡°Then why would they want to catch me and not him?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯ll catch him too. The good-looking ones will be taken away.¡± Fu Bao scratched his head, his face scrunched up.


    He was still a child. Why was she asking him such a difficult question?


    ¡°Well, then my husband and I would still be together after being captured. Why wouldn¡¯t he have a wife?¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead helplessly. He really didn¡¯t understand why the topic had turned into this. Who said that they could still be together if they were captured together? What if they were separated?


    ¡°Wait, that¡¯s not right. Why should I be taken away? Wouldn¡¯t it be more comfortable being in my own home?¡± Song Jingchen thought.


    ¡°You can hide here for the night. However, we won¡¯t be going out to save them.¡± Song Jingchen was afraid that he would be forced to lower his intelligence if he continued listening, so he interrupted them.


    He was not ruthless enough to chase a child out.


    Fu Bao immediately burst into tears and choked,¡±Then, what about my father?¡±


    Although Song Dalin wasn¡¯t as good to him as Little Madam Liu, he was still his father.


    Little Madam Liu had returned to her mother¡¯s house and didn¡¯t come back. He couldn¡¯t possibly lose his father too, right?


    As for Song Dajiang and Madam Liu, they only had Song Maolin in their hearts. Fu Bao really had no feelings for them.


    There was no need to mention Song Maolin. Fu Bao only ever felt envious towards him.


    ¡°That has nothing to do with us. We¡¯re already being kind by letting you stay.¡± Shen Yijia dug her ears. Seeing that he was about to cry, she threatened, ¡°If you cry again, we¡¯ll throw you out too.¡±


    Fu Bao choked and stopped crying.


    The two of them sent her to Lin Shao¡¯s room and brought Furball to the front yard.


    Song Jingchen estimated the time. If Fu Bao wasn¡¯t lying, that group of people should have arrived at the end of the village by now.


    Sure enough, not long after, they heard the courtyard door of their house and the one next door being smashed.


    The walls of their house were built high. Back then, Third Uncle He even stuck thorns into them. Ordinary people really could not climb through the walls.


    The courtyard door was also new and sturdy.


    The people next door weren¡¯t so lucky. Soon, they heard the sound of the door breaking, followed by Auntie Tian¡¯s terrified voice and Father An¡¯s angry roar.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen.


    Her eyes seemed to be asking, ¡°Should I help?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. Thinking about how Father An had saved Sister Huan¡¯s life and how Madam Li had taken good care of that family, he sighed and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    He would take it as returning the favor.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Shen Yijia wanted to say, ¡°Your leg hasn¡¯t recovered yet. Don¡¯t go.¡±


    She stopped mid-sentence. She would hurt his pride if she said it out loud.


    She had to protect her beautiful husband¡¯s pride.


    She had completely forgotten about how she had abandoned Bruiser at Full Fortune Restaurant when she felt that he was being a burden.


    The people outside refused to give up. They seemed to be contemplating whether they should climb up the wall to get in.


    Shen Yijia was relieved to see Song Jingchen holding the crossbow.


    Furball immediately rushed out and pounced on a person who was about to smash the door.


    A tiger roar shocked the few of them into running away in fear, leaving the unlucky person pressed to the ground by Furball.


    ¡°Little Furball, protect my husband,¡± Shen Yijia instructed and ran towards the An family.


    At this moment, other than An Xiu¡¯er, the other three people in the An family¡¯s courtyard were all squatting in the courtyard under the threat of a bandit. There were also people rummaging through the house.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and kicked the man away.

 Chapter 163 - Rescue

    ¡°Ms. Song.¡± An Dong looked at the girl who had descended from the sky in surprise.


    Shen Yijia nodded mysteriously. When she turned around and saw Song Jingchen coming over with Furball, she immediately put on a meek smile.


    The people in the house ran out when they heard the commotion. One of them widened his eyes in fear when he saw who it was. He was so frightened that the jar he was holding fell to the ground.


    The others were also frightened, but the difference was that they saw Furball.


    The scene fell strangely silent. Song Jingchen glanced at them and paused. He raised his eyebrows and asked, ¡°Are you going to leave or not?¡±


    The few of them looked at each other, as if wondering if they could take down Furball.


    The person who was frightened by Shen Yijia was already trembling and nodding. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Let¡¯s go immediately.¡±


    After saying that, he glanced at them and gestured for them to follow.


    Seeing that the bandits had left, Auntie Tian suddenly knelt on the ground and cried, ¡°Miss Song, please save our Xiu¡¯er.¡±


    Shen Yijia was wondering why An Xiu¡¯er was not around. She asked curiously, ¡°What happened to her?¡±


    ¡°She was taken away by that group just now.¡± Father An sighed.


    It turned out that when those people barged in and saw that An Xiu¡¯er looked pretty, they wanted to bring her back and give her to their boss for credit.


    If Shen Yijia had come a step earlier, she might have bumped into the person who took An Xiu¡¯er away.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Why did she feel that An Xiu¡¯er was a little unlucky? She would¡¯ve been rescued if Shen Yijia came a little earlier.


    It started snowing, and soon, they were covered in snow.


    Since she had already rescued the An family, it was impossible for her to leave An Xiu¡¯er alone.


    1


    It was already late at night and the weather was cold. The bandits were making such a big fuss that they definitely wouldn¡¯t run away after robbing the village. They were probably looking for a place to survive the winter.


    Xiagou Village was unlucky enough to be chosen by them.


    After Song Jingchen finished analyzing the situation, Father An and the others were relieved. It was useless for the An family to go. Moreover, Auntie Tian had just been frightened, so she asked An Dong to stay and take care of them.


    The two of them left the An family home, but they did not go straight to the ancestral hall in the village.


    ¡°Husband, aren¡¯t we going to save Xiu¡¯er?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously when she saw Song Jingchen heading home.


    He had just spoken to Father An nicely and told them not to worry. It wouldn¡¯t be good to change his mind in the blink of an eye.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and said indifferently, ¡°She won¡¯t die. Go back to the house and wear more clothes.¡±


    He had to save her, but he only promised to save her life. Anything else was none of his business.


    Shen Yijia had always felt that Song Jingchen was very smart. For example, he could guess the motives of those bandits without asking.


    Therefore, when she heard him say that, she believed him and did not feel that there was anything wrong.


    She returned to the house and put on the cloak that Madam Li had made. Song Jingchen also insisted that she put on the scarf made of the rabbit fur that Shen Yijia had hunted.


    Faced with her beautiful husband¡¯s sudden enthusiasm, Shen Yijia wondered if it would be inconvenient to fight later.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to notice her gaze and wrapped it around her. He took out another scarf and wrapped it around Furball.


    If Furball could speak, it would probably say, ¡°I was born with a scarf. I don¡¯t need it.¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, the man and tiger were wrapped into balls by Song Jingchen. Shen Yijia felt that this was enough and wanted to bring Furball out, but Song Jingchen blocked her way and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Don¡¯t they say that saving lives is like putting out a fire? Time is of the essence. I think you¡¯re stalling, but I have no proof.¡± she thought.

 Chapter 164 - Acquaintance

    In the end, Furball led the way with the sled. Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen¡¯s wheelchair and walked slowly behind.


    By the time they arrived at the ancestral hall, half an hour had passed.


    There was a bonfire in the ancestral hall, illuminating the interior.


    The villagers of Xiagou Village were all trapped together with a hemp rope and sat in the middle of the ancestral hall.


    More than ten bandits were guarding the hall with knives. The elders, who were usually arrogant, were now hiding behind their descendants like quails, not daring to say a word.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and felt inexplicably good.


    An Xiu¡¯er was not in the crowd. Shen Yijia was about to walk in and ask.


    However, a person suddenly darted over from behind at an extremely fast speed. Shen Yijia could feel the cold wind from him.


    Just as she was about to avoid it with Song Jingchen, the person ran in front of them and stopped abruptly. After sliding for a while, he knelt down with a thud. ¡°Hello grandaunt, it¡¯s been a long time.¡±


    Sensing that this person had no ill intentions, Furball stopped in its tracks.


    When the bandits heard the commotion and gathered around, they were all shocked when they heard their leader call her ¡°grandaunt.¡±


    Every time they went to rob someone, it was said that a grandaunt gave them the idea.


    In order to warn them, the leader had instructed them to run away if they encountered this person. But nowa€|


    Puzzlement flashed across Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes. When did she have such a big grandnephew? Why didn¡¯t she know? Was she that old?


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised to see this person. He raised his eyebrows. ¡°What? You can¡¯t stay on Mount Putuo anymore?¡±


    This person was none other than the bandit leader they had encountered on the way from the capital. Shen Yijia had given him the nickname of ¡®Saber Tyrant¡¯.


    Just now, he was at the village chief¡¯s house with his men. Some of the people who came out of the An family recognized Song Jingchen and his wife and ran to report to him. That was why he rushed over.


    The Saber Tyrant thought to himself that he was unlucky. He wanted to find a village to settle down, but he encountered these two ferocious gods. However, he was full of smiles. ¡°Grandpa, you were right. That lackey of mine is a son of a bitch. Since he colluded with outsiders to plot against his brothers, I- I had no choice back then. We had to make a living.¡±


    At the mention of Putuo Mountain, Shen Yijia suddenly recognized this person. ¡°So it¡¯s you. You¡¯re not dead yet?¡±


    She remembered this person because he spoke too harshly.


    As a bandit leader with no real abilities, it was a miracle that he could live for so long.


    The Saber Tyrant choked and almost couldn¡¯t maintain his smile. The scar on his face trembled. ¡°Ah, I have you to protect me, don¡¯t I?¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. She remembered why she was here and asked, ¡°Did you catch a very good-looking girl? Where is she?¡±


    ¡°What girl? They¡¯re all in there.¡± The Saber Tyrant was confused.


    At this moment, the person who had gone to report to him stood up with his head lowered and stammered, ¡°It¡¯s the one that Ma Zi brought back. You told him to lock her up in a random house.¡±


    The Saber Tyrant glanced at the man and scolded, ¡°Then quickly get Ma Zi to bring her over.¡±


    Seeing that the person had left, he turned to Shen Yijia and asked with a fawning smile, ¡°Then do you have any other instructions? The othersa€|¡±


    ¡°What do the others have to do with me?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    The Saber Tyrant heaved a sigh of relief. He moved his frozen knees and glanced at Shen Yijia. Seeing that she was not looking at him, he quietly stood up.

 Chapter 165 - The Villagers Begging for Help

    Taking advantage of the fact that the bandits were not around, someone in the ancestral hall secretly untied the ropes and came out. When he saw Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia, he was first happy, then his face darkened with anger when he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words.


    He quietly retreated. Soon, everyone in the ancestral hall surged out.


    As soon as they came out, they started crying at the two of them.


    ¡°You kids from the Song family, you can¡¯t leave us in the lurch.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Although we didn¡¯t welcome you in the past, we¡¯ve never done anything to let your family down.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, you can¡¯t be so heartless.¡±


    ¡°No matter what, we live in the same village. When Song Daniu was still around, he took care of us villagers.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    The group of people cried and complained, as if Song Jingchen was choosing to be a heartless wretch if he didn¡¯t save them.


    A few people from the old residence were also inside. Perhaps they knew that the two families were mortal enemies.


    It was rare for them to have the self-awareness to not speak. Instead, they hid behind people and tried their best to reduce their presence.


    Therefore, no one noticed the hatred on Song Maolin¡¯s face when he looked at the Saber Tyrant. It even exceeded the hatred he had for Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen frowned from the noise. Before he could speak, Furball blocked his way.


    The chattering crowd immediately settled down.


    Dao Ba glared at the lackeys who were in charge of guarding these people and thought to himself that they were useless.


    ¡°Where are you taking me? Let go of me!¡±


    At this moment, a panicked female voice sounded. Shen Yijia looked over and saw An Xiu¡¯er being dragged over by two people. One of them was the messenger.


    Her hair was in a mess, and her collar was open. It was unknown if her collar had been torn by someone or if it ripped open because of the struggle.


    Shen Yijia frowned.


    The Saber Tyrant¡¯s gaze never left Shen Yijia. He was afraid that she would attack him if she was unhappy.


    Seeing her frown, he immediately scolded, ¡°Are you looking for death? Let go of her.¡±


    The two of them felt wronged. This woman wanted to run away when they weren¡¯t paying attention. What would they do if they couldn¡¯t catch her?


    The two of them let go at the same time. An Xiu¡¯er stumbled and fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia covered her eyes and sighed again. This girl was really unlucky.


    She was about to help her up when Song Jingchen stopped her.


    He instructed the Saber Tyrant, ¡°Help her up and give her your clothes.¡±


    When An Xiu¡¯er heard the voice, she suddenly looked up at Song Jingchen, who was sitting in a wheelchair. A trace of panic flashed across her eyes, and tears slowly welled up in her eyes.


    When a beauty cried, ordinary men would feel pity for her.


    The Saber Tyrant was an ordinary man, and with Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, he wanted to help the beauty up.


    An Xiu¡¯er gritted her teeth and got up before the tyrant could touch her. She didn¡¯t want the jacket that the tyrant handed her.


    She stood up and threw herself into Shen Yijia¡¯s arms. ¡°Sister Shena€|¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned.


    Shen Yijia patted her back stiffly and comforted her. ¡°It¡¯s alright now.¡±


    After saying that, she quickly pushed her away. ¡°She¡¯s not even my husband, why is she hugging me?¡± she thought.


    An Xiu¡¯er stopped crying and stood still with a red face. Her hands were clenched into fists.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡± Shen Yijia made this suggestion when she saw An Xiu¡¯er trembling in the cold.


    ¡°What about us?¡± The villagers were afraid that no one would save them if the two of them left, so they gathered their courage and asked.


    They could tell that the bandit leader was afraid of Shen Yijia and her husband. As long as the couple agreed, the bandits would definitely let them go.


    But if these two really left just like thata€|

 Chapter 166 - Courting Death

    Shen Yijia looked at the old, weak, women, and children in the crowd. Many of them were people she had never seen or interacted with.


    Frowning, she turned to the Saber Tyrant. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°After we came down from Mount Putuo, we went all the way south. We originally stayed at Mount Funiu outside town.¡±


    ¡°But isn¡¯t it too cold? I just wanted to find a village to spend the winter,¡± the Saber King answered honestly.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. She knew that her beautiful husband was the smartest.


    ¡°Then why did you catch them? Are you going to kill them?¡±


    The Saber Tyrant scratched his head. ¡°We don¡¯t have much to eat. We have to snatch some food.¡±


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. These people probably had nothing to eat at home now.


    ¡°We can share some things, as long as you let us go.¡± As expected of the village chief, Song Tiegen immediately mentioned a solution to the problem.


    Shen Yijia raised her chin. ¡°Do you think it¡¯s feasible?¡±


    ¡°Alright, but we have to stay in this ancestral hall,¡± the Saber Tyrant said. It was impossible for the Saber Tyrant to get all the food in the village, so he might as well take a step back.


    In any case, these people wouldn¡¯t be able to report it to the authorities.


    Besides, he was not afraid of anyone who was fearless enough to go after them. Who would care about this issue now? The bandit group was planning to leave after the harsh winter anyway.


    Since both parties had agreed, Shen Yijia did not care about the rest. She left along with Song Jingchen and An Xiu¡¯er.


    Shen Yijia could not bear to take off her cloak for An Xiu¡¯er. In the end, she took off the scarf around Furball and gave it to her.


    After all, she was also afraid of the cold. An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s collar was only slightly torn, so it wasn¡¯t cold after she wrapped the scarf around her neck.


    After watching An Xiu¡¯er return home, the two of them didn¡¯t go in.


    As soon as they returned to their courtyard, they saw a figure curled up at the door of their house. When he saw them, he immediately rushed over. ¡°Are my father and the others alright?¡±


    ¡°Why are you asking? I didn¡¯t make a promise to save them,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Fu Bao immediately started crying.


    ¡°Do you want to go home now or tomorrow?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    It was already so late. He wanted Shen Yijia to rest. He really didn¡¯t want her to waste any more time on these unimportant people.


    ¡°Can I go home now?¡± Fu Bao¡¯s eyes lit up as he looked carefully at Song Jingchen.


    For some reason, he felt that this uncle was even more terrifying than the demon Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer him and called Furball over. ¡°Little Furball, send him back.¡±


    Furball thought, ¡°Why me again?¡±


    In the end, Furball couldn¡¯t escape his fate of being ordered around by this family.


    Fu Bao sat on the sled while Shen Yijia tied a rope to it. Furball bit the rope and was about to drag the kid away.


    Fu Bao suddenly walked back and stammered, ¡°I know who caused the little sister to fall into the water.¡±


    Shen Yijia was still trying to figure out who he was talking about. Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze froze and he said coldly, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my uncle. I saw him throw a pebble at her leg. That¡¯s why she fell.¡±


    It turned out that Song Maolin had gone out alone that day. Fu Bao thought that he had gone out to steal food, so he secretly followed behind him.


    In the end, he followed Song Maolin to the end of the village and met Brother Hao and the other two who were about to set off to the river.


    With that, Fu Bao ran back and sat down.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t speak again until Fu Bao left the courtyard.


    ¡°Husband, do you want to¡­¡± Shen Yijia regretted not killing Song Maolin that day.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°Let¡¯s go back and rest first. Perhaps that person will die even without us lifting a finger.¡±

 Chapter 167 - Song Maolin’s Death

    Shen Yijia was confused, but when she couldn¡¯t understand, she chose to listen.


    Due to her confidence in Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia stepped on her sled and brought Furball out the next day.


    The entire village was covered in a thick layer of snow.


    Shen Yijia put on her cloak and went straight to the Song family¡¯s old residence.


    She wanted to verify if Song Maolin had gotten himself killed. If he hadn¡¯t, then she would kill him.


    When they were still some distance away from the old residence, they heard heart-wrenching cries coming from the house.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°Did he actually get himself killed?¡± she thought.


    Before she could think of a way to ask around, she saw the Saber Tyrant walk out of the courtyard cursing.


    Behind him were two people carrying bags.


    Seeing Shen Yijia, the Saber Tyrant¡¯s fierce expression disappeared and he immediately put on a smile. He came over and asked, ¡°Grandaunt, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°What happened?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The Saber Tyrant glanced at Furball from the corner of his eye and moved away. He said angrily, ¡°There¡¯s a kid in this family who doesn¡¯t know what¡¯s good for him.¡±


    It turned out that the bandits Song Maolin encountered during the exam were the Saber Tyrant and the others.


    Song Maolin felt that if he hadn¡¯t been robbed, he would have definitely passed the exam. He would have become a High Scholar, and he wouldn¡¯t have given Shen Yijia the chance to teach him a lesson and embarrass him in the village.


    In order to treat his injuries, Song Jiayue was even promised to an old man in his fifties as a concubine, making him the target of criticism again.


    And the instigator of all this was the damned bandits.


    Unexpectedly, this time, the Saber Tyrant entered the village again.


    Song Maolin recognized him. Today, when the Saber Tyrant was collecting food from every house, he took the opportunity to slash at the Saber Tyrant with a kitchen knife.


    However, he was simply a weak scholar. He could not muster that much strength in his hands or shoulders. It was obvious that he was courting death.


    Shen Yijia was surprised. What kind of fate was this?


    Actually, it was not difficult to understand why Song Maolin was like this. In the past, everyone in the village called him Scholar Song. How glorious.


    At home, he always had access to the best food and supplies.


    With such a sudden change, he couldn¡¯t take it anymore. He felt that everything would be fine as long as he killed the Saber Tyrant.


    After knowing Song Maolin¡¯s outcome, Shen Yijia was relieved.


    Without Song Maolin around, the people in the old residence would probably have to tuck their tails between their legs in the future. After all, Madam Liu had never been polite to others in the past few years because of the scholar in her family. She kept bragging that she was the mother of a scholar.


    After saying that, the Saber Tyrant glanced at Shen Yijia. Shen Yijia gave him a thumbs up. ¡°Well done.¡±


    Be it robbing Song Maolin or killing him, he had won her heart and was worthy of praise.


    After saying that, she ignored the stunned Saber Tyrant and left with Furball.


    ¡°Boss, that thing is really useful. Can you ask Grandaunt to teach us how to make it?¡± Ma Zi looked at the sled under Shen Yijia¡¯s feet and asked enviously.


    Dao Ba glanced at Shen Yijia¡¯s departing figure and smacked the back of Ma Zi¡¯s head angrily. ¡°Go away. Do you think you¡¯re qualified to call her grandaunt?¡±


    Since she didn¡¯t come out often, Shen Yijia brought Furball around the village and realized that many people in the village were shoveling snow and digging something.


    When those people saw Shen Yijia, they lowered their heads and continued working.


    Shen Yijia had no intention of going up to ask. She went home after looking around for a bit.

 Chapter 168 - Visit

    The three members of the An family happened to meet her at the door. They were about to go home after thanking her. When they saw Shen Yijia, they were naturally grateful.


    An Xiu¡¯er did not come. She was probably too frightened to go out after the traumatic experience.


    After entering the courtyard, the family warmed up by the fire in the central room. Shen Yijia thought about it and told them about Song Maolin.


    When Madam Li heard this, she sighed. ¡°How could a good child be raised astray?¡±


    Shen Yijia shrugged and did not comment. They did not tell Madam Li the truth about Sister Huan falling into the water. If she knew, she would probably sigh and say, ¡°God is watching.¡±


    A group of bandits had moved into Xiagou Village. It was unknown if the villagers were as calm as they looked on the surface. Anyway, it did not concern Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia secretly gave the second drop of spiritual liquid to Song Jingchen. There was no reaction like the first time, and there was no other effect.


    This made her believe that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered. As long as he practiced well, he would definitely be able to stand up.


    However, to be safe, she still secretly made him drink a drop of spiritual liquid every fifteen days.


    A muddy ox cart stopped at the end of the village. The driver was in a sorry state.


    The young man sitting on the ox cart was not much better. The hem of his green robe was tied around his waist, and he only had one boot left. It could be seen how difficult the journey was.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao were sweeping the snow in the courtyard. The man got out of the ox cart and cupped his hands politely. ¡°May I ask if this is Young Master Song Jingchen¡¯s house?¡±


    ¡°Can I help you?¡± Lin Shao asked, looking at one of the boots the man was holding.


    ¡°My surname is Fan, and I¡¯m here to visit Young Master Song. Please help me inform him.¡±


    Lin Shao looked the man up and down. He was in his early twenties. Other than looking a little disheveled, his eyes were sharp. He didn¡¯t look like a bad person, so he nodded.


    Most importantly, it was because Shen Yijia was at home. It was obvious that these two people did not have much combat strength. At the very least, there was still Little Furball.


    Although the man tried his best to stand up straight, his trembling legs revealed that he was already freezing. Lin Shao thought about it and invited the two of them into the house.


    ¡°Wait here. I¡¯ll call Brother Song.¡± With that, Lin Shao gave Bruiser a look and ran to the backyard to call for help.


    ¡°Hubby, use more strength. Move.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t expect me to move it for you, can you?¡±


    1


    Lin Shao, who was about to knock on the door, was speechless.


    He was still a child. He didn¡¯t understand anything.


    In the study, Song Jingchen gritted his teeth and placed his hands on the two poles. He looked at Shen Yijia, who was standing two steps in front of him and cheering him on.


    His eyebrows twitched. He wasn¡¯t tired, but he was angry at Shen Yijia¡¯s words.


    1


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes. He really wanted to shut her mouth.


    Why did it sound so wrong when she deliberately lowered her voice to say it?


    ¡°Husband, how about this? If you move, I¡¯ll reward you with a kiss, okay?¡± After saying that, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Why did she only think of this now?


    Song Jingchen recalled the accident that night. His ears turned red, and he lowered his eyes in silence.


    He didn¡¯t really want this reward.


    Lin Shao¡¯s face turned red. Thinking that the guests were still waiting, he braced himself and knocked on the door. ¡°Brother Song, a guest surnamed Fan is here to visit you.¡±


    After saying that, he ran away without waiting for a response.

 Chapter 169 - Fan Mingyuan

    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and sat back in the wheelchair under Shen Yijia¡¯s resentful gaze.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger. Who would be so blind to come to the house at this time? Usually, no one would come to the house. However, the weather had been bad recently, and people came by to bother them every few days.


    However, no matter how angry she was, she could only push the wheelchair out to meet the guest.


    As soon as she opened the door, she saw Lin Shao running back towards them. It was cold, but the blush on his face did not fade.


    Seeing the two of them come out, he heaved a sigh of relief. He lowered his head and did not dare to look at them. He stammered, ¡°In the front hall.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused by his appearance. Song Jingchen held his forehead. This kid had obviously misunderstood something.


    However, he could not explain himself. Otherwise, he would be exposing himself.


    Bruiser was guarding the door of the central room in boredom. When he saw the three of them coming, he almost cried tears of joy.


    The guest asked so many questions. One moment, he was asking about Song Jingchen¡¯s health, and what he usually did. The next moment, he was asking about his relationship with Song Jingchen.


    Bruiser didn¡¯t dare to answer. Everyone knew why the Song family had returned to Xiagou Village from the capital. Who knew what this person¡¯s motive was?


    He took a few steps forward and repeated the question the guest asked him. If he was really not a good person, he could take precautions in advance.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and didn¡¯t say anything. He only told Lin Shao and Bruiser to go out and play.


    Shen Yijia pushed him into the central room. Soon, the coachman came out. The door of the central room was closed.


    ¡°Fan Mingyuan greets Eldest Young Master and Young Madam.¡± Fan Mingyuan bowed to Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia, his tone filled with excitement.


    While he was waiting for them, he took the opportunity to tidy himself up. Although there was no difference, at least that pair of boots was now on his feet.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at the disheveled but righteous man in front of her. She said nothing.


    ¡°Brother Fan, what are you doing?¡± Song Jingchen frowned.


    Hearing this, Fan Mingyuan¡¯s eyes turned red. He maintained his bow and said with a trembling voice, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that after we parted in the capital, I wouldn¡¯t have the chance to see Teacher and the old master again. I¡¯ve failed Teacher¡¯s years of nurturing. I¡¯m not worthy of being called a brother of yours.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was the descendant of the old master¡¯s deputy general. During the war, the deputy general died on the battlefield and entrusted the old master to take care of the family.


    They did not want that battle to last too long, since the citizens would be displaced.


    The old master sent someone to pick them up, but the family had long disappeared.


    When he found Fan Mingyuan, who was only ten years old, he raised him at home.


    After that, Fan Mingyuan acknowledged Song Jingchen¡¯s father, Song Yi, as his teacher.


    Due to his status as a disciple of the Grand Duke, Fan Mingyuan could have made a name for himself in the capital.


    However, he was a stubborn person. He wanted to be a good official for the people. Not only did he leave to find his own destiny, but he also refused to accept the care of the Duke¡¯s residence. He became a small county magistrate.


    Zi Xiu was the name Song Yi had given him when he left the capital.


    Song Jingchen helped him up, unwilling to talk about his father and grandfather. He only asked, ¡°Brother Fan, why are you here today?¡±


    He hadn¡¯t visited Song Jingchen Xiagou Village for more than half a year. Song Jingchen thought that he was as afraid of being implicated as the others were, and thought that his grandfather and father had misjudged this person.


    A look of guilt flashed across Fan Mingyuan¡¯s face. He lifted his clothes and knelt down. ¡°I¡¯m here today to beg Eldest Young Master to save the lives of the citizens of Anyang County!¡±

 Chapter 170 - Persuasion

    As soon as Fan Mingyuan finished speaking, everyone fell silent.


    ¡°You came to the wrong place. How can I save them?¡± Song Jingchen laughed at himself and looked at Fan Mingyuan coldly.


    His grandfather and father had not misjudged him. Fan Mingyuan had not changed at all. He was still a good official who only wanted to work for the people. Song Jingchen was the one who had changed.


    Fan Mingyuan lowered his head and clenched his fists. He was struggling internally.


    He knew that he shouldn¡¯t have come today, let alone said this. However, when he thought about the commoners who were homeless because of the harsh winter and were hungry because there was no food, he really couldn¡¯t stand by and do nothing.


    Looking at the suffering victims, he seemed to see his younger self, who had once fled with his parents. If only he had helped them back then, his parents would not have died so early.


    Moreover, when he was still young, his father often told him about the difficulties of the common people during war.


    At the thought of this, he loosened his clenched fists and lowered his head again. He said angrily, ¡°The county magistrate of Anyang County is incredibly greedy. He is corrupt, taking advantage of the commoners and abusing them.¡±


    He continued through gritted teeth. ¡°Now that a disaster had descended from the heavens, not only did he not consider the wellbeing of the citizens, but he also stocked up on food and maliciously raised the price of food. He is trying to kill all the citizens in Anyang County!¡±


    ¡°I, Zixiu, cannot stand by and watch so many people die in vain.¡±


    ¡°Teacher always said that Eldest Young Master is a rare person with great wisdom. Zixiu believes that Eldest Young Master definitely has a way to deal with corrupt officials and save the people from danger. Eldest Young Master, please help.¡±


    ¡°Hah!¡± Song Jingchen suddenly sneered, then laughed wildly. ¡°Hahaha¡­¡±


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen him show such emotions.


    She wrinkled her nose and looked at Fan Mingyuan again. She no longer felt as righteous as before. He was clearly annoying.


    ¡°Brother Fan, you always say that my grandfather gave you a new lease of life, and my father nurtured you,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    ¡°Then my father and grandfather died tragically, and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was slandered, and the duke¡¯s reputation was dragged through the mud. Have you ever thought of doing anything for them?¡± After saying that, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned red as he stared fixedly at Fan Mingyuan, who was cowering on the ground.


    If Fan Mingyuan did not want to be implicated and stayed away from the Song family, he could still understand.


    However, he really could not forgive this person who kept saying that he respected his father. He had once sincerely treated him as his elder brother. However, this man only came to beg Song Jingchen for the sake of the people, without considering the Song family¡¯s circumstances.


    How could Fan Mingyuan not know that if Song Jingchen interfered and was discovered by the capital, his entire family would die?


    ¡°I¡­¡± Fan Mingyuan was ashamed. He looked up and wanted to explain, but when he met Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, he couldn¡¯t say anything.


    Wasn¡¯t the reason why he didn¡¯t dare to come previously because he was afraid of being implicated?


    If the emperor wanted his subjects to die, they had to die.


    ¡°It was Emperor Chong¡¯an who caused the tragic deaths of the two elders. What can I do, can I stage a revolt and overthrow the current emperor? But if that happened, there would be war again. What would the commoners do then?¡± These thoughts raged in Fan Mingyuan¡¯s mind.


    As for the consequences Song Jingchen was thinking about, it wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t thought of them. He just felt that with his ability, he definitely wouldn¡¯t make any mistakes.


    Song Jingchen seemed to have seen through his thoughts. He closed his eyes and found it ridiculous.


    When he opened his eyes, his expression was cold. ¡°Lord Fan, you overestimate me. Please leave. I¡¯ll treat it as if you never came today.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan clearly did not give up. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Can you really watch those innocent citizens freeze to death and starve to death? When the old master was alive, he¡­¡±

 Chapter 171 - Tossed Out

    ¡°Yes, I can watch them starve!¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him sternly.


    ¡°If the Old Master and Teacher were still alive, they would definitely not want to see you like this,¡± Fan Mingyuan said with a sorrowful expression.


    Song Jingchen looked at Fan Mingyuan, who kept trying to insist he was right, and suddenly felt relieved. It wasn¡¯t worth getting angry over this person. He sneered, ¡°If my father and grandfather were still around, do you think you would be able to see me here?¡±


    Fan Mingyuan choked and blushed. He wanted to struggle one last time, but a small hand suddenly grabbed his collar.


    He looked at the person who had suddenly walked up to him in shock. He saw her lift his body.


    Shen Yijia looked at the mud on Fan Mingyuan¡¯s clothes and said unhappily, ¡°My husband wants you to get lost.¡±


    With that, she dragged him out.


    ¡°M-my lord¡­¡± The coachman was shocked to see his lord being treated like this and wanted to step forward.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao, who had been secretly standing guard outside, clasped their hands together. They had let these two people in, so they did not want these ¡°guests¡± to cause trouble.


    The two of them had been practicing martial arts recently, so the coachman couldn¡¯t move in their grasp.


    ¡°Throw him out,¡± Shen Yijia ordered domineeringly.


    With that, she dragged Fan Mingyuan out.


    Shen Yijia threw Fan Mingyuan without hesitation, and he landed on the ground with a loud thud.


    ¡°Young Madam, you¡­¡± Fan Mingyuan had never seen such a violent woman before. He was speechless.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and looked down at him with her hands on her hips. She said angrily, ¡°It¡¯s your business if you want to save someone. No one will stop you if you step up to save them.¡±


    ¡°But what does this have to do with my husband? As for your high-minded principles, you should leave them for those like-minded people. My husband is not on the same side as you.¡±


    After she finished speaking, Shen Yijia took a deep breath.


    Coincidentally, Bruiser and Lin Shao had also brought out the coachman and pushed him out.


    Shen Yijia closed the courtyard door with a loud bang and deliberately raised her voice to lecture the two of them. ¡°Who asked you to let anyone in? Look carefully and remember this person¡¯s face.¡±


    ¡°In the future, if you dare to come to my door again, I¡¯ll just hit you with a broom. If you show up again after that, I¡¯ll just release Furball.¡±


    Who asked this person to anger Song Jingchen so much just now? This person seemed to be close to Song Jingchen, so she couldn¡¯t hit him freely. Thus, she could only berate them verbally.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Sister. We¡¯ll remember it. We definitely won¡¯t do it again.¡± Bruiser raised his voice.


    Fan Mingyuan stood outside the courtyard and listened to the conversation inside. He smiled bitterly. ¡°Was I wrong? I just wanted the people to live, I just¡­ wanted to be a good official.¡± he thought.


    After Fan Mingyuan was dragged away by Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen maintained his posture and didn¡¯t move. It was unknown what he was thinking, but he didn¡¯t react even after Shen Yijia returned.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Shen Yijia asked worriedly.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses. Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s cautious appearance, he forced a smile and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯m too cruel?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought about it seriously and shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t think so. If someone forces you to do something you don¡¯t want to do, you¡¯ll be unhappy.¡±


    Compared to others, Shen Yijia clearly felt that Song Jingchen¡¯s mood was more important.


    ¡°What about you?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s heart warmed slightly. He asked again, ¡°Do you want me to save them?¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head and said honestly, ¡°I don¡¯t know them. There¡¯s nothing to think about. As long as you don¡¯t want to, I don¡¯t want to either.¡±

 Chapter 172 - County Magistrate Cao

    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat at her straightforward words. The depression brought about by Fan Mingyuan instantly dissipated, and he gestured at Shen Yijia to come closer.


    Shen Yijia meekly squatted down and looked up at him.


    Song Jingchen was amused by her appearance. He reached out and rubbed her head, sighing softly. ¡°Fortunately, I still have you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t hear Song Jingchen¡¯s words clearly. Seeing his smile, she knew that he was no longer angry. She grinned.


    The snow fell intermittently for another half a month.


    It wasn¡¯t just Qingping Town, the streets of Anyang County were all filled with people shivering in the cold. Furthermore, there were many refugees who were barred from entering the city.


    Places like dilapidated temples which could block the wind and snow were filled with people.


    Almost every five steps, there would be a corpse. They were all commoners who had frozen to death on the road.


    They were so hungry that some people even fought over the corpses that had just died.


    Sorrowful cries could be heard everywhere.


    In the county magistrate¡¯s residence, County Magistrate Cao was so angry that he threw a good tea set to the ground.


    The county magistrate¡¯s wife walked in crying and asked angrily, ¡°My lord, haven¡¯t you found the b*tch who killed Jun¡¯er?¡±


    At the thought of his precious son who had died tragically, County Magistrate Cao closed his eyes in pain. He had more than ten concubines, but he only had one son.


    Moreover, he was already quite old when his son was born. As the county magistrate, he was like the local emperor of Anyang County.


    He would never have expected that there would be a day when someone would dare to attack his lifeblood.


    However, there was such a person, and it was a woman. He really wanted to chop that b*tch into pieces, but it could not relieve the pain of losing his son.


    ¡°Master, say something! Did you catch that b*tch or not?¡± The county magistrate¡¯s wife twisted her handkerchief and asked. When she said the word ¡°b*tch¡±, her face twisted.


    County Magistrate Cao said impatiently, ¡°Alright, are you done? I¡¯ll take revenge for Jun¡¯er. I won¡¯t let him die in vain.¡±


    After his son died, the county magistrate¡¯s wife came every day to ask about him. County Magistrate Cao was extremely annoyed.


    ¡°You say that every time.¡± The county magistrate¡¯s wife¡¯s voice became sharp. She said stubbornly, ¡°Are you still useful? It¡¯s been so long, but you haven¡¯t captured that bitch.¡±


    She was no longer young. She was older than all the women in his harem.


    However, she still held on to her position as the county magistrate¡¯s wife because she had borne him a son.


    But now he was gone. Everything was gone.


    Normally, she would not have dared to speak to him like this.


    However, every time she thought of her son¡¯s appearance when his corpse was carried back, she wished she could grind the bones of the murderer to dust.


    However, County Magistrate Cao hadn¡¯t been able to capture the culprit yet. How could she not go crazy?


    County Governor Cao was shocked by her crazy behavior. He rubbed his temples tiredly and comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we¡¯ve already found her. We¡¯ll capture her in two days. Don¡¯t worry about her. I¡¯ll definitely make her suffer.¡±


    Since Manager Feng had the intention to capture that person and make her suffer, he would leave it at that.


    Rather than letting her die easily, it was indeed better to send her there.


    With that, County Magistrate Cao immediately called for someone to come in. ¡°Send Madam back to her room. Don¡¯t let her out without my permission in the future.¡±


    This meant that the Madam was grounded.

 Chapter 173 - Confrontation

    Initially, the county magistrate could tolerate his wife coming to make a fuss every day because he understood that she had just experienced the pain of losing her son, just as he did. However, she simply acted like a crazy woman now.


    ¡°Master¡­ How could you!¡± The county magistrate¡¯s wife screamed.


    However, no matter how she resisted, she was still forcefully sent back to her courtyard by her attendants.


    At this moment, in a courtyard outside the capital.


    The man in white listened to his subordinates report on the winter disaster in the south.


    He slowly took a sip of tea and asked expressionlessly, ¡°How¡¯s Cao Dezhi¡¯s progress?¡±


    ¡°He has prepared the food and slave fighters. They can be sent over there at any time.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s time to take action in the royal court. Let him wait a few more days. When the time comes, send more food over.¡±


    ¡°At the same time, ask Cao Dezhi to tell the people over there that they can¡¯t be too greedy. Otherwise, I¡¯m afraid he won¡¯t be able to make up for it.¡± When he said the last word, the man¡¯s voice turned cold and his peach blossom eyes narrowed slightly.


    The subordinate shuddered and cupped his hands respectfully. ¡°Yes.¡±


    After the man retreated, a messenger pigeon landed on the coffee table.


    The man raised his eyebrows and reached out to remove the letter.


    When he saw the content, he muttered, ¡°It¡¯s better to be obedient. Otherwise, I can only¡­¡±


    He trailed off without finishing his sentence.


    As expected, on the next morning, the memorial to Emperor Chong¡¯an was presented to him. The royal court was in an uproar.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was furious and questioned why it took him a month to submit the memorial.


    The snow disaster was serious, and the journey was delayed.


    In the end, the ministers discussed the situation and Emperor Chong¡¯an decided to send the Minister of Revenue, Lord Hong, to personally head to the south and take charge of the disaster relief efforts.


    After the court session ended, Lord Hong walked out of the throne room with a dark expression.


    He had just taken a few steps when he was stopped by an official with a different political view. The old man smiled and cupped his hands perfunctorily. ¡°Master Hong, congratulations! You have received such an important position from His Majesty. You can¡¯t disappoint His Majesty this time.¡±


    Lord Hong¡¯s face darkened even more. He gritted his teeth and said with a fake smile, ¡°Of course.¡±


    With that, he prepared to leave.


    However, the old man did not give up. He quickly caught up with him and mocked, ¡°I remember that the heir apparent is in the south. Perhaps you¡¯ll be lucky enough to meet him. Don¡¯t forget to greet him for me.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s a traitor. What kind of heir is he now? Lord Xiao, don¡¯t spout nonsense. Watch your mouth, before I report you to His Majesty and punish you for spouting nonsense.¡± Lord Hong rebuked angrily.


    The hands hidden under his sleeves had already clenched into fists.


    ¡°Oh my, I¡¯m just joking. Why are you so angry?¡± The old man stroked his beard and shook his head. He sighed and said, ¡°As expected, one cannot do too many bad things. Otherwise, you¡¯ll feel that everyone has ill intentions towards you.¡±


    He stopped pestering Lord Hong and strode away with a smile.


    The two of them were on par with each other in terms of official positions. It was not the first time they had fought like this. The others were used to it.


    However, when they heard that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were crippled, they couldn¡¯t help but look at Lord Hong with indescribable expressions.


    Lord Hong snorted and left with a flick of his sleeve.


    After Fan Mingyuan came to visit, Song Jingchen seemed even more unconcerned about whether his legs could function again.


    Every time Shen Yijia asked him to practice, he would change the topic and test her on her homework or let Sister Huan pester her to teach her martial arts. Shen Yijia was so angry that she nearly yanked out a bunch of her hair.

 Chapter 174 - Gone

    Shen Yijia wanted to use all kinds of martial arts when Song Jingchen refused to cooperate.


    However, whenever she thought about using force on him, Song Jingchen would lower his eyes and remain silent, looking like he had been wronged.


    How could Shen Yijia still bear to do it? Not only could she not do it, but she also had to pat his shoulder and comfort him. ¡°Okay, okay. Let¡¯s not practice today. Let¡¯s take it slow. You can definitely stand up. Don¡¯t be sad.¡±


    Song Jingchen hid the smile on his face and hummed softly. He looked up at Shen Yijia seriously. ¡°You should practice your calligraphy.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The heavens would never forgive anyone.


    Back then, she had acted smart and pretended to be pitiful to deceive Song Jingchen. Now, it was time for retribution.


    Song Jingchen looked at her in confusion, as if waiting for her to speak.


    Shen Yijia laughed dryly and retracted her hand from Song Jingchen¡¯s shoulder. She was afraid that she would murder her husband by accident.


    She forced a stiff smile. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s time for me to practice my calligraphy. Have a good rest here. I¡¯ll go back to the front courtyard to practice my calligraphy with Sister Huan and the others¡­¡±


    With that, she gritted her teeth and left.


    Song Jingchen looked at her angry back and chuckled. His gaze landed on his lap, and his eyes darkened.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Sister-in-law.¡±


    As soon as Shen Yijia arrived at the front yard, she bumped into the anxious Lin Miaomiao and Bruiser.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Lin Miaomiao¡¯s eyes were red as she said anxiously, ¡°Sister-in-law, my brother is missing.¡±


    ¡°How could it be gone? Did you look around the house? Did he fall asleep somewhere?¡± She had always done that in the past, sleeping alone in a corner, causing the people in the compound to look everywhere, thinking that she had escaped.


    ¡°We did, but we couldn¡¯t find him. After lunch, he said that he was going back to his room to rest. We watched him go back to his room, but we didn¡¯t see him get up, so we wanted to call him.


    However, there was no one in the room at all.¡± Bruiser saw that Lin Miaomiao was so anxious that she only knew how to cry, so he explained the situation on her behalf.


    Shen Yijia frowned and thought of the Lin family¡¯s enemies.


    Before Feng Laoliu died, he claimed that there was someone backing him up. Could it be that someone else had harmed Lin Shao¡¯s parents? Was Feng Laoliu just someone who stood out?


    Shen Yijia did not express her thoughts and only comforted them. ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. Continue searching at home. I¡¯ll go out and search.¡±


    With that, she summoned Furball and went to Lin Shao¡¯s room to get a piece of his undergarments for it to sniff. She threatened, ¡°This is not a small matter. You better not throw a tantrum.¡±


    Furball was speechless.


    It seemed to be thinking, ¡°Did I complain? Why do you have to accuse me so quickly?¡±


    Shen Yijia was worried that someone had kidnapped him. She was afraid that Lin Shao¡¯s life would be in danger if she went too late, so she left with Furball on the sled. She forgot to tell Song Jingchen.


    When Song Jingchen found out about this, she had already been out for 15 minutes.


    Song Jingchen frowned and felt uneasy.


    He was the only one left in the room. Song Jingchen looked at the two poles that Shen Yijia had found for him in the snow. He supported himself with both hands and slowly stood up.


    Song Jingchen let go of his hands and stood firmly on the spot. Cold sweat broke out on his forehead. He wanted to take a step forward, but his legs felt heavy.


    He gritted his teeth and raised one foot. With great difficulty, he managed to move his legs a little bit before he fell down.


    Back then, if not for the sake of protecting him, his father would not have been tortured to death. Those people clearly wanted his life!


    Compared to the old duke who looked ordinary on the surface, he, the dazzling heir, was more worrisome.

 Chapter 175 - Ambush

    However, at that time, he could not even move a step to stop it. He could only watch helplessly as his father shouldered everything for him and bought time for his grandfather to bring the imperial edict into the palace.


    He did not say this out loud, afraid that Madam Li would blame him for making her lose her husband. He was afraid that Brother Hao and Sister Huan would blame him for causing them to lose their father.


    He was even more afraid of remembering his helpless self.


    Now, those bloody scenes appeared in his mind¡¯s eye again. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes gradually turned scarlet, and a drop of blood slowly flowed from the corner of his eye.


    Shen Yijia followed Furball out of Xiagou Village and arrived at a desolate mountain.


    She looked around and saw nothing but white. The most conspicuous thing was the two snow mounds not far away.


    Shen Yijia knew that it was not a snow pile, but the burial ground of Lin Shao¡¯s parents.


    Shen Yijia frowned and looked at Furball, who was so tired that its tongue was hanging out. ¡°Where is he? Are you sure it¡¯s here? Don¡¯t tell me your nose has been affected by the wind?¡±


    Furball rolled his eyes and shook off the falling snow. He approached the two graves.


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that there was a small bump in the middle of the grave. It was easy to mistake it for a snow pile.


    She paused and squatted down to dig at the snow pile. After digging a few times, she saw a corner of Lin Shao¡¯s clothes.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze focused and she sped up.


    The snow was only loosely piled on top of it. Soon she was digging out the rest of the body.


    Shen Yijia looked at the unconscious person curled up in a ball and checked whether he was still breathing. Although his breathing was shallow, at least he was still breathing.


    She heaved a sigh of relief. She didn¡¯t care if she would be exposed. She reached out and dripped the spiritual liquid that had just condensed in her body today onto Lin Shao¡¯s lips to feed him.


    At the same time, she was glad that she hadn¡¯t had the time to feed Song Jingchen today. Otherwise, Lin Shao¡¯s life would have been in danger.


    After waiting for a while, Lin Shao¡¯s pale face became visibly better. She reached out and patted his face. ¡°Wake up!¡±


    Her heart ached for the spiritual liquid.


    A few red marks immediately appeared on Lin Shao¡¯s face. He slowly opened his eyes and saw that Shen Yijia was still in a daze. ¡°Sister-in-law, why are you here?¡±


    When he looked around and realized that he was still half stuck in the snow, he asked in confusion, ¡°Where am I? Why am I here?¡±


    His head was still throbbing, and his mind was blank.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said angrily, ¡°Where do you think this is? How would I know why you came here for a nap?¡±


    When he heard the word afternoon nap, Lin Shao¡¯s pupils dilated. The memories from before he fainted rushed out. He said anxiously, ¡°Quick, let¡¯s leave this place.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Furball howled and looked ahead warily with its forelimbs slightly bent.


    Shen Yijia pulled Lin Shao up from the snow and looked coldly at the dozen or so men in black who had suddenly appeared in front of her.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who killed our young master?¡± The leader of the men in black asked in disbelief when he saw that Shen Yijia was just a delicate little girl.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°You have to tell me who your young master is first, right? I¡¯ve killed quite a number of people. I have no idea which one you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    1


    Feng Laoliu had brought about 50 to 60 people that day. It was really difficult to guess.


    Hearing Shen Yijia¡¯s words, the man in black¡¯s gaze on her changed. He said subconsciously, ¡°During the New Year.¡±

 Chapter 176 - Something Happened to Jiaji

    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re talking about that pervert. Who asked him to provoke me several times? I was just defending myself,¡± she said.


    ¡°What¡¯s the problem? Was I supposed to stand there and get bullied without being able to resist?¡± she asked disdainfully.


    That made no sense to her at all.


    ¡°Why are you wasting your time talking to her? Manager Feng mentioned that this girl is quite capable. Not only has she never lost in the arena, but she¡¯s also the current arena lord. Be careful not to let her escape. We won¡¯t be able to bear the consequences if that happens.¡± A man in black reminded him unhappily.


    When the leader of the black-clothed men heard this, he waved his hand and said softly, ¡°Attack.¡±


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists. For the first time since transmigrating, she felt threatened.


    She kicked the sled off the ground and threw it into Lin Shao¡¯s arms. ¡°Leave with Furball first.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia glared at him. Why was he being so wishy-washy like Bruiser? ¡°You¡¯ll only drag me down if you stay. Don¡¯t blame me if I can¡¯t keep you safe.¡±


    She then instructed the tiger. ¡°Furball, protect him.¡±


    With that, she faced the men in black.


    Lin Shao was unwilling to leave, but he saw that Shen Yijia had to block some attacks on his behalf from time to time. She even accidentally cut her arm.


    With red eyes, he placed the sled on the ground and gritted his teeth. ¡°Little Furball, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Furball roared angrily and abandoned the people it was fighting with. It followed Lin Shao.


    Those people¡¯s main target wasn¡¯t Lin Shao.


    The man and tiger looked back at the same time and saw the men in black surrounding Shen Yijia. They took out ropes and threw them at her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face tensed up. She bent down and avoided the ropes, wanting to rush over and break them at close range.


    Unexpectedly, these people seemed to know her methods. They did not give her a chance to get close. They retreated when she charged towards them.


    Even if she killed one of them, the others would immediately pull away from her and throw a few ropes at her from time to time. Currently, it was difficult for her to escape.


    However, it wasn¡¯t easy for them to catch her. The two sides fought for fifteen minutes before Shen Yijia suddenly felt her arm go numb.


    Before she could dodge, her hand was wrapped in a rope.


    Shen Yijia threw a corpse at the man in black. She wanted to break the rope, but she realized that the numbness was gradually covering her entire body. She could not use much strength.


    Her speed became slower and slower, and cracks appeared in her defense. The men in black looked at each other and threw out ropes at the same time, tying up Shen Yijia¡¯s limbs.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and grabbed the rope that bound her arm. She swung it, and the men in black on the other end of the rope were thrown out. At the same time, her body went limp and she fell.


    How shameless. More than ten people were fighting a ¡°weak¡± woman like her, and they even used drugs.


    ¡°Damn it, this little girl is really as difficult to deal with as Manager Feng said. Fortunately, we were prepared.¡± The man in black looked at his fallen brother and cursed.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s mind slowly became muddled. She vaguely saw the man in black approaching her, and her vision darkened.


    Before she fainted, she only had one thought. When she returned, she would definitely hang Lin Shao, who had used her last drop of spiritual liquid, and beat him up. The timing could not have been worse.


    Lin Shao followed Furball back home in a panic and went straight to the backyard to look for Song Jingchen. Before he entered the house, he shouted, ¡°Brother Song, something happened to Sister-in-law!¡±


    Song Jingchen was already feeling uneasy. When he heard this, the brush in his hand fell with a clang.


    He stood up and looked at Lin Shao coldly.

 Chapter 177 - Jiajia Is Captured

    In the dark dungeon, there were rows of iron cages. Each cage contained two to three people. All of them had dull eyes and were naked. They looked like soulless puppets.


    The surroundings were cold and damp. Only the occasional squeaking of rats could be heard.


    A man looked at the rat that ran past him and quickly grabbed it.


    He broke the rat¡¯s neck with brute force. When he saw blood flowing out, he quickly opened his mouth and drank the blood.


    He sucked the blood dry in a few mouthfuls and stuffed it into his mouth without even peeling the rat skin.


    When the others saw this, they gulped and revealed envious expressions.


    ¡°That Lin kid escaped again?¡± A deep voice came from afar.


    When the people in the iron cage heard this voice, they all returned to their empty states, either lying down or sitting still.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s my fault.¡±


    Another respectful voice sounded. At this moment, the two of them had already arrived in front of the iron cage.


    The first person who spoke was County Magistrate Cao. As for the second person, it was Manager Feng.


    ¡°Hmph.¡± County Magistrate Cao snorted. ¡°There¡¯s no hurry. Without this girl, capturing that kid will be easy.¡±


    County Magistrate Cao looked around and asked, ¡°Where is she?¡±


    A man in black behind Manager Feng immediately stood up and answered with his head lowered, ¡°We were worried that she would escape, so we locked her in the innermost room. Please follow me.¡±


    After saying that, the man in black led the way to the innermost area. Unlike the other iron cages, this one had clearly just been added.


    It was much thicker than the others, and there was only one person locked inside.


    Shen Yijia lay limply in the cage. When she heard the sound, she turned around.


    County Magistrate Cao sneered. ¡°B*tch, how dare you attack my son? Have you ever thought that this day would come?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at the mole at the corner of County Magistrate Cao¡¯s mouth. ¡°I killed a bug, and now its father came to bother me too.¡± she thought.


    There was no doubt that the flashy man was his biological son. They were both ugly. He glanced at her and turned his head away.


    She could feel her body slowly recovering its strength. It should be because of her spiritual liquid physique. Now, all she had to do was wait.


    When she recovered, she would hammer these people¡¯s heads.


    Seeing that she still did not take him seriously at this time, County Magistrate Cao thought of his son¡¯s death.


    She said fiercely, ¡°Get her out and beat her within an inch of her life before sending her away with the others.¡±


    ¡°Sir, that¡¯s not appropriate!¡± Manager Feng hurriedly stopped him.


    ¡°Huh?¡± County Magistrate Cao narrowed his eyes. He had yet to punish Manager Feng for what happened in his territory, but now he dared to disobey him.


    Manager Feng wiped the non-existent sweat off his forehead and bent down to explain, ¡°This woman is evil. The medicine we use is very effective, and should take down anyone easily.¡±


    Manager Feng gulped before continuing. ¡°However, I heard from our people that this person lasted for 15 minutes before falling. She even killed five to six of our men.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid there might be an accident if I let her out of the cage,¡± Manager Feng said.


    The more he spoke, the softer Manager Feng¡¯s voice became. He was afraid that County Magistrate Cao would vent his anger on him.


    When he found out that his young master had died, he did not sleep well. He was worried that County Magistrate Cao would bury him alive. The dozens of people who came to Qingping Town with his young master had suffered the same fate.


    Fortunately, County Magistrate Cao felt that he was still useful and did not blame him.


    County Magistrate Cao was indeed angry when he saw him. He kicked him angrily and said, ¡°What¡¯s the point of me raising you? You can¡¯t do anything. However, if I don¡¯t torture her, I won¡¯t be able to appease my hatred.¡±


    ¡°There are so many ways to torture people. There¡¯s no need to get them out of the cage.¡± Manager Feng said in a low voice.


    Magistrate Cao smiled coldly and patted Manager Feng¡¯s face. ¡°Let¡¯s do that. If you do well, I¡¯ll let bygones be bygones.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Manager Feng quickly nodded and bowed.


    A rat scurried past County Magistrate Cao¡¯s feet. He frowned in disgust and walked out. ¡°I¡¯ll leave this place to you for the time being. I still have something else to do. I¡¯ll come back in a few days.¡±


    She was already in his hands. He did not believe that she could escape.


    After sending County Magistrate Cao off, Manager Feng retracted his smile and kicked the iron cage angrily. Seeing that Shen Yijia still remained silent, he sneered. ¡°Let¡¯s see how long you can remain stubborn.¡±


    With that, he instructed the man in black and left.


    Silence returned to the dungeon.


    Shen Yijia secretly observed her surroundings and met a pair of eyes next door. She blinked nonchalantly.


    The owner of those eyes paused and turned his head away from her.


    This was definitely the first woman who had been captured and the only one who could be so calm.


    Who wouldn¡¯t be furious and try to escape when they¡¯d first been captured?


    However, they were all starved for a few days, causing them to lose the strength to make a fuss. In addition, their captors only gave them a bowl of clear porridge every two days.


    The tiny portions of food were barely enough to feed children, let alone grown men like them.


    Moreover, anyone who caused the most trouble would have to cut off their food supply for a week. In this way, no one would dare to cause trouble. In any case, they wouldn¡¯t be able to get out by causing a fuss.


    It had been half a year since they were first locked up here. Everyone had long lost their ferocity. Even if they were angry, they had to endure it in front of those people.


    Out of curiosity about this woman, he took a few more glances.


    Perhaps because of the medicine, Shen Yijia was cold and sleepy. She fell asleep in no time.


    Suddenly, a basin of hot water fell on her head. Shen Yijia shivered and sat up. She glared at the man in black who had returned at some point. The man left without a word after splashing water on her.


    When she first poured it down, Shen Yijia still felt warm and comfortable. After a while, she shivered from the cold.


    After about fifteen minutes, the man in black came again. He carried a large bucket of snow and splashed it at her.


    Shen Yijia wanted to avoid it, but the cage was only so big. The medicinal effect had yet to dissipate, so she could only be splashed all over again.


    ¡°Bastard, you better not let me out.¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger. Her voice was trembling.


    Every fifteen minutes, the man in black would come, alternating between hot and cold.


    At first, Shen Yijia could still curse, but later on, she stopped speaking.


    She was so cold that her teeth chattered and her body trembled. The entire dungeon echoed with the sound of her teeth colliding.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s body was curled up into a ball. Her face was pale, and her hair was stuck to her face. The color of the flowers on her forehead seemed to have faded a little.


    Many people turned to look at her, as if to see when she would breathe her last.


    Suddenly, there was a loud bang as the dungeon door was kicked open.


    The two guards flew in and slammed into the iron cage. They spat out a mouthful of blood and died.


    When had such a situation ever happened in the dungeon? This change made the people locked up look at the door. Many of them had hope in their eyes.


    A handsome man in a black robe walked in with a cold expression. He was still strangling the man in black.


    1


    The man stood still and looked around at the people in the cage. He said coldly, ¡°Where is she?¡±

 Chapter 178 - Rescue

    ¡°In- in the innermost room¡­¡± The person¡¯s eyes bulged as he struggled to finish the sentence.


    With that last word, the man snapped his neck.


    He threw the person aside and walked in without looking at him.


    The guards who initially wanted to attack him stopped in their tracks.


    When he reached the far end, he saw the petite figure curled up in a ball. The man paused, and his eyes slowly turned scarlet.


    He took a few steps forward and cut off the lock on the iron cage. He squatted down and hugged her with trembling hands. ¡°Jiajia, I¡¯m here.¡±


    Perhaps because she felt the heat source, Shen Yijia subconsciously snuggled into his arms. After that, she felt that something was wrong. She opened her eyes warily and saw a familiar face.


    She was stunned for a moment, thinking that she was hallucinating. She muttered weakly, ¡°Shen- Shenzhi¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here.¡± Song Jingchen closed his eyes and suppressed the anger in his body, afraid that he would scare Shen Yijia.


    It was not an illusion. Shen Yijia widened her eyes in disbelief and asked anxiously, ¡°Hubby, why are you here?¡±


    After asking, she seemed to react. She puffed up her cheeks angrily and muttered to herself, ¡°Did they capture you too? Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯ll recover soon. When I recover¡­ I¡¯ll bring you out¡­ I¡¯ll protect you¡­ Don¡¯t be afraid¡­¡±


    Towards the end, her voice trailed off and dissipated.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids drooped uncontrollably, but her small hand grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve tightly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned red with anger again. He comforted her softly with a trembling voice, ¡°Sleep. I¡¯ll bring you home. In the future, it¡¯s my turn to protect you.¡±


    He took off his robe and draped it over Shen Yijia. He carefully picked her up. Even now, her brows were still tightly furrowed.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached when he saw this. It was as if a sharp knife had stabbed into his heart, making him almost unable to breathe.


    After walking out of the cage, Song Jingchen was about to leave.


    Seeing that he was about to leave, the others panicked and quickly said, ¡°Wait, can you bring us along?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused and glanced coldly at the person who spoke. ¡°Why?¡±


    The man who had exchanged glances with Shen Yijia just now said, ¡°We have the same enemy as you. We can take revenge with you.¡±


    Looking at how much this man cared about that woman, he knew that this person would definitely not let Magistrate Cao off.


    The man in the cage was especially thin, like a monkey, but his eyes were especially shrewd.


    Song Jingchen sneered, ¡°I¡¯m enough to deal with him.¡±


    With that, Song Jingchen turned to leave.


    The man said anxiously, ¡°As long as you¡¯re willing to save me, I can serve you as my master in the future. I won¡¯t betray you.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and slashed at the lock with his dagger. With a clang, the lock on the iron cage broke.


    The man was delighted. He had made the right bet.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s indifferent voice sounded. ¡°Remember what you said. Otherwise, I¡¯ll make you regret following me out of this door.¡±


    With that, Song Jingchen ignored him.


    When the others heard this, about half of them decided not to follow him out. However, there were also many people like that shrewd man who had no family or friends. They wanted to leave this godforsaken place. If they didn¡¯t, who knew what Magistrate Cao would do to them?


    Song Jingchen glanced at the skinny man. The latter immediately understood and let out whatever he wanted.


    When they reached the door, there were already more than ten people behind Song Jingchen.


    When Manager Feng heard the report, he rushed over with his men. The two parties bumped into each other.


    He narrowed his eyes and looked at Song Jingchen, who was walking at the front. When he saw that face, his heart skipped a beat and he glanced at his legs casually.


    He was even more shocked.


    He quietly took a few steps back and ordered sternly, ¡°Catch these people. Don¡¯t let a single one of them escape. Otherwise, you¡¯ll have to take the blame.¡±


    With that, he wanted to back off. Song Jingchen saw the change in his expression and sneered.


    He kicked one of the men who was charging at him. The man¡¯s sword fell to the ground.


    Song Jingchen kicked the sword towards Manager Feng¡¯s back.


    The sound of the sword entering flesh was especially ear-piercing.


    Manager Feng turned around and looked at Song Jingchen in disbelief. Blood slowly flowed from the corner of his mouth. He raised his finger and pointed at him. ¡°You-¡±


    Before he could finish, he collapsed.


    All the victims who were caged here had been tricked into coming here after showing their talents in the arena. They already hated these people to the core. Now that they were about to escape, they felt even more murderous.


    There was no need for Song Jingchen to attack. The prisoners killed everyone.


    Song Jingchen walked at the front expressionlessly. Suddenly, he felt someone tugging at his sleeve.


    He paused and looked down at the person in his arms, and saw that she had woken up.


    Although her face was still pale, her eyes were sparkling. Song Jingchen¡¯s expression couldn¡¯t help but soften as he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Key, throw it to them!¡± Perhaps it was because she had not drank water for a long time and Shen Yijia had been forcefully splashed with hot and cold water, but she felt that her throat was about to burn up. Her voice was hoarse and unpleasant.


    She remembered what the nasty officer had said about sending people away. The enemy of an enemy was a friend.


    Even if they weren¡¯t friends, she wanted to ruin the official¡¯s plans.


    How dare he treat her like this? Her revenge would be sweet.


    With that, Shen Yijia pointed somewhere before she fell asleep again.


    Song Jingchen looked in the direction she was pointing. Manager Feng¡¯s corpse was lying there.


    There was a large ring of keys hanging from his waist. Song Jingchen knew what they were for.


    He glanced at the skinny man, who was following him. The latter immediately went over to pick up the key. Since Shen Yijia asked him to throw it to them, that was exactly what he did.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia had fainted again, Song Jingchen hugged her tightly.


    After leaving the dungeon, there were two secret passages. The exit of the secret passage was at the foot of the barren mountain where Shen Yijia had found Lin Shao. It was usually used to send the imprisoned people out.


    That was where Song Jingchen came in.


    If Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t wrong, the other path should lead to the underground arena. Most of these people had been captured from the arena and transported in.


    As soon as Song Jingchen came out, Furball wanted to pounce on him, but Song Jingchen stopped it with a look.


    The skinny man and the others, who had come out together, were shocked when they saw Furball. The skinny man subconsciously wanted to use his body to block Song Jingchen, but he stopped when he saw Furball stop.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him, internally giving the man the nickname of ¡°Skinny Monkey¡±. He turned to look at the people who had followed him out. He said coldly, ¡°If you really want to stay, stay. If not, you can leave on your own. I¡¯ll only give you one chance to choose.¡±


    As soon as Song Jingchen finished speaking, everyone looked at each other for a while. If they hadn¡¯t followed him earlier, they wouldn¡¯t be able to leave that damn place.


    Now that they had a chance to choose, many people stood up and cupped their hands at Song Jingchen before leaving.

 Chapter 179 - Heartache

    The rest of the prisoners escaped using the keys handed to them.


    In the end, only nine people remained. Skinny Monkey and the burly man who ate the rats raw were among them.


    Song Jingchen glanced at the nine people and said, ¡°Follow me.¡±


    Although he wanted to bring Shen Yijia to the town to look for a doctor, he knew that in this current situation, the shops in the town would not be open unless they wanted to be ransacked.


    He could only bring the group back to Xiagou Village.


    Fortunately, it was already late in the evening. Otherwise, Xiagou Village would have been in an uproar.


    This was because Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered, and because the nine people behind him were all dressed in tattered clothes and covered in dirt. Their hair was all clumpy and messy.


    Anyone could smell the sour smell coming from them from afar. The nine of them smelled like walking toilets. They were worse than beggars.


    The unconscious Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but wrinkle her nose and bury her face in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    It was unknown how Song Jingchen managed to remain calm.


    As for Furball, it had already run ten steps ahead of the nine of them.


    Furball leaned towards the door and growled. The courtyard door immediately opened.


    Lin Shao stuck his head out and saw that Song Jingchen had returned with Shen Yijia in his arms. He quickly opened the courtyard door and let them in.


    He took a wary step back when he saw who was following.


    ¡°Let them in,¡± Song Jingchen said. He carried Shen Yijia and prepared to go to the backyard.


    ¡°Brother Chen.¡± Madam Li walked out of the central room with tears in her eyes.


    Seeing that her son was indeed standing, she covered her mouth and sobbed.


    She had never thought this day would come.


    During dinner, she asked Lin Shao where Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had gone.


    Lin Shao felt extremely guilty and worried that something would happen to Shen Yijia. He could only tell her everything.


    At that time, apart from worrying about Shen Yijia, she couldn¡¯t believe that Song Jingchen had really stood up.


    Now that she had seen it for herself, she could no longer suppress it.


    ¡°Mother, Jiajia is injured. I¡¯ll bring her back to her room first. Please bring some hot water over. We¡¯ll talk about the rest later.¡± Song Jingchen knew why Madam Li was crying, but he was focused on Shen Yijia and was in no mood to say anything else.


    ¡°Right, I¡¯ll go now.¡± Madam Li looked at the person in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and realized that she had lost her composure. She quickly wiped her tears and went to the kitchen to boil some water.


    Song Jingchen looked at her back and suddenly asked, ¡°Who else knows about me standing up?¡±


    It took Lin Shao a moment to react. He quickly shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t tell anyone except Madam Li.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and said, ¡°Don¡¯t let anyone else in the family know about this for the time being.¡±


    Madam Li knew how serious this matter was, so she probably wouldn¡¯t tell anyone else.


    After saying that, he looked at the nine people. ¡°From tomorrow onwards, I¡¯ll be a person with crippled legs. If anyone dares to reveal this¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze turned cold as he scanned the nine people.


    Skinny Monkey and the others felt a chill down their spines and hurriedly lowered their heads in agreement. They were all extremely curious about Song Jingchen¡¯s identity.


    To have such courage, but to live in the countryside and pretend to be a cripple, they seemed to have followed an extraordinary person.


    At this moment, they did not know that their choice today had completely changed their lives.


    All of that would come later.


    Song Jingchen took a few steps and wrinkled his nose. ¡°Lin Shao, bring them to take a shower.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the stomachs of the nine people suddenly rumbled.


    Song Jingchen paused and said, ¡°Take out some food and let them cook it themselves.¡±


    With that, he ignored them and carried Shen Yijia back to her room.


    Madam Li had placed a charcoal brazier in the room in advance. It was warm.


    Song Jingchen placed Shen Yijia on the couch. Her lips were dry and her face was red. She was obviously not in a good state.


    Song Jingchen reached out and touched her forehead. It was hot.


    His heart tightened. Thinking that Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes were drenched, he quickly helped her untie her outer robe.


    At this moment, he realized that one of Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeves had been cut open and was stained with blood.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. He tore open the cloth, but there was no wound inside. He thought of something and heaved a sigh of relief.


    When he continued to undo her outer clothes, he paused. He felt like he was taking advantage of her.


    However, he had no choice. In the end, Song Jingchen thought of a compromise and found a black cloth to cover his eyes.


    He couldn¡¯t see with the black cloth around his eyes, but perhaps that was worse than being able to see.


    After helping Shen Yijia change her clothes, Song Jingchen was already sweating.


    Although he was blindfolded, he could not ignore the feeling on his hands. Thinking of the touch just now, his ears turned red and he did not dare to look at Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Water¡­¡± Shen Yijia suddenly muttered.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and quickly helped Shen Yijia to lean against him. He poured a glass of water and brought it to her lips.


    However, the person who had just asked for water gritted her teeth tightly and water slid down the corners of her mouth.


    Song Jingchen was worried that he would wet her clothes again, so he could only give up on this idea.


    Looking at her dry lips, Song Jingchen gritted his teeth and drank the water, feeding it to her using his mouth.


    1


    Feeling something cold slide into her mouth, Shen Yijia subconsciously swallowed it.


    After a while, the cold thing seemed to want to retreat. Shen Yijia panicked.


    She hadn¡¯t drunk enough. How could it run away? She gritted her teeth and tried to keep it there.


    Song Jingchen gasped in pain. All his thoughts were gone.


    Song Jingchen looked at the culprit, but she wasn¡¯t awake at all.


    Song Jingchen smiled bitterly. If he was any slower, he would have gone from a cripple to a mute when Shen Yijia bit his tongue.


    While Shen Yijia was smacking her lips, Song Jingchen helped her up and poured her a cup of water.


    This time, Shen Yijia finally finished it obediently. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know whether to feel disappointed or glad.


    There was a knock on the door. Madam Li and Lin Shao entered with a bucket of hot water.


    After delivering the water, Lin Shao went back to his room to rest. Too many things had happened today, and he had been worried the entire day.


    After spending so much time together, he had long seen the importance of Shen Yijia in this family. If anything happened to Shen Yijia because of him, he would probably be blamed.


    Seeing Song Jingchen bring Shen Yijia back, he heaved a sigh of relief and was worried that Song Jingchen would chase the siblings away.


    After all, he had made a promise in the beginning.


    He also knew that he should have taken the initiative to leave, but he really couldn¡¯t bear to. He would miss living here.


    Tears came to Lin Shao¡¯s eyes as he thought about it. He buried his face in the pillow, covered his head with the blanket, and sobbed softly.


    No matter how sensible and calm he was usually, he was still a twelve-year-old child.


    Looking at Shen Yijia, who had become much more haggard after not seeing her for only half a day, Madam Li¡¯s eyes turned red again. She grasped Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and said, ¡°Sister Jia, she¡­¡±

 Chapter 180 - : Waking Up

    ¡°She¡¯ll be fine,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted her firmly.


    ¡°She will recover.¡± he thought.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Sister Jia is a blessed person. She¡¯ll definitely be fine.¡± Madam Li rubbed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and stood up. ¡°Help her wash up. I¡¯ll go back first. I didn¡¯t tell anyone about your legs. You¡­¡±


    ¡°Mother, I know what to do. Go back and rest.¡±


    ¡°Okay, take good care of Sister Jia.¡± Madam Li closed her eyes. She knew that her son had a plan in mind, so she didn¡¯t say anything else.


    However, she felt that she had wronged Song Jingchen.


    After Madam Li left, Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia and said in a low voice, ¡°Aren¡¯t demons very powerful? Why are you so stupid?¡±


    After saying that, he looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s face and said, ¡°I won¡¯t let off the person who harmed you. No one can hurt you. No one.¡±


    After wiping her body with his eyes covered, he got a basin of water and put a wet handkerchief on her forehead.


    2


    Looking at the bud on her forehead slowly returning to its original color, Song Jingchen vaguely guessed something.


    Shen Yijia woke up before dawn. She was woken up by thirst. When she opened her eyes, she found herself lying on a soft bed. She tried to move and realized that her entire body was weak.


    ¡°Are you awake?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s voice sounded in her ear.


    Shen Yijia turned around and met his eyes.


    She swallowed. This was the third time.


    ¡°Are you still feeling unwell?¡± Song Jingchen asked softly when he saw that she was in a daze after waking up.


    He removed the handkerchief from her forehead and placed his hand on it. The fever had subsided.


    It was impossible for an ordinary person to recover so quickly without taking medicine, but no matter how quickly Shen Yijia recovered, Song Jingchen seemed to be able to accept it calmly no matter how ridiculous it was.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and shook her head. She said with difficulty, ¡°Water¡­¡±


    She actually wanted to ask Song Jingchen why he wasn¡¯t sleeping, but her throat was burning, and she couldn¡¯t speak.


    After drinking three glasses of water in one go, Shen Yijia felt better. She licked her dry lips.


    Suddenly thinking of something, she looked at Song Jingchen, who was still in the wheelchair, and her expression became strange. She deliberated and said, ¡°I think I dreamed that your legs recovered.¡±


    Not only had his legs recovered, she also dreamed that Song Jingchen had secretly kissed her.


    However, she didn¡¯t dare to say this. She was afraid that Song Jingchen would think that she was delusional.


    ¡°Forget it, I¡¯ll just keep it to myself.¡± she thought.


    ¡°Do you remember anything?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°What do I remember¡­¡± Before she could finish speaking, Shen Yijia recalled the scene from before and looked at Song Jingchen with wide eyes.


    Song Jingchen stood up from the wheelchair calmly and took two steps in front of her.


    Shen Yijia was so excited that she jumped up and jumped onto Song Jingchen¡¯s body. She wrapped her legs around his waist and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck. ¡°This is great! Hubby, your legs are finally healed.¡±


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was only standing there without moving, Shen Yijia twisted her body and said with sparkling eyes, ¡°Let¡¯s take another two steps.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was a little stern, but his eyes were filled with indulgence.


    He reached out to hold Shen Yijia¡¯s body to prevent her from sliding down. He carried her and took a few more steps.


    ¡°Alright, alright. Put me down.¡± Although she was excited, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to strain his legs too much.


    Song Jingchen placed her back on the bed. Shen Yijia pulled him to sit down and reminded him, ¡°Your legs have just recovered. You can¡¯t walk too much. Rest for a while.¡±


    Thinking of those vague memories in the dungeon, Shen Yijia asked again, ¡°Did you save me?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. Seeing that she still wanted to ask, he told her what had happened in the dungeon after he entered.


    ¡°That Feng guy is also dead?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    After receiving Song Jingchen¡¯s affirmative answer, she still looked regretful.


    She then asked if the man in black who splashed her with water was dead. Shen Yijia felt even worse when she received an affirmative answer.


    She had said that she would splash him with water when she escaped. He got off easy.


    However, it would be fine if she took revenge on that nasty official in the future.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s saw her frown in distress for a moment before her eyes lit up. Even he couldn¡¯t guess what Shen Yijia was thinking.


    He reached out and rubbed her hair. ¡°You¡¯ve just recovered a little. You can¡¯t think too much. I¡¯ll take care of things. Rest for a while.¡±


    When he found out about Shen Yijia¡¯s accident, he almost killed Lin Shao to vent his anger. However, when he thought about how this girl had fallen into danger to save him, he couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it.


    If this girl came back and found out, she would probably blame him. Fortunately, she was fine.


    Shen Yijia blushed awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, you really don¡¯t know how to take care of people. I haven¡¯t eaten for half a day, you should show more concern for me.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Song Jingchen blamed himself for being careless and quickly went to the kitchen to bring over a bowl of porridge. Madam Li was worried that Shen Yijia would be hungry when she woke up in the middle of the night.


    The porridge was still warm when it was brought out.


    Shen Yijia finished eating in two or three bites and pointed at herself. ¡°I¡¯m still hungry.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let her eat anymore. ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate for you to eat too much now. Rest first. I¡¯ll get Mom to cook your favorite dishes tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia pouted and crawled into bed. She turned her back to him to express her dissatisfaction.


    Song Jingchen smiled helplessly but didn¡¯t indulge her. He sent the bowl back to the kitchen and lay down beside her.


    Shen Yijia waited for a long time, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t coax her. Instead, he simply lay down.


    She couldn¡¯t help but turn around and see Song Jingchen looking at her with a faint smile.


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Shen Yijia huffed proudly and dived into his arms.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and wrapped his arms around her. He finally felt a little more at ease.


    Suddenly, Shen Yijia looked up at him with a smirk. ¡°I heard you call me Jiajia.¡±


    ¡°No, you heard wrongly.¡± Song Jingchen reached out and pressed on her head, turning his head away awkwardly.


    ¡°Hmph, if you say so.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was muffled. ¡°Anyway, I heard it.¡±


    The next day, when everyone woke up, the nine former prisoners had already cleared the snow in the courtyard and prepared breakfast.


    All of them helped out with clearing the snow and cooking in the kitchen without complaining.


    All of them knew how to cook. The only difference in their cooking was whether the food was delicious or not.


    Other than the few people who knew about it, everyone else was confused by the sudden addition of nine people to the family.


    Widow Wang was even more speechless. ¡°How much more food would it take to feed nine grown men?¡± she thought.


    However, she only dared to think about it in her heart and did not dare to say it out loud. She was living in this house with her burden of a son, too.


    She thought that these nine people were victims of a disaster and had been picked up by the kind Song family, just like Lin Shao and his sister.


    She couldn¡¯t be blamed for thinking that, because the clothes they were wearing were really¡­

 Chapter 181 - Naming

    The nine men did not eat with them. They set up another table in the kitchen.


    After dinner, Song Jingchen called the nine of them into the study. Shen Yijia saw that he was still in a wheelchair and didn¡¯t say anything.


    She was going for a run with Brother Hao and the others, but Song Jingchen suddenly asked her to follow them.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. ¡°Why do I need to be there while you¡¯re discussing things among yourselves? Now Lin Shao has to bring the kids out himself.¡± she thought.


    After what happened yesterday, Shen Yijia felt that everyone needed to strengthen their bodies and martial arts skills.


    Especially Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao, if they knew some self defense, they could protect themselves when they were outside.


    She did not say it out loud and only secretly decided to drill them hard.


    1


    Those who would choose to work for Song Jingchen were all people who didn¡¯t have a home and were wandering around. They knew much more than ordinary people.


    As soon as Song Jingchen said his name, everyone¡¯s hearts skipped a beat. Seeing that he was pretending to be a cripple even though his legs were fine, it wasn¡¯t hard to imagine what he wanted to do.


    Yesterday, they felt that they had followed an impressive master, but they did not expect him to be so impressive. He was going to lead them to do something huge.


    Seeing their reactions, Song Jingchen knew that they weren¡¯t stupid. He only said, ¡°Tell me your names.¡±


    When Skinny Monkey heard this, he immediately added, ¡°Master, please give me a name!¡±


    He felt that it was better not to mention his name. It was no longer worthy of his current status.


    The others looked at Song Jingchen in tacit understanding, clearly having the same thoughts as Skinny Monkey.


    Song Jingchen was silent. Before he could speak, Shen Yijia, who was standing at the side, suddenly interrupted with interest, ¡°I know how to name things!¡±


    Her eyes sparkled with eagerness.


    The nine of them suddenly had an ominous feeling.


    Fifteen minutes later, the nine men left the study helplessly.


    Shen Yijia was confused and asked Song Jingchen unhappily, ¡°Didn¡¯t I choose some good names? They didn¡¯t seem to like it.¡±


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter. ¡°The names were pretty good.¡±


    ¡°Then they¡­¡± Shen Yijia did not believe him.


    ¡°Maybe they¡¯re just overly happy about getting new names.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin and agreed with Song Jingchen.


    The nine of them silently returned to their room. Because there were too many people in the house, there weren¡¯t enough rooms to share, so they squeezed together for the time being.


    ¡°One Dot1,¡± Skinny Monkey suddenly shouted.


    1


    The big man glanced at him. After a long time, he spat out, ¡°Rooster!¡±


    1


    Skinny Monkey was now known as ¡°Rooster¡±.


    He fell back on the couch and resigned himself to his fate. ¡°So be it. It¡¯s better than my previous name.¡±


    One Dot, the man who ate a rat in the dungeon, fell silent for a moment before saying coldly, ¡°My original name sounded better.¡±


    ¡°My original name meant ¡®The Strong One¡¯. I also think it sounds better than Two Dots. After all, it was given to me by my parents. Can I get my name back?¡± Two Dots interrupted weakly.


    1


    The other men were also named after Mahjong tiles. Thirty Thousand, Forty Thousand, East Wind, South Wind, West Wind, and North Wind were their new names. They were all speechless.


    1


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say so in the study earlier? What¡¯s the use of complaining now?¡± they all thought.


    They had followed a powerful master. Shouldn¡¯t their names be more dignified? Why did their names become so strange?


    Well, there was this unexpected factor called Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Damn, it sounds pretty good. Don¡¯t worry about it. Didn¡¯t Young Madam say that we¡¯re called Mahjong Brothers?¡± Rooster comforted them, although he didn¡¯t know what Mahjong was.


    Among the nine people, his name was the worst. He had already resigned himself to his fate. What else did they have to say?


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished speaking, the other eight people looked at him.


    Rooster sat up. ¡°Do you guys¡­¡±


    Before he could say anything, One Dot covered his mouth, and punches came from all directions.


    It couldn¡¯t be helped. He was the one who suggested giving them names. These men couldn¡¯t hold grudges against their master, but they could vent their anger on this culprit.


    By noon, Shen Yijia had completely recovered and was full of vigor. While Song Jingchen was giving them guidance, she sneaked into the study.


    She stayed inside for 15 minutes before coming out. She thought that she had done it secretly, but as soon as she reached the front yard, she bumped into Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia put her hands behind her back guiltily. Seeing that Song Jingchen was staring at her, she forced a smile and said, ¡°You¡¯ve finished so quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and glanced behind her.


    ¡°Well, I saw that your study was a little messy, so I went to help you clean up.¡± Shen Yijia nodded seriously.


    Song Jingchen sighed helplessly. ¡°Take it out.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia became timid in a second and handed him the box hidden behind her.


    Song Jingchen continued to look at her. ¡°And?¡±


    She glared at Song Jingchen in protest. Seeing that he was unmoved, she could only obediently take off the sleeve arrow on her wrist.


    Song Jingchen took it and raised his eyebrows. ¡°There¡¯s more.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She gritted her teeth and squatted down to untie the short daggers tied to her calves. She threw the two daggers into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was still looking at her, Shen Yijia almost cried. She gritted her teeth and stuck her hand into her belt. She took out Lin Shao¡¯s powder bag and threw it to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen looked at her equipment and held his forehead helplessly. He reminded her, ¡°I¡¯m talking about the crossbow on your back.¡±


    He didn¡¯t stalk her. How could he have known that she was hiding so many things?


    ¡°Could this person be any more silly?¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia reacted and was dumbfounded. ¡°Did I expose myself?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen took the crossbow and asked despite knowing the answer, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going anywhere!¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and denied it.


    ¡°Liar.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s teeth hurt. She knew that her beautiful husband was so smart that he wouldn¡¯t be easy to fool. She said, ¡°I¡¯m going to kill that nasty official. Otherwise, what if he comes to our house again?¡±


    She did not want anything similar to happen again. She was the one who caused this matter, so she had to settle it.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. He lowered his head and opened the box. Inside lay a fiery red whip.


    He knew Shen Yijia¡¯s weakness. This soft whip was specially prepared for her, but something happened before he could give it to her.


    Song Jingchen took out the whip and handed it to Shen Yijia before saying, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll settle it.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Shen Yijia protested. Song Jingchen was supposed to keep a low profile.


    Shen Yijia was not stupid. In this world where imperial power was paramount, if the people in the capital found out that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered, it would definitely bring about a lot of trouble.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you always say that I¡¯m the smartest? Are you doubting me?¡± Song Jingchen deliberately asked her.


    Shen Yijia quickly shook her head. ¡°Of course not. My husband is naturally the smartest.¡±


    After saying that, she lowered her head. ¡°But I was the one who caused this. If it weren¡¯t for me¡­¡±


    ¡°He was the one who caused this. He deserves to die!¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice turned cold when he thought of that. He realized that his tone was too fierce. He took a deep breath and suppressed the violence in his heart. ¡°You didn¡¯t do anything wrong. Believe me, I won¡¯t let him appear in front of you again.¡±

 Chapter 182 - Setting the Stage

    If this incident hadn¡¯t happened, Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t have known that Shen Yijia had encountered so many dangers alone.


    If not for Shen Yijia¡¯s martial arts skills and special physique, he could not imagine what would have happened. Now, he would not let Shen Yijia take the risk alone.


    Even if there was only a small chance that something would happen.


    Due to Song Jingchen¡¯s objection, Shen Yijia finally gave up on killing the nasty official.


    All men wanted to look good in front of others. If Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t make it, she would secretly make a move.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know what Song Jingchen was going to do. She only noticed that Rooster and the others had secretly left Xiagou Village that night.


    Their days passed calmly, as if nothing had happened.


    Many elderly people in Xiagou Village had also frozen to death, but they had it much better than those homeless people outside.


    They were even a little glad that their village was poor and remote. The snow stopped them from going out, but it also stopped the refugees from entering.


    Many villages with better conditions had refugees burning, killing, and looting the villages.


    Moreover, after the incident where the Saber Tyrant kidnapped the entire village, everyone seemed to be more united.


    If anyone¡¯s house collapsed, Song Tiegen would bring people to help repair it. If it really couldn¡¯t accommodate people, they could also stay in other houses.


    In order to prevent more people from dying, Song Tiegen even collected all the food in the village. He distributed food to everyone every day. Even if the villagers couldn¡¯t eat their fill, at least they wouldn¡¯t starve to death.


    This greatly reduced the chances of dying in the harsh winter. It had to be said that Song Tiegen was a pretty good village chief.


    Of course, the An and Song families did not participate in these matters. The An family had long fallen out with the village because of Father An.


    As for the Song family, the villagers did not dare to look for them again. The dozens of bandits living in this village were all very polite to their family.


    After knowing that something had happened to the other villages in the county, the dozens of people who had come to the village to rob the village began to protect it.


    They set up a fence at the village entrance and sent people to guard it in case any refugees broke in.


    However, this barricade could only stop ordinary people. It was nothing to Rooster and the others.


    Lord Hong brought a few carts of food south.


    Normally, there would be granaries in every county and county. When there was a disaster, they could directly open the granaries to distribute food.


    If there was really not enough food, they could only wait for the imperial court to send food from elsewhere.


    However, there were also many corrupt officials who secretly sold the food to fill their own pockets. Now that they did not have any extra grain, they could only let the commoners starve.


    Lord Hong¡¯s duty was to deliver food and investigate corrupt officials.


    This errand was considered one of the best jobs.


    Along the way, there were many corrupt officials. Everyone knew the unspoken rules in the bureaucracy.


    Officials protected each other. As long as they gave more bribes and complained to the Imperial Court that they were poor, they would be fine.


    However, if someone refused their bribe, that person would not be able to return to the capital alive. Almost every official tacitly agreed to this.


    The imperial envoy in charge of disaster relief typically earned a lot of money.


    If Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t in Anyang County, Lord Hong would also think that it was a cushy job. However, knowing how powerful Song Jingchen was, he didn¡¯t dare to be careless.


    If he died before reaching the capital, no matter how much bribes he received, he wouldn¡¯t be able to spend any of it.


    Lord Hong felt it was lucky that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were crippled. Otherwise, he would really be worried that Song Jingchen would slit his throat one day.


    Anyang County was the last stop he was going to, and it was also the place that had suffered the most damage.


    He also had an important mission to carry out in Anyang County.


    If not for that, he would really be unwilling to step into that area.


    The closer he got to Anyang County, the more panicked he became.


    The team stopped at the relay station outside Anyang County. They could enter the county tomorrow.


    Lord Hong summoned his guards to guard the door before lying down.


    After traveling for so many days, he was cold and tired. Soon, he felt sleepy.


    Suddenly, an arrow shot in from the window and pierced the bedpost less than a finger¡¯s width away from Lord Hong¡¯s head.


    Lord Hong¡¯s pupils dilated. He was so frightened that he immediately rolled off the bed. He did not forget to shout, ¡°Someone, there¡¯s an assassin!¡±


    The guards outside the door immediately broke in and lit the oil lamps. However, they only saw Lord Hong trembling under the table. Everyone looked at each other.


    A sharp-eyed guard saw the arrow on the bedpost and took a few steps forward to pull it out. ¡°Sir, there¡¯s a letter here.¡±


    Lord Hong paused. He stuck his head out from under the table and looked around to make sure that there were no attackers before crawling out. He straightened his collar and took the letter. He coughed dryly and said, ¡°All of you can leave first.¡±


    After saying that, he added, ¡°Be vigilant.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    After they left, Lord Hong opened the letter and frowned when he saw the contents.


    On the other side, Cao Dezhi was also anxious. Not only had Shen Yijia escaped, the entire dungeon of captives had also disappeared.


    He had just received a letter from his master saying that he had to ensure that nothing went wrong.


    He had even promised that nothing would go wrong, but he slipped up at this critical moment. How would he be able to gather so many people now?


    It was not that he did not suspect that Shen Yijia was behind this, but now that his men had been sent to transport food, he did not have the time to capture that b*tch.


    Manager Feng, who could be of use, was also dead. How could he not be anxious?


    At this moment, the gatekeeper rushed in. ¡°My lord, my lord. A beggar sent a letter just now. He said that he had to show it to you. The contents of the letter are related to¡­ your life.¡±


    If it were any other time, Cao Dezhi would definitely have gotten someone to punish such a noisy gatekeeper.


    However, he was already in a mess. When he heard this, he thought of those people. He took a few steps forward and snatched the letter from the gatekeeper¡¯s hand.


    He quickly opened the letter and read the contents. He got goosebumps after reading it. After thinking for a moment, he asked the gatekeeper, ¡°Where¡¯s the beggar?¡±


    ¡°He ran off after delivering the letter,¡± the gatekeeper said.


    Cao Dezhi sighed and asked the gatekeeper to leave.


    At night, the two black shadows avoided the night guards of Xiagou Village and arrived at the end of the village. They crawled into the Song family¡¯s house from Furball¡¯s usual passageway in the back wall.


    The two of them looked at each other and revealed helpless expressions. ¡°Could you give us a more dignified route to enter this household?¡± they thought.


    ¡°Maybe if you didn¡¯t build such absurdly high walls, we would be able to climb in that way.¡± They had many complaints in their hearts.


    The first time Furball brought them to this hole, they could not believe their eyes. What happened to following an impressive master?


    No matter how much resentment they felt, they did not dare to say it. They could only find a time to beat up Rooster again to vent their anger.


    1


    There was a tacit understanding between them not to ask why.


    Everyone had long gone to bed. Only one light in the study in the backyard was still lit.


    Song Jingchen sat at his desk with his eyes closed.


    The two of them knocked on the door and walked in. After standing still, they cupped their hands and bowed to Song Jingchen. ¡°Master.¡±


    Only then did Song Jingchen open his eyes and look at the two of them. ¡°How did it go?¡±

 Chapter 183 - Lord Hong

    Rooster immediately said obsequiously, ¡°Master, you¡¯re really amazing. The person who came is indeed Lord Hong.¡±


    One Dot glanced at him disdainfully and replied with a straight face, ¡°We¡¯ve completed the task.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and gave a few instructions. The two of them left again overnight.


    The study became silent once more. Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze was cold as he wrote a few words on the paper.


    Hong Jianzhang, Cao Dezhi.


    He wrote the last word.


    Killing intent flashed in his eyes. He exerted strength in his hand, and a thick line passed through the six words. It cut through the two names like a sharp blade.


    It was rare that there was no snow tonight. Song Jingchen drove the wheelchair back to his room and saw that Shen Yijia had woken up.


    Her black hair was loose, and she was sitting on the bed in her pajamas, rubbing her eyes.


    ¡°Why are you awake?¡±


    ¡°Where did you go?¡±


    The two of them spoke in unison, but at the same time, they watched as the other party kept quiet, waiting for the other party to speak first.


    Shen Yijia blinked. She understood. Ladies first.


    She complained a little, ¡°I woke up from the cold.¡±


    She usually had a large heater beside her to provide heat. Since she suddenly lost it today, of course she¡¯d be woken up by the cold.


    After saying that, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s lips. She had reason to suspect that her beautiful husband had stolen food again. After all, he had brought her along to do this before.


    Could it be that she ate too much last time, so he didn¡¯t bring her along with her now that there was delicious food?


    1


    Shen Yijia¡¯s glance reminded Song Jingchen of the night she fed him water. He immediately felt his mouth go dry.


    He coughed dryly and avoided Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze. He walked to the table, poured a cup of tea, and drank it in one gulp. After drinking three cups in a row, his frustration subsided a little.


    Shen Yijia wanted to remind him that the tea was cold, but he was too fast and did not give her a chance to speak.


    Seeing how thirsty he was, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen strangely. She suspected that her beautiful husband had eaten salt instead of food.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed at her indescribable expression. Even if he couldn¡¯t guess, he knew that this person couldn¡¯t be thinking anything good. He explained, ¡°I couldn¡¯t sleep just now, so I went to the study to practice writing.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± Shen Yijia deliberately dragged out the word. She clearly did not believe it.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead and gave up on explaining. He took off his clothes and went to bed, blowing out the oil lamp.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°If you want to steal food, just do it, I won¡¯t laugh at you.¡± she thought.


    However, when she thought about how Song Jingchen had secretly eaten without her, she was still a little angry. She took off her socks and draped her legs on Song Jingchen.


    This wasn¡¯t enough. Her cold feet even crawled under Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes.


    The latter shivered from the cold, and Shen Yijia chuckled.


    She stuck her hand into his collar, and her entire body sank into a strange angle.


    At first, Shen Yijia just wanted to shock him with the cold. However, something was wrong with her hand. She touched Song Jingchen¡¯s chest, patted it, and grabbed it.


    ¡°Oh my, he has such a fine physique.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Song Jingchen felt a ball of fire surge from his body to a certain spot. He couldn¡¯t take it anymore and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. He asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m trying to calm you down. Yes, that¡¯s what I was doing.¡± Shen Yijia said sheepishly. As she spoke, she pulled her hand out and helped him smooth his collar.


    She patted his chest and pretended to smooth out his clothes.


    It was not that she was afraid, but a voice in her heart told her that if she continued to cause trouble, she would be in danger.


    She didn¡¯t dare to crawl into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms anymore. She rolled away from Song Jingchen and started to sleep with her back facing him.


    Song Jingchen looked at the woman who retracted her head into her shell in a second and gritted his teeth in anger.


    She ran away after flirting with him, but she caused him to¡­


    This woman was the descendant of a vixen and a tortoise, right? Her head must¡¯ve been smacked by her shell when she was born, so she was silly and clueless.


    1


    He had fallen into the hands of such a woman. Of course he¡¯d be frustrated.


    Song Jingchen took a deep breath and tried his best to suppress the heat in his heart.


    When the relief team entered Anyang County, hope was ignited in the hearts of the victims.


    They were saved.


    As expected, a porridge tent was built at the city gate on the same day. The next day, bailiffs began to provide porridge there.


    As soon as this news spread, refugees rushed to the city gate from all directions. Soon, a long line formed.


    At the entrance of the county office, more than a dozen officials of all ranks from Anyang County stood at the door to welcome Lord Hong, who had come from the capital.


    Hong Jianzhang glanced at Cao Dezhi, who was in the lead, with a dark gaze. He exchanged a few pleasantries with everyone and excused himself.


    Fan Mingyuan stood in the crowd and wanted to approach the imperial envoy a few times to discuss the disaster relief measures, but he could not find an opportunity. He could only watch as County Magistrate Cao welcomed him in.


    He clenched his fists, feeling powerless.


    It was not until the next day that he heaved a sigh of relief when they heard that the relief troops had begun to provide porridge.


    In the backyard of the county office, Hong Jianzhang sat upright in the study. Cao Dezhi stood at the side in panic.


    ¡°Is everyone ready?¡± Hong Jianzhang picked up his teacup and took a sip.


    Cao Dezhi gritted his teeth in hatred, but he forced a smile and said respectfully, ¡°Everything is ready. We¡¯re just waiting for the Minister¡¯s food to arrive before arranging for the goods to be sent out.¡±


    To them, those people were indeed like food. They were all goods, nothing more.


    ¡°Oh? Is that so?¡± Hong Jianzhang glanced at him. ¡°Then you have to check carefully. If you ruin Master¡¯s plans, you won¡¯t be able to compensate him even if you have a hundred heads.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. Leave it to me. There won¡¯t be any problems.¡± Cao Dezhi nodded and bowed.


    Hong Jianzhang sneered. ¡°That¡¯d better be the case.¡±


    With that, he stood up to leave.


    ¡°Sir, do you want to rest here or¡­¡± Cao Dezhi trailed off.


    ¡°No need. I have my own accommodations.¡±


    He changed his clothes and went out the back door of the county office. His real residence was only safe if everyone thought that he would stay in the county office.


    In the end, he was still wary that Song Jingchen would assassinate him.


    After Hong Jianzhang left, Cao Dezhi swept the teacup onto the ground.


    Immediately, a servant walked in trembling. Ever since the young master died, countless servants had been beaten to death in the residence.


    Cao Dezhi gave a few instructions, and the servant quickly agreed before leaving.


    At night, a few disheveled men sneaked out of a private residence.


    After they came out, they ran all the way to an alley. They looked around and were relieved to make sure that no one was following them.


    This was a wealthy district in Anyang County. Every family had guards, and the disaster victims usually did not dare to approach.


    ¡°Is Lord Hong really going to let us go just like that?¡± one of them asked in a trembling voice. He sounded incredulous.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry! If he didn¡¯t release us, we wouldn¡¯t be here,¡± another person comforted.


    ¡°Damn it! That old thief Cao captured us and threw us into the dungeon. If it weren¡¯t for Lord Hong, we wouldn¡¯t be alive. One day, I¡¯ll definitely take that old thief Cao¡¯s head.¡± Another man cursed angrily.

 Chapter 184 - Doing Bad Things

    ¡°Alright, alright, stop talking. Hurry up and leave this damn place! If that bastard Cao catches us again, we won¡¯t be lucky enough to meet a second Lord Hong.¡±


    When they heard that, they hurriedly got up and ran towards the city gate.


    However, at that very moment.


    A person walked out of the corner of the alley and stared in the direction they had left for a long time. He secretly wiped the sweat off his forehead.


    In the cold weather, he was so frightened that he broke out in a sweat. The murderous aura on those people was too strong. He was afraid that he would be discovered and killed.


    After catching his breath, he immediately turned around and ran in the opposite direction.


    However, he did not know that the people who just left had doubled back and saw his every move clearly.


    ¡°How was it? Did you like my performance?¡± Rooster patted Thirty Thousand¡¯s shoulder and asked with a smile.


    These people were the Mahjong Brothers!


    Thirty Thousand rolled his eyes at him and silently moved away from this fool. He took out a drumstick wrapped in oil paper and started chewing on it.


    The others ignored him.


    Seeing their attitude, Rooster snorted indignantly. ¡°Don¡¯t blame me for not telling you. I¡¯ve thought it through. As long as I do what my master instructed me to do, I can ask for a reward and change this name.¡±


    Did they really think that he liked the name ¡°Rooster¡±? He had never heard of such a ridiculous name.


    When the rest of the Mahjong Brothers heard this, they thought to themselves that this kid was really cunning. They looked at each other and clenched their fists to beat Rooster up.


    Thirty Thousand was still chewing on his drumstick.


    In the dark night, Rooster cried out in pain, ¡°Hey, don¡¯t hit my face!¡±


    With the officials providing porridge, the snow that had been falling for two months showed signs of stopping. This made the commoners see hope of survival.


    However, after waiting in line for hours and getting their hands on the porridge.


    Everyone couldn¡¯t stay calm anymore. Was this porridge or plain water? It couldn¡¯t exactly be called porridge, but there were indeed a few grains of rice at the bottom of the bowl.


    Some people thought it was better than nothing, so they drank it without saying a word.


    However, there were also some people with bad tempers. They were hungry and cold to begin with. They had been queuing for hours, but the government was using this sorry excuse of a porridge as disaster relief? They immediately smashed their bowls and stood up.


    Many people swore to seek justice.


    However, the officials seemed to be prepared. As soon signs of discontent appeared, a bailiff went forward to restrain them.


    After dealing with those who stood out, the others no longer had the guts to cause trouble.


    After all, they wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything if they died here.


    ¡°Furball!¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s roar suddenly sounded in the Song family¡¯s courtyard.


    Song Jingchen was sitting by the window and writing something. The sudden roar startled him and his hand jolted. The ink from his brush stained the paper, and his letter was destroyed just like that.


    He rubbed his forehead helplessly and looked up.


    Shen Yijia stood in the courtyard with one hand on her waist and the other holding a metal rope. She glared at Furball, who was lying on the ground.


    Even the children who were squatting against the wall turned around curiously.


    Furball buried its head in the snow timidly. Didn¡¯t they always play like this in the past? This woman had personally thrown Furball into the pile of snow in the past.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger.


    Seeing that the snow had stopped, she wanted to shovel the snow into a neat pile and clean the ground. This way, the children would not get wet while practicing martial arts.


    She had just finished shoveling the snow.


    However, when she turned around, Furball did a high jump and slammed into the pile of snow. The snow was scattered everywhere.


    She had worked for nothing.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and loosened them. After repeating this a few times, she finally restrained the strong desire to eat tiger meat stew.


    ¡°Don¡¯t even think about eating meat for the next three days. You can eat grass instead,¡± she said fiercely. She scooped up the snow with her shovel and dumped it on Furball.


    Furball seemed to be thinking about how cruel its master was.


    Soon, Furball was buried tightly in the snow, leaving only its tail wagging in the air to show its dissatisfaction.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. This girl must be bored.


    After dinner, everyone returned to their rooms early. Shen Yijia was about to change into pajamas and go to bed when Song Jingchen stopped her. He took out a cloak from the cabinet and put it on her.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the man standing in front of her in confusion.


    Song Jingchen was usually in a wheelchair whenever he left their room.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take you out to play.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head and put on the hood for her. Taking her hand, he led her outside.


    ¡°Are we going to steal food?¡± After thinking for a moment, Shen Yijia denied this possibility. There was no need to wear so much to steal food.


    Thinking of another possibility, she tiptoed to Song Jingchen¡¯s ear and asked in a low voice, ¡°Are we going to do something bad?¡±


    She thought that Song Jingchen would ignore her or say that she was thinking too much, but Song Jingchen suddenly stopped in his tracks and bent down to whisper in her ear. He imitated her and said seriously, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She felt her ears itch.


    In the next moment, she screamed in her heart. ¡°My husband is so cute!¡± she thought.


    The two of them walked quickly. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw Song Jingchen bring her straight to the village entrance. The further they walked, the greater the evil they could do!


    As they passed the fence, the night watchman dozed against it, wrapped in a quilt.


    A wicked smile appeared on Shen Yijia¡¯s face. She secretly rolled up a snowball and threw it at the man¡¯s collar. She pulled Song Jingchen and ran.


    After running for a distance, she could still hear that person¡¯s screams. Shen Yijia stopped and held her stomach to suppress her laughter.


    Looking at her childish behavior, Song Jingchen was speechless. He really didn¡¯t understand what was so funny.


    ¡°Where are we going to do bad things?¡± After laughing, Shen Yijia wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes and looked at Song Jingchen meekly.


    She still had to be good in front of her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer. He placed his thumb and index finger in his mouth and whistled.


    Soon, the sound of hooves could be heard from afar.


    Looking at the horse that had stopped in front of her, Shen Yijia was surprised. ¡°Isn¡¯t this our family¡¯s horse? When did it come here?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t wait for her to ask any more strange questions. He picked her up by the waist and placed her on the back of the horse.


    He jumped behind Shen Yijia and wrapped his arms around her waist to pull the reins.


    ¡°If you¡¯re tired, lean against me and rest for a while,¡± Song Jingchen said. After saying that, he waved his whip, and the sound of hooves broke the silence of the night again.


    Shen Yijia was nestled in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. At first, she was sitting upright, but later on, she became sleepy. Moreover, the cold wind hurt her face.

 Chapter 185 - Drunken Red House

    She simply turned around and sat facing Song Jingchen. She hid her small body in Song Jingchen¡¯s cloak and hugged his waist to sleep.


    Song Jingchen smiled and pulled the reins to slow down the horse.


    The journey that he had expected to take an hour took him two hours.


    Rooster and Thirty Thousand squatted under the city wall, shivering in the cold.


    ¡°Do you think Master stood us up?¡± Rooster kept leaning against Thirty Thousand, trying to get warm.


    Thirty Thousand moved away from him in disdain and started eating a cold meat bun.


    Rooster rolled his eyes and said angrily, ¡°You only know how to eat all day. Sooner or later, you¡¯ll be tricked by someone using food.¡±


    After a pause, Thirty Thousand finally looked at Rooster and asked, ¡°How did you know that Manager Feng tricked me using food?¡±


    Rooster was silent for a long time before asking, ¡°What did he use to lure you in there?¡±


    ¡°A roasted chicken.¡±


    Rooster was speechless.


    He remembered that Thirty Thousand was in the dungeon longer than anyone else.


    It was a miracle that this silly man managed to grow into an adult.


    Yao Ji looked at Thirty Thousand with sympathy and reached out to pat this poor man¡¯s head lovingly.


    Thirty Thousand glared at him and tilted his head to avoid it. He felt a chill.


    The two of them chatted casually. It was basically Rooster talking and Thirty Thousand listening.


    No one knew whether Thirty Thousand was actually listening, though.


    Suddenly, a black shadow quickly slid down the city wall. The two of them immediately stood up and looked at the black shadow. Only then did they realize that there was a person hanging in front of the black shadow.


    Shen Yijia hugged Song Jingchen¡¯s neck tightly with one hand and covered her mouth with the other, afraid that she would lose control and scream in excitement.


    Her beautiful husband was simply too handsome.


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and met Shen Yijia¡¯s infatuated eyes. He looked away awkwardly, but he secretly enjoyed it.


    1


    Rooster stood rooted to the ground, not daring to move. He regretted not hiding just now.


    Thirty Thousand rubbed his stomach and muttered to himself, ¡°What did I eat? Why do I suddenly feel so full?¡±


    1


    This successfully brought Song Jingchen back to his senses. He awkwardly pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s hands away from his neck and coughed dryly.


    Shen Yijia looked at Thirty Thousand resentfully. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have given him such a good name.¡± she thought.


    Thirty Thousand felt a chill down his spine.


    ¡°Where is he?¡± Song Jingchen asked. He took a step forward and blocked Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Thirty Thousand scratched his nose and said, ¡°The Drunken Red House.¡±


    He felt like he was about to get in trouble.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but frown when he heard this name.


    He regretted bringing Shen Yijia along.


    He thought that Shen Yijia definitely wouldn¡¯t know what kind of place it was. He was about to say something to bluff her.


    Shen Yijia said in surprise, ¡°The Drunken Red House is a brothel, right? Are we going to a brothel to listen to beautiful girls singing?¡±


    In novels, any establishment with the words ¡®Red¡¯, ¡®Flower¡¯, or ¡®Fragrant¡¯ always turned out to be a brothel.


    Song Jingchen fell silent. It seemed that Shen Yijia knew what a brothel was.


    Seeing her excitement, Song Jingchen knew that it was too late for him to stop her. Feeling helpless, he could only let the two of them lead the way.


    However, there was something he could do about it.


    1


    Fifteen minutes later, Shen Yijia was lying on the roof with a head full of question marks.


    It turned out that she could listen to beauties sing on the roof of the Drunken Red House.


    ¡°My husband is so stingy.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen ignored the strange gazes from the three of them and glanced at Rooster. Rooster lifted a tile and the two men below appeared in their sight.


    Seeing one of them, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes narrowed. She raised her wrist and wanted to shoot an arrow at that person.


    Song Jingchen seemed to have expected her to do this. He grabbed her wrist and pulled her into his arms. He whispered in her ear, ¡°Wait a few more days. I won¡¯t let him live comfortably.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and buried her head in his arms. She had always taken revenge on the spot. She had never bothered waiting to strike back.


    However, she also knew that a county magistrate couldn¡¯t be killed easily, especially in the territory where Song Jingchen was. That would bring trouble to her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze was cold as he looked at the two people enjoying their wine below.


    There were countless disaster victims outside, but the officials were living in luxury. The country was indeed doomed.


    The two people below were almost done drinking. Cao Dezhi waved his hand, and a few scantily clad women immediately retreated.


    ¡°Cao Dezhi, Cao Dezhi. Back then, we were still in the same batch of High Scholars. After so many years, do you know why you¡¯re still a county magistrate?¡± Hong Jianzhang raised his wine glass and clinked it against Cao Dezhi¡¯s. He raised his glass and drank it in one gulp. ¡°Because you¡¯re stupid!¡±


    His face was red. He had obviously drunk too much.


    The difference in rank between the two of them was quite substantial. Even if Cao Dezhi was angry, he did not dare to do anything to Hong Jianzhang. He drank the wine in his cup and said sarcastically, ¡°You¡¯re right. I am indeed stupid.¡±


    Cao Dezhi felt even more disdain in his heart. If this Hong fellow hadn¡¯t been born with good looks and relied on the good Yue family, he wouldn¡¯t be where he was today.


    They simply had different levels of advantage in life.


    Back then, when the two of them entered the capital to take the examination, he was still a person full of confidence in the bureaucracy and motivated to be a good official.


    However, he did not expect to be taught a lesson on his first day in office.


    He should have joined the Hanlin Academy, but he was prevented from doing so because of Lord Hong.


    Lord Hong had snatched away his spot because of his sponsors.


    ¡°No one can save you this time.¡± Cao Dezhi thought.


    Cao Dezhi was thinking when he suddenly heard the same sentence being repeated out loud.


    His gaze suddenly turned cold as he narrowed his eyes at Hong Jianzhang, as if he was looking at a dead man.


    Hong Jianzhang muttered to himself for a while before suddenly falling unconscious on the table.


    This commotion woke Cao Dezhi up from his daze. He flicked his sleeve angrily and left.


    Hong Jianzhang was left alone, drunk.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen and blinked. It was over just like that?


    Song Jingchen grabbed her waist and stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    With a few leaps, he landed steadily on the ground with Shen Yijia.


    She thought that he was going to continue following Cao Dezhi, but Song Jingchen pulled her in the opposite direction.


    The two Mahjong Brothers didn¡¯t follow them.


    Song Jingchen brought Shen Yijia to the residence where Rooster and the others had been keeping a lookout.


    One Dot and the others were waiting there. Seeing that Song Jingchen had even brought Shen Yijia along, they were all puzzled. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a burden to bring a woman here?¡± they thought.


    However, they did not dare to say it out loud. Fifteen minutes later, their faces were slapped.


    This residence was Hong Jianzhang¡¯s temporary residence in Anyang County.


    Lord Hong thought he was smart, but he didn¡¯t know that he was too smart for his own good. If he had chosen to stay the night in the county office, it would have been difficult for Song Jingchen and the others to make a move.


    ¡°What are we doing?¡± Shen Yijia had been excited all night. Even though her voice was soft, she could not hide her excitement.

 Chapter 186 - Something Happened

    There was no need for Song Jingchen to appear. One Dot and the others could have done it.


    Song Jingchen came because Shen Yijia was too bored at home. Now that he was watching from the side, he naturally wouldn¡¯t restrain her.


    He looked at One Dot, who nodded.


    One Dot the way to the back door of the residence and climbed over the wall. Soon, the back door opened from the inside.


    Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and led the way in.


    The others followed.


    The few of them had long figured out the layout of this residence. They arrived at the temporary warehouse in the backyard without alerting anyone.


    From a distance, in addition to the guards patrolling the area with torches, there were two guards standing at the door.


    ¡°So many people?¡± Shen Yijia muttered, ¡°We have toa€|¡±


    Shen Yijia reached out and gestured at her neck.


    Song Jingchen kept silent and carefully observed her expression. Seeing that there was no change in her expression, he nodded. ¡°Try not to alarm the others.¡±


    Finally, he added, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you just knock them out.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him, indicating that she understood.


    She took off two pouches from her waist and handed them to Song Jingchen with a smug expression. ¡°I got them from Lin Shao. We can knock them out before killing them.¡±


    Psychedelic powder was the simplest. Previously, there were many herbs that Lin Shao had picked.


    Shen Yijia was a little afraid after being drugged several times. She had asked Lin Shao to concoct a lot of drugs in the past few days. Just in case, almost everyone in the family had a pouch like hers.


    One of them was prepared for Song Jingchen, but she hadn¡¯t had the time to give it to him yet. She had always carried it with her, but she didn¡¯t expect it to be useful today.


    Song Jingchen paused for a moment and silently took out his hand that had just reached into his sleeve. He took the pouch from Shen Yijia and praised, ¡°You¡¯re so thoughtful.¡±


    One Dot and the others were speechless.


    Under Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, she quickly put away the paper bag in her hand.


    Shen Yijia grinned and scratched her head. She said humbly, ¡°It was just a coincidence.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. It was indeed right to praise her.


    The two pouches Shen Yijia gave him were stuffed to the brim. Inside were many paper bags that Yi Tong and the others found familiar.


    Song Jingchen gave each of them a bag and instructed them on how to use it.


    She cooperated with him and acted out the instructions.


    There were a total of five patrol teams, and they split up. Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were in charge of taking out the guards.


    Although there were only two people standing guard, they had to be taken out swiftly.


    This was because once someone collapsed from the drugs, they had to take care of the guards before they realized that something was wrong. This was to prevent them from releasing the signal flare.


    The few of them hid in the shadows that each team had to pass through. After a few breaths, more people fell one after another.


    One of the guards realized that something was wrong and immediately took out the signal flare from his pocket. However, before he could release it, a black shadow quickly flashed past.


    At the same time, there was a piercing sound in the air. An arrow flew straight at the other person¡¯s face.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    The person only had time to say two words before a small hand grabbed his neck. With a crack, the person died.


    As he fell, the last thing he saw was his companion with an arrow stuck in his forehead.


    The two of them died almost at the same time, but in different ways. It could be seen how fast Shen Yijia was.


    This happened in the blink of an eye. One Dot and the others thought that their eyes were playing tricks on them.


    When he looked at Shen Yijia again, there was no longer any contempt in his eyes. There was even a hint of admiration.


    Even Song Jingchen, who had already witnessed Shen Yijia¡¯s speed, was shocked.


    He glanced at One Dot and the others coldly, his warning obvious.


    He had been careless and forgotten about Shen Yijia¡¯s extraordinary skills.


    He took a few steps over and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. He took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped it clean for her. When he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, which looked like wanted him to praise her, he rubbed her head.


    1


    However, he decided to nag at her later.


    The few of them did not waste any time. One of them stayed outside to deal the finishing blow to anyone outside, while the others pushed the door open and walked in.


    When they saw the food that had yet to be unloaded, they were speechless.


    They had heard a lot about the watery porridge being distributed in the past few days. However, there was clearly food available here.


    They had already been in the city for a few days, but the food had yet to be distributed. The few of them were not stupid, so they understood immediately.


    All of them hated the two corrupt officials even more. Only the poor suffered in natural disasters, being taken advantage of by these greedy officials.


    ¡°Master, what should we do with these grains?¡± South Wind could not help but ask.


    He hoped to steal these grains and send them to the commoners.


    Song Jingchen could tell what he was thinking, but he said indifferently, ¡°Send it to Cao Dezhi¡¯s private residence!¡±


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that be returning it to them? In that case, why should we do anything unnecessary?¡± the Mahjong Brothers thought.


    Although they were puzzled, they did not dare to ask further.


    At this moment, they could not help but be glad that there was heavy snowfall. The rumbling sound of the cart¡¯s wheels was muffled by the snow.


    Seeing them push the grain out one cart after another, Shen Yijia wanted to help, but Song Jingchen stopped her. ¡°We should go back.¡±


    Staying up late was not good for her health. Today was an exception.


    Early the next morning, Hong Jianzhang opened his eyes and saw the beauty in his arms. He enjoyed that moment.


    A servant broke in without knocking. He said breathlessly, ¡°Master, something bad has happened.¡±


    This sudden situation frightened Hong Jianzhang. He was about to scold him when he heard the servant¡¯s words. His heart skipped a beat.


    He kicked the woman away and got out of bed. ¡°What happened?¡± he asked anxiously.


    ¡°The rations are all gonea€|¡± the servant replied fearfully.


    Hong Jianzhang¡¯s eyes widened. He ignored the fact that he was not dressed properly and walked out.


    When he returned to the residence, he saw the corpses neatly arranged in the courtyard. Hong Jianzhang staggered and almost fell. Fortunately, the servant behind him helped him.


    ¡°Bastard, who did this?¡± he roared.


    A guard stepped forward and reported, ¡°When I went to change shifts, I saw the corpses of these brothers. They were all killed with a single strike. There were no signs of a fight at the scene. I suspect that it was done by an acquaintance.¡±


    Hong Jianzhang kicked them. ¡°They¡¯re all trash.¡±


    After cursing, he asked again, ¡°What about the grains?¡±


    The guard lowered his head even more. ¡°There are traces of wheels in the courtyard. They must have been transported away through the back door.¡±


    Hearing that it was really gone, Hong Jianzhang fell back in anger, his head buzzing.


    ¡°Sir, this person was on duty at the back door last night.¡± A man who looked like a steward led an old woman over.


    The old woman fell to her knees in fear and hurriedly said, ¡°It has nothing to do with me, my lord. I was guarding the back door last night when I was suddenly knocked unconscious from behind. I don¡¯t know anything else!¡±


    Hong Jianzhang calmed himself down. The most important thing now was to find the food. He stared at the woman and asked, ¡°Do you remember what time you were knocked out?¡±


    The woman racked her brains for a moment and replied, ¡°Around midnight.¡±


    Hong Jianzhang waved his hand and summoned the servant who had accompanied him to the Drunken Red House. ¡°When did Cao Dezhi leave the brothel yesterday?¡±

 Chapter 187 - Raid

    ¡°Midnight.¡±


    Hearing this answer, Hong Jianzhang¡¯s eyes turned sinister. He said maliciously, ¡°Take these useless servants and beat them to death.¡±


    ¡°Sir, it has nothing to do with me!¡±


    ¡°Please have mercy, my lord¡­¡±


    The two of them kept kowtowing and begging for mercy, but Hong Jianzhang was unmoved.


    Then, he gritted his teeth and instructed the guard, ¡°Gather everyone now. We¡¯ll go to Cao Dezhi¡¯s residence and settle this score.¡±


    The group of people walked out of the door and bumped into Fan Mingyuan, who had finally found out about the imperial envoy¡¯s residence and specially came to interview him.


    ¡°Lord Hong, I have¡­¡± He cupped his hands and stepped forward.


    Hong Jianzhang did not even look at him. He waved his hand and summoned two people to restrain Fan Mingyuan. He led his men towards Cao Dezhi¡¯s private residence.


    On the other side, Cao Dezhi also received news that Hong Jianzhang had brought people to his private residence.


    He had already suspected that Hong Jianzhang had pretended to help Anyang County so that he could punish him.


    Lord Hong was afraid that he would hold a grudge against him for what happened back then and take revenge one day. Therefore, Lord Hong would probably try to frame him and kill him.


    Thinking about it this way, the causal links in this matter seemed to make sense.


    ¡°This is too much.¡± Cao Dezhi slammed the table and stood up. He immediately gathered his men and rushed over.


    However, he was still too late. When Cao Dezhi arrived at his own residence, he saw Hong Jianzhang coming out.


    Meanwhile, his men were tied up and thrown outside the residence.


    ¡°Lord Hong, what is the meaning of this?¡± Cao Dezhi took a step forward and stood in front of Hong Jianzhang with a fake smile.


    ¡°Are you asking me that right now? In fact, I want to ask about what you¡¯ve been up to. Who gave you the guts to kill my men and rob my food?¡±


    Previously, when someone wrote Hong Jianzhang to inform him that Cao Dezhi had secretly been selling grain at a high price, he did not believe it. He thought that someone was simply trying to sow discord. He did not expect this thief to dare to have designs on his grains.


    Cao Dezhi was stunned by Lord Hong¡¯s words. When he saw the guards behind Hong Jianzhang pushing the cart out of his residence, he suddenly reacted.


    ¡°Hong Jianzhang is not only unwilling to let me off, he¡¯s also trying to frame me for stealing food. Are you trying to force me into a corner?¡± Cao Dezhi thought.


    In that case¡­


    Cao Dezhi suddenly sneered. ¡°Guards, the imperial envoy has embezzled food and committed a crime. Now, the evidence is conclusive.


    ¡°For the sake of the people of Anyang County, I will detain this corrupt official today. I will report this to His Majesty in the following days.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, his people surrounded the people Hong Jianzhang brought with him.


    Hong Jianzhang glared at the arrogant person in front of him with red eyes. He did not expect him to be so bold.


    Although Cao Dezhi was only a county magistrate, Hong Jianzhang knew that he was currently in Cao Dezhi¡¯s territory.


    Since Cao Dezhi dared to do this, he definitely wouldn¡¯t let Hong Jianzhang return to the capital alive.


    It was said that even a powerful dragon could not suppress a snake on its home ground. However, he had no choice.


    With a wave of his hand, the two sides started fighting. The scene was chaotic.


    Hong Jianzhang didn¡¯t care about the food anymore. He wanted to escape with a small group of people protecting him.


    Cao Dezhi naturally would not let him off. He immediately chased after him with his men.


    Unexpectedly, after the two of them ran for a while, a group of refugees rushed over from all directions.


    ¡°Look, the lying officials are there. They have food but they won¡¯t give it to us. Kill them!¡±


    Someone in the crowd shouted.


    The victims of the disaster, who were already cold and hungry, remembered the pathetic bowls of porridge given by the government and the carts of food.


    In addition, someone fanned the flames. The angry refugees immediately swarmed over.


    All of them wanted to strike a blow at these corrupt officials.


    When Hong Jianzhang and Cao Dezhi saw this scene, a thought appeared in their minds. They had fallen into a trap!


    However, it was too late to react now. There were too many disaster victims, and they were furious.


    Not to mention the two of them, who lived a pampered life, even the guards beside them could not do anything.


    The Mahjong Brothers, who were among the victims, looked at each other and quietly approached the two of them. When they were not paying attention, they went straight for their vitals.


    By the time the victims reacted, the two of them had already fallen to the ground without a sound.


    The crowd fell silent. Their minds suddenly cleared up.


    Everyone let out panicked cries and scattered.


    When the two parties who were fighting just now arrived, other than the dozens of guards lying on the ground, bleeding and wailing, there were only two corpses left.


    Song Jingchen was about to put down his pen when he thought of something. He pondered for a moment and finally added one last sentence at the end of the letter.


    Shen Yijia leaned over and saw Fan Mingyuan¡¯s name at the end.


    After putting the letter into an envelope and sealing it, Song Jingchen gave a few instructions and entrusted the letter to One Dot.


    After this incident, they admired their master even more.


    ¡°Hubby, what did you write in those two letters?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were sparkling.


    He made the two officials fight each other. If the capital were to investigate, they would only come to the conclusion that the two had died in the riot.


    ¡°They¡¯re just guilty.¡± Song Jingchen sneered.


    It was an unexpected gain for him that Lord Hong had come as part of the disaster relief envoy.


    Back then, he had instructed that if anyone else came, there was no need to send out the two letters.


    At that time, as long as he confirmed that Cao Dezhi had stolen the food, the official in charge would deal with him for the sake of saving himself.


    As for Lord Hong.


    Thinking of this good-for-nothing official who lied in the royal court to testify about the crown prince¡¯s rebellion, Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes.


    Just like Grand Tutor Zhao, he pretended to be on the side of the crown prince, but he had another master in secret. This kind of person deserved to die.


    He had previously suspected that the masters behind these men were the same person. They stocked up on food and sold slaves. How could he not think deeply about this?


    And the only person who had the brains to do this without revealing anything was probably the person hiding behind the scenes.


    He had only sent the letter to test the waters, but it did not disappoint him. It seemed that it was as he had expected.


    As for the person behind this¡­


    Song Jingchen sneered, his gaze unfathomable.


    ¡°The snow has stopped.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said. ¡°Let¡¯s go out for a walk.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked out of the window. The golden sunlight shone through the thick clouds and onto the snow, adding some warmth to her heart.


    She nodded. ¡°Okay!¡±


    The riot in Anyang County caused the death of a second-grade official and the local county magistrate. This matter naturally caused a huge commotion in the royal court.


    Moreover, the Lizhou county magistrate filed a complaint against the Minister of Revenue for disregarding the lives of the commoners during the disaster relief. He also accused Lord Hong of protecting corrupt officials and accepting bribes.


    The crimes were clear, and no one dared to stand up for him. Unfortunately, as soon as the Minister of Revenue¡¯s residence learned of their master¡¯s death, the imperial guards raided their residence.


    Another group of local officials was implicated. For a moment, everyone in the imperial court was at risk. Everyone recalled the incident half a year ago when the crown prince was deposed.

 Chapter 188 - Internal Strife

    Within half a month, all the officials in the south were reshuffled. While the princes felt sorry for the loss of their supporters, they did not forget to send in their own people as replacements.


    No one thought of Song Jingchen at this moment.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk about it first. How did Shi Qingshan send the petition? Why didn¡¯t anyone stop him?¡± The white-robed man sat by the desk and lowered his head to write the Heart Cleansing Incantation to appease his anger.


    It had been a long time since anyone angered him this much.


    Shi Qingshan was the magistrate of Lizhou. He was an upright person and never participated in the disputes between parties.


    Cold sweat broke out on the foreheads of the two kneeling before him.


    The masked man in black said, ¡°It was our negligence. Who would have thought that since Shi Qingshan had bribed the palace maids around Emperor Chong¡¯an, he could sneak the petition in directly?¡±


    After saying that, the man in black paused and continued, ¡°I¡¯ve already dealt with that palace maid.¡±


    The man in white did not comment after hearing that. Without looking up, he asked indifferently, ¡°What about those two idiots? What happened?¡±


    The guard kneeling beside the man in black couldn¡¯t help but tremble. He replied in a trembling voice, ¡°Cao Dezhi sold food at a high price and even had designs on the food. When Lord Hong found out, the two of them got into a conflict on the streets¡­¡±


    The person in white sneered. ¡°Maybe the higher-ups would get fooled by that story. Do you think I¡¯m as stupid as that person?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    The man in white picked up a handkerchief and wiped his fingers carefully. He waved his hand to dismiss the two of them.


    The two of them heaved a sigh of relief and bowed to the man in white. They turned to leave.


    Unexpectedly, the two of them fell before they could react.


    At the back of their heads, two five-star darts were stuck firmly in place.


    ¡°Drag them away,¡± the man in white ordered with a disgusted glance.


    A man in black suddenly appeared and carried their corpses away.


    At this moment, a guard walked in with a messenger pigeon in his hand. He said respectfully, ¡°Young Master, there¡¯s a letter for you.¡±


    With that, he took down the letter and handed it to the man in white.


    After the man took it, the guard immediately left.


    After reading the contents, the white-robed man muttered, ¡°Could it be that those two idiots really fought among themselves? Is there really such a coincidence in the world?¡±


    Ever since County Magistrate Cao fell, the Imperial Court did not send anyone to Anyang County.


    The disaster relief matter was handled by the Lizhou magistrate, Shi Qingshan, and Fan Mingyuan, who was recommended by Shi Qingshan, was appointed as the county magistrate of Anyang County.


    It was strange. Once County Magistrate Cao died, the heavy snow stopped.


    The weather was getting warmer day by day, and Fan Mingyuan was present in Anyang County as an official who cared about the people.


    At least the victims would not starve to death.


    Merchants gradually emerged on the streets to do business.


    Fan Mingyuan gathered the corpses of the commoners who had died during the harsh winter and burned them before the snow completely melted.


    Fortunately, it was a cold day. If the weather had turned warmer, they would have to worry about a plague outbreak.


    Not only that, he also organized for the commoners to dig canals and pile up snow in them to prevent other accidents from happening after the snow melted.


    With this, the originally lifeless Anyang County became lively. Everyone felt hopeful for the future.


    They all praised County Magistrate Fan for being a good official.


    Rooster spat out a piece of grass in his mouth and complained, ¡°It was clearly our master who killed those two good-for-nothing officials, but this Fan guy got all the benefits.¡±


    South Wind glanced at him and reminded him, ¡°If you want Master to die, just say it. It won¡¯t be good if others know that Master interfered in this matter.¡±


    ¡°Hey, how could I not know that? I was just saying that it was unfair. Why do you always take it so seriously?¡±


    ¡°Both of you, stop talking. Don¡¯t forget that we still have business to attend to.¡± After lecturing them with a straight face, One Dot led the way to the underground arena.


    The villagers of Xiagou Village were also busy. The price of food in town had been suppressed, and coupled with government subsidies, this disaster was finally over.


    After the snow melted, they could start planting crops again.


    During this period of time, Song Tiegen brought the young people in the village to repair every house. Everyone¡¯s life seemed to be slowly getting back on track.


    Unexpectedly, the Saber Tyrant and the other bandits did not leave. Instead, they built a house at the foot of the mountain.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, look, there¡¯s fish.¡± Sister Huan pointed at the fish swimming slowly under a thin layer of ice and shouted excitedly.


    During this period of time, Song Jingchen asked Shen Yijia to push him out on his wheelchair for a walk every day.


    The weather was good today. The little rascals at home could not sit still anymore and came out to have fun.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were filled with eagerness. She glanced at Song Jingchen and didn¡¯t move.


    ¡°If you want to go, then go. Be careful,¡± Song Jingchen said softly, amused.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best. I¡¯ll roast fish for you later.¡± Shen Yijia ran towards Sister Huan.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows twitched. ¡°Actually, there¡¯s no need for you to do that.¡± he thought.


    The others stopped smiling when they heard this. They had a bad feeling about her cooking.


    They all looked at the culprit, Sister Huan.


    Sister Huan stuck out her tongue and said, ¡°Sister-in-law, you should take it home and let Mother make fish soup. We haven¡¯t had it in a long time.¡±


    These words made the others give her a thumbs up.


    Shen Yijia leaned against the riverbank and looked carefully. She found a rock and threw it at the ice. The thin layer of ice instantly cracked, and the cracks spread across the entire river before revealing the river¡¯s original appearance.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll catch a few more and bring the rest home.¡± Shen Yijia was completely focused on catching the fish, not knowing that the children behind her were trying to find a way out of this predicament.


    Sister Huan was thinking hard.


    It was unknown where these fish came from, but as soon as the ice broke, they rushed to the surface to take a breather.


    The few of them could only watch helplessly as Shen Yijia skewered the silly fish like candied hawthorn.


    The more fish she skewered, the heavier their hearts sank.


    At this rate, everyone would have to eat at least one grilled fish.


    The few of them were incredibly anxious.


    After Shen Yijia finished catching the fish, she instructed a few people to gather firewood, looking like she was about to show off her cooking skills.


    Song Jingchen found it funny and reminded her, ¡°The firewood is wet. How are you going to light it to grill the fish?¡±


    The eyes of the people who looked like they had just died instantly lit up. They felt relieved, and Shen Yijia¡¯s face fell.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before adding, ¡°We can go home and get some firewood.¡±


    2


    Sister Huan and the others were speechless.


    Due to the pressure from Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia¡¯s fish was divided up as soon as it was roasted. Even Shen Yijia didn¡¯t get a share.


    Shen Yijia was both happy that someone liked her cooking and felt aggrieved for her beautiful husband.


    She thought about roasting another fish and giving it to Song Jingchen alone.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched, and he quickly grabbed her hand. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I think they¡¯ll be full after eating.¡±


    After saying that, he was afraid that Shen Yijia would insist, so he put on a tired face. ¡°I¡¯ve been out for a long time. I¡¯m tired. Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll roast it for you next time.¡± Shen Yijia pouted reluctantly.


    ¡°Alright, that¡¯s great!¡± Song Jingchen suppressed his laughter and pulled Shen Yijia home.


    The people who were left behind looked at each other.


    ¡°Is Brother Song really your biological brother?¡± Bruiser asked Brother Hao and Sister Huan with a pale expression.


    It was fine if he wanted to get him and Lin Shao in trouble, but why did Song Jingchen put both his biological siblings in this predicament?


    The twins rolled their eyes at the same time.

 Chapter 189 - : An Xiu’er’s Scheme

    ¡°Brother Bruiser, you can use this handkerchief!¡± Lin Miaomiao handed Bruiser a handkerchief. She had always been the most attentive among the children.


    Although she often played with them, she was always quiet. Perhaps it was because she had been weak since she was young.


    Bruiser took the handkerchief and wiped his mouth. A clean white handkerchief was stained black, and his face instantly turned red.


    On the other hand, Shen Yijia was in a good mood. She carried the fish in one hand and pushed Song Jingchen home with the other. She met Auntie Tian and An Xiu¡¯er.


    ¡°Auntie Tian, Xiu¡¯er,¡± Shen Yijia greeted.


    ¡°Were you catching fish by the river? These fish are really fat,¡± Auntie Tian said with a smile.


    After the winter disaster passed, it meant that An Dong could soon marry a wife. This huge rock in her heart could be relieved, and she was in a good mood.


    When ordinary people heard this, they would definitely say ¡°Would you like a fish too? I¡¯ll send one over to your family.¡± After all, the two families were quite close.


    However, Shen Yijia raised her chin and said proudly, ¡°That¡¯s right. There were a lot of them by the river just now. Hurry up and you can catch some too.¡±


    Auntie Tian choked. Even though they had known each other for a long time, she was still speechless at Shen Yijia¡¯s straightforward words.


    She laughed dryly. ¡°We¡¯re not as capable as you. Well, it¡¯s cold outside. Go home quickly.¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled and pushed Song Jingchen away.


    An Xiu¡¯er lowered her head and didn¡¯t speak until Auntie Tian pulled her back.


    That night, the children started having diarrhea.


    Shen Yijia felt extremely guilty. She did not expect the fish she roasted to be so lethal. They only took a few bites each.


    At this moment, she couldn¡¯t help but be glad that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t get to eat it.


    Fortunately, it was not very serious. They would all be fine after a few visits to the toilet.


    In March, Bruiser¡¯s new house next door to the Song family¡¯s house was ready. He wanted to ask Third Uncle He to help with the construction.


    Unfortunately, Third Uncle He¡¯s daughter was getting married at the end of this month and they were too busy to visit.


    In the end, Widow Wang told the village chief about this matter and asked the villagers of Xiagou Village to work on the building.


    What every family lacked the most now was money, so they naturally agreed.


    The bridal escort team entered Xiagou Village.


    If it was in the past, the villagers would definitely have said something nasty. This time, it was different.


    Early in the morning, a few women came to help. They did not come empty-handed. They all brought a few eggs, some wild vegetables, and so on.


    It was not rare for wild vegetables to appear at this time. Eggs, on the other hand, were precious.


    Without even mentioning the harsh winter that had just passed, even in the past, only families with good relationships with him would give this to him.


    Auntie Tian was a little annoyed at these women, but it was a big day today, so Auntie Tian couldn¡¯t chase him out. She could only invite them in with a smile.


    When they were working together, these people stammered for a long time before speaking up. It turned out that they were here to apologize for what had happened in the past.


    Many people in the village thought that if the old Song family, especially Song Maolin, had not gone overboard when they returned from the capital, the Song family would not have left them in the lurch.


    Also, if not for the young lady from the Song family speaking up for them when the bandits came, who knew what would have happened?


    Since the villagers apologized, Father An¡¯s body had recovered, and her son was getting married, Auntie Tian didn¡¯t harp on the past. After all, she still had to live in the village for the rest of her life.


    When the villagers arrived with gifts, they politely invited them in. The An family was filled with joy.


    An Dong was wearing wedding robes today. His usually expressionless face also had a rare smile on it.


    Shen Yijia smacked her lips as she watched him lead the bride out of the bridal sedan while everyone teased him.


    She thought about the day of her own wedding.


    After searching through the original host¡¯s memories, she could not remember anything. The only thing she remembered was fear. Moreover, at that time, the soldiers had barged in and interrupted the wedding banquet.


    In fact, she and Song Jingchen weren¡¯t legitimately married.


    She stole a glance at Song Jingchen and realized that he was also looking at her.


    Song Jingchen clearly remembered what happened that day and reached out to squeeze Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    Her lips moved a few times, but she didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡°Brother Song, Sister Shen, you must be thirsty. I¡¯ve poured you a cup of tea.¡± An Xiu¡¯er walked over with a teapot in her hand.


    Shen Yijia was about to say no when a child suddenly rushed out of the crowd and bumped into An Xiu¡¯er.


    In order to stabilize herself, the teapot in An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s hand flew out in the direction of Song Jingchen¡¯s legs.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes and restrained himself from dodging. Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia blocked his path.


    Song Jingchen wanted to pull her away, but it was too late. He watched helplessly as she was drenched with hot tea.


    ¡°Ah!¡± An Xiu¡¯er screamed in fear. Her eyes instantly turned red. She took a few steps forward to support Shen Yijia. Seeing that her clothes were wet, she helplessly took out a handkerchief to wipe her clothes. ¡°Sister Shen, are you alright? I¡¯m sorry, I¡­¡±


    Her scream attracted everyone¡¯s attention. There was a moment of silence.


    Song Jingchen quickly took off his outer robe and put it on her. He glanced at An Xiu¡¯er coldly.


    Shen Yijia felt a little awkward under everyone¡¯s gazes. She dodged An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s hand and frowned. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll be fine after I go home and change.¡±


    She was wearing thick clothes and wouldn¡¯t be scalded, but the situation might have been different if the hot tea landed on Song Jingchen¡¯s legs.


    ¡°Then come to my house to change. We¡¯re about the same size¡­¡± An Xiu¡¯er said guiltily.


    ¡°No need. It¡¯s not far.¡±


    She didn¡¯t like to wear other people¡¯s clothes either. After saying that, Shen Yijia called Lin Shao to accompany Song Jingchen and went home.


    Auntie Tian glared at An Xiu¡¯er and quickly called everyone to their seats.


    An Xiu¡¯er clutched her handkerchief and looked at Song Jingchen with a red face. ¡°I really didn¡¯t do it on purpose. I¡¯ll go with Sister Shen.¡±


    Lin Shao frowned as he watched the two of them leave. ¡°Brother Song¡­¡±


    He felt that An Xiu¡¯er was strange.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him. His tone was as cold as ice, which showed how bad his mood was.


    Shen Yijia looked carefree, but she was more guarded than anyone else. Besides, she had to grow up eventually.


    ¡°Sister Shen, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and glanced at An Xiu¡¯er. She hesitated for a moment before refusing.


    An Xiu¡¯er didn¡¯t follow her into the house and waited in the courtyard. Ever since she fainted from seeing Furball, she rarely came to the Song family¡¯s residence. The only time she came was when she came to thank the Song family for saving her from the bandits.


    When Shen Yijia came out after changing, she stood there quietly, as if she had not moved since Shen Yijia entered.


    ¡°Sister Shen, are you alright?¡± An Xiu¡¯er asked when she saw her.


    Shen Yijia stared at her for a while and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of which, Sister Shen, you¡¯ve already saved our family several times.¡± An Xiu¡¯er took out a pouch and handed it over. ¡°You saved me from the bandits last time. Even my father¡¯s body was cured by your medicine. I don¡¯t know how to thank you. I¡¯m only good at needlework. Please accept this pouch.¡±

 Chapter 190 - : Song Jiayue’s Return

    The pouch was made of fine cotton with peony patterns embroidered on it. It was exquisite and small.


    It was worlds apart from the one Shen Yijia had given Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia liked it, so she did not refuse. She took it, thanked An Xiu¡¯er, and went back to the An family.


    With Furball guarding the house, there was no need to lock the door.


    ¡°Sister Shen.¡± An Xiu¡¯er asked curiously, ¡°The medicine you gave my father last time was quite effective. It must be very precious, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you treat Brother Song¡¯s legs?¡± An Xiu¡¯er said after holding it in for a long time.


    Shen Yijia looked at her as if she was an idiot. ¡°I only had one pill. If I gave it to my husband back then, what would have happened to your father?¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er choked.


    Shen Yijia continued, ¡°My husband isn¡¯t sick. How can he recover from eating a medicinal pill?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean¡ª¡±


    ¡°Why are you so concerned about my husband?¡± Shen Yijia interrupted her unhappily.


    ¡°I just thought that Brother Song was pitiful, so I asked. Sister Shen, don¡¯t misunderstand. There¡¯s nothing between Brother Song and me.¡± An Xiu¡¯er was stunned for a moment. She clearly didn¡¯t understand why Shen Yijia suddenly became like this. She had been quite easy to talk to in the past.


    Upon hearing the word ¡°misunderstanding¡±, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t call me Sister Shen. Call me Miss Song from now on.¡±


    Da Hua had told her that a woman who told you not to misunderstand meant that she wanted you to misunderstand.


    No wonder she felt that something was wrong with An Xiu¡¯er. It turned out that she had designs on her husband.


    With that, she threw the pouch into An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s arms.


    The banquet had already begun. The An family¡¯s banquet was considered a luxury for the villagers. There were plates full of meat and vegetables. Everyone was busy eating, so no one noticed the two of them.


    The next day, Auntie Tian brought her new daughter-in-law to the house.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen He Xinci. She was a very shy girl. When she smiled, there were two dimples on her face. Shen Yijia¡¯s first impression of her was not bad.


    Auntie Tian also smiled. It was obvious that she was very satisfied with her daughter-in-law.


    Apart from farming on their own land, the villagers of Xiagou Village also rented farmland.


    Especially after the harsh winter, everyone wanted to plant more crops for money.


    Today, a luxurious carriage stopped in front of the Song family¡¯s old residence.


    Ever since Song Maolin died, Song Dajiang and his wife did not come out much. If not for the fact that they could see Song Dalin from time to time, the villagers would have forgotten about this family.


    The arrival of the carriage made the silent old residence come alive, attracting the attention of many villagers who were working in the fields.


    The curtain of the carriage was lifted by a slender hand, and a girl dressed as a maidservant alighted.


    After getting out of the carriage, the maidservant looked at the Song family¡¯s courtyard in disdain. Then, she smiled obsequiously and reached into the carriage. ¡°Madam, I¡¯ll help you get out of the carriage.¡±


    As soon as she said that, the coachman immediately knelt down and propped himself up with his hands.


    A wealthy-looking young woman slowly alighted from the carriage with the help of a maidservant.


    The villagers working in the fields frowned when they saw this scene.


    The woman was wearing makeup and had gold hair pins around her head. Everyone found her familiar, but they couldn¡¯t remember who she was.


    Song Dalin, who heard the commotion, recognized her and said in disbelief, ¡°Song Jiayue, why have you become like this?¡±


    ¡°How dare you speak to our Madam like that!¡± Although Song Jiayue was only a concubine, she was beautiful and young.


    Old Master Liu doted on her in the Liu residence, and she didn¡¯t let her maidservants call her a concubine in private.


    After the maidservant finished reprimanding him, Song Jiayue pretended to be unhappy and said, ¡°Xing¡¯er, how can you say that? He¡¯s my big brother after all. Be polite.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve made a mistake.¡± Xing¡¯er bowed to Song Dalin perfunctorily. ¡°Uncle, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    The pretense between the two was obvious. Even a fool could tell. Song Dalin frowned and asked, ¡°Why are you back?¡±


    Ever since Song Jiayue got married, she had never returned. During the disaster, Song Dajiang had instructed him to go to the Liu residence once.


    Song Dalin braved the cold wind and snow, but he wasn¡¯t able to meet anyone from the Liu residence. When he returned, he was injured and almost died.


    ¡°I heard that Third Brother is gone. I couldn¡¯t come back during the disaster, so I specially came back to offer incense to him today,¡± Song Jiayue said with a smile.


    Seeing that she was dressed in red, Song Dalin believed her.


    Although Song Maolin¡¯s death made him heave a sigh of relief, there was no reason for anyone to step on him when he was dead. After all, they were biological brothers.


    He glanced at the courtyard and warned in a low voice, ¡°You¡¯d better not act rashly. Ever since Third Brother passed away, Mother has been seriously ill. Father hasn¡¯t been in good health recently. If anything happens to us, I¡¯ll deal with you¡­¡±


    Song Jiayue was impatient to hear this and interrupted him. ¡°Big Brother, it¡¯s fine if you¡¯re stupid, but don¡¯t think that I¡¯m the same as you!¡±


    Thinking back to when she was forced to marry a man older than her father to treat Song Maolin¡¯s injuries, she hated him to the core.


    Knowing that she couldn¡¯t escape, she forced Song Maolin to hold a big banquet. She wanted to embarrass Song Maolin and the entire Song family.


    However, it was still not enough to vent her anger. She did not expect the heavens to have eyes. The person who was doted on by her parents was gone.


    When she heard this news, Song Jiayue hid in her room and cried happy tears. She wanted to see her parents regret it.


    1


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s Sister-in-law. Come in quickly. Aunt has been talking about you these past few days.¡± Little Madam Liu suddenly walked out and interrupted the siblings.


    Little Madam Liu was chased back by her family. During the snow disaster, everyone¡¯s food was precious.


    Her family had three older brothers. If her parents wanted to take her in, they would have to see if their sisters-in-law agreed.


    After returning, Little Madam Liu had been criticized by Madam Liu a few times. Now, she only dared to keep her head down and work.


    Song Jiayue glanced at Little Madam Liu in disdain and avoided her hand.


    She placed her hand on Xing¡¯er¡¯s and turned to walk into the house.


    ¡°Oh my, did you see what that girl was wearing on her head? Isn¡¯t that too heavy for her neck?¡± Widow Wang¡¯s spittle flew as she spoke. She even clicked her tongue because she was so excited.


    ¡°As soon as she left, Song Dalin rushed to find the barefoot doctor in the village. I reckon Song Dajiang and his wife are furious.¡±


    ¡°Especially Madam Liu. Ever since her son Song Maolin passed away, I heard that she¡¯s been sick. Could it be that she¡¯s been angered by Song Jiayue?¡±


    No matter how ridiculous the incident at the old residence was, Shen Yijia no longer found it strange. Everyone just treated it as a story and continued working on their tasks while listening to the gossip.


    However, this did not affect Widow Wang¡¯s ability to gossip.


    ¡°Speaking of Madam Liu, she doted on Song Maolin and Song Jiayue the most.


    In the end, Madam Liu has grown old. Meanwhile, Song Maolin has died, and Song Jiayue became an ingrate. If I were her, I would have been angered to death.¡±

 Chapter 191 - Doing Business

    ¡°Mother, my dear mother. We should go back for lunch. Even if you¡¯re not hungry, would you be willing to starve your precious son to death? If that happens, no one would be left to look after you.¡±


    Bruiser couldn¡¯t take it anymore. His mother kept talking nonstop. Didn¡¯t she see Madam Li¡¯s awkward expression?


    Widow Wang was interrupted and looked at everyone¡¯s expressions.


    She smiled awkwardly and smacked Bruiser¡¯s head. She said angrily, ¡°Brat, why didn¡¯t you remind me earlier? Let¡¯s go. Just you wait, I¡¯ll starve you to death.¡±


    If Madam Li politely said that they could stay for dinner, Widow Wang would feel even more embarrassed.


    She had been freeloading at the Song family¡¯s residence for the entire winter. She wanted to give them money, but Madam Li would not accept it. She could only cook delicious food at home every few days and ask Bruiser to send it over.


    After lunch, Shen Yijia called the entire family together and prepared for a family meeting.


    Other families had work to do in the fields at this time. Even Widow Wang had rented an acre of land this year.


    None of the Song family members knew how to farm, but they couldn¡¯t just sit around and do nothing. They had to have a stable source of income.


    ¡°I want to open a shop.¡± Shen Yijia was the first to speak. ¡°But I haven¡¯t thought of what to sell. Do you have any good suggestions?¡±


    It was said that even three rascals could come up with better ideas than one Zhuge Liang, not to mention that there were more than three of them here.


    In her opinion, her beautiful husband alone was comparable to Zhuge Liang in terms of intelligence.


    However, Shen Yijia was wrong this time. The first to speak was Lin Shao.


    He blushed a little and said excitedly, ¡°Our family used to run a fragrance powder shop. I often hang around my father, so I know a little about it. Besides, I can make my own spices.¡±


    The Song family treated him and his sister as a family, and so did he. Previously, he had been wondering what he could do for the family.


    Now that he had the chance, he was naturally happy.


    After saying that, Lin Shao glanced at Song Jingchen. That time, he had caused something to happen to Shen Yijia.


    He didn¡¯t sleep for the entire night. Although he was reluctant, he still went to tell Song Jingchen about leaving with his sister the next day.


    Unexpectedly, Big Brother Song, who usually looked unreasonable, only said, ¡°Since she brought you back, she treats you as family. Just stay here with us and live peacefully.¡±


    At the time, these words sounded like he was only accommodating them because of Shen Yijia.


    However, Lin Shao also knew that if Brother Song didn¡¯t agree, Shen Yijia would definitely not go against him.


    All this time, the two of them had been respecting each other¡¯s wishes.


    Shen Yijia patted the back of Lin Shao¡¯s head and praised him generously. ¡°Good lord, this is a great idea. But can you make enough fragrance powder to sell in a shop?¡±


    Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t looking down on his abilities simply because he was young. Didn¡¯t she do many big things in her previous life when she was Lin Shao¡¯s age?


    She used to throw the mental hospital into chaos.


    ¡°You can ask the women in the village to help out.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°You can teach them simple things, but keep the formula in your hands.¡±


    He had seen the changes in the villagers of Xiagou Village. Moreover, their family could not remain isolated forever. If one day, he¡­


    Lin Shao didn¡¯t expect Brother Song to support him. His face turned red and he nodded hurriedly.


    ¡°I can also teach everyone what to do.¡± As he spoke, Lin Shao¡¯s eyes turned red. ¡°Without you, Miaomiao and I would have been killed long ago. I- I really treat you as my closest family.¡±


    He had long wanted to reveal the formula to them, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want it.


    He also knew that Big Brother Song was doing this for their own good. After all, that was something his parents wanted to protect with their lives. However, he felt that this created a barrier between them.


    Moreover, he believed that if his parents were still alive, they would definitely support him.


    Madam Li wanted to say that there was no need, but Song Jingchen glanced at Lin Shao and nodded.


    After discussing it, everyone started to work together.


    Madam Li called Widow Wang over and asked her to help find some hardworking and quiet women in the village who were willing to work with them.


    The women did not refuse. They could only do some light work in the fields or do housework at home.


    In the past, they didn¡¯t even dare to think about earning ten copper coins a day.


    After finding the workers, they had to find someone to build a small workshop. This time, they directly asked for the help of the villagers in Xiagou Village.


    For the first time, Song Tiegen did not charge them to use the land. It was rare that the villagers did not have any objections.


    This surprised Shen Yijia, who had already prepared the money.


    ¡°Miss Song, we¡¯re overjoyed that you¡¯re willing to help us again. How can we accept your money again?¡±


    ¡°It was our fault in the past. We¡¯ll apologize to you this time. Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡± After saying that, Song Tiegen looked a little flustered.


    Without waiting for Shen Yijia to speak, he brought his boys to measure the land.


    Many people were invited, and it took them five days to build it. Two large tiled buildings were built in the empty space behind the Song family¡¯s house.


    ¡°Grandaunt, can we help out?¡± The Saber Tyrant looked for Shen Yijia and offered to help.


    Although this group of men used to be good citizens, they had been bandits for a long time and were suddenly not used to living in a community with others.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and pointed at the Saber Tyrant. ¡°You¡¯re called the Saber Tyrant, right? Can you stop calling me Grandaunt?¡±


    The Saber Tyrant glanced at Shen Yijia, scratched his head, and corrected her. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve changed my name to Shen Dali.¡±


    He cleared his throat and continued. ¡°They said that it was easier to get married with a proper name. I don¡¯t know my surname either, so I might as well take your surname.¡±


    This was an eight-foot-tall man with a scar on his face, and yet he looked shy and embarrassed. Shen Yijia felt awkward no matter how she looked at him.


    When she heard him say that he had her surname, her eyelids twitched. This nephew of hers was doomed.


    She gritted her teeth. ¡°I said don¡¯t call me Grandaunt.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Grandaunt.¡±


    ¡°I suspect that this man is a fool.¡± she thought.


    She was curious again about how this person became the boss. He had even taken in more subordinates than she did.


    However, it was not unreasonable for him to be schemed against by his subordinates, seeing as he was a fool.


    Since she could not correct him, Shen Yijia stopped trying.


    After thinking about it, she realized that there was something they could do.


    It just so happened that flowers were needed to make spices. The Song family would need to buy flowers in the early stages of production.


    However, if they wanted to stabilize the business in the future, it would be safer to have their own flower field.


    Hence, Shen Dali led his group of brothers on a pioneering journey. It was all physical work. Shen Yijia even hired two women from the village to cook for them.


    When the time came, Lin Shao would teach them how to plant the flowers, and Shen Dali would be in charge of the flower fields.


    Now, the wasteland belonged to whoever developed it. They just had to go to the government office and stamp their names on it.


    Shen Yijia did not let them suffer too much. Apart from their daily salary, she also gave them 30% of the market price for flowers to buy flowers from them.

 Chapter 192 - Acquaintance

    Shen Yijia provided the capital and expertise, while Shen Dali and the others worked hard to provide flowers for the workshop.


    Of course, these were all proposed by Song Jingchen.


    It was originally an employment relationship, but it suddenly became a partnership. Shen Dali and the others worked even harder.


    It took less than a month to fill the flower fields. They even took turns guarding them.


    Lin Shao did not expect Shen Yijia to become so powerful. Their family used to have a small flower field that was left behind by their ancestors. It had long been abandoned.


    While he was worried that he was not up to the task, he was also excited. He secretly made up his mind to do a good job and not let Shen Yijia suffer a loss.


    Everything was ready except for one thing.


    Lin Shao and the others had recently picked many wildflowers from the mountains and started to create fragrant powders using the wildflowers.


    They also organized the children in the village to gather the wildflowers together, and paid them a small sum for a fixed amount of flowers.


    In the beginning, only several children helped them. Later on, the villagers saw that they could exchange these wildflowers for copper coins, many villagers took advantage of their break to pick some.


    Shen Yijia specially went up the mountain. She caught a few pheasants and drove the carriage to town.


    Song Jingchen went with her. Excluding the time he saved Shen Yijia, this was the first time Song Jingchen had come to town openly ever since he arrived at Xiagou Village.


    Shen Yijia stopped the carriage at the entrance of the Full Fortune Restaurant.


    When the waiter saw this familiar carriage, he was stunned for a moment before reacting. He quickly ran back to the shop and called for Shopkeeper Wang.


    At first, Shopkeeper Wang liked Shen Yijia¡¯s hunting skills. After interacting with her, he felt that this girl had a good character and sincerely treated her as a junior.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have specially asked the waiter to remind her of potential dangers.


    Soon, Shopkeeper Wang came out of the shop. He had lost a lot of weight in the past few months, and his large belly had become much smaller.


    Seeing Shen Yijia get out of the car, he leaned over happily. ¡°Miss Shen, why are you here today?¡±


    When County Magistrate Cao¡¯s son died, rumors spread throughout the town. In order to find the culprit, County Magistrate Cao even caused a commotion in the town.


    Later on, rumors spread that the culprit never got caught. Instead, not long after, the county magistrate¡¯s family collapsed.


    This made him much less worried about Shen Yijia. He was also happy that the corrupt officials had been punished.


    However, he did not know that Shen Yijia was behind these incidents. The person who took down the county magistrate¡¯s family was in fact in the carriage before his eyes.


    Shen Yijia greeted him and turned around to take the pheasant from the car and handed it to the waiter. ¡°This is for you!¡±


    After saying that, she placed the wheelchair on the ground and carried Song Jingchen down.


    Her beautiful husband¡¯s legs had recovered. She took advantage of any opportunity to hug him.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s movements were slow. It seemed to others that it took a lot of effort to carry a grown man, and that she was simply being careful.


    Seeing through her thoughts, Song Jingchen felt helpless and amused.


    After putting Song Jingchen in the wheelchair, Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and grinned at him.


    Shopkeeper Wang was stunned for a moment when he saw her actions. When he saw Song Jingchen¡¯s face clearly, he paused.


    ¡°Young Lady Shen, this is?¡±


    ¡°My husband.¡± Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about you from my wife. Thank you for looking out for her,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    It was obvious that the two had visited for a specific purpose. Shopkeeper Wang brought the two of them to the backyard.


    Shen Yijia did not know if it was her imagination, but she felt that there was something wrong with Shopkeeper Wang today. He seemed to be speaking carefully.


    Before he could ask, Shen Yijia had already explained her intentions.


    Well, this was the only person she knew well here. Who else could she ask for help?


    When he heard that they were looking for a shop, Shopkeeper Wang slapped his forehead and said with a smile, ¡°What a coincidence. My wife originally ran a ready-to-wear shop. However, she had to shut it down because of the recent disaster. If you think it¡¯s suitable, I¡¯ll transfer that place to you.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she did not think too much about it. After all, she had just taken a look and saw that many shops were closed.


    She felt that her luck was really good. The more she looked at Shopkeeper Wang, the more she liked him. She also wanted to settle down as soon as possible. ¡°Then get someone to bring me over to take a look.¡±


    Shopkeeper Wang did not waste her time and immediately asked the waiter to call Madam Du over.


    What made Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widen was that Madam Du had a slender figure. She had willow-shaped eyebrows and an oval face. She was wearing an autumn-colored peony dress and looked dignified, gentle, and beautiful.


    It didn¡¯t match Shopkeeper Wang at all.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Shopkeeper Wang, who was smiling when he saw his wife enter. She thought to herself that this person had hidden his skills well. He must be quite special to be able to find such a beautiful wife.


    Shopkeeper Wang was puzzled by her gaze. Madam Du smiled and said, ¡°This must be the Young Lady Shen that my husband often mentions. You¡¯re indeed an iconic figure.¡±


    As she spoke, she took a few steps over and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°My surname is Du. You can call me Madam Du.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, Shopkeeper Wang coughed dryly.


    Everyone present looked at him. Shopkeeper Wang smiled awkwardly and relayed Shen Yijia¡¯s words to Madam Du.


    Surprise flashed across Madam Du¡¯s face. She smiled and agreed, pulling Shen Yijia away.


    Shen Yijia naturally would not forget her beautiful husband and quickly looked at him. The latter smiled gently. ¡°Go with Madam Du. I¡¯ll wait for you here.¡±


    ¡°Then tell Shopkeeper Wang directly if you need anything. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡± Shen Yijia also felt that Song Jingchen would definitely be embarrassed if he had to join their conversation, so she didn¡¯t force him to follow.


    After the two of them left, Shopkeeper Wang stopped smiling and cupped his hands at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯ll bring Young Master Song to the study.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t refuse.


    The two of them entered the study. After the waiter served the tea and left, Shopkeeper Wang suddenly knelt down in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°Greetings, Eldest Young Master!¡±


    He kept his voice low, obviously trying to control something.


    Song Jingchen helped him up. Only then did Shopkeeper Wang turn his gaze to his legs and sob. ¡°Eldest Young Master, your legs¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯m already used to it.¡± Song Jingchen waved his hand and said indifferently.


    Shopkeeper Wang wiped his tears and grumbled, ¡°Previously, you sent Brother Yang to remind me not to contact you, so I could only stay here and worry.¡±


    He sighed again. ¡°Eldest Young Master, you¡¯ve suffered so much.¡±


    Could it really be called suffering? Song Jingchen thought of the figure who was busy working for his family and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m doing well. Have you seen Rooster and the others?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shopkeeper Wang looked uncomfortable when he mentioned those people.


    As soon as they arrived, they said that Song Jingchen had asked them to come.


    His first reaction was naturally to treat them as people with ill intentions. He almost got someone to tie them up.


    He could have verified their identities in secret. However, those people said that their master had given them their names. He couldn¡¯t believe it.


    Fortunately, Rooster had an idea. He took out the note Song Jingchen had written when he arranged a mission for them. Seeing the familiar handwriting, Shopkeeper Wang believed them.

 Chapter 193 - Snatching My Husband’s Belongings?

    Song Jingchen nodded and changed the topic. ¡°Previously, my grandfather and I suspected that someone in the imperial court was working with the Wu Kingdom, so we arranged for you to come here to investigate. I didn¡¯t expect you to be exposed.¡±


    Qingping Town was the only way from Great Xia to Wu Country. Shopkeeper Wang placed his gaze on the merchants coming and going, but he missed what was happening right under his nose.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault.¡± Shopkeeper Wang lowered his head in shame.


    Song Jingchen had no intention of blaming him. He only said, ¡°It has nothing to do with us now. It¡¯s a good thing that we didn¡¯t help the higher-ups remove this malignant tumor.¡±


    He wanted Great Xia to be in chaos. The more chaotic it was, the better.


    Shopkeeper Wang understood the meaning behind Song Jingchen¡¯s words. He lowered his eyes and didn¡¯t dare to answer. What could he have said anyway? That he didn¡¯t do a good job because he had anticipated this? Absolutely not.


    He naturally had to take revenge for the Old Master and the Duke.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was muddle-headed and incompetent. Although Great Xia looked prosperous on the surface, it was actually rotten to the core.


    Something had to be destroyed before one could rebuild it. That was Song Jingchen¡¯s intention.


    There were many such shops. Other than gathering information, they also provided funding for the private army and existed independently.


    If they did not take out their tokens as evidence, the individual shop owners would not know each other.


    Song Jingchen had just finished instructing when Madam Du returned with Shen Yijia.


    Looking at Shen Yijia again, Shopkeeper Wang sighed at the wonders of fate. He no longer dared to treat her as a junior.


    ¡°How is it? Are you satisfied?¡± Seeing the excitement in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes, Song Jingchen already had an idea, but he still wanted to hear her say it.


    Shen Yijia leaned over and held Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She nodded happily. ¡°I¡¯m satisfied. I¡¯m too satisfied. I don¡¯t even need to change it. I can directly start a business.¡±


    Seeing that she was happy, Song Jingchen was in a good mood.


    Due to Song Jingchen¡¯s reminder, Shopkeeper Wang didn¡¯t dare to offer a low price, but he didn¡¯t dare to set a price that was too high, either.


    In the end, Shen Yijia bought the shop for 180 taels of silver.


    Madam Du even tactfully said that if Shen Yijia did not have a suitable shopkeeper for the time being, she could help.


    Shen Yijia naturally had no reason to refuse. Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know how to manage a shop. She couldn¡¯t possibly ask Madam Li to do it, right?


    Madam Li also needed to take care of the workshop.


    The two of them left the Full Fortune Restaurant. Shen Yijia was about to carry Song Jingchen into the carriage.


    An unbelievable and surprised voice came from behind. ¡°Brother Chen!¡±


    The voice calling him Brother Chen sounded very affectionate.


    Shen Yijia stopped what she was doing and had goosebumps all over her body. She tilted her head and looked at Song Jingchen. She called out tentatively, ¡°Brother Chen?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. He wanted to say that the person was referring to someone else.


    A delicate girl had already run up to them. She ignored Shen Yijia and stared at Song Jingchen.


    Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that she was staring at a piece of meat.


    The girl was wearing a scarlet riding suit, and her black hair was held up by a jade hairpin.


    She looked at him for a long time before her eyes suddenly turned teary. She said aggrievedly, ¡°Brother Chen, I finally found you.¡±


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes and clenched her fists.


    She first glanced at Song Jingchen, who shook his head to indicate that he didn¡¯t know her.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem like someone who would lie about something like this.


    Shen Yijia took two steps forward and opened her hands to block Song Jingchen from the girl¡¯s view. She said angrily, ¡°Who are you? My husband said he doesn¡¯t know you.¡±


    The girl stopped sobbing and looked at the woman who had appeared out of nowhere with her big watery eyes. She looked confused.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Good lord, I¡¯ve been standing here for so long. You must only have eyes for your Brother Chen, right?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    That was her husband. Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and clenched her fists.


    She took two steps forward and prepared to kick this person away.


    Another breathless voice interrupted her. ¡°Please show mercy.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the man had already arrived in front of them. Perhaps because he had run too quickly, his face was slightly red. Even though he tried his best to restrain himself, Shen Yijia could still clearly hear his heavy breathing.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. Wasn¡¯t this Fan Mingyuan, the one she had thrown out of the Song family last time?


    Fan Mingyuan pulled Xiao Ruoshui behind him and stabilized his breathing. Then, he cupped his hands at Shen Yijia and introduced, ¡°This is General Xiao¡¯s beloved daughter, Xiao Ruoshui. She¡¯s an old friend of the Eldest Young Master. Please show mercy, Young Madam.¡±


    After saying that, he looked at Song Jingchen, hoping that he could say something.


    Shen Yijia had really left a deep impression on him. This was someone who could attack at the slightest disagreement.


    Song Jingchen frowned and searched his memory for a long time before remembering such a person. He said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s his old friend, not mine.¡±


    General Xiao and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence were both military families, and the two families had many dealings.


    On the other hand, Xiao Ruoshui often followed her father into the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence and loved to follow him and Fan Mingyuan around. However, only Fan Mingyuan would pay attention to her.


    Shen Yijia was in a better mood because of Song Jingchen¡¯s explanation, but the expressions of the two people opposite her froze.


    Xiao Ruoshui pushed Fan Mingyuan away and looked at Song Jingchen accusingly. ¡°Brother Chen, how can you say that? Do you know that I secretly ran out of the house because of you?¡±


    ¡°Do you know how many dangers I encountered along the way? I almost¡­ I almost didn¡¯t see you again.¡±


    Song Jingchen was afraid that Shen Yijia would misunderstand, so he glanced at Xiao Ruoshui and said impatiently, ¡°I missed the part where that¡¯s my problem.¡±


    ¡°But I did it for you.¡± Xiao Ruoshui stomped her feet in anger.


    She only repeated this sentence. She didn¡¯t seem to be surprised by Song Jingchen¡¯s attitude. It could be seen that Song Jingchen had also been rude to her in the past.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡± Song Jingchen ignored her and gently squeezed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s eyes widened. Her Brother Chen was tugging at a woman in public, and she did not want to believe what she was seeing. She blinked a few times.


    Then, she screamed. ¡°Ah, you bad woman, let go of my Brother Chen.¡±


    After saying that, she took out a soft whip from her waist and swung it at Shen Yijia. The tip of the whip was sharp and it tore through the air.


    Fan Mingyuan wanted to stop her, but it was too late. He could only watch as Xiao Ruoshui courted death.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and pushed Song Jingchen towards the door of the Full Fortune Restaurant. She spun around to avoid the whip and pulled out the soft whip from her waist.


    Xiao Ruoshui did not expect Shen Yijia to be so fast and dodge it. She gritted her teeth in anger and raised her hand to whip Shen Yijia again.


    This time, Shen Yijia did not dodge. She also swung her whip to block.


    The two soft whips collided in the air with a bang. When the surrounding pedestrians saw this scene, they avoided it.


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s arm went numb from the shock. She looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief and saw the woman smile at her provocatively.


    Xiao Ruoshui, who had been pampered since she was young, could not stand this. Without thinking, she waved her whip again.

 Chapter 194 - Explanation

    Ever since Shen Yijia obtained this soft whip, Song Jingchen had told her how to use it a few times, and she had waved it at the tree stump a few times.


    She had been suffering from having no one to practice with. Now that she had a rare opportunity, she naturally wouldn¡¯t let it end easily.


    Every time Xiao Ruoshui wanted to stop, Shen Yijia would deliberately make a face at her and provoke her. Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s entire arm had gone numb, but she still gritted her teeth and persisted.


    Song Jingchen could tell what Shen Yijia was thinking and rubbed his forehead helplessly.


    After a few moves, Shen Yijia realized that Xiao Ruoshui was not as skilled as she seemed. She was extremely bored.


    When Xiao Ruoshui swung her whip over, she turned it around and wrapped it tightly around Xiao Ruoshui.


    She easily pulled the exhausted Xiao Ruoshui in front of her. When she met Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s terrified eyes, Shen Yijia blinked and pulled hard, causing Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s whip to fall from her hand.


    However, this was not the end. Xiao Ruoshui staggered from the pull. Before she could stabilize herself, she felt a pain in her abdomen and was sent flying.


    The anxious Fan Mingyuan saw this scene and subconsciously ran over to catch her.


    Even so, Xiao Ruoshui cried from the pain.


    Shen Yijia retracted her foot and compared the two soft whips in her hand. She thought to herself that the one her husband gave her was better. She pursed her lips and threw Xiao Luoshui¡¯s soft whip to the ground in disdain.


    She turned around and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side. ¡°Have I improved?¡±


    Song Jingchen found it funny and nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia was happy. Without looking at the two people who had just gotten up, she picked up Song Jingchen and the chair and carried him into the carriage.


    Then, she sat on the shaft of the carriage and waved the horse whip gently. The carriage started to move.


    Fan Mingyuan quickly pulled Xiao Ruoshui away.


    Xiao Ruoshui jumped on the spot and accidentally tugged at her wound. She gritted her teeth in pain and pointed angrily in the direction where the carriage had left. ¡°So she¡¯s the woman Brother Chen married?¡±


    Was that really a woman? She could pick up a big man alone.


    Fan Mingyuan had already experienced Shen Yijia¡¯s strength, so he was not too surprised.


    When he heard how Xiao Ruoshui addressed Shen Yijia, he rubbed his forehead weakly. He knew Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s personality very well. She was a spoiled lady.


    After suffering at the hands of Young Madam today, she probably wouldn¡¯t be able to stop for a long time.


    ¡°Is she?¡± Xiao Ruoshui was very dissatisfied with Fan Mingyuan for not answering her. She pouted and asked again.


    Fan Mingyuan nodded in resignation. ¡°Yes, yes. Eldest Young Master is already married. I think you should¡­¡±


    He did not dare to say that it was best not to provoke Shen Yijia because he knew that if he said that, Xiao Ruoshui would never stop.


    ¡°Hmph, so what if he¡¯s married? As long as Brother Chen is willing, he can still divorce her¡­¡± At this point, Xiao Ruoshui lowered her head.


    1


    She had known Song Jingchen since she was young. This was the first time she had seen him treat a woman so gently.


    Fan Mingyuan could not bear to see her like this.


    He reached out to rub her head to comfort her like he did when she was young. However, he remembered that they were no longer children, so he retracted his hand.


    A bitter smile touched his lips.


    Shopkeeper Wang, who had witnessed the farce outside, was also a little dazed. He did not expect Young Madam to be so powerful.


    Suddenly thinking of something, he slapped his forehead and muttered in frustration, ¡°Young Lady Shen¡¯s husband is Eldest Young Master. Doesn¡¯t that mean that those ornaments were all made by Eldest Young Master?¡±


    Thinking of how he felt smug after selling it for fifty taels of silver, Shopkeeper Wang really wanted to slap himself.


    After returning home, Shen Yijia carried Song Jingchen out of the carriage and drove the carriage to the backyard.


    She unloaded the carriage and placed it in a shed that had been specially built for it. She also fed the horse some grass.


    It was not until Lin Shao and the other children came over to ask her how the search for the shop was going that Shen Yijia realized that she had been here for more than 15 minutes.


    She told them about the shop. She also told them that she planned to open for business within the next two days.


    She had no concept of choosing a date for opening a store. She felt that it was fine as long as everything was ready.


    When Lin Shao heard that the shop would open soon, he was overjoyed.


    ¡°Then, let¡¯s go make some more.¡± With that, Lin Shao and the others ran off.


    Due to the lack of materials, the workshop had yet to start construction. During this period of time, Madam Li had been the one leading the small operations.


    It was definitely impossible to pick only the wild flowers in the village. She had to get people to collect flowers everywhere tomorrow. As for the seedlings in the flower field, it was impossible to harvest them so soon.


    Shen Yijia was thinking about something and unknowingly arrived at the door.


    She paused. She couldn¡¯t tell how she felt, but she felt a little depressed. She didn¡¯t want to see Song Jingchen for the time being.


    She didn¡¯t understand his past, and Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know her past either. She was an anomaly. She transmigrated here by accident and became Song Jingchen¡¯s wife.


    Although Shen Yijia was usually heartless, she understood that she was different from others, be it her special physique or her living environment in her previous life.


    Shen Yijia was shocked by her sudden sentimentality. Before she could make her next move, the door was suddenly opened from the inside.


    Shen Yijia wanted to hide guiltily. Song Jingchen sat in the wheelchair and saw the expression on Shen Yijia¡¯s face. He sighed helplessly. ¡°Come in.¡±


    ¡°Oh!¡± Shen Yijia walked in meekly and lowered her head without saying anything.


    Song Jingchen closed the door and stood up from the wheelchair. He took a few steps to Shen Yijia and stopped a step away from her.


    Suddenly, a shadow fell in front of her. Shen Yijia looked up curiously.


    Song Jingchen reached out and rubbed her head. He said in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯ve never treated another woman like this.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia did not react for a moment.


    Song Jingchen took her hand again. ¡°I¡¯ve never held another woman¡¯s hand before.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Seeing her in a daze, Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled up and he took a deep breath.


    He placed his hands on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulders and slowly lowered his head to plant a kiss on the corner of her lips.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment, and her face turned red.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let her off. He reached out and gently rubbed the corner of Shen Yijia¡¯s lips with his thumb. He looked straight into her eyes and said hoarsely, ¡°I¡¯ve never kissed another woman.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought that he was calm, but he didn¡¯t know that his reddened earlobes had already betrayed him.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t dare to look Song Jingchen in the eye for a moment. She glanced around and accidentally discovered this.


    She suddenly stopped being nervous. She blinked and said in surprise, ¡°Hubby, your ears are so red!¡±


    1


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He was indeed thinking too much when he was worried that she would be unhappy. He was simply afraid that she would overthink, but it seemed that any further explanations would be unnecessary.

 Chapter 195 - Marriage

    The atmosphere was ruined by Shen Yijia¡¯s words. Song Jingchen coughed dryly and silently sat back in his wheelchair. He left the room and continued playing the role of a cripple.


    When there was no more movement behind her, Shen Yijia burst out laughing. She reached out and rubbed the corner of her mouth. She couldn¡¯t stop smiling.


    ¡°Oh my god¡­ My beautiful husband is so cute!¡± she thought.


    It was unknown how Fan Mingyuan persuaded her, but even when the fragrance powder shop opened, Shen Yijia did not see Xiao Ruoshui again.


    This disappointed Shen Yijia, who had made up her mind to beat up this woman who dared to covet her beautiful husband.


    The workshop was also up and running. An Dong was in charge of purchasing the flowers. For this reason, Shen Yijia specially provided an ox cart that he could use for transporting the flowers.


    He was also in charge of transporting the completed fragrance or incense powders to the shop, and was paid one tael of silver a month.


    It was worth mentioning that the incense powder boxes were all designed by Song Jingchen. He then brought them to the other carpenters in the village to create them.


    Shen Yijia became the boss of the shop. She handed over the authority to Madam Du and agreed that she would only settle the accounts once a month.


    Naturally, Song Jingchen still had to do this. After this, Shen Yijia had spent most of her money and only had less than 200 taels of silver left.


    Auntie Tian did not go to the workshop to work because she was anxious about An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s marriage. In the past, she only felt that her daughter was good-looking, so she rarely let her out.


    Now that Auntie wanted her to go out more often to find a husband, but she was unwilling to do so. Of course Auntie Tian would feel anxious.


    An Xiu¡¯er was only a few months younger than Shen Yijia. She had already reached adulthood. If she didn¡¯t get married soon, she would be too old for marriage.


    Auntie Tian¡¯s lips were covered in blisters. She took the opportunity to enter An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s room and sit down by her bed.


    She said earnestly, ¡°Xiu¡¯er, tell me the truth. Do you have someone you like?¡±


    Auntie Tian originally didn¡¯t want to ask. She wanted to pretend to be a fool, but now she had no choice.


    An Xiu¡¯er blushed and lowered her head.


    Not answering meant that she had tacitly agreed. Auntie Tian felt her forehead ache. She gritted her teeth and asked, ¡°Could it be the eldest son of the Song family next door?¡±


    Afraid that she would hear an answer she didn¡¯t want to hear, Auntie Tian pulled An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s hand and said earnestly, ¡°You have to find a man who can support the family. You can¡¯t find a man who¡¯s only good-looking but has a disability. At that time, won¡¯t you be the one suffering?¡±


    Auntie Tian felt that her hint was very obvious, but An Xiu¡¯er didn¡¯t seem to hear it. Her face turned pale and she looked at Auntie Tian in disbelief.


    Seeing her reaction, Auntie Tian was so angry that she wanted to slap her.


    Unexpectedly, An Xiu¡¯er shook her head in panic. ¡°Mother, how could you guess that it¡¯s him? I do like someone, but that person isn¡¯t Brother Song.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er was telling the truth this time. Even though she had fantasized about it for a while, she was hurt by Song Jingchen¡¯s merciless words.


    She was nervous because she did not expect her mother to be able to tell. Wouldn¡¯t that mean that her brother and father also knew?


    She did not dare to think about the consequences. Nothing had happened, but she felt as if she was being pointed at everywhere she went. Everyone called her a vixen who coveted someone else¡¯s husband.


    ¡°It¡¯s not him? Then who is it? Tell me so that I can get him to hire a matchmaker to propose marriage.¡± Auntie Tian finally heaved a sigh of relief and spoke much more gently.


    An Xiu¡¯er paused and lowered her head shyly. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t ask. You don¡¯t know him, and he¡¯s not from Anyang County. However, he promised me that he would definitely welcome me in.¡±


    Auntie Tian¡¯s heart skipped a beat and she was so angry that she almost died on the spot. She held her forehead and pointed at An Xiu¡¯er in disbelief. ¡°You, you weren¡¯t deceived, were you?¡±


    If An Xiu¡¯er had been tricked and given her body to someone before marriage, things would not turn out well.


    At the thought of this possibility, Auntie Tian¡¯s head buzzed.


    An Xiu¡¯er quickly shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    After saying that, she took out a red string from her neck, perhaps to convince herself or Auntie Tian. There was a jade pendant hanging on it. She showed the jade pendant to Auntie Tian. ¡°This is the token he gave me. I believe him.¡±


    When Auntie Tian saw the jade pendant, she knew that it was expensive. Her heart skipped a beat. If it was true, someone who could afford such a jade pendant would definitely not be bad.


    ¡°The weather is so good. I¡¯ll carry you out to bask in the sun!¡± Shen Yijia suggested carefully to Song Jingchen.


    Ever since Song Jingchen fled from her words that day, the interactions between the two of them had become more subtle. Song Jingchen always deliberately avoided her, and Shen Yijia patiently approached him.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need.¡± Song Jingchen refused directly.


    Shen Yijia pretended not to hear him. She reached out and picked him up from the wheelchair. She said seriously, ¡°Sunlight is good for your body. You should learn from Furball. Look how much it knows how to enjoy itself.¡±


    Song Jingchen gritted his teeth and compromised. ¡°Then I¡¯ll go out in the wheelchair.¡±


    His legs had clearly recovered. This girl knew that he could not expose himself, so she often did this on purpose.


    ¡°It¡¯s so tiring to sit in a wheelchair. Let me carry you out.¡±


    With that, Shen Yijia did not give him a chance to refuse and walked out.


    ¡°Little Furball, go and bring out a recliner.¡± Shen Yijia kicked Little Furball, who was lying on the ground after eating and drinking.


    Furball raised its eyelids and glanced at Shen Yijia. It met her threatening gaze and ran into the central room.


    Having done this many times, Furball was already familiar with it. It crawled under the recliner and stood up. The recliner was easily carried by it.


    Shen Yijia straightened the chair with her feet and placed Song Jingchen on it.


    She squatted down and stroked Furball¡¯s head. Out of habit, she said, ¡°You¡¯re so smart. I¡¯ll add more meat for you tonight.¡±


    Furball glanced at her and didn¡¯t believe a word she said. It nestled at Song Jingchen¡¯s feet and continued sleeping.


    The two of them felt like they were in the same boat.


    Song Jingchen lay on the recliner with one hand over his eyes, refusing to communicate with Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and felt that men cared too much about their reputation. She should give her beautiful husband a way out. She leaned over and apologized pitifully, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I won¡¯t say that your ears are red again. Even if I see it, I¡¯ll pretend that I didn¡¯t see it, okay?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. He had the urge to cover up Shen Yijia¡¯s lips.


    He was not angry at Shen Yijia. He just felt that she did not know anything yet. He was too anxious.


    ¡°Hubby!¡± Shen Yijia grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s arm and shook it. She thought of something and changed her tone. ¡°Brother Chen, don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He quickly covered Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth and gritted his teeth. ¡°I¡¯m not angry!¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked.


    Song Jingchen let go of her hand. Shen Yijia chuckled and asked, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Then kiss me again.¡± Shen Yijia leaned over.

 Chapter 196 - Challenging Jiajia

    Shen Yijia was thinking that she could not let him be traumatized by the kiss from before. Otherwise, he would not kiss her again.


    The best way to overcome the trauma was to face the ¡®difficulties¡¯.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The fact that he thought she didn¡¯t know anything¡­ It was indeed an illusion.


    Seeing that he did not move, Shen Yijia complained, ¡°You lied to me!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll kiss you.¡± As soon as she finished speaking, Shen Yijia leaned over and kissed him on the cheek.


    ¡°We¡¯re even now. Don¡¯t be embarrassed.¡±


    Song Jingchen blushed. What kind of logic was this?


    ¡°You guys¡­¡±


    A familiar tone sounded. Furball, Song Jingchen, and Shen Yijia looked at the courtyard door in unison and saw three people standing there.


    The red-faced Madam Li, the embarrassed Fan Mingyuan, and the angry Xiao Ruoshui.


    Shen Yijia ignored two of them. She stood up and smiled at Madam Li. ¡°Mother, why are you back?¡±


    Madam Li was usually in the workshop at this time.


    Madam Li¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°Zixiu and Ruoshui said that they were here to visit you. You guys chat. I still have something to do at the workshop.¡±


    After saying that, she glanced at Song Jingchen reproachfully, thinking to herself that Sister Jia was fooling around. He didn¡¯t stop her from doing this in broad daylight.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched, indicating that he was innocent.


    The few of them did not speak. After Madam Li left, Xiao Ruoshui glared at Shen Yijia angrily and walked towards her.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. He kissed her husband, not anyone else. Where did this anger come from?


    ¡°Little Furball!¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Furball immediately stood up and walked towards Xiao Ruoshui.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s pupils constricted, even though he believed that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t hurt others casually.


    He took a few steps forward and stood in front of the pale Xiao Ruoshui.


    Furball didn¡¯t do anything. It just circled around their feet.


    Occasionally, its tail would wag. Every time it touched Xiao Ruoshui, the latter would tremble.


    When Shen Yijia saw her terrified expression, she snorted.


    ¡°You-¡± Xiao Ruoshui bit her lower lip and said,¡± She looked at Song Jingchen pitifully. ¡°Brother Chen¡­¡±


    ¡°Tell me why you¡¯re here today. Go back after you¡¯re done,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted her without even looking at her.


    ¡°Song Jingchen.¡± Fan Mingyuan couldn¡¯t stand seeing Xiao Ruoshui travel from afar just to get treated like this. He said angrily, ¡°No matter what, we grew up together. Don¡¯t you care about our past relationship at all?¡±


    A mocking smile appeared on Song Jingchen¡¯s lips. Without waiting for him to speak, Xiao Ruoshui panicked. She didn¡¯t want Brother Yuan and Brother Chen to quarrel at all.


    He turned to look at Shen Yijia and pointed at her. ¡°I want to challenge you. If I win, leave Brother Chen and stop pestering him.¡±


    Her words were fierce, but she did not dare to move at all, since Furball was already crawling at her feet and staring at her.


    As soon as she said this, Fan Mingyuan thought to himself, ¡°This is bad.¡±


    Sure enough, before Shen Yijia could react, Song Jingchen¡¯s face turned cold.


    Fan Mingyuan, who knew him well, knew that he was really angry. He tugged at Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s sleeve and explained, ¡°Ruoshui said the wrong thing. Don¡¯t lower yourself to her level.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and looked at Xiao Ruoshui as if she was looking at an idiot. ¡°This is my husband. Why should I leave him?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was also frightened by Song Jingchen¡¯s expression, but she couldn¡¯t take it lying down. She pretended to be calm and said, ¡°Are you afraid?¡±


    ¡°Me? Afraid?¡± How could Shen Yijia withstand this provocation? However, she did not forget that she could not wager her marriage with her husband, even if she was confident that she would not lose.


    After some thought, he said, ¡°Let¡¯s change the bet. If I win, you¡¯re not allowed to look at my husband or call him Brother Chen in the future. If I lose, I¡¯ll promise you three things, but they can¡¯t be related to my husband.¡±


    Shen Yijia spoke matter-of-factly. When Xiao Ruoshui heard that she had accepted the challenge, she also felt that it was unrealistic for Shen Yijia to just leave. She had to get divorced first.


    She stole a glance at Song Jingchen. Seeing that he had no reaction to anyone other than Shen Yijia, she was a little angry.


    This double standard was unbearable.


    As long as she won, she would definitely humiliate this damn woman.


    Xiao Ruoshui was afraid that Shen Yijia would go back on her word, so she quickly nodded in agreement. Thinking about how good this woman was at using a whip, she said, ¡°To be fair, neither of us can use weapons.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard her words, her heart was filled with joy, but she put on a conflicted look. After a few seconds, she scratched her head and said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought that she had won this round, so she raised her chin proudly. ¡°Brother Chen, she agreed to this herself. You can¡¯t interfere with what I ask her to do after I win.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up at her. If not for the fact that Shen Yijia was having fun, he really wouldn¡¯t have let her have too much contact with this person.


    Shen Yijia was already silly enough. What if she became even more silly after interacting with Xiao Ruoshui?


    Fan Mingyuan was also speechless. After thinking about it, he didn¡¯t say anything in the end. He had learned from his mistakes. He hoped that they could teach Xiao Ruoshui a lesson this time.


    There was no need to find another location. The two of them stood facing each other in the middle of the courtyard.


    Compared to Shen Yijia¡¯s plain clothes, Xiao Ruoshui was wearing a fiery red riding outfit today. Wherever she stood, she gave off a valiant feeling.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go back on your word!¡± Xiao Ruoshui glared at Shen Yijia and reminded her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Was it a characteristic of the people here to say a few words before a fight?


    She couldn¡¯t be too unconventional, so she nodded solemnly. ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Shen Yijia continued to nod. ¡°Just don¡¯t cry when the time comes.¡±


    ¡°You-¡± Recalling how embarrassing it was for her to cry on the streets, she thought that Shen Yijia was mocking her. She was so angry that she clenched her fists and rushed forward.


    Shen Yijia was silent. ¡°Is that it?¡± she thought.


    Her body turned into a blur as she faced the attack.


    Fan Mingyuan walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side worriedly and asked softly, ¡°Young Madam won¡¯t kill her, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and said, ¡°It¡¯s already over.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was shocked. He turned around and saw that Xiao Ruoshui had been pressed to the ground by Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia sat down on Xiao Ruoshui and asked, ¡°Do you admit defeat?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was still in a daze. She had yet to make a move, so why was it over?


    Shen Yijia thought that she was unconvinced and exerted more force. Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth in pain and reacted at the same time.


    Realizing that she was being pressed to the ground in such a shameful manner, she blushed. ¡°I admit it. I admit it. I admit defeat.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and let go of her.

 Chapter 197 - Pregnant

    She thought that Xiao Ruoshui would definitely glare at her again, but she did not expect her opponent to stare at her. Her gaze seemed to be glowing.


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her? Is she a masochist?¡±


    Fan Mingyuan ran over and couldn¡¯t care less about keeping an appropriate distance. He held Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s hand and examined her carefully. He asked with concern, ¡°Are you injured?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui shook her head to show that she was fine. She turned to look at Shen Yijia and said with a red face, ¡°I lost. I admit defeat. I promise that I won¡¯t fight with you for your¡­ Brother Song in the future.¡±


    With that, she pulled Fan Mingyuan and was about to leave when she suddenly turned around. ¡°I¡¯m leaving. I¡¯ll come and play with you again tomorrow.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I helped my husband deal with this person, but did she fall for me instead?¡±


    1


    Fan Mingyuan was also puzzled by Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s sudden change. The two of them sat in the carriage.


    Fan Mingyuan looked worriedly at Xiao Ruoshui, who seemed to be in a good mood, and did not know where to start.


    Xiao Ruoshui picked up a piece of sugar cake and stuffed it into her mouth. As she ate, her shoulders suddenly slumped. She said hesitantly, ¡°I know that Brother Chen doesn¡¯t like me. I¡¯ve always known.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s heart ached. After a few moments of silence, he comforted her. ¡°You¡¯ll meet a man who truly likes you.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s very good.¡± Xiao Ruoshui interrupted him and took a deep breath. ¡°I used to think that no woman in the world was worthy of Brother Chen. In order to prevent Brother Chen from being ruined by others, I thought that I had to marry him one day.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was speechless.


    ¡°Brother Chen is carrying too much on his back. If that woman isn¡¯t capable, I definitely won¡¯t give Brother Chen to her,¡± Xiao Ruoshui muttered to herself. It was unknown if she was convincing herself or explaining something to Fan Mingyuan.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. I¡¯m relieved.¡± Although she said it lightly, tears streamed down her face uncontrollably.


    After all, she had liked Song Jingchen since she was young.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s heart ached. The Xiao Ruoshui he knew was unruly and stubborn. When had she ever been like this?


    In the past, Xiao Ruoshui had gone to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence to look for him. He knew that Xiao Ruoshui had gone there to see Song Jingchen.


    Since she liked Song Jingchen, he let her have her way every time, even though the gifts that Xiao Ruoshui gave Song Jingchen were clearly rejected by Song Jingchen.


    However, because he didn¡¯t want Xiao Ruoshui to be sad, he always told her that Song Jingchen had accepted it. Actually, he had been keeping those gifts until now.


    He regretted it now. If he hadn¡¯t been so misguided back then, this girl would have long given up because of Song Jingchen¡¯s cold reactions.


    Fan Mingyuan couldn¡¯t help but reach out and rub her head, silently comforting her.


    Xiao Ruoshui glanced at him and dove into Fan Mingyuan¡¯s arms. ¡°Brother Yuan, I feel so upset.¡±


    Back at the courtyard, Shen Yijia thought that Xiao Ruoshui was joking and did not take her words to heart.


    Not long after the family had breakfast, Auntie Tian came to their house with a smile on her face and a basket in her hand.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. She had heard from Madam Li that Auntie Tian had been frowning all day because of An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s marriage. Shen Yijia had seen her frowning a few times.


    ¡°Has your Xiu¡¯er¡¯s marriage been decided?¡± Madam Li clearly had the same thought as Shen Yijia.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she finished speaking, Auntie Tian¡¯s smile froze. She sighed. ¡°How could that be? She said she wanted to stay by our side and be filial for a few more years.¡±


    Even if the man An Xiu¡¯er mentioned really came to marry her, there was no way she could spread the news before the marriage happened. This was a matter that concerned the reputation of a woman.


    ¡°That¡¯s because the child is filial. Don¡¯t be anxious.¡± Madam Li smiled and comforted her. She glanced at the basket in her hand and asked, ¡°What¡¯s the joyous occasion today?¡±


    Auntie Tian felt bitter, but she couldn¡¯t say it out loud. It was only when Madam Li reminded her that she remembered why she was here that she smiled again. She placed the basket in her hand on the table and lifted the blue cloth. ¡°Our Xinci is pregnant. She specially sent these eggs to your family.¡±


    There were more than ten red eggs in the basket. This was a huge amount.


    When Madam Li heard this, she was also happy for her. ¡°This is a great thing. The two of them have only been married for two months, right? She¡¯s already pregnant?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. She¡¯s been feeling nauseous since dinner yesterday. I became suspicious after thinking about it, so I asked An Dong to call the doctor over to take a look.¡±


    ¡°My my, the heavens are blessing me. I was so happy that I couldn¡¯t sleep all night. I came early in the morning with a gift to report the good news.¡±


    Madam Li looked at the red egg with envy and her gaze involuntarily landed on Shen Yijia¡¯s stomach.


    The Great Xia Dynasty stipulated that if any elders in the family had passed away, their unmarried children could not marry for three years. Married couples in the family could not have sex for half a year.


    1


    Previously, aside from the mourning traditions, she was also worried that the couple did not have any feelings for each other. Moreover, Brother Chen¡¯s legs¡­ She was not in a hurry.


    However, Brother Chen¡¯s legs had recovered, and the two of them seemed to have a good relationship. Their mourning period was over. By this time, Sister Jia should have gotten pregnant.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled by her gaze. She reached out and rubbed her stomach. She did not eat much this morning.


    Song Jingchen coughed dryly. ¡°Mother, Jiajia and I will watch Sister Huan and the others practice martial arts so that they won¡¯t slack off.¡±


    Currently, there were women in the village working in the workshop. Lin Shao had also handed over the common formulas to Madam Li, so the children spent most of their time practicing martial arts.


    Shen Yijia still wanted to visit He Xinci. She had never seen a pregnant woman.


    Although Shen Yijia¡¯s impression of An Xiu¡¯er had soured after knowing that An Xiu¡¯er coveted her beautiful husband, Shen Yijia was not someone who would vent her anger on those who were unrelated to the matter.


    An Xiu¡¯er was An Xiu¡¯er, and the An family was the An family. He Xinci was a good person.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t give her a chance to refuse. He pulled her out of the house and into the backyard.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take a look next time. It¡¯s next door anyway.¡± she thought.


    Today, the kids were practicing archery with the small bows that Song Jingchen had specially made for them. Apart from Lin Miaomiao, the rest of them had become quite accurate after practicing for a few days.


    In Madam Li¡¯s words, Miaomiao was not suitable for martial arts. However, she followed along to strengthen her body.


    Shen Yijia deeply agreed with this. Lin Miaomiao learnt everything else quickly, but she was simply bad at learning martial arts. Her punches looked like dance moves.


    Sister Huan was the complete opposite of her. If not for the fact that she was a few years younger and didn¡¯t have enough strength, she would¡¯ve been stronger than Lin Shao and Bruiser.


    Shen Yijia adjusted their bows according to Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, and Xiao Ruoshui arrived.


    Seeing that they were practicing martial arts and that Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were teaching them together, she was extremely envious.


    When Shen Yijia saw her, her first reaction was to stand beside Song Jingchen and block her view of him.

 Chapter 198 - iajia Is Pregnant?

    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes and pouted indignantly. ¡°Didn¡¯t I say that I wouldn¡¯t snatch Brother Song from you? How can you not believe me?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes even more. How could she believe someone who couldn¡¯t walk properly whenever she saw her beautiful husband? Besides, were they close enough for her to visit?


    Why did this woman expect so much from her?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s jaw ached. ¡°Then why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say that I would come and play with you? Brother Yuan is busy with work and doesn¡¯t have time to accompany me. I don¡¯t have any other friends here. I¡¯m unfamiliar with this place. If I don¡¯t look for you, should I look for Brother Song instead?¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯d rather look for Brother Song, but you wouldn¡¯t be happy with that.¡± Xiao Ruoshui thought.


    As expected, Shen Yijia¡¯s expression changed. ¡°Fine, it¡¯s better that you look for me.¡±


    She had never thought that Xiao Ruoshui would suddenly become friends with her.


    Xiao Ruoshui knew that Shen Yijia would say that. A sly look flashed across her eyes.


    Regardless of whether Shen Yijia was happy or not, she took a few steps forward and held her hand. ¡°I want to practice martial arts too. Teach me.¡±


    She had thought about it for a long time after she returned yesterday, but she could not figure out how Shen Yijia had attacked.


    If Shen Yijia could teach her a few moves, she could become as powerful as Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was focused on not letting her cling to her beautiful husband, she didn¡¯t notice what Xiao Ruoshui was up to.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia¡¯s hand was held by Xiao Ruoshui, Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    Xiao Ruoshui inexplicably felt a chill down her spine. When she turned around, she saw Song Jingchen staring at her hand with dark eyes. She was so frightened that she immediately let go of Shen Yijia and hid her hands.


    Afterwards, she noticed that Song Jingchen¡¯s expression became much better.


    Xiao Ruoshui finally reacted. Her heart, which had already been shattered, was crushed into powder.


    She originally thought that Shen Yijia was the one being possessive over Brother Chen. She did not expect Brother Chen to be even more so. He was even wary of other girls holding Shen Yijia¡¯s hands.


    Brother Chen had never been like this in the past. No matter how much he disliked her, he didn¡¯t show it because of her brother. She felt like this was the first time she had known this person¡¯s thoughts.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks and realized that Xiao Ruoshui was looking back. Shen Yijia knew who she was looking at.


    She gritted her teeth and grabbed Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s collar to drag her to the front courtyard. ¡°Don¡¯t you want me to teach you? Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s spar.¡±


    She emphasized the word sparring.


    The bitterness in Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s heart instantly disappeared without a trace, leaving only a sigh in her heart. Who did she offend? She was clearly the one who was injured. Why did these two people still treat her like this?


    Shen Yijia guided her well before letting her go.


    Then, Xiao Ruoshui did not dare to visit again for a few days.


    Shen Yijia also visited He Xinci as she wished.


    ¡°Are there already children in your stomach?¡± Shen Yijia looked at He Xinci¡¯s flat stomach with a curious expression.


    He Xinci smiled happily and nodded, blushing.


    She was now the An family¡¯s precious treasure. Auntie Tian didn¡¯t even let her leave the house for the past few days.


    Even now, she only let her sit in the courtyard and bask in the sun. It could be seen how important the extra meat in her stomach was.


    Shen Yijia was famous for her violence. Auntie Tian saw that Shen Yijia was moving closer to He Xinci¡¯s stomach, reaching out to touch it.


    Auntie Tian¡¯s eyelids twitched. She hurriedly went over to separate the two of them and said with a smile, ¡°Jiajia, you can¡¯t touch Xinci¡¯s stomach. Especially in the first three months, when the pregnancy isn¡¯t stable yet. We can¡¯t be careless.¡±


    Shen Yijia awkwardly retracted her hand and scratched her head. ¡°Auntie Tian, I understand.¡±


    He Xinci also felt that Auntie Tian was too anxious and looked at Shen Yijia apologetically.


    After sitting for a while, Shen Yijia felt bored and bade farewell to them before going home.


    Seeing that she had returned with low spirits, Song Jingchen thought that she hadn¡¯t seen He Xinci, whom she had been thinking about. He comforted her, ¡°We¡¯re neighbors, you can always visit again next time.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, when can I have children?¡± Shen Yijia suddenly asked.


    Song Jingchen choked on his unfinished words and started coughing. ¡°Why are you suddenly asking this?¡±


    After Shen Yijia asked, her eyes lit up. That¡¯s right, why did she have to look at others? Couldn¡¯t she just get pregnant herself? When the time came, she could touch her stomach whenever she wanted.


    Shen Yijia was thinking about something and didn¡¯t hear Song Jingchen¡¯s question at all. She only looked straight at Song Jingchen with a burning gaze.


    Song Jingchen turned his head away from her gaze. ¡°Did Mother say something to you? You don¡¯t have to take it to heart. We can¡¯t rush into it.¡±


    Afraid that she would think too much, he added, ¡°When the time comes, it¡¯ll happen.¡±


    Shen Yijia pondered over Song Jingchen¡¯s words. She smacked her forehead and said, ¡°Why didn¡¯t I think of that? Look, An Dong and Xinci have just gotten married, but Xinci is already pregnant.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve been married for so long. Maybe I¡¯m pregnant now?¡±


    After saying that, she touched her stomach as if she knew everything.


    ¡°Is that how you interpreted it? Besides, we haven¡¯t consummated our marriage at all. How could you have a child?¡± he thought.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s actions, Song Jingchen was speechless. He was afraid that the more she thought about it, the more ridiculous it would become. In the end, he said firmly, ¡°No. There¡¯s nothing in your stomach.¡±


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes and glared at Song Jingchen. She said indignantly, ¡°How would you know that I¡¯m not pregnant? You¡¯re not me.¡±


    As she spoke, she patted her stomach hard and straightened it. ¡°I think there¡¯s something inside. Didn¡¯t Auntie Tian say that Xinci¡¯s stomach was checked by the doctor? I¡¯ll get him to examine me.¡±


    1


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes twitched. Of course he¡¯d know if she was pregnant or not.


    Shen Yijia was a straightforward person. After saying that, she stood up and was about to leave when Song Jingchen quickly stopped her.


    He held his forehead helplessly and was at a loss for words for a long time before saying with difficulty, ¡°No, it¡¯s impossible for you to get pregnant alone. Don¡¯t think too much about it.¡±


    Seeing how confident he was, Shen Yijia believed him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have to go and check the accounts with Shopkeeper Du tomorrow? Have you learned all the math I taught you?¡± Afraid that Shen Yijia would ask him another difficult question, Song Jingchen quickly changed the topic.


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she didn¡¯t care if she had a child or not. She looked at Song Jingchen with a bitter expression. ¡°Why don¡¯t you go with me tomorrow, just like before?¡±


    Song Jingchen had clearly helped her before, but for some reason, he suddenly wanted her to learn to do it on her own.


    Thus, Shen Yijia encountered something more troublesome than calligraphy practice. It was mathematics.

 Chapter 199 - Secretly Looking For A Doctor

    Seeing that her attention had been diverted, Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and pretended to be troubled. ¡°I can help, but you have to learn. What if I¡¯m not by your side one day?¡±


    ¡°How can that be? You¡¯ll definitely be by my side!¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly. She never thought that the two of them would separate one day.


    Song Jingchen paused and smiled. ¡°Alright!¡±


    It was unknown if he was saying that he would go with Shen Yijia tomorrow or that the two of them would not separate.


    As soon as Shen Yijia heard him agree, she grinned. Song Jingchen continued, ¡°But you still have to learn.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The next morning, Shen Yijia drove the carriage to the Fragrant Powder Pavilion in town with Song Jingchen.


    The Fragrant Powder Pavilion was named by Song Jingchen. It was only one alley away from the Full Fortune Restaurant.


    When Manager Du saw the two of them, she invited them into the accounting room.


    Under Manager Du¡¯s management, the Fragrant Powder Pavilion received nearly a hundred taels of silver every month.


    Naturally, it was because Lin Shao¡¯s fragrance powder formula was good.


    Although this was not as much as Shen Yijia¡¯s single trip to the underground arena, it was at least a stable source of income.


    Under Madam Li¡¯s suggestion, Shen Yijia would take out 20% of the profits every month to save for Lin Shao¡¯s future wife and dowry.


    Lin Shao did not know about this, so Madam Li reminded them not to reveal it to him.


    There were many little transactions that the shop had to do, so the accounting took a while.


    The rhythmic sound of abacus beads colliding could be heard in the accountant¡¯s room. Shen Yijia sat at the side and watched as she was hypnotized by the sound. She started dozing off.


    Song Jingchen found it funny and stopped what he was doing. He was about to let her rest on the soft couch when someone knocked on the door.


    Shen Yijia also woke up and reflexively sat up straight to look at the source of the sound.


    Every time she made a mistake when practicing calligraphy, Song Jingchen would knock on the door like this. She was traumatized.


    Song Jingchen frowned slightly and looked displeased with Rooster, who had just walked into the room.


    As soon as he entered, Rooster was stared at by the two of them.


    ¡°Did I come at a bad time?¡± he thought.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Rooster glanced at Shen Yijia and realized that Song Jingchen had no intention of hiding anything from her. He replied, ¡°Master, there have been suspicious people entering and leaving the arena recently. Should we make a move?¡±


    When Manager Feng died, Cao Dezhi arranged for another person to take over the arena. Later on, even Cao Dezhi was gone. That new owner was afraid that he would be implicated and wanted to escape with the silver.


    They were blocked by a few of the Mahjong Brothers. Before the officials came to investigate, they transferred all the fighting slaves inside to the dungeon.


    After being brainwashed for a long time, the slaves no longer had their own thoughts. They only listened to their masters¡¯ orders.


    After some ¡®teaching¡¯, their current master had become Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen frowned and thought for a moment before saying, ¡°Send them to the north.¡±


    After thinking for a while, he said, ¡°Let One Dot and Thirty Thousand go.¡±


    ¡°One Dot is the most rational one among us. It makes sense for him to go, but why would Song Jingchen send Thirty Thousand too? Because he could eat?¡± Rooster thought.


    1


    Unable to figure it out, Rooster stopped thinking about it. He had simply come to complete his mission. He glanced at Song Jingchen and hesitated.


    He was hoping that Song Jingchen would take the initiative to ask him to say something. However¡­


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, you can leave.¡±


    Rooster looked at his master in disbelief. He did not believe that his smart master could not tell that he had something to say.


    He hurriedly said, ¡°Yes, yes, I do have something to say. It¡¯s about Thirty Thousand. Can I-¡±


    From far away, Thirty Thousand suddenly sneezed. ¡°Is someone talking about me?¡± he thought.


    ¡°No.¡± Before Rooster could finish, Song Jingchen interrupted him coldly.


    ¡°As expected, you saw through it. You did it on purpose.¡± Rooster thought.


    On the way out, he glanced at Shen Yijia resentfully.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled. She knew that this person had peeked at her twice.


    However, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t have the time to pay attention to him for the time being. She leaned closer to Song Jingchen and asked curiously, ¡°Have they been in the arena recently?¡±


    No wonder she hadn¡¯t seen them in a long time. She had almost forgotten about these Mahjong Brothers.


    Song Jingchen shook his head and corrected, ¡°No, they were in the dungeon.¡±


    He didn¡¯t say anything about fighting slaves because he didn¡¯t want her to see his dark side.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia tactfully did not ask further.


    Unexpectedly, there was another knock on the door. This time, it was Manager Du. ¡°Boss, a girl came to the shop. She mentioned that she¡¯s your friend.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately guessed who it was. She rolled her eyes and said impatiently, ¡°I happen to want to go out for a walk. Hubby, stay here and settle the accounts. I¡¯ll come back to pick you up later.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, she ran away, seemingly worried that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t let her go.


    At first, Song Jingchen was a little jealous that Shen Yijia had thrown him aside to accompany someone else, but when he thought about how she didn¡¯t have anyone to talk to here, his heart ached.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that it was because of his heartache that he was in deep trouble for a long time.


    On the other hand, when Shen Yijia came outside, she saw Xiao Ruoshui, who was wearing a soft dress with hibiscus-colored gold silk. Unlike the previous few times, she wasn¡¯t wearing a riding outfit. Clearly, her outfit today was more compatible with her name.


    Without her domineering aura, she looked like a young lady from a wealthy family.


    ¡°Sister Shen.¡± Seeing Shen Yijia, Xiao Ruoshui greeted her warmly.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just call me a bad woman recently? Since when did you start calling me your sister?¡± she thought.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Is there something on my face?¡± Xiao Ruoshui was stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze. She reached out to touch her face and asked awkwardly.


    Shen Yijia blinked and smiled. ¡°No, how did you know I was here?¡±


    ¡°I went to your house to look for you. Auntie told me!¡±


    It was good that she was not being followed. Otherwise, she might not be able to control her hands again. Shen Yijia¡¯s smile became more genuine. ¡°You came at the right time. Come shopping with me.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s sudden enthusiasm. Was she being swayed?


    Shen Yijia led her to the pharmacy and asked Xiao Ruoshui to wait at the door. She came out less than 15 minutes later with a sullen expression.


    After a while, they started chatting over tea. ¡°What did you say?¡± Xiao Ruoshui spat out the tea in her mouth, choking her until tears came out.


    However, she was not in a hurry to clean up. She only looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief.


    This person said that she wanted to go shopping, but after coming out of the medicinal shop, she brought her to the teahouse.


    Shen Yijia was covered in water and despised Xiao Ruoshui. Thinking that this person might be able to help her, she endured it. ¡°Do you know what I need to do to get pregnant?¡±

 Chapter 200 - Sleep

    Just now, she went to the pharmacy to ask the doctor to examine her. The old doctor said that she was healthy.


    She asked the old doctor when she could get pregnant, but the doctor simply asked if she was messing with him and kicked her out. She was so angry.


    Xiao Ruoshui listened to her again before confirming that she was not hallucinating. Her face instantly turned red.


    Although Xiao Ruoshui was more daring than the other daughters of noble families, she was not so frank with her words. ¡°This person is indeed better than me in all aspects¡­¡± Xiao Ruoshui thought.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s serious expression, Xiao Ruoshui knew that she was not joking. She calmed herself down and stammered, ¡°Don¡¯t you know?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you spouting nonsense? Why would I ask you if I knew?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°But you and Brother Song have been married for so long. Have you never slept together?¡± Xiao Ruoshui found it unbelievable and lowered her voice.


    Shen Yijia immediately shook her head. ¡°We have. I¡¯ve been staying in the same room as my husband.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui covered her face. ¡°Could you be any less discreet?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia could not stand her hesitation. She slammed the table. ¡°Do you know or not? If you don¡¯t, I¡¯ll ask someone else.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui really wanted to kneel down in front of her. She quickly looked around. Indeed, many people were looking at them.


    She quickly pulled Shen Yijia back. ¡°I meant consummating the marriage. It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s¡­¡±


    She couldn¡¯t bring herself to say it. She gestured using her fingers and pouted her lips.


    Shen Yijia understood for the first time. She nodded and pointed at the corner of her mouth. ¡°My husband kissed me here. I even kissed his cheek.¡±


    They had kissed more than once.


    Xiao Ruoshui looked at Shen Yijia as if she was a monster. If anyone else said that, she would definitely think that they were mocking her. However, Shen Yijia looked serious, and she knew that it was not the case.


    This person really didn¡¯t know anything. Xiao Ruoshui suddenly remembered Shen Yijia¡¯s background.


    Xiao Ruoshui was the legitimate daughter of her family, and her mother was still alive. However, the two of them still suffered a lot because her father doted on his concubine.


    Then Shen Yijia would probably have had a harder time back then. It was normal for her to have no one to teach her these things.


    Shen Yijia did not know that Xiao Ruoshui had thought so much at this moment. She only realized that when she looked at her again, her gaze had changed.


    There was pity in it, as well as a gaze that Madam Li usually gave Sister Huan and the others.


    She shivered, picked up a peanut from the table, and flicked it at Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s forehead.


    Xiao Ruoshui came back to her senses and gritted her teeth as she glared at Shen Yijia. Indeed, this person did not need sympathy at all.


    ¡°Can kissing make you pregnant?¡± Shen Yijia did not believe it, because she wasn¡¯t pregnant.


    Xiao Ruoshui bit her lower lip and whispered into Shen Yijia¡¯s ear, ¡°I¡¯m talking about the consummation.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°What?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui held her forehead and rolled her eyes. She took out a piece of silver from her pouch and placed it on the table as payment. She waved at Shen Yijia. ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Song Jingchen finished checking the accounts and drank three cups of tea before Shen Yijia returned.


    Seeing her flushed face, Song Jingchen thought that she was tired. He poured a cup of tea and handed it over.


    Shen Yijia took it awkwardly and took a sip. She secretly glanced at Song Jingchen and lowered her head guiltily.


    Song Jingchen saw her actions and suddenly had a bad feeling.


    Even when the two of them returned home, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t do anything strange. This made Song Jingchen relax.


    However, Shen Yijia became strange. She would blush at the slightest things.


    Usually, when she carried him up and down the carriage, Shen Yijia would dawdle for a long time because she wanted to hug him. However, she was extraordinarily quick today.


    Song Jingchen thought that Shen Yijia had finally learnt to be more reserved. Although he wasn¡¯t used to it, he didn¡¯t ask further.


    With his understanding of Shen Yijia, this change would not last long.


    After dinner, the person who had waited for him before returning to the room every time went back early. Madam Li thought that the couple had quarreled and tried her best to educate Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen felt wronged, but he really didn¡¯t know what was wrong with Shen Yijia. In the end, Madam Li urged him to return to his room.


    When he entered the room, he saw that Shen Yijia had already laid down. Her entire body was wrapped in a blanket, and only her head was exposed. She was looking at him with sparkling eyes.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. The bad premonition came again. It was so strong that he had the urge to rush out of the door.


    1


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia pinched her throat and called out sweetly, ¡°It¡¯s time to sleep.¡±


    Her words sounded as sweet and soft as honeyed clouds.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s body stiffened. ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    Shen Yijia resisted the urge to roll her eyes and shook her head with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just want to sleep with my husband.¡±


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Song Jingchen turned his head away uncomfortably and sat down in front of the desk. ¡°Sleep first. I¡¯ll read for a while.¡±


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t sleep without you here.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s aggrieved voice sounded. Song Jingchen sighed helplessly.


    He tried to convince himself that Shen Yijia would not eat him up. He put down the book he had just picked up and got into bed.


    He tugged at the blanket, but he realized that Shen Yijia was pressing down on it.


    He looked at Shen Yijia curiously and saw her suddenly stand up and pounce on him.


    ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s consummate our marriage!¡±


    Song Jingchen subconsciously reached out to catch her. Only when he pulled her into his arms did he realize that something was wrong.


    ¡°She- she¡¯s actually naked¡­¡± he thought.


    He pushed her away as if he had been scalded. The first thing he saw was her fair shoulders.


    In a flash, Song Jingchen immediately closed his eyes and pulled the blanket over Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia, who was now wrapped in a cocoon, was speechless.


    She really didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to have such a big reaction. His attack was as fast as lightning, almost catching up to her speed, so she was stunned.


    After she reacted, she wanted to struggle and escape. Song Jingchen sensed her movements and flipped over, pressing her under him. He stared at Shen Yijia with a burning gaze.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She was a little frightened by his gaze. She lowered her head and shrank back, wanting to say something, but she realized that something had landed on her face.


    She looked up and her pupils dilated. She stammered, ¡°You- you¡¯re having a nosebleed.¡±


    1


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes helplessly. Who was to blame for this?


    ¡°Hubby, are you alright?¡± Shen Yijia was extremely worried.


    Song Jingchen got out of bed and casually wiped his face with a handkerchief. When he saw the clothes Shen Yijia had thrown aside, the scene from before immediately appeared in his mind. His head throbbed. He took a few steps forward and handed the clothes to Shen Yijia. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Put on your clothes quickly.¡±


    With that, he immediately turned his back to her.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia meekly took the clothes and put them on.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but imagine that scene again. He quickly covered his nose with a handkerchief and shook his head. He kept chanting the Heart Cleansing Incantation in his heart, wishing he could temporarily seal his hearing.

 Chapter 201 - Jiajia’s Schemes

    ¡°I¡¯m done,¡± Shen Yijia said guiltily. After saying that, she immediately hid under the blanket.


    Her beautiful husband was having a nosebleed because of her, so she didn¡¯t want to bother him any further.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. He felt the heat in his heart subside. Then, he casually threw the handkerchief aside and turned off the lights.


    He did not dare to get too close to Shen Yijia, so he slept on the edge of the bed.


    Seeing that he had indeed stopped having a nosebleed, Shen Yijia was relieved and closed her eyes to sleep.


    Soon, there was a slight snore. She subconsciously rolled towards Song Jingchen and hugged him with her hands and feet.


    Song Jingchen, who had just finished chanting the Heart Cleansing Incantation for the second time, was speechless.


    This heartless demon was here to conquer him, right?


    Shen Yijia had a good night¡¯s sleep. Poor Song Jingchen didn¡¯t sleep at all.


    Shen Yijia woke up and opened her eyes. She saw Song Jingchen looking at her without blinking.


    Shen Yijia was silent. How many times had she woken up and found her beautiful husband staring at her?


    ¡°I can¡¯t remember. Anyway, it¡¯s happened too often.¡± she thought.


    ¡°Morning!¡± Shen Yijia greeted.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before sighing. ¡°Don¡¯t interact with Xiao Ruoshui too much in the future. She¡¯ll lead you astray.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought that his words had made Shen Yijia forget about being pregnant, but he didn¡¯t expect her to remember it.


    The two of them had been together since yesterday, except for the time after Xiao Ruoshui came to look for her.


    He did not even need to think about who turned such an innocent and dense girl into someone who could say such words.


    Xiao Ruoshui could feel someone talking about her behind her back.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose guiltily and agreed meekly.


    Anyway, she had already brought the guidebook back. It was fine even if she did not ask Xiao Ruoshui for any more advice.


    Song Jingchen was still worried, so he specially wrote a letter and placed it in the goods sent by An Dong.


    When Madam Du checked the goods, she passed the letter to Shopkeeper Wang.


    In the end, this letter reached Fan Mingyuan.


    Fan Mingyuan looked at the simple words in the letter and felt a headache coming on. It read: Manage Xiao Ruoshui properly.


    Henceforth, he brought Xiao Ruoshui everywhere with him.


    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t listen to him obediently. However, Fan Mingyuan, who had always doted on her, threatened to write a letter to the capital and ask his father to send someone to capture her if she kept running around.


    What could she do? She could only follow.


    The two girls who had just established a friendship were temporarily separated.


    On the other hand, when Madam Li saw the bloody handkerchief while washing clothes, she was both angry and relieved.


    Her head was full of thoughts about carrying her eldest grandson. She was under the impression that the two of them had just consummated their marriage.


    The two of them were still young. Sooner or later, Madam Li would have grandchildren.


    A beautiful misunderstanding had occurred, but the two parties involved had no idea.


    Shen Yijia spent three days reading the book. She was full of confidence and began to take action.


    In order to prevent the same incident from happening again, Shen Yijia specially took out Lin Shao¡¯s medicine.


    Seeing that she had been well-behaved for a few days, Song Jingchen thought that she had already given up and returned to his room as usual. However, as soon as the door opened¡­ he was caught off guard.


    Before he fainted, he vaguely saw Shen Yijia¡¯s smug expression. Song Jingchen gritted his teeth in anger. When he woke up, he had to¡­


    ¡°Hubby? Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia patted the unconscious person in the wheelchair and heaved a sigh of relief.


    She pushed him into the room and closed the door.


    She quickly carried Song Jingchen to the bed and stripped him naked. She stuffed him under the blanket with a red face, then turned off the lights and lay down.


    After thinking about it, she thought of something.


    She gently turned Song Jingchen¡¯s body over and crawled into his arms. She pried open his arms and wrapped them around her.


    After doing all this, Shen Yijia raised her head and kissed Song Jingchen¡¯s face a few times before closing her eyes in satisfaction. Soon, she fell asleep.


    Song Jingchen woke up in the middle of the night and felt a soft ball in his arms. He instantly froze and didn¡¯t dare to move. At the same time, he remembered what had happened before he fainted.


    When he saw that he was also stripped naked, what else did he not understand? He felt helpless and amused.


    When Shen Yijia woke up the next day, Song Jingchen was already gone. The bed beside her was already cold. She looked down at herself.


    Good lord, she was dressed neatly and securely.


    Shen Yijia hammered the bedboard angrily.


    Things had stopped halfway. She didn¡¯t know if it counted.


    At the same time, she was very puzzled. The book said that the two of them would have a child if they slept together naked. It was clearly very simple, so why did Song Jingchen have such a big reaction?


    ¡°Is he too shy?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia did not know that Xiao Ruoshui was just an unmarried girl. The most explicit books she had seen were those with some minor details. The books Xiao Ruoshui bought for her were the same.


    One of them dared to teach, and the other dared to learn. In the end, it was Song Jingchen who suffered.


    Shen Yijia was afraid that Song Jingchen would settle scores with her later. She changed out of her pajamas and crawled out of the tiger hole in the back wall.


    She wanted to find Xiao Ruoshui.


    Coincidentally, Xiao Ruoshui promised that she wouldn¡¯t pester Song Jingchen. After coaxing and pestering him, Fan Mingyuan finally gave her a day of freedom.


    The two plastic sisters coincidentally met at the village entrance. Shen Yijia climbed into the carriage and asked the coachman to find a quiet place not far from Xiagou Village.


    ¡°Did you do it?¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly. ¡°Of course. I even drugged my husband.¡±


    ¡°You even drugged him?¡± Xiao Ruoshui looked at Shen Yijia with admiration. Why didn¡¯t she think of drugging Brother Chen in the past? Otherwise, Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t be here now.


    Now it was too late. She regretted it.


    ¡°Perhaps I¡¯m already pregnant with my husband¡¯s child. You should give up,¡± Shen Yijia warned.


    No, even if she didn¡¯t have a child, Xiao Ruoshui wouldn¡¯t have a chance. Her husband could only be hers.


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes. ¡°I know, I know.¡±


    Then, Xiao Ruoshui told her about her recent situation and said that she wouldn¡¯t be able to come and play with her for the time being. She reminded Shen Yijia not to forget about her.


    After enjoying their discussion, the carriage returned to the village entrance. Shen Yijia got out of the carriage in a good mood and rubbed her stomach.


    ¡°Sister Shen.¡±


    This sudden female voice made Shen Yijia stop in her tracks, and Xiao Ruoshui also lifted the curtain and stuck her head out.


    An Xiu¡¯er walked over with a gentle smile on her face.


    For a moment, Shen Yijia seemed to remember the first time she saw An Xiu¡¯er.


    Xiao Ruoshui frowned and asked Shen Yijia, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    She also called her Sister Shen.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Same as you.¡±


    All of them coveted her beautiful husband.


    Xiao Ruoshui choked and gritted her teeth. ¡°I¡¯m not fighting with you anymore.¡±


    The main reason was that she couldn¡¯t win. Not only could Shen Yijia fight, but she also knew how to drug people.

 Chapter 202 - Falling Asleep

    Shen Yijia said, ¡°It counts if you¡¯ve had those thoughts before.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes and jumped out of the car. She looked at An Xiu¡¯er arrogantly. ¡°I heard that you also dare to covet my Brother Song?¡±


    The smile on An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s face froze, and her face turned pale. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she quickly shook her head. ¡°I- I didn¡¯t. Sister Shen misunderstood me.¡±


    When Shen Yijia saw her like this, she suddenly felt very bored. An Xiu¡¯er was too weak. She spoke as if someone had bullied her. She was not like Xiao Ruoshui, who could at least fight and be beaten up by her.


    She turned around and urged Xiao Ruoshui, ¡°It¡¯s none of your business. Hurry up and leave.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought, ¡°Wow, you don¡¯t appreciate me at all.¡±


    Based on her years of experience in the inner residence, this white lotus in front of her was just like the concubine in her residence. She had no ability, but was self-righteous.


    She originally wanted to remind Shen Yijia, but then she thought about Shen Yijia¡¯s skills and felt that Shen Yijia was right. She seemed to have been nosy.


    She climbed back into the carriage and drove off.


    Shen Yijia did not look at An Xiu¡¯er and walked away.


    An Xiu¡¯er was left trembling in anger.


    When she returned home, Shen Yijia realized that she had gone overboard. Her beautiful husband was actually ignoring her!


    It was fine if he avoided her during the day, but he even moved to another room to sleep at night.


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she almost exploded on the spot. Did her husband not want her to have their child because he did not like her? Otherwise, why was he so angry? He would have accommodated her in everything else.


    She felt that she knew the truth. Thinking of this possibility, Shen Yijia felt terrible. She turned around and fell asleep in a daze.


    Then, she had a dream that her stomach grew bigger every day. Then, she gave birth to a son who looked exactly like Song Jingchen. The child always followed behind her and called her mother.


    She was overjoyed. Every day, she would bring him up trees to dig out bird nests and go into the river to catch fish. The little kid became the overlord of the village¡­


    However, the scene changed, and Song Jingchen¡¯s face suddenly appeared. Behind him was endless darkness, and he stood there looking at her with an aggrieved expression.


    It was as if she was complaining that she had forgotten about him after having a son. Then, he walked away without looking back.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached so much that she immediately woke up.


    It was still dark, and there was only some faint moonlight outside. Thinking of her dream, Shen Yijia quickly got out of bed to look for Song Jingchen.


    As soon as she opened the door, he saw a person sitting in the corridor. Hearing the commotion, the person turned around.


    Their eyes met. Song Jingchen moved his lips and was about to speak when Shen Yijia pounced into his arms.


    She said gloomily, ¡°I don¡¯t want children anymore. I just want you.¡±


    If she had to choose between the two, she would choose her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen was stunned and his heart ached. After a long time, he said, ¡°I¡¯m not angry. I just want to give you a complete wedding banquet. I want our child to have no worries after he¡¯s born.¡±


    He was even more afraid of exposing his weakness to those people.


    Knowing that she had misunderstood, the last knot in Shen Yijia¡¯s heart disappeared.


    At the same time, she began to reflect in her heart. Her husband had yet to take revenge, and her enemies were eyeing her covetously. However, she kept thinking about eating him up. She really shouldn¡¯t have done that.


    She was indeed very powerful, but she had still been captured by someone the last time. If their child was harmed by someone without noticing, she would cry.


    Shen Yijia got up from Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and said guiltily, ¡°But we already¡­¡±


    Now that she thought about it, Shen Yijia felt embarrassed.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. He was amused by her behavior and deliberately teased her. ¡°What happened last night?¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡­¡± Shen Yijia closed her eyes and gritted her teeth.¡± We¡¯ve already done half of it. What if I already have a child? ¡±


    Song Jingchen started laughing. He really couldn¡¯t hold it in. She dared to drug him without even knowing what came after. If she used the same methods, he would probably never have a descendant in his life.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen unhappily, suspecting that he was mocking her.


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and sighed softly. Suddenly, he pulled Shen Yijia into his arms and kissed her lips.


    The night was perfect. The moonlight elongated their overlapping figures, forming an ink painting on the ground.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Then, a hand covered her eyes.


    She could only feel the touch of his lips. They were soft, moist, and delicious!


    The fifth day of the fifth month was the Dragon Boat Festival. Madam Li brought her family to wrap the dumplings a day in advance and sent some to the few families she was familiar with. She also hung some wormwood at the entrance of the courtyard.


    The workshop employees were on leave. Shen Yijia even went up the mountain to carry a wild boar back and gave every woman working in the workshop a piece of meat. Other than some meat left at home, most of it was given to Shen Dali.


    On the day of the Dragon Boat Festival, the villagers of Xiagou Village also brought gifts to the Song family. Some carried the vegetables they had planted, or mushrooms picked from the mountains. Those who were slightly richer gave snacks and brown sugar.


    It was rare for the Song family to be so lively. Madam Li spent the entire morning receiving them.


    They could not believe that these people had been mocking them half a year ago.


    There was a lantern festival in Anyang County today. Xiao Ruoshui was afraid that Shen Yijia did not know, so she came to inform her a few days in advance.


    This year¡¯s Lantern Festival was even more lively than previous years. Because they had just experienced a natural disaster, everyone wanted to cleanse their bad luck.


    Even if Xiao Ruoshui didn¡¯t say it, with Widow Wang around, Shen Yijia would know.


    Shen Yijia naturally wouldn¡¯t miss anything fun. After lunch, the family prepared to set off for the county.


    One carriage was not enough, so Shen Yijia specially went to the town to rent one in advance. At the appointed time, the coachman rushed over.


    Widow Wang and her son went with them.


    There were too many people in the car, and the lantern festival wouldn¡¯t start until night. They didn¡¯t rush for the time, and the sun was already setting when they arrived at Anyang County.


    As soon as the carriage entered the city gate, Shen Yijia saw Xiao Ruoshui standing there looking up expectantly. The latter also saw her and stood on tiptoe to wave at her.


    Shen Yijia drove the carriage to Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s side and stopped. There were a lot of people in the city today, so it was not appropriate for the carriage to stop at the entrance for too long. Xiao Ruoshui climbed into the carriage and brought the Song family to the largest restaurant in Anyang County.


    Vast Gathering Pavilion.

 Chapter 203 - Teasing Her Husband

    Behind the Vast Gathering Pavilion was a large river. Many people went there to light the river lamps.


    ¡°I knew that there would be a lot of people today, so I booked a private room for you in advance. If you¡¯re tired from shopping, you can come back here to rest. It¡¯s also very good to watch the night scenery from above.¡± As Xiao Ruoshui spoke, she was about to lead them upstairs when she remembered that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were injured.


    She paused. She wanted to ask them whether they would prefer a table in the hall instead.


    Shen Yijia had already picked up Song Jingchen and his wheelchair.


    1


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    After dinner at the restaurant, lanterns were hung outside.


    Looking out of the window, the assortment of lanterns shone like a fire dragon illuminating day and night. The streets were even more crowded.


    Sister Huan and the others could not sit still anymore and wanted to go down and play.


    Coincidentally, Fan Mingyuan, who had finished his work, also came over. He seemed to not know how to face Song Jingchen and only nodded slightly in greeting.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Her first impression of this person was not good. Even after she saw him a few times, her impression did not change.


    ¡°Hubby, shall we go down?¡± Shen Yijia asked for Song Jingchen¡¯s opinion.


    Song Jingchen shook his head and said, ¡°Take them to play first. I¡¯ll go later.¡±


    There were too many of them. If he followed them in a wheelchair, Shen Yijia would definitely watch over him. Not only would she not be able to take care of the kids, but she would also not be able to enjoy herself.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and pouted. ¡°No, how can I leave you here alone?¡±


    She wanted to walk around the lantern festival with her beautiful husband!


    Madam Li knew her son very well and immediately added, ¡°Let Jiajia accompany you. Sister Wang and I will bring the kids along.¡±


    It was easier for one person to fall behind and get lost if they were huddled together.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Big Brother. Have you forgotten that we have secret tools on us? Don¡¯t worry and spend time alone with Sister-in-law.¡± Sister Huan leaned over and blinked at Shen Yijia.


    His mother had said that as long as her eldest brother and sister-in-law had a good relationship, her sister-in-law would give birth to a nephew for the family soon.


    In the end, Song Jingchen agreed to go with Shen Yijia.


    Xiao Ruoshui watched as Shen Yijia happily pushed Song Jingchen away. She cursed Shen Yijia for forgetting her friends. To think that she had waited at the city gate for so long, but ended up getting left behind. Was Shen Yijia still afraid that she would look at Brother Chen?


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t she remember my promise? Does she not trust me? Hmph!¡± Xiao Ruoshui thought.


    ¡°Hey, my big brother only has eyes for my sister-in-law. Other girls can¡¯t catch his eye.¡± Seeing that Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face was puffed up with anger, Sister Huan walked over like a little adult and patted her hand. ¡°Sister Ruoshui, why don¡¯t you come with us?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    Even Sister Huan didn¡¯t trust her anymore? Where was the basic trust between people?


    1


    There were too many people on the street. Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen along and walked slowly. Everything she saw was new to her.


    ¡°Hubby, look at that rabbit lantern. It¡¯s so cute!¡±


    ¡°Wow, look, that person can breathe fire!¡±


    Shen Yijia kept pointing things out to Song Jingchen.


    However, she didn¡¯t stop to admire the view. She simply took one look and continued onwards.


    Many people would look at the two of them strangely.


    In the past, Shen Yijia would definitely wonder if Song Jingchen felt upset about it. But now that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered, she naturally didn¡¯t have to worry.


    When others looked at her, she raised her chin and glared back.


    Song Jingchen found it funny.


    When they reached an arched bridge, the road ahead was completely blocked by the crowd.


    Shen Yijia originally thought about going somewhere else, but she heard someone mention that someone was giving away masks for free.


    There was no need for silver. Her eyes lit up and she changed her mind.


    She pushed Song Jingchen out of the crowd and stopped in front of a stall. ¡°Hubby, wait for me here. I¡¯ll come back after I get the masks.¡±


    ¡°If you want one, you can just buy one.¡± Song Jingchen really couldn¡¯t understand why Shen Yijia had to squeeze in the crowd when there were merchants selling masks beside her.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t have to spend money to buy something that¡¯s free. Isn¡¯t that something only a fool would do?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. He suspected that this fool was referring to him.


    After saying that, Shen Yijia realized that she had said something wrong. She scratched her head and added, ¡°Hubby, of course you¡¯re not a fool.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought, ¡°What if I don¡¯t let you go?¡±


    ¡°Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Shen Yijia grinned.


    After all, she was a businessman. Shen Yijia was worried that the boss of the stall would chase Song Jingchen away, so she ordered a bowl of dumplings and squeezed into the crowd again.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was drowned in the crowd in the blink of an eye and could no longer be seen, Song Jingchen panicked for no reason.


    He almost stood up to look for her. He didn¡¯t even hear the stall owner ask him if he wanted to add onions to the stew.


    The stall was set up by an old couple. Seeing that he was staring at the crowd without blinking, the two of them understood everything. They looked at each other and smiled.


    They knew that he was definitely not in the mood to eat now, so they were not in a hurry to cook his portion.


    Just as Song Jingchen was about to reach his limit, he suddenly felt someone approaching from behind. His eyes turned sharp and he was about to attack.


    Unexpectedly, the person behind him was faster. She grabbed his wrist and whispered in his ear with a smile, ¡°Guess who I am?¡±


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. He turned around and saw a foxy face in front of him. He chuckled and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand to pull her into his arms. ¡°Vixen.¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly held her fox mask and muttered unhappily, ¡°I¡¯m clearly a fox fairy.¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re a fairy,¡± Song Jingchen echoed.


    Only then was Shen Yijia happy. She reached out and patted Song Jingchen¡¯s back.


    ¡°The two of you are so close, but you have to eat this stew while it¡¯s hot. It won¡¯t be good if it¡¯s cold,¡± the old woman teased as she placed a bowl of stew in front of the two of them.


    Song Jingchen reacted and realized that everyone was looking at them. He quickly let go of Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia sat opposite him meekly. She picked up a spoon, scooped up a wonton, and blew on it before putting it into her mouth.


    Her eyes immediately lit up. Without swallowing it, she praised, ¡°Granny, your dumplings are really delicious.¡±


    The old woman beamed with joy at the praise. She glanced at the old man who was entertaining other guests and said in a low voice, ¡°Otherwise, how could I have relied on this skill to catch my husband back then?


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at his appearance now. When he was young, he was the most handsome man around.¡±


    As she spoke, the old woman glanced at Song Jingchen and clicked her tongue. ¡°He¡¯s a little like this one. He¡¯s just as handsome.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard that he was as handsome as her husband, she stuck her head out and saw an old man with dark skin and a wrinkled face.


    After reading it, she looked at Song Jingchen and couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He took the spoon from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, scooped up a dumpling, and stuffed it into her mouth.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    It was the old lady who said that he looked like that person, not her.

 Chapter 204 - The Two of Them Got Lost

    ¡°Old woman, what are you talking about? Hurry up and cook two more bowls of dumplings.¡± The old man shouted.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be right there,¡± the old woman replied. However, she did not go over immediately. Instead, she went up to Shen Yijia and said, ¡°Young lady, let me tell you, if you want to capture a man¡¯s heart, you have to capture his stomach first.¡±


    ¡°If he gets used to your cooking, I guarantee that he won¡¯t be able to leave you in the future. I¡¯ve been through it¡­¡±


    1


    With that, the old woman went to work.


    Song Jingchen heard her words and was speechless when he thought of Shen Yijia¡¯s culinary skills.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughtful expression, his heart skipped a beat. He quietly fed her and said, ¡°You don¡¯t need to know how to cook. Mother is at home. If Mother isn¡¯t around, I¡¯ll cook for you.¡±


    He had never cooked before, but in the past, he often roasted meat to fill his stomach. The taste was not bad.


    The stall owner mentioned that if you captured someone¡¯s stomach, they wouldn¡¯t be able to leave you. He could try.


    Shen Yijia still didn¡¯t know that Song Jingchen had embarked on a path of feeding her.


    After hearing his words, she didn¡¯t notice anything wrong. However, she felt a sweet sensation in her heart. She swallowed the wonton stew in her mouth again and was about to feed Song Jingchen one when she realized that the bowl was already empty¡­


    Unknowingly, Song Jingchen had fed her an entire bowl of wonton stew.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you eat it yourself?!¡± Shen Yijia regretted that he didn¡¯t get to eat such a delicious stew.


    Just as she was about to ask the old lady to cook another bowl, Song Jingchen quickly stopped her. He picked up a spoon and scooped some soup into his mouth. He pursed his lips and nodded. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s indeed delicious. I¡¯m not hungry, so don¡¯t order anymore.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and leaned over to whisper, ¡°You used the spoon I ate to drink the soup. Are we indirectly kissing?¡±


    Ever since that incident, Song Jingchen slept far away from her, claiming that the weather was too hot.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t miss the slyness in her eyes. He fell silent and nodded slightly. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but laugh. The two of them were sitting opposite each other, with a small square table between them. She stood up and leaned towards him. She said softly, ¡°If you want to kiss me, just say it. Why are you so tactful? It¡¯s not like I won¡¯t let you kiss me.¡±


    After saying that, she gently planted a kiss on Song Jingchen¡¯s lips and deliberately licked his lips before leaving.


    She looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes and saw that the tips of his ears had turned red again.


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed. How could he be so cute? However, she did not dare to show it on her face. Otherwise, she would not be able to take advantage of her beautiful husband again next time.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what Shen Yijia was thinking. His eyes darkened. ¡°This little vixen¡­¡± he thought.


    ¡°Mother, what are the two of them doing?¡±


    A child¡¯s voice suddenly came from the side. Shen Yijia was stunned and turned around. A little girl was holding a stick of candied hawthorn and staring at her and Song Jingchen curiously.


    ¡°That big brother refused to eat, so that big sister kissed him to coax him to eat!¡± A woman at the side blushed and left with the little girl.


    ¡°Just like how you coax me when I don¡¯t eat usually?¡± The girl suddenly understood. Then, she said, ¡°Big Brother is so old, why aren¡¯t you eating properly? Shame on you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t hear anything else. She looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s darkened face and laughed irresponsibly. She reached out and gestured, imitating the girl¡¯s voice. ¡°Shame, shame!¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    A smile touched his lips.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Before she could recover from his handsome face, she felt a pain on her face.


    She widened her eyes in disbelief at Song Jingchen, who was pinching her cheeks with both hands. Was this really something her beautiful husband could do? How childish!


    Song Jingchen originally wanted Shen Yijia to beg for mercy, but he felt uncomfortable under her gaze. He let go of her and leaned back in his wheelchair. He coughed dryly. ¡°Let¡¯s go after you¡¯re done eating.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her face and put on the fox mask. She then took out a black rabbit mask for Song Jingchen.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. Seeing that Shen Yijia was in high spirits, he swallowed his words of refusal.


    Shen Yijia tidied his hair in satisfaction and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that the wolf mask there is too ugly. Otherwise, I could have brought that.¡±


    Then, she would be a big gray wolf hunting a little rabbit!


    Song Jingchen did not comment on it.


    However, this did not affect Shen Yijia¡¯s good mood at all. She walked around and bought two lanterns to hang from the rafters when she went back.


    ¡°Hubby, there¡¯s a stage over there.¡± Shen Yijia pointed in a direction for Song Jingchen to see.


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Do you want to see it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go over.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled sweetly at him and pushed the wheelchair in a different direction.


    Before they could squeeze in, Shen Yijia saw Xiao Ruoshui and Fan Mingyuan.


    The two of them stood out in the crowd. It was mainly because Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s red clothes were too eye-catching. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that a bride was running around.


    The surroundings were too noisy. Shen Yijia called out ¡°Ruoshui¡± a few times, but the two of them didn¡¯t hear her. Her attention was focused on the two of them, but Song Jingchen stared at the stage and frowned.


    He was about to remind her that there were too many people here, so it might be better to skip the show.


    With a loud bang, the crowd in front suddenly panicked. It was unknown who bumped into Shen Yijia, but her hand that was pushing the wheelchair was knocked away.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She couldn¡¯t care less about Xiao Ruoshui and quickly turned around to look for Song Jingchen.


    However, at a glance, it was filled with people. Song Jingchen was nowhere to be seen. Not only that, but the crowd was also constantly squeezing back. Shen Yijia was sandwiched in the middle and was forced to retreat.


    Seeing that she was getting further and further away from where she was just now, Shen Yijia panicked. She tore off her fox mask and tried to push the people around her away.


    ¡°Jiajia?¡± Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s voice sounded. Shen Yijia turned around and realized that Xiao Ruoshui, who was originally in front of her, had been squeezed behind her.


    Shen Yijia grabbed Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s hand and pulled her to her side.


    ¡°Have you seen my husband?¡±


    ¡°Did you see Brother Yuan?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    The two of them spoke at the same time. Shen Yijia frowned and stopped talking. She pulled Xiao Ruoshui out.


    There were too many people here, and she couldn¡¯t push them aside. The only thing she was glad about now was that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered.


    In a courtyard not far from where Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were separated, one sat and the other stood.


    ¡°The heir Song Jingchen? I¡¯ve heard a lot about you.¡± A man wearing a fang mask and a black cloak stood ten steps away from Song Jingchen and looked down at him.

 Chapter 205 - Ghost-Faced General

    Song Jingchen held the rabbit mask in his hand. Without even looking up, he said casually, ¡°It seems that it¡¯s time to change the spies in your Wu Country. Haven¡¯t you heard the news that I¡¯m no longer the heir? What do you think, Ghost-Faced General?¡±


    The general laughed. His voice was hoarse to begin with, and his laughter made one¡¯s scalp tingle.


    After laughing, he waved his hand. There was no one else in the courtyard except the two of them, but suddenly, a man in black appeared. The man placed a chair behind the general and disappeared.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem surprised at all. He calmly placed the rabbit mask on his lap and gently stroked it with his slender fingers.


    Ever since Shen Yijia used a strange method to treat his leg, Song Jingchen realized that he had been reborn. Not only was his perception much sharper than before, but his martial arts had also improved greatly.


    Therefore, although the general¡¯s men were skilled and hid well, Song Jingchen still discovered their existence as soon as he entered. There were a total of fifteen of them.


    When he and Shen Yijia were pushed away for no reason, he guessed that something was amiss. Fortunately, these people targeted him. At least Shen Yijia was safe.


    Moreover, he also knew that these people must have made a careful plan in advance to bring him here as soon as he approached the stage, even if he and Shen Yijia did not approach it.


    They would also take action elsewhere. Instead of trying to avoid them, it was better to see who was behind this and what their motives were.


    ¡°You don¡¯t seem surprised at all.¡± The man sat down and examined Song Jingchen with his dark eyes.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Why should I be surprised? Am I supposed to be surprised that you, the Ghost-Faced General of the Wu State, would appear in the building? Or that you would look for a disabled person like me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re indeed the heir of the Song family. If you were born in the Wu Country, I wouldn¡¯t have risen to my position.¡± The Ghost-Faced General praised him generously. Then, he clicked his tongue and said, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that the emperor is heartless and let you fall to such a state.¡±


    ¡°Why? Are you here today to persuade me to work for the State of Wu?¡± Song Jingchen asked as he gently touched the mask on his knees.


    The Ghost-Faced General didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to be so straightforward. He paused for a moment and smiled. ¡°If you¡¯re willing, naturally¡­¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him. It was enough to know who it was. He was worried that Shen Yijia would be anxious when she saw that he was gone.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid I¡¯ll kill you?¡± The Ghost-Faced General¡¯s voice sank, as if he were on the verge of a fit.


    ¡°If you have the ability to kill me, do it.¡± Song Jingchen looked up at him without any fear.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± The ghost-faced general snorted coldly and suddenly pulled out his sword to stab at Song Jingchen. Song Jingchen quickly moved and clamped the tip of the sword between his fingers.


    The sword could no longer advance any further.


    The ghost-faced general did not pester him. He quickly retracted his sword and sat back in his chair. ¡°It seems that your legs are really crippled.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the silver needle in his leg and casually pulled it out and threw it on the ground. ¡°You come all the way here to confirm it.¡±


    ¡°Are you really not curious at all?¡± the Ghost-Faced General asked in surprise.


    ¡°Why should I be curious about something that has nothing to do with me?¡± Whether it was the purpose of this person¡¯s appearance in Great Xia or anything else, he would not interfere.


    The Ghost-Faced General looked at Song Jingchen for a long time and laughed. He reached out his hand and said, ¡°It¡¯s so convenient to talk to smart people. In that case, please go ahead.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the courtyard door opened. Song Jingchen glanced at it and left in his wheelchair without a word.


    As soon as he went out, the courtyard door was closed again.


    A man in black appeared beside the Ghost-Faced General and asked in confusion, ¡°Sir, why didn¡¯t you just kill him?¡±


    Since he felt that this person was a threat, shouldn¡¯t he get rid of him early?


    The ghost-faced general put away his arrogance and glanced at the man in black. ¡°What? Are you teaching me how to do things?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare!¡± The man in black trembled and hurriedly knelt on one knee.


    ¡°It¡¯s best if you don¡¯t dare. You¡¯re someone my adoptive father assigned to me. On account of my adoptive father, I won¡¯t do anything to you. Get up,¡± the Ghost-Faced General said with narrowed eyes.


    The man in black heaved a sigh of relief. He stood up and cupped his hands at the ghost-faced general, wanting to retreat. However, just as he lowered his head, a sharp sword pierced through his neck.


    Before he could even cry out in pain, he fell to the ground.


    ¡°Drag him away to feed the dogs,¡± the Ghost-Faced General ordered coldly.


    As he spoke, a figure flashed past, and the corpse on the ground disappeared.


    The Ghost-Faced General stared in the direction Song Jingchen had left for a long time. His peach blossom eyes raised slightly. Why didn¡¯t he kill him? Naturally, it was because the living were more fun than the dead.


    Song Jingchen drove the wheelchair into an alley. After confirming that no one was following him, he tapped a few acupuncture points on his legs. A line of blood flowed out of his mouth. He took out a handkerchief and wiped it away expressionlessly.


    When he returned to the main street, he realized that other than the charred stage, there were only pedestrians in a hurry and lanterns abandoned everywhere.


    It was impossible to tell that an hour ago, this place was still bustling with excitement.


    Song Jingchen sat in the middle of the road in his wheelchair, frowning.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master!¡± A voice suddenly sounded.


    Song Jingchen turned around and saw Fan Mingyuan in an official¡¯s uniform. Behind him was a group of bailiffs walking towards him anxiously.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°An organized kidnapper appeared in the city. Many young women have disappeared.¡± Fan Mingyuan paused and glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression before saying, ¡°Young Madam and Ruoshui have also disappeared.¡±


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists on both sides of the wheelchair and suppressed the worry in his heart. ¡°Where are my mother and the others now? Do you only know about this?¡±


    ¡°I asked them to rest in the backyard of the county office. I didn¡¯t want them to have one more person to worry about, so I didn¡¯t mention it.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Putting everything else aside, Fan Mingyuan had helped a lot today. Otherwise, he would have to calm Madam Li and the others down.


    With that, he drove away in her wheelchair.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Fan Mingyuan stopped and asked.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even turn around. ¡°I¡¯ll only be a burden if I follow you. I¡¯ll naturally think of other ways to find her.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan frowned as he watched Song Jingchen leave.


    ¡°Sir, we¡ª¡± one of the bailiffs began, thinking to ask if he should follow.


    Fan Mingyuan waved his hand and interrupted him. ¡°Continue searching every house. Close the city gates. Before you find those women, no one is allowed to enter or leave.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir!¡±


    Song Jingchen heard what the person behind him said and frowned.


    The first person Song Jingchen suspected was the Ghost-Faced General he had just seen. With Shen Yijia¡¯s ability, it was impossible for ordinary people to catch her unless it was premeditated.

 Chapter 206 - Jiajia Is Missing

    He wore the mask and returned to the previous location, only to discover that it was already empty.


    Only one chair remained in the courtyard.


    Song Jingchen stood up from his wheelchair and pushed open a large door. The old furniture inside was covered in a thick layer of dust. It was obvious that no one had lived here for a long time, and those people had found this place at the last minute.


    Perhaps they had not planned to bring him here. Why did they suddenly change their mind?


    There was only one possibility. The timing was perfect.


    That meant that he had guessed wrongly. The person who attacked the stage was not the Ghost-Faced General¡¯s men, but someone else.


    Taking advantage of the stage collapsing and causing chaos, he abducted the women when no one was paying attention.


    As for Shen Yijia? If he disappeared, that girl would definitely look everywhere for him. If someone used his disappearance to trick her, then took the opportunity to attack her¡­


    Thinking of this possibility, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned sharp.


    After leaving the residence, Song Jingchen returned to the side of the stage and recalled the direction in which the crowd had evacuated.


    No matter how organized those people were, it was impossible for them to leave the city after capturing someone. They definitely needed to meet up somewhere.


    If Fan Mingyuan had given the order to close the city gates in time, they would still be hiding in the city.


    There were two possibilities as to where they were hiding. One was near the stage, and the other was near the city gate.


    This place was at least 15 minutes away from the city gate. Coupled with the fact that there were too many people around, it would take even longer.


    In order to avoid being noticed, they would most likely choose a place that was near to them.


    These thoughts only flashed through Song Jingchen¡¯s mind for a moment. He followed the route that the crowd had taken in his memory and finally turned into a dim alley that extended out from the bend.


    Before he could enter the alley, he smelled something sour.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even frown as entered the alley.


    What Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know was that this alley was a famous beggar¡¯s alley in Anyang County. Almost all the beggars in Anyang County lived here.


    There were many disheveled people lying or sitting on both sides of the alley. When they saw a masked man suddenly walk past them, they looked at him curiously.


    Song Jingchen ignored him and went straight to the end of the alley. It was an abandoned temple. If he didn¡¯t enter the alley, it would have been difficult to imagine that there was such a place in Anyang County.


    Before he could enter, seven or eight beggars walked out.


    As soon as they saw him, they approached him like dogs seeing a bone. They said in a muffled voice, ¡°Good person, please donate some¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. A dagger flew out of his hand and stabbed in front of their feet, stopping them in their tracks.


    The few of them looked at each other and immediately revealed terrified expressions. They knelt on the ground with a thud. ¡°Sir, spare us!¡±


    ¡°We only asked those beggars outside to hand over some food every day. We didn¡¯t do anything else!¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡±


    The few of them spoke at once, their bodies trembling, as if they had offended Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was unmoved. He narrowed his eyes and said coldly, ¡°Where is the person you caught?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the kneeling people froze, then looked confused.


    ¡°Person? Who are they? We didn¡¯t catch anyone. We¡¯re just beggars.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. We don¡¯t have the ability to capture anyone¡­¡±


    The few of them wailed again. Song Jingchen had long lost his patience and was about to attack.


    Something unexpected happened. One of the kneeling people picked up a dagger from the ground and stabbed it at Song Jingchen. Seeing this, the others also took out their daggers and pounced at him.


    Song Jingchen sneered and kicked the dagger out of the leader¡¯s hand. He took a few steps forward and caught the dagger that fell from the air. He turned around and swung the dagger at the man¡¯s wrist before he retracted it.


    The man cried out in pain, blood gushing from his cut.


    At this moment, all the beggars in the alley ran over. Their eyes were ferocious, and they no longer looked dispirited.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was so ruthless, they were shocked, but they showed no signs of retreating. They swarmed towards Song Jingchen.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t mind. He had no intention of letting these people live.


    In the dark night, Song Jingchen shuttled through dozens of people like a ghost. He raised his hand and slashed at their throats.


    The dozens of people did not even touch the corner of his clothes before they fell to the ground one by one and stopped breathing.


    The person with the severed hand realized that something was wrong and was about to secretly leave to report.


    Coincidentally, the last person on this side also fell. Song Jingchen picked up a stone from the ground and hit that person¡¯s leg.


    The man fell to the ground and looked at the man walking towards him in horror. He dragged his injured leg back bit by bit¡­


    The smell of blood was pungent.


    ¡°There¡ªthere¡¯s really no woman here you¡¯re looking for¡­¡± he said, trembling.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°When did I say that I was looking for a woman?¡±


    That person¡¯s pupils constricted. He knew that it was useless for him to say anything else now. He could only watch as the sharp blade cut through his throat.


    At this moment, Fan Mingyuan also came over with his men. Song Jingchen glanced at him and walked into the dilapidated temple without saying a word.


    The chief of the Yamen officers watched as the masked man left, leaving only the corpses of dozens of beggars on the ground. He looked at Fan Mingyuan hesitantly. ¡°Sir, this¡­¡±


    Fan Mingyuan waved his hand to stop him. He looked in the direction the masked man had left and said, ¡°They¡¯re probably here to save someone. Let¡¯s find those people first. Follow me.¡±


    With that, they followed him in. At this moment, the masked man was no longer in the dilapidated temple.


    ¡°There¡¯s a tunnel, sir,¡± the sharp-eyed bailiff called.


    As soon as Song Jingchen entered the tunnel, he heard the cries of the captured women and the excited roars of men.


    He frowned and took a few quick steps.


    After turning a corner, they arrived at a basement. Song Jingchen kicked open the door and saw a group of trembling women inside. He glanced at them and knew that Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t here.


    ¡°Where are the others?¡± Song Jingchen asked in a low voice.


    The group of women shrank back and pointed next door.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened. The voice he had heard just now came from there. He knew what it meant.


    He clenched his fists under his sleeves. Before he could walk in, three disheveled men walked out.


    When they saw Song Jingchen, they were also shocked. Before they could do anything, they felt a chill on their necks and something flowed down their necks.


    ¡°Ah!¡± When the women saw this scene, they screamed in fear. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look at them and stepped over the corpses into the room beside him.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s men barely caught a glimpse of his clothes.


    ¡°Brother Yuan¡­¡±


    A familiar voice sounded. Fan Mingyuan was no longer in the mood to pay attention to the man.

 Chapter 207 - Deceived

    Xiao Ruoshui was originally hiding at the back of the crowd. When she saw Fan Mingyuan coming, her eyes turned red as she stood up and walked around the others to throw herself into Fan Mingyuan¡¯s arms.


    Fan Mingyuan hugged her tightly and heaved a sigh of relief.


    The masked man walked back and scanned the people present again before leaving without a word.


    Fan Mingyuan quickly let go of Xiao Ruoshui and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Young Madam? Isn¡¯t she with you?¡±


    When she was suddenly asked about Shen Yijia, Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s eyes were blank. She shook her head and said, ¡°Jiajia and I were squeezed together by the crowd. After she brought me out, she said that she wanted to look for Brother Chen and asked me to go back by myself. We separated then.¡±


    She tightened her grip on Fan Mingyuan¡¯s arm and asked worriedly, ¡°Jiajia is gone too?¡±


    Fan Mingyuan nodded. His gaze landed on the masked man, who paused slightly as he left.


    ¡°Did you see my husband or not?¡± Shen Yijia looked at the girl leading the way. She frowned and stopped walking.


    This was what happened two hours ago.


    After bringing Xiao Ruoshui out of the crowd, she looked at the crowd in front of her and the chaos caused by the fire on the stage not far away.


    She felt that Song Jingchen would easily be pushed away in a crowd since he was in a wheelchair, so she searched within the crowd again. However, she didn¡¯t see Song Jingchen anywhere.


    She was about to return to the theater to look for him when a girl blocked her way.


    The girl first looked at her curiously and looked behind her.


    Shen Yijia was in a hurry to find Song Jingchen and was in no mood to argue with a brat. She walked around her and was about to leave.


    ¡°Are you looking for a big brother in a wheelchair?¡± the girl suddenly asked.


    Shen Yijia paused and frowned. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    After saying that, she looked at the girl and carefully sized her up. Only then did she recognize that this was the little girl she had met when she was eating wontons with her beautiful husband.


    ¡°I just saw him being pushed out of the city by a few people.¡± The girl pointed in a direction.


    Shen Yijia looked over. She was standing on the main street facing the city gate of Anyang County, and the girl was pointing at the city gate.


    Her beautiful husband had been brought out of the city? Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to go over, but she stopped in her tracks.


    She saw the dirt on the hem of the girl¡¯s dress and asked suspiciously, ¡°How did you know I was looking for him? And where¡¯s your mother? Why are you here alone?¡±


    The girl swallowed nervously. She took a step back on her short legs and suddenly burst into tears. ¡°My- my mother was taken.¡±


    Shen Yijia said indifferently, ¡°Oh, then report it to the authorities.¡±


    She was still in a hurry to find her beautiful husband. How could she have the time to find someone else¡¯s mother?


    The girl cried until she was out of breath. She choked and said, ¡°I¡¯m not lying to you. Big Brother was really pushed out of the city¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up. You¡¯re not allowed to cry.¡± Shen Yijia was a little impatient. This little girl did not speak the truth.


    The girl was so frightened by Shen Yijia that she stopped crying. She burped and explained while sobbing, ¡°I went out of the city with my mother and went home. I didn¡¯t expect to be targeted by bad people. After my mother hid me, she lured the bad people away herself¡­ I didn¡¯t hide for long before I saw someone pushing that big brother past me¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I was afraid of being captured, so I didn¡¯t dare to come out.¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Then why did you look for me?¡±


    ¡°I want you to help me save my mother.¡± The girl shrank back in fear.


    Shen Yijia was still suspicious of her words, but what if her beautiful husband had really been taken out of the city? This girl might be telling the truth, but it was more likely that this person was sent by someone to lure her there.


    However, no matter what, there was a 50% chance of finding Song Jingchen if she followed this girl. To her, the main priority was to find him. The rest made no difference.


    Of course, there was also a possibility that Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t left the city at all.


    However, she had already searched the city just now. Even though she knew that there was a trap ahead, she wasn¡¯t willing to bet on it.


    That was how things played out up to this point. They had been out of the city for a while, and the direction where the girls were led had long left the official road and become more and more remote.


    The girl panted. ¡°Just ahead. I saw those people pushing Big Brother up the mountain.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the dark mountain path in front of her and her eyes darkened. She did not say anything and continued to follow the girl.


    ¡°Big Sister, here.¡± The girl suddenly turned around and extended her hand in front of her. ¡°My mother said that if you¡¯re afraid, you can eat some candy.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the candy wrapped in red sugar in her hand and glanced at her. The girl became nervous before reaching out to take the candy.


    She peeled off the candy wrapper in front of the girl and stuffed it into her mouth. ¡°Let¡¯s go. When I find my husband, I¡¯ll help you save your mother.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Big Sister. You¡¯re so kind.¡± The girl grinned.


    Somewhere she couldn¡¯t see, something slipped from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and rolled into the weeds.


    Song Jingchen left the alley and stood in front of the stage again. Thinking of the scene he had just seen, he closed his eyes, not knowing if he should be glad that Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t inside or if he should be worried that something had happened to her.


    That girl was so powerful. She might still be looking for him foolishly.


    Thinking of this possibility, Song Jingchen walked along the street again. He searched everywhere, including the Vast Gathering Pavilion and even the backyard of the county office.


    ¡°Why did the city gates close just like that? Where are we going to stay tonight?¡±


    ¡°It seems that a kidnapper appeared in the city and many women were captured. Magistrate Fan was worried that it would be difficult to find those women after they were taken out of the city, so he ordered the city gate to be closed.¡±


    ¡°Damn, I should have left the city earlier. My brothers next door even asked me if I wanted to go back with them. Earlier, the city gate wasn¡¯t closed yet.¡±


    The complaints of the two passers-by entered Song Jingchen¡¯s ears. He frowned and thought of a possibility, so he quickly ran towards the city gate.


    On the way, he encountered a group of searching bailiffs. After some thought, he told them his guess.


    When the bailiffs heard this, they went to report to the county magistrate.


    Song Jingchen ignored him. He wanted someone to help him in his search because he wanted an additional guarantee. He came to a blind spot in the city wall and used his qinggong to fly up¡­


    On the hill, Shen Yijia looked coldly at the group of ten people opposite her. The leaders were two women. One of them was the mother of the girl she had seen previously. The other looked slightly older and had a mean expression.


    Both women had a small white flower on their heads.


    Shen Yijia knew it meant that their families had died.


    The other eight were dressed in black and looked like thugs. Two of them held torches that illuminated the empty space.


    Shen Yijia could clearly see a huge pit not far away. In the pit was an uncovered coffin. White bones could be seen in the coffin.

 Chapter 208 - : Buried Alive

    Shen Yijia shuddered. Which unlucky person had been dug up by these people? They even led her here. Didn¡¯t they know that she was afraid of ghosts?


    The girl had already thrown herself into the woman¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Mother, I brought her over.¡± The young woman smiled and patted the young woman¡¯s head when she saw that the child was asking for praise. She turned to look at the other older woman. ¡°Sister Cui.¡±


    The Sister Cui she was talking about was the former county magistrate¡¯s wife.


    Madam Cui¡¯s face twisted as she looked at Shen Yijia with poisonous eyes. This b*tch was the one who killed her son.


    ¡°B*tch, do you know who I am?¡±


    ¡°Stop.¡± Shen Yijia interrupted impatiently, ¡°I¡¯m not interested in who you are. If you want to fight, hurry up and fight. Otherwise, I¡¯ll go back.¡±


    1


    Since she had already confirmed that her beautiful husband was not here, there was no need for her to stay any longer.


    Madam Cui choked and said fiercely, ¡°Since you¡¯re so eager to die, I naturally have to fulfill your wish.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the six people opposite her drew their swords and attacked Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Capture her alive. I¡¯ll bury this bitch alive with my son later,¡± Madam Cui instructed sharply.


    The six of them paused. Sure enough, they avoided Shen Yijia¡¯s vital points.


    Shen Yijia dodged someone¡¯s attack and rolled her eyes speechlessly. Was this her mother digging up her son¡¯s grave?


    Seeing the few of them surrounding Shen Yijia, Madam Cui seemed to imagine Shen Yijia begging for mercy in the coffin.


    She felt a rush of joy.


    However, to her surprise, before she could be happy for long, half of the thugs she had hired with all her money were gone.


    ¡°You bunch of trash. I spent so much money to hire you, but you can¡¯t even catch a woman!¡± Madam Cui screamed in fear. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you drugged her? Where¡¯s the drug? Why is still standing? ¡±


    ¡°I- I watched her eat it,¡± the girl explained softly to her mother.


    The young woman was already panicking. She couldn¡¯t care less about the medicine and wanted to slip away quietly.


    She was Manager Feng¡¯s wife. When she found out that Manager Feng had captured a woman before he died, she guessed that his death was related to that woman. However, as a woman, she could not avenge her man.


    Unexpectedly, she met Madam Cui, who had been chased out of her maiden family. The two of them hit it off immediately. Madam Cui paid for the meal and she was in charge of hiring people. The two of them planned this together.


    They were the ones who hired people to act on the stage. There were also beggars in the crowd that they had bribed.


    ¡°Why? You don¡¯t think this b*tch will let you and your mother off if she¡¯s not dead, do you?¡± Madam Cui saw through her thoughts and sneered as she grabbed the girl¡¯s hand.


    However, while they were distracted, the six people beside Shen Yijia had already fallen to the ground.


    Shen Yijia clapped her hands and looked at the last two people holding torches. At this moment, the torches had already fallen to the ground and were extinguished.


    ¡°What about the two of you? Are you going to fight?¡±


    The two of them were already stunned. When they regained their senses, they knelt down in fear. ¡°No, we wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re just being paid to do things. It has nothing to do with us.¡±


    Madam Cui did not expect the person she invited to be so useless. She looked at Shen Yijia with hatred in her eyes. She picked up a sword that had fallen beside her and rushed towards Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and waited for Madam Cui to arrive before kicking her.


    Madam Cui was sent flying before she could even touch the corner of her clothes. Coincidentally, she fell into the coffin.


    Shen Yijia looked at the other mastermind.


    The young woman hugged the girl and fell to the ground in fear. She stammered, ¡°No, it¡¯s none of our business. It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s all Madam Cui¡¯s idea. I- I just asked my daughter to bring you here. I¡­ we didn¡¯t do anything.¡±


    The girl in her arms cried even harder. She was crying sincerely now.


    Shen Yijia sneered. If she had been weak, she would have been buried alive. Madam Cui was the one holding the knife, while this mother-daughter pair was the one handing her the knife.


    However, she could not be bothered to argue about this. In any case, she could not change the outcome.


    The mother and daughter couldn¡¯t stop crying.


    It was too noisy.


    Shen Yijia frowned and walked up to the two of them. She hit the back of their necks.


    The world went quiet.


    She walked to the coffin and saw that Lady Cui was about to get up. She kicked her back again. ¡°Come here, the two of you.¡±


    The two kneeling men looked at each other and quickly got up and walked over.


    ¡°Bury her, or I¡¯ll bury the three of you. Choose.¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head and smiled at the two of them.


    Madam Cui¡¯s eyes widened in fear. ¡°B*tch, how dare you? I¡¯m the county magistrate¡¯s wife.¡±


    Shen Yijia was enlightened. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯d better let me go. Otherwise, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia dug her ears impatiently and took the coffin lid from the two people who were struggling to carry it. She closed the coffin. ¡°Isn¡¯t that what it used to be? You won¡¯t have the chance to be the county magistrate¡¯s wife again in this world. You can think about it in the netherworld.¡±


    Madam Cui was still shouting, but Shen Yijia turned a deaf ear to her and waved for the two of them to bury her quickly.


    The two of them did not dare to resist and obediently picked up the shovel they had used to dig the grave.


    With Madam Cui knocking on the coffin and cursing, the two of them quickly filled in the hole.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am. Shall we go?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the two of them in confusion. ¡°Did I say that? I only said that I would bury you if you didn¡¯t do anything. I didn¡¯t say that I would let you go if you did.¡±


    She was an honest person. She had to explain this matter clearly.


    The two of them were shocked and waved the shovel in their hands at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was about to move when something flashed before her eyes. The two people in front of her fell to the ground before they could react.


    She frowned at the state of their deaths.


    She looked up at the attacker.


    Unexpectedly, in the next second, she had fallen into a familiar embrace.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia called out in surprise.


    Song Jingchen tightened his arms and let out a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m late.¡±


    Hearing the nervousness in his tone, Shen Yijia felt a sweet sensation in her heart. She wrapped her arms around Song Jingchen¡¯s waist. ¡°You¡¯re not late at all. You came at the right time.¡±


    If he had been slightly earlier, he would have seen her burying someone alive.


    It was a little cruel. It was better not to let her beautiful husband see it.


    The sky lit up. Under the morning sun, the two of them hugged each other.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen let go and looked down at Shen Yijia.


    Not only was he admiring her beauty at such a close distance, but he was also looking at her seriously. Shen Yijia suddenly felt her mouth go dry. She subconsciously licked her lips.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. He was about to approach her when he heard the sound of hooves.


    The two of them paused. Shen Yijia took the mask from Song Jingchen¡¯s waist and tiptoed to help him put it on.

 Chapter 209 - Plastic Sisters

    ¡°You go first. I¡¯ll go back in a while.¡± No matter who it was, Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t expose himself like this.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and bent down to hug her. He whispered in her ear, ¡°I won¡¯t go far. If anything happens, call me.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that Song Jingchen¡¯s understanding of her didn¡¯t seem right. Did she look very weak?


    At the same time, her heart felt warm. She liked his concern for her, so she nodded meekly. It was rare for her to show her girly side.


    Thinking of something, she whispered to Song Jingchen, ¡°Let¡¯s continue when we get back.¡±


    1


    Song Jingchen staggered. Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t see it, but his earlobes were already red.


    As the hooves approached, Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and looked at the person. The person in the lead was Xiao Ruoshui.


    Fan Mingyuan and the other officials followed behind.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and stood still.


    Xiao Ruoshui also saw Shen Yijia. Her eyes lit up and she quickly stopped her horse. She jumped off her horse and threw herself into Shen Yijia¡¯s arms. ¡°Jiajia, where have you been? I was so worried.¡±


    Shen Yijia was silent. Although she didn¡¯t think the two of them were that close, she was inexplicably touched.


    Apart from her family, this was the first friend she had in this other world who cared about her. The two of them did not get off to a good start, but they had become friends after a fight.


    As long as she didn¡¯t do it again, she would forgive her for coveting her beautiful husband.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia did not push Xiao Ruoshui away immediately. She even patted her back patiently.


    Unexpectedly, Xiao Ruoshui trembled as she cried. She quickly pushed herself out of Shen Yijia¡¯s arms and looked behind her in confusion.


    She saw nothing but a dense forest.


    Shen Yijia followed her gaze and was speechless. Wasn¡¯t that the direction Song Jingchen went?


    Immediately, she looked at Xiao Ruoshui differently. Could this person have installed a surveillance camera on her beautiful husband?


    ¡°Hmph, plastic sisters indeed.¡± she thought.


    Fan Mingyuan also came forward and looked at the two corpses under Shen Yijia¡¯s feet. He held his forehead helplessly. He was destined to help others deal with corpses wherever he went.


    However, he still asked, ¡°Young Madam, why are you here? What are these on the ground¡­?¡±


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°Didn¡¯t I accidentally get separated from my husband earlier? I went to look for him, but a child appeared and said that he saw my husband leaving the city, so I followed her out.¡±


    Shen Yijia pointed at the girl lying on the ground. ¡°It¡¯s that brat. Guess what happened? This is actually a group of kidnappers. Not only did they want to kidnap me because of my beauty, but they also wanted to do something bad to me. I had to resist.¡±


    Shen Yijia gestured as she spoke. She didn¡¯t say anything about burying someone alive because Fan Mingyuan might get someone to dig out the person she had just buried.


    1


    Moreover, this involved her past grudges with these people.


    Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth when she heard this. She nodded and clapped. ¡°You¡¯re amazing.¡±


    With Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s support, Shen Yijia was too embarrassed to continue lying. However, what she said in the beginning was true. Only half of it was fake.


    She didn¡¯t feel guilty.


    Since Xiao Ruoshui was even sillier than her, she had to treat her well. By comparison, she wouldn¡¯t look so silly.

 Chapter 210 - Snatch It

    Fan Mingyuan was speechless when he saw her lying through her teeth. She even brought up her own reputation shamelessly.


    Moreover, Xiao Ruoshui believed her. He still couldn¡¯t figure out why the two of them, who were initially at each other¡¯s throats, became friends.


    ¡°Did you hear that? Young Madam killed someone to protect herself. Get rid of those corpses on the ground,¡± Fan Mingyuan instructed with a serious expression.


    The bailiff thought, ¡°Sir, why have you learned to lie through your teeth? Where¡¯s your sense of fairness?¡±


    The bailiffs resigned themselves to fate and moved to bury the corpses. Coincidentally, there was a shovel at the scene.


    It was quite well-prepared.


    ¡°Hey, hey. Only two of them died. The others are still breathing. Also, dig the grave further away. I¡¯m afraid of these things.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched when she saw where they were digging. She quickly ran over to stop them.


    ¡°Oh, she only killed two of them.¡± Fan Mingyuan thought.


    The bailiff thought, ¡°Really? A murderer who¡¯s afraid of corpses, that¡¯s incredible.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan waved his hand and asked them to tie up the ones who were still alive, and bring them back to the government office. He would bury the dead ones further away.


    After they walked a little further away, Shen Yijia ran to the place where they had dug up two shovels and filled them in. She even stepped on them and packed the soil even more tightly.


    Xiao Ruoshui was confused by her actions. She leaned closer and suddenly shivered and hid behind Shen Yijia. ¡°There¡¯s someone down there.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no one here. You heard wrongly.¡± Shen Yijia dug her ears. ¡°Of course there¡¯s someone here, but you¡¯ll be scared to death if I say it aloud.¡± she thought.


    ¡°But I clearly heard it. I even heard a rustling sound¡­¡± As she spoke, Xiao Ruoshui shivered and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Did you really not hear it?¡±


    ¡°No, no. You heard wrongly.¡± Shen Yijia pulled Xiao Ruoshui away.


    Xiao Ruoshui held her breath and focused for a moment. Indeed, she did not hear anything. She heaved a sigh of relief and immediately complained to Shen Yijia about her experience after parting with her.


    ¡°By the way,¡± Xiao Ruoshui suddenly stopped talking and whispered mysteriously into Shen Yijia¡¯s ear, ¡°A man in a mask suddenly came yesterday. If not for him, I would probably have hung myself like the other girls.¡±


    Three of the rescued women committed suicide as soon as they returned home.


    As she spoke, stars appeared in her eyes, and her cheeks turned red. In the end, she sighed. ¡°It¡¯s a pity that I don¡¯t know what he looks like, or who he is.¡±


    The more Shen Yijia listened, the more she felt that something was amiss. Why did the masked man in Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s mouth sound so much like her beautiful husband?


    Alarm bells immediately rang in her heart. She frowned when she saw Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s expression.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What if he¡¯s an ugly freak? Otherwise, why would he wear a mask?¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t happen. From my experience with men, he must be extraordinarily handsome,¡± Xiao Ruoshui said confidently.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s jaw ached. ¡°Of all people, why do you fall for my man again and again?¡± she thought.


    If Xiao Ruoshui liked someone else, she would happily play matchmaker.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. She thought for a long time before asking, ¡°What if that person is already married?¡±


    Without giving Xiao Ruoshui a chance to speak, she continued, ¡°Moreover, his wife is sensible, gentle, virtuous, beautiful, and generous. He also loves his wife very much. Wouldn¡¯t you be biting the hand that feeds you if you break them up?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui choked at her question. When she reacted, she glared at Shen Yijia angrily. ¡°I think you just can¡¯t bear to see me doing well. To think that I was so worried about you that I couldn¡¯t sleep the entire night.¡±

 Chapter 211 - Punishment

    Although she was unconvinced, she still listened to Shen Yijia. She ran back to Fan Mingyuan¡¯s side in embarrassment and glared at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose innocently. Her husband was too good-looking, which was also a troublesome thing.


    Actually, Xiao Ruoshui did not really like him. It was just that she had read too many novels and liked to play with knives and spears since she was young.


    She kept thinking that one day, a peerless hero would fall from the sky and save the damsel in distress. Then, she would give herself to him.


    Such a fantasy had been mercilessly exposed by Shen Yijia.


    After the bailiffs finished dealing with the corpses, the group returned to the city.


    Madam Li and the others had long woken up. They wanted to discuss returning to the village with Song Jingchen, but they were told that the couple had gone out early in the morning.


    Madam Li could only wait patiently. After breakfast, she realized that something was wrong and suggested going out to look for him.


    However, those servants had been instructed to keep them here. How could they dare to let them out?


    Hence, when Shen Yijia arrived, Bruiser and the other children almost tore down the backyard of the county office. They were all holding brooms and wooden sticks. They even used feather dusters.


    They were fighting with the guards.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Fan Mingyuan shouted.


    The guards stopped obediently, but Bruiser and the others, who thought that Fan Mingyuan had imprisoned them, naturally wouldn¡¯t listen. They didn¡¯t hold back at all.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s jaw ached when she saw this. She felt that the guards were pitiful and shouted, ¡°Stop!¡±


    Bruiser and the others immediately stopped what they were doing and turned to look at Shen Yijia.


    They threw away their ¡°weapons¡± and ran towards Shen Yijia, except for Bruiser and Lin Shao, who were older than the rest.


    The kids grabbed her hands and hugged her waist. All of them wanted to hang onto Shen Yijia.


    They said in unison, ¡°Sister-in-law, where have you been? We were so worried.¡±


    Shen Yijia was a little touched. She was about to say that she had just gone out for a walk.


    A deep voice behind her said, ¡°Stand still.¡±


    The few of them instinctively took a few steps back from Shen Yijia and stood upright obediently.


    Although there was joy in their eyes, they did not dare to approach Shen Yijia like they did earlier.


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw Song Jingchen sitting in a wheelchair with a dark expression.


    She glanced at Fan Mingyuan and Xiao Ruoshui.


    She immediately put on a shocked expression and ran to Song Jingchen¡¯s side like how Sister Huan and the others had run to her just now. ¡°Hubby, where did you go? I was so worried.¡±


    She used the tactics she had just learned from the children.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you being too obvious?¡± he thought.


    1


    However, seeing Shen Yijia blink at him non-stop, Song Jingchen played along and said, ¡°I accidentally got lost.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and patted her chest in fear. ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re fine. It¡¯s good that you¡¯re back.¡±


    Sister Huan and the others were confused.


    Fan Mingyuan thought to himself, ¡°Can you two put in more effort when you lie? One of you searched for the other outside the city, and the other got lost the entire night. Absolutely ridiculous.¡±


    He felt like a fool for choosing to believe their lies.


    When Madam Li saw that they had returned, she did not ask further. However, she refused to stay at the county office any longer. She refused to eat lunch there either and insisted on returning to the village.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen naturally had no objections. Apart from the souvenirs the children had bought last night, there was nothing else to pack.


    After saying that, they immediately got into the carriage, leaving Xiao Ruoshui standing at the back door of the county office with a bitter expression as she watched them leave.


    ¡°Alright, stop looking. It¡¯s not like we won¡¯t see each other again.¡± Fan Mingyuan stood behind her and said coldly, ¡°You didn¡¯t sleep last night. Go back to your room and rest. I¡¯ll get someone to send the food to your room later.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui pouted and raised her chin proudly. ¡°What do you mean? I don¡¯t miss her at all.¡±


    After saying that, she turned around angrily and went back. After taking a few steps, she stopped and stuck out her tongue at Fan Mingyuan. ¡°I¡¯m going back to my room to rest. Brother Yuan, you should rest for a while after you¡¯re done with your work. Be careful not to die young before you get married.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan smiled gently and nodded. ¡°What are you worrying about, little girl? Go.¡±


    When Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s back disappeared from his sight, Fan Mingyuan rubbed his eyebrows tiredly with a solemn expression.


    ¡°Sir, the people who kidnapped the women in the city are all dead. Do we still continue to investigate?¡± Grandmaster Ma walked forward and asked. This person was Fan Mingyuan¡¯s subordinate.


    After Fan Mingyuan became the county magistrate, he replaced all of Cao Dezhi¡¯s subordinates. Naturally, his advisor was promoted at that time.


    Fan Mingyuan did not hesitate at all. ¡°Investigate. We have to investigate further. These people are so brazen. The person behind them must not be simple. If we don¡¯t completely uproot these people, countless innocent women will be killed by them.¡±


    He never believed Shen Yijia¡¯s words that those people were kidnappers.


    Grandmaster Ma understood his master¡¯s personality and went to make arrangements.


    When Shen Yijia and the others arrived home, they were warmly welcomed by Furball.


    As for where it came from, wasn¡¯t it obvious that it was sprawled in the middle of the courtyard?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s jaw ached. She called out to Furball a few times, but it ignored her and lay there motionless.


    This way, the carriage could not enter.


    ¡°Little Furball.¡± Song Jingchen lifted the curtain and leaned out.


    Only then did Furball look up at him. Seeing Song Jingchen take out a paper bag from the car, it immediately got up.


    Song Jingchen opened the paper bag and handed it a drumstick. Furball bit it and glanced at Shen Yijia, as if to say, ¡°Learn from him.¡±


    1


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    After settling the horses, Shen Yijia returned to the front yard.


    Looking at Furball, who was by Song Jingchen¡¯s feet, she suddenly asked, ¡°Do you think Furball is male or female?¡±


    She suspected that Furball had taken a fancy to her beautiful husband.


    It was no wonder Shen Yijia thought that way. In the past, it was normal to her since she didn¡¯t know better.


    It was different now. Even when she saw a mosquito flying beside Song Jingchen, she would suspect that it was a female mosquito which had taken a fancy to Song Jingchen¡¯s beauty.


    If Da Hua knew what she was thinking, she would be glad that she did not teach her anything beyond that. Otherwise, Shen Yijia would be too paranoid.


    Her question silenced everyone present for a moment.


    Brother Hao¡¯s first reaction was to flip Furball over to take a look. Song Jingchen¡¯s face instantly darkened, and he said sternly, ¡°Everyone, go and squat against the wall for an hour.¡±


    The few of them were shocked. They did not know why they had to be punished again. They looked at Shen Yijia in unison.


    Shen Yijia shrugged. She was also confused.


    Was it because she asked if Furball was male or female? But she was the one asking.


    Although they were puzzled, Brother Hao and the others did not dare to dawdle. They immediately squatted down obediently.


    ¡°Do you know what you did wrong?¡± Song Jingchen lowered his head to read again, not looking at them.

 Chapter 212 - Asking For Help

    The few of them secretly looked at each other. Brother Hao stammered, ¡°We shouldn¡¯t have fought with anyone.¡±


    ¡°What else?¡±


    Sister Huan said loudly, ¡°We didn¡¯t win.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the other three could not help but laugh.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before looking at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was confused. She had never taught Sister Huan to say that.


    Song Jingchen retracted his gaze and glanced at them. ¡°Were you confident of victory before you attacked?¡±


    The four children shook their heads.


    Song Jingchen let out a derisive laugh. ¡°Since you¡¯re not confident, why did you attack? If the other party was really an enemy, do you know what the consequences could have been?¡±


    The four of them reacted and lowered their heads in shame.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking you to practice martial arts because I hope that one day, if you¡¯re in danger, you¡¯ll have the ability to protect yourself. I¡¯m not asking you to be a boor who only knows how to use martial arts to solve every problem.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose, feeling inexplicably offended.


    1


    ¡°What you¡¯ve done wrong is that you didn¡¯t distinguish between friend or foe. Your biggest mistake is not being able to see the situation clearly. You¡¯re too arrogant and don¡¯t know how to think rationally.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s expression darkened and his tone became even more stern.


    These kids were inexperienced and young. They did not know the ways of the world.


    If he didn¡¯t take this opportunity to teach them a lesson, Song Jingchen was worried that no one would be able to save them in the future.


    Lin Miaomiao was so frightened that when her tears welled up, she didn¡¯t dare to reach out to wipe them.


    Even Shen Yijia was shocked. She lowered her head and stood still, thinking about Song Jingchen¡¯s words.


    Song Jingchen looked at them and sighed. If they were born in an ordinary family, they naturally wouldn¡¯t need to understand these things at their age, but their family wasn¡¯t an ordinary one.


    His voice softened. ¡°Do you understand your mistake?¡±


    ¡°We understand.¡±


    ¡°Then can you accept my punishment?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The kids admitted their mistakes with a good attitude. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t reprimand them too much and only said, ¡°After you¡¯re done with the horse stance, each of you will copy the Fu He Strategy. Think about what you should do next time.¡±


    Madam Li knew about their punishment and didn¡¯t say anything. She agreed with Song Jingchen¡¯s actions.


    However, when it was time for dinner, she cooked their favorite dishes.


    After dinner, Song Jingchen helped Shen Yijia dry her hair.


    However, Shen Yijia did not immediately climb into bed like usual. Instead, she sat by the desk and opened a book. After laying out the rice paper, she took out the ink.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Song Jingchen found it funny when he saw her tense expression.


    Shen Yijia did not stop. She picked up the brush and dipped it in some ink. Without looking up, she wrote something on the rice paper. ¡°I want to copy the ¡®Fu He Strategy¡¯.¡±


    Her beautiful husband was right. She could not be a boorish person. She had to learn to use her brain. It was definitely not wrong to study more.


    Song Jingchen naturally wouldn¡¯t dampen her rare ambition. He only reminded her kindly, ¡°Can you understand it?¡±


    Shen Yijia shrugged and looked at Song Jingchen pitifully. ¡°I don¡¯t understand.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and walked over to sit opposite Shen Yijia. He put away the book she had placed aside and took out a few books on folklore.


    He said gently, ¡°You don¡¯t have to look at that. It¡¯s enough to understand these.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at the books Song Jingchen had picked. They weren¡¯t as thick as the original book.


    It must be because she was smarter than Brother Hao and the others, so she didn¡¯t need to learn so much.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia gladly accepted Song Jingchen¡¯s special care.


    She seriously picked up a book and opened it. When she encountered words she didn¡¯t know, she asked Song Jingchen. Song Jingchen taught her seriously and explained the meaning to her from time to time.


    In the end, it became Song Jingchen reading to her in a simple and easy-to-understand way.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia realized that there were so many interesting things in the book. After listening for two hours, she did not fall asleep. Instead, she became more energetic.


    After Song Jingchen finished speaking, she looked at him with shining eyes, indicating for him to continue.


    Song Jingchen fell silent. He put down his book, picked up his teacup, and took a sip of tea before saying, ¡°That¡¯s all for today. Sleep first.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia was still not satisfied. She crawled onto the bed and lay down.


    Song Jingchen found it funny when he saw her like this. He suspected that she was treating him as a storyteller. He wondered if she understood him.


    Song Jingchen had a dreamless night. When he got up, he found Shen Yijia sitting by the desk, reading a book with a bitter expression.


    Song Jingchen was very surprised at how hardworking she was.


    Shen Yijia flipped the book over. It was clearly the same book, but why was it so interesting to hear it from her beautiful husband? When it was her turn to read it, she felt extremely bored.


    If she didn¡¯t know that Song Jingchen had always treated these books preciously, Shen Yijia would have torn them all up.


    Realizing that Song Jingchen had woken up, she quickly closed the wrinkled book and pressed it under the other books. She smiled at Song Jingchen fawningly. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re awake.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead and swallowed the words he was about to say.


    Shen Yijia was still the same Shen Yijia.


    After breakfast, Madam Li went to the workshop. Seeing that the weather was good today, Shen Yijia took out the bedding in her and Song Jingchen¡¯s room and dried it.


    Just as she finished putting it up to dry, Xiao Ruoshui rushed in. ¡°Jiajia, save me.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s jaw ached. She looked up at the sun. It was only dawn. It would have taken at least two hours for Xiao Ruoshui to get here from Anyang County, which meant that she¡¯d woken up before dawn.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was still in a daze, Xiao Ruoshui panicked. She ran to her and cried, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask me what happened?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to tell me even if I don¡¯t ask?¡± Shen Yijia moved two mats from the central room and placed them under the eaves. ¡°Tell me. Other than letting you have my husband, I¡¯ll consider everything else that I can help with.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui choked and wiped her tears before sitting down. ¡°It¡¯s my father. He sent a letter asking me to return to the capital to get married.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this a good thing?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s interest was piqued. Marriage was great.


    ¡°But can you be happy marrying someone you¡¯ve never even met?¡± Xiao Ruoshui retorted.


    Shen Yijia felt that Xiao Ruoshui could meet a good match just like she did.


    She glanced at Xiao Ruoshui and saw that her eyes were red. She seemed to be very sad. She probed, ¡°Then how do you want me to help you? Beat your father up and prevent him from marrying you off?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s my father.¡± Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes.


    Shen Yijia spread her hands in confusion. ¡°Then why are you looking for me? I only know how to fight.¡±


    Although she admitted that she was a little smarter than Xiao Ruoshui, there wasn¡¯t a huge difference between them.


    ¡°I¡­ Don¡¯t you have Brother Song? He definitely has a way.¡± Xiao Ruoshui felt that Shen Yijia would think she was coveting Song Jingchen when she mentioned him. After saying that, she glanced at Shen Yijia carefully. ¡°Can you help me ask?¡±

 Chapter 213 - The Palace’s Maiden Selection

    ¡°You really don¡¯t want to marry him? What if he¡¯s a handsome and talented man?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui shook her head like a rattle. ¡°Unless it¡¯s someone I like, I won¡¯t marry.¡±


    Shen Yijia was in a difficult position. Filial piety was paramount in this world. With Song Jingchen¡¯s personality, he definitely wouldn¡¯t interfere.


    If she told him, not only would he not help, he would probably order her not to interfere.


    Shen Yijia suddenly sympathized with Xiao Ruoshui. She had liked Song Jingchen for so long, although it was better that she knew her own preferences.


    She held her chin and thought for a moment. ¡°Why don¡¯t you find someone you like and marry him first? That way, your father can¡¯t force you to marry again.¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that a woman obeys her father at home, but obeys her husband after being married? Even her father wouldn¡¯t be able to control her after she got married.


    Seeing that she had been thinking for so long, Xiao Ruoshui initially thought that Shen Yijia had a good idea, but it turned out to be a silly idea. She rolled her eyes. ¡°That¡¯s not marrying myself off. It¡¯s called having an illicit relationship. My father won¡¯t make me marry again, but he¡¯ll probably beat me to death.¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t do. You should listen to your father and get married.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head. If she hadn¡¯t treated Xiao Ruoshui as her companion, she wouldn¡¯t have bothered.


    As soon as she finished speaking, Xiao Ruoshui immediately looked at her as if she wanted to cry.


    Shen Yijia fell silent and asked in resignation, ¡°Then tell me why your father suddenly wants you to get married. I¡¯ll help you analyze if there¡¯s any way to escape.¡±


    She had no parents in her previous life, but she also felt that as long as Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s father wasn¡¯t a scumbag like Shen Pingxiu, he wouldn¡¯t do anything to harm her.


    Thinking about it, the scumbag parents who abandoned her in the mental hospital in her previous life were terrible too. Unfortunately, she didn¡¯t know who they were or when she was abandoned.


    Otherwise, she would definitely find them and ask, ¡°Why?¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly felt a little sad. She did not even hear what Xiao Ruoshui said.


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Xiao Ruoshui shook Shen Yijia¡¯s arm unhappily, pulling her back from her wandering thoughts.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and said guiltily, ¡°I was thinking of another way for you. What did you say just now?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui did not believe Shen Yijia, but she still repeated, ¡°It¡¯s almost time for the maiden selection in the palace. Emperor Chongwen wants to choose a concubine, and a few of the princes have reached the age to get married.


    ¡°I heard that not only will the young ladies of the imperial court participate in the election, but they will also choose people from the commoners. My father doesn¡¯t want me to marry into the royal family, so he wants to marry me off in advance.¡±


    After saying that, Xiao Ruoshui knew that she had no choice this time. If she didn¡¯t want to enter the palace, she could only listen to her father¡¯s arrangements.


    Upon hearing this reason, Shen Yijia felt relieved for Xiao Ruoshui. At least her father was doing this for her benefit.


    However, she was still very curious. ¡°You don¡¯t want to enter the palace either? Or marry a prince or something?¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯d rather listen to my father and get married.¡±


    Shen Yijia understood and shrugged. ¡°Then it¡¯s simple. You¡¯re going to get married anyway. You can choose to marry the person your father chose, or look for a marriage partner yourself. Your father will have to agree to the person you choose. It¡¯s up to you.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    Xiao Ruoshui left, crying and looking dejected. Although Shen Yijia asked her to do as she pleased, Shen Yijia still ran to the study to tell Song Jingchen about this.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her. ¡°You want to help her?¡±


    ¡°Can it be done?¡±


    ¡°She can just Fan Mingyuan.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his head and continued reading.


    He did not want General Xiao¡¯s legitimate daughter to marry any prince. The power structure in the imperial court was complicated, so the best way was to marry Fan Mingyuan, who had no political foundation.


    At least he did not have to worry about him siding with a certain prince.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. That¡¯s right. Fan Mingyuan could do it. They were childhood sweethearts. At least Xiao Ruoshui knew what he looked like.


    However, when she thought of the difference in status between the two of them, she asked worriedly, ¡°But Fan Mingyuan is only a county magistrate. Will Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s father agree?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her bitter expression and rubbed her head in amusement. ¡°Alright, stop worrying about this. The final outcome is not something we can decide. At the very least, it depends on the wishes of both parties.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯m not the one getting married. Why should I worry?¡±


    Song Jingchen suddenly looked up at her and asked, ¡°Why? Did you want to worry about this too?¡±


    Shen Yijia shuddered and shook her head. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t. You¡¯re talking nonsense.¡±


    With that, she slipped away without looking back.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. He thought of something and his eyes darkened.


    Ever since Xiao Ruoshui returned from Xiagou Village, she had locked herself in her room and did not eat lunch.


    When Fan Mingyuan heard the servant¡¯s report, he quickly put down his work and returned to the backyard.


    When the maidservant guarding the door of Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s room saw him, she hurriedly bent her knees and said, ¡°Sir.¡±


    ¡°Is she still unwilling to eat?¡± Fan Mingyuan asked.


    The maidservant said, ¡°Miss said she¡¯s not hungry and doesn¡¯t want to eat.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan waved her off and knocked on the door a few times. There was no response.


    He knocked again. It was still quiet.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Afraid that Xiao Ruoshui had done something stupid, he said, ¡°I¡¯m coming in,¡± and broke in.


    As soon as the door opened, a strong smell of alcohol wafted out.


    Fan Mingyuan walked in and saw Xiao Ruoshui lying unconscious on the table. There were three to four empty wine jars on the table.


    He frowned slightly and patted Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face. ¡°Ruoshui? Ruoshui?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui looked up at him and pursed her lips. ¡°Brother Yuan? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Why did you drink so much? Go and rest on the bed. I¡¯ll get someone to make you some hangover soup.¡± Fan Mingyuan helped her up and placed her on the bed. He was about to go out and call for help when someone suddenly grabbed his sleeve.


    ¡°Brother Yuan, I don¡¯t want to get married.¡± Xiao Ruoshui sobbed and said, ¡°Look at my mother. I haven¡¯t seen her smile in a long time. I don¡¯t want to become like my mother.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan pursed his lips and comforted her. ¡°No, you¡¯ll definitely marry a man who treats you wholeheartedly.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible? How can there be such a man in this world? I¡¯ve heard that when my father asked my mother to marry him, he said that he would never let her suffer. But look at him now. There are so many women in his harem. Why doesn¡¯t he think about how aggrieved my mother must be? My mother has to suffer¡­¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui kept muttering and gradually fell asleep.


    Fan Mingyuan sighed and tucked her in.


    At this moment, Teacher Ma¡¯s voice came from outside. ¡°Master, there¡¯s someone called the Chicken King outside who wants to see you urgently.¡±


    1


    Fan Mingyuan frowned. If it wasn¡¯t something important, Teacher Ma wouldn¡¯t have come to report it. After all, he was usually very busy. Not everyone could meet him.


    Without delay, he called a maidservant to guard Xiao Ruoshui and followed Teacher Ma to the front courtyard.

 Chapter 214 - Fan Mingyuan’s Realization

    In the living room, the man who called himself the Chicken King was wearing a mask and sitting on an armchair with his legs crossed. When he saw Fan Mingyuan enter, he stood up casually and cupped his hands at him. ¡°County Magistrate.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan hated such unruly people the most. He frowned slightly. His trust in this person¡¯s words was greatly reduced.


    However, because he was a gentleman, he did not chase the person away immediately. He nodded and asked, ¡°Chicken King?¡±


    He should have known. Someone with such a name could not possibly be a well-behaved person.


    ¡°That¡¯s me.¡± The Chicken King sat back in his chair and took a sip from his teacup.


    Fan Mingyuan frowned and walked to the main seat. ¡°I heard that you have something to tell me. What is it?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The Chicken King glanced at Teacher Ma, who had followed Fan Mingyuan in, and hesitated.


    Fan Mingyuan was already a little impatient. ¡°Teacher Ma is one of us. If you have something to say, just say it.¡±


    The Chicken King didn¡¯t seem to want to anger him. He put down his teacup and took out a bulging envelope. ¡°This is what you wanted.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan glanced at Teacher Ma, who immediately walked over and took the envelope.


    He thought that the Chicken King would at least say something, but to his surprise, he took his robe and stood up. ¡°The items have been delivered. I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    Before Fan Mingyuan could agree, he had already turned around and left.


    ¡°Should we send someone to follow them, sir?¡± asked Teacher Ma.


    Fan Mingyuan shook his head. ¡°No need.¡±


    He took the envelope from Teacher Ma and opened it. There was a thick stack of paper inside.


    Fan Mingyuan started from the first page. The more he read, the tighter his frown became. Towards the end, he skimmed through the text, his face filled with shock.


    At the end, he broke out in a cold sweat as if he had been scooped out of the water. He collapsed back into his chair.


    ¡°Master, this¡­¡± Mentor Ma was also shocked. He couldn¡¯t believe the contents. A dignified prince of a country actually¡­


    ¡°How much of this do you think is true?¡± Fan Mingyuan finally found his voice after a long time.


    Mentor Ma glanced at Fan Mingyuan carefully. ¡°80%.¡±


    ¡°Prepare the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone. This matter must be reported to His Majesty.¡± Fan Mingyuan stood up and gritted his teeth.


    ¡°Master, you can¡¯t.¡± Teacher Ma stopped him. When he met Fan Mingyuan¡¯s puzzled gaze, he made up his mind. He lifted his robe and knelt down. ¡°Master, this matter has a lot of implications. If you report it like this, not only will it be useless, but you¡¯ll also be killed.¡±


    He continued. ¡°I know that you¡¯re a righteous person, but have you ever thought about whether the person you¡¯re loyal to is really worth your loyalty?¡±


    Teacher Ma looked straight into Fang Mingyuan¡¯s eyes before finishing what he wanted to say. ¡°Nothing can be achieved without sacrifices.¡±


    As Teacher Ma¡¯s words entered his ears, Fan Mingyuan felt his head buzz.


    He covered his eyes and chuckled. ¡°I suddenly understand why Teacher insisted that I shouldn¡¯t be an official back then¡­¡±


    Everyone thought that he had spent more than two hours in the teacher¡¯s study before leaving the capital because he was persuading the teacher to let him become an official.


    However, they did not know the truth. He wanted to do something good for the people, but he had no power, and could do nothing on his own. However, his teacher told him that he was too stubborn and was not suitable for the complicated power structures in the capital.


    Back then, Teacher Ma told him, ¡°Those who are as sharp as nails cultivate on their own.¡±


    His teacher had always been considerate of him. However, Fan Mingyuan did not return to visit him for many years after that. He did not even send a letter back.


    He thought that as long as he achieved political success and was promoted, his teacher would naturally know that he was wrong.


    It turned out that Fan Mingyuan was the one who was wrong about this matter. He had always been too full of himself.


    Teacher Ma could not help but worry. ¡°Master¡­¡±


    Fan Mingyuan waved his hand. ¡°I¡¯m fine. You can leave.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Shen Yijia waited at home for two days, but Xiao Ruoshui did not visit. She could not help but feel strange.


    ¡°Could she have returned to the capital?¡± Shen Yijia muttered. She pushed open the study door and realized that Song Jingchen, who was usually in the study all day, was not there.


    The last time Song Jingchen picked out a few books for her, she threw them aside after reading them once. Since she had nothing to do, she might as well read them.


    Shen Yijia walked in and flipped through the desk, but she did not see anything.


    ¡°Where is it?¡± She looked around the study, setting her sights on a row of shelves at the back.


    Actually, she had long forgotten what those books were called. She just looked around casually, prepared to ask Song Jingchen to find them when he returned.


    Shen Yijia glanced around and was about to go out to look for Song Jingchen when her gaze landed on a small piece of blue cloth in the corner of the bookshelf. It was stuck inside and Song Jingchen had accidentally brought it out when he took the book.


    She walked over and wanted to stuff it back. When she saw the familiar fabric, Shen Yijia exclaimed, ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t this wrapping paper I used on the books that I bought for him?¡±


    She had personally chosen this blue cloth. There was no mistake.


    Shen Yijia frowned and pulled it out, causing dust to fly. She quickly covered her nose.


    She was completely certain now, because the books inside were still there. Looking at the thickness of the dust on them, Shen Yijia suspected that Song Jingchen had never opened them.


    ¡°Hmph, you even said that you would take a good look.¡± Shen Yijia curled her lips and casually patted off the dust on it before opening the package.


    Sure enough, the three books were lying there, exactly the same as when she bought them.


    Shen Yijia took out the book. Previously, she only knew a few words, so she did not know the title of the book. Now, she at least knew it.


    The titles of the three books were ¡°Eighteen Styles of Yin Yang Union of Joy¡±, ¡°Jade Maiden Heart Sutra¡±, and ¡°National Beauty Treasure Book¡±.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Why did the first two books look like legendary martial arts manuals? There was also a third book that taught people how to taste incense. If her husband didn¡¯t like it, she could give it to Lin Shao.


    With this thought in mind, she placed the first two books she was interested in aside and prepared to give the third book to Lin Shao.


    As soon as Shen Yijia left, Song Jingchen returned. As soon as he entered the study, he realized that something was wrong. When he approached and saw the two extra books on the desk, he felt terrible.


    The blue cloth was still on the ground, but one of the books was missing. Shen Yijia was the only one who would casually enter the study.


    Song Jingchen felt his forehead throbbing and quickly drove his wheelchair out to look for her.


    On the other hand, Shen Yijia searched around before finding Lin Shao. He was feeding the horses grass. He was usually the one doing this. Occasionally, Shen Yijia would feed the horse a few times when she remembered.


    ¡°Sister-in-law,¡± Lin Shao called out when he saw Shen Yijia. He threw the last handful of grass into the trough and dusted off the grass in his hands.


    Seeing that his hands were clean, Shen Yijia handed the book to him. ¡°This is for you. Open it and see if you like it.¡±


    ¡°For me?¡± Lin Shao¡¯s eyes flashed with joy. Although he didn¡¯t lack food and clothes now, he was always happy to receive a gift.


    He wiped his hand on his clothes again before reaching out to take it solemnly.

 Chapter 215 - Taking the Blame for My Wife

    Looking at the book cover, Lin Shao felt strange. Before he could open it, a hand suddenly reached out and snatched the book from his hand.


    Lin Shao was shocked. He turned around and saw Bruiser opening the book with a smile. ¡°Sister, how can you be so biased¡­¡± He froze when he saw the contents of the book.


    Bruiser looked at Lin Shao and Shen Yijia with a red face. When the two of them were about to look at it, he closed the book and hid it behind his back. ¡°Sister, where did you get this book?¡±


    Although Shen Yijia was older than him, Bruiser felt that apart from being a little violent, she didn¡¯t know as much as he did. It was impossible for her to have such a book.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°I took it from my husband¡¯s study. I specially picked this for Lin Shao. If you like it, there are many more. I¡¯ll bring you there later¡­¡±


    1


    The sound of violent coughing interrupted Shen Yijia. Bruiser widened his eyes and looked at Song Jingchen, who had come over at some point.


    1


    He didn¡¯t expect her brother-in-law to have such a hobby, and there were so many of them¡­


    Bruiser felt that his worldview had shattered into pieces. Song Jingchen¡¯s image in his heart instantly collapsed.


    1


    ¡°Hubby, why are you here?¡± Shen Yijia walked over and asked.


    Song Jingchen looked at her helplessly and reached out to Bruiser. ¡°Give it to me.¡±


    Bruiser placed the book in his hand with a red face and suddenly straightened his neck. ¡°Brother-in-law. You- you can¡¯t lead my sister astray.¡±


    How could he be so indecent? He even dared put these books out in the open.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He couldn¡¯t possibly say that these books were bought by his bad sister, right? Since someone had to take the blame, what else could he say?


    Among the four people present, Song Jingchen and Bruiser were all sensible people. Lin Shao could vaguely sense that Shen Yijia was completely confused. Wasn¡¯t it just a book about fragrance?


    What she didn¡¯t know was that while incense was meant to be savored, the book was referring to the fragrance of a woman.


    In the end, Song Jingchen hid the three books somewhere. Shen Yijia never found them again, until¡­


    Xiao Ruoshui arrived at dusk on the fourth day. Shen Yijia saw that she seemed to be in a good state, but there was something wrong with her. When she met Shen Yijia¡¯s curious gaze, she did not say anything.


    After dinner at the Song family¡¯s house, she stammered, ¡°Auntie, can I stay here today?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? I would be worried if you want to head back home at this time of the day. Just stay here for a night.¡± Madam Li had watched her grow up, so she naturally wouldn¡¯t refuse. As she spoke, she got up and tidied up a house for her.


    Unexpectedly, Xiao Ruoshui turned her gaze to Shen Yijia again. ¡°Jiajia, can you stay with me tonight?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her strangely and guessed that she might have something to say. She nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened when he saw the two of them leave hand in hand.


    Unfortunately, Xiao Ruoshui seemed to be out of it today and did not notice his resentment.


    The two of them returned to their room. Shen Yijia felt that it was time for Xiao Ruoshui to speak, but Xiao Ruoshui was dawdling.


    It was only when she was about to fall asleep that she suddenly heard Xiao Ruoshui say, ¡°Jiajia, what do you think of Brother Yuan?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids opened. ¡°Have you decided to marry him?¡±


    ¡°No, no.¡± Xiao Ruoshui blushed and denied it, looking shy.


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°I don¡¯t believe you.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui felt embarrassed by her gaze. She pulled up the blanket and covered her face as she said in a muffled voice, ¡°I only just found out. It turns out that Brother Yuan has never married anyone because he holds me in his heart. I only treated him as an elder brother, and at that time, I¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia understood what she meant. It was because her beautiful husband was so outstanding that Xiao Ruoshui only saw him and ignored Fan Mingyuan, who had been protecting her.


    ¡°He told you that?¡± Shen Yijia was quite curious about this. Fan Mingyuan had been hiding it for so many years. Why did he suddenly reveal his feelings?


    Once she said this, it didn¡¯t seem so difficult to continue. Xiao Ruoshui stuck her head out and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°No, I discovered it myself.¡±


    She had originally wanted to say goodbye to Fan Mingyuan today. Her father¡¯s letter must have been delayed on the way here, and she didn¡¯t know when the news of the maiden selection would be announced. She had to get married before that. She didn¡¯t have much time left.


    Since neither choice was what she wanted, she had to choose a relatively acceptable choice.


    Unexpectedly, Fan Mingyuan was not in the study. She asked the servant and found out that he had gone out. It was late, so Xiao Ruoshui went into his study to wait.


    In the end, she accidentally saw her own portrait. In the past, she had secretly gotten someone to draw Song Jingchen¡¯s portrait and place it in her room. How could she not understand the meaning behind this?


    She couldn¡¯t tell what she was feeling at that time. She was shocked, so she came to Xiagou Village.


    When Shen Yijia heard the entire process, she clicked her tongue. Even the heavens were trying to matchmake these two. She turned around and faced Xiao Ruoshui. ¡°Then what are you thinking? Aren¡¯t you worried about the man your father chose for you? You don¡¯t even know what their personality is like. At least you know Fan Mingyuan.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui bit her lower lip. ¡°But I¡¯ve always treated him as an elder brother. Now, I feel strange.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Then why don¡¯t you just return to the capital? As long as you get married, it won¡¯t be easy for you to see Fan Mingyuan again. You don¡¯t have to worry about it anymore.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui choked. She was originally prepared to do that, but for some reason, she couldn¡¯t help but remember how good Fan Mingyuan was to her.


    Without hearing Xiao Ruoshui speak again, Shen Yijia fell asleep. In the middle of the night, she suddenly woke up.


    Looking at the unfamiliar room, it took her a while to realize where she was. She glanced at Xiao Ruoshui, who was sleeping soundly. She pursed her lips and decisively got up to carry her coat out of the door.


    Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen had already rested, but she didn¡¯t expect to see that the oil lamp in the room was still burning. From the window, she could still see Song Jingchen¡¯s blurry figure sitting by the desk.


    She was delighted and quickened her pace to push the door open. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look up.


    Shen Yijia reminded him, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m back.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    He still wouldn¡¯t look at her, as if something in the book had caught his eye.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and felt inexplicably guilty. When she promised Xiao Ruoshui that night, she seemed to have forgotten to ask for his opinion.


    Her husband seemed a little angry. What should she do?


    ¡°Are you waiting for me?¡± Shen Yijia asked carefully. Then, she complained in a heavy tone, ¡°You have no idea. I¡¯m not used to sleeping without you by my side. Moreover, Xiao Ruoshui even grinds her teeth when she snores. I won¡¯t sleep with her again.¡±


    She immediately shook her head. ¡°No, no. I¡¯ll only sleep with my husband in the future.¡±


    Only then did Song Jingchen close the book and look at Shen Yijia. He slowly said, ¡°You should rest.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.

 Chapter 216 - Song Jingchen’s Birthday and A

    Xiao Ruoshui went back early the next morning. Shen Yijia did not ask her what her decision was, but when she left, she seemed to have made up her mind. The outcome would be revealed soon.


    As expected, she came again two days later to bid farewell.


    ¡°I¡¯m going back to the capital.¡± Xiao Ruoshui took out a box and opened it. Inside was a translucent jade pendant.


    Afraid that Shen Yijia would not recognize it, Xiao Ruoshui raised her chin. ¡°Don¡¯t think that it¡¯s simple. This is a piece of warm jade. On my birthday, my grandfather gave me a fist-sized piece of warm jade that he had painstakingly obtained. I got someone to make it into a jade pendant for me.


    ¡°My step-sister had been coveting it for a long time, but I haven¡¯t given it to her. Now, you lucked out.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to retort and say that she didn¡¯t care about it. However, since Xiao Ruoshui was about to leave, she couldn¡¯t do that. Hence, she raised a fake smile and picked up the jade pendant. ¡°Thank you. This is the first time I¡¯ve received such an expensive gift.¡±


    The jade pendant was smooth and shiny. Even though Shen Yijia did not know much about jade, she knew that it was expensive.


    Her exaggerated performance successfully made Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s smugness disappear. She looked at her with disdain, as if she was asking why she had a friend like her.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and put the jade pendant back into the box. She took out a sleeve arrow and threw it to her. ¡°I made it myself. Although it¡¯s not as valuable as your jade pendant, this thing can more or less protect you when you encounter any danger.¡±


    Shen Yijia was not an ungrateful person. She could sense who was good to her and treated her as a friend, so she was naturally not stingy.


    Although Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s skills were not very good, she was really obsessed with martial arts. She naturally loved the things Shen Yijia gave her. She secretly decided to exchange gifts with Shen Yijia in the future.


    Shen Yijia did not know what she was thinking. She picked up a snack and stuffed it into her mouth. She said vaguely, ¡°Are you going to listen to your father and marry the man he chose?¡±


    Usually, women would not talk about marriage so casually. However, the two of them had even discussed how to consummate their marriage. It did not seem to be that difficult to talk about marriage.


    Xiao Ruoshui shook her head. ¡°No, I¡¯m returning to the capital to tell my father that I want to marry Brother Yuan.¡±


    Although she still didn¡¯t know how she felt about Fan Mingyuan, it wouldn¡¯t be any worse than marrying someone she didn¡¯t know.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Will your father agree?¡±


    It was not that she wanted to deal a blow to Xiao Ruoshui, but the people here were too prejudiced. Even the families in Xiagou Village, who had thin fields, were unwilling to marry their daughters off to someone worse off than them. They only cared about their families¡¯ social status.


    Xiao Ruoshui suddenly blushed. ¡°If he doesn¡¯t agree, I- I¡¯ll tell him that I¡¯m already intimate with Brother Yuan.¡±


    Shen Yijia choked. For a moment, she looked at Xiao Ruoshui in a different light. This girl was prepared to go all out.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Where¡¯s Fan Mingyuan? He¡¯s not doing anything?¡±


    If that was the case, he was not someone to be trusted.


    Xiao Ruoshui understood what Shen Yijia meant and quickly spoke up for Fan Mingyuan. ¡°Brother Yuan said that he would send me back to the capital. When the time comes, he¡¯ll come to my house to propose and settle the marriage first. Moreover, I¡¯ve just decided on what to tell my father. Brother Yuan doesn¡¯t know about it.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Xiao Ruoshui was protecting Fan Mingyuan now, even though she was smitten with Song Jingchen not long before this. Indeed, her heart for her beautiful husband was the most unwavering.


    She¡¯d completely forgotten that she chose to protect Song Jingchen after seeing his handsome face.


    Watching Xiao Ruoshui leave, Shen Yijia felt inexplicably melancholic.


    She didn¡¯t have many friends. In her previous life, Da Hua was one of them. The only difference between the two of them was that they were separated by life and death.


    ¡°I wonder if she escaped those people¡¯s capture.¡± Shen Yijia subconsciously muttered. She heard that once those who escaped were captured, they would be cut into pieces.


    Now that she thought about it, she had really gotten lucky by transmigrating here after she died.


    ¡°You¡¯ll meet her again in the future.¡± Song Jingchen thought that she couldn¡¯t bear to part with Xiao Ruoshui. Although his heart ached a little, he still comforted her.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. This sentence made her think deeply.


    After Xiao Ruoshui left, the Song family¡¯s days returned to their usual calm. The weather became hotter every day, and spring robes changed into summer clothes. In the blink of an eye, August arrived.


    The fifth day of the eighth month was Song Jingchen¡¯s birthday. Around this time last year, their family was still on the way to Xiagou Village from the capital. In addition, they had just experienced the death of their loved ones, so no one celebrated.


    This year was different. Half a month ago, Shen Yijia had already started preparing. It was none other than the cake that Da Hua had brought her to eat after escaping from the courtyard in her previous life.


    Da Hua said that since she did not know her birthday, the day she escaped would be her new life. Although that new life was a little short, it was the happiest day of Shen Yijia¡¯s previous life.


    After getting a stomach ache last time, Shen Yijia naturally would not be blindly confident anymore. She roughly described the cake¡¯s appearance and taste to Madam Li. Madam Li spent five days using all the eggs in the house to make a cake that tasted about the same.


    Her skills were amazing.


    Following that, Shen Yijia spent ten days practicing. Under Madam Li¡¯s guidance, she successfully made a delicious cake.


    ¡°Hubby, happy birthday.¡± Shen Yijia walked in with her cake with a smile. Her eyes were sparkling, and they seemed to be filled with starlight.


    Even though he was already used to this girl¡¯s face, Song Jingchen was still stunned.


    Madam Li followed closely behind with a bowl of longevity noodles. ¡°Brother Chen, happy birthday.¡±


    ¡°Big Brother, happy birthday.¡± Brother Hao quickly congratulated him.


    Song Jingchen looked around at everyone present and finally fixed his gaze on Shen Yijia¡¯s face. His lips curled up slightly. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    If not for her, this family would not be in its current state.


    Shen Yijia was a little embarrassed by his gaze. She rubbed her nose and urged, ¡°Mother and I spent so long preparing these. You have to finish them.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    Other than that, Madam Li also made a table full of dishes that everyone loved to eat.


    It was rare for Song Jingchen not to share the food that came from Shen Yijia. Instead, he ate all of it alone.


    During the meal, Shen Yijia even took out a jar of wine. The family was filled with children, so she bought fruit wine. It wouldn¡¯t make anyone drunk.


    Shen Yijia thought that the fruit wine would not make anyone drunk. Indeed, no one else was drunk but her.


    1


    Song Jingchen drove the wheelchair back to the room and let her lie down on the couch. Just as he was about to get up, a hand hooked around him¡­


    1

 Chapter 217 - Jiajia Likes Her Husband the Most

    ¡°My hubby is so good-looking.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen drunkenly and caressed his well-defined face with her free hand.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression was a little unnatural. He gulped asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°Which part?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned by the question. She tilted her head and blinked. She looked at him with curved eyes. Her small hand caressed Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows inch by inch. When it reached the corner of his lips, she chuckled. ¡°You look good everywhere. I like you the most.¡±


    ¡°What a smooth-talking little vixen.¡± Joy flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes, but he still pretended to be calm. He reached out and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, which was about to move down.


    ¡°I¡¯m a fairy, a fairy.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks unhappily. Her voice was soft and coquettish. When he stopped her hand from moving further, she pouted and retorted, ¡°And my mouth isn¡¯t just filled with smooth words. Kiss me if you don¡¯t believe me¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen was amused by her expression. ¡°Alright, I understand. You¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lying. You didn¡¯t even kiss me.¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted her hand from his neck and grabbed his collar. She pulled him down, and the latter fell onto her.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils dilated. He looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s beautiful red lips and took a deep breath. He closed his eyes and suppressed the heat in his heart. He smiled helplessly and lowered his head to plant a kiss on the corner of her lips. He looked up and met Shen Yijia¡¯s sparkling eyes. He coaxed softly, ¡°Is this enough?¡±


    Shen Yijia was satisfied. She snorted and subconsciously licked her lips. She had no idea how tempting her actions were.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s thoughts were in a mess, and his eyes darkened. He felt the temperature in his body rising. However, Shen Yijia seemed to be uncomfortable under the pressure, and her body twisted around restlessly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s head sank. If this continued, he would definitely burst like a furnace. He suppressed his urges and moved away from Shen Yijia. He didn¡¯t dare to look at the little demon on the bed again. He rushed out of the door and even forgot about the wheelchair.


    When he returned, it was already an hour later. His body was emitting cold air and his hair was still wet. He looked at the person who had lit the fire in his heart and was sleeping comfortably. She even smacked her lips from time to time.


    Song Jingchen bit her lips angrily and domineeringly pried open her red lips to deepen the kiss.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen looked up at Shen Yijia¡¯s face, which was red from holding her breath. He reached out and gently brushed the flower bud on her forehead. He said lovingly, ¡°Little vixen.¡±


    Noticing her slightly swollen lips, his eyes darkened. He sighed at how he had brought this upon himself and resigned himself to taking another shower.


    The next day, when Shen Yijia woke up, she only felt that her lips were a little swollen and painful. She didn¡¯t think too much about it. Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief, but he didn¡¯t expect it to be noticed by Brother Hao when he was eating.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, what¡¯s wrong with your mouth?¡± Brother Hao looked concerned. His words made everyone except Song Jingchen look over.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously reached out to touch it and said casually, ¡°It¡¯s probably a bug bite. It¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, do you have insects in your room? I¡¯ll prepare insect repellent powder for you later,¡± Lin Shao added.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Song Jingchen coughed dryly.


    Madam Li found it funny. It was rare to see her eldest son suffer. She tried to smooth things over. ¡°Alright, hurry up and eat. I¡¯ll bring you to see Auntie Lotus¡¯s sows give birth later. If there are too many baby cows, I¡¯ll buy two of them and raise them.¡±


    1


    There was a moment of silence.


    On Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s end. The closer Xiao Ruoshui got to the capital, the more Fan Mingyuan felt that it was unreal.


    He still remembered that when he was brought back to the Duke¡¯s residence, he was always in grief because he had just experienced the death of his parents. In addition, he felt that he was incompatible with the Duke¡¯s residence. He often avoided the servants and hid in the rockery cave for the entire day.


    At that time, it just so happened that the Duchess of Li had given birth to a pair of twins. The attention of the residence was all on that side, so they ignored him for a moment. No one noticed him sleeping outside.


    1


    ¡°Hey, wake up.¡± Little Ruoshui blinked her big eyes and woke him up from his sleep.


    Seeing that he was awake, Little Ruoshui sat down beside him and asked curiously, ¡°Brother Chen doesn¡¯t play with you either. Is that why you¡¯re hiding here?¡±


    That was the first time he had seen Xiao Ruoshui. Her hair was tied with a ribbon, and she was wearing a red cloak with fur trimming. She looked like a lucky doll from a painting. He was stunned and did not reply.


    Little Ruoshui didn¡¯t mind. She sighed as if she had experienced it before. ¡°Don¡¯t be sad. Brother Chen is just too busy. You¡¯ll get used to being ignored by him after a few more times.¡±


    Hearing her nagging, Fan Mingyuan did not know how to answer, but he wasn¡¯t annoyed because the voice in his ear made him feel that he was not alone.


    Suddenly, Little Ruoshui moved closer to him as if she had discovered a new continent. ¡°Hey, were you crying just now? My father said that men shed blood but not tears. How can you cry just because Brother Chen doesn¡¯t want to play with you? This is wrong.¡±


    Actually, the first time she had been ignored by Song Jingchen and cried when she returned home, her father had scolded her. Her father had said that a tomboy would shed blood but not tears since she had been motivated to be a heroine since she was young. Her father had said that she was a tomboy.


    1


    ¡°No, no.¡± Fan Mingyuan blushed and denied it.


    Little Ruoshui didn¡¯t believe him at all. She handed him a small pouch from her waist. ¡°Here, this is for you. I originally planned to give it to Brother Chen, but he didn¡¯t want it, so you lucked out.¡±


    He wanted to say no. He wasn¡¯t crying because others didn¡¯t want to play with him. He was just crying because he missed his parents.


    At this moment, Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s maidservant came over. ¡°Miss, where are you? Come out quickly. Madam said that she¡¯s going back to the residence.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui left in a hurry, leaving the purse lying alone on the ground.


    He picked it up and opened it. It was full of candy.


    From then on, every time Little Ruoshui was chased out by Song Jingchen, she would go there. The food she sent to Song Jingchen also entered his stomach. As a result, they slowly interacted more.


    When he grew up, he could tell that Xiao Ruoshui liked Song Jingchen, so he deliberately helped them create opportunities. Although he would also be sad at that time, he knew that he was not worthy of the beloved daughter of the general¡¯s residence.


    When he left the capital, he had thought of taking this opportunity to completely let go of his hidden thoughts.


    Therefore, he never thought that one day, Xiao Ruoshui would ask him, ¡°Are you willing to marry me?¡± At that time, he thought he was hallucinating.


    ¡°Brother Yuan, why aren¡¯t you asleep?¡± A voice pulled Fan Mingyuan back from his thoughts.


    Only then did he realize that he had unknowingly walked to the door of Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s room. Looking at the slender and elegant person in front of him, he vaguely saw the little girl who kept nagging in his ear.

 Chapter 218 - Marriage Settled, An Xiu’er Enters the Capital

    Fan Mingyuan coughed awkwardly and said, ¡°I couldn¡¯t sleep. I came out for a walk. Why aren¡¯t you resting?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui rubbed her nose awkwardly. She had already laid down and saw a figure standing outside the door. She had to open the door to see who it was.


    Fan Mingyuan also realized that he had asked a stupid question. He was so nervous that he didn¡¯t know where to put his hands and feet. After a long time, he found his voice. ¡°You should rest early. I¡¯m going back to my room.¡±


    ¡°Brother Yuan.¡± Xiao Ruoshui suddenly stopped him. She bit her lower lip and mustered her courage. ¡°If you¡¯re unwilling, you can refuse.¡±


    After all, what she had told Shen Yijia before was her own guess. When she asked Fan Mingyuan if he was willing to marry her, he only agreed and nothing else. If she guessed wrongly and Fan Mingyuan only agreed because he wanted to help her, how awkward would that be?


    Fan Mingyuan was stunned for a moment. He did not expect his silence to cause Xiao Ruoshui to misunderstand. He forgot all decorum and stepped forward and held her hand. ¡°No, I¡¯m not unwilling. I just didn¡¯t expect this day to come. I¡¯m very happy.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned. She did not expect a person who usually looked calm to be so childish. When she returned to her senses and realized that they were holding hands, her face instantly turned red. She pulled her hand away and said anxiously, ¡°I- I¡¯m going to rest. Go back to your room quickly.¡±


    The door closed with a bang. Fan Mingyuan looked at his hand for a long time and smiled foolishly.


    Because they were in a hurry, it took them less than a month to reach the capital.


    In the general¡¯s residence, Xiao Ruoshui was summoned by the general¡¯s wife, Madam Zhou, the moment she stepped into the residence. Fan Mingyuan handed over a visiting card and went to see General Xiao.


    General Xiao was in his early fifties. Perhaps it was because he was a general, but he did not look old. The most impressive thing about him was his slender and sharp black eyes. He was like an eagle in the night. When he saw Fan Mingyuan, he laughed heartily. ¡°Nephew, you haven¡¯t returned to the capital for a long time.¡±


    This was not the first time Fan Mingyuan had seen General Xiao, but it was the first time he was so nervous. He cupped his hands and bowed. ¡°Greetings, General Xiao.¡±


    General Xiao helped him up. ¡°You¡¯re being too polite. You can still call me Uncle Xiao as usual. Speaking of which, thank you for taking care of my daughter these days.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan pondered for a moment and said, ¡°Of course.¡±


    General Xiao glanced at him. ¡°Sit.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle.¡±


    After taking a seat with Fan Mingyuan, General Xiao slowly said, ¡°You haven¡¯t returned to the capital for so many years. You didn¡¯t come here just to send Ruoshui back, right?¡±


    Although he had yet to meet his daughter, General Xiao was not stupid. If Fan Mingyuan wanted to send a gift, he could have sent a few people to deliver it.


    Fan Mingyuan did not expect him to be so direct, so he went straight to the point. He stood up, lifted his robe, and knelt down. ¡°I would like to ask for your daughter¡¯s hand in marriage, General.¡±


    General Xiao was stunned. He had guessed many possibilities, but he had never guessed this. He knew that Xiao Ruoshui had always admired Song Jingchen. The incident at the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence had only happened because he had ordered someone to lock Xiao Ruoshui up.


    However, to betroth Ruoshui to Fan Mingyuan¡­


    Thinking about how the situation in the capital was still unclear, the voices of the eunuchs in the imperial court gradually became louder. Recently, the Eldest Prince had mentioned Ruoshui to him a few times.


    General Xiao weighed his options and did not let him get up immediately. He said, ¡°I watched you grow up, so there¡¯s no need to say anything. I¡¯ll only ask you one question.¡±


    Since the general didn¡¯t reject him immediately, there was hope. Fan Mingyuan asked anxiously, ¡°Uncle, please speak.¡±


    General Xiao said, ¡°Do you have any plans to return to the capital within five years?¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was stunned. If it was in the past, he would definitely have replied, ¡°Yes.¡± But now, he shook his head firmly. ¡°No.¡±


    If General Xiao was unwilling to let his daughter marry far away, his words would completely end his marriage with Xiao Ruoshui.


    Unexpectedly, General Xiao nodded in satisfaction and personally helped him up. ¡°As long as you promise to treat Ruoshui well in the future, you can officially come and propose tomorrow. You can settle the marriage first.¡±


    A woman who had been engaged did not need to participate in the maiden selection process.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s mind was in a mess. He did not expect General Xiao to agree so easily. He looked up in disbelief and met General Xiao¡¯s half-smile. He quickly promised, ¡°I won¡¯t let you down in this life. If I betray this promise, I¡¯ll willingly be killed.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui, who had finally escaped from her mother¡¯s clutches, happened to hear this. Her face flushed red and she heaved a sigh of relief. There was no need for her to say anything else.


    Madam Zhou naturally wanted the best for her daughter. Although she felt that it was a little unfair to betroth her daughter to a low-ranking official, she could not afford to take her time to choose.


    Especially since she had previously revealed some information to the ladies of the few families. They had clearly discussed it well, but in the end, there were no arrangements for a marriage between their families. She felt very disgusted. She knew that those people were afraid that marrying into their family would anger the royal family.


    The next day, Fan Mingyuan invited the official media to propose marriage. In just half a month, they had gotten engaged.


    Once the news of the marriage between the legitimate daughter of the general¡¯s residence and an unknown seventh-grade official spread, many people were so angry that they smashed their teacups.


    At the beginning of July, the decree for the palace selection was also issued. Originally, Fan Mingyuan wanted to stay in the capital for two more days to accompany Xiao Ruoshui. A secret meeting with General Xiao forced him to rush back to Anyang County immediately.


    By the time the decree reached Xiagou Village, it was already mid-August.


    The maiden selection was usually held by the Internal Affairs Bureau and the Ministry of Rites to choose outstanding women from all over the country. To Shen Yijia¡¯s surprise, An Xiu¡¯er was chosen.


    The ladies of the imperial court could only avoid participating if they were married or engaged. That was because under the emperor¡¯s watch, everyone knew which family had unmarried ladies. If they did not participate in the selection, their families would inevitably be despised by the emperor.


    However, it was different for ordinary girls. As long as no one said anything, they would not be forced to do so. Therefore, An Xiu¡¯er would only go if she was willing to.


    Shen Yijia stood at the entrance of the courtyard and watched as An Xiu¡¯er carried a small bag and boarded the carriage specially prepared for the participants of the maiden selection. The moment she entered the carriage, she seemed to have sensed something and looked back. Her lips curled into a smile as she nodded at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She rubbed her arms. It was not winter yet. Why was it suddenly cold?


    Shen Yijia had an ominous premonition.


    As soon as the carriage left, Auntie Tian came crying. ¡°What kind of place is the palace? Can commoners like us go there? Why won¡¯t she listen?¡±


    Auntie Tian held a handkerchief and cried. Shen Yijia realized that the An family did not agree to An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s participation. She secretly participated in the county-level selection and only came back to pack her things after she was chosen.

 Chapter 219 - Something Happened to the Disinherited Crown Prince

    It wasn¡¯t just Shen Yijia, even Madam Li was speechless. No one expected An Xiu¡¯er to be so bold. However, now that the government had already registered her name, there was no point in thinking about it. Madam Li could only comfort Auntie Tian. ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. There are so many beautiful women. She might not be chosen. She might be eliminated.¡±


    Actually, Madam Li also knew that with An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s looks, the possibility of this happening was very low unless she made a mistake. However, which woman could make a mistake and come out alive? She understood, but she did not dare to say it out loud.


    Auntie Tian did not understand the complexity of the situation. She seemed to think that it made sense. How could a country girl compare to those noble ladies? Auntie Tian made up her mind to marry An Xiu¡¯er off as soon as she came back, regardless of whether Xiu¡¯er had someone in her heart.


    Otherwise, she was really afraid that An Xiu¡¯er would cause trouble.


    Auntie Tian finally calmed down after thinking it through. Otherwise, Shen Yijia would have been worried that she would faint from crying.


    Because An Xiu¡¯er had entered the capital, everyone in Xiagou Village had a new topic to talk about. Regardless of what they secretly thought, the people in Xiagou Village were at least harmonious on the surface. They congratulated the other members of the An family.


    Shen Yijia had nothing to do, so she pushed Song Jingchen to the flower field to take a stroll. Even though they weren¡¯t expensive flowers, they were still beautiful.


    When the two of them arrived, they saw the women in the village cutting off the flowers that had just bloomed and sending them to the workshop.


    Shen Yijia saw Shen Dali sitting on the ridge of the field at a glance. The person who used to come over and call her grandaunt was unusually quiet today.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and pushed Song Jingchen over. Only then did she realize that there was an empty wine jar by his feet. ¡°What happened? Did your wife run away with someone? Why do you look like this?¡±


    Shen Dali looked up at her and hiccuped. He nodded miserably. ¡°More or less.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She had just said it in jest. She did not expect her guess to be right. Shen Dali¡¯s miserable appearance made sense.


    ¡°Wait, where did this big guy get a wife? Why didn¡¯t I know about it?¡± she thought.


    Just as she was about to ask, Song Jingchen suddenly tugged at her sleeve and mouthed three words. Shen Yijia came to a realization and clicked her tongue at Shen Dali.


    ¡°Shen Dali.¡± At this moment, a clear voice sounded from behind them. When the woman saw Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen, the girl was stunned for a moment. She blushed and called out, ¡°Brother Song, Sister Shen.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. She remembered this girl. She was the village chief¡¯s daughter, Song Zhaozhao. In the past, she had always thought that this girl was arrogant. Now, she felt different.


    ¡°Why are you here again?¡± Shen Dali said angrily.


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I come? Hmph, don¡¯t forget what you did to me previously.¡± Song Zhaozhao retorted bluntly.


    ¡°Wow, they¡¯re so confrontational. What exactly is going on?¡± Shen Yijia thought. She looked at Shen Dali with a gossipy expression, her eyes sparkling.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. He was helpless against her lack of judgment. He turned to look at Shen Dali.


    Shen Dali¡¯s face turned red from the three of them looking at him. He straightened his neck and said, ¡°Don¡¯t listen to this woman¡¯s nonsense. I saw that she had sprained her ankle and there was no one around, so I carried her home. I didn¡¯t do anything to her.¡±


    ¡°So many people saw you carrying me, yet you still say that you didn¡¯t do anything to me?¡± Song Zhaozhao exploded with anger. After saying that, she looked at Shen Yijia and as if she wanted Shen Yijia to be the judge.


    Shen Yijia dropped her gleeful expression and nodded. ¡°Dali is indeed in the wrong.¡±


    ¡°Grandaunt, you¡­¡± Shen Dali felt wronged.


    ¡°Dali, as a man, you have to take responsibility for your actions,¡± Shen Yijia lectured with a straight face. Song Zhaozhao nodded repeatedly.


    Shen Yijia sighed in her heart. Indeed, she couldn¡¯t stay at home for too long, or she wouldn¡¯t catch wind of what was going on in the village.


    The two of them walked around before returning home. Just as they reached home, they saw a green carriage parked at the door. Seeing the person getting out of the carriage, Shen Yijia asked in surprise, ¡°Shopkeeper Wang, why are you here?¡±


    It was the shopkeeper of Full Fortune Restaurant. Shen Yijia had not seen this person for a long time.


    Shopkeeper Wang wiped his sweat with his sleeve and smiled. ¡°I heard from Young Master Song that he has some precious tea today, so I came to chat.¡±


    After saying that, he stole a glance at Song Jingchen, whose eyes darkened.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Why didn¡¯t she hear about this premium tea? However, she couldn¡¯t rule out the possibility that Song Jingchen had asked Rooster and the others to buy it. After all, those people had always been elusive and often came to visit in the middle of the night.


    After inviting Shopkeeper Wang into the courtyard, Shen Yijia wanted to bring him to the central room, but Song Jingchen said, ¡°Let¡¯s go to my study.¡±


    Shen Yijia could only bring him into the study.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes at Shopkeeper Wang and suddenly said, ¡°Jiajia, it¡¯s boring for you to stay here. Help me see if Brother Hao and the others are slacking off.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She glanced at the two of them and wondered when they had become so familiar with each other. She nodded and left, not forgetting to help close the door.


    Before Song Jingchen could ask, Shopkeeper Wang hurriedly said, ¡°Eldest Young Master, the Crown Prince¡­ something happened to Lord An Le.¡±


    If not for the fact that the matter was urgent and could not be delayed, he would not have come looking for Song Jingchen so casually.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip on the armrest of the wheelchair and frowned. ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t Uncle Yang send a message?¡± he thought.


    There was a moment of silence.


    Shopkeeper Wang stayed for an hour before leaving. Seeing that it was time for dinner, Shen Yijia wanted to ask him to stay for dinner. Shopkeeper Wang excused himself and left in a hurry.


    During the meal, Song Jingchen was also distracted. Shen Yijia felt that something was wrong, but she couldn¡¯t tell what it was.


    They went back to their room after dinner, and laid in bed silently.


    ¡°Hubby, what did Shopkeeper Wang say to you?¡± Shen Yijia could not hold back her words. In the end, she broke the silence.


    Song Jingchen turned to look at her and suddenly reached out to hug her tightly. He rested his chin on her forehead and stroked her beautiful hair.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She was a person who was afraid of heat, so during the summer, the two of them slept separately. They rarely hugged each other like this.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Shen Yijia asked uneasily. Song Jingchen was acting abnormally.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth a few times, but in the end, he only said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Go to sleep. I¡¯ll be here.¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t believe him. She struggled out of his arms and looked down at Song Jingchen. ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled helplessly. ¡°What would you do if I lied to you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head and thought about it. What could she do? Beat him up and leave him? She couldn¡¯t bear to do that.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes flickered. He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s wrist and pulled. He flipped over and pressed her under him, looking at her with a burning gaze.


    He reached out and stroked the bud on her forehead. He stroked her cheek and finally stopped at the corner of her lips. His eyes darkened as he lowered his head and kissed her lips.

 Chapter 220 - The Room Is Full of Misery, Jiajia Is Sad

    It was different from the gentle kiss in the past, and it was also different from the shallow kiss Shen Yijia had when she was drunk. This kiss was domineering and invasive, but it also seemed to be suppressing something.


    Shen Yijia was in a daze from the kiss. Her vision gradually blurred, and her face turned red from a lack of breath. Suddenly, he placed his hand on her waist. Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened.


    Song Jingchen suddenly stopped and looked up at her. He planted another kiss on her lips and sighed. ¡°Silly girl, you don¡¯t even know how to breathe.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s lips were still a little numb. She couldn¡¯t say what she felt, but her heart was beating a little fast, as if it would jump out of her throat in the next second. Hearing this, she snorted. ¡°If you don¡¯t teach me, how would I know? It¡¯s not like I can practice with someone els-¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, her mouth was blocked again. This time, Song Jingchen only bit her lips as a punishment before stopping. ¡°I won¡¯t allow it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. It took her a long time to realize that he was saying that no one was allowed to teach her. She chuckled and hooked her arms around Song Jingchen¡¯s neck. She raised her head and kissed the corner of his lips. ¡°Alright. You¡¯re not allowed to teach anyone else either.¡±


    Song Jingchen imitated her and planted a kiss on her forehead. He said dotingly, ¡°No, I¡¯ll only teach you.¡±


    The two of them kissed each other. After a while, Shen Yijia fell asleep.


    Song Jingchen reached out and took out the sachet under her pillow and sighed.


    He lifted the blanket and went out to take a cold shower. When he returned, he took out a set of black casual clothes from the closet and changed into them.


    Just as he was about to leave, he stopped and turned around. He walked to the bed and placed a letter beside Shen Yijia¡¯s pillow. Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeping face, he lowered his head and kissed her forehead. He said softly, ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    With that, he left without looking back. When he passed by the front yard, Furball looked straight at him with its dark eyes. Song Jingchen glanced at it fiercely, and Furball immediately made way for him.


    Furball seemed to be thinking to itself. ¡°Master, your husband is too scary. I can¡¯t help you!¡±


    Under the cover of the night, Song Jingchen quietly arrived at the entrance of Xiagou Village. There was a person and two horses waiting there.


    ¡°Master,¡± South Wind called out, cupping his hands.


    Song Jingchen nodded and took the reins from him. He got on the horse and looked back at the village. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    South Wind quickly mounted his horse and followed.


    The two horses galloped forward. Suddenly, Song Jingchen pulled the reins and narrowed his eyes at the oncoming carriage.


    Fan Mingyuan alighted from the carriage in a sorry state and heaved a sigh of relief. He had made it on time.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk,¡± he said.


    Song Jingchen frowned and dismounted.


    The two of them walked to the side. Fan Mingyuan was the first to speak. ¡°I guessed that the masked man was you that day.¡±


    What he meant was that he had long known that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had recovered, but he didn¡¯t expose him.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°So what?¡±


    If Fan Mingyuan insisted on ruining his plans, he didn¡¯t mind silencing him.


    Fan Mingyuan saw the killing intent in his eyes and smiled bitterly. He suddenly lifted his robe and knelt down, kowtowing to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen frowned, thinking that Fan Mingyuan was here to ask him for another favor. His gaze became colder.


    ¡°The first kowtow is for the old master. If he hadn¡¯t brought me back to the residence, I wouldn¡¯t be where I am today.¡±


    After saying that, he leaned over and kowtowed again. ¡°The second one is for Teacher. I¡¯m arrogant, conceited, and have let him down.¡±


    He kowtowed again. ¡°The last one is for you. I turned a blind eye when you needed me the most. For the sake of justice in my eyes, I even ignored your situation and asked so much of you. I¡¯ve let down the old master and my teacher.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at him and didn¡¯t say anything. Fan Mingyuan didn¡¯t seem to care. After kowtowing, he got up and patted the dirt off his clothes. He exhaled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll help you guard the house.¡±


    After a long time, Song Jingchen said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    He turned around and left.


    Looking at the figure disappearing into the night, Fan Mingyuan rubbed his swollen head. After receiving the news, he guessed that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t ignore it. He had rushed over overnight to give him peace of mind.


    In the capital city.


    ¡°Why did you suddenly change your mind?¡± A middle-aged man in a black robe suppressed the anger in his heart and asked in a low voice.


    A handsome man pushed the brewed tea towards the middle-aged man and said unhurriedly, ¡°He still has what I want.¡±


    The middle-aged man took a deep breath, helpless against his calm personality. He picked up his teacup and took a sip. He softened his tone and said, ¡°Do you think you can stop him by stopping the messenger pigeon?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± The handsome man raised his eyebrows. ¡°I can¡¯t stop them. It should be enough to stall for time. I only want a person¡¯s life, not the destruction of Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°Since you knew that his legs had recovered, you shouldn¡¯t have¡­¡±


    ¡°I only suspected it previously. Besides, if he doesn¡¯t make a move, how can I find what I want?¡± The handsome man refilled his cup of tea. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t forget about my mother¡¯s grievances. None of them can escape.¡±


    ¡°Hong¡¯er, you¡­¡± The middle-aged man paused and sighed.¡± It¡¯s good that you didn¡¯t forget. ¡±


    The handsome man picked up a handkerchief and wiped his slender fingers. ¡°You should go back. After all, this is Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave tonight.¡± As soon as the middle-aged man finished speaking, neither of them spoke again.


    There was a moment of silence.


    ¡°Hubby!¡± Shen Yijia woke up from her sleep and quickly turned to look beside her. There was no one there.


    Her eyes narrowed. She lifted the blanket and got out of bed, glancing at the letter beside her. She frowned and picked it up, only to see four words on the envelope: ¡°For my beloved wife.¡±


    Thinking of Shopkeeper Wang¡¯s arrival in the afternoon and Song Jingchen¡¯s abnormality, Shen Yijia had a guess. She pursed her lips and tears fell uncontrollably.


    Ever since she transmigrated here, she had never been separated from Song Jingchen. At the thought that she might not see her beautiful husband for a long time, she felt terrible.


    Tears rolled down her cheeks and splashed on the envelope. Soon, the words started to blur.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened. She quickly took the letter away and wiped her face with her hand. The more she wiped the word, the more blurry it became. Looking at the almost unrecognizable word, she hiccuped and pouted. She wanted to cry again.


    Sniffling, she slowly opened the envelope and pulled out the letter.


    ¡°Jiajia, my wife.


    ¡°The Crown Prince is in trouble. I have no choice but to go. I hope you can forgive me.¡±


    ¡°You have to take care of the family matters.¡±


    ¡°After I save the Crown Prince, you can do whatever you want to me.¡±


    ¡°From your husband.¡±


    It was as she had thought. Thinking of something, Shen Yijia quickly ran out and went straight to Madam Li¡¯s room. From afar, she saw that the light in her room was still on.


    As soon as Shen Yijia approached, the door opened. Madam Li saw that her eyes were red and sighed. She took her hand and led her into the room.


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Shen Yijia had many questions, but the one she wanted to ask the most was where Song Jingchen was.


    There was a moment of silence.

 Chapter 221 - iajia Leaves

    Madam Li asked her to sit down and carefully wiped her face with a handkerchief. She sat down beside her and said, ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you tell me? I could have gone with him.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was choked with tears. Apart from being sad, she was also a little angry. Madam Li knew, but she didn¡¯t tell her.


    Shen Yijia could not hide anything. Madam Li could tell what she was thinking. ¡°Silly child, Brother Chen didn¡¯t tell you because he was afraid that you would follow him. He told me because he wanted me to comfort you.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m very powerful. I can help him.¡± Song Jingchen had thought of everything for her. She couldn¡¯t even get angry. Shen Yijia was even more upset, and tears fell.


    This was the first time she had seen Shen Yijia cry. Madam Li¡¯s heart ached as she pulled her into her arms and patted her back to comfort her. ¡°I know, I know that our Sister Jia is the most powerful. It¡¯s just that he has something important to do on this trip. In addition, there are countless eyes watching him, and the mission is filled with danger. It¡¯s precisely because it¡¯s dangerous that he can¡¯t let you take that risk.¡±


    Shen Yijia said gloomily, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid.¡±


    Hearing her childish words, Madam Li chuckled and looked at the dark night outside. ¡°Before I got married, my father and my brothers often went to the battlefield.


    Sometimes, they would even be called away in a hurry during the New Year¡¯s Eve dinner.


    After they left, my mother insisted that I eat with my sisters-in-law before leaving. At that time, I asked my mother, ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about Father and my brothers?¡± My mother told me, ¡°I¡¯m a general¡¯s wife, I have to do my duty.¡±


    Madam Li paused for a moment and used her handkerchief to wipe the corners of her eyes before continuing, ¡°Sister Jia, I¡¯m telling you this so that you understand. As long as we don¡¯t take revenge, there won¡¯t be any peace around Brother Chen. You have to be mentally prepared. All we can do is wait for him to return home.¡±


    Of course, Madam Li was worried about her son.


    However, Madam Li knew that this was something Song Jingchen had to do. It was also his own choice. The only thing she could do was to avoid being a burden to him.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t say anything. If she was weak, Song Jingchen should definitely leave her here.


    However, that wasn¡¯t the case. Although she had never fought Song Jingchen and didn¡¯t know if she could defeat him, she could still easily deal with most of the people here, so she couldn¡¯t understand.


    From Madam Li¡¯s attitude, Shen Yijia knew that she would not be able to get anything out of her. She walked out of Madam Li¡¯s room calmly, facing the cold night.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks and returned to her room to pack a few clothes.


    She put all the silver pieces into her pouch from the box containing the money. There were about 30 taels of silver. After thinking for a moment, she took out a banknote worth 100 taels of silver and tucked it into her pocket.


    She carried the box to the desk and wrote a few words. Before the ink dried, she picked it up and placed it in the most obvious position. The money box was placed on it.


    After making the necessary preparations, Shen Yijia quietly brought out the big horse that was sleeping in the stable. The big horse was about to snort when Shen Yijia quickly touched its head. ¡°Xiaohua, let¡¯s go find our beautiful husband. Be good and don¡¯t make any noise.¡±


    After comforting Xiaohua, Shen Yijia led it out of the door silently. After walking a distance, she got on the horse and turned around.


    In the arena prison, a few men were sleeping soundly on the floor. Compared to before, the stench of decay was gone, and there were no squeaking rats. In short, it was much cleaner.


    Rooster was dreaming about how he had successfully changed his name when he suddenly felt his nose itch. He rubbed his nose impatiently and turned around to continue sleeping.


    Soon, the itch came again. Something furry crawled into his nose.


    He was about to sneeze. Just as he opened his mouth, it was blocked by something.


    He opened his eyes abruptly and saw two pairs of eyes staring at him. He was so frightened that he rolled to the side.


    The person took off the cloth in his mouth. He was about to scream when he felt a pain on the back of his neck and fainted.


    The two shadows in the darkness looked at each other. One of them stood up and grabbed Rooster by the collar. The person lifted him up and took out a letter that they had prepared. Without alerting the others, the person silently carried him out of the dungeon. The owner of the other pair of eyes followed closely behind.


    After leaving the dungeon, Shen Yijia threw Rooster on the ground. She glanced at Furball behind her and said angrily, ¡°Why are you following me? Go back quickly.¡±


    Furball walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s feet and rubbed against her, clearly trying to please her.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°It¡¯s fine if you want to follow me, but we have to make an agreement. Firstly, you have to take care of your own food. Secondly, you¡¯re not allowed to appear in town and be seen by others. Thirdly, if you¡¯re caught and someone wants to make you into a tiger skin cloak, I won¡¯t save you.¡±


    The reason Shen Yijia put the condition about food highest on the list was because Furball was spoiled. It didn¡¯t eat uncooked food, and it wouldn¡¯t eat anything that didn¡¯t taste good. For example, it never touched Shen Yijia¡¯s cooking. She wanted to scare Furball with the second and third conditions.


    Unexpectedly, Little Furball immediately nodded like a human. It felt like Furball was trying to say, ¡°I¡¯d rather eat raw meat than Shen Yijia¡¯s food.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Since she could not chase it away, Shen Yijia let it be. It was fine as long as Furball did not slow her down in her journey to find Song Jingchen.


    Looking at the still-unconscious Rooster, Shen Yijia looked around and didn¡¯t see any water. She fell silent. She shouldn¡¯t have hit him so hard.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you pee?¡± Shen Yijia asked Tuan Zi tentatively.


    Furball looked disgusted.


    Rooster woke up from the pain. Just as he opened his eyes and before he could see the person in front of him clearly, he was slapped again. At the same time, a puzzled voice said, ¡°Why isn¡¯t he awake yet? Didn¡¯t they say that we should fight poison with poison? Did I hit him too lightly?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m awake, I¡¯m awake.¡± Rooster shuddered and rolled to the side when the next slap came towards his face, avoiding it.


    The wind from the slap made the two strands of hair at his temples flutter. If this slap landed on his face, would he become disfigured?


    Rooster held his swollen cheek and sat up. He looked at the person in the moonlight and immediately wanted to die. It was another grievance that could not be avenged. ¡°Young Madam, why are you here so late at night? What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Do you know where my husband went?¡± Shen Yijia crossed her arms and looked down at him.


    Rooster paused, his eyes flashing. ¡°No, I¡¯m not sure.¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°You really don¡¯t know?¡±


    How could she believe him when he looked so guilty?

 Chapter 222 - : A Stingy Girl Encounters a Fool

    It was dark and the wind was strong. Shen Yijia¡¯s figure was elongated, and a shadow enveloped her.


    Looking at the person standing in front of him, Rooster shivered and nodded. ¡°Really, really. How would I dare to ask about Master¡¯s schedule? Young Madam, please spare me.¡±


    Originally, the remaining few of them had been arranged by their master to stay in the Song family to protect the rest of the Song family. They had also thought that they would be interrogated by Young Madam. They had discussed it and decided to face it together.


    Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia came looking for him. She could have kidnapped anyone, but he was unlucky enough to be kidnapped.


    ¡°If you didn¡¯t know, you should have asked me, ¡®Isn¡¯t he in Xiagou Village?¡¯¡± Shen Yijia clenched her fists and waved them at his face. ¡°Are you going to tell me?¡±


    Rooster closed his eyes.


    Seeing that he had resigned himself to death, Shen Yijia decided to convince him with virtue. She took a few steps closer and grabbed his collar. ¡°Tell me where he is. If my husband blames you, I¡¯ll take responsibility for it.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Thank you for reading on myboxnovel.com


    Not long after Shen Yijia left, Madam Li sat alone in the house for a long time. She was about to change into pajamas and rest when her hands paused.


    Something was wrong. With Sister Jia¡¯s personality, it was impossible for her not to ask where Brother Chen had gone.


    With this thought in mind, she quickly carried the oil lamp and walked towards Shen Yijia¡¯s room. From afar, she saw that the door was ajar.


    Madam Li¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She pushed open the door and saw the box and note on the table. She took a few steps over and picked up the words.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to look for my husband. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    The letter was signed off by Shen Yijia.


    There was a moment of silence.


    In a small restaurant in a small town outside Lizhou City, Shen Yijia looked at the pedestrians passing by outside the door and took a bite of her steamed bun.


    ¡°Young Madam, you said you would protect me. You can¡¯t go back on your word when you see Master,¡± Rooster reminded her nervously.


    ¡°She¡¯s too ruthless. It¡¯s already been two days, but my face is still bruised. What happened to convincing others with virtue? What happened to letting me go after I told you where my master was? Why do I have to lead the way?¡± These thoughts rushed through his mind.


    Thinking of the gloating gazes of the others when he went back to pack his things, he gritted his teeth in anger. It seemed that those people were all awake and pretending to be asleep.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Can you stop nagging? You¡¯ve been nagging for two days. If I say I¡¯ll protect you, I¡¯ll protect you. You might as well lead the way. If you don¡¯t let me catch up to my husband, I¡¯ll deal with you first before he comes after you.¡±


    They had been traveling for two days, but she did not see a single trace of Song Jingchen. If not for the fact that she really did not know the way, she would have beaten this fellow up.


    The corner of Rooster¡¯s mouth twitched, pulling at the wound on his face. He gasped in pain. He picked up a pickle with his chopsticks and ate it resentfully.


    Not only was she fierce, but she was also stingy. He didn¡¯t mind the fact that they had been traveling without rest for the past two days, but they had finally entered the town today. He thought that he could at least have a good meal.


    In the end, he saw Shen Yijia running to a roadside vendor to buy a bag of steamed buns. She carried the steamed buns to the restaurant and ordered a plate of pickled vegetables.


    Not to mention the way the waiter looked at the two of them, there were also a few strange gazes thrown at them from time to time in the lobby. Rooster was so frustrated that he wanted to pay for a proper meal.


    Shen Yijia did not know that Rooster had so many thoughts in his heart. She stuffed the steamed bun in her hand into her mouth and took out three copper coins from her purse.


    Da Hua had said that one should not reveal their wealth when they were outside. She still had to find her husband. She could not be delayed by other matters.


    Moreover, she had left most of the money to Madam Li and the others. What if the money was spent before she could find her husband?


    Without caring if Rooster had finished eating, she stood up and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    When Rooster heard this, he quickly threw the last piece of pickled vegetables in his plate into his mouth. ¡°It would have been nice if there was another bowl of porridge.¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia thought that as long as she acted poor enough, she would not encounter any robberies. However, before she could reach the door, a greasy hand suddenly reached out and blocked her way.


    ¡°Young lady, I think you¡¯re not full yet. How about I treat you to a good meal upstairs?¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and looked at the fat ball that was blinking at her. She nodded and thought to herself that Da Hua was not thorough enough. Her good looks attracted trouble, too.


    The fat ball thought that she had agreed and immediately smiled like a chrysanthemum. Because he was too fat, his facial features were squeezed together. He rubbed his hands and was about to hug Shen Yijia¡¯s waist.


    Shen Yijia shivered and shouted, ¡°Rooster.¡±


    It was not that she did not want to hit this fat ball, but she did not know where to start when she saw his greasy fat.


    Rooster was still holding a steamed bun in his hand. When he heard her shout, he reflexively rushed in front of Shen Yijia. The fat ball¡¯s hand landed on his waist. The two of them looked at each other and were stunned.


    Shen Yijia shivered and walked past the two of them.


    ¡°Stop her!¡± Fatty shouted from behind. Two servants immediately surrounded her.


    Shen Yijia frowned impatiently and kicked the person in front of her.


    Rooster also reacted. He was so disgusted that he almost threw up the steamed bun he had just eaten. He punched the fat ball in the face.


    Two cries of pain sounded one after another, and chaos broke out in the restaurant lobby.


    Shen Yijia kicked another servant out. Seeing that Rooster had also knocked Fatty down, she clapped her hands and called out to him, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The onlookers were in an uproar. They pointed at the fat ball and whispered.


    ¡°Stop, stop!¡± The fat ball got up and ran to the two of them. Although he was fat, he was quite agile. From afar, he looked like a rolling ball.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes, killing intent flashing across her eyes.


    The fat ball shrank its nonexistent neck and said weakly, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you. No one has ever refused a meal that Qian Youde wants to treat someone to.¡±


    He waved to the side. Shen Yijia thought that he was about to call for help again, but a servant who had just gotten up quickly placed a bulging money bag in his hand.


    Qian Youde proudly shook the money bag at Shen Yijia. Seeing that she was unmoved, he smiled awkwardly. He grabbed Rooster¡¯s hand and stuffed the money bag over. He snorted. ¡°I¡¯m treating you to a meal.¡±


    With that, he took out a folding fan from his waist and opened it. He shook it twice in what he thought was a gentlemanly manner and left with his two servants.


    Looking at the three of them limping away, Shen Yijia¡¯s lips twitched. Her mind was filled with confusion.


    She didn¡¯t know what he was thinking, but she felt that this person must be rich and stupid. In her two lifetimes, this was the first time she had seen someone who was in such a hurry to give someone money after being beaten up.


    Could it be that he had masochistic tendencies? She glanced at the money bag in Rooster¡¯s hand. Did she hit him too lightly just now? She secretly decided to find this person and beat him up whenever she ran out of money in the future.


    Qian Youde, who had given away a money bag in order to avoid embarrassment, shivered inexplicably.


    ¡°Young Madam, this¡­¡± Rooster was also dumbfounded as he held the money bag. He didn¡¯t know if he should throw it away or not.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Just take it.¡±

 Chapter 223 - Jiajia Brushes Past Song Jingchen

    After leaving the town, as expected, they did not reach the next town before dark. They could only continue sleeping in the wilderness.


    Shen Yijia did not mind. She could meet Furball in the wilderness, lowering the chances of it being caught and made into a tiger skin cloak.


    After all, Furball had been raised in the Song family for so long. She couldn¡¯t let others take advantage of Furball.


    Furball seemed to be tired after running for the entire day. It nestled by Shen Yijia¡¯s legs and fell asleep.


    Under the light of the bonfire, Shen Yijia studied the map she had bought in the black market for 50 taels of silver.


    The detailed maps here were not for sale. The only ones that could be bought were the simplified versions that roughly marked the town.


    Shen Yijia only wanted to use it to understand the distribution of towns. It was enough.


    The next large town after Lizhou was Wushuang City.


    ¡°Are you sure your master will pass through Wushuang City?¡± She asked this because she realized that there was another way to Xunyang. If Song Jingchen chose that path, she wouldn¡¯t be able to catch up to him even if she broke Xiaohua¡¯s legs. After all, there were limits to travel speed.


    How should Rooster answer this? He knew where his master was going, but he really didn¡¯t know which route he was taking. However, he didn¡¯t dare to tell the truth. He could only say, ¡°Master is in a hurry. He will definitely choose the shortest route.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she felt that it made sense and stopped harping on it. She did not manage to catch up even after rushing for two days.


    She originally wanted to rest for a while before continuing on her way, but Xiaohua was exhausted and almost foamed at the mouth. Shen Yijia could only change her mind at the last minute.


    She was not in the mood to hunt. She roasted the steamed bun on the fire and drank it with cold water. After eating and drinking, she leaned against the tree trunk and looked up at the starry sky.


    She secretly decided to beat him up when she found him. Who asked him to abandon her? He clearly said that they wouldn¡¯t ever be apart.


    Shen Yijia suddenly felt a little jealous. It had been three days since she last saw her beautiful husband. She wondered where he was.


    However, at the same time, at the other end of the forest, Song Jingchen also looked up at the night sky. He was holding a navy blue pouch in his hand.


    South Wind came out of the forest with a handful of grass in his hand. He wasn¡¯t surprised to see Song Jingchen in a daze again.


    In the past two or three days, as long as they were free, Song Jingchen would be holding that pouch and thinking about something. He was already used to it.


    South Wind took a few steps forward and asked, ¡°Master, I picked some mugwort. Shall I bandage your wound?¡±


    They were riding horses that Shopkeeper Wang had specially found. Normally, they would have already entered Wushuang City.


    They were still here because they had encountered no less than five assassinations in the past three days, so their trip was delayed.


    The two of them were more or less injured, but it was not too serious.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s other hand, which was hanging by his side, was still bleeding. The soil on the ground was already dyed red.


    Song Jingchen took a look and stretched out his hand for him to bandage it.


    After applying the medicine, South Wind tore off a piece of cloth and helped him bandage it. Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°Bind it with a butterfly knot.¡±


    South Wind silently untied the knot and replaced it with a butterfly knot.


    A man with a bow tied to his arm looked strange, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to care. ¡°Treat your wound. We¡¯ll set off in an hour.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir!¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed the embroidery on the pouch and leaned against the tree trunk with his eyes closed.


    As soon as he left Anyang County, there were endless assassinations. This could only mean that this was a trap. The ones targeting the former crown prince were also targeting him.


    Moreover, the person behind this already knew that his legs had recovered.


    What Song Jing couldn¡¯t figure out was why he didn¡¯t send anyone to kill him or inform Emperor Chong¡¯an, but came out to stop him at this time.


    It was not necessarily true that they were trying to stall for time to stop him from saving Shangguan Han, because those people did not show any mercy at all. They were all here to take his life.


    What he could not figure out was that the two of them almost quarreled over this in the small town at the border of Wu Country.


    ¡°Foster Father, why did you send someone to assassinate Song Jingchen?¡± The person who spoke had a ghost mask on his face. It was the Ghost-Faced General he had seen before.


    He clenched his hands into fists, as if suppressing something.


    The black-robed middle-aged man opposite him glanced at him and raised his eyebrows slightly. ¡°I just want to delay his journey.¡±


    The Ghost-Faced General sneered. ¡°When did the death soldiers become so useless? Being used simply to delay someone.¡±


    Death Soldiers were only meant to kill!


    The middle-aged man¡¯s thoughts were exposed, so he didn¡¯t hide it anymore. He said in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. If Song Jingchen¡¯s legs haven¡¯t recovered, you can deal with me however you want.¡±


    ¡°But now that his leg has recovered, we have to eliminate such a dangerous person quickly.¡±


    ¡°Heh, if he dies now, who will fight back the Huns in Xunyang?¡± the Ghost-Faced General questioned.


    The middle-aged man sighed helplessly and said sadly, ¡°You clearly know that everything I did was for you.¡±


    ¡°Godfather, I¡¯m no longer a child. I know what I¡¯m doing. I¡¯ve never forgotten what I promised you.¡± The Ghost-Faced General interrupted him and turned to leave.


    After traveling for a few days, Shen Yijia was indeed exhausted. She slept dreamlessly until the sun rose. She raised her hand to block the piercing light and only put it down when her eyes adjusted.


    Rooster had already boiled water on the fire with a bamboo tube. The two of them ate the remaining steamed buns from yesterday and finished their breakfast.


    She mounted her horse and set off again. When she left the forest, Shen Yijia saw a trace of red on the ground from the corner of her eye. Because Xiaohua ran too quickly, Shen Yijia did not take it to heart.


    When she arrived at Wushuang City, another three days had passed. The reason was that Xiaohua finally couldn¡¯t take it anymore and collapsed.


    Shen Yijia looked at Rooster¡¯s pale face and finally reflected on herself.


    She could persevere because of her special physique. Even if her legs were scraped, she could recover after resting for a night.


    Among the nine of them, Rooster was only slightly smarter. Be it his physique or martial arts, he was the weakest. It was normal that he could not endure this.


    There was no need to mention Xiaohua. It was originally an ordinary horse used to pull the carriage, but Shen Yijia ordered it around like a racehorse. How could it not fall?


    Shen Yijia had no choice. No matter how unwilling she was, she could only take a detour into a small town and find an inn to rest for the day.


    Therefore, the journey that originally only needed a day and a half was delayed for three days.


    As long as Shen Yijia thought about how she was getting further and further away from Song Jingchen because of this delay, she couldn¡¯t bring herself to be polite to Rooster.


    She wanted to be angry at Xiaohua, but it was a horse. It couldn¡¯t understand her.


    Rooster felt innocent. He didn¡¯t dare to say that he was tired. It was clearly Xiaohua who couldn¡¯t endure this journey.


    ¡°I¡¯m clearly fine.¡± he thought.


    Fortunately, Shen Yijia was only conflicted for two days. After entering Wushuang City, she thought it through. She definitely could not catch up to Song Jingchen.

 Chapter 224 - Jiajia Is Out of Money

    Since she knew her beautiful husband¡¯s destination, she could just look for him there.


    From her experience dealing with Qian Youde, Shen Yijia specially changed into a man¡¯s outfit before entering the city. She even put a beard on her chin.


    Rooster was in charge of leading the way.


    The Shen family in the capital city.


    Shen Ruyun poured a cup of hot tea over the maidservant who was serving her. ¡°B*tch, are you trying to scald me to death with such hot tea?¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± The maidservant covered her face and screamed. When she heard this, she hurriedly knelt down and kowtowed to beg for mercy. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. Eldest Miss, please spare my life. Just now, just now¡­¡±


    It was clearly Shen Ruyun who said that she wanted to drink tea that was hotter than usual.


    Seeing that she still dared to quibble, Shen Ruyun was so angry that she picked up the porcelain on the table and threw it at her head. ¡°You¡¯re so insincere towards me.¡±


    The maidservant screamed and fainted on the spot.


    ¡°What¡¯s with this commotion so early in the morning?¡± A graceful woman walked in and berated.


    Glancing at the unconscious person on the ground, she instructed the old woman behind her, ¡°Pull her away and deal with her.¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Ruyun greeted her with an aggrieved expression.


    Madam Chen tapped her nose. ¡°How many times have I told you to restrain your temper? You just won¡¯t listen. If word gets out, will you still be able to maintain the reputation I worked so hard to help you build?¡±


    Shen Ruyun curled her lips indifferently. ¡°Aren¡¯t you still around, Mother? Let¡¯s see who dares to spread the news.¡±


    She glanced at the maidservants in the room who quickly lowered their heads, not daring to make a sound.


    Madam Chen nodded in satisfaction and waved her hand. ¡°All of you can leave.¡±


    All the maidservants agreed. After they left, Shen Ruyun pulled Madam Chen into the room and sat down. She eagerly served a cup of tea. ¡°Mother, did Father promise me?¡±


    Madam Chen took it and placed it aside. She sighed. ¡°Your father thinks that most people in the imperial court are calling for the eldest prince to be the crown prince. An imperial consort holds power within the harem, so he still wants you to enter the eldest prince¡¯s residence.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. The Eldest Prince already has an official wife and a son. What can I do even if I go in?¡± Shen Ruyun¡¯s face fell.


    Madam Chen stroked the gold and jade bracelet on her wrist and said, ¡°I heard that the Eldest Princess Consort is about to die.¡±


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s face turned pale. Was her mother not going to help her?


    She bit her lip and suddenly stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to Father myself.¡±


    ¡°Stop.¡± Madam Chen shouted sternly, ¡°He¡¯s already angry enough that you didn¡¯t complete the task he asked you to do last time.


    ¡°He finally calmed down a little recently. Are you going to look for him now to make him completely disappointed in you?¡±


    Shen Ruyun stopped in her tracks. Thinking of that matter, she gritted her teeth in anger. ¡°What can I do if that little b*tch loses her things? Why doesn¡¯t Father doesn¡¯t blame that little b*tch instead?¡±


    Besides, hadn¡¯t Father already sent someone to look for it?


    What¡¯s so important about a few lousy things left behind by a dead person?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Madam Chen knew that her daughter had been spoiled rotten by her. She rubbed her temples and stood up.¡± Stay in your room for the next few days. ¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shen Ruyun screamed in disbelief. She watched helplessly as the two old women left behind by Madam Chen closed the door.


    Shen Ruyun was so angry that she smashed the porcelain ornaments in her room. She remembered that ever since she returned from Anyang County, her father had not given her as much as he used to.


    Thinking that it was because she didn¡¯t bring the jewelry box back, she said angrily, ¡°It¡¯s all that little bitch¡¯s fault. She¡¯d better not let me see her.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had been targeted again for no reason. After entering Wushuang City, she found an inn to stay.


    She decided to find a place to keep Xiaohua and get a new horse. It would be more efficient that way.


    But she had another problem.


    The money she¡¯d brought¡­


    Wasn¡¯t enough!


    Even though she was being frugal, she only had about 70 taels of silver left.


    Coupled with what Rooster had on him and what Qian Youde had given her, it was less than a hundred taels in total. A good horse cost at least a thousand taels. She didn¡¯t dare to think about getting the best horse available, but she couldn¡¯t get a horse that was worse than Rooster¡¯s horse. However, it would still cost two to three hundred taels.


    ¡°If only I could meet another fool like Qian Youde,¡± Shen Yijia muttered as she squatted under the wall of the horse market and looked at the muscular horses inside.


    She scratched her head in frustration. If there was no other way, she would have to wait until it was dark.


    ¡°Quick, catch that thief in front.¡±


    An anxious voice came from the other end of the street. Shen Yijia glanced at it and saw a man running in her direction. He should be the thief that the speaker was talking about.


    She didn¡¯t intend to care. She was about to look away when a ball barged into her line of sight.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Wasn¡¯t that Qian Youde? Speak of the devil.


    She stood up and didn¡¯t even look at the thief running past her. She waited for the panting Qian Youde to pass before reaching out to stop him. ¡°How much would you pay me to help you catch him?¡±


    Qian Youde was so tired that he bent down. When he heard this, he subconsciously said, ¡°Fifty taels.¡±


    Shen Yijia stood still and smacked her lips. ¡°That thief has already run far away.¡±


    Qian Youde was stunned for a moment. He was so angry that he panted heavily and pointed a trembling finger at Shen Yijia. ¡°If you knew, why did you stop me?¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t be able to catch up to him anyway, but I can help you catch him,¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly.


    She saw that he was too tired from running, so she kindly stopped him to let him rest.


    Qian Youde¡¯s face lit up. ¡°Then hurry up and go.¡±


    ¡°How much?¡± Shen Yijia asked with a smile.


    Qian Youde was silent for a moment. ¡°One hundred taels.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced in the direction the thief had left in. She blinked and sighed. ¡°He ran even further.¡±


    Qian Youde gritted his teeth. ¡°A hundred and fifty taels.¡±


    ¡°We might not be able to find him again later.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head regretfully.


    Qian Youde was speechless. Where did this lunatic come from? He had been in business for so long, but he had never seen someone raise their price like this.


    She didn¡¯t even know what he¡¯d lost. Wasn¡¯t she afraid that the thief stole less than what she¡¯d asked for?


    When he saw that the person was really about to disappear, Qian Youde angrily stretched out three fleshy fingers and placed them in front of Shen Yijia. ¡°Three hundred taels.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he felt a flash in front of his eyes and a gust of wind. The lunatic who had stopped him was gone, and two words came from the air. ¡°Deal.¡±


    Qian Youde rubbed his eyes. Damn, what the hell was going on?


    Shen Yijia chased after the thief at the corner in high spirits. At this moment, she looked at him like a running gold ingot with sparkling eyes.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? Why are you chasing me?¡± the thief shouted at her in exasperation.


    He wasn¡¯t stealing from her. Did she have to chase after him?

 Chapter 225 - Jiajia’s Aggression

    Shen Yijia was dressed in rough clothes. Her face was dark and she had a stubble. She was petite, so the thief did not take her seriously at all.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Initially, she thought that since this person had helped her earn 300 taels of silver, she would be gentler when she attacked.


    But now¡­


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Let go of me!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hit my face, don¡¯t hit my face!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother, I was wrong. Please spare me¡­¡±


    After wailing for nearly ten minutes, Shen Yijia picked up the beaten up person and snorted. ¡°I hate it when people say that something is wrong with me. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s got problems. Your entire family too.¡±


    With this delay, Qian Youde rushed over. When the thief saw him, he looked like he had seen his savior and cried, ¡°Sir, I was wrong. Please get rid of this lunatic.¡±


    Thinking of what Shen Yijia had said just now, he said, ¡°Please ask him to put me down. I¡¯ll return the thing to you, alright?¡±


    Qian Youde looked at the thief in front of him in shock. He could barely recognize him. He gasped and inexplicably recalled the beating he had received a few days ago.


    Shen Yijia held the thief¡¯s belt and let him hang in the air with his limbs facing down. She spread out her other hand in front of Qian Youde. ¡°Pay up.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any money on me right no-¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. Qian Youde trembled and quickly added, ¡°My servant went to buy things for me. The money is with him. I¡¯ll give it to you immediately when he comes.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned and pondered for a moment before throwing the thief to the ground. ¡°Where¡¯s the thing you stole? Take it out.¡±


    The thief quickly took out an old pouch from his pocket. He had only done it because he saw that this fatty was dressed well, so he didn¡¯t have time to see what was in the pouch.


    Looking at the empty pouch in his hand, he felt devastated.


    When he saw the fatty chasing after him so enthusiastically just now, he thought that he had made a killing. Who would have thought that a person dressed that would not even have money on him?


    He must have offended some immortals today. Otherwise, why would he encounter two lunatics at once?


    Qian Youde¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw the pouch. He took a few steps forward to take it, but a hand was faster than him.


    He looked at Shen Yijia in confusion.


    Shen Yijia put the pouch in her pocket. ¡°I¡¯ll give you the pouch when you bring the money over.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    What was the difference between this person and this thief?


    Oh, that was not right. There was still a difference. This person was a bandit who was more ruthless than a thief.


    At the very least, the thief did not dare to ask him for money so openly.


    But did he dare object?


    Absolutely not.


    Seeing that the two of them were confronting each other, the thief took advantage of the situation and ran away.


    However, no one bothered with him. Qian Youde felt that the person in front of him was much more detestable than the thief. Besides, the money was not with him.


    As for Shen Yijia, she didn¡¯t care what happened to the thief as long as this fatty didn¡¯t run away.


    She couldn¡¯t be bothered with the thief at all.


    ¡°Young Master.¡± Qian Youde¡¯s servants came to look for them.


    The two of them were sweating profusely. Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. Oh my, they were the same people that she had beaten up.


    When Qian Youde saw him, he stepped forward and kicked them angrily. ¡°What are both of you doing? Why did you take so long to buy something?¡±


    Zhu Zi cried out in grievance, ¡°The business of those two shops is too good. Shuan Zi and I waited in line for a long time to buy them, so we were delayed.¡±


    Shuan Zi hurriedly agreed, ¡°Yes, yes, it took forever to get to the front of the queue.¡±


    Qian Youde was stunned and felt a little guilty. He glanced at their empty hands and asked, ¡°What about the osmanthus cake and roasted chicken you bought?¡±


    Shuan Zi scratched his head. ¡°After we bought it, we realized that Young Master was missing. We were in a hurry to find you, so we¡­ lost it.¡±


    ¡°You lost it?¡± Qian Youde was so angry that he wanted to kick them again.


    Shen Yijia reminded him, ¡°Give me my silver first.¡±


    Qian Youde thought to himself, ¡°Since when did it become your money?¡±


    Qian Youde¡¯s eyebrows shot up and he roared at the servants, ¡°Give him three hundred taels.¡±


    When Zhu Zi heard that his young master had spent so much money after leaving for a while, he covered his money bag and reminded weakly, ¡°Young Master, you promised the old madam not to spend money recklessly¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to remind me! Is it your money or mine?¡± Thinking about how he had been cheated of three hundred taels of silver for no reason, Qian Youde was so angry that he raised his leg to kick him again. In the end, he almost fell to the ground because he was too fat.


    The two servants seemed to be used to it. They stood up together and used their bodies to stabilize him. Their movements were so flawless that it was as if they had practiced it countless times.


    Shen Yijia covered her face. This situation was so stupid.


    In the end, Qian Youde used his status as a young master to suppress Zhu Zi¡¯s protests. He reluctantly took out three banknotes worth 100 taels of silver.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she snatched it over. Without needing Qian Youde¡¯s reminder, she threw the pouch over.


    If this happened a few more times, wouldn¡¯t she become a rich lady? She wouldn¡¯t have to worry about not being able to support her beautiful husband anymore. Indeed, it was never wrong to do more good deeds.


    Glancing at Qian Youde, who was staring at the banknotes in her hand with a pained expression, she reminded him seriously, ¡°If you want to catch thieves in the future, remember to look for me again.¡±


    ¡°You- you!¡± Qian Youde was so angry that he almost spat out a mouthful of blood. Why did it sound like she wanted him to hire her to catch thieves often?


    Even if he needed help, he wouldn¡¯t ask her to help. Not only did his belongings get stolen, but he also got extorted by this bandit. He would be a fool to do that.


    Qian Youde¡¯s eyes suddenly widened. Shen Yijia thought that he was going to faint.


    He pushed away the two servants beside him and circled around Shen Yijia in surprise. ¡°You¡¯re the young lady from that day!¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to deny it, but she felt a chill on her chin. She looked down and saw something black floating down from her mouth.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    What kind of shoddy thing did this damn Rooster buy?


    Since she had been recognized, Shen Yijia stopped pretending. She stuffed the banknotes into her pocket and raised her chin. ¡°You promised to give me 300 taels of silver if I helped you catch him. I didn¡¯t deliberately cheat you because you¡¯re stupid and rich.¡±


    With that, she headed straight for the horse market.


    ¡°Young Master, she said you¡¯re stupid and rich,¡± Zhu Zi reminded him.


    Qian Youde slapped the back of his head. ¡°You talk too much.¡±


    Glancing in the direction where Shen Yijia had left, he chased after her with his fat legs. ¡°Hey, little lady, wait for me¡­¡±


    As the name suggested, the horse market was a place to buy horses. Other than those big merchants, they usually only brought two horses and waited for people to buy them.


    Shen Yijia looked at them one by one. They were all ugly and skinny. She looked at a few shops but did not see any horse she liked.


    ¡°Young lady, are you buying a horse? You should have said so earlier. I¡¯ll help you choose one.¡± Qian Youde had been following Shen Yijia for a long time, but she ignored him. Now that he had an opportunity, he immediately went over.

 Chapter 226 - Changing Horses And Being

    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. She had just tricked this person. She would be really embarrassed to beat him up now.


    Qian Youde had no idea that he was on the verge of death and was still nagging. ¡°You don¡¯t know, right? My family is in the horse business. If I say that a horse is good, no one will dare to disagree. Look at this horse.¡±


    He pointed at the horse that Shen Yijia was looking at. ¡°First of all, you have to look at its teeth¡­¡±


    Seeing that he was speaking logically, Shen Yijia, who was originally listening seriously, got confused. ¡°Stop, just tell me which horse is the best.¡±


    In short, she barely remembered what Qian Youde had said.


    Although Shen Yijia¡¯s tone was impatient, Qian Youde was delighted. He opened the fan and shook it. ¡°Then you have to tell me what you want this horse for. For example, if you want to use it to pull a carriage, you definitely need a more muscular adult horse to-¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s for traveling,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him. She clenched her fists. She was still tempted to hit him.


    Qian Youde shrank back. He immediately shut up and pointed at a merchant with only one horse not far away. ¡°That one.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and walked towards the vendor.


    It was a middle-aged man with a seven or eight-year-old child. When he saw a customer looking over, he immediately smiled. ¡°Young Master, are you buying a horse?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded and realized that the horse was quite good-looking. Its brown fur was shiny. She asked, ¡°How much is this horse?¡±


    Hearing her question, a look of joy flashed across the man¡¯s face. He rubbed his hands and said, ¡°This is raised by our family. We didn¡¯t plan to sell it at first, but my wife is sick and needs money to treat her illness. I¡¯m prepared to sell it for 180 taels. Look here.¡±


    The man looked anxious and careful, as if he was afraid that Shen Yijia would leave because it was too expensive. After all, he had encountered too many such customers in the past half a day. Initially, he wanted to sell it for 200 taels of silver, but he had no choice but to lower the price.


    Shen Yijia took a look at the father and son¡¯s clothes and heard that they were here to treat his wife. She pursed her lips and took out two banknotes that she had just earned earlier. She said generously, ¡°Keep the change.¡±


    Fortunately, it was an ill-gotten gain. Otherwise, she would not have been able to bear giving it away.


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault for being too kind.¡± she thought.


    Qian Youde¡¯s eyes widened. She spent his silver so casually.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and led the horse away from the grateful peddler. If Rooster knew that the young madam, who was so stingy, had given away 20 taels of silver at once, he would probably beat his chest and stomp his feet again. The two of them had only spent less than 10 taels of silver on this journey.


    After leaving the horse market for a while, Qian Youde followed her persistently even though he was clearly exhausted. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched. She really couldn¡¯t do anything to such a fearless person. Should she kill him?


    As soon as this thought appeared, she narrowed her eyes at Qian Youde, who was about to speak again.


    Qian Youde felt a chill down his spine. His fat body nimbly took a few steps back and he explained, ¡°We just happen to be going in the same direction.¡±


    ¡°Young Master, we were supposed to go that way,¡± Zhu Zi suddenly interrupted, pointing in the opposite direction.


    Shen Yijia looked at Qian Youde coldly.


    This fool.


    Qian Youde was so angry that he hit Zhu Zi¡¯s head with the folding fan. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you say so earlier?¡±


    He turned to Shen Yijia and smiled awkwardly. ¡°I went the wrong way.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not move. It was obvious that she wanted to watch him leave. Qian Youde rubbed his nose and could only leave with the two servants.


    In Xiagou Village, Madam Li told the children that Shen Yijia had brought Song Jingchen to find a famous doctor to treat his legs. Although Lin Shao found it strange, he didn¡¯t ask.


    As for the others in the village, Song Jingchen usually didn¡¯t go out much, so no one asked about him even though they hadn¡¯t seen him for a few days.


    The remaining five Mahjong Brothers also entered Xiagou Village as long-term workers.


    However, because there was currently no adult man in the Song family and Madam Li was a widow, in order to avoid unnecessary trouble, the few of them did not stay in the Song family¡¯s home. Instead, they temporarily built a few wooden houses at the side of the workshop..


    It also happened to match their status as long-term workers. In addition, they were also responsible for teaching the children martial arts.


    ¡°Madam.¡±


    ¡°Mother, why are you here?¡±


    Although they were in the countryside, Madam Li had not forgotten the rules that were engraved in her bones. She usually stayed in the background and didn¡¯t take a prominent role in the house. She would directly let Brother Hao and the others practice martial arts in the front courtyard.


    Therefore, when they saw her in the front yard today, they were all surprised.


    Madam Li lovingly helped the children wipe the sweat off their foreheads. ¡°Go to the side and rest first. I¡¯ll look for you later. Master East Wind has something to say.¡±


    This name was indeed a little strange.


    The few of them thought that he must be asking about their martial arts and walked away obediently.


    ¡°Madam,¡± East Wind called respectfully.


    Madam Li nodded and asked, ¡°Have you contacted your master?¡±


    On the first day they arrived, Madam Li asked the Mahjong Brothers to send a letter to Song Jingchen. Madam Li was really worried about Shen Yijia running out alone to look for him.


    She wanted to send someone to chase after her, but these people¡¯s mission was to stay behind and protect the Song family. Madam Li could not order them around at all.


    East Wind said, ¡°Not yet.¡±


    Not to mention that they were not with their master, even if they were, they did not know where Song Jingchen would go next.


    Madam Li also knew this. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Then is there a way to send a letter to Xunyang? Your master would be able to receive a letter when he arrives.¡±


    It was the only way.


    East Wind was silent. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    After buying the horse, Shen Yijia prepared to return to the inn to rest. She probably wouldn¡¯t stay in the city for long. She wanted to take a good shower and rest today.


    However, as she walked, someone suddenly rushed out and blocked her way.


    Shen Yijia frowned and looked up. Standing in front of her was a woman covered in dirt. She was slightly taller than Shen Yijia, and her clothes were tattered. Shen Yijia could only vaguely see the crisscrossing scars on her skin.


    However, the woman did not seem to care. She only looked at her expressionlessly.


    Even Lin Shao and his sister, whom Shen Yijia had first met, did not look not so miserable. Now that she thought about it, she realized that Lin Shao and his sister at least had clothes to hide their bodies.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Seeing how pitiful she was, she decided not to argue with her. She led the horse to the side.


    However, the woman seemed to have decided on her. When she walked to the left, she also moved to the left. When Shen Yijia walked to the right, she did the same.


    She did not say anything, and there was no expression on her face. Her gaze was fixed on Shen Yijia¡¯s face.

 Chapter 227 - Jiajia Is Confused

    After being blocked several times, Shen Yijia was furious. Just because she pitied this woman didn¡¯t mean that she wouldn¡¯t hit her.


    She clenched his fists and was about to make her move when a group of people ran over and grabbed the woman.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with this crazy woman today? She used to be silent and wouldn¡¯t say a word for a long time.¡± The leader spat on the ground.


    ¡°Who knew? She was fine at first, but she seemed to have gone crazy after seeing someone¡­¡± As soon as the person replied, everyone looked at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She was just walking by.


    Da Hua¡¯s rules: When you go out, keep a low profile and don¡¯t cause trouble.


    Moreover, she still had to look for Song Jingchen, so she couldn¡¯t act rashly. Therefore, Shen Yijia only rolled her eyes and prepared to leave with her horse.


    ¡°Stop right there.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not want to care, but the people opposite her did not think so. As soon as the leader spoke, the others immediately surrounded her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know her,¡± Shen Yijia explained patiently.


    The leader snorted. ¡°Kid, do you think you don¡¯t know her just because you say so? Who would believe you? If you really don¡¯t know her, why did this crazy woman react when she saw you?¡±


    Shen Yijia was silent. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m too good-looking. Who can blame me?¡± she thought.


    She glanced at the woman who had been restrained and realized that the woman¡¯s gaze had never left her face.


    ¡°Is there something on my face?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Oh right, there¡¯s a flower bud on my forehead. But I¡¯ve already covered it up with charcoal. Does this woman have x-ray vision?¡± she thought.


    These thoughts flashed across her mind. Shen Yijia shook her head solemnly. ¡°How would I know? And are you sure that she¡¯s actually having a reaction?¡±


    The woman¡¯s expression had clearly not changed since she saw Shen Yijia.


    That group of people really looked at the woman¡¯s face. It seemed that other than her gaze, there was no other reaction.


    Could there be a mistake?


    Just as she thought this, the woman suddenly spoke. Her voice was hoarse and slow as she said, ¡°Young Miss.¡±


    It was just two simple words, spoken with great difficulty.


    The voice was very soft and stiff. It was probably because she had not spoken for too long, but it was enough for everyone present to hear.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows twitched. She swore that she really didn¡¯t know this person. The original host didn¡¯t remember this person either. Most importantly, she was dressed as a man now!


    Without waiting for the leader to speak, Shen Yijia forced a stiff smile. ¡°She might have gotten the wrong person. What young miss? I¡¯m clearly an eight-foot-tall man.¡±


    Noticing that their gazes swept from her head to her feet, Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°So what if I¡¯m a little short? Can¡¯t I be a man if I¡¯m short?¡±


    From the looks of it, these people were trying to capture someone this woman knew. She wouldn¡¯t hold back if that was the case.


    It seemed to make sense. The group nodded in unison. One of them leaned over to the leader and asked softly, ¡°Boss, what should we do?¡±


    The leader glared at him. ¡°If you ask me, who should I ask?¡±


    However, he did not make things difficult for Shen Yijia. He waved his hand and asked his subordinates to make way for her to leave.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. When she brushed past the woman, she subconsciously turned to look at her. When she met the woman¡¯s gaze, she felt inexplicably uncomfortable.


    However, when she thought of her beautiful husband, she gritted her teeth and did not turn around. She thought to herself, ¡°I don¡¯t know her, I don¡¯t know her, and my husband isn¡¯t here. If something happens to me, no one can save her.¡±


    Although she still felt that she was very powerful, she knew that some underhanded methods could not be avoided with her strength.


    Shen Yijia convinced herself not to be nosy, but she did not expect that woman to be so persistent.


    She¡¯d taken about ten steps when a wail came from behind her.


    Shen Yijia turned around curiously.


    Good lord, everyone who was arrogant just now was knocked to the ground, but the woman was still standing there.


    The woman¡¯s gaze was still fixated on her.


    Shen Yijia saw her lips move twice, very slowly, so Shen Yijia could tell that it was still the same word. ¡°Young Miss.¡±


    She frowned and finally figured it out. This woman must have recognized the wrong person. Either that, or Shen Yijia looked similar to her young miss. Otherwise, why would she call a man young miss?


    She felt that her disguise was quite successful. After all, there was not much flesh on her chest to begin with, and she had even wrapped it in a cloth.


    She was more curious about why this woman allowed those people to bully her when her martial arts were clearly not weak. Those people were not her match at all.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. Since this person called her Young Miss, she had mistaken Shen Yijia for her master.


    Didn¡¯t everyone here listen to their masters?


    She waved him away. ¡°You should get out of here.¡±


    With that, she turned to leave.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    This time, it was the leader who stopped her.


    Shen Yijia paused. Before she could decide if she should turn around or run, she heard the person behind her continue, ¡°Give us a hundred¡­ No, give us thirty taels of silver. You can take her away after that.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t you guys trying to catch someone? Thirty taels of silver is enough? Then why were you making such a big fuss earlier?¡± she thought.


    She was shocked.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t give it to us, we¡¯ll have no choice but to capture you too. This crazy woman has set her sights on you. You can only blame yourself for being unlucky.¡± The person was still nagging.


    Shen Yijia could not help but ask curiously, ¡°What¡¯s the relationship between you and this woman?¡±


    From the looks of it, these people were not evil people. If they did not have a deep hatred for this woman, why would they be so cruel to her?


    ¡°Pfft.¡± The leader got up. He seemed to be very annoyed that Shen Yijia associated him with the woman. He rubbed his aching waist and said, ¡°Does it matter? Who knows why this crazy woman came? She refused to leave no matter what¡­¡±


    It turned out that this group of people were all subordinates of the pot lady. One day, this strange woman suddenly took the initiative to look for them. At that time, she was much cleaner than she was now. She looked proper, but her face was expressionless and she did not speak.


    The pot lady naturally had an idea when she saw such a good ¡®product¡¯. She wanted to get someone to arrest her and lock her up, but this person walked into the room where the prisoners were detained without them needing to do anything.


    Everyone thought that she was a fool. Although her value had been greatly reduced, they wouldn¡¯t mind if there were some special things about her.


    Unexpectedly, this person could not be sold at all. To be precise, unless she took the initiative to walk out, no one could take her away. No matter what they did, it was useless. Even if they sent her away with medicine, she would return to the potter¡¯s place in a few days. She simply squatted at the door in a daze.

 Chapter 228 - Mo Yuan’s Behavior, Jiajia Is Furious

    In the end, not only did she not earn any money, but the pot lady also offended many people because of this. From then on, the potter did not want to sell her anymore. After the pot lady was criticized, she came back and beat up the strange woman to vent her anger.


    What was strange was that she did not resist the beatings even though she was clearly very skilled. It was only today that she took the initiative to run outside.


    But now that the pot lady had gone out to do something, they didn¡¯t dare to let her go just like that.


    Since they couldn¡¯t bring the strange woman back, it would be easier for them to report it to the pot lady if they could exchange her for some money, right?


    Shen Yijia was silent. She had seen many crazy people, and it could be said that she knew them better than anyone else. She had never seen anyone so obsessed with something.


    Shen Yijia was slightly touched, so she finally spent thirty taels to buy the strange woman. However, she did not intend to care about her anymore.


    After paying, she turned around and left. As expected, the woman followed her.


    In the inn, Rooster looked at the woman who followed Shen Yijia in with a dumbfounded expression. This person looked even worse than he did when he had just come out of the dungeon.


    It was a miracle that the innkeeper did not stop her from entering.


    Shen Yijia felt helpless. Although she had guessed that she would be pestered, she didn¡¯t expect the strange woman to be so persistent.


    Shen Yijia brought her back to her room and asked the waiter to get a large bucket of hot water. She then asked Rooster to buy two sets of men¡¯s clothes for her. She looked at the woman solemnly and asked, ¡°You¡¯ll bathe yourself, right? After that, I¡¯ll treat you to a meal at most. Then, you can leave quickly. I¡¯m really not your Young Miss.¡±


    The woman glanced at Shen Yijia and nodded expressionlessly. She opened her mouth for a long time before saying, ¡°Not¡­ Young Miss.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m not your Young Miss.¡± It was good that she could understand human language. Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Yes¡­ Young Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia held her forehead.


    Shen Yijia felt that she must be crazy to communicate with someone who was suspected to be a lunatic, just like before she met Da Hua in her previous life.


    To show that she wasn¡¯t a lunatic, she decisively gave up.


    Fortunately, apart from recognizing the wrong person, this person knew how to do everything else. When she came out of the shower, Shen Yijia and Rooster¡¯s jaws dropped again.


    The woman¡¯s black hair was draped over her shoulders, and there was a mole at the corner of her eye. Perhaps because she had always been injured and had lost too much blood, and because she was malnourished, her small face was slightly pale. This made her bright facial features give off a different feeling. Coupled with her expressionless face, she was like a white lotus on a mountain peak.


    If not for the fact that she was certain that only the three of them entered the room, Shen Yijia would not have believed that this was the person who had followed her back.


    ¡°Let¡¯s eat first.¡± Shen Yijia blinked and gestured for her to sit down.


    Most importantly, she was hungry too.


    The woman sat down expressionlessly and picked up her bowl and chopsticks to eat. Her movements were neither fast nor slow. It was obvious that she had been taught. The rules seemed to be carved into her bones. There was no trace of pretense, as if this was how it should be.


    Shen Yijia and Rooster frowned. Could this be a spy planted by someone?


    Ever since her conversation with Madam Li, Shen Yijia did not understand anything else, but she understood one thing. There were too many people who wanted to harm her beautiful husband. As the person closest to him, she had to be vigilant at all times to prevent herself from dragging him down.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia would never allow herself to make such a mistake.


    She slammed her chopsticks on the table. The woman immediately put down her chopsticks and stood up straight. Her movements were clean and decisive.


    Looking at her face, which had never changed expression since she saw her, Shen Yijia wondered if this person would smile.


    However, this was not the time to dwell on this. She looked at the woman with a straight face and said each word slowly, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    The woman seemed to think about it seriously before calmly saying, ¡°Mo Yuan.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s head hurt. She wasn¡¯t trying to ask for her name.


    There was no point in asking like this. She decided to be direct. ¡°Why are you following me?¡±


    ¡°You¡­ my¡­ Young Miss,¡± Mo Yuan replied.


    Shen Yijia exploded. She wanted to pick this person up and throw her out, but she shouted, ¡°I said I¡¯m not.¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°You are.¡±


    Perhaps because she had said a few more words, she could now say two words without stopping. However, Shen Yijia was not in the mood to pay attention to this at all.


    She stood up and grabbed Mo Yuan¡¯s collar.


    ¡°Young¡­ Master, Master, don¡¯t be rash. Listen to me first.¡± Rooster quickly comforted Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°If you have something to say, say it quickly.¡±


    ¡°I think this person might¡­¡± Rooster pointed at his head. ¡°There¡¯s something wrong here.¡±


    After saying that, he glanced at Mo Yuan and pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve to the side to mutter for a long time.


    Shen Yijia frowned and sat back down. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Mo Yuan immediately sat down as if she had received an order. Everything that had happened just now did not seem to affect her at all. When she raised her hand to pick up some food, she revealed a wrist. The red marks on it were especially obvious, especially the new wounds that had yet to scab. The wounds were still bleeding since they were soaked in water recently.


    However, she did not seem to show any pain on her face. There were probably injuries in more places that she could not see.


    After dinner, Shen Yijia gloomily took out a bottle of ointment from her bag and threw it to her. She said coldly, ¡°Apply the ointment yourself.¡±


    With that, she went downstairs and booked another room.


    She had a feeling that Mo Yuan¡¯s appearance would disrupt her current life. Therefore, although Rooster had told her to stay by her side and observe her secretly, she still didn¡¯t want to bring her along.


    This intuition was innate, just like how she couldn¡¯t tell anyone about the spiritual liquid in her previous life. Although she might not understand why at that time, she still followed her intuition.


    When everyone fell asleep in the dead of night, Shen Yijia, who was lying on the bed, suddenly opened her eyes. Her eyes were clear, and she did not look like she had just woken up.


    She quietly lifted the blanket and got out of bed. She simply packed her luggage.


    Rooster was sleeping soundly when he sensed that something was staring at him. He suddenly opened his eyes. A black shadow by the bed shocked him so much that his heart skipped a beat. He opened his mouth and almost cried out. Fortunately, he stopped himself in time.


    Because he had already seen the shadow¡¯s raised hand.


    Satisfied with his reaction, Shen Yijia retracted her hand awkwardly and gestured at Rooster. The latter was stunned for a moment before nodding.


    After the two of them came out of the room, they went to the horse shed and brought out the two horses. After walking for a distance, Rooster dared to ask, ¡°Young Madam¡­¡±


    As soon as he said that, Shen Yijia glanced at him.


    Rooster quickly changed his words. ¡°Master, where are we going?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s find a place near the city gate to stay for half a night. We¡¯ll leave the city once the city gate opens at dawn.¡± After saying that, Shen Yijia got on her horse and rode towards the city gate.


    She even left five taels of silver on the table. As long as Mo Yuan wasn¡¯t too stupid, she would be able to use it for a while.


    Shen Yijia felt that she had done enough for a stranger, so she left without any burden in her heart.

 Chapter 229 - Jiajia Has Been Entangled

    They found a tea shop at the city gate and sat down.


    Only then did Rooster realize that Shen Yijia had come out in the middle of the night to shake off that woman.


    However, this was too unlike the Young Madam he knew. If she really didn¡¯t want that person to follow her, shouldn¡¯t she have beaten her up so that she couldn¡¯t follow them?


    Since when did she compromise so much?


    When she met Rooster¡¯s gaze, Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration. She couldn¡¯t bear to hurt her because of her injuries. Moreover, she was quite good-looking. Of course, the main reason was that she hadn¡¯t confirmed if she had ulterior motives.


    She had always been a person who distinguished between gratitude and grudges. It wasn¡¯t like she wanted to beat up everyone she saw.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t be bothered to explain. She hugged her knees and leaned against the pillar unhappily. If only her beautiful husband was here. He would definitely be able to tell if Mo Yuan was a bad person. She wouldn¡¯t have to think too much.


    Shen Yijia thought that she could shake off Mo Yuan by doing this, but she clearly did not know this woman well enough.


    She had just closed her eyes for a while when she heard the sound of hooves. Shen Yijia stood up.


    The horse had stopped in front of the tea shop they were in.


    Looking at the person walking towards her with a bag on her back, Shen Yijia held her forehead.


    What was even more ridiculous was that she was riding Xiaohua.


    Shen Yijia glared at Rooster. Didn¡¯t she ask him to tell the innkeeper to keep Xiaohua there? She even gave him three taels of silver.


    Rooster was also confused. He felt wronged and asked bitterly, ¡°Where did you get this horse?¡±


    Unexpectedly, Mo Yuan stood beside Shen Yijia like a pillar and did not answer, as if she did not see him at all.


    Rooster was speechless.


    This person was obviously here for Young Madam. He suddenly felt a little worried.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and asked unhappily, ¡°Where did you get it from?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I saw him give this horse to the shopkeeper. I remembered.¡±


    ¡°Good lord, you dared to ride it out just because you saw it. Is it yours? Do you know that you¡¯re stealing?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°You said that I¡¯m your young miss, right?¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°Are you going to listen to me, then?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia was satisfied. She crossed her arms and raised her eyebrows. ¡°Then I order you not to follow me.¡±


    ¡°Mo Yuan promised you that she would protect you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she almost couldn¡¯t catch her breath. It seemed like she couldn¡¯t override this promise. She clenched her fists and gritted her teeth. ¡°I don¡¯t need your protection.¡±


    ¡°Mo Yuan promised you that she would protect you.¡±


    Apart from Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t have much patience with the others. She felt that it was a miracle that they didn¡¯t fight earlier, but now that she saw that it didn¡¯t make sense, she pulled out the whip from her waist and swung it at Mo Yuan.


    After seeing Mo Yuan¡¯s skills earlier, Shen Yijia thought that she could at least dodge it. However, she did not expect Mo Yuan to not move at all. The sound of the whip hitting flesh was especially loud in the silent night.


    Rooster did not expect Shen Yijia to attack without a word. He hid at the side and tried his best to reduce his presence. He thought to himself, ¡°This is the Young Madam¡¯s style.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned on the spot. After a while, she asked, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you dodge?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I can¡¯t avoid Young Miss¡¯s punishment.¡±


    She did not seem to feel the pain and did not even frown.


    Shen Yijia blinked. She did not understand this person¡¯s thoughts at all.


    Frustrated, she returned to her original spot and sat down. Seeing that Mo Yuan was about to follow her again, she hurriedly said, ¡°Stand there. Don¡¯t come over.¡±


    If not for the fact that she was a woman, Shen Yijia would have suspected that she had taken a fancy to her.


    ¡°Hubby, help. There¡¯s a lunatic here.¡± she thought.


    In the end, Shen Yijia could not chase Mo Yuan away, but she ignored her. She politely declined this person who suddenly appeared and pestered her.


    What was worse was that she had asked her who her Young Miss was. However, Mo Yuan simply said, ¡°Young Miss is my Young Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    That didn¡¯t answer her question at all.


    She didn¡¯t even bother to ask her again.


    If this made Shen Yijia speechless, she would definitely go crazy when she saw Qian Youde and his servant the next day.


    ¡°Young lady, what a coincidence¡­¡± Qian Youde stuck his head out of the carriage and greeted Shen Yijia with a smile.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and did not even look at him. She raised her whip. ¡°Go.¡±


    The horse under her immediately rushed out like an arrow. Qian Youde, who had no time to shut his mouth, was covered in dust.


    Rooster and Mo Yuan hurriedly followed.


    ¡°Young Master, are you alright?¡± Zhu Zi covered his mouth and nose and asked.


    Qian Youde coughed for a moment and roared angrily, ¡°Hurry up and follow them.¡±


    ¡°But what about our caravan?¡± Zhu Zi was helpless. Had his young master forgotten what he had been doing all this time?


    Qian Youde was stunned for a moment. He thought for a moment and kicked Shuan Zi, who was sitting beside the pillar, down. He urged, ¡°Shuan Zi, bring the caravan and follow behind. We¡¯ll go first¡­¡±


    Shuan Zi watched his master abandon the caravan.


    He was speechless.


    The closer they got to Xunyang, the more refugees there were on the road. Song Jingchen looked at these refugees with pale faces and pursed his lips.


    Even if they rushed to Xunyang from here without stopping, it would still take them another day. It was not difficult to imagine how miserable Xunyang was now that so many refugees had appeared here.


    After all, these commoners would never leave their hometowns unless they had no choice.


    ¡°Master?¡± Song Jingchen called out in confusion when he saw Song Jingchen stop.


    He did not think that his master would pity these commoners.


    Song Jingchen looked at the sky and said indifferently, ¡°Let¡¯s rest here for the night. Go and find out about Xunyang¡¯s current situation.¡±


    Uncle Yang had been on the Qilin Mountain. If he knew that something had happened to Shangguan Han, he would definitely not sit back and do nothing.


    As for why he did not receive Uncle Yang¡¯s letter, since there were other people involved, it was not difficult to guess.


    Song Jingchen sneered. Not only did the enemy want Shangguan Han to die, but the enemy also didn¡¯t want Great Xia to be injured. They had probably even schemed against his private army. It was really a good plan, but how could it be so easy?


    ¡°Master.¡± South Wind returned in less than half an hour.


    Song Jingchen nodded at him.


    ¡°According to what they said, Xunyang was surrounded by the Hun army the day before we set off.


    ¡°These refugees are all citizens of the towns near Xunyang City, so they don¡¯t know much about what happened in Xunyang City. And¡­¡± At this point, South Wind gritted his teeth and looked angry.


    ¡°Moreover, the gates of Liang County are tightly shut now. Not only are they not letting anyone in, but the Imperial Court has also sent heavy troops to guard it.¡±


    ¡°The imperial court is clearly telling the world that these people and all the citizens of Xunyang City have been abandoned by Great Xia.¡± South Wind was clearly furious. He had forgotten that he was in front of Song Jingchen and slammed his fist against a tree trunk.

 Chapter 230 - Short-sighted, Shangguan Yu

    In order to travel quickly, they had passed by the gates of each city without entering, so this was the first time they heard about this.


    A trace of mockery flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°As expected, our emperor is short-sighted.¡±


    Although Xunyang was barren and sparsely populated, it stood on its own. Together with the natural barriers of the surrounding mountains, it formed a solid defense.


    To put it simply, Xunyang was like a key to opening the gates of Great Xia.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was actually going to personally deliver such a key to the Huns. It could be said that he was mocking them.


    They probably felt that Xunyang was unimportant because there was a Qilin Mountain between Xunyang and Liang County.


    However, they only knew that Mount Qilin was steep and was the second gate that Great Xia could use to stop the Xiongnu army.


    However, Qilin Mountain traversed the entire Liang County. If they ascended the mountain, wouldn¡¯t it be easy for them to enter Liang County or even the Qiuning County behind it?


    That person probably didn¡¯t expect Emperor Chong¡¯an to make such an arrangement, right?


    Just as South Wind had said.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an received Xunyang¡¯s urgent message when the Xiongnu army of 200,000 troops arrived.


    ¡°Your Majesty, this¡­¡± Eunuch Li stood at the side and waited on the brush and ink. He happened to see the contents of the report clearly. In his shock, he forgot that he had lost his head and spoke.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an glanced at him coldly.


    Eunuch Li suppressed his urge to kneel down and beg for mercy. He smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t drink the nourishing soup sent by Her Highness, it¡¯ll get cold. Your Majesty, do you want to drink some first?¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, the noble consort will blame me for not serving His Majesty well.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked at him coldly for a while and suddenly laughed. ¡°You old thing, tell me how many benefits you received from the imperial consort.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Your Majesty, you¡¯ve wronged me. I¡¯m thinking about Your Majesty¡¯s health.¡± Eunuch Li knelt down in fear to express his loyalty.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an seemed to be amused by his appearance. He waved his hand in a good mood. ¡°Alright, no need to go overboard. You don¡¯t have to serve me here anymore. You can leave first.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eunuch Li slowly stood up and bowed a few steps before turning around. His gaze lingered on the courier for a moment.


    After Eunuch Li left, the smile on Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s face disappeared. He narrowed his eyes at the messenger kneeling below him and asked in an unreadable tone, ¡°the Xiongnu army is at the border, Xunyang is trapped, and Lord An Le is in danger?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The courier¡¯s forehead was covered in cold sweat from the pressure of the superior¡¯s aura.


    ¡°You saw other ministers along the way to the palace?¡±


    The courier was stunned, not understanding why Emperor Chong¡¯an would ask such an unimportant question. However, he still replied respectfully, ¡°No.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an nodded and closed the report. ¡°I understand. You can leave first.¡±


    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the ministers be summoned for a meeting urgently?¡± the courier thought.


    ¡°Your Majesty¡­¡± The courier called out anxiously. When he met those dignified eyes, he immediately stopped and kowtowed. ¡°Yes.¡±


    The hall was silent for a moment. Emperor Chong¡¯an knocked on the dragon table, and a masked man appeared out of thin air.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an placed the report on the candle and lit it. He instructed casually, ¡°Go and deal with him.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the masked man immediately disappeared.


    It was as if this report had never appeared in front of Emperor Chong¡¯an. It was not until the second letter was sent to the royal court three days later that it caused an uproar among the ministers.


    In the past, the Xiongnu people often harassed the border, but it was all small skirmishes. They would retreat after receiving some small benefits. This time, a total of 200,000 troops were pressing on the border. No matter how one looked at it, it was impossible for them to deploy so many troops just for some small benefits.


    The ministers were divided into three factions. One faction, led by General Xiao, naturally felt that they had to fight back. They requested Emperor Chong¡¯an to send troops to support Xunyang.


    There was also the first prince Shangguan Pu¡¯s faction, who was led by Prime Minister Liu. The officials of Shangguan Pu¡¯s faction suggested abandoning Xunyang because it was barren to begin with. Moreover, the snow disaster in the south at the beginning of spring caused the treasury to be empty now. It could not withstand the war.


    The rest of the people did not express any opinions. Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s decision was their decision. They called themselves royalists, but they were actually cowards.


    What was surprising was that Grand Tutor Zhao also stood up to support the pro-war faction.


    It had to be known that Lord An Le was in Xunyang. Back then, when Lord An Le¡¯s position as the crown prince was abolished, Grand Tutor Zhao had contributed the most. Everyone felt that if anyone wanted Lord An Le to die the most, it would definitely be Grand Tutor Zhao. After all, the two of them had long formed a death feud.


    If Lord An Le didn¡¯t die, Teacher Zhao would have to worry about him making a comeback.


    Therefore, his words could not help but shock everyone. At the same time, everyone felt that Grand Tutor Zhao was indeed a noble person. He could disregard his master¡¯s friendship and report the crown prince, and now, he could also speak up for the citizens of Xunyang City.


    The final outcome was obvious.


    This was what South Wind had found out.


    ¡°Your Majesty, the Second Prince requests an audience.¡± Eunuch Li walked into Yangxin Hall and bowed.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked up from a pile of petitions and pondered for a moment. ¡°Let him in.¡±


    Not long after, Shangguan Yu walked into Yangxin Hall under Eunuch Li¡¯s lead.


    Shangguan Yu bowed and cupped his hands. ¡°Greetings, Father.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an waved his hand to get him up. ¡°Why are you here today?¡±


    This son was not like the others who liked to make their presence known in front of him. That was why Emperor Chong¡¯an asked this question.


    Shangguan Yu lifted his robe and knelt down. ¡°I beg Father to send troops to support Xunyang.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s expression darkened. He leaned forward slightly and stared at Shangguan Yu sharply. ¡°You¡¯re also here to beg on behalf of your brother?¡±


    He really could not understand this son of his. Which other prince did not want that unfilial son to die? Only he had come to plead for that unfilial son several times.


    Shangguan Yu lowered his head and said, ¡°I grew up with Fifth Brother, so I naturally don¡¯t want anything to happen to him.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, Xunyang City is a strategic location. It¡¯s easy to defend but difficult to attack. It¡¯s an important barrier for Great Xia to defend against the Xiongnu. We really shouldn¡¯t abandon it.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked at him for a moment and could not determine any other motives. He waved his hand impatiently and said, ¡°I understand. You can leave.¡±


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Shangguan Yu wanted to continue.


    After receiving the instructions, Eunuch Li quickly went over to help him up. ¡°Your Highness, His Majesty has been in a bad mood recently. Please don¡¯t anger him anymore.¡±


    Shangguan Yu clenched his fists and dodged Eunuch Li¡¯s outstretched hand. He cupped his hands again and said, ¡°Can I go and see Mother? After all, Mother raised me. I beg Father to agree.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was stunned for a moment before he reacted. He originally wanted to refuse, but he thought of something and changed his tone. ¡°I agree.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Father.¡±


    Lianshan had been waiting outside Yangxin Hall. When he saw his master coming out, he quickly went up to him. ¡°Your Highness, has His Majesty allowed it?¡±


    Shangguan Yu shook his head and was about to speak.


    An extremely arrogant voice came from behind him. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t this Second Brother? Did you have enough free time to enter the palace today?¡±

 Chapter 231 - Deposed Queen Song Li

    Shangguan Yu and Lianshan turned around and saw the Eldest Prince, Shangguan Pu, and the Fourth Prince, Shangguan Yao, walking towards them.


    ¡°Eldest Prince, Fourth Prince.¡± Lianshan cupped his hands.


    ¡°Fourth Brother, how can you speak to Second Brother like that? Aren¡¯t you going to apologize?¡± Shangguan Pu reprimanded him in a low voice.


    Without waiting for Shangguan Yao to speak, Shangguan Yu waved his hand indifferently and said gently, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°First Brother, did you see that? Second Brother isn¡¯t that petty. You¡¯re the one who¡¯s making a mountain out of a molehill.¡± Shangguan Yao mocked.


    Shangguan Pu frowned and said in a neutral tone, ¡°That¡¯s because Second Brother has a good temper and doesn¡¯t stoop to your level. You have to know your limits.¡±


    He then explained to Shangguan Yu, ¡°Yao¡¯er has been spoiled by Mother and I. Second Brother, please don¡¯t take offense.¡±


    Shangguan Yao turned his head away indignantly. He just didn¡¯t like this Second Brother who always pretended to be aloof from worldly affairs.


    Shangguan Yu smiled and shook his head. ¡°Eldest Imperial Brother, you¡¯re being too serious.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s eyes flashed as he pointed at Shangguan Yu¡¯s clothes. ¡°What were you doing?¡±


    The creases were obvious. Everyone was smart, so they naturally knew how it came about.


    Shangguan Yu smiled bitterly. ¡°I¡¯m worried about Fifth Brother, so¡­¡±


    He did not continue and only shook his head. ¡°I still have to go to Weiyang Palace, so I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    Shangguan Pu nodded and looked at Shangguan Yu¡¯s back with a mocking smile.


    ¡°Tsk, stop pretending,¡± Shangguan Yao muttered disdainfully.


    Lianshan followed behind Shangguan Yu and said indignantly, ¡°The fourth prince is too arrogant. Your Highness, you¡¯re too good-tempered, that¡¯s why he-¡±


    ¡°Alright, just avoid them in the future. It¡¯s just a small matter. There¡¯s no need to get worked up over it.¡± Shangguan Yu interrupted him.


    When they arrived at the entrance of Weiyang Palace, Lianshan took out a money bag and stuffed it into the hands of the imperial guards guarding the door. He said something.


    The imperial guards opened the palace door to let Shangguan Yu in, but Lianshan was not allowed to enter.


    Ever since the deposed empress moved in, apart from the imperial concubines who occasionally came to ridicule her, Shangguan Yu was the only one who came to visit.


    In the past, Shangguan Yu had also wanted to come. Unfortunately, without Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s approval, the imperial guards guarding the gate would not let them pass.


    From the outside, Weiyang Palace looked no different from other palaces. However, as soon as one walked in, one would realize that the interior was dilapidated and filled with weeds.


    It added a sense of desolation to people¡¯s hearts.


    A woman in plain clothes leaned against an old couch placed beside the window. She was reading a book seriously, but she would cough from time to time. If she coughed too hard, her entire body would arch.


    A maidservant in rough linen clothes walked out of the side hall and took the book from her hand. She complained, ¡°You¡¯re not in good health to begin with. Why do you have to look at these troublesome things?¡±


    Song Li smiled helplessly. She covered her mouth with a handkerchief and coughed twice to ease the itch in her throat before teasing, ¡°In the past, when I was in my room, I always practiced swordplay with my father. Mother sent you to study and do needlework with me.¡±


    ¡°Are you unhappy now that I¡¯m finally reading properly?¡±


    Although Song Li was already in her early thirties, time did not seem to have left any traces on her face.


    She had the same phoenix eyes as Song Jingchen, and her facial features were exquisite. Her originally pale face turned red from her violent coughing.


    Su Yun¡¯s heart ached as she poured a glass of water and handed it over. She gently rubbed her back.


    However, she retorted bluntly, ¡°You didn¡¯t learn it well back then. Not only did you not learn it yourself, but you also brought me to practice martial arts with you. I was punished by Madam many times.¡±


    ¡°Reading these books now can¡¯t make up for the harm I suffered back then. Since that¡¯s the case, what¡¯s the point of looking at it?¡±


    After the two of them quarreled, the silent Cold Palace seemed to have a human touch to it.


    A gust of wind blew in from outside the window. Su Yun frowned and looked up at the crack. She immediately complained, ¡°How many times have I told you? Your body is no longer the same as before. You can¡¯t withstand the wind. Why did you open the window again?¡±


    She took a few steps over to close the window.


    ¡°Se- second¡­¡±


    Without books to kill time, Song Li was resting with her eyes closed. When she heard this, he laughed. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just have lunch? Do you want second servings? That¡¯s why I told you not to worry. If you have nothing to do, just lie down and save your energy.¡±


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t listen. You¡¯re hungry now, right? Those people might not even send us dinner¡­ You¡¯ll have to bear with it.¡±


    Su Yun wanted to say no, but Shangguan Yu had already walked into the hall and knelt down in front of Song Li. He called out gently, ¡°Mother!¡±


    How long had it been since someone called her that?


    Song Li opened her eyes and was surprised to see Shangguan Yu kneeling in front of her. She got up and helped him up.


    She stared at him for a long time before saying, ¡°Yu¡¯er, why are you here?¡±


    Although she did not give birth to him, Song Li had personally raised him. Before Shangguan Han was born, she had never entrusted Shangguan Yu to anyone.


    Even after she gave birth to Shangguan Han, she had always cared about Shangguan Yu.


    In Song Li¡¯s heart, she had two biological children.


    Shangguan Yu let Song Li pull him up and said in embarrassment, ¡°I should have come long ago. Unfortunately¡­¡±


    He paused for a moment before continuing, ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯m useless and can¡¯t bring Mother out. I made Mother suffer in this cold palace.¡±


    Song Li looked at her son, who was already taller than her, and reached out to pat his shoulder to comfort him. After standing for a while, she felt exhausted.


    Su Yun understood her physical condition and quickly helped her sit down.


    ¡°Mother, your body¡­¡± Shangguan Yu asked with concern.


    Song Li waved her hand indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I won¡¯t die anytime soon.¡±


    She suddenly asked, ¡°Did His Majesty agree to let you come today?¡±


    Shangguan Yu hesitated for a moment before nodding.


    Song Li closed her eyes. A tear fell from the corner of her eye without warning. She coughed for a long time before calming down. She said bleakly, ¡°Did something happen to Han¡¯er?¡±


    She didn¡¯t think Emperor Chong¡¯an would be so kind.


    ¡°No, Fifth Brother is fine in Xunyang. Mother, don¡¯t think too much about it.¡± Shangguan Yu denied.


    Seeing him like this, Song Li was even more certain of what she was thinking. She shook her head. ¡°Yu¡¯er, go back. Don¡¯t come again in the future. Otherwise, you¡¯ll be disliked by the emperor.¡±


    Shangguan Yu opened his mouth to say something. Su Yun could tell that the young lady must be feeling uncomfortable at this moment. Before he could speak, she took a few steps forward and bowed to him. She advised, ¡°Your Highness, go back first. I¡¯ll be here with Her Highness.¡±


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have come,¡± Shangguan Yu muttered. He smiled bitterly and cupped his hands at Su Yun. ¡°Thank you, Aunt Su Yun. I¡¯ll definitely think of a way to bring Mother out in the future.¡±


    Su Yun looked at his departing figure and turned around to see that her mistress was already covered in tears. She frowned and shook her head. He really shouldn¡¯t have come.

 Chapter 232 - If You Can’t Get It, Destroy It

    ¡°Ah, you crazy woman, why did you hit me again?¡± Qian Youde¡¯s fat body jumped up from the ground. He covered his numb hand and glared at Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan said expressionlessly, ¡°Young Madam said that you¡¯re not allowed to get within three steps of her.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless. Just because of Shen Yijia¡¯s words, he had been beaten up by this crazy woman countless times in the past few days.


    Sometimes, even when he saw that she was not around, she would jump out just as he approached her to say a few words to Shen Yijia.


    But this time was different.


    ¡°I clearly didn¡¯t get close to her at all.¡± Qian Youde was so angry that his face turned red. He walked back to where he was standing so that she could see him clearly.


    Mo Yuan glanced at it. ¡°Your hand was too close.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    He rolled up his sleeves, fists clenched.


    Everyone thought that he was finally going to fight Mo Yuan to the death.


    He simply spun around on the spot twice. He wanted to get close to Shen Yijia, but he didn¡¯t dare to. He stopped and sat on the ground, crying, ¡°Little lady, look at this crazy woman. She¡¯s bullying me.¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to bring you something to eat, but she wouldn¡¯t let me. Take back what you said.¡±


    ¡°Haha!¡± Shen Yijia laughed so hard she rolled on the floor. After laughing enough, she looked at Mo Yuan and said, ¡°I think Mo Yuan did quite well. All the best, continue to maintain it. I think highly of you.¡±


    Initially, she was unwilling to let the two of them follow her, but she couldn¡¯t shake them off, nor could she kill them.


    She did not expect that her journey would bring about so many interesting things.


    In the past, she had to fight on her own. Now, someone helped her fight without her saying a word.


    Qian Youde was stunned. He widened his eyes and fell back to the ground. ¡°Ah, I don¡¯t want to live anymore. You¡¯re bullying me.¡±


    Zhu Zi covered his face. It was fine if their young master was like this at home, but why was it the same outside? He was already an adult, yet his behavior was still so embarrassing. Zhu Zi couldn¡¯t bear to watch.


    A crack appeared on Mo Yuan¡¯s usually expressionless face, but it was not obvious.


    At this moment, Rooster, who had been sent to investigate, returned.


    Shen Yijia stopped smiling and looked at him with a burning gaze. She was getting closer and closer to her beautiful husband. She might be able to hear some news.


    Rooster felt his scalp tingle from her gaze. It was rare for Shen Yijia to be serious. ¡°Master, Liang County is not letting us pass. We might have to take a detour to Xunyang.¡±


    Seeing him like this, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened. ¡°Is Xunyang in a bad condition right now?¡±


    Over the past few days, they had heard some things about Xunyang, but they were all rumors. Shen Yijia¡¯s ears went numb.


    ¡°I only know that they had been surrounded for more than half a month. I can¡¯t find out anything else.¡±


    It was precisely because he could not find out that he was worried.


    ¡°More than half a month¡­¡± Shen Yijia muttered. She had been traveling for more than half a month. She looked up at Rooster hopefully. ¡°Maybe your master hasn¡¯t arrived yet, either.¡±


    As long as her husband hadn¡¯t arrived yet, there shouldn¡¯t be any danger. If she was faster, would she be able to catch up?


    She believed that Song Jingchen would do his best to save the former crown prince even if Xunyang was surrounded by enemy troops. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have rushed over as soon as he received the news.


    If he wanted to save Shangguan Han, wouldn¡¯t he have to find a way to enter the city?


    Putting aside how he was going to sneak in under the noses of the army, even if he did, how was he going to save Shangguan Han?


    No matter which version of the story they heard along the way, one thing remained constant. Xunyang was a dead place now.


    Xunyang did not have enough troops to begin with. Furthermore, it was a place that was easy to defend and difficult to attack. The 200,000 soldiers could take turns to form a human wall.


    Even if the Hun army did not attack in order to reduce their losses, the people inside could not come out.


    Without food and supplies, the people in the city could only rely on their original food supplies to survive.


    Sooner or later, they would starve to death inside.


    It was a dead end.


    Rooster¡¯s eyes flashed and he fell silent.


    ¡°Tell me quickly,¡± Shen Yijia shouted.


    Rooster lowered his head and smiled bitterly. ¡°If there weren¡¯t any accidents, Master should have arrived three days ago at the latest.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. What did he mean by that? Was it the kind of accident where one was seriously injured or died halfway?


    Either way, it wasn¡¯t a good thing.


    Shen Yijia patted Furball¡¯s head and stood up. ¡°Furball, let¡¯s go.¡±


    As she spoke, she took a few steps over and untied the horse¡¯s reins from the tree.


    A hand suddenly stopped her.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Mo Yuan. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Mo Yuan looked up into Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes. There was no hint of turmoil in her black eyes. She said calmly, ¡°Xunyang is dangerous. Little Miss can¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°Get lost, or I¡¯ll kill you.¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    Mo Yuan paused for a moment and took a few steps back before Shen Yijia could attack.


    She could die, but she would only die to protect Little Miss.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief when Mo Yuan did not insist on stopping her. After spending more than ten days together, she could tell that Mo Yuan was protective of her.


    Although Mo Yuan might have recognized the wrong person, she was indeed the one being protected. Unless necessary, she didn¡¯t want to attack her.


    ¡°Then I¡­¡± Qian Youde wanted to lean over, but he stopped three steps away.


    The group did not hide the fact that Shen Yijia had gone to Xunyang to look for her husband, so he knew a little about it. However, he did not know who Shen Yijia¡¯s husband was.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to Liang County? Then let¡¯s part ways here.¡±


    Qian Youde almost blurted out that he was going too. Zhu Zi quickly covered his mouth and smiled at Shen Yijia. ¡°Yes, let¡¯s part ways here.¡±


    This person never thought twice about his young master. His young master also knew that she had a husband. Why did he like to get close to others so much? He didn¡¯t learn his lesson even after being beaten up.


    If not for the fact that his young master did not seem to be interested in the young lady these few days, he would have thought of a way to take him away.


    Otherwise, if the old madam found out that the young master had taken a fancy to a married woman, she would skin him alive.


    Shen Yijia was worried about Song Jingchen. She was afraid that if she was late, Song Jingchen would be crushed into meat paste by the army. She wouldn¡¯t be able to heal him even if she wanted to. Who would she rely on then?


    The few of them did not stop unless it was necessary.


    In a certain mansion in the capital.


    A man in black stood behind his master.


    ¡°Master!¡±


    ¡°What did they say?¡±


    ¡°Mungido said the situation was beginning to settle down. He didn¡¯t want unnecessary casualties. He also said¡­¡±


    ¡°What else is there to say?¡±


    The man in black lowered his voice. ¡°He said not to treat everyone as fools.¡±


    This meant that Mungido had seen through his plan to get someone else to do his dirty work.


    The teacup in the man¡¯s hand shattered.


    ¡°Heh, unnecessary casualties?¡± The man sneered. ¡°I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll end up with nothing.¡±


    He had never expected that the most crucial move would be disrupted by Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s ridiculous decision.


    The imperial court did not send troops. Xunyang was like a bird in a cage to the Huns. They were not in a hurry to start a war, so they gave Song Jingchen enough time.


    ¡°Master, what do we do now?¡±


    The man closed his eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer. If necessary, let that person take action.¡±


    If he couldn¡¯t get his hands on something, he would simply destroy it.

 Chapter 233 - Jiajia Is Stunned When She Sees A

    After rushing for a few days, the few of them were extremely tired. Fortunately, they could enter Xunyang City after one more day. The refugees that could be seen everywhere gradually decreased in number when they arrived.


    This was not surprising. After the Xiongnu had besieged Xunyang for so many days, those who could escape had long left Xunyang. The closer they were to Xunyang, the fewer refugees there would be.


    Shen Yijia and the others stopped and ate a few mouthfuls of dry food. They were about to continue on their way.


    More than ten refugees suddenly rushed over from the front. They were chasing after a child and screaming bloody murder.


    In a few seconds, the child ran up to them.


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that the child¡¯s eyes were azure blue, as beautiful as two sapphires.


    However, his face was bruised and his clothes were dirty. There were also many dark marks left behind by dried blood. It was obvious that he had been beaten up badly.


    The child saw that Shen Yijia was not unhappy with him. Instead, she was stunned. Suddenly, the child lost his balance and fell at Shen Yijia¡¯s feet.


    ¡°Please, save me.¡± He raised his head and looked at Shen Yijia pitifully.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. His eyes looked even better covered with tears in his eyes.


    ¡°Beat him to death, beat him to death¡­¡± The refugees arrived in front of them like a swarm of bees. Some of them were holding wooden sticks while others were holding rocks. All of them were clamoring to beat this child to death.


    However, Furball did not dare to approach.


    Someone in the crowd threw a stone at the child¡¯s head. Shen Yijia subconsciously kicked the stone back.


    This kick was incredible. The refugees thought that Shen Yijia had teamed up with the child, so they raised their weapons and were about to attack.


    Rooster and Mo Yuan quickly stepped forward to protect Shen Yijia.


    An old man in the crowd suddenly stood up and stopped the refugees. He looked at Shen Yijia and the other two with red eyes. ¡°Are you still from Great Xia? Since you¡¯re protecting this barbarian.¡±


    ¡°A barbarian?¡± Shen Yijia blinked and asked Rooster.


    Rooster said, ¡°He¡¯s referring to the Hun people.¡±


    They were always talking about the Huns. This was the first time Shen Yijia had heard them call the Huns ¡®barbarians¡¯.


    Upon hearing that this child was from Xiongnu, Shen Yijia¡¯s face darkened. If not for the fact that these Xiongnu people had nothing better to do, she would still be living a peaceful life in Xiagou Village with her beautiful husband.


    How else could they have been apart for so long?


    ¡°I¡¯m not.¡± The child shouted at the top of his lungs and spoke fluent Central Plains Chinese.


    The crowd was silent for a moment before the child continued to sob with red eyes. ¡°My mother was from Great Xia and was snatched away by the Huns. Later on, my mother gave birth to me.¡±


    When he mentioned the Huns, his face was filled with hatred. It was no less than the hatred these refugees felt when they mentioned the enemy.


    He wiped his tears with his dirty hands and gritted his teeth. ¡°They bullied my mother and even hit me. They said that my mother and I were their slaves, not one of the Huns.¡±


    My mother told me that she was from Great Xia. I was born to her, and I¡¯m also a citizen of Great Xia.


    ¡°My mother is dead. It wasn¡¯t easy for me to escape back to Great Xia, but why do you say that I¡¯m not from Great Xia? Then who am I?¡±


    After saying that, the child sobbed.


    It was not uncommon for the Huns to kidnap women from Great Xia. There were even daughters or sisters among the refugees who were snatched away by them.


    The children¡¯s cries immediately resonated with the refugees.


    They thought about how their relatives had been humiliated in the Hun Empire. Even if they had a child, that child would still be disliked.


    They hated the Huns for causing them to be separated from their family and leaving their hometown. However, they could not bear to kill the child who had half of the bloodline of Great Xia in his body.


    No one knew if there was another child with the same origin as them somewhere else, but they were also being beaten up like street rats wherever they went.


    Looking at the injuries on the children¡¯s bodies, the refugees lowered their heads in shame. They threw away the weapons in their hands and started sobbing.


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°This kid is so incredible, yet he still needs to ask me for help?¡±


    However, she did not know that when the refugees saw this child, they did not even give him a chance to speak.


    Seeing the refugees leave one after another, the child¡¯s lowered blue eyes revealed a complicated expression, but no one saw it.


    ¡°Master, what should we do with this kid?¡± Rooster was knowledgeable. Although this kid had cried sincerely just now, he still felt that something was wrong.


    His words just now seemed to be a simple explanation of his background, but they were clear and without nonsense. First, he said that his mother was from Great Xia to tug at the people¡¯s heartstrings.


    Then, he explained how they had been bullied by the Huns. He expressed that she hated the Huns just like these refugees.


    The last sentence was amazing. ¡°Mother is gone. She was bullied in Xiongnu, and when she came to Great Xia, she was beaten up by you.¡± The refugees were just ordinary people, so it was easy to appeal to their emotions.


    They felt that they had lost their family, but they did not expect this person to be even more pitiful than them. Thinking about their family members who had been kidnapped, they felt a sense of sympathy.


    With just a few words, the refugee¡¯s hatred for him turned into sympathy. This kid was so good at seizing people¡¯s hearts to create opportunities for himself at such a young age. He had to be on guard.


    Most importantly, Rooster glanced at Little Furball. Since this kid was not afraid of Little Furball at all, he did not think that the person who said those words would be the kind of child who could treat Furball as a cat and not know anything.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the child who was looking at her with admiration and felt her jaw ache. ¡°What else can we do? We can¡¯t bring him to Xunyang.¡±


    She thought for a moment, then bent down and grabbed the child¡¯s collar to lift him up. She couldn¡¯t help but look into his blue eyes before asking, ¡°We¡¯re leaving. Where are you planning to go?¡±


    ¡°Can I follow you?¡± When he said this, he pinched his fingers timidly and looked at Shen Yijia hopefully.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. She felt that something was wrong. She was here to look for someone, not to pick someone up.


    When she started on this journey, it was just Shen Yijia and Rooster.


    Mo Yuan was quite skilled, so she might be able to help if she went. This was different, so she shook her head decisively. ¡°No, you escaped from the Huns to Great Xia. You should know that Xunyang is fighting a war. It¡¯s very dangerous there now.¡±


    Moreover, even if this kid went with her, it was hard to guarantee that he would not be torn apart by the citizens of Xunyang City as soon as he entered the city. In order not to make him sad, Shen Yijia did not say this out loud.


    The child pursed his lips and pulled a red string from around his neck. A pouch hung from it.


    He held the pouch in his hand, and his eyes turned red. ¡°But my mother¡¯s family is in Xunyang. When she died, her greatest wish was to return to her hometown to take a look. Please, can you bring me along? I promise not to follow you after we enter Xunyang.¡±


    I¡­ I don¡¯t want to leave any regrets for my mother.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god, this child is crying so beautifully.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia agreed without thinking further, not giving Rooster a chance to speak.

 Chapter 234 - An Assassination Attempt on

    Since they were going on the road together, she couldn¡¯t keep calling him ¡®kid¡¯.


    ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± Shen Yijia looked into his eyes and asked. She suddenly thought of a name that suited him very well. Blue Moon. If there was no name, she could name him.


    Ah Xun¡¯s eyelids twitched from her gaze and he hurriedly said, ¡°Ah Xun. My mother gave it to me. She said that every time she called my name, she would remember my hometown and not forget it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was a little disappointed.


    Without further delay, the few of them started riding again. Rooster looked at Ah Xun, who was sitting in front of him, and warned, ¡°You¡¯d better not use your tricks on our master. Otherwise, you won¡¯t even know how you died.¡±


    The child, who had always been timid and obedient in front of Shen Yijia, suddenly turned around and gave Rooster a provocative smile. ¡°Are you talking about the sister in front?¡±


    Rooster¡¯s eyes turned cold, and killing intent filled his eyes.


    Ah Xun¡¯s smile disappeared. He tilted his head and returned to his innocent and harmless appearance. He turned his body slightly and patted Rooster¡¯s chest comfortingly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t do anything to you guys. Besides¡­¡±


    He looked at Shen Yijia in front of him. ¡°I quite like that sister.¡±


    He knew that Rooster was suspicious of him, so he deliberately revealed his true self in front of him. At the same time, he showed him that he was harmless. This way, he could continue acting to win everyone¡¯s trust. At that time, it would be easier to attack.


    Rooster looked into his eyes steadily. He had to admit that he had been tricked again. His guard was lowered, just a little.


    After rushing for a long time, the sky was about to turn dark. They happened to pass by a village. Shen Yijia thought that she might not be able to rest after entering Xunyang. In addition, she had been traveling non-stop for the past few days. Even her legs were in pain from the friction, let alone Mo Yuan and Rooster.


    She was really worried that if this continued, the two of them would die suddenly without the help of the Huns in Xunyang. She might as well take this opportunity to rest for the night and ask Rooster to treat Ah Xun¡¯s wounds.


    The houses here had long been emptied. There were traces of the houses being searched everywhere. Shen Yijia casually found the nearest house and pushed the door open.


    When Rooster heard Shen Yijia¡¯s instructions, he glared at Ah Xun angrily. He took the medicine from Shen Yijia and brought him to another room.


    Shen Yijia went out to find four bowls that could still be used. She found some water and washed them casually.


    She dropped a drop of spiritual liquid into her water pouch and poured some for Furball. The remaining three bowls of water were brought to the other three.


    When she was done, Rooster and Ah Xun returned.


    Shen Yijia called out, ¡°Come and have some water.¡±


    She had seven drops of spiritual liquid now, and she still had six drops left after using one. She did not have to worry about not having enough at a critical moment.


    Pleasantly surprised, Rooster leaned over and picked up the bowl with both hands. ¡°Thank you, Young Madam.¡±


    After saying that, he raised his head and finished it in one gulp. He even forgot Shen Yijia¡¯s instructions to call her ¡®Master¡¯.


    Seeing him drink the water like he¡¯d never drank water before in his life, Shen Yijia felt her jaw ache.


    ¡°Why does this water smell sweet?¡± Rooster smacked his lips and muttered.


    Mo Yuan suddenly walked over and took the initiative to pick up another bowl of water to drink. She said firmly, ¡°You¡¯re wrong. There¡¯s no taste.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Rooster smacked his lips. It didn¡¯t seem to be the case. Could it be that he found the water poured by Young Madam especially sweet?


    This thought frightened Rooster. He quickly shook his head to shake off this terrifying thought. He scratched his head and smiled. ¡°Indeed, I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s nerves tightened, but she heaved a sigh of relief when she heard the two of them say that.


    Ah Xun only drank his water silently and tried his best to act obedient in front of Shen Yijia.


    It was unknown if it was because Shen Yijia¡¯s luck was too good, but just as they finished eating their rations, the sky suddenly seemed to tear open and heavy rain poured down.


    If they hadn¡¯t decided to rest for the night, they would have been drenched by now.


    Shen Yijia sat under the eaves and stared blankly at the night sky. Everyone thought that she was worried about Song Jingchen again.


    ¡°Young Master will be fine.¡± Mo Yuan didn¡¯t seem to know how to comfort people. Her tone was dry.


    Shen Yijia glanced at her expressionless face and her lips twitched.


    Just as they were about to turn around and return to the house, a bolt of lightning flashed across the sky, illuminating the night. At the same time, Shen Yijia saw more than ten figures in black with swords in their hands rushing towards them. They were about to reach them.


    Rooster walked up to Shen Yijia. ¡°Master, what should we do?¡±


    Although they did not know who these people were, they were obviously here for them.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°Do we have a choice?¡±


    As expected, as soon as she finished speaking, a sword stabbed at her from the side.


    Shen Yijia flew back and dodged. She pulled out the long whip at her waist and wrapped it around the sword. With a strong tug, the owner of the sword pounced on her.


    Shen Yijia reached out and grabbed the person¡¯s neck to stop him from moving forward.


    She exerted strength with her hand. There was a crack, and the sound of bones breaking was especially clear under the rain.


    Ah Xun¡¯s eyes widened in shock. He never expected that the most powerful of the three would be this person he thought was the easiest to deceive.


    ¡°Furball, look after him.¡± Shen Yijia threw the sword she had just snatched from the man in black to Mo Yuan and instructed Furball.


    Then, she used a long whip to spread the fire on the ground and swung it around. Sparks licked the dilapidated furniture in the house and instantly lit up the surroundings.


    The men in black, who were hiding in the dark, appeared. The three of them faced them together.


    Shen Yijia shuttled through the rain of swords with a long whip in her hand. The few of them surrounded her. Shen Yijia jumped up and wrapped the whip around one of their necks, throwing him onto the others.


    Only Ah Xun, Furball, and the corpse of the man in black were left in the house.


    Ah Xun looked at the battle outside with a worried expression. He thought of something and quickly ran to the man in black¡¯s side. He pulled the black cloth off his face. When he saw the person¡¯s face, his pupils constricted.


    There was a moment of silence.


    At the same time, Song Jingchen, who was worried sick, did not enter Xunyang. Instead, he sneaked into the Hun army¡¯s camp under the rain with South Wind.


    Under the cover of the rain, the two of them quietly approached the commander¡¯s tent.


    The Huns attacked Great Xia and gave the reason that Great Xia had sent people to assassinate the previous Chanyu Kedun and his family. A Chanyu was their version of an emperor, and Danyu Kedun was the predecessor of the royal court. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe this. In fact, anyone with a brain wouldn¡¯t believe it.


    According to his understanding, Chanyu Kedun was quite trusted by the other tribes in terms of strength and ruling methods. That was why the Huns had said that they would avenge him after his death.


    And now, his half-brother Mungido, who was the newly appointed Chanyu, was the person who incited this war.

 Chapter 235 - The Hidden Details, Song

    It was precisely because of this decision that many of the tribal leaders who were originally loyal to Chanyu Kedun had no objections to his succession.


    As soon as they got close, they heard a conversation.


    In the tent, two burly and bearded Huns sat facing each other and ate roasted meat.


    They were mumbling something.


    South Wind leaned over with Song Jingchen, but he didn¡¯t understand a word. He turned to look at his master, only to see him frowning.


    He guessed that Song Jingchen understood.


    South Wind rubbed his nose and obediently went to help keep watch.


    ¡°Is that son of a b*tch still looking for the little prince?¡± asked one of the burly men with a scar at the corner of his eye.


    When the other person heard this, he slammed the wine bowl in his hand on the table. ¡°I wonder where that dog heard that the little prince is still alive.¡±


    ¡°Damn it, so what if he¡¯s found? Can he snatch the throne back from us?¡±


    ¡°No matter what, we have to kill the little prince before he finds us.¡± As the burly man with the scar spoke, he made a throat-slitting gesture with his hand.


    ¡°Heh, don¡¯t worry. I just received news that our people have already found traces of that brat. We won¡¯t let the two of them have a chance to meet.¡±


    Speaking of this, he was a little angry. He poured himself a bowl of wine and drank it in one gulp. He wiped his mouth with his sleeve and sneered. ¡°This brat can really run. Since he ran to Great Xia, if not for Mungido Chanyu¡¯s reminder, he would have run away.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid Zodar would never have thought of that, right? Hahaha¡­¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Immediately after, the two of them clinked their bowls and started to curse.


    When Song Jingchen heard what he wanted to hear, he waved at South Wind. The two of them retreated from the Hun army¡¯s camp without alerting anyone.


    ¡°Master?¡± South Wind was really curious about what was going on inside.


    ¡°When will our people arrive?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    South Wind said, ¡°About five o¡¯clock.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. He had wasted enough time here and didn¡¯t know about Shangguan Han¡¯s current situation.


    Moreover, the heavy rain tonight would help him avoid the sentries of the Huns and sneak into Xunyang City.


    After some thought, he instructed South Wind, ¡°I¡¯ll enter Xunyang City tonight. Stay outside and wait for One Dot and the others. After meeting up with them, you guys can go¡­¡±


    After hearing the instructions, South Wind blurted out, ¡°I¡¯ll enter the city on your behalf, Master.¡±


    It was obvious that his master¡¯s task was more dangerous. How could he let his master take the risk while his subordinates hid behind?


    ¡°What can you do inside?¡± Song Jingchen dismissed his idea.


    South Wind looked dejected. ¡°That¡¯s right. What can I do? My brain isn¡¯t as good as Master¡¯s. I¡¯ll just be trapped in Xunyang.¡± he thought.


    He stopped talking. His master was too powerful. The Mahjong Brothers could only fight.


    ¡°You must find them before the Huns do.¡± After Song Jingchen instructed them, he got on his horse and disappeared into the rainy night.


    Because of the rain, other than the faint specks of light that could be seen from the Hun army¡¯s camp, there was nothing else.


    South Wind glanced at him and turned his horse in the opposite direction from where Song Jingchen had left.


    Where he had agreed to meet One Dot.


    To his surprise, not long after he arrived, a dozen men in straw raincoats walked out of the forest. Who else could it be but One Dot?


    Seeing that South Wind was alone, Yi Tong was stunned for a moment. ¡°Why are you alone? Where¡¯s Master?¡±


    ¡°Master asked me to wait for you here. He entered the city alone.¡± South Wind was also very annoyed.


    If he had known that these people would arrive so early, he would not have let his master enter the city alone.


    One Dot felt that something was wrong. He frowned and asked, ¡°What happened? Didn¡¯t you say that you would wait for us?¡±


    As soon as he received the letter, he rushed over with his men. In order to save time, they even took a shortcut.


    South Wind explained the mission. Song Jingchen had arranged for them to infiltrate the Hun army¡¯s camp.


    When he saw that One Dot¡¯s expression was off, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°I received a messenger pigeon from Xiagou Village. Young Madam brought Furball out to look for Master not long after you set off.¡±


    South Wind had not mentioned Shen Yijia just now, so One Dot knew that Young Madam had not caught up with them.


    It had been so many days, and Rooster was an unreliable person. If anything happened to Young Madam, One Dot couldn¡¯t imagine how angry Song Jingchen would be.


    South Wind¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Clearly, he had thought of the same thing as One Dot.


    ¡°Then what should we do now? Master didn¡¯t tell me where he was going to enter the city. We won¡¯t be able to catch up even if we want to.¡±


    One Dot frowned and pondered. ¡°We¡¯ll split up. Thirty Thousand and I will bring a portion of our people to look for the little prince. You take some people to look for the young madam.¡±


    Since his master was not around, he could only make such arrangements.


    After they agreed, they split up and left.


    On the other side, Song Jingchen avoided the sentries and came to the edge of the moat. Because of the rain, the water level of the moat had risen a lot.


    There was a tributary of the moat that flowed into Xunyang City. He remembered a flood in Xunyang when he was young. It was because the water level of this tributary had risen after prolonged rainfall that there was insufficient drainage.


    Back then, Xunyang was not as sparsely populated as it was now. That flood had even taken away more than half of the lives in the city, causing a huge commotion in the imperial court.


    Seeing that his grandfather was worried about this matter every day, he read many history books about water conservancy in the study alone.


    In Great Xia, he was probably the one who knew the most about the repair plan of this tributary.


    He calculated the rise in the water level and the direction of the tributary in his mind and plunged into the river.


    The last man in black fell. Apart from Shen Yijia, Rooster and Mo Yuan were both slightly injured. Fortunately, they were not seriously injured.


    They could not stay in the house anymore after it was burned down to the point that there was only a shelf left. The few of them changed to another house to stay in.


    By the time they changed out of their wet clothes, Ah Xun had already reignited the fire and boiled hot water over it with a ceramic pot.


    ¡°Brother, drink some water.¡± He poured a bowl of hot water and carefully brought it to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was charmed and she reached out to take it, but Rooster beat her to it. ¡°It¡¯s so hot. Be careful. Let me carry it.¡±


    As he spoke, he pushed Ah Xun away. As he was too fast, a few drops of water in the bowl splashed out and scalded his hand.


    ¡°Hey, look at me. Why are you so careless?¡± Rooster slapped the back of his head in frustration.


    Ah Xun looked at him with dark eyes. He pursed his lips and turned around to pour Shen Yijia another glass of water.


    Mo Yuan walked over expressionlessly and snatched the jar from his hand. ¡°Let me do it.¡±


    In the end, the jar fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Is it so hard to get some water?¡± she thought.

 Chapter 236 - Meeting

    Seeing that Ah Xun lowered his head sadly, she quickly comforted him. ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯m not thirsty. There¡¯s no need to drink water.¡±


    Rooster secretly gave Mo Yuan a thumbs up.


    He did not expect Mo Yuan to be so quick-witted. Could the water that that kid boiled be suitable for Young Madam to drink? Who knew if he would drug her?


    Ah Xun looked at Rooster¡¯s actions and gritted his teeth angrily.


    ¡°By the way, do you know who those people were just now?¡± Shen Yijia did not notice the mood of the other three people. She suddenly looked up and asked.


    When they fought just now, she realized that these people¡¯s moves were a little strange.


    At this point, Rooster glanced at Ah Xun and spat out three words. ¡°They were Huns.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed his gaze and saw that Ah Xun looked conflicted. She did not ask further.


    In Xunyang City, the streets were in a mess. Broken walls could be seen everywhere.


    Because of the rain, the injured were squeezed under the eaves that could barely shelter them from the rain.


    Although the Hun army simply surrounded them, they would harass them from time to time every few days. They would use the catapults to throw stones into the city before retreating, making people hate them to the core.


    At Lord An Le¡¯s residence.


    Pots of blood were carried out of the master bedroom. A few armored men were waiting anxiously outside the door.


    The door opened again. An old man with a white beard walked out first, followed by a man dressed as a butler.


    A few people swarmed up and surrounded him.


    ¡°Doctor Fang, how¡¯s the prince?¡±


    Doctor Fang stroked his beard and said, ¡°He¡¯s fine. He just lost too much blood and needs to rest. It¡¯s not appropriate to be disturbed for the time being. Generals, why don¡¯t you go back first?¡±


    Doctor Fang was brought over from the capital by Shangguan Han and had always been by his side. Everyone was willing to listen to him.


    Hearing his words, no one dared to make a fuss about entering. They all instructed him to take good care of the prince and left.


    After they left, Uncle Yang, who was dressed like a strategist, walked out from the side. The man looked at him and nodded.


    Uncle Yang immediately heaved a sigh of relief. If something happened to Lord An Le, he really didn¡¯t know how to explain it to Eldest Young Master.


    Speaking of which, King An¡¯s injury was purely an accident.


    Today, he returned to the residence after visiting the injured soldiers in the city. He did not want a house by the road to suddenly collapse.


    However, there was a child standing below. He rushed up to save her, but before he could dodge, a piece of rubble hit his head.


    Uncle Yang wanted to ask something, but the man whispered in his ear. His pupils instantly dilated as he looked at the closed door in disbelief.


    In the room, a young man lay on a couch with a pale face. He was about fourteen or fifteen years old, and his facial features looked young. He looked slightly childish.


    At this moment, he was staring unblinkingly at the man in black who had suddenly appeared in the room.


    After looking at it for a while, he closed his eyes and opened them again. It took him a few times to confirm that he wasn¡¯t hallucinating.


    The pressure he had endured for more than a year surged into his heart like a tide. His eyes slowly turned red. ¡°Cousin¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have the sadness of a brother reuniting after a long time. His face darkened and he reprimanded in a low voice, ¡°How can you cry like this?¡±


    Shangguan Han was three years younger than Song Jingchen, born a month later than the fourth prince, Shangguan Yao. He was ranked fifth among the princes and had just turned fifteen this year.


    He was made the crown prince when he was born. Not only was his mother the empress, but he also had the powerful Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence as his support.


    As soon as he was born, he had something that others could not obtain in their entire lives. He did not need to work hard to get what he wanted.


    He always saw the ¡®bright¡¯ side, so he developed a naive personality.


    After the incident, Song Jingchen asked Uncle Yang to pay attention to Shangguan Han¡¯s situation at all times. Apart from ensuring that his life was safe, Uncle Yang was not allowed to interfere in anything else.


    He hoped that after this incident, Shangguan Han would be able to understand that the bright side he had always seen only came about because his close relatives had blocked the dark side from him.


    After all, the price he had to pay was too great.


    It was true that the dragon robe and letter were planted by others to frame him, but if he had taken more precautions and been more careful, he would not have given others a chance to take advantage of him.


    Shangguan Han quickly wiped his tears with his sleeve. His excitement dissipated, and he forced a smile. ¡°Cousin, why are you here?¡±


    Thinking of something, his gaze landed on Song Jingchen¡¯s legs and he said in surprise, ¡°Cousin, your legs¡­¡±


    Before leaving the capital, he had learned about the situation of his maternal family from others. Unfortunately, his aunt¡¯s family had left the capital before him.


    Actually, he understood that even if they hadn¡¯t left the capital yet, he couldn¡¯t have done anything. He couldn¡¯t even save himself, so what could he do to help them?


    When Song Jingchen was asked about his legs, his eyes softened for a moment, but in the next moment, he put on a cold expression and said concisely, ¡°I was lucky to meet an expert and recovered.¡±


    Seeing that he was so excited that he wanted to cry but didn¡¯t dare to, Song Jingchen sighed and asked with dry concern, ¡°How are your injuries?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just got hit. I¡¯ll be fine after resting for two days.¡± Shangguan Han didn¡¯t expect his cousin to care about him. He grinned.


    As he laughed, she suddenly covered her eyes and cried. ¡°Cousin, why wasn¡¯t I the one who died?


    ¡°If I died, would my grandfather and uncle still be fine? My mother would not have been forced to stay in the cold palace either.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t I his son? Why is he so heartless? If he¡¯s not satisfied with me as the crown prince, I can give up the position.¡±


    ¡°Even if you demote me to a commoner, as long as my grandfather, uncle, and mother are fine¡­¡± he choked while speaking.


    After the incident, he couldn¡¯t believe anyone around him. He couldn¡¯t vent the pain in his heart.


    He had been suppressing these emotions until he saw his family.


    Sadness flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes, but he quickly covered it up. However, this time, he didn¡¯t reprimand Shangguan Han like before.


    When he was done crying, he said, ¡°Leave Xunyang¡¯s matter to me. Rest well in your room for the next few days.¡±


    With that, he turned around and left. When he reached the door, Shangguan Han¡¯s firm voice suddenly sounded behind him. ¡°Cousin, I will definitely avenge my grandfather and uncle, no matter who that person is.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. He didn¡¯t turn around or reply.


    In the guest room of the residence.


    Uncle Yang paced back and forth in the house. How could he not be excited that the Eldest Young Master had come personally?


    Ever since he sent a letter, he did not dare to keep sending letters if there wasn¡¯t any response from Song Jingchen.


    This was because it was impossible for the Eldest Young Master not to give any instructions about Lord An Le.


    In order to prevent the private army from being exposed, he would not send a message unless something major happened.


    The eldest young master knew this, so there were only two possibilities for not replying. The first was that the letter had been stopped, and the second was that something had happened to the eldest young master.


    There should not have been a second letter of either kind.


    Someone jumped into the room through his half-open window. Uncle Yang¡¯s thoughts were pulled back. When he saw who it was, he quickly closed the window and locked it.


    He walked up to the person and knelt down.

 Chapter 237 - Song Jingchen Is Injured. Jiajia Is Worried

    Song Jingchen reached out and stopped him. ¡°Uncle Yang, you¡¯re an old man in the residence. There¡¯s no need to be like this.¡±


    Even though he had guessed it when he heard that Song Jingchen had come personally, Uncle Yang was so excited that tears welled up in his eyes when he saw that Song Jingchen was standing in front of him.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, have your legs really recovered?¡± He wanted to ask why he hadn¡¯t told him about the letter before, but he remembered that he had to hide it. The letter wasn¡¯t foolproof, so he didn¡¯t ask.


    Song Jingchen sat down at the table and gestured for Uncle Yang to sit down before saying, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about this for now. Let¡¯s talk about the situation in the city first.¡±


    Uncle Yang was no easier to deal with than Shangguan Han. He did not want to expose Shen Yijia¡¯s abilities. After all, these things could not withstand scrutiny.


    If he didn¡¯t know that it was impossible to hide some things from her, Song Jingchen even hoped that she didn¡¯t know anything.


    Uncle Yang saw that Song Jingchen was unwilling to tell him, so he didn¡¯t ask further. It was fine as long as the results were good.


    He then explained everything in the city to Song Jingchen in detail.


    Towards the end, he sighed. ¡°There are no more medicinal herbs in the city. In order to save food, the soldiers and strong men only eat one meal a day. The women and children are given a bowl of clear porridge every day. Even so, they won¡¯t be able to last more than three days.¡±


    If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t come, he was prepared to fight a bloody battle with the 50,000 private troops on the Qilin Mountain to send Lord An Le away safely.


    The private army was their final trump card. They could not use it unless they had no other choice. Once they used it, it would be equivalent to exposing themselves to Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s index finger tapped on the table rhythmically. He suddenly stopped and asked, ¡°When will the Hun army throw stones next?¡±


    ¡°If there are no accidents, it will be tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°How many catapults are in the city?¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡± Uncle Yang pondered for a moment and said,¡± There were originally a lot of them, but the Huns came suddenly and most of them were destroyed. There are still about ten of them that can be used now. ¡±


    ¡°Is there a trustworthy general?¡± Song Jingchen asked again.


    ¡°Yes, Meng Jiang and Zuo Fei are trustworthy people.¡±


    Although he had been on the Qilin Mountain most of the time since he came here, someone would write to him every day about Xunyang City to ensure Lord An Le¡¯s safety.


    ¡°Find these two people and ask them to gather the citizens in the city overnight to weave the cloth in their houses into a net. After they¡¯re done¡­¡± Song Jingchen picked up the teapot and poured a cup of tea.


    As he drew on the table, he continued, ¡°Everyone on the city wall, retreat. Let half of Meng Jiang¡¯s men guard the east gate, and the rest follow Zuo Fei to guard the west gate. When the Hun army throws stones¡­¡±


    Uncle Yang¡¯s eyes lit up as he listened. The net could cushion the speed of the falling boulders. Not only could it reduce the damage, but it could also catch the Huns off guard with the rocks thrown in.


    Especially after so many days, when the Hun army realized that they had run out of food in the city, they had long become complacent and off-guard.


    When he heard that Song Jingchen wanted to personally lead the troops out of the city, he was shocked. ¡°No, Young Master, you don¡¯t know. The Hun army has 200,000 soldiers, but we only have 50,000 people.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, most of the soldiers in the city are ordinary citizens who came here at the last minute. They don¡¯t know how to fight at all.¡±


    It turned out that there weren¡¯t many people left. After being harassed by the Huns several times, they were either dead or injured.


    The commoners spontaneously put on the armor of the sacrificed soldiers.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Just choose fifty smart people to follow me out of the city.¡±


    The remaining 50,000 soldiers had almost no chance of winning against the 200,000-strong Hun army. What he had to do now was to stall for time.


    If he wanted the Huns to retreat, he could only take drastic measures. This key lay in the little prince.


    Since there was not enough food in the city, he brought people to ¡®borrow¡¯ food.


    His original plan was to save Shangguan Han and leave, but Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s decision and what he heard when infiltrating the Hun army camp had changed his mind.


    Moreover, didn¡¯t the person behind this scheme want to kill three birds with one stone? Song Jingchen wanted him to lose more than he gained.


    A hint of mockery flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes.


    After carefully instructing Uncle Yang, he put on his mask and boarded the city tower.


    When the city guards saw him, they surrounded him with weapons. Song Jingchen took out a token.


    When the soldiers saw the words on the token, they knelt down and bowed.


    That was a token that represented Lord An Le. Since the prince could give it to this person, he must be trustworthy.


    Song Jingchen frowned at their rapid change in attitude, but he didn¡¯t say anything.


    Standing on the city wall, he held the pouch in his hand and looked at the south in deep thought. Soon, he would be able to return.


    There was a moment of silence.


    On the mountain path, Song Jingchen led a small group of people on horses and moved quickly. The people behind him were pulling carts filled with food.


    Other than the sound of hooves and wheels rolling, there was nothing else.


    After passing through a mountain pass, something unexpected happened.


    Huge rocks rolled down the hills on both sides. The horses were so frightened that they raised their front hooves and refused to take another step forward. The team was instantly disrupted.


    While avoiding the falling rocks, Song Jingchen looked around the hill coldly.


    He could avoid it, but the people he brought with him could not. Soon, they were dead or injured, and dazzling blood splattered all over the ground.


    ¡°Young Master, be careful¡­¡±


    A terrified voice sounded behind him.


    Song Jingchen turned around and saw a soldier using his body as a shield to block an arrow for him. A trace of blood flowed from the corner of that person¡¯s mouth, and his body fell uncontrollably in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction.


    Song Jingchen subconsciously reached out to help him up, but he didn¡¯t notice that the man had lowered his head. A look of triumph flashed across his eyes.


    Just as his hand touched that person¡¯s shoulder, he felt a chill in his abdomen, mixed with the sound of sharp blades piercing through flesh.


    Song Jingchen paused and removed the man¡¯s arm. He used his hand as a claw and grabbed the man¡¯s neck. With a crack, the man died.


    A pouch dyed red with blood fell from his arms and rolled to the side. Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened. He covered his abdomen with one hand and reached out to pick up the pouch with the other.


    Suddenly, the sound of air being torn apart sounded again. An arrow shot straight at his heart.


    ¡°Hubby!¡± Shen Yijia woke up from her nightmare. She took deep breaths and touched her heart with trembling hands. It hurt badly.


    Her voice woke the others up. Furball rushed to Shen Yijia¡¯s side. The others surrounded her and looked at her worriedly.


    ¡°Master, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Brother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Ah Xun and Rooster spoke at the same time.


    He naturally heard Shen Yijia call for her husband, but if Shen Yijia did not tell him that she was a woman, he would pretend not to know.


    After all, innocent children weren¡¯t too sensitive.


    Mo Yuan suddenly grabbed his collar and placed him behind her. She moved closer to Shen Yijia and looked at her expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and remained silent. She suddenly stood up and ran out. It was already bright outside, and the rain had stopped.


    Shen Yijia ran to the house where they had placed the horses. She brought the horses out and rode them out alone.


    The others looked at each other and quickly chased after her.


    A few horses galloped along the official road in the direction of Xunyang City. The puddles on the ground were trampled, with water splashing everywhere.

 Chapter 238 - Beautiful Husband, I’m Here

    In Xunyang City, the soldiers were lying on their backs in exhaustion on the city wall.


    Many of them were still injured, but they were all smiling.


    It had been more than a month since the Hun army arrived at the border. Not only did they have to starve, but they also had to be afraid all day. This was the first time he felt so relieved.


    Although the Hun army outside had only retreated for ten kilometers, it was still a ray of hope for them.


    ¡°I was wondering why you gathered the people to set up a net for no reason in the middle of the night. I didn¡¯t expect you to be waiting for this.¡± The general who spoke pointed at the net hanging above and gave them a thumbs up. ¡°You¡¯re really something.¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t think of that. We had someone to guide us.¡± Meng Jiang waved his hand modestly.


    ¡°Oh? When did our city have such an expert?¡± the man asked curiously.


    Zuo Fei, who had been standing at the side, suddenly said, ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get someone to repair the damaged net first. The Xiongnu army suffered a setback this time, but I¡¯m afraid it won¡¯t be so easy to deal with them next time.¡±


    With that, he strode away.


    ¡°This guy, seriously¡­¡± Meng Jiang pointed with his hand and turned around to follow.


    Uncle Yang was telling Shangguan Han what Song Jingchen had heard about the Huns.


    Suddenly, someone reported from outside the door, ¡°Your Highness, there¡¯s a group of people outside the city who want to enter the city. They said that they¡¯re here to look for you. General Meng is worried that it¡¯s a plot of the Huns, so he doesn¡¯t dare to let them open the city gate.¡±


    If these people had come a few hours earlier or yesterday, they probably wouldn¡¯t have been able to approach the city gate. How could such a coincidence happen as soon as the Huns retreated?


    Moreover, the Huns were retreating. How did they avoid the army and approach the city gate?


    Shangguan Han stopped talking and looked at Uncle Yang. He muttered, ¡°Could it be that Cousin brought people back? That¡¯s impossible. If it¡¯s Cousin, they would have opened the city gate¡­¡±


    Uncle Yang thought of One Dot and the others who had been sent by Song Jingchen to look for the little prince. He hurriedly said, ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯ll go out and take a look.¡±


    When Shangguan Han saw his expression, he wanted to follow him out. He suddenly thought of something and sat back down.


    Uncle Yang followed the young general to the city gate and quickly climbed up the city wall.


    When he stuck his head out, he saw a group of travel-worn people outside the city. The most eye-catching thing was that there was a big tiger beside the leader of the group.


    Among the Mahjong Brothers, he had only seen One Dot and Thirty Thousand, so he did not know if the people below were them.


    He thought for a moment and wanted to ask who it was.


    Unexpectedly, a voice sounded from below.


    ¡°Uncle Yang, Uncle Yang. It¡¯s me. I¡¯m here to look for my husband. Is my husband inside?¡± Shen Yijia sat on the horse and shouted at the top of her lungs. She even waved her hand vigorously.


    That dream made her feel uneasy, so she wanted to quickly confirm if Song Jingchen was in the city.


    Speaking of which, it was all thanks to Furball that they could avoid the Hun army so easily.


    South Wind¡¯s lips twitched when he heard this.


    When Uncle Yang heard this voice, his vision darkened and he almost fell off the city wall. Eldest Young Master had never mentioned that Young Madam was coming.


    However, he still took out a token and instructed loudly, ¡°Quick, open the city gate.¡±


    In the city, he was recognized as the strategist of Lord An Le and often followed Lord An Le. Everyone was familiar with him.


    Although they were curious about who the husband of the man below was, no one dared to gossip about him to Uncle Yang.


    The heavy gates lowered slowly.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Uncle Yang had yet to tell her if Song Jingchen was inside. If he wasn¡¯t, would she be able to come out?


    Just as she was about to ask again, South Wind suddenly rode to her side and whispered, ¡°Master might still be in the city.¡±


    Actually, regardless of whether Song Jingchen was here or not, it was best for Young Madam not to run around.


    Shen Yijia thought about it and agreed. In addition, there were so many people watching from the city wall, so it was not appropriate for her to stay here.


    They rode into the city and the gates closed again.


    Ah Xun had been riding with Rooster the entire time. When he saw the city gate open so easily, he glanced at Shen Yijia with a complicated expression before turning around and burying his face in Rooster¡¯s arms.


    Rooster watched him and snickered, but he didn¡¯t push him away.


    Because of Furball¡¯s existence, no one dared to approach and ask questions.


    Shen Yijia patiently followed Uncle Yang back to the palace. When there were no outsiders around, she asked again, ¡°Uncle Yang, where¡¯s my husband?¡±


    Uncle Yang was silent. Thinking of Shen Yijia¡¯s personality, he said vaguely, ¡°Young Master is busy now. Young Madam, I¡¯ll arrange for someone to bring you to take a shower and freshen up. Otherwise, if Young Master sees you like this¡­¡±


    Uncle Yang covered his nose and looked at the man in front of him with a complicated expression. He had never seen such a sloppy woman in his life.


    Shen Yijia looked down at herself and fell silent.


    She didn¡¯t remember when was the last time she had a bath.


    She scratched her head awkwardly.


    Her hair was knotted. It hurt.


    If her beautiful husband saw her like this¡­


    When Shen Yijia thought of that scene, she felt terrible.


    She stood up abruptly, even forgetting her worries about Song Jingchen.


    She only wanted to prevent her beautiful husband from seeing her current appearance.


    ¡°I want a bath!¡± she yelled.


    Uncle Yang held back his laughter. Young Madam was indeed still that Young Madam. She was easy to fool.


    He quickly called a servant over and instructed him. The servant immediately left.


    The servants in the residence acted quickly. In less than ten minutes, a maidservant came to report that the water was ready.


    Shen Yijia was about to follow the maidservant when Furball, Mo Yuan, Ah Xun, and Rooster subconsciously stood up and followed.


    After a few steps, they realized that something was wrong.


    They were really used to it.


    Shen Yijia turned around and looked at the three of them in confusion. She thought for a moment and said to Uncle Yang, ¡°Get someone to bring them to take a shower too.¡±


    She glanced at the pitiful Furball and added, ¡°Oh, right. Give Furball a bath too.¡±


    It was unbearably smelly.


    At this moment, Uncle Yang¡¯s attention was all on Ah Xun. He only reacted when South Wind coughed lightly and hurriedly said, ¡°It¡¯s all ready.¡±


    Ah Xun glanced at South Wind and Uncle Yang meaningfully and raised his eyebrows.


    South Wind did not expect things to be so coincidental. The two people they were looking for were actually together.


    Thinking of One Dot, who was still looking for them outside, he quickly arranged for someone to find One Dot.


    Shen Yijia followed the maidservant to the bathroom and sent out the person who was about to serve her. It took her two hours to wash up.


    When she came out, her face was red from the heat. If not for the fact that she still wanted to see Song Jingchen, she would have fallen asleep in the bathtub.


    When the maidservants guarding the door saw her come out, they were all stunned.


    She had let her black hair fall over her shoulders and was wearing a colorful dress. The fiery red flower bud on her forehead was the finishing touch. She was so beautiful that she did not look like a mortal.


    Was this the same person who had entered just now?


    Shen Yijia blinked and wanted to ask if they could help her tie her hair into a beautiful bun.


    Suddenly, there was a commotion.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she ran out like the wind.


    Beautiful husband, I¡¯m here!

 Chapter 239 - Husband, I Miss You So Much

    At this moment, a group of people had already gathered at the entrance of the royal residence.


    They surrounded a group of people who had returned with food.


    Shen Yijia jumped up a few times but could not see the people inside. Her gaze suddenly landed on the two majestic stone lions at the door.


    She climbed up on her hands and knees. Only when she stood on the lion¡¯s head did she successfully see the person in the middle.


    The man was wearing a mask that only covered the upper half of his face. His lips were pursed tightly because of the commotion around him, and he looked impatient.


    Her husband, who only revealed half of his face, was also very good-looking.


    Just as these words flashed through Shen Yijia¡¯s mind, the person below looked over as if he had sensed something. Their eyes met.


    Seeing that he had discovered her, Shen Yijia could not help but grin.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mind seemed to have exploded, and his heart was filled with a hot wave. His blood rushed, and he subconsciously took two steps forward before stopping.


    Without blinking, he looked at the person standing above the stone lion smiling smugly, afraid that this was just his imagination and that she would disappear in the blink of an eye, as she usually did.


    The crowd noticed his abnormality and followed his gaze. They saw a delicate little girl standing on a high spot. Her skirt fluttered in the wind, and she was smiling.


    Everyone instantly fell silent and couldn¡¯t help but make way for Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia looked at him with sparkling eyes. She blinked and called out sweetly, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    She opened her arms and pounced at him.


    Only then did Song Jingchen come back to his senses. His body moved quickly and he caught the reckless person.


    Holding her in his arms, Song Jingchen felt a sense of reality.


    His grip tightened and loosened, as if he was afraid that she would run away, yet worried that he would hurt her.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was a little hoarse.


    He wanted to ask, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Why didn¡¯t she listen and wait for him at home?


    However, he did not know where to start. He was clearly happy to see her.


    Shen Yijia meekly let him hug her. She thought of something and quickly got out of his arms. She reached out to pull open his clothes.


    ¡°Wow, this woman is too fierce.¡± the crowd thought.


    Song Jingchen reacted and grabbed her hand helplessly. He said softly, ¡°I¡¯m not injured.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia looked up at him suspiciously.


    Song Jingchen reached out and rubbed her head. ¡°Yes, really.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Shen Yijia replied, but she took the opportunity to touch him.


    She quickly touched Song Jingchen¡¯s body to check for the injuries she saw in her dream.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even frown, she was relieved.


    The crowd thought, ¡°Wow, this lady is really something.¡±


    Without any worries, Shen Yijia jumped onto Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes.


    She wrapped her legs tightly around his waist, wrapped her arms around his neck, and placed her head on his shoulder. She hung onto Song Jingchen¡¯s body before saying in satisfaction, ¡°I miss you so much.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt his heart fill up with her words.


    When she didn¡¯t hear him say that he missed her, Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks unhappily and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you miss me?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen reached out to hold her body. His voice was very soft, as if a gust of wind would blow it away, but Shen Yijia still heard him clearly.


    She smiled, revealing two rows of white teeth. Then she muttered, ¡°I¡¯m so sleepy.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t slept well for many days in a row. She wanted to rest yesterday, but she didn¡¯t want to have a nightmare. She felt that the night she slept was even more tiring than not sleeping, and she was also worried about Song Jingchen.


    Now that she saw him and knew that he was fine and was nestled in this familiar embrace, her eyelids started to flutter as soon as she relaxed.


    ¡°Go to sleep.¡± Song Jingchen felt a little upset and his heart ached.


    He held her up with one hand and wrapped his other arm around her back, so that she wouldn¡¯t have to strain herself.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll wake up and see you.¡± Shen Yijia took the opportunity to make a request and rubbed her head against Song Jingchen¡¯s neck.


    Song Jingchen replied dotingly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Hearing his agreement, Shen Yijia closed her eyes in relief. She felt like she had forgotten something. Before she could remember, she fell into a deep sleep.


    ¡°Master¡­¡± As soon as South Wind and the others came out, they saw the two people hugging each other. As soon as they said ¡®Master¡¯, they were stopped by Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze.


    Under everyone¡¯s strange gazes, Song Jingchen carried Shen Yijia into the residence expressionlessly. His steps were light and slow.


    Because Uncle Yang didn¡¯t stay in Xiagou Village for long, when he left, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were still a little respectful to each other.


    Seeing his young master like this, he looked like he had seen a ghost.


    Mo Yuan wanted to follow him, but Rooster hugged her arm tightly and stopped her.


    ¡°Oh my god, if you go up like this, not only will my master not let you off easily, but your mistress will also be unhappy.¡±


    Song Jingchen was focused on the person in his arms and couldn¡¯t notice the outside world at all. Feeling that the person in his arms had lost a lot of weight compared to half a month ago, he tightened his grip.


    He carried Shen Yijia back to his courtyard and carefully placed her on the couch. He gently removed her shoes and outerwear and pulled the brocade blanket over her.


    He tucked her in and wrapped her up tightly. Then, he reached out and caressed Shen Yijia¡¯s obviously thinner face. His heart ached and he felt helpless.


    He never thought that one day, his mind would be controlled by a woman.


    Thinking of something, Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia, bent down, and kissed her forehead gently before getting up and opening the door to leave.


    Shangguan Han knew that he liked silence. He got someone to arrange a courtyard for him at the far end of the residence. It even came with a small kitchen.


    When he found the small kitchen, there was only an old woman inside. When she saw him, she quickly stood up and bowed. Song Jingchen waved his hand to dismiss her.


    There was only a small bag of rice in the kitchen. Food was scarce in the city to begin with, so Shangguan Han must have taken these from his own share.


    Song Jingchen rolled up his sleeves and scooped some rice out to wash. He added water to the pot before sitting down behind the stove to start the fire.


    When Shangguan Han followed Uncle Yang over, he saw him filling the stove with folded dead branches. The air still carried the fragrance of rice.


    He looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s actions with a complicated expression. It was hard to believe that this was still the glamorous cousin he knew.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s cold voice sounded. Shangguan Han scratched his head and said, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I heard that Sister-in-law is here. I haven¡¯t seen her yet, so I wanted to come and pay my respects.¡±


    Normally speaking, he was the master of this mansion. When guests came to visit, they should see him first.


    He had received the news as soon as Shen Yijia and the others entered the residence. He even specially got someone to help him wash up and change his clothes. He wanted to leave a good impression on this sister-in-law he had never met.

 Chapter 240 - It’s Hard to Coax Jiajia

    However, he did not see anyone after waiting for a long time. Instead, he heard someone report that his cousin had returned.


    He thought that his cousin-in-law must have felt that it was not appropriate for a woman to see another man. His cousin would definitely bring her along. However, the servant said that the two of them had already returned to the bamboo courtyard.


    With such an unreliable brother and sister-in-law, he was extremely curious about this sister-in-law who dared to cross the Great Xia Kingdom alone to chase after her husband. He could only come over himself.


    At the mention of Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen¡¯s expression immediately softened. ¡°She¡¯s already resting. Come back another day.¡±


    Was he trying to send him away?


    Shangguan Han returned to his room in a daze and listened to the servant tell him everything that had happened at the entrance of the residence. He was even more curious about his magical sister-in-law.


    Song Jingchen cooked the porridge. It was barely enough for a bowl. He pursed his lips and thought about where to get some meat to nourish Shen Yijia¡¯s body.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know when she would wake up. He stuffed some more firewood into the stove and placed the porridge inside to cool it down. Just as he was about to return to his room, Rooster came looking for him again.


    He was here to apologize. After all, he was the one who brought Young Madam here, although he did not volunteer.


    He thought that he would definitely be punished, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. He only asked him to recount everything that had happened on the way.


    Hearing that Mo Yuan clung to Shen Yijia and called her Little Miss, Song Jingchen frowned.


    Rooster glanced at him carefully before gritting his teeth and telling him about Qian Youde. As expected, his master¡¯s face darkened.


    In for a penny, in for a pound. He told her about how he saved Ah Xun and how he was attacked by the Huns.


    Shen Yijia was really exhausted. When Song Jingchen returned to his room, she was still asleep. He sat by the bed and quietly looked at her sleeping face. He couldn¡¯t help but think of what Rooster had said.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached and he regretted it when he thought about how much this girl had suffered in order to find him. If he had known earlier, he wouldn¡¯t have left without saying goodbye.


    He should have brought her with him. No matter what danger they were in, at least he would be by her side. It was better than her being alone.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia opened her eyes and saw Song Jingchen. Her eyes lit up and a smile blossomed on her face. She stood up and wanted to throw herself into his arms.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and opened his arms to catch her. Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia suddenly changed direction and threw herself back onto the bed.


    She buried her face in the sheets.


    She remembered what she had forgotten. Because she was too excited to see her beautiful husband, she actually forgot to be angry at him and even forgot to beat him up.


    She was definitely a person who kept her word.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that someone was secretly preparing to settle scores with him.


    He was still feeling sorry for her and reached out to see if she was injured.


    Shen Yijia sensed his movements and rolled to the side of the bed to avoid Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She turned her back to him and didn¡¯t let him look at her.


    Song Jingchen was stunned, and his hand froze in midair. If he still didn¡¯t know what Shen Yijia meant, then he wasn¡¯t Song Jingchen.


    He smiled helplessly and said gently, ¡°I made porridge myself just now. Do you want some?¡±


    ¡°My beautiful husband cooked it himself?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia got up and glanced at Song Jingchen. She puffed up her cheeks and raised her chin. ¡°Hmph, don¡¯t think that I won¡¯t be angry after eating your porridge. I¡¯m very difficult to coax.¡±


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle at her appearance. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s accusing gaze, he quickly stopped smiling and nodded seriously. ¡°Alright, then you have to eat your fill before you have the strength to be angry at me, right?¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia licked her lips and agreed reluctantly.


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and coughed lightly.


    He quickly went to the kitchen and brought the porridge over. The porridge was thick and fragrant, even if no extra ingredients were added.


    Shen Yijia was already starving. She took the porridge and wolfed it down.


    Her husband was right. You had to eat to have the energy to be angry. The two things didn¡¯t conflict.


    Seeing that she was satisfied with just a bowl of porridge, Song Jingchen felt his heart ache.


    He pursed his lips and reached out to rub Shen Yijia¡¯s head gently. His heart ached. ¡°Drink slowly. I¡¯ll see if I can catch some prey tomorrow. I¡¯ll make you something delicious then.¡±


    Apart from the horses, the other livestock that could be eaten had long been slaughtered.


    Fortunately, the food he brought back this time was enough to last for a few days.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She swallowed the porridge in her mouth and curled her lips. ¡°I¡¯ll only let you touch me once. You can¡¯t touch me before you appease me.¡±


    After saying that, she angrily stuffed the remaining half bowl of porridge into Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and fell onto the bed. She wrapped herself tightly in the blanket from head to toe. ¡°Hmph, I¡¯m full. You¡¯re not allowed to sleep here tonight.¡±


    ¡°Also, I¡¯ll punish you by making you finish the porridge I¡¯ve eaten. Otherwise¡­ otherwise, I¡¯ll be even angrier and I¡¯ll be even more difficult to appease.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the half bowl of porridge in his hand and felt uncomfortable.


    Actually, there was still some fine rice in the kitchen, but he wanted to keep it to cook porridge for her. It was the same for the brown rice he had brought back today.


    He smiled bitterly and shook his head. This girl wasn¡¯t silly at all. She clearly understood everything.


    He didn¡¯t force her to get up and finish the rest of the porridge. Instead, he obediently finished it himself before gently tugging at the blanket. He said hoarsely, ¡°I¡¯m done.¡±


    ¡°Got it. I¡¯m going to bed. You should go.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s muffled voice came from under the blanket.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before sighing. ¡°I¡¯ll sleep in the room next to yours. If anything happens, just call me loudly.¡±


    After waiting for a while, Shen Yijia did not speak again. Instead, rhythmic snores sounded one after another, as if she was humming a tune.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and left the room with the bowl.


    He knew that Shen Yijia was pretending to be asleep, so he could stay.


    However, when he thought of the bowl of porridge, he still came out. He could not bear to let her eat just a single bowl of porridge. He had to solve the root cause of the problem.


    ¡°I knew you would come, Song Jingchen of the Great Xia Kingdom.¡± Ah Xun sat upright in a chair. Because he was not tall enough, his feet could only hang in the air and sway.


    He looked at the masked man who had suddenly appeared in his room.


    He looked so smart, and no longer looked like the obedient and pitiful boy that appeared in front of Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and took off his mask after sitting down opposite him.


    The Huns were warlike and had been raised to be so.


    Even ordinary children could not be underestimated, let alone the little prince of the Royal Court. If he was not smart enough, he would probably have died under someone¡¯s blade.


    Therefore, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t treat him like a child at all.


    ¡°So you followed my wife specifically to find me?¡±


    There was a moment of silence.

 Chapter 241 - Jiajia Was Caught Climbing into Bed

    Ah Xun seemed to be very dissatisfied with this statement. He pouted and said, ¡°No, I didn¡¯t know that she was your wife at first, let alone that the rumored Heir of Duke Song, whose legs were crippled, would appear in Xunyang.¡±


    If he had known earlier, he would not have left with that group of refugees in the first place. He would not have suffered so many beatings for no reason. Wouldn¡¯t it have been better to come to Xunyang directly?


    At first, he thought that Shen Yijia¡¯s husband was one of Xunyang¡¯s soldiers.


    On the other hand, those people chasing after him were relentless. As a child, he could not defeat them at all. If he continued to follow the refugees, he would either starve to death or be hunted down by those people.


    Thus, he decided to follow Shen Yijia to Xunyang. Didn¡¯t they say that the most dangerous place was usually the safest?


    Those people who wanted to kill him definitely didn¡¯t expect him to dare to run into Xunyang, but they didn¡¯t expect the heavens to help him.


    As for his guess about Shen Yijia¡¯s identity, it was only after he opened the city gate that he confirmed his guess.


    It was impossible for Lord An Le to marry at his age. Other than Song Jingchen, who was dragged into this mess with him, he couldn¡¯t think of anyone else who would come when Lord An Le was in trouble.


    Song Jingchen was not interested in what he knew. He only said, ¡°Then you should know why I¡¯m here.¡±


    ¡°I know. I waited for you for the same reason.¡± Ah Xun shook his head innocently.


    The two men chatted in the room for an hour. Song Jingchen called South Wind to the study and handed him a letter. He gave him a few instructions before returning to the bamboo courtyard.


    He stood at Shen Yijia¡¯s door for a long time. He wanted to go in, but he was afraid that he would wake her up. In the end, he did not push open the door.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that as soon as he approached Shen Yijia¡¯s room, she closed her eyes.


    She thought that she could pretend to be asleep after he came in. Then, she wouldn¡¯t have to chase him away just to act like she was angry.


    Shen Yijia thought happily. She could hug her beautiful husband to sleep without affecting her anger.


    Unexpectedly, after waiting for a while, he did not hear the door open. Instead, he heard footsteps gradually disappear, followed by the sound of the door next door opening and closing.


    Shen Yijia was dumbfounded.


    Why was this different from what the book said?


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you do what I want?¡± Shen Yijia punched the bed board angrily.


    There was a moment of silence.


    The sound of the night watchman striking the gong was especially obvious in the quiet night. A black shadow left the residence through the back door and disappeared into the night in the blink of an eye.


    Shen Yijia tossed and turned in bed until the gong sounded for the third time.


    She jumped out of bed and carefully put on her shoes before leaving.


    As soon as she opened the door,she saw a pair of eyes that emitted a dim light in the night.


    Shen Yijia was so frightened that her heart skipped a beat.


    When she saw who it was, she felt inexplicably guilty. Ever since she came here, she had been focused on her beautiful husband and had forgotten about Furball.


    Furball was not familiar with the people here, and it was unknown when it had crawled to her door.


    After some thought, Shen Yijia opened the door and waved at Furball. The two of them entered the room. Shen Yijia squatted down and stroked its head. She muttered softly, ¡°You want to sleep here tonight, right?¡±


    ¡°But if you sleep here, where will I sleep?¡±


    ¡°Sigh, I have no choice. I can only make do with my beautiful husband.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to go. It¡¯s because you occupied my room.¡±


    Shen Yijia muttered to herself for a long time and felt that she had a reason. She left Furball in the room and walked out.


    Furball thought, ¡°Master, I thought you had found your conscience, but you still wanted to use me. Doesn¡¯t your conscience hurt?¡±


    Seeing the door close again, Furball gritted its teeth and looked sharply at the bed in the room. It jumped onto the bed.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her hands and came to Song Jingchen¡¯s room. She leaned her ear close to the door and listened for a long time, but she didn¡¯t hear anything inside.


    He should be asleep.


    Her eyes shone with excitement as she gently pushed open the door.


    She stood on tiptoe and slowly squeezed in, closing the door again.


    The room was dark, but she could still see a person lying on the bed.


    Shen Yijia bared her teeth proudly. It was even better if her beautiful husband was asleep. She could run away after sleeping.


    However, she was not afraid of being discovered. She had a legitimate reason.


    Although she thought this, she did not dare to make a sound. She quietly approached the bed.


    Song Jingchen slept on the side further from the wall. If she wanted to sleep, she had to cross over his body.


    Shen Yijia blinked, took off her shoes, and climbed into bed. She raised one foot and crossed over Song Jingchen¡¯s body. Unexpectedly, the person who was sleeping suddenly rolled over.


    Shen Yijia was so frightened that she immediately closed her eyes and did not dare to move.


    Fortunately, Song Jingchen only turned over and didn¡¯t wake up.


    Shen Yijia had just heaved a sigh of relief when she suddenly slipped and sat on Song Jingchen¡¯s waist.


    Song Jingchen grunted from the impact.


    Shen Yijia froze.


    She felt the air freeze for a few breaths. Suddenly, she heard the muffled laughter of the person under her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. If she still didn¡¯t understand that Song Jingchen had woken up long ago, she would really be stupid.


    She was about to explain that Furball had taken over her room when he grabbed her wrist. She felt the world spin.


    She took a closer look and saw that she and Song Jingchen had already fallen, but Song Jingchen was lying on her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned red when she was caught red-handed. She snorted and turned her head away from Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen found it funny and didn¡¯t dare to anger her. If this girl flew into a rage and ran away, it wouldn¡¯t be worth it.


    He turned around and lay back on the bed. He hugged Shen Yijia tightly and rested his chin on the top of her head. She coaxed softly, ¡°I know you¡¯re still angry. You only came over because Furball occupied your room.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, it¡¯s good that you know,¡± Shen Yijia said without much confidence. She seriously suspected that it was her beautiful husband who instructed Furball to appear at her door.


    It didn¡¯t matter.


    She enjoyed this moment.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and stroked Shen Yijia¡¯s black hair. He lowered his head and kissed her head. ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s lips curled up. She reached out to hug Song Jingchen¡¯s waist and closed her eyes to sleep.


    It was a dreamless night.


    The next morning, Shen Yijia woke up first. She looked up and saw Song Jingchen¡¯s handsome face.


    For a moment, she thought she was back in Xiagou Village, but the unfamiliar room told her otherwise.


    It was only when she looked at Song Jingchen up close that Shen Yijia realized that he was very haggard. He had clearly slept for the entire night, but there were still dark circles under his eyes. Even when he was sleeping, he was frowning.


    Her heart ached as she reached out to gently smooth his wrinkles. She sighed softly.


    She was about to retract her hand when someone grabbed it.


    Meeting Song Jingchen¡¯s half-smile, Shen Yijia blushed again.


    ¡°You started it,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment before she realized that he was referring to what she had said yesterday about not allowing him to touch her.

 Chapter 242 - A Couple’s Showdown

    She rolled her eyes angrily. ¡°I¡¯m the one who¡¯s angry with you,¡± she said indignantly. ¡°Of course, I can touch you. You can¡¯t touch me.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought, ¡°What are you talking about so early in the morning?¡±


    With the food that Song Jingchen brought back, the citizens of Xunyang City finally had a chance to breathe. Otherwise, even if the Hun army stopped harassing them, they would still starve to death.


    Under Song Jingchen¡¯s reminder, Shangguan Han got someone to arrange for everyone to have a full meal today.


    Although everyone, including Shangguan Han, did not understand his intentions, and it was not easy for them to obtain food, they still took action before dawn.


    The women in the city took out the large pots at home to wash the rice and cook. The men were in charge of chopping wood and burning the fire. They were busy.


    No one knew when the Huns would come again.


    What¡¯s more, this meal might even be the last full meal in their lives. However, everyone¡¯s faces were still filled with smiles. They were busy with the work in their hands and looked up from time to time to smile at their relatives.


    Shen Yijia was happily eating the porridge cooked by Song Jingchen when Rooster came to report that Lord An Le had arrived.


    Song Jingchen, who was sitting opposite her, paused and looked at the sky outside.


    It wasn¡¯t time yet. He frowned and said, ¡°Tell him to wait.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and picked up the bowl she had just put down. She finished the remaining porridge in two or three mouthfuls and wiped her mouth with a handkerchief. ¡°I¡¯m done eating.¡±


    She stood up and was about to follow Rooster out. Shangguan Han was extremely curious about her, and she was curious about him too.


    Song Jingchen subconsciously wanted to pull her hand, but he remembered that she was still angry. His hand paused in midair as he watched Shen Yijia slip away from him.


    Helpless, he could only follow.


    In the reception pavilion, Shangguan Han sat upright and glanced at the door from time to time. After sitting down, he realized that it was too early.


    Her cousin and sister-in-law had not seen each other for a long time. They definitely did not wake up so early.


    He put down the teacup, clenched his fists, and coughed lightly. ¡°Uncle Yang, it¡¯s still early. They must not have woken up yet. Why don¡¯t I go back first and come back later.¡±


    Uncle Yang was speechless. He wanted to say that Eldest Young Master and Young Madam had already woken up, but he had no chance to speak.


    An unhappy voice came from outside the door. ¡°Since you know, why are you here so early?¡±


    Shangguan Han stood up and subconsciously turned around.


    He saw his cousin walking side by side with a woman into the reception pavilion. When he saw the woman¡¯s appearance, he was really stunned.


    Previously, he was still wondering what kind of strange woman could make his cousin care so much. Now that he saw her, it seemed that it was not difficult to understand.


    While he was looking at Shen Yijia, Shen Yijia was also observing the culprit behind her separation from Song Jingchen.


    Shangguan Han looked a little pathetic to her.


    It was obvious that he was weak. No wonder her beautiful husband had traveled thousands of miles to save him.


    Shangguan Han was actually not bad-looking. After all, Song Li had a good appearance.


    The former emperor was a person who loved beauties. All the women who could enter his harem were beautiful, so Emperor Chong¡¯an was naturally not bad.


    Of course Shangguan Han would be handsome, considering the fact that he was the son of the good-looking Emperor Chong¡¯an and the good-looking Song Li. This was also the reason why the royal family was so dignified.


    However, Shen Yijia was a little biased, so she naturally did not have a good impression of him.


    Song Jingchen stood in front of Shen Yijia with a dark expression, blocking their gazes. He said coldly, ¡°Since you¡¯ve seen her, you can go back.¡±


    Before Shangguan Han could figure out why his sister-in-law was unhappy with him, he heard his cousin chase him away again.


    Shangguan Han rubbed his nose and walked around Song Jingchen to Shen Yijia. He cupped his hands and bowed. ¡°This must be Sister-in-law. I greet Sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Was he going to give her a greeting gift? After all, she was quite happy to hear him call her sister-in-law. She thought for a moment and removed a sleeve arrow from her wrist.


    She had taken a few of these from Song Jingchen¡¯s box when she came and even gave one to Mo Yuan. She felt that this person was so weak and definitely needed it.


    Shangguan Han did not expect that the person who looked at him with disdain a second ago would change her expression so quickly. She even gave him a greeting gift.


    He was flattered and reached out to take it. However, someone else was faster.


    Song Jingchen held the still-warm sleeve arrow in his hand and smirked. ¡°He doesn¡¯t like these things. I¡¯ll help you give him a greeting gift.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen thoughtfully and resisted the urge to curl her lips into a smile. She pretended to be dissatisfied and said, ¡°That won¡¯t do. I have to give him something too.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes at Shangguan Han, who was watching the show.


    Shangguan Han quickly stopped gloating and waved his hand. ¡°No, no, there¡¯s no need. The two of you are husband and wife. Any gift given would be from both of you.¡±


    ¡°Can we do that?¡± Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded reluctantly. ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. Where had his meek wife gone?


    In the Hun¡¯s camp, the two generals, Monte and Stahl, stormed into the Zodar¡¯s tent.


    ¡°Why did you order the army to take a day off, Zodar?¡± Monte asked, leaning forward and glaring at Zodar, who was studying the map.


    Zodar looked up at the two of them and smiled disdainfully. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, I¡¯m the commander in chief this time.¡±


    Zodar was not only the first person around Kedun Chanyu, but he also held great power.


    If there was anyone who really wanted to avenge Kedun after his death, it was undoubtedly this person.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Monte narrowed his eyes and was about to pull the knife from his waist.


    ¡°Yesterday, our army suffered a huge loss. Some of our rations were even stolen. This hasn¡¯t happened in more than half a month.¡±


    The two of them were people that Mungido trusted. Zodar did not want to fall out with them, so he explained kindly, ¡°That¡¯s why I¡¯m guessing that Xunyang has some capable people helping them now. If we don¡¯t change our plans, we¡¯ll definitely suffer heavy losses like yesterday.¡±


    At his words, Monte exchanged a glance with Stahl.


    ¡°So what are you going to do?¡± Stahl asked.


    Xunyang City was easy to defend and difficult to attack. The reason why they had only surrounded it and not attacked was because they did not want to suffer too many losses. This was also what Mungido had originally wanted.


    But it was different now. Xunyang City had food, and instead the Hun army had less food.


    If they delayed any longer, where would they get the rations for their 200,000-strong army?


    Zodar glanced at the two of them and smiled coldly. ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    The night was dark and silent. The full moon hung high in the sky.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± Shen Yijia clenched her fists and looked at Song Jingchen with a tense expression.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m ready.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°If you avoid it, you know the consequences.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t avoid it.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll start.¡±


    Song Jingchen stayed silent.

 Chapter 243 - The Smart Jiajia

    On a big tree, Shen Yijia hugged the tree trunk with one hand and held a few bird eggs with the other. She looked nervously at the person under the tree.


    ¡°I¡¯m really going to do it!¡±


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and looked up at this person who had just bragged about how good she was at climbing trees and refused to let others help.


    It was quite smooth when she went up, but she didn¡¯t know what to do when it was time to come down.


    The trees that Shen Yijia used to climb in the courtyard were all artificially planted for viewing or shade, so they weren¡¯t as tall as this one


    Furthermore, she was holding a bird egg.


    ¡°Little Miss, I¡­¡± Mo Yuan wanted to say ¡®I¡¯ll do it¡¯, but Rooster covered her mouth.


    Young Madam was angry with Master. How could he let this opportunity for Master to perform be ruined by this tactless person?


    ¡°Trust me,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia took one last look at his beautiful face. She gritted her teeth and closed her eyes. She let go of the tree trunk and jumped down.


    Song Jingchen jumped into the air and caught her.


    Looking down at the timid person who still didn¡¯t dare to open her eyes, he chuckled and teased, ¡°Do you dare to do it again?¡±


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes and puffed up her cheeks. ¡°I dare.¡±


    Anyway, with her beautiful husband around, she wasn¡¯t afraid.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. He knew it.


    Shen Yijia jumped out of his arms and showed the egg to Song Jingchen. ¡°Roast it for me later. If it¡¯s delicious, I¡¯ll consider letting go of my anger.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Ah Xun, who was carrying the two rabbits, rolled his eyes. They had agreed to come out to get things done, but they were openly showing off their affection here. Could they take into account that he was still a child?


    Mo Yuan grabbed Rooster¡¯s hand and threw him aside. She took a few steps towards Shen Yijia. ¡°Little Miss, I¡¯ll help you roast it.¡±


    This way, her young miss wouldn¡¯t have to suffer and reluctantly forgive her husband.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and blinked at her. Mo Yuan reached out her hand expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Where did this fool come from? Hurry up and drag her away. Was eating roasted bird eggs the main point? The main point was the person roasting the eggs!


    She hid the egg behind her and glared at Rooster, who was still rubbing his waist from the pain.


    After receiving the gazes of his two masters, Rooster walked over with a bitter expression and pulled Mo Yuan back. He said angrily, ¡°Young Madam only likes to eat eggs roasted by Master. Don¡¯t cause trouble here. Come with me to gather firewood.¡±


    Mo Yuan looked at Shen Yijia, who quickly nodded. Only then did she follow Rooster.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips twitched.


    In order to appease this girl, not only did Song Jingchen roast the egg, but he also personally cooked the rabbit.


    Shen Yijia sat at the side and watched Song Jingchen¡¯s actions with sparkling eyes.


    Her beautiful husband was amazing. Not only was he good-looking, but he was also good at doing things.


    The few of them were eating barbecue in a circle when two people suddenly walked out of the forest.


    The person leading the way was none other than South Wind, who had been sent out by Song Jingchen yesterday.


    Seeing the person following behind South Wind, Ah Xun¡¯s eyes lit up and he ran over. ¡°Zodar, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Zodar knelt on one knee, placed his right hand on his left shoulder, and bowed. ¡°Little Prince, I am late. Please punish me.¡±


    Hearing this familiar form of address, Ah Xun¡¯s eyes turned red. He blinked to hide his tears and helped Zodar up. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. It¡¯s Mungido who¡¯s too detestable. Not only did he kill my father, but he also sent people to kill me.¡±


    Zodar punched the tree trunk angrily. ¡°I knew that person was ambitious. I reminded Chanyu Kedun to be careful when he was alive, but he was unwilling because of their brotherhood.¡±


    The two of them weren¡¯t speaking Central Plains Chinese. Other than Song Jingchen, everyone else was dumbfounded.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen and tore off a piece of meat from the rabbit leg in her hand. She brought it to his lips and whispered, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯ll feed you.¡±


    Song Jingchen knew what she was thinking at a glance. He reached out to take the meat and stuffed it into Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth. He pulled her to sit beside him and explained Ah Xun¡¯s identity and the internal strife of the Huns in a low voice.


    Shen Yijia was dumbfounded. She never expected that the child she casually picked up would be the little prince of the Huns.


    At the end, Shen Yijia sorted out her thoughts and concluded, ¡°The current king of the Huns killed his brother and framed Great Xia, so these people want to attack Great Xia to avenge that person?¡±


    Great Xia had been wronged!


    No, the citizens of Xunyang City were wronged!


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. In order to clear his name, Mungido attacked Great Xia in the name of revenge and made those who were originally loyal to Kedun Chanyu acknowledge him. It was only one of the reasons why he successfully sat on the throne.


    He probably wanted to use these people¡¯s anger to attack Xunyang. Without Xunyang, it would be even easier to invade the Great Xia.


    It was ridiculous that Emperor Chong¡¯an thought that everything would be fine if he abandoned Xunyang.


    After Ah Xun and Zodar finished reminiscing, Zodar suddenly walked up to Shen Yijia and bowed to her. He said in broken Central Plains Chinese, ¡°Thank you for saving the little prince. If you have any requests, as long as I, Zodar, can do it, I¡¯ll definitely fulfill them.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and glanced at Song Jingchen. She pondered for a moment before saying, ¡°Then can you retreat and not attack Xunyang?¡±


    She actually did not care about Xunyang¡¯s condition. However, Lord An Le was involved in this matter, and Lord An Le was someone her husband cared about. She could only reluctantly follow suit.


    Zodar paused, clearly not expecting her to be so direct.


    He laughed and narrowed his eyes. ¡°Of course. This was originally a scheme by Mungido. The Great Xia assassin who supposedly killed our late Chanyu is probably fake too. When I return, I¡¯ll immediately order the retreat. It¡¯s just that¡­¡±


    He paused for a moment and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°There are still many people who side with Mungido in the army. I¡¯m afraid they won¡¯t listen to me.¡±


    After returning to the Royal Court, there would definitely be a fierce battle to fight if they wanted to overthrow Mungido and help the little prince ascend the throne.


    Naturally, he did not want these traitors to return alive.


    ¡°That¡¯s simple. Just put them all down with a packet of medicine.¡± Shen Yijia took out a pouch generously. This was her last stock. She had left in a hurry and didn¡¯t have time to ask Lin Shao to prepare more.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°What my wife said is a good idea.¡±


    Zodar thought, ¡°The Central Plains people are indeed sinister and cunning.¡±


    He reached out to take the pouch and bowed again. ¡°Thank you. It¡¯s not appropriate for the little prince to appear now. I hope you can take him in for a few more days. I¡¯ll come and pick him up after I deal with those people.¡±


    ¡°Zodar, you have to be careful.¡± As soon as Ah Xun finished reminding him, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia suddenly looked in a certain direction.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to attack, Shen Yijia had already rushed over and grabbed the person in the dark.


    When Zodar saw this person, his eyes widened in anger. He grabbed his collar and gritted his teeth. ¡°Ruo Houchan, why are you here?¡±


    This person was someone he trusted, but he did not tell anyone that he was here today.

 Chapter 244 - Meat for My Wife

    Ruo Houchan fell to his knees. ¡°General, I was worried about you, so I¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, a knife pierced his back.


    Ruo Houchan turned around in disbelief and saw the little prince looking at him fiercely, his hand still holding the hilt of his saber.


    ¡°Zodar, why are you wasting your time with such a traitor?¡± Ah Xun pursed his lips and pulled the knife out with both hands, splashing blood on his face.


    Zodar paused, a complicated look in his eyes. If Kedun Chanyu had the little prince¡¯s decisiveness, he wouldn¡¯t have lost his life to a vile person.


    ¡°You should go back,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Zodar met his gaze and nodded at everyone. He picked up the corpse on the ground and disappeared into the night.


    As soon as Zodar left, Ah Xun, who was still extremely fierce just now, lowered his head in fear.


    ¡°Here, for you.¡± A handkerchief suddenly appeared in front of him.


    Xun sniffed. ¡°I¡¯m not crying.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and said seriously, ¡°I didn¡¯t say that you were crying. I just asked you to wipe the blood off your face. Now that you mention it, it sounds a little like what my beautiful husband said before.¡±


    These words were too long. The only thing Shen Yijia remembered was the silver.


    Ah Xun suddenly felt that this sister was not cute anymore.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It¡¯s obvious.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Shen Yijia nodded hurriedly.


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Beautiful husband? Huh?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°Oh no, I accidentally said what I was thinking.¡±


    She rolled her eyes and staggered on the spot. She cried out in pain. ¡°Ouch, I sprained my ankle.¡±


    Song Jingchen was amused and reached out to hold her, but someone was faster than him and picked her up.


    Shen Yijia looked at the expressionless Mo Yuan in disdain.


    She was probably not expressionless. At least she could see a hint of worry.


    But that wasn¡¯t the point.


    ¡°Put me down,¡± Shen Yijia said in a breathy voice.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Little Miss, your legs are sprained.¡±


    Shen Yijia covered her face. ¡°I know, but I want my beautiful husband to hug me.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to bring Mo Yuan along in her travels anymore.


    Song Jingchen walked over with a dark expression to snatch her away from Mo Yuan. Mo Yuan sensed his actions and took a step back to avoid him.


    The two of them looked at each other. The air was filled with tension.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but secretly scratch Mo Yuan¡¯s armpit.


    She spoke at a volume that she thought only the two of them could hear. ¡°I order you to let go, or I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    Mo Yuan¡¯s hand trembled. Coupled with Shen Yijia¡¯s words, she immediately put her hand behind her back.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Seeing that she was about to fall, Song Jingchen quickly caught her.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and placed her hands on Song Jingchen¡¯s neck. She chuckled. ¡°Mo Yuan is so weak. She can¡¯t even hold me properly.¡±


    Song Jingchen was amused by her words and nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll carry you in the future.¡±


    Only he could carry her.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Shen Yijia swayed her legs. Before her husband¡¯s legs recovered, she had carried him. It was not a bad idea to be carried by him now. It was fair.


    ¡°Your legs seem fine. Didn¡¯t you just sprain them?¡± everyone else thought.


    Although Song Jingchen had left the city mainly because he needed Ah Xun to meet Zodar, most of them were hunting, except for a few people.


    There were also three or four pheasants hanging on everyone. Apart from Ah Xun, who only took one.


    The pheasants were personally caught by Song Jingchen, and they were all alive and kicking.


    Their mouths and feet were bound to prevent them from escaping or screaming.


    By the time they returned to the residence, it was already midnight.


    With Uncle Yang guarding the city wall and Song Jingchen bringing back food for the people of Xunyang City, everyone was well-regarded. The few of them were not stopped from entering the city.


    Shangguan Han knew that they had left the city. He was so worried that he could not sleep, so he waited. Since the master of the residence was not asleep, the servants naturally could not sleep either.


    Therefore, when Song Jingchen and the others entered the residence, they were welcomed by the entire residence.


    Seeing that they had brought back so much prey, everyone was overjoyed. They also wanted to eat meat.


    Xunyang City was poor to begin with, and the annual output was barely enough for the commoners to feed themselves. If the heavens did not favor them, they would not even be able to maintain basic necessities like food and clothing.


    Shangguan Han was not someone who would eat his fill and not care about the lives of others.


    Moreover, this was his fief. These citizens were his people.


    Therefore, after understanding the situation here, the first thing he did was reduce taxes.


    However, the Hun army chose to invade before the autumn harvest this time. That was everyone¡¯s only hope for the year. This way, there was basically no harvest this year.


    There was no food in the city, so Shangguan Han could only open the warehouse to distribute food.


    They even gave away most of the food in the residence.


    Therefore, although they were part of the lord¡¯s residence, they were actually as hungry as the people outside.


    Fortunately, Shangguan Han was easy to serve. He would share whatever he ate with them and would never eat alone.


    Therefore, they were excited to see meat.


    Not only were they happy, but Shangguan Han was also very happy. He had not eaten meat in a while.


    He had forgotten to be curious about how the people who went out to do things had become hunters. He leaned forward excitedly and stared at the prey without blinking. ¡°Cousin, how did you know that I wanted to eat meat?


    ¡°Coincidentally, I¡¯m not full from dinner. I¡¯ll order someone to kill two pheasants to satisfy my cravings.¡±


    One would be stewed and the other stir-fried. It was delicious.


    Thinking about it made him drool. He quickly waved for someone to pick it up.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face instantly darkened. He took a few steps forward to block Shangguan Han¡¯s drooling gaze.


    ¡°That¡¯s not for you. It¡¯s for your sister-in-law.¡±


    Shangguan Han¡¯s lips twitched. When did his cousin become so petty?


    He poked his head around Song Jingchen to look at the people behind him. There were four chickens hanging off Rooster and South Wind, three more on Mo Yuan, and one on Ah Xun.


    There were twelve pheasants. How much could Sister-in-law eat alone?


    As he thought this, he subconsciously muttered.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°One each in the morning, afternoon, and night. If she¡¯s hungry at night, we¡¯ll kill another for supper. I specially caught these alive. It won¡¯t be wasted even if I keep it for a few days.¡±


    With this in mind, Song Jingchen suddenly felt that he had caught too little. It was only enough for his wife to eat for three days.


    Fortunately, Zodar should be able to deal with those people in Mungido¡¯s faction within three days.


    ¡°Sister-in-law can eat so much?¡± Shangguan Han was shocked.


    Since Song Jingchen caught these pheasants to nourish his sister-in-law¡¯s body, he naturally wouldn¡¯t snatch it from her. However, he was too surprised. As a man, he couldn¡¯t finish an entire pheasant in one meal.


    How much could she actually eat?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart originally felt warm and sweet. She was extremely touched.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s shout made everyone look at her. Shen Yijia blushed.


    She fiddled with the hem of her clothes uncomfortably and muttered indignantly, ¡°I don¡¯t think I can eat that much.¡±

 Chapter 245 - Song Jingchen Has To Take The

    Song Jingchen stepped forward and held her hand. He glanced at Shangguan Han and sneered. ¡°I originally wanted to give you a bowl of soup every day, but it seems that you don¡¯t need it.¡±


    With that, he pulled Shen Yijia away. South Wind, Rooster and the others quickly followed. They all lived in the bamboo courtyard, but they were in the servants¡¯ rooms.


    Shangguan Han was shocked. His bowl of soup was gone just like that?


    He quickly followed Song Jingchen and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. I¡¯m not saying that Sister-in-law eats a lot. No, Sister-in-law is so thin. She should nourish herself more.¡±


    Song Jingchen turned around and glanced at him coldly. Shangguan Han immediately stopped and didn¡¯t dare to follow.


    Song Jingchen said with a faint smile, ¡°So save that bowl of soup for her.¡±


    Shangguan Han was stunned. He made a final struggle as the few of them gradually left. ¡°Can¡¯t you just have half a bowl? Leave the other half for Sister-in-law.¡±


    No one bothered with him.


    Shangguan Han was speechless.


    Initially, the servants felt that it was a pity that they could not eat meat. Now that they saw their master like this, they could not help but snicker.


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia to her room and stopped. He was about to let go when Shen Yijia quickly grabbed him.


    Meeting Song Jingchen¡¯s puzzled gaze, Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and said a little shyly, ¡°I can let you sleep in the same room as me today.¡±


    Seriously, her husband was too passive. Why was she always the one taking the initiative?


    ¡°I never planned to sleep in the other room.¡± Song Jingchen thought.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was embarrassed, he nodded seriously. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    ¡°Try your best to coax me?¡± Shen Yijia thought. She grinned. Actually, she was no longer angry.


    There was no need to worry about the Huns.


    Song Jingchen knew that everyone who went with him tonight knew, but because of the two pheasants, he didn¡¯t have time to tell Shangguan Han about this.


    Therefore, everyone thought that since the Huns did not make a move yesterday, they were definitely going to make a move today.


    After all, they had suffered a loss. It was impossible for them not to take action.


    Therefore, everyone became nervous early in the morning and guarded the gates.


    Even Shangguan Han was no exception. He personally climbed up the city wall.


    Fifteen minutes passed, two hours passed, and half a day passed¡­


    They didn¡¯t see the Hun army. There wasn¡¯t even a mosquito outside the city wall.


    In the Hun army camp that they were worried about.


    Zodar summoned all the generals. Everyone thought that they were going to discuss how to attack the city.


    Unexpectedly, the moment the generals entered, they saw Zodar sitting at the main seat. Apart from him, there was a team of soldiers standing on both sides of him in the tent.


    Seeing these soldiers, everyone looked at each other. They all understood that this was clearly not a meeting to discuss tactics.


    Zodar quietly noted the expressions of the people who entered.


    He did not speak, and the atmosphere in the tent became very strange.


    The hot-tempered Monte slammed his palm on the table in front of him and stared at Zodar with a fake smile. ¡°General Zodar, why did you call us over? We can¡¯t stay here with you in a daze, right?¡±


    Zodar glanced at him and raised his hand.


    Soon, two soldiers dragging a corpse entered the tent.


    When they reached the center, the two of them threw the corpse on the ground and bowed before leaving.


    The generals present gasped when they saw who it was.


    In addition, some people looked guilty or frightened.


    Zodar took it all in. To his surprise, there were three people he trusted among them.


    Seeing what he wanted to see, Zodar scanned the people below him and said slowly, ¡°Ruo Houchan was my trusted aide.¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, he told me that not only did the little prince not die, but Kedun Chanyu was not killed by the Great Xia Dynasty. Instead, they were killed by Mungido Chanyu.¡±


    ¡°He claimed that we¡¯ve all been deceived by Mungido Chanyu.¡±


    As soon as he said this, the generals had different expressions.


    Zodar took a long drink from his bowl, just as some people were about to lose their cool.


    He threw the porcelain bowl at the corpse of Ruo Houchan and sneered angrily. ¡°I think he was bribed by the people of Great Xia to sow discord.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be frank. If any of you dare to betray me again, you¡¯ll end up like him.¡±


    Monte silently withdrew his hand from the hilt of his knife.


    There was a moment of silence in the tent. A few moments later, someone stood up and echoed, ¡°The general is right. The Central Plains people are sinister and cunning. We must not fall for their schemes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. If such a rumor-monger appears in the army again, there¡¯s no need for the general to take action. We¡¯ll naturally deal with him.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Great General is indeed wise. Otherwise, it would be terrible if that man¡¯s scheme really succeeded.¡±


    Zodar was in a good mood after being flattered by everyone. He laughed and scolded, ¡°Damn you, I told you to study more, but you didn¡¯t listen. Is this how you use your discerning eyes?¡±


    ¡°Haha!¡±


    Everyone laughed at his words.


    No matter what everyone was thinking, the atmosphere in the tent improved a lot.


    Zodar waved for the soldiers in the tent to leave before entering the main topic to discuss the next battle plan.


    Shen Yijia slept until late in the morning. When she woke up, there was no one beside her.


    She quickly got up and changed her clothes. Mo Yuan might have heard the commotion from outside. When she was dressed, Mo Yuan brought in a basin of water to help her wash up.


    Shen Yijia was stunned by her actions.


    It was a little unbelievable. When she transmigrated, she was clearly a princess consort, but this was the first time she had been served like this.


    After washing up, Mo Yuan walked to the dressing table without a word. She picked up a comb and looked at her. ¡°Little Miss, let me help you comb your hair.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and sat in front of the dressing table.


    From the bronze mirror, she could vaguely see Mo Yuan¡¯s familiar movements. This meant that she had done this many times and was already familiar with it.


    Shen Yijia hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°Mo Yuan, why were you staying at the pot lady¡¯s place?¡±


    Mo Yuan¡¯s hands did not stop moving. She said emotionlessly, ¡°I was waiting for Young Miss and Little Miss.¡±


    ¡°How long have you been waiting, then?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Five years.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Mo Yuan was 20 years old this year, which meant that she had been waiting since she was 15 years old.


    She blinked, ready to ask another question. ¡°Who told you to wait there?¡±


    ¡°My lady.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°Will it kill you to talk more? Will it? Will it?¡±


    She took a deep breath and tried to discern the situation from her words.


    The ¡®Little Miss¡¯ Mo Yuan was talking about should be the daughter of her ¡®Young Miss.¡¯


    Her lady had asked her to wait for them at the potter¡¯s, but she never returned.


    Why did this sound so much like the scene of parents abandoning their children?


    Shen Yijia looked at the person in the reflection sympathetically and asked tentatively, ¡°Could it be that they don¡¯t want you anymore and deliberately lied to you?¡±


    Mo Yuan paused and looked up to meet Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze.

 Chapter 246 - Settling Mo Yuan

    Shen Yijia felt that she must have guessed correctly, but it was normal. She had been abandoned by her parents in her previous life.


    The difference was that she had no feelings for her parents. Mo Yuan had been with her mistress for ten years. She must be very sad, right?


    She carefully observed Mo Yuan¡¯s expression and heard her firm voice. ¡°No, because you finally came.¡±


    Shen Yijia had a headache. ¡°Then have you ever thought that I¡¯m not your little miss at all? Actually, you¡¯ve got the wrong person. I have parents.¡±


    She was occupying the original host¡¯s body now, so she did have parents, right? Although one of them died and the other died, it didn¡¯t change the fact.


    If the person Mo Yuan was talking about really existed, then the original host was already eleven years old back then. At that time, she could already remember.


    However, other than the memory of Madam Wang¡¯s accident, Shen Yijia was very sure that the original host had never lost her memory.


    Mo Yuan glanced at Shen Yijia and lowered her head to continue combing her hair. ¡°Young Miss has never been wrong.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought, ¡°Your mistress has never been wrong. What does this have to do with you mistaking her for someone else?¡±


    After that, Shen Yijia asked many more questions. Mo Yuan would answer most of them, but when it came to the lady she mentioned, she knew nothing.


    Shen Yijia suspected that it was not that she did not know, but that she was unwilling to say it.


    However, it was not completely fruitless.


    For example, she found out that Mo Yuan was picked up by the lady she mentioned when she was five years old.


    This characteristic of picking people up from the streets did seem similar to her.


    ¡°Wait, no. I don¡¯t like to pick up people, but others like to be picked up by me.¡± she thought.


    Little Mo Yuan lived with her young lady for ten years and had grown up to be fifteen years old.


    And their peaceful lives had only lasted ten years.


    At midnight one night, her lady suddenly woke her up from her sleep and brought her to a place where she told her to wait for her before leaving.


    Once she left, she never appeared again.


    It wasn¡¯t that Mo Yuan hadn¡¯t looked for her before. At first, she waited for a month but didn¡¯t see her mistress return, so she went to look for her.


    She spent a year searching everywhere the two of them had gone, but she still couldn¡¯t find them.


    When she returned to her original place, the abandoned courtyard was already occupied by the potter.


    She was worried that her mistress would not be able to find her when she returned, so she stayed there ever since.


    Shen Yijia was shocked.


    With her little brain, she could understand that there were only two possibilities in this situation.


    Firstly, Mo Yuan had been abandoned.


    Secondly, something had happened to the lady she mentioned.


    It was possible that she was no longer alive.


    So the question was, how did Little Miss get involved?


    With that thought in mind, she asked directly.


    Mo Yuan helped Shen Yijia put on the wooden hairpin and said, ¡°Little Miss is Young Miss¡¯s daughter.¡±


    Shen Yijia fell silent. She had returned to this dead end.


    She thought for a moment and asked the last question. ¡°Is your lady¡¯s surname Wang?¡±


    The original host¡¯s mother¡¯s surname was Wang.


    However, she also knew that the possibility was slim. Madam Wang was a typical daughter of a wealthy family when she was young. It was impossible for her to bring Little Mo Yuan around for ten years.


    Moreover, the timeline did not match. Fifteen years ago, the original host was one year old. Madam Wang died when the original host was five years old.


    Moreover, Mo Yuan¡¯s skills were clearly taught by her mistress.


    Mo Yuan shook her head. ¡°Young Miss never said that. She only asked me to call her Young Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s head hurt. She decided not to dwell on it. Perhaps one day, Mo Yuan would find her true Young Miss.


    It wouldn¡¯t be her anyway.


    However, there was something she had to make clear to Mo Yuan.


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me Little Miss anymore.¡± It always made her feel strange. How was she young?


    Mo Yuan looked at her in confusion.


    ¡°Just follow Rooster and the others and call me Young Madam or Miss. Choose one.¡±


    ¡°Yes, Miss.¡± Mo Yuan chose the latter without hesitation.


    Shen Yijia nodded in satisfaction and made one last request. ¡°In the future, when I¡¯m with my husband, stay away from us!¡±


    Actually, that was the point she wanted to make.


    Mo Yuan did not immediately agree. She thought for a few seconds before saying, ¡°If Miss is in danger, I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to save you in time.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°My husband is here. Do you think you¡¯re better than him?¡±


    Shen Yijia was too embarrassed to say that she was stronger than Mo Yuan. If she met someone she couldn¡¯t defeat, wouldn¡¯t Mo Yuan be courting death if she came up to them? She would just be throwing her life away.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s usually expressionless face cracked. After a while, she said, ¡°I understand.¡±


    Hearing this answer, Shen Yijia almost cried tears of joy.


    If Mo Yuan was more annoying, she would have hit her.


    However, Mo Yuan always acted like Shen Yijia was the most important person in the world. She could not bring herself to do it.


    It was great to resolve this peacefully.


    After dealing with Mo Yuan, Shen Yijia glanced at Mo Yuan¡¯s handiwork in the mirror. She shook her head and praised casually, ¡°You combed it well.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, she stood up and prepared to leave.


    However, before she could walk out, an old woman entered with a tray.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at Furball, who was following behind the old woman.


    ¡°Madam, Young Master Shen has made pheasant soup. He specially instructed me to send it over when you wake up.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expose his identity. Everyone here called him Young Master Shen.


    The old woman placed the porcelain cup on the table and placed a pair of chopsticks on it. Without waiting for Shen Yijia to respond, she ran away.


    She even tripped over the threshold.


    Shen Yijia burst out laughing. It must¡¯ve been hard on her not to spill the soup since Furball was following her.


    Ignoring Furball, who was wagging its tail vigorously under the table, she walked over and opened the porcelain lid.


    A rich fragrance of meat instantly wafted out, and her stomach rumbled.


    An entire pheasant was stewed in a pot of soup. There were about three bowls worth of soup in there.


    The soup was golden, and there was a layer of oil floating on it.


    Even though Shen Yijia was not as greedy as the others in the city, she subconsciously swallowed her saliva.


    However, Shen Yijia frowned as she watched. There was an entire pheasant in the stew.


    It was still intact inside, without even a piece of meat missing. This meant that Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t eaten any of it himself.


    She looked at the envious Little Furball who was in distress before turning her gaze to Mo Yuan.


    To be honest, if no one saw her, she would have been able to eat alone with a clear conscience. But now, she felt a little embarrassed.


    However, if they were to share it, her beautiful husband would not be able to eat it. Moreover, her beautiful husband had personally cooked it, so she could not bear to part with it.


    Shen Yijia tugged at her hair in frustration. Suddenly, her eyes lit up and she asked Mo Yuan, ¡°Do you know how to make chicken soup?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡± Shen Yijia covered the soup pot and asked Mo Yuan to follow her.


    As for Furball, the tiger¡¯s body almost rubbed against Shen Yijia¡¯s legs while it walked.

 Chapter 247 - Pheasant Soup

    Shen Yijia brought them to the small kitchen. As expected, the pheasants were locked up in the kitchen.


    She put down the porcelain bowl and walked over to grab a pheasant. She stuffed it into Mo Yuan¡¯s hand and said firmly, ¡°Go and stew it. You can eat it with Furball.¡±


    She was really too smart. Her beautiful husband¡¯s soup was saved.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s hand that was holding the pheasant stiffened. ¡°Young Master said that this would be used to nourish Miss¡¯s body.¡±


    Shen Yijia choked. This stubborn girl.


    She did not say that her beautiful husband would not mind such words, because she knew Mo Yuan too well. She wasn¡¯t flexible in her thinking.


    So she tried to be reasonable. ¡°I didn¡¯t eat one this morning, right? So I technically saved one, and you can eat it.¡±


    ¡°Is it up to my husband to decide what to do with my own things? I want you to stew it now. Isn¡¯t that enough?¡±


    Mo Yuan nodded blankly. ¡°Sure.¡±


    1


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and patted her shoulder. ¡°I¡¯ll leave Furball¡¯s food to you.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to take another set of cutlery, but she thought of something and decided not to take it.


    Holding the porcelain bowl, she took a spoon and went to look for Song Jingchen happily.


    Mo Yuan, who was being stared at by Furball, was stunned.


    The point was, who did the pheasant belong to? Shouldn¡¯t it be given to someone to eat?


    Song Jingchen was in Shangguan Han¡¯s study when Shen Yijia arrived.


    As the soup had been carried back and forth several times, Shen Yijia was afraid that it would affect the taste. She did not need anyone to lead the way and rushed straight to the study.


    In the end, she bumped into a servant who suddenly turned out of a small path.


    Shen Yijia quickly transferred the soup to her other hand to prevent it from spilling.


    However, the servant was not so lucky. Not only did he spill his tea, but he also spilled it all over himself.


    Even Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve was wet from the tea.


    The servant was so frightened that he hurriedly knelt down and apologized.


    Shen Yijia frowned and continued walking.


    She took the main path. This person had suddenly appeared, so it was none of her business.


    Shangguan Han was called back from the city wall by Song Jingchen.


    Knowing that he had been up on the city wall for nothing, he looked at Song Jingchen in disbelief.


    He did not believe that his cousin would forget such an important matter. It must be because he said yesterday that his sister-in-law could eat too much, so this petty man deliberately did not say anything.


    However, he did not dare to question him. He could only spin around in frustration.


    Song Jingchen sat at the side and slowly flipped through the book in his hand, pretending not to see it.


    The door to the study was wide open, and two people were spinning around inside.


    Shen Yijia saw such a strange scene.


    As soon as she stepped into the study, the person who had been reading looked up and smiled. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡± Shangguan Han stood up straight.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. She was only thinking about using the same spoon as her beautiful husband, but she had forgotten that there might be someone else in the study.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s sharp eyes had already seen the soup bowl in Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. His eyes lit up as he asked, ¡°Sister-in-law, did you specially bring me soup because you know that I didn¡¯t eat lunch?¡±


    He could already smell the chicken soup.


    Before Shen Yijia could say anything, Song Jingchen had already stood up and walked to her. He took the soup bowl and placed it aside. He frowned at her sleeve and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I accidentally spilled some tea. This- this¡­¡± Shen Yijia stared at the soup pot. Shangguan Han had already run over to remove the lid.


    Song Jingchen noticed her gaze and found it funny.


    Hence, Shangguan Han watched helplessly as a hand reached over and took his meat away.


    ¡°Cousin!¡± Shangguan Han looked accusingly at the person who was about to leave with the soup.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. ¡°There are still wild pheasants in the kitchen. Just order someone to kill one and make some soup.¡±


    Her beautiful husband would not be so petty.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and didn¡¯t retort. He held the soup in one hand and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand with the other. ¡°Go back to your room and change your clothes first.¡±


    The two of them walked for a distance and could still hear Shangguan Han instructing someone.


    They returned to the bamboo courtyard. Shen Yijia changed her clothes and came out. Song Jingchen also asked someone to heat up the soup and bring it back.


    There were even two sets of cutlery on the table.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    While drinking the soup, Shen Yijia told Song Jingchen what she had learned from Mo Yuan.


    She felt that she had to explain to her beautiful husband what she could not figure out, lest she cause trouble again.


    When Song Jingchen first heard about Mo Yuan, he sent a pigeon to One Dot to investigate. However, there was no news yet.


    Now, Shen Yijia mentioned this.


    He frowned. For some reason, he suddenly remembered the map and the key.


    Shen Yijia felt that Mo Yuan had mistaken him for someone else, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think so.


    It seemed that after this matter was resolved, he should make a trip to the Qilin Mountain.


    ¡°As long as she doesn¡¯t hurt you, it¡¯s good to keep her by your side for the time being,¡± Song Jingchen said as he picked up a chicken leg and placed it in Shen Yijia¡¯s bowl.


    Shen Yijia ate the drumstick meekly and nodded.


    The main reason was that she couldn¡¯t chase her away unless the person Mo Yuan was really waiting for appeared.


    On the second day after Zodar gathered the generals and led them to the tent, he used a bowl of strong alcohol to drug most of the people in the army.


    Yesterday¡¯s probing had already given him a general idea of which of them were Mungido¡¯s men.


    Therefore, he did not hold back at all.


    ¡°Are you trying to rebel, Zodar?¡± Monte asked, after waking up to find himself bound to a wooden frame.


    In addition to Stahl, five other generals were tied up.


    Ahead of them, Zodar led the entire army to surround them, glaring at them one by one.


    ¡°Heh,¡± Zodar sneered. ¡°I think you and Mungido are the ones rebelling.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the people behind him immediately made way. Ah Xun walked out in the formal attire of a little prince of the Huns and stood beside Zodar.


    Seeing Ah Xun, Monte¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you disappointed that I¡¯m not dead?¡± Ah Xun¡¯s voice was as cold as ice.


    The bound people felt a chill run down their spines.


    There was only one thought in their minds. It was over.


    ¡°Have you seen enough? Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    On a hill not far from the Hun army¡¯s camp, Song Jingchen reminded the people beside him with a dark expression.


    ¡°Ah Xun is too cute!¡± Shen Yijia exclaimed. Ah Xun was already good-looking, but he looked even cuter in formal attire.


    She wanted to kidnap him and raise him.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. Now that he thought about it, he realized that among the people Shen Yijia had picked up, there were Lin Shao and his sister, Mo Yuan, and Ah Xun.


    They all had one thing in common. They were all good-looking people.


    This girl¡­

 Chapter 248 - Hubby, Don’t Be Angry

    Song Jingchen, who had never cared about his appearance, inexplicably had a ridiculous thought. Fortunately, he was good-looking.


    He even wondered if this girl would have followed him to Xiagou Village if he wasn¡¯t good-looking. The outcome was obvious.


    A gust of cold air rushed towards her. Shen Yijia shivered and turned around.


    Oh my, her beautiful husband¡¯s face was so dark.


    ¡°Is Ah Xun good-looking?¡± Song Jingchen asked with a faint smile.


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    An autumn breeze blew past. Shen Yijia adjusted her clothes and blinked. She shook her head timidly. ¡°No, you¡¯re the best-looking.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Of course. In my heart, my husband will always be the best-looking.¡± Besides, Ah Xun was about the same age as Brother Hao.


    What if he didn¡¯t look good? Song Jingchen pursed his lips and turned around. ¡°I¡¯m going back.¡±


    If someone better-looking than him appeared one day, would this girl follow that person like how she had followed him back then?


    At the thought of this possibility, Song Jingchen had mixed feelings.


    Besides, demons didn¡¯t age, but he did.


    Shen Yijia did not understand why he seemed to be even angrier after she praised her beautiful husband. But shouldn¡¯t she be the one who was still angry?


    Seeing that Song Jingchen really didn¡¯t wait for her, she puffed up her cheeks and quickly followed.


    As the sun set, the afterglow of the setting sun shone on the two of them, giving them a peaceful feeling.


    Shen Yijia ran in front of Song Jingchen and turned around to face him. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the most handsome.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The little liar had been staring at others just now.


    ¡°I like you best.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± In the past, she had always said that she liked him the best, but way more enthusiastically. She was indeed a little liar. She could be so sweet. Who knew whether what she said was true?


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°I only like you. Forever and ever.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and looked at the person whose eyes seemed to have stars shining in them. He asked seriously, ¡°How long is forever?¡±


    ¡°In this life, the next life, and the next life after that.¡± It was a pity that she didn¡¯t know her beautiful husband in her previous life. Otherwise, she could have added her previous life to the list.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Song Jingchen said after a while.


    Seeing that he was finally no longer angry, Shen Yijia grinned. Unexpectedly, she was pulled into a familiar embrace in the next second. Before she could react, her lips were pressed against his.


    Song Jingchen only stopped for a few seconds before letting go of her. Although there was no one around, his decades of upbringing still made him unable to do anything immoral in broad daylight.


    Unfortunately, he had underestimated Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes. Sure enough, his ears were red again. She licked her lips. ¡°I just thought of a way for you to make me forgive you for abandoning me.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. Without needing him to ask for a solution, she said eagerly, ¡°Kiss me every day in the future, and I won¡¯t be angry anymore.¡±


    Although she wasn¡¯t angry now, he had to finish what he started. Most importantly, she could still benefit from this.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°What can I do with such a shameless wife? Of course, I¡¯ll forget about proper etiquette and just kiss her.¡±


    There were three of them when they went out, but when they returned, it was just the two of them.


    However, Ah Xun knew that the people in Xunyang City hated the Huns to the core. He usually stayed in his room and rarely appeared. Even their meals were sent directly to his room, so no one cared about him.


    If nothing went wrong, the Hun army outside the city would retreat tomorrow, but what Song Jingchen wanted was not as simple as their retreat.


    The two of them returned to the residence. Song Jingchen went to discuss something with Shangguan Han, while Shen Yijia returned to the courtyard.


    The usually quiet courtyard was a little different today. A few women were gathered in a corner, muttering something. Even Mo Yuan stood there expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia pursed her slightly swollen lips and leaned over curiously. She asked softly, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    An old woman subconsciously replied, ¡°I wonder who lost a dead rat here.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s so interesting about a dead rat?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia stuck her head in. It was indeed a dead rat. There was more than one.


    No one in Xunyang City could eat their fill. These rats were also starving. They were so thin. Could they have starved to death?


    The woman who answered realized who asked the question and quickly turned around to bow. ¡°Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia hated these people¡¯s etiquette the most. She waved her hand and stared at the corpses of the rats. To be precise, it was the clothes under the corpses. Why did they look familiar?


    The women noticed her gaze and one of them immediately went to find a broom. ¡°Madam, go back to the house first. I¡¯ll clean up this place immediately. It would scare you.¡±


    ¡°Wait,¡± Shen Yijia and Mo Yuan said in unison.


    The two of them looked at each other. Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Do you think you¡¯ve seen that dress before?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°That¡¯s the clothes Miss changed out of yesterday.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. Wasn¡¯t it the one that was wet with tea? Later on, Song Jingchen even forced her to go back to her room to change it. Because she was in a hurry to go out, she casually threw it on the ground.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth angrily. Who was so wicked as to kill these rats using her clothes? She had only worn this dress once. Although it was prepared by the residence, it was clearly more expensive than what she usually wore. If she didn¡¯t wear it, she could still exchange it for silver in a pawn shop.


    The more Shen Yijia looked at it, the more her heart ached. She glanced at it one last time and turned away. ¡°Forget it, forget it. Let¡¯s pack up.¡±


    Only then did the women realize what Shen Yijia was looking at. The corners of their mouths twitched. They were not frightened by the dead rat. Since it was a piece of clothing, their hearts ached.


    Shen Yijia was not the kind of person who would suffer in silence. Moreover, this was her territory, so she was not afraid of causing trouble.


    Shangguan Han had such a good relationship with her beautiful husband. What belonged to Shangguan Han belonged to her beautiful husband. What belonged to her beautiful husband belonged to her. Therefore, what belonged to Shangguan Han belonged to her.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia felt that there was nothing wrong with saying that this was her territory.


    Because Song Jingchen liked peace and quiet, there were only a few old women in the courtyard and a small kitchen responsible for boiling water and cooking. Shen Yijia eliminated the one who was frightened by Furball because she was too timid.


    Moreover, she still hadn¡¯t figured out why people did bad things. Was it to waste some perfectly fine clothes? Or did they want to scare her with dead rats? That would be underestimating her.


    ¡°Have you been staying in the courtyard for the past two days?¡± Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan after returning to her room.

 Chapter 249 - Jiajia Saving People with Her Fists

    Mo Yuan nodded. She was different from Rooster and the others. Rooster and the others would go out to work on missions from time to time.


    The only thing she could do was protect Miss, but Miss spent most of her time with her husband. She had promised not to follow them closely, so she could only guard this place every day.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. That meant that no outsiders had entered her room. Her clothes couldn¡¯t have run out by themselves, right? Or was there someone here who had telekinetic abilities like Da Hua?


    Thinking of this possibility, Shen Yijia was excited. If there were more special people like her, her beautiful husband would not think that she was a monster.


    She wouldn¡¯t be the only one.


    She originally wanted to say something about her abilities during the Dragon Boat Festival, but after being interrupted, she could no longer muster up the courage. In her previous life, when people found out about it, they would capture her for research. In this feudal era, she would get burned to death instead.


    Shen Yijia had done many bad things in the past. She knew best that people who did bad things would not stop until they achieved their goal. Therefore, she decisively climbed onto the roof and prepared to wait for an opportunity.


    Mo Yuan had no idea why her mistress went to climb the roof.


    However, when she was first taken in, that person told her that if she wanted to stay by her side, she could not be curious or ask too many questions. Therefore, she was used to quelling her curiosity about these things and only quietly followed Shen Yijia up.


    When Song Jingchen returned to the courtyard, he saw a black shadow waving at him from afar. He was stunned. What was this girl doing?


    Seeing him approach, Shen Yijia quickly winked at Mo Yuan. ¡°My beautiful husband is here. Leave quickly.¡±


    Mo Yuan was speechless.


    ¡°Come down.¡± Song Jingchen stood under the eaves and opened his arms.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head and wanted to say no, but when she met Song Jingchen¡¯s unquestionable eyes, she could only jump down obediently.


    ¡°Why are you up there?¡± Song Jingchen put her down and asked.


    ¡°To catch the thief who stole my clothes.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Someone stole your clothes?¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. He¡¯s too despicable. Not only did he steal my clothes, but he also used my clothes to kill the rats.¡±


    Seeing that Song Jingchen still didn¡¯t understand, Shen Yijia told him what had happened after she returned.


    ¡°Was it the set of clothes stained with tea yesterday?¡± Song Jingchen grabbed her hand and asked.


    She did not understand why her beautiful husband was so agitated, but Shen Yijia still nodded. ¡°It can¡¯t be wrong. It¡¯s that one. Mo Yuan recognized it.¡±


    ¡°Where is that shirt now?¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. The old woman must have thrown it away.


    Just as she was about to say that she didn¡¯t know, an old woman happened to walk in from the courtyard. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she ran over to stop the old woman. ¡°Where¡¯s the shirt? Where did you throw it?¡±


    The old woman was shocked and suddenly knelt down to apologize. ¡°Madam, please spare my life.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m asking where the clothes went. Who wants your life?¡±


    Did these people have persecutory delusions? If she really wanted someone¡¯s life, would she have given them a chance to beg for mercy?


    ¡°I- I¡­¡± The old woman trembled and kowtowed twice before saying,¡± I saw that the clothes were only slightly damaged by the rats, so I wanted to mend them for my daughter to wear, so I didn¡¯t throw them away¡­ Madam, please spare my life. I won¡¯t dare to do it again. ¡±


    In a rich family, as long as it wasn¡¯t something that the master gave you, everything else was considered theft. In the worst case, you would be beaten up and sold.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Go get the clothes,¡± Song Jingchen instructed in a low voice.


    The old woman quickly left and returned with the clothes. She was on duty tonight and wanted to wash them tomorrow before sending them home, so the clothes were still the same.


    Song Jingchen took the clothes. As expected, the part that was bitten was the sleeve that was stained with tea. He naturally didn¡¯t think that someone had stolen the clothes to kill the rats.


    However, it was impossible for the tea stain to attract rats.


    He frowned and rubbed the tea stain with his hand. He realized that there was a layer of oil on it. He placed it on the tip of his nose and sniffed it. There was a faint smell of chicken soup.


    ¡°Did you spill the chicken soup yesterday?¡± Song Jingchen asked Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia thought about the scene when she bumped into that servant. In order to protect the chicken soup, she changed hands a little too quickly. It was really possible that she spilled some.


    She said with some uncertainty, ¡°Maybe.¡±


    However, just as she finished speaking, Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted and he turned around to run towards the front courtyard.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡± Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment before quickly chasing after him.


    In the study in the front yard, Shangguan Han thought about what Song Jingchen had said just now, and a trace of pain flashed across his face.


    Why was he born in an emperor¡¯s family? Why did he become the son of such a person?


    At this moment, there was a knock on the door. A servant walked in with tea. He glanced at the two cups of untouched tea on the table and looked up respectfully. ¡°Your Highness, the tea is cold. I¡¯ll help you change it.¡±


    The servant placed the two cups of cold tea on the tray and placed the new tea on Shangguan Han¡¯s right. He bowed before leaving.


    Shangguan Han rubbed his temples tiredly. He reached out to pick up the tea and gently brushed away the tea leaves floating on it with the lid of the bowl.


    At this moment, the study door was suddenly kicked open. Shangguan Han looked at the person who had returned. That person was followed by a tail. He asked in confusion, ¡°Cousin? Why are you back? And Sister-in-law, you¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen stared coldly at the teacup in his hand and took it from him.


    When Shen Yijia saw his actions, her eyes widened and she understood.


    There were no thieves or telekinetic people like Da Hua.


    It was clearly the chicken soup fragrance on her clothes that attracted the hungry rat. The rat bit her clothes, but it turned out to be poisonous. It poisoned the rat to death, and the fragrance attracted other rats¡­


    However, since the two of them were fine after drinking the chicken soup, the only poisonous thing was the tea.


    This thought only flashed through her mind for a moment. In the next second, she had already gone up to pick Shangguan Han up and punched him in the abdomen. She hit him until his eyes rolled back and he spat out a mouthful of water.


    Shen Yijia saw that he was too weak and deliberately restrained her strength.


    Shen Yijia punched him twice. Seeing that Shangguan Han could not spit out any more water, she simply threw him to the ground and grabbed his belt to turn him upside down. She kept shaking him up and down, but she did not forget to remind him, ¡°Hurry, hurry, spit it out.¡±


    ¡°Let¡­¡± Shangguan Han was dizzy and his abdomen still hurt. He opened his mouth and could only say one word. He spat out the food from last night.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. In her previous life, the patients in the courtyard often ate random food. She saw that the doctors would ask them to vomit it out, and they would be fine afterwards. Although the methods were different, the results were the same.

 Chapter 250 - Mo Yuan’s Origin, Daylily Powder

    Shangguan Han was almost done vomiting.


    Shen Yijia thoughtfully carried him to the side and placed him down in a clean place.


    Shangguan Han did not even have the strength to sit down, let alone stabilize himself. He collapsed to the ground without a care for his image.


    The first time he saw Shen Yijia, he knew that she did not like him, but he did not expect her to deal with him so openly. Didn¡¯t she almost give him a greeting gift? She even gave him a pheasant stew.


    1


    What kind of grudge did they have against each other?


    Although he didn¡¯t say anything, Shen Yijia knew that Shangguan Han was fine. She turned to look at Song Jingchen, looking for praise.


    When Song Jingchen received her gaze, the corners of his mouth twitched. He clenched his fists and said helplessly, ¡°Ahem, the tea isn¡¯t poisonous. Besides, he didn¡¯t drink it.¡±


    Actually, if he wanted to stop her just now, he could have stopped her. However, what his wife wanted to do¡­ Anyway, Shangguan Han was fine. He would just treat it as loosening Shangguan Han¡¯s muscles.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She was stunned for a moment before turning to look at Shangguan Han guiltily. Indeed, he was looking at her resentfully.


    She rubbed her nose and darted behind Song Jingchen. She stuck her head out and glanced at Shangguan Han¡¯s miserable appearance. She reached out and poked Song Jingchen¡¯s back. ¡°Hubby, tell him.¡±


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and opened his mouth to explain the situation. His gaze landed on Shangguan Han¡¯s face, and he immediately stopped.


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, we¡¯ll go back.¡± With a cold expression, he picked up the cup of tea on the table and pulled Shen Yijia away.


    Although he had tested it with a silver needle just now, he decided to take it away just in case.


    Shangguan Han thought, ¡°You came here just to beat me up? Sister-in-law is so scary.¡±


    After the two of them passed the second door, someone walked out of the darkness and hurried in the opposite direction.


    ¡°Hubby, he¡¯s gone.¡± At the second door, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes and reminded him in a low voice.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and pulled her along silently.


    That person left the residence and circled the streets to the back door of the residence. He stood at the entrance of the residence and looked back to see that no one was around before knocking on the door.


    Soon, the door opened. An old woman stuck her head out. When she saw him, she immediately pulled a long face. ¡°Why are you back so late? Be careful not to let the masters know and make you suffer.¡±


    The servant gave her a silver coin ingratiatingly. ¡°Granny Chen, please let me off this time.¡±


    Old Madam Chen shook the silver before opening the door and letting him in. She did not forget to remind him, ¡°If you do this again, don¡¯t even think about coming in next time.¡±


    The servant nodded repeatedly.


    Not far from the back door of the mansion, there was a big tree. Shen Yijia stood behind the tree and watched him enter the mansion. She turned around and asked the person beside her, ¡°What does it say?¡±


    Song Jingchen handed the note to her. There were only two ugly words on it. ¡°I failed.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re lying,¡± Shen Yijia suddenly said.


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You said that you couldn¡¯t find anyone who had uglier handwriting than me. Look, there¡¯s one right here.¡± Shen Yijia felt that her handwriting looked too good compared to this.


    Song Jingchen chuckled.


    After returning the note to its original position, the two of them did not go through the main door. They climbed over the wall and saw the servant return to his room to rest before walking towards the bamboo courtyard.


    ¡°Hubby, why don¡¯t you arrest him?¡± Shen Yijia felt that this was too troublesome. Couldn¡¯t he have just beaten him to death? Why did he have to go through so much trouble?


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking and said helplessly, ¡°Let¡¯s cast a long line to catch a big fish.¡±


    In the bamboo courtyard, Rooster, Mo Yuan, and Furball were all waiting at the door. When they saw the two of them return, they quickly went up to them.


    Song Jingchen nodded and gestured for them to follow. When they entered the reception pavilion, there was no one around. Song Jingchen instructed Rooster to guard the back door. He was instructed to follow quietly if he saw anyone going past.


    He turned to look at Mo Yuan. ¡°Go and keep an eye on that servant.¡±


    Mo Yuan only looked at Shen Yijia in silence.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. ¡°My hubby¡¯s intentions are the same as mine. Anyway, you have nothing to do here all day.¡±


    Having something to do was better than guarding a dilapidated courtyard every day.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    After the two of them left, Furball wagged its tail and reminded the two of them that it was still here.


    Shen Yijia was silent for a moment. ¡°Since Mo Yuan isn¡¯t around, I¡¯ll leave the guarding of the courtyard to you in the future.¡±


    Furball seemed to think to itself, ¡°Why do you want me to guard the door again?¡±


    Song Jingchen originally thought that he could expose the other people in the city with ulterior motives, but he didn¡¯t expect Mo Yuan to report that the servant was dead the next day.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°Did you see the person who attacked?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°No, he died from eating the Daylily Powder.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked curiously, ¡°Daylily Powder? Is it poison?¡±


    This name sounded pretty good.


    It was a powder to forget all worries.


    This was a secret medicine that was passed down among the nobles of the previous dynasty. It was usually used on people who were plagued by illness. After consuming it, they would die peacefully in their sleep. It was also called Carefree Powder.


    ¡°After that, because too many people used it to harm lives, it was classified as a forbidden medicine. By the time it reached this dynasty, it no longer existed. How did you know about this medicine?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s sharp eyes swept across Mo Yuan.


    He knew because an ancient book had mentioned it a few times. He only knew that there was such a medicine, but Mo Yuan clearly meant that not only did she know, but she also confirmed it.


    Mo Yuan resisted the urge to kneel down and lowered her head. ¡°I¡¯ve learned it before.¡±


    ¡°Did your young lady teach you that?¡± When Shen Yijia heard Song Jingchen¡¯s words, she knew that this poison was not simple. She was even more curious about the young lady Mo Yuan mentioned.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Then do you know how to cure this poison?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Mo Yuan glanced at Shen Yijia and shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. The premonition that it would be troublesome to keep Mo Yuan by her side was getting stronger and stronger.


    Song Jingchen naturally didn¡¯t ignore this detail. He reached out and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, pulling her behind him. His eyes were filled with killing intent as he looked at Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan suddenly knelt down. ¡°I will never hurt Miss in this life.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty. Actually, she had the thought of killing Mo Yuan just now. She gently tugged at Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve.


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes and tightened his grip on Shen Yijia. When he opened his eyes again, he had already regained his usual coldness. ¡°Did you say anything about the servant¡¯s death?¡±


    ¡°No. After I confirmed it, I came back to report to Master.¡± Others thought that the Daylily Powder could kill someone quietly, but that was not the case.


    After taking the Daylily Powder, one¡¯s body would emit a fragrance within ten minutes. It was because of this fragrance that she realized that something was wrong.


    ¡°Keep it under wraps. You don¡¯t have to guard that place anymore.¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    After Mo Yuan left, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen uneasily. ¡°Hubby, I¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled her into his arms. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let anyone hurt you.¡±

 Chapter 251 - Lord An Le Is Unconscious, Jiajia

    Song Jingchen asked Mo Yuan to keep quiet, but he had no intention of hiding it.


    As soon as they had breakfast, the news of a servant¡¯s strange death spread.


    At the same time, news of Lord An Le¡¯s accident spread.


    Early in the morning, the butler hurriedly called Doctor Fang to the main courtyard. He had yet to come out. It seemed that things were not simple.


    Everyone guessed that an assassin had entered the residence and injured His Highness.


    There were also people who said that Lord An Le was poisoned. The person who poisoned him was the servant who died. After harming His Highness, he committed suicide. In short, there were all kinds of rumors.


    Because of this, the joy of the Hun army retreating early in the morning was suppressed.


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she wished she could beat up the person spreading the rumors. Although no one mentioned her, she felt guilty, so it felt as if those rumors were directed at her.


    Actually, she had only punched him lightly twice. Who would have thought that a man like Shangguan Han was so weak? Moreover, she had done it out of kindness.


    If Shangguan Han knew what she was thinking, he would¡¯ve been astounded.


    After Shen Yijia returned from outside, she sat there angrily without saying a word.


    Song Jingchen walked over in amusement and tucked her hair behind her ear. He held her hand and said softly, ¡°Let¡¯s go and see him.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia felt that she was a person who dared to take responsibility.


    When the two of them arrived at Shangguan Han¡¯s courtyard, the butler and a few generals of Xunyang City were guarding the door of the main house. It was the same scene as when Shangguan Han¡¯s head was smashed open.


    Seeing him come, none of them dared to raise their voices. They cupped their hands and greeted, ¡°Young Master Shenzhi is here.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded indifferently. ¡°How¡¯s His Highness?¡±


    Butler Wan said worriedly, ¡°Doctor Fang is still inside taking His Highness¡¯s pulse.¡±


    Not many people in this residence came from the capital with Shangguan Han. Apart from Doctor Fang, Butler Wan was also one of them.


    He was the eunuch who had been serving Shangguan Han in the Eastern Palace.


    For slaves like them, who had been accused of treason, it would not be good for them to stay in the palace. It was better to follow his master to the fief.


    Shangguan Han did not wrong him. After coming here, he let him be the butler of this residence.


    Although this place was poorer than the palace, at least they didn¡¯t have to worry about losing their heads all day.


    Apart from these two people, there was also a manservant Yan Tai who served Shangguan Han closely. He was currently serving him in the room.


    Song Jingchen had no intention of going in. He waited at the side with Shen Yijia.


    After fifteen minutes, the door opened.


    Yan Tai walked out with red eyes. He glanced at the people present and sniffed. ¡°Sirs, you can go in.¡±


    Seeing him like this, everyone¡¯s hearts skipped a beat.


    Song Jingchen frowned and looked at Shen Yijia before walking in.


    When she entered the inner room, she saw Shangguan Han lying on the bed with his eyes closed. It was unknown if he was dead or alive.


    Doctor Fang retracted his hand and frowned as he glanced at Shangguan Han¡¯s face. He turned to look at everyone and sighed softly. He cupped his hands and bowed to everyone with a heavy expression.


    ¡°Doctor Fang, you¡¯re making us anxious. How is His Highness?¡± Meng Jiang couldn¡¯t hold it in and hurriedly asked.


    Doctor Fang glanced at Song Jingchen and shook his head. ¡°The situation isn¡¯t optimistic.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. The person Song Jingchen wanted to save was killed by her with two punches?


    Sensing the uneasiness of the person beside him, Song Jingchen squeezed her hand comfortingly and asked with a frown, ¡°Why is this happening?¡±


    He knew that Shen Yijia knew her limits, so he did not think that she was the one who hurt him so badly.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Doctor Fang glanced at the generals present.


    Meng Jiang glared at him and shouted, ¡°Just say it. Why are you still hiding it at this time?¡±


    He was too anxious. Otherwise, he would usually respect Doctor Fang on account of his age, not to mention that Doctor Fang¡¯s status in the residence was extraordinary.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t retort, Doctor Fang said in a low voice, ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, His Highness had been poisoned by a poison that can kill someone in their sleep.¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯ve only heard people mention this poison by chance, but I¡¯ve never seen it before, let alone know how to cure it.¡±


    Song Jingchen narrowed his sharp eyes and said, ¡°Carefree Powder.¡±


    Doctor Fang was shocked. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s the Daylily Powder.¡±


    ¡°Then what about His Highness?¡± Meng Jiang was shocked.


    Doctor Fang stroked his beard and shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s the weird part.¡±


    ¡°It was rumored that people would quietly die four hours after taking the Daylily Powder.¡±


    ¡°However, Yan Tai said that His Highness had not woken up since last night.¡±


    ¡°It has been far more than four hours, but I can tell that His Highness is still breathing.¡±


    ¡°Then could it be that the Daylily Powder isn¡¯t in the Lord¡¯s body at all?¡± Zuo Fei, who had been silent, suddenly spoke.


    Doctor Fang shook his head in shame. ¡°This symptom is exactly the same as the Daylily Powder I¡¯ve heard of, but I really can¡¯t confirm it.¡±


    In the end, although Shangguan Han was still alive, the poison he was poisoned with was probably the Daylily Powder.


    Shen Yijia knew that it wasn¡¯t her fault and heaved a sigh of relief. She subconsciously moved the hand that Song Jingchen was holding. The latter held her hand even tighter.


    ¡°If we can¡¯t find the antidote, what will happen to His Highness?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°The best case scenario is that he just stays unconscious like this, or he could suddenly¡­¡± Doctor Fang didn¡¯t finish his sentence, but everyone understood what he meant.


    ¡°Damn it, it must be the doing of the Huns. On the surface, they want to retreat, but they¡¯re secretly plotting this.¡± Meng Jiang said angrily. As he spoke, he was about to walk out. ¡°I¡¯ll chase after them with my men. It¡¯s not a loss to kill one, I¡¯ll earn one by killing two.¡±


    ¡°Stop right there.¡± Song Jingchen shouted angrily, ¡°You¡¯re so reckless. No wonder you were beaten up by the Huns.¡±


    ¡°Young Master Shenzhi, you¡­¡± Meng Jiang¡¯s face turned red from the scolding, but he couldn¡¯t refute it.


    The situation in Xunyang City had indeed been reversed after this person arrived.


    First, he thought of a way to set up a net to borrow rocks. Then, he brought people to plunder food from the Huns and resolved the urgent situation. Even the retreat of the Huns was facilitated by him.


    It could be said that without this person, it was unknown if they could even stand here today.


    ¡°What¡¯s the use of the Huns killing a vassal lord like him? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to send troops to attack and capture all of you in one fell swoop and occupy Xunyang?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s words were harsh, slapping the faces of the generals present.


    Zuo Fei sighed. Although these words were unpleasant to hear, they were the truth.


    Generals with any political power would not come to a place like Xunyang. The people left behind were all bumpkins who had no connections or foundation in the imperial court. They were boorish people who only knew how to use brute force.


    He himself had only started learning a few words in the recent years.


    He took a step forward and cupped his hands. ¡°Then Young Master Shenzhi, what do you think we should do now? We can¡¯t let His Highness stay in this condition.¡±


    He continued, ¡°Moreover, the Huns have just retreated. There are still many things in the city that need to be decided by His Highness.¡±

 Chapter 252 - Her Beautiful Husband Uses Poison

    ¡°The few of you can discuss the matters in the city. If you really can¡¯t decide, you can look for me. As for His Highness¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen turned to look at Doctor Fang and cupped his hands. ¡°He¡¯s in your hands, Doctor Fang.¡±


    ¡°You flatter me. I¡¯ll do my best.¡± Doctor Fang waved his hand repeatedly and took a few steps away in fear, not daring to accept Song Jingchen¡¯s bow. Others might not know who this person was, but how could he not know?


    He was only left with his old bones now. He was really afraid that his lifespan would be shortened. After all, even His Highness was very respectful to this person and never dared to speak nonsense.


    No one could help by staying here. The generals quickly bade farewell and left. Manager Wan followed them out of the residence.


    Doctor Fang went forward and checked Shangguan Han¡¯s pulse again. His pulse was exactly the same as before. At the very least, it meant that Shangguan Han¡¯s life was not in danger for the time being.


    He hesitated for a moment and said, ¡°Young Master Shenzhi, I want to take some of His Highness¡¯s blood back and see if I can concoct an antidote.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Yan Tai, who immediately went to prepare.


    Without needing Doctor Fang to do anything, Yan Tai made a cut on Shangguan Han¡¯s wrist and collected a small cup of blood.


    Doctor Fang quickly took it and bandaged Shangguan Han before leaving.


    Only Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia, and Yan Tai were left in the room.


    Song Jingchen went forward and checked Shangguan Han¡¯s breathing. Although it was very light, it was still there.


    ¡°Young Master, our lord¡­¡± Yan Tai said worriedly.


    Song Jingchen frowned and looked at Yan Tai. ¡°Did he eat after I left yesterday?¡±


    When Yan Tai thought of yesterday, he looked at Shen Yijia with a complicated expression. This madam was too ferocious.


    He could see clearly from the door, so he remembered it clearly.


    Just as he was about to shake his head and say no, a thought suddenly flashed across his mind. He hurriedly said, ¡°After you left yesterday, I poured a cup of tea for His Highness to rinse his mouth.¡±


    Afterwards, His Highness kept complaining about his stomachache, so I helped him back to his room to rest.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t until this morning that I saw that His Highness didn¡¯t get up for a long time and went in to call him. Who knew that he wouldn¡¯t wake up?¡±


    As he spoke, Yan Tai¡¯s eyes turned red again. Why was his lord¡¯s life so bitter? This year, he made up for all the hardships he had not suffered for the past fifteen years.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his forehead. ¡°Is the tea still there?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ but His Highness accidentally spilled tea on his robes. I didn¡¯t have time to take off those clothes and wash them for him.¡± Without waiting for Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, Yan Tai ran out and soon came in with a robe.


    Song Jingchen took it and took a look. It was indeed what Shangguan Han had worn yesterday.


    He tore off the tea-stained cloth and threw the clothes back at Yan Tai. ¡°Burn it right now.¡±


    Yan Tai quickly obeyed.


    After returning to the courtyard, Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen would immediately call Mo Yuan over to check if the tea stain on the cloth was the poison of the Daylily Powder.


    Unexpectedly, he took out a match and burned it.


    Then, he picked up the book and read it as if nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head, feeling that her mind was filled with mush. She could not understand what he meant.


    She only knew that it was impossible for Song Jingchen not to care about Shangguan Han¡¯s life. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have rushed to Xunyang.


    Was he pretending to be calm because he didn¡¯t want her to worry?


    ¡°Hubby, have some tea.¡± Shen Yijia poured a cup of tea and handed it over, looking at his expression carefully.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her, took the teacup, and took a sip. He placed the teacup aside and continued reading.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Very good, this was indeed Song Jingchen.


    She turned to look at the old woman who was sweeping outside. As if nothing had happened, she picked up the feather duster and began to sweep the dust around the room.


    From the corner to the table, she arrived at Song Jingchen¡¯s side.


    ¡°Lift your legs.¡±


    ¡°Yes, your hand. Hands up, too.¡±


    ¡°Ass. Move your ass. There¡¯s dust on the stool.¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia pat him everywhere with a feather duster, Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. He suspected that this girl really wanted to sweep him away.


    Shen Yijia had been secretly paying attention to Song Jingchen¡¯s reaction from the corner of her eye. Seeing that he didn¡¯t look stiff at all, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    Da Hua said that she couldn¡¯t hold it in alone when she was in a bad mood. She had to vent it out. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be able to deal with it.


    ¡°Why is there so much dust in this house? The old maids must have been slacking off. We have to talk about them later.¡± Shen Yijia waved the feather duster in a disorderly manner and kept muttering.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He reached out to block the feathers that were about to hit his face.


    He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and snatched the feather duster from her hand with his other hand. He pulled her into his arms. ¡°Just say what you want to say.¡±


    Shen Yijia shifted her butt and found a comfortable position to sit down. Then, she forced a smile at Song Jingchen. ¡°Actually, I can¡­¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Before Shen Yijia could finish, Song Jingchen interrupted her. He stared into her eyes and said word by word, ¡°There¡¯s no antidote for the Daylily Powder.¡±


    It was already unusual for long-lost poisons to suddenly appear frequently in Xunyang.


    Moreover, the young lady that Mo Yuan mentioned was obviously not an ordinary person. She was actually willing to teach her how to make poison. She must have trusted her. If there was a cure for this poison, she would have taught her how to detoxify it.


    Since the lady did not teach her, it meant that the antidote for this poison might not exist at all.


    The person who used this poison must have thought the same. If this girl really cured this poison, she would probably attract that person¡¯s attention.


    He did not even know who the other party was or what power he had. How could he let Shen Yijia take the risk?


    Besides¡­


    Song Jingchen smiled mockingly.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know what Song Jingchen was thinking. She puffed up her cheeks and wanted to refute.


    At this moment, Mo Yuan, who was dressed in men¡¯s clothes, walked in. When she saw her young lady sitting on her husband¡¯s lap, she was still calm.


    She cupped her fists at Song Jingchen and said expressionlessly, ¡°Young master, the blood in Doctor Fang¡¯s hands has been replaced.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded to indicate that he understood. Mo Yuan turned around and left without a word.


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    Good lord.


    Previously, Mo Yuan didn¡¯t even want to monitor someone for Song Jingchen without Shen Yijia¡¯s permission.


    1


    Now, the two of them had started collaborating behind her back.


    Most importantly, she did not understand what the two of them were saying.


    ¡°What blood? Shangguan Han¡¯s? How are you going to develop an antidote if you get Mo Yuan to exchange the blood that Doctor Fang has?¡± With Song Jingchen around, Shen Yijia had always asked questions if she didn¡¯t understand.


    After all, with such a thinker by her side, why would she waste her time thinking about those things? It was not something she could understand.


    Song Jingchen looked at her confused expression and found it funny. He pressed her body down and whispered something in her ear.


    Shen Yijia first felt her ears itch and wanted to laugh. When she heard what Song Jingchen said, her eyes widened in disbelief.


    Shangguan Han was poisoned by her beautiful husband.

 Chapter 253 - The Little Prince Wants to Kidnap Jiajia, Song Jingchen Is Jealous

    Did her beautiful husband take the risk to save him just to kill him with his own hands?


    ¡°What grudge do you have against him?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen knew at a glance that Shen Yijia had misunderstood. He interrupted her thoughts. ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, the servant who died today wasn¡¯t the one who spilled the tea on you, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She had wanted to say it before, but she forgot about it.


    After receiving an affirmative answer, Song Jingchen explained that the servant from before was most likely also dead. Apart from these two, there were definitely accomplices in the residence, and they had high statuses.


    In the afternoon, there was no news from the main courtyard. At this time, no news was the best news for many people, right?


    On the second day after the Hun army left, the city gate of Xunyang City opened again.


    The citizens in the city gathered at the city gate and looked at the heavy door that was slowly lowered. Tears welled up in their eyes.


    They could live!


    First, it was the Hun army surrounding the city, then it was the abandonment by the Imperial Court. The hopes of the commoners to survive had long been destroyed, but they did not expect there to be a turnaround.


    Now, they were all grateful to Lord An Le, who had advanced and retreated with them, and to Young Master Shen, who had saved them from suffering.


    On the contrary, they hated the imperial court more than the Huns.


    Although the Hun people were also hateful, in the end, their positions were different. It was understandable for a war to break out.


    However, what about the Imperial Court? They were the citizens of Great Xia. How could the Imperial Court abandon Xunyang City just like that? It was deeply disappointing.


    Meng Jiang stood on the city wall and looked down at the commoners crying. Even the men were crying.


    ¡°It¡¯s time to arrange for people to repair the collapsed houses in the city. We have to think of a way to solve everyone¡¯s food problem,¡± Zuo Fei said coldly.


    It was easy to repair this house. At the very least, there were still so many people in the city. However, where would they find food?


    The Imperial Court had actually given up on Xunyang, so they naturally could not count on their support.


    Besides, it was best if the Imperial Court did not interfere. It would be disgusting if they interfered at this time.


    Meng Jiang choked. Thinking of the various headaches that would follow, he immediately felt his scalp tingle. He was no longer in the mood to grieve.


    ¡°Master, the little prince wants to see you and Young Madam,¡± South Wind, who had been sent by Song Jingchen to monitor the movements of the Hun army, reported.


    Ah Xun did not leave with the army yesterday. Instead, he stayed outside the city. Today, as soon as the city gate opened, he followed South Wind into the city.


    Zodar was worried about him staying alone. The army was slow, so they did not have to worry about not being able to catch up if they set off later.


    Song Jingchen nodded, not surprised that Ah Xun had yet to leave.


    ¡°Sister.¡± Ah Xun was wearing Central Plains clothes today. He seemed to have become the child who would pretend to be pitiful in front of Shen Yijia again.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She wanted to go over and pinch that cute little face, but someone blocked her way.


    She was stunned. When she saw Song Jingchen¡¯s dark face, she rubbed her nose. Her beautiful husband had become so petty.


    ¡°Young Master Song, why don¡¯t we talk somewhere else?¡± Zodar smiled and said.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and glanced at Ah Xun¡¯s height, which didn¡¯t reach his waist. He brought Zodar to the study.


    In order to prevent the Imperial Court from disregarding its reputation and interfering in Xunyang¡¯s matters, he still needed to borrow the power of the Huns for the time being. Of course, the prerequisite was that the little prince would take back the position of Chanyu.


    When only the two of them were left in the reception hall, Ah Xun walked up to Shen Yijia and looked up at her solemnly. ¡°Sister, do you want to follow me to the Royal Court?¡±


    In front of Shen Yijia, Ah Xun would always subconsciously make himself act like an ordinary child.


    The only time he did something out of line was when he couldn¡¯t help but kill Ruo Houchan.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head, not understanding why Ah Xun would ask her this question.


    However, she still refused decisively. ¡°No, I¡¯ll be wherever my husband is.¡±


    Ah Xun had long guessed that she would say that, but he was still a little disappointed when he heard that. He refused to give up and persuaded, ¡°If the emperor of the Great Xia Kingdom finds out that not only has his legs recovered, but he also came to Xunyang on his own accord, he will definitely not let him off.¡±


    ¡°Even if the emperor did not know about this, you would not be safe by his side.¡±


    ¡°But our Royal Court is different. When I take back the position of Chanyu, I¡¯ll have the final say. I can protect you.¡±


    ¡°Besides, we have a grassland. You can run horses there and eat delicious roasted meat¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia imagined the scene he was talking about and smacked her lips.


    It sounded good, but she still shook her head firmly. ¡°No, I¡¯ll be wherever my husband is.¡±


    She still had to wait for her husband to take his revenge before having children with him. How could she leave alone?


    Seeing her like this, Ah Xun knew that it was impossible for him to persuade her.


    This person looked easy to fool, but only regarding matters that didn¡¯t involve Song Jingchen.


    He sighed like a little adult. ¡°All right, then. If you suffer, or if that person bullies you, you have to come to me.¡±


    Her beautiful husband would not bully her. As for being wronged, Shen Yijia felt that no one could do it.


    Shen Yijia did not mind. However, thinking that Ah Xun had tried to convince her twice because he cared about her, she could not disrespect this little brat.


    She nodded seriously. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll look for you to play when I¡¯m free.¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, Ah Xun knew that she did not take his words to heart.


    This person was too silly. She did not know that men were the most unreliable. However, if she was not stupid, she would not have been fooled by him back then.


    He shook his head helplessly. ¡°Then, you have to remember.¡±


    After thinking about it, he was afraid that his words would scare her, so he said solemnly, ¡°But don¡¯t worry too much. I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was touched and amused by his appearance.


    She reached out to pat his head and nodded solemnly, imitating him. ¡°Okay, I¡¯m not worried.¡±


    ¡°You should go.¡± Song Jingchen had returned at some point and was staring at Shen Yijia¡¯s hand on Ah Xun¡¯s head.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She reacted and retracted her hand. She smiled and went over to hold his arm. ¡°Hubby, are you done talking?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen took her hand and held it. He looked at Ah Xun and said, ¡°You don¡¯t need me to send you out of the city, right?¡±


    Ah Xun pursed his lips. This person was really annoying. He clearly needed their help.


    Due to Ah Xun¡¯s kindness just now, Shen Yijia originally wanted to send him off. After all, she did not know when she would see him again.


    Most importantly, although she did not know what Ah Xun would face when he returned this time, the change of the royal court was not a small matter.


    He was still so young. It was quite worrying.


    However, Rooster¡¯s return prevented her from going.


    ¡°How could he be so seriously injured?¡± Shen Yijia asked in surprise.


    Just now, Mo Yuan suddenly came to report that Rooster had returned.


    Seeing that her expression was off, she and Song Jingchen followed her to Rooster¡¯s room.


    Rooster had probably been sent out at this time the day before yesterday. However, after not seeing him for two days, the man was lying on the bed covered in blood.

 Chapter 254 - Song Jingchen Is Misunderstood

    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t know. He was already like this when I saw him.¡±


    As soon as she left the mansion, she saw this person lying motionless in the corner.


    Rather than saying that Rooster came back on his own, it was more accurate to say that she picked him up.


    ¡°If you know how to use poison, do you know medicine?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Didn¡¯t they say that medicine and poison were inseparable?


    Mo Yuan glanced at Shen Yijia and nodded. She was about to go forward and examine Rooster when he slowly woke up.


    Rooster opened his eyes and met three pairs of eyes. He was stunned for a moment before reacting and getting up to greet them.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Lie down. Let Mo Yuan take a look at you first.¡±


    Mo Yuan? He was injured in his abdomen. Wouldn¡¯t he have to take off his clothes?


    At the thought of being seen naked by a woman, Rooster quickly waved his hand to refuse her approach.


    ¡°No need, no need. I¡¯m not seriously injured. I¡¯ll apply some medicine myself later.¡± He had been waiting there for two days and had not slept. He had been chased out of the city and was injured after a fight. When he saw the residence door, he could not help but collapse.


    In fact, he was not seriously injured. It was just that his wounds had not been treated in time and he was bleeding a little too much, so it looked scary.


    He did not dare to say any of this out loud. It was too embarrassing.


    Hearing his words, Song Jingchen knew that he wasn¡¯t trying to show off, so he asked, ¡°What happened? Didn¡¯t I say not to alarm that person?¡±


    At the mention of this, Rooster¡¯s face turned bitter. ¡°I followed that person out of the city. Initially, everything went fine and I wasn¡¯t discovered. Unexpectedly, that person suddenly attacked.¡±


    He suspected that the person had probably discovered him long ago and deliberately lured him out of the city.


    ¡°What about that person?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s dead.¡± Rooster lowered his head, not daring to look at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression. Then, without waiting for Song Jingchen to ask, he told him everything.


    Usually, no one would loiter at the back door of the mansion, so it was not difficult to confirm if it was the person he was waiting for.


    However, Rooster waited for two days without seeing anyone approach the tree. He thought that his master had guessed wrongly and that no one would come.


    Unexpectedly, at midnight today, a drunk man staggered out of the alley. When he reached the tree, he suddenly squatted down and vomited for a long time. After vomiting, he staggered and left.


    At first, Rooster did not react, but later on, he felt that something was wrong.


    At this moment, everyone in the city was busy rebuilding their houses. Who would have the time to drink like this? Even if this was an exception, this area was occupied by Lord An Le¡¯s residence. Could this person have specially come here to vomit?


    Thinking of this, he quickly chased after him. As expected, as soon as the drunk man left the alley at the back door of the prince¡¯s residence, he quickened his pace. He did not look drunk at all.


    He remembered Song Jingchen¡¯s words and didn¡¯t dare to catch them directly. He followed them out of the city, but he was discovered, and had to fight.


    If that was all, it would have been fine. He could have captured her and interrogated the person. Unexpectedly, that person actually hid poison in his teeth. As soon as he realized that he was no match for Rooster, he committed suicide.


    Song Jingchen frowned when he heard this. The trail of clues had been cut off again.


    It should be said that there was no progress at all.


    It had to be said that the person behind this was vigilant enough. Everyone who attacked was not given a chance to expose the mastermind, regardless of whether they succeeded or not.


    Those two servants were a good example. They were killed in advance to prevent any leaks.


    What about the other person? He had already exchanged the poisoned cup of tea. The one left behind was not poisonous.


    If he hadn¡¯t been careful, he wouldn¡¯t have discovered him at all. Unexpectedly, after the news was leaked, the other lackey also died.


    Shouldn¡¯t a normal person keep their life and find an opportunity to attack a second time?


    ¡°A disposable tool.¡± Seeing that Song Jingchen had been silent since he returned, Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but mutter.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Song Jingchen came back to his senses and asked.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and recalled what she had just said. She felt that she did not say anything wrong, so she explained, ¡°One-time use. It means that you can¡¯t use it again after using it once. You have to throw it away. Do those people look like disposable tools?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded solemnly. ¡°It¡¯s very appropriate.¡±


    If they were all like this, it would be difficult to find the person behind this. However, he had no choice but to find the culprit. Otherwise, it would become a hidden danger.


    Because of this matter, Song Jingchen locked himself in his room for a few days in a row. He would only appear if Meng Jiang or Zuo Fei had something to ask him.


    He didn¡¯t even go to Shangguan Han¡¯s side. He handed over full authority to Doctor Fang.


    It was unknown where Mo Yuan and Rooster, who had just recovered from their injuries, had gone, but they hadn¡¯t seen anyone for a few days.


    Shen Yijia was bored and could only go to Shangguan Han¡¯s courtyard every day. She was also detained in Song Jingchen¡¯s study to read.


    Because Shangguan Han had been unconscious and could not eat, Yan Tai would feed him some rice soup or chicken soup every day.


    If Shangguan Han was awake, he would realize that most of the pheasants that Song Jingchen had said he wanted to use to nourish Shen Yijia¡¯s body were used to stew soup in his stomach. As for the meat, it was naturally taken by Furball.


    Moreover, the few generals walked in and out of the residence every day.


    However, ever since the Huns retreated, Lord An Le, who usually appeared every few days, could no longer be seen. The commoners had already guessed it, so the news of Shangguan Han¡¯s accident could not be hidden at all.


    In order to cause unnecessary trouble, everyone said that Shangguan Han had only fallen sick from exhaustion and was recuperating in the residence.


    As a result, every day, commoners would spontaneously send things to the residence that they felt could nourish their bodies. The more expensive ones included precious ginseng or prey hunted by men who knew how to hunt in the mountains. The common ones might be a handful of wild vegetables.


    Butler Wan was naturally unwilling to accept it, but they just left it at the door.


    Some things would be wasted if they were not eaten. This made the food in the residence better. In Xunyang City, where most people were still hungry, the servants of Lord An Le¡¯s estate regained the weight they had lost some time ago.


    Shen Yijia originally thought that this would continue until the person Song Jingchen wanted to investigate revealed himself.


    Unexpectedly, on the seventh day after Shangguan Han fell unconscious, rumors began to spread.


    It was said that Shangguan Han was not tired at all. He was about to die, and the person who did it was Young Master Shenzhi. His goal was to gain power in Xunyang.


    After all, once Shangguan Han fell, most of the matters in Xunyang City were indeed handled by Song Jingchen, as if he was in charge.


    The rumors even described how Shangguan Han had met Young Master Shen before Shangguan Han¡¯s accident. The two of them quarreled because they had a disagreement, and how Young Master Shen fought with Shangguan Han. It was as if those people had seen it with their own eyes.


    Shen Yijia had to acknowledge that the person who poisoned Shangguan Han was Song Jingchen.


    However, she was clearly the one who hit him. Besides, wasn¡¯t that to save him?


    There was no such thing as Song Jingchen trying to usurp power. She was indignant about this. Wasn¡¯t this nonsense?

 Chapter 255 - Jiajia Protects Her Husband

    In Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, Xunyang had nothing to offer. Her beautiful husband even had to work late at night every day.


    Those people did not remember his kindness. Since they still wanted to slander him like this, how could Shen Yijia tolerate it?


    ¡°Speaking of which, who is this Young Master Shenzhi? He wears a mask all day long and doesn¡¯t show his face. Could it have been premeditated?¡±


    ¡°Who knows?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear what they said? Young Master Shenzhi might be a Hun. Otherwise, how could the Hun army retreat so easily?


    ¡°Perhaps they¡¯re just putting on an act with the Huns to win our king¡¯s trust.¡±


    ¡°Then what about His Highness? I heard that Doctor Fang hasn¡¯t developed an antidote yet. Are we really going to let outsiders make decisions in our Xunyang City?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t we still have a few generals around? No matter how powerful Young Master Shenzhi is, he¡¯s only one person. In my opinion, we should capture him and make him hand over the antidote¡­¡±


    A few vendors gathered around and talked about the rumors that had inexplicably appeared in the city these past few days.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a need for him to do that. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to let the Hun army exhaust us to death?¡± Someone couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and stood up for Young Master Shenzhi.


    In fact, if not for the food he brought back, countless people would have starved to death in the city. Not everyone would listen to the rumors.


    However, very few people dared to stand up and say anything. After all, it was their lord who was in trouble. It was not good to help anyone, so they simply kept quiet.


    Moreover, even if someone stood up and said it, they would quickly be drowned out by more voices questioning Young Master Shen.


    ¡°Are you stupid? If the Huns exhausted us to death, they can only get our empty city. It¡¯s different now. Everyone is grateful to Young Master Shen. When the time comes, he¡¯ll directly¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Before the man could finish retorting, he was kicked to the ground. He looked at the person who had kicked him angrily. He did not expect her to be a delicate young lady. He immediately blushed. ¡°Why did you hit me?¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted her foot and narrowed her eyes at the people present. Without a word, she clenched her fists and rushed forward.


    She went out without telling her beautiful husband today to see who was badmouthing him. She did not expect there to be so many people who were not afraid of death.


    She didn¡¯t even need a whip to deal with these people. Her fists felt better. She punched them one by one and hit their faces.


    ¡°You crazy woman, let¡¯s attack together¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, stop.¡±


    Soon, apart from those who spoke up for Song Jingchen, the few people surrounding him were all lying on the ground with swollen faces. The most serious one was the one who said that Young Master Shen was a spy for the Huns.


    The surrounding commoners gathered in a circle and pointed. Naturally, there were also people who went to call for the city guards.


    ¡°Who¡¯s causing trouble here? Stop quickly.¡± Soon, a group of people arrived. The leader started shouting from afar.


    When the commoners heard this voice, they made way.


    ¡°General Meng is here.¡±


    ¡°This young lady is doomed. General Meng hates such people who cause trouble in the city the most. He definitely won¡¯t let them off easily.¡±


    Shen Yijia heard the discussions of the commoners, but her hands did not stop moving. When her hands got tired, she used her legs instead.


    ¡°Stop, I told you to stop.¡± Meng Jiang did not expect anyone in the city to dare to ignore his words. He roared and wanted to go up and capture the person with his back facing him.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She turned around and kicked Meng Jiang away.


    Fortunately, the people behind Meng Jiang caught him and prevented him from falling on his face.


    There was a gasp from the crowd.


    Oh, this young lady was doomed!


    Meng Jiang covered his stomach, which felt like his internal organs had shifted. He stood up in pain and pointed at Shen Yijia. ¡°How dare you¡­¡±


    When he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s face, he stopped talking. ¡°Why is it you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s expression was serious. She was thinking about whether this nosy person could be beaten up.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Meng Jiang did not know how to address the person in front of him. He only knew that she was Young Master Shenzhi¡¯s wife. The two of them had always been inseparable.


    Thinking of something, he turned around and looked around.


    Shen Yijia snorted in disdain. ¡°Stop looking. My husband isn¡¯t here.¡±


    These people came so quickly when she was beating someone up. Why didn¡¯t they stop these people from spreading rumors? If these people could stop them, they wouldn¡¯t have caused such a commotion.


    Shen Yijia did not even look at Meng Jiang. She turned around and faced the surrounding commoners. She raised her voice and said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you bullying my husband because he¡¯s magnanimous?


    ¡°Let me tell you, that¡¯s because my husband is magnanimous. He works with integrity, and doesn¡¯t need to explain himself.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m different. Not only do I have a bad temper, but I also hate it when people badmouth my husband.¡±


    ¡°The next time I hear anyone say anything bad about my husband, I¡¯ll pull out that person¡¯s tongue.¡±


    Her words frightened the few people who wanted to go up and complain when they saw Meng Jiang. They instantly shut their mouths and did not even dare to howl in pain.


    ¡°You, this¡­¡± Meng Jiang had a bitter expression and did not know what to say. He naturally knew the rumors spreading in the city. Not only did he know, but he also vaguely suspected that Young Master Shen was behind Shangguan Han¡¯s poisoning.


    If not for Zuo Fei stopping him, he would have brought people to question him.


    Therefore, in the past few days, it was Zuo Fei who went to the prince¡¯s residence to discuss matters with Young Master Shenzhi. He was afraid that he would offend him.


    It would have been fine if he was the one who did it. If not, wouldn¡¯t he have repaid kindness with ingratitude?


    Someone in the crowd dared to ask, ¡°Who¡¯s your husband?¡±


    After asking, they wanted to avoid him if they encountered him in the future.


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly. ¡°My husband was the one who thought of a way to block the Huns¡¯ harassment for you.¡±


    ¡°He risked his life to rob the food from the Huns for you.¡±


    ¡°He helped you facilitate the retreat of the Huns.¡±


    ¡°In the end, he even had to endure you slandering him.¡±


    The more she spoke, the more aggrieved Shen Yijia felt. She was so angry that she kicked those people again.


    As she kicked, he could not help but complain, ¡°If not for my husband, you would have long starved to death or died under the blades of the Huns.


    ¡°How can you still be alive to make sarcastic remarks? Did my husband save you so that you could slander him?¡± she thought.


    ¡°In that case, I¡¯ll kill all of you ingrates now and pretend that my husband never saved you.¡± she thought.


    ¡°You heartless things!¡±


    The commoners blushed at her sarcasm. Many people who had badmouthed Song Jingchen lowered their heads in shame.


    Actually, they didn¡¯t have any bad intentions. They were just too ignorant.


    Now that they had been slapped in the face by Shen Yijia¡¯s words, they all started to reflect in their hearts.


    ¡°Jiajia.¡±

 Chapter 256 - Jiajia Wants to Beat Them Up Again

    A cold voice came from behind the crowd. Shen Yijia¡¯s anger was instantly extinguished when she heard this voice.


    She retracted her feet guiltily and lowered her head to stand up straight.


    The commoners consciously stepped aside, revealing the masked man standing outside the crowd.


    Shen Yijia stole a glance at the person who was slowly approaching her. Her hands kept twisting the hem of her clothes.


    She had clearly lied to her beautiful husband and said that she wanted to see Shangguan Han. How did she get caught?


    Just as she thought this, someone grabbed her hand and rubbed her head a few times.


    Shen Yijia looked up in a daze and met a pair of smiling eyes.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Her beautiful husband didn¡¯t blame her for lying? She relaxed and couldn¡¯t help but smile. She said sweetly, ¡°Hubby, I didn¡¯t hit anyone.¡±


    She pointed at the people lying on the ground and said seriously, ¡°They fell on their own. I was about to ask them if they wanted me to help them up, right?¡±


    When she looked at the people on the ground, Shen Yijia was still smiling and winked at them.


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes. We fell ourselves.¡±


    ¡°No need to help us. We can get up on our own.¡±


    The few of them shivered under her gaze and helped each other get up.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled up into a beautiful smile. When he turned to look at the people who had just stood up, his eyes were already cold.


    ¡°General Meng, didn¡¯t you say that there are too many wastelands outside Xunyang City that no one farms?


    ¡°I think these people are quite free. Food is scarce in the city. If we open up the wasteland now, we can use it to farm next spring.¡±


    Meng Jiang was stunned. He wanted to say that even if those wastelands were opened, they wouldn¡¯t be able to grow anything, but when Song Jingchen glanced at him, he immediately fell silent.


    Meng Jiang also remembered what Zuo Fei and Shen Yijia said.


    He glared at those people and scolded, ¡°Young Master Shenzhi is right. I think you¡¯re just too free, that¡¯s why you¡¯re gossiping here.¡±


    After cursing, he turned to the surrounding commoners. ¡°Also, aren¡¯t you busy enough with the matters in the city? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°In the future, if I hear any of you say that His Highness was harmed by Young Master Shenzhi, I¡¯ll kidnap all of you and bring you to the wasteland outside the city.¡±


    There was still no movement from his subordinates, they all stood there in a daze.


    He smacked the back of the head of the person beside him angrily. ¡°What are you waiting for? Tie these people up and throw them outside the city to work on the fields.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and didn¡¯t refute. He looked at Shen Yijia and said in a low voice, ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not expect her beautiful husband to see it. Moreover, he was so powerful. She happily held his hand and shook it. ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Her home was wherever her husband was.


    She did not know why her beautiful husband had arrived so quickly, but when she saw South Wind waiting at the side, she reacted and narrowed her eyes at him.


    ¡°Hmph, how dare you accuse me? You¡¯re doomed.¡± she thought.


    South Wind¡¯s face instantly fell, and he looked aggrieved. ¡°It¡¯s really not my fault. Master was the one who took the initiative to ask. It was his fault for coincidentally seeing Young Madam leave the residence. Would I dare to lie to Master?¡± he thought.


    Now, he had offended the young madam instead of his master.


    He glanced at the bruised and battered men and couldn¡¯t help but touch his face.


    Young Madam seemed to be even more terrifying than Young Master. She always attacked directly before asking questions.


    When the two of them returned to the residence, Song Jingchen personally brought over water to wash Shen Yijia¡¯s hands. ¡°If they want to say it, let them. It won¡¯t affect me much. My original intention wasn¡¯t to save them.¡±


    He had long seen through these things. His grandfather had protected the people of Great Xia all his life.


    At first, there were still people who praised him, but once someone tried to sow discord, the commoners started to make sarcastic remarks.


    This was human nature.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks angrily. She pushed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand away and turned her back to him. ¡°What do you mean by that? Anyway, it¡¯s a fact that you saved them.¡±


    She huffed and continued. ¡°You don¡¯t care, but I do. I can¡¯t even bear to say anything bad about you. Why should they say it? If I hear it again, I¡¯ll beat them up again.¡±


    There was a moment of silence behind her. Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen was angry, but she didn¡¯t expect a warm and broad chest to press against her back.


    Song Jingchen wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his chin on the top of Shen Yijia¡¯s head. He chuckled and said, ¡°Alright, if you don¡¯t like it, I won¡¯t let them have the chance to badmouth me in the future.¡±


    Although Shen Yijia had said such straightforward words of protection many times, Song Jingchen still felt his heart skip a beat every time he heard them.


    Hearing his words, Shen Yijia grinned. She looked down at Song Jingchen¡¯s hand on her abdomen and turned around to hug his waist. She muttered, ¡°That¡¯s more like it. Why should we let others slander us for something we didn¡¯t do?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and narrowed his eyes.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Why should I let others distort the truth when I haven¡¯t done anything? However, it¡¯s not so easy to clear up the slander of some people.¡± he thought.


    In a dilapidated courtyard in Xunyang City, a person covered in black robes paced back and forth in frustration in a dark room.


    It was indeed the Daylily Powder in Lord An Le¡¯s body, but why was he still alive after so long?


    He turned to look at a corpse on the bed. It was also poisoned with Carefree Powder and had the same symptoms, but this person died four hours after taking it.


    If Shen Yijia was here, she would definitely recognize that the dead person was the servant who had bumped into her.


    The man paced as he pondered. This should be the normal medicinal effect of the Daylily Powder. What went wrong?


    Unfortunately, his understanding of this poison was too limited. He did not know how to concoct it at all, and the medicine given by that person had already been used up.


    Moreover, it seemed that there was only one person guarding Lord An Le, but there were spies everywhere, waiting for him to fall into their trap. Therefore, he could not find a chance to attack again.


    He originally wanted to use the rumors to arouse the anger of the people and restrain Young Master Shen. At the very least, he wanted to chase him out of Xunyang City, but he did not expect a woman to overturn all those rumors.


    How could he not be anxious?


    At the end of September, it was almost October. The weather was getting colder. After dinner, Shen Yijia called South Wind to the courtyard with the excuse that they were going to warm up.


    ¡°Young Madam, I admit defeat¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her chin. ¡°How can a man admit defeat even before fighting?¡±


    She turned to look at Song Jingchen, who was standing under the porch.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re afraid before the battle.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s it.¡±


    Her beautiful husband was indeed smart.


    South Wind said with a bitter expression, ¡°Master, why did you¡­¡± He let Young Madam do what she wanted, without even thinking twice about why South Wind offended her in the first place.

 Chapter 257 - : Exposed

    Song Jingchen received South Wind¡¯s resentful gaze and coughed lightly. ¡°There¡¯s no harm in sparring. It¡¯s helpful in improving your skills.¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want to.¡± South Wind thought.


    It no longer mattered whether he wanted to or not, because Shen Yijia¡¯s small fist was already swinging at his face, bringing with it a strong wind.


    South Wind was shocked. He had only seen Shen Yijia attack before. This was the first time he had faced it himself. If her fist hit his face, his teeth would break, right? He quickly dodged.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°You¡¯ll get beaten up if you continue to daydream.¡±


    She would let him dodge the first punch on account of her beautiful husband, but she still had to get her share back.


    There was a moment of silence.


    In Shangguan Han¡¯s room in the main courtyard, Yan Tai sat by the bed and dozed off bit by bit.


    Suddenly, a dark figure approached the door. The person gently pushed it open a crack and was about to step across the threshold when a sharp voice sounded behind him.


    ¡°Oh, Doctor Fang. Why are you here so late at night?¡± This voice belonged to Butler Wan.


    Yan Tai immediately woke up and looked out.


    Through the half-open door, he could see the two people outside. One was at the door, and the other was under the eaves. He quickly got up to welcome them.


    Doctor Fang cupped his hands and said, ¡°I was worried about His Highness, so I came to take a look. In addition, there have been some developments recently, so I want to check his pulse again.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so considerate.¡± Butler Wan smiled and instructed Yan Tai, ¡°Hurry up and invite Doctor Fang in.¡±


    ¡°Here, Doctor Fang.¡± Yan Tai quickly bowed and made way.


    Doctor Fang did as he said. After checking Shangguan Han¡¯s pulse, he bade farewell and left.


    Manager Wan watched him leave and knocked Yan Tai¡¯s forehead angrily. ¡°I asked you to guard His Highness. Is this how you guard him?¡±


    Fortunately, it was Doctor Fang who came this time. If it was someone with ulterior motives, they would have gotten away with harming His Highness.


    Yan Tai pounded his head in frustration. ¡°Butler Wan, I won¡¯t do it again.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll help you guard His Highness for the night. Go back to your room and rest.¡± Butler Wan waved his hand.


    Yan Tai glanced at Shangguan Han on the bed, then at Butler Wan. He hesitated and said, ¡°This isn¡¯t good, right?¡±


    Young Master Shenzhi had said that he wanted him to stay by his lord¡¯s side.


    Seeing him like this, Butler Wan kicked him angrily and scolded jokingly, ¡°You brat, how can I harm His Highness?


    ¡°I¡¯ve been with His Highness for longer than you. Anyone else can harm His Highness, but it¡¯s impossible for me.¡±


    Although he said that, he was not angry. Instead, he felt very gratified. If the people around His Highness were all so loyal, they would not have fallen to such a state.


    Yan Tai scratched his head and felt that Butler Wan¡¯s words made sense. However, he still reminded him worriedly, ¡°Butler Wan, remember to get someone to call me if you¡¯re tired. Don¡¯t let anyone take advantage of the situation.¡±


    ¡°Got it. Go, go.¡± Butler Wan waved his hand impatiently.


    After Yan Tai left, Butler Wan closed the door and walked to the bed. He looked at Shangguan Han and sighed. ¡°Your Highness, you have to wake up quickly.¡±


    He bent down and tucked him in. He seemed to have thought of something and paused, frowning in thought.


    Some people could not sleep the entire night, but Shen Yijia returned to her room to sleep in a good mood after beating South Wind up.


    South Wind, who was left alone with his face covered and his back hunched, was in a mess in the wind. Where was the sparring? Other than the first punch that he dodged, the rest of the punches landed on him, not giving him any chance to fight back.


    ¡°Hubby, have you forgotten something?¡± Shen Yijia lay on the inner side and smacked her lips as she looked at Song Jingchen, who was leaning against the side and reading.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look up and asked casually, ¡°What is it?¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and leaned forward to snatch the book from his hand. She leaned half of her body against his chest and looked at him accusingly. ¡°How could you forget? Tell me, do you have a dog outside?¡±


    ¡°A dog?¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen was stunned and said in confusion, ¡°I don¡¯t have a dog. Our family only has one Furball, and you brought it back.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god!¡± she thought.


    She felt that such a serious husband was so cute.


    She didn¡¯t care if Song Jingchen remembered or not. She pounced on him and bit his lips.


    A smile appeared in Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. He reached out and hugged the little vixen. He turned around and pressed her under him, taking the initiative to deepen the kiss.


    The room was filled with fragrance. The temperature in the room gradually rose. Song Jingchen looked up at the person whose face was red and whose entire body was soft, looking seductive.


    His eyes darkened. He was about to make his next move when someone suddenly knocked on the door.


    Song Jingchen felt as if someone had poured a basin of cold water on him and instantly woke up. He smiled bitterly and retracted his hand from Shen Yijia¡¯s waist. He kissed her forehead and coaxed her softly, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve already given you what you wanted today. Sleep first. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded obediently like a satisfied cat. ¡°Alright.¡±


    After they left, Shen Yijia hammered her head in frustration. In the beginning, she was the one on top. Why did she seem to have lost her soul when she touched her beautiful husband¡¯s lips?


    ¡°No, I have to be on top next time. I have to suppress him!¡± she thought.


    South Wind stood outside the door and waited for someone to open it.


    He carefully glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression.


    Good. It was as dark as he¡¯d expected.


    Song Jingchen sat in the study and poured himself a cup of cold tea. He took a sip and said, ¡°Speak.¡±


    South Wind suspected that his master wanted to say, ¡°If there¡¯s nothing important, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson.¡±


    He estimated that what he was about to say was not a small matter, so he boldly recounted the news from the main courtyard.


    ¡°Yan Tai, Butler Wan, Doctor Fang.¡± Song Jingchen knocked on the table with his fingers and said three names.


    ¡°Who do you think is most likely to be that person?¡±


    Not expecting his master to ask him, Nan Feng was stunned. After some thought, he said, ¡°I think Doctor Fang is the most likely candidate.¡±


    Doctor Fang was a doctor. Usually, no one would suspect him when he came into contact with medicine.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t express his stance on his answer. He only threw out another question. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t he make a move in the past? Why did he have to do it now?¡±


    ¡°Perhaps he feels that His Highness is a threat now,¡± South Wind braced himself and replied.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. That¡¯s right. He felt that Shangguan Han was a threat, so he had to get rid of him quickly. As expected of someone from the royal family.


    As for why the person he originally didn¡¯t take seriously became a threat, Song Jingchen looked down at his legs.


    There was a moment of silence.


    At dawn, the servants of the prince¡¯s residence had already gotten up and started working.


    ¡°Doctor Fang, where are you going so early in the morning?¡±


    ¡°Has he been too sweet these past few days?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    He should just say it, since they would only get more intimate in the future.

 Chapter 258 - Mr. Mo Xu?

    Doctor Fang was about to go out with a medicine basket on his back when the people he met greeted him. He was Lord An Le¡¯s exclusive physician.


    However, since he had a heart to help others, he would treat anyone in the residence who was sick or in pain, so everyone respected him.


    Doctor Fang nodded and said, ¡°How many medicinal herbs do you have? I¡¯ll go to the mountains outside the city and see if I can find them.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to do this yourself. Tell me what that medicine looks like. I¡¯ll help you pick it,¡± the servant said ingratiatingly. He had accidentally fallen and broken his leg. It was Doctor Fang who treated him.


    ¡°No need. These herbs are relatively rare. I¡¯ll be at ease if I go personally.¡± Doctor Fang refused with a smile. After saying that, he continued walking out of the residence.


    ¡°Good morning, Doctor Fang.¡±


    ¡°Doctor Fang.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    No matter who greeted him, Doctor Fang nodded at them one by one. This was also part of the reason why everyone had a good impression of him. He would never take advantage of his seniority to look down on servants like them.


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia up from the bed. She looked at the light coming in from the window. It was still dim. She couldn¡¯t help but mutter, ¡°It¡¯s not right to steal chickens at this time.¡±


    Shouldn¡¯t she be stealing chickens and dogs at night?


    Song Jingchen was speechless. What kind of nonsense was this girl thinking about all day?


    He took the clothes at the side and helped her put them on one by one. He also wet the handkerchief and wrung out the water to help her clean her face. She still looked like she was half-asleep.


    He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t you sleep a little longer? I¡¯ll go alone¡­¡±


    Hearing the word ¡°alone¡±, Shen Yijia opened her eyes and looked at Song Jingchen with a burning gaze. ¡°I¡¯m not tired anymore. I¡¯ve slept enough. Where are you going? I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. He picked her up by the waist and placed her on the stool in front of the dressing table. He took a comb and combed her hair.


    This was different from the feeling of Mo Yuan combing her hair. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened as she asked curiously, ¡°Hubby, who have you combed your hair for in the past?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused and deliberately teased her. ¡°Both men and women. Which one are you asking about?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t he have said that he only combed her hair for her? Since there are men and women, no, there¡¯s actually a woman.¡±


    She frowned. ¡°A woman.¡±


    Song Jingchen helped her tie her hair into a bun that looked a little like a man¡¯s. Her black hair was only secured with a wooden hairpin. After doing this, he said, ¡°Sister Huan, you saw it back then.¡±


    He was talking about when they were in Xiagou Village. Sister Huan asked Shen Yijia to help her comb her hair, but Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know how to do it. It was Song Jingchen who helped her comb her hair.


    As soon as he said that, Shen Yijia remembered. Realizing that she had been tricked by him again, she gritted her teeth angrily.


    After she cleaned up, Song Jingchen took out a paper bag from somewhere and stuffed it into her hand. ¡°It¡¯s still early. Eat something to fill your stomach first.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll eat a proper meal when we get back.¡±


    Shen Yijia opened the paper bag and saw a fragrant roasted drumstick inside. The corners of her mouth twitched. This was better than she expected.


    Doctor Fang walked to the city gate and rented a carriage to leave the city. When he reached the foot of Mount Qingyuan, which was the closest to Xunyang City, he asked the coachman to stop the carriage.


    ¡°Doctor Fang, do you want me to wait for you here?¡± The coachman jumped out of the carriage and moved a stool for Doctor Fang to step on.


    Doctor Fang recited the medicine again and shook his head with a smile. ¡°I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll be able to find the medicinal herbs I need this time. I won¡¯t trouble you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk back later,¡± he said.


    ¡°Hey, take care of yourself. I have to come here again at this time tomorrow. If you¡¯re done by then, I¡¯ll pick you up.¡±


    Doctor Fang usually went into the mountains to pick herbs from time to time for a day or two. The coachman was used to it. He expressed his concern and drove the carriage away.


    As he watched the carriage leave, Doctor Fang let go of his sleeve and shook his head. ¡°Forget it, forget it. I¡¯ve committed enough sins. Let him live.¡±


    He looked away and narrowed his eyes at the road up the mountain.


    From afar, his back looked solemn.


    South Wind was left behind to guard Shangguan Han, while Song Jingchen rode out of the city with Shen Yijia.


    At the city gate, they met Mo Yuan and Rooster. To be precise, these two people had specially waited for them here.


    ¡°Master, Young Madam.¡±


    ¡°Miss, Young Master.¡±


    The two of them greeted him in unison.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the two of them and snuggled back into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms to catch up on her sleep.


    Song Jingchen looked at the two of them, but Mo Yuan looked at Rooster for a reply.


    Rooster rubbed his nose. ¡°I¡¯ve found it. Only Qingyuan Mountain nearby has the most important herbs to concoct the Daylily Powder. Moreover, Mo Yuan and I have discovered traces of people living on that mountain these past few days. In order to avoid alerting the enemy, we didn¡¯t approach.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Lead the way.¡±


    The three horses galloped out, kicking up dust.


    When they were about to approach the foot of Mount Qingyuan, they passed by a green cloth carriage.


    Song Jingchen glanced at the carriage and frowned. He waved his whip, and the horse roared and suddenly sped up.


    After all, Doctor Fang was old. When he reached his destination, his legs were already weak.


    In front of him was a small courtyard surrounded by a fence. The courtyard was surrounded by three wooden houses. He stood still and straightened his robe. When his breathing eased, he went forward and knocked on the fence door.


    Soon, a child walked out. He cupped his hands at Doctor Fang and extended his hand.


    Doctor Fang nodded and followed him into the courtyard. He stopped at the door of the wooden house in the middle.


    The child went forward and knocked twice. After waiting for two breaths, a deep voice came from inside. ¡°Come in.¡±


    The child pushed open the door and led Doctor Fang in. He closed the door behind him.


    There was a black gauze curtain hanging around the wooden house. It was dark inside, and one could only vaguely see a person sitting on a futon in the middle. There was a strong medicinal smell lingering in the air.


    It was clearly not Doctor Fang¡¯s first time here, so he was not surprised to see this scene. After the child took out a futon and placed it in front of the person, Doctor Fang went forward and knelt down. ¡°Mr. Mo Xu, I¡¯m useless.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here today for the medicine. I have something to ask you.¡±


    ¡°What? Did you fail again? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been by Lord An Le¡¯s side for too long and have forgotten your identity.¡± The man called Mr. Mo Xu glanced at him coldly.


    Doctor Fang knelt down in fear. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. I¡¯ve already succeeded, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡± Mo Xu looked at the child. The child took out a porcelain bottle and placed it in front of Doctor Fang.


    Doctor Fang heaved a sigh of relief and deliberated for a moment before saying, ¡°This is also what I don¡¯t understand. Why is it that after Lord An Le was poisoned with the Daylily Powder, he was different from the others and simply fell unconscious.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Mo Xu stood up and said in surprise, ¡°What did you say?¡±

 Chapter 259 - Jiajia Takes Action, Defeating the Enemy in One Move

    Doctor Fang was stunned and looked at Mo Xu in confusion.


    This was not the first time he had seen Mr. Mo Xu, but this person had always given off an unfathomable feeling. His words were unhurried, let alone his emotions.


    The child, who was originally standing behind Doctor Fang, silently walked to the side and poured a cup of tea. He handed it over and said respectfully, ¡°Sir, have some tea.¡±


    Only then did Mo Xu realize that he had lost his composure. He took a sip of the tea and placed it back in the child¡¯s hand.


    He sat back on the futon and said in a low voice, ¡°Tell me what happened.¡±


    Doctor Fang suppressed the strange feeling in his heart and explained Shangguan Han¡¯s situation in detail.


    When he finished, Mo Xu scolded, ¡°Idiot, he wasn¡¯t poisoned with the Daylily Powder at all.¡±


    He seemed to have thought of something and shook his head repeatedly. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. It¡¯s impossible for anyone else in this world to make that medicine, but that person¡­¡±


    Suddenly, the teacup in the child¡¯s hand fell to the ground with a shattering sound. Mo Xu stopped talking.


    The child knelt down in a panic and begged for forgiveness. ¡°Sir, I didn¡¯t do it on purpose¡­¡±


    Mo Xu glanced at him and said indifferently, ¡°Get up. Just clean it up.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    When Doctor Fang heard about the Daylily Powder, he could not care less and hurriedly asked, ¡°Mr. Mo Xu, you mean our people did not succeed at all? Then who is the person you¡¯re talking about?¡±


    When he said this, his heart felt as if it had fallen into a cold lake. It was bone-chilling.


    It would have been fine if that person was on their side, but wouldn¡¯t he have fallen into someone else¡¯s trap?


    Mo Xu¡¯s eyes turned cold and he did not mention that person. He warned, ¡°You just have to do what Young Master instructed you to do. It¡¯s best not to ask about things that you shouldn¡¯t know.¡±


    Doctor Fang felt a chill down his spine and cold sweat broke out on his forehead. He said in a trembling voice, ¡°Yes, yes. I won¡¯t disappoint you.¡±


    ¡°Alright, go back. Remember, you only have one last chance.¡± Mo Xu waved his hand to chase him away.


    Doctor Fang stood up trembling. Just as he was about to cup his hands and bid farewell, the child squatting on the ground to pick up the broken porcelain pieces suddenly looked at the door and shouted, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a silver needle flew out of Mo Xu¡¯s hand and shot through the wooden door.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and was about to dodge when Song Jingchen, who was standing beside her, grabbed her waist and rushed back.


    The wooden door opened with a bang, and the three people in the house walked out one after another.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Did I disturb you?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose innocently.


    ¡°You, you¡­¡± Doctor Fang saw the people standing in the courtyard and fell to the ground in fear.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the three people who came out and looked at Doctor Fang. She waved at him. ¡°Haha, what a coincidence. Doctor Fang, you¡¯re here too?¡±


    She looked very surprised.


    However, Doctor Fang only had one thought in his mind. It was over.


    It was unknown if it was because he was frightened or because he was old, but his eyes rolled back and he fainted.


    There were clearly four people standing in the courtyard, but Mo Xu¡¯s eyes were fixed on Shen Yijia. This face¡­


    He asked in surprise, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    It was just an ordinary-looking middle-aged man. She did not know him.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and didn¡¯t answer. She turned to look at Song Jingchen and smiled awkwardly. ¡°I really didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡±


    She only scratched an itch. Who knew that the person inside was so vigilant? That stern shout also shocked her.


    Song Jingchen did not miss Mo Xu¡¯s gaze and pulled her behind him. He said, ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Judging from Doctor Fang¡¯s attitude towards him, this Mo Xu¡¯s status was definitely not ordinary.


    Moreover, these people¡¯s words were vague. Even if he listened from the outside, he would not hear anything useful.


    Therefore, whether they were discovered or not did not affect the overall situation. In any case, they were all people who were about to die.


    Only then did Mo Xu size up the masked man in front of him. He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Should I call you Young Master Shen or Noble Heir Song?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem surprised that he knew his identity. He only said indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s the difference?¡±


    Mo Xu sneered. ¡°Of course. Noble Heir Song shouldn¡¯t be standing, let alone appearing in Xunyang.¡±


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°So?¡±


    Mo Xu subconsciously moved a few steps closer to the child. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that Emperor Chong¡¯an will find out about you?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled mockingly and said firmly, ¡°Your young master wouldn¡¯t want that, would he?¡±


    Before the mastermind obtained the private army, he would not let Song Jingchen die.


    Not only that, but the mastermind would also help him hide the matter of the private army. Otherwise, if Emperor Chong¡¯an found out, he would lose more than he gained.


    The greedier a person was, the more they wanted. Little did they know that they were giving their opponents a chance. The incident in Xunyang was a good example.


    Mo Xu¡¯s eyes sharpened. ¡°You know my young master well, but unfortunately, you don¡¯t know me well.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, three silver needles flew out of his hand and towards Song Jingchen¡¯s vital points.


    Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia and dodged. Three silver needles were nailed to the wooden fence behind them. The silver needles were black all over, and it was obvious that they were poisonous.


    The moment they dodged, Mo Xu pulled the child and ran back to the wooden house.


    Unexpectedly, after running a few steps, there was a whooshing sound behind him, and something wrapped around Mo Xu¡¯s neck.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and dragged him back with one end of the whip.


    Mo Xu fell to the ground and tried to open his eyes. He glared at Shen Yijia with a red face. ¡°You¡¯d better let me go.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all you¡¯ve got?¡± Shen Yijia blinked in disbelief. She thought that they were going to fight, but she did not expect this.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead and reminded her helplessly, ¡°Be careful, don¡¯t let him use poison.¡±


    It was obvious that this person was proficient in poison. He spent all his time making poison, so his martial arts skills were naturally not good.


    He was probably the best at using silver needles, and he had practiced it to make it easier to poison people.


    Mo Xu did not know what Song Jingchen was thinking. Otherwise, he would not have said that Song Jingchen did not understand him.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia humbly accepted his advice and retracted the soft whip in her hand.


    Joy flashed across Mo Xu¡¯s face. Just as he was about to get up, he cried out in pain and looked at his hands with a twisted expression.


    His palms were firmly nailed to the ground by two daggers.


    He looked up at Shen Yijia ferociously. She bared her teeth at him, but she said to Song Jingchen, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about him poisoning you now, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Mo Xu was no longer as calm as before. His eyes were filled with fear. If he could not use poison, he was basically crippled.


    At this moment, Mo Yuan returned with the child who had sneaked away. She threw him beside Mo Xu and stood behind Shen Yijia expressionlessly.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to die, tell me who the young master you¡¯re talking about is.¡± Shen Yijia paused at the thought of something. She pursed her lips and asked, ¡°And who was the person you mentioned inside just now?¡±

 Chapter 260 - The Real and Fake Mo Xu, Jiajia

    When she was outside just now, she noticed that Mo Yuan¡¯s expression had clearly changed when she heard him mention that only that person in the world could make that medicine.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s name was given by her mistress, and Mo Xu¡¯s surname was also Mo.


    Perhaps Mo Yuan¡¯s young lady was that person. Perhaps she could help her find out something.


    Mo Xu was stunned. He subconsciously looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s face and stammered, ¡°I really don¡¯t know who Young Master is¡­ I¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Where¡¯s that person? You know about him, right?¡±


    ¡°That person. She¡¯s¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. She was about to urge him not to dawdle when the person who was fine just now suddenly twitched and spat out blood.


    Mo Yuan went forward and checked his pulse. ¡°He¡¯s dead.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked and turned to look at the child closest to Mo Xu. The child shrank under her gaze and hurriedly waved his hand. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t kill him. I- I don¡¯t know anything.¡±


    ¡°He only asked me to take care of his meals every day. I¡¯m not allowed to ask about anything else¡­¡±


    ¡°When did you start living here with him?¡± Song Jingchen, who had been silent, suddenly asked.


    The child thought for a moment before saying uncertainly, ¡°Two months ago.¡±


    As if worried that Song Jingchen would kill him too, he hurriedly explained, ¡°He bought me from some human traffickers and I followed him here.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s usually just the two of us. Doctor Fang came three times in the middle. Every time he came, he would take the medicine and leave. I really don¡¯t know anything else.¡±


    ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°In that case, you¡¯re responsible for the Huns¡¯ invasion of Xunyang? Mr. Mo Xu.¡±


    The child¡¯s pupils constricted. He suddenly jumped up from the ground and a dagger appeared in his hand. He quickly rushed towards Shen Yijia.


    It was so fast that Shen Yijia was still stunned by Song Jingchen¡¯s words. When she saw something coming at her, she subconsciously reached out to block it.


    A silver light flashed in front of her eyes, and the sound of a sharp blade cutting through flesh exploded in her ears.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked down.


    Fortunately, she was fine. The voice didn¡¯t come from her.


    ¡°When¡­ did you see through it?¡± The child, the real Mo Xu, looked at Song Jingchen in disbelief.


    A line of blood on his neck was especially glaring.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. Without looking at him, he pulled Shen Yijia and left.


    Mo Yuan and Rooster looked at each other. One of them carried Doctor Fang, and the other confirmed that Mo Xu was not breathing before following.


    Song Jingchen walked too quickly, and Shen Yijia had to jog to catch up. She shook Song Jingchen¡¯s hand timidly. ¡°Hubby, hubby?¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored her.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to be in a daze. Isn¡¯t this too surprising?¡±


    ¡°Besides, aren¡¯t you here?¡±


    When she said the last sentence, her voice was as soft as a mosquito¡¯s. Clearly, she was not confident enough to say these words.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and said in a low voice, ¡°I don¡¯t blame you.¡±


    He only blamed himself for not protecting her well and almost hurting her. All of this was because he was too arrogant and had clearly seen through that person¡­


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to mention what had happened just now. He suddenly stopped and asked, ¡°Are you tired?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°Huh? I¡¯m not tired.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to hear her. He squatted down in front of her and said firmly, ¡°Come. I¡¯ll carry you down the mountain.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I understand. There¡¯s a kind of tiredness called ¡®hubby thinks you¡¯re tired¡¯.¡±


    She obediently got on Song Jingchen¡¯s back and wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Song Jingchen carried her for a while. Shen Yijia stayed silent. He was used to this girl chattering in his ear, so he wasn¡¯t used to it.


    He shook the person on his back and asked, ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and placed her head on Song Jingchen¡¯s shoulder. She said uncomfortably, ¡°I was wondering how you knew that the child was Mo Xu.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. What happened just now really didn¡¯t affect her at all. He thought this girl was thinking about how dangerous it was.


    He spat out the words. ¡°Guess.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and whispered in his ear, ¡°Will there be a reward if I guess correctly?¡±


    For example, letting her press against him once or showing her his abs.


    ¡°No.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t fall for her trick.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia shrugged. ¡°If I guess correctly, I¡¯ll reward you.¡±


    She would give him the rewards that she herself wanted.


    Shen Yijia raised her head and laughed. She was too smart.


    She couldn¡¯t help but laugh when she imagined the expression Song Jingchen would have when she suggested this reward to him.


    She lay on Song Jingchen¡¯s back alone and laughed until her entire body trembled.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Just now, she was worried that he would be angry, but now, she was laughing so much. As expected, this was Shen Yijia. She had been serious for less than two hours.


    Although he didn¡¯t know what she was up to, Song Jingchen made up his mind not to take the bait. It wasn¡¯t a good thing.


    ¡°Can we do that?¡±


    ¡°Please?¡±


    ¡°Hubby? Shenzhi?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent the rest of the way. Shen Yijia kept pestering him to agree to her conditions.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed as he said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled and let go of Song Jingchen¡¯s cheek. She wrapped her arms around his neck again and started talking at length. ¡°Because when we were eavesdropping outside the house, the man was about to reveal that person¡¯s identity, but the real Mo Xu threw his teacup to the ground and stopped him.


    ¡°Also, if he¡¯s really just a servant who was bought, there¡¯s no need for the man to pull him along when he escapes. He¡¯s clearly subconsciously protecting his master, just like how Mo Yuan treated me and how Rooster treats you.¡±


    ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°Even Doctor Fang is so humble in front of him, which means that this person¡¯s status is definitely not low. If he¡¯s really Mo Xu, how could he not know who his master is?¡± However, it seemed that Doctor Fang probably did not know that the Mo Xu he talked to was not the real Mo Xu.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. This girl wasn¡¯t stupid.


    How could he have known that Shen Yijia had worked so many of her brain cells to death just for her reward?


    Seeing that he did not retort, Shen Yijia knew that she had guessed correctly. She thought of something and asked, ¡°Do you know who their master is?¡±


    She saw that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem curious about this at all.


    Speaking of this, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    However, they had yet to find any evidence. Besides¡­


    ¡°Ah, quick, bring me food.¡± In the Wang residence, Shangguan Han shouted as soon as he woke up.


    He felt that he could eat a cow now.


    For a moment, the servants of the prince¡¯s residence were ordered around by Butler Wan. At the same time, the news that the prince had woken up spread.

 Chapter 261 - Jiajia Tricked Song Jingchen

    Song Jingchen was doing this because he had promised not to give others a chance to badmouth him. Otherwise, he would not have bothered doing this in the past.


    ¡°Cousin, you didn¡¯t tell me that I had to lie down for a few days.¡± Shangguan Han finished the meal that Butler Wan had asked someone to serve before looking at Song Jingchen accusingly.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°That person in your residence was too well hidden.¡±


    He did not expect Doctor Fang to endure for so long.


    He threw a booklet to Shangguan Han. ¡°The names on it were all given by Doctor Fang. I¡¯ve gotten someone to lock them up. You can decide how to deal with them.¡±


    It was impossible for him to do everything for Shangguan Han. He had to grow up and take charge.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s face fell. He had been on guard, but he did not expect someone to take advantage of him. If not for his sister-in-law¡¯s accidental discovery, he probably would not have known how he died.


    Song Jingchen had no intention of comforting him. After saying that, he stood up and prepared to leave with Shen Yijia. He thought of something and paused. ¡°You¡¯d better get Butler Wan to leave the residence now and help you bring a doctor to the residence.¡±


    ¡°Why? What happened? Did someone fall sick?¡± Shangguan Han asked Song Jingchen as he left.


    The latter did not turn around as if he had not heard him.


    As expected, at night, there was news from the main courtyard that Shangguan Han had a stomachache. Butler Wan hurriedly went to look for a doctor.


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed when she heard this. She glanced at the person beside her and pursed her lips.


    He could have reminded Shangguan Han from the beginning, but he simply waited until Shangguan Han finished eating.


    It was only because Butler Wan was too excited about Shangguan Han¡¯s awakening that he became careless. Otherwise, he would definitely not have neglected this point.


    ¡°It¡¯s your turn to make a move.¡± Song Jingchen looked up from the book and knocked on the chessboard to remind her.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head and stared at the chessboard for a long time. She really wanted to beat herself up for asking Song Jingchen to play chess with her two hours ago.


    Thinking of something, her eyes lit up. She grabbed her horse chess piece and ate the other party¡¯s pawn.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and the corners of his eyes twitched. He corrected her, ¡°You¡¯ve taken the wrong step. The horse can¡¯t move into that area.¡±


    Shen Yijia hurriedly stopped Song Jingchen from putting the two chess pieces back in their original positions and explained seriously, ¡°My horse is different from yours. Mine is a thousand-kilometer horse. Of course it can walk there.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her shameless appearance and the corners of his mouth twitched. He endured it.


    He was the one who spoiled his wife. It was impossible for him to not give in.


    However, Shen Yijia was clearly not someone who knew when to stop. After taking this step, it was as if her path had been cleared.


    She killed all of Song Jingchen¡¯s chess pieces along the way.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°You can¡¯t cross the river with the elephant chess piece.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and said seriously, ¡°Mine is a small flying elephant. It can fly. Isn¡¯t it normal to fly over?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    This was his precious wife. He couldn¡¯t hit her.


    There was no need for Song Jingchen to remind her what each piece did. Shen Yijia explained herself with every step she took.


    ¡°This soldier of mine is a scout. He has to report back after scouting for information about the enemy.¡±


    Where did this information come from? Song Jingchen was numb. He couldn¡¯t be bothered to look up. He casually took a step forward and turned the situation around.


    Fifteen minutes later, a chess piece ate Song Jingchen¡¯s chess piece on the chessboard. Shen Yijia jumped up from her stool in surprise. ¡°I won.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples and couldn¡¯t take it anymore. ¡°That chess piece was mine.¡±


    He did not believe that Shen Yijia could come up with any other excuses.


    Shen Yijia paused and bared her teeth. She raised her chin and said proudly, ¡°You didn¡¯t expect this, did you? Actually, that was a spy I planted by your side. He was waiting to take you down when you weren¡¯t paying attention.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt that his brain was useless. He clearly knew that these were all twisted logic, but he didn¡¯t know how to refute them.


    It was indeed good to have a thousand-mile horse. The scouts could also retreat. As for the little flying elephant, he had never seen it before. Perhaps this little demon had seen it before.


    Arranging for spies. Wasn¡¯t Doctor Fang also a spy? She was simply learning on the spot.


    ¡°Wait, is this how you play chess?¡± Song Jingchen held his forehead and was almost led astray by Shen Yijia again.


    Seeing that her beautiful husband had been fooled by her, Shen Yijia felt a little proud and secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°It¡¯s too difficult. I don¡¯t want to play chess with my beautiful husband again.¡± she thought.


    However, there would be a reward if she won. She placed one hand on her hips and extended two fingers with the other. Her eyes were filled with anticipation. ¡°I owe you a reward, and you owe me a reward. So add it up and you have to promise me two things.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°What kind of logic is this? Whether it¡¯s a reward or a request, she has the final say.¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    At this moment, South Wind walked into the reception hall and took out a stack of envelopes. ¡°Master, the letters from Xiagou Village.¡±


    They left home in mid-August, and it was now October.


    It had been more than a month since they left home. Shen Yijia still wanted to live in Xiagou Village. She wondered if the brats at home had been practicing martial arts properly.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, Shen Yijia snatched the letters from South Wind. There were several of them.


    She took a cursory look. It was from Madam Li. The thickest envelope was jointly signed by a few children. Several names were written on the envelope.


    To Shen Yijia¡¯s surprise, there was another letter from Xiao Ruoshui. It had been sent to Xiagou Village, so Madam Li helped her send it over.


    There was another letter from Fan Mingyuan to Song Jingchen.


    Of the four letters, only this one belonged to him. Shen Yijia looked at him sympathetically and handed him the thin envelope.


    She was not interested in Fan Mingyuan. It was better to let her beautiful husband see for himself.


    Due to the fact that she had secretly slipped away overnight, Shen Yijia felt the most guilty towards Madam Li, so she opened Madam Li¡¯s letter first.


    Madam Li didn¡¯t blame her in the letter. She knew that Shen Yijia had probably already met up with Song Jingchen.


    Madam Li only said that she had to take good care of herself. If she encountered any danger, just hide behind Song Jingchen and ask him to appear.


    ¡°Don¡¯t let yourself get hurt. If Song Jingchen bullies you, just tell me when you get back, I¡¯ll help you deal with him. All these words, but in the end, she¡¯s just concerned about me.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia had never felt maternal love in her two lives. At this moment, she truly experienced it. Her eyes turned red.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t understand. He glanced at the letter in her hand and guessed why she was like this. His heart ached as he pulled her into his arms and comforted her silently.


    Shen Yijia buried her head in his arms and rubbed against it. She looked up and saw a wet and sticky substance on his clothes.


    She sniffed and stole a glance at Song Jingchen before continuing to read the letter guiltily.


    Song Jingchen saw her actions and was speechless. He resisted the urge to throw her aside and immediately change his clothes.

 Chapter 262 - : An Xiu’er As A Concubine,

    Then, Madam Li talked about the family¡¯s situation. The fragrance powder shop¡¯s business was getting better and better. Naturally, there were also people who wanted to cause trouble, but any issues were all resolved by Fan Mingyuan.


    After the snow disaster, the villagers of Xiagou Village had completely changed their temperament. In addition, most of their families had workers in the workshop and took good care of their family.


    She even specially mentioned the Song family¡¯s old residence. Song Dajiang and his wife had died after Song Jiayue returned to her hometown for the second time. Everyone guessed that they were angered to death by Song Jiayue.


    Unexpectedly, Song Erlin, who had left the family with nothing, was called back by Song Dalin. The two brothers split the house amongst each other again.


    It seemed that what happened at home had dealt Song Dalin a huge blow. Otherwise, he would have wanted those things to be his in the past.


    However, the two of them were not lazy people. There was no one to cause trouble or burden them. The two brothers could still live their lives by supporting each other.


    After reading Madam Li¡¯s letter, Shen Yijia opened the thick letter from Sister Huan and the others.


    There were four to five pages inside, and the handwriting on each page was different. It seemed that everyone had written one.


    Shen Yijia briefly read through it. It was about some interesting things that they had done at home. They also bragged about their improvement in martial arts. Shen Yijia did not mind this. It had only been a month or so. How much could they have improved?


    In the end, Shen Yijia finally understood what those people were talking about.


    It turned out that Song Jingchen had written a letter to Fan Mingyuan after he left. He asked Fan Mingyuan to help choose an academy and send the kids to school.


    Back then, because Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were crippled and he knew that Qingping Town was too chaotic, he was afraid that he wouldn¡¯t be able to take care of it, so he didn¡¯t have such thoughts.


    Now that Fan Mingyuan, the county magistrate, was around, there was no need to worry about that. That was why this arrangement was made.


    The children were already used to being wild and didn¡¯t want to study. They wrote this letter because they wanted Shen Yijia, their dear sister-in-law, to brag to Song Jingchen and help them plead for mercy so that Song Jingchen would retract his order.


    Shen Yijia looked up at Song Jingchen, who was smiling faintly. She pursed her lips and stuffed the pages of paper back into the envelope, indicating that she wasn¡¯t going to help them.


    In the end, it was Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s turn. In order to avoid arousing suspicion, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t read it with her. He went to read Fan Mingyuan¡¯s letter himself.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Actually, she did not mind her beautiful husband looking at her. Anyway, she and Xiao Ruoshui did not have any secrets.


    This thought disappeared when she saw the contents. She looked up at Song Jingchen guiltily and heaved a sigh of relief when she saw that he wasn¡¯t paying attention to her.


    Xiao Ruoshui actually asked in the letter if the child in her stomach had grown up a little.


    Well, it was her fault for not telling Xiao Ruoshui what happened after that.


    That girl even thought that she was pregnant.


    Shen Yijia coughed dryly and broke free from Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°I- I¡¯ll go drink some water.¡±


    With that, she ran out of the reception pavilion with the letter.


    Song Jingchen looked at the tea on the table beside him and his face darkened. He regretted it a little.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t stay for long. Song Jingchen had just returned to his room to change his clothes and return to the reception pavilion when she returned.


    When she returned, there was no longer any change in her expression. Shen Yijia coughed dryly and sat down opposite Song Jingchen. ¡°Ruoshui said that An Xiu¡¯er entered the Eldest Prince¡¯s residence as a concubine. Shen Ruyun also went in.¡±


    Just as Shen Pingxiu wanted, Shen Ruyun became the Eldest Princess Consort once she entered the residence.


    Shen Ruyun was vain to begin with.


    What Shen Yijia could not understand was why An Xiu¡¯er wanted to be a concubine to the Eldest Prince.


    If it were her, she wouldn¡¯t be willing to share her beautiful husband with others. If anyone dared to snatch him away,she would retaliate.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what she was thinking, but she looked like she was about to fight at any moment. He only said softly, ¡°Everyone has their own ambitions. You don¡¯t have to care about them.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan had also mentioned these things in his letter. The Eldest Princess Consort had passed away from an illness. For the sake of the royal family¡¯s reputation, Shangguan Pu should not have remarried in the near future. However, he had written the so-called last words of the Eldest Princess Consort.


    In the letter, the Eldest Princess Consort claimed that after she left, she was afraid that there would be no one to take care of him and their children. She hoped that Shangguan Pu could marry a new wife as soon as possible to take care of him in her place.


    To put it bluntly, this was a cover that Shangguan Pu had found for himself.


    At first, he wanted to marry Xiao Ruoshui, but General Xiao had decided on Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s marriage in advance.


    Shen Ruyun was probably chosen because of the power of the Minister¡¯s Residence in the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs. After all, Minister Chen did not have any girls in his family. He only had Shen Ruyun as his granddaughter.


    Shen Yijia put away her thoughts and hurriedly nodded. She didn¡¯t say she wouldn¡¯t allow Song Jingchen to take in concubines. If any woman really came to visit, she would simply chase them away.


    If Song Jingchen wanted a concubine, she would beat the two of them up.


    Then, she would kidnap Song Jingchen and bring him everywhere. She would keep beating him up until she found a man better looking than him.


    Song Jingchen suddenly felt a chill down his spine and subconsciously looked at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia smiled at him, revealing a row of white teeth. ¡°When are we going back to Xiagou Village?¡±


    ¡°Do you want to go to Qilin Mountain to take a look?¡± Song Jingchen asked instead of answering. One Dot and the others had investigated Mo Yuan¡¯s identity for a long time, but so far, they had only found out what happened after Mo Yuan appeared in the Peerless City. They had no way of investigating the past.


    It was probably impossible to find out anything in the short term.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and thought for a moment before remembering that the map she found in the box left behind by the original host¡¯s mother pointed towards Qilin Mountain. After coming here for a few days, she roughly knew the location of that mountain.


    It was like a treasure map!


    Her eyes lit up and she pushed the thought of returning to Xiagou Village to the back of her mind. ¡°Yes.¡±


    She then said, ¡°I¡¯ll write a letter to Mother and the others so that they won¡¯t worry.¡±


    Although she did not want to write, she had to be polite. Moreover, she could choose not to reply to everyone else¡¯s letters, but she still had to reply to Madam Li¡¯s.


    ¡°Okay,¡± Song Jingchen agreed.


    The two of them went to the study again.


    The night passed uneventfully.


    The news of the Hun army retreating had spread to the capital within a few days.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an sat on the dragon throne and looked gloomily at the ministers who were silent. His face alternated between red and white.


    Xunyang City had not been conquered by the Huns. The retreat of the Hun army was originally good news.


    But now, it was like a slap to his face.


    He felt that everyone in the world was laughing at him for being timid. He was so frightened by the Huns that he abandoned the city, but in the end, this city saved itself.


    Without his support, the citizens of Xunyang City had defended the city themselves. Back then, he had given the order to abandon the city. He was really the biggest joke in the world.


    If not for his status, he would have scolded those Huns for being useless.


    However, as the emperor of Great Xia, he could not. He was supposed to be happy at this moment.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s face contorted for a moment. He said with a fake smile, ¡°What do you think of this matter?¡±


    As soon as he said this, Prime Minister Liu and the others, who had suggested abandoning the city, shrank back, afraid that Emperor Chong¡¯an would hold a grudge against them.

 Chapter 263 - The Valley of Heavenly Secrets,

    Seeing that the group of people who were usually aggressive had become cowards, General Xiao sneered and stood up. ¡°Your Majesty, I think we should ignore it and let it develop on its own.¡±


    He was just short of saying what was on his mind. The Emperor didn¡¯t care when Xunyang was in trouble back then. It would be too shameless of him to show his support now that Xunyang had survived the crisis .


    However, this was clearly not what Emperor Chong¡¯an wanted to hear. He was not a magnanimous person.


    Ever since Shangguan Han was born, he had been worried every day that he would scheme with the Bulwark Duke family to force him to abdicate. It had not been easy for Emperor Chong¡¯an to eliminate him.


    Now, he had to leave Shangguan Han alone with a city in his hands. How could Emperor Chong¡¯an be at ease?


    Grand Tutor Zhao secretly glanced at Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s expression and sighed. ¡°Your Majesty, Xunyang City has just experienced a great war. The city must be short of clothes and food.¡±


    ¡°I believe that since they are citizens of Great Xia, the Imperial Court should treat them equally and not ignore them.¡±


    ¡°Besides, resisting the Hun army is a great merit. Since they¡¯ve done well, you should reward the soldiers of Xunyang City.¡±


    He was prepared to pretend that nothing had happened. He only said that the soldiers had contributed and did not mention Lord An Le. He wanted to take the opportunity to rope in the soldiers of Xunyang City.


    As long as they accepted the imperial court¡¯s reward, not only would Lord An Le not trust them, but those people would also side with the imperial court.


    This was equivalent to suppressing Lord An Le. If he really wanted to rebel, he would have to see if there was anyone willing to follow him.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an nodded in satisfaction. ¡°Then who do you think should do this?¡±


    Grand Tutor Zhao thought for a moment before saying, ¡°I think Shangguan Yu should do it. His status is extraordinary.¡±


    ¡°Also, His Highness grew up with Lord An Le. The two of them have an extraordinary relationship, so they¡¯re the most suitable.¡±


    When Grand Tutor Zhao mentioned the Second Prince, Shangguan Yu, most of the people in the court looked surprised.


    Shangguan Yu almost never appeared in the royal court, so he was naturally mentioned less often. Everyone¡¯s impression of him was that he was low-key.


    After the court session ended, Grand Tutor Zhao left the palace and returned to the residence. He changed into the attire of a butler and rode an inconspicuous carriage through the back door into a residence.


    ¡°Dead?¡± In the study, the man looked up at the person kneeling below him, and his grip on the brush gradually tightened.


    The subordinate lowered his head and replied, ¡°Yes.¡±


    With a crack, the brush in the man¡¯s hand broke. He closed his eyes and suppressed the anger in his heart. ¡°Send a letter to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    As soon as that person left, a servant came to report, ¡°Master, Lord Zhao is here.¡±


    The man threw the brush into a wastebasket and narrowed his eyes. ¡°Come in.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Lord An Le had woken up. This made the citizens of Xunyang City heave a sigh of relief. At the same time, they felt even more guilty towards Young Master Shenzhi, who had saved them.


    Why did they listen to those rumors back then?


    However, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t care what they thought. She only knew that if she heard those people scolding Song Jingchen again, she would beat them up.


    As soon as the Hun army retreated, the citizens who were originally blocked by Liang County returned one after another.


    Most of the houses in the city had been destroyed, not to mention the villages and towns around the city. Not only did the Hun army rob all the valuables in their houses, but they would also set fire to each house after they were done.


    They burned the corpses of the commoners who had died at their hands before they could escape.


    The dead had already passed, and the living had to continue living. Therefore, the citizens of Xunyang City were either running around for food or rebuilding houses every day.


    It was unknown what Song Jingchen had been busy with these past few days. He left early and returned late every day.


    Shen Yijia leaned against the window sill in boredom and looked at the sun outside. She had been here for so long, but she still did not know how to tell the time according to the sun.


    All she knew was that it was almost time for dinner when the sun set.


    Although Song Jingchen was busy, he didn¡¯t forget to get meat dishes for her every day. Sometimes, it was Rooster and South Wind who took turns bringing it back, and sometimes it was Furball who brought it back.


    In other words, Song Jingchen had brought Furball along, but not her.


    She would never admit that it was because she was lazy and stayed in bed every day.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Mo Yuan, who could follow her up close because Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t around. She felt like they were in the same boat.


    They were both pitiful children who had been forgotten at home.


    Furball followed Song Jingchen in and out every day. At first, the citizens of Xunyang City were afraid of it.


    However, seeing that it was very obedient beside Young Master Shenzhi, perhaps because of their trust in Song Jingchen, they stopped being afraid of it. They even gave it the name Tiger King.


    This irked Shen Yijia. Every time she saw it raise its tail to the sky pridefully, she had the urge to eat tiger meat.


    That¡¯s right, those commoners trusted Song Jingchen now.


    As for the reason, Shen Yijia still couldn¡¯t figure it out. Was it because Song Jingchen had saved their lord?


    She couldn¡¯t be bothered to think about what she couldn¡¯t figure out. As long as she liked it.


    In her opinion, her beautiful husband was so good that he deserved everyone¡¯s respect.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, what do you think he has been busy with these past few days?¡± Previously, she had said that she would bring him to Qilin Mountain, but she had not heard him mention it again.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia was a little angry. The two rewards from that day had yet to be fulfilled, but her beautiful husband was already so busy. She could not find a chance.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Maybe it¡¯s related to food.¡±


    ¡°Food?¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head. She had also gone to take a look. Most of the food planted by the citizens of Xunyang City this year had been taken away by the Hun Army.


    Moreover, with the soil and climate here, they could only plant one crop a year. Wouldn¡¯t they have to think of a way to survive this winter?


    This was not like back in Xiagou Village. They only needed to take care of the few people in their family, now they were responsible for the commoners of a whole city.


    The people here were poor to begin with. It was already a blessing from the heavens to not starve, let alone after a war.


    Her beautiful husband had actually interfered in the affairs of Xunyang. He would definitely not leave it alone. Shen Yijia felt that Mo Yuan had most likely guessed correctly.


    However, there were so many commoners in the city. Where could they find food for them? This beautiful husband of theirs was not a real immortal. It wasn¡¯t like he could pull food out of thin air.


    Shen Yijia suddenly regretted that she did not ask Ah Xun¡¯s Hun army to leave their food behind before leaving.


    ¡°I heard that a few days ago, someone went into the mountains to dig up some wild vegetables, but they encountered wild beasts. More than ten people went, but only one came back. Now, no one dares to go again.¡± Mo Yuan told everyone what she had heard.


    Shen Yijia propped up her chin with her hand. Even if they relied on digging up wild vegetables to survive, there were too many people. How could they dig up enough?


    If the periphery of the mountain was stripped of food, they could only enter the deep mountains. However, were the deep mountains so easy to enter?


    She did not even dare to say that she could walk back and forth without being injured at all, let alone those ordinary citizens.

 Chapter 264 - Jiajia Is Rejected by Song Jingchen

    At some point, the originally sunny sky outside darkened. The rows of bamboo planted in the courtyard rustled in the wind.


    A cold, wet wind blew in, and it began to rain.


    Shen Yijia shrank back. Before she could speak, Mo Yuan had already taken a step forward and closed the window for her.


    ¡°The weather has turned cold. Miss, please put on more clothes.¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s tone was emotionless, but her words were filled with concern.


    If not for the fact that Shen Yijia was already used to her tone, she would have suspected that she owed her money.


    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s not right. I don¡¯t think I¡¯ve ever given Mo Yuan a monthly allowance.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and took out a piece of silver from her pouch and handed it to him. It was about a tael of silver.


    ¡°Here, this is your monthly allowance.¡±


    Mo Yuan was stunned. ¡°I don¡¯t need an allowance.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, just take it. Even if you don¡¯t spend it, you can save it. When you get married in the future, prepare a dowry for yourself.¡± Shen Yijia stuffed the silver into her hand.


    Mo Yuan looked down at the silver in her hand. ¡°I¡¯m not getting married.¡±


    Shen Yijia pretended not to hear her. How could anyone not get married? Mo Yuan only said that now because she had never met a man as good-looking as her beautiful husband.


    ¡°What a pity. My hubby is already taken by me.¡± she thought.


    Outside, the rain was falling harder, making loud sounds against the window.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the front courtyard to wait for Song Jingchen.¡± It was raining. Her beautiful husband would probably come back early. He might even come back drenched. At that time, she could¡­


    Shen Yijia giggled for a long time. The more she thought about it, the more she felt that it was feasible. She opened the door and ran out.


    Mo Yuan quickly chased after her with an umbrella.


    The two of them passed through the second gate and arrived at the front courtyard. They did not see her beautiful husband, but they saw Shangguan Han strolling in the rain.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Did this guy want to die?


    Previously, Song Jingchen had asked Mo Yuan to concoct medicine similar to the Daylily Powder, but not lethal. He gave it to Shangguan Han.


    Although there was an antidote, it was still poison. He had been lying in bed for a few days, and when he woke up, he ate too much. In the end, he fell sick for a few days.


    Her beautiful husband probably did not expect this person to be so weak. He even visited him a few times out of guilt.


    The reason why he was so busy now was because this guy was useless.


    Shen Yijia walked over angrily, grabbed his collar, and dragged him under the porch. She gritted her teeth and asked, ¡°Are you sick of life?¡±


    Shangguan Han was stunned for a moment. When he saw who it was, he pursed his lips aggrievedly. ¡°Sister-in-law, Doctor Fang is dead.¡±


    Shen Yijia initially thought that this person¡¯s wife had run away with someone.


    She rolled her eyes. ¡°Did he just die recently?¡±


    This person was really useless. Wasn¡¯t Doctor Fang trying to poison him? Anyway, Doctor Fang was dead now. Why was Shangguan Han upset about it?


    Shangguan Han choked and knew that Shen Yijia had misunderstood. He quickly waved his hand and said, ¡°I¡¯m not sad about his death. It¡¯s just that before I could ask who instructed him to poison me, he committed suicide. I feel a little useless.¡±


    When he first found out that Doctor Fang had betrayed him, Shangguan Han was indeed a little angry. However, he had already experienced it once, so he quickly understood.


    He was indeed useless. Shen Yijia complained in her heart. She was afraid that this person¡¯s mental fortitude was poor, so she did not dare to say it out loud.


    After some thought, she spoke. ¡°So be it. Is it that difficult to guess? After all, it¡¯s either your brothers or your father.¡±


    Shangguan Han thought to himself, ¡°Now that you mention it, I feel even worse. Can¡¯t you say some words of comfort?¡±


    ¡°Miss, Young Master is back.¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s cold voice came from the side. Shen Yijia was delighted. She turned around and saw Song Jingchen striding towards her through the heavy rain.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡± She changed from being fierce to Shangguan Han and instantly transformed into a cute lady, running towards Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen quickly took a few steps forward and stopped her. ¡°It¡¯s raining. Don¡¯t come out.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia stopped obediently and looked at the man who was getting closer and closer.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s eyes widened. Was this the same person who had dragged him back from the rain with brute force?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze swept across Song Jingchen. He was dressed in black today, and his entire body was drenched in the rain. The material of his clothes clung to his body, but he didn¡¯t look disheveled. Instead, his solid body was revealed.


    She swallowed. ¡°Hubby, your clothes are wet. Let¡¯s go back to our room and change.¡±


    As she spoke, she leaned closer to him. ¡°I should be the only one to see him like this.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead helplessly, but it was indeed uncomfortable to wear wet clothes, so he didn¡¯t refute.


    He reached out and took the umbrella from Mo Yuan¡¯s hand, sheltering Shen Yijia as the two of them returned to the courtyard.


    Mo Yuan was speechless.


    Shangguan Han, who was trembling from the cold, was speechless.


    Rooster and South Wind, who were still drenched in the rain, were also speechless.


    ¡°Can¡¯t those two see us standing here?¡± they thought.


    As for Furball, it ran back to the bamboo courtyard as soon as it returned.


    A servant had already prepared hot water. Shen Yijia followed Song Jingchen to the bathroom door. Unexpectedly, the person in front suddenly stopped and she bumped into his back.


    Song Jingchen turned around and glanced at her. He pursed his lips. ¡°Jiajia, help me get a change of clothes.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. ¡°Oh, okay. I¡¯ll be back soon. Don¡¯t shower too quickly.¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia disappear in a flash, Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. This little vixen seduced him every day. He felt that it wasn¡¯t easy for him to hold it in.


    He shook his head, walked into the bathroom, and locked the door. Before this, Song Jingchen had never thought that there would be a day when he would take a shower and lock the door for no other reason than to guard against his wife.


    Shen Yijia returned excitedly with Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes. She pushed on the door but it didn¡¯t open.


    She pushed again, but it still didn¡¯t move.


    Shen Yijia was confused.


    ¡°Hubby, did you forget about me outside?¡± Shen Yijia knocked on the door and asked resentfully.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen¡¯s voice came from inside. ¡°I suddenly remembered that my clothes were inside. Jiajia, go back to your room first.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Damn, I fell into a trap again.¡± she thought.


    She squeezed her fingers and resisted the urge to break in. ¡°Forget it, forget it. My husband is too shy. There¡¯s still a long way to go. I¡¯ll take it slow. I¡¯ll be able to see it eventually.¡± she thought.


    Although she comforted herself, Shen Yijia still walked around the door a few times before giving up and leaving.


    After sending Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes back to his room, she remembered that Madam Li would often prepare a bowl of ginger soup for them at home. She turned around and went to the small kitchen.


    Didn¡¯t the old lady who bought wontons say that if she wanted to capture a man¡¯s heart, she had to capture his stomach first?


    She decided to start with ginger soup.

 Chapter 265 - The Origin of a Potato

    ¡°Madam.¡± An old woman was cleaning up the kitchen and quickly bowed when she saw her.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand and asked, ¡°Do you have ginger?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s another small piece. Do you need it? I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    The rain outside gradually lessened, but it did not show any signs of stopping. Shen Yijia stood under the eaves and reached out to catch some water to play with for a while. Her gaze suddenly drifted to the junk that the old women had gathered. There were broken porcelain pieces, rotten leaves, and everything else. It was really a mess.


    She frowned and squatted down. She took out something and was about to pick it up to take a closer look.


    When the old woman returned and saw her actions, she quickly stopped her in a panic. ¡°Oh my, Madam, you can¡¯t touch that thing. It¡¯s moldy, it¡¯ll dirty your hands. I¡¯ll throw it away now.¡±


    It was also because her little grandson had been sick for a few days. She was busy going back to take care of him after preparing food every day and did not clean up in time, so it piled up.


    Normally, it wouldn¡¯t have mattered, but her master happened to see it. It wouldn¡¯t be good if they thought she was trying to steal something.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. She quickly picked it up and hid it behind her back. ¡°Just throw the rest away.¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡± The old woman looked at Shen Yijia strangely, not understanding why she wanted that thing. It wasn¡¯t like she could eat it.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand angrily. ¡°Hurry up and go. You¡¯re no longer needed here.¡±


    The old woman could tell that Shen Yijia was impatient. She agreed in fear and trepidation, not daring to dawdle any longer. She picked up the miscellaneous items she had packed and left.


    Only then did Shen Yijia take out the thing hidden behind her. It was the size of her fist. The more she looked at it, the more familiar it felt. Why did it look like the potatoes she ate in the courtyard?


    ¡°But this potato, why are you turning green and sprouting? Potatoes can¡¯t be eaten after they¡¯ve grown sprouts.¡± she thought. She placed the potatoes in the rain to wash them.


    This was the first time she had seen potatoes in more than a year. For some reason, it reminded her of sweet potatoes and roasted sweet potatoes. She smacked her lips and wanted to eat them.


    In her previous life, when she was hungry, she relied on stealing from the kitchen. She took out sweet potatoes or potatoes to roast and eat. They were sweet and fragrant.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± A gentle voice came from behind, pulling Shen Yijia out of her fantasy of eating roasted sweet potatoes.


    When Song Jingchen came out of the shower and didn¡¯t see Shen Yijia, he thought that she was hiding in anger. He asked the servants and found out that she had come to the small kitchen.


    She could only be up to one thing in the kitchen. Due to some unspeakable thought, he quickly looked for her, only to see her staring blankly at the rain.


    ¡°I¡¯m cooking ginger soup for you.¡± Hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s question, Shen Yijia remembered why she came to the small kitchen.


    She casually placed the little potato aside and prepared to get the piece of ginger that the old woman had placed there. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He held her hand and pretended to be curious. ¡°What is this?¡±


    He really did not know it, but from Shen Yijia¡¯s expression just now, she seemed to know what this was.


    ¡°Potatoes.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at him. ¡°It¡¯s a pity that they can¡¯t be eaten anymore. I wonder who was so careless to spoil them.¡±


    Shouldn¡¯t the food in the city be very precious now? How could anyone be so wasteful?


    ¡°Potato?¡± Song Jingchen originally just wanted to divert her attention, but now he was really interested. He picked up the potato and looked at it carefully for a long time. After confirming that he had never seen it before, he confirmed again, ¡°Is this edible?¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Her beautiful husband had never eaten potatoes before? Wasn¡¯t this an ordinary ingredient?


    She carefully observed Song Jingchen¡¯s expression and confirmed that he didn¡¯t do it on purpose. She nodded repeatedly. ¡°Of course. At our place¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    Realizing that she had said something wrong, Shen Yijia quickly corrected herself. ¡°Well, I read about it in a book. This thing is called a potato. Not only can it be cooked, but it can also be used as a staple food. However, it can¡¯t be eaten after it germinates. It¡¯s poisonous.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. I don¡¯t know where that book went, and I don¡¯t remember the title.¡± Afraid that Song Jingchen would ask further, Shen Yijia added.


    This cover-up was too clumsy. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expose her and asked tentatively, ¡°Can humans eat potatoes too?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What kind of strange question is that? Did he think she wasn¡¯t human?¡±


    Also, if humans couldn¡¯t eat potatoes, who else would be eating them? Ghosts?


    She smirked and said firmly, ¡°Yes, of course.¡±


    Thinking of something, her eyes lit up. ¡°Hubby, you want to¡­?¡±


    Knowing that this girl had guessed what he meant, Song Jingchen pursed his lips and nodded. ¡°I wonder where these potatoes came from?¡±


    If he could find them, it would temporarily solve the problem of food in the city. As for whether it could really be eaten, since Shen Yijia said that it could be eaten, Song Jingchen naturally believed her.


    This question stumped Shen Yijia. How would she know where it came from? Her excitement from before subsided a little.


    She explained how she found this potato. Song Jingchen immediately summoned the old woman for questioning.


    The old woman was brought to the kitchen by South Wind in a daze. When she was asked about the potatoes, she thought that there was something wrong with them. She nervously explained how the potatoes came about.


    It turned out that this was given to her by the citizens of Xunyang City when Shangguan Han was unconscious a few days ago. Butler Wan assigned it to this small kitchen. However, the old woman had never seen it before, so she naturally did not dare to use it to cook.


    She even specially asked Butler Wan, but he said that he didn¡¯t know. Because everyone had given them too many miscellaneous things, most of them were wild vegetables. Butler Wan couldn¡¯t recognize all of them after coming out of the palace, so he just assigned it to the pile of wild vegetables.


    When Butler Wan was asked by the old woman, he realized that he had almost made a big mistake. He brought the old woman to check the food distributed everywhere again and realized that this potato was the only thing they didn¡¯t recognize.


    The two of them even wondered if someone had given it to the wrong person. They simply made a note not to eat it, and let the matter rest.


    Song Jingchen frowned and called Butler Wan over. Butler Wan¡¯s words were the same as that old woman¡¯s. This potato was given to him by someone else.


    In the end, Song Jingchen had no choice but to instruct Butler Wan to bring people to look for the people who sent this potato.


    He was prepared to send someone else to the mountains to look for them, but the rain would probably not stop for a while. He could only postpone sending someone to look for them.


    Shen Yijia knew how hard Song Jingchen had worked to solve the food problem. After dinner, she returned to her room and told him what she knew.


    Actually, she didn¡¯t know much. She guessed that it must be cheap. Otherwise, the courtyard residents wouldn¡¯t have been able to eat potatoes so often, including sweet potatoes.


    If it was cheap, it shouldn¡¯t be difficult to grow it, right?


    As soon as she finished speaking, Song Jingchen hugged her.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    She did not know what was wrong with her beautiful husband these days. He did not even hug her when she slept. This was too sudden.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Song Jingchen still looked tired, but his eyes were gentle.

 Chapter 266 - : Jiajia’s Request

    He felt that this girl must be a lucky star sent by the heavens to help him solve his troubles every time.


    On the way from the capital to Xiagou Village, if not for this person, even without the assassins and bandits, his ruined body might not have been able to handle the journey.


    After they arrived at Xiagou Village, Shen Yijia ran around to earn money to support the family. Later on, she even cured his legs.


    She had even saved Ah Xun a few days ago. Although it was a coincidence, without her, the Hun army would definitely not have retreated. It was impossible for Xunyang¡¯s crisis to be resolved so easily.


    This time, she discovered the potatoes. If not for her, no one would have recognized them at all. Perhaps they would have been thrown away by the old woman as junk.


    Although they might not be able to find more of it to use as food, it was always good to have a beginning and direction.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes darted around. She reached out and wrapped her arms around Song Jingchen¡¯s waist. She asked carefully, ¡°Then can I see your abs?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s body stiffened.


    This little vixen really dared to say anything. Just like how she would say something sweet from time to time, Song Jingchen still couldn¡¯t get used to it after so long.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± Seeing that he did not reply for a long time, Shen Yijia moved her body, wanting to retreat from his arms.


    Song Jingchen hugged her tightly and didn¡¯t let her move. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°It¡¯s getting late. It¡¯s time to rest.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll only touch it. No, can I just take a look? I won¡¯t touch it.¡± Shen Yijia negotiated.


    Song Jingchen kissed her forehead helplessly and coaxed her softly, ¡°Sleep. There might be news of the potatoes tomorrow.¡±


    Shen Yijia refused to give up. ¡°Then you can let me kiss you, I want to be on top.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. He didn¡¯t expect this girl to have such thoughts. He couldn¡¯t take it anymore and lowered his head to seal her lips.


    Ever since he was interrupted by South Wind last time, in order to prevent himself from losing control, he had already decided to touch her less. However, this girl was so persistent.


    Shen Yijia was in a daze from the kiss. She could tell left from right anymore. How could she remember that she was supposed to be on top?


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t disappointed. The next day, Butler Wan brought the old man who had sent the potatoes into the residence. Coincidentally, the potatoes happened to be delivered to Butler Wan when they were sent in. Because this thing was novel, he took a few more glances and remembered this old man¡¯s appearance.


    The old man was in his fifties. Everyone called him Old Man Fang. He had dark skin and walked in with his head lowered. He did not dare to look around. As soon as he entered, he knelt down. ¡°Greetings, Your Highness. Greetings, Young Master Shenzhi.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be so polite, old man. Sit down and answer.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. I wonder why Your Highness summoned me! As long as I know, I¡¯ll definitely tell you everything,¡± Old Fang said in fear and trepidation.


    Shangguan Han rubbed his nose and did not force him. He only gestured for Butler Wan to help him up.


    He looked at Song Jingchen, who only picked up his tea and took a sip. It was obvious that Song Jingchen wanted him to ask the questions and didn¡¯t intend to interrupt.


    Shangguan Han coughed lightly and pointed at the potatoes on the table in front of him. ¡°Do you know this thing?¡±


    Old Man Fang¡¯s eyes did not seem to be working well. He narrowed his eyes for a long time but could not see clearly. Butler Wan immediately brought the potatoes to him so that he could identify them carefully.


    ¡°This¡­ this is a little like what I gave His Highness back then. However, it wasn¡¯t like this when I sent it over. Its skin was yellow and it didn¡¯t sprout.¡±


    At that time, this was the only thing in his family that he could show off, so he remembered it clearly.


    ¡°Then where did you get this thing from? Do you know what it¡¯s called?¡± Shangguan Han leaned forward excitedly and stared at Old Man Fang.


    Song Jingchen had already told him the importance of this thing. If he could find it, he could use it to temporarily resolve the current predicament of the commoners.


    Perhaps Xunyang City would no longer have to worry about running out of food in the future.


    When asked about the origins of this thing, Old Fang hesitated for a moment before suddenly kneeling down again. ¡°To be honest, Your Highness, this thing was also obtained by chance.¡±


    It turned out that Old Man Fang would go to the city gate to sell breakfast every day to maintain his livelihood. Before the Hun army arrived, a blond and fair-skinned man passed by. This was the first time he had seen someone dressed like this in his life, so he took a few more glances.


    Unexpectedly, the man realized that the money bag was gone when he was about to settle the bill.


    Old Man Fang could not understand what the blond man was saying. It took him a long time to guess. Although the man looked strange, he did not look like a bad person. Besides, there were only a few buns, so he did not pursue the matter.


    Perhaps the blond man felt guilty, so he took out a small bag of this thing to pay for it.


    At that time, the stall was too busy. After Old Fang hurriedly accepted it, he did not open it again. When he returned home, he realized that he did not know what was in this bag at all. He did not know what it was for, so he kept it at home.


    Later on, when the Huns surrounded the city, there was really no more food at home. He accidentally found it and thought that he would starve to death without food, so he wanted to give it a try.


    Because he wasn¡¯t sure, he only dared to take it out after confirming that he was fine.


    Old Fang, his wife, and his grandson ate sparingly. Coupled with the food that His Highness distributed to everyone every day, this bag of food lasted until there was only one left.


    Later on, he heard that His Highness had fallen unconscious from exhaustion, so he sent the thing that had saved their family of three to the prince¡¯s residence. He hoped that His Highness would recover after eating it.


    As long as there was no Hun army surrounding the city, they would be able to find food in the mountains.


    After hearing what he said, Shangguan Han sat back in disappointment. Old Fang¡¯s words proved that this thing could indeed be eaten well.


    However, it also meant that this thing could not be found on the mountain. It was impossible for them to find it.


    This way, it was impossible to solve the food problem of the citizens in the city with these potatoes.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with this, Your Highness?¡± Old Fang asked uneasily.


    ¡°Nothing is wrong.¡± Shangguan Han comforted him. ¡°You¡¯ve helped me a lot this time. You should be rewarded. Butler Wan, arrange for someone to send the old man back and bring some food along.¡±


    After he left, Shangguan Han sighed in disappointment. ¡°Cousin, what should we do now?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll think of another way,¡± Song Jingchen said emotionlessly. He was naturally disappointed, but he didn¡¯t place all his hopes on this small potato.


    He stood up, picked up the potatoes, and instructed, ¡°When the rain stops, continue to organize people to enter the mountains. Try to save as much food as possible before winter. You can follow them when the time comes.¡±


    The mountain¡¯s surroundings were almost picked clean of wild vegetables.


    The deep mountains were too dangerous, so Song Jingchen could only personally bring people and organize the commoners to enter the mountains every day.


    Even so, they had encountered a few ferocious beast attacks in the past few days. Needless to say, there were many injured and killed.

 Chapter 267 - Achieving Fame Through A Single Battle, Miss Liu

    Although it was dangerous to let Shangguan Han go with them, there was no other way.


    Now that the commoners of Xunyang City were extremely disappointed in the Imperial Court, it was a good time to win over the hearts of the people. He could not let Shangguan Han miss this opportunity.


    A few days ago, it could be said that His Highness had just woken up and had yet to recover. Thus, Song Jingchen took his place temporarily.


    However, this could not continue. After all, Shangguan Han was the most important person here.


    To put it bluntly, he was simply using this as a tactic to win the hearts of the people. Only Shen Yijia, that silly girl, thought that he was a good person.


    Shangguan Han understood that Song Jingchen was doing this for his own good and didn¡¯t refute.


    Song Jingchen brought the potatoes back to the bamboo courtyard. When Shen Yijia saw him return, she quickly went forward. When she found out that the potatoes were from a foreign country, she was disappointed.


    ¡°Can you give me this potato?¡± Shen Yijia pursed her lips and asked. There was only one potato. It couldn¡¯t be eaten and didn¡¯t look good. Song Jingchen probably didn¡¯t have a use for it anymore.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head. He only brought it back because he saw that she liked it. Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s dejected expression, he smiled lightly and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m here. Don¡¯t you always say that I¡¯m the best?¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard him say this, she knew that he was coaxing her again. She cooperated and raised her chin with a proud expression. ¡°My husband is naturally the most powerful, but you have to take care of your health. Next time¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that she could help the next time they went into the mountains. Suddenly, an idea flashed across her mind, and she swallowed her words.


    Fortunately, the rain didn¡¯t last long. It stopped on the third day. Song Jingchen went out, and Shen Yijia left the residence with Mo Yuan.


    It had just rained, and the temperature suddenly dropped. Shen Yijia gathered her clothes.


    In fact, she rarely strolled on this street. She would rather follow her beautiful husband.


    However, to her surprise, as soon as she appeared, she was recognized by the pedestrians.


    Everyone looked at her with fear and awe.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. She understood. She had become famous through a single battle again.


    ¡°Madam, see if there¡¯s anything you want. Just take it.¡±


    A merchant said boldly.


    Currently, money could not compare to food in Xunyang City, so they used food to barter.


    Shen Yijia looked over. The merchant was selling ordinary cloth shoes. She expressed that she was not short of shoes.


    With this person taking the lead, the others also offered the things they sold. They were all worth pennies, no one sold any food.


    There were straw shoes made of cattails, or bamboo baskets and mats. After all, bamboo was the most common plant in Xunyang City.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Was she that scary? What did he take her for, a local ruffian who collected protection fees?


    Look at their trembling legs. She rolled her eyes and squeezed through the crowd, ignoring them.


    ¡°Madam, you¡¯re right. Young Master Shenzhi is a good person. My father already knows his mistake. Can you stop hitting him?¡±


    Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia had just taken a few steps out of the crowd when she was stopped by a seven or eight-year-old girl.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. Who was she going to hit again?


    However, this girl looked sincere and said it seriously. She did not seem to be lying at all.


    Shen Yijia elbowed Mo Yuan and asked, ¡°Did these people misunderstand something?¡±


    Mo Yuan shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s probably because Miss was too fierce last time. I thought that you were going to hit someone again.¡±


    The last time Shen Yijia hit someone, Mo Yuan was not in Xunyang City.


    However, after that, the servants in the residence would discuss it from time to time. After listening a few times, she understood the reason.


    In the eyes of these commoners, Shen Yijia only left the residence to cause trouble.


    ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    She was about to say, ¡°Why would I hit your father for no reason?¡±


    A man suddenly ran out and pulled the girl into his arms. He covered her mouth with his hand and reprimanded, ¡°Eldest daughter, what nonsense are you talking about? Madam is so kind. She definitely won¡¯t beat us anymore.¡±


    After saying that, he even smiled at Shen Yijia ingratiatingly.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. She remembered this person. Wasn¡¯t this the man she had beaten up last time? He was the one who badmouthed Song Jingchen the most.


    The man shuddered under her gaze and was about to kneel down and beg for mercy when the girl broke free from his grip and reached out her hand. ¡°Madam, I¡¯ll let you eat this. Please forgive my father this once.¡±


    She was holding a black ball in her hand. Shen Yijia could no longer see its original appearance. Shen Yijia guessed that it was made of wild vegetables.


    The girl couldn¡¯t bear to eat it, so she pinched it until it turned black.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°Eat it yourself. As long as your father doesn¡¯t speak ill of my husband again, I won¡¯t hit him.¡±


    At this moment, someone shouted from behind, ¡°Miss Liu is out giving porridge again. Everyone, quickly line up. If you¡¯re late, it¡¯ll be gone.¡±


    As soon as she said this, Shen Yijia could clearly feel it. The gazes on her instantly disappeared. Only the father and daughter in front of her were still staring at her.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°Go ahead. Why are you looking at me? I didn¡¯t give you anything to eat.¡±


    She had only wanted to come out and see how the citizens were doing. Now that she saw them, she realized that it was more serious than she had imagined.


    She suddenly felt depressed and was no longer in the mood to shop. She called Mo Yuan and went back to the residence.


    From afar, they could see that everyone was gathered in another place. It should be the place where they distributed the porridge.


    Just as everyone was about to starve, someone actually came out to provide porridge. Shen Yijia could not help but ask curiously, ¡°Who is that? They¡¯re so rich.¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°It¡¯s the richest family in Xunyang City, the Liu family. I heard that before the Hun army¡¯s siege, the madam of the Liu family happened to go back to her maiden home.¡±


    ¡°She only returned to Xunyang City recently and brought back a lot of food. In the next few days, Miss Liu will come to the city gate to provide porridge.¡±


    ¡°That is really a good person.¡± Shen Yijia sighed.


    Mo Yuan did not comment. She only said, ¡°During the days when Xunyang City was besieged, the Liu family¡¯s Old Master even donated most of the food in the family.¡±


    Shen Yijia was dumbfounded.


    In fact, no matter where it was, there would definitely be rich people.


    However, in Xunyang City, most people would choose to move out of this city that was often harassed by the Huns as soon as they had money. Not many people could stay here forever.


    The Liu family was unique.


    Seeing that her young lady seemed to have a good impression of the Liu family, Mo Yuan lowered her eyes and swallowed the words she was about to say.


    Unless someone gossiped in Shen Yijia¡¯s ear, she did not know much about the outside world.


    Naturally, Shen Yijia did not hear many people discussing Miss Liu and Song Jingchen lately.


    Mo Yuan wanted to remind her, but she felt that there was no need. Her young mistress and her husband were so close that she would not be affected by these rumors. If she said it, it would only affect her young mistress¡¯s mood.

 Chapter 268 - Jiajia Planting Potatoes,

    After returning to the residence, Shen Yijia hurriedly ate two mouthfuls of rice and took out the potato.


    The potatoes were still the same as a few days ago. There had to be some changes. The moldy area had expanded a little.


    Shen Yijia asked Butler Wan to find a larger flower pot and dug up some soil in the courtyard. Without any explanation, she buried the entire potato in the soil.


    The corners of Butler Wan¡¯s mouth twitched. Even if he had never been hit by a plant before, he knew that it was impossible to plant moldy things alive. This madam was still so simple and crude.


    Even if the potatoes weren¡¯t spoiled, he felt that she would kill the potato by planting it.


    ¡°Madam, what are you doing? Just let me do it. How can you do such manual labor yourself?¡± When he was in the palace, he had seen many concubines who liked planting flowers. Once the plant died, they would cry and grieve for a long time.


    Young Master Song cared so much about his wife. If she cried because of this, Young Master Song¡¯s heart would ache.


    If Young Master Song was in a bad mood, would their lord have a good life?


    In order to prevent this from happening, he wanted to take over the job.


    Of course, he did not think that he had the ability to grow these potatoes, but he could make a swap and plant something else instead.


    This was something new from outside. No one would know what it looked like after it grew out.


    Even if he had to change to another flower seed, he could send it back after it grew flowers.


    Butler Wan felt that this was a foolproof plan.


    Unfortunately, Shen Yijia did not appreciate his kindness and chased him away.


    If she knew what he was thinking, she might have asked, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m stupid and easy to deceive?¡±


    Butler Wan could only leave dejectedly.


    After they left, Shen Yijia carried the flower pot back to her room and instructed Mo Yuan to guard the door and not let anyone in.


    She had already prepared a basin of water in advance in the room. Her heart ached as she added a drop of spiritual liquid into the water.


    She sprinkled some water with diluted spiritual liquid into the flower pot and lay on the table, staring unblinkingly at the place where the potatoes were buried.


    Unfortunately, there was no reaction even after she waited for a long time.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in distress. Didn¡¯t they say that this spiritual liquid could revive the dead? Why couldn¡¯t it even save a small potato?


    Or did she give it too little water? With this thought in mind, Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and poured more water into the flower pot. She only stopped when the soil inside was completely drenched.


    One breath, two breaths, three breaths. There was still no reaction. However, this time, she did not water it. Even if she did not understand, she knew that going overboard was as bad as not doing enough.


    She was afraid that if she continued to water the potato, she would drown it.


    Perhaps the time was too short? Thinking of this possibility, Shen Yijia patiently continued to wait. If she couldn¡¯t grow it even after adding spiritual liquid, she had no choice.


    She watched in boredom for a long time, and sleepiness gradually overwhelmed her.


    A bell sounded. On the deserted mountain road, a carriage covered in bells slowly passed.


    The bells clanged against each other as the carriage moved, adding some vitality to the silent mountain road.


    The person driving the carriage was a woman. She was about seventeen or eighteen years old.


    The woman was dressed in white and had no expression on her face. She looked especially cold.


    ¡°Mo Yu.¡± A slender and fair hand suddenly lifted a corner of the carriage curtain.


    The woman called Mo Yu stopped the carriage and turned around to call out respectfully, ¡°Young Master.¡±


    ¡°Where are we?¡± The woman¡¯s voice was like jade in a stream, melodious like the sound of running water.


    Just by hearing this voice, one could tell that the woman in the carriage was definitely a peerless beauty.


    ¡°We still need ten days to enter the Great Xia Kingdom,¡± Mo Yu replied. She paused and said hesitantly, ¡°Young Master, you really shouldn¡¯t have left the valley on your own. If the High Priest finds out, I¡¯m afraid¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to be afraid of? Even if Father finds out, he won¡¯t blame me. Do you think the two of us could have gone so far without his tacit approval?¡± The woman¡¯s tone was filled with indifference. ¡°Besides, don¡¯t you want to take revenge for your brother yourself?¡±


    Mo Yu bit her lower lip and lowered her eyes. ¡°Of course I do. It¡¯s just that I don¡¯t want to see Young Master punished. Moreover, those elders in the valley¡­¡±


    She was born from the same womb as her brother, but her brother, who came out earlier than her, suffered from a strange illness since he was young. He stopped growing when he was ten years old.


    Although he was her elder brother, she had actually always doted on him like a younger brother. Who would have thought that he would be killed after leaving the valley? How could she not want to take revenge for him?


    ¡°How could that be? Don¡¯t forget that your brother is gone. The valley should have sent someone else to assist that person. Do you think there¡¯s anyone more suitable than me? Those stubborn old fellows.¡±


    ¡°Heh, my father is the high priest and I¡¯m the future Master of the Valley. So what if those people are unwilling? I¡¯m different from that woman.¡±


    ¡°Those people naturally can¡¯t compare to you, Young Master.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Instead of letting those useless things come out and embarrass themselves, I should do it instead. I¡¯m sure Father thinks so too.¡± This should have been an arrogant sentence, but when this woman said it, you would naturally feel that it was right.


    Mo Yu pursed her lips and stopped trying to persuade her. Anyone who walked out of the valley was outstanding, but compared to their young master, they could only be called trash.


    The woman changed the topic and said briskly, ¡°Let¡¯s go straight to the capital of Great Xia. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll naturally avenge your brother.¡±


    ¡°Yes Master.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s your young lady?¡±


    ¡°Resting in her room.¡±


    ¡°Has she eaten dinner?¡±


    ¡°No. After lunch, Miss locked herself in her room and specially instructed me not to let anyone disturb her.¡±


    ¡°Send this to the kitchen and get someone to make soup with it before sending it over.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    Shen Yijia heard this conversation in a daze, followed by the sound of the door opening and closing. She tried her best to open her heavy eyelids, rubbed her eyes, and looked up.


    What she saw was a clump of green leaves. She was stunned for a moment, thinking that she was mistaken. She blinked and saw the green leaves bloom and wither visibly. The entire process took less than ten minutes.


    Shen Yijia was first delighted. She thought of something and suddenly turned to look at the door. As expected, she saw Song Jingchen looking at the flower pot on the table in shock.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Oh my god, are you kidding me? Why does my beautiful husband have to see such a magical thing every time it happens?¡±


    If she said that she was a fairy who had descended to the mortal world to continue their relationship, would her beautiful husband believe her?


    ¡°Hubby, I, this¡­¡± Shen Yijia stood up from her chair. She pointed at the flower pot guiltily and did not know how to explain.


    Song Jingchen suppressed the shock in his heart and pretended to be calm. He took a few steps forward and asked calmly, ¡°What is this?¡±

 Chapter 269 - : I’ll Tell You My Secret, Moving Out

    Shen Yijia choked. She clearly didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to bypass her most difficult question so easily and ask about something else.


    She scratched her head and said uncertainly, ¡°Potatoes, I think.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t like this before she went to bed.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know how to describe his current mood. He could only sigh at how omnipotent this demonic wife of his was.


    ¡°Did you plant it?¡± Song Jingchen tried his best to keep his tone calm.


    Shen Yijia curled her fingers. ¡°I think so.¡±


    Song Jingchen took a deep breath. He was very sure that he had only been gone for half a day, not half a year.


    He leaned closer and reached out to touch the withered leaves. They were indeed real, and not an illusion.


    After a long time, he found his voice and asked, ¡°Did it succeed?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Maybe.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were constantly paying attention to the change in Song Jingchen¡¯s expressions. She realized that there was no fear in his eyes. While she heaved a sigh of relief, she wanted to tell him everything.


    She was just a soul that had transmigrated from somewhere else and lived in this body.


    With the spiritual liquid in her body, her physique was slightly different from others. What was there to be afraid of?


    Song Jingchen seemed to have seen through her thoughts. He raised his hand and rubbed her head. The corners of his mouth curled up as he said slowly, ¡°Don¡¯t think too much. Keep your secret. I won¡¯t ask about it.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly felt depressed. It turned out that her beautiful husband knew everything. However, it made sense. He was so smart that it was not difficult for him to notice her abnormality.


    She muttered, ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said seriously, ¡°At first, I was indeed quite curious and wanted you to say it. However, the more I understood, the more glad I was that you knew how to keep a secret.¡±


    If she didn¡¯t tell him, she probably wouldn¡¯t reveal anything to anyone else. This was for the best. Otherwise, he was really worried that this girl would be harmed before she met him.


    ¡°Do you still want to know now?¡± Shen Yijia looked up into his eyes and asked.


    If her beautiful husband wanted to know, she would tell him everything.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s fine now.¡±


    He knew what Shen Yijia meant. As long as he said he wanted to, she would really say it. He could also promise that he would always keep her secret and never betray her.


    However, the human heart could not withstand a test, especially under the temptation. He was afraid that in the future, he would become unrecognizable in order to take revenge. He might even use everything he could to forget his promise not to reveal her secret.


    If that day really came, he hoped that this silly girl would have a trump card to protect herself.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia was a little disappointed to hear that he didn¡¯t want to.


    It was like when you finally made up your mind to put down all your defenses and said, ¡°Come, let¡¯s be honest with each other.¡±


    Only for the other party to wrap you up in a blanket and stop you from revealing anything.


    ¡°Do these potatoes grow in the soil?¡± Song Jingchen changed the topic and asked. After asking, he realized how stupid his question was.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Yes, but this is my first time planting it. I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s grown.¡±


    Seeing her like this, Song Jingchen pinched her cheek in amusement. ¡°Then I¡¯ll dig it up.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at the pot of potatoes. After all, this was her first time planting them. She was looking forward to it.


    Although she didn¡¯t actually do much. She just dug up some soil and buried the things in it. Then she watered them.


    But she was the one who planted it.


    Therefore, as soon as Song Jingchen made this suggestion, Shen Yijia hurriedly nodded. Her sadness from before was swept away, and she looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s actions expectantly.


    Because she had just put the soil in and added a lot of water, the soil was loose. There was no need to dig at all. Song Jingchen pulled the branch of the potato and got up.


    Looking at the potatoes hanging from the root, Song Jingchen was stunned on the spot. He didn¡¯t expect this yield.


    Shen Yijia also looked up at him with sparkling eyes, looking for praise.


    There were about four to five potatoes in this bunch, as well as many small potatoes that were not much bigger than a thumb.


    Shen Yijia guessed that this flower pot was too small. Otherwise, it would definitely grow more.


    ¡°Let¡¯s plant more.¡± Shen Yijia suggested eagerly.


    After being shocked, Song Jingchen quickly calmed down. It was naturally good to be able to solve the food problem of the citizens of Xunyang City.


    However, all of this was too unbelievable. If he accidentally exposed Shen Yijia and caused her to be injured, he would rather not care about the lives of those people.


    He did not answer immediately. It was rare for Shen Yijia to be smart. She could tell what he was thinking and said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s fine as long as no one sees us. Let¡¯s plant some in this courtyard.¡±


    ¡°Then secretly transplant them into the mountains. You can bring those people to dig them up.¡±


    She didn¡¯t believe that Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t think of a way to hide it. However, he was too nervous about her and wasn¡¯t willing to take the risk of exposing her.


    Song Jingchen frowned and still didn¡¯t answer.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t help but walk up to Song Jingchen and wrap her arms around his neck. ¡°You¡¯ll protect me, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and met her eyes. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were filled with trust in him.


    In the end, Song Jingchen nodded and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Song Jingchen agreed, but he had no intention of letting Shen Yijia plant crops in this residence. Although there weren¡¯t many servants in this residence, one more person meant one more source of danger.


    Therefore, he told Shangguan Han that he wanted to move out the next day.


    Shangguan Han was stunned. ¡°Cousin, why are you moving out for no reason? The residence is so big. If you don¡¯t like that courtyard, you can change it. If you don¡¯t want those servants, you can just send them away.¡±


    Shangguan Han was about to cry as he spoke. He was the only master in the residence.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for them to have two more. Although they rarely ate together, something felt different.


    Song Jingchen only said, ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate to continue living in the prince¡¯s residence. It¡¯s easy to be suspected.¡±


    He was talking about his status. Shangguan Han recognized it and his shoulders slumped.


    If that was the case, he really couldn¡¯t force him to stay. If he caused his cousin to fall into danger again.


    Then it would be unforgivable even if he were to die ten thousand times.


    Song Jingchen moved out immediately. On the same day, he got the servants in the residence to clean up a two-in-one residence under Shangguan Han¡¯s name.


    The next morning, they moved in. Of course, Rooster, South Wind, Mo Yuan, and Furball were also with them.


    When Shen Yijia left, she did not forget to take the flower pot with her.


    Uncle Yang was also in Xunyang, but it was unknown where he had been sent by Song Jingchen. After the Hun army retreated, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t see him again.


    However, someone had always stayed in the residence to protect Shangguan Han.

 Chapter 270 - Planting Potatoes, Miss Liu’s Visit

    The new residence was not far from the Prince¡¯s residence. After all, this area was relatively empty.


    Ordinary people wouldn¡¯t get close. Song Jingchen also temporarily left the matter of bringing people into the mountains to South Wind.


    Their new residence occupied an extremely large area.


    The backyard was twice the size of the bamboo courtyard they used to live in. It was probably because of this that Song Jingchen chose this place.


    The words ¡°Shen Residence¡± were hung at the door.


    Only Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia lived in the second courtyard in the residence. The others were arranged to stay in the front courtyard.


    Song Jingchen even specially reminded her not to let anyone into the backyard without his permission.


    Actually, Shen Yijia did not like to be served. Perhaps there were too many people in the prince¡¯s residence that she did not know, even the servants did not like them. Therefore, she was the happiest person in the house.


    On the second day of moving, the couple changed into rough linen clothes and carried hoes, preparing to dig out the backyard.


    No one had lived in this residence since it was registered under Shangguan Han¡¯s name.


    Therefore, the courtyard was empty. This was convenient for them. Otherwise, they would have to dig up the original plants.


    Madam Li had also planted vegetables in the courtyard of Xiagou Village. Shen Yijia had even dug out those plots of land.


    Therefore, she was not unfamiliar with turning over the ground. Coupled with her strength, it was simply too easy for her to do it.


    Song Jingchen was also doing fine. After all, he was a man and had practiced martial arts all year round. He had strength, but he wasn¡¯t very familiar with it.


    Due to the fact that it had just rained, the ground was still wet. From time to time, mud would get splashed onto him.


    Shen Yijia dug for a long time and realized that the person beside her had disappeared. She turned around and was stunned.


    Song Jingchen loved cleanliness the most. When had she ever seen him in such a sorry state?


    She often went up the mountain with Brother Hao and the others and returned looking like a mud monkey.


    It was unknown how he did it, but his face was covered in dirt.


    Just as she thought this, she watched as a small piece of mud from Song Jingchen¡¯s hoe flew above his head.


    Shen Yijia could not help but laugh. She did not expect there to be something her beautiful husband was not good at.


    Song Jingchen reached out expressionlessly and patted the mud off his head. After doing that, he was stunned on the spot.


    Shen Yijia was silent for a moment. She looked at Song Jingchen. He was originally just a little dirty, but he had smeared a large patch of mud on his hair.


    ¡°Haha!¡± She laughed until she bent over. She laughed until tears came to her eyes. Her beautiful husband looked so cute when he acted stupid.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes at the person who was still gloating. He took a few steps towards Shen Yijia and asked, ¡°Is it funny?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ It¡¯s funny,¡± Shen Yijia replied fearlessly. However, as soon as she looked up, someone cupped her face.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She looked up at Song Jingchen and blinked.


    Song Jingchen let go and looked at her seriously for a long time before nodding. ¡°It¡¯s indeed quite funny.¡±


    ¡°Song Jingchen!¡± Shen Yijia stomped her feet in anger. She grabbed the soil on the ground and was about to pounce on Song Jingchen.


    There was a moment of silence.


    The ground that could have been dug out in half a day took a whole day to be completed because they were fooling around. They planted the potatoes that Shen Yijia had planted in the flower pot.


    Shen Yijia even covered the soil in the flower pot with it and prepared a large vat of water. She added a drop of spiritual liquid into it and prepared to water the potatoes.


    When she woke up the next morning, she saw a withered plant on the ground.


    Shen Yijia was so excited that her heart was about to jump out. She jumped onto Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, look, the potatoes we planted have grown.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled and nodded.


    Perhaps it was because the place was big enough, but this batch of potatoes were big, and there were a lot more compared to the ones in the pot. Compared to the surprise he felt when he first saw them, Song Jingchen was already numb.


    Shen Yijia held the potatoes she had just dug up and said excitedly, ¡°Let¡¯s eat potatoes tonight.¡±


    At this rate of growth, they would soon be able to grow many potatoes.


    Song Jingchen naturally had no objections. He kept a few potatoes and planted the rest.


    However, this time, he was careful. He dug out a small piece of land in another corner and planted a few.


    He roughly guessed that the potatoes could grow so quickly because they had been doused with special water.


    However, if he wanted to promote it, he had to understand how to grow potatoes under normal circumstances. Therefore, he specially didn¡¯t water this small plot of land.


    That night, Shen Yijia ate the potatoes she had been thinking about, although she simply boiled them in water.


    However, it was unknown if it was because of the spiritual liquid or if it was an illusion.


    Shen Yijia felt that it was much better than what she had eaten in her previous life. It was pink and sticky, with a hint of sweetness.


    Song Jingchen had never eaten it before. He felt that it was much stronger than those wild vegetable dumplings. Moreover, it felt full. He only ate three before he couldn¡¯t eat anymore.


    If everyone could plant it, with this production, there was no need to worry that someone would not be able to eat their fill.


    This growth speed was too fast. By the time they dug up this batch, the courtyard was already full.


    They could only plant some first. They dug up potatoes to plant potatoes in a day. No matter how strong they were, the two of them were exhausted.


    They also ate potatoes. Shen Yijia felt that everything she saw now looked like potatoes.


    After working in the backyard for two days, Mo Yuan asked Furball to send a letter early the next morning because only Furball was allowed to enter and leave at will.


    Shen Yijia followed Furball to the second door and saw Mo Yuan and Rooster guarding it.


    ¡°Miss, Miss Liu is here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Who was Miss Liu?


    Seeing her like this, Mo Yuan knew that her Miss had forgotten about her, so she reminded her, ¡°The young lady from the Liu family who gave porridge in the city previously.¡±


    ¡°Why is she here?¡± Shen Yijia asked with a frown. They didn¡¯t know each other.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard of your name, Miss. I wanted to visit you earlier, but I haven¡¯t been able to find an opportunity. When I heard that you were moving, I specially came to send you a housewarming gift.¡± Mo Yuan repeated Miss Liu¡¯s words dryly.


    She must have earned her reputation through fighting.


    ¡°A gift?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She felt that she was too greedy for money, so she restrained herself.


    With a straight face, she said seriously, ¡°Since she¡¯s already here, we naturally can¡¯t refuse. That would be rude. Go and invite Miss Liu to the reception hall.¡±


    After instructing Mo Yuan to invite someone, Shen Yijia jogged back to look for Song Jingchen and asked him to dig up potatoes with her when she returned. It was less tiring if they worked together.


    When she arrived at the front courtyard again, she had just stepped into the reception hall when she saw a big and round potato sitting upright inside.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and thought to herself that she had indeed been looking at too many potatoes these past few days. She was hallucinating.

 Chapter 271 - Liu Piaopiao Is Like a Potato

    ¡°Miss, that¡¯s Miss Liu,¡± Mo Yuan reminded her when she saw Shen Yijia blinking at her.


    ¡°Huh? Potatoes¡­¡± Why were they here? Before she could finish speaking, Shen Yijia was stunned and looked at Mo Yuan in shock.¡± What did you say? ¡±


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°That¡¯s Miss Liu.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Why did Miss Liu look like a potato? No, why was she dressed like a potato?


    Miss Liu also noticed Shen Yijia. She stood up and bowed to her with a shy smile. ¡°Greetings, Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia closed her eyes. The girl in front of her was dressed in yellow and even had a yellow hairpin on her head. It was really the same yellow as the potato skin.


    Most importantly, her face was chubby and festive, and her figure was as round as a potato¡­


    ¡°Madam?¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia was silent, Liu Piaopiao called out again with a red face.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and rubbed her nose. She said awkwardly, ¡°Pota- Piaopiao, right? Please sit.¡±


    The two of them sat down again. Shen Yijia sat at the head of the table and sized up Liu Piaopiao curiously. The latter twisted her fingers uneasily under her gaze.


    She pursed her lips and said, ¡°Did I disturb Madam today?¡±


    ¡°Ah, no, no. Why are you here today?¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand repeatedly.


    Ever since Liu Piaopiao saw Shen Yijia, her face had turned as red as an apple.


    She also knew that her sudden visit was too presumptuous, but she really wanted to come.


    One was because of the rumors outside, and the other was because she was too curious about this woman.


    She was like the heroine in the book, defending justice, punishing evil, and killing everyone.


    In Liu Piaopiao¡¯s opinion, Young Master Shen was the righteous party. Without him, countless people would have died in this city.


    Including her father¡¯s family. Wasn¡¯t Shen Yijia defending justice for Young Master Shen?


    Seeing that Shen Yijia¡¯s attitude towards her was very easygoing, Liu Piaopiao knew that she had not misunderstood. She heaved a sigh of relief and swallowed the explanation she was about to give.


    If she mentioned it now, it would make people think too much.


    Liu Piaopiao secretly glanced at Shen Yijia and calmed herself down. ¡°I¡¯ve heard of Madam¡¯s deeds and admire you very much.¡±


    ¡°I also heard that Madam had just moved to the residence recently, so I specially prepared a small gift to congratulate you on your housewarming.¡±


    After saying that, she looked at the green-robed maidservant behind her. The maidservant immediately handed her the box she had been carrying along the way.


    Liu Piaopiao took it and personally placed it on the coffee table beside Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia looked at the exquisite box and her eyes lit up.


    The gift, it¡¯s here!


    Before she could reach out, Liu Piaopiao had already opened the box. As the box opened, a fragrance wafted out.


    When she saw what was inside, Shen Yijia paused. Where was her money? Why was there a roasted chicken inside?


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was staring at the roasted chicken, Liu Piaopiao heaved a sigh of relief.


    She knew it. A chivalrous person like Madam would definitely not like monetary gifts.


    She smiled and said, ¡°My chef¡¯s roasted chicken is famous for being delicious. If you like it, I¡¯ll send it to you next time.¡±


    Apart from bringing a lot of food back from home this time, Grandmother was worried that she wouldn¡¯t be able to eat meat. She even brought her many livestock. It should be enough for her to give it to others a few times.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Although the meat smelled good, she wanted more money.


    She did not know what Liu Piaopiao was thinking. If she knew, she would definitely refute her. She was such a shallow person.


    Ever since she left home, she had only tricked Qian Youde and earned a few hundred taels of silver.


    Afterwards, she bought a horse and Mo Yuan, and hadn¡¯t recovered the money yet. Her money bag was already deflated.


    However, when she met Liu Piaopiao¡¯s expectant gaze, Shen Yijia gulped and thought to herself, ¡°No need, no need. You can keep the rest for yourself. You don¡¯t have to send them to me.¡±


    Right now, gold, silver, and artifacts in Xunyang City were not as precious as food. She also knew that Miss Liu had good intentions.


    Liu Piaopiao thought that Shen Yijia was afraid that Liu Piaopiao would have nothing to eat after giving Shen Yijia the chicken. She was touched and was about to say something.


    Suddenly, a tiger entered. Furball had smelled the fragrance and came over.


    Seeing Furball, not only was Liu Piaopiao not afraid, but her eyes also lit up. ¡°This must be the Tiger King, who often follows Young Master Shen. He¡¯s really majestic.¡±


    Furball was almost a year old now. It was as tall as Shen Yijia when it stood up. Perhaps it was because of the spiritual liquid, but it was stronger than other tigers its age.


    ¡°Madam, can I touch it?¡± Liu Piaopiao looked eager. She reached out and retracted her chubby hand a few times.


    Furball did not even look at her. It walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s side and looked at her fawningly.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead and looked at Furball¡¯s greedy expression. ¡°Touch it then.¡±


    As soon as Liu Piaopiao heard that it was fine, her hand had already landed on Furball. She first touched it tentatively. Seeing that Furball did not react, she boldly rubbed it twice.


    She praised, ¡°It¡¯s so obedient.¡±


    Shen Yijia silently retracted her foot from Furball¡¯s forelimbs. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s alright.¡±


    With its limbs free, Furball suddenly pounced and knocked the box off the coffee table.


    The roasted chicken inside rolled out. Its eyes lit up, and it picked it up and ran to the door. The next moment, a kick landed where it was standing.


    Furball thought, ¡°That was close.¡±


    ¡°Furball!¡± Shen Yijia roared.


    It was fine if she didn¡¯t have any money, but Furball had even taken her roasted chicken. Was she going to lose everything?


    Furball cowered and glanced at Liu Piaopiao, as if to say, ¡°This is my reward for letting her touch me.¡±


    Without giving Shen Yijia a chance to attack again, he quickly fled the scene.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and watched as the roasted chicken slipped away.


    Liu Piaopiao was not frightened by Furball. Instead, she was frightened by Shen Yijia¡¯s roar.


    The green-robed maidservant brought by Liu Piaopiao coughed lightly.


    Liu Piaopiao paused and mustered her courage to persuade him. ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. If you like it, I¡¯ll get someone to send another one over later.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Is this a problem with a roasted chicken? Someone snatched food from my mouth.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Liu Piaopiao speechlessly and took a deep breath. She sat back in her chair. ¡°It has nothing to do with you. It¡¯s that guy who gets irritating every day.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Shen Yijia in admiration. She praised sincerely, ¡°You¡¯re amazing!¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°How could you tell? Is it that obvious?¡±


    Although she did not know why Liu Piaopiao said that, Shen Yijia liked to hear it. She instantly found Liu Piaopiao much more pleasing to the eye.


    Even if she looked like a potato, she was still the best-looking potato. ¡°You can call me Jiajia from now on. There¡¯s no need to call me Madam. I¡¯ll call you Piaopiao.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really? Then can I come and play with you in the future?¡±

 Chapter 272 - Emperor Chong’an Suspects Jiajia And Investigates Song Jingchen

    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really? Then can I come and play with you in the future?¡±


    ¡°Of course,¡± Shen Yijia agreed casually.


    Liu Piaopiao did not expect the people of Xunyang City to be so easy to get along with.


    She changed her shy expression and praised her from head to toe again.


    Shen Yijia was flattered by the praise. When she returned to the backyard, she was still smiling foolishly.


    ¡°Cai Yun, let¡¯s go home and get Master Hai to make another roasted chicken and send it over,¡± Liu Piaopiao suggested as she sat in the carriage.


    The corners of Cai Yun¡¯s mouth twitched. She silently poured a cup of tea and handed it over. ¡°Miss, you should drink some tea first.¡±


    After saying so much just now, she did not even bother to drink water. Cai Yun felt thirsty just looking at it.


    She wondered what was so special about that madam that her young lady liked. She was even worse off than her in rough linen clothes.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s mouth went dry at her reminder. Wasn¡¯t she too excited to see someone she admired?


    She stuck out her tongue and finished it in one gulp. She didn¡¯t need Cai Yun to serve her. She poured three more cups in a row.


    At this moment, the carriage suddenly stopped. The tea in the cup splashed in her face.


    Cai Yun wiped her face with a handkerchief and scolded the driver, ¡°How did you drive the carriage? What if you hurt Miss?¡±


    The coachman quickly explained, ¡°Miss, please forgive me. Just now, a carriage suddenly turned in front¡­¡±


    Cai Yun frowned unhappily and was about to reprimand her when Liu Piaopiao glanced at her and stopped her.


    She lifted the curtain and saw the tail of a carriage. Unfazed, she said, ¡°Let¡¯s go if you¡¯re not injured.¡±


    ¡°Ah, no, I¡¯m fine.¡± The coachman heaved a sigh of relief.


    There was a moment of silence.


    The driver of the other carriage was not so lucky.


    ¡°What if the carriage hit someone? Even if it didn¡¯t hit anyone, do you want me to fall to my death? Do you?¡± The person slapped the back of the driver¡¯s head as he spoke.


    If Shen Yijia was here, she would have recognized the driver.


    ¡°Oh my, Young Master, please spare me. How would I know that there would be a carriage in this city?¡± Zhu Zi begged for mercy.


    Qian Youde smacked him again. ¡°Am I the only one who is allowed to own a carriage?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because this place just¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, cut the crap. Have you found the painter?¡± Qian Youde leaned back lazily on the carriage cushion. He looked at Shuan Zi, who was gloating in the carriage, and asked.


    Shuan Zi quickly stopped smiling. ¡°I found it. This time, it¡¯s definitely reliable. I heard that the person is also a scholar.¡±


    Qian Youde snorted. ¡°You said that the person you found last time was a High Scholar, but look at what he drew.¡±


    He threw a stack of rice paper at Shuan Zi. It was vaguely possible to tell that it was a woman. There was even a flower drawn on her forehead, but her facial features were really indescribable¡­


    Shuan Zi took the painting with a bitter expression. Qian Youde threw out a stack of paintings. ¡°And this. You said that he¡¯s a scholar.¡±


    ¡°As for this, you said he was a master painter.¡±


    Shuan Zi stayed silent.


    ¡°Look, it¡¯s not even as good as the portrait I drew.¡±


    Shuan Zi thought to himself, ¡°There are clearly a few drawings that were done well. You¡¯re asking for too much.¡±


    Qian Youde could tell what he was thinking and lectured, ¡°How can we let these people taint this young lady¡¯s fairy-like appearance?


    ¡°You want me to look for someone with these strange paintings? If the young lady finds out, will I be beaten up or will you take the beating for me?¡±


    Shuanzi thought, ¡°Since you know that she¡¯s so fierce, why did you come all the way to this godforsaken place to look for her?¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    In the capital of Great Xia.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked at the secret letter in his hand that he had gotten someone to investigate Xunyang City. His eyes were fixed on the words ¡°borrowing stones¡±.


    It was from this day that the situation in Xunyang City began to reverse.


    There were traces of a counterattack from borrowing rocks to intercepting the provisions, but no one knew why the Hun army retreated.


    The entire process took less than half a month.


    All of this change was brought about by the sudden appearance of Young Master Shenzhi.


    Although his people had not found out the reason why the Huns retreated, he did not believe that Young Master Shenzhi was not involved.


    Young Master Shenzhi.


    These words disgusted him.


    ¡°Li Fu,¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an suddenly said.


    Eunuch Li quickly bowed. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°The person who sent the Song family back to their hometown said that Song Jingchen¡¯s newlywed wife was extraordinary, right?¡±


    ¡°I remember that¡¯s what Guard Lin said.¡±


    Speaking of which, Guard Lin was really unlucky. A good deputy commander of the imperial guards was demoted after sending someone back. Now, he could only guard the city gate.


    However, in Eunuch Li¡¯s opinion, it was already a huge favor from Emperor Chong¡¯an to not lose his life.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an narrowed his cold eyes. ¡°I remember that she¡¯s the second daughter of the right assistant minister of the Ministry of Rites.¡±


    He had never heard of this young lady from the Shen family in the past. It could be seen that she had hidden her abilities well.


    ¡°Then do you think it¡¯s possible that she knows medicine too?¡±


    At the beginning of the year, the incident in Anyang County involved a large number of officials, and there were changes in positions everywhere in the court.


    At that time, Minister Chen had the intention to promote his son-in-law, Shen Pingxiu. A while ago, the Eldest Prince married Shen Ruyun.


    Shen Pingxiu naturally became the right assistant minister of the Ministry of Rites.


    Eunuch Li hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°I¡¯ve never heard Guard Lin mention this before. Moreover, the imperial physician said that¡­¡±


    Without waiting for Eunuch Li to finish, Emperor Chong¡¯an waved his hand. ¡°Get someone to summon Guard Lin, the right assistant minister of the Ministry of Rites, and the imperial physician.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    After Eunuch Li left, Emperor Chong¡¯an instructed the empty hall with a dark expression, ¡°Go and check if Song Jingchen is still in Anyang County.¡±


    No one answered, but the curtain in the hall swayed without wind.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an muttered with a dark expression, ¡°I was indeed too soft-hearted.¡±


    Soon, Eunuch Li suddenly entered and muttered something in Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s ear.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an frowned and said in a low voice, ¡°Sick? Then get the imperial physician to take a look. If there¡¯s really no other way, get someone else to go to Xunyang.¡±


    Eunuch Li waited for a while but did not hear the next sentence. He secretly glanced at Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an rubbed his temples, as if he was impatient. ¡°Ask Lord Zhou to see me.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she was being targeted by both sides at the same time.


    After working with Song Jingchen for a few days, apart from living in the backyard and a small kitchen, the backyard was filled with potatoes.


    At night, Shen Yijia collapsed on the bed in exhaustion. She suddenly asked, ¡°How are the two of us going to transport so many potatoes? And plant them on the mountain? Just the two of us?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent. He felt that he must have stayed with this girl for too long, which was why he became stupid.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we call Rooster and the others over to plant it together?¡± Actually, this was Shen Yijia¡¯s main point.


    She was afraid that if she planted it again, she would hallucinate and see her husband as a potato too. Now, she had to rely on him to cleanse her eyes.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and didn¡¯t say anything.


    However, the next day, Rooster, South Wind, and Mo Yuan entered the backyard.


    It was unknown what Song Jingchen said, but the three of them just worked without asking anything.

 Chapter 273 - The Venomous-tongued Heir Is Here

    The next day, One Dot and Thirty Thousand also entered the residence overnight.


    The people they brought with them were all fighting slaves from Qingping Town.


    They were now Song Jingchen¡¯s suicide warriors.


    With so many people around, Shen Yijia finally didn¡¯t have to plant potatoes anymore. The two of them began to work on the unwatered plot of land.


    ¡°Why are they all germinating?¡± Shen Yijia watched as Song Jingchen dug out the potatoes he had planted and replaced them with sprouting potatoes.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t stop moving as he explained.


    It turned out that seeing that these potatoes had not changed in the past few days, he remembered that rice had to be germinated first before planting them, so he wanted to try it on the potatoes.


    Not only that, but he also cut up a few budding potatoes and planted them at the side.


    Shen Yijia had only eaten it before, so she knew nothing about how to plant it. She couldn¡¯t help Song Jingchen in this aspect, but it didn¡¯t affect her trust in her husband.


    At the Shen residence.


    Ever since Shen Pingxiu was summoned by Emperor Chong¡¯an, he had been in a panic all day, afraid that he would be stripped of his position as an assistant minister before he could stabilize it.


    The culprit was his second daughter, whom he had never liked. However, this person was not in front of him, making him unable to vent his anger.


    Madam Chen carried the tea to the door of the study. Seeing that Shen Pingxiu was drinking again, she frowned and covered her nose with a handkerchief.


    She glanced at the attendant in the room and waited for him to retreat before walking in.


    Although Shen Pingxiu had already passed the age of 30, it did not hide his good looks. It could be seen that he looked even better when he was young.


    Otherwise, Madam Chen would not have married him back then as his wife.


    ¡°Master Shen, why are you drinking again?¡± Madam Chen walked over and said coquettishly. She reached out and snatched the wine jar from Shen Pingxiu¡¯s hand.


    She was clearly an old woman in her thirties, but she insisted on acting like a young girl.


    Shen Pingxiu was about to flare up when he thought of something and endured it.


    He reached out and pulled Madam Chen to his side. He wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his head in her abdomen. He said in frustration, ¡°Huiniang, I should have listened to you back then and sent that unfilial daughter off with a bowl of medicine.¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, how could this have happened? I shouldn¡¯t have been soft-hearted because of the kindness of the two elders of the Wang family.¡±


    He knew that Madam Wang had been secretly drugged by Madam Chen. Although he did not interfere, he let her do whatever she wanted.


    It was to give Madam Chen a peace of mind. It was also a way for him to surrender to Minister Chen.


    Unexpectedly, Madam Wang got pregnant for some reason.


    At that time, in order to confirm if it was true, he even invited more than half of the doctors in the city to take her pulse and confirm that Madam Wang was undoubtedly pregnant.


    He could only guess that the medicine was fake.


    Later on, Madam Chen wanted him to abort the child in Madam Wang¡¯s stomach, but he refused. After all, he still had feelings for Madam Wang.


    Thinking deeper, he wondered if it was God¡¯s arrangement that he had a child that he shouldn¡¯t have had. He was afraid that he would be punished by the heavens if he did that.


    However, he regretted it now. What gift from the heavens? Madam Wang was the one who left it behind to collect on his debts to her family.


    A trace of mockery flashed across Madam Chen¡¯s eyes, but her tone was still as gentle as water. ¡°Lord Shen, don¡¯t say that. You¡¯re just too sentimental. What¡¯s wrong with that?¡±


    ¡°Besides, the two of us were kept in the dark about the girl practicing martial arts.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think His Majesty will blame you after he finds out.¡±


    This was also something Madam Chen could not figure out. How did that wretched girl secretly practice martial arts under her nose?


    It would¡¯ve been easier to accept if it was a completely different person.


    Back then, she did not take it seriously when Yun¡¯er returned and said that that wretched girl had become a different person. Now that she thought about it, she realized that she had become a different person.


    She was the one who had been mistaken.


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t understand.¡± Shen Pingxiu let go of Madam Chen and shook his head. He muttered, ¡°I have a feeling that she¡¯ll ruin everything we have now.¡±


    Madam Chen¡¯s eyes turned sharp. ¡°Then don¡¯t let her have this chance.¡±


    That wretched girl had better never return to the capital. Otherwise¡­


    In the blink of an eye, it was November. A long caravan swaggered into Xunyang City. The man leading the caravan had blond hair and fair skin. He was truly eye-catching.


    The caravan stopped in front of the mansion, and the commoners stopped to watch.


    It had been a long time since a foreign caravan had entered Xunyang City, let alone such a strange caravan. Everyone guessed what this caravan was here for.


    Before they could be curious for long, the next day, soldiers informed them from house to house to collect food at the entrance of Xunyang City.


    Food? Where did the food come from? The commoners exploded. Regardless of whether it was true or not, they rushed towards the city gate.


    ¡°Cousin, can we really rely on that Chicken King?¡± Looking at the contract he had signed, Shangguan Han still felt like he was in a dream. Could it be that a pie really fell from the sky?


    1


    They actually gave him so many potatoes.


    Although the conditions were that they had to be given 10% of the potatoes planted in the city within five years, it was still better than everyone starving.


    Besides, it was only 10%. It was nothing compared to being able to introduce a new product like potatoes to Xunyang.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t the thing already in your hands?¡± Song Jingchen glanced at him. ¡°Someone should have already received the potatoes at this hour.¡±


    The item was in his hands, but there was no sign of the remuneration he had to pay. He actually wondered if it was reliable. Was he too stupid?


    Shangguan Han scratched his head and chuckled foolishly. ¡°I just found it unbelievable. It turns out that pies really do fall from the sky.¡±


    Unfortunately, the Chicken King was in a hurry. Otherwise, I would have shown him more hospitality.¡±


    He sighed regretfully.


    Song Jingchen continued to speak viciously. ¡°You want to use the potatoes they gave you? Or wild vegetables?¡±


    Shangguan Han choked and glanced at Song Jingchen before realizing that something was wrong.


    Usually, this person would have long left by now. Why would Song Jingchen waste time mocking him here? ¡°Did you quarrel with Sister-in-law?¡±


    He felt that something was wrong. He was missing someone, right? In the past, the two of them had always been inseparable.


    As soon as he said this, Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. He stood up and walked out.


    That heartless girl was having so much fun now. How could she have the time to quarrel with him?


    However, Shangguan Han felt that he had guessed correctly and quickly chased after him. ¡°Then quickly apologize to Sister-in-law¡­¡±


    The two of them left the residence one after another. Shangguan Han thought that Song Jingchen was going to apologize, so he naturally didn¡¯t want to miss such a good show.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen stopped halfway.


    Shangguan Han chased after him and followed his gaze. Ahead was an inn that was about to be repaired.


    ¡°Cousin, is there a problem?¡± There were many houses being repaired in Xunyang City. If there wasn¡¯t a problem, why would Song Jingchen stop suddenly?


    Song Jingchen ignored him and walked straight to the person in charge, saying something to him.


    That person was stunned. He turned around and saw that it was Young Master Shenzhi. He hurriedly nodded.


    When Shangguan Han followed, he saw that the person was instructing the workers to stop work.


    Shangguan Han was confused. ¡°What? You¡¯re not repairing it anymore?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s useful to keep it.¡± Song Jingchen turned around and left.


    He was in a bad mood, so he wanted to give someone a gift.

 Chapter 274 - Jiajia’s Trick

    ¡°Achoo.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and tightened her grip on her jacket. The weather in Xunyang City was much colder than in Xiagou Village. Shen Yijia had been wearing her jacket for a few days.


    It had to be said that Mo Yuan was really omnipotent. It was unknown how her mysterious young lady taught her.


    Not only was she the one preparing their daily meals, but she was also the one who sewed their winter clothes.


    If not for the fact that she was short of money, Shen Yijia would have raised her monthly salary.


    ¡°Sister Jiajia, did you catch a cold? I¡¯ll get someone to add another charcoal basin,¡± Liu Piaopiao asked with concern.


    The two of them sat on a soft couch. On the table in the middle was a plate of roasted chicken.


    Apart from the two of them, Cai Yun and Mo Yuan stood beside their young madams and waited on them.


    Shen Yijia stuffed a piece of meat into her mouth and waved her hand. ¡°No need. One is enough.¡±


    Although she had already understood that the Liu family was in the charcoal business, she could not waste things like this.


    That¡¯s right, the heartless Shen Yijia was finally conquered by Liu Piaopiao.


    Now, there was no need for Liu Piaopiao to look for her. Shen Yijia would come to the Liu residence every few days.


    Most importantly, the Liu family was rich. The Liu family¡¯s roasted chicken was delicious. Not only that, but the Liu family also had a well-spoken person.


    Hearing her words, Liu Piaopiao did not ask for a servant to add more charcoal.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia had already gone to the side to wash her hands, she swallowed and asked tentatively, ¡°Sister Jiajia, do you still want to eat the remaining half of the roasted chicken?¡±


    After washing her hands, Shen Yijia took a handkerchief from Mo Yuan and wiped her hands dry before sitting on the soft couch. She touched her full stomach and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not eating anymore. I¡¯ll bring the rest back for my husband to eat.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao stayed silent.


    She silently retracted her hand and said, ¡°Sister Jiajia, do you think I¡¯ve lost weight recently?¡±


    Cai Yun¡¯s heart ached as she looked at her Miss¡¯s small stomach. She had lost weight.


    The old lady from the in-laws was worried that her granddaughter would be starved and thin, so she specially brought back more than ten chickens. In the end, not a single one fell into Miss¡¯s stomach.


    If Miss Liu ate it herself, she could still give the rest away. But now¡­


    ¡°Have you lost weight?¡± Shen Yijia stopped packing half a roasted chicken and carefully sized up Liu Piaopiao.


    Her face was still chubby, but when she thought about how this person praised her every day, she nodded. ¡°You seem to have lost weight. You look much better.¡±


    Women liked to be praised for being thin.


    Unexpectedly, Liu Piaopiao¡¯s face fell when she heard this. ¡°But my father said that the meat on my body is a blessing. My family¡¯s business depends on this blessing.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°No wonder she¡¯s so heavy. She¡¯s the only one in Xunyang City who has money. How can she not be heavy?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to lose weight? Don¡¯t you want to wear beautiful clothes?¡± Shen Yijia asked tactfully.


    Although the chubby Liu Piaopiao was also cute, every time she took a few steps, she would pant heavily. Shen Yijia was worried that she would not be able to catch her breath.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Liu Piaopiao leaned towards Shen Yijia, her eyes filled with yearning, but she quickly hid it.


    She shook her head. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t think about it. If I lose weight, our family¡¯s blessings will be gone. What if I become like everyone else and can¡¯t eat?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± If that was the case, it was indeed a little serious, but she couldn¡¯t just leave her goals because of that.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and suggested, ¡°You can raise a pig. Transfer your blessings to it and let it carry the fat instead. If it gets too fat, you can even eat pork.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Sister Jiajia, you¡¯re so smart. It doesn¡¯t matter if I lose weight?¡±


    ¡°Blessings rest on that pig. Of course it doesn¡¯t matter if you¡¯re skinny or not,¡± Shen Yijia said firmly.


    Cai Yun thought to herself, ¡°I somehow feel that my lady has been offended, but look at how excited she is¡­¡±


    1


    Forget it. It was fine as long as Miss was happy. Whether she could lose weight depended on whether Master was willing to let her do so.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll immediately get someone to get a piglet to raise. Then this roasted chicken¡­¡±


    Without waiting for Liu Piaopiao to finish, Shen Yijia wrapped the roasted chicken up and put it into her sling bag. ¡°I¡¯ll take it with me. You have to start losing weight now.¡±


    She had specially asked Mo Yuan to sew the cloth bag for her. Every time she came to the Liu family, she would carry it. As for the reason, it was obvious.


    However, Shen Yijia would never admit that it was to make it easier to bring back some food every time.


    ¡°Then I have to eat my fill to have the strength to lose weight.¡± Liu Piaopiao struggled one last time. This was the last chicken.


    ¡°That makes sense.¡± Shen Yijia nodded and took out two round potatoes from her cloth bag. ¡°I specially brought these for you. You can eat them after roasting them in the charcoal basin.¡±


    Although there were potatoes at home previously, no one could see them yet.


    Therefore, she did not take it out to entertain Liu Piaopiao.


    Today was different. Apart from freeloading, she also came to give her this.


    Courtesy demanded reciprocity. If she didn¡¯t give it to her now, it would lose its novelty soon.


    Liu Piaopiao did not expect Shen Yijia to specially bring her a gift. She immediately smiled.


    Without asking what it was, he took it and instructed Cai Yun to throw it into the charcoal basin as Shen Yijia had instructed.


    Cai Yun hesitated. Could this thing be eaten? Why had she never seen it before?


    Her young mistress had been eating expensive food since she was young. How could she eat something of unknown origin?


    Shen Yijia could tell what she was thinking. This was the first time she had seen someone like this. She did not think much of it and explained, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve eaten it before.¡±


    These days, not only did Mo Yuan cook all kinds of dishes for her according to her description, but she also created a few new dishes. Shen Yijia loved braised potatoes the most.


    However, she guessed that Liu Piaopiao would like potato cakes. They were sweet with sugar. She could get Mo Yuan to make some for her next time.


    ¡°Cai Yun,¡± Liu Piaopiao urged.


    Cai Yun could only do as she was told. She glared at Shen Yijia angrily.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose in confusion and got up to leave.


    ¡°Sister Jiajia, aren¡¯t you going to sit for a while longer?¡± Liu Piaopiao quickly asked.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. She had finished the roasted chicken and given away the food. She wanted to go home and accompany her beautiful husband.


    As they walked on the streets, they could see many people rushing towards the city gate.


    The people who had received the potatoes gathered in groups of two or three to discuss, but everyone was smiling.


    Looking at this scene, Shen Yijia puffed out her chest and felt inexplicably proud.


    Those were all potatoes planted by her and her beautiful husband.


    However, her heart ached for the spiritual liquid that she had painstakingly saved.


    Just as Shen Yijia was letting her imagination run wild, she vaguely heard someone call out again, ¡°Young lady, young lady¡­¡±


    The voice was a little familiar. Shen Yijia paused and asked Mo Yuan, ¡°Is someone calling me?¡±


    Mo Yuan shook her head. ¡°Miss, you heard wrongly. No.¡±

 Chapter 275 - Qian Youde Is Here

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia dug her ears. She rubbed her hands and urged, ¡°Let¡¯s walk faster. Otherwise, the roasted chicken won¡¯t taste good when it¡¯s cold.¡±


    Looking at her young lady¡¯s back as she ran away, Mo Yuan looked up and quickly followed.


    ¡°Hey, young lady!¡± On the second floor of the inn, if not for Shuan Zi and Zhu Zi stopping him, Qian Youde would have jumped down.


    After shouting at the top of his lungs for a long time, not only did he suffer, but he also watched as the person he had been looking for for so long slipped away.


    He kicked the two of them angrily. ¡°Hurry up and chase after her!¡±


    As soon as Shen Yijia entered the residence, she rushed to look for Song Jingchen. Suddenly, a figure flashed past her eyes. She shouted, ¡°Stop right there!¡±


    Thirty Thousand paused and placed his hands behind his back. ¡°Young Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Did you go to the kitchen to steal food again?¡±


    Ever since this person returned, it was as if a rat had entered their house. They couldn¡¯t keep anything to eat, and she had even caught them once. That was why she asked.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Thirty Thousand was about to deny it when his hand behind his back was grabbed and pulled out. There was nothing in his hand except a water bag.


    Thirty Thousand glared at Mo Yuan with a red face, then lowered his head aggrievedly. ¡°I¡¯m too hungry.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. He had to drink water from hunger? Although this person was indeed good-looking, it was really inappropriate for a grown man to have such an expression.


    Thinking of something, she paused and looked at him strangely for a long time. She said generously, ¡°There are so many potatoes at home. If you¡¯re hungry, eat them. Why are you so sneaky?¡±


    Thirty Thousand looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief. A few days ago, she caught him stealing food and beat him up.


    Because of that incident, he was punished by his master and ended up starving for so many days.


    Besides, he wasn¡¯t sneaking around just now. It was a subconscious action after being caught.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and coughed dryly. ¡°Mo Yuan, go and make him a full potato banquet. Don¡¯t starve yourself.¡±


    He didn¡¯t even look at what he had stolen last time. He had actually roasted a rabbit that her beautiful husband had finally caught. How could she not beat Thirty Thousand up?


    Now that the weather was so cold, it was difficult to find prey on the mountain. She had specially taken a look. That rabbit was a female. She originally wanted to catch another male and let them give birth to two little rabbits.


    In the end, the rabbit was accidentally eaten by this person. Of course he deserved a beating.


    ¡°Master¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and said indifferently, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m here.¡±


    She wouldn¡¯t say that Song Jingchen had punished him because she was too angry. In the end, she forgot about it.


    Seeing that he had probably not eaten for the past few days, she felt a little guilty, so she decided to let her beautiful husband continue to take the blame.


    ¡°Thank you, Young Madam.¡± Thirty Thousand was so excited that tears almost welled up in his eyes. He had been relying on drinking water for the past few days. He would never dare to steal food again.


    He still felt a little wronged. He had only gone to the kitchen to look for food when he was hungry. When he saw a rabbit, he couldn¡¯t resist. Who knew that his master had specially prepared it for Young Madam?


    ¡°Go quickly, Mo Yuan. Make more for him.¡± Seeing him like this, Shen Yijia felt a little guilty and urged him.


    Mo Yuan did not even look at Thirty Thousand. She nodded and turned to go to the kitchen. Thirty Thousand quickly followed.


    Looking at the two of them leave, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s vision was suddenly blocked. She looked up and saw Song Jingchen looking at her with a dark expression.


    She blinked and held Song Jingchen¡¯s arm ingratiatingly. ¡°Hubby, what a coincidence. I was just about to look for you when you came.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and glanced in the direction Thirty Thousand had left without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia followed his gaze and felt inexplicably guilty.


    However, this time, she was really not staring at Thirty Thousand in a daze. She was clearly looking at Thirty Thousand and Mo Yuan.


    Shen Yijia tugged at her ears and let go of Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She patted her small cloth bag proudly. ¡°Have you had lunch? Look what I brought back for you.¡±


    Song Jingchen helplessly reached out and tucked her hair behind her ear. It felt cold.


    He quickly took off his cloak and put it on her. He lectured her with a dark expression, ¡°Why did you go to someone else¡¯s house to freeload on food on such a cold day?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I get someone to raise a few chickens in the courtyard? If you want to eat them, just let Mo Yuan cook them.¡±


    Ever since Shen Yijia brought back half a roasted chicken for the first time, Song Jingchen had gotten someone to get a few chickens to raise.


    He thought about how Shen Yijia wanted to eat at home.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks indignantly and defended herself. ¡°What¡¯s ours is ours. I simply earned some extra from other people¡¯s houses.¡±


    She still wanted those chickens to lay eggs and hatch chicks. How could she eat them?


    Seeing her like this, Song Jingchen felt bitter. He felt that he had made Shen Yijia suffer.


    Otherwise, why would she care about this?


    He silently cupped her ears with his hands and waited for them to warm up.


    Then, he held Shen Yijia¡¯s equally cold hands in his. He lowered his head and took a deep breath as he rubbed her hands.


    Seeing his actions, Shen Yijia grinned and forgot about Song Jingchen¡¯s scolding.


    She leaned forward and kissed Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused and smiled bitterly. He wasn¡¯t as good as she thought he was.


    ¡°Oh my, let¡¯s go back to the house. Otherwise, the roasted chicken will get cold.¡± Shen Yijia retracted her hand and pulled him into the central room.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go in the future. I¡¯ll cook anything you want.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said while letting her pull him along.


    He didn¡¯t want anyone to look down on her. Only this silly girl couldn¡¯t think so much.


    Shen Yijia turned around and smiled at him. ¡°Sure, I want to eat your braised potatoes.¡±


    In any case, the Liu family was out of chickens. It was fine if she didn¡¯t go. She could just give in to her husband.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Other than leaving Shen Yijia, Mo Yuan would complete everything else she asked Mo Yuan to do.


    When she mentioned making a potato banquet, Mo Yuan made a table full of steamed, stewed, stir-fried, fried, potato cakes, potato crackers, and more.


    She did everything she could. She worked from noon to sunset.


    At first, Thirty Thousand could still keep up with her cooking speed. However, he had barely finished the previous plate when the next plate was out of the pot.


    Gradually, he slowed down.


    Thirty Thousand burped and looked at the table full of dishes that he could no longer eat. He said regretfully, ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t have to make so much.¡±


    Speaking of which, Rooster and the others had spent more time with Mo Yuan. Thirty Thousand did not know much about the person who stayed closest to the Young Madam.


    Although they had only seen each other a few times in the residence, the only impression he had of Mo Yuan was that she was a little cold.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Miss said to prepare a full banquet.¡±


    She finished expressionlessly and looked straight at Thirty Thousand.


    The corners of Thirty Thousand¡¯s mouth twitched. He said in disbelief, ¡°You¡¯re not expecting me to eat it all, are you?¡±

 Chapter 276 - Robbing Shangguan Han

    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Miss said to prepare a full banquet.¡±


    What she meant was that if Thirty Thousand didn¡¯t eat it, no one else would.


    Thirty Thousand understood. His eyes widened in fear. ¡°When did Young Madam say that?¡±


    He was very sure that he had been present the entire time and did not miss a word.


    Mo Yuan remained silent. It was fine as long as she understood.


    Seeing her like this, Thirty Thousand suddenly stood up and was about to leave when someone grabbed his shoulder.


    He subconsciously grabbed the hand and turned around to retaliate.


    Unexpectedly, Mo Yuan retracted her hand even faster and swept him to the ground.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Thirty Thousand did not expect this person to be so skilled. He felt that his waist was about to break.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to leave until you¡¯re done eating.¡±


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Who said I¡¯m not eating? Can¡¯t I find a food box to pack up and eat slowly?¡±


    Was he the kind of person who would waste food?


    Mo Yuan pursed her lips. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    With her attitude, Thirty Thousand felt embarrassed. It was his fault for not telling her in advance.


    He stood up with his hands on his hips. ¡°Then can I go and get the food box now?¡±


    He had fallen quite badly just now. Apart from feeling pain, he also felt embarrassed. He could not even win against a woman.


    Mo Yuan glanced at Thirty Thousand¡¯s waist. The latter immediately retracted his hand and stood straight.


    She was silent for a moment before turning around and taking out a food box from the kitchen to silently help him put the dishes in.


    Thirty Thousand was flattered and went forward to help. From time to time, he would steal a glance at Mo Yuan.


    Under the setting sun, the woman¡¯s originally cold expression softened.


    He was stunned.


    Thirty Thousand only came back to his senses when a food box was thrown at him.


    He took it uncomfortably and glanced at Mo Yuan. He stammered, ¡°You¡¯ve been busy all afternoon. You didn¡¯t eat anything. Why don¡¯t you eat something too?¡±


    Mo Yuan remained silent and turned to leave.


    ¡°Consider it the compensation for attacking me just now.¡± Thirty Thousand quickly stopped her. After saying that, he felt that something was wrong.


    However, there was no way to take it back. She could only brace herself and add, ¡°I guess that¡¯s fair.¡±


    If anyone else was here, they would definitely be surprised. Thirty Thousand, who had always been protective of his food, had actually been beaten up and had to share his food with that person.


    If they knew, they would have attacked long ago.


    Mo Yuan felt that she was in the wrong. Without a word, she walked back and snatched the food box from Thirty Thousand. She rearranged the potatoes inside and sat down to eat.


    Thirty Thousand was stunned. He came back to his senses and sat down opposite her. He was clearly full just now, but he subconsciously picked up his chopsticks and ate with her.


    He mimicked Mo Yuan and picked up whatever she picked up. He felt that the food tasted even better than before.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you ever smile?¡± Thirty Thousand tried to find something to say.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s hand paused. Just as Thirty Thousand thought that she would not answer, she said indifferently, ¡°I don¡¯t have to smile to serve Miss.¡±


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Why did it sound like this person existed specially to serve the Young Madam?


    He suppressed the awkwardness in his heart and retorted, ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t you need to? Look at Young Madam. She¡¯s so happy every day. Don¡¯t you feel good too?¡±


    Mo Yuan nodded. Her mistress¡¯s happiness was the most important thing.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Smiles are contagious. Smile more when you¡¯re by Young Madam¡¯s side. Young Madam will feel better when she sees it.¡±


    Mo Yuan pursed her lips and smiled stiffly.


    Thirty Thousand was speechless.


    That didn¡¯t look like a smile. It looked like she was crying.


    He licked his lips and put down his chopsticks to demonstrate. ¡°The corners of your mouth should be raised like mine, not pulled down.¡±


    Mo Yuan observed his expression seriously and tried to smile again.


    Thirty Thousand was stunned for a moment. He coughed dryly and suddenly leaned forward.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s expression turned cold and she was about to attack.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± Thirty Thousand stopped her in time. He reached out and tugged at Mo Yuan¡¯s cheeks.


    He forced a smile on her face before reluctantly letting go. He pretended to be calm and said, ¡°Just keep it like this.¡±


    The curve was there, but it was a little stiff.


    Mo Yuan stayed silent.


    She maintained it for a while. After confirming that she had memorized it, she stood up expressionlessly and said coldly, ¡°You can eat the rest yourself. If you don¡¯t finish it, I¡¯ll inform Young Master.¡±


    With that, she left without waiting for a response.


    Thirty Thousand only came back to his senses after a long time. He raised his hands and looked at them for a long time before suddenly laughing foolishly.


    During dinner, Shen Yijia looked at the potatoes and roasted chicken that Song Jingchen had personally served. Her heart ached for the unborn eggs.


    However, she could not bear to blame her beautiful husband. In order to show her respect for this innocent chicken, she could only turn her grief and indignation into a good appetite.


    She finished all the chicken pieces and even the gravy that came with the steamed potatoes.


    In the end, she ate too much.


    Song Jingchen was amused and annoyed when he heard her sitting there and complaining about her stomachache.


    He had just told her not to eat if she couldn¡¯t eat anymore, but this person refused to listen.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get Mo Yuan to make you some digestive tea.¡±


    ¡°No need, no need. I¡¯ll just lie down for a while.¡± If others found out that she had eaten too much, she would feel embarrassed.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°I¡¯ll tell her I ate too much.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Not long after Song Jingchen left, he returned with a bowl of digestive tea.


    Shen Yijia confirmed again. ¡°No one knows it¡¯s me, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. ¡°No.¡±


    Only then did Shen Yijia finish it with a clear conscience.


    However, she didn¡¯t know that everyone wouldn¡¯t believe it if they heard that Song Jingchen had eaten too much.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to lie back down after drinking the digestive tea, Song Jingchen quickly stopped her. ¡°Let¡¯s go for a walk.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her stomach with a resistant expression. ¡°No.¡±


    Even if the emperor came, she had to lie down today.


    After ten minutes.


    ¡°Hubby, where are we going?¡± Shen Yijia originally thought that they were going to take a walk in the residence, but she didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to pull her out of the residence.


    Behind him were Thirty Thousand and Mo Yuan.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the prince¡¯s residence to get something.¡± With that, Song Jingchen glanced at Thirty Thousand indifferently.


    Thirty Thousand shuddered. ¡°Master, South Wind¡¯s stomach is a little unwell, so he asked me to replace him.¡±


    After saying that, he secretly glanced at the expressionless Mo Yuan.


    Not only was Shen Yijia curious about what was in such a hurry to get it in the middle of the night, but even Shangguan Han was shocked to see them.


    He thought that something big had happened.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen said firmly, ¡°Open your private treasury.¡±


    Shangguan Han heaved a sigh of relief. So it was a robbery. But wasn¡¯t this more like what Sister-in-law would do?


    He stole a glance at Shen Yijia and understood. Sister-in-law must have instructed his cousin to take responsibility for this.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. As expected of the heavens. She had let her beautiful husband take the blame twice in a day. Now, she had returned the favor.


    When Shangguan Han was in the Eastern Palace, he had so many treasures that his room couldn¡¯t even hold them.


    Looking around in this new treasury, she saw that it was empty and covered in dust. If not for the big lock on the door, Shen Yijia could have said that this was a storeroom.

 Chapter 277 - Shangguan Yu’s Gift

    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect Shangguan Han to be so poor. He walked around and chose a famous calligraphy treasure and an inkstone before coming out.


    Thinking of something, he looked at Shangguan Han. ¡°Let¡¯s go to your study.¡±


    Shangguan Han pursed his lips. ¡°Cousin¡­¡±


    Since he was young, he had a habit of putting everything he liked in the study. If he didn¡¯t like it, he would throw it into the private warehouse. Song Jingchen knew this.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and only looked at him quietly.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s face fell. He resigned himself to fate and led the way to the study.


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Song Jingchen had come to his study, so he already knew the layout of the room.


    After entering, he went straight to the rack and took down the most eye-catching long box.


    Seeing what he was holding, Shangguan Han¡¯s eyelids twitched. He ran forward to snatch it back. ¡°Cousin, this won¡¯t do.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. Actually, he didn¡¯t know what was inside, but he knew Shangguan Han too well. The more he liked something, the more conspicuous it was.


    This problem had yet to be corrected.


    Initially, he would put it back if it wasn¡¯t suitable. However, Shangguan Han¡¯s unyielding attitude made him curious.


    He dodged Shangguan Han¡¯s hand and opened the box first. Inside was a good rice brush.


    Song Jingchen frowned. He didn¡¯t remember Shangguan Hanxi liking this thing. He had once said that it was fine as long as the brush could write.


    Instead, it was someone else who liked things like this.


    He narrowed his eyes and asked in a low voice, ¡°Who gave this to you?¡±


    He didn¡¯t like to write, but he treasured it. It had to do with the person who gave him the brush.


    Shangguan Han shrank his neck and stood still like a child who had done something wrong. He said in a muffled voice, ¡°Second Brother gave it to me when I left the capital. I was in a bad mood and got angry at him. I regretted it after that.¡±


    ¡°I thought that if we had the chance to meet in the future, I could use it to apologize to Second Brother.¡±


    As expected.


    Song Jingchen sneered and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll meet again.¡±


    He covered the box again, but he had no intention of returning it. He pulled Shen Yijia away.


    ¡°Cousin, I-¡±


    Song Jingchen paused for a moment and said coldly, ¡°I¡¯ll return it in a few days.¡±


    Shangguan Han quickly waved his hand. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I wanted to say that if you like it, you can take it.¡±


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t turn around.


    ¡°Is Cousin angry with me?¡± Shangguan Han muttered. He still couldn¡¯t figure it out. It was just a rice pen. It wasn¡¯t like he wasn¡¯t willing to part with it.


    Butler Wan sighed and shook his head. He shouldn¡¯t have interrupted his master¡¯s matters, but he couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore.


    He said earnestly, ¡°Your Highness, you just have to remember that Young Master will never harm you.¡±


    After the Prince had arrived in Xunyang City, if not for his cousin¡¯s protection, he would have lost his life long ago.


    It had to be known that at that time, Young Master¡¯s legs had yet to recover. He probably could not even take care of himself.


    Some people didn¡¯t say anything, but they did everything.


    The moon was bright and the surroundings were silent. Only their footsteps echoed in his ears.


    Although Song Jingchen was still protecting her as carefully as before, Shen Yijia could clearly feel that he was in a bad mood.


    She turned around and stole a glance at Song Jingchen, but she held back from asking.


    After returning to the residence, Song Jingchen looked at the calligraphy paper and inkstone in Thirty Thousand¡¯s hands and instructed, ¡°Send these two to the Liu residence tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Huh? For Liu Piaopiao?¡± Shen Yijia was surprised. Why would he give her a gift for no reason?


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and explained, ¡°It¡¯s for Old Master Liu. Their residence has treated you well for a long time. We should give them something in return.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately understood. To put it simply, he was paying back what she had mooched off Liu Piaopiao.


    She wanted to say that she had given them two potatoes, but she felt a little guilty. She thought about it and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll make some potato cakes and send them over.¡±


    The two of them retreated.


    When she returned to her room, Shen Yijia saw that Song Jingchen had casually thrown the box containing the writing brush on the desk. He didn¡¯t look like he liked it.


    She walked to the desk and placed her hands on it. She leaned forward and whispered to Song Jingchen, ¡°Hubby, is there something wrong with this brush?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused and shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Then why?¡± He looked so scary earlier.


    Song Jingchen saw through her thoughts and smiled. ¡°I was just scaring him.¡±


    Shen Yijia clearly did not believe him. She puffed up her cheeks and guessed, ¡°Do you think there¡¯s something wrong with Shangguan Yu? Then why didn¡¯t you tell Shangguan Han directly?¡±


    Song Jingchen reached out and pulled Shen Yijia into his arms. Instead of answering her question, he asked, ¡°If someone told you that I¡¯m not a good person and wanted to harm you, what would you do?¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what Shangguan Yu was like, but it wasn¡¯t as it seemed.


    Shen Yijia frowned without thinking. She clenched her fists and gestured in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°Of course I¡¯m going to beat him up.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned for a moment before chuckling. ¡°What if Lin Shao told you to be more wary of Bruiser? Would you believe him?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked, not understanding why the two of them were involved. After thinking for a moment, she shook her head. ¡°I know the two of them. If Lin Shao said that, it must be a misunderstanding between the two of them.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped smiling and muttered, ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯ve only been with them for a short time.¡±


    ¡°However, some of the people around him grew up with him.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood what Song Jingchen meant.


    Was he afraid that she would not understand if he said it directly because she was too stupid?


    However, in comparison, Shangguan Han didn¡¯t believe Song Jingchen, which made her even angrier.


    She didn¡¯t think that what Song Jingchen said just now was just an assumption. It hadn¡¯t happened yet.


    ¡°Only those who are familiar with him know that Shangguan Han has two bad habits. One is that he likes to put his precious things in the study, and the other is that he likes to bite the top of his pen when he¡¯s thinking about something.¡±


    Song Jingchen suddenly added.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes.


    The night passed uneventfully.


    When Shen Yijia woke up the next day, Song Jingchen was no longer in the residence.


    She let Mo Yuan help her wash up with sleepy eyes. She sat in front of the dressing table and dozed off, letting Mo Yuan brush her hair.


    She suddenly opened her eyes and met a distorted face in the bronze mirror.


    Shen Yijia was so frightened that she fell backward. Fortunately, Mo Yuan supported her from behind and prevented her from falling.


    ¡°My lady.¡±


    Mo Yuan¡¯s voice was as calm and emotionless as ever, but it sounded sinister to Shen Yijia.


    She turned her neck stiffly, still lacking the courage to look back at the person behind her.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, tell me who caused your death. I¡¯ll definitely avenge you. You can go in peace.¡± Her voice was still a little teary.


    No one knew that the fearless Shen Yijia was most afraid of ghosts because she could not hit them.


    Mo Yuan was speechless.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯m not dead.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia turned around.


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched. Shen Yijia was shocked. She reached out with her trembling index finger and placed it under Mo Yuan¡¯s nose.


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª

 Chapter 278 - Jiajia Hit Someone Again

    Fortunately, she was still breathing.


    She worked up the courage to touch Mo Yuan¡¯s face again. It was warm and smooth.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and sat up straight again. She pointed at Mo Yuan¡¯s face with a strange expression. ¡°What happened to your face?¡±


    Why did she have to make a face to scare people?


    Mo Yuan froze. She suppressed the smile on her face and said awkwardly, ¡°Thirty Thousand told me I had to smile often. That way, Miss will be in a good mood.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. If she didn¡¯t hear the last sentence, she would definitely laugh at Mo Yuan.


    But now, she felt a warmth in her heart. Regardless of whether she was the person Mo Yuan was looking for, Mo Yuan was certain that she was the one.


    She stopped smiling and said solemnly, ¡°Mo Yuan, you don¡¯t have to force yourself or change yourself to suit anyone. You just have to do what you like.¡±


    After being serious for a few seconds, Shen Yijia glanced at Mo Yuan and smiled evilly. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s better if you smile often, but that comes naturally when you feel happy. The feeling comes from here.¡±


    With that, she quickly placed her hand on Mo Yuan¡¯s chest.


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched, and she resisted the urge to retreat.


    Seeing her like this, Shen Yijia stopped.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously asked, ¡°You said that he¡­¡±


    Mo Yuan couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. Her face instantly turned red. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled and stopped teasing her, but she remembered this question.


    With this interruption, Shen Yijia forgot what she had wanted to say.


    It was not until after breakfast that she remembered. She pulled Mo Yuan to the kitchen and went straight to Lord An Le¡¯s residence.


    When the two of them arrived, Shangguan Han was not in the residence. Butler Wan received them.


    Butler Wan was about to invite Shen Yijia into the reception hall when Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said, ¡°I left a handkerchief in this residence yesterday. I don¡¯t know if I dropped it in the storeroom or the study. Butler Wan, help me look for it.¡±


    Butler Wan paused. She came early in the morning just to look for a handkerchief?


    However, he did not dare to refuse. Just as he was about to call for help, Shen Yijia stopped him. ¡°It¡¯s just a handkerchief. It¡¯s not appropriate to mobilize so many people. Butler Wan, go to the storeroom and look for it. I¡¯ll go to the study room to take a look by myself.¡±


    Butler Wan thought to himself, ¡°Even you know that it¡¯s just a handkerchief!¡±


    However, since he trusted Song Jingchen, he naturally wouldn¡¯t suspect Shen Yijia.


    Moreover, he had seen so many women in the palace who would do anything to achieve their goals. He could tell at a glance that Shen Yijia was not a scheming person.


    Therefore, he did not think too much about it. He brought Shen Yijia to the door of the study and went to Shangguan Han¡¯s private treasury.


    He had been keeping the keys to the private warehouse for Shangguan Han, so he didn¡¯t have to worry about not being able to enter.


    Seeing that she had left, Shen Yijia grinned and instructed Mo Yuan to guard the door. She entered Shangguan Yu¡¯s study and did not forget to close the door.


    She stayed inside for ten minutes before coming out. At this moment, Butler Wan returned.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia¡¯s hands were empty, he knew that the handkerchief was not there either. He apologized to Shen Yijia with an apologetic expression, ¡°Young Madam, I didn¡¯t see any handkerchiefs.¡±


    ¡°What does that handkerchief look like? I¡¯ll get the servants in the residence to look for it later.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead and said apologetically, ¡°Ah, I was about to tell you when I suddenly remembered that I didn¡¯t bring any handkerchiefs yesterday.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really sorry to trouble you to make this trip.¡±


    Butler Wan thought to himself, ¡°I suspect that you¡¯re here early in the morning to make fun of me, but I don¡¯t have any evidence.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not care what Butler Wan thought. She came and left in a hurry.


    Butler Wan was confused.


    It was cold, and Shen Yijia was unwilling to wander around outside. Since her beautiful husband did not like her to go to the Liu residence, she decided not to go.


    In any case, Liu Piaopiao would come to look for her to play.


    When they passed a corner, they saw a few people squatting at the foot of the wall and chatting.


    With the experience of these people bad mouthing Song Jingchen back then, Shen Yijia specially coughed and walked over.


    ¡°Have you heard? Young Master Shenzhi sent someone to send a gift to the Liu family early this morning.¡±


    ¡°How could I not have heard of it? As soon as the person who sent the gift left, the Liu residence exploded. I heard that it¡¯s the ultimate calligraphy treasure from someone. It¡¯s very precious.¡±


    ¡°Who in Xunyang City doesn¡¯t know that Old Master Liu loves these things the most? Young Master Shenzhi has been here for so long, but I haven¡¯t seen him get close to anyone. Why do you think he¡¯s like this?¡±


    Shen Yijia asked coldly, ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°What else could it be? Of course it¡¯s as we said. Young Master Shenzhi likes Miss Liu¡¯s kindness and wants to marry the Liu family¡¯s daughter as a concubine.¡±


    The person who replied had his back facing Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia thought about the meaning of this word and her face darkened. She narrowed her eyes and asked, ¡°But Young Master Shenzhi has a wife!¡±


    ¡°Hey, that tigress¡­¡± The man was halfway through his sentence when he realized that his companions were all pale and trying their best to signal at him with their eyes.


    He felt a chill down his spine and turned around in fear. He met Shen Yijia¡¯s smiling eyes and a small white fist.


    Then, his vision blurred.


    ¡°Ah! Madam, please spare me!¡±


    ¡°We won¡¯t do it again.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Shen Yijia ignored their pleading and continued beating them up to vent her anger.


    She placed her hands on her hips and looked down at the people lying on the ground. She said angrily, ¡°All you know is hearsay and nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Why? I¡¯m telling you why. It¡¯s because my husband said that only he can support me. He gave the Liu family a gift to pay for the free food that the Liu family gave me.¡±


    Although her beautiful husband did not phrase it like that, Shen Yijia felt that it made no difference.


    Fortunately, she trusted her beautiful husband. Otherwise, she would have died of anger when she heard this.


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right. We¡¯re all talking nonsense.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at them and snorted. ¡°You love spreading rumors so much. Just you wait. You¡¯ll get beaten up again one day.¡±


    With that, she turned around and left without looking at those people.


    After walking for a distance, she suddenly paused and asked, ¡°Have you heard these rumors before?¡±


    Mo Yuan lowered her head. ¡°Miss, please punish me.¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and sighed. ¡°Forget it, forget it. This won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    In any case, she trusted her beautiful husband unconditionally. Moreover, she had known Liu Piaopiao for a long time and knew that she had no such thoughts.


    What was there to be angry about? If Liu Piaopiao had really approached her to snatch her beautiful husband, then she would be angry.


    After calming herself and hitting someone, Shen Yijia returned to the residence in a good mood.


    Little did they know that her battle had once again raised her fierce reputation in the hearts of the citizens of Xunyang City.


    From then on, no one dared to spread rumors about Young Master Shenzhi and his wife, causing those who wanted to ask about them to be unable to do so.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with the two of you? I already said that I¡¯m the madam¡¯s friend. Go in and ask.¡±


    ¡°My family¡¯s young madam is not at home.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible, who are you trying to fool? Let me in.¡±

 Chapter 279 - Qian Youde Came Knocking on the

    As soon as Shen Yijia reached the door, she saw Thirty Thousand and South Wind blocking the way.


    There were three people standing in front of them. The one who spoke was the leader.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. This voice sounded familiar.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± she asked, stepping forward with a straight face.


    Without waiting for South Wind to reply, that person turned around and saw her. His eyes lit up and he wanted to pounce on her.


    Mo Yuan narrowed her eyes and watched as the person approached. She kicked him three steps away from Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. This familiar formula. She glanced at the other two and said in disbelief, ¡°Qian Youde?¡±


    Zhu Zi and Shuan Zi quickly went over to help their young master up. Qian Youde cried out twice before saying aggrievedly, ¡°Young lady, it¡¯s me. You¡¯re too difficult to find.¡±


    Shen Yijia circled Qian Youde twice with a curious expression. ¡°Why did you shrink?¡±


    It had only been two months since they last met, but the fat ball was no longer fat. How strange.


    However, it had to be said that Qian Youde, who had lost weight, was really good-looking. He could temporarily be ranked in the top three among the men she had seen.


    When Qian Youde heard her words, he immediately pushed away the two people supporting him and took out a fan from his waist. He opened it and shook it.


    He took two steps in front of Shen Yijia and quickly retreated three steps away when he saw Mo Yuan. Then, he said proudly, ¡°How is it? Am I especially handsome now?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°He¡¯s indeed quite crazy.¡± she thought to herself.


    She felt that this person should be locked up in the courtyard of her previous life.


    ¡°Hey, wait for me.¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to leave, Qian Youde quickly put away his fan and followed.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand looked at each other and did not stop him this time.


    However, as soon as they entered, South Wind said, ¡°Go and keep an eye on things. I¡¯ll go and look for Master.¡±


    Something big was about to happen.


    ¡°Young lady, you¡¯re too difficult to find.¡± As soon as they entered the reception hall, Qian Youde slumped into a chair without any care for his image.


    Yesterday, when Qian Youde chased them to this area, there was no one there. They circled every residence in this area and spent a lot of money to find out who lived there.


    He then used the process of elimination to confirm that it was this family. Fortunately, he was smart.


    Thirty Thousand followed her in and stood beside Mo Yuan without a word. He was about to smile at Mo Yuan.


    Unexpectedly, Mo Yuan glanced at him coldly, making him feel a chill down his spine.


    Shen Yijia did not notice the commotion between the two people behind her. She said angrily, ¡°Why are you looking for me? Don¡¯t you know that there¡¯s a saying that goes, ¡®Let¡¯s part on good terms¡¯?¡±


    She had only scammed him of a few hundred taels of silver. Did he have to chase after her like this?


    Qian Youde choked and immediately smiled cheekily. ¡°I heard that Xunyang City was fine and wanted to check in on you because we were friends.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, there¡¯s no need.¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    It was unknown what he was thinking, but Qian Youde gritted his teeth again. He ignored Shen Yijia and started to complain, ¡°Isn¡¯t there anyone in Xunyang City who knows how to draw?¡±


    ¡°I searched so much. At first, every artist bragged about how great they were, but when I finished describing it, their drawings didn¡¯t look like it.¡±


    He had wasted so much money. The money he had brought out was almost gone.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. This topic changed so quickly that she could not keep up. She looked at the more reliable Zhu Zi and asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Zhu Zi scratched his head and told her about their search for her. After saying that, he took out a few paintings from his pocket and showed them to her.


    Seeing those paintings, Shen Yijia could not help but laugh. The others were all good, but why did their facial features become strange?


    The most ridiculous thing was that in a portrait, there were two circles for the eyes, two dots for the nose, and one circle for the mouth.


    This didn¡¯t look like it was drawn by the same person at all. She believed that it was done on purpose.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had guessed correctly. She was notorious, and those people did not know if Qian Youde was good or bad. How could they dare to draw her?


    If anything happened and she found out, they would be doomed.


    Thus, Qian Youde was toyed with by the citizens of Xunyang City for nearly a month.


    Seeing that she was still gloating, Qian Youde looked at her carelessly and sighed. ¡°Is there anything to eat? Look at how hungry I¡¯ve become just to find you.¡±


    ¡°Of course. Mo Yuan, bring Young Master Qian down and entertain him.¡±


    The person who spoke was not Shen Yijia. The people in the room subconsciously looked at the door and saw Song Jingchen striding in with a dark expression.


    Behind him was South Wind, who had his head lowered.


    Shen Yijia blinked. It was not unreasonable for South Wind to win the heart of his beautiful husband among the Mahjong Brothers.


    What a troublemaker.


    Unfortunately, South Wind had been too guilty to look up, so he missed Shen Yijia¡¯s admiring gaze.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back?¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to pounce on him as usual when Song Jingchen walked up to her and pulled her into his arms. He looked at Qian Youde unkindly.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. Why did she feel like she had been caught cheating?


    Qian Youde was so shocked that he almost slipped off his chair. Zhu Zi, whose legs had gone weak from fear, helped him stand up steadily.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze was too lethal, and his aura was even more terrifying than his father¡¯s.


    He glanced curiously at the mask on Song Jingchen¡¯s face and quickly lowered his head.


    After calming himself down, he cupped his hands at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯m Qian Youde. I believe this is¡­¡±


    It took Qian Youde a long time to remember her name, since he had always called her ¡°Miss¡±.


    He actually didn¡¯t know this young lady¡¯s name.


    He could only brace herself and continue, ¡°This must be your husband, Miss.¡±


    ¡°Song,¡± Song Jingchen said coldly.


    Qian Youde was stunned and could not react.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°You can call her Madam Song.¡±


    When a normal person heard this, they would definitely take advantage of the situation. It was unknown what went wrong with Qian Youde.


    He shook his head seriously under the pressure. ¡°How can I do that? You¡¯re treating me like an outsider.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Her husband¡¯s face darkened even more.


    The others lowered their heads and did not dare to look, afraid that this dim-witted Qian Youde would die on the spot in the next second.


    He continued with a cheeky smile, ¡°Why don¡¯t I call you Brother Song and Miss¡­ I¡¯ll call her Sister-in-law Song.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°You really know how to make connections.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen frowned and didn¡¯t say anything. He turned to look at Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan immediately walked up to Qian Youde and stood in front of him. ¡°Young Master Qian, you¡¯re hungry. Please follow me.¡±


    Qian Youde was afraid of Mo Yuan¡¯s attack. He subconsciously staggered back a few steps and rubbed his nose before walking in the direction she pointed.


    After taking two steps, he turned around and said fearlessly, ¡°Brother Song, let¡¯s talk after I¡¯m full. Let¡¯s get to know each other.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.

 Chapter 280 - Yes, I’m Jealous

    This person was not only dim-witted, but also bad at reading the room. Her beautiful husband was so obviously unwelcoming. Could he not tell?


    ¡°Since you¡¯re not familiar with him, why are you still calling him Brother Song? Don¡¯t you have any shame?¡± she thought.


    Qian Youde followed Mo Yuan out of the reception hall. When he reached the corner, he suddenly turned around and glanced at her. The corners of his mouth curled up.


    Song Jingchen seemed to sense something and looked over sharply, but he only saw the corner of his clothes.


    The remaining people retreated without Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, leaving space for the couple.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head and called out weakly, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen let go of her and turned to walk out.


    Shen Yijia quickly followed him and jogged to catch up to him. She walked side by side with Song Jingchen and explained, ¡°I¡¯m not familiar with him.¡±


    Song Jingchen remained silent.


    The two of them walked quickly to the door of Song Jingchen¡¯s study. Seeing Song Jingchen enter, Shen Yijia pursed her lips and stopped walking.


    She counted to five in her heart and saw Song Jingchen stop and turn around.


    She grinned and jogged up to him. She hooked her arms around Song Jingchen¡¯s neck and jumped, wrapping her legs around his waist.


    She puffed out her cheeks. ¡°Are you jealous?¡±


    Song Jingchen suppressed the smile on his face and subconsciously reached out to hold Shen Yijia¡¯s legs.


    Without a word, he carried her to the desk and sat down. Shen Yijia clung onto him.


    Song Jingchen picked up a book and opened it. Shen Yijia tilted her head shamelessly, not letting him read it.


    She didn¡¯t say anything and just stared at him with wide eyes.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and suddenly lowered his eyes. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m jealous.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She clearly didn¡¯t expect him to admit it. She chuckled and leaned over to kiss Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯re the only one I like. Besides, you don¡¯t know how round he was when I first met him. How could I like him?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°What if he¡¯s as thin as he is now?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not as good-looking as you are even if he lost weight.¡±


    Song Jingchen gritted his teeth and finally asked the question he cared about the most. ¡°What if you meet someone who looks better than me?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said without hesitation, ¡°No matter how good-looking he is, he¡¯s not you.¡±


    Although she liked good-looking people, it¡¯s not as if she only liked people who were good-looking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget what you said.¡± After saying that, Song Jingchen kissed her lips.


    He remembered that if this girl dared to lie, he would¡­


    There seemed to be nothing he could do because he couldn¡¯t bear to.


    At some point, the kiss became urgent and aggressive. Shen Yijia felt that she could not breathe.


    Her soft hand hammered Song Jingchen¡¯s chest. Song Jingchen came back to his senses and quickly let go of her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face was red, her red lips were slightly swollen, and her watery eyes were looking at him accusingly.


    This appearance was really tempting.


    However, her words swept away all of Song Jingchen¡¯s charming thoughts.


    ¡°Are you still angry and want to kiss me to death?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    With a wife who could dampen his spirits at any time, he didn¡¯t need to worry that he wouldn¡¯t be able to control himself.


    He held his forehead and changed the topic. ¡°Did you do something bad at Lord An Le¡¯s residence today?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and turned her head away guiltily. ¡°No, no.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and pinched her face gently. ¡°That¡¯s where I came back from.¡±


    Otherwise, how could South Wind have found him so quickly?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Did he really bite the top of his pen?¡±


    She accidentally confessed.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shangguan Han couldn¡¯t eat spicy food. He didn¡¯t know how much chili powder this girl had applied to the top of the pen, but his lips were spicy and swollen.


    Song Jingchen specially checked after that. There was chili powder on the top of all the brushes on Shangguan Han¡¯s desk.


    She didn¡¯t know which one he would use. She was afraid that he wouldn¡¯t fall for it, so she applied it on all of the brushes.


    Butler Wan said that Shen Yijia had entered Shangguan Han¡¯s study early in the morning to look for a handkerchief.


    According to what Song Jingchen knew, that girl had never carried a handkerchief around. The answer was obvious.


    Shen Yijia realized that she had been exposed and muttered, ¡°I¡¯m doing this for his own good. I¡¯m changing his bad habits.¡±


    One could almost hear Shangguan Han thinking, ¡°Please don¡¯t do this for my own good. I have to suffer every time.¡±


    At Lord An Le¡¯s residence.


    Shangguan Han rinsed his mouth five times and drank three cups of tea, but his mouth still felt hot.


    He slumped behind the desk weakly and said dejectedly, ¡°Did I offend Sister-in-law in any way? Why is she teasing me like this?¡±


    Butler Wan and Yan Tai secretly glanced at his swollen lips and looked at each other. They wanted to laugh but didn¡¯t dare to. The two of them endured until their shoulders trembled.


    Shangguan Han said angrily, ¡°Laugh if you want.¡±


    As soon as he said this, Yan Tai immediately covered his stomach and laughed out loud. He laughed until tears came to his eyes. He turned around and looked at Butler Wan with sympathy.


    His laughter stopped abruptly. He looked at Shangguan Han with a long face. ¡°Your Highness¡­¡±


    ¡°After you¡¯re done laughing, go and wash all the buckets in the residence and eat all the chili in the residence,¡± Shangguan Han said with a fake smile.


    ¡°Sir!¡± Yan Tai wanted to beg for mercy, but when he met Shangguan Han¡¯s eyes, he immediately shut his mouth. Although Shangguan Han had a good temper, he was still his master.


    With a bitter expression, he knelt down and kowtowed twice. ¡°Your Highness, take care. I don¡¯t know if I¡¯ll have a chance to serve you in the future. You have to take good care of yourself. Remember to wear more clothes when the weather turns cold.¡±


    His master could not eat spicy food. He had been serving him closely, so he could not eat it either. He did not know if he would survive after eating it.


    Shangguan Han waved him away angrily.


    Yan Tai could only turn around and leave reluctantly.


    The corners of Shangguan Han¡¯s mouth twitched. Why didn¡¯t he realize that Yan Tai was such a drama queen before?


    He picked up the teacup and drank another cup of tea. He turned to Butler Wan. ¡°Do you think I should give Sister-in-law a gift to lift her spirits?¡±


    If this happened a few more times, he was afraid that his life would be over because of her antics.


    Butler Wan felt that it was not very reliable. Young Madam was clearly defending Young Master. It was probably useless to please her.


    If things went wrong, it might even make Young Master jealous. At that time, His Highness would really be in trouble.


    Butler Wan wanted to say something but hesitated. However, it was obvious that Shangguan Han had already made up his mind.


    Shangguan Han had only asked casually, he didn¡¯t actually want Butler Wan¡¯s opinion.


    Thinking of this, he immediately shut his mouth.


    Forget it. His Highness has to suffer more to grow up.


    After all, Young Master and his wife would not harm him.


    Sure enough, Shangguan Han continued, ¡°I remember that there¡¯s another glass lamp in the private vault. Go and find it. I¡¯ll personally-¡±


    Thinking of her current image, Shangguan waved his hand and said, ¡°You can deliver it to her personally. Remember to greet her for me.¡±


    Butler Wan received the order and went out to do his work.


    The glass lamp was placed on the desk. Shen Yijia thought about Butler Wan¡¯s words and looked at the thing on the desk.

 Chapter 281 - People From the Imperial Court Have Arrived Translator: Atlas St

    She was a little confused. Had Shangguan Han gone crazy from eating chili powder?


    It was rare to see such a fool who gave her gifts after she dealt with him. Apart from Qian Youde, who was stupid, Shangguan Han was the only one.


    What was this called, asking for a beating?


    However, this thing looked quite good.


    ¡°Well, I can hit him harder next time. Perhaps I¡¯ll gain something unexpected.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia stared at the glass cup seriously, so she didn¡¯t notice Song Jingchen¡¯s darkened face.


    Shangguan Han was still dreaming of currying favor with Shen Yijia and not being bullied in the future. Little did he know that his nightmare had just begun.


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia suddenly asked, ¡°Did you return that rice brush to him?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened as he remembered what Mo Yuan had said.


    He shook his head. ¡°Not yet.¡±


    He thought that Qian Youde was already shameless enough when he called him Brother Song for a free meal, but everyone underestimated his thick skin.


    He stayed in the Shen residence and said that he wanted to nurture his relationship with Brother Song.


    He was so shameless that it made one¡¯s hair stand on end.


    The people from the Imperial Court arrived in Xunyang in mid-November.


    They set off from the capital in mid-October.


    They should have arrived long ago, but there were endless twists and turns along the way. If the mountain path collapsed, they would have to wait for someone to clear the way. If the bridge was broken, the path ahead would not work and they would have to take a detour.


    What was worse was that they were robbed by bandits. Their carriages clearly had the emblem of the imperial court on them. These bandits were short-sighted and did not recognize these emblems.


    They should at least recognize the army escorting the provisions, right? They were all wearing armor.


    However, those bandits seemed to be blind and were not afraid at all. They rushed up and shouted for a fight.


    This made their journey miserable. The only thing they were glad about was that nothing had gone wrong with the rations.


    The group stopped at the city gate of Xunyang City. They should have been worried that these commoners would skin them alive, but now, they heaved a sigh of relief.


    The day before they arrived, Song Jingchen received the news. To be precise, he was responsible for all the twists and turns along the way.


    This was also why Shen Yijia was curious about Uncle Yang¡¯s disappearance.


    Although the arrival of the people from the Imperial Court was inevitable, bringing extra rations when everyone already had food was not the same as bringing rations when everyone was desperately starving.


    Song Jingchen was only fighting for extra time.


    When the team arrived at the city gate, they did not enter the city directly. The soldiers who were originally at the front led the way and made way for them.


    The two carriages slowly arrived at the front of the group.


    The coachman of the carriage in front stopped and cupped his hands. ¡°Lord Zhou, we¡¯re here.¡±


    After a few seconds, the curtain of the carriage slowly lifted, revealing an old man in his fifties with a white beard.


    Lord Zhou had been through two dynasties and was a royalist through and through. He had always been trusted by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    An official had once been implicated in a major matter and tried to cover it up.


    That official ran to deliver generous gifts to Lord Zhou in an attempt to rope him in, but he did not expect to be stripped of his official position and imprisoned the next day.


    It was because Lord Zhou had brought gifts into the palace to report him.


    Speaking of which, that person was really unlucky. His name was not on the list at all. If he hadn¡¯t exposed himself, he wouldn¡¯t have ended up being exiled.


    From then on, no one dared to get close to Lord Zhou. He became a lonely official, but he also became the person Emperor Chong¡¯an trusted the most.


    Even Grand Tutor Zhao, who had reported Shangguan Han, could not compare.


    Lord Zhou stuck his head out and narrowed his turbid eyes. When he saw the scene in the city, he was stunned.


    A group of guards stood on both sides of the city gate.


    The citizens entering and leaving the city gate were chatting and laughing. Although they were all wearing rough linen clothes, it was obvious that they were thick enough to ward off the cold.


    According to what he knew, the citizens of Xunyang City should be starving and naked.


    But what was he looking at? All of them were ruddy and energetic. They didn¡¯t look like people who had just experienced a war and couldn¡¯t eat their fill.


    Even the poor citizens of Xunyang City that he had heard of in the past should not look like this.


    If not for the words ¡°Xunyang¡± on the city gate, he would have thought that he had walked into the wrong place.


    Their team had stopped here for about ten minutes, but the surrounding citizens did not seem to see them. They did not even glance at them.


    Lord Zhou¡¯s expression darkened. He summoned a soldier. ¡°Go and tell the city guard that someone from the Imperial Court has arrived. Tell Lord An Le to come to the city gate to welcome him.¡±


    He now represented Emperor Chong¡¯an. He could not embarrass His Majesty.


    The soldier nodded and rode towards the city gate.


    As soon as the soldier left, the curtain on the second carriage was lifted and lowered again.


    A young eunuch approached the person drinking tea and asked with a cheeky smile, ¡°Godfather, aren¡¯t you going to take a look?¡±


    This person was none other than Eunuch Li, the chief eunuch beside Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Eunuch Li took a sip of tea and raised his eyelids. He smacked his lips and said angrily, ¡°Why are you going out? Are you going to embarrass yourself?¡±


    Wouldn¡¯t it be embarrassing if they couldn¡¯t see the situation clearly? Wouldn¡¯t it be better to enter quietly while no one was stopping them?


    He didn¡¯t want to embarrass himself. He might not even be able to enter the city gate today.


    The young eunuch said obsequiously, ¡°Godfather is so thoughtful, but does Lord An Le really dare to ignore us?¡±


    Eunuch Li glanced at him. ¡°I¡¯m not Lord An Le. Why are you asking me?¡±


    The young eunuch slapped his mouth exaggeratedly. ¡°I said something wrong. I deserve a beating. Godfather, don¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Eunuch Li was amused. He raised his finger and pointed at the young eunuch¡¯s head. ¡°It¡¯s fine in front of me, but don¡¯t be so loose-lipped elsewhere. No one can save you.¡±


    ¡°Yes. Godfather is right.¡±


    Just as Eunuch Li had said, the soldier returned after chatting with the city guards.


    Lord Zhou asked, ¡°How is it?¡±


    The soldier scratched his head awkwardly. ¡°He said that he would report it to His Highness and asked us to wait here.¡±


    Lord Zhou¡¯s expression darkened. What did he mean by waiting? If Lord An Le didn¡¯t come, wouldn¡¯t they be unable to enter?


    The city guards looked straight ahead, but they were actually sizing up the carriage from the corner of their eyes.


    Noticing Lord Zhou¡¯s expression, one of them sneered and turned to whisper to the person beside him.


    ¡°Young Master Shenzhi is indeed smart. He already knew what these people were thinking. They even wanted our lord to personally welcome him. How could they be so shameless?¡±


    ¡°Stop talking. When you¡¯re off duty later, just make a trip to the prince¡¯s residence.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, I won¡¯t forget,¡± the general said with a smile.


    It was time for them to close the city gate.


    The sky gradually darkened.


    ¡°Sir, why don¡¯t we just enter the city?¡±


    Lord Zhou¡¯s follower, Zhou Qing, asked tentatively.


    Although there was also a charcoal basin in the carriage, the cold wind still blew in through the curtain.


    He wouldn¡¯t be able to endure it even if he was still a young man.


    Lord Zhou sat there, shivering. He said angrily, ¡°Wait.¡±


    He also wanted to enter the city, but he had already said it just now. How could he go back on his word?


    However, that damned Eunuch Li did not come to persuade him.

 Chapter 282 - Qian Youde With Other Intentions

    The winter in the north was cold to begin with, and the curtain of the carriage fluttered.


    Zhou Qing seemed to read his mind. He said, ¡°I¡¯ll go out and take a look.¡± Then, he lifted the curtain and got out of the carriage.


    There was no one else in the carriage. Lord Zhou moved his frozen body and changed his posture. He reached out and rubbed his hands.


    He originally thought that Zhou Qing would bring Eunuch Li over. At the very least, he would bring the younger eunuch that followed Eunuch Li around.


    Unexpectedly, only one person came back.


    Lord Zhou sat back down and glanced at Zhou Qing.


    Only then did Zhou Qing stammer, ¡°Eunuch Li said that His Majesty can¡¯t lose face. He doesn¡¯t mind catching a cold.¡±


    He did not dare to say that he had seen the young eunuch wrap the carriage in oil paper when he went over. The carriage was even covered with a thick blanket.


    Eunuch Li looked like he was going to spend the night in the carriage. Moreover, with those things, how could he feel cold sitting inside?


    In comparison, he was too incompetent as a follower, so he naturally did not dare to say anything.


    Lord Zhou stayed silent.


    It was unknown if the heavens were deliberately making things difficult for them, but as soon as the city gate closed, snow began to fall from the sky.


    If the snow had started 15 minutes earlier, Lord Zhou would have brought the team into the city. Now¡­


    Looking at the closed city gate, he was so angry that he almost died on the spot.


    The accompanying soldiers looked at the city gate in front of them, but they still had to stay here in the snow. All of them were angry but did not dare to say anything.


    They could only obediently take out their tents and make do with it for the night.


    ¡°It¡¯s snowing!¡± Shen Yijia ran to the porch and looked at the falling snow. She could not help but think of when she was in Xiagou Village.


    The family would usually be gathered in the central room to chat and tease each other in order to save firewood. They had only spent a year together.


    However, she felt that those memories were even more memorable than the ten years she had lived in her previous life.


    Moreover, looking at the current situation, she probably couldn¡¯t go back to spend New Year¡¯s Eve with her family.


    ¡°Be careful not to catch a cold.¡±


    As this voice sounded, a cloak was draped over her.


    Shen Yijia turned around and giggled at Song Jingchen. She reached out her hands. ¡°I¡¯m not cold. If you don¡¯t believe me, feel it.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled and was about to hold her hands when an annoying voice interrupted.


    ¡°Brother Song, I¡¯m cold. Feel it. I¡¯m about to freeze to death. Can you get someone to add a charcoal basin to my room tonight?¡± This was such a big house, but he was so stingy that he couldn¡¯t even bear to put a charcoal basin in it for him. This was too much.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen¡¯s faces darkened almost at the same time. They turned to look at Qian Youde.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You actually want my beautiful husband to touch you? Dream on.¡±


    This person was really asking for a beating. When he was told to move out, he said that he was Song Jingchen¡¯s underling. When that didn¡¯t work, he said that he had money to pay for the house.


    After these two tactics were useless, he began to pretend to be pitiful, act shamelessly, and make a scene.


    He said that he came to this godforsaken place because he was concerned about Shen Yijia. He had even treated Shen Yijia to a meal back then. How could she be ungrateful?


    He could talk about everything.


    It was an eye-opener for Shen Yijia. She hated the fact that there was no mental hospital here. Otherwise, she would have tied this person up and sent him in.


    Although she had indeed earned some money from him, it was unforgivable for him to disturb her alone time with her beautiful husband.


    Being stared at by the couple at the same time, Qian Youde was so frightened that he took a few steps back.


    ¡°Well, calm down. I¡¯m here to say goodbye.¡± The two of them wanted to hit him, but the ones who usually attacked him were Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand. Qian Youde was afraid of being beaten up.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡±


    Song Jingchen snorted and waited for him to continue.


    As expected, Qian Youde continued, ¡°It¡¯s absolutely true. I was originally here to bid farewell, but halfway through, it suddenly snowed. What does that mean? It means that the heavens are unwilling to let me leave and are asking me to stay.


    ¡°That¡¯s why I thought about it. I go against what the heavens want.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just here to tell you that I¡¯ve decided to stay for a few more days before leaving.¡±


    Realizing that she had been tricked again, Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and roared, ¡°Qian Youde, you¡¯re asking for a beating again.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, she clenched her fists and punched Qian Youde.


    Qian Youde was shocked and turned to run.


    Song Jingchen had already flashed behind him and pinned him down.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s small fist hit his eye.


    Qian Youde¡¯s eyes instantly darkened. Seeing that Shen Yijia wanted to do it again, he rolled his eyes and fell towards Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and dodged to the side.


    With a bang, Qian Youde fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia gasped and covered her face. It hurt to look at.


    Qian Youde, who had pretended to faint, really fainted now.


    Song Jingchen glanced at South Wind, who immediately picked him up and threw him at the courtyard door.


    In any case, Qian Youde¡¯s two servants would come and carry him away soon. Everyone was already used to it.


    Shen Yijia laughed. ¡°He¡¯s so fun.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. If not for the fact that this person was still useful, he would have thrown him out long ago.


    ¡°I know everything.¡± Shen Yijia suddenly blinked at Song Jingchen, but she didn¡¯t say what she knew. She turned around and jogged back to her room.


    Her beautiful husband did not say anything. He was always making her guess his intentions, so this time she let him guess what she meant.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. This girl had become smarter.


    In the wing, Shuan Zi and Zhu Zi looked helpless. One used a handkerchief to cover Qian Youde¡¯s eyes, and the other helped him change his dirty clothes.


    ¡°Young Master, why are you doing this? What good will it do you to deliberately provoke that couple?¡± Zhu Zi took the handkerchief off Qian Youde¡¯s face with a strange expression.


    In the past, he knew that her young master liked to play. Why didn¡¯t he realize that he had masochistic tendencies?


    He clearly had to be carried back every time he ran to the backyard, but he still enjoyed it.


    ¡°What do you know?¡± Qian Youde suddenly opened his eyes and said faintly.


    He kicked Shuan Zi away and glanced at Zhu Zi. ¡°This is called going deep into the enemy¡¯s camp to investigate the enemy¡¯s situation. Only by knowing yourself and the enemy can you win every battle, understand?¡±


    Zhu Zi rolled his eyes. ¡°Does Young Master Song and his wife have a grudge against you?¡±


    Qian Youde shook his head and looked at the pillar as if he was looking at an idiot. ¡°No!¡±


    ¡°Then what kind of enemy are you asking about?¡±


    Qian Youde rolled his eyes and subconsciously wanted to answer, but he stopped himself. He sat up from the bed and knocked Zhu Zi on his forehead. ¡°Why are you asking so many questions?¡±


    ¡°Have you learned to pry into my thoughts now?¡± he asked.


    Zhu Zi hurriedly begged for mercy and said with a bitter expression, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. I just can¡¯t bear to see you get injured every day. If Madam finds out, her heart will ache.¡±


    ¡°She would think that Shuan Zi and I didn¡¯t take good care of you. When the time comes, the two of us will have to bear the consequences.¡±


    Shuan Zi quickly nodded in agreement.


    Qian Youde rolled his eyes. ¡°I think the last sentence is what you¡¯re more concerned about.¡±

 Chapter 283 - Identity

    Zhu Zi wanted to say something.


    Qian Youde interrupted him. ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯m hungry. Go get me something to eat. I want potato cakes.¡±


    Zhu Zi and Shuan Zi rolled their eyes in unison. ¡°You make it sound like you have a choice of what to eat.¡± they thought.


    They had stayed here for more than ten days and eaten potato cakes for more than ten days.


    Of course, if he could also eat roasted potatoes or steamed potatoes. But potatoes were the main dish here.


    Although he was indeed stunned when he first ate it, no matter how delicious it was, he couldn¡¯t eat it every day.


    After sending them both away, Qian Youde touched his swollen eye and hissed in pain.


    He muttered, ¡°Imperial Uncle, I¡¯ve sacrificed so much for you. You have to make it up to me.¡±


    Then, he chuckled. This trip to the Great Xia Kingdom was really worth it.


    The group from the capital entered the city the next day. However, it was not Shangguan Han who invited them in. Instead, it was because Lord Zhou who fell sick.


    They were in a hurry to enter the city to look for a doctor, but when they entered, they were dumbfounded. There was not even a single medical center in the city that was open for business.


    What could they do? Xunyang City was too poor. The medicinal herbs had been exhausted during the war, so why would the medical center still be open? Wouldn¡¯t that be occupying the toilet without toilet paper?


    What if they tried to go to the Prince¡¯s Estate to look for the Prince? Unfortunately, the Prince didn¡¯t know that they were coming. He personally brought people into the mountains to find food a few days ago. No one knows when he¡¯ll be able to return.


    What if they wanted to stay in the prince¡¯s residence? Without His Highness¡¯s orders, the guards have no right to let them in.


    After being rejected a few times in a row, the group could only find a dilapidated inn to stay in.


    Why did they have to look for dilapidated goods? If they hadn¡¯t come to Xunyang City, they wouldn¡¯t have known. Only when they came did they know that the prices here were so expensive.


    A slightly better inn cost 200 taels of silver a day. If they really stayed for five days, it would cost more than 1,000 taels of silver.


    The inn only provided hot water. If they wanted the inn to provide food, they would need to pay extra. How could they afford to live here?


    Even the dilapidated inn they chose to stay in cost 50 taels a day, but there weren¡¯t enough rooms.


    In the end, Eunuch Li decided that those who couldn¡¯t fit into the rooms would sleep on the floor in the hall.


    He made a deal with the shopkeeper to provide three meals a day, including the fodder for the horses. That cost an extra 15 taels of silver a day.


    Even so, they couldn¡¯t possibly sleep outside the city again.


    With this snow, Old Master Zhou already fell sick today. Who knew how many people would fall sick tomorrow?


    The soldiers in the capital were not as courageous as those who had been to the battlefield.


    Lord Zhou¡¯s aide Zhou Qing was worried about his unconscious master. He only wanted to settle down as soon as possible. He gritted his teeth and took out 325 taels of silver.


    This was enough for five days, they would have to pay more if they wanted to stay beyond that.


    Even in the capital, ordinary inns only cost about 50 taels of silver. They even prepared food and hot water for you.


    Moreover, even an ordinary inn in the capital could not compare to this slightly better inn in Xunyang City.


    This comparison was ridiculously expensive.


    Even if they wanted to cause trouble, they couldn¡¯t. From the moment they stepped into Xunyang City, General Meng had led a group of people to surround them and patrol them.


    Even if they wanted to say that General Meng and his soldiers had offended their superiors and looked down on the imperial power, they couldn¡¯t.


    This was because General Meng and his soldiers did not offend anyone. Their words were polite and respectful, but they did things according to the ¡°rules¡± of Xunyang City.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you feeling aggrieved? You have to endure it.¡± They all thought.


    Shopkeeper Hu smiled until his face wrinkled. He took the money respectfully with both hands and promised, ¡°Sirs, don¡¯t worry. This small shop only looks a little dilapidated. This shop has all the commoners in other inns.¡±


    ¡°I guarantee that everyone will live comfortably.¡±


    Shopkeeper Hu still wanted to bow and bring his men around the inn, but Zhou Qing, who was carrying Lord Zhou, was already impatient. ¡°Stop nagging. Can¡¯t you see that my lord is sick? If anything happens to my lord, you won¡¯t be able to survive even if you have ten heads.¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and arrange the best room for my lord and get some hot water.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. I¡¯ll make the arrangements now.¡± Shopkeeper Hu said in fear and trepidation and quickly asked the waiter to prepare hot water.


    He prepared to bring the men up personally.


    Eunuch Li, who had been silent, coughed dryly.


    Shopkeeper Hu quickly greeted, ¡°Sir, please follow me.¡±


    Only then did the four of them follow Shopkeeper Hu upstairs. The others naturally did not dare to have any objections.


    When they reached the second floor, the corners of Eunuch Li¡¯s mouth twitched. There was a large hole in the middle of the corridor. In order to make it easier to walk, the shopkeeper casually built a wooden board on it.


    He looked up and saw that there was indeed a roof, but it was blocked by oil paper.


    Seeing that the few of them were looking at the gap and did not want to leave, Shopkeeper Hu explained awkwardly, ¡°It¡¯s all that damn Hun army¡¯s fault. They threw rocks at our city all day. I¡¯m considered lucky.


    ¡°Oh my, you didn¡¯t see¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Zhou Qing said through gritted teeth. Lord Zhou was a man after all. He was already exhausted after carrying his master for so long, but he still met a naggy shopkeeper.


    Shopkeeper Hu cowered in fear and nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll shut up.¡±


    He pointed to the wooden path.


    Zhou Qing said, ¡°Lead the way.¡±


    ¡°Sir, watch your step carefully.¡± Shopkeeper Hu walked over.


    Zhou Qing gritted his teeth and followed shakily.


    It would have been fine if the wooden board was bigger and could block the hole. However, it was not much wider than a palm. If one was not careful, they would misstep and fall.


    ¡°Godfather, this¡­¡± The young eunuch said weakly.


    Eunuch Li said expressionlessly, ¡°Why are you calling me? Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Fortunately, although it looked dilapidated from the outside, everything in the room was well prepared.


    After Shopkeeper Hu settled the two lords down, the waiter brought over the water.


    ¡°Find a doctor,¡± Zhou Qing instructed matter-of-factly.


    Shopkeeper Hu looked troubled. When Zhou Qing glared at him, he hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡±


    Shopkeeper Hu did not need to arrange for the others. In any case, other than the rooms of the two big shots, the rest of the rooms were theirs.


    When Shopkeeper Hu returned downstairs, most of them had chosen rooms to rest in.


    They shared rooms in groups of threes and fours.


    Shopkeeper Hu called the waiter over and instructed him to treat them well. He whispered in someone¡¯s ear before leaving the inn.


    Shopkeeper Hu turned a corner and entered the residence through a back door.


    If Eunuch Li and the others looked carefully, they would realize that Shopkeeper Hu had entered an inn that they had not chosen because of the astronomical price.


    As soon as Shopkeeper Hu arrived at the backyard, there were already eight people sitting in the hall. Those who were familiar with Xunyang City would know that these eight people had a common characteristic.


    They were all innkeepers in Xunyang City.


    ¡°Old Hu, you¡¯re finally here. Sit down.¡±


    As soon as Shopkeeper Hu entered, everyone greeted him happily.


    ¡°Hey, look at how anxious you are.¡± Shopkeeper Hu patted the snow off his body.


    He did not keep them in suspense. He sat down in an empty seat and took out the silver he had just received.

 Chapter 284 - Scamming People

    There were three banknotes worth a hundred taels, two silver ingots worth ten taels, and five taels of silver.


    As he took out more money, the eight of them gasped louder. They had never seen so much money.


    Shopkeeper Hu had only just calmed down after being excited all the way. Seeing them like this, he did not laugh. Instead, he said, ¡°What we said previously was that I¡¯ll take half of it, and the eight of you will split the rest equally.


    However, after some thought, I realized that this money wouldn¡¯t have reached me without your cooperation.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take a hundred taels. You can split the rest among yourselves.¡±


    After all, he still had to be in charge of those people¡¯s food and drinks.


    Although it wasn¡¯t as much as they had discussed, he held it firmly.


    ¡°Old Hu, you¡¯re so straightforward.¡± The others naturally agreed.


    Some people who regretted their choice after seeing so much money felt better.


    Shopkeeper Hu had to deal with those people, but they did not have to do anything and earned dozens of taels of silver for nothing.


    They were the ones who benefited.


    The few of them flattered Shopkeeper Hu again before happily distributing the silver.


    Soon, a waiter brought in a few plates of steamed potatoes. The few of them began to eat and chat.


    ¡°Young Master Shenzhi is indeed smart. The people from the capital are indeed rich.¡± Someone couldn¡¯t help but sigh.


    Shopkeeper Hu laughed. ¡°That¡¯s right. Back then, I was curious why he asked me not to repair it first. It turned out that he was waiting for these people to come.¡±


    Normally, the shopkeepers might not have been able to earn so much money in a year. Young Master Shenzhi was indeed cunning.


    While they were discussing fervently, another group of people was also discussing this matter.


    ¡°Haha, Cousin, this move of yours is really mean.¡± Although he had only heard the story from Yan Tai and did not see it with his own eyes, it was enough for Shangguan Han to gloat in joy.


    After dinner yesterday, Shangguan Han moved to the Shen residence and would be staying here for the time being. He was more than happy to do so.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished speaking, Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? My husband is smart.¡±


    Shangguan Han thought to himself, ¡°I feel that ever since I gave her the glazed cup, Sister-in-law has become more and more fond of being rough with me. I wonder if it¡¯s too late for me to take it back now?¡±


    The most terrifying thing was that after beating him up, his sister-in-law still looked at him as if she understood him. What did she know?


    Song Jingchen suppressed his laughter as he watched from the side. He took out a box from his sleeve and placed it in front of Shangguan Han.


    It was the box containing the writing brush that he had taken from Shangguan Han.


    Shangguan Han flinched. He still remembered how terrifying his cousin had looked back then.


    He pushed the box towards Song Jingchen and hurriedly waved his hand. ¡°I don¡¯t want it. Didn¡¯t I say I¡¯d give it to you?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent. He wondered if he had been too fierce to this kid recently, causing him to be so afraid.


    Song Jingchen coughed dryly. ¡°I¡¯m returning it back to its rightful owner.¡±


    Shen Yijia was also curious. Could it be that there was no problem with that brush now?


    Shangguan Han wanted to refuse again.


    South Wind walked in and bowed to Shangguan Han before walking up to Song Jingchen. ¡°Master.¡±


    Then, he looked like he wanted to say something.


    Song Jingchen frowned and glanced at him. He stood up and said in a low voice, ¡°Follow me to the study.¡±


    He took a few steps and thought of something. He turned around and glanced at Shen Yijia. She smiled at him and waved her hand. ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ll be good and not run around.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her strangely before leaving with South Wind.


    As soon as they entered the study, without waiting for Song Jingchen to ask, South Wind couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Master, the emperor of the Wu Kingdom is critically ill. The Wu Kingdom might be in chaos soon.¡±


    In the reception pavilion, Shen Yijia and Shangguan Han stared at each other for a while. Shen Yijia looked at the box and suddenly asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to open it?¡±


    Shangguan Han thought, ¡°I don¡¯t know why, but I feel that everything my sister-in-law says can be a trap.¡±


    ¡°No, that won¡¯t be necessary. I¡¯ve changed my habit of biting a pen now.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. So soon? She wanted to get Mo Yuan to concoct some poison for him next time.


    Shangguan Han felt an inexplicable chill down his spine. He suddenly stood up. ¡°Sister-in-law, I still have something on. I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    With that, he walked out. Yan Tai quickly followed him with the box.


    ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Anyway, it was better for him to leave.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, let¡¯s go and play with the adults from the capital.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Mo Yuan with sparkling eyes.


    In order not to cause trouble for her beautiful husband, Shen Yijia specially returned to her room and changed into a man¡¯s outfit. She also asked Mo Yuan to cover the flower bud on her forehead.


    Mo Yuan was also dressed as a man.


    By the time they left the house, the snow had gradually stopped.


    The two of them were about to walk out of the residence when a figure suddenly jumped out from the side. ¡°Sister-in-law, where are you going? Bring me along.¡±


    Shen Yijia knew who it was without looking.


    She squeezed her fingers. ¡°I want to hit someone!¡± she thought.


    At Fortune Inn.


    Eunuch Li took a comfortable hot bath and leaned against the soft couch, sighing.


    During this period of traveling, he had almost lost half his life. Only at this moment did he feel that he had come back to life.


    The young eunuch walked over tactfully and knelt in front of the soft bed to massage his shoulders and legs.


    He had completely forgotten Eunuch Li¡¯s lesson. She could not help but complain again, ¡°This Second Prince is really something. Why did he fall sick the day before we set off?


    Coincidentally, the Eldest Prince had received an errand and was not in the capital. Otherwise, there would not have been a need for him to make such a difficult trip.


    ¡°The environment in Xunyang City is too poor.¡±


    The Third Prince and Fourth Prince were not suited for the job, and the others were too young. They could only send two qualified people.


    Eunuch Li opened his eyes and glanced at him. He said coldly, ¡°Why? Do you think our family is more precious than the imperial grandson, or do you think it¡¯s unfair for you to come with us?¡±


    Qi Shou¡¯s face turned pale. He cursed himself for not knowing what to do once he left the palace. He hurriedly slapped himself twice and explained, ¡°I didn¡¯t mean that. I just feel a little sorry for you, Godfather. You¡¯re already so old, but you still have to travel a long way to suffer here.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m old?¡± Eunuch Li said angrily. He really regretted acknowledging this kid as his godson just because he pitied him.


    He still had to worry about being implicated by his lousy mouth.


    If not for the fact that he had no ill intentions and was loyal to him, Eunuch Li would definitely not have kept him by his side.


    Qi Shou choked and said with a sullen expression, ¡°Godfather, why don¡¯t you sew my mouth shut?¡±


    ¡°Alright, there¡¯s no need to go through so much trouble. When we return to the palace, I¡¯ll get someone to poison you with a bowl of mute medicine.¡± Eunuch Li pondered for a moment. This was a good idea.


    Qi Shou was just exaggerating. How could he really want to be a mute? He wanted to beg for mercy with a long face.


    Eunuch Li waved his hand and pushed him away. ¡°Alright, go and see how Lord Zhou is doing. No matter what, we¡¯re on the same side. It¡¯s better if nothing bad happens to him.¡±


    Otherwise, Emperor Chong¡¯an would not forgive him.

 Chapter 285 - Jiajia Causing Trouble

    Opposite the door of the Fortune Inn, three sneaky people looked at the guards at the door of the inn and were troubled.


    ¡°There are people guarding this place. How are we going to get in?¡± Qian Youde muttered.


    Shen Yijia also puffed up her cheeks. If it were anyone else, she would have beaten them up. However, these people could not be beaten up casually. It could land them in trouble.


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°I heard that an adult is sick inside. He¡¯s sending people everywhere to look for a doctor.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You mean¡­¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, an old man with a white beard appeared at the entrance of Fortune Inn with two assistants.


    One of the two medicine boys carried a medicine box, while the other raised his hand with the words ¡°Rejuvenation¡± written on it.


    She was dressed like a charlatan.


    The soldiers guarding the door looked at each other and stopped them with a frown. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes in her heart and thought to herself, ¡°Are you blind? Can¡¯t you see that I¡¯m a doctor who¡¯s here to treat illnesses?¡±


    However, she stroked her beard with an unfathomable expression and said with a suppressed voice, ¡°I¡¯m the father-in-law of the nephew of Daoist Yuanmo¡¯s distant uncle¡¯s nephew.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and took a deep breath before continuing, ¡°Doctor Jia.¡±


    The soldiers were stunned for a moment. He thought about the convoluted relationship Doctor Jia just described.


    After thinking for a long time, their minds were in a knot. A cold wind blew over, and it took them a moment to realize that they didn¡¯t need to be thinking about this.


    Realizing that he had been tricked, one of the guards pulled out the long saber at his waist and said angrily, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to die, get lost quickly.¡±


    ¡°Sigh, it¡¯s not good for young people to be too impatient. Didn¡¯t I already explain myself?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Doctor Jia. I heard that an adult is sick here, so I specially came to treat him and save him.¡± As Shen Yijia spoke, she stroked her beard again and stood rooted to the ground. She was not frightened by the soldiers at all.


    Behind him, Qian Youde suppressed his laughter until his shoulders trembled. He suspected that this woman could not continue making up stories. Otherwise, she would definitely be able to make up a longer name.


    In order to prevent anyone from seeing him, he even covered his face with his hands.


    Then, the soldier saw the cover tremble. Shen Yijia stepped on Qian Youde angrily, and he restrained himself slightly.


    Shen Yijia shook her head and said seriously, ¡°My medicine boy has suffered from a strange illness since he was young. He can¡¯t help but tremble when he¡¯s agitated. He was frightened by the auras of the two officials. Please don¡¯t blame him.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    The two of them felt a little better when they heard him say that. They looked at each other and were about to go in to ask for instructions when Shopkeeper Hu came out. ¡°Oh my, Doctor, you¡¯re finally here. Please come in. The matter of Lord Zhou¡¯s health can¡¯t be delayed.¡±


    The last sentence was clearly meant for the two soldiers.


    As expected, the two of them did not stop them this time.


    Shopkeeper Hu led her upstairs, still thinking that Young Master Shen was very efficient. The doctor had already arrived before the people he had sent returned.


    However, he did not know that the waiter, who had been instructed to go out, had seen him from afar.


    Behind him were Thirty Thousand and a doctor carrying a medicine box.


    The waiter was stunned.


    Thirty Thousand recognized the old doctor at a glance. After a moment of silence, he said dryly, ¡°I¡¯ll go back and ask Young Master first.¡±


    If he brought people over to disrupt Young Madam¡¯s plans, Young Madam would be unhappy.


    If Young Madam was unhappy, his master would probably not let him off.


    He did not want to starve for a few more days.


    Song Jingchen was still writing a letter in the study. After hearing Thirty Thousand¡¯s report, he held his forehead helplessly. ¡°Forget it, she knows her limits. Let her be.¡±


    He wondered why that girl was so impatient when she asked him to leave just now. He thought that it was his imagination.


    Shen Yijia, who knew her limits, had just finished checking Lord Zhou¡¯s pulse and was instructing Qian Youde to boil a large bucket of hot water.


    Seeing that she wanted hot water without prescribing a prescription, Zhou Qing frowned and asked suspiciously, ¡°Do you know how to treat illnesses? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re a liar?¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°How can you spout nonsense? Why don¡¯t you go out and ask around?¡±


    ¡°In our village, there¡¯s no animal that I, Doctor Jia, can¡¯t treat.¡±


    ¡°You-¡± Zhou Qing¡¯s eyes turned red. So this was a veterinarian. His master was a person of such a high status, how dare he do this.


    Eunuch Li could not stand it anymore. Lord Zhou¡¯s condition was indeed not good.


    Afraid that he would really die if he delayed any longer, he coughed dryly and deliberated before saying, ¡°Doctor Jia, are you mistaken? Lord Zhou is not one of those animals you¡¯ve treated.¡±


    Moreover, why did Doctor Jia look familiar? However, he could not remember where he had seen him before.


    ¡°It¡¯s all the same.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently. After saying that, she seemed to feel that she had said something wrong.


    Before Zhou Qing could chase him away, she explained, ¡°What I mean is that these illnesses are all connected. Think about it, if an animal can catch a cold, so can Lord Zhou.¡±


    She continued, ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I be able to treat Lord Zhou with similar methods?¡±


    Eunuch Li frowned and pondered for a moment. He did not understand what the connection was. Instead, his mind was in a mess, and only the words ¡°Lord Zhou¡± and ¡°animal¡± were left in his mind.


    Seeing that the two of them were silent, Shen Yijia said impatiently, ¡°Then are you going to let me treat him or not? Let me tell you, Xunyang City lacks medicinal herbs to begin with.¡±


    ¡°Your lord¡¯s condition is still so serious. Once I leave, it won¡¯t be easy for you to find a doctor to treat him.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Eunuch Li pretended to look at Zhou Qing.


    Lord Zhou usually looked down on him, a eunuch. This Zhou Qing also did not seem to respect him much. It was better for him to make such a life-threatening decision himself.


    Zhou Qing thought of the cold reception he had been given when he first entered the city in the morning. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. We shouldn¡¯t delay things.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes angrily and glanced at Qian Youde, indicating for him to get hot water.


    After they left, she stroked her beard and instructed, ¡°Prepare a brush, inkstone, and paper. I¡¯ll give you a prescription to ensure that the illness is cured.¡±


    Although Zhou Qing was unwilling, he still took out a set of brushes and ink and placed them on the table. He glanced at Shen Yijia warningly.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Why are you looking at me? You can write it.¡±


    Zhou Qing asked, ¡°Are you the doctor or am I the doctor?¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. If not for the fact that she was afraid that they would not recognize her handwriting, she would have written it herself.


    Regardless of whether Zhou Qing was going to write or not, she began to shake her head and start with her prescription. ¡°A cockroach, a pot of urine from a child, cow dung¡­ Forget it, you might not be able to find it in a short time.¡±


    ¡°I see that there are many horses in that backyard. It¡¯s fine to change them to horse dung, but they have to be fresh. How about one hundred grams¡­¡±


    ¡°Nonsense.¡± Zhou Qing was so angry that he threw away his brush and glared at Shen Yijia. ¡°I think you¡¯re a liar. Guards!¡±

 Chapter 286 - Jiajia’s Prank, Liu Piaopiao’s Shock

    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him loudly. ¡°I¡­ This is an old prescription, do you understand? This is called fighting poison with poison. If I prescribe other medicine at this time, you won¡¯t be able to get the ingredients in Xunyang City.¡±


    ¡°Besides, I¡¯m a good citizen. How can I harm the officials? Wouldn¡¯t I be cut into pieces by you?¡±


    After she finished speaking, she finally muttered, ¡°I want to live for a few more decades.¡±


    The corners of Eunuch Li¡¯s mouth twitched. He didn¡¯t even dare to think about living for a few more decades.


    Zhou Qing glanced at Lord Zhou, who was unconscious on the bed. He closed his eyes and compromised.


    He did not forget to threaten, ¡°If anything happens to my lord, you quack, prepare to pay with your life.¡±


    ¡°Nothing will happen!¡± Shen Yijia smiled.


    This person could not die in Xunyang City.


    Perhaps because he was afraid of delaying his lord¡¯s treatment, when Qian Youde brought the hot water over, Zhou Qing had already prepared everything Shen Yijia needed.


    The room was filled with the smell of horse dung. Shen Yijia resisted the urge to vomit and held her breath as she instructed, ¡°The child¡¯s urine is mixed with cockroach feet. Feed it to your lord. Then soak your lord in hot water and pour all the horse dung into it.¡±


    ¡°Remember, you have to soak in it for two hours. Call me when the time comes.¡±


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Zhou Qing asked in disbelief.


    ¡°Do you want me to stay here and watch your lord take a bath? I¡¯ll wait outside.¡± With that, Shen Yijia left without looking back.


    It was too disgusting.


    ¡°I can¡¯t help here, so I¡¯ll go back to my room first. Call me when your lord wakes up.¡± Eunuch Li covered his nose with a handkerchief and stood up.


    Zhou Qing could only agree aggrievedly.


    He was the only one left in the room. Looking at the things placed on the table, Zhou Qing was in a dilemma. He wondered if he should try his best.


    Unexpectedly, the quack¡¯s voice sounded. ¡°You have to hurry up. If you delay any further, even a god won¡¯t be able to save your lord.¡±


    Zhou Qing clenched his fists angrily and poured the cockroach feet into the child¡¯s urine.


    The citizens of Xunyang City were going too far. They actually wanted a tael of silver for a child to pee.


    When his lord woke up, he would definitely¡­


    ¡°Ugh.¡± Zhou Qing rolled his eyes.


    Shen Yijia listened at the door for a while. First, there was the sound of something falling into the water.


    Shen Yijia covered her mouth and chuckled while stroking her beard. It was a pity that the weather was too cold. It took a long time to send the hot water over, and Zhou Qing wasted his time.


    The water was at most a little hot. It was impossible to scald Lord Zhou.


    However, that was fine. There was still a long way to go. She didn¡¯t want to kill him by accident.


    Just as she thought this, there was a sudden clang inside, followed by a loud scolding. ¡°Bastard.¡±


    ¡°Master, you¡¯re really awake. This method really works¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. She felt that Lord Zhou had either woken up from the heat or the stench.


    She shivered in disgust as she imagined the feces steaming in the bath.


    Just as she was about to find an excuse to slip away, she heard Eunuch Li say faintly, ¡°Doctor Jia is really amazing.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and raised her chin. ¡°Of course. My medical skills are not for show.¡±


    Qian Youde couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    Shen Yijia glared at him. ¡°What? Are you so excited that you¡¯re acting up again? Let¡¯s go home and take your medicine. Otherwise, what if you start beating people up?¡±


    As she spoke, she pushed Qian Youde a few times. She thought of something and raised her voice to Eunuch Li. ¡°Lord Zhou is also awake, which means that my method is still useful. Remember to let him soak for two hours, do not end the treatment early.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll send the rest of the medicine over tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°By the way, pay for today¡¯s consultation first. I don¡¯t want much. Ten taels of silver will do.¡±


    She was implying that Lord Zhou still had to undergo treatment later. If they wanted to completely treat him, they would need to let her go back.


    Eunuch Li frowned and glanced at Qi Shou. Qi Shou took out a money bag and took out the silver.


    Xunyang City was poor, but their prices were absurdly high.


    Shen Yijia resisted the urge to snatch it away. She tried her best to maintain her status and gestured for Mo Yuan to collect the money.


    The three of them went downstairs. Seeing that Eunuch Li did not say anything, the soldiers did not stop them and allowed the three of them to swagger away.


    Eunuch Li looked in the direction Shen Yijia had left for a long time. This back view looked even more familiar.


    ¡°Sir, you can¡¯t come out. Doctor Jia said that you have to soak for two hours.¡±


    Zhou Qing¡¯s voice in the room pulled Eunuch Li back to reality. The corners of his mouth twitched as he instructed the two soldiers, ¡°The two of you go in and keep an eye on Lord Zhou. This treatment can¡¯t be interrupted.¡±


    Lord Zhou was woken up by the smell and he fainted from anger.


    After tricking them, Shen Yijia walked on the streets in a good mood.


    She felt that the wind today was not so cold.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, are you sure that Lord Zhou won¡¯t die?¡± Although Mo Yuan had secretly told her just now, Shen Yijia still wanted to confirm it.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Yes, Miss. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, since we¡¯ve earned money, can we go and have a meal?¡± Qian Youde kept making his presence known.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and was about to retort.


    Suddenly, a carriage charged in their direction.


    Shen Yijia pushed Mo Yuan away and clenched her fists to welcome the carriage.


    She was so fast that everyone could only see a blur.


    With a bang, Shen Yijia punched the horse¡¯s head, and it fell to the ground with a neigh.


    ¡°Whoa!¡± The commoners, who had been so frightened that they scattered, gasped when they saw this scene. This person was really strong despite his age. He was comparable to the female demon.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the carriage. Wasn¡¯t this Liu Piaopiao¡¯s carriage?


    Every time Liu Piaopiao came to look for her, she would take this carriage.


    Just as she thought this, there was also movement in the carriage. Cai Yun crawled out of the carriage trembling.


    Then, she bent down and pulled Liu Piaopiao out. Their hair was in a mess.


    ¡°Miss, are you alright?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao was still a little dizzy and nauseous. She held her head with one hand and said in a trembling voice, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    When Cai Yun heard that she was fine, she heaved a sigh of relief. When she turned around and saw that her horse had been beaten to death, her eyes instantly widened.


    With a glance, she discovered the culprit. Shen Yijia, who was standing beside the horse, was about to go over and greet Liu Piaopiao and ask about her.


    Cai Yun shouted angrily, ¡°Hey, what¡¯s wrong with you, old man? You killed my horse. Don¡¯t even think about leaving if you don¡¯t pay up today.¡±


    The smile on Shen Yijia¡¯s face froze. There was actually someone who wanted to blackmail her?


    With her short temper, she did not care if they knew each other or not. She pinched her fingers and took a few steps forward to slap Cai Yun.

 Chapter 287 - Someone Interfered, The Ghost-Faced General

    Before anyone could see how she moved, they saw that the maidservant was already lying on the ground with a swollen face. She was also looking at the old man who had hit her in disbelief.


    It was as if she did not expect this person to hit someone at the slightest disagreement.


    Under everyone¡¯s gazes, Shen Yijia took a few steps forward and looked down at Cai Yun. ¡°If not for me, not to mention how many people your horse would have killed, you might have died too.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t asked you to give me money to save my life, but you¡¯re blaming me first.¡± she thought.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you think that your Miss and your life combined can¡¯t compare to a horse?¡±


    As soon as she spoke, everyone was shocked. How could this be a woman? Moreover, this voice¡­


    The onlookers silently swallowed the name. Their hearts trembled and they scattered, not daring to watch anymore.


    Shen Yijia looked at the onlooker who did not dare to turn around and pick up her shoes because she had walked too quickly. She was stunned for a moment. She was not a ferocious beast. Was she that terrifying?


    Cai Yun also recognized this voice. She struggled to stand up while Shen Yijia was distracted.


    She pointed at Shen Yijia. ¡°How dare you hit me? You¡¯re so shameless that you only know how to freeload.¡±


    ¡°Cai Yun, shut up.¡±


    Everything had happened too quickly just now, and Liu Piaopiao¡¯s mind was still buzzing.


    At this moment, she had just woken up when she heard this. She usually had a good temper, but she was furious.


    She had always known that Cai Yun was a little arrogant, especially since the Liu family had been praised by the citizens of Xunyang City recently. Her thoughts became even more complicated.


    After all, they had grown up together. As long as Cai Yun did not go overboard, Piaopiao would tolerate it. At most, she would reprimand her verbally.


    Putting aside the last sentence.


    She could even say such ungrateful words to the person who had just saved her.


    If she made a mistake in the future, she would probably be the first person to avoid her.


    ¡°M-Miss¡­¡±


    This was the first time Liu Piaopiao had been so strict with her. Cai Yun¡¯s face turned pale.


    At the same time, she felt a little aggrieved. She was telling the truth. Moreover, these horses were so precious.


    Liu Piaopiao made up her mind not to look at her.


    She felt a little embarrassed. She was afraid that Shen Yijia would remember what Cai Yun had said about freeloading. How would the two of them interact in the future?


    She stepped forward and did not dare to look Shen Yijia in the eye. ¡°Sister Jiajia, I¡¯m sorry. This girl doesn¡¯t know what to say. I won¡¯t let her off easily when we get back.¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡± Cai Yun was shocked. How could her Miss apologize to someone so humbly?


    She did not take the punishment Liu Piaopiao mentioned to heart. Their master-servant relationship of more than ten years could not compare to a person who had only known her for less than two months.


    ¡°If you still acknowledge me as your mistress, apologize!¡± Liu Piaopiao¡¯s voice suddenly became stern and resolute.


    Cai Yun gritted her teeth and bowed to Shen Yijia reluctantly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Shen Yijia crossed her arms and rolled her eyes. She turned to look at Liu Piaopiao. ¡°Are you alright? Why did the horse get startled?¡±


    Seeing that Shen Yijia¡¯s attitude towards her had not changed, Liu Piaopiao heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, her face fell. ¡°I went to look for you when the snow stopped. I heard that you were not at home, so I could only return to the residence.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect my coachman to suddenly have a stomachache halfway, so I stopped the carriage by the roadside. For some reason, the horse went crazy as soon as the coachman got out of the carriage.¡±


    ¡°Someone tampered with the horse.¡±


    Before Shen Yijia could speak, a sudden voice sounded.


    Liu Piaopiao blushed when she saw who it was.


    Shen Yijia did not notice Liu Piaopiao¡¯s abnormality. She looked in the direction Qian Youde was pointing at and saw a red dot on the side of the horse.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Qian Youde said proudly, ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, someone must have stabbed something here. The horse naturally went crazy from the pain.¡±


    ¡°Miss, you¡¯d better send someone to capture that coachman quickly. We¡¯ll know when we ask.¡±


    He looked at Liu Piaopiao and said the last sentence. If not for the fact that she had a good character and was not as rude as that maidservant, he would not have said anything.


    Of course, the main reason was that Shen Yijia seemed to be on good terms with this person.


    When Liu Piaopiao heard this, she understood that someone wanted to harm her.


    Ignoring her shyness, she hurriedly thanked him and hired a few commoners to help send the horses and carriage home.


    Shen Yijia did not join in on the fun. Firstly, this was their family matter.


    Secondly, it was because of Cai Yun¡¯s words.


    Since Liu Piaopiao¡¯s personal maidservant had said so, the others probably looked at her the same way.


    Even though it was the truth, she still felt embarrassed.


    Shen Yijia blushed. She finally understood what her beautiful husband meant by giving the Liu family a gift.


    Looking at Liu Piaopiao who left in a daze in the direction the crowd, Qian Youde suddenly muttered, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect there to be such a fat woman.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately rolled her eyes and turned to walk home. She said, ¡°You make it sound like you¡¯ve never gained weight.¡±


    A smile flashed across Qian Youde¡¯s eyes and he quickly followed. ¡°That was in the past. Haven¡¯t I lost weight now? Look, all those young ladies will blush when they see me.¡±


    As he spoke, he even winked at a woman who was looking at him with infatuation. The woman immediately covered her face and ran away.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The two of them teased each other and forgot about the incident just now.


    Mo Yuan followed behind and looked back in the direction Cai Yun had left. Killing intent flashed across her eyes.


    While Song Jingchen found out about the Wu Kingdom, a group of people rode into the border town of the Wu Kingdom.


    The passers-by avoided them. Their town was the only way to the capital.


    Such things often happened. Everyone was used to it.


    However, this time, there were still people discussing it. It was because the leader was the Ghost-Faced General, also widely known as the War God of the Wu Kingdom.


    The Ghost-Faced General was the adopted son of their country-guarding general, General Yan Guangmao. He went to the battlefield at the age of 15 and was only a young adult now.


    No one had seen his face before. The only thing they could recognize was the green fang mask he wore.


    Therefore, everyone called him the Ghost-Faced General.


    It was rumored that the Ghost-Faced General¡¯s face was ruined by a fire when he was young, so he did not show his true face.


    At first, no one believed these rumors, until it was rumored that a woman who admired the Ghost-Faced General had bribed her servants to hide in his room.


    After seeing him take off his mask, everyone had no choice but to believe the rumors that the Ghost-Faced General was disfigured.


    However, the Ghost-Faced General was brave and good at fighting. He had led troops to win many battles and defended the border of the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°Did something happen in the capital? Why is the general going back?¡± It had to be known that ever since he came to the border, the Ghost-Faced General had not returned to the capital for several years.

 Chapter 288 - : Dead

    The border of the Wu Kingdom had been peaceful for so many years because of the Ghost-Faced General.


    There was no news at all.


    ¡°Who knows what happened with the higher ups? It has nothing to do with us.¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. I have a distant relative who just returned from the capital a while ago. He said that the situation in our Wu Kingdom might change.¡± The person who spoke lowered his voice and pointed at the sky.


    As soon as he finished speaking, the others gasped and stopped talking.


    Ghost Face and the others passed through the town and met someone who was also riding towards them.


    When the man saw them from afar, he quickly stopped his horse and shouted, ¡°Young General.¡±


    Grimace waved his hand to stop the people behind him. Only the people around his adoptive father would call him that.


    ¡°How¡¯s Foster Father?¡± he asked coldly.


    ¡°General Yan suffered from an assassination attempt and is still unconscious. Moreover, His Majesty is critically ill¡­¡±


    Everyone understood what he meant.


    Once the emperor fell, those princes would definitely not be able to sit still. At that time, there would be another bloodbath.


    Most importantly, General Yan had always supported the crown prince. Now that he was assassinated, it made people think deeply.


    ¡°The most important thing now is that nothing can happen to Foster Father.¡± Ghost Face tightened his grip on the reins and galloped out on his horse.


    However, at that very moment.


    All of this was too much of a coincidence.


    At night, a figure went out of the back door of the Shen residence and disappeared into the night.


    Soon, another person walked out and followed the person in front of him from afar. He only returned the way he came when he saw the person enter the Liu residence.


    After hearing South Wind¡¯s report, Song Jingchen frowned. Did Mo Yuan really have ulterior motives?


    However, what did it have to do with the Liu family? According to his investigation, the Liu family was just an ordinary merchant family.


    South Wind thought for a moment and recounted everything that had happened during the day.


    Song Jingchen frowned and waved him off.


    He roughly guessed why Mo Yuan went to the Liu residence.


    After returning to the room and looking at the sleeping person, Song Jingchen sighed. This girl was really magnanimous. She didn¡¯t say a word when she returned.


    Shen Yijia was worried that Lord Zhou would really die. The next morning, she asked Mo Yuan to prescribe real medicine and send it over. She did not forget to remind her to collect more money.


    Song Jingchen scooped up a bowl of porridge and pushed it over. He said in amusement, ¡°Are you so afraid that he¡¯ll die?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him guiltily. She knew that she could not hide what she had done yesterday from him. She pursed her lips. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to cause you trouble.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. So what if he¡¯s dead? At most, we¡¯ll get Shangguan Han to write a confession letter.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Really?¡± She could play as she pleased?


    Song Jingchen was silent. He said that because he didn¡¯t want her to worry, but he didn¡¯t mean to encourage her actions.


    ¡°Hurry up and eat. The porridge is getting cold.¡±


    Shen Yijia giggled. She knew it wouldn¡¯t be that simple.


    However, it was not easy to play with patients. Wasn¡¯t there still one who wasn¡¯t sick? He wouldn¡¯t die so easily, right?


    In the Fortune Inn, Eunuch Li shivered inexplicably.


    Seeing this, Qi Shou quickly took the cloak and put it on him. He could not help but complain again.


    This time, he had learned his lesson and did not dare to talk about the big shots again.


    ¡°This place is too dilapidated. That shopkeeper even said that other inns have everything here. Could it be that the rooms in other inns in Xunyang City are also as leaky as this?¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t they prepare a charcoal basin? Look at how cold you are.¡± Qi Shou went on and on.


    ¡°Also, what is up with the food? They said that there¡¯s no food provided, so we paid extra for it. They should be the ones preparing the dishes, right?¡±


    ¡°In the end, they only gave us wild vegetables and charged us 15 taels of silver a day. Are they taking us for fools?¡±


    Eunuch Li glanced at him. That wasn¡¯t the reason. In Shopkeeper Hu¡¯s words, ¡°Our Xunyang City is so poor. His Highness personally brought people to the deep mountains to find those wild vegetables.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s already good enough to have wild vegetables to eat. How many people outside can¡¯t even eat wild vegetables? As a person, you have to cherish your blessings.¡±


    This time, Eunuch Li did not reprimand him. He was still a little angry. When he woke up in the middle of the night from the cold, he was also furious.


    After Song Jingchen went to work, Shen Yijia called Mo Yuan and Qian Youde over to discuss how to deal with Eunuch Li.


    Mo Yuan was just a bonus. Qian Youde was the main force, because she felt that Qian Youde would definitely be able to come up with many shameless ideas.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t have a good impression of Eunuch Li. Back then, he was the one who sent the bloody Song Jingchen back to the residence. He even brought along some bullsh*t imperial edict.


    As soon as they finished speaking, Thirty Thousand led the dazed Liu Piaopiao in.


    Seeing that the man from yesterday was also there, Liu Piaopiao hesitated and did not enter.


    Seeing her like this, Shen Yijia immediately understood. A young lady from a wealthy family did not like outsiders.


    She waved his hand and told Qian Youde to get lost first.


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    Fine then, he left.


    With no outsiders around, Liu Piaopiao entered the reception pavilion and stood in front of Shen Yijia, looking straight at her without saying anything. She did not call her Sister Jiajia as affectionately as she usually did.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and realized that Liu Piaopiao was alone. She did not even see Cai Yun, who was always following her.


    ¡°Did she punish her badly after going back yesterday?¡± she thought.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked with a frown after waiting for a long time.


    Liu Piaopiao bit her lower lip and two tears fell from the corners of her eyes. ¡°Cai Yun is gone.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned.


    Liu Piaopiao closed her eyes and looked at Shen Yijia in disappointment. ¡°I told you yesterday that I would punish her. When I returned, I gave her the indenture to get her out of the residence.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that it was already late evening, so I allowed her to stay for another night. Why did you kill her?¡±


    She knew Cai Yun well. She cherished her life more than anyone else. It was impossible for her to commit suicide.


    It was very likely that someone had created an illusion. No matter how she thought about it, Shen Yijia was the only one who had conflicts with Cai Yun and had the ability to kill her without anyone knowing.


    Because Cai Yun was her eldest maidservant in the Liu residence and had grown up with her, her life was only slightly worse than hers.


    Liu Piaopiao felt that letting her leave the residence was already a heavy punishment.


    Unexpectedly, she lost her life in just one night.


    She did not expect Shen Yijia to be such a person who disregarded human lives. She was completely different from her image of a chivalrous person.


    Apart from feeling sad about Cai Yun¡¯s death, she was also disappointed in Shen Yijia. She felt that she had fallen in love with the wrong person.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Are you saying that I killed Cai Yun?¡± she thought.


    If she really wanted to kill someone, she would not have let her off yesterday. Besides, there was no need for her to hide anything.


    Liu Piaopiao insisted that she was the one who did it. It was impossible for her not to be angry. She did not want to explain, but she was unwilling to take the blame for others.


    She was about to say that it wasn¡¯t her when she saw someone standing in front of her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched. ¡°Mo Yuan?¡±


    Mo Yuan looked at Liu Piaopiao expressionlessly. ¡°Miss didn¡¯t kill her.¡±

 Chapter 289 - Internal Struggle

    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes widened. It was unknown if she was relieved or something else, but she subconsciously asked, ¡°Could it be you?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°She spoke rudely to Miss. I wanted to kill her.¡±


    ¡°However, when I arrived, I saw two old women coming out of her room. When I entered, she was already dead.¡± Mo Yuan explained.


    ¡°I followed the two old women and watched them enter Madam Liu¡¯s courtyard.¡±


    The first time Shen Yijia went to the Liu family, she visited Madam Liu. Mo Yuan followed her.


    How could the two old women have the guts to kill someone? It could only have been done under the master¡¯s orders.


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible.¡± Liu Piaopiao denied it. ¡°How could my mother do that? She eats vegetarian food and prays to Buddha all year round. She can¡¯t even bear to step on an ant. How could she kill someone for no reason? Besides, my mother has no reason to kill Cai Yun.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned and pulled Mo Yuan behind her. She puffed up her cheeks and asked, ¡°Then are you sure that Mo Yuan or I killed her?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao shook her head. ¡°I believe you when you say it wasn¡¯t you, but Mo Yuan just said that she went to the residence herself.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, but she didn¡¯t make it in time, right?¡± Shen Yijia felt a little guilty when she said this. She did not expect Mo Yuan to try to kill someone behind her back.


    ¡°How do you know that she¡¯s telling the truth?¡± First, she had been plotted against, and now someone was telling her that her mother, who she had always thought was the kindest, had killed her personal maidservant.


    Liu Piaopiao felt that her brain was not enough. Could it be that everything she had seen in the past was an illusion?


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°That¡¯s right. She admitted that she went to the Liu family to try to kill someone. If she really did it, there¡¯s no need for her to deny it and accuse others.¡±


    She still found it strange. She had seen Madam Liu once. She was really a gentle woman.


    Perhaps it was because she burned incense and prayed to Buddha all year round, but she smelled like incense.


    However, compared to Madam Liu, who she had only met once, she trusted Mo Yuan more.


    With this thought in mind, she understood why her beautiful husband did not directly tell Shangguan Han about his suspicions.


    That¡¯s right. If Mo Yuan really wanted to lie, there was no need for her to admit that she¡¯d been to the Liu family¡¯s residence.


    It was unknown if Liu Piaopiao believed her or not, but she went back in a daze.


    Shen Yijia was worried about her. Although she was a little angry at being wronged, she still asked Mo Yuan to follow her from afar.


    Mo Yuan only returned after seeing that Liu Piaopiao had safely entered the Liu residence.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and said, ¡°Mo Yuan, don¡¯t do that again.¡±


    Mo Yuan lowered her head in silence. She clearly did not think that there was anything wrong with her actions.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Even if you killed someone, you can¡¯t admit it.¡±


    What if Liu Piaopiao wanted to sue her?


    However, if Shangguan Han wanted to establish his prestige, he definitely couldn¡¯t openly bend the law. When the time came, it was impossible for her to ignore Mo Yuan¡¯s life and death, so she could only break into the prison to rescue Mo Yuan.


    She suddenly understood why her beautiful husband did not let her admit it when she hit someone in Xiagou Village. It was to prevent any future trouble.


    Besides¡­


    ¡°If you think that she offended me and want to teach her a lesson, you can beat her up to vent your anger. You can¡¯t kill her over such a small matter. We have to be reasonable,¡± Shen Yijia persuaded earnestly.


    She felt that she had to make things clear to her. Otherwise, if anyone said anything bad about her in the future, Mo Yuan would kill them.


    Although she had killed many people since she came here, that was because those people would threaten her or her family¡¯s lives if they didn¡¯t die. She had no choice.


    Fortunately, Cai Yun did not die at the hands of Mo Yuan. Otherwise, she would not know how to explain it to Liu Piaopiao.


    After all, Cai Yun did not deserve to die.


    Mo Yuan pondered for a moment before nodding. It was unknown if she would not casually kill people in the future or if she would not admit it after killing someone.


    Shen Yijia did not think too much about it and heaved a sigh of relief. After being interrupted, she forgot about her plans to mess with Eunuch Li.


    Eunuch Li did not know that his disaster had been resolved so silently.


    When she returned home, Liu Piaopiao struggled internally. She could question Shen Yijia righteously, but when it came to Madam Liu, she retreated.


    She did not dare to believe that her gentle and kind mother would treat human lives like grass.


    ¡°Baby, why are you standing outside and not coming in? It¡¯s so cold. Don¡¯t you know how to wear more clothes?¡± A gentle voice pulled Liu Piaopiao back to reality.


    Only then did she realize that she had unknowingly walked to the elegant residence.


    ¡°Mother, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk inside first. Look at your cold hands,¡± Madam Zeng rebuked.


    She stuffed a hand warmer into Liu Piaopiao¡¯s hand and helped her adjust her cloak.


    Liu Piaopiao pursed her lips and swallowed her words, letting Madam Zeng pull her into the house.


    As soon as she sat down, Madam Zeng instructed an old woman, ¡°Nanny Cai, bring up the red date and silver fungus soup I asked you to prepare.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Nanny Cai smiled and left.


    Nanny Cai was in her early forties. Madam Zeng had brought her over from her maternal family. Apart from Nanny Cai, there was also Nanny Liu.


    Madam Zeng liked silence, so she only kept these two old women to serve her.


    Although their family¡¯s conditions were not bad, they were not extravagant. Her own courtyard only had Cai Yun as a personal maidservant and two maidservants in charge of cleaning.


    As for her father, he only had a servant by his side, but he had hired many guards. However, in Xunyang City, it was normal for those with a little money to hire more guards to guard the house.


    Liu Piaopiao suddenly thought of the two old women that Mo Yuan had mentioned.


    ¡°Madam knows that Miss likes this the most. She kept all the silver fungus she brought back from Liang County for Miss. She didn¡¯t even give it to Master when he came!¡± Nanny Cai carried a porcelain bowl in and placed it in front of Liu Piaopiao, teasing her with a smile.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s family was in Liang County.


    At the mention of Old Master Liu, Madam Zeng covered her mouth with a handkerchief and smiled. ¡°Nanny, what are you talking about? This girl hasn¡¯t been home all day recently.¡±


    ¡°A few times, the silver fungus soup I prepared for her was eaten by her father. Isn¡¯t he ashamed to snatch this bit of food from his daughter?¡±


    Although she was complaining, Madam Zeng was smiling. The couple was clearly on very good terms.


    Liu Piaopiao closed her eyes. Yes, this was what a mother should be like. Gentle and kind.


    His mother was definitely not the murderer who killed Cai Yun.


    Noticing Liu Piaopiao¡¯s abnormality, Madam Zeng stopped smiling and waved her hand to dismiss Nanny Cai.


    Only the mother and daughter were left in the room. She held Liu Piaopiao¡¯s hand with a pained expression. ¡°Are you still sad about Cai Yun¡¯s death?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes moved and she nodded at Madam Zeng.


    Madam Zeng sighed and reached out to gently touch her cheek. ¡°That girl is also unlucky. I originally wanted to marry her to a good family in a few years.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not in vain that she¡¯s served you for so many years. Why did she commit suicide?¡±

 Chapter 290 - Do You Like It Big or Small?

    Liu Piaopiao pouted and threw herself into Madam Liu¡¯s arms. Tears streamed down her face. ¡°Mother, it¡¯s me. If I hadn¡¯t chased her out of the residence, she wouldn¡¯t have¡­¡±


    There was no Mo Yuan who barged into the Liu residence at night, nor were there any old maids. Cai Yun wanted to die because she didn¡¯t want to leave.


    Liu Piaopiao repeated these words in her heart, as if it would become a fact if she said it a few more times.


    ¡°Chase her out of the residence? Why didn¡¯t I hear you mention it yesterday?¡± Surprise flashed across Madam Zeng¡¯s eyes. Then, she thought of something and understood. She picked up a handkerchief and wiped Liu Piaopiao¡¯s tears.


    When Liu Piaopiao came back yesterday, she only remembered to mention the scare. She had indeed forgotten to mention it.


    Liu Piaopiao looked up with tears in her eyes. She took a handkerchief and wiped her tears.


    For some reason, she did not mention Shen Yijia. She only felt that it was not appropriate for Cai Yun to continue staying by her side.


    Madam Zeng could tell that she was not telling the truth, but she was afraid that she would make her precious daughter blame herself even more, so she did not mention it. She only advised, ¡°I know that you value relationships, but everyone has their own fate. It was actually her own choice. Don¡¯t be too sad.¡±


    ¡°Besides, our family has always treated her well. No one expected her to be so extreme.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao sniffed and listened to Madam Zeng. She nodded.


    Seeing that she had calmed down, Madam Zeng said, ¡°You lack a personal servant in your room now. Bring Nanny Liu over in the next few days.¡±


    ¡°Or see if there¡¯s anyone you like among the maidservants. You can pick another to serve you.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao was about to say that there was someone in her courtyard when she thought of something and said, ¡°If Nanny Liu goes to my place, you¡¯ll have one less person to serve you.¡±


    Madam Zeng tapped her forehead. ¡°Nanny Cai alone is enough for me.¡±


    ¡°Besides, when you find a new maidservant, you have to return her to me.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao blushed. ¡°I understand. I won¡¯t snatch Mother¡¯s love away.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense again. Aren¡¯t you the one I like?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao sniffed indignantly. ¡°Isn¡¯t it Father?¡±


    ¡°What about me?¡±


    A middle-aged man suddenly walked in. He had good facial features and looked like an upright person.


    Although they were from the Liu family, their clothes were only made of fine cotton.


    Madam Zeng did not expect her husband to come over at this time. She blushed. Before she could stop her, Liu Piaopiao smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m saying that you¡¯re Mother¡¯s favorite, Father.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Liu Deyi raised his eyebrows and glanced at Madam Zeng. He laughed. ¡°What a coincidence. Both of you are my favorites.¡±


    Madam Zeng looked at him reproachfully and suddenly frowned. ¡°Have you found the coachman from yesterday?¡±


    At the mention of the coachman, the smile on Liu Deyi¡¯s face disappeared. ¡°I found him, but he was already gone when I found him.¡±


    ¡°I got someone to investigate his past and found out that Wang Er, who had stolen property because of a gambling debt, was his younger brother.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao also had an impression of Wang Er. He was her father¡¯s servant who had been sent to the court by her father because he had stolen property.


    His father originally wanted to teach him a lesson so that he wouldn¡¯t dare to gamble again in the future. Unexpectedly, that person died in prison.


    This coachman had only come to the residence after Wang Er died. In that case, it was possible that the coachman had already planned to avenge his brother.


    ¡°Amitabha.¡± Hearing that another person had died, Madam Zeng chanted and twirled the prayer beads in her hand. ¡°Fortunately, our dear daughter is fine. Bad things have happened to our family one after another in the past two days. I think we have to choose a day to pray in the temple.¡±


    Madam Zeng believed in Buddhism and set up a small Buddhist hall at home. Every day, she would copy scriptures for two hours in the small Buddhist hall.


    She would not see anyone at this hour, even Liu Piaopiao and her father.


    In Madam Zeng¡¯s words, one had to be sincere when copying scriptures and not be disturbed by worldly matters.


    Apart from that, their family would stay in the temple for a day every month or two. Recently, because of the Hun army, the city was too chaotic.


    It had been a long time since they last visited.


    ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll do as you say.¡± Liu Deyi held Madam Zeng¡¯s hand and patted it.


    Madam Zeng pulled her hand away and glared at him. ¡°What are you talking about? The child is still here.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao pursed her lips and smiled. She stood up and bowed. ¡°I won¡¯t disturb Father and Mother.¡±


    When she reached the door, she lifted the curtain and thought of something. She turned around and said, ¡°Get Nanny Liu to heat up the silver fungus soup and send it to my courtyard later.¡±


    ¡°This girl, are you afraid that I¡¯ll snatch it from you?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao made a face and left the house without looking back. Not long after she returned to the courtyard, Nanny Liu came over.


    Nanny Liu was as old as Nanny Cai, but compared to Nanny Cai¡¯s shrewd appearance, she looked much more honest.


    ¡°Miss, you have to drink this silver fungus soup while it¡¯s hot.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao glanced at the silver fungus soup she brought over, thanked her, and picked it up. She took two sips and asked casually, ¡°Did my father rest in the Elegant Residence yesterday?¡±


    Nanny Liu was helping her tidy up the house. When she heard this, her movements froze, but she quickly continued. She smiled and said, ¡°Master is resting at Madam¡¯s place.¡±


    The abnormality disappeared in a flash. If Liu Piaopiao hadn¡¯t noticed it from the corner of her eye, she probably wouldn¡¯t have noticed it. She tightened her grip on the spoon.


    The smile on her face did not fade. ¡°That¡¯s good. My father has been so busy these past few days, and the weather has turned cold. I¡¯m afraid he¡¯ll be so busy that he¡¯ll have to make do in the study again.¡±


    ¡°Miss is a filial person.¡±


    At night, Shen Yijia looked at the notebook she had taken from Liu Piaopiao and frowned.


    ¡°Hubby, what does going to Wu Mountain together mean?¡±


    What she was reading now was a scene about newlyweds. It said that the husband and wife would go to Wu Mountain together after drinking together.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows twitched as he looked at the place Shen Yijia was pointing at.


    He pursed her lips and explained seriously, ¡°It means that the two of them went sightseeing together. Coincidentally, dark clouds covered the sky and it started raining heavily.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and threw away the notebook. ¡°Isn¡¯t the bridal chamber fun?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Why would you go up a mountain? The person who wrote this must be crazy.¡± she thought.


    The script that Xiao Ruoshui had chosen for her was better-looking. Liu Piaopiao¡¯s script was so complicated, and it didn¡¯t even have a kissing scene.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to get to the scene with the bridal chamber, but the two of them went out to climb a mountain. It was so frustrating.


    She missed Xiao Ruoshui so much.


    Xiao Ruoshui would¡¯ve said something if she knew what Shen Yijia was thinking. ¡°You¡¯re thinking about the script I chose, right?¡±


    Thinking of Liu Piaopiao, Shen Yijia told Song Jingchen about what had happened during the day and repeated what she had taught Mo Yuan.


    After saying that, she puffed out her chest. ¡°Look, I know how to reason.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen smiled and teased, ¡°Wife, you¡¯re so magnanimous.¡±


    Shen Yijia blushed and recalled being called a wife. She couldn¡¯t help but reach out to Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia suddenly asked, ¡°Hubby, do you like the bigger ones or smaller ones?¡±


    ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°Okay!¡±

 Chapter 291 - Discovering Something

    Cai Yun¡¯s death had nothing to do with Mo Yuan, and it might even involve Madam Liu. Although Shen Yijia was curious, she did not intend to ask around.


    This was also her respect for her friend, Liu Piaopiao.


    She was wrapped in her husband¡¯s arms. No, she was sleeping soundly in his arms.


    However, Liu Piaopiao tossed and turned, unable to fall asleep.


    Her mind was filled with Cai Yun¡¯s face, Mo Yuan¡¯s words, and Nanny Liu¡¯s abnormal behavior during the day.


    It was not until four o¡¯clock in the morning that she suddenly opened her eyes and turned to look at Nanny Liu, who was sleeping soundly on the ground beside the bed.


    She originally did not like anyone keeping watch at night, but Madam Zeng was afraid that she would be sad because of Cai Yun, so she instructed Nanny Liu to guard her.


    Liu Piaopiao pursed her lips and casually picked up a cloak. She carefully walked around Nanny Liu and opened the door.


    She originally wanted to go to Cai Yun¡¯s house to see if there were any clues, but she subconsciously left the courtyard.


    By the time she reacted, she was already standing on the path leading to the elegant residence.


    She was a little annoyed and was about to turn around when footsteps suddenly came from ahead.


    Liu Piaopiao was clearly in her own house, but she ran to the rocks at the side and hid.


    Soon, she saw a dim yellow oil lamp slowly approaching her.


    When the footsteps approached, Liu Piaopiao saw that there were three people walking there.


    The leader was her father¡¯s follower. He was carrying an oil lamp, and the two people behind him each carried a sack on their shoulders.


    One of the sacks was not tied properly, and a hand could be vaguely seen.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s pupils constricted. She covered her mouth to prevent herself from making a sound.


    The three of them had come from the Elegant Residence.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Mo Yuan is really good at cooking. Even the chefs in my residence can¡¯t compare to her.¡± Shangguan Han ate his fill.


    They were both potatoes, but why was it that the food they ate here was different from what they ate at home?


    The Shen residence was not as big as the Wang residence, so apart from breakfast, everyone ate together at other times.


    Of course, the reason why they did not eat breakfast together was because Shen Yijia often could not get up early. It was not good to let others wait for her.


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly. ¡°Of course. She¡¯s one of my people.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we ask her to teach the chefs in my residence a few simple dishes?¡± Shangguan Han asked tentatively. Before Shen Yijia could refuse, he explained, ¡°I¡¯m not doing this for myself. The commoners rely on potatoes to fill their stomachs, but their methods are too simple.¡±


    ¡°I thought that after Mo Yuan taught my chefs, I would get them to teach those commoners. This way, they won¡¯t get sick of it.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and glanced at Song Jingchen. Seeing that he didn¡¯t look cold, she knew that this was feasible.


    However, she did not agree immediately. Instead, she looked at Mo Yuan. ¡°Are you willing to teach them?¡±


    Mo Yuan was silent for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡¯m willing.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that she would say that she wanted to protect Miss.


    With this matter settled, Shangguan Han was overjoyed. He did not expect Shen Yijia to be so easy to talk to.


    He ate and drank well in the Shen family¡¯s residence. He usually teased Furball and Qian Youde, who was a playboy. He lived comfortably.


    However, the people at Fortune Inn did not have it easy.


    Shen Yijia sold a few sets of ordinary fever-reducing medicine for a high price of 50 taels of silver.


    Fortunately, Lord Zhou was not destined to die. He recovered from his illness after taking the medicine.


    After he recovered slightly, the first thing he did was to get someone to beat Zhou Qing up.


    He then sent someone to look for that damned Doctor Jia, threatening to cut him into pieces.


    He had lived a long life and did not believe that bathing in horse dung could treat illnesses.


    Unfortunately, no one was successful. Even when he recovered, he could not find anyone with the surname Jia in Xunyang City.


    As for the doctor¡¯s self-introduction back then, the two guards thought hard and realized that it was too long. They really didn¡¯t remember it. In the end, they each received five strikes of the cane.


    When he heard that Lord An Le had yet to appear, he was furious.


    He almost fell sick again.


    ¡°Oh my, Lord Zhou, stop.¡±


    ¡°The most important thing for us now is to complete the mission given by His Majesty. Besides, you¡¯ve indeed recovered from your illness after drinking someone else¡¯s medicine.¡± As Eunuch Li spoke, he covered his nose with a handkerchief.


    Lord Zhou¡¯s face fell. He waved his sleeve and called for someone to fetch water to take a shower.


    The corners of Eunuch Li¡¯s mouth curled up. This old man deserved it, since he always looked down on eunuchs like them.


    Shen Yijia did not know that someone was looking for her. While Mo Yuan was teaching the chefs in the residence how to cook, she followed suit on a whim.


    She tortured Qian Youde and Shangguan Han, who were in charge of tasting the food.


    When the two of them saw Shen Yijia cooking, they volunteered to take over the job.


    If anyone who had been poisoned by Shen Yijia knew about this, they would only laugh at them for being too silly and naive.


    ¡°Missing girls?¡±


    In the study, Song Jingchen and Shangguan Han frowned as they listened to Meng Jiang¡¯s report.


    ¡°Yes, the youngest is no more than six years old, and the oldest is only twelve or thirteen years old. In just a few days, six people have disappeared.¡±


    Now, every family had potatoes as their main food. Wild vegetables had also appeared in the periphery of the mountain. Some families would dig some wild vegetables and bring it back for some variety.


    Most of these missing people were those who had left the city. Only two younger people were missing from the city.


    At first, when the first person disappeared, everyone thought that he had encountered a wild beast or lost his way in the mountains. Gradually, they realized that something was wrong.


    ¡°Could it be the Huns again?¡± Shangguan Han said angrily.


    This had happened often in the past.


    Song Jingchen frowned and didn¡¯t comment on Shangguan Han¡¯s guess. He only said, ¡°Tell everyone not to leave the city for the time being. Bring some people out of the city with me to look for any clues.¡±


    This reminded him of the kidnapping of young girls in Anyang County.


    Meng Jiang said, ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Mo Yuan, are you done?¡± Shen Yijia stuck her head out and asked.


    After the lesson ended yesterday, she remembered that she had not seen Liu Piaopiao for the past few days.


    Out of concern for her little friend who had fed her, she woke up early today and asked Mo Yuan to make some potato cakes to visit.


    Less than ten minutes after she finished asking, Mo Yuan walked out with a food box.


    Knowing that they were going to the Liu residence, Qian Youde did not follow them this time.


    When they arrived at the Liu residence, not long after the gatekeeper went in to report, Liu Piaopiao personally welcomed them.


    ¡°Sister Jiajia, why are you here?¡± Liu Piaopiao had a smile on her face, but she was clearly much more haggard than a few days ago.


    Her three chins had become double chins.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to see you.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head. She felt that she was a little disloyal. She had forgotten about Liu Piaopiao for so many days without showing any concern.

 Chapter 292 - Young Master Appear

    Shen Yijia did not feel that anything was wrong and let her hold her hand.


    Apart from the first time she came to see Madam Zeng politely, Shen Yijia never went there again. She was afraid of trouble.


    It was the same this time. After entering Liu Piaopiao¡¯s courtyard, Liu Piaopiao brought her to her room.


    ¡°Look what I brought you.¡± Shen Yijia took the food box from Mo Yuan¡¯s hand and took out the pastries inside.


    Well, they were actually made of potatoes, but the patterns were different.


    Liu Piaopiao smiled until her eyes narrowed into slits. ¡°How did you know that I¡¯ve been wanting to eat this for the past few days? I asked my chef to make it, but I keep feeling that the taste isn¡¯t right.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. This is all I have at home,¡± Shen Yijia said honestly.


    Liu Piaopiao choked. She had almost forgotten that she could not be polite to this person.


    Perhaps because she was really hungry, Liu Piaopiao stuffed a few pastries into her mouth.


    Shen Yijia poured her a cup of tea and said, ¡°Is there nothing to eat at home? Do you want me to send you some potatoes?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao was amused by her and spat out the pastries in her mouth.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and dodged, but she still got some potato on herself.


    The air froze for a moment.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡± Liu Piaopiao came back to her senses and apologized profusely.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand and said seriously, ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±


    She didn¡¯t have anything else, but she had enough potatoes.


    ¡°No need. I don¡¯t lack food at home.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not believe him. ¡°Then why are you so hungry?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao thought of what she had seen that night and her lips moved. She wanted to say something but hesitated.


    In the end, she sighed and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you ask me to lose weight?¡±


    ¡°But you don¡¯t look too good.¡± Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Why don¡¯t you stop losing weight?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just didn¡¯t sleep well yesterday.¡± Liu Piaopiao explained with a smile, ¡°By the way, I¡¯m going to the temple with my parents to offer incense on the 25th of this month. I¡¯ll stay there for the night. Do you want to go?¡±


    ¡°A temple?¡± She hadn¡¯t even known there was a temple here.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You haven¡¯t been here for long, so you might not know. It¡¯s on the mountain connected to Qingyuan Mountain. In the past, my mother and I had to go there every month or two. It¡¯s halfway up the mountain. It¡¯s tiring to walk up there. Speaking of which, my family¡¯s charcoal-fired earth kiln is also in that area,¡± Liu Piaopiao explained.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and thought for a moment. Her beautiful husband seemed to be very busy these few days. She wondered if he had the time.


    But if he didn¡¯t go, she would have to be separated from him for two days and a night.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go back and ask my husband if he¡¯s going. If he¡¯s going, I¡¯ll go. Don¡¯t wait for me. If I go there, I¡¯ll look for you directly.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao inexplicably froze. Thinking about how she was already at the age of marriage, a handsome face appeared in her mind.


    She blushed and hurriedly shook her head to get rid of those distracting thoughts. She said gloomily, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    At this moment, she still did not know that inviting Shen Yijia along would be the most regretful decision she had ever made in her life.


    Every time she thought about it in the future, she wondered if she should hate Shen Yijia more or herself.


    On the roadside tea shed that was half a day away from the capital of Great Xia, a carriage stopped.


    There were three horses tied up outside the tea shed, and two tables of guests inside, all men.


    When the people heard the sound, they all looked over. Such a carriage was rare even in the capital.


    Most of those young ladies from wealthy families were quiet and gentle. They rarely acted so high-profile. Of course, there were some arrogant and domineering exceptions.


    At first, they were attracted by the sound of the bell, but when they saw the white-robed woman driving the carriage, they exclaimed in surprise.


    At this moment, the curtain of the carriage was lifted. The woman driving the carriage jumped out and turned around to help a girl in red down.


    There was a fiery red flower bud on the woman¡¯s forehead, and a translucent veil was faintly visible, unable to hide her talent.


    Her hand on the white-robed woman¡¯s arm was slender and long, and her skin was as fair as jade. Just looking at her slightly upturned beautiful eyes could make one fall into them.


    Compared to this woman, they felt that the white-robed woman who had stunned them just now was nothing.


    Someone coughed lightly. The burly men who were engrossed came back to their senses and looked at each other before quickly looking away.


    This tea shed was simply built with straw to provide a shelter for passers-by. It was naturally simple.


    Mo Yu sized up the tables and chairs in the tea shed and frowned. She took out a handkerchief and placed it on a chair before helping her young master sit down.


    1


    Then, she took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped the table. After wiping it, she casually threw the handkerchief aside.


    When the shopkeeper saw this, embarrassment flashed across his dark face.


    However, it was obvious that this lady was either rich or noble. He did not dare to be negligent. With a smile on his face, he bent over and asked, ¡°May I know what you want to order?¡±


    Actually, he only had a large bowl of thick tea here for people to warm themselves up.


    The shopkeeper was so nervous that he moved the tea set over. He only reacted after asking.


    Fortunately, Mo Yu did not have much hope in this place. She slammed the two water bags on the table and said coldly, ¡°Two bowls of plain water and fill the water bags.¡±


    The shopkeeper agreed and left with the water bags. Soon, he returned with two bowls of water and said in fear, ¡°I¡¯ll pour the water into the water bag when you leave later, in case the water gets cold.¡±


    Mo Yu nodded indifferently.


    The woman in red glanced at the water in front of her and said softly, ¡°Kill him.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a silver needle flew out of Mo Yu¡¯s hand. The shopkeeper fell to the ground before he could react.


    The people at the other two tables were shocked. They pulled out their swords and surrounded the two of them.


    This time, there was no need for Mo Yu to attack. The woman in red waved her sleeve, and a strange fragrance instantly appeared in the air.


    The seven to eight burly men trembled and spat out blood as they fell to the ground.


    ¡°Using poison on me? What a joke.¡± The woman in red¡¯s voice was as round as a pearl and as smooth as jade. Her pace of speech was still neither fast nor slow.


    However, the few people who fell to the ground were in no mood to appreciate it. They felt as if ten thousand insects were gnawing at their flesh bit by bit.


    The pain was extreme, but they could not faint. They had no choice but to feel it clearly.


    This was originally a crooked shop. Their usual method was to drug people who drank tea.


    The rich would be robbed and killed, and the beautiful would be sold.


    Of course, they would also choose people. They did not dare to attack those who looked like they were not to be trifled with.


    It was precisely because they had always been cautious that they had never been discovered. This was because anyone who fell for it was either dead or sold elsewhere.


    However, they did not expect to fall into the hands of two women today.


    At first, their eyes, nose, and ears were filled with blood.


    The scene was terrifying, but the two of them pretended not to see it and let them wail.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go get two bowls of water,¡± Mo Yu said.

 Chapter 293 - Fight

    The woman in red nodded silently. She took out three copper coins and threw them on the table.


    Looking at the divination, her brows gradually became serious. She muttered, ¡°There¡¯s a change in the north and danger in the south. It seems that we can¡¯t go to the capital for the time being.¡±


    Mo Yu returned and happened to hear the last sentence. She quickly asked, ¡°Young Master, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    The woman in red rubbed her forehead. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Wu Kingdom. That person is in danger. We have to save him.¡±


    She paused and muttered to herself, ¡°As for the north¡­ Forget it, there¡¯s still a long way to go.¡±


    Lord Zhou washed himself thoroughly three times. Perhaps it was a psychological effect, but he felt that the smell was still there. He was so angry that he wished he could slap Zhou Qing ten more times.


    Thinking that he had wasted enough time here, he took a deep breath and suppressed his anger.


    Glancing at Zhou Qing, who had just recovered from his injuries, he ordered coldly, ¡°Call Eunuch Li, we¡¯re going to Lord An Le¡¯s residence.¡±


    At the Shen residence, Yan Tai ran in anxiously and saw his lord teasing Furball again. He wiped the sweat off his forehead and said, ¡°Your Highness, Lord Zhou went to the Prince¡¯s residence.¡±


    He was about to go back and get a change of clothes for Shangguan Han. Just as he was about to leave, he happened to see Butler Wan dealing with Lord Zhou, so he could only go out the back door.


    Shangguan Han threw all the remaining meat in his hand into Furball¡¯s mouth and reached out to stroke its head. ¡°So be it. I¡¯ll just say what I said before.¡±


    Furball rolled its eyes in annoyance. If not for its unscrupulous master cutting down on its meat and making it vegetarian every day, it would not have come to please this fool just to earn some meat.


    1


    Seeing that there was no meat in Shangguan Han¡¯s hand, he stood up and left without looking back. He might as well go back to his nest to sleep.


    Seeing that it had turned hostile, Shangguan Han was speechless.


    He looked at Yan Tai, indicating for him to continue.


    ¡°I secretly listened for a while. That¡¯s what Butler Wan said, but Lord Zhou said that His Highness couldn¡¯t stay in the mountains forever. He had to return to the residence.¡±


    ¡°He wants to go in and wait until His Highness returns.¡±


    Shangguan Han opened his mouth, but before he could speak.


    Yan Tai continued, ¡°Butler Wan said that we can¡¯t let anyone in without His Highness¡¯s orders.


    ¡°However, Lord Zhou took out an imperial edict. Butler Wan had no choice but to invite him to the reception pavilion.¡±


    The word imperial edict made Shangguan Han¡¯s eyes turn sharp. He clenched his fists and stood up to leave.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he reached the door, he bumped into someone. At the same time, that annoying voice sounded.


    ¡°Little Han, where are you going?¡±


    ¡°Move aside.¡± If it were any other time, Shangguan Han would definitely have reciprocated and called him Little Qian. However, he was not in the mood to argue with Qian Youde.


    Qian Youde was not afraid of death. He reached out to block him. ¡°That won¡¯t do. You have to tell me where you¡¯re going first.¡±


    Shangguan Han clenched his fists and pushed Qian Youde a few times, but he did not move. He could only grit his teeth and say, ¡°I¡¯m going to kill all those people from the capital.¡±


    Back then, an imperial edict in the capital made him lose his position as the crown prince, his maternal ancestor, and his uncle. It made his mother live in the Cold Palace and crippled his cousin¡¯s legs.


    Now that he had come to this godforsaken Xunyang, those people still wanted to chase after him with the imperial edict and lord over his territory.


    Qian Youde shrank back in fear. He licked his lips and whispered, ¡°This isn¡¯t good. That¡¯s someone sent by your father.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s not my father,¡± Shangguan Han roared with red eyes.


    That person was not worthy at all.


    Qian Youde was shocked. His pupils dilated. He lowered his voice and stammered, ¡°Then you were born to your mother and someone else? Oh my god, your mother. She actually cheated on Emperor Chong¡¯an.¡±


    Unfortunately, he was only halfway through his sentence when Shangguan Han threw a punch at him.


    Although this punch was not as strong as Shen Yijia¡¯s, it still hurt.


    Qian Youde fell to the ground and covered one of his eyes. He roared in exasperation, ¡°You said it yourself. Why did you hit me?¡±


    Why did he have to hit the same spot that Shen Yijia hit him in the previous time? It hadn¡¯t been very long since then.


    These people must be jealous of his handsomeness.


    ¡°Did I mean that?¡± Shangguan Han roared back. How dare he slander his mother? The more he thought about it, the angrier he became.


    It was not Shen Yijia. Qian Youde naturally did not want to be beaten up for nothing.


    With a sweep of his legs, he tripped Shangguan Han and flipped him over. He punched him in the eye.


    It was impolite not to reciprocate!


    Thus, the two of them rolled on the ground, punching each other.


    Yan Tai was stunned by Qian Youde¡¯s words. By the time he reacted, the two of them had already reached the point of pulling each other¡¯s hair.


    ¡°Oh my, stop fighting. Your Highness, Young Master Qian, stop fighting¡­¡±


    When Shen Yijia returned, she happened to meet Song Jingchen at the entrance of the residence.


    ¡°Hubby!¡± She called out sweetly and pounced on him. Song Jingchen helplessly caught her.


    Although he had disregarded etiquette many times because of this girl, he still did not want to be seen by the surrounding people.


    However, he could not bear to throw her aside, so he could only carry her into the residence quickly.


    ¡°Hubby, did you miss me? Do you feel that I¡¯ve become beautiful again today? Do you especially want to go to Wu Mountain with me?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The first part was fine, but the last sentence shocked Song Jingchen so much that he almost threw her down.


    He turned around and glanced at Thirty Thousand and South Wind, who had returned with him. He glanced at Mo Yuan and the other two, who had followed Shen Yijia back. The three of them lowered their heads and pretended to be deaf.


    In their hearts, they thought, ¡°Young Madam is too unrestrained.¡±


    ¡°Do you want to?¡± Shen Yijia shook his cloak belt.


    Song Jingchen gritted his teeth. ¡°Speak properly.¡±


    He naturally did not think that was what Shen Yijia meant.


    He really wanted to beat himself up for explaining things blindly. If this girl went outside and casually said something like that¡­


    Shen Yijia immediately retracted her hand meekly. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the temple on the 25th of this month. It¡¯s on a mountain.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°As expected.¡±


    In order to find the missing people, he had been leaving early and returning late every day. He had indeed not accompanied her much.


    Song Jingchen blamed himself. Just as he was about to agree, he heard Yan Tai yelling.


    ¡°Stop fighting. Stop quickly!¡±


    Hearing the word ¡°fight¡±, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She jumped out of Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and went towards the source of the sound.


    Song Jingchen frowned and followed.


    He then saw the scene clearly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. The two men were a mess.


    ¡°Stop,¡± Song Jingchen shouted coldly.


    The two people who didn¡¯t react even after shouting their hearts out seemed to have stopped.


    They didn¡¯t throw any more punches, but they didn¡¯t let go either.


    One grabbed the other¡¯s hair, while the other grabbed his ear. They stared at each other.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Let go.¡±

 Chapter 294 - : Acting Pitiful

    The two of them were a little unwilling, but they let go obediently.


    Yan Tai quickly helped Shangguan Han up.


    At this moment, Zhu Zi also came over. Seeing that his young master¡¯s hair was messy, his clothes were disheveled, and his face was swollen, he complained in his heart and quickly went over to help him.


    If that person knew that his precious grandson had been beaten up like this, he would feel suffocated just thinking about it.


    He quickly pressed his free hand against one of his men to prevent himself from fainting.


    Song Jingchen walked in with a cold expression and sat down. ¡°Tell me, what happened?¡±


    After fighting, the anger in Shangguan Han¡¯s heart dissipated. At first, he was the one who wanted to kill someone. How could he dare to say it?


    Qian Youde also felt that it was a little embarrassing to be beaten up by someone younger, so he kept quiet.


    Song Jingchen looked at Yan Tai. ¡°Tell me!¡±


    Yan Tai looked at its lord, then at Qian Youde. He gritted its teeth and knelt down with a thud before recounting the entire incident.


    He also included what he had said to Shangguan Han after he returned. However, he did not dare to mention what Qian Youde said about the empress. He only vaguely mentioned it.


    However, Song Jingchen understood.


    He glanced at Qian Youde, wondering if it was an illusion.


    He felt that Qian Youde had deliberately said those words to anger Shangguan Han and divert his anger, preventing him from killing anyone.


    Qian Youde rubbed his nose guiltily and moved behind Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t look at him anymore. He turned to Shangguan Han and said in a low voice, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Shangguan Han thought, ¡°Why am I carrying the blame for the two of us?¡±


    In the study, Shangguan Han lowered his head, not daring to make a sound. He felt that the surrounding atmosphere was so oppressive that he almost couldn¡¯t breathe.


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°You want to kill Lord Zhou?¡±


    ¡°Cousin, I-¡±


    ¡°And then? You¡¯ll let everyone in the world know that you have no regard for the law. You even killed the imperial envoy of the imperial court just because you wanted to. Do you want to confirm your crime of plotting a rebellion and give the imperial court a reason to send troops to attack you?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s words were heartbreaking. Every word made Shangguan Han¡¯s heart bleed and his forehead was covered in cold sweat.


    That¡¯s right. At that time, he was blinded by anger. If he really killed Lord Zhou, he would have confirmed his crime and personally delivered the knife to those who wanted him dead.


    ¡°If you wanted to die, you could have told me earlier. I wouldn¡¯t have come all the way to Xunyang to save you,¡± Song Jingchen continued mercilessly.


    Shangguan Han lifted his robe and knelt down. ¡°Cousin, I was wrong. Punish me.¡±


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes. ¡°Do you still remember your identity?¡±


    ¡°I remember.¡±


    ¡°Then what are you doing now?¡± Song Jingchen asked coldly.


    Shangguan Han said, ¡°You¡¯re my elder, like a father to me. I can kneel.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Sister-in-law, help me take a look. Am I disfigured? Am I going to lose my beautiful face?¡±


    Qian Youde slumped in his chair and let Zhu Zi tidy his hair. He wailed nonstop.


    He was either crying out in pain or worried about his appearance.


    Shen Yijia looked at it seriously and nodded. ¡°A little.¡±


    The skin at the corner of his mouth was broken, his face was swollen, and his eyes were blue. He couldn¡¯t bear to look at himself.


    ¡°Ah! What should we do then?¡± Qian Youde jumped up exaggeratedly and circled Shen Yijia twice. He said with a long face, ¡°You have to avenge me. I called you sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and frowned. ¡°Why don¡¯t I beat him up for you?¡±


    Qian Youde nodded hurriedly.


    ¡°But Shangguan Han also calls me Sister-in-law. I can¡¯t favor one over the other. I¡¯ll beat you up for him first before helping you beat him up.¡± Shen Yijia bared her teeth, her face filled with excitement.


    She wanted to beat both of them up. Hitting both of them at the same time was perfect.


    Qian Youde¡¯s nod froze. He wanted to force a smile, but it tugged at his wound. It hurt so much that he gave up.


    He could only say dryly, ¡°Haha, Sister-in-law, you¡¯re really good at joking. Little Han and I were just playing around. There¡¯s no need for revenge in a spar between men.¡±


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and looked regretful. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± Qian Youde nodded vigorously, afraid that Shen Yijia¡¯s fist would come at him if he didn¡¯t speak quickly. He turned around and instructed Zhu Zi, ¡°What are you waiting for? Can¡¯t you see that your young master is injured? Hurry up and help me back to my room to apply the medicine.¡±


    Zhu Zi thought to himself, ¡°I said that I would help you back, but you said that you didn¡¯t want it. Didn¡¯t you just want to pretend to be pitiful in front of this young lady?¡±


    On the Prince¡¯s residence¡¯s side, Lord Zhou did not know that he had almost died.


    After they sat down, Butler Wan brought some tea and left. No one bothered with them anymore.


    They waited from midnight to noon. For a full four hours, no one welcomed them for lunch.


    There was not even a charcoal basin prepared in the reception pavilion. The group was cold and hungry.


    Lord Zhou sat there with a dark expression. He picked up his teacup and wanted to take a sip, but he realized that it was already empty.


    He placed the teacup down angrily and glanced at Eunuch Li, who was resting with his eyes closed. He said with a fake smile, ¡°Eunuch Li is quite calm.¡±


    Eunuch Li looked up and clasped his hands in his sleeves. He said casually, ¡°His Highness is not around, so what can I do? Besides, Lord Zhou is here too. I¡¯m just here to join in the fun.¡±


    Lord Zhou snorted and glanced at Zhou Qing. The latter understood and shouted at the top of his lungs, ¡°Where is he? Is there no one left in this residence?¡±


    Soon, Butler Wan ran in, panting. ¡°Sir, do you have any other instructions?¡±


    Without waiting for Lord Zhou to speak, Zhou Qing said arrogantly, ¡°Don¡¯t you see that my lord¡¯s tea is gone? Don¡¯t you know how to refill tea? Also, this house is so cold. Go and add two charcoal basins.¡±


    Butler Wan was about to nod when he heard the last sentence with a difficult expression. ¡°Lord Zhou, you might not know this, but ever since our Prince came to Xunyang City, he has been struggling to make ends meet.¡±


    ¡°Coupled with what happened a few days ago, the residence is almost out of food. We don¡¯t have money to buy charcoal.¡±


    Want a charcoal basin to warm up? No.


    Since Lord Zhou wanted to wait, he might as well freeze.


    Zhou Qing wanted to say more, but Lord Zhou stopped him with a look.


    ¡°Speaking of which, we¡¯ve been in Xunyang for a few days. Have you sent someone to inform His Highness?¡± He looked very easy to talk to, as if he wasn¡¯t the one who had insisted on entering the residence with Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s imperial edict.


    Butler Wan did not know why he asked this. He deliberated and said, ¡°Lord Zhou also knows that there are not many things around Xunyang City, but many mountains.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know where His Highness went. We really can¡¯t find him for the time being. We can only wait for His Highness to return.¡±


    Lord Zhou did not even take Eunuch Li seriously, let alone the butler of the residence.


    He sneered and said sarcastically, ¡°I think it¡¯s best if the Butler Wan sends more people to search. Lord An Le has been gone for so long and hasn¡¯t returned. It won¡¯t be good if something happens to His Highness.¡±

 Chapter 295 - Secretly Entering the Military Camp Translator: Atlas Studi

    Butler Wan cursed Lord Zhou¡¯s ancestors in his heart, but he smiled apologetically. ¡°Oh my, I wouldn¡¯t dare to say that. Our prince is blessed by the heavens. He¡¯ll definitely be fine.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? I hope so.¡± Lord Zhou was furious at Butler Wan¡¯s stubborn expression. He flicked his sleeves and stood up.


    ¡°Lord Zhou, aren¡¯t you waiting for my lord to return?¡± Butler Wan asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be lucky enough to wait for His Highness to return.¡± He flicked the nonexistent dust off his robe. ¡°Since His Highness is busy, I can only go straight to the military camp.¡±


    At this moment, Eunuch Li also stood up. He glanced at Butler Wan and left.


    As soon as they walked out of the reception hall, someone ran out of the back door of the prince¡¯s residence and ran straight to the Shen residence.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t punish Shangguan Han. After he left, Shangguan Han knew that he had almost made a big mistake on impulse, so he ran to the courtyard to do squats as punishment.


    1


    He also brought Youde along to accompany him.


    Their injuries looked serious, but they were actually just superficial wounds. They got used to the pain.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you punish yourself, but why did you bring me along?¡± Qian Youde said angrily.


    Shangguan Han pursed his lips. ¡°Thank you for stopping me just now.¡±


    Qian Youde stood up straight in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re thanking me, but you still want to harm me? Aren¡¯t you repaying kindness with ingratitude?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a stone hit his knee. The force was neither light nor heavy, and the warning was obvious.


    Qian Youde looked aggrievedly at Shen Yijia, who had moved a chair and was sitting under the porch to supervise them. He squatted back down obediently.


    Shangguan Han said, ¡°I fought with you just now and realized that your foundation is too weak. You need to train more.¡±


    The corners of Qian Youde¡¯s mouth twitched. Should he thank Shangguan Han for thinking about him?


    Shangguan Han suddenly added, ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me. Let¡¯s call it even.¡±


    He had learned this from his sister-in-law. She often bullied him in the name of doing this for his own good.


    Shen Yijia was amused by the two of them bickering.


    When the servant of the Prince¡¯s residence saw this scene as soon as he entered, he was stunned for a moment before lowering his head and telling them about Lord Zhou and the others going to the military camp.


    Shen Yijia suddenly stood up. ¡°Mo Yuan, let¡¯s go take a look.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ll go too.¡± Qian Youde quickly followed.


    Shangguan Han thought to himself, ¡°I want to go too, but Lord Zhou and the others know me. Moreover, I¡¯m still punishing myself.¡±


    The soldiers of Xunyang City were stationed in the inner city. Because it was east of Xunyang City, it was called the Eastern Barracks.


    There were two soldiers guarding the entrance of the camp. Shen Yijia and the others approached.


    The two of them crossed their spears. One of them shouted coldly, ¡°This is an important place in the military camp. Anyone who trespasses will die!¡±


    Qian Youde shrank back and hid behind Shen Yijia. Shen Yijia glanced at him in disdain.


    She coughed dryly and said, ¡°We¡¯re not trespassing. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    The soldier looked at each other in disbelief.


    Shen Yijia originally wanted to mention Song Jingchen¡¯s name, but after thinking about it, she was afraid that it would affect him negatively, so she decided not to.


    Without bothering with the soldiers, she turned around and left.


    ¡°Are we leaving just like that?¡± Qian Youde followed in disbelief and asked softly. This was too much for Shen Yijia.


    ¡°What else?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She was not an unreasonable person.


    Shen Yijia brought them around to the back door of the camp and knocked out the three passing soldiers when no one was paying attention. The three of them put on the armor.


    Qian Youde almost believed her nonsense.


    The three of them swaggered in through the back door with the identities of the three unlucky bastards.


    Just as he was about to ask where Lord Zhou was, a deep voice came from behind.


    ¡°Stop right there!¡±


    Shen Yijia turned a deaf ear and continued walking. The person definitely wasn¡¯t calling them.


    ¡°The three of you! Did you not hear me?¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The person walked in front of them and realized that they were all unfamiliar faces. He frowned and asked, ¡°Which battalion are you from?¡±


    Shen Yijia pinched her fingers and lowered her head. ¡°We¡¯re from the fire room.¡±


    She had already knocked out three of them. It shouldn¡¯t matter if she knocked out one more.


    ¡°From the fire room? Didn¡¯t you hear me telling everyone to gather at the training grounds? Hurry up and follow me.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    Shen Yijia loosened her grip and followed silently.


    When she arrived at the training grounds, she realized that it was already filled with people. Who else could it be but Lord Zhou and his group standing on the stage in front of her?


    Meng Jiang and Zuo Fei were accompanying him on both sides.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°Is this considered searching high and low?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Is everyone here?¡± Lord Zhou looked at the dark crowd below and finally felt better.


    So what if Lord An Le did not appear? As long as he had an imperial edict, these people would not dare to neglect him.


    ¡°Sir, everyone is here.¡± Zuo Fei cupped his hands and replied.


    Lord Zhou was satisfied with his attitude. He nodded and reached out to the side.


    Zhou Qing immediately placed the imperial edict in his hand.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at his smug look. Why didn¡¯t he go to heaven?


    Just as she thought this, Lord Zhou raised the imperial edict and said in a raised voice, ¡°His Majesty has a decree.¡±


    As soon as this voice sounded, the soldiers knelt down. Shen Yijia was stunned and quickly squatted down when Qian Youde tugged at her sleeve.


    The three of them stood in the last row. They were not as tall as the others, so no one would notice them squatting.


    ¡°By the will of the heavens, the emperor has issued an edict. The soldiers of Xunyang City have contributed to the defense of Xunyang. Their bravery has moved me. With the generals guarding the border of the Great Xia Kingdom, I feel deeply at ease. For this, I¡¯ve specially prepared rewards of gold and silver¡­¡±


    The long paragraph that followed was nothing more than a list of rewards. He also said something about how the Imperial Court would not neglect anyone who contributed.


    ¡°Your emperor is really stingy. He only rewarded us with some gold, silver, and treasures, yet he¡¯s making such a big fuss.¡± Qian Youde said in a low voice.


    It was as if the people in Xunyang had never seen money before.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°You make it sound like you¡¯re not from Great Xia.¡±


    This was the first time she had seen that bastard emperor being more stingy. Otherwise, she would have thought that he was really generous.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the shiny silver ingot on the table, her eyes shining.


    Qian Youde thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯m not.¡±


    At this moment, Lord Zhou finished reading the edict.


    The soldiers shouted in unison, ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty. Long live His Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Soldiers, please rise.¡±


    The crowd stood up.


    Lord Zhou said something else. ¡°Remember that you¡¯re Great Xia¡¯s soldiers and His Majesty¡¯s soldiers. You have to be loyal to His Majesty and remember His Majesty¡¯s kindness.¡± Then, he left with his men.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°They¡¯re leaving just like that?¡±


    Qian Youde said, ¡°What, did you expect them to stay for dinner?¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Shen Yijia was not the only one who thought so. Even Qi Shou was curious. After getting on the horse, he dared to ask, ¡°Godfather, why did Lord Zhou leave just like that?¡±


    Eunuch Li leaned against the cushion tiredly and said angrily, ¡°I usually tell you to use your brain more, but you don¡¯t listen.¡±

 Chapter 296 - Went to Play

    ¡°Haha, I don¡¯t have one.¡±


    Eunuch Li sneered and closed his eyes. ¡°He¡¯s taking his sweet time. He¡¯s waiting for someone to come looking for him.¡±


    To put it bluntly, this reward was a signal for Emperor Chong¡¯an to recruit these soldiers. Anyone who was not stupid would understand.


    ¡°Since we¡¯ve come to the military camp today, we should start distributing food tomorrow.¡± He wondered if this would go according to His Majesty¡¯s wishes.


    Just as Eunuch Li had said, a long shed was set up at the city gate the next day. More than ten soldiers knocked on bronze gongs.


    They began to publicize Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s benevolence in all the streets and alleys of Xunyang City. At the same time, they informed everyone that they could collect food at the city gate.


    Regardless of what everyone was thinking, a long line quickly formed at the city gate.


    Shen Yijia originally wanted to join in the fun, but she was blocked at home by Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia was about to protest.


    Song Jingchen said faintly, ¡°Someone was knocked unconscious at the back door of the Eastern Barracks yesterday. When he woke up, he realized that his armor had been removed and thrown aside.¡±


    Shen Yijia denied it. ¡°I definitely didn¡¯t do it.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up at her from his book. ¡°The four of them froze for the entire afternoon and developed a high fever at night.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible. There¡¯s clearly only three.¡± Shen Yijia subconsciously corrected him. Halfway through, she realized that something was wrong. She puffed up her cheeks. ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth curled up. He reached out and pointed at the rice paper at the side. ¡°You haven¡¯t practiced calligraphy in a long time.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia knew that she was in the wrong. She obediently sat down opposite Song Jingchen and started to write. She wrote two words and looked up. ¡°Are those people alright?¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°They¡¯ll be fine after drinking a bowl of ginger soup.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Liar!¡±


    After the reward was given, the food was also distributed. Lord Zhou originally thought that as long as he waited in the inn, someone would naturally come to visit.


    However¡­


    ¡°Sir, it¡¯s time to rest.¡± Zhou Qing went up to remind him.


    This was already the third reminder.


    Lord Zhou¡¯s face was as black as ink. When those people took things, they poured out good words as if they were free. He did not think that all the people in Xunyang City were fools who could not understand His Majesty¡¯s intentions.


    However, so what if Lord Zhou was angry? He couldn¡¯t just put a knife to their throats and make those people work for His Majesty.


    ¡°How many days worth of food can we distribute?¡± Lord Zhou asked in a low voice.


    Zhou Qing said, ¡°We¡¯ll be done in about three days.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ll distribute the food tomorrow. If no one comes, there¡¯s no need to continue.¡± These people did not know how to appreciate favors, so there was no need to waste food.


    Lord Zhou waved Zhou Qing away with a dark expression.


    It had been almost ten days since they arrived in Xunyang. He had received the emperor¡¯s orders. As an imperial envoy, he had always been sought after wherever he went. Everyone expected him to put in a good word for them in front of His Majesty.


    However, Lord An Le did not even show his face, let alone anything else.


    Fortunately, the next day, someone finally knocked on the inn¡¯s door at midnight.


    Lord Zhou sat there in his official uniform. He raised his eyebrows at the few people who entered.


    Shen Yijia obediently wrote at home for a few days. In the blink of an eye, it was the 25th, which was the date she agreed to go to the temple with Liu Piaopiao.


    It was the last day of food distribution.


    She woke up early and shivered as she put on her clothes and went out. Mo Yuan came to tell her that Song Jingchen had been called away and could only set off later.


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed that Song Jingchen could take the time to accompany her, so she naturally had no objections.


    They waited until it was almost time for lunch. In order to save time, Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to prepare some easy food and prepared to eat in the carriage.


    Apart from Mo Yuan, South Wind and Thirty Thousand also went.


    As for Qian Youde and Shangguan Han, in order to prevent them from disturbing the couple¡¯s private time, Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan for a bag of medicine and used it on them.


    They probably wouldn¡¯t be able to get up before dinner time.


    ¡°Are you that happy?¡± Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia who was stuffing hot food into her mouth. He couldn¡¯t help but ask.


    Shen Yijia quickly nodded and said in a muffled voice, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen a temple like this.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. Although the people of the Great Xia Dynasty weren¡¯t devoted believers compared to the previous dynasty, everyone needed spiritual sustenance. Therefore, there were still many people who liked to pray to gods.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been born in a temple.


    In that case, the Hidden Spirit Temple had contributed greatly to his relationship with this girl. Otherwise, his mother would definitely not have noticed the Shen family.


    Hidden Spirit Temple was also the temple with the most incense offerings in the capital. It existed in the previous dynasty and still stood after the dynasty changed.


    Those women from the residence would go there every once in a while to add some incense money.


    However, Shen Yijia said that she had never seen the temple before. Song Jingchen did not know when she started to become Second Miss Shen.


    At the thought of this, he pursed his lips and asked, ¡°Can you enter the temple?¡±


    ¡°Why can¡¯t I enter?¡± This question was strange.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    Since he was out to spend time with Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t read to pass the time. Instead, he chatted with Shen Yijia about his relationship with the temple.


    ¡°So Mother wanted you to stay there for half a month every year?¡± Shen Yijia asked in surprise.


    Song Jingchen nodded with a smile. He didn¡¯t feel anything in the past, but now, he felt that it was a good thing that Madam Li was a Buddhist. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have had to make a vow when the delivery period was approaching.


    Due to the critical situation at that time, Madam Li felt that apart from Madam Wang¡¯s help, it was also because of Buddha¡¯s blessings.


    Therefore, every year, Song Jingchen would go to Hidden Spirit Temple to stay for half a month on the second day of his birthday.


    During that half a month, he had to wear a monk¡¯s robe and eat and live with the monks of Hidden Spirit Temple, including attending morning classes. Basically, he had to do whatever those monks did.


    And these things had persisted from the moment he learned how to speak.


    During the year she spent in Xiagou Village, Madam Li never mentioned it. She probably felt that it was useless to place her hopes on Buddha.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue and muttered, ¡°Fortunately, I didn¡¯t treat you as the reincarnation of Buddha and let you become a monk.¡±


    Otherwise, she would have to consider becoming a little nun.


    Song Jingchen was stunned for a moment. When he reacted, he chuckled.


    This girl¡¯s thoughts were always so novel that no one could keep up with them.


    However, on second thought, it made sense.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She didn¡¯t say anything wrong. If he really became a monk, where would he find a fairy-like wife like her?


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right.¡± Song Jingchen smiled and pulled Shen Yijia into his arms, letting her lean against him.


    The two of them chatted and laughed. Thirty Thousand and South Wind were both shocked. Although they had not been with their master for long, they had never seen him talk so much.


    As expected, it made sense for him to have a wife while they didn¡¯t.


    Thirty Thousand stole a glance at Mo Yuan, who was driving the carriage.


    He rode closer to her.


    He coughed dryly and asked, ¡°Mo Yuan, are you cold?¡±

 Chapter 297 - Jing’an Temple

    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I¡¯m not cold.¡±


    ¡°Are you hungry?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry.¡±


    ¡°Then you must be thirsty. Why don¡¯t you drink some water?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not thirsty.¡±


    ¡°Haha, look at the weather.¡±


    Mo Yuan glanced at him indifferently. ¡°You¡¯re very noisy.¡±


    Thirty Thousand rubbed his nose and did not dare to speak.


    South Wind chuckled.


    Two hours later, the carriage stopped at the foot of the mountain.


    Shen Yijia lifted the curtain and jumped out of the car. She saw a staircase that was only wide enough for three people.


    The stairs meandered up without end.


    It was naturally impossible for the carriage and horses to go up the mountain. Fortunately, there was a shed specially provided for people to park their carriages and horses.


    It was unknown if it was built by the people of the temple.


    There were already two carriages parked inside. Shen Yijia immediately recognized them as belonging to the Liu family.


    With this weather and the situation in Xunyang City, probably no one other than the Liu family would have the leisure to come here.


    After parking the carriage, the group stepped onto the stairs. They thought that they would reach the top soon.


    Unexpectedly, even with their strength, they walked for two hours. When they arrived, it was already 3 pm.


    Fortunately, they were all martial arts practitioners, so they did not feel tired. However, it was a little boring to keep walking up the stairs.


    Shen Yijia imagined Liu Piaopiao¡¯s physique and suddenly understood why she had a strange expression when she said that she was tired.


    The temple was not big. It was even a little dilapidated. The words ¡°Jing¡¯an Temple¡± were written on an old plaque.


    However, when one thought about how it was in a place like Xunyang City and how it relied on the incense offerings of the citizens of Xunyang City to maintain it, it didn¡¯t seem strange.


    A young monk who was sweeping the floor outside saw them. He threw aside his broom and ran in, shouting, ¡°Master, someone is here to give us money again.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Little monk, you¡¯re not cute when you¡¯re so realistic.¡±


    ¡°Wu Chen, don¡¯t be rude.¡± An old monk with a benevolent expression walked out. His voice was magnanimous.


    He walked in front of them and pressed his palms together to chant a Buddhist prayer. ¡°Amitabha. You¡¯ve come from afar. How can I help you?¡±


    Without needing Song Jingchen to instruct him, South Wind went forward and returned the greeting. ¡°My Master and Madam want to rest at your temple for the night. I wonder if you can help arrange it.¡±


    With that, South Wind handed over a pouch with both hands. ¡°This is the money from my master.¡±


    The little monk called Wu Chen ran over and took the money bag from South Wind¡¯s hand. ¡°Of course. Please follow me.¡±


    The old monk shook his head helplessly. ¡°Amitabha, I¡¯ve been rude.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia thought that it would not be too late to look for Liu Piaopiao after taking a look at her residence, so she did not refuse.


    The group followed them around the front hall and walked in. On the way, they encountered a few monks. When the monks saw them, they stopped what they were doing and greeted them politely.


    However, it could be seen that there were not many monks here.


    Unlike what Shen Yijia had imagined in her previous life, where there were rows of rooms in the courtyard, the living quarters here were small courtyards with one room on each side.


    What she didn¡¯t expect was that men and women had to live separately. Actually, this was common sense, but she didn¡¯t know that Song Jingchen had forgotten to mention it.


    They passed through the courtyard for male guests first, and then the female guests.


    Shen Yijia could only separate from Song Jingchen with tears in her eyes.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head in amusement and said softly, ¡°Go and take a look at your room. If you¡¯re not tired, let¡¯s walk around again.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia nodded obediently and continued walking with Mo Yuan.


    The courtyard was relatively clean, and the room was alright, but it was a little small. There was only a bed inside, and a square table in the middle.


    Shen Yijia estimated that she probably wouldn¡¯t be able to put anything else in here.


    She looked at the bare bed with nothing on it and her lips twitched.


    Wu Chen noticed her gaze and said with a smile, ¡°If you need our temple to provide you with a bedroll, you just need to add some incense money.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him, bared her teeth, and called out, ¡°Mo Yuan.¡±


    Mo Yuan immediately put down the bulging bag on her back. It was almost half the size of Shen Yijia. Other than a set of clothes, there was nothing else inside.


    ¡°I¡¯ve learned something new.¡± Wu Chen thought.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Fortunately, I have a husband. Otherwise, I would have been tricked by this kid.¡±


    She even suspected that there were so many adults in this temple who wanted this young monk to lead the guests to make it easier for them to scam money, because the older ones would feel embarrassed!


    Since he was no longer needed, he muttered a Buddhist proclamation and prepared to leave.


    Shen Yijia thought of something and stopped him. ¡°Where does the female guest surnamed Liu live?¡±


    ¡°In the courtyard at the back.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She had just taken a look. There were only three courtyards here, so she was probably next door.


    Mo Yuan stayed in the room to clean the bed. Between looking for Liu Piaopiao or Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia decisively chose the latter.


    She could look for companions at night, but at that time, she would have to separate from her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen guessed that she wouldn¡¯t be resting in her room, so he was already waiting at the door that led to the female guest¡¯s courtyard.


    As soon as Shen Yijia went out, she saw him and jogged over. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m here.¡±


    Song Jingchen helped her gather her cloak and asked, ¡°Do you want to go to the temple to pray?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± She was new to everything here anyway. It made no difference where she went first.


    They followed the path they had come from and left. Liu Piaopiao happened to return from another path, so the two of them missed each other.


    Nanny Liu supported Liu Piaopiao and said with heartache, ¡°Miss, you¡¯re already tired after coming up. Why don¡¯t you want to rest in your room? Why do you have to kneel in the temple for so long?¡±


    They went out early and arrived just in time for lunch. After dinner, the old master and madam rested in their rooms.


    However, for some reason, Miss insisted on going to the temple. She knelt for nearly four hours. In the past, she would usually sleep until it was time for dinner.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s face was pale as she shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    If Shen Yijia was around, she would have realized that Liu Piaopiao had lost a lot of weight after not seeing her for a few days. In the past, she could be considered fat, but now, she was only chubby.


    She naturally lived in the same courtyard as Madam Zeng, but Madam Zeng lived in the upper room while she lived in a wing.


    Liu Piaopiao stood outside the door for a while. Madam Zeng was tired from walking and was probably still resting. The room was quiet.


    Seeing that she did not knock or return to the house, Nanny Liu asked strangely, ¡°Miss, do you want to see Madam?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao secretly clenched her fists in her sleeves. In the end, she shook her head. ¡°No, let Mother rest well.¡±


    When she returned to her room and sent Nanny Liu away, the door closed and Liu Piaopiao slumped to the ground.


    Every time she closed her eyes these few days, it was either Cai Yun¡¯s pale and lifeless face or that hand in the dark night.

 Chapter 298 - Prayers, The Truth

    Liu Piaopiao did not understand why it had suddenly become like this.


    She did not even have the courage to ask. If it was really as she thought, what could she do?


    On one side was her family, and on the other was justice. How would she choose then?


    She knelt in front of the Buddha for a long time, but she could not find an answer.


    In the front hall, Shen Yijia learned from the book. She knelt on the futon and clasped her hands together. ¡°Bodhisattva¡­¡±


    ¡°This is a Buddha statue,¡± Song Jingchen reminded her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She coughed dryly and cleared her throat. She closed her eyes and started over. ¡°Buddha, my name is Shen Yijia. I¡¯m fated to come to your temple with my husband today to pray for something.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. The person standing beside me is the husband of the believer.¡± she thought.


    The believer did not ask for much. Her husband had been harmed by a traitor and had lost his family.


    She only hoped that Buddha would bless her husband to kill his enemies as soon as possible and take revenge for his loved ones. If she could let her husband get what he wanted, she was willing to not eat meat for a month.


    She still had her mother, four siblings, and a younger brother at home. She begged Buddha to bless her mother with good health and a long life.


    Brother Hao is a little silly. Let him be smarter in the future. Otherwise, it would be worrying. Sister Huan likes to practice martial arts, so let her practice her skills. Then, let Lin Shao spread the spices passed down from his ancestors. Miaomiao¡¯s health is too poor¡­¡±


    After saying a lot, Shen Yijia rested for a while and continued.


    ¡°Finally, after I take revenge, it would be even better if I can have a few beautiful children. They can be like me or my husband. Anyway, we¡¯re both good-looking. If you really don¡¯t know how to arrange it, then let the girls take after me and the boys take after my husband.¡±


    Although it was a little inappropriate to ask Buddha to kill his enemy with his own hands, Song Jingchen was still very touched when he heard this. However, the more he listened, the more he felt that something was wrong.


    However, a certain someone did not know it.


    ¡°It¡¯s best to have four, two each. Of course, Buddha, if you want to give more¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia was talking enthusiastically when Song Jingchen covered her mouth. She blinked her big eyes and looked at Song Jingchen inexplicably.


    Song Jingchen tried his best to ignore the monks who had already gathered at the door. The corners of his mouth twitched as he said, ¡°Buddha will forget if you say too much. This will do.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked to show that she understood before Song Jingchen let go of her.


    ¡°Buddha, you have to remember me. My name is Shen Yijia.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    After an hour of praying, Song Jingchen finally pulled Shen Yijia away.


    The monks at the door looked at each other and heaved a sigh of relief.


    This nagging was even more intense than listening to the head monk recite scriptures.


    Apart from the main hall, there were also Buddha statues in a few side halls.


    Song Jingchen sensed that Shen Yijia wanted to go in again. His eyelids twitched as he pulled her out. ¡°You¡¯ve already worshiped Buddha. Let¡¯s walk around again. Otherwise, it¡¯ll be dark soon.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that it made sense and let him hold her hand. Unfortunately, she turned around and glanced at the Buddha statue in the side hall.


    It seemed to look different from the previous one. If a Buddha couldn¡¯t remember it, one of them would at least remember it, right?


    The sky darkened especially early in winter, and it was too cold on the mountain. Song Jingchen brought Shen Yijia around and sent her back to the courtyard door.


    ¡°Hurry up and go in. I¡¯ll get the novice monk to send the food to your room later,¡± Song Jingchen urged.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia turned around and entered the courtyard.


    Seeing her disappear, Song Jingchen chuckled helplessly. If she wanted children, she shouldn¡¯t be asking the Buddha for one.


    Four didn¡¯t seem like a lot. He would try his best.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. What was he thinking?


    Not long after, a novice monk brought some vegetarian food over. The main course was potatoes and a plate of wild vegetables.


    Perhaps because she had talked too much, Shen Yijia also felt extremely hungry. She wolfed down the food.


    After eating, she went straight to the front hall with Mo Yuan. Therefore, the nagging voice in the afternoon sounded in the side hall again.


    ¡°Buddha, you have to remember the name of the believer. My name is Shen Yijia.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao was woken up by a knock on the door. When she opened her eyes, she realized that she had fallen asleep on the ground.


    ¡°Baby, are you in there?¡±


    Madam Zeng¡¯s gentle voice sounded from outside the door.


    Liu Piaopiao quickly got up and tidied her clothes and hair before opening the door. ¡°Mother, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I heard from Nanny Liu that you¡¯ve been kneeling all afternoon. How can a silly child like you ruin your body like this?¡± Madam Zeng reprimanded, but her voice was filled with concern.


    Nanny Liu walked in and lit the oil lamp. Only then did Madam Zeng see that Liu Piaopiao¡¯s expression was extremely bad.


    Actually, Madam Zeng also knew that this had been happening ever since Cai Yun passed away.


    Seeing that her precious daughter was getting thinner and thinner, other than feeling sorry for her, she couldn¡¯t do anything else.


    She thought that she would recover after a while, but she did not expect her daughter to value Cai Yun so much. If she had known earlier¡­


    Madam Zeng sighed and waved her hand to dismiss Nanny Liu and Nanny Cai. She personally helped Liu Piaopiao sit down in front of the bed.


    ¡°Did you find out that Cai Yun didn¡¯t hang herself?¡± When Madam Zeng said this, she seemed to have instantly aged ten years.


    No one was willing to show their dark side to their children and personally break their beautiful impression of them.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°Mother!¡±


    ¡°Listen to Mother.¡± Madam Zeng pulled Liu Piaopiao¡¯s hands and patted them to comfort her. ¡°That girl might not want to be chased out, but she actually wanted to climb into your father¡¯s bed.¡±


    After all, this was a matter between the two of them, and it was such a topic. Madam Zeng probably felt embarrassed and did not look too good. ¡°That day, your father was busy in the study, and Mother happened to go over to deliver supper to him.


    ¡°I saw her dressed up and wandering around sneakily. How could Mother give her this chance?¡±


    After praying in front of the Buddha statues in the side halls, Shen Yijia finally remembered Liu Piaopiao and wanted to give her a surprise. Shen Yijia, who was about to climb through the window at the back of the house, was shocked.


    She silently retracted her hand from the windowsill. In order not to embarrass the person inside, she squatted down and planned to slip away quietly.


    Liu Piaopiao¡¯s voice sounded as if she was about to break down. ¡°Then what about the people who were carried out of the elegant residence? Were they also trying to climb into Father¡¯s bed? Also, do we come to Jing¡¯an Temple every month or two just to offer incense?¡±


    ¡°Mother, what are you and Father doing?¡±


    ¡°You- Do you know everything?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather I didn¡¯t know anything. That way, my father would still be a great benefactor praised by the citizens of Xunyang City. My mother would still be that gentle and dignified living Bodhisattva who couldn¡¯t even bear to trample an ant to death.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you teach me to be upright and kind since I was young? I grew up wanting to be like the both of you, but what are you doing?¡±

 Chapter 299 - Guidance

    ¡°I believe you when you say that Cai Yun had the intention to climb into Father¡¯s bed, but why did she die? She probably accidentally heard the unspeakable secret between you and Father and was silenced. That¡¯s the truth.¡±


    ¡°Because you didn¡¯t know that I had the intention to chase her out of the residence. You were afraid that if she suddenly disappeared, I would send someone to look for her.¡±


    ¡°In order to avoid trouble, you simply made it seem like Cai Yun hanged herself. However, you did not expect someone to see your servants leave Cai Yun¡¯s room, did you?¡±


    ¡°If you had known earlier, you would have thrown her corpse out and told me that she left the residence overnight.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still lying to me now. Do you want me to live forever in the illusion you created for me?¡±


    A loud slap echoed in the room. ¡°How can you think that? Who do you think your father and I are doing this for?¡±


    Song Jingchen had just put down his book, turned off the lights, and was about to take off his clothes to rest when a black shadow slipped in from the window. Before he could see clearly, the black shadow had already clung on him.


    ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s muffled voice came from the darkness.


    Song Jingchen thought that Shen Yijia missed him. He hugged her helplessly and asked softly, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Can¡¯t sleep?¡±


    His wife was too clingy. What could he do? They had only been separated for a night, but she climbed in through the window in the middle of the night.


    ¡°If you knew that your friend¡¯s family had done something bad and that the person you care about the most was investigating this matter, would you say it?¡± Shen Yijia felt a little uncomfortable. In the past, she would naturally have said it without hesitation, but she seemed to have felt Liu Piaopiao¡¯s despair when she was outside just now.


    The longer she lived in this world, the more she understood that not everything could be done as one wished. It could not be resolved with fists. Everyone had too many considerations.


    The people and things around you might influence your choices and affect your emotions.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. He was helpless and his heart ached. This silly girl¡¯s question was so obvious. Was she afraid that he wouldn¡¯t be able to guess?


    However, he did not expose her. Instead, he asked, ¡°Is it a very bad thing?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Yes, very bad.¡±


    ¡°Will it hurt anyone?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Song Jingchen put her down and reached out to hold Shen Yijia¡¯s face so that she could look into his eyes. He said seriously, ¡°You think that her family will be punished after you say it, so you can¡¯t bear to see her suffer.¡±


    He paused before continuing, ¡°But have you ever thought about how many people were hurt because of them? How sad would those people¡¯s families be?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t rush her.


    After about ten minutes, Shen Yijia¡¯s voice sounded again. It was no longer as dull as before, but firm. ¡°Earlier, I went to look for Piaopiao.¡±


    Actually, Song Jingchen could investigate on his own. This way, even if something really happened, Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t blame herself.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want her to have that wrong perception. This piece of white paper shouldn¡¯t be tainted with bad colors.


    After Shen Yijia finished explaining everything she had heard, Song Jingchen lowered his head and kissed her forehead. He comforted her softly, ¡°Rest here. Leave the rest to me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Shen Yijia rejected his suggestion without thinking. She had already said it and the outcome was actually destined, so there was no need to hesitate.


    Song Jingchen sized up Shen Yijia¡¯s expression. Seeing that she wasn¡¯t forcing herself, he nodded.


    After summoning Mo Yuan and the other two, Song Jingchen gave them some instructions.


    Mo Yuan returned to the living quarters where the female devotees were staying to watch over the Liu family¡¯s mother and daughter. Thirty Thousand stayed here to keep an eye on Liu Deyi.


    South Wind went down the mountain overnight and rushed back to Xunyang City.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia needed to find the place where those women were imprisoned first.


    Jing¡¯an Temple was poor. At night, the oil lamps everywhere were extinguished, and the surroundings were dark.


    If not for the fact that martial arts practitioners¡¯ five senses were much sharper, the two of them would have been blinded.


    They searched every room in the temple. Even though the temple was not big, it took the two of them nearly two hours.


    However, apart from a few rooms that were occupied, they only took a rough look to avoid alerting the enemy.


    They had carefully checked the other houses, even the ground and walls. They didn¡¯t find anything.


    ¡°Hubby, could it be that it¡¯s not here?¡± Shen Yijia asked softly.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and noticed that Shen Yijia¡¯s face was red from the cold. He held her hand. ¡°Perhaps. It¡¯s too late today. Let¡¯s go back and rest first. It won¡¯t be too late to look for them at dawn.¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to nod when she thought of something. Her eyes lit up and she grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She said excitedly, ¡°I know. Piaopiao once told me that her family¡¯s kiln is nearby. Could they have hidden them there?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze froze. He had been looking at the temple and had indeed overlooked this point.


    The two of them flashed out of the temple. Song Jingchen had previously brought people to the deep mountains to find food, so he was very familiar with the mountains.


    The earthen kiln was indeed not far from here. To be precise, it was on the back of the mountain, back to back with this temple.


    A white light suddenly flashed across the dark sky. Shangguan Han, who had followed South Wind to the foot of the Jing¡¯an Temple, looked in the direction of the white light and frowned. ¡°Meng Jiang, bring some people to surround the foot of the mountain. The rest of you, follow me up.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    The conversation between the mother and daughter also reached an impasse because of that slap.


    The door was suddenly pushed open and Nanny Cai entered in a panic. ¡°Madam, something bad has happened.¡±


    Madam Zeng was heartbroken by Liu Piaopiao¡¯s words and blamed herself for hitting her on the spur of the moment.


    Just as she was at a loss, Nanny Cai¡¯s words pulled her back to reality. She wiped the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and frowned. ¡°Why are you so flustered? You have no manners at all.¡±


    ¡°Madam, something happened over there.¡± Nanny Cai knelt down with a thud. Her voice was trembling, and she was clearly terrified.


    Madam Zeng tightened her grip on her handkerchief, no longer as dignified as before. She took a few steps forward and asked sternly, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Didn¡¯t I say not to act rashly tonight?¡±


    After knowing that Young Master Shenzhi and his wife were going up the mountain, they instructed the operation today to be canceled.


    ¡°I only heard the bell in the upper room ring when I put it down. Could it be that the couple went to look for them?¡±


    The bell was connected to the secret passage. Once someone touched the mechanism inside the secret passage, the people here would know.


    Apart from them, there were only two people left on the mountain.


    Without waiting for Madam Zeng to react, Liu Piaopiao suddenly stood up and asked, ¡°Who¡¯s that couple? Young Master Shenzhi and Jiajia are here?¡±


    She did not know why her parents had captured those women, nor did she know where those women would end up.


    However, Liu Piaopiao knew that once her parents¡¯ deeds were exposed, they could forget about living.


    Nanny Cai glanced at her with a complicated expression and said in a low voice, ¡°Yes, they arrived in the afternoon.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao felt her head buzz and she fell to the ground.


    The reason why Jiajia came was because of her.

 Chapter 300 - Rescue

    Madam Zeng could not care less about Liu Piaopiao at this moment. She staggered and stabilized herself. If their own people went in, they would definitely not have triggered the mechanism.


    She walked out in a panic. ¡°Quick, inform Master.¡±


    When she reached the door, she suddenly stopped. She turned around and glanced at Liu Piaopiao. She closed her eyes and instructed, ¡°Nanny Cai, bring Piaopiao down the mountain through the secret passage- No, directly down the small path. Don¡¯t return to Xunyang City. Go straight to her maternal grandfather¡¯s house.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Liu Piaopiao reacted and called out in fear. Seeing that Madam Zeng had left without looking back, she quickly got up and chased after her.


    ¡°Miss, you can¡¯t go!¡± Nanny Cai went up to stop her.


    However, how could Liu Piaopiao do as Nanny Cai wished? Nanny Cai had no idea where she got the strength to push her away.


    She ran to the courtyard door and saw Madam Zeng and Nanny Liu standing there without moving.


    Liu Piaopiao turned around and saw Mo Yuan standing outside the courtyard. Her pupils constricted.


    At this moment, messy footsteps suddenly came from outside, and there were faint sounds of fighting.


    These voices were approaching where they were.


    In the secret passage, Shen Yijia looked at the thread under her feet and frowned. She seemed to have gotten into trouble.


    Just as she thought this, a hand landed on her head. ¡°It¡¯s fine. This is good too. There¡¯s no need for us to search. The rats will appear on their own.¡±


    He was not worried about the people inside, but he was afraid that the Liu family would retaliate and overpower Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand. However, South Wind should have already arrived.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know if Song Jingchen was comforting her or if he really thought that way, but no matter what, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    Song Jingchen took out a match and lit the candlestick on the wall. The originally dark secret passage was instantly illuminated.


    The secret passage extended to an unknown place. It was wide enough for four to five people to travel together. It was obvious that it had taken a lot of effort to dig it out.


    Song Jingchen held the candlestick in his hand and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand as they continued walking in.


    However, his stride was clearly larger than hers, causing Shen Yijia to fall half a step behind him.


    The two of them walked for less than ten minutes before they heard hurried footsteps ahead.


    Song Jingchen squeezed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and said in a low voice, ¡°Try to stay behind me later.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that her beautiful husband had some misunderstanding about her. Did he treat her as a dainty flower that needed protection?


    Seeing that she was silent, Song Jingchen glanced at her.


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded meekly.


    ¡°I understand. There¡¯s a type of weakness called ¡®Song Jingchen thinks you¡¯re weak¡¯.¡± she thought.


    In any case, she would try her best.


    At this moment, the people in front of them appeared in their vision. There were two fierce-looking men.


    The two people looked at each other. There were two whooshes in the air. It was the sound of swords being drawn.


    Song Jingchen was about to go up to them when something suddenly flew out from his side.


    Everything happened in a flash. The two men opposite him were focused on Song Jingchen and didn¡¯t have time to react. After two consecutive whooshes, the two of them fell to the ground with a short arrow in their throats.


    Song Jingchen turned around and looked at Shen Yijia.


    ¡°I stayed behind you just now.¡± Shen Yijia did not feel guilty at all. She patted the sleeve arrow on her wrist. It was indeed right to carry it with her.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    In the empty stone room, more than ten men sat on the ground. The atmosphere was very solemn.


    ¡°Damn it, why aren¡¯t those two back yet?¡± One of them suddenly stood up and said angrily.


    The most conspicuous people in this stone room were two men in black leaning against the stone wall with their eyes closed.


    Hearing this, the two of them opened their eyes and looked at each other. One of them said coldly, ¡°I¡¯ll go take a look.¡±


    With that, he got up and prepared to leave. However, just as he reached the door, something flew in.


    The man in black sensed danger and subconsciously retreated to avoid it. He heard a thud behind him and turned around to see that the man who had spoken just now had already fallen to the ground.


    Shen Yijia walked into the stone room and looked around at the people inside. She turned around and blinked at Song Jingchen. This was called a surprise.


    The outsiders had already arrived. It was obvious what had happened to the two people from earlier.


    The two men in black looked at each other and attacked Song Jingchen, who looked more dangerous.


    The remaining people rushed towards Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia pulled out the soft whip at her waist and went up to them. This group of people was the same as the two people from before. They were not very skilled, and it was obvious that they were small fries.


    While Shen Yijia dealt with them easily, she could also use her whip to disturb the two men in black from time to time.


    This relieved a lot of the pressure on Song Jingchen, and the two men in black were injured.


    Shen Yijia threw the person wrapped in the soft whip. As if she felt that this was too slow, she put away the soft whip, clenched her fists, and flashed into the crowd.


    The dozen or so lackeys were shocked by her actions. Before they could react, they felt their vision blur. The woman in front of them had already turned into an afterimage and rushed towards them.


    For a moment, other than the sound of swords colliding on Song Jingchen¡¯s side, there was only a series of thuds.


    The two men in black realized that they were no match for Song Jingchen and looked at each other again.


    One of them feinted and retreated from the battlefield. However, he did not go towards Shen Yijia. Instead, he turned around and headed for another secret passage.


    Shen Yijia happened to knock out the last person and was about to help Song Jingchen.


    Seeing that someone had run away, she quickly said, ¡°I¡¯ll go after him.¡±


    Song Jingchen attacked even faster and reminded her in a low voice, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    These two people were not ordinary. They had clearly been specially trained.


    Shen Yijia followed the blood trail left behind by the man in black. Another stone room appeared in front of her, and she could vaguely hear someone talking.


    ¡°Don¡¯t kill us!¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t do anything. We were good!¡±


    In this stone room, more than ten girls were huddled in a corner. The youngest was only five or six years old, and they were shielded by the older ones.


    In this weather, the luckier ones were only wearing thin and dirty clothes, but most of them only had undergarments on.


    Their hair was messy, and their faces were covered in dust. Their exposed skin was injured.


    They looked at the murderous men in black in horror.


    They kept begging for mercy.


    The man in black turned a deaf ear and raised his sword to slash at them.


    It was as if these people were not human lives in his eyes at all, but livestock that could breathe.


    Seeing the scene inside, Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted. She raised her hand and shot a short arrow.


    The man in black subconsciously turned around and blocked it with his sword. When he saw who it was, he frowned unhappily.


    He raised his sword and attacked Shen Yijia with a murderous aura.


    Although he was surprised when Shen Yijia dealt with those people just now, he was not afraid. In his opinion, those lackeys were not skilled to begin with.


    Since this person had come to die, he naturally wouldn¡¯t let her off.


    He would first kill this person, then kill those women.


    Shen Yijia threw out a soft whip and wrapped it around the other party¡¯s wrist. The man in black was shocked and did not have time to react. He felt a strong pull and his body was suspended in the air..

 Chapter 301 - Plea

    Chapter 301: Plea


    With a loud bang, Shen Yijia threw him against the wall.


    One of the girls screamed, but her mouth was quickly covered by the person beside her.


    The man in black spat out a mouthful of blood and looked at Shen Yijia with wide eyes. The latter had already arrived in front of him.


    Shen Yijia put on a straight face and kicked the man in black in the abdomen. She reached out and grabbed his neck. With a crack, the man died on the spot.


    At this moment, Song Jingchen rushed over. He took a look and turned around. ¡°Jiajia, come out.¡±


    Shen Yijia let go and glanced at the girls who were looking at her hopefully but did not dare to make a sound.


    She pursed her lips and walked towards Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Please save us.¡±


    A timid voice came from behind.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks. Before she could speak, Song Jingchen¡¯s cold voice sounded again. ¡°Someone will come and bring you out later.¡±


    He held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go out first.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia also knew that these people probably didn¡¯t want to be seen in this state.


    After walking for about half an hour, there was suddenly no path ahead.


    Seeing Shen Yijia staring at the stone wall in front of her, Song Jingchen reminded her, ¡°This should be a secret door.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia nodded and patted the wall.


    With a click, the stone wall in front of them slowly moved to the sides.


    Shen Yijia wanted to see if this stone door was hard.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched.


    He had just estimated the direction the secret passage led to. If nothing unexpected happened, the other exit of this secret passage should be in Jing¡¯an Temple.


    When the secret passage ended, there was a row of wooden stairs in front of him.


    Just as Song Jingchen had thought, the two of them had already returned to Jing¡¯an Temple when they came out of the secret passage.


    Looking at the neat and elegant room in front of her, Shen Yijia had a guess.


    ¡°Let my daughter go.¡±


    A shrill voice sounded outside. The two of them looked at each other and walked out.


    Mo Yuan placed her sword against Liu Piaopiao¡¯s neck expressionlessly. Thirty Thousand, who was standing beside her, was clearly injured.


    The two of them had their backs facing them. In front of them was Liu Deyi and Madam Zeng.


    Madam Zeng looked at Mo Yuan with red eyes. The voice just now came from her mouth.


    The two sides faced each other.


    The appearance of the two of them immediately attracted the attention of Liu Deyi and the others. He looked at Song Jingchen angrily. ¡°There¡¯s no grudge between us. Why are you meddling in other people¡¯s business?¡±


    ¡°Do those people you locked up have a grudge against you?¡± Shen Yijia asked angrily.


    Because of Song Jingchen¡¯s intervention in the trafficking incident in Anyang County, he managed to save the kidnapped women in time.


    However, even so, a few women chose to hang themselves after the incident. Shen Yijia was reminded of that incident.


    Those people were not even as old as her. In this ancient era, a woman¡¯s reputation was highly valued.


    Even if Shen Yijia could not imagine what they would have to face in the future, she knew that their lives would be ruined.


    ¡°This has nothing to do with my daughter. She doesn¡¯t know anything. Let her go,¡± Madam Zeng cried.


    Ever since she found out that someone had entered the secret passage, Madam Zeng knew that they wouldn¡¯t be able to escape this time.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Liu Piaopiao¡¯s back and pursed her lips without saying anything.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Let her go.¡±


    Mo Yuan paused, retracted her sword, and retreated to her master¡¯s side with South Wind.


    Liu Piaopiao stood there without moving. She looked at Madam Zeng, who was crying her heart out, and closed her eyes in self-reproach.


    When her father brought people over just now, they could have escaped, but because of her¡­


    Snow suddenly fell from the sky.


    There were flames outside the temple. Soon, the flames arrived and surrounded the small courtyard.


    It was the monk from Jing¡¯an Temple who had brought Shangguan Han and the others over.


    When they started fighting here, they hid and only dared to come out when they saw the soldiers coming up.


    Shangguan Han waved his hand. ¡°Arrest them all.¡±


    Perhaps knowing that resistance was useless, the people Liu Deyi brought threw away their swords.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Shangguan Han walked closer and asked, not daring to call Song Jingchen his cousin in front of outsiders.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently. He turned to the group of monks and asked, ¡°Is everyone in the temple here?¡±


    The old monk looked at everyone present and was about to reply.


    Wu Chen jumped out. ¡°I know, I know. Senior Brother Yan Ming and Yan Song have left the mountain.¡±


    Everyone hid behind the Buddha statue. Wu Chen felt that it was too stupid. He hid in the grass behind the temple and happened to see his two senior brothers going down the mountain from the back path.


    He was afraid that the two of them would snatch his territory, so he didn¡¯t say anything.


    Song Jingchen frowned.


    ¡°I¡¯ve ordered people to surround the foot of the mountain. They won¡¯t be able to escape,¡± Shangguan Han said.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything else and could only place his hopes on them.


    It was snowing heavily, and everyone¡¯s heads were soon covered in snow. Under the suggestion of the little monk, the group was arrested and brought to the front hall.


    Next was the interrogation.


    Tears streamed down Liu Piaopiao¡¯s face as she watched her parents being taken away.


    Seeing that she had nothing to do here, Shen Yijia thought of the women in the stone room. She asked the old monk for more than ten monk robes and prepared to bring Mo Yuan to the stone room.


    Liu Piaopiao suddenly ran over and blocked their way. ¡°Can you help beg Lord An Le to spare my parents¡¯ lives?¡±


    Seeing her like this, Shen Yijia sighed and said, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    She brought Liu Piaopiao to the stone room.


    Earlier, when she asked them to wait, the dozen or so people really did not dare to move. They maintained the same posture that they were in when Shen Yijia left.


    Liu Piaopiao covered her mouth and looked at the scene in front of her in disbelief. She was trembling.


    The injuries on the women¡¯s bodies, the bloodstains on the stone wall.


    These signs were all telling her that her parents had caused all of this.


    Those people did not seem to expect Shen Yijia to really return. Their eyes lit up, but when Shen Yijia approached, they cowered in fear.


    Shen Yijia frowned and asked Mo Yuan to throw the monk robes over.


    ¡°Get dressed.¡±


    The girls looked at each other. After confirming that Shen Yijia was not with those bad people, they quickly picked up their clothes and put them on.


    ¡°You can still walk on your own, right? After you¡¯re dressed, follow me out,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    At this moment, someone whispered, ¡°She¡¯s the young lady of the Liu family. Could it be that Great Philanthropist Liu sent someone to save us?¡±


    The words ¡°Great Philanthropist Liu¡± were like a slap to Liu Piaopiao¡¯s face. She staggered and turned to run.


    Shen Yijia felt a headache coming on. She corrected them, ¡°My husband and I saved you.¡±


    The Great Philanthropist Liu was the one who locked them up, after all.


    After instructing Mo Yuan to bring these people along, Shen Yijia turned around and chased after Liu Piaopiao.


    Shangguan Han sat in the meditation room and listened to Zuo Fei report the results of the interrogation. He frowned so hard that he could kill with his looks alone.

 Chapter 302 - The Truth

    Chapter 302: The Truth


    He did not expect this operation to have existed for five years.


    In the past five years, countless women had been captured by them.


    When he first arrived, he had heard that the Huns had kidnapped the girls.


    Because in the past, every time they reported it to the authorities, there would be no outcome. Everyone even treated this as a normal occurrence, so they could only try their best to prevent the girls at home from going out.


    Now that he thought about it, perhaps some of them had indeed been captured by the Huns, but most of them had been taken by this group of people.


    Who would have thought that the Great Philanthropist Liu, who was praised by everyone, would be a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing?


    If not for this revelation, how long would this matter have lasted in his fief?


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Shangguan Han asked with a dark expression. ¡°So where did they send the girls? Who are they working for?¡±


    Zuo Fei lowered his head. ¡°These people are only in charge of capturing people under Liu Deyi¡¯s orders. They don¡¯t know anything else.¡±


    ¡°What about the Liu family?¡±


    ¡°They won¡¯t say anything.¡±


    At this moment, someone came to report from outside the door. ¡°Your Highness, Liu Deyi wants to see you.¡±


    Shangguan Han frowned and looked at Song Jingchen, who nodded.


    Soon, Liu Deyi was brought up. In just an hour, his body was already covered in blood.


    He was thrown to the ground like a rag. He wanted to get up, but he was powerless. He could only try to raise his head.


    Seeing that there was another person sitting there, he was stunned for a moment. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°I¡¯ll only talk to His Highness.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t move, and Shangguan Han remained silent.


    ¡°Your Highness, are you sure this person is trustworthy?¡± Liu Deyi lowered his head and asked, making it impossible to see his expression.


    Shangguan Han sneered and said sarcastically, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that.¡±


    Liu Deyi¡¯s face alternated between red and white. Perhaps because he had rested enough, he squirmed and got up to kneel. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°I can tell you everything, but Your Highness, you have to promise me that this matter cannot implicate my daughter. She doesn¡¯t know anything. She¡¯s innocent.¡±


    Shangguan Han did not expect this person to still dare to negotiate with him. He was so angry that he grabbed the teacup in front of him and threw it at Liu Deyi. He said angrily, ¡°All the people you captured are innocent. They also have parents and family. Why didn¡¯t you think of them when you captured them?¡±


    ¡°Just based on what you¡¯ve done in the past five years, I can exterminate the entire Liu family.¡±


    Shangguan Han was so angry that he even said what he was most resistant to.


    ¡°I just want to give my daughter a way out,¡± Liu Deyi insisted.


    As for the rest of his clan, they were long gone.


    ¡°It can be done,¡± Song Jingchen, who had been silent, suddenly said.


    Shangguan Han was stunned for a moment but did not refute.


    Since his cousin said so, so be it. Anyway, a woman¡¯s death wouldn¡¯t change anything.


    Seeing that Shangguan Han did not say anything, Liu Deyi knew that he had tacitly agreed.


    He was curious about Young Master Shen¡¯s identity, but he did not dare to show it. He bowed respectfully to Shangguan Han. ¡°I only know that that person is from the royal family.¡±


    ¡°Five years ago, I wanted to leave Xunyang with my family, but I didn¡¯t expect¡­¡±


    Thinking of bad memories, Liu Deyi¡¯s entire body trembled.


    It turned out that at that time, after Liu Deyi earned enough money from doing business, he wanted to move out of Xunyang City like the other rich people in Xunyang City.


    However, all of this was broken by the sudden arrival of a group of men in black.


    That group of people killed anyone they saw. Almost ten servants in the residence were slaughtered in a single breath.


    The two elders of the Liu family had also died at their hands. Just as Liu Deyi thought that he would die, those people let him off. They only asked to work for them.


    Although Liu Deyi was not as kind-hearted as the citizens of Xunyang City praised, he was not a great villain.


    At first, he was naturally unwilling, but those people threatened him with the lives of Madam Zeng and her daughter, as well as dozens of people in the Zeng family.


    It didn¡¯t matter if he died, but how could he ignore his wife and daughter and their own families, who had always helped him a lot?


    At first, he even hid it from Madam Zeng, but how could the two of them, who had been husband and wife for more than ten years, hide it from each other?


    In the end, Madam Zeng was also implicated, and this compromise lasted for five years.


    Shangguan Han frowned. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you report it to the authorities?¡±


    Moreover, how could outsiders not know that so many people had died? There was clearly a loophole.


    ¡°Of course I¡¯ve thought about reporting it. But that group of people is watching us all the time. The corpse of the person I tasked with sending the news was thrown in front of me before I could leave the residence. That person even said that the next time someone died, it would be my daughter. I only have one child. I don¡¯t dare to take the risk!¡± As he spoke, Liu Deyi¡¯s tears flowed.


    The thought of reporting this matter to the officials never rose again. After knowing by chance that the mastermind was someone from the royal family, he gave up resisting.


    Moreover, he had only done evil deeds a few times. His hands were no longer clean, and he no longer had the courage to report it to the authorities. His fear turned into numbness.


    It was not until the Hun army¡¯s siege that those people stopped appearing. He thought that they had finally left and were willing to let their family off.


    However, Liu Piaopiao¡¯s incident with the horse alarmed him. This was a warning they had given him.


    ¡°At that time, Huns often entered the city in disguise and burned, killed, and looted wantonly. It¡¯s not strange for anyone to die.¡± Seeing Shangguan Han¡¯s doubts, Liu Deyi added.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even know who those men in black are, so why did you conclude that they¡¯re from the royal family? Even if you happened to hear something, what if they deliberately said it to deceive you?¡± Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. He didn¡¯t believe that that was all Liu Deyi knew.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s question hit the nail on the head. Liu Deyi gritted his teeth and revealed the name of a place.


    Song Jingchen went out and called South Wind over to give him some instructions. He walked up to Liu Deyi and looked down at him. ¡°Where were these women sent to?¡±


    ¡°They asked me to send them to Jing¡¯an Temple. The women have to be between the ages of five and fourteen, with looks that are above average. They need to look lively. The people under the secret passage were in charge of sending them out. Someone else then takes over when the women reach Liang County. As for where they will be sent in the end, I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Song Jingchen already had an answer in his heart.


    Soon, South Wind knocked on the door and entered. He handed Song Jingchen a small metal box that he had dug out from under the Buddha statue.


    Song Jingchen took it and opened the box. Inside was a jade pendant with a four-clawed golden python totem.


    ¡°Take him away,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    South Wind got the order to drag Liu Deyi away.


    When Shangguan Han saw the jade pendant clearly, his pupils constricted. ¡°Cousin, this¡­¡±


    Every prince would be given a jade pendant like this after they were born.


    Moreover, he looked at this jade pendant. It was real.


    In other words, what Liu Deyi said was true. He was just a knife in the hands of an evil person. The person who used the knife was one of his brothers.


    ¡°Who is it? Why did he do this?¡± Shangguan Han punched the table with bloodshot eyes.


    Song Jingchen smiled mockingly. ¡°They were kidnapping women. You obviously know the reason why.¡±

 Chapter 303 - The Liu Couple’s Suicide

    Chapter 303: The Liu Couple¡¯s Suicide


    The room fell into a dead silence.


    Shangguan Han thought of a possibility and shook his head repeatedly. ¡°Impossible. That¡¯s too bold.¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen said directly, ¡°The officials. Their inner residences.¡±


    After some training and guidance, these girls would enter the residences of the officials. They were either concubines or maidservants. At the very least, they were good at gathering information.


    Which official didn¡¯t do anything shameful in private? With the evidence gathered by these spies, it was equivalent to holding onto the lives of those officials.


    If the perpetrator was bold enough, he could even have planted one or two women in the Emperor¡¯s harem.


    It was laughable that Emperor Chong¡¯an was wary of Shangguan Han, but he did not know that he was already surrounded by wolves.


    Back in Anyang County, in order to wake Fan Mingyuan up and not hold him back, Song Jingchen asked Rooster to give him a fake certificate, but he didn¡¯t expect it to match this place.


    In fact, he was in a hurry to find Shen Yijia back then and had long killed everyone. He had also cut off all clues, so how could he find any hints?


    However, it seemed that the two groups had the same goal. It was possible that they had the same master.


    This way, he wasn¡¯t technically lying to Fan Mingyuan.


    Far away in Anyang County, Fan Mingyuan heard that the person sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an had already left. Just as he heaved a sigh of relief, he felt a chill down his spine.


    Unsettled, he double-checked. ¡°Are you sure he¡¯s gone back?¡±


    It was said that the emperor was far away. Anyang County was now under his control.


    As soon as the people sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an arrived, he received the news. Song Jingchen had already written to remind him.


    Therefore, he had already made arrangements. Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s men had been here for nearly half a month. What they saw was what Fan Mingyuan wanted them to see.


    The Grandmaster suppressed his laughter. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my lord. That person hasn¡¯t returned for the past two days. No one has been coming or going in Xiagou Village recently.¡±


    This was the first time Fan Mingyuan had done such a thing after being an official for so long. He strangely felt very excited.


    He felt ashamed of his thoughts and said cautiously, ¡°Let Xifeng be crippled for a few more days.¡±


    What Liu Deyi knew was limited. He could only hope that the people at the foot of the mountain could capture the two monks.


    The monks of Jing¡¯an Temple did not expect someone to do such a wicked thing right under their noses.


    Looking at the girls and children who had been brought out, they chanted Buddhist chants and took the initiative to settle them down.


    However, these girls were afraid when they saw the man and did not let anyone approach. In the end, they still thought of a way.


    They gave the girls a separate courtyard to clean up and live in.


    Mo Yuan checked on them. Fortunately, these people only suffered some superficial wounds. It was inevitable that they would leave scars. At least their lives were not in danger.


    The injuries on their bodies were easy to treat, but they could only rely on themselves to overcome the psychological trauma.


    Shen Yijia followed Liu Piaopiao to the temporary prison.


    ¡°Stop. There are criminals locked inside. No one is allowed to approach.¡±


    ¡°Let me in and see my parents. I¡¯ll only see them once.¡± Liu Piaopiao cried and begged.


    The guards watched coldly from the sidelines, unmoved. They were also from Xunyang City. They had seen many families fall apart because their children were lost.


    They had sisters in their families too. They could not sympathize with these people when they thought about how their sisters would be harmed one day.


    They hated the Liu family as much as they used to be grateful to them.


    ¡°Please, let me in¡­¡±


    Liu Piaopiao ignored the long saber in front of her and was about to barge in when she was pushed roughly by the soldier. She fell to the snow in a sorry state.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and went forward to help her up.


    When Liu Piaopiao saw her, she grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s arm tightly. ¡°Can you ask them to let me in to see my parents?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s useless. Even if you see them, you won¡¯t be able to save them.¡± Shen Yijia let Liu Piaopiao pull her along with a straight face.


    The news had already spread, and many people knew about it. Even if Shangguan Han wanted to spare their lives, he had to see if the citizens of Xunyang City agreed.


    Moreover, Shen Yijia would not help. In her opinion, the Liu couple deserved to die.


    Those girls reminded her of the people captured by the research institute in her previous life. She thought of Da Hua and herself.


    The difference was that the people in the research institute valued their special abilities. These people valued the bodies and looks of those girls.


    For whatever reason, they didn¡¯t deserve to be forgiven.


    Liu Piaopiao wiped her tears and choked. ¡°I know, I know. I just want to see them one last time. I beg you, help me, okay?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at her, pried her hand away, and turned to leave.


    Her beautiful husband was here. She had just seen him.


    Liu Piaopiao slumped back down dispiritedly. Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s back, hatred flashed across her eyes, but no one noticed it.


    ¡°Do you want to help her?¡± Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand to warm it up.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and asked, ¡°Can I?¡±


    She didn¡¯t understand their process very well, afraid that she would make things difficult for Song Jingchen if she agreed easily.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head dotingly. ¡°If you want to, you can.¡±


    It was just a meeting.


    ¡°Then let them meet,¡± Shen Yijia said gloomily.


    She did not have many friends. Liu Piaopiao probably would not want to interact with her again in the future. She would take it as repaying her kindness.


    Song Jingchen glanced at South Wind, who understood and immediately made arrangements.


    They were originally here to have fun. Who would have thought that so many things would happen overnight?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to let her imagination run wild, so he brought her back to her room to rest. No one saw a messenger pigeon fly out of Jing¡¯an Temple.


    The night passed uneventfully. The two of them were woken up by a commotion. At this moment, the sky was starting to get brighter.


    Song Jingchen frowned. Before he could ask, South Wind¡¯s voice came from outside the door. ¡°Master, the Liu couple set themselves on fire.¡±


    It was unknown where they got the lighter from, but when they realized that something was wrong and wanted to rush in, they realized that the doors and windows had been bolted from the inside.


    The water in the temple had to be brought in from elsewhere, so there was no time to put it out. Everyone could only block the source of the fire so that it wouldn¡¯t affect the house beside them.


    ¡°They¡¯re smart.¡± Song Jingchen sneered.


    If the two of them did not die now, what awaited them when they returned to Xunyang City would be the anger of the commoners.


    Shen Yijia was no longer sleepy. The two of them changed and got out of bed.


    It was unknown when the snow stopped. Other than the traces left behind by the fire, everything else was white.


    Liu Piaopiao knelt in the ruins in thin clothes and fainted a few times from crying. Everyone present were men. No one would sympathize with her because she was a member of the Liu family. Even if she wasn¡¯t, no one could help her as men and women had to keep an appropriate distance from each other.


    The monk of Jing¡¯an Temple stood at the side and chanted the Buddhist scriptures with a compassionate expression.


    This was the scene Shen Yijia saw when she arrived. The sound of chanting echoed around her.

 Chapter 304 - Too Late

    Chapter 304: Too Late


    ¡°Oh my, I¡¯m so tired. Hurry up. They¡¯re all over there. Let¡¯s go over quickly.¡±


    A sudden voice sounded.


    The gloomy atmosphere was instantly destroyed, and the chanting was no longer orderly.


    Only Liu Piaopiao¡¯s cries were still intermittent. Shen Yijia held her forehead and walked over to take off her cloak to put it on her.


    The next moment, another cloak was draped over her. She turned around and blinked at Song Jingchen.


    At this moment, the owner of the voice appeared in everyone¡¯s sight.


    ¡°Look who I brought back for you,¡± Qian Youde shouted at the top of his lungs.


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw Qian Youde being carried over by two soldiers. The people behind him were carrying two people.


    ¡°It¡¯s Senior Brothers Yan Ming and Yan Song,¡± Wu Chen said in surprise, revealing the identities of the two people.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows.


    ¡°Are they from the temple? I picked them up from the roadside. Since there was only one temple nearby, I brought them back for you.¡± After saying that, Qian Youde patted the arm of the soldier who was carrying him, indicating for the two of them to put him down.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Shangguan Han asked Meng Jiang unhappily. His men were being ordered around by Qian Youde.


    Meng Jiang scratched his head and explained how he met Qian Youde at the foot of the mountain.


    Qian Youde originally followed Shangguan Han and the others out of the city gate, but Qian Youde was unreasonable. He felt that it was too cold and insisted on taking the carriage. Soon, they left him behind.


    He was not in a hurry. He traveled slowly and saw two monks who had fainted by the roadside for some reason. He thought that saving a life was better than building a seven-story pagoda. He thought about how he happened to be going to Jing¡¯an Temple, so he picked them up and brought them back in the carriage.


    Of course, this was only what Qian Youde said to Meng Jiang. As for the truth, only Qian Youde knew.


    Qian Youde¡¯s carriage swayed to the foot of the mountain and met Meng Jiang and the others. They were about to go up the mountain when it snowed, so they could only rest in the carriage for the night.


    When the snow stopped, he tricked Meng Jiang into sending people to carry him up the mountain. This was the scene they were seeing now.


    Meng Jiang probably felt embarrassed and did not say how he had deceived him.


    Shangguan Han glared at Meng Jiang. He had walked up the mountain on his own.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with these two?¡± Song Jingchen went forward to check.


    Qian Youde sighed. ¡°Who knows? They might have fainted from the cold.¡±


    ¡°Go, think of a way to wake him up first,¡± Shangguan Han instructed before Song Jingchen could speak. These two people were the key to this incident.


    He wanted to see who was so bold.


    As soon as Shangguan Han left, the soldiers naturally followed.


    Qian Youde rolled his eyes. These people didn¡¯t even give him the credit. If it weren¡¯t for him¡­


    He looked around and saw that the atmosphere was not right. He leaned close to Shen Yijia¡¯s ear and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Did someone die?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he was gagged and pulled away by South Wind, who received Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze.


    Without Qian Youde, the troublemaker, the surroundings finally returned to normal.


    Seeing that Liu Piaopiao was still crying even though she could not kneel steadily, Shen Yijia did not know how to comfort her. She pursed her lips and went forward to knock her out.


    There was a moment of silence. Shen Yijia did not care at all. She waved her hand and asked Mo Yuan to send her back to her room.


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about it. You didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡± From the moment this happened, Song Jingchen saw that Shen Yijia had been unhappy, so he rubbed her head to comfort her.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and said with a straight face, ¡°I know. I¡¯m thinking about what she¡¯ll do in the future.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao had been doted on by her parents since she was young. Now, she had become an orphan like her. She was used to it and didn¡¯t think much of it, but Liu Piaopiao was different.


    After all, children who had never eaten candy would not miss the taste of it.


    Song Jingchen pinched Shen Yijia¡¯s cheek in amusement. ¡°She¡¯s not a child anymore. You don¡¯t have to worry about her.¡±


    She was still a silly girl who knew nothing. So what if Liu Piaopiao cried now? It would probably be impossible for her to live in Xunyang City in the future.


    Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose indignantly and grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand that was messing around on her face. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to our room and put on more clothes.¡±


    She could not let her beautiful husband freeze to death. As for Liu Piaopiao, she would help her when she could.


    ¡°Eh, where did Master go?¡± Wu Chen was the youngest and was not focused on chanting. From time to time, he would look around and he realized that someone was missing.


    As soon as he spoke, the other monks looked around. Indeed, they did not see the head monk.


    ¡°Strange, he was still here just now.¡±


    Song Jingchen was pulled by Shen Yijia for a distance. When he heard this, he suddenly turned around and asked coldly, ¡°When did he disappear?¡±


    Wu Chen shivered in fear and quickly hid behind the monk beside him. He whispered, ¡°I don¡¯t know. I saw it when the two senior brothers were brought back just now.¡±


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°Where¡¯s the head monk¡¯s room?¡±


    ¡°Hubby, are you suspecting that he-¡± Shen Yijia was shocked. No way, that head monk didn¡¯t look like a bad person.


    ¡°His room is at-¡±


    ¡°What are you still doing? Lead the way.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t refute. Shen Yijia knew that she had guessed correctly. If the head monk was the one hiding behind the scenes, they couldn¡¯t let him escape.


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± With that, Wu Chen ran off. Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen quickly followed.


    The remaining monks looked at each other. Why was their master involved?


    The monks lived a little away from the devotees. The road was covered in snow. Shen Yijia despised the fact that they were running too slowly, so she picked them up.


    Wu Chen was stunned.


    Shen Yijia roared, ¡°Tell me the direction.¡±


    Wu Chen pointed.


    Looking at the person who instantly rushed out like a steel cannon, Song Jingchen held his forehead. Had his wife forgotten about him?


    Even though they reacted quickly and ran, they were still too late. When they reached the door of the head monk¡¯s courtyard, they saw thick smoke rising from the house.


    ¡°Master?¡± Wu Chen exclaimed.


    It was impossible for the house to catch fire for no reason. Even a fool would know who started the fire.


    Shen Yijia frowned and threw him to the ground. She wanted to rush in and capture the head monk.


    Song Jingchen quickly pulled her back. ¡°Don¡¯t go. It¡¯s too late.¡±


    The fire was about to spread outside. There was no need to think about the situation inside.


    ¡°What are these people thinking? Why do they like to burn themselves so much?¡± Shen Yijia said angrily.


    If he committed suicide, she could save him even if he was still alive, right? Although it was a waste of spiritual liquid, she was still willing to save him for the sake of the truth. At most, she would kill him after asking!


    Shangguan Han narrowed his eyes at the collapsing beam and said coldly, ¡°To destroy the evidence.¡±


    This person was probably the biggest culprit here.


    ¡°Quick, quick!¡± Shangguan Han rushed over with his men and was dumbfounded when he saw the scene in front of him.


    He had just interrogated the two other monks and rushed over with his men to capture the head monk, but in the end¡­


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. If they came any later, there would only be dust left.

 Chapter 305 - Anger, Liu Piaopiao Changed

    Chapter 305: Anger, Liu Piaopiao Changed


    The citizens of Xunyang City were in an uproar as they looked at the dozen or so people tied up with hemp ropes and dragged along by horses.


    When they heard General Meng mention these people¡¯s crimes at the top of his lungs, they all glared at them with red eyes. Some even picked up the things in their hands and threw them at those people.


    As for those who did not believe him, Lord An Le and Young Master Shen were both at the front of the team. Even if they did not believe General Meng, they would believe the two of them.


    Besides, a large group of people had left the city yesterday night. There were also soldiers surrounding the Liu family.


    Everyone saw this. At that time, everyone wondered if the Huns were attacking again.


    Unexpectedly, it had something to do with the recent disappearance of the girls in Xunyang City.


    In the past, they only thought that it was the Huns who did it. No matter how angry they were, they had nowhere to vent their anger. They did not expect it to be someone from Xunyang City. How could they stay calm?


    ¡°Return my daughter to me, you bastards!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll all die a horrible death. How can you do such a heartless thing?¡±


    ¡°My daughter was only seven years old when she disappeared. Now that three years have passed, I don¡¯t know where she is. How can you guys still be alive and well?¡±


    ¡°What Great Philanthropist? He¡¯s just a demon. He captured our children and made us grateful to that family for so many years.¡±


    Many people who had lost their daughters cursed and wept.


    Even if they haven¡¯t lost family members, they were still furious. If not for the soldiers stopping them, they would have rushed up and torn those people apart.


    Even so, the people behind the horses were beaten until their heads bled.


    Besides, after those girls found out that it was the Liu family who did it, they treated Liu Piaopiao badly.


    In order to avoid causing trouble, Liu Piaopiao could only let Mo Yuan bring her along on the horse.


    With an effort, she straightened up and sat on her horse, her head covered by a black veil.


    Liu Piaopiao looked at the crazy appearances of these commoners through the veil. The fingertips of her hands that were clenched tightly in front of her turned white, and her body kept trembling.


    This was the first time she realized how difficult it was to straighten her back.


    She closed her eyes. This was why she had secretly stuffed the matchstick into her parents¡¯ hands.


    She had already expected this outcome. However, looking at these people and imagining her parents being treated like this, her heart couldn¡¯t help but ache.


    Their family had clearly done so many good deeds and saved so many people. Why couldn¡¯t these people remember the Liu family¡¯s kindness?


    The two nannies, Nanny Cai and Nanny Liu, were old. They walked at the back and covered their heads with their hands while trembling.


    They regretted it. If they had known earlier, they would have killed themselves like Master and Madam.


    Shen Yijia rode with Song Jingchen and looked at the crazy commoners. She tilted her head and asked Song Jingchen, ¡°Aren¡¯t you alerting the enemy by doing this?¡±


    What if there were still accomplices in the city?


    ¡°There was time yesterday, so the head monk had probably already made the necessary arrangements. Even if there are accomplices, they¡¯ve probably already left Xunyang,¡± Song Jingchen explained patiently.


    As for why the head monk didn¡¯t leave, he probably felt that it was better to be quiet than to move. The chances of him escaping were too low.


    Besides, he had already thrown out two baits, which was enough to attract everyone¡¯s attention.


    If the two of them were lucky enough not to be captured, he would be safe.


    Originally, things had indeed developed as he had expected. However, he did not expect Qian Youde to appear out of nowhere. He knew that the two of them were not tight-lipped.


    In order not to expose the person behind him, he could only choose to burn himself and remove the evidence with fire.


    ¡°Besides¡­¡± Song Jingchen paused and glanced somewhere before continuing, ¡°This matter actually involves the capital. We have to alert a certain someone.¡±


    When the perpetrator was anxious and made a mistake, there would be an opening to strike.


    Shen Yijia followed his gaze and seemed to understand.


    Lord Zhou sat in the inn room and looked at the chaos below through the window. He ordered someone to ask around. When the person who had gone out to gather information returned, he understood the reason.


    ¡°These people are really inhumane.¡± Lord Zhou sneered and turned his gaze back to Shangguan Han, who was at the front. His dark eyes narrowed. ¡°Lord An Le appeared at the right time.¡±


    Did he see that they had finished distributing the food?


    After Shangguan Han expressed that the criminals would be publicly executed in two days, the commoners retreated.


    After returning to the Prince¡¯s residence, Shangguan Han asked his maidservant to bring the girls to pack up. After they were done, he instructed someone to send them home.


    Shen Yijia and the others naturally returned to the Shen residence. Furball, who had gone to the prince¡¯s residence to eat for a few days, also returned.


    For some reason, Furball had simply been lying down and not moving much recently. Otherwise, based on its past habits, it would have followed them long ago. Why would it stay at home obediently?


    At first, Shen Yijia thought that it was sick, but after a few days of observation, she concluded that it was just too lazy.


    It disappeared and went somewhere to sleep.


    Since the Liu family was investigated, the servants inside were naturally captured and questioned one by one.


    Shen Yijia originally wanted Liu Piaopiao to stay in the Shen residence for the time being, but Liu Piaopiao insisted on going home.


    She could only get someone to send her back. She guessed that Liu Piaopiao probably didn¡¯t want to see her, so she asked Mo Yuan to make food and send it over every day.


    She thought that Liu Piaopiao would not come looking for her. Unexpectedly, on the afternoon of the execution, Mo Yuan came to report that Miss Liu had come.


    Shen Yijia looked up from the paper and glanced at Song Jingchen in a daze, as if she was asking if she had heard wrongly.


    For the past few days, she had been doing nothing. She had been obediently writing at home and didn¡¯t go anywhere. She must have written something wrong.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and took the brush from her hand. ¡°Go.¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in embarrassment and followed Mo Yuan to the reception pavilion.


    Liu Piaopiao sat there in white. However, she seemed to have lost a lot of weight in the past few days.


    Seeing Shen Yijia, she forced a smile. ¡°Sister Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused for a moment. She felt that something was wrong. She shook her head and sat down opposite her. She cleared her throat and said, ¡°You seem to have lost weight again.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao smiled bitterly. ¡°It¡¯s good to be thinner. Didn¡¯t you say that? I¡¯ll look good if I¡¯m thinner.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Although Shen Yijia knew that she did nothing wrong, she still felt a little uncomfortable looking at Liu Piaopiao.


    Liu Piaopiao treated her as a friend. In the end, she eavesdropped on her conversation and even snitched on her, causing her family to fall apart.


    The Liu couple indeed deserved to die, but Liu Piaopiao was innocent. Shen Yijia really did not know how to face Liu Piaopiao. She felt that it was too difficult for her.


    These few days, she had even thought about what she would do if her beautiful husband did something bad. She decided she would join him if he ever did.


    Thinking about it this way, she felt that she wasn¡¯t a good person either. This was awkward.


    The two of them in the reception pavilion were silent for a moment. Liu Piaopiao looked at Mo Yuan. ¡°Can I talk to Jiajia alone?¡±

 Chapter 306 - Farewell

    Chapter 306: Farewell


    Mo Yuan remained silent. She felt that Liu Piaopiao had changed. She didn¡¯t want her mistress to be alone with her.


    An awkward expression flashed across Liu Piaopiao¡¯s face. Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°Mo Yuan, you can leave first.¡±


    Mo Yuan still did not want to leave, but she had no choice but to listen to Shen Yijia. She could only walk out and stand in the courtyard, looking at the two people in the reception pavilion without blinking.


    Liu Piaopiao glanced at Mo Yuan and muttered, ¡°In the past, Cai Yun was also very considerate of me.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Liu Piaopiao seemed to be just saying it casually. She stood up with a smile and walked to Shen Yijia. She said unhurriedly, ¡°Sister Jiajia, I¡¯ve been thinking about it for a long time, but I can¡¯t figure out why it¡¯s such a coincidence.¡±


    It was only yesterday that I understood. ¡°You went to look for me that night, right? In the end, you heard my argument with my mother, so you told Young Master Shenzhi about it.¡±


    ¡°You found the exit because I told you about the earthen kiln. Am I right?¡±


    Although she was asking, her face was filled with certainty.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. If not for the fact that the timing was bad, she would have applauded Liu Piaopiao. Why didn¡¯t she realize that Liu Piaopiao was so smart before?


    However, she felt that it was normal. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to find out so much through Cai Yun¡¯s death.


    Perhaps Madam Zeng did not expect her to investigate and did not guard against her?


    These thoughts only flashed through Shen Yijia¡¯s mind for a moment. She nodded. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    She didn¡¯t think there was anything to lie about. Instead, she felt much better.


    Liu Piaopiao suddenly laughed in a daze. ¡°So, it was you and I who killed my parents.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and did not agree with her. She said seriously, ¡°You¡¯re wrong. They killed themselves.¡±


    ¡°But they were forced to do so.¡± Liu Piaopiao¡¯s eyes turned red. When she said this, she clearly lacked confidence.


    Shen Yijia was shocked by her crying and laughing. She subconsciously pinched her fingers. ¡°But they did harm many people.¡±


    ¡°So? Am I supposed to die too and atone for their crimes?¡±


    ¡°No, it has nothing to do with you, so no one will want you to die.¡± Shen Yijia spoke the truth.


    Of course, if Liu Deyi and his wife were capable enough, no one would be able to kill them even if they did something bad.


    She seemed to have figured it out. If she wanted to do something bad, she had to be strong enough.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know. He tried his best not to let Shen Yijia see too much darkness.


    He wanted her to be someone who lived under the sun, who was sensible and knew right from wrong. Meanwhile, Shen Yijia was already secretly thinking about becoming stronger so that she could accompany him to do bad things.


    Her worldview was almost twisted to the limit.


    If he knew, Song Jingchen would be thinking, ¡°Do I look like a bad person to you?¡±


    ¡°No? Then what are those people doing? They threw feces at my house, threw stones, and knocked on the door in the middle of the night. Aren¡¯t they trying to force me to death?¡± Liu Piaopiao¡¯s voice became sharp as she pointed outside the door.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts were pulled back. She frowned. Why didn¡¯t she know about this? Every time Mo Yuan came back with food, she would say, ¡°Miss Liu is doing well.¡±


    Seeing her like this, Liu Piaopiao closed her eyes. ¡°I really envy you for having someone like Young Master Shenzhi protecting you.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°This topic changed a little too quickly.¡±


    She calmed herself down and suggested sincerely, ¡°Why don¡¯t you stay at my house for a few days?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao suddenly smiled, unlike before. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯m here to bid farewell to you.¡±


    With that, she turned around and returned to her seat. Only then did Shen Yijia realize that she had come with a package.


    Liu Piaopiao took out something wrapped in a cloth and handed it to Shen Yijia. ¡°This should be useful to you.¡±


    It looked like a book. Shen Yijia pursed her lips and took it without opening it. She asked worriedly, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°To my maternal grandfather¡¯s house.¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia still wanted to ask, Liu Piaopiao added teasingly, ¡°The carriage that came to pick me up has already arrived. I came over in that carriage just now. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to leave.¡±


    Looking at Liu Piaopiao¡¯s back as she turned around and left, Shen Yijia said, ¡°Living is more important than anything else. They all want you to live well.¡±


    She was referring to Liu Deyi and his wife. Liu Piaopiao did not turn around and only said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely live well.¡±


    There was indeed a carriage parked at the entrance of the Shen residence. Beside the carriage stood an old woman and a maidservant. When they saw Liu Piaopiao come out, the two of them walked over to help her.


    At this moment, Qian Youde, who had gone out to watch the commotion, entered the residence with Zhu Zi.


    Liu Piaopiao was stunned.


    The old woman reminded her, ¡°Miss, we should go.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    In the reception pavilion, Shen Yijia sat in a daze for a while until Qian Youde entered.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, what are you thinking about?¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. This person was clearly older than her. What kind of face did he have to call her sister-in-law so smoothly?


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Qian Youde continued to lean over.


    If Shen Yijia did not make a move, it would be a blessing for Qian Youde. He could completely accept her ignoring him.


    Seeing that the cloth bag was about to be taken away, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and stood up to hold it in her hand. She stomped on Qian Youde before opening the cloth bag in a good mood.


    Inside was a thick volume. It looked as if it had just been dug out of the soil. It was dirty and old, and there were no words on the cover.


    She opened it and saw a portrait of a young girl. There was a line of words below the portrait.


    Qian Youde leaned over curiously. The words were too small, and the two of them took a long time to read them.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and quickly closed the booklet. She didn¡¯t expect Liu Piaopiao to have such a thing in her hand. She quickly took it to look for Song Jingchen.


    Qian Youde protested, ¡°I haven¡¯t finished reading it yet!¡±


    In response, Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was getting further and further away. ¡°Mo Yuan, beat him up.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    Lord Zhou thought that since Lord An Le had returned, Lord An Le should send someone to invite him soon.


    In the end, after waiting for two days, Lord Zhou did not see him. He was so angry that he got someone to pack up and prepare to return to the capital to report.


    Unexpectedly, the people from the Prince¡¯s Residence came. It was Butler Wan.


    Lord Zhou felt that he had regained some face. After dawdling for a long time, he brought his men to the residence with Butler Wan.


    As for Eunuch Li, he had fallen ill. It was unknown which immoral person had actually poured laxatives into his teacup. It had not ended since he woke up in the morning.


    Lord Zhou thought that he would be brought to the reception hall like last time, but he did not expect Butler Wan to bring him to the study.


    ¡°His Highness said that only Lord Zhou can enter,¡± Butler Wan said respectfully.


    Lord Zhou frowned unhappily. Seeing Butler Wan¡¯s expression, he waved his hand to signal the people following him to stay outside.


    After they entered, Butler Wan closed the door and began to act as the gatekeeper.


    Shangguan Han sat calmly in front of the desk and watched as Lord Zhou approached. He did not speak.

 Chapter 307 - Exposed

    Chapter 307: Exposed


    Lord Zhou cupped his hands perfunctorily. ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Have a seat.¡± Shangguan Han nodded and said politely, ¡°I didn¡¯t know that Lord Zhou was coming a few days ago. For the sake of the people, I¡¯ve been wandering in the mountains with my men. No one in the city has offended you, right?¡±


    His question reminded Official Zhou of Doctor Jia. His face instantly darkened. The corners of his mouth twitched. ¡°Since even His Highness has asked, I¡¯ll tell you the truth. Xunyang City is really chaotic. It¡¯s a small matter if someone has offended me.¡±


    ¡°How can there be a kidnapping of young girls that lasted for five years? Your Highness, you really have to take care of it.¡±


    Shangguan Han rolled his eyes in his heart. Five years ago, Xunyang was not his territory.


    However, he sneered and said with a cold expression, ¡°Lord Zhou is right. I want to manage it well. The moment I took over, I¡¯ve already discovered a problem.¡±


    Lord Zhou was stunned. Why was this different from what he had expected? Shouldn¡¯t Lord An Le agree with him and say some nice words, trying to make him put in a good word for him in front of His Majesty when he returned to the capital?


    Shangguan Han did not care what he was thinking. He took out a jade pendant and placed it in front of Lord Zhou. ¡°Lord Zhou, do you recognize this?¡±


    As an old minister in the court, how could Lord Zhou not know what it was?


    He frowned. ¡°Your Highness, what do you mean?¡±


    Shangguan Han remained silent. He took out another jade pendant from a box at the side and placed it there.


    Lord Zhou was stunned. He glanced at Shangguan Han and reached out to compare the two jade pendants in his hand. Only then did he realize that something was wrong. ¡°Why do you have two jade pendants, Your Highness?¡±


    The corners of Shangguan Han¡¯s lips curled up. ¡°This is also what I¡¯m curious about. Why would I get such a jade pendant from a criminal who kidnapped young girls?


    ¡°I¡¯ve been away from the capital for more than a year, so I¡¯m not very sure. Does anyone else have this jade pendant other than the imperial princes?¡±


    Lord Zhou also sensed that something was wrong. His eyelids twitched. Did Lord An Le want him to report this matter to His Majesty?


    ¡°After all, this is not a small matter. Lord Zhou, you¡¯ve also seen how intense the emotions of the commoners are over this matter. If word gets out that it was done by the royal family, I¡¯m afraid it will cause chaos.¡±


    Shangguan Han sat back down and picked up his teacup to take a sip. ¡°Besides, who can guarantee that this incident will only happen in my Xunyang City? If I hadn¡¯t found out this time, how long would this matter have lasted? What did that person want to do by capturing so many people?¡±


    ¡°So¡­¡± Shangguan Han paused for a moment and continued,¡± I¡¯ll have to trouble Lord Zhou to bring this additional jade pendant back. If one of my brothers had accidentally lost it, it should be returned to its rightful owner. ¡±


    Lord Zhou came out of the study with a lot on his mind. Zhou Qing went up to him. ¡°Master.¡±


    Lord Zhou nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to the inn.¡±


    ¡°Lord Zhou, I¡¯ll send you out.¡± Butler Wan led the way respectfully.


    Just as he was about to turn a corner, Lord Zhou remembered that he was here to show off his strength to Lord An Le. Why was he being around led by the nose?


    He frowned and turned around. He saw the black figure enter Lord An Le¡¯s study.


    He only had time to see a side profile before his vision was blocked.


    Butler Wan smiled and reached out. ¡°Lord Zhou, this way.¡±


    Lord Zhou wanted to take a look again, but the study door had already closed. He snorted unhappily and pointed at a passing servant. ¡°There¡¯s no need to trouble Butler Wan. Let him send us out of the residence.¡±


    Butler Wan bowed. ¡°It¡¯s no trouble at all. This is my duty.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Lord Zhou pulled a long face.


    Seeing his insistence, Butler Wan could only agree awkwardly. He sternly reminded the servant to be attentive before cupping his hands and leaving.


    Lord Zhou looked at the servant who was walking half a step in front of him and suddenly said, ¡°Who was the person who entered His Highness¡¯s study just now?¡±


    The servant subconsciously said, ¡°It¡¯s Young Master Shenzhi.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Does he usually wear a mask?¡± Lord Zhou seemed to be casually chatting.


    The servant said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Lord Zhou frowned. That side profile just now looked familiar.


    ¡°Master, Master?¡±


    Lord Zhou came back to his senses and rubbed his temples. He said tiredly, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Eunuch Li sent someone to ask when we would set off for the capital.¡±


    Lord Zhou pondered for a moment before standing up and walking to the window sill. ¡°Call Lin Xiao over first.¡±


    At night, in the Shen family¡¯s study.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen leaned over the desk and flipped through the list.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mask was placed aside.


    ¡°These women were sent out in the past few years?¡± Even though she already knew that these people had committed crimes for a long time, Shen Yijia did not expect there to be so many of them.


    There were probably hundreds of them.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Song Jingchen replied in a low voice. Seeing that Shen Yijia had begun to rub her eyes, he closed the book and said, ¡°Go back to your room and sleep first. There¡¯s nothing to see here.¡±


    After so long, it was likely that only 10 or twenty percent of the women listed were still alive.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Alright, what are you going to do with this list?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°There will be a time when it¡¯s useful.¡±


    ¡°Then you have to hide it well. Don¡¯t let anyone steal it.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and looked serious.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, not many people know that we have this thing.¡±


    He guessed that Liu Deyi kept this record because he wanted to leave a backup plan, so he definitely wouldn¡¯t let anyone know.


    ¡°What if someone knows?¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled and rubbed her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, if there¡¯s something I don¡¯t want to give away, I¡¯d rather ruin it than let others get their hands on it.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and grinned at Song Jingchen. She was about to say something.


    Song Jingchen suddenly looked out of the window with cold eyes and shouted, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Shen Yijia rushed out. A black cat jumped onto the wall and ran quickly.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°It must be Furball¡¯s friend.¡±


    Shouldn¡¯t cats be afraid of tigers? However, it was different when it came to Furball. From time to time, wild cats would come out of nowhere to play with it.


    If not for Furball¡¯s physique, she would have thought that it was a cat.


    Song Jingchen walked out and glanced in the direction the cat had left. He held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Go back to the house and rest.¡±


    They turned around and went back to their room.


    The tense nerves of the man in black hiding in the dark relaxed. His entire body was already covered in cold sweat. At this moment, his temples were wet, as if he had just been scooped up from the water.


    Thinking of what he had seen and heard just now, his heart was still beating wildly.


    Young Master Shenzhi was actually the heir to the Song family!


    Hearing Lin Xiao¡¯s report, Lord Zhou jumped up in shock. He circled around twice and said anxiously, ¡°Hurry, pack up. Let¡¯s leave the city immediately.¡±


    He had to let His Majesty know about this as soon as possible. Not only had Song Jingchen¡¯s legs recovered, but he had also come to Xunyang City privately.


    Eunuch Li finally rested after having diarrhea, but he was woken up again. He was so angry that he kicked Qi Shou twice.


    However, if that Zhou fellow wanted to leave, he could only endure it.


    Under Lord Zhou¡¯s urging, the dozens of people quickly packed up and left the inn.

 Chapter 308 - Inviting Them into Their Own Trap

    Chapter 308: Inviting Them into Their Own Trap


    When they arrived at the city gate, Lord Zhou took out the imperial edict and forced the city gate open.


    The group left Xunyang without even saying goodbye.


    The couple, who had returned to their room to rest, were sitting in Shangguan Han¡¯s study.


    Hearing the people below report, Shen Yijia giggled and turned to ask Song Jingchen, ¡°Did I act well?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled and asked, ¡°Did you drug Eunuch Li?¡±


    Shen Yijia turned her head away guiltily. She fiddled with her clothes and shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, it definitely wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    She was doing this for the sake of fairness. She couldn¡¯t possibly let the two of them lead the way. She only messed with that Zhou guy, but she missed out on the Li guy. That would be equivalent to looking down on the Li guy.


    If Eunuch Li knew what she was thinking, he would say, ¡°Please look down on me!¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled.


    Seeing that the two of them had completely ignored him, Shangguan Han¡¯s heart was struck. He felt that the study was instantly filled with a sour smell.


    However, thinking that this matter was too risky, he became serious and asked worriedly, ¡°Cousin, do you think he will really summon you back to the capital?¡±


    He did not want to call Emperor Chong¡¯an his father.


    When Song Jingchen told him about this, he didn¡¯t agree.


    If that person knew that his cousin had recovered and came to Xunyang, he would probably want to send someone to assassinate Song Jingchen to prevent future trouble.


    Song Jingchen sneered and didn¡¯t answer.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was a suspicious and jealous person by nature. Why else did he always treat the Bulwark Duke Residence as a thorn in his side?


    Apart from the fact that the Bulwark Duke Residence was powerful, another reason was that he felt that his grandfather was more popular than him.


    Back then, he didn¡¯t kill Song Jingchen for the sake of his reputation. He probably started to regret it.


    Now that he realized that there was a poisonous snake hidden beside him, wouldn¡¯t the best solution be to pull someone out to balance the situation and be his knife?


    It was best if he wanted to kill this knife. This way, he would benefit from the fight.


    His recovered legs were his best choice.


    Moreover, he had the name list that Emperor Chong¡¯an wanted.


    However, some people would probably be disappointed.


    Shen Yijia lowered her head and crossed her fingers. Her lowered eyes sparkled, although she did not understand the meaning of her beautiful husband¡¯s arrangements.


    However, she caught the main point, which was to return to the capital.


    She clenched her fists. ¡°Shen Pingxiu, prepare to receive my anger!¡± she thought.


    Thousands of miles away in the Wu Kingdom, the Ghost-Faced General and the others secretly entered General Yan¡¯s residence at night.


    As soon as the news of Emperor Wu¡¯s illness spread, General Yan was assassinated. He did not know what the situation was like in the capital, so he had to be careful.


    He should not have returned so rashly. However, General Yan was his adoptive father and he was indebted to him. He could not ignore his safety.


    As soon as the group entered the residence, they bumped into the butler who was walking towards them. When he saw the Ghost-Faced General, the butler immediately had tears in his eyes. ¡°Young General, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s Foster Father?¡± Ghost Face asked.


    The butler wiped his tears. ¡°The general was attacked. I didn¡¯t expect that the sword would be poisoned by a thief.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve invited all the doctors in the city, but they said that they couldn¡¯t do anything about it.¡±


    Ghost Face clenched his fists. ¡°I¡¯ll take Doctor Chang to see him first.¡±


    With that, he turned around and strode towards the main courtyard.


    Yan Guangmao had a childhood sweetheart in his early years. Unfortunately, at that time, Yan Guangmao was only a nameless figure in the imperial guards.


    He knew that he was not worthy of that woman, so he found an opportunity to eliminate the bandits. He wanted to marry a beauty after making a contribution.


    Unexpectedly, while he was out, something happened to the woman¡¯s family. When he returned, the woman had long disappeared.


    Later on, it was not easy to find out where that woman was, but she had already died. Because of this, Yan Guangmao never married.


    Therefore, other than Ghost Face, who rarely returned, Yan Guangmao was the only master in this residence.


    Seeing that other than Doctor Chang, who was carrying a medicine box, the others also wanted to follow, the butler quickly stopped them. ¡°It¡¯s not good to be too noisy at the general¡¯s place. I¡¯ll bring everyone down to rest first.¡±


    Ghost Face stopped and nodded. The subordinates stopped following him.


    The two of them went straight into Yan Guangmao¡¯s room and looked at the unconscious middle-aged man lying on the bed.


    Ghost Face frowned and said, ¡°Doctor Chang, thank you.¡±


    Doctor Chang hurriedly stopped Ghost Face from thanking him further. He put down the medicine box and went forward to take his pulse carefully. After about ten minutes, he stroked his beard and exhaled. ¡°He can be saved.¡±


    Ghost Face heaved a sigh of relief. Suddenly, heavy and orderly footsteps came from outside the courtyard.


    He turned around and saw the crown prince of the Wu Kingdom, Nangong Huai, wearing a bright yellow four-clawed python robe. He walked over with a large group of soldiers and surrounded the courtyard.


    ¡°Did you do it?¡± Ghost Face asked, walking to the door and squinting.


    This explained why his adoptive father, who was so cautious, was plotted against.


    Everyone knew that the general¡¯s residence supported the crown prince. Even Nangong Huai himself thought so. His adoptive father probably did not expect this person to suddenly attack him.


    He looked around at the people Nangong Huai had brought and frowned. This was a trap for him.


    Nangong Huai was already in his thirties and was slightly plump. He sneered. ¡°Unfortunately, you found out too late.¡±


    At this moment, the sound of fighting came from outside the courtyard. Ghost Face knew without thinking that the people he brought were stuck outside.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that His Majesty will blame you?¡± Ghost Face¡¯s voice was unhurried.


    Nangong Huai laughed. ¡°Father is old and his health hasn¡¯t been good recently. There¡¯s no need for him to worry about such things.¡±


    He was made crown prince at the age of 15. It had been 15 years since then. His father should have stepped down long ago.


    ¡°But my adoptive father won¡¯t hinder you.¡± Ghost Face continued to stall for time.


    Nangong Huai sneered. ¡°Is that so? Isn¡¯t your Yan family supporting me on the surface, but secretly befriending my third brother? You even helped him get a large number of slaves from Great Xia.¡±


    In the Wu Kingdom, selling fighting slaves was the best way to bring about huge profits.


    What else could a prince do with so much money?


    Nangong Huai was angry at the Yan family for acting one way in front of him and another way behind his back. He hated the Yan family even more for choosing his third brother over him.


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. Nangong Huai stopped chatting with Ghost Face and retreated out of the encirclement. He shouted, ¡°Archers, get ready.¡±


    The row of archers knelt on one knee and drew their bows in unison, aiming at Ghost Face.


    Ghost Face frowned. It seemed that this matter had something to do with Song Jingchen. What a good move.


    ¡°Release.¡± The harsh voice sounded again.


    In an instant, tens of thousands of arrows were fired at Ghost Face. He pulled out the sword at his waist to block them and retreated into the room while the soldiers were reloading.


    He slammed the door shut.


    ¡°A secret passage.¡± Yan Guangmao¡¯s weak voice suddenly sounded.


    It turned out that while Ghost Face was talking to Nangong Huai, Doctor Chang had fed him an antidote pill and used acupuncture to forcefully wake him up.


    This was also the reason why Ghost Face was stalling for time.


    Ghost Face blocked the arrows with his sword and kicked over the table in the middle as a shield. He walked to the bed and carried Yan Guangmao.

 Chapter 309 - Hubby, You’re Back

    Chapter 309: Hubby, You¡¯re Back


    Arrows kept shooting in from outside the house, and the table was instantly pricked like a hedgehog. Ghost Face glanced at Doctor Chang.


    Doctor Chang took the key to the secret passage from General Yan¡¯s hand with trembling hands and followed his instructions to take down the painting hanging in the room. There was indeed a keyhole inside.


    He quickly inserted the key and saw a hole suddenly appear in the middle of the ground.


    Ghost Face knocked away the last arrow and put away the flexible sword. He carried the man down first. Doctor Chang hung the painting back in its original position and followed.


    When he did not hear the sound of swords and arrows colliding, Nangong Huai sensed that something was wrong and asked someone to knock open the door.


    There was no one else inside. He was so angry that he kicked someone beside him. ¡°What are you waiting for? Find him even if you have to dig three feet into the ground.¡±


    ¡°Go, pass on my orders. An assassin has appeared in the city to assassinate General Yan.¡±


    ¡°I suspect that Father was also harmed by the same person. From today onwards, lock down the city gate. No one is allowed to approach. Anyone who violates this rule will be killed without mercy!¡±


    The people of the Imperial Court had finally left. While the citizens of Xunyang City were happy, they were also a little reluctant. After all, there were not many such suckers.


    Most importantly, everyone could swindle them openly. It was not illegal.


    Shen Yijia received a letter today. Looking at the person brought in by Mo Yuan, she tilted her head and asked, ¡°You were sent by Ah Xun?¡±


    She curled her fingers and did some calculations. Ah Xun had left for two months, but he could still get someone to send a letter. At the very least, it meant that he had not lost the game with his uncle.


    Standing there was a burly man with a full beard. If he didn¡¯t speak, it was easy to mistake him for a Central Plainsman.


    He was stunned for a moment before realizing who Shen Yijia was talking about.


    Then, he placed one hand on his chest and bowed to Shen Yijia. He replied in broken Central Plains language, ¡°Yes, Chanyu said that he had sent you two letters before, but you didn¡¯t reply. He asked me to definitely bring your reply back this time.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. When had she received Ah Xun¡¯s letter? Why didn¡¯t she know?


    She looked at Mo Yuan, wondering if she had hidden it from her again.


    Mo Yuan did not tell her that Liu Piaopiao had been ostracized a few days ago. She only found out about it when Liu Piaopiao came to visit.


    Shen Yijia had asked Mo Yuan why she didn¡¯t say anything about Liu Piaopiao¡¯s situation.


    Good lord, Mo Yuan said to her, ¡°Miss Liu is indeed fine. She¡¯s still alive.¡±


    Shen Yijia actually felt that it made sense.


    ¡°It¡¯s not me,¡± Mo Yuan said expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and muttered, ¡°I didn¡¯t say it was you.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t even doubt it for a moment.


    Under the bearded man¡¯s gaze, Shen Yijia decided to read the letter first.


    Shen Yijia was familiar with the words in the letter, but the person who wrote it did not know the Great Xia language at first glance. Not only were the words crooked, but there were also many circles and crosses inside.


    Shen Yijia frowned and tried her best to read the letter.


    ¡°Sister Jiajia, Mungido has already been¡­ It¡¯s all thanks to the medicine you gave me. He killed my father, so I killed him to avenge¡­ I¡¯m now the Chanyu of the Royal Court. Remember to come and find me when you have the time. I¡¯ll definitely¡­¡±


    ¡°Remember to write back.¡±


    ¡°Well, I finally have a complete sentence.¡± she thought.


    It was obvious from the letter that it was not easy for the person who wrote it. It was not easy for Shen Yijia to read the letter either. She read a thin page for 15 minutes, but she was still confused.


    She scratched her head awkwardly and asked, ¡°Do I have to write back?¡±


    The bearded man immediately cried, ¡°Chanyu said that I¡¯m not allowed to go back if I can¡¯t get a reply.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What if I want to hit someone for making such an expression?¡±


    She took a deep breath and held it in. The corners of her mouth twitched as she instructed Mo Yuan, ¡°Go and get a brush and ink.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ve already prepared it.¡± The bearded man waved his hand to stop her and took out a set of brush, ink, paper, and inkstone from his bag.


    It was quite complete. Was he afraid that she wouldn¡¯t reply?


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    The burly man arranged the things and personally prepared the ink before handing a brush to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia could only brace herself and take it. She pursed her lips and wrote two words on the paper.


    ¡°Well received.¡±


    After thinking about it, she felt that it was too perfunctory, so she added a line of small words at the end. ¡°Take good care of yourself. From the world¡¯s number one, Sister Jiajia.¡±


    Satisfied, she picked up the rice paper and blew on it. When the ink dried, she folded the letter and put it in an envelope.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to write more?¡± the bearded man asked tentatively. It was not easy for them to expect this reply.


    ¡°No need, no need.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°Everything goes without saying. Ah Xun will definitely understand.¡±


    The bearded man was stunned for a moment. He put away the letter and handed a box to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Why did you bring a gift from so far away?¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, the box was already in her hand.


    The bearded man¡¯s mouth twitched. The women of the Central Plains seemed to be different from what he had imagined.


    Shen Yijia opened the box and saw the familiar pouch inside. Her hand trembled and she almost threw the box away.


    Wasn¡¯t this the damn ashes of his mother that he was talking about?


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s better to give a few coins than this. Why doesn¡¯t anyone understand me?¡± Shen Yijia thought. ¡°I want a small sum of money.¡±


    Moreover, sending ashes was too scary.


    She quickly packed the box and was about to tactfully refuse this ¡°big gift¡±.


    The bearded man said, ¡°Our Chanyu said that you saved him, which is equivalent to giving him a second life.


    The pouch contains a tuft of hair from Chanyu¡¯s head when he was born. For the Huns, giving this hair can best express our respect. You can use this to exchange for a promise from Chanyu.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°He¡¯s really something. So apart from his fake background, this kid didn¡¯t tell the truth from the beginning to the end, right?¡±


    She gritted her teeth and said with a smile, ¡°I heard that the men of the Huns advocate martial strength. Then you must be quite skilled. How about we spar?¡±


    Wasn¡¯t he on Ah Xun¡¯s side? Since she couldn¡¯t hit Ah Xun, she could only collect some interest from him.


    Because she did not tell the truth about Liu Piaopiao¡¯s situation, Mo Yuan, who had just sparred with her young miss, silently took a few steps back.


    The bearded man did not understand why Shen Yijia had changed the topic so far, but he still nodded.


    This woman must have some skills to be able to save Chanyu from the assassins sent by Mungido.


    At most, he would go easy on her.


    An hour later, a burly man with a swollen face and half-crippled legs came out of the Shen family.


    When Song Jingchen returned from outside, it was already sunset. From afar, he could see the entrance of the Shen residence. A person and a tiger were sitting on the threshold.


    His heart warmed. He quickly rode over, dismounted, and casually threw the reins to South Wind, who had returned.


    South Wind hurriedly caught it.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She stood up and smiled. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡±

 Chapter 310 - Crying bitterly

    Chapter 310: Crying bitterly


    ¡°Why are you sitting outside?¡± Song Jingchen wanted to hold her hand, but he remembered that his hand was too cold.


    Before he could retract his hand, her small hand had already grabbed his. Their fingers were intertwined tightly.


    Shen Yijia turned around and grinned at him. ¡°My hands are warm.¡±


    Furball, who was wagging its tail beside the two of them, rolled its eyes silently. How could it not be warm? It was the one who warmed it up.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip. ¡°Let¡¯s go in.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and followed Song Jingchen. She kept staring at Song Jingchen¡¯s face and said casually, ¡°Ah Xun has been back in the Hun Royal Court for so long. Why hasn¡¯t there been any news from him?¡±


    Song Jingchen wondered why this girl was waiting outside today. It seemed that the brat from the Huns had sent a third letter.


    Shen Yijia blinked. She did not realize that her beautiful husband was feeling guilty.


    Unwilling to give up, she shook his hand and continued to ask, ¡°Do you think something happened to him? Or did he lose the letter midway?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and sighed. ¡°South Wind.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± South Wind was walking behind Furball when his name was called. ¡°Master?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I remember a letter from the Huns a few days ago. Didn¡¯t I ask you to give it to Young Madam? Where¡¯s the letter?¡±


    South Wind was shocked. ¡°Master, didn¡¯t you say¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Song Jingchen glanced at him coldly. South Wind quickly swallowed the rest of his words and changed the topic. ¡°Master, didn¡¯t you ask me not to disturb Young Madam¡¯s rest and give it to her the next day? In the end, Young Madam went to the Liu family early in the morning the next day. When Young Madam returned, I was about to take it out, but I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    He definitely could not take the blame himself. South Wind was anxiously thinking of a way to protect himself when his gaze swept past Furball. He blurted out, ¡°I didn¡¯t want to see Furball eat the letter.¡±


    Furball thought, ¡°Are you bullying me because I can¡¯t speak? You can even make up something like eating paper. Master won¡¯t believe you. I¡¯m not a fool.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Furball. You even dare to bite a letter now. Starting tomorrow, you¡¯ll continue to be a vegetarian. If you want to eat meat, go out and hunt by yourself.¡± Shen Yijia turned around and glared at Furball.


    Furball thought, ¡°I forgot that my owner is a fool.¡±


    After saying that, Shen Yijia turned to look at South Wind. ¡°South Wind, you¡¯re also half responsible. I¡¯ll punish you.¡±


    Song Jingchen added, ¡°South Wind is incompetent. Give him the same punishment as Furball. He¡¯ll be vegetarian for a month.¡±


    South Wind heaved a sigh of relief that his master had not abandoned him. Tears almost welled up in his eyes. In any case, he had been vegetarian for a while. It didn¡¯t matter if he was punished or not.


    Shen Yijia chuckled to herself. It was indeed her beautiful husband who did it.


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. Since it¡¯s him, I¡¯ll forgive him.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen saw her reaction and smiled.


    The couple pretended to be stupid. The two scapegoats were pitiful.


    The next day, Qian Youde, who had been staying here for almost a month, bade farewell to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia thought that he was lying again and rolled her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Do the potatoes not taste good, or is it because you can¡¯t pay the rent?¡±


    Qian Youde choked. He really couldn¡¯t afford to stay here anymore, but it would be embarrassing to say that.


    He pulled a long face and said dejectedly, ¡°Isn¡¯t New Year¡¯s Eve in a month? I¡¯ve been out for more than half a year. The elders at home are worried about me and want me to go back quickly.¡±


    Seeing that he was serious, Shen Yijia jumped up in joy. ¡°Hubby, he¡¯s finally leaving.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Qian Youde¡¯s heart ached. This person was too heartless. That Liu fellow had at least gotten their concern when she left. When it came to him, he wished he could be more memorable.


    ¡°You¡¯re hurting me too much.¡± Qian Youde looked aggrieved.


    Seeing his resentful expression, Shen Yijia stopped smiling and nodded with a straight face. ¡°You should go back. Otherwise, the elders in your family will be so sad. Have you packed your things? Isn¡¯t it too slow for Zhu Zi and the others to pack? Why don¡¯t I call Mo Yuan and the others over to help you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s still early. If you set off earlier, you can reach home earlier.¡±


    Qian Youde rolled his eyes and sat down in a chair. ¡°It¡¯s almost lunchtime. Besides, I didn¡¯t say that I¡¯d be leaving today.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine.¡± Shen Yijia did not give him a chance to finish. ¡°South Wind, help clean up. Mo Yuan, go to the kitchen and pack some potatoes for them to eat on the way.¡±


    ¡°By the way, pack more. If they can¡¯t finish it, they can bring it back for the elders to try.¡±


    After giving the instructions, Shen Yijia turned around and smiled at Qian Youde. ¡°I won¡¯t charge you for these potatoes. Take it as a token of appreciation from your brother and sister-in-law.¡±


    Thirty Thousand, who was injured in Jing¡¯an Temple, was still recuperating.


    Qian Youde had no say in this, Shen Yijia had arranged everything for him.


    This question lingered in Qian Youde¡¯s mind even as he stood at the entrance of the residence.


    With a bang, Shen Yijia threw a large bag of potatoes into Qian Youde¡¯s carriage.


    The luggage was packed by South Wind, and the horses were led out by him.


    Qian Youde and the other two were ¡°sent¡± out of the residence by Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen went forward expressionlessly and patted Qian Youde¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Hurry up and get in the carriage. It¡¯s quite cold outside.¡±


    This was the first time Song Jingchen had spoken to him so kindly with a hint of concern, but Qian Youde only wanted to cry.


    This couple was too damn inhumane.


    Qian Youde was ¡°sent¡± into the carriage by their gazes. He was about to lift the curtain and say something else.


    Shen Yijia grinned and waved at him. ¡°Take care. We¡¯ll stop here. Goodbye.¡±


    Never again.


    After saying that, Shen Yijia was afraid that Qian Youde would go back on his word. She pulled Song Jingchen back to the residence and kept urging South Wind, ¡°Quick, close the door.¡±


    Qian Youde was speechless.


    ¡°Young Master?¡± Zhu Zi was also a little stunned. This was the first time he had seen someone send them off like this.


    It felt like she was kicking them out of the house.


    ¡°What are you talking about? Let¡¯s go. Do you want to go back?¡± Qian Youde said angrily.


    Only then did the carriage move.


    Qian Youde looked at the bag of potatoes and suddenly sneered, saving him the trouble of asking for them.


    It was beneficial to the people to promote this thing.


    After Qian Youde left, Shen Yijia was so happy that she ate an extra bowl for lunch. Finally, no one would suddenly interrupt her when she was alone with her beautiful husband.


    Perfect.


    While Shen Yijia nurtured her relationship with Song Jingchen, it was her second New Year¡¯s Eve in this world.


    She spent New Year¡¯s Eve with Shangguan Han. There were two tables set up. Mo Yuan, Butler Wan, and Yan Tai sat at one table.


    Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen and Shangguan Han sat at the other table. After what had happened, Song Jingchen strictly ordered Shen Yijia not to drink, not even a drop.


    Therefore, she could only watch Song Jingchen and Shangguan Han drink it while drinking her juice with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°Cousinu¡­ Fortunately, I have you. Otherwise, I definitely wouldn¡¯t have been able to keep Xunyang City this time.¡± Shangguan Han¡¯s alcohol tolerance was also poor. After drinking a few glasses, he began to sob, sniffle, and cry.

 Chapter 311 - Sweetness

    Chapter 311: Sweetness


    Shangguan Han cried and complained. He even hugged the pillar and asked, ¡°Why am I so pitiful? You¡¯re the only one who treats me the best. You¡¯ll never betray me¡­¡±


    His behavior stunned Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen frightened her and said, ¡°You¡¯re even worse off when you¡¯re drunk.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She silently swallowed the wine in her mouth and returned Song Jingchen¡¯s cup.


    The thought of being so embarrassing in front of her beautiful husband made her feel terrible.


    Song Jingchen saw her actions and smiled.


    Shangguan Han drank too much. He wished he could pour out all the bitterness he had suffered over the past year. It was supposed to be a happy family reunion dinner, but he ruined the atmosphere.


    Song Jingchen asked Yan Tai and Butler Wan to send him back to the prince¡¯s residence with a dark expression. The remaining people removed the food and didn¡¯t dare to be an eyesore in front of the couple.


    From time to time, there would be the crackling sound of firecrackers outside.


    The firecrackers broke the silence of the night.


    Shen Yijia secretly drank a glass of wine, but this wine was different from the fruit wine she had drunk in Xiagou Village.


    Just the amount of wine in one glass made her feel a little dizzy. In order to avoid embarrassing herself, she silently climbed to the roof to stay awake.


    Song Jingchen was helpless, but he couldn¡¯t dissuade her. He could only accompany her to prevent her from falling.


    Now, the lives of the citizens of Xunyang City were gradually getting on the right track.


    The two of them sat on the roof and watched the lights of Xunyang City and the scene of children chasing each other by the roadside with firecrackers lit. For a moment, no one spoke.


    Shen Yijia suddenly grinned at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re amazing.¡±


    If not for her beautiful husband, Xunyang City would probably have looked very different by now.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, she said sadly, ¡°I wonder how Mother and the others have been this year.¡±


    Last year, the household was always lively. This year, there were only the two of them left.


    ¡°They¡¯re fine. Don¡¯t worry,¡± Song Jingchen said softly as he looked south.


    Shen Yijia chuckled. ¡°I think so too.¡±


    She pointed at the distant lights. ¡°That¡¯s nice, but it¡¯ll be better next year.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s celebrate the new year together in the future.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    Song Jingchen had always been a man of few words. Most of the time, Shen Yijia would talk non-stop when the two of them were together. He listened attentively and occasionally added a few words.


    For a while, he didn¡¯t hear the person beside him speak. Song Jingchen turned his head and saw Shen Yijia dozing off.


    He rubbed his forehead and was about to carry her back to his room. When his hand touched Shen Yijia, she woke up. She raised her head and looked at him in confusion.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Why do I feel guilty?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll carry you down,¡± Song Jingchen explained with a dry cough.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and shook her head. ¡°No, I have to stay awake for the new year.¡±


    After saying that, she pulled Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and wrapped it around her. She snuggled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and smiled in satisfaction. ¡°It¡¯s warm like this.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen smiled.


    Since Shen Yijia said that she wanted to stay awake for the new year, Song Jingchen let her sleep in his arms until midnight before gently waking her up. ¡°You can go back to the house and sleep.¡±


    He actually wanted to carry her back to the house, but if he did that, Shen Yijia would blame herself again when she woke up in the morning.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes and saw Song Jingchen¡¯s good-looking face.


    No matter how many times she looked at him, her heart would still beat uncontrollably.


    Shen Yijia watched infatuatedly for a long time before grinning. ¡°Hubby, Happy New Year.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt a little uncomfortable under her straightforward gaze. He turned his face away and said hoarsely, ¡°Yes, Happy New Year.¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and asked.


    Song Jingchen looked at her in confusion. ¡°What else?¡±


    Shen Yijia sighed. She had to take the initiative every time. She had to maintain her dignity, too.


    Song Jingchen suppressed the smile on his face and was about to speak when a small hand grabbed his collar.


    Shen Yijia pulled him down and successfully gave him a kiss.


    ¡°If he won¡¯t do it, I will.¡± she thought.


    It was satisfying.


    Shen Yijia gently touched him and let go. She looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes. ¡°This is a New Year¡¯s gift for you.¡±


    Song Jingchen stared at her with his deep eyes. He lowered his head, domineeringly and gently covering that softness again.


    This kiss lasted for a long time. There was no longer the sound of firecrackers around them. It was so quiet that only the sound of the two of them kissing could be heard.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip bit by bit. The night wind was cold, but their hearts were burning.


    If not for the fact that this girl was still young, Song Jingchen really wanted to punish her on the spot.


    It took a lot of restraint for him to leave those red lips. He leaned his forehead against hers and said hoarsely, ¡°Courtesy demands reciprocity.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and laughed out loud. She pecked Song Jingchen¡¯s lips provocatively again.


    Song Jingchen found her lips and kissed them again.


    Shen Yijia seemed to be addicted. She kissed him again and smiled at Song Jingchen, as if to say, ¡°It¡¯s your turn.¡±


    Song Jingchen was helpless and touched her forehead. Without giving her a chance to continue, he pulled her into his arms. ¡°It¡¯s time to go back to your room and sleep.¡±


    Shen Yijia let him carry her and jump down from the roof. She muttered, ¡°Then shall we continue when we get to the room?¡±


    After sleeping for a while, she was much more awake now. She could spend the night playing with her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°What a bewitching girl.¡± he thought.


    Back in the capital, the atmosphere was just right, but Emperor Chong¡¯an was so angry that he wanted to kill someone.


    Lord Zhou and the others did not arrive before New Year¡¯s Eve. They entered the city late at night.


    When they arrived, the banquet in the palace had yet to end, but Lord Zhou knew how guarded Emperor Chong¡¯an was against Song Jingchen. He couldn¡¯t care less and entered the palace overnight.


    At first, Eunuch Li did not know why Lord Zhou suddenly left Xunyang. Later on, seeing that he was traveling day and night, even a fool could guess that Lord Zhou had discovered something extraordinary.


    However, no matter how he tried to beat around the bush and ask, Lord Zhou refused to reveal a single word.


    Standing at the entrance of Yangxin Hall, Eunuch Li felt uneasy.


    ¡°Eunuch Li, you haven¡¯t left yet?¡±


    Eunuch Deng walked out of the hall and asked sarcastically.


    These few days, when Eunuch Li was not around, it was always Eunuch Deng who served Emperor Chong¡¯an. He even gained Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s favor and seemed to want to replace him.


    Eunuch Li glanced at Eunuch Deng¡¯s smug expression and his eyes flashed.


    Only Emperor Chong¡¯an and Lord Zhou were left in Yangxin Hall.


    ¡°Young Master Shenzhi is Song Jingchen?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an leaned forward and stared at the person kneeling below.


    He had drunk a lot just now. Initially, he did not think much of it when he heard that Lord Zhou had something urgent to report. However, after hearing Lord Zhou¡¯s report, he sobered up.


    ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s absolutely true.¡± Lord Zhou lowered his head and replied in a trembling voice. Then, he took out a jade pendant from his pocket and explained everything he had seen and heard in Xunyang City, Shangguan Han¡¯s exact words, and the list of names.

 Chapter 312 - Familiar

    Chapter 312: Familiar


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s eyes flickered. The people he had sent to Anyang County had returned a few days ago, but they found that Song Jingchen was still in Xiagou Village.


    The shadow guards beside him were handed over to him by the late emperor. They were all nurtured from a young age. They would only be loyal to the emperor their entire lives, so they would never lie.


    There were only two possibilities. The first was that the person the shadow guards saw wasn¡¯t Song Jingchen at all, but a substitute.


    The second was that Lord Zhou had seen it wrongly.


    However, he subconsciously sided with Lord Zhou.


    After all, he had already been suspicious when he found out that Young Master Shenzhi had saved the entire Xunyang City alone. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have sent the Shadow Guards over.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an glanced at the jade pendant in Lord Zhou¡¯s hand. Lord Zhou understood and bowed to send the jade pendant to Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s desk.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an picked up the jade pendant and looked at it for a long time. He sneered. ¡°Which good son of mine do you think did it?¡±


    No matter how much Lord Zhou obtained the Emperor¡¯s favor, he did not dare to answer. It was not as if he did not know about Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s paranoia. What if Emperor Chong¡¯an suspected that he had been bribed by another person?


    He asked tentatively, ¡°Your Majesty, why don¡¯t we call the princes over to see whose jade pendant was lost?¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an waved his hand and sneered. ¡°If you were the one who lost the pendant, how would you make up for it?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ find a way to get another one like this.¡±


    ¡°This jade pendant is carved from an entire piece of jade. A large piece of jade is rare.


    ¡°I have a total of six sons, and each of them has a jade pendant. That person is so cautious, he definitely won¡¯t leave behind this weakness. Just in case, he will definitely replace the jade pendant with someone else¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°If I let them come now, I guarantee that everyone will have it, but the person holding the fake jade might not be the mastermind.¡± Towards the end, Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s gaze became gloomy.


    He was once a prince, so he knew the tricks that his sons could pull. However, the feeling of having power in his hands over the past few years had almost made him forget the scheming between him and his brothers when he was still a prince. Most of his energy was spent on being suspicious of others.


    Moreover, what he did not say was that if those women were really placed in the backyards of the ministers, he did not dare to imagine how many ministers had already been secretly won over by his son. If he alerted the culprit, they might directly rebel against him.


    ¡°Your Majesty, then¡­¡± Lord Zhou naturally knew about this.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an took a deep breath and suddenly asked, ¡°Did Song Jingchen really say that?¡±


    Lord Zhou was stunned for a moment and quickly replied, ¡°Yes, Imperial Bodyguard Lin was almost discovered.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an sneered. ¡°I¡¯m afraid he deliberately said that for you to hear.¡±


    Otherwise, why would it be such a coincidence? He did not believe that that person would be so stupid.


    Lord Zhou was shocked. ¡°Your Majesty, then¡­¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an took a deep breath. ¡°You can leave. I don¡¯t want anyone else to know about this.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an stared at the door of the hall for a long time and knocked on the table a few times. Suddenly, a masked man in black appeared in the hall.


    ¡°Your men are incompetent. I¡¯ll let him off the hook this time. Send a few people to investigate if there are places other than Xunyang City in which there have been frequent disappearances of young girls in the past few years.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s eyes were dark. He paused and said, ¡°From tomorrow onwards, I don¡¯t want to see that old doctor again.¡±


    If that incompetent doctor hadn¡¯t sworn to Emperor Chong¡¯an that Song Jingchen¡¯s legs would never recover, he wouldn¡¯t have let him go so easily.


    The man in black cupped his hands and retreated.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an naturally wanted to send someone to kill Song Jingchen immediately, but he couldn¡¯t do it now. If all of this was true, he had to get his hands on that list.


    Since Emperor Chong¡¯an couldn¡¯t kill him, it would be more reassuring to keep such a dangerous person under supervision.


    In the future, he wouldn¡¯t go easy on Song Jingchen anymore.


    A murderous look flashed across Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s eyes.


    At this moment, Eunuch Deng walked in. ¡°Your Majesty, Concubine Rou has brought you hangover soup.¡±


    Concubine Rou was a concubine who had just been selected. She looked gentle and weak, and Emperor Chong¡¯an liked her. Recently, she had been in the limelight in the harem.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was about to let her in when he thought of something and his face instantly darkened. ¡°I won¡¯t see her. Tell her to stay in her palace if she has nothing to do. Don¡¯t keep hanging around in front of me.¡±


    Eunuch Deng was shocked. Concubine Rou fell out of favor so quickly. He had even received a lot of benefits from her.


    ¡°Concubine Rou, His Majesty is tired and doesn¡¯t want to see anyone. Why don¡¯t you go back to your palace and rest?¡±


    Eunuch Deng spoke politely, but everyone was smart. How could they not understand what he meant? Concubine Rou¡¯s thin body swayed, and her palm-sized face turned pale.


    In less than two hours, the news that Concubine Rou had been chased back to the palace by Emperor Chong¡¯an spread to the various palaces in the harem.


    Every concubine had a different reaction. Some gloated, but most of them felt bitterly disappointed. Indeed, no one could be popular for a hundred days. His Majesty¡¯s favor was like fireworks that disappeared in a flash. Someday, they would also end up like Concubine Rou.


    It was rare for Song Jingchen to not go out on the first day of the new year. Shen Yijia had nowhere to explore in this place. After breakfast, she asked him to teach her boxing.


    Well, she could also take advantage of him.


    At this moment, Mo Yuan walked in. ¡°Miss, the women who were saved from Jing¡¯an Temple are here. They want to see you.¡±


    Under Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, Shen Yijia awkwardly retracted her hand from his waist. She turned around and asked in surprise, ¡°No way. Why are they looking for me?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    At this moment, Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°Perhaps they want you to take them in.¡±


    When these women first returned, everyone might have sympathized with them. However, as time passed, the sympathy was replaced by gossip. That was the most hurtful thing.


    Most people would ignore the fact that those women were victims and only consider if their innocence was still intact. These words would not only hurt those women, but also affected their families.


    ¡°Me, taking them in?¡± Shen Yijia frowned.


    She started to calculate in her heart. How much would it cost her to raise so many people?


    Mo Yuan cost one tael of silver a month. Even if they weren¡¯t as expensive as Mo Yuan, it would still cost a few hundred copper coins, right?


    Moreover, apart from their monthly allowance, they had to eat, drink, excrete, and sleep. They also had to treat their illnesses. It was possible that she had to give them a dowry when they got married in the future. After they got married¡­


    Shen Yijia did not know how much money it would cost in the end. Anyway, it was very expensive.


    She shook her head decisively. ¡°No, I won¡¯t see them. Let them go.¡±


    Not long after Mo Yuan left, she returned with anger on her face. ¡°They said that if Miss doesn¡¯t see them, they¡¯ll kneel for a long time until Miss is willing to see them.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t throw them out?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. What did their decisions have to do with her? There was no reason for her to be responsible for them for the rest of her life after saving them.


    ¡°I did, but they crawled back.¡± This was why Mo Yuan was angry.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Why was this scene so familiar? She glanced at Mo Yuan silently. Did people like to kneel?

 Chapter 313 - Chapter 313: Forced

    Chapter 313: Forced


    Although those women¡¯s methods were similar to Mo Yuan¡¯s, it wasn¡¯t the same. Mo Yuan followed Shen Yijia directly. At least those women could not enter the residence for now.


    Shen Yijia was someone who would listen to coaxing but not coercion. In her opinion, they were threatening her by kneeling outside the door, so she ignored them.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to send them back for you,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Actually, he still hoped that Shen Yijia could nurture a few trusted aides. Those women were still relatively young, and Shen Yijia had done them a favor. They were the most suitable candidates.


    However, if Shen Yijia was unwilling, he would not force her.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and shook her head. ¡°No need. The weather is so cold. It¡¯ll snow later. They¡¯ll naturally leave when they¡¯re tired of kneeling.¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that the male lead dealt with external troubles while the female lead dealt with family matters? It was better not to let Song Jingchen interfere in this matter.


    At the entrance of the Shen residence, eleven girls in rough linen clothes were kneeling neatly.


    Those who could be captured were all good-looking. At the very least, they had good facial features.


    Aside from their trembling bodies, it was a pleasant sight.


    A total of 18 people were saved this time. Those who were not here were all children under the age of ten.


    Compared to the girls who were supposed to discuss marriage within a year or two, they were less affected. At least they wouldn¡¯t be forced into a corner.


    Occasionally, when someone passed by and saw this scene, they would stop and watch curiously. However, when they looked up and saw the words ¡°Shen Residence¡±, they did not dare to stay for too long.


    Snow had begun to fall from the sky. This was adding insult to injury for the girls who were not wearing thick clothes.


    ¡°Sister Shuang¡¯er, will Young Master Shenzhi¡¯s wife really accept us?¡± A girl whose lips had turned purple from the cold asked in confusion.


    If this path didn¡¯t work, would she have to go home? She still had a few sisters at home. She didn¡¯t want to go back and affect their reputation.


    The girl called Shuang¡¯er knelt at the front. She looked up at the Shen family¡¯s door with longing and said firmly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    The madam who had descended from the sky to save them would definitely not leave them in the lurch.


    She was different from the other women here. Most of them came because they didn¡¯t want to implicate their families, but she was forced by her family.


    It was normal for families to favor boys over girls, but it was especially so in Shuang¡¯er¡¯s family. Her mother gave birth to two daughters in a row before giving birth to a son.


    Before she gave birth to her third son, her mother was often troubled by her grandmother because she could not give birth to a son.


    Her mother blamed her and her sister for everything.


    When her brother was born, her mother¡¯s status in the family rose. However, this did not mean that she and her sister¡¯s treatment had improved.


    At most, there would be one more person at home to order the two of them around.


    Her sister was one of the people rumored to have been abducted by the Huns.


    That was two years ago. At that time, girls disappeared from time to time in the city. Many people did not dare to let their daughters go out.


    On the other hand, because her son wanted to eat fungi soup, her mother ignored the snow outside and was not worried at all that her sister would encounter the Huns. She insisted that she go to the mountains to look for fungi.


    Unexpectedly, her sister never returned after that trip.


    What was even more ridiculous was that no one in the family was worried. Not only that, but they also blamed their sister for being useless.


    The reason why she was captured this time was because Third Brother was tired of eating potatoes and wanted to change his taste.


    In the past, she was glad that her father at least cared about his reputation and was afraid of being criticized for not betraying his daughter. Otherwise, he would have sold her and her sister out long ago.


    However, now, she hated her father for being so considerate, because the gossip was like a noose around her neck.


    She accepted it calmly, but the moment the rope was hung around her neck, the figure of that lady suddenly appeared in her mind.


    So she changed her mind. She struggled to break free and escaped from the house.


    If she lived, she might be able to see her sister again.


    At first, she did not think of coming here. She only thought of this path after she unintentionally saved a few young girls who were seeking death.


    ¡°My daughter, why are you so silly!¡±


    A cry pulled Shuang¡¯er back from her thoughts. She turned around and saw a group of people running towards them.


    When a few of the girls saw who it was, they got up with red eyes and staggered over.


    ¡°Father, Mother¡­¡±


    They had secretly run out. When some familiar faces saw them, the news spread to their families. Their hearts ached for their children, so they rushed over.


    ¡°You wretched girl, how many times have I told you? Your father and I are still young. With us around, we won¡¯t starve you.¡±


    Although Shen Yijia did not intend to pay attention to the people outside the door, she still asked Mo Yuan to pay attention.


    If anyone fainted, she would quickly send them home.


    When she heard that the families of the women outside had found her, she heaved a sigh of relief and said stubbornly, ¡°Seriously, they clearly have a family, but they still want me to raise them. Do they really think I¡¯m a fool?¡±


    Fortunately, she did not go out. Otherwise, those people would think that she had kidnapped their daughter.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He thought that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to accept those people because she was afraid of trouble. He never thought that she actually felt that it was a waste of money to support more people.


    He pursed his lips and said, ¡°We have enough money to support them.¡±


    Previously, he did not want to attract attention in Xiagou Village. Besides, compared to the 50,000 private troops, these people were really nothing.


    Shen Yijia still shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t want it either.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t afraid of trouble, but she didn¡¯t want to cause trouble for Song Jingchen.


    Seeing her determined attitude, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Shen Yijia thought that since those women¡¯s families had come to look for her, they would definitely leave, so she ignored them.


    After lunch, Song Jingchen was called away by South Wind. Shen Yijia was about to return to her room to take a nap when Mo Yuan came again.


    ¡°They haven¡¯t left yet?¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°There are still five people left.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the sky outside, pursed her lips, and put on her shoes again. ¡°Let¡¯s go out and take a look.¡±


    They had been kneeling for around four hours.


    Shen Yijia arrived at the door and saw five people kneeling outside. They were all covered in snow.


    The five of them heard the door open and struggled to straighten up. They looked hopefully at the person standing at the door.


    Shen Yijia frowned and said coldly, ¡°You can go back.¡±


    Shuang¡¯er¡¯s teeth were trembling from the cold. She opened her mouth a few times before saying, ¡°Please accept us, Madam.¡±


    The other four also kowtowed repeatedly. ¡°Madam, please accept us.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and remained silent.


    Shuang¡¯er gritted her teeth and suddenly raised her head. She reached out and pulled down her collar, revealing a red mark on her neck.


    Seeing this, the others also revealed the traces that had been left behind.


    ¡°Madam, we know that we¡¯re forcing you, but we have no choice. If you don¡¯t accept us, we won¡¯t be able to survive.¡±


    ¡°Madam, please give us a way out.¡±

 Chapter 314 - 314 Preparing to Leave

    314 Preparing to Leave


    They were all only twelve or thirteen years old. Shen Yijia looked at their wounds and felt a little helpless.


    This was also the reason why she was unwilling to appear previously.


    If she softened her heart and accepted them, they would be considered her people. She would have to protect them in the future.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and took a deep breath before saying, ¡°I can accept you, but you have to sign an indenture agreement.¡±


    The few of them did not hesitate and kowtowed happily. ¡°Thank you, Madam. Thank you.¡±


    Since she wanted them to sign a contract, they had to follow the normal process.


    Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to bring them to take a hot shower while she went to look for Song Jingchen and asked him to help write a few contracts.


    After the few of them signed and signed, Shen Yijia took out ten taels of silver and asked Mo Yuan to give it to them as compensation for their lives. After all, she was a principled person.


    After giving them the money, Shen Yijia did not care if they took it themselves or sent it home.


    The contract was stamped with an official seal, and the few of them completely became slaves.


    The few people who had finished packing walked to Shen Yijia and knelt down. ¡°Greetings, Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia was reading a book. When she heard this, she looked up at them. They were all wearing clothes with the same color and had their hair combed into two buns.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. It was beautiful!


    Realizing that her gaze was too direct, she coughed dryly and asked, ¡°What are your names?¡±


    The few of them replied in unison, ¡°Please give us names, Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. A name? She rubbed her chin and pondered. After thinking for a moment, she left them behind and ran out.


    She was the one who named her beautiful husband¡¯s people, so she would let her beautiful husband name her people.


    It was only fair.


    Under South Wind and Thirty Thousand¡¯s envious gazes, Song Jingchen casually wrote down five names on the rice paper.


    Indigo, Pinellia, Wolfiporia, Ginkgo, and Kaempferia.


    ¡°These seem to be medicinal herbs,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    She hadn¡¯t been sticking to Song Jingchen all these days. At least when Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t around, Shen Yijia would ask Mo Yuan to teach her how to recognize medicinal herbs.


    She had been tricked twice with drugs and didn¡¯t want to be tricked a third time.


    Therefore, recognizing medicine was only the first step. She still had to learn how to make poison.


    Most importantly, she was determined to protect Song Jingchen. Of course, she had to learn more skills.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and endured for a month. She also memorized many medicinal herbs.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯ll make it easier for you to remember.¡± Shen Yijia had never hidden anything from Song Jingchen, so he was happy to see it happen.


    However, Song Jingchen was thinking that Shen Yijia would have another ability to protect herself if he couldn¡¯t take care of her.


    The five of them had new names and identities and started to stay in the Shen residence.


    They originally thought that they would serve their master like the maidservants in other families.


    Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia did not let them get close to her at all. Instead, she threw them to Mo Yuan.


    They were only given a mission to practice martial arts with Mo Yuan.


    Shen Yijia expressed that she did not need anyone to serve her tea. She was not missing an arm or a leg.


    What Shen Yijia did not know was that Liu Piaopiao, who had returned to her maternal family in Liang County, had fallen into an even more difficult situation than these girls.


    Liang County was adjacent to Xunyang, and the news of Xunyang¡¯s abductions was first spread there. No matter where the news went, everyone hated it.


    As the culprit¡¯s daughter, Liu Piaopiao was destined to be disliked.


    Even the Zeng family¡¯s business was affected. For this reason, other than the old madam, everyone in the Zeng family expressed their intention to send Liu Piaopiao away.


    Liu Piaopiao did not want her grandmother to be put in a difficult position, so she took the initiative to move to the manor.


    That night, looking at the sword that was suddenly pressed against her neck, Liu Piaopiao clenched her fists and tried her best to suppress the fear in her heart. ¡°I want to see your master. I have something important to tell him.¡±


    Because her parents had exposed them, she had long guessed that these people would not let her off. She had been waiting for them to find her.


    The man in black was a little surprised by Liu Piaopiao¡¯s reaction. She was more courageous than Liu Deyi.


    But so what? Eldest Young Master only asked him to kill people. Thinking of this, he exerted more strength.


    A line of blood quickly appeared on Liu Piaopiao¡¯s neck. She did not dare to keep them in suspense anymore. She closed her eyes and gritted her teeth. ¡°I know who has the list of those girls. If the list is sent to His Majesty¡­¡±


    There were undercurrents everywhere in Great Xia, and the Wu Kingdom was not peaceful either.


    In the past month, the Wu Kingdom had undergone earth-shattering changes. Emperor Wu was seriously ill, the crown prince was in charge of the country, and General Yan fell unconscious from an assassination attempt. Then, there were assassins.


    In order to catch the assassins, the crown prince ordered the city gate to be sealed. The soldiers searched every house, causing the commoners to complain.


    Although the city gate was opened later, because the assassins had not been caught, everyone had to be searched regardless of whether they were entering or leaving.


    In the cellar of a house, Ghost Face was leaning against the wall, covered in blood. Beside him lay Yan Guangmao, who was still unconscious.


    The detoxification pills that Doctor Chang fed him could not completely detoxify the poison in his body.


    Ghost Face was injured because he wanted to get the herbs to concoct the antidote from the pharmacy. He did not expect to be ambushed.


    ¡°Young Master, bear with it. I¡¯ll help you bandage it briefly first,¡± Doctor Chang said with a worried expression.


    During this month, they had been hiding everywhere and could not find a chance to leave the city. However, the treatment for General Yan could not be delayed. Otherwise, he would not have taken the risk.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine,¡± Ghost Face said coldly.


    Unexpectedly, just as they finished bandaging, there was a commotion outside.


    An officer came looking for them.


    Ghost Face picked up his sword and stood up. ¡°Stay here and guard my adoptive father. I¡¯ll lure him away.¡±


    This cellar was not considered a secret. Sooner or later, the soldiers outside would find this place. If they did not lure them away, they would only be waiting to be caught.


    ¡°Young Master, I¡¯ll go.¡± Doctor Chang went forward to support him.


    Ghost Face sneered and shook off Doctor Chang¡¯s hand. ¡°If you go, you¡¯ll probably be captured before you can even escape this residence.¡±


    With that, he turned around and left without looking back.


    Doctor Chang closed his eyes and sighed. He muttered, ¡°Princess, you must bless Young Master¡¯s safe return.¡±


    At this moment, it was already curfew. Other than the soldiers patrolling the streets, there was no one else on the streets.


    A white light suddenly rose from somewhere. Seeing this, the soldiers quickly rushed towards the place where the white light rose.


    ¡°There¡¯s something over there. Quick, everyone follow me!¡±


    At the same time, two other people noticed this signal.


    ¡°Young Master¡­¡± Mo Yu looked at the white light.


    The woman in red chuckled. ¡°It seems that someone found him for us first. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Time passed quickly. In the blink of an eye, it was March. The weather in Xunyang City was getting warmer. Under Song Jingchen¡¯s guidance, the commoners planted the potatoes.


    They had already agreed to go to the Qilin Mountain, but because the weather was too cold, it had been delayed until now.


    If nothing unexpected happened, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen probably wouldn¡¯t return to Xunyang City. Song Jingchen directly returned the deed and key to the Shen residence to Shangguan Han.

 Chapter 315 - 315 Going to Qilin Mountain

    315 Going to Qilin Mountain


    Qilin Mountain was located between Xunyang and Liang County. It crossed Liang County. When they arrived, the couple only brought one person with them. When they left Xunyang City, there were exactly ten people.


    This was even when Rooster and One Dot was not around.


    Song Jingchen, who had always kept a low profile, was unusually high-profile when he left this time. Not to mention the commoners of Xunyang City, even Shangguan Han sent them off at the city gate.


    It was as if he was afraid that others would not know that he had already left Xunyang.


    It was not until they left Xunyang that they changed from the official road to the mountain path and went back to being low-key.


    When they arrived near the Qilin Mountain, Shen Yijia saw Rooster and One Dot from afar. When they saw them, the two of them quickly cupped their hands and bowed.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Where is it?¡±


    Rooster took out a box from his pocket. Shen Yijia glanced at it and recognized it as the box containing the key and map.


    Previously, she was wondering how they would find the place without these two. It turned out that Song Jingchen had already arranged for Rooster to return to Xiagou Village.


    ¡°Take them back to Xiagou Village first.¡±


    Song Jingchen was referring to Pinellia and the others. Shen Yijia had already discussed this with Song Jingchen. The fewer people who knew about Qilin Mountain, the better.


    Although the five of them had not completely changed in the past three months, they had more or less learned something.


    Pinellia, who was formerly known as Shuang¡¯er, did not expect that Madam did not intend to travel with them. After being slightly surprised, she did not dare to ask further.


    However, her gaze immediately became uneasy, afraid that Shen Yijia would throw them away. After all, even though they were Shen Yijia¡¯s maidservants, Shen Yijia rarely let them serve them.


    They were relieved. At the same time, they were useless and could be abandoned at any time.


    Shen Yijia met her gaze and took out two hundred taels of silver from her wallet helplessly. ¡°This is my last bit of money.¡±


    This was the money she earned from Qian Youde.


    As soon as she said this, not only Pinellia, but the others also panicked. It seemed like Shen Yijia wanted them to rely on themselves.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached as she repeatedly pinched the banknotes for a long time. Then, she gritted her teeth and handed them over. ¡°Take this and open a shop first. No matter what shop it is, just don¡¯t make a loss when I get back.¡±


    These people were too insecure. Giving them a mission would more or less reassure them.


    Shen Yijia could tell from the way Song Jingchen treated Rooster and the others that he didn¡¯t want them to be idle.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up. She changed her mind and jumped off the horse, calling for the five of them to gather around. She whispered something to them.


    After muttering for ten minutes, Shen Yijia ran back excitedly and got on the horse again.


    As for the last bit of money she mentioned just now, she gave out three more banknotes.


    Shen Yijia noticed Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze and felt a little embarrassed. She blushed and said, ¡°This is really the last one. It¡¯s gone.¡±


    No matter how capable she was, she couldn¡¯t let Qian Youde go home without any money.


    She couldn¡¯t bear to look at the banknotes in Pinellia¡¯s hand. She closed her eyes and waved. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Otherwise, she was afraid that she would not be able to resist snatching it back.


    Pinellia and the others mistakenly thought that Madam could not bear to part with them. Their last bit of worry disappeared. Their eyes turned red as they knelt down and kowtowed three times to Shen Yijia. ¡°We won¡¯t disappoint Madam.¡±


    After kowtowing, they left with Rooster and One Dot.


    Shen Yijia watched them until they could no longer be seen. She held her chest and heaved a long sigh. The next time they met, she wanted to see more money from that investment. At the very least, the principal amount had to be retained.


    Song Jingchen found it funny. He rode over and took out a money bag.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Before Song Jingchen could speak, she had already taken the money bag. She opened it and saw a few banknotes inside. She quickly put it in her pocket and grinned at Song Jingchen. ¡°Thank you, hubby.¡±


    She took a rough look and saw that there was one more banknote than the money she had given out just now. It was not a loss.


    Song Jingchen coughed dryly and turned his head away. ¡°You¡¯re not letting them go to Xiagou Village?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°No, we have to return to the capital sooner or later. It¡¯s better to go to the capital directly than to let them go to Xiagou Village.¡±


    The people in the capital were richer than those in Anyang County!


    Qilin Mountain was not a single mountain. It was formed by a few continuous mountains. These mountains were connected together. From afar, they looked like an auspicious Qilin beast, hence the name.


    Moreover, those mountains were extremely tall. The higher they went, the steeper the mountains became. Coupled with the commoners¡¯ reverence for auspicious beasts, ordinary people did not dare to go deep into the mountain range.


    The few of them rode into the mountain for a while, but the horses could not travel the remaining distance. In other words, one of South Wind and Thirty Thousand had to stay here to watch.


    This time, without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, South Wind mustered his courage and said, ¡°Master, I¡¯ll stay below.¡±


    After saying that, he even looked like he was about to die.


    Shen Yijia blinked and glanced at them. In the end, her gaze landed on the expressionless Mo Yuan.


    Something was up!


    Song Jingchen nodded indifferently.


    The last time he came to Qilin Mountain was three years ago. Looking at this place, he could not help but think of when the old master was still alive. He could not help but clench his fists.


    The next second, a soft hand covered the back of his hand and burrowed under his fist. Song Jingchen turned his head.


    Shen Yijia grinned at him.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart softened. He let go of her and held her hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go up. I¡¯ll bring you to another place.¡±


    Shen Yijia said meekly, ¡°Okay.¡±


    Because no one usually came here, there was no way up the mountain. There were bushes everywhere.


    Coupled with the fact that it was early spring, all the snakes, insects, rats, and ants were active. The few of them walked very carefully.


    Apart from the four of them, Furball was also with them. To Furball, navigating the difficult mountain path was like a fish returning to the sea or a bird entering the forest. It was simply too easy.


    Shen Yijia was envious.


    Therefore, the task of leading the way naturally fell to Furball.


    Fortunately, Mo Yuan found many herbs to chase away the insects. She crushed the herbs and smeared the medicinal juice on her limbs and face. It could more or less have some effect.


    Previously, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know what was on the parchment, so she was confused. Now that she looked at it again, she realized that the overall appearance drawn on it was really similar to a Qilin Beast.


    No wonder Song Jingchen knew where it was at first glance.


    Among the lines was a specially thickened line that marked a point, the destination they were going to.


    The four of them and the tiger walked until the sky gradually darkened. They had only walked less than half the way. Regardless of whether they were tired or not, the deep mountains were relatively dangerous at night. Helpless, they could only find a relatively flat place to spend the night.


    The temperature on the mountain was especially low at night, so they took some materials and lit a fire. In order to prevent snakes and insects from crawling over, they scattered a circle of medicinal liquid around them.

 Chapter 316 - 316 Encountering the Wolves

    316 Encountering the Wolves


    After doing this, Shen Yijia leaned lazily against Song Jingchen and didn¡¯t want to move. Indeed, it was easy to go from being frugal to being extravagant, but difficult to go from being extravagant to being frugal.


    Mo Yuan cupped her hands expressionlessly. ¡°I¡¯m going to find some prey.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked up. She really did not want to move, so she could only remind him, ¡°Bring Furball along. Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll go too.¡± Thirty Thousand happened to hear this when he returned from picking up a pile of dry materials. He asked Song Jingchen for instructions with a red face.


    Shen Yijia secretly tugged at Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve, and he nodded helplessly.


    After they left, he said, ¡°You really like watching the show, don¡¯t you?¡±


    Shen Yijia sat up and said seriously, ¡°How can this be called watching a show? There¡¯s a saying about fulfilling someone¡¯s wishes.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m helping Thirty Thousand make his presence known to Mo Yuan. Then, if Mo Yuan accidentally falls for him, isn¡¯t this just right?¡±


    Most importantly, Mo Yuan¡¯s life was too monotonous. If this continued, when would she be able to get married?


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Unfortunately, destiny would disappoint Shen Yijia. With Furball as her helper, it did not take long for Mo Yuan to return with three rabbits that had already been processed. Thirty Thousand followed behind her without a word.


    It was obvious that they did not even talk. Furball did not come back with them. It had probably gone to look for more food.


    Shen Yijia smacked her lips and thought to herself that he was too cowardly. Back then, she had fallen for her beautiful husband the moment she saw him.


    While she was thinking about her glorious deeds, Song Jingchen had already taken the wild rabbit and roasted it.


    The fragrance of roasted meat slowly spread out and finally pulled Shen Yijia back to reality. She stared at the roasted rabbit meat and gulped. She said, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re amazing.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled and exposed her mercilessly. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to eat it so quickly even if you flatter me.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Furball also returned after smelling the fragrance.


    Under the gazes of the person and the tiger, the meat was finally roasted. Song Jingchen tore off a rabbit leg and handed it to Shen Yijia. He didn¡¯t forget to remind her, ¡°Be careful not to burn yourself.¡±


    Shen Yijia giggled. She took it and blew on it. She took a big bite and did not forget to give him a thumbs up. ¡°Hubby¡¯s roasted meat is delicious.¡±


    Thirty Thousand looked at the half-eaten rabbit in his hand that had been cut open by Mo Yuan. For the first time, he felt that the meat in his hand no longer smelled good.


    Furball, who was lying beside him and enjoying a rabbit alone, looked up at him, as if to say, ¡°Aren¡¯t you eating? If you¡¯re not eating, let me eat it.¡±


    Thirty Thousand was speechless.


    Song Jingchen tore off the remaining three legs and placed them aside for Shen Yijia to eat.


    Compared to Shen Yijia wolfing down the food, he ate much more elegantly.


    It was unknown if they were lucky or not, but just as they finished eating and were about to lean against the tree trunk to rest, it started to rain.


    Rain dripped through the gaps in the leaves. Soon, the fire was extinguished.


    Song Jingchen took off his coat and covered Shen Yijia¡¯s head. He held her hand and stood up. He said in a low voice, ¡°Look around and see if there¡¯s a cave nearby.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Furball howled softly and turned to run in a direction. The few of them quickly followed.


    The cave Furball had found was a distance away from where they were just now. It probably saw it when it was hunting alone.


    However, even with the leaves covering them, other than Shen Yijia, who was slightly better, the others were still drenched.


    They rekindled the fire, and the originally dark cave lit up. The cave was about the size of a room, and it was obvious that it was naturally formed.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. She took out a set of clothes from her bag and urged Song Jingchen to change into them.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t take the clothes. He glanced at Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes that were stuck to her body because she was drenched. He quickly turned his head away and coughed dryly. ¡°You guys change first. I¡¯ll bring Thirty Thousand and bring back some firewood.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked down at her body. She was not very wet. She looked at Mo Yuan again, whose clothes were dripping wet.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Alright, I was too focused on my beautiful husband just now. I¡¯ve sinned.¡±


    After the two of them changed into clean clothes, Song Jingchen and Thirty Thousand weren¡¯t done yet. Instead, they heard wolf howls. The sounds rose and fell. Just from the sound, one could tell that there were many wolves.


    Furball also began to howl at the entrance of the cave, as if it wanted to chase the outsider away.


    The sound was getting closer and closer. Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Could it be that the wolves were here to take shelter from the rain?


    Thinking that Song Jingchen was still outside, she hurriedly went out to look for him. Fortunately, Song Jingchen returned in time.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in first.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s expression was a little solemn.


    He had taken a rough look just now and saw no less than twenty wolves gathered.


    Song Jingchen threw half of the firewood he had picked up into the fire. The dry firewood sizzled for a while before being lit, and the flames instantly rose higher.


    At this moment, the wolves had also arrived at the entrance of the cave. Their green eyes sparkled in the dark night.


    Furball stood guard in front of them, its limbs bent. It bared its teeth and looked fiercely at the wolves.


    However, the wolves were not afraid of it. They were just afraid of their fire and did not dare to enter, but they had no intention of leaving.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had encountered wolves. There were so many of them. If she sold so much meat, how much could it be exchanged for?


    However, she only thought about it. They still had to walk into the mountains, and they couldn¡¯t bring all this meat with them.


    ¡°They won¡¯t dare to come in for the time being because of the fire, but¡­¡± The firewood obviously wouldn¡¯t last until dawn. Moreover, the space in this cave was limited. ¡°Once the fire gets extinguished, it would be difficult to deal with the wolves,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia understood what he meant. She blinked and dug around in her pocket, but she found nothing.


    Thinking of the wet clothes she had just changed out of, her eyebrows twitched and she quickly took them out. As expected, the medicine bag in her pouch was also wet, and the powder inside was stuck together.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and threw the medicine bag out angrily, causing the wolves to howl again.


    ¡°I¡¯ll lure them away.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll lure them away.¡±


    Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand spoke at the same time.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. The two of them could deal with a wolf, but wouldn¡¯t they be giving away their lives if they entered the wolf pack?


    It might not be of any use.


    Song Jingchen clearly had the same thoughts as Shen Yijia. He said in a low voice, ¡°Stop.¡±


    He glanced at Shen Yijia. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to go either.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I haven¡¯t said anything yet.¡±


    Song Jingchen reached out and grabbed the restless people. ¡°When the fire is about to extinguish, I¡¯ll lure them away. You guys leave with Furball first.¡±


    He took out the parchment and pointed out a place. ¡°We¡¯ll meet here then. Let¡¯s rest for now.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded obediently and carefully remembered that Song Jingchen was talking about the place where they roasted meat.


    How could a master take the risk? As a subordinate, he hid behind his master and was protected. Thirty Thousand hurriedly said, ¡°Master, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°Protect Young Madam.¡±


    Time passed bit by bit. The fire was too small to stop the wolves. They added the last bit of firewood.


    Song Jingchen stood up and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Be good.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and let go of his sleeve. She said worriedly, ¡°Then be careful.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and coaxed her softly, ¡°Wait for me in front. I¡¯ll be there soon.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded obediently.


    Song Jingchen stared at her to make sure that Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t do anything rash before turning around. However, he had just taken a few steps when a gust of wind came from behind.


    He dodged and quickly turned to clasp the arm of the attacker.

 Chapter 317 - 317 Jiajia Tearing Apart the Vicious Wolf

    317 Jiajia Tearing Apart the Vicious Wolf


    The air froze for a moment. Shen Yijia was very fast. If not for the fact that Song Jingchen was worried about her and had been vigilant, he would have let her succeed.


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty under his gaze. She blurted out, ¡°I wasn¡¯t trying to knock you out.¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent. ¡°Then what were you trying to do?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Would you believe me if I said that my hands wouldn¡¯t listen to me?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    After a long time, he sighed helplessly. ¡°You want to go too?¡±


    He finally understood that even if he convinced this girl to stay, she would definitely follow him later.


    Shen Yijia was embarrassed. She carefully glanced at Song Jingchen and asked tentatively, ¡°Can I?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. He picked up two burning wooden sticks from the fire and stuffed one of them into Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°Don¡¯t stray too far away from me later.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately grinned and promised, ¡°I promise I won¡¯t do anything rash.¡±


    After the two masters left, Mo Yuan took out a piece of firewood and followed them without a word.


    Thirty Thousand was speechless.


    In the end, none of the four of them stayed. Furball walked in front. As soon as the few of them left the cave, wolves circled behind them and formed an encirclement.


    Wolves were naturally afraid of fire. The four of them faced away from each other and forced the wolves to retreat with the torches in their hands.


    The few of them took the opportunity to move towards the empty space.


    However, the wolves were not stupid. Seeing that there were only four of them, their nature to bully the weak and fear the strong made them retreat for a distance before stopping.


    The rain was still falling. It was obvious that the torch wouldn¡¯t last long.


    The wolf pack seemed to know this too. Their green eyes were filled with a faint ferocious glint. Their hind legs were slightly bent, and their front legs extended forward, revealing their sharp teeth.


    This was a signal to prepare to attack at any time. As soon as the fire was extinguished, they would pounce on the four of them and eat them up.


    Thirty Thousand swallowed silently and subconsciously tightened his grip on the torch. If he was bitten by this wolf, he would either die or be crippled.


    Furball growled from time to time, wanting to intimidate the wolves, but the wolves were not afraid at all.


    ¡°Try not to be too far away. The torches are about to go out,¡± Song Jingchen reminded her in a low voice. Then, he instructed Shen Yijia, ¡°Follow me closely.¡±


    ¡°Alright!¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips, but there was no fear in her eyes. She secretly clenched her fists. A wolf pack. She wondered if they could withstand a beating!


    In the next moment.


    A long wolf howl suddenly sounded from the forest. The wolf pack that was originally surrounding them seemed to have received a signal and immediately pounced on Shen Yijia and the others!


    Furball also let out a deafening roar.


    It charged at the two wolves that were pouncing on it like an arrow. It bit the throat of one of the wolves and tore off a piece of meat.


    The strong smell of blood soared into the sky. The wolves were stimulated by the smell of blood and became even more ferocious and crazy.


    Song Jingchen stuck the torch in his hand into the eyes of the wild wolf that was going to pounce on him.


    The wolf howled and staggered back, staring warily at him.


    Song Jingchen had already pulled out the longsword at his waist and stabbed it into the throat of another wild wolf. The wild wolf stopped in midair and fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia had been paying attention to Song Jingchen from the corner of her eye. At this moment, her eyes were sparkling as she screamed in her heart.


    ¡°My beautiful husband is so handsome!¡± she thought.


    Unfortunately, she didn¡¯t know how to use a sword.


    She angrily hit the wolf on the waist with the extinguished stick. The wolf took a few steps back in pain.


    At this moment, a wild wolf pounced at her with its bloody mouth wide open, its fangs bared.


    Shen Yijia instinctively reached out and grabbed the wolf¡¯s upper and lower jaw. She gritted her teeth and tore the wolf into two.


    Wolf blood splattered everywhere.


    The smell of blood in the air became stronger.


    The rain mixed with blood dyed the ground in front of Shen Yijia red.


    Thirty Thousand happened to see this scene while dealing with the wild wolves. His pupils constricted and he muttered, ¡°Is she even human?¡±


    He suddenly felt lucky. Although Young Madam had beaten him black and blue every time she ¡°sparred¡± with him, at least she had shown mercy.


    ¡°Why are you in a daze?¡±


    Mo Yuan¡¯s cold voice sounded. She had just blocked a wild wolf for Thirty Thousand.


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry!¡± Thirty Thousand hurriedly focused on his side.


    As for Shen Yijia, not only did she scare Thirty Thousand, but she also intimidated the remaining dozen or so wolves.


    They hesitated and did not dare to go forward. They paced on the spot and kept howling.


    On the other side, Furball bit off the neck of a wolf. The other wolf was also bitten a few times by Furball, and its wound kept bleeding.


    However, Furball was also injured. There were a few deep wounds on its body.


    The encirclement suddenly decreased.


    ¡°Furball, come back,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Four people and a tiger distanced themselves from the wolf pack and faced each other. In the middle lay the corpses of three wild wolves.


    In the next moment.


    The wolf howl sounded again, and the wolves howled with it. For a moment, wolf howls echoed all around.


    The few of them were drenched in blood and rain. The smell filled their noses.


    ¡°What are they doing?¡± Shen Yijia sniffed and asked in confusion.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression became even more solemn. ¡°They¡¯re calling for help!¡±


    ¡°Retreat!¡±


    Song Jingchen made a prompt decision. The dozen or so wolves in front of them were already a handful to deal with. If they delayed any longer, they wouldn¡¯t be able to resist at all.


    Shen Yijia frowned and nodded obediently.


    They watched the wolves wearily and retreated.


    The wolves did not step forward. They just followed with ferocious gazes and continued to howl.


    Less than 15 minutes later.


    The wolf pack actually gathered from all directions, with twice as many wolves as before.


    A path opened up in the wolf pack.


    A gray wolf much larger than the other wolves walked out. Its eyes were fiercer than the other wolves¡¯.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze froze. ¡°That¡¯s the Wolf King.¡±


    The Wolf King glanced at Song Jingchen and the others disdainfully, looking like a king. He roared at the sky, and the wolf pack instantly became manic and pounced on the four of them again.


    Shen Yijia pulled out the long whip at her waist and sent the wild wolves charging at her flying.


    However, there were too many wild wolves. Just as she made a gap, it was instantly filled up.


    This time, not to mention breaking through, it was very difficult for the few of them to deal with it. No matter how seamless their cooperation was, there would always be times when they missed something.


    ¡°Be careful!¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s voice suddenly sounded.


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s hand, which was holding his sword, was bitten by a wolf.


    Song Jingchen frowned and pierced the throat of the wild wolf in front of him. He pulled out his sword and threw it out.


    The longsword pierced through the rain and pierced into the wild wolf¡¯s head that was biting Thirty Thousand¡¯s arm..


    The wild wolf died instantly and fell on Thirty Thousand. Thirty Thousand struggled to pull his arm out and get up. He said with lingering fear, ¡°Thank you, Master.¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored him, but without his sword, he could only confront the wild wolves with his bare hands.

 Chapter 318 - 318 Killing the Wolf King and Coaxing Her Husband

    318 Killing the Wolf King and Coaxing Her Husband


    Song Jingchen killed two wolves in a row, causing the wolf king to roar. The wolves suddenly changed their strategy and gathered around him.


    This greatly reduced the burden on the other three, but Song Jingchen¡¯s situation became more dangerous.


    Wild wolves with dark eyes stared at him coldly, drooling and raining. They seized the opportunity to pounce on him.


    Soon, a few bloodstains appeared on Song Jingchen¡¯s body.


    Shen Yijia was extremely anxious. She swung her whip and strangled a wild wolf. She flashed closer and broke its head with a punch.


    ¡°Furball, watch over the two of them.¡± She turned around and instructed Furball.


    Another wild wolf pounced at her. Shen Yijia suddenly landed on her knees and shot a short arrow towards the wolf¡¯s body.


    The short arrow hit the wild wolf¡¯s waist and slowed it down. Shen Yijia turned around and kicked it away. The wolf flew out of inertia and smashed into the two wolves surrounding Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia took advantage of this opportunity to pull out the sword from the wild wolf¡¯s corpse. She turned around and threw it in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction. ¡°Hubby¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen stepped on the wolf¡¯s head and jumped up, catching the longsword. As his feet landed, the longsword pierced through the throat of a wild wolf.


    Alright, this time, he attracted even more hatred.


    It was true that the wild wolves bullied the weak and feared the strong, but they were also smart. They felt that Song Jingchen was the greatest threat and felt that as long as they dealt with him, the rest would be fine.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger as she watched more and more wild wolves gather around Song Jingchen.


    She reached out and wiped the rain that dripped from her hair. She retracted her whip and clenched her fist, smashing it at the wild wolf that was blocking her from approaching Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen sensed her intentions and pursed his lips before saying, ¡°Don¡¯t come over.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and a little angry. She felt that her beautiful husband didn¡¯t have faith in her.


    What she wanted was to help him, to be by his side, not to be hidden behind his back every time.


    However, just as she thought this, Song Jingchen¡¯s voice sounded again. ¡°Do you see that gray wolf? It¡¯s commanding the wolf pack. Kill it.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Song Jingchen instructed. He swung his sword faster and faster, trying his best to attract the wild wolves to his side.


    After killing the Wolf King, not only would the wolf pack lose their command, but they would also be able to intimidate the wolf pack. The wolf pack would not dare to attack again.


    Shen Yijia thought about this sentence repeatedly and narrowed her eyes at the Wolf King, who was hiding at the back.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯ll cover you.¡± Most of the wolves were on Song Jingchen¡¯s side. Thirty Thousand had Furball to help him. Mo Yuan escaped and came to Shen Yijia¡¯s side.


    Shen Yijia glanced at her. Mo Yuan was also injured. She nodded. ¡°Be careful.¡±


    It was still raining.


    Shen Yijia was no longer obsessed with killing the wild wolves in front of her. She grabbed the head of a wild wolf and rolled past it, dodging the wild wolves that were pouncing on her.


    Coupled with Mo Yuan¡¯s cover, she successfully escaped the encirclement of the wolves.


    The Wolf King sensed her intentions and raised his head to summon the wild wolves.


    How could Shen Yijia give it a chance? She shot another broken arrow from her sleeve. The broken arrow pierced through the rain towards the Wolf King.


    The Wolf King quickly dodged. It was clearly very unhappy to be interrupted by an insignificant prey.


    Its forelimbs were slightly bent as it stared coldly at Shen Yijia, ready to attack at any moment.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She did not care if the Wolf King could understand her. She placed her hands on her hips and provoked, ¡°So many of your underlings have died. As the boss, you only know how to hide behind. If you have the guts, let¡¯s fight one-on-one.¡±


    It was unknown if her words had worked, but before she could finish, the wolf king pounced towards her.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and quickly went up to him. When the wolf king pounced on her, she nimbly turned to the side.


    At some point, she had taken out a short arrow and stabbed it into the wolf king¡¯s body.


    With a tearing sound, a long hole appeared in the Wolf King¡¯s body.


    It wailed and looked at Shen Yijia warily with hatred in its eyes.


    This time, Shen Yijia took the initiative to attack without waiting for it to move. She took a few steps forward and jumped onto the Wolf King.


    The Wolf King howled and kept pouncing on Shen Yijia, trying to throw her off. However, how could Shen Yijia let it succeed? She stabbed the short arrow into its eye with one hand to stabilize her body, and punched the wolf¡¯s head with her free hand.


    One punch, two punches, three punches¡­


    The Wolf King fell to the ground.


    This thing could command so many wolves. Shen Yijia did not dare to let her guard down. She punched the wolf king a few more times until its head exploded before she sat down weakly.


    At this moment, the wolves suddenly stopped attacking and wailed in unison.


    After howling, she watched warily as the wolves surrounding Song Jingchen and the others slowly retreated. After retreating a distance, they turned around and quickly ran into the forest.


    For a moment, only the sound of raindrops dripping on the ground could be heard. If not for the corpses of the wolves lying on the ground and the strong smell of blood in the air, Shen Yijia would have thought that everything that had just happened was an illusion.


    A shadow suddenly fell in front of her. Shen Yijia looked up and grinned at the person. She raised her chin proudly.


    Song Jingchen smiled and reached out to rub her head. From the corner of his eye, he noticed the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    He blamed himself and his heart ached.


    They found another cave and lit a fire.


    Everyone was more or less injured, and Furball and Thirty Thousand were the most injured.


    The battles between ferocious beasts were about tearing at each other. Furball had been raised by Shen Yijia since it was young and had not experienced too many dangers in the forest. The other party still had the advantage in numbers, so it was inevitable that it would be injured.


    Thirty Thousand was not as skilled as Mo Yuan.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression didn¡¯t look too good after leaving the wolf pack.


    After Shen Yijia changed into clean clothes, he took out the medicine and carefully bandaged her wound.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go outside and change.¡± Song Jingchen took the clothes and left.


    By now, the rain had stopped.


    Shen Yijia waved her bandaged hand in front of her eyes and guessed the reason why Song Jingchen was unhappy. He was blaming himself.


    She scratched her head and prepared to follow him out. Furball came over pitifully and howled.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. Seeing that it was indeed injured, she secretly reached out and fed it a drop of spiritual liquid.


    Seeing that Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand had finished treating their wounds, she patted Furball¡¯s head. ¡°Go, get Mo Yuan to apply some medicine for you.¡±


    When Shen Yijia came out, she saw that Song Jingchen had already changed and was standing there in a daze. She felt a little regretful and ran over to call out sweetly, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m useless?¡± Song Jingchen asked without thinking and didn¡¯t turn around.


    He always said that he would protect her well, but he let her get hurt a few times.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She looked around and found a big rock. She bent down and easily carried it.


    Seeing this, Song Jingchen wanted to help, but Shen Yijia said anxiously, ¡°Stand there and don¡¯t move.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned, not understanding what she wanted to do.


    While he was in a daze, Shen Yijia had already placed the stone in front of him.


    She stood on the rock and went from looking up at Song Jingchen to looking at him at eye level.


    Shen Yijia leaned in front of Song Jingchen and said seriously, ¡°How could that be? My husband is the most powerful person in the world.¡±


    She continued, ¡°And I like walking beside you like this.¡±


    She didn¡¯t like the fact that her beautiful husband wanted to protect her. Even if he wanted to protect her, she would be the one protecting him. She had said it back then.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart throbbed. He reached out and covered his chest, which was beating rapidly.


    Seeing that he was still silent, Shen Yijia tilted her head and thought for a moment.


    She reached out and untied the cloth that Song Jingchen had bandaged for her just now. She placed the back of her hand in front of him. There was no wound there.


    ¡°You know that I¡¯m different, right?¡± she said in a low voice.


    Even if she was injured, she could recover quickly. Her physique was special, and this wound could heal automatically without spiritual liquid.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and grabbed her hand to bandage it again.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched. ¡°Why wrap it again?¡± she thought.


    ¡°I understand,¡± Song Jingchen said gloomily.


    She was better than him.


    Did he feel a little aggrieved?


    Shen Yijia resisted the urge to laugh. She reached out and held Song Jingchen¡¯s face, leaning her head forward slowly.

 Chapter 319 - 319 Found It (1)

    319 Found It (1)


    After the rain, the already difficult mountain path became even more difficult to navigate. There were bushes all around, not to mention insects and ants. After walking for a while, water could be wrung out of their shoes and socks.


    In the end, under Song Jingchen¡¯s suggestion, Shen Yijia climbed onto Furball¡¯s back.


    She didn¡¯t have to walk by herself, but Furball could bring her everywhere. Shen Yijia felt that she had walked for nothing. Why didn¡¯t she think of this earlier?


    She had just asked Furball to bring her around and return to Song Jingchen¡¯s side when she waved at him excitedly. ¡°Hubby, do you want to come up with me?¡±


    This was more fun than riding a horse.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Furball, who was panting from Shen Yijia¡¯s torture, and shook his head. ¡°No need. I¡¯m not tired.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia thought that he was embarrassed and did not force him. She patted Furball¡¯s head and said, ¡°Furball, let¡¯s walk in front and clear the way for them.¡±


    Shen Yijia pulled out the long whip at her waist and swung it around. A single whip could cut off a large patch of bushes, opening a path for Song Jingchen and the other two.


    Her hands were busy, and she didn¡¯t stop singing. She repeated one of the few songs she¡¯d heard in the compound.


    ¡°I have a little donkey. I¡¯ve never ridden it. One day, I rode it up the mountain on a whim. I was holding a small whip in my hand. I was very proud of myself,¡± she sang.


    ¡°I have a little donkey¡­¡±


    For a moment, the originally empty deep mountains were surrounded by her tone-deaf singing. From time to time, she would scare off the birds.


    Shen Yijia was happy, but Furball was so tired that it only rolled its eyes. Its ears were still being tortured by her demonic voice.


    Besides, it was a tiger, the king of the mountains. How could it be compared to a low-level species like a donkey?


    Thirty Thousand walked at the back. He silently took out his water bag and took a sip. He didn¡¯t know if it was his imagination, but he felt that the water in his water bag was magical. After taking a sip, he didn¡¯t feel so tired anymore.


    In less than a day, the injuries on his body had miraculously scabbed over.


    When he first discovered it, he had even given it to his master to drink, but he received Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze as if he was looking at an idiot.


    If he gave it to Mo Yuan, she would ignore him.


    Therefore, he could only enjoy it alone.


    What Thirty Thousand did not know was that Shen Yijia had actually dripped spiritual liquid into their water bags.


    Especially Song Jingchen. The kiss yesterday wasn¡¯t for nothing. His injuries had long recovered.


    As for the water bag, if others had it, her beautiful husband naturally had it too.


    Shen Yijia diluted the water for them because she was afraid that the effect would be too obvious and scare them.


    Next, they encountered a few attacks from ferocious wild animals, but at least it was not as dangerous as before. There was a large group of them.


    Coupled with Furball, ordinary ferocious beasts were frightened away by it before they could approach.


    Strangely, the closer they got to their destination, the fewer insects and ants there were, let alone ferocious beasts. In their place was a thick fog.


    Fortunately, after Mo Yuan¡¯s examination, she concluded that the thick fog was not poisonous. At most, it could affect one¡¯s vision.


    In order to avoid getting separated, Shen Yijia wanted to come down and walk, but Song Jingchen found a vine to tie Furball up and led it away.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to come down,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Furball thought, ¡°This couple doesn¡¯t treat me like a tiger.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Furball¡¯s angry expression and smiled. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Thirty Thousand followed suit and handed the vines to Mo Yuan. ¡°Why don¡¯t I hold your hand and walk too?¡±


    Mo Yuan glanced at him coldly and walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s other side without a word.


    Shen Yijia laughed unkindly. Why did she only realize that Thirty Thousand was a silly deer?


    However, before Shen Yijia could be happy for long, Song Jingchen suddenly stopped.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Song Jingchen frowned and walked forward to carry Shen Yijia off Furball. He said softly, ¡°We¡¯re lost.¡±


    There was something strange about the appearance of this thick fog, and it wasn¡¯t poisonous. Song Jingchen felt that it wasn¡¯t that simple, so he specially paid attention to his surroundings.


    As expected, he discovered a problem.


    Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and walked to a withered tree. ¡°Do you remember this tree?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She carefully observed the withered tree and compared it with the branch she had casually broken out of boredom. Indeed, it matched a broken limb on the withered tree.


    However, she broke the tree branch at least half an hour ago. During this period, they walked back to where they came from.


    ¡°Master, I think I threw this aside earlier.¡± Thirty Thousand picked up a fruit core and showed it to Song Jingchen.

 Chapter 320 - 320 Found It (2)

    320 Found It (2)


    There was a little dirt on it. It was still fresh.


    Along the way, Thirty Thousand would show Mo Yuan any wild fruits he saw to see if they were poisonous. If they weren¡¯t, he would pick some.


    No one ate, except for him.


    After entering the fog, he did not dare to run around again. He had already finished his stockpile. If this was the first time they had passed through, the core would not be here.


    Shen Yijia inexplicably felt a chill down her spine, as if someone was blowing into her ear.


    Whoosh.


    She shuddered and jumped onto Song Jingchen¡¯s body. Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist and she buried her face in his neck.


    Song Jingchen almost lost his balance because of her sudden actions. He took a few steps back to stabilize himself.


    Realizing their posture, his ears burned. He coughed dryly and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s a ghost!¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was low, and Song Jingchen could only hear her breathing.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He guessed that she was mistaken. He found it funny. She wasn¡¯t afraid of the wild wolves, but she was actually afraid of something illusory.


    And she herself¡­


    Song Jingchen retracted his thoughts and patted Shen Yijia¡¯s back to comfort her. ¡°We must have been distracted by this fog, so we¡¯ve been circling around.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia asked in a muffled voice.


    ¡°Really.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was firm.


    Shen Yijia raised her head and carefully looked behind her. Then, she looked around. There were only trees in the fog.


    Meeting Song Jingchen¡¯s half-smile, Shen Yijia felt a little embarrassed. She jumped down from him and tugged at her ears. ¡°Then where should we go now?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and pondered. He had a guess, but he still had to verify it.


    He said, ¡°Let¡¯s try walking again.¡±


    This time, Song Jingchen walked in front. At regular intervals, he would mark a direction on the tree trunks they passed.


    Shen Yijia followed closely behind him. Seeing him like this, she forgot to imagine anything out of curiosity.


    After walking for nearly an hour.


    ¡°Hubby, look.¡±


    The withered tree appeared in front of them again.


    Shen Yijia was not afraid now, but her head was filled with question marks. They had clearly been walking forward.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and became even more curious about the thing behind the parchment. He walked to the withered tree and looked at the mark he had made. He said in a low voice, ¡°It should be a smokescreen.¡±


    As a child, he had seen people perform tricks and read such books out of curiosity.


    The so-called magic trick was actually a diversionary tactic, but it was relatively superficial.


    Deeper illusions could even be used in formations.


    The thick fog narrowed their field of vision. They thought they had been moving forward, but they were actually circling.


    This seemed simple, but people would always feel fear towards the unknown. The fear in their hearts would mess up their thoughts, and they could only be trapped in the end.


    This should be the reason why there were no ferocious beasts here.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned. In her previous life, she lived in seclusion. Otherwise, she would have known that there was something called magic.


    Song Jingchen explained his guess. Seeing that Shen Yijia was frowning, he rubbed her head in amusement. ¡°Think about it slowly in the future. Let¡¯s go out first.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded meekly.


    Looking at Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand¡¯s expressions, she knew that they were the same as her. They still didn¡¯t know much, so Shen Yijia felt better.


    It wasn¡¯t that she was too stupid, but that her beautiful husband was too smart.


    This time, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t insist on making marks. He walked in a general direction for a while and stopped.


    Shen Yijia saw him close his eyes and think for a moment. He turned in another direction. In short, in Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, the path he took was full of twists and turns.


    However, after repeating this a few times, the thick fog around them became fainter and fainter until it disappeared.


    Shen Yijia felt that the veil covering her eyes had been lifted. It felt great.


    After leaving the fog, the few of them ate some simple rations to fill their stomachs before continuing their journey.


    Of course, Shen Yijia ate the jerky that Song Jingchen had prepared in advance.


    Shen Yijia often ate alone along the way. She no longer knew what embarrassment was. As she ate, she would occasionally stuff a few pieces into Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth.


    This place was very close to the place marked by the route. After walking for less than an hour¡­


    Looking at the scene in front of her, Shen Yijia was dumbfounded.


    It wasn¡¯t the cave she had imagined, nor was it like in the book. She imagined that there would be a rock mountain in front of them, and when they found the mechanism, a secret door would appear.

 Chapter 321 - 321 Found It (3)

    321 Found It (3)


    What she saw was a cliff. Standing on the edge and looking down, she could still see the smoky scene.


    So, were they supposed to jump off the cliff now?


    Could it be that the original host¡¯s mother had traveled thousands of miles to seek death when she wanted the original host to die?


    Could it be that this place was a treasured land?


    Song Jingchen saw Shen Yijia standing there with a strange expression and thought that she was afraid. He pulled her back a few steps and suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t you stay here instead of going down later?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°You¡¯re going down?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. Since he was already here, he couldn¡¯t give up halfway.


    ¡°But isn¡¯t the mark on it¡­¡± Shen Yijia paused and opened her mouth for a long time before saying, ¡°You mean below here?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible. We won¡¯t know until we go down.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t finish his sentence. After all, he didn¡¯t even know what it was.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°How do we get down?¡±


    If her beautiful husband wanted to go down, she naturally wouldn¡¯t stay here alone.


    Song Jingchen looked at Thirty Thousand. Thirty Thousand immediately untied his bag and took out a few sets of hooks.


    He was too well prepared.


    She clearly didn¡¯t know that they were going to climb a mountain. However, Song Jingchen knew, so how could he not have prepared this in advance?


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, Thirty Thousand fixed one end of the hook to a huge rock.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°I¡¯ll go down too.¡±


    At most, she would just turn into a pile of meat paste. Fifteen years later, she would be back to normal again.


    Song Jingchen found it funny when he saw her fearless expression. ¡°Let Thirty Thousand go down and see the situation first.¡±


    Every time there was danger, the two masters would do it. There was no need to mention the frustration in Thirty Thousand¡¯s heart.


    He even asked himself if his master was too outstanding or if he was too useless.


    He didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to let him go first. Thirty Thousand didn¡¯t look like he was going to do something dangerous. Instead, he looked like he had received a reward.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    After Thirty Thousand received the instructions, he tied one end of the rope to his waist. When he reached the edge of the cliff, he thought of something and turned around to cup his hands at Song Jingchen.


    After that, he walked up to Mo Yuan. ¡°Mo Yuan, I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Mo Yuan was speechless.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Thirty Thousand went down. Shen Yijia walked to the edge of the cliff and watched him move down bit by bit until his figure was covered in smoke.


    Shen Yijia broke out in a cold sweat.


    This might end up as a meat paste set meal.


    Fortunately, an hour later, Thirty Thousand appeared again.


    ¡°He¡¯s back,¡± Shen Yijia said in surprise.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. This was faster than he had imagined.


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s a cave on the cliff below. I went in to take a look. It should be man-made,¡± Thirty Thousand reported as soon as he came up. His eyes flashed with excitement.


    Actually, other than Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia, no one knew why they were here. They only guessed that they were looking for something.


    Hearing this, Song Jingchen could basically confirm that the parchment and key were meant to lead to this place.


    He looked at Shen Yijia, a silent question in his eyes.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Without hesitation, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    She could already see a large amount of gold and silver beckoning to her.


    Knowing that Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t change her mind easily once she made a decision, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t persuade her anymore. He took out another set of locking hooks and tied one end of the rope to her waist.


    Shen Yijia tugged at the rope and reminded him carefully, ¡°Tie it tighter.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head in amusement. After tying himself up with another rope, he instructed Thirty Thousand, ¡°Guard the area above to prevent anything from biting off the rope.¡±


    Actually, Song Jingchen had his own motives for making this arrangement. He felt that the fewer people knew about Shen Yijia¡¯s abilities, the better.


    He reminded Shen Yijia a few more things to take note of before walking to the edge of the cliff and climbing down the cliff bit by bit.


    Shen Yijia patted her chest to cheer herself up. She took a few deep breaths and closed her eyes before imitating Song Jingchen.


    She first wrapped the rope around her arm a few times to prevent any accidents from happening. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t know how long it would take to regain her balance if she only relied on the rope around her waist.


    She knocked on the cliff wall and stepped on the protruding stones as a fulcrum. She carefully climbed down.


    Song Jingchen was below. If he felt that the protruding stones were too far apart, he would use his dagger to chisel a hole in the cliff wall for Shen Yijia to support herself.


    This made it convenient for Shen Yijia, but it also greatly reduced their speed.


    It had only taken an hour for Thirty Thousand to enter the cave. They should have arrived in less than half an hour, but the truth was that it was far from that.


    The cave on the cliff was not difficult to find because there was a protruding platform at the entrance of the cave.


    With Song Jingchen¡¯s help, Shen Yijia landed steadily and finally felt at ease.


    Looking at this cave, Shen Yijia could not help but sigh at her luck. The place she came down from was coincidentally facing this platform. Otherwise, she might have missed it.


    Shen Yijia patted the dust off her hands and looked at Song Jingchen with sparkling eyes. ¡°Let¡¯s go in.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±

 Chapter 322 - 322 Secret Room

    322 Secret Room


    The cave was as tall as an adult man and was wide enough for about three to four people. It extended all the way into the mountain.


    There were obvious signs of man-made excavation on the walls of the cave. It was dark inside, and there was no end to it. From afar, it looked like a huge abyss that could swallow someone at any moment.


    Shen Yijia held a matchstick in her hand and let Song Jingchen pull her along. At first, the two of them walked carefully, afraid that there were some hidden mechanisms inside.


    However, after walking for half an hour, nothing unexpected happened.


    In front of the two of them was a stone door. There were candlesticks on both sides of the stone door. The candlesticks were covered in a thick layer of dust. It was obvious that no one had been here for a long time.


    It took Shen Yijia a while to light the candles on it, and the surroundings lit up.


    Shen Yijia searched for a long time but could not find a keyhole. ¡°How do I open this?¡±


    Song Jingchen fumbled with the stone door and finally fixed his gaze on the candlestick.


    He placed his hand on the candlestick on the left and paused. ¡°Stand behind me.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not understand, but she still obediently took a few steps behind Song Jingchen.


    Only then did Song Jingchen turn the candlestick hard.


    There was a click.


    Immediately after.


    Whoosh!


    A dense hole suddenly appeared in the stone door, and several sharp arrows shot out with a whoosh.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted. Just as she was about to move, Song Jingchen had already grabbed her waist with one hand and rushed back. He pulled out the sword at his waist with the other to block the arrows.


    After a few seconds, the arrows stopped. There were already many sharp arrows stuck near their feet.


    ¡°This is too sinister,¡± Shen Yijia complained.


    The first part of the journey made them lower their guard. The sudden attack at the door was definitely sinister.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It¡¯s for catching people off guard.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re good-looking. Anything you say is right.¡±


    The arrow hole in the stone door closed and disappeared after the arrows stopped. Shen Yijia saw Song Jingchen looking at the candlestick on the right.


    She beat him to it. ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    With that, she flashed over and turned the candlestick. Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t stop her even if he wanted to.


    Fortunately, nothing unexpected happened this time, because Shen Yijia broke off the candlestick.


    She broke it off.


    Shen Yijia was a little stunned as she held the candlestick. She swore that she had only turned it gently.


    Song Jingchen was also a little surprised. He walked over and checked the fracture. He wanted to laugh, but when he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s helpless expression, he held it in.


    He cleared his throat. ¡°This isn¡¯t a mechanism.¡±


    Therefore, if she couldn¡¯t move it, Shen Yijia would twist it off.


    Shen Yijia blushed. She might as well not explain.


    In order to prevent Shen Yijia from feeling even more awkward, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t continue this topic. Instead, he looked at the candlestick on the left again.


    He pursed his lips and reached out to turn it again, only this time it was in the opposite direction.


    He finally realized that the person who designed these things had a characteristic. He liked to catch people off guard. Ordinary people would not dare to touch this candlestick again even if they weren¡¯t killed by the arrows.


    He refused to act the way the creator wanted.


    The clicking sound came again.


    Shen Yijia stood beside Song Jingchen solemnly and stared at the stone door with a tense expression. She was waiting for an accident to happen before retreating with Song Jingchen.


    However, she was disappointed again.


    This time, a hole appeared in the stone door, but no hidden weapons flew out.


    ¡°This is a keyhole, right?¡± Shen Yijia was numb. She felt that she was useless.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen took out the key and handed it to Shen Yijia. If he didn¡¯t give her a chance to show off, she would probably explode.


    Shen Yijia remained silent.


    She took the key and inserted it into the hole. The stone door slowly opened.


    As the stone door opened, a gentle light shone out, revealing the situation behind the stone door to the two of them.


    Looking at the stone room the size of a palace in front of her, Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth fell open in shock. How much labor did it take to dig such a huge stone room in the mountain?


    Of course, what surprised her the most was not how big the stone room was, but the glowing beads embedded in the stone walls inside.


    She had seen this in the book. It was called a night pearl.


    One pearl was already priceless. There should be at least ten to twenty of them here, right? How many cities were they worth? They were actually placed here just to illuminate the place?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She imagined that she had already reached the peak of her life. Not to mention raising a beautiful husband, she wouldn¡¯t be short of money even if she raised eight or ten of him.


    Unlike Shen Yijia¡¯s money-grubber look, Song Jingchen¡¯s attention was not attracted by the night pearls.


    Song Jingchen stared fixedly at one of the portraits hanging in the middle of the stone wall.


    Shen Yijia took a few steps before realizing that Song Jingchen was motionless. She followed his gaze.


    There were two portraits hanging there, a man and a woman. When she saw the woman¡¯s portrait, her pupils constricted and she muttered, ¡°Is that¡­ me?¡±


    Song Jingchen was pulled back from his thoughts and tried his best to suppress the shock in his heart. He walked forward and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. He said softly, ¡°No, it just looks similar.¡±


    The woman in the portrait had a flower bud identical to Shen Yijia¡¯s. Actually, he almost missed the difference at first glance.


    Shen Yijia blinked and let him pull her into the stone room.


    The two sides of the stone room were filled with mahogany boxes. The middle was empty. There was a stone platform in the middle of the stone wall, and the portrait was hanging above the stone platform.


    When she got closer, Shen Yijia realized that it was indeed as Song Jingchen had said. The woman in the portrait was not exactly the same as her. At most, she could see some of her own reflection in the woman¡¯s face.


    The woman was dressed in white, and her black hair flowed down like clouds. She had an elegant and otherworldly aura, and there was no expression on her face. The woman in the portrait gave off a cold aura.


    ¡°What does it say?¡± Shen Yijia pointed at a line of small words on the portrait.


    It was different from what she had learned in her previous life and what Song Jingchen had taught her.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°The first Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, Ji Ruyue.¡±


    ¡°What about this?¡± Shen Yijia was referring to the man¡¯s portrait.


    The man was dressed in a black robe. His sharp facial features were abnormally handsome, but Shen Yijia felt that his starry eyes emitted a deep sadness.


    ¡°The first high priest of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, Si Nan.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Was there anything her beautiful husband didn¡¯t understand?


    Without waiting for her to ask, Song Jingchen explained, ¡°These are the words of the previous dynasty.¡±


    Divination tactics were popular in the previous dynasty. Warlocks were once highly respected, and the emperor even conferred the title of Imperial Preceptor on the best of them.


    The most ridiculous thing was that some people even had divine in advance when they went out, wore clothes, and had sex.


    Because of the blind admiration of the commoners, the imperial preceptor¡¯s words were sometimes even more useful than an imperial edict.


    When things reached an extreme, they would definitely rebel. No emperor would be willing to have someone above him.


    The emperor held a grudge against the imperial preceptor and began to suppress the warlocks.


    Most of the Imperial Preceptors of the previous dynasty came to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    It was rumored that the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets only assisted the emperor and the generals.


    However, as the previous dynasty was destroyed, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets also disappeared.


    There were very few records about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, so Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know much about it.

 Chapter 323 - 323 High Priest (1)

    323 High Priest (1)


    ¡°The Valley of Heavenly Secrets was once deified by people in the previous dynasty.¡± Song Jingchen added.


    Valley of Heavenly Secrets? Shen Yijia frowned. Wasn¡¯t they just fortune-tellers? She had read a lot about divination in story books. It was actually just some tricks to deceive people.


    She was not interested in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, the Valley Master, the High Priest, or the previous dynasty.


    What concerned Shen Yijia was why the person in the portrait had the same flower bud as her. She subconsciously reached out and touched her forehead.


    Putting aside whether Madam Wang was related to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    The flower bud between her eyebrows grew because she upgraded the spiritual liquid. Could it be that the woman in the portrait was the same as her?


    However, she had the spiritual liquid in her previous life. This had nothing to do with the original host.


    Instead of saying that Madam Wang had left the map and key for the original host, why did it seem more like she had left it for her?


    However, Madam Wang could not possibly have known in advance that her daughter would die and let her body be occupied by a soul from another world, right?


    ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± Song Jingchen suddenly interrupted Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts.


    Shen Yijia blinked and pointed at her forehead. She asked tentatively, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m related to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    ¡°As far as I know, the second daughter of the Shen family was indeed born after ten months of pregnancy, while the Wang family is just an ordinary merchant family, so it¡¯s impossible for them to be related to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡± Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia meaningfully.


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. That¡¯s right. She was the Second Miss of the Shen family now. What did the Valley of Heavenly Secrets have to do with her?


    She nodded seriously. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head, and a solemn expression flashed across his face. Unfortunately, Shen Yijia was looking down at the things on the stone platform and didn¡¯t see it.


    It was unknown how the things inside were preserved, but there was not a trace of dust on the stone platform. If not for the fact that the candlesticks outside the stone door were covered in dust, she would have believed that someone cleaned this place every day.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Shen Yijia picked up an object shaped like a round dome and knocked on it. It was quite hard.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°A turtle shell.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood. She took out a handful of copper coins from her pouch and placed them in. She picked them up and shook them. She grinned at Song Jingchen. ¡°Sir, do you want to make a divination?¡±


    The gloominess in Song Jingchen¡¯s heart dissipated because of her actions. The corners of his lips curled up slightly as he reached out and touched the turtle shell. ¡°Divination only needs three copper coins.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°The more the merrier.¡±


    With that, she put all the copper coins back into her pouch and tossed the turtle shell back onto the stone platform. She began to look at other things.


    Actually, there were only three things on the stone platform. One was a book, one was a turtle shell, and the other was a box.


    Shen Yijia was not interested in books. She picked up the box and opened it. Inside was a jade token the size of a baby¡¯s palm.


    The small piece of jade was heavier than Shen Yijia had expected.


    The jade token was emerald green in color, translucent and pure, like congealed fat. Two words were engraved on it.


    It looked familiar.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the words on the portrait, then at the jade pendant, then at the portrait, and the jade pendant¡­


    Before she could compare it, Song Jingchen¡¯s laughter came from the side. ¡°You¡¯re not mistaken. It¡¯s the word ¡®Heavenly Secrets¡¯.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her ears with a red face and handed the jade token to Song Jingchen. ¡°Do you think this is valuable?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent. ¡°It¡¯s more valuable than the night pearl you saw just now.¡±


    Moreover, the fact that this jade token could be placed here was probably not just a question of its value.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She was rich.


    Without another word, she stuffed the jade token into Song Jingchen¡¯s hands. ¡°It¡¯s for you.¡±


    This was the most valuable thing she had so far.


    It was as if the jade pendant was hers. She did not feel that she had taken someone else¡¯s things at all.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and silently put away the jade pendant. He was worried that if he left it with this girl, she would pawn it one day when she lacked money.


    He picked up the book and read it. The first half was mostly about how the Valley of Heavenly Secrets assisted the emperor.


    For example, when and what hexagrams were divined, and why.


    This sounded like a living record.


    Song Jingchen casually flipped through it and realized that the second half of the content had suddenly changed. The handwriting didn¡¯t come from the same person.


    The more he read, the deeper his frown became.


    Shen Yijia was curious. She leaned over to take a look and realized that she could not understand a word. She scratched her head and asked curiously, ¡°What does it say?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up at her and pursed his lips.


    It turned out that at first, the emperor of the previous dynasty had only suppressed the commoners who practiced divination. Later on, he even attacked the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, causing the disciples of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to suffer heavy losses.

 Chapter 324 - 324 High Priest (2)

    324 High Priest (2)


    The disciples of the valley had racked their brains to assist the emperor, but they died tragically because of the emperor¡¯s suspicion.


    For the sake of the people of the world, they could not take revenge. They could only choose to live in seclusion and never appear again.


    At that time, the Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had even left behind an ancestral teaching that the descendants of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets could no longer associate with the royal family.


    This explained why no one knew about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, which everyone in the previous dynasty respected as gods.


    !!


    Even the books related to the Heavenly Secrets Valley had probably been destroyed by them.


    What was passed down had only been briefly mentioned.


    Just like what Song Jingchen had seen.


    However, this was only a one-sided story. It was impossible to find out the truth.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. Why were they as unlucky as her beautiful husband? Emperors were indeed evil.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was engrossed in his book, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t disturb him anymore. She turned to look at the large wooden boxes piled around.


    The large wooden boxes were arranged neatly along the stone wall. Some of them were even stacked together. Shen Yijia estimated that there were at least a hundred of them.


    Looking at these boxes, Shen Yijia felt like she was searching for treasure because she did not know what was inside. She rubbed her hands excitedly and slowly opened the boxes in front of her.


    It was filled with books!


    Shen Yijia was a little disappointed. She thought that if she opened it, it would be filled with dazzling treasures.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. This is only the first one.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia secretly clenched her fists and opened the second, third, and fourth chest.


    After opening all the boxes on one side, Shen Yijia was so tired that she sat on the ground. It was not physical fatigue, but psychological.


    None of the dozens of boxes were filled with money. They were either books, paintings, brushes, inkstones, or paper.


    Shen Yijia was numb. She felt that her beautiful husband must have made a mistake. The Valley of Heavenly Secrets was not a divination sect at all. It was a bookstore!


    Didn¡¯t divination require copper coins? Shen Yijia wouldn¡¯t be so suspicious if there were a few boxes of copper coins.


    She looked at the other box in frustration. She gritted her teeth and walked over to open it.


    Finally. It wasn¡¯t filled with books. It was a box of cloth.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. So not only did the Valley of Heavenly Secrets open a bookstore, but they also opened a cloth shop at the same time?


    Then could she also sell these things?


    Unexpectedly, just as she thought this, the cloth in front of her visibly eroded.


    Unwilling to give up, she went to open other boxes. There were no exceptions.


    In the end, half of the boxes were empty.


    ¡°What¡¯s up with this place?¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger. She thought that she was going to be rich.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gentle voice sounded. ¡°These are all fabrics from the imperial tributes of the previous dynasty. It¡¯s hard to find them even with money. For there to be so much here, it can be seen how important the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were to the emperor.¡±


    However, so what if he valued them? Once the emperor suspected them, they could not escape death.


    When Shen Yijia heard him say this, she reached out and picked up a handful of dust. She blew at it gently and said with a pained expression, ¡°But it¡¯s all gone now.¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled her up in amusement and took out a handkerchief to carefully wipe her face.


    Shen Yijia asked curiously, ¡°Why do you think the previous emperor rewarded them with these instead of gold, silver, and treasures?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°I suppose Emperor Yanqing likes it.¡±


    Emperor Yanqing was the name of the last emperor of the previous dynasty.


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked silently, ¡°Are you serious?¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s true. Rumor has it that a merchant sent a piece of cloth as light as a cicada¡¯s wing into the palace. Emperor Yanqing directly made him a marquis and a chancellor. At that time, clothes could represent a person¡¯s status, and the cloth could be used as currency.¡±


    Therefore, these things could indeed be considered to be huge wealth in the previous dynasty.


    Moreover, if Emperor Yanqing was not so ridiculous, the previous dynasty would not have fallen so quickly.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She just wanted to sigh and say that she was born at the wrong time.


    Seeing her shocked expression, Song Jingchen comforted her. ¡°Most of those books are ancient books, and most of the calligraphy and paintings are famous calligraphy treasures¡­ They can be exchanged for a lot of money. The brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones are all extraordinary.¡±


    Before meeting Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen had never thought that he would one day equate the things that these scholars pursued with money.


    After all, Song Jingchen liked these things. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have read all kinds of books.


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Seeing that she was finally not sulking, Song Jingchen continued, ¡°Yes, and I took a look at those boxes earlier. They¡¯re all made of rosewood and are worth a lot of money.¡±

 Chapter 325 - 325 High Priest (3)

    325 High Priest (3)


    ¡°Then how do we get it out?¡± Shen Yijia was excited. If her beautiful husband said that something was valuable, it was definitely valuable.


    Song Jingchen pondered for a moment and said, ¡°We¡¯ll send someone to transport it after a few days.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia nodded repeatedly.


    She thought for a moment and walked to the stone platform to take down the two paintings. She took out a matchstick.


    ¡°You¡¯re going to burn them?¡± Song Jingchen felt that he couldn¡¯t keep up with Shen Yijia¡¯s train of thought.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t answer and used her actions to tell Song Jingchen that he had guessed correctly.


    She felt inexplicably disgusted by the words ¡°Valley of Heavenly Secrets¡±. Since they had already retired from the world, it was better not to let these words appear in the eyes of the world.


    Shen Yijia had no idea that if anyone in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets saw her actions, they would hate her to the core.


    However, even if Shen Yijia knew, she would not be afraid. Not to mention burning a portrait of her ancestor, she would even dare to burn down the entire valley in the future.


    However, that¡¯s a story for another time.


    Next, Shen Yijia waited for the portrait to turn to ashes before picking up the turtle shell on the stone platform and shattering it into pieces.


    Song Jingchen saw that she didn¡¯t react to burning the portrait, but his forehead couldn¡¯t help but twitch.


    He suspected that Shen Yijia¡¯s strength had no limit. It completely depended on what she wanted to do.


    In short, she was his wife. He could not afford to offend her.


    After destroying everything related to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, Shen Yijia looked at the night pearls embedded in the stone wall again.


    Song Jingchen noticed her gaze and the corners of his mouth twitched. He reminded her, ¡°Those are all embedded in the stone wall. You can¡¯t dig them out.¡±


    If it were anything else, Shen Yijia would definitely believe Song Jingchen¡¯s words. However, this time, she thought that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe in her strength.


    Most importantly, she could not resist the wealth equivalent to more than ten cities.


    Hence, Shen Yijia went to dig.


    A loud crack sounded.


    She broke off half of a complete Night Pearl, and the remaining half was embedded in the stone wall.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°So my dream of casually raising more beautiful husbands can¡¯t be fulfilled?¡±


    Song Jingchen covered the corners of his mouth with his fist.


    Shen Yijia was on the verge of exploding. He felt that if he laughed out loud at this moment, this girl would definitely explode.


    In the end, apart from the jade token and the book about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, the two of them did not take anything with them.


    There was no need to mention how depressed Shen Yijia was.


    After the previous dynasty was destroyed, the world was divided into three kingdoms. Apart from Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom, there was also the Xuanyuan Kingdom, which was superior to these two dynasties in terms of military strength and economy.


    The three countries faced off against each other, restraining each other.


    Even if the Xuanyuan Kingdom was stronger in all aspects, they would not dare to attack Great Xia or the Wu Kingdom casually.


    This was because once the Xuanyuan Kingdom sent troops to attack one of the countries, in order to prevent their dynasty from becoming its next target, the two countries would definitely band together.


    Similarly, the Xuanyuan Kingdom was also afraid that Great Xia would cooperate with the Wu Kingdom, or that one of these two countries would annex the other.


    It was precisely because of this restraint that there was less conflict at the borders, temporarily maintaining the illusion of peace.


    No one knew that the hidden sanctuary of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was in the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    ¡°High Priest.¡±


    ¡°High Priest.¡±


    Under the setting sun, a handsome middle-aged man in a black robe walked leisurely on the stone path.


    The people who had been working in the fields all day and were about to go home stopped and greeted him when they saw him. The man smiled and nodded in response.


    This was a beautiful valley. Apart from the disciples of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, there were also many ordinary citizens who had followed them into seclusion.


    They worked at sunrise and rested at sunset. They were completely hidden away from the commotion of the world. They relied on themselves for food and clothes.


    The man called the high priest came to a cave. There was a wooden sign hanging at the entrance of the cave. On it were the words ¡°Forbidden Area¡±.


    He paused at the entrance of the cave for a moment, stroked his robe, and walked in unhurriedly.


    Candlelight burned around the cave. The man walked for about 15 minutes before stopping in front of a stone door.


    He fumbled with the stone door a few times, and it slowly opened.


    There was a huge iron cage in the stone room, and a woman in white sat inside.


    The woman¡¯s black hair flowed freely. Because her back was facing the stone door, her appearance could not be seen clearly.


    If one looked carefully, they would discover that the woman¡¯s limbs were all chained up.


    ¡°Are you still unwilling to say where you hid the Valley Master¡¯s jade token?¡± The middle-aged man looked at the slender back and asked.

 Chapter 326 - 326 Secret Room (1)

    326 Secret Room (1)


    The woman in white turned a deaf ear to the man¡¯s words. She only threw the three copper coins to the ground again and again.


    She kept repeating the motion, as if she would never get tired of it.


    The middle-aged man was not surprised by her attitude. After all, this was the scene he saw every time he came here for the past six years.


    The difference was that this time, he did not leave directly like usual. Instead, he walked in front of the woman.


    Looking at the woman¡¯s hideous face covered in scars, he sighed and said, ¡°It¡¯s been six years, Ji Luo. You¡¯re still so stubborn.¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s hands stopped for a moment, but she quickly continued.


    ¡°Do you still remember the last divination you made 18 years ago? When the Purple Star shows up, the True Dragon will appear.¡±


    The middle-aged man did not seem to expect her to answer him. He squatted down and looked at her at eye level. He continued like he was chatting to an old friend, ¡°Now that 18 years have passed, it won¡¯t be long before the balance between the three countries is broken.¡±


    ¡°In the end, the True Dragon will unify the world. At that time, our Valley of Heavenly Secrets will stand in front of the world again and become an existence respected by everyone, just like our ancestors.¡±


    After saying that, the middle-aged man¡¯s eyes were filled with madness.


    However, Ji Luo still ignored him and did not even look up.


    The middle-aged man was angered by her appearance. He suddenly reached through the iron cage and grabbed Ji Luo¡¯s chin, forcing her to look up. He shook his head regretfully. ¡°Unfortunately, that has nothing to do with you anymore. We grew up together. Why did you have to fall in love with someone else?¡±


    As he spoke, his fingers kept rubbing against the scars on Ji Luo¡¯s face.


    He seemed to have thought of something and shook her off. He stood up and his expression became ferocious. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°For that man, as the Valley Master, you disregarded your ancestral teachings and betrayed the valley.¡±


    ¡°It would have been fine if that man was a good person, but look at what happened to him.¡±


    ¡°Ji Luo, do you regret it?¡±


    The ancestral teachings of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets stated that one could not be involved with the royal family. The Valley Master had to marry the High Priest and give birth to the next Valley Master.


    She had broken both rules.


    Did she regret it?


    Ji Luo had asked herself this countless times, but when she thought of that person, she knew that she would never regret it.


    Even if that person betrayed her, she would not regret it.


    Ji Luo picked up the copper coins scattered on the ground one by one and sat down again, just as the middle-aged man had seen when he first entered.


    Seeing his behavior, the man sneered. ¡°I came to tell you today that the Wu Kingdom is already under the control of the True Dragon.¡±


    ¡°Next is Great Xia, then the Xuanyuan Kingdom. You should be familiar with these two places, right?¡±


    The middle-aged man did not say anything else and left.


    Behind him, there was the sound of the stone door closing again. The stone room fell into darkness, and only the faint moonlight shone through the hole in the mountaintop.


    Ji Luo slowly looked up at the night sky and suddenly smiled. She said in a hoarse voice, ¡°It¡¯s been six years. So sixteen years have passed?¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a tear fell from the corner of her eye.


    After a long time, she reached out and wiped away the tear. She looked at the three copper coins in her hand and sneered.


    The divination from 18 years ago was her last divination in the valley. When she escaped, she had indeed sworn not to do it again.


    Unfortunately, they had all underestimated a mother¡¯s heart.


    As long as she could protect her child, she had nothing to fear from being punished for breaking her oath.


    However, it was during that divination that she discovered a variable.


    This change meant that these people would not get what they wanted.


    She was waiting for these people to bring about the destruction of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    In a two-story bamboo building, a beautiful woman sat in front of a dressing table and let the maidservants help her with her hair.


    Looking at her beautiful self in the mirror, she asked, ¡°Did the high priest go there again?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I saw the high priest just come out,¡± the white-robed girl standing at the side replied.


    With a clang, the woman threw a dagger onto the dresser. ¡°Go. Same old rules. Three cuts. Remember to go deeper this time.¡±


    With that, the woman reached out and touched her cheek.


    Her voice was gentle and there was a smile on her face, but her words were extremely vicious.


    The girl in white was not surprised at all. She picked up the dagger, cupped her hands, and left. She walked towards the forbidden area with familiarity.


    When Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen returned to the cliff, it was already dark. The two people and the tiger saw them and heaved a sigh of relief when they saw them return.


    Furball brought over a pheasant from somewhere and placed it at Shen Yijia¡¯s feet. It rubbed against her legs affectionately.


    It was obvious that Furball was trying to please her.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Did something happen that I don¡¯t know about? You¡¯ve only been gone for half a day, but you¡¯ve become so attentive. In the past, only Song Jingchen received such treatment from you.¡±


    Furball didn¡¯t care what she thought. It left after rubbing against her.


    It only returned after 15 minutes. This time, she brought back a wild boar cub.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with it?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously.


    Thirty Thousand said, ¡°You didn¡¯t eat at noon, right?¡±


    The two masters had gone down the cliff and never returned. They did not know what was going on, so they did not dare to go down and look for them.


    As long as Young Madam was not around, Mo Yuan would not cook at all. The meatballs Thirty Thousand roasted tasted bad, too.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. This little Furball was trying to please her because it wanted her beautiful husband to roast meat for it.


    This scheming tiger finally knew who to please in this family. It seemed that she had not eaten alone for nothing these few days. It had not been easy!


    ¡°Is there a water source nearby?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Shen Yijia was about to finish the dried jerky, so she could make more this time.


    Thirty Thousand said, ¡°I found a cave nearby. There¡¯s a hidden pool in the cave.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and asked Thirty Thousand to lead the way.


    This cave was different from the one they had spent the night in. There was a stone bed inside and a few pots and jars in the corner.


    It could be seen that someone had once lived here, but it must have been a long time ago.


    Because both the stone bed and the pots were covered in a thick layer of dust.


    They started a fire which lit up the cave. Song Jingchen looked around and said, ¡°Let¡¯s rest here tonight.¡±


    Then, he instructed Thirty Thousand to follow Furball to find more prey.


    After Mo Yuan cleaned up the pheasant and wild boar, Shen Yijia also washed the pots.


    Song Jingchen stewed wild chicken soup in a pot.


    Furball, who had returned with Thirty Thousand, was so anxious that it circled the remaining prey.


    Shen Yijia happily drank wild chicken soup with Song Jingchen. She was amused by its appearance. ¡°Mo Yuan, roast more meat for it.¡±


    Of course, only she could eat what her beautiful husband made.


    After everyone ate and drank their fill, Song Jingchen started to make the remaining meat into jerky.


    The night passed uneventfully. The next morning, they set off down the mountain.

 Chapter 327 - 327 Third Prince Shangguan Heng

    327 Third Prince Shangguan Heng


    Even though Shen Yijia was leading the way when they went up the mountain, it was much more convenient for them to go down the mountain.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s tuneless singing sounded intermittently in the forest again. Song Jingchen looked at the person sitting on Furball¡¯s back and smiled.


    More than three months had passed. The people Emperor Chong¡¯an had sent to investigate the disappearance of the young girl had also returned one after another. Just as Shangguan Han had said to Lord Zhou back then, this kind of thing did not only happen in Xunyang City.


    The results of the secret investigation by the Shadow Guards were the same. As long as it was a remote town, many young girls would disappear every year. Dead or alive, they were nowhere to be seen, and their whereabouts were still unknown.


    Because most of the missing girls were children of poor families, many people felt that it was fine to lose a good-for-nothing. They could not even be bothered to report the disappearances to the authorities.


    Even if some people went to report it, they would end up with nothing. Moreover, there had been a saying since ancient times that the government office didn¡¯t welcome anyone with no money.


    How many of those officials who lived in remote areas would do anything?


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked at the secret letter sent by the Shadow Guards and was furious. ¡°Alright, because a county magistrate took over this case, he died at home in less than three days. If I investigate, will I also die while working on this case? Is this world still my world?¡±


    The disappearance of young girls everywhere was actually within Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s expectations. However, he did not expect an official to lose his life because of this. He could not help but feel furious.


    When an official died in office, it was usually reported by his superiors. After the report changed hands many times, the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs reported it to Emperor Chong¡¯an and arranged for an official to replace him.


    When this report landed in Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s hands, the truth behind it had long been changed. If he had not asked the Shadow Guards to investigate this time, he would probably still be in the dark after being usurped.


    ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s time to go to court.¡± Eunuch Li¡¯s voice came from outside the hall.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an suppressed his anger and burned the secret letter before letting them in.


    In the past, Emperor Chong¡¯an had always ignored the matter of the court officials appointing a crown prince. However, this time, he took the initiative to mention it in the court, allowing the court officials to express their opinions.


    After the ministers finished arguing below, Emperor Chong¡¯an glanced at the princes standing at the front and said with a fake smile that he would consider it.


    In the minister¡¯s opinion, this simple sentence meant that Emperor Chong¡¯an had relented. It was only a matter of time before he appointed a prince as the crown prince.


    After the court session, Emperor Chong¡¯an called the princes to the imperial study.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an did not have many children in his life, especially in recent years.


    Excluding those who had yet to grow up, there were still six princes and three princesses left.


    Apart from Shangguan Han, who had been demoted to Xunyang, there were five other princes in the capital.


    Among them, the Sixth Prince was still young and had yet to leave the palace. The other four already had their own residences and would more or less participate in some government affairs.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an had always been afraid of the deposed empress. There was actually another reason why the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence was destroyed.


    After the disinheritance of the fifth prince, Shangguan Han, a few princes were born in the harem one after another. However, all of them died inexplicably in infancy.


    It was hard not to suspect that it was done by the deposed empress.


    Inaction before having children could be understood as a bargaining chip without competition.


    However, things were different with Shangguan Han around. The existence of another prince was an additional threat to Shangguan Han.


    It was not difficult to understand why she would attack the other princes for the sake of her son.


    These doubts made Emperor Chong¡¯an even more convinced that if Shangguan Han continued to sit on the throne and allowed the Bulwark Duke Residence to grow stronger day by day, he would sooner or later be forced to abdicate.


    He would never allow such a thing to happen.


    This thought became stronger and stronger as Shangguan Han grew up. Therefore, when Grand Tutor Zhao reported it, he knew that something was fishy, but he still attacked.


    Things were originally within his control. He did not expect that when he placed all his suspicions on Shangguan Han, he would overlook his other sons.


    They had grown up and had developed their own ulterior motives.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an looked at his sons kneeling on the ground with a dark expression. Even the youngest Sixth Prince had been brought over by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    The atmosphere in the imperial study was a little oppressive. Since Emperor Chong¡¯an did not speak, the few of them did not dare to stand up. They only bowed their heads respectfully and knelt without daring to make a sound.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the Second Prince?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an suddenly said.


    Eunuch Li lowered his head in fear and replied, ¡°The Second Prince suffered from a serious illness a few days ago. Didn¡¯t Your Majesty allow him to recuperate at Hidden Spirit Temple?¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an frowned. ¡°He hasn¡¯t recovered yet?¡±


    After a moment of silence, he said, ¡°Make a trip personally later and bring a few imperial physicians to take a look at him. If there¡¯s anything missing, take it from the palace.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s concerned words made the Eldest Prince¡¯s eyes flash.


    ¡°All of you, get up. Why are you kneeling?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an glanced at them and picked up the memorial on the table.


    ¡°Thank you, Father.¡± They stood up.


    ¡°Look, look. These people are all urging me to appoint a crown prince.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an flipped through a few petitions in a row. None of them could avoid discussing the matter of appointing a crown prince. It was as if Great Xia would fall if he did not appoint a crown prince.


    He threw the memorial aside and looked up at them. He seemed to have sensed something and said, ¡°In the blink of an eye, you¡¯ve all grown up. I¡¯m old. Tell me, what do you think about this matter?¡±


    He looked like an easygoing person when he said that.


    The Fourth Prince, Shangguan Yao, was about to speak when the Eldest Prince, Shangguan Pu, beat him to it. ¡°Father, you¡¯re wise. I definitely wouldn¡¯t dare to have such thoughts. Besides, Father is in good spirits. There¡¯s no hurry.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an raised his eyebrows and did not comment on Shangguan Pu¡¯s words. He looked at the Third Prince, Shangguan Heng. ¡°Third Prince, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°I only want to be an idle prince. As for the rest, the world belongs to Father, so Father naturally has the final say.¡± Shangguan Heng looked serious. He had a baby face and looked innocent and harmless, but he was the one who loved to fool around the most among the princes.


    Countless women had fallen in love with him because of his face.


    Apart from the crown prince, in Great Xia, the princes could usually start participating in government matters when they reached the age of tying their hair. The fourth prince had already started taking on some jobs in the Ministry of Revenue last year, but the third prince was only forced to do so at the beginning of this year.


    Apart from the Third Prince, there was another exception, the Second Prince. Firstly, he did not have his biological mother to support him, and secondly, he did not have any external support. Naturally, he was more transparent in the imperial court.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was a little resentful towards the Third Prince for his behavior. He pointed at him and scolded, ¡°If your mother hadn¡¯t begged me, do you think I would have cared about you? The next time an imperial censor comes to me to impeach you for going to those brothels, I¡¯ll throw you into Taipu Temple to raise horses.¡±

 Chapter 328 - 328 Looking for Someone

    328 Looking for Someone


    When Shangguan Heng heard that he had to raise a horse, his face turned pale and he said with a long face, ¡°I think the Ministry of Rites is quite good.¡±


    What was so good about the Ministry of Rites? They were usually free and had nothing to do.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an narrowed his eyes and looked at him for a while. He stared at Shangguan Heng until he broke out in a cold sweat. He turned to look at the sixth prince, Shangguan Ming, who was less than ten years old.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an tested the Sixth Prince on his homework with a few questions before chasing them all away, leaving them confused. Did he call them here just to ask this?


    The princes came out of the imperial study together and parted ways after greeting each other. Shangguan Yao asked softly, ¡°What did Father mean by that?¡±


    Shangguan Pu looked at his younger brother helplessly. From the corner of his eye, he saw Eunuch Li come out of the imperial study.


    He shook his head warningly, indicating that he could not spout nonsense. He slowed down and waited for Eunuch Li to come forward and bow before asking, ¡°Eunuch Li, are you going out of the palace to visit Second Brother?¡±


    Eunuch Li said respectfully, ¡°His Majesty is worried about the Second Prince. I¡¯ll go early to reassure His Majesty.¡±


    Shangguan Pu nodded with a smile. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble Eunuch Li to greet Second Brother for me. Let him know I¡¯ll visit him in a few days.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely relay the Eldest Prince¡¯s words.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, Second Brother¡¯s illness really came at a bad time.¡± At the mention of the Second Prince, Shangguan Yao couldn¡¯t help but speak sarcastically.


    Shangguan Pu coughed dryly. Shangguan Yao followed his gaze and saw a beautiful woman in palace clothes bowing in their direction.


    Shangguan Pu nodded slightly and left the palace with Shangguan Yao.


    A palace maid¡¯s voice came from behind. ¡°Concubine Rou, that¡¯s the Eldest Prince and Fourth Prince¡­¡±


    However, Shangguan Heng did not leave the palace. Instead, he went to the Moon Pavilion where his biological mother, Consort Shu, lived.


    Consort Shu was trimming a pot of Chinese roses in the hall. When she saw her son, she quickly called the palace maids to prepare his favorite snacks.


    ¡°I heard that His Majesty summoned all of you to the imperial study? Did he mention the matter of a crown prince?¡± When only her own people were left in the hall, Consort Shu pulled Shangguan Heng aside and asked.


    Shangguan Heng sat down on the spot where Consort Shu had been sitting. He reached out and plucked a blooming Chinese rose.


    Consort Shu¡¯s heart ached when she saw this. Her reputation was prestigious, and these flowers were her favorite. She usually handled the watering and never let the palace maids touch them.


    Shangguan Heng, on the other hand, broke the flowers without a second thought. However, when she saw that it was her precious son who did it, Consort Shu couldn¡¯t bear to blame him.


    In order to prevent him from ruining the whole pot of flowers, Consort Shu quickly instructed her personal palace maid to move the flowers away.


    ¡°Mother is asking you a question.¡± Consort Shu walked to the other side of the soft couch and sat down.


    Shangguan Heng threw the flowers away and said shamelessly, ¡°Go and ask Father to remove me from my job, then I¡¯ll tell you.¡±


    Consort Shu rubbed her forehead with a headache. In the past, unless Shangguan Heng was short of money, he would only visit her once every month or two.


    Ever since she tactfully asked Emperor Chong¡¯an to arrange an errand for him, he had come over more often, but every time he opened his mouth, he would say this.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to talk about this. Why don¡¯t you think about it carefully? If you don¡¯t work hard and let the noble consort¡¯s son sit in that position, will we be able to live well?¡±


    In the past, the empress was in charge of the harem, and she was the kindest and easiest to talk to. She followed the rules.


    Even if the Fifth Prince sat on the throne in the future, Consort Shu believed that the Empress would not treat the two of them badly. However, the Imperial Concubine was different. That woman was the most ruthless.


    If the Eldest Prince really took that position, they would not be able to gain any advantages.


    Additionally, she had never gotten along with the imperial consort.


    It was fine when the Empress was around, but now, the imperial concubine had the final say in the harem. She really wished she could leave this palace, afraid that the imperial concubine would make a move on her.


    Otherwise, she would not have let Shangguan Heng laze around for so many years before making him fight for this position.


    She wondered if it was too late.


    Thinking of what might happen to her in the future, Consort Shu twisted her handkerchief and sobbed.


    Shangguan Heng was stunned. Why was she crying as she spoke? He reflected on himself and did not dare to say anything else. He honestly told her about what happened in the imperial study.


    He didn¡¯t say anything about his behavior in the study.


    ¡°Does this mean that His Majesty intends to appoint a crown prince?¡± Consort Shu continued to cry.


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s head hurt. ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°Then Brother Heng¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely perform well in front of Father. I won¡¯t let Mother lose her life in her later years.¡±


    Consort Shu retracted the handkerchief in her hand. She no longer looked like she was crying. She asked tentatively, ¡°You said that you didn¡¯t like any of the women in the previous selection process, so Mother didn¡¯t force you.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re not young anymore. You can¡¯t stay single forever. A few days ago, your uncle entered the palace.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shangguan Heng interrupted her and stood up to leave.


    Consort Shu pulled her back. ¡°I just think that Su¡¯e is indeed not bad. I quite like her. Why don¡¯t I go to His Majesty to help you get engaged first? The matter of marriage will be up to you afterwards.¡±


    The Su¡¯e that Consort Shu was talking about was the daughter of Shangguan Heng¡¯s uncle, his cousin.


    Shangguan Heng knew that his good uncle must have run over and said something. He angrily broke free from Consort Shu¡¯s hand. ¡°If you think that Cousin is so good, you might as well let Father take her into the palace. The two of you will have a companion.¡±


    After saying that, he ignored Consort Shu¡¯s pale face and turned to leave.


    Shangguan Heng did not want to get married in the first place, let alone marry Zhang Su¡¯e, who looked like she was about to cry all day.


    After walking out of the Moon Pavilion, Shangguan Heng paused. No, he was clearly here to ask for money. He turned around and wanted to go back. Thinking of what he had just said, he could only give up.


    Forget it, he should go to Hidden Spirit Temple to see his second brother. If he had to say it, his second brother was the most suitable person to sit in that position. Unfortunately, his second brother lacked the help of his mother¡¯s family, and he was not in the mood to participate in the royal court. Otherwise, his eldest brother wouldn¡¯t even stand a chance to become the crown prince.


    Shangguan Heng cursed the Eldest Prince in his heart. As for the Eldest Prince, after left the palace, he did not go to the government office on duty and directly returned to the residence.


    An attendant came up and said something to him. Shangguan Pu frowned and walked towards the guest courtyard.


    As soon as he stepped into the guest courtyard, he saw a slender woman sitting under the porch reading a book.


    The woman looked up when she heard the commotion. Seeing that it was him, surprise flashed across her face. She closed the book and took a few steps forward to bow. ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s originally frustrated heart inexplicably calmed down. He helped her up and asked, ¡°Are you used to living here?¡±


    ¡°This place is very good. Thank you, Your Highness.¡± The woman exuded a quiet and elegant aura.


    Shangguan Pu put his hands behind his back. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    The woman looked up at him and asked with a frown, ¡°Have you not brought it back?¡±


    Shangguan Pu was about to mention this matter when he nodded. ¡°That couple disappeared after leaving Xunyang City. My men haven¡¯t been able to find them.¡±


    The woman tightened her grip.

 Chapter 329 - 329 Recall

    329 Recall


    ¡°That Young Master Shenzhi has been wearing a mask. If he takes off his mask¡­ it¡¯s possible that His Highness¡¯s men won¡¯t recognize him.¡±


    When the woman said this name, hatred flashed across her eyes for only a short moment, but Shangguan Pu, who had been paying attention to her expression, still noticed it.


    ¡°However, his wife, Madam Shen, has a strange flower bud on her forehead. It¡¯s very eye-catching. Moreover, there¡¯s a big tiger beside the couple.¡±


    Shangguan Pu had long known about this. He came today to confirm something else, but he still waited for the woman to finish before asking, ¡°I¡¯ve always heard you call that person Madam Shen. You were on good terms with her back then. Do you know her full name?¡±


    The people sent to Xunyang City could at most find out that her nickname was Jiajia.


    Hearing the word ¡°friend¡±, the woman bit her lip. After a long time, she said the name she did not want to mention. ¡°Shen Yijia.¡±


    Shangguan Pu clenched his fists. He didn¡¯t believe that there was such a coincidence in the world. If he wasn¡¯t wrong, Young Master Shen was Song Jingchen, and that list was in his hands.


    No wonder the people he sent couldn¡¯t find them.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡±


    The woman¡¯s slightly puzzled voice pulled Shangguan Pu back to reality.


    ¡°Do you know him, Your Highness?¡± the woman asked again.


    Shangguan Pu was about to answer when a maidservant in pink ran in crying.


    ¡°Your Highness, Your Highness, please save my madam.¡± The pink-robed maidservant ran close and knelt down.


    Seeing the maidservant¡¯s clothes, Shangguan Pu recognized that she was from his residence. He frowned and asked unhappily, ¡°Which courtyard are you from?¡±


    The maidservant in pink was stunned for a moment. She clearly did not expect Shangguan Pu to forget who she was. She regretted listening to her master and coming here.


    However, it was too late to regret it now. She could only answer uneasily, ¡°I¡¯m from Tinglan Courtyard.¡±


    Tinglan Courtyard? Shangguan Pu frowned and thought for a moment before remembering.


    Originally, there was no separate courtyard for concubines in the residence. However, a while ago, a concubine caught his fancy, so he made an exception and moved her to Tinglan Courtyard.


    It had been a long time since he went to that concubine¡¯s room.


    He remembered, but Shangguan Pu¡¯s face fell.


    He hated women who did not know what was good for them. She was just a concubine. Did she forget who she was just because he gave her some face?


    The maidservant in pink sensed that the atmosphere was off and trembled. She braced herself and said the words her master had taught her. ¡°No, it¡¯s not my madam. It¡¯s the prince¡¯s madam. She gave the imperial grandson a pair of shoes yesterday.¡±


    When the prince¡¯s wife paid her respects today, the Imperial Concubine said that she had ill intentions. Not only did she punish her by making her kneel in the courtyard, but she also got someone to pour a bucket of cold water on her.


    ¡°My madam is still kneeling there¡­ I¡¯m worried that something will happen to her¡­ Your Highness, please save her.¡±


    With that, the maidservant in pink kept kowtowing.


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s expression improved a little, but he had no intention of interfering.


    However, he thought of something and said in a low voice, ¡°Lead the way.¡±


    After taking a few steps, Shangguan Pu suddenly stopped and looked back at the woman. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely avenge your parents.¡±


    The woman bowed gratefully. Somewhere out of Shangguan Pu¡¯s sight, a strange smile appeared on her face.


    Wasn¡¯t that why she gave away the list and reported it?


    After they left, a four or five-year-old boy walked out of the house.


    The little kid walked to the woman¡¯s side and held her hands. He looked in the direction of the courtyard door and said, ¡°Miss An deliberately angered Mother. I heard her instruct that maidservant to come for help as soon as Father returned¡­¡±


    His voice was childish, but his words were clear.


    The woman held his hand and rubbed his head with her other hand. She said gently, ¡°Alright, don¡¯t worry about them. What do you want to eat today? I¡¯ll make it for you.¡±


    ¡°Sister Piaopiao, can I eat Ruyi Cake? Mother often made it for me when she was still around.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    In the imperial study, after the princes left, Emperor Chong¡¯an got someone to summon Lord Zhou.


    After Lord Zhou returned to the residence, he rushed into the palace again.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an had first summoned a few princes, and all the ministers in the dynasty had seen him. Now that he had summoned him, could it be that he was really prepared to appoint a crown prince?


    Lord Zhou walked into the imperial study with a belly full of doubts. He looked straight ahead and lifted his official robe to kneel down.

 Chapter 330 - 330 Recall (2)

    330 Recall (2)


    Emperor Chong¡¯an waved his hand to get him up and asked the eunuch to bring a chair for him to sit down and talk.


    Lord Zhou was now the Grand Tutor. Although he sounded like an elder, he actually did not have any real power.


    After all, he was old. If he really had to do other tasks, he would be too weak. He could only enter the palace often to give Emperor Chong¡¯an advice.


    Previously, he went to Xunyang City because there was no more suitable candidate than him. After returning, he fell seriously ill. Emperor Chong¡¯an did not dare to put his body through so much stress again.


    ¡°Minister Zhou.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an pointed at the pile of memorials asking for the crown prince. ¡°Which prince do you think I should appoint as the crown prince?¡±


    Lord Zhou was deeply shocked. He guessed what Emperor Chong¡¯an meant. After thinking for a moment, he knelt down and said, ¡°I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a need to rush this matter. Only the Eldest Prince has achieved results among the princes, but the others are not bad either. Besides, it¡¯s still unknown if he¡¯s abducting girls¡­¡±


    As he spoke, Lord Zhou observed Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s expression from the corner of his eye. Seeing that he was not angry, he continued, ¡°I think¡­¡±


    This conversation lasted until noon. Emperor Chong¡¯an gave him lunch before getting someone to send Lord Zhou out of the palace.


    The next morning, Emperor Chong¡¯an issued two imperial edicts in a row, but it was not to appoint a crown prince.


    Instead, he conferred the title of ¡°Lord¡± on all the princes in one go and let them take on their own tasks.


    Among them, the Eldest Prince was named Lord Jing and went to the Ministry of Public Works, the Second Prince was named Lord Xian and went to the Ministry of Personnel, the Third Prince was named Lord Rui and went to the Ministry of Rites, and the Fourth Prince was named Lord Shun went to the Ministry of Revenue.


    This was interesting. The Eldest Prince had married Shen Ruyun because Shen Ruyun¡¯s maternal grandfather was the Minister of Personnel. However, Emperor Chong¡¯an had sent the Second Prince to the Ministry of Personnel.


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s biological father was in the Ministry of Rites where the Third Prince was.


    Moreover, the Minister of Works was the son of Count Xuan Ping, who was also the Third Prince¡¯s uncle. However, Emperor Chong¡¯an arranged for the Eldest Prince to enter.


    This arrangement had completely messed up the situation.


    It was hard to say if they were running errands or supervising each other.


    This move was indeed ruthless. How did the job go? Wouldn¡¯t the ministers of the various departments have to report it?


    Could they put in a good word for their opponents? Of course not.


    However, this was not what surprised the ministers the most.


    The other imperial edict really shocked the royal court.


    ¡°What? The legendary Young Master Shen who solved Xunyang¡¯s problem by himself is Song Jingchen?¡± they thought.


    ¡°What? Prince Song went to Xunyang City because Emperor Chong¡¯an gave him a secret decree to atone for his crimes?¡± they thought.


    It was because the late emperor had visited Emperor Chong¡¯an in his dreams and mentioned how difficult it had been for the old duke to accompany him in battle.


    In order to reassure the late emperor, Emperor Chong¡¯an gave him this opportunity.


    Now that Crown Prince Song had protected Xunyang and made a contribution, he was going to be recalled?


    The late emperor was the founding emperor of Great Xia. Regardless of whether this dream visit was true or not, the ministers did not dare to criticize him.


    However, weren¡¯t his legs crippled? Even if he recovered, even if Young Master Shen was Song Jingchen.


    When Xunyang City was trapped, Emperor Chong¡¯an didn¡¯t seem to want to protect it.


    Now he was claiming to be the one who sent Song Jingchen there. No matter how people looked at it, it seemed like he was snatching credit and making the citizens of Xunyang City transfer their gratitude towards Song Jingchen to him instead.


    The courtiers only thought that Emperor Chong¡¯an wanted to snatch the credit and win the hearts of the people, but they did not know that this was only one of his goals.


    The Eldest Prince, who had vaguely guessed Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s other motive, secretly clenched his fists.


    The secret letter in his sleeve that he was about to hand to Emperor Chong¡¯an after the court session was basically a joke now.


    After discussing with his advisor last night, he decided to report the matter of Young Master Shen being Song Jingchen to Emperor Chong¡¯an. With Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s fear of the Song family, he would definitely get rid of him quickly.


    At that time, if he added fuel to the fire, Song Jingchen would definitely die, and no one would know about the name list.


    Who would have thought that¡­


    Was Emperor Chong¡¯an not afraid that Song Jingchen would expose him? He was naturally not afraid. If Song Jingchen wanted to return to the capital, he could only suffer in silence.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an had both fame and fortune, and he could even bring someone under his nose. Even the Second Prince, who was still sick, was not spared.


    He wanted his sons to be wary of Song Jingchen, who represented the disinherited crown prince, while fighting for the throne.


    He only needed to watch from the sidelines and reap the benefits.


    These two imperial decrees directly made the ministers of the various factions dizzy from arguing and debating with each other.

 Chapter 331 - 331 Recall (3)

    331 Recall (3)


    Even the usually calm Grand Tutor Zhao could not remain calm. As soon as he left the palace, he urged the coachman to return to the residence quickly.


    His Majesty was abandoning him!


    The capital was completely overturned. After Shen Yijia and the others met up with South Wind at the foot of the mountain, they climbed the mountain from another place and went straight to the private army.


    This private army had been hiding in Qilin Mountain, so the late emperor named it the Qilin Army.


    When Great Xia was first established, because of the chaotic war, the commoners were struggling to survive. Many people chose to become bandits in order to eat.


    Old Master Song was ordered to eliminate the bandits, and there was also the secret plan to establish a private army.


    He simply ordered these people to be exterminated, and reported it as such, but they were actually hidden away.


    At that time, there were countless bandits. If not for the fact that they could not survive, the commoners would not have taken that path. In the eyes of the public, Old Master Song directly killed all of them.


    At that time, there were even rumors that the Song family¡¯s patriarch was bloodthirsty. Only the late emperor, the Song family¡¯s patriarch, and the thousand soldiers who participated in the suppression of the bandits knew the truth.


    Later on, the soldiers who participated either died in battle or died of illness for various reasons. They were all recruited into the private army.


    Apart from these, there were also some generals who were implicated in the vortex of succession when Emperor Chong¡¯an first ascended the throne.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an insisted on killing them as a warning to the rest. The old master could not bear to see his former comrades die an unjust death, so he secretly saved them.


    Those were all famous generals of their generation. They could be let in to train the unorthodox soldiers who were former bandits.


    Song Jingchen explained the origins of the private army to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Her grandfather and the late emperor had hidden everything from everyone in the world.


    When they reached the mountainside, a few people suddenly darted out of the forest.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to attack them, but Song Jingchen stopped her.


    The person paused and quickly knelt on one knee. ¡°Greetings, Eldest Young Master.¡±


    Only then did Shen Yijia see that Uncle Yang was also among them.


    She cracked her knuckles. These were her own people.


    There were a total of five people kneeling in front. Apart from Uncle Yang, the others were all wearing armor.


    Song Jingchen glanced at them, his eyes darkened, and he nodded.


    Although they were curious about when Song Jingchen¡¯s legs recovered and wanted to show some concern, they knew that now wasn¡¯t the time.


    After getting up, they led the way to a bush and stopped.


    Uncle Yang stepped forward and pushed the bushes aside, revealing the stone wall behind the bushes. He felt around the right side of the stone wall a few times, and the stone wall moved to the side, revealing a cave.


    The cave was only wide enough for one person. After entering, the cave gradually expanded. They walked in the cave for about half an hour before reaching the end.


    Uncle Yang went forward and fiddled with it for a while more. The stone wall in front of him opened, and dazzling light shone in.


    Shen Yijia was shocked by the scene in front of her.


    They were now halfway up the mountain. From afar, there was a wide training ground. They could vaguely see figures moving. It was where the soldiers were training.


    Apart from this, there was a small river below that divided the col into two. On the other side of the river, there were rows of houses from the mountain pass to the middle of the mountain. There was a lot of farmland around the houses.


    Shen Yijia thought that the private army would hide in the cave. She did not expect it to be like this. It was like a small town isolated from the world.


    ¡°Thank you, generals. It¡¯s getting late today. You can go back first. We¡¯ll talk tomorrow,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    The sun was about to set. Their Eldest Young Master still needed to rest after a long journey.


    The few of them looked at each other, cupped their hands, and left.


    Uncle Yang did not leave. He led them to a courtyard built halfway up.


    He stepped forward and pushed open the courtyard door. ¡°I knew that Eldest Young Master was coming, so I specially brought the women at the foot of the mountain to clean this place these few days.¡±


    The courtyard wasn¡¯t big. It was an ordinary small courtyard with stone tables and chairs in the middle. In the past, Old Master Song or Song Jingchen had always stayed here.


    They had everything they needed in the house. The bedding looked new, and everything was clean.


    Shen Yijia walked around. There were three rooms, a central room, and a small kitchen. Thirty Thousand and South Wind lived in one room, which was just enough for them.


    Uncle Yang was indeed a butler. There were also some ingredients in the kitchen.


    ¡°Young Madam, see if there¡¯s anything else you need. Tell me.¡±


    Seeing that Shen Yijia had led Furball around every house as if they were patrolling their territory, Uncle Yang went forward and said politely.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t seen anything missing yet. I¡¯ll definitely tell you when I see it,¡± Shen Yijia said seriously, but they wouldn¡¯t stay for long.


    Uncle Yang was speechless.


    Mo Yuan went to the kitchen to prepare dinner while Thirty Thousand helped with the fire.


    After Shen Yijia finished bathing, Song Jingchen helped her twist her hair with a handkerchief. When her hair was dry, dinner was ready.


    Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to place dinner in the courtyard.


    After wandering around the mountain for nearly half a month, they could finally sit down and eat a proper meal.


    ¡°There aren¡¯t so many rules here. Let¡¯s sit down and eat,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia quickly nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. Let¡¯s eat together. The more the merrier.¡±


    Uncle Yang wiped his tears and led the way to sit down.


    After dinner, Uncle Yang followed Song Jingchen into the central room, as if he had something to say.


    Shen Yijia was still wondering if she should follow when Song Jingchen called out to her.


    Shen Yijia grinned and followed happily.

 Chapter 332 - 332 Background

    332 Background


    There was an oil lamp burning in the central room. Uncle Yang took out a few pieces of paper that contained information about the recent situation in the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°Nangong Huai is dead,¡± Uncle Yang said.


    The reason why Nangong Huai suddenly attacked Yan Guangmao was because Song Jingchen had sent him the evidence of the Yan family sending slaves from Great Xia to the Third Prince of the Wu Kingdom.


    Nangong Huai knew that he had been deceived by the Yan family, so he was naturally furious.


    Coupled with the fact that the emperor of the Wu Kingdom had always favored the Third Prince, he was worried that his position would sooner or later be taken away by the Third Prince, who had the support of the Yan family.


    Therefore, Nangong Huai simply drugged Emperor Wu and controlled him. Then, he lured Ghost Face back to the capital.


    However, he did not expect Ghost Face and Yan Guangmao to be rescued.


    Yan Guangmao never intended to help Nangong Huai.


    Nangong Huai¡¯s outcome had actually been decided a long time ago, but because of their help, he died a little earlier.


    After all, without the secret letter, he would not have suddenly attacked. Even so, he had still lost.


    Originally, as he had said to Ghost Face, Song Jingchen indeed didn¡¯t intend to care about the affairs of the Wu Kingdom, but those people had provoked him several times.


    It was fine if Ghost Face had simply appeared to test him during the Dragon Boat Festival.


    The reason why Song Jingchen attacked was because he had been pursued by Ghost Face¡¯s men all the way to Xunyang City.


    Even though the men in black were disguised as the people of Great Xia, Song Jingchen still noticed something.


    The people of the Wu Kingdom were used to using knives, which was different from using swords.


    When they fought, he only suspected it. Later on, he sent a letter to Shopkeeper Wang to investigate and confirmed that those men in black were sent by the Yan family of the Wu Kingdom.


    He did not know why the Yan family hated him so much, but it did not stop him from causing trouble for them.


    It was said that the enemy of an enemy was a friend, but it was obvious that Nangong Huai wasn¡¯t smart enough.


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been kept in the dark by the Yan family.


    ¡°Who took his place?¡± Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised by this outcome. He was more curious about whether the Yan family would ascend the throne themselves or let a puppet take over.


    ¡°He¡¯s Nangong Huai¡¯s youngest son. Yan Guangmao is assisting the Regent.¡±


    Nangong Huai had many sons, but all of them died unexpectedly. In the end, only his youngest son, who had just turned five, was still alive.


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°It seems that the Yan family has already planned this.¡±


    Now that he thought about it, it was all thanks to the Yan family that Nangong Huai¡¯s sons died early.


    They secretly supported the Third Prince, making him think that Yan Guangmao was one of them. This way, the Third Prince thought that he had a bargaining chip to fight with the Crown Prince.


    However, both of them were being used by the Yan family.


    When the sandpiper and clam fought, the fisherman benefited.


    This was the true motive of the Yan family.


    ¡°Have you found out who Ghost Face is?¡± Song Jingchen roughly read the contents of the letter and handed it to Shen Yijia.


    It was nothing more than the so-called ¡°truth¡± that the Yan family had shown the citizens of the Wu Kingdom.


    They blamed the Third Prince for Emperor Wu¡¯s serious illness and the assassination attempt on Yan Guangmao.


    The Third Prince plotted a rebellion, and the Crown Prince, Nangong Huai, died in the palace rebellion. The Yan family had no choice but to assist the Nangong Huai¡¯s son, Nangong Zixiao, in ascending the throne.


    Uncle Yang took out another envelope and handed it over. ¡°Eldest Young Master, have you heard of the incident at Muling Pass 23 years ago?¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and pulled out the letter with his slender fingers.


    Twenty-three years ago, the emperor of the Wu Kingdom, Nangong Qian, plotted to seize the throne of his brother, Nangong Ke, through a coup.


    He cruelly slaughtered his brother, Nangong Ke, and his family at the palace gate, known as the Muling Pass Incident.


    Uncle Yang continued, ¡°I found out that Nangong Ke had a daughter who escaped and didn¡¯t die. At that time, it was her personal maidservant who died.¡±


    In other words, Ghost Face was most likely the son of the previous princess of the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°For the sake of restoring the country? Then everything makes sense.¡± he thought.


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t Ghost Face take the throne himself?¡± he thought.


    It couldn¡¯t be that he didn¡¯t like power, or perhaps there was another reason they didn¡¯t know about yet.


    Something flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s mind, so fast that he couldn¡¯t catch it in time. He frowned and asked, ¡°Where did the princess of the Wu Kingdom escape to? Who gave birth to Ghost Face?¡±


    Uncle Yang sighed and shook his head. ¡°The traces of the princess of the Wu Kingdom after she escaped seem to have been deliberately erased. Moreover, it¡¯s been too long. It¡¯s really difficult to investigate in a short time.¡±


    The more this was the case, the more it meant that there was something going on. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have gone through so much trouble to do this. What were they hiding?


    ¡°Continue to get someone to investigate,¡± Song Jingchen instructed.


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    The house fell silent for a moment. The candlelight crackled, and at the same time, there was a thud.


    Song Jingchen was shocked. He looked in the direction of the voice and saw Shen Yijia looking up from the table in confusion. Her forehead was red.


    Shen Yijia had fallen asleep as she read the letter.


    As expected, other than the illustrated books, other books were used for hypnosis.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment, his heart aching a little. He turned to Uncle Yang and said, ¡°Uncle Yang, go back today. We¡¯ll talk about the rest tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Then about the Luo family¡­¡±


    They were clearly not done chatting.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand with a red face. ¡°No need, no need. Continue chatting. I¡¯ll go back to my room to sleep first.¡±


    With that, she stood up, but Song Jingchen stopped her. ¡°It¡¯s the same even if we talk about it tomorrow. I¡¯m here to resolve this matter anyway.¡±


    What else could Uncle Yang say? He could only watch as his Eldest Young Master accompanied Young Madam back to the house.


    It seemed that Young Madam held more weight in Eldest Young Master¡¯s heart than he had imagined. In that case, the Luo family would probably suffer even more.


    After returning to her room, Shen Yijia¡¯s embarrassment dissipated. It could¡¯ve been because she fell asleep earlier, but she no longer felt sleepy lying in bed.


    She turned to look at Song Jingchen, who was still reading at the side, and asked, ¡°What was the Luo family that Uncle Yang mentioned just now?¡±


    Song Jingchen saw the curiosity on her face and the light in her eyes. He knew that this girl wouldn¡¯t be able to sleep if he didn¡¯t explain it clearly. He said helplessly, ¡°I told you that my grandfather couldn¡¯t bear to see a good general die tragically, so he secretly saved some people, including the Du and Luo families.¡±


    There were a total of five generals in the Qilin army. Apart from the two generals, Du and Luo, the other three were promoted from the bandits in Zhao¡¯an after Old Master Song¡¯s examination.


    Old Master Song originally thought that this arrangement would be fair to both the soldiers who had fought on the battlefield and those who came from humble backgrounds. As long as they entered, they would be treated equally, regardless of their background.


    However, people were the same everywhere. Although they were all members of the Qilin Army, it was inevitable that some of them were arrogant, including Luo Yousheng.


    It was fine when the old master was still alive, but once he died and Song Jingchen¡¯s legs were crippled, it was inevitable that people would waver.


    This was also the reason why he sent Uncle Yang over immediately.


    General Luo thought highly of himself and often suppressed the soldiers under the other generals. He even tried to persuade the others to come out of the mountain and rebel with him in the name of avenging the old master and supporting Song Jingchen.


    To the others, since the old master was gone, they would listen to Song Jingchen.


    If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t speak, no matter how hard General Luo tried, they wouldn¡¯t do anything.


    Although this was the case, many people still felt that General Luo was grateful to the old master for saving his life. He was loyal. In the long term, there would always be people who would be persuaded by him.

 Chapter 333 - 333 Coveting Her Husband

    333 Coveting Her Husband


    However, Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t stupid. General Luo just wanted to use Old Master Song¡¯s name to rebel.


    Additionally, his legs were crippled back then. As long as General Luo convinced everyone here, the Luo family would have the final say.


    At that time, he was their puppet with crippled legs.


    Not to mention that Song Jingchen had never had the intention of becoming a rebel. Even if he had promised the old master, he wouldn¡¯t have rebelled.


    However, no matter what, this Luo fellow should not be kept alive.


    However, General Luo had led troops for so many years. If he killed these generals because of this, it would inevitably make others dissatisfied.


    It was easy to get rid of one general, but what about the others?


    They had been in this mountain for many years and were familiar with the situation here. If they were not careful, everything here would be exposed.


    Therefore, he had to take his time and find a specific crime for him so that everyone would think that he deserved to die.


    Shen Yijia did not understand anything else, but she understood the most important thing. They were here to kill that Luo fellow.


    ¡°Which of the four people we saw today has the surname Luo?¡± Shen Yijia blinked and asked. Didn¡¯t they have a total of five generals? And one of them was missing?


    A trace of mockery flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°The one who didn¡¯t come.¡±


    ¡°So I haven¡¯t seen him before.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia remembered that fact, and gradually fell asleep.


    She had not slept in bed for half a month. Shen Yijia slept for a long time. When she woke up, Mo Yuan was the only one left in the courtyard.


    Mo Yuan brought out the breakfast that had been kept warm. ¡°The young master and the others went to the training grounds. Furball went to the mountains to play.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia took a sip of porridge. Seeing that Mo Yuan was about to leave with the clothes, she asked, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the river at the foot of the mountain to wash my clothes.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard that, she quickly finished up the porridge. She wiped her mouth and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Thinking of something, she touched her forehead and asked, ¡°Is there any way to help me cover this up?¡±


    This flower bud was too eye-catching.


    In the past, she only thought that it looked good. However, ever since she saw the portrait of the Valley Master of the Heavenly Secrets Valley, she felt that it was a little troublesome.


    Although her beautiful husband said that all the records about the Heavenly Secrets Valley had been destroyed, it was better to be safe than sorry.


    If those things could be passed down, what if there were descendants of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets? She felt that it was best to remove this bud once and for all.


    This way, no matter what the Valley of Heavenly Secrets did, she would not be implicated.


    Mo Yuan was stunned for a moment. After thinking for a moment, she said, ¡°I can temporarily cover Miss with cosmetics, but that¡¯s not reliable. It¡¯ll easily reveal itself when it touches water.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll make a skin for Miss tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Skin?¡± Shen Yijia was shocked.


    ¡°Yes, cover it with skin. As long as there¡¯s no special potion to remove it, it won¡¯t come off.¡±


    Although she did not know how it worked, it did not stop Shen Yijia from thinking that this method was not bad.


    After Mo Yuan covered her forehead with cosmetics, the two of them went down the mountain together.


    At this moment, there were already many women washing clothes by the river. They were all hammering the clothes with washing sticks and chatting.


    ¡°Have you heard? Eldest Young Master came yesterday with his wife.¡±


    ¡°Why haven¡¯t I heard of it? My kid Gouwa happened to see it from afar when he came back from playing in the mountains. When he came home, he told me that Eldest Young Master¡¯s wife looked like a fairy.¡±


    ¡°Your kid hasn¡¯t even hit puberty yet, but he already knows what a fairy looks like?¡± the woman beside him teased.


    As soon as she arrived, she heard someone praising her. Shen Yijia grinned. She would remember that kid named Gouwa. He had good taste.


    The women were so engrossed in their conversation that they did not notice that someone had arrived behind them.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and reached out to pull Mo Yuan. She put a finger to her lips and gestured for her to keep quiet. Then, she pointed at an empty place not far away.


    She pulled Mo Yuan over to wash the clothes. There was a shrub between them and the women. She couldn¡¯t see them, but she could hear them clearly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts were simple. She and Mo Yuan were unfamiliar faces. Once they went out, they would be recognized. Then these women would definitely not dare to praise her anymore. Even if they did, they would not be sincere.


    Perhaps because Gouwa¡¯s mother didn¡¯t get along with the person behind her, she raised her voice and retorted angrily.


    ¡°My Gouwa will be able to get himself a wife in five to six years. Why wouldn¡¯t he know how beautiful and ugly a woman was?


    She continued, ¡°No matter what, that Young Madam is definitely prettier than your Chuntao. Your Chuntao is not young anymore, right? She¡¯s still dreaming of being Eldest Young Master¡¯s concubine. I think you¡¯d better marry her off quickly, in case she can¡¯t get married after becoming an old lady.¡±


    In the past, before the incident, the Eldest Young Master would come here every once in a while. He was also very talented.


    Not to mention those young ladies, even women like them, who faced rough men every day, could not help but blush.


    However, everyone knew their limits. They just wanted to take a look. How could they dare to have any thoughts?


    Chuntao was different. Ever since she saw Eldest Young Master from afar, she was still unwilling to get married at the age of seventeen.


    This was no secret in this mountain colony. As soon as she said that, the others laughed.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and remembered another name.


    Auntie Wang was right. You could hear more secrets from women.


    Chuntao¡¯s mother¡¯s face turned red from everyone¡¯s laughter. She spat and said, ¡°Men are a dime a dozen here. My Chuntao won¡¯t be unable to get married.¡±


    With that, she left with her clothes.


    That was true. There was nothing much on the training grounds, but there were many men.


    There was a burst of laughter, followed by a moment of silence.


    Shen Yijia thought that this was it, but she heard the discussion beside her again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t talk about Chuntao. That little general of the Luo family used to want to be Eldest Young Master¡¯s official wife. Just you wait. There¡¯s something to watch in the next two days.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, that¡¯s true. Little General Luo is not inferior to a man at all. I wonder if our Young Madam can deal with him.¡±


    The one with the surname Luo? A woman was called a little general?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up, and she subconsciously tightened her grip on her clothes.


    She had nothing to do these days.


    She wasn¡¯t worried that Song Jingchen would be snatched away.


    Besides, her beautiful husband was so good-looking. Wasn¡¯t it normal for someone to like him? It could only mean that the people who coveted him had the same taste as her.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and blinked at the clothes in her hand.


    It belonged to her beautiful husband.


    ¡°Miss, let me do it,¡± Mo Yuan said.


    The two masters had indeed brought a lot of clothes, but they had also ruined many outfits in the past half a month. There were only two sets left.


    In the end, Shen Yijia even ruined one of the robes. She had to find someone to borrow a needle and thread to sew it up later.


    ¡°This robe broke by itself¡­¡± Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t continue explaining. She puffed up her cheeks guiltily.¡± At most, I¡¯ll sew it later. ¡±


    ¡°Little General Luo, are we going to the training grounds again?¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw a valiant woman in armor passing by on the shore.


    The woman replied perfunctorily and passed by, not noticing Shen Yijia and Mo Yuan behind the bushes.


    ¡°Go to the training grounds?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Mo Yuan said that her beautiful husband had also gone to the training grounds!

 Chapter 334 - 334 Jiajia’s Rules

    334 Jiajia¡¯s Rules


    Although this place was in the mountain pass, it was no different from the camp outside. The training grounds were surrounded by two gates, and there were soldiers guarding them.


    When Shen Yijia arrived, she was stopped again. ¡°Stop. Women are not allowed to enter the training grounds.¡±


    After saying that, the two soldiers did not even look at Shen Yijia. They stood there motionless.


    ¡°Do you know who I am?¡± Shen Yijia was almost certain.


    If they didn¡¯t know who she was, they would have at least looked at her curiously when a stranger suddenly appeared.


    After all, not just anyone could enter this place.


    There was clearly something wrong with their reactions.


    Hearing her question, the two soldiers glanced at her disdainfully. One of them said, ¡°No matter who you are, the military camp is an important place. Women are not allowed to enter.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and pointed at Miss Luo¡¯s back. ¡°What about her? Is she a man?¡±


    ¡°How dare you! How can you compare yourself to our Little General Luo? Not to mention that Little General Luo is Old General Luo¡¯s granddaughter, even Little General Luo himself is not inferior to us men. Of course she can enter.¡± The soldier suddenly berated sternly.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and pinched her fingers. She would be a fool if she couldn¡¯t tell that these two people had been specially instructed to do so.


    Thinking of something, she took a deep breath and temporarily resisted the urge to beat him up. She grinned and decided to reason with the two people in front of her first. ¡°You said that she¡¯s the granddaughter of that Old General Luo, right? Then does Old General Luo have a higher status here? Or does Song Jingchen have a higher status?¡±


    What was so great about that old man? She had Song Jingchen.


    The two soldiers choked. Naturally, Eldest Young Master had a higher status.


    However, Eldest Young Master might not come even once a year. If they offended Young Madam, so be it.


    The Luo family was different. If they went against Little General Luo¡¯s wishes and let her in now, they would not have a good life here in the future.


    It might even implicate their families.


    Shen Yijia observed their expressions and did not wait for them to answer. She continued to ask, ¡°Do you think that Little General Luo is not inferior to you men? Can I enter as long as I beat you up?¡±


    She had no grudge against these two people. She couldn¡¯t attack them for no reason, right? Besides, she didn¡¯t want to cause trouble for her beautiful husband.


    If reasoning was useless, she would try to persuade them with actions.


    The two soldiers looked at each other. One of them could not help but push his spear forward. ¡°Go, go. Why are you spouting so much nonsense? Apart from Little General Luo, no other women can enter this place.¡±


    Looking at the spear in front of her, Shen Yijia was angry. She grabbed the middle of the handle.


    The first rule in Jiajia¡¯s book was to fight first and worry about the consequences later.


    Luo Yuanying did not know that she had someone following her. She only reminded them because she felt that if the young madam suddenly appeared, she would definitely disturb her interaction with Eldest Young Master.


    She also heard that that woman was the daughter of a small official in the capital. He was not even as senior as her grandfather¡¯s previous position, so she did not think highly of her at all.


    She heard from her mother that the daughters of rich families in the capital were all delicate, and the daughters of small families were even more unpresentable.


    She did not believe that a man like Eldest Young Master would like such a useless woman, so she wanted to take this opportunity to let Eldest Young Master see the difference between her and that woman.


    Even if Eldest Young Master found out, she was not afraid. There was a rule that women could not enter the training grounds, so she wasn¡¯t doing anything unwarranted.


    Apart from her, even Du Huaiyu could not enter this place.


    She was unique. This was also her sense of superiority, making her feel that only she was worthy of Eldest Young Master.


    In the meeting tent, Song Jingchen sat at the head of the table and watched expressionlessly as Old General Luo cried and complained about Old Master Song¡¯s injustice. He then criticized Emperor Chong¡¯an for being heartless.


    However, this was not the end. Now, the old general began to praise the heavens for healing Song Jingchen¡¯s legs.


    His performance made the corners of the others¡¯ mouths twitch.


    Song Jingchen was expressionless as he said calmly, ¡°Elder Luo, you¡¯ve worked hard. I¡¯ve seen everything you¡¯ve done. I definitely won¡¯t forget your contributions.¡±


    Old General Luo paused for a moment, wiped his tears, and waved his hand. ¡°I don¡¯t dare to take credit. I only hope to see the old master avenged in my lifetime.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled and picked up the teacup on the table. ¡°Elder Luo, you¡¯re so considerate. I¡¯ll toast you with tea instead of wine.¡±


    The corners of Old General Luo¡¯s mouth twitched. However, even after Song Jingchen finished his cup of tea, he had no intention of standing up.


    After exchanging a few more pleasantries with the people present, Song Jingchen asked them to disperse and gather everyone. He wanted to see the results of everyone¡¯s training over the past two years.


    The few of them naturally did not refuse. They cupped their hands and left, except for Old General Luo.


    ¡°Is there anything else, Elder Luo?¡± Song Jingchen asked curiously.


    Old General Luo wiped the corners of his eyes with his sleeve. ¡°I wonder which expert cured Eldest Young Master¡¯s legs. My son¡¯s legs have been crippled because of what happened back then. I wonder if you can ask that expert to take a look at my son.¡±


    Actually, he wanted to ask why Song Jingchen had been hiding it from them.


    If not for the fact that he thought Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had yet to recover, he definitely wouldn¡¯t have skipped out on welcoming Song Jingchen yesterday. He originally wanted to take him down a notch.


    Later on, he heard that Song Jingchen had walked in. If he had gone over to greet him at that time, it would have been too deliberate. He could only put down his pride and perform that scene today.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have to disappoint you, Elder Luo. It was only a wandering doctor who treated my leg. I don¡¯t know where he went.¡± Song Jingchen sighed regretfully, then muttered, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s really as you said, Elder Luo. Grandfather¡¯s spirit in heaven protected me.¡±


    Old General Luo had a total of two sons. The one he mentioned was the eldest son he should be proud of, Luo Yuanying¡¯s father.


    When Old Master Song saved their family, his legs had already been crippled.


    ¡°My son didn¡¯t have that luck.¡± Old General Luo shook his head with a pained expression before cupping his hands and leaving.


    Luo Yuanying happened to see her grandfather coming out. She took a few steps over and bowed seriously. ¡°Grandfather.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here today?¡± Old General Luo frowned.


    He had clearly instructed her not to come to the training grounds for the next two days.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to pay my respects to Eldest Young Master.¡± Luo Yuanying said matter-of-factly.


    ¡°Nonsense. Do you really think you¡¯re a general just because those people call you Little General Luo? Go back quickly.¡±


    His eldest son got married when he was in the capital. Unfortunately, he did not have a son or a daughter until his legs were crippled.


    However, he did not expect his eldest daughter-in-law to be pregnant within a few years of coming here. Although he was a little disappointed that she was a girl, he still doted on Luo Yuanying a little more when he thought that this might be his eldest son¡¯s only child.

 Chapter 335 - 335 Jiajia Aggrieved

    335 Jiajia Aggrieved


    Apart from that, Luo Yuanying had shown that she was very interested in playing with knives and sticks since she was young. This made him even more satisfied.


    Ever since Luo Yunying learned how to walk, he had been teaching her personally.


    He usually let her do whatever she wanted, but now that Eldest Young Master was here¡­


    At this moment, a soldier rushed over. After bowing to Old General Luo, he muttered something in Luo Yuanying¡¯s ear.


    !!


    Luo Yunying frowned. After following the soldier for a few steps, she remembered that Old General Luo was still around. She turned around and cupped her hands at him. ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯ll listen to you and go back first.¡±


    Old General Luo felt that something was wrong and was about to stop her when the curtain of the tent behind him was suddenly lifted.


    Song Jingchen walked out with Thirty Thousand and Song Jingchen. Old General Luo immediately gave up on stopping her and cupped his hands at Song Jingchen before quickly rushing off to gather the people.


    ¡°Young Master?¡± Seeing that Song Jingchen was looking in a certain direction without saying anything, South Wind asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    At the entrance of the military camp, Shen Yijia had already knocked down a group of people.


    She was also very depressed. Why were there more and more of them? However, she didn¡¯t mind fighting two or a group, so she dealt with them together.


    Most importantly, the people who came later rushed up indiscriminately. She was just defending herself.


    ¡°How is it? I¡¯m not inferior to a man now. Can I go in now?¡± Shen Yijia asked as she looked down at the person lying on the ground and wailing.


    ¡°You¡­ you trespassed on the military camp¡¯s important grounds. You¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. It seemed that she had hit him too lightly.


    With this thought in mind, she clenched her fists and was about to give the person who spoke a few more punches.


    A stern voice sounded.


    ¡°Stop.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and tilted her head. If it was useless to defeat these small fries, then they should be able to enter after defeating this one.


    Firstly, this woman¡¯s status was higher than hers, and secondly, she was stronger than her. If she could become a small general, Shen Yijia might also be able to become a general.


    ¡°Who are you? Why are you causing trouble here? Don¡¯t you know that not everyone can come here? Hurry up and leave.¡± Luo Yunying frowned and reprimanded her.


    She was slightly taller than Shen Yijia and even deliberately raised her chin, looking down on her.


    Shen Yijia pointed at herself. ¡°Are you talking to me? According to your status, you should call me Young Madam. Who do you think I am?¡±


    Luo Yunying paused and glanced at the soldiers standing behind her. She cursed them for being useless.


    Then, he looked at Shen Yijia disdainfully and mocked, ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. This is not a place for a woman like you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d better leave immediately and forget about what happened today. Otherwise¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t blame me for following the rules!¡±


    She was just a slightly beautiful woman who only knew how to rely on men. Luo Yunying felt that Shen Yijia should be afraid after being frightened like this.


    Luo Yunying admitted that she was stunned by this woman¡¯s appearance when she first saw her, but she quickly convinced herself that Eldest Young Master was definitely not someone who only cared about appearances.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. It was this woman who asked who she was. She told her nicely, but she started talking about something else.


    It was really what her beautiful husband had taught her, some people just couldn¡¯t be reasoned with.


    She pursed her lips. ¡°Then which one of you will call my husband out? When he comes, if he says that I can¡¯t enter, I promise to leave immediately.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master has something to do. How can he have the time to fool around with a woman like you?¡±


    Luo Yunying talked about women as if she was a man.


    Shen Yijia pricked up her ears and kicked her impatiently.


    Luo Yunying was engrossed in teaching her a lesson. She did not expect the person in front of her to suddenly attack.


    She was shocked. The speed was too fast. It was too late for her to dodge. She subconsciously reached out to block, but the force was too strong. She felt a pain in her arm.


    She fell back. Fortunately, the soldiers behind her caught her and prevented her from falling to the ground.


    Meeting the worried gazes of the soldiers, Luo Yunying waved them away angrily. She looked at Shen Yijia with red eyes, and a murderous glint flashed across her eyes.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and blinked. This person was the one who spoke rudely to her first.


    What? She didn¡¯t know how to speak, and yet she didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to use her fists.


    ¡°Why are you so anxious? Isn¡¯t it fair for me to touch you?¡± she thought.


    ¡°You barged into the military camp and ignored my advice. You even deliberately provoked trouble. Your crimes are even worse. I¡¯ll teach you the rules today.¡± Luo Yunying raised her voice and said righteously. She pulled out her sword and attacked Shen Yijia.


    Luo Yunying was still a little smart. Even though she was furious, she did not forget to put herself on the side of justice. She immediately convicted Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia frowned and clenched her fists. She saw a group of people walking out.


    Her eyes lit up. She leaned to the side and brushed past Luo Yunying.


    It was so fast that everyone could only see a phantom. When they saw it clearly, the person who had been outside the military camp a moment ago was already standing in front of their Eldest Young Master, looking at him with sparkling eyes.


    Noticing the gazes of the surrounding people, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and threw herself into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°Hubby, I thought I wouldn¡¯t be able to see you again.¡±


    Her small hands were still trembling as she grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He coughed lightly and asked gently, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Who bullied you?¡±


    Thirty Thousand and Song Jingchen, who were standing behind Song Jingchen, silently turned their heads away. As expected, they were really the perfect pair. One dared to act, and the other dared to humor her.


    Shen Yijia did not even look up. She pointed behind her and started to complain with a sobbing tone, ¡°Her. And those people.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told them that I¡¯m your wife, but they said that no one can enter except Miss Luo, not even your wife.¡±


    ¡°Then I said they should have asked you to come out. In the end, Miss Luo said that I had no respect for the rules and wanted to teach me the rules.¡±


    ¡°So what if she taught me the rules? She actually drew her sword at me. If you had come out any later, you would have become a widower.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. He was originally angry that those people had wronged this girl, but after hearing her last sentence, he felt helpless.


    Seriously, she dared to say anything!


    Shen Yijia finished it in one breath. She sniffed and looked up with red eyes. She asked innocently, ¡°Hubby, is the person surnamed Luo of a higher status than you here?¡±


    Even though he knew that Shen Yijia was pretending, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart couldn¡¯t help but ache.


    His face instantly darkened, and the aura around him changed. The temperature dropped.


    Old General Luo¡¯s heart skipped a beat and he knelt down with a thud. ¡°Eldest Young Master, there must be a misunderstanding. I would never dare to be so unreasonable to Young Madam.¡±


    Luo Yunying had yet to recover from the shock. Old General Luo¡¯s kneeling made her react. She knelt down with a pale face. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    The soldiers standing with her also knelt down one after another. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±

 Chapter 336 - 336 Resolution (1)

    336 Resolution (1)


    Song Jingchen had originally gone to the drill ground to watch the soldiers practice, but the dozen or so people under Old General Luo had disappeared.


    Someone saw them walking towards the entrance of the military camp. It seemed like someone was about to barge in.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s first reaction was that Shen Yijia was here.


    When the group rushed over, they heard Luo Yunying¡¯s last words. Then, she drew her sword.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia¡¯s words were quite convincing.


    No one dared to breathe too loudly.


    Just as everyone thought that Song Jingchen would be angry and scold them, they saw him retract his aura and ask the young madam they had seen for the first time with a gentle expression, ¡°Are you injured anywhere?¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Should she act injured or not?


    However, Song Jingchen had already finished checking himself. At the same time, he heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re not injured.¡±


    Shen Yijia understood. No injuries, then.


    She hurriedly waved her hand. ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. Fortunately, you arrived in time.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and leaned over to personally help Old General Luo up. ¡°Elder Luo, get up. You¡¯re right. There might be a misunderstanding.¡±


    He had changed his tune because he wanted to be angry, but he did not dare to say anything. He had given Old General Luo enough face.


    Old General Luo stood up with Song Jingchen¡¯s strength and said with a guilty expression, ¡°It¡¯s my fault for not being strict. Fortunately, Young Madam is fine. Otherwise, this misunderstanding would have been huge.¡±


    With that, he glanced at the row of soldiers kneeling behind Luo Yunying and said coldly, ¡°Although Eldest Young Master has forgiven you, it¡¯s a fact that you attacked Young Madam. Hurry up and apologize to Young Madam. Go down and collect ten strikes each.¡±


    The group of soldiers looked at each other and did as they were told.


    Shen Yijia muttered unhappily, ¡°No wonder they all think that they would rather offend you than the Luo family.¡±


    ¡°Look, look, my beautiful husband hasn¡¯t even opened his mouth, and this Luo guy is already asking them to leave,¡± she continued.


    Although they didn¡¯t say that explicitly, she understood it herself. She didn¡¯t malign anyone.


    The surroundings were already silent. Even though Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was not loud, it entered everyone¡¯s ears. The originally calm atmosphere froze again.


    Song Jingchen rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head helplessly. ¡°Don¡¯t spout nonsense. Ever since Grandfather passed away, it¡¯s all thanks to Elder Luo guarding this place. Besides, Elder Luo has worked hard.¡±


    At this point, his lips moved, but he did not continue. He only sighed.


    This sigh was filled with deep helplessness and sorrow. Many people felt uncomfortable hearing it.


    Without Old Master Song and the Song family, most of the people here would have died, let alone have their current stable life.


    Therefore, even though the Luo family was usually a little unreasonable, because they kept saying that they were defending the Song family, they put on an attitude of prioritizing the Song family.


    Under their influence, no one felt that there was anything wrong.


    However, Shen Yijia¡¯s words and Eldest Young Master¡¯s helplessness stunned them.


    Immediately, many people looked at Old General Luo strangely.


    In the past, the five generals had the same status, but when did they start to have the illusion that the Luo family was dominant and even surpassed the Song family?


    Just now, he was still feeling smug that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t dare to pursue the matter. At this moment, Old General Luo wished he could call those people back and kill them on the spot.


    Wasn¡¯t she mocking him?


    He immediately put on a terrified expression. ¡°Eldest Young Master, I¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen waved his hand, indicating that there was no need to say anything else. ¡°I understand. You¡¯ve put in a lot of effort.¡±


    He turned to look at Luo Yunying, who was still kneeling on the ground, and asked, ¡°This is?¡±


    The corners of Old General Luo¡¯s mouth twitched. He didn¡¯t believe that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t know, but everyone looked at him and could only answer respectfully, ¡°I¡¯m ashamed. This is my eldest son¡¯s only child. She¡¯s used to being pampered.¡±


    Luo Yunying didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to not remember her. She looked a little embarrassed. Without waiting for Old General Luo to finish, she straightened her back and cupped her hands. ¡°Greetings, Eldest Young Master.¡±


    She did not look at Shen Yijia at all.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°As expected, women are not inferior to men.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Her beautiful husband was praising her?


    Song Jingchen secretly squeezed her hand and coughed lightly at Elder Luo. ¡°I see that she¡¯s also a member of the army?¡±


    The expression on Old General Luo¡¯s face froze. He was about to say no, that his daughter was just playing around.

 Chapter 337 - 337 Resolution (2)

    337 Resolution (2)


    When she heard Song Jingchen praise her, the smugness on Luo Yuanying¡¯s face hadn¡¯t disappeared. How could she be willing to be undermined by her grandfather? She said anxiously, ¡°I just turned 15 this year.¡±


    Fifteen was the right age to join the army.


    Song Jingchen nodded and asked, ¡°Do you want to join the army?¡±


    Luo Yunying¡¯s eyes lit up and she answered without thinking, ¡°I¡¯ve always hoped to become someone like Eldest Young Master.¡±


    Song Jingchen seemed to be very satisfied with her answer. He smiled and said, ¡°Although there¡¯s no precedent of a woman joining the military in the past, it¡¯s not impossible.¡±


    His smile was like a spring breeze. Luo Yunying was instantly stunned.


    He continued, ¡°Once you join the army, you have to train with them every day like everyone else. If you give up halfway or violate the military rules, even if you¡¯re Elder Luo¡¯s granddaughter, you¡¯ll be punished according to the military law. Are you willing to do that?¡±


    She had to start as a regular soldier, without special treatment.


    Because these soldiers had yet to go to the battlefield, Old Master Song was afraid that they would be lazy, so he set up a training plan for their promotion.


    You may be a centurion today, but for any unfortunate ¡°sacrifice¡± or poor performance in training, you¡¯ll have to start from scratch tomorrow.


    Luo Yunying paused. She was usually taught martial arts by Old General Luo himself. When had she ever trained with these people?


    At most, she would wear her special armor to the training grounds to spar on a whim.


    Then, she listened to others call her Little General Luo and accept everyone¡¯s praise for her.


    She hesitated for a moment and met Song Jingchen¡¯s admiring gaze. Ignoring the looks that Old General Luo kept giving her, she said firmly, ¡°I¡¯m willing.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded in satisfaction and stopped looking at her. He waved at South Wind. ¡°Go to the village and inform everyone that if there¡¯s any 15-year-old women who want to join the army, they can register with General Du from today onwards. Everyone will be treated equally.¡±


    He emphasized the last four words.


    The special case that Luo Yunying had thought of was completely shattered by Song Jingchen¡¯s arrangement. Her beautiful face instantly turned red and pale.


    Shen Yijia was instantly amused. Her beautiful husband was too scheming.


    His arrangement clearly made the Luo family feel aggrieved, but others would only think that he had no choice but to set this precedent because of the Luo family.


    It turned out that there were benefits to showing weakness.


    No matter what, Song Jingchen had completely planted the seed of disloyalty in everyone¡¯s hearts today.


    In fact, there were not many women in this mountain pass who did not know how to fight. It was just that no one was as high-profile as Luo Yunying. Moreover, they were not allowed to enter the military camp.


    Du Huaiyu was the happiest when she heard the news. He chased after South Wind and kept asking questions. South Wind brushed her off, but she even happily brought him to inform each family.


    Her father was also a general, but General Du was especially strict with his family. If the military rules said no, it meant no. No matter what others did, the Du family had to abide by them.


    Du Huaiyu and Luo Yunying were the same age and had grown up together. Their family backgrounds were surprisingly similar. They had both been convicted by Emperor Chong¡¯an and saved by Old Master Song. However, her grandfather had died before she was born.


    However, the two people from the same family background did not become friends. Instead, they did not get along.


    In the past, Luo Yunying had been showing off in front of her. Now that she could enter the military camp and finally vent her anger for the past 15 years, how could she not be happy?


    Because of this matter, Song Jingchen¡¯s plans to watch the military training was postponed. He left the military camp with Shen Yijia.


    The dozen or so generals who were left behind looked at each other. They had been training for so long. It was fine if they could not show their skills. However, all of them wanted to perform and be recognized by the higher ups. Who knew how long this delay would take?


    For a moment, even if they did not show it on their faces, they still criticized the Luo family in their hearts.


    Old General Luo¡¯s face darkened. He was the oldest here. He had never been so embarrassed. He could not even maintain his usual mask. He shouted at Luo Yunying, ¡°Come home with me.¡±


    With that, he strode away. However, at this moment, Uncle Yang¡¯s voice sounded from behind.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master asked the four generals to go up the mountain.¡±


    This referred to the small courtyard halfway up the mountain.


    Old General Luo slowed down his pace for a long time, but Uncle Yang did not stop him. He was so angry that he secretly clenched his fists.


    He was the only one among the five of them who was excluded. They did not trust him anymore.

 Chapter 338 - 338 Resolution (3)

    338 Resolution (3)


    On the way back, Shen Yijia tore off a leaf in a good mood. Song Jingchen, who was following behind, chuckled.


    Shen Yijia turned around in confusion. ¡°What are you laughing at?¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d be angry that I didn¡¯t stand up for you.¡± Song Jingchen was already prepared to explain.


    ¡°I¡¯m not really at a disadvantage. Besides, Hubby, you must have your reasons for doing this. I¡¯m not angry.¡± Shen Yijia grinned. She thought of something and scratched her head in embarrassment. ¡°Can you not praise other women in the future?¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. It took him a long time to understand that she was referring to the saying that women were not inferior to men. He nodded and said, ¡°My wife is better than any woman.¡±


    Shen Yijia blushed at the praise, especially when he called her his wife. She raised her chin. ¡°Of course.¡±


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but laugh. At the same time, he was touched. Even though this girl didn¡¯t know anything, she still trusted him. In that case, how could he disappoint her?


    Old General Luo brought Luo Yunying home. As soon as the courtyard door closed, Old General Luo shouted, ¡°Kneel.¡±


    Luo Yuanying knelt down without a word.


    ¡°Do you admit your mistake?¡± Old General Luo asked sternly.


    Luo Yuanying lowered her head. ¡°I know my mistake.¡±


    Although she said that, she did not mind. At most, she felt that she was too slow and did not slash that b*tch¡¯s face.


    Eldest Young Master did not punish them for that b*tch just now, which meant that that b*tch was nothing in Eldest Young Master¡¯s heart. As for those caring words, it was only because Eldest Young Master was a good person. Even if it was someone else, she believed that Eldest Young Master would have acted the same way.


    Others thought that she admired Eldest Young Master because of his looks, but that was not the case. She wanted to marry Eldest Young Master because he had saved her life.


    Old General Luo knew his granddaughter very well. Seeing her like this, he knew what she was thinking. He sighed. ¡°Go back to your room and reflect on yourself. Eldest Young Master is already married. You can¡¯t do anything rash again.¡±


    ¡°Grandfather, you clearly said before¡­¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master wasn¡¯t married back then, but things are different now.¡± Old General Luo interrupted her in a low voice. ¡°No matter how down and out our Luo family is, we definitely won¡¯t let our granddaughter be a concubine.¡±


    Moreover, if Song Jingchen didn¡¯t do anything, he would only be a sinner after leaving the Qilin Mountain. How could he be worthy of marrying the granddaughter of the Luo family?


    Madam Cui heard the commotion and walked out from the back of the courtyard. She glanced at her daughter and bowed to Old General Luo. ¡°Father-in-law is back. I¡¯ll go prepare lunch now.¡±


    Old General Luo nodded and went to the study with a cold expression.


    Madam Cui loosened her grip on her sleeve cage and walked forward to help Luo Yunying up. She reminded her, ¡°Don¡¯t make your grandfather angry.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡±


    ¡°Go back to your room,¡± Madam Cui urged.


    Luo Yunying bit her lower lip and paused when she reached the door. Killing intent flashed across her eyes. Who said that she wanted to be a concubine? The Eldest Young Master¡¯s official wife could only be her, Luo Yunying.


    No one knew what Song Jingchen had told the four generals. They only knew that the four generals didn¡¯t appear for lunch. It wasn¡¯t until the sun was setting that the four of them came down from the mountainside while chatting and laughing.


    Old General Luo had been keeping an eye on the commotion in the mountains. When he heard this, he was so angry that he didn¡¯t eat his dinner.


    At night, the sentry came to report that Uncle Yang had left the mountain with a small group of people.


    In the past decade, he had only arranged for people to go shopping every month. He had always been the one making the arrangements. In other words, he had the final say in who could go out.


    This was the first time something like this had happened. What was Song Jingchen trying to do?


    ¡°Father, perhaps you¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    The person who spoke was Old General Luo¡¯s second son, Luo Yongchang.


    Old General Luo¡¯s eldest son, Luo Yongsheng, leaned against the headboard and glanced at his younger brother. Perhaps because he had not seen the light for many years, Luo Yongsheng¡¯s skin was abnormally fair, and he looked very feminine.


    ¡°Ah Sheng, what do you think?¡± Old General Luo¡¯s second son had been playful since he was young. After coming here, he became listless and had nothing to do. His eldest son was the exact opposite, but his legs were crippled.


    Sometimes, he even thought about how good it would be if his second son was the one who became crippled instead.


    Luo Yongsheng frowned. ¡°Eldest Young Master is probably here for our family this time. Father, we¡¯d better¡­¡±


    ¡°Father, Big Brother.¡± Luo Yongchang suddenly stood up and interrupted Luo Yongsheng. Seeing the two of them look over, he continued with a cheeky smile, ¡°I just wanted to say that it¡¯s so late. I¡¯m going back to my room to sleep. The two of you can chat.¡±


    Old General Luo instantly pulled a long face. However, before he could reprimand him, Luo Yongchang had already run out.


    When he reached the door, he turned to look at the two people in the room. ¡°Is power really that important? Not to mention the Song family¡¯s current situation, Father, you used to have a high position and a generous salary. Our Luo family was also one of the top disciples in the capital, but in the end?


    ¡°Isn¡¯t our current situation quite good? Why are we still scheming?¡±


    There was a moment of silence.

 Chapter 339 - 339 What’s Going On?

    339 What¡¯s Going On?


    After what happened yesterday, Song Jingchen specially waited for Shen Yijia to wake up before bringing her to the military camp.


    When they passed by the training grounds, Shen Yijia met Luo Yunying¡¯s gaze.


    Shen Yijia paused and blinked. She gave her a sweet smile and gestured at her with her fist.


    Luo Yunying was so angry that she clenched her fists tightly. Her fingertips turned white, but she could only watch as the person she had been thinking about brought that little b*tch into the tent.


    !!


    ¡°Young Madam is really good-looking. No wonder Eldest Young Master brings her wherever he goes. Some people should stop dreaming.¡±


    However, at this moment, a gloating voice came from the side. The two of them had been at odds for so many years that Luo Yunying didn¡¯t need to turn around to know who it was.


    She resisted the urge to stab the person with her spear and scolded in a low voice, ¡°Du Huaiyu, stop slandering me.¡±


    A round-faced girl standing beside her rolled her eyes. Did she really think everyone was a fool? Who didn¡¯t know what she was thinking? She dared to do it but didn¡¯t dare to admit it. What a coward.


    Shen Yijia was smug all the way. When Song Jingchen placed a pile of ledgers in front of her, she was dumbfounded.


    ¡°What are we doing?¡± Shen Yijia pretended to be stupid and asked innocently.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and sighed. ¡°The Luo family has always been in charge of the purchases here. You know that the Luo family can¡¯t be trusted anymore. They bought such a big piece of land.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re saying that it¡¯s very likely that they¡¯re corrupt?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. She knew that so many people here were supported by the Song family with money. Even if something happened to the Song family, those shops had been operating.


    They lived off the Song family. The Song family had saved their life, but now, they were plotting against the descendants of the Song family.


    Shen Yijia really wanted to ask her grandfather, whom she had never seen before, if he could save such a heartless family.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°So these accounts need to be checked again. If we can find evidence¡­¡±


    He paused again. Shen Yijia did not discover any problems. She gritted her teeth and clenched her fists. She took over his words and said excitedly, ¡°We can bring them to justice.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    With that, he picked up a ledger and placed it in front of Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia paused and tilted her head. ¡°So?¡±


    ¡°There are too many accounts for me to handle alone, but I can¡¯t trust the others.¡± After saying that, Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and pursed his lips.


    ¡°Who are you making that face for?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    She puffed out her cheeks. ¡°It¡¯s fine. There¡¯s still¡­¡±


    Before she could say Mo Yuan¡¯s name, the tent curtain was lifted and Thirty Thousand and South Wind carried in two large wooden boxes stacked on top of each other.


    She opened it and saw that it was filled with ledgers.


    Immediately after, a few more soldiers carried in three desks. This was great. Mo Yuan, Thirty Thousand, and South Wind were all there, and each of them had a table.


    When she met Song Jingchen¡¯s face, Shen Yijia¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°Don¡¯t you still have me?¡±


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and held her hand. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to thank you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was dizzy. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s bluff made Shen Yijia follow him and look through ledgers for three days.


    In the past three days, apart from going through the accounts, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care about anything else. He still handed over all the matters to the other five people. There didn¡¯t seem to be any changes, but Old General Luo felt uneasy.


    It was not until the accounts were sent back three days later and Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything that Old General Luo heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°It seems that Eldest Young Master didn¡¯t see anything in the account book. Father, don¡¯t worry.¡± Luo Yongsheng comforted him.


    Old General Luo sighed. ¡°I always feel uneasy. I thought that with the old master gone, we could use this opportunity to lead everyone out of the mountains and directly rebel against that bastard emperor. At that time, not only can our Luo family return to the royal court, but we can also avenge your mother and sister and the 105 people of our Luo family.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Eldest Young Master to send someone with the surname Yang to stop us. If not for that, why would we have the intention of establishing a new sect?¡±


    Whether it was fighting a war or recruiting troops, money was needed. Where did this money come from? Naturally, they could only tamper with the purchases.


    As for the troops, he was not worried. Ever since Emperor Chong¡¯an ascended the throne, he had been muddle-headed. The commoners had long been filled with complaints. Coupled with Old Master Song¡¯s reputation when he was alive, as long as he took revenge for him, the people would support him.


    In his opinion, the Song family was stupid. They had even forgotten about their family feud for the sake of the commoners. If Song Jingchen was willing to work with him, he would have respected him as his master. There wouldn¡¯t be so many negative things happening now.


    ¡°Those people refused to listen to Father because of Eldest Young Master. No one would really be willing to stay in such a place for the rest of their lives. There¡¯s no man who doesn¡¯t want to make contributions and make a name for himself. They¡¯ll be rewarded with high positions and change their sects,¡± Luo Yongsheng said in a low voice.


    ¡°What are you suggesting?¡±


    ¡°They lack a reason, so we¡¯ll give them a reason. There are obstacles blocking the way ahead, so we¡¯ll help them move the obstacles.¡±


    Old General Luo¡¯s gaze froze. Since the Song family could not stand on his side, he could not be blamed for being ruthless.


    After being captured and forced to work hard for three days, Shen Yijia was no longer willing to go to the military camp. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t force her either. He rubbed her head and reminded her, ¡°Be careful. No matter where you go, remember to get Furball and Mo Yuan follow you.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded meekly. After Song Jingchen left, she covered herself with the blanket and continued to sleep in.


    In order to quickly finish checking the accounts, she did not dare to sleep in for the past few days.


    She slept until she heard voices in the courtyard.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, I know you¡¯re angry, but we can¡¯t kill those people just because they gossiped about Young Madam. We should report this matter to Master first. Master will definitely stand up for Young Madam. He has to agree to take in concubines himself!¡±


    It was Thirty Thousand¡¯s voice.


    Hearing her name being mentioned, Shen Yijia opened her eyes. She wanted to listen carefully, but all she could hear were loud noises from outside. Even if there were voices, they were drowned out.


    She blinked. ¡°Are they fighting?¡± she thought.


    This small courtyard could not withstand their attacks. Shen Yijia quickly got up and put on her clothes.


    When she opened the door, she saw that Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand were fighting fiercely.


    Perhaps fighting wasn¡¯t the right word. It was Mo Yuan who chased after Thirty Thousand while he kept dodging, and he tripped over many things in the courtyard.


    ¡°Stop!¡± Shen Yijia shouted. At the same time, there was a bang.


    The water vat that was filled with water in a corner of the courtyard was broken by Mo Yuan¡¯s kick. The water inside flowed out and quickly wet the small courtyard.


    Looking at the broken vat so close to him, Thirty Thousand patted his chest in fear.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    If she had come out a little later, would the two of them have torn down this courtyard?


    ¡°Tell me, what happened?¡±

 Chapter 340 - 340 Arrest

    340 Arrest


    A few days ago, Mo Yuan said that she would help Shen Yijia make a piece of skin and paste it on her forehead to cover the buds. In the end, she was not satisfied with a few pieces she had made in the past few days.


    She thought that she could make a potion and hide it. She went to the mountain early in the morning to look for medicine.


    Thirty Thousand wasn¡¯t brought to the military camp by Song Jingchen, so he followed Mo Yuan into the mountain.


    Nothing had happened, but when the two of them passed by the river on their way back, they heard a few women gossiping about Shen Yijia.


    !!


    When Mo Yuan heard this, she was so angry that she wanted to go up and kill someone. She was dragged back by Thirty Thousand, and then what Shen Yijia saw happened.


    ¡°What did they say?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Mo Yuan remained silent.


    Shen Yijia looked at Thirty Thousand.


    Thirty Thousand opened his mouth for a long time, not knowing what to say. When Shen Yijia glared at him, he deliberated and said, ¡°He said that Young Madam, you¡¯re a vixen. You seduce Master all day long and bring him wherever he goes.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. A few days ago, those ladies had praised her for being a fairy. Why had she become a vixen again?


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± At this level, Mo Yuan shouldn¡¯t have killed anyone.


    Thirty Thousand shut his mouth and nodded desperately.


    The Young Madam that those women were talking about looked delicate and weak. There were also dirty words about sex. He did not dare to say them even if they were relayed to him.


    If he said anything, even if Young Madam didn¡¯t do anything to him, Master wouldn¡¯t let him off.


    Just thinking about those words made him blush. They were simply unbearable to hear.


    Shen Yijia clearly did not believe him.


    Mo Yuan glanced at Thirty Thousand disdainfully and skipped those unpleasant words to get straight to the point. ¡°They also said that Young Master is young and strong. They were worried that it would be difficult for Young Miss to serve him with your small body. They wanted to give their daughter to Young Master as a concubine to help you share the burden.¡±


    Mo Yuan clearly knew better than Thirty Thousand what Shen Yijia cared about. Even if Thirty Thousand said those things that he found difficult to say, her Miss might not understand. She might even think that he was praising her for being amazing.


    As expected, as soon as she finished speaking, Shen Yijia widened her eyes and gritted her teeth. ¡°They wish. They even want to be concubines for my beautiful husband. Are they too bold, or am I too weak to carry a knife?¡±


    ¡°Little Furball, let¡¯s go and see who dares to snatch food from the tiger¡¯s mouth,¡± Shen Yijia called out angrily.


    When Furball heard her call it, it scurried out of an unknown corner. Shen Yijia climbed onto its back.


    By the time Thirty Thousand reacted, the two had already run far away, followed by Mo Yuan.


    Thirty Thousand dared to stop Mo Yuan, but he did not have the guts to stop Shen Yijia. Besides, he did not think he had the ability to do so. He could only grit his teeth and head towards the camp.


    Therefore, when Thirty Thousand arrived with Song Jingchen, he saw Shen Yijia sitting on Furball¡¯s back with a straight face and pacing back and forth by the river.


    More than ten drenched women floundered in the middle of the river. It was unknown if they were frightened or frozen, but their lips trembled and their faces turned pale.


    On the other side stood a group of people holding pots and watching the show.


    Thirty Thousand recognized at a glance that those who had been thrown into the river were the ones who had gossiped just now.


    ¡°Master, look.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that someone died?¡±


    All of these people were not having a good time. The weather in March was a little cold, but it was not to the extent that they would die from soaking in the river.


    The corners of Thirty Thousand¡¯s mouth twitched. He felt that he had worried for nothing. Was his master prepared to help clean up the mess after Young Madam killed someone?


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. Before they could approach, someone had already noticed them.


    The woman in the river opened her mouth to cry for help.


    However, Shen Yijia was faster than them. She jumped off Furball¡¯s back and ran over. ¡°Hubby, these aunties said that there are daughters in the family who can¡¯t get married. They want you to stand up for them.¡±


    If not for the fact that they couldn¡¯t find proper marriages, why would they want to be someone¡¯s concubine?


    ¡°Then what are they doing?¡±


    ¡°The weather is too hot. They probably wanted to go into the river and cool down,¡± Shen Yijia lied through her teeth.


    Her voice was not soft, and everyone around her heard her clearly, especially those who wanted to shout for help. They were choked by her shameless words and could not speak for a long time.


    They had clearly been tossed into the river by Shen Yijia.


    They also felt wronged. There were usually no other pastimes in this mountain.


    When a group of people gathered together, they liked to talk nonsense. Unexpectedly, someone heard their gossip.


    ¡°Am I right?¡± Shen Yijia turned to look at the women in the river with a smile.


    The dozen or so people paused and glanced at Song Jingchen. Seeing that he was only looking at Young Madam, they knew that they wouldn¡¯t be able to get what they wanted today.


    Most importantly, they were not in the right. If the dirty jokes they said about Eldest Young Master and Young Madam were to spread, it would be even worse.


    All of them could only nod with bitter expressions. ¡°Yes, yes. We felt that it was too hot, so we came here to cool down.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Then your daughters¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll marry my daughter off tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Right, I¡¯ve got stuff going on too.¡±


    There was a moment of silence.


    The women spoke at once, afraid that Eldest Young Master would really interfere and help them matchmake if they spoke too late.


    It would have been fine if they got a good match. However, there were still many old bachelors in the army who had yet to get married.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia waved at Furball. ¡°I originally wanted to introduce you to these aunties, but it seems that these aunties don¡¯t like you very much. Go and play by yourself.¡±


    Furball rolled its eyes. Did she not care about its reputation?


    It howled at the women in the river, scaring them into screaming again.


    Before Shen Yijia left, she did not forget to remind them, ¡°Don¡¯t forget to invite me to the wedding banquet.¡±


    The women wanted to cry. How could marriage be child¡¯s play?


    At night, they wanted to discuss with their husbands if there was any other way to delay it for a while.


    However, as soon as their husbands returned, they threw them the red seals given to them by Eldest Young Master.


    What else could these aunties do? They could only marry their daughters off in a hurry.


    Fortunately, the Qilin army did not lack men.


    Shen Yijia attended several wedding banquets in the next few days.


    The men who suddenly got married were even more grateful to her. Those who had yet to marry hoped that she would do it a few more times.


    Shen Yijia immediately became the matchmaker of the Qilin Army. Every family¡¯s madam came to talk to her about which family¡¯s daughter their son liked.


    However, Shen Yijia was not stupid. She was only forcing those women because they had ill intentions and were aiming for Song Jingchen.


    There was no reason for other good girls to be forced to get married by her. This kind of thing still had to be consensual.


    After she rejected a few families in a row, everyone understood that it was useless to consult Young Madam for their son to marry. The girl¡¯s family had to agree on their own.


    Those who had daughters who were afraid of being noticed by Shen Yijia secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    Later on, Shen Yijia found out that Chuntao, whom she had heard of before, was also forced to marry out.


    After this incident, Shen Yijia did not take it to heart. Just as she was wondering when her beautiful husband would attack the Luo family, she heard Mo Yuan report that Song Jingchen had gotten someone to capture a deputy general of the Luo family.

 Chapter 341 - 341 Jiajia’s Deduction (1)

    341 Jiajia¡¯s Deduction (1)


    Today was supposed to be a break, but Song Jingchen said that everyone should gather tonight, so there were many people on the training grounds. Not only that, but even the women on the other side of the river came to help prepare dinner.


    Everyone was busy washing the vegetables and cutting them.


    At this moment, a group of people walked in.


    Song Jingchen was in the lead, followed by four generals other than Old General Luo.


    Compared to Song Jingchen¡¯s expressionless face, the four generals were all furious.


    Behind them was a small group of people tied up.


    The group passed through the training grounds and headed straight for the torture chamber.


    Those who saw it started discussing.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t those people in charge of purchasing the goods?¡±


    ¡°Wang Mangzi is there. There¡¯s no mistake.¡± Wang Mangzi was a deputy general under Old General Luo.


    ¡°Did they commit a crime? Why are they all captured?¡± This lineup of people was so big. It was obvious that it was not a small matter.


    Others didn¡¯t know why Song Jingchen was with the four generals, but Shen Yijia did.


    Song Jingchen had been calling the four generals, other than Old General Luo, to the courtyard every day to watch the four of them spar or play chess and chat.


    Seeing that they were halfway through their chess game today, Song Jingchen suddenly suggested bringing a team of hunters to hunt and so that they would have extra ingredients for dinner.


    Shen Yijia did not go because her period had come these two days. She could only be envious at home.


    She even specially asked Mo Yuan to pay attention. When they returned, they heard the news.


    Shen Yijia lay weakly on a rattan chair in the courtyard. Song Jingchen had asked Thirty Thousand to send this rattan chair back a few days ago.


    Hearing Mo Yuan¡¯s words, she opened her eyes and asked curiously, ¡°Didn¡¯t they say they were going hunting?¡±


    Mo Yuan told her what she had heard from Thirty Thousand.


    It turned out that when they went hunting today, they happened to meet the sneaky Wang Mangzi.


    Initially, nothing had happened, but Wang Mangzi felt guilty. When he saw them, he did not greet them, but instead he ran away. That was when the trouble started.


    Even the people who were about to go out to buy food with Wang Mangzi were captured.


    They also dug up a wooden box from where they had seen Wang Mangzi.


    After interrogation, Wang Mangzi explained that he had seen Song Jingchen check the accounts, although he didn¡¯t find anything for the time being.


    However, he felt guilty. He was afraid that one day, they would find out about him, so he wanted to destroy the accounting records. He did not expect to encounter a group of hunters after digging twice.


    Under such a tense situation, he was already guilty.


    When he saw them, his first reaction was that he had been exposed. The Eldest Young Master had personally brought people out to capture him, so he had to run away quickly.


    How could there be such a coincidence? Why didn¡¯t Shen Yijia believe it?


    She rubbed her chin and pondered for a long time. A few images flashed through her mind. She slapped her forehead. Why was she so stupid?


    She knew it. Her beautiful husband clearly knew that she didn¡¯t know how to read accounting ledgers, so why would he still ask her for help?


    The audit was just for show.


    No wonder Song Jingchen kept telling her to lie down and rest when she was tired. It didn¡¯t matter if she couldn¡¯t finish it.


    In the end, she thought about how Song Jingchen trusted her so much. It wasn¡¯t easy for her to help out, but she was meticulous and conscientious when checking the ledgers.


    She was a little depressed when she didn¡¯t discover any problems, but Song Jingchen already had evidence.


    After that, he imitated Old General Luo¡¯s handwriting and sent a message to Wang Mangzi, asking him to dig up the ledgers and destroy them.


    Song Jingchen brought his men to hunt and caught them red-handed.


    It had to be said that Shen Yijia had already pieced together most of it.


    Actually, Song Jingchen wanted to say something about checking the accounts, but seeing that Shen Yijia was serious for once, he couldn¡¯t bear to dampen her enthusiasm.


    How did Shen Yijia know that Song Jingchen was imitating someone¡¯s handwriting? She had seen Song Jingchen practicing calligraphy several times when she woke up.


    She took a look and realized that the handwriting wasn¡¯t Song Jingchen¡¯s.


    Moreover, Wang Mangzi did not dare to expose Old General Luo, so he admitted it himself. Otherwise, he would not be able to explain himself.


    Just as everyone was discussing, Old General Luo rushed to the torture chamber.


    At this moment, Wang Mangzi had already been beaten until his skin and flesh were lacerated. Looking at the account book placed there, Old General Luo knew that something was wrong.


    He did not know why these things had been dug up, but it had something to do with Wang Mangzi.


    Wang Mangzi¡¯s mouth was gagged. When he saw Old General Luo, the person who was on the verge of death suddenly struggled violently.

 Chapter 342 - 342 Jiajia’s Deduction (2)

    342 Jiajia¡¯s Deduction (2)


    Song Jingchen glanced at South Wind. South Wind understood and went forward to remove the cloth.


    ¡°This matter was done by me alone. It has nothing to do with General Luo. Eldest Young Master, don¡¯t implicate innocent people.¡± Wang Mangzi struggled to finish shouting, blood flowing out of his mouth.


    South Wind went forward to check and said in frustration, ¡°Master, he bit his tongue and committed suicide.¡±


    Seeing this, Old General Luo hurriedly knelt down and begged for forgiveness. ¡°Eldest Young Master, I didn¡¯t know that this person was so bold.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and could only say helplessly, ¡°It¡¯s actually Elder Luo¡¯s subordinates who made a mistake. Then I¡¯ll entrust this investigation to Elder Luo. We have to find the money.¡±


    ¡°South Wind, find two people to send these accounts to General Luo later.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master¡­¡± Before Old General Luo could speak, the hot-tempered Li San had an objection.


    Who knew if Wang Mangzi had said that on purpose to protect the true mastermind? How could he hand over the job to the most suspicious person at this time?


    General Du elbowed Li San to stop him from continuing.


    If he could think of it, how could Eldest Young Master not think of it?


    Old General Luo also tried to refuse with a guilty expression. ¡°Eldest Young Master, are you still willing to believe me? I¡¯ve already made you feel grateful. This matter¡­¡±


    ¡°Elder Luo, there¡¯s no need to say anything else. Grandfather was able to save you back then because he believed in your character. I also believe in Grandfather¡¯s judgment. He definitely won¡¯t be blind. However, in order to prevent others from suspecting you, you have to find that money as soon as possible.¡± Song Jingchen waved his hand and interrupted him.


    It was as if he firmly believed in Old General Luo.


    Old General Luo was extremely grateful. After another show of loyalty, he promised to do his best.


    Even though this had happened, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to dampen the mood of the soldiers, so the banquet continued as usual.


    Shen Yijia guessed that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t be back so soon. Seeing that it was almost noon, she and Mo Yuan had a quick lunch before returning to the rattan chair to sleep.


    During this period, Thirty Thousand came back and told Song Jingchen that the Luo family might make a move tonight. He told her to be careful when she was at home. Song Jingchen would personally come back to pick her up later.


    Shen Yijia naturally agreed obediently.


    She was still thinking that no one would be stupid enough to attack her, but guests came to the house.


    Well, if they could be considered guests.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and watched as the group of women led by Luo Yunying walked into the courtyard.


    Apart from the first two, the others were all dressed as wives. If Shen Yijia was not wrong, they had just been forced to get married a few days ago.


    After the person entered, they bowed to Shen Yijia. ¡°Greetings, Young Madam.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her stomach and asked.


    She did not stand up. Although her period did not hurt as much as the first time it came, she felt that it was not safe to have her period here.


    However, her actions were misunderstood by others, especially Luo Yunying. Jealousy flashed across her eyes.


    ¡°Young Madam, you look so pale. Are you feeling unwell?¡± A round-faced girl suddenly leaned over and asked with concern.


    Shen Yijia knew her. She had seen her a few times in the military camp. This girl would greet her with a smile every time. It was General Du¡¯s daughter, Du Huaiyu.


    Shen Yijia did not have a bad impression of Du Huaiyu, so she replied kindly, ¡°I¡¯m fine. My stomach just hurts a little. I¡¯ll be fine after lying down.¡±


    If she had just transmigrated here, she would definitely have said that she was having her period. However, she now knew that she could not tell anyone.


    Du Huaiyu heaved a sigh of relief. She had followed them when she saw this group of people heading towards the middle of the mountain. Otherwise, she would not have associated with this group of people usually.


    She glanced at the women and deliberated before saying, ¡°They said that they wanted to invite Young Madam to the mountain to look at peach blossoms. Young Madam, if you¡¯re not feeling well, don¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master is a hero. I don¡¯t think Young Madam is a weak woman. It¡¯s just a little abdominal pain. It shouldn¡¯t be a problem, right?¡± Luo Yunying suddenly interrupted.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked up at Luo Yunying as if she was an idiot. ¡°Of course it¡¯s a problem. How can it not be a problem?¡±


    She made it sound like she was not worthy of her beautiful husband if she was weak. What kind of stupid words were those?


    She wanted to provoke her like this? What an idiot.


    Luo Yunying choked and glanced at another woman in the group.


    The woman understood and forced a smile. ¡°Young Madam, I¡¯m Wu Chuntao. A few days ago, Young Madam even came to the wedding banquet. Do you remember me?¡±

 Chapter 343 - 343 Jiajia’s Deduction (3)

    343 Jiajia¡¯s Deduction (3)


    As she spoke, she paused and revealed a shy expression. ¡°Speaking of which, it¡¯s all thanks to Young Madam that I could get married so quickly. I wanted to thank Young Madam today.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. As long as you¡¯re happy.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently.


    ¡°Then¡­¡±


    ¡°You want me to go with you to see the peach blossoms?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Wu Chuntao nodded. ¡°Young Madam, you haven¡¯t been around for a while. I don¡¯t have anything else to do for you, so I want to do my best as a host. When we go down the mountain, we can make it in time for the banquet.¡±


    There was no saying that women could not see outsiders here. Since it was a banquet, everyone could naturally attend.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and turned to look at the eager gazes of the others. She nodded reluctantly. ¡°Alright then.¡±


    ¡°Miss.¡± Mo Yuan, who had been silent, looked disapproving.


    Shen Yijia turned around and blinked at her. ¡°Mo Yuan, didn¡¯t we pick some fungi a few days ago? We dried them yesterday.¡±


    ¡°I suddenly feel like drinking pheasant stew. Don¡¯t go. Stay at home and stew.¡±


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched. What fungus did they pick a few days ago? It was clearly¡­


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and chuckled. She turned around and shouted, ¡°Little Furball.¡±


    The group of women were happy for less than three seconds. When they saw the big tiger suddenly jump out, they were so frightened that their faces turned pale and they retreated repeatedly. They hid behind Luo Yunying.


    Only Du Huaiyu stood firmly beside Shen Yijia even though she was afraid.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be afraid. Furball only bites bad people. You¡¯re not bad people. It won¡¯t bite you. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Luo Yunying suppressed the fear in her heart and mustered her courage. ¡°Even if it doesn¡¯t bite, it¡¯s not good to bring it along. When the time comes, the sisters will only be afraid. How can we have fun?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at the trembling women and felt that it made sense. She rubbed Furball¡¯s head regretfully. ¡°Then you should stay at home and guard the courtyard. I¡¯ll bring you out to play next time.¡±


    Furball was speechless.


    Du Huaiyu tugged at Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve and suggested softly, ¡°Since you¡¯re not bringing Mo Yuan along, bring it along. It¡¯s so cute.¡±


    She was clearly very afraid, but she still insisted on praising Furball for being cute. Shen Yijia grinned at her.


    She remembered her kindness, but she didn¡¯t change her mind.


    If this group of people insisted on going alone, they would definitely want to play tricks. It would not be fun to bring Mo Yuan or Furball along.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s skin was originally fair. Because of her period, she looked even more pale and sickly.


    As soon as she walked out, the wind blew against her face. She shivered, looking delicate and weak.


    Luo Yunying frowned. That day at the entrance of the camp, even though she did not see Shen Yijia attack those soldiers, the kick she received was solid.


    With that speed, she didn¡¯t look as delicate as she did now.


    However, seeing that the other women could still work in the fields previously, but as soon as they became pregnant, they became porcelain dolls that couldn¡¯t do any hard labor. She seemed to understand again.


    However, this was perfect. When the time came, two lives would be lost.


    Her grandfather had said that as long as she killed this woman, he would have a way to make Eldest Young Master marry her.


    In order to prevent Eldest Young Master from doubting her in the future, she did not want to get her hands dirty. That was why she called these idiots who had been forced to marry by Shen Yijia.


    After all, they had the motive to attack.


    Du Huaiyu held Shen Yijia¡¯s arm all the way. She wanted to remind her to be careful a few times, but she was afraid that Shen Yijia would not believe him. After all, they had only met a few times and were not close.


    She could only secretly make up her mind to follow Shen Yijia closely later. If anything happened, she could protect her.


    Although Shen Yijia looked weak, after walking for a long time, other than her, everyone else was exhausted.


    ¡°Are you done? Why don¡¯t you sit down and rest?¡± Shen Yijia suggested kindly.


    From here, she could already see the wild peach forest near the cliff.


    ¡°No, there¡¯s no need. We can still walk.¡± Wu Chuntao panted and waved her hands. Her eyes flashed strangely.


    She recalled what Luo Yunying had told her previously.


    ¡°You could have been Eldest Young Master¡¯s concubine. Unfortunately, Young Madam was a jealous person. At that time, Eldest Young Master couldn¡¯t embarrass Young Madam in front of everyone, so he agreed with her.¡± That was what Luo Yunying told her.


    It was this woman who made her miss her chance with Eldest Young Master. Since she had ruined her life, she could forget about living a good life.


    The sun was about to set, and the warm light barrier seemed to cast a layer of gold light on the peach forest. It was indeed beautiful.


    Shen Yijia was still thinking about bringing her beautiful husband to visit one day when she heard someone behind her fall to the ground with a cry.


    Here it comes!


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She had endured her discomfort to play with them. She didn¡¯t want to be disappointed.


    Among this group of people, only Du Huaiyu knew the Qi Huang technique. Everyone looked at Du Huaiyu at the same time.


    Du Huaiyu glanced at the person. She wanted to ignore her, but he couldn¡¯t bring himself to do so. She turned around and reminded her, ¡°Young Madam, don¡¯t go near the cliff. I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded. ¡°Go quickly.¡±


    As soon as Du Huaiyu left, Shen Yijia was instantly surrounded. She was petite to begin with, so she could only ¡°passively¡± follow them.


    For a moment, her ears were filled with chattering about how beautiful these flowers were.


    After walking for a while, there was silence. The people who were walking in front of her suddenly took a step to the sides and made way.


    At the same time, someone pushed her from behind.


    Shen Yijia staggered forward and stopped at the edge of the cliff.


    It was so close that one foot was already in the air!

 Chapter 344 - 344 Missed (1)

    344 Missed (1)


    At the top of the mountain, Shen Yijia clung to the cliff with both hands. She frowned at the group of women who had been smiling at her just now and calling her Young Madam.


    At this moment, their faces were so ugly.


    Was this what Da Hua meant by a woman¡¯s heart being the most poisonous?


    ¡°Young Madam? You should have been more magnanimous and agreed to let me become Eldest Young Master¡¯s concubine. Why didn¡¯t you leave me some leeway?¡± Wu Chuntao looked down at her ferociously.


    The others looked a little afraid, but no one retreated.


    They believed that as long as they killed Shen Yijia, they could get what they wanted.


    ¡°You¡¯ve ruined all of us. Today is your retribution.¡±


    Shen Yijia ignored her. She stepped on a leverage point and reached for the whip at her waist.


    While she heaved a sigh of relief, she rolled her eyes inwardly. Didn¡¯t she know that villains died from talking too much?


    Why did they all like to give a speech before doing something bad?


    Wu Chuntao was still cursing. Shen Yijia took the time to look at Du Huaiyu, who had been knocked unconscious and was lying on the ground.


    Just now, she had already stabilized herself. It was this fellow¡¯s scream that made her lose her balance and step on air. It almost made her regret it for the rest of her life.


    If she really fell to her death like this, she felt that Du Huaiyu would have to take full responsibility.


    When she retracted her gaze, her eyes met Luo Yunying¡¯s. The latter was smiling and looking at her calmly.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°She¡¯s not dead yet. Why are you so smug?¡±


    Wu Chuntao seemed to have finally finished cursing. She turned around and glanced at Luo Yunying. When she met her encouraging gaze, she clenched her fists and approached the cliff.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes suddenly lit up and she said in surprise, ¡°Hubby, why are you here?¡±


    Everyone present was shocked. They followed her gaze and turned around. There was someone behind them.


    At this moment, a gust of wind blew past, and at the same time, there was the sound of leaves rustling. Realizing that they had been deceived, they looked at Shen Yijia again, but the person who had been clinging to the cliff had already disappeared.


    ¡°Where is she?¡± Luo Yunying¡¯s pupils constricted. She took a few steps to the edge of the cliff and stuck her head out to look down. However, she only saw a bottomless, black cliff.


    ¡°Could it have fallen down?¡± Wu Chuntao was stunned for a moment. She looked down at her hand and retreated away from the cliff, as if she instantly realized what she had done.


    Luo Yunying looked at her in disdain and said firmly, ¡°That¡¯s impossible. Would she let go and seek death?¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and look for her. If she escapes, none of us can escape responsibility for what happened today.¡±


    When everyone heard this, they could not care less about being afraid. They stuck their heads out and looked in the direction where Shen Yijia had fallen.


    ¡°Are you looking for me again?¡± A clear voice sounded to their left.


    Luo Yunying suddenly turned around and saw Shen Yijia hugging a tree growing by the cliff to her left.


    She shook her head in disbelief. For the life of her, she couldn¡¯t figure out how she¡¯d managed to jump over such a distance.


    Shen Yijia could tell what she was thinking. She waved the long whip at her and grinned. She wrapped the whip around her waist and climbed up the tree trunk. She jumped towards the cliff shore and landed.


    She bent down and was about to pat the leaves hanging on her when she heard a piercing sound. Shen Yijia cursed in her heart and rolled to the right to avoid the sword.


    After rolling away, her expression changed. She completely gave up on the idea of personally teaching Luo Yunying a lesson. She shouted, ¡°Mo Yuan, your young lady is about to die. Come out quickly.¡±


    As she spoke, she ran backward, but her posture looked strange.


    Joy flashed across Luo Yunying¡¯s face. She chased after Shen Yijia with her sword. A figure suddenly flashed out from the side and blocked the sword she was about to stab Shen Yijia with.


    The two of them instantly fought.


    Shen Yijia stomped her feet in anger. She reached out and touched the back of her butt. As expected, she felt wet. She exclaimed, ¡°Oh no. It¡¯s leaking. Mo Yuan, quickly, quickly! Let¡¯s end this quickly.¡±


    Her voice brought Wu Chuntao and the others back to their senses. They looked at each other and were about to rush up to catch her.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and pulled out the soft whip at her waist. It didn¡¯t hit them, but it stopped them in their tracks.


    Mo Yuan also sent Luo Yunying¡¯s sword flying. She kicked Luo Yunying onto the group of wives. At the same time, she took out a few paper bags from her pocket and threw them at the heads of those people.

 Chapter 345 - 345 Missed (2)

    345 Missed (2)


    Shen Yijia waved her whip and smashed the paper bags. Immediately, powder scattered down.


    Luo Yunying was shocked. She covered her mouth and nose and stood up, wanting to escape.


    However, how could Shen Yijia give her a chance? She lashed out with her whip, and a deep wound instantly appeared on Luo Yunying¡¯s shoulder.


    The reason why she didn¡¯t hit Wu Chuntao and the others was because Shen Yijia felt that they were too weak and was afraid that she would accidentally kill them.


    !!


    She didn¡¯t have such a good temper when it came to Luo Yunying. She could tell that she was the mastermind.


    Luo Yunying cried out in pain and glared at Shen Yijia resentfully. However, in the next moment, an unbearable itch came from her wound, followed by her face and hands.


    At this moment, there was a rustling sound behind her. She resisted the urge to scratch and turned around. She saw the people behind her scratching her desperately.


    ¡°It¡¯s itchy, it¡¯s itchy¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s so itchy!¡±


    Wu Chuntao kept scratching her face. Soon, a few bloodstains appeared on her face.


    The others were not any better off.


    Thinking of the powder just now, Luo Yunying looked at Shen Yijia in fear. ¡°B*tch, you poisoned us?¡±


    As he spoke, she scratched at her wound uncontrollably.


    This powder was the powder Shen Yijia had picked from the mountains with Mo Yuan a few days ago. She named it Itchy Powder. She did not expect it to have such a good effect.


    She smiled at the group of women in front of her who had begun to tear at their clothes. For some reason, she felt her nose itch. She reached out to scratch it, but she smelled an indescribable smell.


    Thinking of something, she wiped her hands on her body in disdain and said with a long face, ¡°Mo Yuan, what should we do? I feel like I can¡¯t take it anymore.¡±


    Her period belt had long been moved. Now, she still felt like a volcano that was erupting from time to time.


    ¡°Damn it.¡± she thought.


    Mo Yuan took out a period band and handed it over expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia looked at her in disbelief. It was not because Mo Yuan was wearing this, but because¡­


    ¡°You want me to change here?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°It¡¯s already dark. I¡¯ll keep watch.¡±


    Indeed, the sky had already darkened after their commotion. The banquet at the foot of the mountain had probably started for a while.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. She suddenly thought of something and asked, ¡°By the way, did you tell my husband that I went up the mountain with these people?¡±


    Mo Yuan pursed her lips. ¡°Yes.¡±


    If Shen Yijia had not asked her to make a trip to the military camp, she would not have come so late. She had just arrived when Shen Yijia called for her.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    She looked around, wanting to find a hidden place to change her period before going down the mountain to look for Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Young Madam, we were wrong. Please give us the antidote.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. We were all bewitched by Luo Yunying to attack Young Madam. Young Madam, please forgive us.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused.


    The few of them thought that Shen Yijia was going to leave, so they begged for mercy.


    Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks and said apologetically, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I just discovered this powder. There¡¯s no antidote.¡±


    Although she said that, the gloating expression on her face was obvious.


    Luo Yunying suddenly laughed out loud. ¡°You fools. If you didn¡¯t have those despicable thoughts, would I have bewitched you with just a few words?¡±


    ¡°And you.¡± As she spoke, she tore off her skirt and wrapped it around her hands. She gritted her teeth and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°B*tch, don¡¯t think that you can be with Eldest Young Master like this. My father has already made arrangements at the foot of the mountain. I¡¯m afraid Eldest Young Master has already become a prisoner. You¡¯d better let me go, or else¡­¡±


    ¡°Or what?¡± said a cold voice.


    A group of people walked out of the night. Who else could it be but Song Jingchen?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she hurried over. ¡°Hubby, why are you here?¡±


    Seeing that her hair was messy and she was in a sorry state, Song Jingchen¡¯s face instantly darkened. He said in a low voice, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you not to run around?¡±


    If not for the fact that he was the bait, he would have come long ago. Even so, he had specially brought forward the banquet to escape at this time.


    Shen Yijia shrank back guiltily. ¡°I can¡¯t refuse your kindness.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re quite good at using words.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled at him obsequiously. ¡°Hubby taught me well.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here? Where are my father and the others?¡± Luo Yunying screamed after recovering from her surprise. She had even forgotten about the itchiness on her body.

 Chapter 346 - 346 Missed (3)

    346 Missed (3)


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. Without looking at her, he waved his hand and said coldly, ¡°Capture all of them and bring them away.¡±


    ¡°Be careful when you capture them. Don¡¯t touch them directly. They¡¯re covered with a powder that makes them itchy,¡± Shen Yijia hurriedly reminded them.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was looking at her again, she subconsciously picked up the thing in her hand and covered her face. She lowered her voice and muttered, ¡°Don¡¯t look for me when the time comes. I really don¡¯t have the antidote.¡±


    When the group of soldiers heard her words and saw that this group of women was still scratching, they did not dare to capture them.


    !!


    Just as they were feeling conflicted, Mo Yuan threw a hemp rope at them.


    Now they could tie them up.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care how they captured those women. He stared at the thing in Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    The more he looked at it, the more familiar it looked. He thought of something and his forehead throbbed.


    At this moment, General Du walked over with his daughter, Du Huaiyu. Song Jingchen grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, pulled the item out, and stuffed it into his pocket.


    Shen Yijia finally reacted. Seeing that he had brazenly taken her period belt, her face instantly turned red.


    General Du glanced at the two of them strangely. Song Jingchen¡¯s actions just now were too fast for him to see clearly. He only saw a white thing flash past his eyes.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. General Du reacted and lowered his head respectfully. ¡°Eldest Young Master, you can go down the mountain now.¡±


    Shen Yijia closed her legs and took a step back. The only thing she was glad about now was that no one could see clearly in the dark. Otherwise, they would definitely see the red patch behind her butt.


    However, if she were to walk down the mountain like this, wouldn¡¯t she be exposed?


    Song Jingchen sensed her actions and pursed his lips. ¡°Bring them down first.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, you can¡¯t treat me like this. Don¡¯t you remember me? You saved me before. Have you forgotten?¡±


    When the group of people passed by Song Jingchen, Luo Yunying suddenly struggled crazily. Fortunately, the effect of the itchy powder prevented her from using much strength.


    She was so far away that he could still hear her shouting, as well as the other women sobbing.


    ¡°Hubby,¡± Shen Yijia stammered and pursed her lips. ¡°Can you return it to me first?¡±


    The feeling of a volcanic eruption came again.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and frowned slightly. ¡°Are you prepared to¡­¡±


    When he said this, his earlobes felt hot.


    ¡°What else?¡± Shen Yijia was about to cry. She could already feel liquid flowing down her thigh.


    Song Jingchen sighed. He took off his coat and draped it over Shen Yijia. He bent down and picked her up horizontally.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and hooked her arms around his neck.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. He picked her up and walked down the mountain.


    He was even angrier at the thought of this girl coming here to cause trouble even though she knew that she was not feeling well.


    Shen Yijia stole a glance at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Oh my, my beautiful husband is angry. I¡¯d better stay quiet or the consequences will be very serious.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°How terrifying.¡±


    Song Jingchen sent Shen Yijia home and personally cooked a bowl of brown sugar ginger tea for her. The amount of ginger was doubled.


    He stared at Shen Yijia as she drank it with a frown.


    At this moment, Mo Yuan had also boiled the water. Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth was still burning after drinking all that ginger tea.


    When she came out of the shower, Song Jingchen had already left.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. Just as she thought of going to the military camp, Thirty Thousand jumped out.


    ¡°Young Madam, Eldest Young Master said that if you want to know anything, just ask me.¡±


    This was a euphemism. What he meant was that Eldest Young Master did not allow her to go out.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose. She had already angered her beautiful husband today. In addition, she really did not want to move when her period came, so she did not dare to cause trouble again.


    However, this did not stop her curiosity.


    ¡°Has the matter with the Luo family been resolved?¡±


    Thirty Thousand had already made up his mind to stop Shen Yijia even if he had to be beaten up. He did not expect her to be so easy to talk to today.


    He heaved a sigh of relief and quickly explained what had happened today.


    Song Jingchen had long known that Old General Luo had ulterior motives. The reason why he didn¡¯t attack previously was because he wasn¡¯t sure which of the 50,000 people had already become his subordinates.


    Over the past few days, he had called the other four generals to Ban Shan every day because he wanted Old General Luo to think that he was colluding with the others to deal with him.


    Although that was indeed the case¡­


    And everything Song Jingchen did was to force Old General Luo to attack.


    Old General Luo felt that the banquet was a good opportunity and wanted to settle it once and for all. Little did he know that Song Jingchen had specially built this stage for him.


    In short, be it the food or wine tonight, they were all drugged. After a while, more than half of the people in the military camp were affected.


    As for the nearly 20,000 people who were not affected, it was obvious who they belonged to.


    Song Jingchen arranged for 4,000 elite soldiers to lie in ambush at the periphery according to the list provided by Uncle Yang.


    When Old General Luo felt that victory was in his grasp, the 4,000 elite soldiers attacked.


    The military camp was already filled with corpses and seas of blood. Not only that, but there were also tens of thousands of people lying unconscious.


    In Song Jingchen¡¯s words, once disloyal, never trustworthy again.


    Even if someone surrendered and begged for mercy, Song Jingchen still didn¡¯t let them off.


    This was also the reason why Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let Shen Yijia go over.


    Thinking of that scene, Thirty Thousand felt a chill down his spine.


    Although his master didn¡¯t usually punish people, when someone really crossed his bottom line, he was definitely decisive in dealing with them.


    In his master¡¯s opinion, these people had been nurtured by Old Master Song, but now they had betrayed the Song family. This was something he could not tolerate.

 Chapter 347 - 347 Surprise (1)

    347 Surprise (1)


    To the drugged soldiers, it was like a dream. When they woke up, they saw corpses, and the ones who died were the people who usually trained with them.


    After knowing the whole story, they felt another wave of fear. They almost wouldn¡¯t have woken up again.


    The Luo family had never thought of slaughtering these ordinary soldiers. They just wanted to control them and reason with them after killing Song Jingchen and the generals.


    To put it simply, it was brainwashing.


    However, with such a misunderstanding, they no longer felt that Song Jingchen was bloodthirsty and cruel. Instead, they remembered that he had saved their lives.


    All in all, it was a good thing.


    Uncle Yang returned the day after the incident. He brought his men to transport everything back from the secret room.


    Shen Yijia was not interested in these ancient books and let Song Jingchen deal with them.


    She did not know what would happen to the Luo family in the end.


    However, no one would pity the Luo family for doing such an ungrateful thing.


    Because Du Huaiyu had let it slip, Song Jingchen found out that Shen Yijia had almost lost her life at the top of the mountain and grounded her.


    Shen Yijia felt that she was in the wrong for running out after promising to wait for him at home, so she stayed at home obediently and did not dare to run around.


    Of course, the reason why she was so obedient was firstly because her period had yet to pass. Secondly, the valley had been filled with the smell of blood for the past few days, so she did not want to go down the mountain.


    However, she did not stay at home. This place was deep in the mountains and had abundant resources. Every day, Mo Yuan would take the time to go around and find some herbs. When Shen Yijia had nothing to do, she would deal with those herbs and learn some pharmacological knowledge.


    It was not until Du Huaiyu came to visit her that she mentioned the Luo family.


    Old General Luo had originally been unwilling to reveal the whereabouts of the silver that he had embezzled. Later on, he decided to reveal the answer, but he wanted Song Jingchen to let his second son off.


    Surprisingly, Song Jingchen agreed.


    The generals did not agree with this. What if Luo Yongchang harbored resentment and exposed this place to avenge his father and brother?


    However, no matter how they persuaded him, they couldn¡¯t convince Song Jingchen to change his mind.


    Du Huaiyu knew this because she had accidentally heard her father discussing this matter with her brother.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. Song Jingchen must have thought that Luo Yongchang was not a threat.


    That was indeed the case. The day before the banquet, Luo Yongchang had actually gone to look for Song Jingchen. He didn¡¯t do it for his own survival, but he knew his father¡¯s stubbornness too well and didn¡¯t want his father to continue making mistakes.


    He also knew the consequences of this matter being exposed, but their lives had been given to them by Old Master Song. Now, he had returned the favor.


    As for why Old General Luo had chosen his second son, whom he had always been dissatisfied with, instead of his eldest son or granddaughter, it was unknown.


    ¡°Young Madam,¡± Du Huaiyu suddenly shouted.


    Shen Yijia looked up at her strangely from the medicinal bowl. Seeing that she was silent, she continued to pound the medicine.


    She was wearing gloves that Mo Yuan had specially sewn and a mask. In her previous life, she had seen the old men in the research institute wear them. She could make them with a simple description.


    The reason why she did this was because after the itchy powder, she suddenly had an idea. She was mixing all the poisonous herbs that Mo Yuan had picked and drying it in the sun.


    If anyone dared to provoke her again in the future, she would not let them off easily.


    Du Huaiyu struggled for a long time. She thought that Shen Yijia would at least ask what was wrong so that she could continue.


    In the end¡­


    She hesitated for a moment. Thinking of what she wanted to say, she stood up with a red face and wanted to get closer, but Shen Yijia stopped her.


    ¡°Stay at the door and don¡¯t come in. Otherwise, I won¡¯t be responsible if anything happens.¡±


    Du Huaiyu was speechless.


    Shen Yijia sat on a stone bench in the courtyard, and Du Huaiyu sat at the door.


    At this distance, coupled with the sound of Shen Yijia pounding the medicine, it was impossible for Du Huaiyu to speak softly.


    However, it wasn¡¯t easy for her to muster her courage. She was afraid that she wouldn¡¯t be able to ask again if she didn¡¯t ask today.


    Thinking about how Young Madam had said that she was the only one at home today, and that no one would usually come here, she took a deep breath and called out again, ¡°Young Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked up at her in confusion.


    Du Huaiyu blushed. ¡°Is South Wind married?¡±

 Chapter 348 - 348 Surprise (2)

    348 Surprise (2)


    Even though the women in this mountain pass were bolder than the women outside, she was still a little embarrassed to ask this question.


    South Wind was Eldest Young Master¡¯s subordinate. She couldn¡¯t ask Eldest Young Master such a question, right? She could only ask Young Madam.


    Shen Yijia paused and looked up. She blinked. Did Du Huaiyu like South Wind? When did the two of them interact? Why didn¡¯t she know? Every time Du Huaiyu came, South Wind was not around.


    After waiting for a while, Shen Yijia did not answer. Du Huaiyu was inexplicably nervous.


    The first time she saw South Wind was when Song Jingchen asked South Wind to go to the village to inform the women that they could also join the army.


    She even led him around the village. At that time, she felt that South Wind was different from the rough men she had seen since she was young.


    Later on, she could always see him walking in and out of the military camp with Eldest Young Master. After paying more attention, a notion sprouted in her heart.


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes flashed. She did not think there was anything wrong with Du Huaiyu asking this.


    Du Huaiyu was overjoyed and showed it on her face. She started off and asked, ¡°Then does he have someone he likes?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. She really did not know about this. She looked behind Du Huaiyu. ¡°South Wind, do you have someone in mind?¡±


    Du Huaiyu¡¯s eyes widened. She turned around in a daze and saw South Wind standing not far behind her.


    She blushed.


    South Wind, who was about to leave quietly, thought to himself, ¡°Young Madam, do you know that you¡¯ll make people feel awkward by doing that?¡±


    However, he did not dare to not answer Shen Yijia¡¯s question. He could only lower his head. ¡°No.¡±


    After some thought, he added, ¡°I have no plans to get married for the time being.¡±


    Shen Yijia ignored his last sentence and turned to Du Huaiyu. ¡°He said no, which means you still have a chance.¡±


    Du Huaiyu originally felt a little uncomfortable when he heard South Wind¡¯s last sentence. Wasn¡¯t this indirectly rejecting her?


    However, Shen Yijia¡¯s words ignited hope in her heart again. She looked at South Wind with sparkling eyes, as if asking if there was any hope for her.


    South Wind felt his scalp tingle. What was wrong with all these women these days?


    Shen Yijia waved her hand, looking reasonable. ¡°The two of you can talk among yourselves.¡±


    South Wind was silent for a moment before cupping his hands again. ¡°Master asked me to come back and tell Young Madam that he might be busy until late today. He asked Young Madam not to wait for him to come back for dinner and to rest early.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face fell and she waved her hand. ¡°I know, I know.¡±


    Her beautiful husband had asked her if the army could use the crossbows she created, and she said yes. Ever since then, her beautiful husband had been busy.


    She didn¡¯t need to guess what he was busy with.


    Shen Yijia was silent for a while. Suddenly, she thought of something and her eyes flashed. She grinned.


    After completing the mission given by Song Jingchen, South Wind turned around and left. Du Huaiyu hesitated for a moment before jogging after him. Anyway, he already knew what she was thinking, so there was no need to hide her intentions.


    Shen Yijia looked at their backs, threw away the pestle, and secretly followed them.


    Unfortunately, when Shen Yijia arrived, only Du Huaiyu was left standing there alone. She could vaguely see South Wind¡¯s back view getting further and further away.


    ¡°So soon? Did she succeed or not?¡± she thought.


    She was still wondering if she should go over and ask, but Du Huaiyu discovered her first.


    ¡°Thank you, Young Madam.¡± Du Huaiyu smiled at Shen Yijia, and two dimples appeared on his round face.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Did it work?¡±


    Du Huaiyu was depressed. ¡°No.¡±


    She had followed South Wind out just now. Without waiting for her to speak, South Wind spoke first.


    ¡°There are many good men in this world. Miss Du, you don¡¯t have to waste your time on me. I have no intention of getting married.¡±


    With that, he left without giving her a chance to speak.


    Shen Yijia felt a little regretful and comforted him. ¡°There are plenty of fish in the sea. Don¡¯t be sad. I¡¯ll introduce you to someone better when I have the chance.¡±


    There were nine Mahjong Brothers, and Thirty Thousand had someone in mind. Aside from the two of them, there were still seven others.


    Unexpectedly, Du Huaiyu shook her head and said firmly, ¡°I won¡¯t give up.¡±


    Shen Yijia gave her a thumbs up. ¡°Good luck. If you need it, I can get Mo Yuan to prepare two packets of medicine for you.¡±


    After reading so many novels, she naturally wouldn¡¯t be stupid enough to think that the drug was enough.


    Du Huaiyu did not expect the woman from the capital to be even bolder than her. She blushed and stammered, ¡°Yes, if there¡¯s a need, I¡¯ll ask Young Madam for help.¡±

 Chapter 349 - 349 Surprise (3)

    349 Surprise (3)


    Mo Yuan had returned from picking herbs.


    Mo Yuan saw that Shen Yijia had crushed the poisonous herbs she picked. She was going to make drugs with them.


    Mo Yuan was speechless.


    It was rare for Shen Yijia to see a different expression on her face.


    !!


    She rubbed her nose and felt an inexplicable sense of accomplishment.


    When Song Jingchen returned, he saw from afar that the courtyard was pitch-black, almost blending into the night.


    He frowned. Usually, even if Shen Yijia fell asleep first, she would leave a light at the entrance of the courtyard and the house.


    Thinking of the Luo family that he had just dealt with, his heart skipped a beat. He quickened his pace. South Wind and Thirty Thousand quickly followed.


    There was no one in the courtyard, not even Furball, who usually lay at the entrance.


    Song Jingchen rushed into the main room. Even without lighting the lamps, he knew that there was no one in the room.


    However, he still lit the oil lamp on the table.


    As expected, the blanket was neatly folded on the bed, but the person who was supposed to be sleeping on it was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s no one in Mo Yuan¡¯s room,¡± Thirty Thousand reported.


    South Wind also ran over at this moment. He looked at the kitchen and even his room. The outcome was obvious.


    Song Jingchen frowned. He was about to instruct South Wind to go down the mountain and look for them when an arrow pierced through the air and stabbed firmly into the door of the main house.


    Song Jingchen flashed out of the courtyard and saw a figure quickly jump into the forest.


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s a note here.¡± South Wind chased after him with the arrow. He took off the note nailed to the tip of the arrow and handed it over.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and opened the note.


    ¡°If you want to save your wife, come to Peach Blossom Cliff.¡±


    Peach Blossom Cliff was where Luo Yunying and the others had brought Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip on the note. The thought that Shen Yijia had gone out to play by herself disappeared. He went to Peach Blossom Cliff without thinking.


    He was too fast. South Wind and Thirty Thousand could not keep up. Fortunately, the two of them had caught a glimpse of the contents of the note.


    Peach Blossom Cliff.


    The Luo family, including the soldiers who followed them, had all been executed. However, it was not impossible for some to have escaped.


    Perhaps Luo Yongchang regretted it after his father, brothers, and relatives died and wanted to avenge them.


    Although Shen Yijia was skilled, she was too stupid. As long as someone used him as bait, that silly girl would definitely fall for it.


    It was also possible that the culprit had used drugs.


    Along the way, Song Jingchen thought about many things. He was worried that the culprit would torture Shen Yijia, but he was also afraid that he would be too late.


    As long as he thought of this, the violence in his heart could not be suppressed.


    However, when he saw the scene on the Peach Blossom Cliff, he was stunned for a moment. He loosened his clenched fists.


    Song Jingchen slowed down, narrowed his eyes, and walked up step by step.


    He already knew who did this.


    The peach blossom cliff, which should have been dark, was now as bright as day. Under every peach tree was a lamp covered in oil paper, illuminating the place.


    There were still notes hanging from the peach tree. White slips of paper fluttered in the wind.


    To be honest, this scene was a little terrifying.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and reached out to grab the first note. He wasn¡¯t too familiar with the handwriting on it.


    ¡°I love three things in the world, the sun, moon, and you. The sun for morning, the moon for night, and you, forever.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart stirred, but his expression didn¡¯t change at all.


    He continued walking, taking advantage of the situation to grab another note.


    ¡°I only wish your heart to be like mine. Returning all my loving thoughts with thine.¡±


    The third one.


    ¡°Only when you walk into the world of love sickness, can you taste the bitterness of missing your beloved ones. Why do these thoughts come without a pause?¡±


    The fourth note.


    ¡°There¡¯s a beauty I cannot forget. After not seeing her for a day, I miss her so much.¡±


    The fifth, sixth, and seventh notes¡­


    When he finished reading the last note, Shen Yijia suddenly jumped out from the side.


    ¡°Are you surprised? Are you surprised?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She stood there and smiled brightly, clearly very satisfied with her masterpiece.


    Song Jingchen turned around and stared at her without saying anything. The girl stood under the peach blossom tree in a pink dress, unaware that a few peach blossom petals had fallen from her head.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. According to the book, shouldn¡¯t her beautiful husband run over, pick her up, spin her around, confess his love, and kiss her under the moonlight?


    However, her beautiful husband did not seem to be touched by the gesture.


    Just as she finished thinking this, she saw Song Jingchen walking towards her expressionlessly. Shen Yijia grinned and opened her hands, waiting for him to hug her.


    Song Jingchen hugged her waist as Shen Yijia wished and laughed coldly.


    Suddenly.


    A smacking sound could be heard.


    The sound was especially loud on such a quiet night.


    Shen Yijia covered her butt and jumped back in disbelief. ¡°Why did you hit me?¡±


    The three people who were stopped by Mo Yuan and watching the show in the dark thought to themselves, ¡°That¡¯s right. Why did Master hit Young Madam? Wasn¡¯t the setup supposed to be very romantic?¡±


    Furball was speechless.


    Song Jingchen glanced in their direction and said coldly, ¡°Go down the mountain.¡±


    The leaves rustled, and the three of them left silently, the question still in their heads.


    In the end, they came to a conclusion: Song Jingchen was not a romantic person at all.


    Only then did Song Jingchen look at Shen Yijia and raise his eyebrows. ¡°Do you think that you didn¡¯t deserve that hit?¡±


    Shen Yijia said self-righteously, ¡°Of course I didn¡¯t deserve it.¡±


    In order to prepare for this surprise, she specially asked Mo Yuan to buy a lot of oil paper from the village to make lampshades. She even copied so many love poems.


    She had worked hard.

 Chapter 350 - 350 Wrong

    350 Wrong


    It was unknown if she was aggrieved or embarrassed, but Shen Yijia¡¯s face was red as she puffed up her cheeks and looked at Song Jingchen.


    His face expressed a single message: ¡°If you don¡¯t coax me, I¡¯ll get angry.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s fingers moved, and he resisted the urge to poke her. This girl didn¡¯t learn her lesson. If he let her off so easily, she would definitely do it again.


    Therefore, he pulled a long face and looked even angrier than Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Why was he still angry? She was clearly the one being beaten up. Even if he was good-looking, he had to be reasonable.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t coax her.


    Shen Yijia felt wronged. ¡°You¡¯re unreasonable.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°You did something wrong.¡±


    ¡°What did I do wrong? I clearly wanted to give you a surprise.¡± Shen Yijia was indignant.


    That was what was written in the book. However, in order to make it more effective, she made a fake kidnapping and even asked Mo Yuan to send a note.


    There would only be joy when there had been a shock.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He wasn¡¯t happy, but he was shocked.


    The wind blew past, messing up Shen Yijia¡¯s hair.


    Song Jingchen reached out.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and took a few steps back. She leaned against a peach tree and firmly protected her butt.


    After she leaned back, she reached out and blocked him. ¡°Do you know that a gentleman uses his mouth instead of his fists? You have to tell me what I did wrong first.¡±


    It was too embarrassing to get spanked.


    She pinched her fingers and secretly decided that if Song Jingchen attacked again, she wouldn¡¯t hold back.


    At most, she would avoid hitting his face.


    Song Jingchen noticed her movements and was silent for a moment. He had long realized that this girl would unconsciously pinch her fingers when she wanted to attack.


    So she was¡­


    Thinking of this, he was speechless. He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand angrily and pulled her in front of him.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. The hand did not go behind her. Instead, it gently tucked her messy hair behind her ear.


    Then, she heard Song Jingchen¡¯s helpless voice.


    ¡°There was a territory in the past. Every winter, the bandits would enter the village to burn, kill, and plunder. They would usually run away after looting the village.


    The officials could not do anything to them, so the people from the various villages came up with a way to find a safe haven for each village, regardless of whether it was a basement or a cave. If they heard that the bandits had left the mountain, everyone would hide in advance.


    ¡°In this way, we avoided the bandits until one time¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was neither fast nor slow. Shen Yijia swore that other than reading to her, this was the first time she had heard him say such a long sentence. In addition, every sentence was easy to understand.


    Therefore, she listened attentively.


    If Shen Yijia had a normal living environment in her previous life, she would know that this was actually a replica of the children¡¯s story of ¡°The Boy Who Cried Wolf¡± that every child in her previous life knew.


    Unfortunately, she did not. In the story, after someone had joked about the bandits going down the mountain a few times, when the person was being serious no one believed that the bandits had really come. As a result, the bandits massacred the village. She felt angry at the outcome of the story.


    Then, she reacted angrily. Her lie about being kidnapped seemed to be the same as the person who lied.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°My husband is still the same. He went through so much trouble to make me realize my mistake.¡±


    She glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression and said guiltily, ¡°Since you¡¯ve already hit me, you won¡¯t be angry anymore, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her deeply and said with a faint smile, ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    Shen Yijia hummed, thinking that he meant that three hits weren¡¯t enough. She scratched her head with her free hand.


    Without her previous self-righteousness, she said in a muffled voice, ¡°Then can you not spank my butt? You can hit me somewhere else.¡±


    After saying that, she opened her palm and reached out to Song Jingchen. She was terrified and obedient.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat when he saw her like this. If not for the fact that her act of pinching her fingers was still vivid in his mind, he would have been deceived by her.


    Song Jingchen let go of Shen Yijia and raised his hand.


    Shen Yijia closed her eyes.


    There was no expected pain in her hand. Instead, there was a cold touch on her forehead.


    There was originally a flower bud, but it had disappeared after using Mo Yuan¡¯s medicine.


    However, she only applied it once a day.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes and looked up. She saw Song Jingchen pressing a finger against her forehead. His finger was slender and beautiful.


    She wanted to pinch him.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking at a glance. The corners of his mouth twitched, and he quickly flicked her forehead.


    He was afraid that Shen Yijia would not learn her lesson.


    However, when he saw the red mark on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead, he regretted it again.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s attention was focused on that finger and she gasped.


    This time, Song Jingchen regretted it even more. He forgot that he had said that he wanted to teach her a lesson. He stroked the red mark with his fingers.


    He frowned and asked, ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to whine about the pain, but when she saw Song Jingchen¡¯s reproachful expression, she immediately shook her head. ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    This was the truth. This was nothing. She had been pampered after coming to this world. Back in her previous life, she wouldn¡¯t even have blinked at something like this.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was still staring at her forehead, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Actually, a little, but¡­¡± Shen Yijia paused. When Song Jingchen finally turned his gaze from her forehead to her face, she grinned.¡± If I had a kiss, it wouldn¡¯t hurt at all. ¡±


    Ever since she came to Qilin Mountain, her beautiful husband had always been busy or with those generals. Not to mention kissing and hugging, he rarely even had time to talk to her.


    Thinking about it, Shen Yijia felt a little aggrieved. However, her beautiful husband was busy with serious matters, so she could not disturb him.


    Song Jingchen was slightly stunned. He looked at her fair forehead again.


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s sparkling eyes, he shook his head helplessly and bent down to kiss her forehead.


    Shen Yijia was satisfied. She pouted, her meaning obvious.


    She wanted kisses here too.


    Song Jingchen chuckled, but it wasn¡¯t what she wanted.


    He was a normal man, and he was facing a woman who could easily affect his emotions. After a few accidents, in order to prevent him from hurting her, he could only¡­


    Under Shen Yijia¡¯s accusing gaze, Song Jingchen held her hand and walked to a peach tree. He pinched a note that had been blown up by the wind and asked, ¡°Did you write all this?¡±


    At the mention of this, Shen Yijia became proud. She couldn¡¯t care less that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t kiss her. She nodded proudly and corrected him, ¡°I copied it.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and pointed at one word. ¡°You managed to copy the wrong words?¡±


    Shen Yijia took a look at the word he was pointing at. She had missed a stroke.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°Isn¡¯t he focusing on the wrong thing?¡± she thought.

 Chapter 351 - 351 Going Home

    351 Going Home


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart was hit hard. In the books she read, men and women on dates were always flirting with each other, but when it came to her¡­


    Firstly, she got smacked. After that, she got lectured. Next, her ¡°homework¡± got critiqued.


    In the end, she concluded that Song Jingchen was an insensitive person.


    Shen Yijia pouted while gripping her brush and was depressed for a long time. Then, there was the sound of knocking on the desk.


    ¡°If this brush breaks again, you¡¯ll have to copy it three more times.¡± Song Jingchen buried his head in the drawing of the crossbow and reminded her coldly.


    Shen Yijia shivered and almost lost her grip on the brush.


    She glanced at the corpses of countless brushes in the basket beside her. The corners of her mouth twitched, and she continued writing.


    This matter started from that night when Song Jingchen brought her to point out the mistakes one by one.


    On average, there would be a mistake every three pages. Sometimes, there would be two or three mistakes per page.


    God knew that she was clearly very serious when she copied them, but in the end, all the words grew crooked. Shen Yijia argued that it was all their fault for looking so similar.


    In the end, she had to copy them again.


    In order to encourage her, Song Jingchen even brought her along every day. While he was busy with other things, Shen Yijia copied her love poems from the side.


    The two of them were truly inseparable.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It would be even better if I didn¡¯t have to practice calligraphy.¡±


    She had carefully designed a surprise. Not only was her beautiful husband not touched, he even cruelly punished her.


    This was indeed Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia wrote resentfully, pouting.


    Song Jingchen looked up at her and a smile flashed across his eyes.


    He could not bear to hit her. In order to teach Shen Yijia a lesson, he could only find another way.


    This girl was not afraid of anything. She was only afraid of calligraphy practice.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    A female voice came in from outside the tent. Shen Yijia¡¯s ears immediately pricked up.


    ¡°It¡¯s here, it¡¯s here. The daily husband-chasing drama is here again.¡± she thought.


    She secretly looked up at Song Jingchen and saw that he was focused on the blueprint. Her eyes darted around and she quietly put down her brush. She raised the desk with both hands and carefully moved to the side of the tent. She reached out and lifted a corner of the curtain.


    So that she could see outside without being discovered by the people outside.


    Not far from the tent, a man and a woman appeared in her line of sight.


    ¡°Miss Du.¡± South Wind looked helplessly at the person who had caught up to him and blocked his way. Ever since he heard Du Huaiyu¡¯s conversation with Young Madam.


    He was completely entangled with this person.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you many times before? You don¡¯t have to call me Miss Du. Just call me Huaiyu.¡± Du Huaiyu was a little dissatisfied with the way he addressed her.


    The corners of South Wind¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°That¡¯s what you said. I didn¡¯t agree to it.¡± he thought.


    Du Huaiyu did not mind. She shyly took out a green sachet. ¡°I see that you often stand guard outside the tent. There are many mosquitoes at night. I specially placed insect repellent herbs inside. You won¡¯t have to be afraid with this.¡±


    With that, she reached out to tie it around South Wind¡¯s waist.


    South Wind took a step back and avoided her hand. ¡°Thank you for your kindness, Miss Du, but this isn¡¯t appropriate. Miss Du, you should take it back.¡±


    Du Huaiyu paused and looked at the sachet in her hand. She frowned and asked, ¡°Do you think it looks bad? It¡¯s my first time doing needlework. Make do with it first. I¡¯ll make a better one for you next time.¡±


    In the past, she did not like needlework. Besides, it was more practical to know some kung fu in this mountain pass than needlework, so no one forced her to learn it. She had asked her mother to teach her at the last minute.


    South Wind realized that this girl¡¯s comprehension ability might not be very good. Was he complaining about whether the sachet looked good? He was clearly saying that this gift was inappropriate.


    Du Huaiyu was still nagging about how difficult it was to make this sachet. From picking herbs to drying herbs to choosing fabrics¡­


    She didn¡¯t notice South Wind¡¯s expression at all.


    Du Huaiyu¡¯s back was facing the tent. Shen Yijia could only hear her voice, but she could clearly see the change in South Wind¡¯s expression.


    She couldn¡¯t help but snicker. Du Huaiyu was an impressive person.


    She was about to look away when she inadvertently saw two people walking in their direction.


    The expressionless Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. What was wrong with this world?


    A gust of wind blew in through the gap. Shen Yijia realized that it was spring.


    ¡°Ahem.¡±


    A light cough came from behind. Shen Yijia lowered the tent curtain and pretended to write seriously.


    After she finished writing, she didn¡¯t hear Song Jingchen nagging at her. She secretly looked up.


    She met Song Jingchen¡¯s half-smile.


    Shen Yijia immediately grinned and obediently moved the table back to its original position. Indeed, one could not do anything wrong. Otherwise, she would have to act meekly.


    Song Jingchen arranged the follow-up matters of the Qilin Army and led his men into the cave to redesign the mechanism before leaving the Qilin Mountain with Shen Yijia.


    Du Huaiyu originally wanted to follow, but General Du didn¡¯t agree. Coupled with South Wind¡¯s cold attitude, she finally stayed behind.


    When Shen Yijia left, she saw that her eyes were red.


    ¡°Some things can¡¯t be forced,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Shen Yijia paused. She was just wondering if it was because of her words that Du Huaiyu refused to give up.


    If it was really because of her, it would be a sin.


    Du Huaiyu had lived in the mountains since he was young. Even though she had been at odds with Luo Yunying for more than ten years, she only rolled her eyes at Luo Yunying when they met.


    Overall, she was still very innocent. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have been easily lured away and gotten knocked out at Peach Blossom Cliff.


    Perhaps it was indeed best for her to stay in the mountains. After all, it was too dangerous outside.


    Previously, she did not think so. Now that she was really going home, Shen Yijia finally understood what it meant to be eager to go home.


    She had earned money to build every brick and tile in Xiagou Village, so she naturally felt the strongest sense of belonging there.


    She didn¡¯t forget to buy gifts for the family.


    Apart from some cloth, she still bought dazzling gold jewelry for Madam Li. In Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, compared to those cold jade jewelry, gold naturally looked more grand. If she wore it on her head usually, she could directly break off a piece and use it as money.


    Killing two birds with one stone.


    As for the younger ones, it was rare for her to have a conscience. She did not buy any brushes, inkstones, or paper. Instead, she chose a dagger for each of them. Those daggers were said to be able to cut through iron like mud.


    The handles of the five daggers were all golden, and there was a sparkling gem embedded in them. They were simply to her liking.


    In fact, when she left the Qilin Mountain, she had picked out a few sets of boxes from the secret room. There was no need to waste money to buy them.


    Apart from the half box of books that Song Jingchen had left for him, they were all sent to various shops for sale.


    The ancient books were different from the other items. They could not be taken out all at once, and people might not be able to afford them.


    However, Shen Yijia was not in a hurry. She still had a few hundred taels of silver from Song Jingchen, so she was not short of money for the time being.


    In order to travel discreetly and to make Shen Yijia less tired, Song Jingchen asked Uncle Yang to prepare two carriages in advance.


    He shared a carriage with Shen Yijia, and the other carriage was specially prepared for Furball.


    Furball thought to itself, ¡°As expected, the male owner is the best. I had to rely on my four legs when I came here.¡±

 Chapter 352 - 352 A Short Stay

    352 A Short Stay


    What puzzled Shen Yijia was that the closer she got to Lizhou, the more praises she heard for Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    She vaguely heard words like ¡°save Xunyang¡± and ¡°Heir Song¡±.


    In short, it was very similar to the scene when they left the capital.


    However, what did the incident in Xunyang City have to do with Emperor Chong¡¯an? Shouldn¡¯t Xunyang be scolding Emperor Chong¡¯an?


    Since she didn¡¯t understand, Shen Yijia looked for Song Jingchen.


    ¡°We¡¯re going back to the capital,¡± Song Jingchen said as he rubbed her head.


    Back then, Emperor Chong¡¯an had given up on Xunyang. It seemed to only cause harm to the citizens of Xunyang City.


    However, not all the citizens of Great Xia were stupid. Those who knew how to be vigilant would naturally be worried. Their emperor had abandoned Xunyang. If the next city to fall into danger was the one they were in, it was hard to guarantee that they would not become the second Xunyang.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an also knew this, but he had been waiting for Shangguan Han to die for the past ten years. However, it was not appropriate for him to make a move.


    The fact that Xunyang was trapped was an opportunity for him.


    Unexpectedly, Shangguan Han was still alive and Xunyang was still intact.


    Thus, he began to consider the popular sentiment. Coincidentally, he found out about the name list and Song Jingchen¡¯s actions in Xunyang, so he attributed Song Jingchen¡¯s contributions to himself and killed two birds with one stone.


    He could get the name list and while clearing his own name.


    Eventually, he still had to consider how to deal with Song Jingchen himself.


    After more than a month of traveling, the group had originally planned to enter Anyang County.


    Unexpectedly, it suddenly started raining heavily in the middle of the night. The sky turned dark, and the raindrops hurt their faces.


    South Wind, who was riding alone at the front, pulled the reins tightly and rode his horse near to the carriage. He raised his voice and asked, ¡°Master, I remember that there¡¯s a village not far ahead. Why don¡¯t we go over and take shelter from the rain?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the person sleeping in his arms and knocked on the wall of the carriage in agreement.


    South Wind informed Mo Yuan, who was driving the carriage. She waved her whip and made some adjustments to the route.


    The village was south of the official road. It could be seen from the official road, but it was still a distance away. Fortunately, the carriage that entered the village could pass through directly.


    When the carriage arrived, South Wind was waiting at the village entrance. He had already agreed with a family in the village to borrow their dwellings to avoid the rain, so he led the way.


    This village should not be considered poor. At least, it was much better than Xiagou Village. Half of the houses were made of bricks and tiles. The one South Wind found was also in the middle of the village.


    He knocked on the door for a long time, but perhaps because of the loud rain, no one answered.


    At this moment, he happened to see a man in a raincoat pass by. After asking, the man said that he could go to his house to avoid the rain, so he chose this house.


    Mo Yuan drove the carriage straight into the courtyard. This family raised cows, and there was a cowshed built in the courtyard that was just big enough to park the carriage.


    ¡°It¡¯s May. I¡¯m afraid it won¡¯t stop raining for a while. Guests, come in and sit down.¡± The man was in his early thirties. When the carriage stopped, he greeted them warmly with an honest smile.


    He was holding two umbrellas in his hand. It was obvious that he had prepared them for the guests.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze and realized that the carriage had stopped. She asked in a muffled voice, ¡°Are we home?¡±


    She had been a little excited for the past two days. She couldn¡¯t fall asleep until late at night, but she was sleepy in the afternoon.


    ¡°Not yet. It¡¯s raining. Let¡¯s take shelter from the rain first.¡± Song Jingchen let go of her waist and helped her sit up.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and followed Song Jingchen out of the carriage.


    Seeing Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen get out of the car, the man paused for a moment, and surprise flashed across his eyes.


    As if realizing that this was too rude, he scratched his head in embarrassment. ¡°Please don¡¯t blame me. This is the first time I¡¯ve seen someone as outstanding as the two of you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed by the praise. She turned to look at Song Jingchen and grinned.


    This meant that she was not a burden to her beautiful husband in terms of looks.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking at a glance. He smiled and cupped his hands at the man. ¡°Sorry to disturb you.¡±


    Actually, they were wearing the same clothes as the men. The carriage was also very low-key.


    However, Song Jingchen had a strong aura. As soon as he stood there, he exuded a noble aura.


    It had nothing to do with his clothes, and those who saw him would not be focused on his clothes anyway.


    ¡°I won¡¯t disturb you.¡± The man was flattered and waved his hand. He wanted to hand over the umbrella, but he felt that it was inappropriate. Seeing this, South Wind took the initiative to take it.


    At this moment, Furball suddenly jumped down from the other carriage. The man screamed in fear, ¡°Ah, there¡¯s a tiger!¡±


    He staggered back a few steps and fell to the ground.


    The few of them were shocked by his scream. It happened so suddenly that they couldn¡¯t stop him even if they wanted to.


    Shen Yijia covered her face and glared at the culprit, Furball.


    Furball thought, ¡°Is it my fault that the carriage is so stuffy? Why didn¡¯t you say that this person was too timid?¡±


    It was fine when it first sat in the carriage. It felt quite comfortable, but later on, it couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    As long as there was no one around, Furball would rather run with the carriage than stay in it.


    Occasionally, Shen Yijia would sit on its back and take a ride.


    In the end, South Wind explained to the man that Furball did not bite. In order to increase his trustworthiness, he placed his hand in front of Furball¡¯s mouth. Furball rolled its eyes, and the man believed him.


    However, he did not dare to get too close to Furball. He led them into the central room and lit the oil lamp. Then, he said with a trembling voice, ¡°I¡¯ll pour tea for you.¡±


    When he crossed the doorway, he tripped and almost fell out.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. After sitting down, she looked around. The house was very clean. There was a square table in the middle, which should be used for food.


    In one corner of the central room was a small wooden horse. There should be more than one child in this family. They had been here for so long, but they had not seen a second person besides the man.


    Song Jingchen clearly noticed it too and looked at Shen Yijia.


    The man was probably really frightened by Furball. After 15 minutes, he brought in a few bowls of water on a tray.


    Shen Yijia noticed that his hand was still trembling as he carried the tray.


    This¡­ was indeed too timid. Furball had yet to do anything.


    ¡°There¡¯s only coarse tea at home. Please don¡¯t mind it.¡± The man placed the tray on the square table, and Mo Yuan took the initiative to distribute the tea.


    Since he had nothing to do, the man stood there helplessly.


    Song Jingchen picked up his bowl and took a sip before glancing at South Wind.


    South Wind understood and said politely, ¡°Big Brother, can you provide us with a place to change our clothes?¡±


    Apart from Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen, who had been sitting in the carriage, the three of them were all drenched.


    There was no need to stay in the same room as Furball. The man clearly heaved a sigh of relief and naturally agreed. He immediately brought the three of them out.


    Soon, they returned after changing their clothes.


    South Wind leaned in front of Song Jingchen and said in a low voice, ¡°Master, I didn¡¯t see anyone else in this house.¡±

 Chapter 353 - 353 Giving Themselves Up

    353 Giving Themselves Up


    There were not many rooms here. Apart from the lights in the central room and the kitchen, which was a little bright, the other rooms were lit only when he brought them to change.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. When did her beautiful husband instruct South Wind to investigate this? She had clearly been alone with her beautiful husband.


    The only communication between the two of them was their gazes.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin and looked at Mo Yuan.


    !!


    Mo Yuan looked back expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Seeing that Mo Yuan did not react, she blinked again.


    Mo Yuan asked, ¡°Miss, do your eyes hurt?¡±


    Shen Yijia cringed.


    As expected, she was not Mo Yuan¡¯s real miss, so she could not communicate with Mo Yuan telepathically.


    However, Song Jingchen asked with concern, ¡°What happened to your eyes?¡±


    Just now, he was thinking about something and did not notice Shen Yijia¡¯s expression.


    Shen Yijia coughed and almost choked to death on her own saliva. She shook her head repeatedly. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Mo Yuan saw wrongly.¡±


    Since she couldn¡¯t communicate telepathically, she could at least take the blame.


    Afraid that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t believe her, she changed the topic and asked, ¡°Is there a problem here?¡±


    Song Jingchen could tell that she was changing the topic, but after confirming that she was fine, he didn¡¯t expose her. He knocked on the table a few times and pondered for a moment before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, but it can¡¯t be wrong to be careful.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded seriously. She was about to say that she should just knock him out later.


    In any case, she wasn¡¯t going to kill him directly. He would naturally wake up after they left. They didn¡¯t have to worry about any misunderstandings. At most, they would leave some money behind when they left.


    However, before she could say anything, she saw the man walk in, rubbing his hands.


    He first carefully glanced at Furball. Seeing that it had not moved from the moment it entered the house, he made sure that it would not suddenly pounce on him before saying, ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten dinner yet, right? If you don¡¯t mind my simple meals, I¡¯ll prepare some food for you.¡±


    He turned to look at the sky outside and said, ¡°It¡¯s probably going to rain next night. Coincidentally, my wife brought a few children to my father-in-law¡¯s house today. There are two empty rooms in the house. I¡¯ll go to my family villa to stay for the night. Three rooms can be vacated. As guests, you can stay in those rooms.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s hair was tied up in a bun. It was not difficult to tell that she and Song Jingchen were husband and wife.


    His explanation clarified why he was the only one in the house. This time, without Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, South Wind took the initiative to take out some silver and handed it over. It was about three taels of silver.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble you. Can I borrow your kitchen and the ingredients for the meal? My master is used to his chef¡¯s cooking.¡±


    He pointed at Mo Yuan.


    The chef, Mo Yuan, was speechless.


    ¡°Sigh, you can¡¯t do that. You¡¯re only staying for a night. Why would you need so much money? Besides, the food at home is grown in our own fields, so it¡¯s not worth much.¡± The man refused to ask for money. Three taels of silver was not a small amount. Even the best inn in the county city would not cost so much.


    ¡°It¡¯s worth it. If Big Brother hadn¡¯t kindly taken us in, my master and I would still be out in the rain.¡± South Wind exerted more force and stuffed the silver into the man¡¯s hand.


    The man still wanted to refuse, but he was not as strong as South Wind.


    The two men were pushing at each other. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes hurt.


    If he didn¡¯t want money, he would be a fool.


    The furniture in this central room was quite old, which meant that their family was not rich. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to use the silver to improve their lives?


    Unsurprisingly, South Wind had the upper hand in the end.


    The man introduced the rooms which were habitable and brought Mo Yuan to the kitchen. He said that he was worried that it would be difficult to travel to his other lodgings in the heavy rain, so he left early.


    Shen Yijia suspected that he did not want to stay under the same roof as Furball.


    ¡°Master, I tested him just now. Unless he was really good at hiding it, he probably doesn¡¯t know martial arts,¡± South Wind said.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°So they weren¡¯t pushing and pulling for no reason.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Tonight, you and Thirty Thousand will take turns keeping watch.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an had summoned him back to the capital. Those who did not want him to go back would definitely not be able to sit still without attacking.


    It was better to be safe than sorry. Moreover, he had Shen Yijia by his side, so he had to be even more careful.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand responded, ¡°Yes.¡±


    After making the arrangements, Mo Yuan went to the kitchen to cook. Thirty Thousand and South Wind checked the courtyard again. There were clothes for children and women at home. It seemed that there were indeed women and children in this family.


    Because the bedding in the inn might not be clean, their carriage had its own bedding. Song Jingchen accompanied Shen Yijia to take down the bedding and make the bed.


    After a simple dinner, they returned to their rooms to rest.


    South Wind stood on guard for the first half of the night, while Thirty Thousand guarded for the second half.


    The rain became heavier and heavier, and there was no sign of it stopping. The rain sounded like thunder, making people inexplicably feel a little frustrated.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen¡¯s hand under her head and whispered in his ear.


    When that aura hit his ears, Song Jingchen felt his entire ear burn.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t sleep anymore.¡± Apart from the loud rain, another reason was that she slept too much during the day.


    Song Jingchen paused and pulled her into his arms. He covered her ears with one hand and patted Shen Yijia¡¯s back rhythmically with the other.


    ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    When she stayed in the inn a few days ago, she saw a woman coaxing her child to sleep. This was how she patted the child gently.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Does he treat me like a child?¡±


    With her two lifetimes, she was old enough to be Song Jingchen¡¯s mother.


    How could she be coaxed to sleep just like that?


    Fifteen minutes later, a certain someone, who could not sleep, let out a series of small snores.


    In another courtyard under the heavy rain, more than twenty men dressed as villagers gathered in the central room.


    ¡°Boss, it¡¯s just as Master instructed. There¡¯s a big creature beside him. Moreover, I¡¯ve seen the duke¡¯s heir Song Jingchen from afar. It can¡¯t be wrong. It should be them.¡±


    If Shen Yijia and the others were here, they would have recognized the man who spoke as the man who had almost peed his pants because of Furball.


    ¡°What a waste of time.¡± The man sitting in the middle sneered.


    Two months ago, they had lost track of Young Master Shenzhi and the others in Xunyang City. After knowing that Young Master Shenzhi was Song Jingchen, they had been waiting here.


    They waited for more than a month.


    The reason why they chose this village was because the official road above was the only way into Anyang County, and they could see the official road from this village.


    If they stayed here, they would be able to see anyone enter Anyang County immediately. As for the original villagers, they had long dealt with them.


    It was all Song Jingchen and the others¡¯ fault for being unlucky. These people originally wanted to come back and rest because of the rain, but they didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen and the others to come knocking on their door.


    ¡°Go and get ready. We¡¯ll attack at night.¡±

 Chapter 354 - 354 Mother and the Others Are Gone (1)

    354 Mother and the Others Are Gone (1)


    Under the rainy night, a group of men in black flew to the roof like ghosts. The rain drowned out the already faint sound.


    South Wind moved a short stool and sat under the porch. He drank too much water at night and felt the urge to pee. He looked around and got up to go to the outhouse.


    The leader of the men in black gestured and one of them immediately followed.


    Then, the leader jumped off the roof with the remaining people. With a wave of his hand, the men in black split into three waves and headed for the three rooms.


    The leader took out a bamboo tube, pierced the window paper, and blew the smoke into the house.


    After waiting quietly for a moment, he pried open the bolt with his sword¡­


    Most martial arts practitioners had night vision. Even if there was no light in the room, they could clearly see that the blanket on the bed was slightly bulging.


    The leader walked to the bed step by step, tightened his grip on the sword in his hand, and stabbed downward without hesitation.


    Only then did he realize that something was wrong. He suddenly pulled open the blanket. There was no one under the blanket. There were only two pillows placed side by side.


    ¡°This is bad, we¡¯ve fallen into a trap.¡± The leader was shocked. He felt a chill run down his spine, and a dense killing intent assaulted his back.


    He subconsciously raised his sword to block behind him. He heard a clang, and the sound of the swords colliding was extremely ear-piercing.


    Only then did he realize that the people who had followed him in had already fallen to the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and save them.¡± Shen Yijia left the last man in black behind and ran out after telling Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen thought about it and didn¡¯t stop her. However, his gaze on the leader turned colder.


    Shen Yijia jogged along in her pajamas. The three rooms were in the front and back courtyards, and the other two were in the front courtyard. When she arrived, she saw a group of men in black surrounding Furball in the courtyard.


    It turned out that the smoke was useless against Furball. The men in black wanted to enter the house, but Furball pounced on them.


    The men in black could only work together to deal with Furball first, so Shen Yijia saw this scene.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, she swung her whip to block the sword that was stabbing at Furball.


    Furball was covered in countless sword wounds and was lying on the ground weakly. It stared fiercely at the man in black. When it saw Shen Yijia, it staggered to its feet.


    When Shen Yijia saw this scene, she frowned and swung her whip at someone beside her.


    Furball took the opportunity to rush out of the hole. Shen Yijia pursed her lips and squatted down to touch its head. She placed her fingers in front of it.


    In the eyes of the man in black, it was Furball licking Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. In fact, Shen Yijia was indeed feeding it spiritual liquid.


    The men in black looked at each other and charged at the man and tiger.


    They did not care about a woman at all. Their biggest target was still Furball.


    They would take its life while it was down.


    However, they were dumbfounded.


    Shen Yijia put away the whip and faced the man in black. She was too fast, and with the cover of the night and rain, the man in black could only see a white shadow flash past their eyes.


    Shen Yijia grabbed one of them by the collar and grabbed his hand that was holding the sword. She broke the bones in his hand.


    The man¡¯s cry of pain drowned out the sound of the rain, but this was only the beginning.


    Shen Yijia picked up the man and dodged a sword. She threw him in front of Furball and shouted, ¡°Furball.¡±


    Of course, she could kill them directly, but she felt that these people had hurt Furball.


    Furball definitely wanted to take revenge on its own.


    When Furball regained its strength, it pounced and bit the neck of the man in black who was sent to it.


    Before the pain in the man¡¯s hand subsided, he felt his body floating in the air. Before he could react, his neck hurt and he died on the spot.


    The other men in black were shocked. Was she even human? Why did it feel like she was throwing a rag when she was actually throwing a grown man?


    As it turned out, they were not much different from rags. When Shen Yijia caught one, she broke the bones in his hand and made him drop his sword. Then, she threw him to Furball.


    Sometimes, if two people were near each other, she would grab one person in each hand.


    The woman and tiger cooperated well. Soon, many corpses lay in front of Furball.


    Only one of the men in black was left.


    ¡°You, you¡­ don¡¯t come over!¡± Seeing his companions die under the hands of this woman and tiger without being able to fight back, that person lost his fighting spirit. He was so frightened that he took a few steps back and fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia walked towards him step by step. She was clearly a little girl, but the man in black felt that he had seen the Grim Reaper.


    Where did this person come from? Wasn¡¯t Heir Song¡¯s wife the unfavored second daughter of the Shen family in the capital?

 Chapter 355 - 355 Mother and the Others Are Gone (2)

    355 Mother and the Others Are Gone (2)


    Even if she secretly learned martial arts, how old was she?


    She could easily kill these professionally trained secret guards. If she continued to grow, that person would probably be no match for her.


    He swallowed involuntarily and moved back, trembling. ¡°Please, let me go.¡±


    The rain was still pouring, and Shen Yijia was already drenched. She paused and tilted her head. She pointed at Furball. ¡°Did you let it off when you bullied it just now?¡±


    Furball howled at the right time, as if complaining to Shen Yijia.


    When Song Jingchen came over, he saw Shen Yijia standing in the rain, watching Furball pounce on the last person.


    ¡°Are you injured?¡± Song Jingchen walked out and pulled her under the eaves. He held her face with both hands and wiped it for her.


    The two of them were only wearing their nightgowns. Their clothes were stuck to their bodies by the rain.


    Song Jingchen originally wanted to check if Shen Yijia was injured.


    He noticed her chest and was stunned for a moment. He quickly turned his head away and pulled her towards the room they were sleeping in. He said hoarsely, ¡°Let¡¯s go back to the house and change.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not notice his strange behavior and let him pull her away. She snorted. ¡°They don¡¯t have the ability to hurt me. It¡¯s just that Furball is injured.¡±


    Furball followed Song Jingchen¡¯s feet and growled.


    Song Jingchen looked down at Furball and noticed that its wounds were healing visibly.


    His pupils constricted. ¡°Stay in the kitchen,¡± he said in a low voice.


    Furball, who was acting spoiled, was speechless. Its mistress was clearly not injured, but he was already so nervous. It was fine if he ignored its injuries, but he actually chased it away. He was too biased.


    There were still a few corpses lying in the house. Even if they were all dead, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to change her clothes in front of another man. Fortunately, there was a small room next to their room.


    ¡°You¡¯re also wet.¡± Shen Yijia stared straight at Song Jingchen¡¯s chest.


    She didn¡¯t notice it at first, but later on, she stared at Song Jingchen¡¯s abs.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lower body clenched under her straightforward gaze. In order to avoid embarrassing himself, he gritted his teeth and pushed her into the other room, closing the door for her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She didn¡¯t say that she wanted to change together!


    When she came out after changing, Song Jingchen had also finished changing, but his expression seemed to be a little off.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. How petty. It wasn¡¯t like she hadn¡¯t seen it before.


    South Wind came over after dealing with the men in black. He was also injured, but fortunately, it was not serious.


    Seeing that the two of them were fine, he heaved a sigh of relief. He was about to kneel down and beg for forgiveness when Song Jingchen interrupted him.


    ¡°I left one alive. Take him away for interrogation,¡± Song Jingchen instructed. His tone was very casual, as if he didn¡¯t have much hope of getting anything out of that person.


    In fact, that was indeed the case. The man in black did not reveal who his master was.


    Shen Yijia used what she had learned from Mo Yuan to wake Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand up.


    Mo Yuan woke up when those people blew smoke. However, the drug took effect before she could react, so she was not surprised to see the corpses when she woke up.


    Thirty Thousand was speechless.


    The rain showed no signs of stopping until dawn. Fortunately, it gradually subsided.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand went to the village to look for raincoats. They also brought back news that the village was empty.


    Apart from the traces of people living in the house they lived in, weeds had already grown in the other courtyards. It was obvious that no one had lived there for a while.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°Report it to Fan Mingyuan when the time comes.¡±


    This village was also under the jurisdiction of the county magistrate of Anyang County.


    They did not enter Anyang County. Instead, they went straight to Xiagou Village. The rain stopped halfway.


    When they entered the village, it was already afternoon. Shen Yijia lifted a corner of the curtain and saw many familiar figures working in the fields.


    The people who used to dislike each other actually looked a little familiar to her now.


    The carriage entering the village naturally attracted another wave of curious gazes from the villagers.


    However, because they did not know the driver, they did not dare to ask. They could only watch as the carriage headed towards the end of the village.


    The end of the village had originally belonged to the people who had been ostracized by this village. It was different now. There were three families living there. The daughter of the An family had gone to the capital and was rumored to have caught the eye of a noble.


    Needless to say, the Song family had always been a hot topic in the village.


    Originally, he was still a criminal. Now, His Majesty¡¯s imperial edict had been issued to recall him to the capital.

 Chapter 356 - 356 Mother and the Others Are Gone (3)

    356 Mother and the Others Are Gone (3)


    Even Widow Wang¡¯s family was valued by the villagers because they were on good terms with the Song family.


    But now¡­


    ¡°The person who went over just now seemed to be from the Song family, right?¡± Madam Cui patted someone beside her and asked.


    ¡°Who?¡± The man didn¡¯t react.


    !!


    ¡°That evil woman. That powerful wife of the Song family and that kid from the Song family.¡± Madam Cui swallowed the words ¡°female fiend¡±.


    She caught a glimpse through the curtain, but the carriage went straight past. She wasn¡¯t sure.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± It was another woman who spoke.


    Everyone knew that the Song family had opened a fragrance powder shop in town. At first, Madam Li told others that Shen Yijia was guarding the shop in town and that Song Jingchen had been at home.


    If not for Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s imperial edict, they would have thought that Song Jingchen had been at home. After all, it was normal for a cripple to not go out. Occasionally, they would see a person in a wheelchair through the open door.


    In the end, the imperial edict said that Emperor Chong¡¯an had sent Song Jingchen to Xunyang. Although Madam Li didn¡¯t know why things had turned out like this, she believed in her son.


    When anyone asked her again, she simply told everyone that the couple had gone together.


    Madam Cui was originally uncertain, but when the woman asked in a suspicious tone, she was immediately indignant. ¡°How could I be wrong? It¡¯s that couple. Didn¡¯t you see that the carriage was heading towards the end of the village?¡±


    ¡°I- I saw it too,¡± Madam Zeng said timidly.


    ¡°Why are the two of them only back now? There¡¯s no one at home.¡±


    As soon as the carriage stopped beside the crooked tree, Shen Yijia could not wait to jump out of the carriage. Furball was as excited as her.


    Furball went around to the back of the house and prepared to crawl in.


    The door was tightly shut. Shen Yijia went forward and knocked on the door. ¡°Mother, we¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Brother Hao, Sister Huan, I¡¯m back.¡±


    ¡°Miaomiao, Lin Shao¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia called everyone over. Song Jingchen smiled helplessly and got out of the car. He frowned at a glance. ¡°There¡¯s no need to knock. There¡¯s no one at home.¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to ask how he knew when the neighbor¡¯s door opened.


    An Dong came out with a bow in his hand. When he saw them, he was stunned. ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±


    His gaze lingered on Song Jingchen¡¯s legs for a moment. The others in the village only knew that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t at home because of the imperial edict, but he had long known.


    On the night Song Jingchen left, his wife was hungry. He woke up in the middle of the night to cook supper for her and happened to see her. He waited in the courtyard for a long time because he found it strange, but he saw Shen Yijia leading the horse out.


    However, he didn¡¯t tell anyone.


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Where did my mother and the others go? Are they not at home?¡±


    Her knocks on the door should be loud enough for them to hear.


    Guilt flashed across An Dong¡¯s face. ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    With that, he returned to the house and walked out a moment later. He was no longer holding a bow and arrow, but a key.


    He glanced at the two of them and walked to the Song family¡¯s door.


    Shen Yijia was too excited to notice it just now. Only then did she see that there was a lock on her door.


    Shen Yijia blinked. But why did An Dong have the key? Was her mother afraid that they wouldn¡¯t be able to enter the house when they returned?


    ¡°I locked this door,¡± An Dong explained as he removed the lock.


    When the courtyard door was pushed open and she saw the scene inside, Shen Yijia realized that something was wrong.


    The courtyard was overgrown. A few chairs lay on their sides.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Shen Yijia turned around and looked at Song Jingchen in confusion.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists.


    ¡°About ten days ago, the workshop didn¡¯t open for a long time. My mother and the others went to look for Auntie Li.¡±


    The key to the workshop had always been in Madam Li¡¯s hands. She would open the door in advance every morning.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect your door to be unlocked. I didn¡¯t see anyone after I entered. Instead, there were traces of a fight everywhere.¡± An Dong¡¯s face was filled with grief.


    ¡°Moreover, the few long-term workers your family hired have disappeared. Everyone guessed that they got greedy and even kidnapped Auntie Li and the others.¡±


    The Song family only had one woman and four children. Although Madam Li was in her thirties, she took good care of herself and was still a beautiful woman.


    She looked better than many older girls in the countryside. The four half-grown children were so good-looking that they could be sold for a lot of money.


    ¡°Auntie Wang and Bruiser also stayed at your house for the past few days. They disappeared together.¡±


    As An Dong¡¯s voice sounded, Shen Yijia felt her head buzz. How could this be?


    As soon as they heard An Dong mention those workers, South Wind and Thirty Thousand looked at each other. Their first reaction was that it was impossible.


    Thinking of something, An Dong said, ¡°I went to the county office with Shen Dali to report to the officials, but there¡¯s still no news.


    ¡°We were afraid that the villagers would enter your house and rummage around, but we thought that the two of you would definitely come back, so we discussed locking the door for you. We haven¡¯t touched anything inside.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    An Dong shook his head. He didn¡¯t help much.

 Chapter 357 - 357 Very Strange (1)

    357 Very Strange (1)


    ¡°Hubby, Mother and the others!¡± After An Dong left, Shen Yijia found her voice.


    Song Jingchen held her hand and patted it to comfort her. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the county city first.¡±


    Ten days ago, they were still on the way back. Even if something happened, Fan Mingyuan or others would not be able to send him a message.


    Someone might have come to the house, but the truth was definitely not as An Dong and the others had guessed.


    He was more inclined to think that his mother and the others were hiding, but he would only know the details when he saw Fan Mingyuan.


    They did not even have time to move the things in the carriage. They unloaded the carriage and rode towards the county city.


    Furball wanted to crawl into the hole, but it got stuck.


    When Shen Dali heard the villagers¡¯ discussion and rushed to the end of the village, he was annoyed to see that they had already left.


    An Dong was not the only one who felt guilty about what had happened to the Song family. He also blamed himself.


    As a former bandit leader, he actually didn¡¯t know that someone was doing bad things under his nose. He deserved to be wiped out.


    Moreover, the one in trouble was his grandaunt¡¯s family. Wouldn¡¯t that be equivalent to his own family?


    Fortunately, Shen Dali came. Otherwise, Furball would have been stuck for a long time.


    Shen Yijia did not know what Shen Dali was thinking. When they arrived at the county city, it was time to close the city gate.


    Song Jingchen had the small seal given by Fan Mingyuan, so they weren¡¯t stopped. They went straight to the back door of the county office.


    South Wind stepped forward and knocked on the door.


    An old woman stuck her head out. Seeing that she didn¡¯t recognize him and that South Wind wasn¡¯t dressed like a rich person, her face immediately fell. ¡°Why are you knocking? Don¡¯t you know what this place is? Hurry up and leave. If you want to report a crime, go to the former government office.¡±


    In the past, the county magistrate was a corrupt official. The commoners did not dare to go to the government office no matter what.


    Ever since Fan Mingyuan took office, it had been the other way around. The commoners had to let Fan Mingyuan decide on everything.


    Some people were unwilling to go to the front office because it was a family matter. They ran to the back office and knocked on the door, wanting Fan Mingyuan to judge them in private.


    However, it had to be said that the atmosphere in Anyang County had improved a lot under Fan Mingyuan¡¯s governance over the past year.


    The hooligans who collected protection fees in Anyang County could no longer be seen.


    As soon as a hooligan appeared, someone would report him to the authorities so that he wouldn¡¯t even know who caused him to be arrested.


    All you had to do was walk down the street and you¡¯d hear things like ¡°I¡¯m going to arrest you and report you to the authorities¡± and ¡°Let¡¯s go and talk to the county magistrate.¡±


    The old woman guarding the door treated South Wind as someone who had come to report to the authorities.


    Seeing that she had misunderstood, South Wind took out a small seal and handed it over. He explained good-naturedly, ¡°I¡¯m not here to report to the officials. My master knows County Magistrate Fan. This is County Magistrate Fan¡¯s seal. My master has something on.¡±


    The old woman at the gate rolled her eyes and interrupted him disdainfully. ¡°Tsk, what an interesting person. Is there anyone in Anyang County who doesn¡¯t know my lord? That¡¯s what everyone says. Also, I don¡¯t know this seal. I already said that you should go to the front office if you have something to do.¡±


    People often looked for County Magistrate Fan for all sorts of reasons. The old woman guarding the door was already used to it.


    In the past, people would have left after she sent them away. However, things were different this time.


    The door, which was only slightly open, was pushed open forcefully.


    Before the old woman could react, someone suddenly grabbed her collar. The old woman screamed in fear, ¡°What are you doing? Do you want to hit someone in this county office?¡±


    Only then did she realize that there were a few more people in front of her, and the person holding her was a beautiful wife.


    Shen Yijia pulled a long face and lifted her up. She took the small seal from South Wind¡¯s hand and placed it in front of the old woman guarding the door. She asked coldly, ¡°Do you recognize this seal?¡±


    The old woman guarding the door was so frightened that she grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand tightly and cried, ¡°Oh my, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t recognize it, but Master already said that we have to follow the rules when reporting to the authorities. We can¡¯t¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her ears impatiently, as if she wanted to knock this noisy woman out.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± said a displeased voice behind them.


    Shen Yijia turned around. It was a man in a gray robe with a goatee. He was carrying a few medicine bags.


    He took one look at her before looking away. He didn¡¯t know her.


    The person recognized Song Jingchen. Surprise flashed across his face, and he was delighted. ¡°Young Master Song, you¡¯re back.¡±

 Chapter 358 - 358 Very Strange (2)

    358 Very Strange (2)


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    The old woman guarding the door watched as if she had seen a ghost as Advisor Ma politely led these people in. Her eyes rolled back and she fainted.


    This old woman guarding the door was really unlucky. Previously, because she was collecting money from others to help pass the message, she was caught by Advisor Ma and had her monthly salary deducted. Not only that, but she was also beaten up.


    It was because of this that she had such an attitude just now. She did not expect to offend a benefactor on her first try.


    Advisor Ma led them into the reception pavilion and instructed a servant to report to Fan Mingyuan. He also summoned a maidservant to serve tea before saying, ¡°My lord was injured a few days ago and had to stay indoors. Young Master Song, please wait here for a moment. I¡¯ll go¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll go over directly.¡± Song Jingchen frowned and stood up to interrupt Advisor Ma.


    Recalling his master¡¯s relationship with this person, Private Advisor Ma did not stop him and led him straight to the inner courtyard.


    As soon as they arrived, they bumped into Fan Mingyuan, who had rushed out after receiving the news.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, you¡¯re back.¡± Fan Mingyuan did not hide the joy on his face.


    However, perhaps because he was injured, his face was pale. He stood there, looking like he was about to collapse at any moment.


    No matter how worried Song Jingchen was about Madam Li and the others, it wasn¡¯t appropriate for him to ask here. He frowned and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go in first.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed behind, staring unblinkingly at the back of the woman who was supporting Fan Mingyuan.


    It was fine if Fan Mingyuan was injured and needed someone to help him walk, but the woman was wearing an apricot-colored dress and was not dressed as a maidservant.


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s weight was on the woman. The two of them looked too intimate.


    In this ancient era where men and women were on guard, this was already considered a huge overstep.


    Her beautiful husband never let other women get close to him.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Wasn¡¯t Fan Mingyuan already engaged to Xiao Ruoshui?


    She remembered that Xiao Ruoshui had written to her that the wedding was scheduled for the beginning of spring next year. She even asked if she could help her put on makeup.


    Could it be that Fan Mingyuan could not wait for Xiao Ruoshui to marry into the family and was preparing to get himself a concubine?


    If that was the case, she had to persuade Xiao Ruoshui to marry someone else.


    After all, they were her friends. She could not suffer like this.


    However, it seemed normal to have three wives and four concubines here. Would Xiao Ruoshui care?


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia shook her head. The most important thing now was to find her mother and the others.


    She could put aside Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s matter for now. Anyway, her wedding was still a few months away.


    Shen Yijia followed Song Jingchen into Fan Mingyuan¡¯s study in the backyard.


    The woman helped Fan Mingyuan sit down and bowed before leaving. She did not look up or say a word.


    ¡°Master¡¯s wife and the others are fine, but I don¡¯t know where they¡¯ve been hidden by your people.¡± Fan Mingyuan knew why Song Jingchen was looking for him.


    Speaking of this, he was also very speechless. A few days ago, there was a difficult case in a village further away. He brought his men over and only returned the next day because he was too busy.


    Before they could reach the county office carriage, they were stopped by two men who said that two families in their village had disappeared.


    When Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t at home, he often visited the Song family.


    He did not know the man with the bandit leader on his face, but he had seen the other man a few times. He lived next door to the Song family and had the surname An.


    He asked the coachman to stop the carriage and asked with a frown, ¡°Are you from Xiagou Village?¡±


    An Dong also recognized him. He did not expect the man he had seen a few times at the Song family¡¯s door to be the county magistrate of Anyang County.


    He was stunned for a moment before quickly telling her about the Song family¡¯s disappearance overnight.


    Fan Mingyuan was shocked. He did not even have time to return to the county office. He instructed a bailiff to call for more people and rushed to Xiagou Village with his men.


    Just as the two of them had said, other than the traces of a fight, there was also dried blood in the Song family¡¯s backyard. It was obvious that Madam Li and the others had not left on their own.


    He followed the clues and found the back mountain. Coincidentally, Rooster and Forty Thousand, who had returned to clean up the traces, bumped into them. It would have been fine if it was just them.


    However, just as they were talking to each other, a few men in black rushed out.


    Every one of those men in black was an expert in combat, and the people he brought were only government officials. It was obvious that they were no match for the men in black.


    Rooster and Forty Thousand took advantage of his men¡¯s life-and-death struggle to stall for time and ran into the forest.


    They really ran away without looking back!


    That was how Fan Mingyuan got injured. When he escaped, he was stabbed in the abdomen and rolled down the mountain. When he woke up, he was in a wooden house.

 Chapter 359 - 359 Very Strange (3)

    359 Very Strange (3)


    s


    He was so injured that he could not move at all. However, it was an orphan girl who saved him. It was Advisor Ma who brought him back to the county office.


    It was also from his conversation with Rooster that he knew that Madam Li and the others were fine.


    Afraid that the target would be noticed by the men in black, he did not dare to send people to search openly. He only sent his trusted aides to search in secret.


    They had also encountered a few men in black. Not to mention the casualties, it also meant that they had yet to find Madam Li and the others.


    Fifteen minutes later, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen came out of the study.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s clenched fists never let go. As soon as Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s imperial edict was issued, something happened at home.


    It seemed that the person who did not want him to return to the capital had made two preparations.


    Some people guarded the outskirts of Anyang County to kill him, while others went to capture Madam Li. If the assassination failed, they could use Madam Li as blackmail.


    This was his guess. There might be two groups of people.


    The five of them split up.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand went to Qingping Town, while Song Jingchen prepared to enter the mountain to search again.


    If they were hiding people, the first thing Song Jingchen thought of was the basement where South Wind and the others were imprisoned.


    If they weren¡¯t there, he would look for Shopkeeper Wang, who might have news about them.


    As for why Rooster and the others hadn¡¯t contacted Fan Mingyuan, it wasn¡¯t difficult to understand. When Song Jingchen was in Xiagou Village, he wasn¡¯t close to Fan Mingyuan.


    It was understandable that they did not trust him.


    Fan Mingyuan knew this very well.


    After this commotion, it was already seven o¡¯clock when they returned to Xiagou Village from the county city.


    Furball spun around the courtyard door angrily. It pounced on Shen Yijia as soon as she got off the horse.


    It couldn¡¯t even crawl into its exclusive tiger hole. Wasn¡¯t it big enough? How could its unscrupulous master ignore it?


    Because it was angry, it used all its strength in this pounce. The three horses behind it neighed in fear.


    Shen Yijia was worried about Madam Li and the others. When she saw something pounce on her, she subconsciously raised her leg and kicked it.


    Furball flew out with a howl of pain.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Furball was speechless. It wanted to bite this woman to death. It wanted to betray its master.


    However, it could only think about it. If it really attacked, Shen Yijia would probably turn it into a tiger meat hotpot.


    If Madam Li and the others were still in the mountains, they would have to find them before the men in black did.


    Shen Yijia took out their clothes for Furball to sniff.


    Unfortunately, these clothes had already been washed. Coupled with the fact that too much time had passed, Furball could not smell anything.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia called out to Song Jingchen, who was walking in front without saying a word.


    Although Song Jingchen had been very calm, Shen Yijia knew that he was the one who was most worried about Madam Li, Brother Hao, and the others.


    Song Jingchen paused and turned around. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you tired? Why don¡¯t you go back and rest first?¡±


    He remembered that she did not sleep well last night because of the assassin. She was also very excited in the carriage during the day, so she did not rest.


    His voice was as calm as ever.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and took a few steps forward.


    She tiptoed.


    She kissed him gently on the chin.


    She met Song Jingchen¡¯s stunned gaze.


    She scratched her head. ¡°I¡¯m comforting you.¡± She really wasn¡¯t trying to take advantage of him this time.


    Song Jingchen forced a smile and rubbed her head. ¡°Mother and the others will be fine.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia nodded seriously and suggested, ¡°This mountain is too big. Even if they¡¯re really still in the mountain, we don¡¯t know their exact location, so let¡¯s search separately.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± This was naturally the best solution, but what if Shen Yijia encountered wild beasts or men in black?


    Shen Yijia knew what he was worried about and waved her hand indifferently. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s not like you don¡¯t know that I used to run in these mountains. There¡¯s no area around here that I¡¯m not familiar with. I¡¯m not afraid of anything.¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her fist, but Song Jingchen frowned.


    She blinked and retracted her fists. ¡°I can run if I really meet them. I can run very fast.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and finally nodded.


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t always treat Shen Yijia as a delicate flower that needs protection. If I did that, would she still be Shen Yijia?¡± he thought.


    The two of them each picked a direction. Furball led the way for Song Jingchen, while Shen Yijia brought Mo Yuan.


    Back when the spiritual liquid still needed medicinal herbs to upgrade, Shen Yijia and Furball had almost flipped through the nearby mountains. She knew exactly where the caves were.


    Apart from her and Furball, there was another person in the family who knew very well. It was Lin Shao, who had accompanied her several times.


    There was only a little light from the hazy moonlight shining through the treetops. However, this did not affect Shen Yijia¡¯s speed in the forest.


    If not for the fact that she was afraid that Mo Yuan would not be able to keep up, she could have been faster.


    Even if she deliberately slowed down, she could hear Mo Yuan¡¯s increasingly heavy breathing.


    Shen Yijia turned around and glanced at her.


    However, before she could speak, Mo Yuan said, ¡°Miss, don¡¯t worry about me. I can follow you.¡±


    She had been learning all kinds of things since she met that lady at the age of five. Her physique was actually stronger than many people. It could only be said that Shen Yijia was too abnormal.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and swallowed her words.


    As they walked deeper into the mountains, they passed five or six caves. They did not even find any traces of anyone there, let alone living people.


    Shen Yijia did not know if it was her imagination, but she felt that the small animals in the mountains would run away when they saw her from afar.


    It was just strange. She wasn¡¯t here to hunt today.


    However, their memories were really good.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s expression suddenly froze and she stopped in her tracks.


    ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Mo Yuan asked.


    Shen Yijia frowned and asked, ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    The rustling of leaves in the wind was endless. Apart from these sounds¡­


    ¡°What did you hear?¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s voice stopped abruptly. ¡°It¡¯s the sound of fighting.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted and she ran in the direction of the fighting.


    The distance was too far, and the sound of the leaves covered it. She almost missed the subtle sounds of fighting.

 Chapter 360 - 360 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (1)

    360 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (1)


    In the depths of the mountain, the only moonlight was obscured by dense leaves. One could only vaguely see figures flashing, and from time to time, the sound of swords colliding could be heard.


    One Dot was sent flying by the man in black¡¯s sword qi. He slammed into a tree behind him before stopping. He propped himself up with his sword and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    ¡°Damn it, these people are dogs, right? How did they manage to find us?¡±


    They had clearly cleaned up all the traces. Even if they accidentally pressed down on a blade of grass, they carefully helped it up. If they really couldn¡¯t help it up, they would pull out the soil and cover it with dead leaves to ensure that it would recover to its original state.


    They even sent some people in different directions.


    However, even so, the men in black could still find them quickly. They could only leave a portion of them behind to stall for time and hide in the depths of the forest with Madam Li and the others.


    One of the suicide warriors was pierced through the chest by the man in black. The man in black smiled disdainfully, pulled out his sword, and kicked him away.


    With a cracking sound, the death warrior died on the spot.


    One Dot, Two Dot, Forty Thousand, East Wind, West Wind, North Wind, and Rooster were all seriously injured.


    The seven of them watched with red eyes as the death warriors were killed in front of them.


    These so-called death warriors were slaves that they had brought out of the arena and trained.


    After interacting with them for a long time, it was inevitable that they would develop a bond with these people.


    Seeing their brothers fall one after another, they naturally felt terrible.


    One Dot, in particular, spent the most time with these people among the seven of them.


    He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and stood up straight with his sword in hand. He glanced behind him and said, ¡°Rooster, Forty Thousand. Take Madam Li and the kids, leave first. We¡¯ll hold them back.¡±


    Madam Li and the others were surrounded by seven or eight people.


    This time, there were only three men in black. On the contrary, there were several times more people on their side than the men in black.


    However, these people were too powerful. They were no match for them.


    ¡°You still want to leave? Haven¡¯t you had enough fun after playing hide and seek for so many days?¡±


    ¡°As long as you leave those people behind, I can consider letting you die a quick death. How about that?¡± A man in black said mockingly.


    As soon as he finished speaking, the other two flew up and arrived behind One Dot and the others. The three of them stood in a triangle and surrounded them, completely cutting off the possibility of One Dot leading Madam Li and the others away.


    These people were too slippery, causing the fifteen of them to split up and search the forest for so many days.


    It wasn¡¯t easy to find them, so they naturally wouldn¡¯t give them a chance to escape.


    ¡°Hmph, we¡¯re not afraid of you.¡± Sister Huan, who had been protected by Madam Li, suddenly jumped out. She raised her hand and shot a short arrow at the man in black closest to her.


    The others followed suit. Each of them carried the sleeve arrows that Song Jingchen had made for them. One Dot had been leading the way, so they hadn¡¯t had a chance to use them.


    However, the short arrows they shot were easily dodged by the men in black.


    The two sides, who had been in a stalemate, fought fiercely again.


    Bruiser stood at the back. He clenched his fists and looked fiercely at the figure in black who was fighting One Dot and the others.


    When the man in black revealed his back, he suddenly rushed out, holding a short arrow in his hand.


    No one expected him to suddenly rush out of the protective circle.


    By the time One Dot saw it, it was too late. He could only watch as the man in black spun around and jumped up to avoid Bruiser¡¯s attack.


    He roared, his eyes bulging. ¡°Be careful.¡±


    At the same time, he raised his sword and slashed at the man in black.


    Bruiser felt a chill down his spine.


    The short arrow in his hand fell to the ground full of dead leaves with a dull thud.


    The man in black mocked, ¡°You overestimate yourself.¡±


    He drew his sword and turned around to block One Dot¡¯s blade. The blood on the sword dripped into the air.


    ¡°Bruiser!¡± The few people who were focused on harassing the man in black shouted at the same time.


    Bruiser¡¯s eyes darted around, and his eyes gradually filled with tears. His body fell back uncontrollably.


    Although Bruiser¡¯s scheme didn¡¯t succeed, his actions angered the man in black.


    He exuded a strong killing intent. With just one move, his sword slashed across One Dot¡¯s wrist.


    One Dot loosened his grip on the sword.

 Chapter 361 - 361 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (2)

    361 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (2)


    The man in black spun around and kicked him in the ribs.


    One Dot could not dodge in time and could only turn around to avoid his vitals. However, he was sent flying uncontrollably again.


    At this moment, a phantom rushed over from somewhere.


    She wrapped one arm around Bruiser¡¯s fallen body and caught the falling sword with the other.


    The man in black felt a chill down his spine and his hair stood on end. A strong sense of danger rose in his heart.


    However, he had no time to react.


    He felt a chill in his heart as a sharp sword pierced through his chest from behind.


    All of this happened in the blink of an eye.


    He looked down and could only see the tip of a sword that was still dripping blood.


    This position¡­


    It was exactly the same as when he stabbed the overconfident kid just now, but in a different direction.


    ¡°Eighth Brother!¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law!¡±


    Two voices sounded at the same time.


    The other two men in black were furious.


    Brother Hao and the others, who were protected in the middle, were pleasantly surprised.


    The man in black, who was called Eighth Brother, held his breath and turned around. He did not want to see a little girl.


    He was indignant!


    Shen Yijia glanced at him coldly and ignored him. She slowly helped Bruiser lie down.


    One of the three men in black was gone, and the triangular encirclement was broken. This made the Mahjong Brothers relax a little.


    Brother Hao and the others pulled Madam Li around Shen Yijia.


    ¡°B-Boss, Sister¡­¡± Bruiser pursed his lips and tears instantly welled up in his eyes.


    His chest heaved violently. After a long time, his weak voice sounded again. ¡°My¡­ my mother is gone. They¡­ killed my mother¡­ I want¡­ revenge¡­¡±


    He could feel his temperature drop, but the tears in his eyes were unusually hot.


    In a daze, he seemed to see his mother bragging to the women in the village again.


    ¡°My Bruiser has become more sensible in the past two years.¡±


    Actually, he was not sensible at all. He always made her so angry that she stomped her feet and cursed. Why didn¡¯t she stuff him into his father¡¯s coffin back then? This way, she could save money on a coffin.


    ¡°Oh my, you don¡¯t know this, but my Bruiser can now memorize the Three Character Classic completely.¡±


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan knew how to memorize the Three Character Classic at the age of five. It was actually very embarrassing for him to memorize it at the age of 15.


    ¡°Do you see this silver hairpin? My Bruiser bought it for me. I¡¯m already an old woman. Why would I need this thing? I asked him to return it, but he refused. He even said that he would buy me a gold hairpin in the future.¡±


    He had seen that his boss had bought gifts for his family. He thought that he couldn¡¯t embarrass her, so he casually took a cheap hairpin and spent one tael of silver.


    She had been showing off this hairpin for more than a year, and everyone was tired of hearing about it.


    ¡°My Bruiser is already 15 years old this year. He didn¡¯t even know how to walk when his damn father left. Back then, I was busy. He often fell to the ground to pick up chicken feces to eat when I wasn¡¯t paying attention.¡±


    ¡°Why did time pass so quickly? In the blink of an eye, that brat is already at the age of marriage.¡±


    There was no need to spread the news of him picking up chicken dung to eat. How could he survive in the village in the future?


    ¡°I have to choose carefully for my Bruiser. I have to find a gentle and virtuous person. When he has a son, I¡¯ll bring my grandson home to enjoy life.¡±


    He had yet to marry a wife, carry on the Li family¡¯s lineage, and let his mother enjoy life. How could she die so suddenly?


    There was still so much he wanted to say.


    What he wanted to say most was that he was sorry. He had made his mother worried sick since he was young.


    But his mother would never hear it again.


    No one would ever chase him around the village again, twisting his ears and cursing.


    No one would brag about him in the village anymore.


    Bruiser¡¯s tears fell from the corners of his eyes and dripped down his temples.


    He didn¡¯t cry when his mother left.


    However, when he saw Shen Yijia, he could not hold it in anymore.


    When she suddenly heard this news, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    Unexpectedly, the image of that chubby, forthright, and gossipy woman appeared in her mind.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes stung and her heart felt stuffy. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll let you take revenge personally.¡±


    Bruiser tilted his head slightly and glanced at the men in black who were entangled by Rooster and the others. He muttered, ¡°But¡­ it¡¯s too late.¡±

 Chapter 362 - 362 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (3)

    362 Revenge, Jiajia Attacks (3)


    He was so cold and wanted to sleep.


    As soon as he finished speaking, he used the last bit of strength in his body to take out a silver hairpin that had been dyed red by blood. He handed it to Shen Yijia with trembling hands.


    ¡°Take this¡­ it¡¯ll take revenge¡­ on my behalf.¡±


    Shen Yijia took the silver hairpin and held it tightly in her hand without saying anything. She picked up a small handful of mud with her fingers without anyone seeing.


    The soil deep in the mountains was moist. She easily rubbed the soil into a circle and forced out a drop of spiritual liquid to soak the mud ball.


    !!


    She pretended to dig into her pocket and stuffed the mud ball into Bruiser¡¯s mouth. ¡°There¡¯s still time. You still remember Father An, right? He recovered after eating this.¡±


    ¡°This time, I went to Xunyang and met that otherworldly expert again. He said that our fates were intertwined and gave me another pill, so you¡¯ll recover soon.¡±


    Eating dirt was better than losing his life.


    She felt lucky. If it had been any later, this brat would have died.


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­ Is it true? Brother Bruiser will be fine, right?¡± Lin Miaomiao was already out of breath from crying. Her eyes were red.


    Brother Hao and the others also teared up and looked at her hopefully.


    Shen Yijia nodded seriously. ¡°When have I ever lied to you?¡±


    ¡°Sister Jia¡­¡± Madam Li was not a child. She knew how serious Bruiser¡¯s injuries were. The sword had pierced a vital spot.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Yijia was about to say something when a figure flew over. She reached out to stabilize the person.


    ¡°Young Madam.¡± The person who was sent flying was none other than Rooster.


    Shen Yijia did not look at him. Her gaze met with a man in black.


    The man in black quickly killed another suicide warrior provocatively.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and instructed Rooster, ¡°I remember there¡¯s a cave nearby. Take them there first.¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, she had already turned into a phantom and flashed out.


    Brother Hao and the others did not want to leave, but they knew that they could not help at all. Instead, they would become a burden.


    They could only leave with Rooster and a few suicide warriors.


    Shen Yijia punched the tree behind the man in black. The tree broke where her fist landed.


    The man in black was shocked. He thought that this person only managed to kill Eighth Brother because she took him by surprise.


    However, he did not expect such a small person to be so strong.


    Shen Yijia was also shocked.


    Damn, this person could fly!


    She looked up at the man in black who had flown to a tree. She gritted her teeth angrily and pulled out the whip at her waist.


    Shen Yijia picked the tree under the man in black¡¯s feet. She did not believe that this person could still float in the air without this tree.


    She used all her strength in her whip, and the tree broke at the trunk again.


    The moment the tree fell, the man in black used the momentum to fly into the air and land on another tree.


    At the same time, Shen Yijia¡¯s whip followed.


    As a result, the surrounding trees kept falling one after another. Her super destructive power forced the others to avoid her and give her space.


    Everyone worked together to entangle the other man in black.


    ¡°What a pity. Such a good seedling is going to die under my blade today.¡± The man in black, who had been fleeing in the air because of Shen Yijia, suddenly said coldly.


    He looked at Shen Yijia with pity and sympathy, as if he was looking at another naughty child.


    And now, he didn¡¯t want to ¡°play¡± with this child anymore.


    Shen Yijia frowned unhappily. She hated this person¡¯s eyes. She would definitely dig them out and crush them later.


    A loud crack sounded.


    The tree under the man in black¡¯s feet broke again. He angled his foot, but this time, he did not fly towards another tree. Instead, he slashed at Shen Yijia with his sword.


    The sword energy attacked, and her long hair and skirt fluttered back.


    Shen Yijia swung her whip, but the tip of the man in black¡¯s foot tapped on the whip, and the speed of his attack increased.


    The cold sword quickly enlarged in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes.


    In the blink of an eye, it came close to her.


    He was planning to kill her with one strike.


    However, something unexpected happened.


    The person who was clearly still standing there just now suddenly dodged the moment his attack landed.


    He knew how fast he was just now, but this person could actually dodge it at such a close distance.


    ¡°Is she even human?¡± he thought.


    He did not know that among the assassins last night, another assassin also had the exact same thought.


    Shen Yijia flashed behind the man in black and punched the back of his head with her free hand.


    However, this man was incredibly slippery.


    The man in black reacted quickly. He turned around and quickly jumped into the air.


    Shen Yijia was furious. When she missed, she swung her whip at the man in black¡¯s waist.


    The man in black barely dodged.


    He knew how powerful this whip was, but this was the first time he had felt it at such a close distance.


    Even though he reacted quickly, there was still a bloody mark on his waist.


    If this whip hit him directly, it was not difficult to imagine that he would be cut in half like those trees.


    The man in black did not dare to let his guard down again. The killing intent in his entire body became stronger. He no longer dodged blindly, but took the initiative to attack.


    After exchanging dozens of blows with him, Shen Yijia inevitably suffered a few more sword wounds.


    Shen Yijia actually didn¡¯t know many tricks. She only learned how to use a whip from Song Jingchen after coming to this world.


    She had always relied on her brute force and speed to adapt to the situation.


    If she hit him too hard, she would even hurt herself.


    Just like in her previous life, she was beaten up by those lunatics in the courtyard when she was young. Even if she was half-dead, she would catch someone and beat them up.


    At that moment.


    The blade entered her body and the sword pierced her shoulder blade.

 Chapter 363 - 363 Miscalculation

    363 Miscalculation


    On the other side, Song Jingchen glanced indifferently at the corpses of the men in black on the ground. He bent down and pulled out his sword from their bodies. He frowned. These people¡¯s skills¡­


    He didn¡¯t continue walking because this person had come from there.


    These people were still active on this mountain. At the very least, it meant that Mother and the others were indeed still hiding in this mountain.


    Song Jingchen changed directions and was about to call Furball to follow when he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his heart.


    The sudden pain made him groan. He subconsciously raised his hand to cover his chest and tightened his grip on the sword.


    Furball seemed to sense his emotions and dug at the dead branches on the ground uneasily.


    ¡°Can you find where Jiajia is?¡± Song Jingchen looked at Furball nervously.


    Furball growled softly and turned around to run into the forest. Song Jingchen immediately followed.


    ¡°Young Madam!¡± One Dot, who was lying on the ground and could not stand up, called out in fear when he saw this scene.


    The man in black was also stunned. He knew very well that with the speed this woman had displayed just now, she could have dodged this sword.


    Shen Yijia did not seem to feel any pain. She quickly grabbed the man in black¡¯s hand, which was holding the sword, and grinned at him.


    The man in black¡¯s pupils constricted, and the uneasiness in his heart grew stronger. ¡°You¡­¡±


    With a loud crack, the bones in his wrist shattered.


    The man in black groaned in pain. At the same time, he slapped Shen Yijia¡¯s right shoulder with his left hand, trying to make her let go.


    An anxious voice in his heart urged him to get away from this woman quickly.


    However, it was not easy for Shen Yijia to catch him. How could she let the target in her hand fly away?


    She swallowed the blood that surged into her throat and endured the pain of the broken bones in her shoulder. She gritted her teeth and punched the man in black in the abdomen.


    The man in black spat out a mouthful of blood and arched his tall body.


    She wanted to take his life while he was down.


    She kneed the man in black hard.


    The man in black was speechless.


    It hurt so much that he lost his voice.


    This woman was too ruthless!


    He clamped his legs together and fell to his knees.


    He looked at Shen Yijia nervously. He seemed to hear the sound of an egg shattering.


    Putting aside their hostility, as a man, he suddenly pitied the man in black who had fallen into Young Madam¡¯s hands.


    Shen Yijia did not know what One Dot was thinking. The height of the men in black made it much easier for her to fight.


    ¡°A pity? It¡¯s not a pity at all, because you¡¯re the one who¡¯s going to die, not me,¡± she said.


    She punched him in the jaw.


    Another punch landed on his cheek, his chest¡­


    She punched again and again. This was a completely unreasonable and disorderly fighting style.


    She wanted the man in black to endure the pain while being unable to block or dodge.


    The man in black finally fell to the side, his hands still covering a certain area.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s body swayed. She staggered over and squatted down in front of him. She endured the pain in her hand and took out the silver hairpin Bruiser had given her. She smiled proudly.


    If possible, the man in black would rather die on the spot. He felt that his internal organs had been shattered by the punches just now.


    Now, he could not move even if he wanted to. He could only look at the bloody woman in front of him in fear.


    The person in front of him was clearly smiling so sweetly, but his entire body trembled uncontrollably.


    He remembered that this person had smiled like this just now.


    A silver light flashed in front of his eyes.


    ¡°Ah, my eyes!¡±


    ¡°I wanted to dig it out, but it seems a little disgusting.¡± Shen Yijia seemed to be explaining. She wiped the silver hairpin on his clothes and put it away again.


    The last man in black who was surrounded by everyone was gradually at a disadvantage. When he heard this cry of pain, he subconsciously turned around and shouted in shock, ¡°Third Brother!¡±


    It was also because of this distraction that a sword pierced through his chest.


    Shen Yijia saw the man in black fall silent after crying out in pain. She reached out and saw that he was still breathing weakly.


    She heaved a sigh of relief. She wanted to stand up, but she staggered and slumped to the ground.


    Mo Yuan, who had been left far behind by Shen Yijia, also arrived at this moment.


    She quickly ran up to support Shen Yijia. When she saw her injuries, her pupils constricted. ¡°Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Mo Yuan. ¡°Help me pull it out. It hurts.¡±


    She was referring to the sword still stuck in her left shoulder.


    Her right shoulder had been hit as well, and she could not use much strength in her right hand. She could not even raise her right hand, even though she had endured the pain just now.

 Chapter 364 - 364 Miscalculation (2)

    364 Miscalculation (2)


    Fortunately, she couldn¡¯t use her full strength with her right hand. Otherwise, this man in black would have been beaten to death by her.


    She had promised Bruiser that she would let him take revenge personally. She had to let him live.


    ¡°Miss, we¡¯ll pull it out after we go down the mountain.¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s tone was trembling.


    She did not bring any medicine with her. If she pulled out the sword directly¡­


    ¡°Am I still your young miss? Just pull it out if I tell you to!¡± Shen Yijia urged.


    !!


    Mo Yuan glanced at her, closed her eyes, and grabbed the hilt. She gritted her teeth and pulled the sword out.


    Blood instantly dyed the clothes around the wound red.


    Shen Yijia groaned in pain and almost fainted. She subconsciously wanted to force out a drop of spiritual liquid and consume it, but she stopped when she thought of something.


    Previously, when she was planting potatoes, she had used up all the spiritual liquid she had saved. Later on, when she encountered the wolf pack in Qilin Mountain, she used up another drop.


    One drop of spiritual liquid gathered every 15 days, so there were only two drops a month.


    She had already used two drops in the past two days. She only had one last drop of spiritual liquid left, which had just gathered this morning.


    Apart from feeling a little reluctant, she also had another concern. If she took it now, her injuries might recover in less than two hours.


    How could she explain it in front of everyone?


    Her physique was special. Actually, even without consuming the spiritual liquid, she could slowly recover from this injury. However, it might take a little longer.


    While she was thinking, her forehead was already covered in sweat.


    Shen Yijia frowned.


    Mo Yuan thought that she was in pain and hurriedly said, ¡°Miss, I¡¯ll bring you down the mountain.¡±


    With that, she reached out to help her up.


    There was a sword wound on Shen Yijia¡¯s left shoulder, so Mo Yuan naturally went to support her right hand.


    Shen Yijia was in a dilemma and did not hear Mo Yuan¡¯s words at all. Mo Yuan accidentally touched a sore spot.


    Shen Yijia gasped and gritted her teeth. ¡°My right shoulder seems to be dislocated. Help me reattach it.¡±


    Fortunately, the man in black had only used less than 30% of his internal strength because he was in too much pain. Otherwise, it would not have been as simple as dislocating her arm. Instead, it would have shattered her shoulder bone.


    Mo Yuan pursed her lips and reached out to press on her right shoulder. Then, there was a click.


    Perhaps because she was already numb from the pain, Shen Yijia did not feel much. She moved her right hand and was about to praise Mo Yuan.


    The rustling of leaves suddenly sounded in the forest. It was not caused by the wind, but by something sweeping through the leaves at an extremely fast speed.


    Shen Yijia had lost too much blood, making her brain think even slower. If possible, it would be best if she could stop thinking.


    She was still wondering why this sound felt a little familiar.


    The Mahjong Brothers and the other warriors, who had just stopped to bandage each other¡¯s wounds after a fierce battle, stood up and surrounded Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, bring Young Madam away. Quick!¡± One Dot said anxiously as he stood up.


    ¡°What?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. Only then did she realize why it sounded familiar. Wasn¡¯t this the voice that the man in black had made when he flew around the tree just now?


    The commotion was not coming from the same direction. It could be seen that many people had come.


    The murderous aura quickly approached. Mo Yuan also felt it and picked Shen Yijia up by the waist without a word.


    However, it was too late.


    The commotion stopped in the empty space around them. Mo Yuan¡¯s pupils constricted. Nine enemies had already surrounded them.


    One of the nine people glanced around coldly and paused at the corpses of the three men in black.


    Actually, the man in black at Shen Yijia¡¯s feet was still breathing, but he could not even breathe properly, so he could be ignored.


    He said coldly, ¡°Did you kill him?¡±


    No one bothered with him.


    They were all tensed up. All of them could barely deal with one person, but now, nine of them had come together.


    Shen Yijia patted Mo Yuan¡¯s hand, indicating for her to put her down. There was no need to hesitate. She forced out the last drop of spiritual liquid and swallowed it.


    If she lost her life, there would be nothing left to explain.


    As soon as she swallowed the spiritual liquid, she clearly felt that the bleeding from the wound on her shoulder had stopped. Her right arm did not hurt as much as before.


    However, it would take some time for her to recover completely.


    She thought about the possibility of running away from these people. In the end, it was impossible.


    It was fine if she was alone, but there were so many people here. Even if she could ignore these people, there were still Madam Li and the others nearby.

 Chapter 365 - 365 Miscalculation (3)

    365 Miscalculation (3)


    Therefore, she gave up on One Dot¡¯s suggestion.


    Sensing that a gaze was fixed on her, Shen Yijia looked up. It was the person who had spoken just now.


    He was different from the other men in black. The others wore black masks that covered their eyes, but his was silver. He was clearly the leader of the men in black.


    That person looked at her for a long time and sneered. ¡°Second Miss Shen? It seems that Young Master Song has already returned. That¡¯s good. We don¡¯t have to bring some burdensome people along to look for him.¡±


    He was referring to was Madam Li, Brother Hao, and Sister Huan. They originally wanted to capture these three people and exchange them for the name list from Song Jingchen before killing them.


    !!


    However, now that he thought about it, they were already here. Killing them didn¡¯t seem to make a difference.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°You make it sound like you¡¯ve already caught them.¡±


    They had spent ten days without managing to catch Madam Li and the others. How could he be so smug?


    The leader paused and looked at the corpse at her feet. He suddenly asked, ¡°Did you kill Third Brother?¡±


    Shen Yijia kicked the man in black at her feet and raised her eyebrows. ¡°You mean him? Or him?¡±


    She pointed at the corpse of the first man in black she had killed not far away.


    The leader¡¯s eyes turned cold, and killing intent appeared all over his body.


    ¡°So what if Idid? So what if I didn¡¯t?¡± Shen Yijia crossed her arms and frowned in pain when she accidentally tugged at her wound. She quickly continued as if nothing had happened, ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    The leader said, ¡°B*tch, don¡¯t be arrogant. It doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t say it. Anyway, no matter who killed him, none of you can escape today.¡±


    Shen Yijia touched a bulging pouch in her arms.


    She was delighted, but she did not show it on her face. She continued in a very annoying tone, ¡°Then why did you say so much just now? You¡¯re not thinking of killing us with your mouth, are you?¡±


    The Mahjong Brothers¡¯ lips twitched. Although it felt good to see Young Madam criticize someone, was it really good to court death like this?


    The leader was clearly angered by Shen Yijia. He waved his hand. ¡°Attack.¡±


    The nine of them held their swords at the same time and rushed towards Shen Yijia and the others.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Ordinary experts were usually very arrogant. They thought that their opponents were small fries, so they usually only sent one person to deal with them. Typically, they¡¯d get killed one by one.


    Indeed, one could not believe everything written in those novels.


    Fortunately, she didn¡¯t expect them to be fools. She roared, ¡°Everyone, squat down.¡±


    Everyone did not understand, but they subconsciously did as they were told.


    With a whoosh, hidden weapons flew out of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and attacked the nine people.


    The man in black subconsciously blocked it with his sword.


    The hidden weapons were easily destroyed by them, and powder filled the surroundings.


    ¡°Oh no, we¡¯ve fallen into a trap,¡± someone in black cursed.


    The nine of them quickly covered their mouths and noses and retreated.


    The leader¡¯s expression changed. ¡°B*tch, are you playing tricks?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head seriously. ¡°My husband said that all is fair in war.¡±


    The leader gritted his teeth. Only women and villains were difficult to deal with.


    He stopped arguing with Shen Yijia and secretly circulated his energy to check his body.


    Shen Yijia succeeded in one move and received a wave of admiration from everyone. She raised her chin and said, ¡°You¡¯ve been poisoned by my Herbal Poison. You¡¯d better not act rashly. Otherwise¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not poisoned at all. Attack!¡± The leader interrupted Shen Yijia.


    ¡°It¡¯s not poisonous?¡± she thought.


    The corners of the Mahjong Brothers and the others¡¯ mouths twitched as they quickly welcomed the men in black.


    The leader was furious with Shen Yijia and pointed his sword at her.


    Shen Yijia was also stunned. Those paper bags were filled with powder that she had mixed together with the poisonous herbs that Mo Yuan had collected previously. She was also the one who named them.


    How could it not be poisonous? It should be doubly poisonous!


    ¡°Wait a minute,¡± Shen Yijia roared.


    However, no one paid attention to her.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Are you still villains? Can¡¯t you talk more?¡± she thought.


    Mo Yuan had been guarding Shen Yijia. At this moment, she also stepped forward to fight.


    However, she was no match for that person at all. After more than ten moves, her body was sent flying.


    Shen Yijia swung the whip and wrapped it around her waist. After helping her reduce the momentum, she retracted it.


    Without the obstruction, the leader turned his target to Shen Yijia.


    She quickly dodged the man in black¡¯s attack.


    This series of actions affected her injuries that had yet to recover. She gritted her teeth in pain.


    Another sword aura attacked from behind her.


    Shen Yijia rolled on the ground and swung the whip in her hand.


    The leader swung his sword to block.


    Mo Yuan rushed up to help. The two of them exchanged nearly a hundred moves with the leader.


    Bang!


    The two of them were sent flying.


    The leader¡¯s goal was very clear. He did not even look at Mo Yuan, his eyes fixed upon Shen Yijia.

 Chapter 366 - 366 His Injured Wife

    366 His Injured Wife


    Shen Yijia suspected that she had dug up this person¡¯s ancestral grave before. Or perhaps she¡¯d stolen his wife in a past life.


    She wiped the blood from her mouth and stood up, holding on to the tree trunk.


    This person¡¯s martial arts were above that person¡¯s.


    Seeing that the sword was coming at her again, Shen Yijia cursed inwardly.


    She did not pick up the long whip that had fallen to the ground and faced it without dodging.


    !!


    She fought desperately. As long as it wasn¡¯t a vital point, she would let her fist land on the other party even if she was injured.


    The leader spat out a mouthful of blood. Looking at the woman opposite him, who was covered in blood but had a burning gaze, the interest in his eyes intensified.


    It had been a long time since he had encountered such an opponent. Was she becoming braver the more she suffered?


    If this woman had not been injured before, it would have been far more than that.


    What a pity!


    She was destined to die under his sword today.


    Shen Yijia held her breath and exchanged dozens of blows with him. In the end, she jumped up and kicked the other party¡¯s abdomen, using the momentum to leap backwards.


    She clenched her trembling hands in pain and looked coldly at the person opposite her.


    The leader wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth and killing intent surged from his body. ¡°Let¡¯s stop here.¡±


    With that, he held his sword and circulated all his internal energy in his hand, slashing at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia did not dodge. She knew her situation very well. It was already difficult for her to stand.


    That single drop of spiritual liquid was nothing to her now.


    Suddenly, an air-piercing sound came from behind Shen Yijia and pointed at the chest of the leader.


    The leader¡¯s gaze froze. He had no choice but to give up on Shen Yijia and block with his sword.


    Clang! The sharp blades collided.


    He felt his hand go numb, and his entire body slid back a distance before stopping. It could be seen how powerful the attack was.


    At the same time, a figure descended from the sky and blocked Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s tense nerves relaxed.


    ¡°Young Master Song!¡±


    Those were the last words she heard before she collapsed.


    Shen Yijia woke up to find herself lying in a comfortable bed.


    She moved her body and remembered. She realized that her entire body ached. Scenes of what had happened before she fainted flashed through her mind.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± An anxious and hoarse voice sounded in her ear.


    Shen Yijia turned around and was shocked.


    Oh my, who was this bearded man with dark circles under his eyes? He looked so depressed.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Well, he did not know what Shen Yijia was thinking.


    Song Jingchen carefully went forward and helped Shen Yijia up. He placed a pillow behind her and asked with concern, ¡°How do you feel? Are you feeling unwell anywhere? Does it hurt?¡±


    After asking, he felt that something was wrong and stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll get Mo Yuan to take a look at you.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and silently retracted her thoughts.


    Reaching for him, she frowned when she accidentally tugged at her wound.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move. Lie down properly,¡± Song Jingchen said sternly.


    His tone was fierce, but his eyes were filled with heartache and worry.


    Shen Yijia grinned at him and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine. It doesn¡¯t hurt at all.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her steadily. It was unknown if he believed her, but he swallowed his words.


    After a long time, he took a deep breath and said, ¡°If you can¡¯t beat him next time, you can just run away, alright?¡±


    He did not dare to imagine what would have happened if he had arrived a little later.


    ¡°Got it.¡± Shen Yijia pursed her lips. Thinking of something, she pulled Song Jingchen¡¯s hand.


    Song Jingchen was afraid that she would pull on her wound again, so he leaned over.


    Shen Yijia held his face and looked at him for a while. After checking, she wanted to take off his clothes.


    Song Jingchen grabbed her hand and felt bitter. ¡°I¡¯m not injured.¡±


    She was clearly so seriously injured, but she still worried about him when she woke up. Was there anyone in the world more stupid than her?


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia did not believe it.


    Those were nine experts. No matter how powerful her beautiful husband was, it was impossible for him to be unscathed.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking and said helplessly, ¡°It wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    After saying that, he looked at Shen Yijia strangely. ¡°You poisoned him to death.¡±


    He had only exchanged two moves with that person when the nine of them suddenly fell to the ground, bleeding from their seven orifices and twitching.


    It was not that Shen Yijia¡¯s poison powder was useless, but it simply acted up a little late. The nine people probably did not expect to die so suddenly and aggrievedly.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She took nine kills just like that? Not only did the nine people not expect it, she also did not expect it.


    ¡°Are you hungry? I made soup for you in the kitchen,¡± Song Jingchen said. ¡°You still have to drink medicine after drinking the soup.¡±


    Shen Yijia had slept for two days and was indeed hungry, but when she heard that she had to drink medicine, her face twisted.


    She hated drinking medicine the most and didn¡¯t want to drink it.


    As soon as Song Jingchen went out, the door was pushed open.


    A head squeezed through the gap.


    Hearing the commotion, Shen Yijia turned around and asked in amusement, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Only then did Sister Huan enter the house.


    She went to Shen Yijia¡¯s bed and gently touched Shen Yijia¡¯s hand on the blanket. Her eyes were a little red. ¡°Sister-in-law, does it still hurt?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and said, ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt anymore.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Sister Huan¡¯s tears fell.


    How could it not hurt? She had seen her sister-in-law lying in her brother¡¯s arms, covered in blood.


    She felt that Shen Yijia must have said that to comfort her, so she felt even worse.


    Ever since her sister-in-law married her brother, she had not had a good day. Now, she had suffered such a serious injury to save them.


    She felt aggrieved for her sister-in-law.


    Children grew up quickly. In less than a year, Sister Huan had grown much taller. There was still some baby fat on her face, which was fair and tender.


    Her eyes didn¡¯t look like Song Jingchen¡¯s phoenix eyes, but like Madam Li¡¯s.


    Coupled with her teary eyes, she looked extremely innocent.


    Shen Yijia was amused by her behavior. She turned slightly and hugged her. She patted her head comfortingly. ¡°It¡¯s only been a short time since we last met, and Sister Huan has become a crybaby?¡±


    ¡°No, Miaomiao is the crybaby.¡± Sister Huan was a little embarrassed by the teasing. She buried her face in Shen Yijia¡¯s arms and rubbed against it, not daring to use too much strength. She knew that her sister-in-law was still injured.


    She said gloomily, ¡°Sister-in-law, I¡¯ll definitely grow up quickly. Then I can protect you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was touched. ¡°Alright¡­ They all say that you can grow up by eating more. Eat more in the future and you¡¯ll grow up soon.¡±


    Sister Huan looked up at her. ¡°Really?¡±


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°Of course it¡¯s true.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Sister Huan believed Shen Yijia¡¯s words without a doubt. She thought of something and hurriedly withdrew from Shen Yijia¡¯s arms. She untied a bulging pouch from her waist. ¡°These are all the candied plums I hid. If it hurts, take one and it won¡¯t hurt anymore.¡±


    She loved sweets, but Madam Li was afraid that she would have bad teeth if she ate too much, so she did not let her eat too much.


    Sister Huan looked obedient on the surface, but she often took some snacks from the others behind their backs and hid her share to eat slowly.

 Chapter 367 - 367 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (1)

    367 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (1)


    Shen Yijia knew this. Looking at the bulging pouch, she knew that there was a lot of it inside. It was unknown how long it had been there.


    Sister Huan was willing to part with her love for her?


    She glanced at the little girl¡¯s expression. Seeing that Sister Huan wasn¡¯t forcing herself, she accepted it with a clear conscience.


    Sister Huan heaved a sigh of relief. Although the candied plums were her treasure, her sister-in-law was naturally more important than these candied plums.


    Sister Huan chatted with Shen Yijia for a while. After estimating the time, she stood up. ¡°I¡¯m leaving. Big Brother didn¡¯t want us to disturb you.¡±


    !!


    ¡°However, I¡¯ve already discussed it with Brother Hao and the others. We¡¯ll take turns to visit you when Big Brother isn¡¯t around. We¡¯ll do it secretly.¡±


    She deliberately lowered her voice.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. No wonder Sister Huan was the only one here.


    Speak of the devil.


    Sister Huan shuddered. ¡°Brother, I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, she had already disappeared.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Why did she feel that Sister Huan was even more afraid of her beautiful husband than before?


    She stared at Song Jingchen¡¯s face for a while. He should have taught her a lesson just now. His stubble was gone, but the dark eye circles remained.


    He didn¡¯t look fierce, though.


    She didn¡¯t know how dark Song Jingchen¡¯s face had been during the two days she was unconscious. In the entire family, only Madam Li dared to speak to him.


    There was a table by their bed. Song Jingchen had placed it there when his legs were crippled.


    Later on, his legs recovered, but he didn¡¯t remove the table. Occasionally, he would put books on it.


    Song Jingchen placed the tray on the table. On the tray was a bowl of medicine and a pot of fragrant soup.


    The soup was stewed by Madam Li to nourish her blood and qi.


    As for the medicine, Shen Yijia glanced at the bowl of black paste in disdain and pretended not to see it for the time being.


    Song Jingchen took in her expression and fed her the soup in amusement. ¡°Drink the soup first.¡±


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t finish the big pot of soup alone. She knew that Song Jingchen definitely hadn¡¯t eaten well these past two days, so she asked him to drink it with her.


    The two of them used the same spoon to finish the soup.


    Shen Yijia drank happily.


    However, her good mood disappeared when she saw Song Jingchen pick up the bowl of medicine.


    ¡°I can recover without drinking medicine.¡± Shen Yijia tried to persuade Song Jingchen to give up on the terrifying thought of letting her drink medicine.


    Song Jingchen picked up the bowl and took a sip to test the temperature. It was just right.


    ¡°I know, but you¡¯ll recover faster if you take the medicine.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°No, I won¡¯t.¡±


    She tried her best to say that she didn¡¯t need to drink medicine and even squeezed out a crocodile tear.


    However, Song Jingchen refused to be persuaded. He was cold and heartless, insisting that she drink that bitter thing.


    They had just been drinking a bowl of soup together.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen sadly, pulled up the blanket, and rolled around, hiding herself in the blanket.


    Song Jingchen was helpless. Because Shen Yijia was injured, he didn¡¯t dare to drag her out with brute force.


    He could only go forward and pick her up with the blanket and place her on his lap. Then, he carefully dug Shen Yijia out of the blanket bit by bit and imprisoned her in his arms.


    ¡°I¡¯m not drinking it.¡± Shen Yijia made a last struggle.


    She had drunk too much medicine in her previous life and felt like vomiting when she smelled it. She would rather be stabbed than drink medicine.


    Song Jingchen brought the medicine bowl to her mouth and coaxed, ¡°Be good. It¡¯ll be gone in one mouthful.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. It wasn¡¯t like she hadn¡¯t drunk it before. She pursed her lips and refused to listen.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and picked up the medicine bowl to drink it himself.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. How could he drink this medicine just like that?


    ¡°Is my beautiful husband really not injured?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been beaten silly?¡± she thought.


    She widened her eyes and watched as Song Jingchen took a sip. There was only half the medicine left in the bowl.


    Then¡­


    Song Jingchen¡¯s good-looking face slowly got closer to her.


    Shen Yijia could not resist this person at all!


    Therefore, her teeth were easily pried open.


    The medicine with a little pink bubbles entered Shen Yijia¡¯s stomach.


    Only then did she react. She frowned and glared at Song Jingchen accusingly. ¡°You actually used a honey trap!¡±


    It was so bitter!


    She seriously suspected that this person had accompanied her to drink soup just now because he wanted her to save some space for the medicine.


    Song Jingchen smiled and reached out to wipe the medicine from the corner of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth.


    Fortunately, this person was still fine.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and saw Song Jingchen take out a paper bag from his pocket. He opened it and she saw two candied plums lying inside.

 Chapter 368 - 368 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (2)

    368 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (2)


    He picked one up and stuffed it into Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth. ¡°Alright, it won¡¯t be bitter after eating this.¡±


    Shen Yijia smacked her lips angrily. The layer of icing on the candied plum melted in her mouth to suppress the bitterness.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was about to put away the remaining one, she reached out, grabbed it, opened the paper bag, and picked up the last one.


    ¡°You eat it.¡± Shen Yijia brought the candied plums to Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth.


    The smile in Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes deepened. He opened his mouth obediently and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hair. ¡°You¡¯re not angry anymore?¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted and opened the pouch that Sister Huan had given her. ¡°Look, Sister Huan gave it to me.¡±


    In other words, she wanted him to eat because she had a lot more.


    Unexpectedly, in the blink of an eye, the pouch was in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand.


    ¡°You can¡¯t eat too much. I¡¯ll help you put this away.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°You¡¯ll lose me as your wife.¡± she thought.


    She wanted to reach out and snatch it away.


    Song Jingchen suddenly lowered his eyes and rested his head on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder. His voice was a little aggrieved. ¡°I¡¯m so sleepy. Can you sleep with me for a while?¡±


    He was not pretending. He had not slept for the past few days since Shen Yijia fell unconscious.


    This tone¡­


    Then she thought of the dark circles under his eyes.


    How could Shen Yijia refuse?


    She couldn¡¯t.


    Not only could she not refuse, but her heart also ached a little.


    Shen Yijia instantly forgot about Song Jingchen forcing her to drink the medicine and snatching her candied plums. She meekly lay down with him again.


    Although she had been lying down for two days, her body had been severely injured and she had lost too much blood. She was really a little tired now.


    The room fell silent. Song Jingchen opened his eyes and looked down at her for a long time. His gaze lowered and finally landed on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder.


    He frowned and let go of Shen Yijia¡¯s waist. He propped himself up and placed his hand on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder, carefully pulling down her loose collar.


    The first thing she saw was fair and delicate skin.


    ¡°If you want to see it, just tell me. It¡¯s not like I won¡¯t show it to you.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s soft voice came from above.


    Song Jingchen paused and looked up into a pair of sparkling eyes.


    His throat tightened as he explained, ¡°I didn¡¯t¡ª¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t? Or did you?¡± Shen Yijia looked like she understood. There was no need to explain. Anyway, she wouldn¡¯t listen even if he explained.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and decided to give up. He sat up and took off Shen Yijia¡¯s inner garments without a word, leaving only her undergarments.


    This time, it was Shen Yijia¡¯s turn to be stunned. After so long, they had already kissed many times, but Song Jingchen had never taken off her clothes.


    This was the first time he had been so direct.


    Sensing Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze on her, Shen Yijia rubbed her arms.


    What if she felt a little shy? Would her beautiful husband think that she was too young?


    Should she also take off her beautiful husband¡¯s clothes?


    Previously, she had drugged Song Jingchen and stripped the two of them naked, but Song Jingchen was unconscious at that time, so she didn¡¯t feel anything.


    Now that he was staring at Shen Yijia, she felt that her face was about to burn. Her heart was pounding.


    What she didn¡¯t know was that Song Jingchen had already seen her naked.


    Song Jingchen was afraid that Shen Yijia¡¯s secret would be known by others, so he didn¡¯t let anyone approach her for the past two days. He did everything alone, from applying medicine to cleaning up.


    When his calloused fingers touched her skin, Shen Yijia came back to her senses and stammered, ¡°You haven¡¯t taken off your clothes.¡±


    She understood that he was being honest with her.


    Although it was a little sudden, it was not impossible. It was just that she had yet to recover from her injuries.


    Song Jingchen had no idea that Shen Yijia was thinking about these matters.


    His attention was all on the finger-long wound on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder.


    There were already scabs there, so Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised. Actually, it was already like this when he carried her back that day and helped her wipe it off, so he didn¡¯t bandage it for her.


    Two days had passed, but this scar was still the same as that day.


    The other shallow sword wounds could no longer be seen, leaving only pink and tender marks.


    To ordinary people, this kind of recovery speed was already considered heaven-defying, but Shen Yijia was different.


    According to her recovery speed every time she was injured in the past, she should have recovered long ago.


    He originally thought that Shen Yijia would only recover when she woke up. He wanted to confirm his guess just now, but he did not expect that she hadn¡¯t recovered yet.

 Chapter 369 - 369 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (3)

    369 Song Jingchen, Embarrassed (3)


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you healed yet?¡± Song Jingchen asked hoarsely. He now knew that Shen Yijia was not a demon. How could a demon be injured so easily?


    Shen Yijia paused and realized that she was thinking too much. Why was she a little disappointed?


    ¡°I¡¯m not that anxious!¡± she thought.


    The scar felt a little itchy. Shen Yijia shrank back and grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯ll be fine in a few days.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you recover quickly in the past?¡± Song Jingchen asked again.


    In the past, he did not want to know because he thought that even if he forgot his true intentions one day, Shen Yijia would be able to escape unscathed with her trump card.


    However, in the past two days, he realized that he was wrong. He was the one who could not leave her.


    Just now, he changed his mind. He wanted to know everything about Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia blinked and inexplicably understood. She scratched her head and said in embarrassment, ¡°There¡¯s no more spiritual liquid.¡±


    Song Jingchen was puzzled. ¡°Spiritual liquid?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and explained why she could condense a drop of spiritual liquid every 15 days.


    Song Jingchen had long known that Shen Yijia had the ability to quickly heal wounds or even revive people. He just didn¡¯t know how she did it.


    He was not too surprised to hear her explanation.


    He pursed his lips and asked what he wanted to know most. ¡°Who are you?¡± he asked. ¡°Where did you come from? Will you leave one day?¡±


    Shen Yijia fell silent. She thought that Song Jingchen would never ask.


    She organized her words in her heart and tried not to scare Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Actually¡­ I¡¯m not human.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted.


    Shen Yijia noticed and quickly explained, ¡°I was originally a human, but I died later.¡±


    The word ¡®death¡¯ made Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tighten and his face turn pale.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. Alright, she admitted that she was a little nervous. Besides, things were a little unbelievable to begin with. She didn¡¯t know where to start, so she spoke in a mess.


    She was afraid that her beautiful husband would faint if she continued, so she shut up.


    After a long time, Song Jingchen found his voice. ¡°What about you now?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°I¡¯m a human now. Touch me.¡±


    With that, she grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and placed it on her chest, letting him feel her heartbeat.


    The next second, they both paused.


    Shen Yijia was wearing only her undergarments. The thin layer of fabric could not block the temperature of both parties.


    Song Jingchen subconsciously curled his fingers. He wanted to stay away, but Shen Yijia pressed his hand down.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia felt him pinch her. Her face instantly turned red, and her heart beat faster.


    She felt that there was no need to touch her to feel her heartbeat. She could hear her heartbeat from afar.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t any better. He felt as if a ball of fire had ignited his entire palm. It quickly spread throughout his body and finally gathered.


    Sensing that a certain part of his body had raised its head, he suddenly retracted his hand and retreated, wanting to stay away from Shen Yijia so that she wouldn¡¯t see him lose his composure.


    In the end¡­


    Bang!


    A certain someone forgot that he was lying on the side of the bed and fell off it.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. This was the first time he had been so embarrassed in his life. Moreover, it was in front of his wife.


    Who would believe this?


    All those thoughts had long dissipated when the back of his head hit the ground.


    Song Jingchen felt that he must be dreaming. Wasn¡¯t he hugging someone to sleep just now?


    Yes, he must have fallen asleep. He dreamed that he got up to look at Shen Yijia¡¯s wound.


    Shen Yijia was originally stunned. However, she saw that Song Jingchen had fallen, and he wasn¡¯t in a hurry to get up. Instead, he lay on the ground with a lifeless expression.


    She laughed unkindly. ¡°Haha!¡±


    She seemed to have discovered another amazing side of her beautiful husband.


    Song Jingchen turned to look at Shen Yijia expressionlessly. He couldn¡¯t lie to himself anymore.


    Shen Yijia laughed so hard that she hugged her stomach and rolled around on the bed. However, because she moved too much, she accidentally tugged at her wound. It was so painful that she did not dare to move again.


    She reached out to wipe the tears from her eyes. ¡°Hubby, aren¡¯t you getting up?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He knew that all his image had been ruined at this moment.


    With this interlude, Shen Yijia was no longer nervous. She patted the bed and called out, ¡°Come up quickly. I¡¯m not done yet.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and took off his coat with a straight face before lying back down. He looked calm, as if nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia smiled and wanted to enter his arms.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyebrows twitched. He didn¡¯t forget why he had embarrassed himself just now. He silently took Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes and helped her put them on.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t come from this world.¡± Shen Yijia opened her hand and let him move. She explained, ¡°I was killed by a car over there.¡±

 Chapter 370 - 370 Unexpected

    370 Unexpected


    After telling him her secret, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. At least she didn¡¯t have to hide it alone anymore.


    She didn¡¯t say much about her previous life. It wasn¡¯t important anyway.


    Song Jingchen was the opposite, even though Shen Yijia had repeatedly promised that she wouldn¡¯t leave or go back.


    However, he would wake up in the middle of the night for a long time in the future. Then, he would reach out to check Shen Yijia¡¯s breathing. After confirming that she was still there, he would feel relieved.


    He felt that a soul was even more difficult to catch than a demon.


    It was like a puff of smoke, and he was afraid that the person in front of him would drift away from this body at any moment.


    Shen Yijia had no idea what the person beside her was worried about.


    Song Jingchen wanted her to recuperate in her room, so she didn¡¯t go out. She read the notebook Song Jingchen had bought for her every day to pass the time.


    After all, there were many people who had seen her seriously injured. It would indeed be suspicious if she recovered too quickly.


    Apart from the little ones who came to talk to her every day when Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t around, even Madam Li came to her room every few days to do embroidery work, afraid that she would be bored alone.


    Due to the man in black¡¯s targeting of Shen Yijia, Mo Yuan only suffered some superficial injuries.


    Mahjong and the others were different from those death warriors. They did not have Shen Yijia¡¯s abnormal physique. They were lucky to survive.


    As for those who didn¡¯t were unlucky, they were already dead.


    There was no need for Mo Yuan to take care of Shen Yijia, so Song Jingchen arranged for her to treat those people¡¯s injuries and arranged for all the injured to stay in the workshop.


    Because they were so close, Shen Yijia could smell medicine every day.


    The Song family, who had mysteriously disappeared, suddenly returned. No matter what the villagers of Xiagou Village thought, they all came to visit the next day to show their concern.


    In the past year, the Song family¡¯s workshop and flower fields had given more than half of the people in Xiagou Village a stable income.


    Many people still remembered this kindness in their hearts. In addition, their family was about to return to the capital. At this moment, even a fool knew to try their best to befriend this family.


    There were also people who asked when the workshop would start work again.


    Madam Li knew what they were thinking and paid them the salary she had yet to give them. She only said that the house was in a mess and that they should rest for the time being.


    Without the supply of fragrance powder, the shops in town naturally closed.


    Although the villagers felt that it was a pity, they did not dare to have any objections.


    Shen Yijia stayed in her room for ten days before Song Jingchen finally agreed to go out for a walk.


    She didn¡¯t go anywhere else and went straight to Bruiser¡¯s house.


    At first, Bruiser was also recuperating in the Song family, but when he woke up, he insisted on going home. Madam Li could not dissuade him, so she could only let him go back.


    Speaking of which, Widow Wang had been implicated by their family. Lin Shao had initially taught Madam Li how to make incense.


    However, business in the shop was getting better and better. Madam Li could not handle it alone, so the children went to school.


    In the end, Madam Li discussed it with Lin Shao and taught Widow Wang. Madam Li wanted to help her.


    The salary for mixing incense was naturally higher than for dealing with petals.


    A few days before the accident, the two of them had taken on a business deal in the shop, so they wanted to work overtime to complete it.


    It was because of this that Widow Wang stayed at their house.


    Unexpectedly¡­


    Shen Yijia stood in front of Bruiser¡¯s house and knocked for a long time, but no one opened the door.


    She frowned. For some reason, a plot she had just seen in her notebook appeared in her mind.


    One of them chose to commit suicide because of a sudden change in his family.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows twitched. She took a few steps back and wanted to kick open the courtyard door.


    Unexpectedly, the door opened from the inside just as she raised her leg.


    Bruiser was stunned when he saw her.


    Shen Yijia retracted her foot, suspecting that he had not heard the knock on the door just now.


    Noticing Shen Yijia¡¯s retracted leg, the corners of Bruiser¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Sister, why are you here? Didn¡¯t Brother-in-law not let you out? Did you sneak out again?¡±


    He asked three questions in a row.


    He knew that Shen Yijia was seriously injured and had gone to see her, so he asked.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Why didn¡¯t he welcome her?


    And what did he mean ¡°again¡±?


    He made it sound like she sneaked out of the house often.


    Bruiser¡¯s house was small.


    Shen Yijia saw that the central room door was closed and glanced at Bruiser. ¡°Are you going out?¡±


    ¡°Yes, my injuries have recovered.¡± Bruiser thought that Shen Yijia was concerned about his health.


    Speaking of which, he still found it unbelievable. It was just a small pill that smelled like mud.


    Putting aside the fact that she had pulled him back from the gates of hell, in just a few days, the sword wound on his chest had disappeared, as if he had never been injured.


    Every time he saw that healed wound, he would wonder if his mother would still be alive if she had such a medicine.


    However, he also knew that it was impossible. Shen Yijia had given him the last pill and he had almost died. Besides, Shen Yijia had yet to return back then.


    ¡°I know. I¡¯m asking where you¡¯re going.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt a little uncomfortable. In the past, it was always Bruiser who asked her where she was going and followed her everywhere.


    Bruiser gave her the feeling that he had suddenly grown up.


    Bruiser pursed his lips. ¡°I want to go to the county and buy a better set of gifts for my mother.¡±


    Widow Wang was seriously injured when she was in the Song family. Not long after they shook off the men in black, she died.


    Therefore, they could only bury her in the mountains for the time being.


    His mother liked the hustle and bustle, so she definitely wouldn¡¯t like it there.


    Shen Yijia paused and asked him to wait. She turned around and went home to drive out a carriage. Madam Li was also in it.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t at home today, so Shen Yijia definitely had to tell Madam Li when she went out. When Madam Li found out, she was worried that the two of them wouldn¡¯t understand, so she said that she would go with them.


    Actually, Madam Li had long wanted to tell Bruiser about this, but she was afraid that mentioning it would make Bruiser sad, so she didn¡¯t say anything. She wanted Bruiser to calm down first.


    The carriage swayed towards the county city.


    Shen Yijia stopped the carriage at the entrance of a noodle shop. ¡°Let¡¯s go eat something first.¡±


    Bruiser wanted to say that he wasn¡¯t hungry.


    Shen Yijia said directly, ¡°We¡¯re all hungry.¡±


    ¡°Do you want us to starve with you?¡± she thought.


    Bruiser couldn¡¯t refute that.


    The three of them found a corner seat in the hall and sat down. After asking Madam Li, Shen Yijia did not ask Bruiser and directly ordered three bowls of plain noodles.


    Bruiser had to observe the mourning period, so he definitely couldn¡¯t eat meat.


    As the boss, it was not appropriate for her to eat meat in front of him.


    It was mealtime, and the hall was filled with people. They waited for a long time before a waiter brought over three bowls of hot noodles.


    Shen Yijia pushed one of the bowls in front of Bruiser and urged, ¡°Hurry up and eat. It¡¯s five copper coins a bowl. If you don¡¯t eat it, my mother and I won¡¯t be able to finish it. Wouldn¡¯t that be a waste?¡±


    Bruiser asked, ¡°Then why did you order three bowls just now?¡±


    He picked up his chopsticks and took a bite. His nose felt a little sour.


    It was a habit she had developed in her previous life. Shen Yijia ate very quickly. After she finished the bowl of noodles, Madam Li and Bruiser had only taken a few bites.


    She could see the main door from where she was sitting. She had nothing to do after eating, so she stared at the people entering and leaving the door.


    Her beautiful husband had told her when he went out today that he was going to look for Fan Mingyuan.


    This noodle shop was only a street away from the county office. Perhaps the two of them had telepathy and Song Jingchen had also come to this noodle shop to eat.


    The people sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an had long arrived at Anyang County, but Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t returned yet, so Fan Mingyuan could only find an inn to arrange for the group to stay.


    However, the contents of the imperial edict had long spread from the capital, so everyone knew why they were here.


    A few days ago, because Shen Yijia was injured, Song Jingchen had never shown his face when he returned. To put it nicely, he was going to see Fan Mingyuan today, but he was actually trying to make his presence known to the people who came to the capital.


    To let them know he was back.


    Shen Yijia looked around for a while, but she didn¡¯t see Song Jingchen. Instead, she saw two unexpected people.

 Chapter 371 - 371 Panic

    371 Panic


    Those two people were none other than Fan Mingyuan and the woman she had met once.


    The two of them walked out. Their table was in the corner, so the other party did not see her.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Had Xiao Ruoshui been cuckolded?


    ¡°Right?¡± she thought.


    Seeing that the two of them were about to disappear from her sight, she subconsciously wanted to follow them.


    ¡°Sister Jia?¡± Madam Li¡¯s voice brought her back to her senses. ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked over and realized that the two of them had already finished eating. They looked at her curiously.


    ¡°Mother, I just saw Fan Mingyuan walking with a woman,¡± Shen Yijia said honestly. She thought for a moment and told her about the actions of the two people in the county office. In the end, she asked, ¡°Is Fan Mingyuan going to take in a concubine?¡±


    Madam Li paused and turned to look at the door. She did not see the two people Shen Yijia was talking about. She asked uncertainly, ¡°Is the woman you¡¯re talking about Miss Cheng?¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was already ten years old when he was brought into the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. Coincidentally, she had just given birth to Brother Hao and Sister Huan. After giving birth to two children, her body was weak and she recuperated for half a year.


    Later on, she focused most of her energy on Brother Hao and Sister Huan.


    By the time she could free herself from the twins, Fan Mingyuan would have grown up.


    Coupled with the fact that he had been living in the outer courtyard and usually went to the academy or studied by Song Yi¡¯s side, Madam Li did not see him often.


    Apart from having a meal together at the family banquet on New Year¡¯s Day, Fan Mingyuan could only speak to her when he came to the inner courtyard to pay his respects.


    He simply said that he would remember to tell her if he needed anything.


    To be honest, as his teacher¡¯s wife, her concern for him was limited to not letting anyone treat him badly in terms of food, clothing, accommodation, and transportation.


    ¡°Mother, you¡¯ve seen her?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened.


    It was over. Fan Mingyuan was an orphan. Madam Li was his only elder.


    They had already progressed to meeting their elders.


    Madam Li did not know what she was thinking. She nodded and said, ¡°He came to the house the next day after we returned from the mountain. You were still unconscious at that time, so you didn¡¯t know.¡±


    That day, Fan Mingyuan also had a girl by his side.


    Fan Mingyuan introduced the girl as his savior. She was an orphan. Because she saved him, she was gossiped about by the villagers, so he acknowledged her as his adopted sister.


    ¡°Savior? Foster sister?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks.


    She had seen this familiar plot many times.


    Seeing that his savior was pitiful, the male protagonist acknowledged her as his sister. He originally wanted to repay her kindness, but she wanted to sleep with him as his wife.


    Because of this sister, the male and female protagonists misunderstood each other and started to torment each other.


    Shen Yijia remembered what Da Hua had sung in her ear. ¡°How many good sisters do you have?¡±


    Then, she substituted Xiao Ruoshui into the story.


    She imagined Xiao Ruoshui crying and singing this song to Fan Mingyuan. In the end, she asked, ¡°Who are you going to save if your sister and I fall into the water?¡±


    Shen Yijia shivered.


    Far away in the capital¡¯s general¡¯s residence, Xiao Ruoshui sneezed.


    ¡°Miss, did you catch a cold? I¡¯ll find a doctor to take a look at you.¡± The eldest maidservant, Xi Que, who was preparing food for her, asked with concern.


    ¡°It must be that wretched girl, Xiao Ruoqian, talking bad about me again. I haven¡¯t settled the score with her for complaining about me to Father yesterday.¡± Xiao Ruoshui rubbed her nose and said angrily.


    Xiao Ruoqian was her most annoying step-sister.


    She had only gone to the Ten Thousand Flowers Restaurant in men¡¯s clothes to broaden her horizons. She did not know how Xiao Ruoqian saw it, but she turned around and told General Xiao, causing her to be grounded.


    Although this thing was useless to her, Xiao Ruoqian¡¯s actions provoked her again.


    The more Xiao Ruoshui thought about it, the angrier she became. She put down the chopsticks in her hand and stood up. ¡°Does Xiao Ruoqian really think I¡¯m made of clay? How dare she scold me behind my back? Let¡¯s go and find that wretched girl.¡±


    The corners of Xi Que¡¯s mouth twitched. She could even blame Second Miss for a sneeze. This was indeed Eldest Miss¡¯s usual style.


    There was a moment of silence.


    Shen Yijia did not know that someone had taken the blame for her. After paying for the noodles, she drove the carriage to the best funeral shop in the county.


    Bruiser wanted Widow Wang to leave with dignity. He wanted to buy only the best for her.


    Apart from building a house, he still had a lot of money left from the money he earned from the arena. In addition, Widow Wang usually saved money, so he did not have to worry about not having enough money.


    The shop would arrange for these things to be delivered to their doorsteps.


    After coming out of the shop, the carriage passed by a jewelry shop. Bruiser suddenly stopped it.


    He entered the shop alone and came out not long after.


    Shen Yijia did not ask him why he went inside. She drove the carriage out of the city and back home.


    As soon as they arrived, the person who delivered the funeral products also entered the village.


    The villagers of Xiagou Village were originally curious why they didn¡¯t see Widow Wang when Bruiser returned. They saw the ox cart containing the items parked in front of Bruiser¡¯s house.


    Only then did everyone understand and sigh.


    Madam Li brought Shen Yijia, Brother Hao, and the others to help decorate the mourning hall. A white cloth was hung at the door.


    Halfway through, Auntie Tian also came to help.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen her since she returned.


    Auntie Tian had changed a lot compared to before.


    Her complexion had improved, and she was no longer wearing the same rough linen clothes.


    Instead, it was the thin cotton cloth that she would sigh at every time she saw Madam Li make clothes. There were also two silver hairpins on her head.


    It was obvious that without Father An¡¯s body as a burden, their family¡¯s days were better.


    Moreover, Nianci had given birth to a fat grandson for the An family in February this year. When she was in a good mood, she looked young.


    By the time they were done, it was already dark. Shen Yijia did not give Bruiser a chance to refuse and forcefully carried him back to the Song family.


    After dinner at the Song family¡¯s house, they let him go back. Brother Hao and Lin Shao followed him.


    Actually, these two people had been living there recently, but Shen Yijia did not know.


    When Song Jingchen returned home, everyone had already gone to bed. Only candlelight shone from the east wing.


    He pushed open the door and entered. He saw Shen Yijia sitting on the bed in her pajamas, reading a notebook. There was also a pile of books on the bed.


    He recognized them because he had asked South Wind to buy them. He heard that they were the most popular novels in the world.


    It was unknown what she saw, but she looked angry.


    Hearing the commotion, Shen Yijia looked up. When she saw him, her eyes lit up. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Song Jingchen saw the change in her emotions and smiled.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten yet, have you? Mother heated up food in the pot. I¡¯ll bring it over for you.¡±


    With that, Shen Yijia was about to put on her shoes.


    Song Jingchen pressed her back down. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve eaten.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and took out a paper bag. ¡°This is for you.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Shen Yijia opened it. It was a full bag of candied plums. She thought of the pouch he had taken away and grinned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that I can¡¯t eat too much?¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose. ¡°Your injuries haven¡¯t recovered yet.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t the one who bought it, anyway.

 Chapter 372 - 372 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (1)

    372 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (1)


    Song Jingchen went to take a shower. Shen Yijia rolled around on the bed with the candied plums in her arms and stuffed five into her mouth in one go, making her mouth bulge.


    How sweet!


    When Song Jingchen returned, Shen Yijia had already changed her reading posture.


    She leaned over the pillow. The candied plums were placed beside it, making it convenient for her to grab them.


    There was only half a bag of candied plums left. The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Just as Shen Yijia was about to reach out for it again, he quickly put away the candied plums. ¡°You can¡¯t eat too much tonight, lest you have a toothache tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡± Shen Yijia smacked her lips.


    If she couldn¡¯t eat them tonight, she could at least do it tomorrow.


    Song Jingchen leaned over and helped her put away the books that were scattered all over the bed. There were many folded corners, and he carefully smoothed them out.


    This had been a habit of his for many years. It had nothing to do with what kind of book it was.


    He didn¡¯t ask her why she dug everything out.


    ¡°Are the books written by this talented scholar very popular?¡± Shen Yijia handed them over one by one and suddenly asked.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand that was smoothing the corners of the book paused. He casually flipped through a few books and realized that these books were all written by people who claimed to be talented.


    He shook his head, puzzled by Shen Yijia¡¯s question. He only said, ¡°I don¡¯t usually read these, but South Wind bought the most popular ones.¡±


    At the mention of the most popular books, Song Jingchen¡¯s expression froze. He inexplicably remembered the three best-selling books Shen Yijia had given him.


    He raised his eyebrows. ¡°Is there something wrong with these books?¡±


    If that was the case, he could consider letting South Wind wash the toilet for a month.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°No problem. It¡¯s just that the person who can write so many books must be very talented. I want to get to know him.¡±


    First, she would use her fists, then break all his brushes, so that he would not dare to write such nonsense in the future.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. He picked up his pace and became much rougher.


    Instead of smoothing the corners of the books, several books had been folded because of him.


    Shen Yijia did not notice his change. She had actually finished reading these books a long time ago. She had read too much and basically forgot about them after reading them. She could not remember the ending.


    Moreover, she couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and threw many of them aside.


    She remembered that there were a few books about acknowledging a sister. This time, she wanted to see what would happen to her sister.


    But what did she see?


    It wasn¡¯t that the female protagonist left and prospered alone, but that she was moved by the male protagonist¡¯s loyalty and accepted her sister¡¯s existence.


    In the end, the male protagonist had women on both sides.


    ¡°Screw your loyalty!¡± she thought.


    She flipped through it roughly and realized that more than half of the notebooks contained these words.


    In the end, everything would be taken into the male protagonist¡¯s residence.


    Previously, she did not feel anything when she read it. This time, she almost exploded in anger. What was this nonsense?


    She felt that that flirtatious scholar deserved a beating.


    Actually, Shen Yijia did not know that the ending in the book was what men pursued in the current environment. That was why these books sold well.


    In a mansion in the capital, a man was writing furiously.


    Suddenly, he paused and felt a chill down his spine.


    The attendant at the side was watching excitedly, but his master stopped writing. He was so anxious that he couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Master, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Continue writing.¡± he thought.


    The man ignored him and turned around to look behind him. There was only a row of bookshelves. He scratched his head. ¡°Go and get a charcoal basin.¡±


    The attendant gave him a strange look. He suspected that there was something wrong with his master.


    The man was furious from his gaze. He picked up a brush from the desk and threw it at him. ¡°Are you going or not? If not, you can stop coming to my study next time.¡±


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯ll go, I¡¯ll go. Master, please don¡¯t replace me.¡± The follower hurriedly went out.


    Grinding ink in the study was not as simple as grinding ink. The most important thing was to see the upcoming plot in advance.


    Others who wanted to know in advance could only spend money to buy it from him. He had already earned a lot of money selling it.


    Of course, his master knew about this because he received half of the money earned from selling spoilers.


    His master was indeed cunning.


    Shen Yijia looked at these words and could not help but think of Fan Mingyuan. At the thought of Fan Mingyuan, she thought of her good sister.


    She waited for Song Jingchen to pack up and lie down before rolling into his arms.

 Chapter 373 - 373 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (2)

    373 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (2)


    She reminded him seriously, ¡°Hubby, you can¡¯t find a sister randomly.¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, don¡¯t blame me for being cruel.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen was puzzled. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Sister Huan?¡±


    Shen Yijia fell silent. She had almost forgotten that this person had an actual sister.


    After some thought, she told him about Fan Mingyuan.


    Song Jingchen had heard Fan Mingyuan mention this matter, but he usually didn¡¯t care about these things.


    After saying that, Shen Yijia was afraid that he did not know the seriousness of the matter, so she did not take it to heart. She gave him a few examples of love abuse in the book.


    What heroine ran away from home in grief?


    She was so angry that she almost lost her life.


    As for that damn perfect ending, it was impossible. Not in this lifetime.


    She decided to burn all those books tomorrow to prevent her beautiful husband from seeing the outcome.


    Song Jingchen heard that she was getting more and more ridiculous.


    Hearing this, his forehead throbbed. He quickly interrupted, ¡°Other than Sister Huan, there won¡¯t be any other sisters. I¡¯ll only have you by my side.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She tilted her head and blinked, looking at him steadily.


    Her beautiful husband said that she would be the only one by his side. Was this a promise?


    Although she often thought to herself that she wouldn¡¯t let her beautiful husband take concubines, it was still her own thoughts. Her beautiful husband didn¡¯t say it explicitly.


    This was the first time her beautiful husband had told her clearly.


    Only her!


    ¡°What should I do? I seem to like my beautiful husband even more now.¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen also looked at her, and their eyes met.


    The night was dark and the atmosphere was just right. It was unknown who made the first move, but by the time Shen Yijia reacted, she was already under Song Jingchen.


    At first, Song Jingchen only tasted it briefly before restraining himself from kissing her.


    A silver wire snapped between them.


    He looked at her for a long time. The person under him was blushing slightly. Her eyes were slightly watery, as if she wanted to say something but was still shy. Her red lips seemed to be closed.


    His eyes darkened and he lowered his head again.


    Song Jingchen told himself that they were husband and wife to begin with.


    No matter how many concerns he had before, they all collapsed at this moment.


    The kiss gradually became hot, and the temperature of their bodies gradually rose.


    A slender and fair hand untied the belt around Shen Yijia¡¯s waist and gently lifted the loose clothes, revealing the red undergarment underneath.


    Song Jingchen was about to continue when his body suddenly stiffened and he gasped.


    He looked down and saw a fair and tender hand tugging at Little Song Jingchen.


    She tugged at it!


    Shen Yijia was still wondering why her beautiful husband had stopped. Noticing his gaze, she looked over and tightened her grip.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression twisted.


    He suspected that this person wanted to murder him.


    Just as she thought this, she heard the aggrieved voice of the person below her. ¡°Hubby, why did you bring a stick to sleep? It makes me uncomfortable.¡±


    That was why she wanted to throw it aside for him just now.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Let go of me first,¡± he said through gritted teeth.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia was a little timid when she saw Song Jingchen like this. She didn¡¯t dare to continue asking him to throw away the stick.


    However, why hadn¡¯t she realized that her beautiful husband liked to bring a stick to sleep?


    Song Jingchen took a long time to recover. Seeing that Shen Yijia was still deep in thought, he was so angry that he lowered his head and bit her lips.


    He turned over and lay on the bed. ¡°Sleep!¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a copper coin flew out of his hand, and the room fell into darkness.


    Shen Yijia covered her mouth and wanted to cry. The stick was the one who attacked first.


    Thinking of how nervous Song Jingchen was just now, she wanted to ask who he would save if the stick fell into the water at the same time as her.


    He had just said that he only wanted her.


    Shen Yijia had no idea that the marital night she had been thinking about had been destroyed by her.


    When she woke up the next day, her small eyes would occasionally look at Song Jingchen¡¯s lower body.


    However, even after looking for a long time, she could not find where her beautiful husband had hidden the stick.


    Yes, she blamed it on the stick. She secretly decided to find an opportunity to steal it from him.


    So that her beautiful husband could only choose her.


    Song Jingchen took in her expression. The corners of his mouth twitched and he turned around stiffly to leave the room.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, are there insects in your house again?¡± At the dining table, Brother Hao looked at Shen Yijia and asked with heartache.

 Chapter 374 - 374 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (3)

    374 The Meat That Was About to Be Beaten Up (3)


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia subconsciously touched her lips. She wanted to say that his brother was the one who bit her.


    Without waiting for her to speak, Song Jingchen coughed dryly. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at Song Jingchen, then at Brother Hao, then at Madam Li. She glanced at the people at the table.


    Apart from Madam Li, who was suppressing her laughter, the others all looked worried.


    Shen Yijia suddenly remembered that Brother Hao had asked before. At that time, he thought that she had been bitten by a bug. Lin Shao had even prepared some insect repellent powder for him.


    !!


    Now that she thought about it, she felt that something was wrong. However, at that time, she and her beautiful husband had yet to¡­


    Shen Yijia paused and narrowed her eyes at Song Jingchen. It turned out that he had already secretly kissed her back then.


    Song Jingchen obviously thought of it too, and his earlobes gradually turned red.


    He did not expect Brother Hao to jab his brother like this twice.


    After breakfast, Song Jingchen went out, and the younger members of the family went to the courtyard to practice.


    Shen Yijia brought Lin Shao and Furball to Bruiser¡¯s house.


    When she asked him to eat in the morning, he said that he didn¡¯t want to eat, so Shen Yijia didn¡¯t force him.


    Bruiser was sitting in the courtyard in mourning clothes, with Shen Dali and Hei Zi.


    Seeing her, Bruiser forced a smile. ¡°Sister, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Shen Dali wiped his tears. ¡°Grandaunt.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Did these two people get into trouble?¡± she thought.


    She looked at Bruiser. ¡°Don¡¯t smile if you don¡¯t want to.¡±


    After saying that, she said to Shen Dali and Hei Zi, ¡°I¡¯ll have to trouble the two of you this time.¡±


    She was the one who asked for their help.


    They had already discussed this during dinner last night. She accompanied them to bring Madam Wang¡¯s body from the mountains.


    She was buried in the afternoon and they were going to treat the villagers to dinner.


    Madam Li stayed at home to prepare a banquet. Mo Yuan helped out.


    The two of them said repeatedly, ¡°It¡¯s no trouble.¡±


    Shen Yijia was just being polite and did not say anything else.


    When they fled, they were focused on shaking off the men in black. It was late at night, so Bruiser didn¡¯t even know where they had run to.


    He only remembered that the body was under a large pagoda tree.


    Fortunately, Lin Shao was familiar with the mountains. He led them for two hours before they found it.


    Bruiser did not ask for anyone¡¯s help. He dug up the soil bag alone and wrapped Widow Wang¡¯s corpse in a cloth before placing it in the coffin.


    By the time they got home, it was noon.


    Shen Yijia asked Lin Shao to bring Shen Dali and Hei Zi to their house for dinner first. She stayed at Bruiser¡¯s house to accompany him.


    Bruiser knelt in the mourning hall for a long time without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia frowned and said, ¡°Cry if you want to.¡±


    Other than seeing him cry on the mountain, she had never seen him cry again. Shen Yijia was afraid that he would suffocate.


    Bruiser didn¡¯t say anything. He took out a golden hairpin.


    The golden hairpin looked very important. Shen Yijia remembered that he had gone to the jewelry shop alone yesterday. He must have bought this.


    Bruiser held it in his hand and looked at it for a long time. He said, ¡°I wanted to buy it for her previously, but she kept saying that she wanted to save up money for me to get married. If she finds out that I¡¯ve spent all the money she¡¯s saved up for me, I wonder if she¡¯ll jump up and scold me.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached. She did not know how to comfort him. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°Auntie Wang is always worried about you.¡±


    ¡°I wish she¡¯d get up and scold me.¡± Bruiser¡¯s eyes turned red.


    He wiped his tears with his sleeve and stood up. He walked to the coffin and wanted to push open the lid, but he couldn¡¯t.


    Shen Yijia went up to help.


    Bruiser put the golden hairpin in and suddenly said, ¡°Sister, I want to go to the capital with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused.


    Without waiting for her to speak, Bruiser continued, ¡°I know that those people aren¡¯t the real enemies, and I know that Brother-in-law won¡¯t let go of the person behind this, but I want to see it with my own eyes.¡±


    Even if he couldn¡¯t do anything, he wanted to see it with his own eyes.


    Shen Yijia looked at him for a long time and patted his head. ¡°Although you call me Sister, don¡¯t forget that you¡¯re my first underling.


    ¡°Which underling doesn¡¯t follow their Boss? Even if you don¡¯t say it, I¡¯ll tie you up and bring you along.¡±


    This was the truth. She had no intention of leaving Bruiser alone in Xiagou Village in the first place. Not to mention that Widow Wang was implicated by their family.


    Even if he wasn¡¯t, Bruiser was still under her protection.


    Bruiser covered his head and took a few steps back. He looked at Shen Yijia with a red face.


    Bruiser seemed to have returned to the time when nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    After noon, many villagers who had received the news spontaneously came to help. The coffin was buried before midnight.


    She was buried next to Bruiser¡¯s father. Bruiser said that although his mother kept complaining about his father, they were very close.


    Otherwise, his mother would not have refused to remarry.


    After dinner, this matter came to an end.


    Madam Li asked Bruiser to move in with them. This time, Bruiser did not refuse.


    Song Jingchen returned very late at night. Because of what had happened during the day, Shen Yijia was so tired that she fell asleep on the table.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. Otherwise, he would have been worried that this girl would find another stick.


    He picked Shen Yijia up and placed her on the bed.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze and vaguely told him about the day before falling asleep again.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything.


    Actually, the capital was even more dangerous than Xiagou Village. If not for Madam Li¡¯s disapproval, he would have sent her to Xunyang.


    Early the next morning, the eunuch who issued the decree came to Xiagou Village.

 Chapter 375 - 375 The Knowledgeable Jiajia

    375 The Knowledgeable Jiajia


    The two horses led the way, followed by a carriage. Behind them was the escort team. The group stopped at the end of Xiagou Village.


    The villagers had never seen such a scene before. They followed from afar.


    This time, it was Eunuch Deng who was sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an to deliver the imperial edict. As soon as he took out the imperial edict, everyone quickly knelt down with the Song family.


    The contents of the imperial edict was the same as what was read in the royal court. After Eunuch Deng finished reading it, he closed the imperial edict and handed it to Song Jingchen, who was kneeling at the front.


    Song Jingchen suppressed the surging hatred in his heart and lowered his eyes. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Young Master Song, you can¡¯t disappoint His Majesty,¡± Eunuch Deng said.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Of course. Since you¡¯ve been on the road, why don¡¯t you have a cup of tea at my humble abode?¡±


    He spoke politely, but there was no expression on his face.


    Eunuch Deng looked at Song Jingchen in a daze.


    In his memory, Song Jingchen was still that dissolute young man. His eyes seemed to always be filled with light, and he was born with a good appearance. He was like an immortal in a painting.


    He was different from the gentle Second Prince, Shangguan Yu. Shangguan Yu did not have any fire in him at all, giving off a refreshing feeling.


    Song Jingchen, on the other hand, was like a ray of sunlight in the winter.


    However, the person in front of him exuded coldness from head to toe. If not for the former Duchess standing behind him, he would have thought that he was an imposter.


    He stood there straight, making Eunuch Deng, who had seen too many monsters in the palace, unable to see through him.


    Although he did not know why Emperor Chong¡¯an had summoned them back to the capital at this time, with his suspicious personality, he definitely did not have good intentions.


    Eunuch Deng expressed his doubts. Would His Majesty really be able to get what he wanted by recalling them to the capital?


    Thinking of this, he composed himself and glanced at the courtyard behind Song Jingchen. He waved his hand and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need for tea. The Longevity Festival is in two months. It happens to be His Majesty¡¯s 40th birthday this year.¡±


    ¡°At that time, the Wu Kingdom and the Xuanyuan Kingdom will send envoys to our birthday banquet. His Majesty wants Young Master Song to rush to the capital for the birthday banquet.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Thank you for your advice, Eunuch Deng.¡±


    Shen Yijia handed over a pouch at the right time and said with a smile, ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard. Take this and drink a bowl of tea.¡±


    Eunuch Deng paused and quietly sized up the woman who suddenly spoke. She had bright eyes and white teeth, and she was not inferior to Young Master Song.


    Shen Yijia let him size her up and stuffed the pouch into his hands with a smile. Then, she meekly retreated behind Song Jingchen and acted like a good wife.


    The pouch felt light in his hand.


    Eunuch Deng guessed that there were banknotes inside. He didn¡¯t lack this bit of money, but this money represented an attitude.


    He was clearly very satisfied with Shen Yijia¡¯s understanding. ¡°This must be the second daughter of the Shen family, right? I¡¯ve been lucky enough to meet Consort Jing a few times. She¡¯s very knowledgeable. I didn¡¯t expect the second daughter of the Shen family to be the same. Lord Shen is indeed good at teaching his daughter.¡±


    After praising Shen Yijia, he looked at Song Jingchen with a faint smile. ¡°Young Master Song is lucky to have such a good wife.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°You flatter me.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. She did not understand why he was praising her. Why did he mention Consort Jing? What did Consort Jing have to do with her? Did she know her?


    Was this person seriously ill?


    Eunuch Deng took out a wooden box from the carriage and said meaningfully, ¡°His Majesty asked me to pass this to you. Young Master Song, you have to keep it well.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the box and nodded slightly.


    After sending Eunuch Deng off with a smile, Shen Yijia was about to enter the house when someone blocked her way.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head in confusion. ¡°Hubby?¡±


    Didn¡¯t he still avoid her when he woke up in the morning?


    Song Jingchen was a little embarrassed by her gaze. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°How did you think of preparing that?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what it says in the book?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and grinned. ¡°Did I perform well?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve seen you so generous to outsiders.¡±


    Song Jingchen was originally teasing, but Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently. ¡°Hey, it¡¯s just the cost of a bowl of tea. It¡¯s only one copper coin.¡±


    Madam Li, who was about to praise Sister Jia for becoming more and more like the mistress of the household, was speechless.


    In the carriage, Eunuch Deng smashed the teacup in his hand against the wall. He looked at the copper coin in his hand and turned red with anger. Who was she looking down on?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s words still echoed in his ears. Who would have thought that she was really just treating him to a bowl of tea?


    With this coin, he couldn¡¯t even order a snack to go with the tea!


    Eunuch Deng was so angry that he felt dizzy. He felt that he had been tricked.


    In the beginning, Song Jingchen¡¯s indifferent attitude didn¡¯t anger him to this extent.


    The copper coin was stuffed into a corner of the pouch. It was his fault for not realizing it and even praising her.


    The more Eunuch Deng thought about it, the angrier he became. He finally fainted from anger.


    The young eunuch at the side was frightened out of his wits. He was busy trying to wake him up.


    Shen Yijia did not know that her copper coin was so powerful. She sent away the villagers who came to congratulate her and the family sat in the central room to discuss the day of their departure.


    There were still more than two months until Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s birthday. They had enough time, but they still had to leave early in case. In the end, the date of departure was set to be three days later.


    ¡°Mother, I want to hand the workshop to An Dong. Shen Dali and Shopkeeper Du will take care of it.¡± Shen Yijia suddenly said, ¡°When the time comes, just get an artisan to make the incense.¡±


    They would not return to the capital in glory. The estates of the Duke¡¯s residence from the past would not be returned to them either. As for the other shops that were not known to anyone else, there were still so many private troops to support, so they had to keep the shops running.


    The fragrance powder shop had always been doing well, especially when she saw the nearly 2,000 taels of silver that Madam Li had given her. Shen Yijia did not want it to close down just like that.


    Even if this was supported by the secret recipe of the Lin Shao family¡¯s fragrance powder, they might not be able to earn so much in the future.


    No matter how small a mosquito was, it was still meat.


    Moreover, the expenses in the capital would only be greater than here. She could hunt in Xiagou Village for money, and her family did not have to worry about food and drinks. Who knew what the situation would be like in the capital?


    She would only feel reassured if she had enough money.


    The family didn¡¯t object to her suggestion, mainly because Song Jingchen didn¡¯t object. Madam Li had never restrained her from doing anything.


    As for the younger ones, they would only look at her with admiration. No matter what Sister-in-law did, she was right.


    They were truly bootlickers.


    After confirming it, Shen Yijia went to ask An Dong and Shen Dali the next day. After the two of them agreed, she brought the two of them to town to see Shopkeeper Du.


    The shop was handed over to Shopkeeper Du. Shen Dali was in charge of the flower fields and An Dong¡¯s previous work, while An Dong took over Madam Li¡¯s main management workshop.


    ¡°Grandaunt, don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let you suffer a loss.¡± Before getting out of the carriage, Shen Dali patted his chest and promised.

 Chapter 376 - 376 Helping Others

    376 Helping Others


    ¡°Alright,¡± Shen Yijia replied. She glanced at Song Zhaozhao, who was waiting not far away. She took out a pouch and threw it to him. ¡°I might not be able to come to the wedding banquet when you get married. I¡¯ll give you some money in advance.¡±


    Who asked this person to be so thick-skinned and call her grandaunt? As an elder, she couldn¡¯t possibly not express her gratitude, right?


    Shen Dali was so touched that he was about to cry.


    However, her heart ached. Without giving Shen Dali a chance to speak, she waved her whip and drove the carriage towards the end of the village.


    She had given Shen Dali two pouches in the past two days. The pouches she gave him contained more than 20 taels of silver.


    !!


    Madam Li brought the children to pack their luggage. There was nothing valuable at home, mainly because everyone¡¯s clothes had to be brought along. These were all newly made in the past two years.


    Shen Yijia brought Furball up the mountain again.


    She had dug up all the wild ginseng in the mountains. It took her a long time to find a ten-year-old ginseng. She also hunted a wild boar.


    The wild ginseng and wild boar were given to Shopkeeper Wang. Shen Yijia always remembered that it was Shopkeeper Wang who let her earn her first bit of gold in the beginning. Later on, he also took care of her.


    Although she already knew that Shopkeeper Wang was Song Jingchen¡¯s subordinate, Shopkeeper Wang didn¡¯t know about her relationship with Song Jingchen when he helped her.


    Therefore, putting Song Jingchen aside, she naturally had to return this favor.


    Shopkeeper Wang looked at the person who thanked him and left. He had mixed feelings. This girl.


    Back then, he only accepted the deal because he needed those wild animals. As for giving her a few more copper coins, he wanted her to hunt more prey to sell.


    Why did this girl think that he was taking care of her?


    ¡°Young Madam is a good person,¡± Shopkeeper Du said with a smile. It was rare to see such a pure-hearted person.


    The children at home had stopped going to school after that incident.


    Lin Shao and Miaomiao were fine. The two of them had average attitudes towards school.


    On the other hand, Brother Hao and Sister Huan had gone wild. They were so happy that they didn¡¯t have to go to school.


    Brother Hao was a boy. So what if he was a little wild?


    Madam Li¡¯s biggest headache was Sister Huan. She fought with the children in the village.


    It was fine if she caused the families of the other children to come looking for her, but she had also fought in the academy for the past half a year. Madam Li had been called to the academy countless times because of this.


    She was the only one who caused more trouble than the others combined. Fortunately, she stopped after being punished a few times.


    What Madam Li did not know was that Sister Huan had already become the little tyrant in the class. No one dared to complain about her.


    Besides, she didn¡¯t fight for no reason. She only fought because a few troublemakers in her class saw that they were new and wanted to bully Miaomiao.


    Unexpectedly, those people were so useless. Not only did they cry after losing, but they also complained to their parents.


    When Shen Yijia returned from town, the house was quiet. When she entered the backyard, she saw Sister Huan squatting alone in the vegetable field in a corner of the courtyard. There were no more vegetables growing on it.


    ¡°Sister Huan,¡± she called out.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re back.¡± Sister Huan turned around in surprise. When she saw the person behind Shen Yijia, she frowned. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I heard that you were going to the capital, so I came to say goodbye to you.¡± The person who spoke was a little boy dressed in silk. He had delicate features and a red face.


    Sister Huan rolled her eyes. She was the one who was leaving. Shouldn¡¯t she be the one saying goodbye?


    But who was going to say goodbye to him?


    She snapped, ¡°Do I know you well? And how did you find my house?¡±


    This person was none other than their class¡¯s troublesome ringleader, Liu Jinbao.


    However, after Sister Huan entered school, he became a thing of the past.


    Liu Jinbao was the precious grandson of the wealthy Old Master Liu in town.


    Old Master Liu had many concubines, but he only had one son.


    It was the same for the grandchildren. Liu Jinbao¡¯s father was different from Old Master Liu. He and his wife were childhood sweethearts, and he only had one legitimate wife.


    Since his son was unwilling to add more men to the family, Old Master Liu could only work hard on his own. He carried his concubines to the harem one by one because he wanted to break the curse of the Liu family.


    However, no matter how hard he tried, it was useless. In addition, he was old and powerless. He could only dote on his grandson, Liu Jinbao. In the end, Liu Jinbao became the devil incarnate.


    If Sister Huan and Shen Yijia paid more attention to the people in the old residence, they would know that Song Jiayue was Old Master Liu¡¯s fifth concubine.


    Back then, Widow Wang had specially gossiped about them.


    In other words, Liu Jinbao had to call Song Jiayue Grandmother-in-law, while Sister Huan called Song Jiayue Cousin.


    In that case, Liu Jinbao had to call her Sister Huan. In short, there was a gap in seniority.


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s face turned red at Sister Huan¡¯s words.


    Shen Yijia coughed dryly and explained, ¡°I met him at the village entrance. He asked me for directions. When I heard that he was your classmate, I brought him back.¡±


    She would never admit that she stopped the carriage and asked him where he was going because he was too good-looking.


    A child standing at the village entrance looking hesitant and helpless. He looked like he needed help.


    As a generous fairy, Shen Yijia had extended a helping hand.


    Sister Huan looked at Shen Yijia sadly.


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty under her gaze. She rubbed her nose and said, ¡°You guys chat. I¡¯ll go and see if Mother and the others are back.¡±


    After that, she blinked at Sister Huan and whispered, ¡°Your classmate came to see you. Don¡¯t scare him like that.¡±


    Sister Huan subconsciously wanted to say, ¡°Sister-in-law, don¡¯t be fooled by his appearance. He was even fiercer in the past, he¡¯s just afraid of me.¡±


    However, she swallowed her words and almost exposed herself for fighting.


    On second thought, Liu Jinbao had never bullied anyone again, so Sister Huan nodded obediently.


    Shen Yijia left immediately. She called Mo Yuan over to watch the two of them from afar. She hoped that nothing would happen.


    ¡°Wait here.¡± With that, Sister Huan squatted back down.


    Liu Jinbao asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Sister Huan¡¯s back was facing him, so he could not see her clearly.


    Sister Huan¡¯s eyes darted around and she turned around. ¡°Come here. I want to show you something good.¡±


    Liu Jinbao leaned over suspiciously.


    Sister Huan patted the dirt off her hands and handed him a jar.


    Liu Jinbao glanced at the pitted ground in front of Sister Huan and carefully took the jar.


    He glanced inside. Just one look¡­


    ¡°Ah!¡± Liu Jinbao screamed in fear and threw the jar away. His face turned pale.


    Sister Huan quickly caught the jar and barely let it fall to the ground. ¡°Coward.¡±


    ¡°You¡­ Song Jinghuan, are you still a woman?¡± Liu Jinbao roared angrily.


    At the thought of the densely packed squirming earthworms in the jar, he still felt his scalp tingle.


    ¡°No.¡± Sister Huan smiled and said, ¡°My sister-in-law said that I¡¯m still young. I¡¯ll only be a woman when I grow up.¡±


    ¡°Be careful, there¡¯s a chance you can¡¯t get married when you grow up.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not marrying you anyway.¡± Sister Huan snorted and left with the jar.


    If not for the fact that they were classmates, she would have ignored him.


    ¡°You make it sound like someone wants to marry you,¡± Liu Jinbao muttered. After some thought, he followed her.

 Chapter 377 - 377 Wealth

    377 Wealth


    Sister Huan carried the jar to the chicken coop. In the beginning, these chickens were raised by her and Brother Hao. Later on, Lin Shao and Miaomiao helped out too.


    There were more than twenty chickens now.


    The chicken coop was only built later.


    Sister Huan threw the earthworms in. The chickens immediately fought to snatch the food.


    ¡°Hurry up and eat. We¡¯re going back to the capital tomorrow. This is the last time we¡¯ll feed you. Don¡¯t blame us for not bringing you along.¡± Sister Huan sighed and muttered to the chickens for a while, her eyes filled with reluctance.


    !!


    She thought about getting Mo Yuan to kill a few chickens tonight. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be able to eat them anymore in the future.


    After all, she raised it herself. It definitely tasted different from the chickens raised by other people.


    ¡°I heard that you were chased out back then. Why do you have to go back when you¡¯re living here?¡± Liu Jinbao asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re still young. There are many things you don¡¯t understand.¡± Sister Huan was still sad and wasn¡¯t in the mood to retort.


    Liu Jinbao was speechless and reminded her, ¡°I¡¯m 11 years old, and so are you. I¡¯m actually two months older than you.¡±


    ¡°Liu Jinbao, are you itching for a beating again?¡± Sister Huan was furious. This person was too good at ruining the atmosphere.


    Liu Jinbao thought to himself, ¡°Is it wrong to tell the truth?¡±


    Madam Li brought Brother Hao and the others to the village to ask who wanted to buy chickens.


    However, every family had chickens now. Even if they bought one or two chickens, it was for the sake of the Song family. Madam Li could tell, so she didn¡¯t pressure them.


    As for the families that did not raise chickens, they could not afford to raise them, of course they wouldn¡¯t buy the chickens.


    After circling the village, they returned.


    ¡°Mother, if no one wants to buy them, keep them for now. One Dot and the others still have to recuperate here for a period of time. When the time comes, let them bring the chickens to sell in the town,¡± Shen Yijia comforted.


    Madam Li said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, Sister Huan ran over with Liu Jinbao. ¡°Mother, Sister-in-law, I¡¯ve sold all the chickens.¡±


    ¡°Sister Huan, you¡¯re a girl. Why are you tugging at a boy? Hurry up and let go,¡± Madam Li said sternly.


    Sister Huan let go and ran behind Shen Yijia.


    Liu Jinbao moved her wrist and bowed to Madam Li with a red face. ¡°Hello, Auntie.¡±


    Madam Li¡¯s expression warmed. She nodded and gestured for them to sit in the house.


    She had been to the academy more than once, so she naturally knew Liu Jinbao. The first time she got called to the school was because Sister Huan and Brother Hao had beaten him up.


    Apart from Lin Shao and Bruiser, Brother Hao, Sister Huan, and Miaomiao were all in the same class.


    When Brother Hao heard the voice, he ran out and asked in surprise, ¡°Liu Jinbao, why are you here? Are you here to see me?¡±


    Unlike Sister Huan, Brother Hao had become friends with him after fighting. Now, the two of them have become best friends.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I only heard him say that he was Sister Huan¡¯s classmate. I didn¡¯t hear him mention Brother Hao.¡±


    Liu Jinbao nodded. ¡°Yes. Since you¡¯re leaving, I came to send you off.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Were children so smart these days?


    Madam Li invited them into the central room.


    Hearing that Liu Jinbao wanted to buy all their chickens, Madam Li frowned and asked, ¡°Can your family finish all the chickens you bought?¡±


    Liu Jinbao said, ¡°Definitely. I have a lot of family members.¡±


    He could slowly eat them alone.


    Madam Li still felt that it was inappropriate. After all, this was only a child. However, even after asking Liu Jinbao a few times, he insisted on buying it.


    In the end, Shen Yijia decided to deliver it to Liu Jinbao¡¯s family and ask them if they really wanted to buy the chickens before selling the chickens to them.


    Liu Jinbao was silent. He did not understand why this family was so stubborn. Those chickens would not cost more than five taels of silver at most. As the precious son of the Liu family, of course he could afford to spend on these chickens.


    Why did it seem like a huge business worth thousands or tens of thousands of taels of silver?


    However, he did not insist. In any case, his grandfather would not refuse his request.


    His grandfather might even think that he didn¡¯t have enough money to spend, since he had to request for these few taels of silver.


    Afterwards, his grandfather gave him several more banknotes.


    Shen Yijia had just returned from town when she had to make another trip.


    However, this time, in addition to the 28 chickens, there were three more people in the carriage.


    Brother Hao, Sister Huan, and Liu Jinbao.


    Under Liu Jinbao¡¯s guidance, the carriage stopped at the main entrance of the Liu residence.


    The people living in this area were all rich people in Qingping Town. This was Shen Yijia¡¯s first time here. The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched as she looked at the house in front of her.


    The two lamps hanging at the door belonged to Liu Li, right? Shangguan Han had given her one before, but it was not as big as the one in front of her, let alone as ostentatious as this.


    And the stone lion at the door was gilded, right?


    Would they really not be robbed like this?


    As if reading Shen Yijia¡¯s mind, Liu Jinbao smiled dryly and explained, ¡°My family has an escort agency.¡± He did not lack the protection of martial masters.


    In the past, he also felt that this was especially imposing. However, after getting to know Brother Hao and Sister Huan and seeing their family today, he suddenly felt that this was a little silly.


    As soon as he finished speaking, the door opened. They heard panicked voices saying things like ¡°Hurry up and look everywhere.¡± The servants were frantic. ¡°If you can¡¯t find him, Master will skin you alive.¡±


    The three of them looked at Liu Jinbao, who rubbed his nose. ¡°I sneaked out.¡±


    He rented a carriage to Xiagou Village. Because he did not know where the Song family lived, he asked the coachman to head back first. After they left, he was dumbfounded as he thought about how to go back.


    Hence, Shen Yijia found him in front of her house, helpless and hesitant.


    A group of servants ran out. When they saw Liu Jinbao, they almost cried tears of joy.


    ¡°Oh my, Young Master, you¡¯re finally back. I was so anxious.¡±


    ¡°Quick, bring Young Master to see Master.¡±


    ¡°Manager Liu, can¡¯t you see that I have guests?¡± Liu Jinbao said unhappily.


    Manager Liu paused and looked at the other three people standing with Liu Jinbao.


    Noticing their clothes, a look of disdain flashed across his eyes. He advised Liu Jinbao earnestly, ¡°My young master, don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve been tricked by someone again. Not everyone can be brought home. If you meet someone with ill intentions, things won¡¯t go well.¡±


    ¡°Silence.¡± Liu Jinbao scolded angrily and glared at Manager Liu. ¡°If you dare to say another word, I¡¯ll get my grandfather to pull out your tongue.¡±


    He used to give others money, but only because he was willing to do so.


    Moreover, how could those people compare to these people?


    As long as he wasn¡¯t facing Sister Huan, he was quite imposing.


    Shen Yijia was stunned by his change. She thought that he was a cute and soft beautiful young man.


    Manager Liu was shocked. He knelt down with a pale face. He did not dare to speak and could only kowtow on the ground.


    Liu Jinbao snorted and turned around. ¡°Let¡¯s go in.¡±


    Of course he had to enter.


    Shen Yijia did not miss the way Manager Liu looked at them just now.


    Liu Jinbao got someone to place a board at the door. Shen Yijia did not even look at Manager Liu and drove the carriage in.


    The carriage stopped in the courtyard. Liu Jinbao invited her into the reception pavilion and called for a maidservant to serve tea and snacks.


    He said embarrassedly, ¡°I¡¯ll bring my grandfather out to see you.¡±


    Shen Yijia picked up a pastry and stuffed it into her mouth.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that there was no need. She could just ask.


    However, Liu Jinbao had already disappeared.


    Shen Yijia could only give up. Unexpectedly, after they sat for a while, a person walked in.


    When that person saw them, she instantly frowned.

 Chapter 378 - 378 Almost Scammed

    378 Almost Scammed


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Song Jiayue frowned unhappily.


    She was only a concubine. No matter how much she was doted on, she could not leave the residence easily. In the past, she could still go back to her parents¡¯ house to visit the two elders.


    However, her parents were angered to death by her. Her maternal family was gone.


    No, she had almost forgotten. As a concubine, she had no family to speak of.


    The maidservants around her knew that she hated everything in Xiagou Village and never dared to mention it in front of her. Therefore, she did not know about the imperial edict at all.


    Shen Yijia and the other two looked up at the enchanting woman standing at the entrance of the reception pavilion. Then, they retracted their gazes and looked at each other.


    Who was this?


    They didn¡¯t recognize her.


    Then there was no need to pay attention to her.


    The two children continued to eat the pastries seriously.


    The pastries from the Liu family were the best Shen Yijia had ever eaten. They were sweet but not greasy, and melted in her mouth.


    She wondered if Liu Jinbao would agree to exchange a chicken for three plates of pastries.


    There was actually not much on this plate. There were only three pieces on each plate, and there were five people in their family.


    Each person could not even get two pieces.


    Shen Yijia was thinking about how to exchange a few chickens for a few plates of pastries to feed the few of them in the family.


    She didn¡¯t even look at Song Jiayue again.


    As for the two younger ones, their sister-in-law was around. What did it have to do with them?


    Song Jiayue didn¡¯t expect this person to ignore her in her territory. She was so angry that she tightened her grip on her handkerchief.


    However, she also knew that Shen Yijia was a blunt person and did not dare to fight her head-on.


    She glanced at the three people in the reception pavilion. They only knew how to eat like hungry ghosts. Looking at their clothes, she did not hide the disdain in her eyes.


    ¡°No matter what, you¡¯ve been in the capital before. Why do you look like you¡¯ve never eaten good food?¡± Song Jiayue covered her nose with a handkerchief and said sarcastically.


    Apparently, this person recognized them.


    Shen Yijia stuffed the last pastry into her mouth and looked up at Song Jiayue. She said seriously, ¡°I don¡¯t know about anything else, but this is the first time I¡¯ve eaten this pastry. Do you have more?¡±


    Song Jiayue sneered. She held the maidservant¡¯s hand and sashayed into the reception pavilion. She said proudly, ¡°Do you think our Liu family is as poor as you? Of course we have more.¡±


    As she spoke, she glanced at the three empty plates and her disdain deepened.


    However, when her gaze swept across the pastries Brother Hao was nibbling on, she stopped in her tracks and almost spat out a mouthful of blood.


    The pastry was called Dragon Whiskers Crisp. Because the workmanship was complicated and the ingredients were exquisite, only Liu Jinbao could eat it at will in the entire Liu family.


    Even the other masters might not be able to eat it, let alone her.


    People were always like this. The more they couldn¡¯t get something, the more they wanted it. In the past, she only dared to think about it.


    For some reason, her obsession with this snack had become stronger over the past two days, as if she had gone crazy.


    Last night, she served her master happily and asked for it.


    The Old Master agreed readily. Unexpectedly, she did not see him even after waiting for so long, so she personally brought the maidservant to the kitchen to make pastries.


    When she passed by the reception pavilion, she found the person sitting inside familiar from afar.


    In the end, when she saw the people she hated the most, these people even ate the snacks she had been thinking about for so long.


    Shen Yijia did not know why the expression of the person who was like a winning rooster suddenly changed, but she did not care.


    Instead, she said politely, ¡°That¡¯s great. Please get someone to serve a few more plates, the kind we just ate.¡±


    What was served for them belonged to them. When the time came, she would keep a few plates and bring them home.


    She didn¡¯t even have to trade chickens for these pastries.


    Although this person did not look likable and spoke harshly, she was still quite generous.


    Then she would forgive her offense.


    Song Jiayue was so angry that she lost her voice. She had to pinch the maidservant beside her to calm herself down. She screamed with a twisted face, ¡°How dare you? Who let you in? Guards, beat them up!¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares!¡± Liu Jinbao pulled in an old man in his fifties, his face red with anger.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and rubbed Sister Huan¡¯s head, preparing to watch the show.


    Song Jiayue was shocked. She dared to deliberately annoy Old Madam Liu in the Liu family, but she did not dare to offend Liu Jinbao.


    Could these people have been invited by Liu Jinbao? That¡¯s right, she heard that the brats from the Song family were classmates with Liu Jinbao.


    She knew that it was because Liu Jinbao had been beaten up. In order to make her happy, the maidservant had specially told her.


    After all, as long as it involved Liu Jinbao, no matter how much she doted on Old Master Liu, he would not side with her.


    These thoughts flashed through her mind in less than a second.


    She looked at Old Master Liu with a pale face. As expected, the latter was looking at her unhappily because of her grandson.


    ¡°Master, I¡­¡± Song Jiayue was about to explain when she suddenly held her stomach and cried out in pain, ¡°My stomach hurts. Master, I¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. This scammer was so skilled that she acted like it was real. Fortunately, she sat still from the beginning to the end. Otherwise, she would have been blamed.


    Indeed, life was full of traps.


    Song Jiayue¡¯s entire body was pressed against the maidservant. In just a short while, her forehead was already covered in cold sweat, and her face was frighteningly pale.


    No matter what, Liu Jinbao was still a child. He was shocked by Song Jiayue¡¯s appearance and turned to look at Old Master Liu helplessly.


    On the other hand, after Old Master Liu handed over the family business to his son, he stayed in the back residence all day and was used to seeing his women fight.


    He did not expect Concubine Song, who usually looked gentle, to be so unreasonable. Not only did she scare his good grandson, but she also embarrassed herself in front of his esteemed guest.


    However, he could not let her lose all her face because of this. He had to cooperate and get someone to call the doctor.


    After Song Jiayue was taken away by a few old women, he patted Liu Jinbao¡¯s head comfortingly.


    She turned to look at Shen Yijia and the other two with a smile. ¡°This must be Madam Song. Jin Bao told me that he wanted to buy all your chickens.¡±


    Shen Yijia was polite to polite people. She stood up and said, ¡°That¡¯s great. I brought twenty four hens and four roosters this time.¡±


    ¡°If you want all of them, I¡¯ll give you a cheaper price. A hen costs 500 copper coins each, and a rooster costs 300 copper coins.¡± she thought.


    ¡°A total of¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head, regretting not calculating before.


    ¡°Thirteen taels of silver,¡± Liu Jinbao replied. He had been influenced since he was young. He was not good at other things, but he could understand calculations easily.


    Although it was a little more expensive than he had guessed, it made no difference to him.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s 13 taels of silver. Jin Bao is so smart. On account that the children of the two families are classmates, just 13 taels of silver will do.¡±

 Chapter 379 - 379 Entering the Capital (1)

    379 Entering the Capital (1)


    These nobles from the capital praised his grandson. Old Master Liu smiled until his face was covered in wrinkles. ¡°Madam Song is magnanimous. Our Liu family can¡¯t be petty, right? How about this? I¡¯ll round it up. 100 taels.¡±


    With that, he looked at a steward behind him. ¡°Liu Tong, go and get money for Madam Song.¡±


    He had been doing business for so many years. The Song family was about to recover their glory. If he didn¡¯t befriend them now, when would he be able to do so in the future?


    ¡°No need, no need. Just give me 13 taels.¡± Shen Yijia blushed in embarrassment. She felt her heart ache for a long time even though it was cheaper by 200 copper coins.


    Unexpectedly, this old man was so generous. Thinking of something, her eyes lit up. ¡°Why don¡¯t you pack some more snacks for us?¡±


    Old Master Liu was stunned. He glanced at the empty plates on the table and the corners of his mouth twitched. He nodded at Liu Tong. ¡°It¡¯s good that Madam Song likes it. I¡¯ll get someone to make more.¡±


    ¡°Master, Master, this is a joyous occasion!¡± A maidservant ran in excitedly.


    Shen Yijia immediately recognized this maidservant as the one who had followed Song Jiayue just now.


    Old Master Liu was interrupted and frowned unhappily. ¡°Why are you shouting?¡±


    Normally, the maidservant would have been frightened out of her wits. However, not only was she not afraid, but she also glanced at Shen Yijia proudly before bowing. ¡°Congratulations, Master. The doctor diagnosed that Madam Song is pregnant.¡±


    Shen Yijia was puzzled by her gaze. Indeed, like master, like maidservant.


    She was just pregnant. The father wasn¡¯t even handsome like Song Jingchen. She did not understand why she was so smug.


    Shen Yijia felt that it was not a big deal, but it stunned the two men of the Liu family.


    Old Master Liu felt that he was hallucinating. He confirmed again, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Master, how could Doctor Chen¡¯s diagnosis be wrong? The pregnancy has reached the first month.¡±


    Old Master Liu¡¯s lips trembled. ¡°Alright, alright. There will be rewards. Liu Tong, go! Give every servant in the residence an extra three months¡¯ worth of salary.¡±


    ¡°Master, Young Madam was a little frightened just now¡­¡± The maidservant carefully glanced at Liu Jinbao and hesitated for a long time before saying,¡± Moreover, she did not have a good appetite these past few days. She had been thinking about the dragon beard pastry, but she didn¡¯t expect someone to¡­¡±


    She only said half of every sentence, but no one present was a fool.


    Old Master Liu¡¯s face darkened and he asked nervously, ¡°Is something wrong with my precious son?¡±


    Joy flashed across the maidservant¡¯s eyes. ¡°Doctor Chen said that Young Madam¡¯s pregnancy was affected¡­ However, Master, don¡¯t worry. Doctor Chen also said that fortunately, Young Madam¡¯s health is good. With two more doses of pregnancy stabilizing medicine, he can ensure that the fetus in her stomach is fine. It¡¯s just that¡­¡±


    Old Master Liu was so frightened by her words that he almost couldn¡¯t breathe. It was only because he was in a good mood today that he didn¡¯t argue with this maidservant, but he was impatient to listen anymore. ¡°I¡¯ll go and see her.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he was about to walk out. He thought of something and turned around to cup his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°Madam Song, wait here for a moment. Someone will send the snacks and silver later. I still have something to do, so I¡¯ll excuse myself.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that his footsteps were lighter than before.


    Liu Jinbao, who had been ignored by Old Master Liu ever since he heard that Song Jiayue was pregnant, came back to his senses. He turned around and looked in the direction Old Master Liu had left. He muttered, ¡°Grandfather¡­¡±


    He was a little mixed up, but he was not stupid. On the contrary, he had heard all sorts of things since he was young. Fortunately, he was the only son of the Liu family.


    Therefore, he knew very well why he was still doted on. He also knew what the arrival of this child meant.


    ¡°Liu Jinbao, are you alright?¡± Sister Huan leaned over and asked softly.


    Liu Jinbao turned to look at Sister Huan stiffly. He felt a lump in his throat and was about to cry, but he held it in.


    Sister Huan sighed in her heart. Children were so troublesome.


    She untied a sleeve arrow from her wrist and handed it to him. ¡°Here, my brother made this for me. I¡¯m giving it to you now.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t bully others with it.¡± She did not forget how arrogant Liu Jinbao was when she first met him. ¡°But if anyone bullies you, you can use it to protect yourself.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s eyes turned a little red.


    Brother Hao was puzzled. Wasn¡¯t Liu Jinbao his friend? When did he become so familiar with Sister Huan? Unwilling to fall behind, he took off his sleeve arrow and stuffed it into his hand.


    Liu Jinbao was so touched that he cried.

 Chapter 380 - 380 Entering the Capital (2)

    380 Entering the Capital (2)


    Shen Yijia wondered what kind of magical treasure this was.


    After waiting for about 15 minutes, Liu Tong sent over the silver. He said awkwardly, ¡°Madam Song, I¡¯m really sorry. It takes too long to make the dragon whiskers pastry. I¡¯m afraid¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia understood. She took the silver and waved her hand indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t really want to eat it either.¡±


    She counted the silver. Thirteen taels was just right.


    ¡°How could there not be any pastries left? Doesn¡¯t the kitchen always have some? Just go to my place and get it,¡± Liu Jinbao said in confusion. He was discussing the sleeve arrows with Brother Hao and Sister Huan.


    Liu Tong was even more embarrassed now. He looked at Liu Jinbao with sympathy. ¡°It¡¯s because Young Madam is pregnant and doesn¡¯t have a good appetite, so Master¡­¡±


    Liu Jinbao stiffened and lowered his eyes.


    Shen Yijia understood that Song Jiayue¡¯s unborn child was trying to compete with Liu Jinbao for his grandfather¡¯s favor.


    Old Master Liu had been looking forward to this son of his for most of his life. How he doted on Liu Jinbao in the past would be transferred to Song Jiayue¡¯s unborn child in the future.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. Wasn¡¯t Song Jiayue worried that she would give birth to a daughter?


    Moreover, with her experience reading novels, she didn¡¯t know if this child was Old Master Liu¡¯s.


    Shen Yijia only thought about it for a moment.


    Shen Yijia asked Brother Hao and Sister Huan to bid farewell to Liu Jinbao. It was time for them to go home.


    Sister Huan had nothing to say, but Brother Hao pulled Liu Jinbao aside and muttered for a long time before stopping.


    Liu Jinbao walked them to the entrance and promised, ¡°I¡¯ll definitely study hard and go to the capital to see you.¡±


    After passing the imperial examination, he could go to the capital to participate in the general examination.


    In the previous dynasty, merchants were not allowed to participate in the imperial examination. However, in Great Xia, the late emperor abolished this rule.


    ¡°What¡¯s so good about being a bookworm?¡± Sister Huan pursed her lips. In the future, she would either be like her brother, who was skilled in martial arts, or her sister-in-law, who was peerless in martial arts.


    When they returned home, Madam Li was talking to Auntie Tian in the central room. Shen Yijia did not go in.


    After Auntie Tian left, Madam Li told Shen Yijia that Auntie Tian was here for An Xiu¡¯er.


    ¡°She means to help her visit Xiu¡¯er when we return to the capital and give her something,¡± Madam Li said.


    Shen Yijia did not say anything. She just wanted to take a look and bring something along. On account of An Dong helping her look after the workshop in the future, she would not refuse.


    At night, Shen Yijia was sleeping soundly when she felt movement near the bed. A person lay down with a faint smell of soap.


    She rolled to the side out of habit and snuggled into the familiar arms. However, the next second, she realized that something was wrong.


    She twitched her nose, she smelled blood. She hadn¡¯t smelled it when he was far away. It must have been specially cleaned.


    Shen Yijia instantly sobered up and looked up.


    Even though it was dark, Shen Yijia could see his face clearly. It was a little pale.


    ¡°Did I wake you up?¡± Song Jingchen asked softly. He reached out and wrapped his arms around her waist, wanting to press her back down.


    Shen Yijia frowned and asked, ¡°Where are you injured?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. He had clearly washed up and bandaged his wounds before entering the house.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a superficial wound. It¡¯s already been treated.¡± He reached out and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head.


    Shen Yijia turned her head to avoid his hand. She got up and walked around him to get out of bed to light the oil lamp.


    She placed the oil lamp on the table beside the bed and pulled a face. ¡°Show me.¡±


    If not for the fact that she had a sharp nose, she definitely wouldn¡¯t have noticed it. She was a little angry that Song Jingchen had hidden it from her even though he was injured.


    This was the first time Song Jingchen had seen her so serious. He silently rolled up his sleeves, revealing his left arm, which was wrapped in gauze. ¡°It¡¯s really just a superficial wound.¡±


    Shen Yijia ignored him and picked up his hand to take a closer look. The gauze was stained red by the blood seeping out of the wound. It was obvious that it was not serious.


    ¡°There are other injuries,¡± Shen Yijia said firmly. Song Jingchen¡¯s face wouldn¡¯t be so pale with such a small injury.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. This silly girl wasn¡¯t smart when she had to be, but she was very smart during times when she didn¡¯t need to be.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t move, Shen Yijia leaned over and reached out to take off his clothes.


    Song Jingchen grabbed her hand helplessly. ¡°I¡¯ll do it myself.¡±


    He did not even take off his outerwear. Shen Yijia watched unblinkingly as he took off his inner clothes.


    Seeing that he seemed to frown because of his wounds a few times, Shen Yijia became even more nervous.


    His inner clothes were unbuttoned, and Shen Yijia gasped. The circle of gauze wrapped around Song Jingchen¡¯s chest had already been dyed red by blood.

 Chapter 381 - 381 Entering the Capital (3)

    381 Entering the Capital (3)


    ¡°I¡¯ve already applied medicine,¡± Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and explained.


    Shen Yijia glared at him. ¡°This is a superficial wound?¡±


    She turned around to get a teacup, but Song Jingchen stopped her. ¡°Don¡¯t waste it.¡±


    He hid it because he didn¡¯t want her to use the spiritual liquid. According to the time, she only had one drop of spiritual liquid now.


    This time, the journey to the capital would not be peaceful. He was afraid that she would be injured again like last time without spiritual liquid to treat her.


    ¡°Are you cursing me to get hurt?¡± Shen Yijia could tell what he was thinking and rolled her eyes angrily.


    She stopped picking up the teacup, held Song Jingchen¡¯s head, and kissed him on the lips.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t stop her and could only accept it. He was about to take the initiative.


    Shen Yijia pushed him away ruthlessly.


    ¡°Hmph, you want a kiss when you¡¯re lying? You wish.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia turned around angrily, blew out the oil lamp, and climbed back into bed. She ignored Song Jingchen with her back facing him.


    Song Jingchen was silent. When did he become the pervert?


    ¡°Someone wanted to kill Eunuch Deng and frame me,¡± Song Jingchen explained.


    Fortunately, he had sent Rooster and Thirty Thousand to guard them just in case. Today, he happened to go to the county to see Fan Mingyuan. Otherwise, the other party would have succeeded.


    Eunuch Deng and the others had been fine in Anyang County for more than ten days. However, something happened the moment he returned to receive the imperial edict.


    When Emperor Chong¡¯an heard this, he would definitely think that it was a provocation.


    Shen Yijia held it in for a long time and could not help but say gloomily, ¡°Then are we still leaving tomorrow?¡±


    ¡°Yes, the longer we delay, the more chances the other party will have to attack.¡±


    If he was not wrong, this should be the other party¡¯s last resort. It would definitely take time to rearrange it.


    Previously, they did not make a move because he was not in Anyang County at that time. Even if they killed Eunuch Deng, they could not frame him.


    Shen Yijia had no objections. Anyway, Song Jingchen¡¯s injuries would recover tomorrow.


    At the end of May, the Song family¡¯s door was locked, and the group set off for the capital.


    There were a total of three carriages. Two carriages would be enough for eight people, but there was also Furball.


    Originally, Song Jingchen wanted to put Furball back in the mountains. Furball was unwilling, and Shen Yijia was a little reluctant. In the end, he could only bring it along.


    However, Song Jingchen also said that even if he brought it to the capital, he couldn¡¯t continue to raise it by his side.


    There was a chance that Emperor Chong¡¯an or other nobles would take a fancy to Furball.


    If that happened, they would be stuck in a dilemma.


    In the end, they decided to send Furball to the mountain where the Hidden Spirit Temple was.


    Because of the existence of the Hidden Spirit Temple, hunting was not allowed there.


    The Hidden Spirit Temple was in the suburbs of the capital. Shen Yijia could occasionally visit it, so she did not have to worry about Furball being hunted.


    Not long after they left the village, Mo Yuan¡¯s voice came in. ¡°Miss, Young Master, there¡¯s a carriage blocking the road ahead.¡±


    Shen Yijia stopped stroking Furball and lifted a corner of the curtain to look.


    ¡°Liu Jinbao?¡± Shen Yijia was surprised.


    ¡°Sister-in-law Song, I brought you some snacks.¡± Liu Jinbao walked over with two food boxes.


    Shen Yijia looked at the sky. Liu Jinbao must have left before dawn to be here at this hour.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia did not refuse, Mo Yuan took the initiative to accept it.


    ¡°Thank you. Sister Huan and Brother Hao are in the second carriage.¡± Although Shen Yijia was a little narcissistic, she was not narcissistic enough to think that Liu Jinbao was here to send her off.


    Liu Jinbao cupped his hands politely. When Sister Huan and Brother Hao heard the commotion, they had already jumped out of the carriage.


    As for Miaomiao, he had bullied her before. She was afraid of him.


    The few of them finished talking in less than ten minutes.


    It was not until Shen Yijia unintentionally asked that Sister Huan said, ¡°Liu Jinbao said that he doesn¡¯t want to be a bookworm anymore and wants to be a general.¡±


    They first went to the county city to meet up with Eunuch Deng and the others. Eunuch Deng was nearly assassinated and was saved by Song Jingchen.


    Even if Song Jingchen said that he wanted to travel overnight, he didn¡¯t dare to have any objections.


    Originally, at his speed, they would be able to reach the capital in half a month.


    However, Song Jingchen slowed down. If he could enter the city and stay in an inn, he definitely wouldn¡¯t choose to stay at a rest stop outside the city.


    Even if they had to take a detour, they had to enter the city to rest.


    Shen Yijia remembered that Song Jingchen was the same when they came out of the capital. In the blink of an eye, she had been in this world for almost two years.


    They would take the same path and occasionally stay in the inn they had stayed in before, but they were going in different directions.


    Back then, they were chased away with their family feud. Now, their family feud was still there. They were going back to take revenge.


    The team traveled for another half a month before entering Qiu Ning County. There was still Peng City between this area and the capital.


    As usual, the carriage stopped in front of an inn.


    They had to rest after entering the city. Everyone was already used to it.


    This time, Rooster, South Wind, Thirty Thousand, and Mo Yuan followed. There were a lot of people, so they booked an independent courtyard behind the inn.


    In order to avoid causing unnecessary chaos, Furball stayed in the carriage.


    Eunuch Deng and the others lived next door to their courtyard.


    They paid for it.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Back then, you asked us to leave, but now, His Majesty wants us to go back. Of course, you have to bear all the expenses along the way.¡±


    When they discussed it, Eunuch Deng said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to pay to stay at the rest stops.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What? His Majesty doesn¡¯t have money?¡±

 Chapter 382 - 382 Shedding Her Shell

    382 Shedding Her Shell


    Song Jingchen said that they had to speed up the next part of the journey. It would be more boring, so they went out to take a walk in the morning before departing.


    Shen Yijia pulled Madam Li out to shop with the children.


    Qiu Ning County was much larger than Anyang County. There was a dazzling array of food on the streets and some trinkets that Shen Yijia had never seen before.


    It was true that compared to Anyang County, the prices here were more expensive.


    After a month of traveling, they either stayed in the carriage or in the inn. This was the first time they had come out to shop.


    !!


    Shen Yijia waved her hand and bought whatever she liked. She paid.


    Sister Huan and the others were sensible. They only watched and did not buy.


    Shen Yijia asked repeatedly before they chose a trinket each.


    Although they didn¡¯t buy it, it didn¡¯t affect their enthusiasm for shopping at all.


    No matter where it was, there was no lack of poverty. Shen Yijia and the others walked out of the busy city and arrived at the impoverished area of Qiu Ning County.


    It was as if there was an invisible barrier here, isolating this area from the commotion outside.


    Shen Yijia looked at the women and children sitting by the roadside or in the corner. She rolled her eyes and walked over.


    Half an hour later, the largest inn in Qiu Ning County welcomed a large group of people who looked like beggars. They instantly blocked the entrance of the inn.


    The innkeeper and the waiter were shocked and quickly chased them away with brooms. ¡°Hey, hey, what are you doing? Is this a place you can enter?¡±


    ¡°I invited them.¡± Shen Yijia squeezed out of the crowd and stood at the front. ¡°Hurry up and bring up all the food in the kitchen. Put the bill on Eunuch Deng.¡±


    ¡°Madam, this isn¡¯t a good idea.¡± The shopkeeper was in a difficult position.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t it be good? Our emperor is benevolent, so Eunuch Deng is naturally the same, since he is His Majesty¡¯s attendant. What¡¯s there to worry about?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with treating these people to a meal out of pity? Or do you look down on these people, even ignoring Eunuch Deng¡¯s generosity?¡±


    The shopkeeper wiped his sweat. This person even dared to use His Majesty¡¯s name. Where did this crazy woman come from?


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we ask them first?¡± the shopkeeper asked tentatively.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. From the corner of her eye, she noticed a corner of a shirt flash past the door to the backyard. Her eyes lit up and she jumped over to pull out the person hiding behind.


    She grinned at the man. ¡°Eunuch Deng, what a coincidence. You heard what I said just now, right? You have no objections, right? I believe His Majesty will definitely feel sorry for them if he sees them so hungry.¡±


    As if they had discussed it, as soon as Shen Yijia finished speaking, that group of people knelt down and shouted, ¡°Long live His Majesty. His Majesty is benevolent.¡±


    Eunuch Deng thought to himself, ¡°Damn it, I can¡¯t dodge it.¡±


    Helpless, Eunuch Deng could only nod with tears in his eyes. At the same time, he was thinking about how to ask Emperor Chong¡¯an for money when he returned to the palace.


    With his nod, the waiter at the inn suffered. This was not a restaurant, and most of the people who usually ate here were guests who stayed at the inn.


    They had to buy ingredients at the last minute.


    The group of people were grateful again before finding a place to sit down. Those who could not sit down simply stood. The entire hall was in chaos. The food was snatched up in less than two breaths.


    Everyone remembered what the kind madam had said and ate their fill.


    One group of people had just finished eating and left when another group arrived. It was not until curfew was about to begin that the inn became empty.


    The shopkeeper took a look. They had worked hard, but the woman who brought these people had already returned to her room.


    Under the moonlight, more than ten black shadows landed in the courtyard like ghosts.


    The courtyard was silent. The leader looked around and finally fixed his gaze on one of the windows.


    He gestured, and the others quickly headed for the room before silently sneaking into the room through the window.


    However, they only saw two people lying face down on the bed. Before they could attack, another group of masked people entered.


    The two sides looked at each other. After confirming that they were not on the same side, they immediately fought.


    The sound of fighting woke the sleeping people.


    ¡°Who are you? Help, there¡¯s a thief!¡±


    The two of them screamed in fear.


    The two parties who were fighting stopped and looked at the bed at the same time. They frowned. There were clearly two sallow men lying on it.


    They had fallen into a trap.


    The leaders of both sides knocked the people on the bed unconscious at the same time. The two groups looked at each other.


    After confirming their gazes, they had the same goal. At least for the time being, they were not enemies.


    After the two of them retracted their gazes, they each brought their men to other rooms to check.


    There were people in every room, but none of them were the person they were looking for.


    What a good escape!


    ¡°Boss, only Eunuch Deng is not in the courtyard next door.¡±


    Rooster unceremoniously threw the sack off his shoulder.


    The unconscious people woke up and screamed in fear, ¡°Who are you? Do you know who I am? Do you want to die?¡±


    He crawled out of the sack in a panic. His screams stopped when he saw the people in front of him.


    ¡°What do you want?¡± Eunuch Deng shrank back.


    Shen Yijia giggled. ¡°Eunuch Deng, we saved your life again.¡±


    ¡°But you don¡¯t have to thank us too much. Just pay the silver for renting this boat.¡±


    When Eunuch Deng heard this, he looked around and realized that he was on a large ship.


    The ship had already left the shore. They could still see sporadic lights in the distance.


    Eunuch Deng had been tricked by Shen Yijia. When he saw her, he would think of the copper coins and the money he had spent along the way.


    He looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°Young Master Song, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and turned to look at Shen Yijia. ¡°How much did it cost to rent this boat?¡±


    ¡°Originally, they refused to leave at night, so I had no choice but to add more silver.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head with a pained expression and extended five fingers. ¡°A total of 500 taels.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. Previously, this girl had even proudly told him that she had only spent 150 taels to rent a boat.


    He looked at Eunuch Deng silently.


    Eunuch Deng was speechless.


    He was forced to write his first IOU.


    As the only person beside Emperor Chong¡¯an who could challenge Eunuch Li, he decided that the first thing he would do when he returned was to return the silver and destroy the evidence.


    Otherwise, if that Li fellow found out, wouldn¡¯t he laugh at him?


    Shen Yijia put the IOU into her pouch in a good mood and told him the whole story.


    After entering the city today, they sensed that they were being watched, so Song Jingchen thought about Shen Yijia treating those people to a meal.


    At that time, there were too many people, and the entire inn was in chaos.


    Taking advantage of the chaos, they brought the children and adults to their courtyard and gave them money to stay there for the night.


    They changed into their clothes and mixed in the crowd before leaving. Then, they left the city and took a boat to the ferry.


    Eunuch Deng was furious with Shen Yijia and sent her out. He rested alone in his room, making it easier for Shen Yijia to stuff him in a sack.

 Chapter 383 - 383 Arrival

    383 Arrival


    Shen Yijia rented a boat with rooms to live in. Everyone was given a room.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand did not board the ship with them. Instead, they stayed in the inn and prepared to set off with Eunuch Deng¡¯s men.


    After all, they still had their luggage and Furball to take care of in the carriage. Those people¡¯s target was Song Jingchen. If he left, the people left behind would be the safest.


    It was naturally much faster when traveling by water.


    However, to Shen Yijia, who was riding a boat for the first time, it almost took her life.


    At first, she was the only one vomiting. Later on, Brother Hao and the other children vomited too.


    Six out of eight people fell. This was even more serious than facing an assassin head-on. Song Jingchen asked the boatman to drive the boat slower and steadily.


    Only then did Shen Yijia vomit less badly. She only vomited once or twice a day.


    Shen Yijia even comforted Song Jingchen. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll get used to it after vomiting. I saw that Nianci vomited a lot when she was pregnant. I¡¯ll treat it as an early experience.¡±


    Although she said that, Shen Yijia had no appetite to eat. In just a few days, her entire face visibly lost weight.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached. He suggested that they dock the boat and take the land route.


    Shen Yijia refused. They had spent so much money renting the boat. Even if they stopped midway through the journey, the boat driver would not refund it.


    Most importantly, why did they use the waterway to shake off those people back then? It was to avoid trouble.


    Song Jingchen had no choice but to guard her in the room and coax her to eat something every day.


    It was fine if she didn¡¯t eat it, but she vomited even more instead. The only things she could eat were the candied plums Song Jingchen had bought for her.


    Fortunately, the other children were in better condition. To be precise, as long as they did not see Shen Yijia vomit, they would at most feel a little dizzy.


    The ship traveled for nearly half a month before reaching a pier outside the capital. There were vendors coming and going at the pier, and many carriages for rent.


    It would take about four hours to get to the city gate by carriage.


    There were many boats of various sizes parked on the river. Song Jingchen stood on the deck with Shen Yijia.


    The ships in front of them docked one after another. It would not be their turn for a while.


    Shen Yijia felt so uncomfortable that she frowned. If not for the fact that she did not know how to swim, she would have jumped into the river and swam over.


    Song Jingchen seemed to see her anxiety and said to Madam Li, ¡°I¡¯ll bring Jiajia ashore first.¡±


    Before Shen Yijia could react to how he was going to bring her ashore, the hand around her waist tightened. Then, she was lifted into the air.


    Song Jingchen used his qinggong and soared into the sky with Shen Yijia. He stopped at the boat shed in front of him. He tapped his feet and flew up again.


    After a few times, the two of them easily went ashore.


    A man in a black robe descended from the sky with a delicate girl in his arms. The two of them were extraordinary.


    This scene stunned many people. The originally noisy dock was silent for a moment before erupting in enthusiastic cheers.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    If this were any other time, she would definitely raise her chin proudly. At the same time, she would scream in her heart that her beautiful husband was really amazing.


    But these were different circumstances.


    Her stomach was already churning violently. These few jumps made her feel as if something was stuck in her throat.


    However, with so many people watching, she didn¡¯t want Song Jingchen to embarrass himself with her.


    Hence, just as Song Jingchen was about to lower his head and ask her if she was fine, she suddenly pushed him away and ran to the side.


    She ran towards a place with fewer people, but the two of them suddenly appeared and blocked her way. Shen Yijia did not stop in time and bumped into the leader.


    At the same time, the thing in her throat spewed out uncontrollably like a fountain.


    She felt much more comfortable now.


    She wiped the corners of her mouth with her sleeve and looked up at the person she had vomited all over.


    He was wearing a blue brocade robe. He was tall, had sharp eyebrows, and a face like ice jade.


    Even though she was used to Song Jingchen¡¯s appearance, Shen Yijia was still stunned.


    She looked down and noticed the filth on his clothes. Her face instantly turned red and she scratched her head in embarrassment. ¡°Beautiful Uncle, I¡¯m sorry. How much are these clothes? I¡¯ll pay for them.¡±


    The two people opposite her were clearly stunned. They only reacted when she spoke.


    Without waiting for the leader to speak, the follower behind him pulled out his sword and placed it on Shen Yijia¡¯s neck. He shouted, ¡°How dare you? Where did you come from?¡±


    Before Shen Yijia could move, a hand wrapped around her waist and shielded her behind him. Song Jingchen had caught up.


    The unruly commoner slipped away from his sword. The follower was furious and was about to rush up and take him down.


    The man raised his hand. Although the follower was puzzled, he obediently put away his sword.


    Seeing that the other party was not prepared to attack, Song Jingchen let go of Shen Yijia and took two steps forward. ¡°My wife didn¡¯t mean to offend you.¡±


    The man didn¡¯t seem to see Song Jingchen. He stared at Shen Yijia, who only revealed her eyes. ¡°What did you call me just now?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and walked out from behind Song Jingchen. ¡°Uncle?¡±


    Although this person was very good-looking, time did not leave any traces on his face.


    However, his hair had turned white. She didn¡¯t call him grandpa because he was good-looking.


    Did he want her to call him Big Brother?


    Just now, the white-haired man felt that Shen Yijia looked familiar. Unexpectedly, he was blocked before he could see her clearly.


    Only then did he see her face clearly. His gaze swept across Shen Yijia¡¯s smooth and fair forehead, and a complicated expression flashed across his eyes.


    It was like disappointment and pain.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. You can leave.¡± He quickly retracted his gaze and said casually.


    Even though his clothes were dirty, it did not affect his noble aura at all.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. She was the one who had done something wrong first. If this person refused to give in, it would be difficult to beat him up.


    However, she was not that irresponsible.


    She took out her money bag and pulled out two taels of silver. She was about to hand it over when she thought about it and took it back.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking. Shock flashed across his eyes, and he tried his best to suppress the smile on his face.


    Did this girl know that those clothes were made of cloud brocade?


    Shen Yijia did not know.


    She put the silver fragment back into the money bag and rummaged through it again. After a long time, she found a piece of silver that was half the size of the previous one.


    ¡°Here, this is for you. Take it as my compensation,¡± Shen Yijia said generously.


    Under the attendant¡¯s shocked expression, the white-haired man reached out his hand.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached as she placed the silver in his hand.


    At the same time, the guilt in her heart was swept away. She held Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the white-haired man and saw that he was still staring at Shen Yijia.


    He frowned and pulled her in front of him before turning to leave.

 Chapter 384 - 384 Xuanyuan Ce (1)

    384 Xuanyuan Ce (1)


    After Shen Yijia vomited, she felt her tense nerves relax. Immediately after, hunger overwhelmed her.


    The last time she felt so hungry was when she first transmigrated.


    Her stomach growled at the right time.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t laugh at her. Instead, his heart ached. He had seen how uncomfortable Shen Yijia had been for the past half a month.


    He said softly, ¡°You must be hungry. Mother and the others are about to come ashore. Wait here for a while. I¡¯ll buy you something to eat.¡±


    !!


    Perhaps because she had embarrassed herself too much in a day, Shen Yijia no longer felt any shame. She didn¡¯t feel embarrassed to be discovered by Song Jingchen.


    She hugged Song Jingchen¡¯s waist a little aggrievedly and rubbed her head against his chest. ¡°I want to eat ten big meat buns.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head.


    The two of them hugged in public. This was supposed to be a very private matter, but the surrounding people felt that the couple was really compatible.


    She looked at the people around her and felt a little disgusted.


    Both sides despised each other and noticed each other¡¯s gazes.


    ¡°You despise me, and I despise you. Forget it, I¡¯ll make do with it.¡± she thought.


    Some of these people were purely watching the show.


    The people sent by the various factions to guard this place exchanged glances with their companions and quietly left to report.


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    A surprised voice sounded behind her. Shen Yijia turned around and took a while to remember who the three people in front of her were.


    The three of them were all dressed as men. When they saw Shen Yijia, the excitement on their faces was obvious. They looked at each other and knelt down.


    ¡°It¡¯s us, Pinellia, Ginkgo, and Kaempferia.¡±


    ¡°Greetings, Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She recognized them, but she couldn¡¯t remember who they were.


    Their kneeling could be considered a reintroduction of their names.


    ¡°Get up. Why are you here?¡± Shen Yijia was still not used to the way they knelt down.


    ¡°We heard that His Majesty had summoned Young Master back to the capital and knew that Miss would definitely come,¡± Pinellia explained. ¡°However, we didn¡¯t know when Miss would arrive, so we¡¯ve been keeping an eye out since half a month ago.¡±


    After not seeing them for four months, the three of them had clearly changed a lot. They looked much more confident.


    Shen Yijia nodded and did not say anything else. It was mainly because she was not in the mood to talk.


    At this moment, Madam Li¡¯s boat also docked.


    ¡°Sister Jia, are you alright?¡±


    They had also seen the scene on the shore just now. Seeing that person put his sword to Shen Yijia¡¯s neck, Madam Li was shocked.


    ¡°Mother, it¡¯s fine.¡± Shen Yijia comforted her and asked Brother Hao and the others if they felt terrible.


    The reason why they felt dizzy was most likely because of Shen Yijia. They looked much livelier now.


    Song Jingchen returned after buying food and handed a bun to Shen Yijia. ¡°You¡¯ve been hungry for too long. You can¡¯t eat too much all of a sudden. Eat this to fill your stomach first.¡±


    He bought a few and gave the buns to Brother Hao and the others. There were still two left.


    Madam Li would never stand by the roadside and eat something. Song Jingchen knew this.


    He was about to hand the rest to Rooster when a hand suddenly reached over.


    They froze and looked at the owner of the hand.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m hungry too.¡± Eunuch Deng felt a little aggrieved.


    He had spent so much money to rent the boat. Initially, he thought he would be fine even if the food on the boat was bad.


    However, the soundproofing on the ship was not good, and he had to endure listening to Shen Yijia vomiting every day. He lost his appetite. The only thing that made him glad was that he had finally arrived in the capital.


    Shen Yijia took a bite of the meat bun. ¡°Hubby, how much does this bun cost? Its skin is thin and it has so many fillings. It shouldn¡¯t be cheap, right?¡±


    The hint was too obvious.


    Eunuch Deng¡¯s mouth twitched. Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll pay one tael of silver for two buns, alright?¡±


    With that, he did not care if Shen Yijia agreed or not and reached out to snatch the bun.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s the silver?¡± She held out her hand.


    Eunuch Deng had never been in such a sorry state. The problem was that he didn¡¯t know where his anger came from. These two people had saved him twice, and they originally bought the buns for themselves.


    He snapped, ¡°Add it to the IOU.¡±


    He didn¡¯t even think about who had put him in a sack and carried him onto the boat.


    He didn¡¯t even have any money on him right now. He was also wearing clothes that he had borrowed from Rooster.


    Back then, he felt humiliated by writing an IOU because it was the first time.


    He got used to it.

 Chapter 385 - 385 Xuanyuan Ce (2)

    385 Xuanyuan Ce (2)


    After adding to his debt, he shamelessly spent more money to hire a carriage.


    Pinellia and the others had also hired a carriage when they came over, so they only needed to hire one more carriage when they returned.


    Perhaps because this was the docks, there were many merchants coming and going. The fee for traveling in this busy area was double, and cost an extra tael of silver.


    Her heart ached so much that she added another ten taels to the IOU with a charcoal pen.


    Seeing her add it, Eunuch Deng was so angry that he rolled his eyes and almost fainted.


    However, he had no choice but to agree. He did not doubt that these people would abandon him without hesitation after bringing him here safely.


    The group got into the carriage and left the docks. The white-haired man from before was still standing there, staring in the direction they had left.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± the follower reminded him.


    Xuanyuan Ce retracted his gaze indifferently and walked towards a carriage not far away.


    July was the hottest time of the year, but there was no heat in the carriage at all, because there was an icebox in the carriage.


    There were two holes above the ice box, from which endless cold air emitted. There were even some seasonal melons and fruits frozen inside.


    Xuanyuan Ce was about to get into the carriage when he smelled an unpleasant smell.


    Only then did he realize that he had been standing under the hot sun for nearly 15 minutes in these dirty clothes.


    He frowned, took off his robe, and threw it to his follower. He instructed indifferently, ¡°Burn it.¡±


    The follower heaved a sigh of relief. If His Highness did not take off his clothes, he would start to wonder if someone had replaced him.


    The carriage started moving in the direction of the capital.


    In the carriage, Xuanyuan Ce fiddled with the piece of silver in his hand.


    Every country would send envoys to congratulate Emperor Chong¡¯an on his birthday.


    He was out all year round and rarely returned to the capital of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. He typically wouldn¡¯t have the time to attend the birthday banquet of the emperor of another country.


    However, in February, he received a letter from his nephew, Xuanyuan Ziming.


    Not only did he return to Feng City to take on this job, but he also set off a month earlier than the diplomatic mission.


    They had specially made a detour to Xunyang City in Great Xia before coming to the capital. They had just arrived today.


    There was still more than half a month until Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s birthday. Based on the time, the diplomatic party would only arrive in five to six days.


    Pinellia briefly explained their situation in the capital to Shen Yijia.


    The five of them entered the capital with the 500 taels of silver that Shen Yijia had given them.


    Their eyes were opened to a whole new world.


    Five hundred taels was a huge sum of money that they did not even dare to think about in the past. However, when they arrived in the capital, they realized that they were mistaken.


    The rent of those shops was easily hundreds or thousands of taels a month. The so-called huge sum of money in their hands could only rent a small shop for a few months. They also had to pay a deposit.


    The few of them thought that their young lady had grown up in the capital. It was impossible for her not to know the situation here.


    In their minds, she clearly knew, but she still made such arrangements. There was only one possibility. She wanted to test them!


    Thinking of this, the five of them, who had been so shocked that they doubted their whole lives, pulled themselves together, reinvigorated. They nibbled on steamed buns every day and asked around.


    It was also because they were lucky that they heard that a family was going back to their hometown.


    That family had a small shop. Because it was a little remote and the shop was small, they wanted to close it down and return to their hometown to do business.


    The five of them took turns bargaining. In the end, they spent 400 taels of silver to buy the shop. They were left with 100 taels of silver.


    The shop originally sold food, but the five of them were all mediocre in this aspect. If they continued to sell it, not to mention making money, they would probably be in a worse state than the original family.


    However, there is always a way out.


    Among the five of them, Indigo¡¯s family used to sell alcohol for a living. She had helped out since she was young and learned this skill.


    Therefore, they decided to turn it into a wine shop. At first, business was not very good, but the five of them focused on it and started selling a few fruit wines.


    This business slowly started.


    There was a small courtyard at the back of the shop. The few of them built a shed to brew wine there. At night, they slept on the ground in the shop.


    Of course, Pinellia did not mention the hardships. She only told them about opening a wine shop and promised that although they had yet to earn back their capital, it would happen soon.


    Shen Yijia expressed that she had no idea what was going on in the capital.


    As for the test? There was none.


    Back then, she had only spent more than a hundred taels of silver on that shop in Qingping Town. She thought that the 500 taels of silver she had given them was more than enough.


    After hearing this, she did not react, but Pinellia thought that they had not met Shen Yijia¡¯s expectations.


    She secretly made up his mind to do better.


    Madam Li was stunned and looked at Song Jingchen.


    The latter had a calm expression.


    Of course, the people who stayed by this girl¡¯s side could not be too useless.


    To enter the city, one had to register for a travel pass. There was a long line in front, so the carriage could only stop and wait.


    Shen Yijia found the carriage stuffy and lifted the curtain to get some air.


    As soon as the tall city gate appeared, the atmosphere in the car suddenly became oppressive.


    It was summer when they left, and it was summer when they returned. It had only been two years, but it felt like a lifetime.


    Shen Yijia carefully turned around and glanced at Madam Li and Song Jingchen¡¯s expressions. She felt inexplicably depressed, but it wasn¡¯t because of the heat.


    By the time they entered the city, it was already midnight.


    It was definitely too late to find a house today. In addition, everyone was exhausted.


    They decided to find an inn to stay in first.


    Pinellia said that they had already booked an inn. If not for the fact that they were afraid that Shen Yijia had other arrangements, they would have rented the house with the money in their hands.


    They only needed to pay a deposit to reserve rooms in the inn. Even if they didn¡¯t stay, the losses wouldn¡¯t be too great.


    They wanted to do their best. The inn they booked was also one of the best inns for travelers in the capital. It was on Chang¡¯an Avenue.


    Normally, if they returned with a team, one of them would enter the palace first to report to Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    They would then operate based on Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s arrangements. Unfortunately, they weren¡¯t around, so Song Jingchen pretended to forget about this matter and stayed in the inn with a clear conscience.


    Eunuch Deng stood outside and followed them in.


    As he hesitated, Shen Yijia waved the IOU in front of him. Eunuch Deng shuddered and climbed back into the carriage to urge the coachman to leave quickly.


    He wanted to look for Emperor Chong¡¯an and cry about how poor he was and how difficult it had been for him.


    Song Jingchen glanced in the direction he had left and said in a low voice, ¡°Are you afraid?¡±


    Shen Yijia hooked his finger and grinned at him. ¡°Of course not. Didn¡¯t we agree?¡±


    Behind the scenes.


    Pinellia thought, ¡°Miss tested us.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I didn¡¯t. Don¡¯t spout nonsense. It¡¯s my husband that wanted to test

 Chapter 386 - 386 Fraud

    386 Fraud


    Pinellia didn¡¯t know how many people were coming, so she only booked three rooms. Rooster went to ask for two more rooms for him and Mo Yuan to stay in.


    Shen Yijia asked Pinellia and the other two to go back first. She would look for them after they settled down.


    They returned to their rooms to wash up before going downstairs to eat in the hall.


    Regardless of their age, they all looked neat and regal.


    The others in the hall looked at them from time to time, as if one look would increase their appetite.


    This kind of thing had happened many times on the way to the capital. Everyone was already used to it. Facing the scrutiny of others, their expressions remained unchanged and they were calm.


    However, there was still a difference here. Someone recognized Song Jingchen.


    Recognizing him would naturally remind them of what happened two years ago.


    All of them thought no one could hear them whispering to their companions about what had happened back then.


    However, they did not know that their words had reached the ears of Shen Yijia and the others at the table.


    Hearing about their father and grandfather¡¯s deaths from others, Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡¯s hands paused. They lowered their heads and tears fell.


    ¡°Eat well,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently.


    Madam Li picked up some food for the two of them and said, ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    She also had an indifferent expression, completely different from the woman in Xiagou Village who gossiped with others.


    To be precise, Madam Li had been like this since she stepped into the city gate.


    Her hatred did not dissipate because of the passage of time. It was just that in order not to affect Brother Hao and Sister Huan, she temporarily sealed it.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen, then at Madam Li. She tightened her grip on her chopsticks.


    She puffed up her cheeks angrily. If she had known, she wouldn¡¯t have come down to the dining area to eat.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking and put a piece of meat in her bowl. ¡°We¡¯ll have to face it sooner or later.¡±


    It was ridiculous. His grandfather had done so much, but what left the deepest impression on these people was not which city he guarded or which battle he won.


    It was how he died!


    As long as the Song family appeared in the capital, what happened two years ago would be discussed.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and picked up the piece of meat to chew.


    The taste of this piece of meat had changed. It was not delicious at all. It was very sour.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned red.


    Everyone lost their appetite at the dining table, but Song Jingchen and Madam Li insisted that everyone finish eating.


    If they fled because of a few comments, how would they live in the capital in the future?


    They couldn¡¯t hide at home every day and avoid going out, right? If that was the case, they might as well stay in Xiagou Village.


    Just as everyone was discussing fervently, a carriage stopped at the entrance of the traveler¡¯s inn. The carriage stopped at the door for about ten minutes.


    The curtain was lifted by a well-defined hand.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who had changed his clothes, got out of the carriage.


    As soon as he walked into the inn, his tied-up white hair instantly attracted the attention of everyone in the hall.


    The discussion stopped abruptly.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned unhappily.


    The follower at the side lowered his head silently. ¡°I told you to stay in the courier station, but you didn¡¯t.¡±


    The reason why Xuanyuan Ce could not stay in the courier station was very simple. Once he moved in, it would reveal his identity as an envoy. At that time, it would be unreasonable not to see Emperor Chong¡¯an. He found it troublesome.


    It was better to let the diplomatic party deal with these matters when they arrived.


    The surroundings suddenly turned silent. Shen Yijia looked up strangely and met Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s gaze.


    She felt that she had already lost money and no longer owed this person. Coupled with the fact that she was in a bad mood, she did not greet him. She lowered her head and continued eating.


    They didn¡¯t know each other to begin with.


    Xuanyuan Ce noticed that her eyes were red and his heart ached. His face turned cold. ¡°Chu Feng.¡±


    Chu Feng immediately walked up to the shopkeeper and muttered something. He took out a token for him to see.


    The shopkeeper was shocked for a moment. He carefully glanced at Xuanyuan Ce before wiping his sweat and saying loudly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone. Our inn has been booked by this noble.¡±


    As soon as he said this, dissatisfied voices sounded in the hall.


    ¡°How can you do that? We paid for it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. If you do business like this, who will dare to come to your place in the future?¡±


    ¡°No wonder it can¡¯t compare to Yuelai Restaurant. I think you¡¯ll go bankrupt sooner or later.¡±


    The shopkeeper stopped these people cursing. He felt resentful, but he still had to smile apologetically. ¡°Everyone, don¡¯t be anxious. Listen to me. The noble said that he will compensate you three times the amount you spent in this shop.¡±


    As soon as he said this, the hall fell silent for a moment. To be honest, anyone who could come here to spend money did not lack this bit of money.

 Chapter 387 - 387 Fraud (2)

    387 Fraud (2)


    However, everyone was not stupid. They were just agitated.


    They calmed down and thought about it.


    Other nobles had tried booking the entire inn before, but the owner didn¡¯t accept their offers.


    However, he didn¡¯t reject this guest. What did it mean? It meant that the owner could not afford to offend this noble. Of course, they could not afford to do so either.


    Although they were unhappy, they still went upstairs to pack their things and left after receiving the compensation from the shopkeeper.


    With this money, they could get a room at Yuelai Restaurant. Apart from being a little troublesome, they actually didn¡¯t lose out.


    Only Shen Yijia¡¯s table was left in the entire inn. Coincidentally, they had finished eating.


    Song Jingchen instructed, ¡°Go and pack your things.¡±


    The few of them stood up and prepared to return to their rooms.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Chu Feng. The latter was counting money for the shopkeeper and did not receive his hint.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and finally said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to leave.¡±


    They stopped in their tracks. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened, but before he could speak.


    Shen Yijia was the first one to voice her unhappiness. ¡°We¡¯re leaving.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Why?¡± Shouldn¡¯t she be happy that he didn¡¯t chase them away? Why did she look angry instead?


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Why? Of course it was for the huge compensation.


    A room cost 500 copper coins, and their five rooms cost 2,500 copper coins. She looked at the food she had ordered and saw that it was about one tael of silver.


    If it was tripled, it would cost three to five taels of silver. Only a fool would stay behind and give up this money.


    Living expenses in the capital were too high. No matter what, she had to earn money to raise her husband.


    Shen Yijia was stunned at her ability to calculate the prices.


    However, although she thought so, she could not say it out loud. What if this person said that he did not want to pay?


    ¡°You actually booked this inn, so it belongs to you. We don¡¯t have the habit of taking advantage of others. Thank you for the invitation.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s expression was sincere. After saying that, she cupped her hands and bowed.


    Song Jingchen was amused by her words. He cupped his hands at Xuanyuan Ce in agreement.


    The group quickly went upstairs to pack their things. Their footsteps were fast, and the stairs clicked.


    They all understood Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts. Of course, they could not hold her back.


    Xuanyuan Ce stood rooted to the ground for a long time. Was this little girl so upright?


    Chu Feng glanced at his lord strangely and continued to check the accounts with the shopkeeper.


    There were many transactions and it would take a while.


    In less than ten minutes, they packed up and went downstairs. They did not have a lot of luggage to begin with, only a few sets of clothes.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°What if I only reserved the other rooms excluding yours?¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°That¡¯s even more inappropriate. There¡¯s a saying that a gentleman never¡­¡±


    ¡°Takes back his words,¡± Song Jingchen completed the sentence for her.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. If what you said doesn¡¯t count, won¡¯t you be a villain? So we have to leave.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Really, so it¡¯s for my own good, I see.¡±


    In the end, the person who had just said that she did not want to take advantage of him ran to the counter to ask the shopkeeper for compensation.


    They had yet to pay for the meal. It was not considered an expense. Then, he saw the little girl hand a piece of silver to the shopkeeper.


    The shopkeeper accepted it in confusion.


    The little girl said, ¡°Five high-grade rooms and a meal. Count it and give us the compensation.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that it was a pity. If she had known that there was such a good thing, they would have asked for a room each.


    However, she only thought about it. One had to be content with what they had.


    Shen Yijia happily left with the silver.


    Song Jingchen turned around and brought them to a cheap inn to stay.


    Xuanyuan Ce stood there in a daze for a long time.


    Why did he book the entire inn so extravagantly?


    He did not know that his good nephew had once been tricked even more miserably by someone he thought was upright. At first, it was just a trap for one person, but later on, more people got caught up in it.


    They almost didn¡¯t even have the money to go home.


    ¡°Your Highness, it¡¯s all done.¡±


    Chu Feng¡¯s voice brought Xuanyuan Ce back to his senses.


    He glanced coldly at Chu Feng, who had a puzzled expression.


    On Eunuch Deng¡¯s side, he did not even have time to change his clothes when he returned to the palace before crying in front of Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    He talked about how he had almost been assassinated, and how he had been saved by Song Jingchen.


    Of course, he did not forget to complain about Shen Yijia.


    He talked about how she had scammed him of his money and described Shen Yijia as a money-grubber. She knew nothing but brute force.


    Those were his thoughts.


    He originally thought that Emperor Chong¡¯an would be furious, but he did not expect him to be amused.


    Instead of asking about the assassination attempt, the emperor asked how Shen Yijia scammed him of his money and what Song Jingchen¡¯s attitude was.


    Eunuch Deng choked and could only say tirelessly, ¡°I think Young Master Song has been blinded by beauty. He¡¯ll listen to whatever his wife says.¡±


    ¡°In the past half a month, Young Master Song has been guarding her every step of the way because his wife was suffering from seasickness. He doesn¡¯t even eat.¡±


    With that, he kowtowed a few more times and wailed, ¡°Your Majesty, I thought I would never see you again!¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an glanced at him in a good mood. ¡°Aren¡¯t you thinking about my private treasury?¡±


    He said to Eunuch Li, ¡°Go and get a thousand taels of silver for him.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eunuch Li went out with a smile. When he passed Eunuch Deng, he even glanced at him disdainfully.


    Eunuch Deng thought to himself, ¡°I was too excited when I came in just now. Why didn¡¯t I notice my sworn enemy? I was indeed angered by that wretched girl.¡±


    ¡°I remember that the residence that belonged to the Hong family is still empty. Go tomorrow and say that I¡¯m giving it to him. Tell him to rest for two days before entering the palace to see me.¡±


    Eunuch Deng agreed and heard Emperor Chong¡¯an say, ¡°At the same time, return the money you owe others. You¡¯ve embarrassed me.¡±


    Eunuch Deng smiled awkwardly and left.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an twirled the jade ring in his hand and muttered, ¡°As a human being, I have to be greedy to not be afraid.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, Miss Ji has sent the medicinal pills.¡± An eunuch reported from outside the door.


    At night, Xuanyuan Ce lay on the bed with a piece of silver in his hand. His thoughts had long flown away.


    ¡°You¡¯re so good-looking. Isn¡¯t it a pity to die like this?¡±


    ¡°Handsome, it¡¯s you. It¡¯s an emergency. I¡¯ll borrow your carriage, I need a place to hide.¡±


    ¡°Hey, handsome, we¡¯re really fated. I lost my money bag. Can you lend me some money?¡±


    ¡°Handsome, why are you so petty?¡±


    ¡°I just accidentally watched you take a shower. Is there a need to hunt me down for so many days?¡±


    ¡°At most, I¡¯ll let you look at me as compensation. Neither of us will suffer a loss!¡±


    ¡°Handsome, you look so good when you smile.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, are you really going to marry this woman?¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, let me ask you one last time. Do you really want to enter that bridal chamber?¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, you¡¯ll regret it. You¡¯ll definitely regret it!¡±

 Chapter 388 - 388 Preposterous (1)

    388 Preposterous (1)


    Shen Yijia was thinking about finding a house. In addition, it was too hot to sleep, so she woke up early.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen woke up earlier than her. Shen Yijia suspected that he had not slept the entire night.


    The breakfast was laid out in Madam Li¡¯s room. Song Jingchen had gone out to buy it.


    There were more than ten meat buns and pickled vegetables. In addition, the inn cooked a pot of porridge.


    Madam Li picked up a bun and took a small bite. She paused. ¡°Did you buy it from the shop in Cat¡¯s Alley?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded indifferently and picked a meat bun for Shen Yijia. ¡°I think Jiajia will like it.¡±


    ¡°It still tastes the same.¡± Madam Li asked Shen Yijia to try it quickly. Cat Alley was in the south of the city, far from this area.


    Shen Yijia looked at Madam Li and then at Song Jingchen. She picked up the bun and took a big bite. The soft filling inside flowed into her hand.


    However, she couldn¡¯t care less. Her eyes lit up and she said in a muffled voice, ¡°It¡¯s delicious!¡±


    The meat was fresh and juicy, not dry at all.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth curled up slightly. He remembered that the first time he ate it, it was also like this.


    Seeing her like this, the children laughed impolitely and reached out to take it themselves.


    With Shen Yijia¡¯s example, they ate much more carefully.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡¯s movements were unprecedentedly consistent. It was as if they had practiced it countless times. They first took a small bite of the bun. After finishing the filling inside, they opened the bun and finished the meat inside in small bites. They habitually held the crust before them, intending to pass it to Madam Li.


    Madam Li was sitting opposite them. The three of them were stunned.


    Madam Li reached out with a trembling hand, but a hand grabbed it faster than her.


    Song Jingchen placed the crust in his bowl and looked at the two of them in disdain. ¡°Eat the crust yourself in the future.¡±


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan looked at each other and quickly went to Song Jingchen¡¯s bowl to bring back the crust.


    This small episode passed just like that. No one took it to heart. Shen Yijia roughly guessed something, but she did not ask further.


    After breakfast, she packed up and prepared to go house hunting. Shen Yijia still had 2,000 taels of silver on her. Madam Li took out the 50 taels of silver she had saved.


    Rooster and Mo Yuan stayed back to guard the kids. Unexpectedly, the three of them did not need to leave the inn.


    Eunuch Deng arrived and said with a fake smile, ¡°Young Master Song, why did you move to a different inn? It wasn¡¯t easy to find you.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. This person was really stubborn. She sneered. ¡°Why? Is Eunuch Deng here to return the money?¡±


    Eunuch Deng choked and glanced at the people he had brought. He coughed dryly and said, ¡°His Majesty specially rewarded you with a residence because he thought that you had nowhere to stay.¡±


    ¡°So you¡¯re not going to return my money?¡± Was he afraid that others would find out? Shen Yijia brought it up on purpose.


    Eunuch Deng prided himself on being someone close to Emperor Chong¡¯an, and he usually cared about his reputation. He was so angry that his chest heaved. He waved his hand to get the people behind him to retreat.


    She leaned in front of Shen Yijia and said with a bitter expression, ¡°Madam, can you spare a thought for my reputation? I brought the money today. I¡¯ll return it to you later, okay?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Shen Yijia stopped while she was ahead.


    Song Jingchen looked at her in amusement and asked, ¡°His Majesty rewarded us with a residence?¡±


    Eunuch Deng subconsciously wanted to raise his chin, but Shen Yijia glanced at him and he immediately shrank back. He smiled until his face was covered in wrinkles. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s at Liu¡¯er Street. It¡¯s the residence of the former Minister of Revenue, Lord Hong.¡±


    ¡°Which Lord Hong? Hong Jianzhang?¡± Shen Yijia frowned.


    Wasn¡¯t that the dog official who had appeared to testify against Shangguan Han and was killed by his beautiful husband in Anyang County?


    Eunuch Deng also remembered the grudge between the two families. He smiled awkwardly and nodded. He said weakly, ¡°Coincidentally, that place is empty. This¡­¡±


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go,¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him.


    Shen Yijia felt a little unlucky. She puffed up her cheeks and looked unwilling.


    Song Jingchen could tell what she was thinking and whispered, ¡°It¡¯s free. It¡¯s a waste not to stay there.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. That made sense!


    There was no need to look for a house anymore. Brother Hao and the others did not have to wait here. They checked out of the inn and hired a carriage to go to Liu¡¯er Street.


    Liu¡¯er Street was also called Official Street because most of the imperial officials lived in this area.


    It was divided into front alleys and back alleys. The two residences in front and behind were back to back, the kind that opened doors in two different directions.


    In the capital, if one wanted to know if an official held a high position, they could basically guess based on the location of their residence.


    For example, the Grand Duke¡¯s residence was on Xuanwu Street, while the royal family was on Vermillion Bird Street, which was closer to the palace.

 Chapter 389 - 389 Preposterous (2)

    389 Preposterous (2)


    In short, the closer one was to the palace, the higher their status.


    Liu¡¯er Street was neither far nor near.


    The minister was at the second rank. Under normal circumstances, he could have moved in.


    However, Hong Jianzhang was only a Hanlin in the beginning and was not from the capital.


    Even if he relied on the Yue family to climb up, his foundation was there. Even if he had money, he did not dare to move to a better location.


    The residences inside were so expensive, and the salary of the officials was transparent, especially since he was in a sensitive position like the Ministry of Revenue. If he moved, it would be equivalent to telling others that he was corrupt.


    There were countless people watching him in the court. If he didn¡¯t want to be investigated, he could only hide in Liu¡¯er Street.


    He was hoping that one day, Emperor Chong¡¯an would be happy and reward him with a house. Unfortunately, he did not manage to wait until that day.


    However, he was not someone who would suffer. At first, he bought a two-in-one residence.


    Later on, when he became the Minister of Revenue, he bought the house next door and removed the middle wall to create a three-in-one house.


    His salary was enough to buy a residence. No one would be able to call him out for any wrongdoings.


    The residence was even larger than Shen Yijia had imagined.


    Inside was a large courtyard. There was a row of rooms on the right, a kitchen, and a well beside the kitchen.


    There was a study on the left and an adjacent room. In the middle was a greenish-gray stone path that led straight to the main hall.


    From the left, they passed through the weeping flower door and entered the inner courtyard. There were corridors on three sides. There were rows of bamboo planted outside the corridor, and the courtyard was filled with rock arrangements.


    Doors opened on both sides, leading to a small courtyard. In the middle was the main courtyard, and each courtyard had its own small kitchen and well.


    A pomegranate tree was planted in the east courtyard, covered in fruits that were gradually turning ripe.


    There was a cinnamon tree planted in the west courtyard.


    There was a small garden in the third entrance. There was a small building in the last row. There was a well in front of the house that could be used to wash clothes. There was also a way to dry clothes beside it.


    The original gate became a back door.


    There were so many rooms that they could each have a room. Putting aside whose house this was previously, Shen Yijia was simply too surprised.


    Most importantly, it was free!


    Eunuch Deng dutifully brought his men around and returned the money he owed Shen Yijia before leaving. In total, it was 511 taels of silver.


    The house had been unoccupied for too long. Moreover, it had been a little messy when he raided the house back then. He felt that if he stayed, he would definitely be instructed by someone to clean up the house.


    Even if it was just instructing the people he brought to work, he was unwilling. They wouldn¡¯t pay him anyway.


    Shen Yijia was in a good mood. She did not think about that for the time being.


    The garden had been neglected for too long and was already overgrown with weeds. She was prepared to turn this place over to plant vegetables. In the courtyard, she moved the fake boulders for Brother Hao and the others to practice martial arts.


    As soon as she thought about it, the entire family agreed.


    Looking at the smiling faces, Song Jingchen sighed. Emperor Chong¡¯an had finally done something human.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an probably didn¡¯t realize that to Song Jingchen, he had become such an unscrupulous person. Just because he saved money on renting a house, he actually thought that Emperor Chong¡¯an was acting like a human.


    The house was big, but it was really troublesome to clean up. The furniture inside was complete and there was a lot of dust. Shen Yijia had no choice but to get Rooster to call Pinellia and the others over to clean up.


    It took them a day to clean up the house they wanted to stay in.


    She even bought steamed buns from outside for lunch and dinner.


    After cleaning up, the beds and blankets were still in the carriage. They could only buy ready-made ones first. There was a market not far from Liu¡¯er Street.


    However, Shen Yijia only wanted to use it for a few days, so she bought the cheapest ones.


    There weren¡¯t many rules at home. It was similar to Xiagou Village. Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia lived in the east courtyard. Madam Li said that pomegranates were a blessing for couples to have many children.


    Because of the misunderstanding in Xiagou Village, she had no idea that the two of them had yet to consummate their marriage.


    Brother Hao and the other two boys stayed in the west courtyard, while Madam Li stayed in the main courtyard with Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao.


    Rooster and the others could stay in a room in the front courtyard. Mo Yuan lived in the back courtyard.


    Summer in the capital was much hotter than in Xiagou Village. Shen Yijia secretly took a cold shower. Just as she returned to the house, she was covered in sweat again.


    Therefore, when Song Jingchen entered the inner room after taking a shower, he saw Shen Yijia naked. She was only wearing her undergarments.


    One couldn¡¯t even call it proper undergarments anymore, because Shen Yijia found a pair of scissors from somewhere and cut off the legs of the pants, revealing her thighs.

 Chapter 390 - 390 Preposterous (3)

    390 Preposterous (3)


    She lay there with her legs crossed, fanning herself with a fan.


    Song Jingchen was stunned on the spot. The weather was already hot, so he felt even hotter.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia saw him and waved at him.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and walked over.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes sparkled. She took out a pair of shorts from under her pillow and showed them to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. ¡°Isn¡¯t this mine?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Shen Yijia stuffed the shorts into his hands. ¡°Hurry up and change. You¡¯ll feel cooler wearing these.¡±


    As she spoke, she kicked her legs and glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s pants in disdain.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. This was outrageous!


    Suddenly thinking of something, he gritted his teeth and asked, ¡°You cut your underwear like this. How are you going to wear it tomorrow?¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and said indifferently, ¡°Don¡¯t we still have outer layers of pants and dresses?¡±


    If not for the fact that she was afraid that Song Jingchen would explode, she would have said that he could also wear a dress.


    However, she didn¡¯t know that Song Jingchen had already exploded. He was afraid that if he continued watching, he would get punished on the spot.


    Ignoring the fact that her underwear was a woman¡¯s personal item, he went to the outer room and rummaged through the bag.


    Based on the number of clothes they brought, apart from what she was wearing, he remembered that Shen Yijia should still have a set of clean clothes.


    Shen Yijia followed behind him and watched as he rummaged through her clothes. She blinked and ran back to the inner room. Soon, she ran out again. ¡°Are you looking for this?¡±


    She was still holding a pair of cut underwear, but it wasn¡¯t Song Jingchen¡¯s. It was her own.


    She wanted to save some effort, so she cut all three pairs at once.


    Fortunately, Song Jingchen took his clothes with him when he went to take a shower. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to protect his clothes.


    When Song Jingchen saw this, the corners of his mouth twitched. This girl was really ruthless when she set her mind to it.


    Glancing down at her almost naked body, Song Jingchen closed his eyes a few times and took a deep breath. He gritted his teeth and snatched the underwear from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. He threw it on the table and picked her up by the waist. ¡°You asked for it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused. ¡°What?¡±


    Shen Yijia was so tired that she fell asleep. Song Jingchen helped her clean up guiltily and helped her put on her undergarments. When he put them on, he fell silent.


    These cut undergarments were not bad, but they could only be worn when they were sleeping!


    In order to prevent this girl from going out tomorrow in such underwear, he went to the bathroom and took the clothes Shen Yijia had just changed out of to the courtyard.


    The weather was so hot. If he washed them now, it would be dry in the morning.


    The next day, Shen Yijia woke up late. When she opened her eyes, she saw Song Jingchen sitting at the side, fanning her.


    The scenes from last night replayed in her mind. He coughed lightly and asked, ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted and muttered to herself.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and said after a while, ¡°I bought buns. Go and wash up before eating breakfast.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Is it from the same shop?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She got up and noticed that she was wearing long pants. She pursed her lips and did not dare to have any objections.


    Actually, ever since her spiritual liquid increased by three levels, her recovery ability was different from ordinary people.


    However, she liked it when Song Jingchen took care of her. She didn¡¯t even eat breakfast and let Song Jingchen feed her.


    She was extremely unreasonable.


    The two of them had just finished breakfast when Lin Shao¡¯s voice sounded from outside. ¡°Brother Song, the person who came to our house previously is here.¡±


    He was referring to the people in Xiagou Village who had been to their house and were now in the capital.


    Shen Yijia immediately thought of the man who always had a warm smile on his face.


    She did not guess Xiao Ruoshui because Lin Shao and the others knew her and would not call her ¡°that person¡±.


    Song Jingchen had clearly guessed it. He rubbed her head. ¡°If you¡¯re still tired, rest for a while.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll help Mother and the others clean up the courtyard.¡±


    She had heard the commotion outside the small courtyard just now.

 Chapter 391 - 391 Entering the Palace (1)

    391 Entering the Palace (1)


    In the front courtyard, two extraordinary-looking men sat opposite each other. There was a chessboard on the stone table.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t bring anyone to the study or the main hall because they hadn¡¯t packed up yet.


    He would never bring the person to the back yard.


    He even asked Rooster to wipe the stone table and stool at the last minute.


    There was no shade nearby, so it was obvious how hot it was. However, the two of them did not feel it. They were focused on the chessboard.


    Rooster, who was guarding at the side, suffered. His face was red from the sun. If this continued, he suspected that he would become a roasted chicken.


    When Shangguan Yu saw Song Jingchen, he smiled and said, ¡°Let¡¯s have a match?¡±


    As if guessing that there was nothing here, he came with a chessboard.


    Immediately after, the two of them sat down in the courtyard. Almost an hour had passed, and neither of them spoke again.


    With a thud, Song Jingchen placed a black chess piece between his slender fingers.


    Shangguan Yu paused and threw the white piece back into the chess bowl. He shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s really difficult to win a round against you.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It¡¯s not like you¡¯ve never won before.¡±


    The two of them used to play chess together for long periods of time.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. In the past, I could win because I could more or less guess your plans. Now, I really don¡¯t understand. It¡¯ll be difficult to win in the future.¡± Shangguan Yu smiled and sighed.


    Then, he thought of something and the smile on his face disappeared. He waved his hand to dismiss Lianshan, who was also turning red from the sun.


    He wanted to talk to Song Jingchen alone.


    After Lianshan left, Rooster did not move. He looked at his master.


    After Song Jingchen nodded slightly, he walked under the porch. He couldn¡¯t hear their conversation, but he could see their actions.


    He stared fixedly at the two people in the courtyard, as if he was afraid that his master would suffer.


    Lianshan rolled his eyes. He was the one who was nervous.


    Everyone in the capital knew that Young Master Song was skilled, but his lord was a weak person.


    ¡°Actually, I didn¡¯t expect you to come back.¡± Shangguan Yu looked at Song Jingchen seriously.


    Song Jingchen played with a chess piece in his hand. Hearing this, the corners of his mouth curled up. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to come back this way.¡±


    He didn¡¯t expect to return this way. He did expect to return eventually, though.


    The kidnapping of the girls in Xunyang City gave him an opportunity. Otherwise, he would not have let Emperor Chong¡¯an know that his legs had recovered so quickly.


    This was also the reason why West Wind pretended to be him to hide from the people sent by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Shangguan Yu didn¡¯t seem to understand what he meant. He looked worried. ¡°I¡¯m just worried that Father¡­¡±


    Halfway through, he stopped. ¡°Forget it. It¡¯s good that you¡¯re back.¡±


    He looked at Lianshan. Lianshan understood and immediately ran out. Soon, he returned with a wine jar.


    The chessboard was put away, and a jar of wine was placed on the stone table.


    Shangguan Yu pushed the wine jar between the two of them and knocked on the table with his fingers. ¡°I haven¡¯t congratulated you on the recovery of your legs. Why didn¡¯t you write me a letter? I¡¯ve been worried for nothing.¡±


    ¡°I specially brought your favorite General¡¯s Wine today. You have to drink with me.¡±


    ¡°I will.¡±


    Actually, Song Jingchen did not like to drink. It was just that back then, he was young and ambitious. He always felt that he had to add good wine to the occasion.


    Coincidentally, at that time, Shangguan Han had secretly run out of the palace and brought a jar of General¡¯s Wine to look for him. When he heard the name of this wine, he felt that it suited Song Jingchen.


    Therefore, from then on, Song Jingchen would only get drunk on General¡¯s Wine. Many others had the same thoughts as Shangguan Yu, even Song Jingchen almost mistakenly believed that he liked this wine.


    Because of Song Jingchen, General¡¯s Wine went from an unknown wine to the target of everyone¡¯s craze. At one point, it was speculated to the point that it was priceless.


    Shangguan Yu had clearly thought of the effect of the person in front of him on this wine. He smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s not easy to buy this jar of wine now.¡±


    After removing the seal on the wine jar, a rich wine fragrance wafted out.


    Shangguan Yu took a sip before handing the wine jar to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen took it and took a big sip. It looked much more heroic than Shangguan Yu¡¯s actions.


    Even Rooster could tell that his master was in a good mood today. The corners of his mouth curled up slightly.


    As for the reason?


    Rooster was sure that his master was not like this yesterday. Could it be that his mood improved because he had a beautiful dream last night?


    In the backyard, Shen Yijia was sweeping up the bamboo leaves that had fallen to the ground in the courtyard. She planned to gather them in the kitchen later and use them to start a fire.

 Chapter 392 - 392 Entering the Palace (2)

    392 Entering the Palace (2)


    The others, including Brother Hao and Sister Huan, did not stay idle. They plucked the weeds and swept the floor.


    Four of Pinellia¡¯s five people slept here yesterday, and only Wolfiporia went back to guard the shop.


    With more than ten people working together, it was much faster when cleaning up.


    When Song Jingchen brought Rooster in, the backyard had already changed drastically.


    He walked over and helped Shen Yijia put the fallen leaves into a sack. Shen Yijia twitched her nose. ¡°Have you been drinking?¡±


    !!


    There was nothing to hide. Song Jingchen nodded honestly. ¡°I drank a little.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°How did he know we lived here?¡±


    Because Shangguan Yu was good-looking, she had a deep impression of him.


    Song Jingchen reached out to help her remove a bamboo leaf from her head in amusement and took out a handkerchief to wipe her sweat. ¡°It¡¯s not a secret that we entered the capital. Besides, it¡¯s impossible for no one to know that Emperor Chong¡¯an rewarded us with a residence.¡±


    ¡°Oh, then why is he here?¡± Shen Yijia looked up to make it easier for him to move.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Song Jingchen smiled and said, ¡°It would be strange if he didn¡¯t come.¡±


    After eating steamed buns for the entire day yesterday, she could not continue to make do today. Shen Yijia asked Pinellia to pack a few dishes from outside.


    After eating, they rested for a while. When night fell, they finally tidied up the residence. Banxia and the others returned to the wine shop.


    The next morning, the family went to buy pots and pans. The capital was not like Xiagou Village, where people could go up the mountain to cut firewood themselves. They had to buy everything here.


    Moreover, firewood was not cheap. A bundle of firewood cost 20 copper coins. Previously, Shen Yijia had seen someone selling firewood in Anyang County and asked curiously. It only cost 10 copper coins a bundle. It could be seen how expensive the prices in the capital were.


    There were many people at home. Shen Yijia bought ten bundles and decided to get the vendor to send firewood to her house every ten days.


    In winter, they still had to buy coal. That thing was even more expensive and was divided into several types. Shen Yijia thought about the money she would need to spend and felt that earning money was an urgent goal.


    She didn¡¯t need coal now, but she could use ice. When she asked about the price, Shen Yijia was speechless. One piece of ice cost one tael of silver.


    The appraisal was completed. It was something she couldn¡¯t afford to use.


    However, when she turned around and saw the yearning expressions of Brother Hao and the others, she gritted her teeth and spent a hundred taels of silver.


    Shen Yijia comforted herself. She could earn money, but it wouldn¡¯t be good if anyone fell sick from the heat.


    There were ice cellars in the house. They placed the ice cubes in the ice cellar and took one out when they needed it. They placed it in a basin or in the room. It could lower the temperature.


    Shen Yijia estimated that they should be able to use these for half a month if they used them sparingly.


    It would take at least a month or two for the temperature to drop. It would cost 200 taels of silver a month to use ice.


    She had to earn money!


    Song Jingchen saw her pain and gave Shen Yijia 200 taels of silver in less than two days.


    ¡°Where did you get this money?¡± Shen Yijia looked surprised as she held the banknotes. She was still vexed about how to earn money, but this person was silently making a fortune.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°The Fall Quarter Examinations are coming soon. I made two reference books to sell.¡±


    Actually, ordinary notes could not be sold for so much money, but who was he? He was the heir of the Song family who could make a wine into a priceless good.


    Even though he was nothing now, his knowledge was still there. Even the current Great Confucian King, Yang Ming, had praised him.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t do anything else. He just took two books to the largest bookstore in the capital.


    At first, he did not show his face and asked Rooster to bring it in. He asked Rooster to sell it for ten taels of silver each. The shopkeeper of the bookstore thought that Rooster had gone crazy and chased him out.


    Then, at the door of the bookstore, Rooster complained to Song Jingchen angrily that the shopkeeper of the bookstore was blind. His master¡¯s notes were so difficult to come by.


    When the passing students heard his bragging, they sized up the master and servant in disdain. One of them recognized Song Jingchen.


    Word spread like wildfire. After fighting for these two books, they were finally sold for 100 taels of silver each.


    One was bought by the second son of the second branch of the Duke of Xuanping¡¯s residence, who was also the cousin of the Third Prince, Shangguan Heng. The other was given to the son of another minister.


    A book cost 100 taels of silver. People without status really couldn¡¯t afford it. Even if they could afford it, it depended on whether their father¡¯s official status was as high as his.


    Not to mention how regretful the shopkeeper of the bookstore would be when he found out.

 Chapter 393 - 393 Entering the Palace (3)

    393 Entering the Palace (3)


    As soon as Luo Siyuan from Count Xuanping¡¯s residence received the book, he rushed home and found his cousin. ¡°Second Brother, look what I bought.¡±


    Putting aside the daughters of Count Xuanping, he had three sons. He had one legitimate son and two sons from his concubine. After his second son got married, the son moved out.


    Currently, only his eldest son and youngest son lived in the residence. His eldest son was the Minister of Works, but his youngest son was only a fifth-grade Hanlin Academy attendant.


    The second brother Luo Siyuan was talking about was Minister Luo¡¯s legitimate son, Luo Sicheng. He was born a month younger than his brother, Luo Siming, and was ranked second in the residence.


    Luo Siming and Luo Sicheng were the same age as Song Jingchen and were once classmates.


    Unlike Luo Siming, who was ignorant and incompetent, Luo Sicheng was the kind of child that seemed like he came from another family. He was the one who won the Fall Quarter Examinations.


    However, with Song Jingchen around, he did not shine as brightly.


    In fact, for nobles like them, participating in the imperial examination was just icing on the cake.


    However, the more outstanding a person was, the stronger their competitiveness. He had always wanted to surpass Song Jingchen, but he didn¡¯t expect something to happen to the Song family before he could do so.


    Later on, even though he had won the first place in the Huiyuan Academy one after another, he could often hear people sigh. Unfortunately, something had happened to the Song family. Otherwise, Song Jingchen would definitely have been the best.


    Luo Sicheng had never liked the two cousins of the third branch. One was idle, and the other was noisy all day, but he never showed it.


    For example, at this moment, because of Luo Siyuan¡¯s sudden intrusion, the painting he had been drawing for the entire day had become ruined.


    He was angry, but there was a gentle smile on his face. ¡°Oh? Did you snatch another famous calligraphy treasure?¡±


    Luo Siyuan admired his brother very much. Usually, if there was anything good or a problem, he would look for him immediately.


    Of course, he was the one who was doted on by their grandfather the most.


    However, Luo Siyuan also understood that his brother was outstanding. He was envious, but not jealous. He only wanted to become as outstanding as Luo Sicheng.


    As for his own blood-related brother? There was no need to mention him.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t a famous calligraphy piece. It¡¯s an annotation written by Young Master Song.¡± Luo Siyuan was so excited that his face turned red. His second brother was already very skilled. Young Master Song, who was even more skilled than him, was even more impressive.


    He actually only used a hundred taels to obtain an annotation he had written. How could he not be excited?


    He was only thirteen years old when the Song family got into trouble, but that didn¡¯t stop him from often hearing about Song Jingchen¡¯s legends in the academy.


    Therefore, in his heart, Song Jingchen was first, and his second brother was second!


    Luo Sicheng paused. He often saw this expression on his fifth brother¡¯s face, but it was only when he read his essays or paintings.


    Now, it was because of someone he had never seen before?


    He could not help but recall that this kind of thing often happened in the academy.


    That¡¯s right. A few days ago, he heard that that person had returned.


    He suppressed the displeasure in his heart and smiled. ¡°Then you have to take a good look. In the past, he never sold his calligraphy treasures. It seems that he¡¯s indeed not doing well now.¡±


    Luo Siyuan did not hear anything wrong with these words and nodded in agreement. ¡°It¡¯s indeed rare.¡±


    After saying that, he was a little angry. ¡°The shopkeeper of that bookstore was blind. Young Master Song wanted to sell it to him for ten taels of silver, but he didn¡¯t accept it. He even chased him out. To think that we recognized him.¡±


    When Luo Sicheng heard what happened to Song Jingchen, he sneered in his heart and asked curiously, ¡°Then how much money did you spend to buy it?¡±


    ¡°A hundred taels! It was originally a higher price, but Young Master Song said to treat it as making a few friends. The highest price is a hundred taels.¡±


    Seeing this fool¡¯s expression, Luo Sicheng was furious. Young Master Song was really a good person.


    Not only did the news of Song Jingchen selling books spread among the students, but even Emperor Chong¡¯an heard the news.


    While he hated Song Jingchen¡¯s influence, he was also very satisfied with his poor situation. He was conflicted.


    Just as he was about to fall asleep, he suddenly instructed Eunuch Li, ¡°Ask him to enter the palace to see me tomorrow.¡±


    Shen Yijia was also very happy, but she thought about it. She had agreed to support her beautiful husband. How could she let her beautiful husband support her?


    Hence, she felt even more anxious to earn money.


    The next day, Eunuch Li came to bring Song Jingchen into the palace. Shen Yijia was a little worried, but she knew that she couldn¡¯t go with him.


    She was about to go out and see if she could find a way to earn money when Thirty Thousand arrived.


    Eunuch Deng¡¯s men helped drive a carriage. When the two carriages entered the residence, he said, ¡°Young Madam, go and take a look. Furball refuses to leave until it sees you.¡±


    South Wind was still guarding it at the foot of Hidden Spirit Temple. They had no choice but to guard it. It would catch up to them soon after their carriage left.


    South Wind and Thirty Thousand guessed that it wanted to see Young Madam, so they asked Thirty Thousand to come back first.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. After getting someone to unload the things in a carriage, she left the city with Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand.


    Thirty Thousand led the way, while Mo Yuan insisted on following her.


    At the back mountain of the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Xuanyuan Ce was fishing in the pond with a fishing rod. The abbot beside him felt sorry and helpless as he chanted Amitabha.


    He only hoped that these fish would be smarter and not fall for this fellow¡¯s trap.

 Chapter 394 - 394 What Happened Back Then (1)

    394 What Happened Back Then (1)


    Unfortunately, they were destined to disappoint the abbot. These fish in the free-range pool lived a life of being fed every day. Not only were they fat, but they were also useless. They were not alert at all.


    When they saw the food, they pounced on it. Soon, there was movement below.


    In less than 15 minutes, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s fish basket was filled with lively fish.


    Xuanyuan Ce ignored the fish that jumped out of the fish basket and let them jump on the ground.


    The abbot¡¯s eyelids twitched as he watched. He pressed his palms together and chanted, ¡°Amitabha. Donor Xuanyuan should know when to stop.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said coldly.


    He did not even look up. He picked up the fishing rod and took off the stupid fish from the hook. He casually threw it into the fish basket, replaced it with a new bait, and continued fishing. ¡°I only know that if you don¡¯t say it now, you really won¡¯t be able to keep the fish in your pool.¡±


    With that, he handed the fishing rod to Chu Feng and gestured for him to continue fishing. He stood up and picked up the fish from the ground.


    Firewood had already been piled up beside him. Xuanyuan Ce took out his dagger and pretended to kill the fish.


    ¡°Amitabha.¡± The abbot sighed and compromised. ¡°What do you want to know?¡±


    The abbot regretted it very much now. A while ago, his right eyelid twitched. He knew that nothing good would happen. If he had known that this fellow was coming, he would have gone out to hide.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s dagger was already pressed against the stupid fish¡¯s stomach. Hearing this, he paused and looked up at the abbot. ¡°She¡¯s been here, right?¡±


    The abbot sighed and walked forward to save the fish in his hand. He threw it into the replay pool and looked in the direction of the fish. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart tightened. He opened and closed his mouth for a long time before he found his voice. ¡°When?¡±


    It had been 17 years. This was the first time he had heard news about her from someone else.


    The abbot glanced at him and said irresponsibly, ¡°I forgot.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°Chu Feng, kill the fish.¡±


    The abbot was furious. He exhaled and said, ¡°It¡¯s too hot here. I¡¯m a little dizzy from the sun. I might remember it after resting elsewhere.¡±


    ¡°You can run away, but these fish can¡¯t.¡± Xuanyuan Ce threatened and instructed, ¡°Put the fish back.¡±


    Chu Feng poured the fish back into the pool and muttered, ¡°Fish, you¡¯ve learned from your mistakes. Be more careful next time. Treat this time ashore as a trip to broaden your horizons.¡±


    Seeing that the two of them had walked away, he quickly shut up and followed.


    Not far from the pond was a pavilion for people to rest. Bamboo was planted around the pavilion, and the bamboo forest formed a natural barrier that blocked outsiders from peeping.


    Chu Feng followed him in. Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand. ¡°Go find a shady place.¡±


    In other words, he wanted him to wait somewhere else.


    Chu Feng was silent. He flew up and jumped onto a big tree.


    The wind rustled the leaves. He nodded in satisfaction. It was cooler here!


    Only then did Xuanyuan Ce look at the abbot. ¡°Do you remember?¡±


    The abbot coughed lightly. ¡°Seventeen years ago.¡±


    Without waiting for Xuanyuan Ce to ask, he continued, ¡°She left after staying for more than half a year. I never saw her again.¡±


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you say anything in your reply when I sent you a letter back then?¡± Xuanyuan Ce suddenly stood up and looked at the abbot. His entire body was covered in frost, like a cold sword.


    The first person she got to know in this world was Xuanyuan Ce, and the second was this old bald man in front of him.


    The two of them were the only people she trusted.


    It was precisely because he knew this that he immediately sent a letter to this person after she disappeared. However, this person¡¯s reply to him contained nothing useful.


    In fact, every year in the future, he would write to this person and ask her if she had come, but he would reply that she had not.


    Including the letter from the beginning of the year, he had received a total of seventeen letters with the word ¡°no¡±.


    Now, this abbot was telling him that she had lived here for more than half a year.


    Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes and sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t you often say that your family doesn¡¯t lie?¡±


    If he didn¡¯t believe in the abbot, he wouldn¡¯t have believed his words so easily.


    The abbot looked at Xuanyuan Ce, who was on the verge of exploding, as if he was looking at a fool. He sighed and said, ¡°What I meant was that I couldn¡¯t do anything about it.¡±


    ¡°That woman is my savior. If she doesn¡¯t allow me to say it, I naturally won¡¯t say it. I have no choice.¡±


    The abbot was just short of saying directly, ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s stupid and can¡¯t understand. Are you blaming me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce choked. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say that you made something out of nothing?¡±


    The abbot looked at him strangely. ¡°Aren¡¯t they all the same word?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that I was the one who found the medicine when she saved you, so she¡¯s not your only benefactor.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I hinted to you. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t have replied to you.¡±


    The abbot said it matter-of-factly. Xuanyuan Ce was so angry that he almost stomped his feet. If the abbot did not reply, he would have felt that something was wrong and personally made a trip to Great Xia, but this person replied.


    And the reply simply contained the word, ¡°no.¡±


    The abbot could tell what he was thinking. He looked elsewhere guiltily and said generously, ¡°After so many years, I didn¡¯t expect to break my promise to my benefactor in the end.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. I already have one foot in the coffin. If you want to know anything else, ask.¡±


    In any case, his benefactor did not tell him where she went. He would not know even if Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    He had a plan, but he did not expect Xuanyuan Ce to ask something else.


    ¡°When you saw her, was she pregnant?¡± Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s voice trembled.


    He only found out about her pregnancy from a doctor by accident later.


    Now that she thought about it, the reason why she stayed here for so long back then was probably to recuperate.


    The abbot was shocked. His thoughts could not help but fly back to 17 years ago.


    That April, it rained heavily. There were relatively fewer incense offerings at Hidden Spirit Temple, so they closed the temple early.


    One night, a woman covered in injuries suddenly collapsed outside his meditation room.


    After recognizing her, he quickly wanted to call someone to look for a doctor, but that person grabbed his robe tightly. ¡°Don¡¯t¡­ don¡¯t let anyone know that I¡¯m here. Protect the child in my stomach.¡±


    Chu Feng leaned against the tree trunk in boredom and closed his eyes to rest. A bug flew around his face. He reached out to wave it away a few times, but he couldn¡¯t. He opened his eyes in frustration, wanting to catch that hateful bug.


    As soon as he opened his eyes, his mouth instantly widened. He didn¡¯t react until the bug flew into his mouth.


    After spitting twice, he looked in the direction of the pond in disbelief again.


    The fire he had piled up there to scare the abbot had already been lit. There was a long string of fish on the fire.


    A petite figure was squatting by the pool, killing fish and removing their scales. Beside her sat a big tiger.


    Chu Feng felt that his eyes must be playing tricks on him. Otherwise, who else would be so bold as to catch fish in the Hidden Spirit Temple¡¯s pond?


    No, that person was even bolder than his lord. His lord had just caught a fish and had yet to kill it.


    He rubbed his eyes and looked again. The fire was still there, along with the fish on it, and the fish-killer.


    He was sure that he was not seeing things!

 Chapter 395 - 395 What Happened Back Then (2)

    395 What Happened Back Then (2)


    That person wasn¡¯t facing him. Chu Feng could only see his side profile, but he felt that it was a little familiar.


    Of course, this was not the main point. The main point was that the fish clearly did not listen to him.


    The person put aside the cleaned fish and casually grabbed the fish food they had left there and scattered it into the pool. The stupid fish rushed over.


    The person quickly scooped it up and a fish appeared in her hand. With a raise of her hand and a slash, the fish¡¯s stomach was cut open. Her entire movement was smooth without any hesitation.


    Chu Feng¡¯s eyes widened.


    The two people in the pavilion were still talking, unaware that the fish in the pond were suffering from a disaster.


    ¡°There¡¯s no time.¡± The abbot sighed again. ¡°She kept saying that there was no time. I asked her what she meant, but she was unwilling to say.¡±


    ¡°Our benefactor forcefully drank a bowl of growth medicine and gave birth a month earlier than expected.¡±


    ¡°I remember that it was the 13th of September. My benefactor didn¡¯t let me hire a midwife.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, you¡¯ll regret it. You¡¯ll definitely regret it!¡±


    The abbot was still recounting what had happened back then when words that had tortured him for seventeen years suddenly sounded in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mind.


    What did he say back then?


    ¡°Ji Luo, today is my big day. Don¡¯t pester me endlessly.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already agreed with the Princess Consort that after she returns in three days, I¡¯ll welcome you as a concubine. At that time, the two of you will¡­¡±


    A slap sounded loudly.


    The response was a loud slap and the person¡¯s back view as she left without hesitation.


    From then on, that person seemed to have disappeared from the face of the earth.


    She appeared in the same way. He did not know where she came from, let alone where she went.


    All she left him was that slap and that determined back view.


    As the abbot recounted the dangers of Ji Luo¡¯s childbirth, Xuanyuan Ce felt his heart being grabbed by a large hand, so tightly that he almost couldn¡¯t breathe.


    A metallic taste rose in her throat.


    The abbot¡¯s gaze drifted away, but he had been paying attention to the change in his expression. Seeing him like this, a glint that should not have appeared on his face flashed across his eyes.


    He nodded in satisfaction and changed the topic. ¡°Fortunately, nothing went wrong. Our benefactor gave birth to a baby girl. That baby girl also has the same mark between her eyebrows as our benefactor.¡±


    He was a monk. How could he know so well how his benefactor gave birth?


    However, this fellow had betrayed his benefactor first. Just now, he had threatened him with the fish in the pond.


    If he didn¡¯t vent his anger, he wouldn¡¯t be the abbot of the temple for much longer.


    Therefore, he summarized the dangers that the women he had heard of might encounter in childbirth.


    Something about discovering that the fetus was in an improper position during delivery, giving birth for a day and a night, but the fetus¡¯s feet came out first. It was not easy for her to give birth, but she suffered a major hemorrhage.


    In short, the effect was better than he had imagined.


    The abbot chanted a Buddhist proclamation in his heart. ¡°Please don¡¯t blame my benefactor and Buddha.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat, and his face was pale, as if he had just given birth.


    He swallowed the taste of blood and clenched his fists. ¡°What about the child? Where did she go?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gone.¡± At the mention of this, the abbot looked worried. ¡°After the child was born, my benefactor didn¡¯t rest for a day. He brought the child out early and returned late all day.¡±


    After about a month, she returned alone.¡±


    ¡°I noticed that the mark between my benefactor¡¯s eyebrows was gone. She looked like she had been severely injured, so I asked her what had happened.¡±


    ¡°My benefactor only said that the child was missing before returning to the courtyard. However, I didn¡¯t expect her to burn down her courtyard that night, and I never saw her again after that.¡±


    Later on, a group of people found the temple. Only then did he know that his benefactor had returned that night to erase any traces of her life there.


    No wonder she didn¡¯t let him find a doctor. No wonder she had lived in the Hidden Spirit Temple for a year and never let the novices in the temple know of her existence.


    At most, she would walk around the back mountain occasionally. If anyone saw her, they would only treat her as a devotee who came to offer incense.


    She did not want to implicate Hidden Spirit Temple!


    Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes and tried his best to calm himself down. He analyzed the information he had obtained from the abbot.


    Someone was after her!


    The child was gone!


    She was skilled and knew how to use poison. What kind of person could force her to that extent?


    Xuanyuan Ce knew that he could not get anything else out of this abbot. He slowly stood up and prepared to leave.


    A wind blew past, causing the bamboo forest to rustle. At the same time, it brought with it¡­


    ¡°Wait.¡± The abbot suddenly shouted, ¡°Do you smell something?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce paused. He really did not want to talk to this person. He was angry that this person had hidden it from him back then, but he hated himself even more.


    However, the smell was too strong for him to ignore. He sniffed and subconsciously said, ¡°It seems to be the smell of fish being roasted.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a figure fell from the sky with a bang.


    Chu Feng stood on the tree and counted how many fish that person had killed. He was counting seriously when the abbot shouted, scaring him so much that he lost his balance and fell.


    Chu Feng got up and met two gazes. He rubbed his nose and felt inexplicably like he had been caught doing something bad.


    However, he wasn¡¯t the one catching the fish.


    ¡°Someone is roasting fish by the pond.¡± He exposed her without hesitation.


    The abbot¡¯s pupils constricted and he ran in the direction of the pond. His monk robes fluttered with the wind.


    How could someone who was so old have such speed?


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows and followed. He finally realized that the abbot was deliberately exaggerating the details of the pregnancy to scare him.


    However, even without those accidents, he knew that the woman had almost died during labor.


    If Ji Luo was still alive, she probably hated him to the core.


    Beside the release pool, Shen Yijia picked up a roasted black fish, tore off a piece of fish, and brought it to Furball¡¯s mouth. ¡°Hurry up and eat. I have to go down the mountain after eating.¡±


    She was afraid that Furball would not be used to a new environment, so she asked Mo Yuan and the other two to wait at the foot of the mountain. She rode Furball and accompanied it to walk around the mountains. They seemed to be patrolling their territory. As they walked, they discovered this pond.


    There was nothing strange about having a pond in the mountains. What was surprising was the densely packed fish in the pool. They were all very fat.


    Shen Yijia felt that they could not swim anymore.


    This was a pleasant surprise. She immediately decided to cook a delicious meal for Furball here and bring some home to make dried fish.


    While roasting the fish, she killed the fish at the same time. In the end, she was so happy that she forgot the time and burned the fish.


    Fortunately, it was only the outer layer.


    Furball shrank back. When it met Shen Yijia¡¯s caring gaze, it opened its mouth with tears in its eyes.


    It regretted it. Why did it have to see this person?


    ¡°Amitabha. How can we kill in the Buddhist Sect?¡± The abbot looked at the clean fish that had been skewered there and felt dizzy.


    Originally, there would be novices walking around the back mountain, but because of Xuanyuan Ce, he reminded them not to come to the back mountain for the next few days.


    Unexpectedly, this happened.

 Chapter 396 - 396 Good Reason (1)

    396 Good Reason (1)


    Shen Yijia looked up at the three people who had suddenly appeared. She had seen two of them before.


    She didn¡¯t recognize the older man.


    Seeing that they were all staring at her fish, she tilted her head. She understood.


    ¡°I roasted a little too much. If you want to eat it, take it yourself. However, those that haven¡¯t been roasted yet won¡¯t do. I want to bring them home for my husband,¡± Shen Yijia said generously as she pointed at the fish still on the fire.


    Although she discovered these fishes first, she didn¡¯t raise them.


    Anyone who saw it would get a share. It was not impossible for the three of them to share it with her, but she had to get a bigger portion.


    The abbot was so angry that he almost spat out a mouthful of blood.


    ¡°Listen, listen. Is this human language?¡± he thought.


    It was fine if she killed the fish in the pond at Hidden Spirit Temple, but she actually invited him, a monk, to eat fish!


    What was worse was that she wanted to pack some extra after eating!


    She had never seen such an arrogant person in his life. The last person who dared to treat him to meat was¡­


    The abbot wanted to see where this brat came from, but the more he looked at her, the more familiar she looked.


    He suddenly turned to look at Xuanyuan Ce. At first glance, the two of them looked identical, but on closer inspection, they did not look alike.


    The girl in front of him had a confused expression, while the one beside her had an annoying expression.


    Compared to the face in his memory, he realized that this girl was actually 50% similar to his benefactor!


    Actually, after not seeing her for more than ten years, he had almost forgotten what his benefactor looked like. However, when he saw this girl, her blurry face suddenly became clear.


    His gaze paused between Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows. He shook his head and muttered, ¡°No, it¡¯s not her.¡±


    The baby girl was born with a birthmark between her eyebrows. He would not remember wrongly.


    Seeing that the abbot was so angry, Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°As expected, I¡¯ll return the favor.¡±


    Just now, Xuanyuan Ce was angry at the abbot, but now, a girl had jumped out to anger the abbot instead.


    Hearing this whisper, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes darkened. He knew that the abbot had mistaken this person for Ji Luo at first glance.


    Over the past few days, he had asked Chu Feng to investigate. The man who was with this girl at the docks that day was Young Master Shenzhi, who was famous in Xunyang City. At the same time, he was Song Jingchen, who had become famous since he was young.


    If he was not wrong, this girl was the person Xuanyuan Ziming had mentioned in his letter. She looked very similar to the person in the portrait.


    He had drawn that painting based on his memory, and that brat had accidentally seen it.


    Although no one dared to mention what had happened back then, as a prince, it was naturally not difficult for Xuanyuan Ziming to find out something.


    He almost made a mistake at first glance. That brat had only taken a glance at the portrait, so it was normal for him to see wrongly.


    However, this was not a reason for him to deceive him into returning to Phoenix City. If not for the fact that he had gained something from Hidden Spirit Temple, he would definitely have taught him a lesson when he returned.


    Xuanyuan Ziming, who was following the envoy to the capital of Great Xia, inexplicably shivered.


    Shen Yijia looked at the changing expressions of the two people in front of her and glanced at the sharp tip of the roof of the temple behind them.


    Looking at the bald old monk who was glaring at her, she suddenly sobered up.


    She and Furball had jumped from the forest to this place. The first thing she saw was the fish in the pond.


    Then, she couldn¡¯t look away. She didn¡¯t realize that Furball had already brought her near the temple.


    She was looking at the owner of these fishes.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Seeing that the two of them were still in a daze, she quietly put down the grilled fish in her hand and turned to grab the dead fish skewered at the side. She gestured to Furball.


    She turned around bit by bit and was about to slip away with Furball.


    The old abbot¡¯s faint voice came from behind. ¡°Amitabha. The Buddhist Sect is a peaceful place. It¡¯s fine if you kill in the Buddhist Sect, but you even killed the fish released by the other devotees.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve committed two major taboos of our temple. If you don¡¯t give me an explanation, I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to let you leave the Hidden Spirit Temple today.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s body stiffened. She wanted to pretend not to hear him, but she heard the old abbot say, ¡°Even if you walk down the mountain today, I have to report it to His Majesty to uphold justice.¡±


    The abbot was an eminent monk. Every year, he would be invited to the palace to chant scriptures and pray.


    Even Emperor Chong¡¯an treated him with respect.


    Because of the royal family, no one had dared to be impudent in the Hidden Spirit Temple all these years.


    Was Shen Yijia afraid of Emperor Chong¡¯an? She was naturally not afraid, but she thought of Song Jingchen, who had entered the palace this morning.

 Chapter 397 - 397 Good Reason (2)

    397 Good Reason (2)


    She comforted herself that this old monk did not know her at all.


    The abbot seemed to have seen through her thoughts and said, ¡°I can still investigate someone in the capital.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She scratched her head in frustration and said angrily, ¡°Old monk, you¡¯re unreasonable.¡±


    The abbot paused. ¡°When have I ever been unreasonable?¡±


    He had been trying to reason with this girl, but he had never seen someone so blatant.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Your name isn¡¯t written on this pond, and there¡¯s no one guarding it. How was I supposed to know it was yours?¡±


    ¡°This can be considered an unintentional mistake. Isn¡¯t there a saying that the ignorant are innocent?¡±


    If she didn¡¯t know, it meant that she wasn¡¯t guilty. The more Shen Yijia spoke, the more she felt that she was in the right.


    She didn¡¯t feel guilty at all.


    The abbot choked. He was so angry that his hand trembled. He pointed at the stone tablet standing beside the release pool. ¡°Who said there¡¯s no name? Look at what¡¯s written on it.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and said self-righteously, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to read.¡±


    If she said she didn¡¯t know him, so be it. Who could pry open her head and see?


    ¡°Besides, fish are for people to eat. This is the meaning of its life. Making it into a delicacy is the greatest respect for them.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re insulting them by raising them instead of eating them.¡± she thought.


    ¡°I¡¯m helping them out of their misery and letting them reach paradise early. This is a great kindness.¡±


    The abbot did not have a beard. Otherwise, it would have been smoking because of how angry he was.


    He felt that he was about to reach the afterlife from anger because of this girl.


    However, after thinking about her words carefully, he felt that they made sense.


    The abbot blushed with shame at his thoughts and muttered Amitabha in his heart. After holding it in for a long time, he could only say, ¡°You¡¯re being unreasonable.¡±


    He could easily discuss scriptures with others, but he was clearly not a match for her.


    ¡°You¡¯re not a fish. How do you know that they don¡¯t want me to eat them? You¡¯re the one who is being unreasonable.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± The host¡¯s eyes widened. He was completely led astray. He really wondered if the fish wanted to be eaten.


    Glancing at Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s gloating expression, he suddenly had an idea. ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about whether these fish want to be eaten by you first. It¡¯s a fact that you killed in the Buddhist Sect and dirtied the peace of the Buddhist Sect.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°I¡¯ll sweep it clean for you later.¡±


    The abbot was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Ce chuckled and stopped watching the show. He coughed lightly. ¡°Alright, old man, stop scaring a little girl. It¡¯s not like you haven¡¯t eaten meat before.¡±


    Yes, he had eaten it before. The last person to invite him to eat meat was Ji Luo!


    The host thought about the days when he was recuperating. It was really bitter. In order not to break the rules, he fought with his benefactor every day. Unexpectedly, in the end, his benefactor was better than him.


    With Shen Yijia¡¯s face, which reminded people of Ji Luo, the abbot did not really intend to do anything to her. At first, he did want to scare her, but later on, he was furious.


    He glanced at Xuanyuan Ce angrily. ¡°Easy for you to say. These fish are¡­¡±


    ¡°I heard that you still need some money to repair the main hall?¡± How could Xuanyuan Ce not see through this bald monk? He had expected that he would interfere.


    Although the Hidden Spirit Temple was filled with incense offerings and looked like they did not lack money, their expenditure was not small. They had to provide for so many young monks and repair the temple regularly.


    Apart from this, the monks of the Hidden Spirit Temple would go down the mountain every year to distribute rice, flour, and cloth to do good deeds and accumulate merit. This was not a small expenditure.


    It was clearly the largest temple in Great Xia, but this abbot¡¯s management was not as good as other temples.


    The abbot returned to his eminent monk appearance in a second and looked at Shen Yijia with a smile. ¡°Amitabha. Remember to clean up this place before you go down the mountain.¡±


    With that, he turned around and left. Before he left, his gaze paused on the skewers of fish.


    Making delicious food was a form of respect for fish. If that was the case, this girl was completely humiliating these fishes.


    Shen Yijia did not know why the beautiful uncle seemed to have become a different person after saying a few words. However, she understood the most important thing. As long as she cleaned up this place, everything would be fine.


    She heaved a sigh of relief. After some thought, she asked the old monk, ¡°Then can I still come here to catch fish in the future? I promise not to kill here.¡±


    These fish were so fat that it would be a waste not to eat them.


    The old monk staggered. He really wanted to rush back and throw the person who said this down the mountain.

 Chapter 398 - 398 Good Reason (3)

    398 Good Reason (3)


    Then, he heard Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s voice. ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t gotten the money for the repairs yet. I¡¯ll endure it!¡± he thought to himself.


    Seeing that the old monk could not even walk steadily, Shen Yijia shook her head. How could his body recover without eating meat?


    ¡°Do you like fish?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked as he looked at the fish on the ground.


    Shen Yijia realized that he was asking her. She shook her head and nodded. She said seriously, ¡°I like meat. If it¡¯s free, I like it even more.¡±


    !!


    So the point was that these fish were free?


    Xuanyuan Ce estimated the money needed to repair a temple and rubbed his forehead.


    ¡°Then come here and catch it if you want to eat it in the future. You don¡¯t have to be polite to that old bald donkey.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not realize that even though he was certain that this girl was not his daughter, he could not help but want to satisfy her.


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°Sure.¡±


    The face in front of him overlapped with the person in his memory. Xuanyuan Ce was in a daze and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s your mother?¡±


    A man asked her mother instead of her father. Shen Yijia looked at him strangely and then at Chu Feng, who was also puzzled.


    No wonder she felt that this beautiful uncle¡¯s attitude towards her was strange. Could it be that he was once her mother¡¯s admirer? The kind who loved but could not get her?


    She started imagining a whole scenario in her head. Because her mother was married, the beautiful uncle was heartbroken and left his hometown. He only returned to his hometown recently.


    Shen Yijia imagined it and felt that her mother had bad taste. This person was much better-looking than Shen Pingxiu.


    She thought for a moment before answering him. ¡°My mother died.¡±


    ¡°So stop thinking about her.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia did not think twice. This person didn¡¯t even know her. How would he know who her mother was?


    If he knew her, how could he not know that Madam Wang had been dead for more than ten years?


    At this moment, Xuanyuan Ce realized what he had asked. Even though he knew that the person Shen Yijia was talking about was not Ji Luo, his heart still ached.


    Shen Yijia noticed and thought that he was sad to hear about Madam Wang¡¯s death. She did not know how to comfort him, so she changed the topic. ¡°Do you want to eat fish?¡±


    At the mention of Madam Wang¡¯s death, she remembered what she had to do in the capital. She had been so busy cleaning up the residence these past few days that she had almost forgotten about Shen Pingxiu.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xuanyuan Ce suppressed his emotions and nodded.


    Before Chu Feng could stop him, his lord took the fish from the woman and took a bite without looking.


    If he had not been by Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s side all day, Chu Feng would have suspected that this woman, who he had only met three times, had poisoned his lord.


    This was like giving poison to someone.


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned as soon as he took a bite. He looked up and met Shen Yijia¡¯s sparkling eyes, as if asking him, ¡°Is it delicious?¡±


    Shen Yijia did indeed ask, ¡°Is it delicious?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce swallowed the bitter fish. ¡°Not bad.¡±


    The bitterness was because the outside was burnt, and the fishy smell was because the inside was not cooked at all.


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. It seemed that her culinary skills had improved. She immediately generously gave him all the roasted fish. ¡°Then eat more.¡±


    Instead, she rubbed Furball¡¯s head comfortingly. ¡°Uncle helped us. Let him eat all the fish this time. I¡¯ll roast them for you again another day.¡±


    Furball was so touched that it almost cried. Its tail wagged to express its good mood.


    ¡°That¡¯s not good.¡± For the first time, Xuanyuan Ce felt like he had shot himself in the foot. However, he could not refuse the girl.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with it. Furball won¡¯t be angry.¡±


    Furball immediately nodded.


    There were also a few large animals domesticated in the royal beast park of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but none of them were so intelligent. Normally, Xuanyuan Ce would be surprised, but he was no longer in the mood.


    Shen Yijia watched as he finished one and immediately handed over another. After watching for a while, she started cleaning up the place.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at the grilled fish in his hand and suggested, ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Why don¡¯t you go down the mountain first? I¡¯ll get Chu Feng to help you clean up.¡±


    ¡°No need, no need. I¡¯ve promised the abbot, so I¡¯ll definitely do it. Hurry up and eat. It won¡¯t taste good when it gets cold.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s hands moved quickly, and she would look back at Xuanyuan Ce from time to time.


    She had no choice. She realized that this person looked good when he ate.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Chu Feng had been by Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s side for more than ten years. This was the first time he had seen him give someone so much leeway. It was obvious that the fish was not delicious, but His Highness ate it without changing his expression.


    Chu Feng was puzzled and wanted to laugh at the same time. He suppressed his laughter and shrugged.


    ¡°Chu Feng, you must be hungry too. Let¡¯s eat together.¡± Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s cold voice sounded.


    Chu Feng shuddered. ¡°Your Highness, that doesn¡¯t seem appropriate.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered and remained silent.


    Chu Feng immediately cowered and took the fish in fear and trepidation. He had thought of sacrificing himself for his lord, but he never thought that he would die eating fish for him.


    Shen Yijia did not know about the conflict between the master and servant. When she cleaned up the side of the pond, the two of them had finished the fish.


    She nodded in satisfaction and greeted the two of them. She sat on Furball¡¯s back with a string of fish and happily went down the mountain.


    They went back the way they came.


    She did not know that not long after she left, Xuanyuan Ce fainted.


    Chu Feng was shocked. ¡°Your Highness!¡±


    Fortunately, this was not his daughter. Otherwise, he would have suspected that this girl was here to avenge her mother!

 Chapter 399 - 399 Young Master Ji Yunxi (1)

    399 Young Master Ji Yunxi (1)


    Shen Yijia sat on Furball¡¯s back and hummed a few songs in a good mood. She vaguely heard a few vague words ¡°Your Highness¡±.


    She dug her ears. Since she couldn¡¯t hear the voice again, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t take it seriously.


    She began to remind Furball carefully, ¡°Remember the place we went to today. In the future, keep an eye on it when you¡¯re free. If you see anyone stealing fish, you don¡¯t have to go out. Just roar and scare them away.¡±


    The beautiful uncle had said that if she wanted to eat fish in the future, she could catch them there. Wouldn¡¯t the fish pond be hers?


    It was actually hers. Of course, she couldn¡¯t let others think about it.


    !!


    ¡°However, you can¡¯t go to the temple. That old monk doesn¡¯t look very easy to talk to. If you scare his visitors away, he definitely won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    ¡°Also, if anyone wants to hunt you, think of a way to bite a few people to death first. If you scare them, quickly take the opportunity to run deeper into the mountains, understand? When you run, you can¡¯t run in a straight line. What if they shoot arrows?¡±


    Although her beautiful husband said that ordinary people did not dare to kill in the Hidden Spirit Temple, what if they encountered an extraordinary person like her? Therefore, she felt that she had to remind Furball clearly.


    Shen Yijia experienced the sadness of an old mother who had to send her son on a long trip. Furball was so touched that tears welled up in its eyes.


    After reminding him for a while, Shen Yijia took out a small medicine bottle with a red string tied to it.


    She leaned forward and lay on Furball¡¯s body, bringing the red string to its neck. ¡°I placed a great tonic pill in here. When I rubbed the pill, I added a drop of spiritual liquid. If you¡¯re injured, bite through the bottle and eat the medicine.¡±


    Furball had never left Shen Yijia¡¯s side since it was young. Usually, she said that she despised it, but she had always treated it as a family.


    When she knew that she had to send Furball away, she made the pill as soon as the spiritual liquid gathered.


    She was worried sick.


    She muttered all the way to the foot of the mountain.


    Shen Yijia got into the carriage and asked Furball to go back, but Furball ran with the carriage for a while before stopping.


    Looking in the direction the carriage had left, it stood where it was and howled.


    Its voice was not loud, but it made one¡¯s heart ache.


    Mo Yuan seemed to remember herself looking for her mistress everywhere. She pulled the reins of the horse to slow it down and turned around to call out to the carriage, ¡°Miss.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to stop,¡± Shen Yijia said gloomily.


    Her beautiful husband was right. Furball should be the king of the jungle, not a domesticated kitten. If it continued to live with them, it would do both sides harm.


    When Song Jingchen arrived at the palace, it was already seven o¡¯clock in the morning. The morning court session hadn¡¯t ended yet.


    According to Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s instructions, Eunuch Li brought Song Jingchen to the imperial study. ¡°Young Master Song, His Majesty will come over after the court session. Wait here.¡±


    Unable to figure out how Emperor Chong¡¯an planned to treat Song Jingchen, Eunuch Li didn¡¯t dare to invite him to the side hall on his own accord. He could only let him stand outside the door.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything about this arrangement and only nodded slightly. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Eunuch Li immediately said, ¡°No need.¡±


    Perhaps because there were many things to do at the court meeting today, there was no news of the court being dismissed until noon.


    The sun was high in the sky, and Song Jingchen¡¯s temples were already drenched in sweat, but he still stood there obediently, letting the sweat fall from his face without reaching out to wipe it.


    ¡°The Hall of Supreme Harmony has prepared food. Did something major happen in the imperial court?¡±


    ¡°Is that something you should ask? Look carefully into your head.¡±


    Two eunuchs walked past the corridor not far away. Their simple conversation revealed a message. The morning meeting would not end anytime soon.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. Emperor Chong¡¯an was like this.


    When he wanted to kill someone but couldn¡¯t, he liked to use some petty methods to make things difficult for them.


    However, this time, Song Jingchen had misunderstood Emperor Chong¡¯an. He didn¡¯t expect so many things to happen today.


    The ministers reported one after another. ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious, right? Is it a big deal that there hasn¡¯t been rain for three months north of Scholartree City? Is it a big deal that bandits are rampant in the coastal areas of Yuezhou?¡±


    If there was a problem, it had to be resolved, especially regarding the bandits. The court was arguing.


    In less than half a month, it would be Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s birthday. The envoys of other countries would be arriving in the capital soon.


    The statuses of the people from the Wu Kingdom and the Xuanyuan Kingdom who were sent to Great Xia this year were extraordinary. Naturally, they could not let the Honglu Temple and the Ministry of Rites be in charge of receiving them like in the past. No matter what, they had to send someone of similar status as the emperor.

 Chapter 400 - 400 Young Master Ji Yunxi (2)

    400 Young Master Ji Yunxi (2)


    If there was a crown prince, the crown prince would naturally be the most suitable, but there wasn¡¯t one.


    The ministers tried their best to fight for this opportunity for the prince they thought highly of. It was as if whoever took this job would be one step closer to the position of the Eastern Palace.


    All these miscellaneous matters were thrown out. By the time the court session was over, it was already late.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an came out of the Hall of Supreme Harmony with a dark expression. He was about to return to Yangxin Hall to rest for a moment when Eunuch Li, who was waiting outside, leaned over. ¡°Your Majesty, Young Master Song has been waiting since dawn.¡±


    He had already waited for six hours. If this continued, wouldn¡¯t someone die?


    !!


    Emperor Chong¡¯an paused. Only then did he remember that he had summoned Song Jingchen to the palace today. Looking at Eunuch Li¡¯s expression, what else didn¡¯t he understand?


    This old fellow had misinterpreted his meaning and asked him to wait outside the hall.


    No matter how much he wanted Song Jingchen to die, he wouldn¡¯t attack when he was summoned back to the capital because he had contributed to saving Xunyang City.


    Wasn¡¯t this telling the world that he couldn¡¯t tolerate anyone who contributed? Who would dare to work for him in the future?


    Getting someone to stand outside the hall for a few hours was not beneficial to him, but it would cause gossip.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s face darkened even more. He pointed at Eunuch Li. ¡°What¡­ what should I say about you?¡±


    Should he say that Eunuch Li had done something wrong? But what did he do wrong? Usually, if the ministers summoned to the palace encountered Emperor Chong¡¯an and were temporarily busy, they would indeed arrange for them to wait outside the imperial study.


    He couldn¡¯t blame Eunuch Li for being bad at guessing his intentions, right? If he really guessed everything the emperor was thinking, Eunuch Li wouldn¡¯t be far from losing his head.


    Therefore, there was only one word to pay attention to.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an could only get the guard of honor to turn around and head towards the imperial study.


    Halfway there, a young eunuch ran over in a panic and knelt in front of the honor guard. ¡°Your Majesty, Young Master Song has fainted.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s forehead throbbed. If this matter spread, he could almost foresee how the commoners would discuss this tomorrow.


    They would say that he was narrow-minded, or that he summoned Song Jingchen back to kill him. They would think that he would burn the bridge after crossing it.


    Even if these were indeed what he wanted to do, he could not let others think so.


    He still wanted to be praised after his death. Even if he couldn¡¯t be like the late emperor, he didn¡¯t want to be remembered as a fatuous emperor.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an quickly got someone to call the imperial physicians. When they arrived, Song Jingchen was still lying unconscious in the side hall.


    Speaking of which, Song Jingchen fainted as soon as he heard the news. As if he had calculated the time, the eunuchs guarding outside the imperial study were dumbfounded.


    Fortunately, his health was not bad. It was just a heatstroke. The imperial physician finally woke him up with acupuncture and medicine.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was exhausted from the day. He sat in the imperial study and drank two cups of tea in a row. He never thought that he would be worried that Song Jingchen would die in front of him one day.


    When Song Jingchen recovered and was helped into the imperial study with a weak expression, Emperor Chong¡¯an no longer had the intention to make things difficult for him. After everyone greeted him, he asked Eunuch Li to bring over a chair for him to sit down and talk.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t stand up and only said that he didn¡¯t dare.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an thought to himself, ¡°No one will believe me if I say that he refused my kindness, right?¡±


    He waved his hand in frustration and dismissed the people in the hall, leaving Song Jingchen alone to speak.


    Eunuch Li wiped his sweat and followed Eunuch Deng out of the imperial study. There were shadow guards protecting Emperor Chong¡¯an at all times. They weren¡¯t worried that Song Jingchen would be stupid enough to kill the emperor in the imperial study.


    ¡°Eunuch Li, are you alright?¡± Eunuch Deng asked with a smile.


    Eunuch Li glanced at him. ¡°There¡¯s no need to worry, Eunuch Deng. On the other hand, Eunuch Deng, do you have enough money? If not, don¡¯t hold back. We¡¯ve known each other for so many years. Do you think I¡¯ll let you write an IOU?¡±


    Eunuch Deng choked. He couldn¡¯t get over the joke of writing an IOU, right?


    The two of them had been at odds ever since Emperor Chong¡¯an was still a prince. The surrounding servants were already used to it, and Emperor Chong¡¯an was even happier to see this happen.


    They wanted to suppress each other.


    This way, they would monitor each other. If one of them had any ill intentions, he might not know, but the other would definitely notice. Otherwise, why would it be said that the person who understood you the most was not a friend, but an enemy?


    They were targeting each other. Once they had something on each other, they would naturally tell him.


    Therefore, Emperor Chong¡¯an was relieved by their relationship.


    An hour later, the door to the imperial study opened from the inside, and the two of them shut up.

 Chapter 401 - 401 Young Master Ji Yunxi (3)

    401 Young Master Ji Yunxi (3)


    Song Jingchen walked out. His expression was much better, but his footsteps weren¡¯t stable, as if he was about to collapse at any moment.


    ¡°Eunuch Li, send him out of the palace.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s voice came from inside. Eunuch Li quickly agreed and personally helped Song Jingchen out of the palace.


    On the other side of the palace path, a woman in red wearing a veil slowly walked over. Song Jingchen took a look and retracted his gaze.


    That woman was not dressed as a palace concubine, nor was she any princess he had seen. However, she was heading towards the imperial study.


    !!


    Eunuch Li seemed to have seen through his confusion and explained, ¡°That¡¯s Miss Ji. A while ago, His Majesty¡¯s body was unwell. The imperial physicians of the Imperial Hospital gave him a prescription, but he hasn¡¯t recovered. The old prince was worried about His Majesty¡¯s dragon body, so he introduced this person to the palace.¡±


    The old prince that Eunuch Li was talking about was the late emperor¡¯s only younger brother. The late emperor fought half of the war. By the time Great Xia was established, his parents had long passed away, leaving him with only his younger brother.


    It was said that when a person achieved the Dao, they would ascend to the heavens. Wasn¡¯t this the case when it came to the old king?


    The late emperor immediately conferred him a title and a fiefdom. He even used the word ¡°Xia¡±, Emperor Xia.


    Moreover, he was exempted from kneeling and there was no need to go to the fief. He was really in the limelight. Everyone was worried that this person would have ulterior motives. After all, Great Xia could not withstand the war back then.


    Fortunately, this person did not have such thoughts at all. He usually did not even enter the royal court and only treated himself as an idle lord.


    The old prince and the old princess consort grew up together. The couple was deeply in love.


    Over the years, the old princess consort¡¯s health had been deteriorating, so the old king searched for extraordinary people from the commoners to extend her life. This was how Miss Ji was found.


    After hearing that Miss Ji had entered the prince¡¯s residence, the old princess consort¡¯s health really improved every day. Originally, she could barely eat, but now, she could get out of bed and walk every day.


    In the end, Eunuch Li added, ¡°Although Miss Ji is only 16 or 17 years old, she¡¯s capable. After treating His Majesty¡¯s illness, His Majesty left her in the palace to refine pills for him. I think His Majesty¡¯s health has indeed been improving recently.¡±


    This was no longer a secret. Even among the commoners, there were many legends about Miss Ji. Even if Eunuch Li didn¡¯t say anything, Song Jingchen could ask casually.


    Therefore, Eunuch Li did not betray Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Coincidentally, they had already arrived at the palace gate. Song Jingchen arrived at the palace in a carriage this morning. Eunuch Li was about to instruct someone to drive a carriage over.


    Song Jingchen, who had been silent along the way, said, ¡°There¡¯s no need. My wife is here to pick me up.¡±


    Eunuch Li was stunned. Why did his tone sound a little smug?


    He looked up at Song Jingchen as if he had seen a ghost and saw a smile on his face.


    He looked completely different from the weak man who needed his help just now. His face was rosy, and it was probably easy for him to kill a tiger.


    Song Jingchen pulled his arm out of Eunuch Li¡¯s hand and smiled at the woman who got out of the carriage.


    Shen Yijia ran towards him with sparkling eyes and held his arm. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    It was too stuffy in the carriage and it was too hot to stand outside. Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead was already covered in a layer of sweat.


    With just these two words, Song Jingchen felt that the violent aura that he had suppressed in his heart for the entire day had disappeared. His heart warmed.


    Song Jingchen used his sleeve to carefully wipe the sweat off her forehead and asked, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I went to send Furball home today and saw that you weren¡¯t back yet. However, I really wanted to see you, so I came here to pick you up.¡± After Furball left, Shen Yijia felt a little uncomfortable and wanted to see Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. This girl was still so straightforward.


    ¡°Been waiting a long time, have you?¡± he asked.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s only been two hours.¡±


    The two of them got into the carriage. Rooster waved his whip, and the horse dragged the carriage away.


    Eunuch Li was speechless.


    When did he learn to become invisible?


    When Eunuch Li introduced Miss Ji to Song Jingchen, the woman in red also noticed Song Jingchen.


    She stopped in her tracks and frowned at Song Jingchen¡¯s back. She asked the palace maid behind her, ¡°Who was that just now?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the original heir of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, Song Jingchen. He was recalled to the capital by His Majesty because he had contributed to saving Xunyang City.¡±


    ¡°Song Jingchen?¡± the woman in red muttered. The red flower bud on her forehead looked especially coquettish under the sunlight.


    Unfortunately, Song Jingchen had only glanced at her casually and didn¡¯t see her clearly. Otherwise, he would have known that the flower bud on this woman¡¯s forehead was exactly the same as the one Shen Yijia had deliberately hidden.


    ¡°Young Master?¡± Mo Yu reminded her from behind.


    Ji Yunxi came back to her senses and handed the box in her hand to a maidservant beside her. ¡°Send this in and tell His Majesty that there¡¯s a missing herb in the palace. I¡¯m leaving the palace to pick herbs.¡±


    With that, she turned around and walked out of the palace.


    ¡°Young Master? Is there anything wrong with that person?¡± Mo Yu quickly followed.


    ¡°I can¡¯t read his physiognomy.¡± Ji Yunxi frowned. After a pause, she said, ¡°I need his birth characters.¡±

 Chapter 402 - 402 Accident

    402 Accident


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that he had been noticed, but even if he knew, he wouldn¡¯t care. Ever since he stepped into the capital, she had been staring at him.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had done something bad by treating someone to fish. The couple sat in the carriage and shared their experiences today.


    Hearing that Shen Yijia had met the white-haired man again, Song Jingchen frowned slightly. When he heard that she had treated him to roasted fish, his frown relaxed again.


    There was even a smile in the corners of her eyes. Perhaps the capital had one more patient now.


    He had seen the man twice. He felt that the man was looking at Shen Yijia as if he was looking at another person through her.


    Song Jingchen naturally didn¡¯t think that the white-haired man was old friends with Madam Wang like Shen Yijia did. However, it reminded him of the portrait he saw in the secret room.


    His gaze subconsciously fixed on Shen Yijia¡¯s smooth forehead.


    Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. This was the first time her culinary skills had been recognized. She swayed proudly. ¡°Hubby, I think my culinary skills have improved. I even brought fish back. When we get back¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and coughed lightly. ¡°When I get back, I¡¯ll get Mother to make dried fish. I haven¡¯t eaten it in a long time. I want to eat it.¡±


    When Shen Yijia heard Song Jingchen say that he wanted to eat it, she naturally had no objections. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°I brought back a lot. Some of it is for Mother to make dried fish. As for the rest, I¡­¡±


    ¡°The rest can be made into soybean sauce. Don¡¯t you like it? I remember that Brother Hao and the others like it too.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought of the soybean sauce and rice and smacked her lips. ¡°I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±


    Song Jingchen secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    Just as Song Jingchen had guessed, Xuanyuan Ce had indeed fallen ill. It was partly because of the fish, but the main reason was because of what the abbot had said.


    He had been suppressing it with his internal energy, but his breathing became unstable after eating the fish, so the energy exploded.


    The Hidden Spirit Temple originally had a master who knew the Qihuang technique. Unfortunately, Xuanyuan Ce was unlucky. He went up the mountain to pick herbs, and his disciple was helpless against Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s situation.


    However, he clarified for Shen Yijia that the fish was not poisonous.


    Chu Feng naturally knew that it wasn¡¯t poisonous. Didn¡¯t they see that he was fine after eating it? However, he felt that eating too much of that thing was even more terrifying than poison.


    The Hidden Spirit Temple could not treat Xuanyuan Ce. Instead, it delayed him for many hours. Chu Feng could only bring his men down the mountain in a hurry to find a doctor.


    Xuanyuan Ce woke up from the pain. He opened his eyes in a daze and found himself lying in the carriage.


    Looking at the ice mirror so close to him, Xuanyuan Ce rubbed his forehead. He must have bumped into it just now.


    Just as she was about to call Chu Feng in, a woman¡¯s stern voice came from outside.


    ¡°How do you drive? Do you know who¡¯s sitting in my carriage?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and helped the ice mirror sit up. He roughly guessed what was going on.


    ¡°Then do you know who¡¯s sitting in my carriage?¡± Chu Feng sneered. ¡°Hurry up and move aside. If you delay my master¡¯s treatment, your emperor won¡¯t be able to afford it.¡±


    ¡°It was clearly your car that suddenly came towards¡­¡±


    The woman wanted to argue, but she was interrupted by another female voice.


    ¡°Mo Yu.¡±


    The curtain of the carriage was lifted. Ji Yunxi, who was wearing a veil, glanced at the carriage opposite and said indifferently, ¡°Let him pass first.¡±


    This was a crossroads. The two carriages were about to turn in the direction from which the other party had come. The speed of both sides was not slow, so they bumped into each other. Both sides were responsible.


    ¡°Young Master¡­¡± Mo Yu was a little indignant. She glanced coldly at Chu Feng before driving the carriage to the side of the road.


    The other party took a step back. Chu Feng was not an unreasonable person. He cupped his hands at Ji Yunxi. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    With that, he was about to swing his whip.


    Ji Yunxi suddenly said, ¡°I heard that your master is sick just now. I know a little about the Qihuang technique. Do you need me to take a look at him?¡±


    Chu Feng was surprised. It was rare for women to know how to treat illnesses, but it was impossible for him to let an unknown person treat his lord. He cupped his hands again and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to trouble Miss.¡±


    Ji Yunxi nodded and did not say anything else.


    She only heard the other party say that even the emperor of Great Xia could not afford it and guessed that the other party¡¯s identity was extraordinary.


    She thought that if she could make the other party owe her a favor, she would not lose out no matter if she could use it in the future.


    That was why she made this suggestion.


    The other party did not believe her. There was no point in saying anything else.


    The carriage started moving. When it passed by Ji Yunxi, a corner of the curtain was blown up by the wind.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at it casually. His heart skipped a beat.


    However, Chu Feng had no idea that Xuanyuan Ce had woken up. He was in a hurry to send him to the medical center and drove the carriage away.


    Xuanyuan Ce came back to his senses and hurriedly said, ¡°Stop the carriage.¡±


    Chu Feng was delighted. He tightened the reins of his horse and the carriage stopped.


    He got into the carriage. ¡°Your Highness, are you alright?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ignored him. He lifted the curtain and looked back. The carriage that had stopped at the corner had long disappeared.


    ¡°Did you only see that girl¡¯s appearance after you released her?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Chu Feng¡¯s expression froze. He felt that His Highness had become stranger and stranger ever since he came to Great Xia.


    When he was in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he did not care about the princess consort in the residence. He had been pure-hearted for more than ten years and had never explained himself even when others thought that he was incapable.


    Now, he was staring at everyone he saw.


    He had just been tricked by the little girl he had only seen three times, but he did not learn his lesson.


    He felt that as His Highness¡¯s trusted aide, he could not let His Highness make the same mistake again. A little girl was enough.


    Therefore, he shook his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t see it clearly. She was wearing a veil.¡±


    He was telling the truth.


    Xuanyuan Ce glared at him. ¡°I¡¯m asking if there¡¯s a flower bud on that person¡¯s forehead.¡±


    Chu Feng continued to shake his head. His face was neither red nor his heart was beating. His tone was incomparably certain. ¡°No, Your Highness. Were you mistaken?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. Did he see wrongly?


    Without waiting for him to think it through, Chu Feng said, ¡°You must be hallucinating because your injuries haven¡¯t recovered yet. I¡¯ll bring you to the medical center now.¡±


    Afraid that Xuanyuan Ce would see through his lie, Chu Feng left the carriage.


    However, just as he grabbed the reins, he heard Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s voice. ¡°Turn around and go back.¡±


    Chu Feng was speechless.


    Reluctantly, he turned his horse around and drove the carriage back at a pace not much faster than a pedestrian walking.


    Xuanyuan Ce had internal injuries. Even if he woke up, he did not have much energy, so he did not notice anything wrong.


    When the carriage returned to that road, there was no second carriage other than the walking passersby.


    As the carriage traveled, Chu Feng said, ¡°Your Highness, I can¡¯t find it.¡±


    This was the main street. There were roads everywhere. Who knew where the carriage had gone?


    Xuanyuan Ce pushed himself up and lifted the curtain to take a look. He closed his eyes in disappointment. ¡°Forget it. Perhaps I was wrong. When will the diplomatic party arrive in the capital?¡±


    ¡°In about two days.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back to the Hidden Spirit Temple.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, your injuries¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡±

 Chapter 403 - 403 Changing Fate

    403 Changing Fate


    In the alley, a carriage stopped. Mo Yu watched coldly as Chu Feng¡¯s carriage left.


    He turned to the car and said, ¡°Young Master, they¡¯ve left.¡±


    Ji Yunxi smiled. ¡°Go and investigate why Xuanyuan Ce came to Great Xia.¡±


    She had also seen the person in the car clearly just now. Although it had only flashed past, she could not be wrong about that white hair.


    Moreover, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, so she naturally knew a lot about the royal family of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not look like someone who would come all the way to Great Xia for a king¡¯s birthday banquet.


    Moreover, as far as she knew, the diplomatic party had yet to arrive.


    At night, the family sat in the courtyard to cool down after dinner. Song Jingchen told them about his decision to send the children to the academy.


    The couple had discussed this matter in the afternoon. Apart from Bruiser and Lin Shao, who were slightly older, the other three were still young. What could they do without going to school?


    ¡°What? We have to study?¡± Sister Huan was shocked. Even the ice bowl in her hand was no longer delicious.


    The ice bowl was described by Shen Yijia. Mo Yuan made it and broke the ice. She sprinkled a layer of candied plums and peanuts on it.


    Although the ingredients were simple, the family liked to eat it.


    Shen Yijia nodded with a smile. ¡°Of course you have to study. Look at the generals in the book. Those who have studied are called brave and resourceful. Those who haven¡¯t studied are called boorish. Do you want to be a boorish person in the future?¡±


    Sister Huan liked to play with knives and sticks. She said every day that she wanted to be a general when she grew up. Even Madam Li could not do anything to her.


    Shen Yijia hit the nail on the head.


    Sister Huan was speechless. She did not want to be boorish.


    Brother Hao did not dare to have any objections.


    However, Lin Shao did not want to study. Studying in Qingping Town required a few taels of silver a month. It would definitely be more expensive in the capital.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, I don¡¯t want to study. Didn¡¯t you want to do business to earn money previously? I¡¯ll help you guard the shop.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. Before she could speak, Lin Shao said, ¡°I already know a lot of words. I¡¯m not participating in the imperial examination, and I don¡¯t want to be a general. It¡¯s meaningless to continue studying.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°You really don¡¯t want to study?¡±


    Lin Shao nodded quickly. ¡°I like to earn money.¡±


    Bruiser had the same thoughts as him. It was a waste of money to let him study. Previously, he had slept in school.


    Shen Yijia actually didn¡¯t like to study. Seeing the two of them insist, she looked at Song Jingchen inquiringly.


    Song Jingchen asked the two of them a few questions. Seeing that they were indeed not in the mood to study, he didn¡¯t force them.


    Bruiser was fifteen this year, and Lin Shao was only a year younger than him. The two of them were at a sensible age, so Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to interfere too much in their lives.


    He only said that if they changed their mind, they could tell him.


    The two of them promised repeatedly under Brother Hao and Sister Huan¡¯s envious gazes.


    Lin Miaomiao opened her mouth, but before she could speak, Sister Huan covered it. Sister Huan said indignantly, ¡°Are you still my good sister? Are you going to leave me to study alone?¡±


    Lin Miaomiao stayed silent.


    She was clearly a year older than Sister Huan, but why did she look like the younger one in front of Sister Huan?


    In the end, only Bruiser and Lin Shao escaped the fate of continuing their studies.


    The best academy in the capital was naturally the Imperial Academy. The quotas for admission were distributed according to the rank of the officials.


    Even if the children could enroll, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t intend to send them in.


    He chose Autumn Deer Academy, which had a good reputation.


    Autumn Deer Academy was divided into male and female schools. The official positions in the capital were not high. If a family didn¡¯t have enough slots to send all their children to the Imperial Academy, they could send their children there. The same applied to families with no official positions.


    However, no matter what, they had to take the entrance examination to enter. With Brother Hao and the other two¡¯s standards, there was no problem at all.


    After settling the matters of the academy, it was getting late. They each took a shower and returned to their rooms to rest.


    In a manor on the outskirts of the capital.


    In the dark study, Ji Yunxi frowned at the note in her hand. Opposite her sat a man in white.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡± the man asked.


    Ji Yunxi did not say anything. She placed the note aside, picked up the turtle shell on the desk, and threw in three copper coins.


    Looking at the hexagram inside, she shook her head and muttered, ¡°That¡¯s not right.¡±


    With that, she picked up the three copper coins and threw them again. The outcome was the same as before.


    She was about to reach out and try again when the man in white grabbed her wrist. He sighed and said gently, ¡°You said it before, don¡¯t do it three times in a row.¡±


    Ji Yunxi was stunned. She felt that the place the man was holding was hot.


    The man also sensed that something was wrong and quickly let go. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Ji Yunxi blushed. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Then, looking at the divination, she frowned again. ¡°I saw Song Jingchen today. Are you sure this is his birth chart?¡±


    The man nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s indeed his.¡±


    ¡°No, his physiognomy doesn¡¯t match his birth characters,¡± Ji Yunxi said firmly.


    As the young master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, she had learned divination since she was young. Even the elders praised her for her talent.


    Under normal circumstances, she could more or less see through someone¡¯s physiognomy.


    However, Song Jingchen was like a fog, and she couldn¡¯t see anything.


    ¡°From the looks of it, this person should have a weak body now. He¡¯s a lonely star. Most importantly, this person won¡¯t live past his prime.¡± Ji Yunxi explained the results of her divination.


    Although Song Jingchen was supported by someone when she saw him today, it had nothing to do with being weak, right?


    The man was stunned. He clearly did not expect it to be like this. He was sure that the eight characters could not be wrong.


    ¡°Are you sure?¡± he asked.


    Ji Yunxi was a confident person. She hated it when others questioned her.


    However, she did not fly into a rage when facing the white-robed man like she did in the valley. However, she did not look too good.


    She reached out and put away the copper coin. She said indifferently, ¡°My divination has never been wrong.¡±


    The man in white could tell that she was unhappy. He shook his head and smiled. ¡°Of course I believe you. It¡¯s just that he¡¯s only a year away from coming of age.¡±


    Not only that, but his mother and sister-in-law were also alive and well. He even had a delicate wife in his arms. How did his fate show up as a lonely star?


    This was also what Ji Yunxi didn¡¯t understand. She had found out about Song Jingchen when she investigated Mo Xu¡¯s death, so she naturally knew about his situation.


    Actually, even if it wasn¡¯t for the person in front of her, she wouldn¡¯t have let him off.


    The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were not so easy to kill.


    Killing intent flashed across Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyes.


    Thinking of what the elder had once said, she muttered, ¡°There¡¯s only one possibility for this to happen.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a change of fate!


    ¡°Someone beside him changed his fate.¡±


    This way, what this fortune-teller deduced had become invalidated. This also explained why she couldn¡¯t see through Song Jingchen¡¯s physiognomy.


    ¡°A change of fate?¡±


    The man in white smiled. Destiny was really a mysterious thing.


    He wondered if the person who changed his fate could do it again.


    If not for Jiajia, the heir would have fallen ill and his legs would not have recovered after being released from prison without treatment.


    On the way back to Xiagou Village, Madam Li, Brother Hao, and Sister Huan would die from the assassination attempt of the men in black.


    The heir would walk the path of rebellion and end up in failure.


    This was also Ji Yunxi¡¯s calculation.


    However, Jiajia was a variable.


    ¡°They¡¯re all my biological sons and daughters. I definitely won¡¯t torture them.¡±


    ¡°Also, don¡¯t worry. No one can snatch what belongs to Jiajia.¡±


    ¡°Finally, there won¡¯t be much about divination because I don¡¯t understand. I made up everything about divination. Don¡¯t take it too seriously.¡±

 Chapter 404 - 404 Saving People (1)

    404 Saving People (1)


    The next day, Shen Yijia woke up early and specially asked Mo Yuan to tie her hair into a beautiful bun. She also changed into the new clothes Madam Li had made for her.


    She was going to send Sister Huan and Miaomiao to the academy to register today!


    She had never seen what the Academy looked like. Previously, when Brother Hao and the others went to study, she went to Xunyang City.


    In her previous life, she had only heard the word ¡°school¡± from Da Hua. After escaping, she was hit by a car before she could take a look. However, she guessed that it should be about the same.


    Although there was a small kitchen in every courtyard, the family was still used to eating together. The small kitchen was at most used to boil water and bathe.


    When she and Song Jingchen arrived at the main hall of the front courtyard, Mo Yuan and Madam Li were placing breakfast on the table. The younger ones had yet to get up.


    Shen Yijia grabbed a steamed bun. ¡°I¡¯ll wake them up.¡±


    Although she didn¡¯t like to study, it didn¡¯t mean that she didn¡¯t like to send people to school.


    What was with the little excitement?


    She seemed to be a little naughty.


    When she met Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao¡¯s sleepy and pitiful gazes, Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts became even stronger.


    Following the principle of being a bad person until the end, she lifted the two of them out of bed and placed them in the courtyard.


    ¡°Go wash up quickly. I¡¯ll call Brother Hao.¡±


    Hence, Brother Hao received the same treatment. Lin Shao and Bruiser woke up and were squatting in the courtyard brushing their teeth.


    Seeing Shen Yijia enter Brother Hao¡¯s room in a hurry and come out with him, the two of them reacted and screamed before running back to their rooms.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled. ¡°What happened to the two of them?¡±


    Brother Hao screamed in response. He struggled to break free from Shen Yijia¡¯s grip and ran back into the house with a red face.


    Sister-in-law was a hooligan!


    The innocence he had guarded for eleven years was gone just like that!


    It turned out that they thought that ice was too expensive. The three young men felt that they couldn¡¯t earn money for their family, so they had to save more money, right?


    Using one less block of ice was equivalent to saving a tael of silver.


    Therefore, on a dark and windy night, Bruiser called the other two together and told them a way to sleep without the ice block.


    That was to sleep shirtless.


    The three of them lived in the same courtyard. Usually, they did everything in the courtyard themselves. No one would come. Even if they were shirtless, no one would see them.


    As soon as Bruiser made his suggestion, the other two immediately agreed.


    However, no one expected Shen Yijia to suddenly charge in. Not only Brother Hao, but the other two squatting there were also naked.


    Shen Yijia finally realized why they were doing this. She rolled her eyes.


    Who cared about their skinny bodies?


    Her beautiful husband¡¯s eight-pack looked much better.


    She shouted at Brother Hao to hurry up and turned back to Sister Huan¡¯s courtyard.


    Women took a bit more time to get ready. As soon as they arrived at the front courtyard, Brother Hao and the other two were also ready.


    The three of them blushed abnormally and lowered their heads, not daring to look at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched.


    Why did they look like they had wronged him?


    He looked at Shen Yijia. Only this girl had gone to the backyard just now.


    Shen Yijia shook her head again. Nothing had happened. She definitely did not see the three of them naked.


    Brother Hao shrunk his neck and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just a little hot.¡±


    Lin Shao and Bruiser said, ¡°Yes, it¡¯s too hot.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the three of them and stopped harping on it. ¡°Sit down and eat.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. For some reason, she didn¡¯t feel anything when she saw it, but when Song Jingchen asked, she suddenly felt guilty.


    Fortunately, the three brats were not stupid.


    After eating, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were about to bring Brother Hao and the other two out when Eunuch Li came again.


    He smiled. ¡°I came at the right time.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. She wanted to say that this was not the time. ¡°Can¡¯t you see that we were about to leave?¡± she thought.


    Unfortunately, Eunuch Li could not see her resentment and continued to smile.


    He came today with an imperial edict. Emperor Chong¡¯an first praised Song Jingchen for what had happened in Xunyang City and rewarded him with many flashy things. In the end, he appointed Song Jingchen as the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review.


    The Court of Judicial Review was mainly in charge of investigating cases. The cases investigated had to be handed over to the Ministry of Justice for review and final decision by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    To put it nicely, he was a third-rank official, but he did the most tiring work that could easily offend people.

 Chapter 405 - 405 Saving People (2)

    405 Saving People (2)


    If not for what happened yesterday, Emperor Chong¡¯an would not even be willing to give him this official position.


    However, he quickly figured it out. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence and the Song family¡¯s army.


    Song Jingchen was just a paper tiger. If he wanted to gain a foothold in the capital, he had to work for him.


    The position of the court minister was just right. He also had the right to investigate cases. Song Jingchen could help him investigate the whereabouts of the missing girls.


    The investigation of that case was a deal between him and Song Jingchen. There was no need to say it explicitly. The two of them knew it very well.


    !!


    After Eunuch Li presented the rewards, he left. Apart from some cloth, the rest were hairpins and jewelry.


    Although it was said to be a reward for Song Jingchen, there was nothing that men could use. Instead, it was for some young women.


    It was not appropriate for Madam Li to wear these at her age. Sister Huan was still young and had no use for them. It was better to say that they were all given to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t interested in these things at all because Song Jingchen had told her.


    These things could not be sold!


    How stingy. Didn¡¯t they know that what they lacked the most was money?


    Of course, Emperor Chong¡¯an knew, but he felt that women loved money to buy these things.


    That¡¯s right. After learning from Eunuch Deng that Shen Yijia was a money-grubber, Emperor Chong¡¯an decided to bribe Shen Yijia.


    He felt that Song Jingchen would not have his guard up against her.


    Unfortunately, Shen Yijia was not an ordinary person. She liked pure money.


    Not only did she not understand Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s intentions at all, but she also despised him.


    After asking Mo Yuan and the others to move the things into the storeroom, she urged Song Jingchen to go out.


    Although men¡¯s and women¡¯s studies were both available at the Autumn Deer Academy, they were actually not in the same place. There were two alleys between them.


    Shen Yijia understood that there was a huge difference between men and women.


    Autumn Deer Academy was on the west side of the city, not far from Liu¡¯er Street. They could reach it in a carriage in about half an hour.


    The director was the only top scholar who had won three Yuan in a row during the late emperor¡¯s reign. His wife was also a famous talent in the capital at that time.


    Of course, she was a talented girl, not a fake like Shen Ruyun.


    Originally, she was supposed to be a talented official in the cabinet. However, ever since the dean¡¯s wife was seriously ill, the dean resigned and opened Autumn Deer Academy in the capital.


    The dean¡¯s wife¡¯s name was Qiu, meaning autumn, and everyone called her Madam Qiu. The dean¡¯s surname was Lu, meaning deer. That was the origin of the name of Autumn Deer Academy.


    The couple was in charge of male and female studies, respectively. However, Madam Qiu was not in good health, and the matters regarding female studies were basically handled by the institute. If they could not make a decision, they would look for her.


    It was rumored that Dean Lu loved Madam Qiu so much that he resigned to spend more time with her. Managing an academy was also what Madam Qiu wanted to do in her life.


    In short, their love story was earth-shattering. It was not inferior to the old prince and the old princess consort.


    Madam Qiu, who had been sick for 20 years, was still alive. It could be said that the heavens did not want to see a lover separated from the world.


    The truth was that Dean Lu had resigned because he wanted to accompany Madam Qiu more. Opening the academy was also what the two of them wanted to do.


    However, the reason why Madam Qiu could hold on until now was because Director Lu had been using good medicine to nourish her. Moreover, she was only weak, not terminally ill.


    When the carriage stopped at the entrance of the women¡¯s school, Song Jingchen had just finished introducing them.


    Shen Yijia treated it like a novel and listened with relish. If not for Sister Huan¡¯s reminder, she would have asked Song Jingchen to talk more about it.


    Song Jingchen had to accompany Brother Hao to the boys¡¯ school, so Shen Yijia brought Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao in.


    At first, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t trust her. It was only when Shen Yijia patted her chest and promised to be serious that he finally agreed.


    Shen Yijia handed Song Jingchen¡¯s business card to the old woman guarding the door. The old woman went in with the business card and came out less than 15 minutes later.


    She brought them straight to the etiquette hall.


    The invigilator was a woman in her early forties. She looked very serious.


    She sized up the three of them and finally looked at the two children. ¡°How old are you? Have you studied before?¡±


    She looked serious, but her words were quite gentle.


    Actually, Shen Yijia did not look old. If not for the fact that she had a married woman¡¯s hairstyle, the institute would definitely mistake her for a student who was coming to school.


    Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao answered her question obediently.


    The institute director nodded and got someone to bring over two exam papers. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to be nervous. These are a

 Chapter 406 - 406 Saving People (3)

    406 Saving People (3)


    Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao agreed in unison and sat in front of the desk to answer the questions.


    The two of them were not nervous, but Shen Yijia was.


    The smell of books here was too strong. Her scalp tingled as soon as she walked into the building.


    Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that she was the one taking the exam.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her arms and thought to herself that if she had known earlier, she wouldn¡¯t have followed her in. She could have waited at the door and walked around.


    !!


    It was unknown if the invigilator could tell what she was thinking, but she summoned a female servant and instructed, ¡°Take Madam Song out for a walk.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so touched that she almost cried. She bowed and followed the female attendant out of the etiquette hall.


    Standing outside in the fresh air, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    The female attendant was amused by her and comforted her. ¡°Superintendent Xu looks serious, but she¡¯s actually the most magnanimous.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled awkwardly. She could not explain why she was so nervous. It was the atmosphere inside.


    At this moment, the students were all in class. There were not many people walking around outside.


    The attendant brought Shen Yijia around all the places she was allowed to go, including outside the lecture hall.


    Looking at the people sitting upright in front of the desk in the same student uniform, Shen Yijia felt a little envious.


    When she reacted, she quickly shook her head to shake off this terrifying thought.


    She urged the female attendant to bring her away. The female attendant thought that she was worried that she would affect the students¡¯ classes here, so her impression of Shen Yijia improved.


    After bringing Shen Yijia around for a while, a female servant hurriedly walked over and muttered something in her ear.


    The female attendant looked at Shen Yijia awkwardly.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°If you have something to do, go ahead. I¡¯ll take a walk myself.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Madam Song.¡±


    Shen Yijia was interested in the academy because she had never seen it before. Her curiosity about it had long disappeared after walking around.


    In addition, she had promised Song Jingchen that she would be good and not cause trouble, so she didn¡¯t plan to continue after the maidservant left.


    She walked in the direction she remembered and prepared to wait for Sister Huan outside the etiquette hall.


    However, she realized that she was straying further and further away.


    ¡°I came from this direction just now.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head.


    However, there was no female attendant nearby. She could not even ask for directions.


    She was about to walk back when she heard coughing from a wall away.


    ¡°Just asking for directions? It shouldn¡¯t be a problem, right?¡±


    After ten minutes, Shen Yijia successfully climbed up the wall.


    She stuck her head out.


    What she saw was a small courtyard. The courtyard was very clean and there were some flowers on both sides.


    Shen Yijia did not know anything about flowers. She only felt that they were much better-looking than the colorful flowers in the perverted man¡¯s courtyard in Qingping Town.


    There was also a grape trellis set up in the courtyard. Under the trellis was a woman half lying on a rattan chair.


    She was holding a book in her hand. She was the one who coughed.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. How much did she like to read? Why did he still want to read when he was coughing so badly?


    However, this had nothing to do with her.


    Shen Yijia supported herself against the wall with one hand and waved at the woman inside. ¡°Um, excuse me.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that she spoke softly and gently. There was a mesmerizing smile on her face, and she spoke politely.


    However, before she could finish speaking, the book in the woman¡¯s hand suddenly fell to the ground and she fainted.


    The rest of her words were stuck in her throat.


    Uh oh.


    Shen Yijia was really wronged. How could she scam her like this?


    She looked around the courtyard and didn¡¯t see a second person. She suddenly thought of Madam Qiu, who had been sick for 20 years and was still breathing.


    She couldn¡¯t be so unlucky, could she?


    She was indeed very unlucky.


    Shen Yijia could not think of anyone other than Madam Qiu who would be so sick that they had to stay in the academy.


    Thinking of how much Director Lu valued this madam, if this person died just like that¡­


    Not to mention whether Brother Hao and the other two could still study in Autumn Deer Academy, they would probably cause trouble for Song Jingchen.


    The dean of the academy had taught many people and had countless students. Each of them could drown her with their status.


    Shen Yijia could not care less about how rude it was to enter someone else¡¯s courtyard without permission. She propped herself up with her hands and jumped over the courtyard wall.


    She first ran to Madam Qiu and checked her breathing.


    Fortunately, she was still breathing.


    She shook Madam Qiu¡¯s arm tentatively. ¡°Madam, wake up.¡±


    Even if she really wanted to die, she had to wait for others to come and tell them that it had nothing to do with her.


    However, Madam Qiu did not react at all.


    Shen Yijia wanted to cry but had no tears. She looked up and saw a water vat in the corner of the courtyard.


    There were also a few gourd ladles beside the water vat. They were probably used to water the flowers.


    She pursed her lips and walked over. She scooped up a ladle full of water with a gourd ladle and dripped a drop of spiritual liquid into it. She raised her head and gulped down more than half of it.


    Looking at the remaining water, Shen Yijia thought for a moment and filled it with another ladle. This time, she drank until there was only a small mouthful left.


    There was really only one small bite left.


    Shen Yijia poured the diluted spiritual spring water into Madam Qiu¡¯s mouth.


    After waiting for a moment, Madam Qiu¡¯s breathing stabilized.


    She heaved a sigh of relief and climbed over the wall out of the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia did not notice that just as she turned around, Madam Qiu¡¯s eyelids twitched. She watched as Madam Qiu fainted again.


    Under the courtyard wall, Shen Yijia rubbed her bulging stomach and burped. She did not dare to slack off anymore and walked back obediently.


    It was not that she was stingy, but her beautiful husband had said that the spiritual liquid was too magical. No one could know.


    She was afraid that if she gave Madam Qiu a whole drop, Madam Qiu would be able to square dance tomorrow, so she came up with this plan.


    ¡°Oh, right. Square dance. I¡¯ve been lucky enough to see it twice since I escaped the compound. It¡¯s quite beautiful.¡± she thought.


    Footsteps came from ahead. Shen Yijia had just gotten into trouble and felt a little guilty. Her feet moved faster than her brain, and she dodged behind the rockery.


    Not even a strand of hair could be seen.


    When they walked past, she came out from the other side of the rockery. She had just taken two steps when she heard voices.


    ¡°Miss Ji, it¡¯s great that you¡¯re here. My madam¡¯s health has been deteriorating these past two days. She¡¯s been fainting a few times each day.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Damn, it¡¯s indeed a scammer. Give me back my spiritual liquid!¡±

 Chapter 407 - 407 Chance Encounter

    407 Chance Encounter


    As expected, the three of them successfully passed the exam.


    The academy had already started classes. They could enter because of that post.


    They were transfer students. The institute marked the papers on the spot and divided them into classes according to their level of knowledge.


    After all, Sister Huan was once a child of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. She started her studies earlier than Lin Miaomiao.


    Logically speaking, her results should be better than Lin Miaomiao¡¯s. However, the little girl calculated the scores and answered the questions. She felt that if Lin Miaomiao couldn¡¯t answer, she wouldn¡¯t do it. In the end, the two of them were successfully assigned to the same class.


    Shen Yijia could not tell. She only felt that it was already very good that they could pass.


    Song Jingchen took a look at the answers and realized the problem. Several of the questions he had tested Sister Huan on were blank.


    He looked up at Sister Huan from the test questions.


    Sister Huan shrank back. ¡°Miaomiao is so timid. What if she gets bullied when I¡¯m not around?¡±


    Although she was a little afraid of her brother, she did not regret it at all. She wanted to protect Lin Miaomiao, who was weaker than her, like her sister-in-law protected them.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Who did you learn this from?¡±


    Brother Hao did not like to study, but he was smart.


    He usually learned it after listening to Song Jingchen¡¯s teachings once. This time, he did well and was assigned to Class C of Zhiyuan Hall.


    Shen Yijia was confused by these classes. In short, the students of Zhiyuan Hall were all at the level where they could take the exam.


    According to the current rankings of each student, they were divided into the first, second, and third grades.


    However, the imperial examination had nothing to do with Brother Hao for the time being. The reason why they could return to the capital was because Song Jingchen had contributed to saving Xunyang City and was pardoned. This didn¡¯t mean that the past matter of the rebellion didn¡¯t exist. The descendants of the Song family still could not enter the court and become officials.


    If Brother Hao wanted to enter the examination hall, he would have to overturn the case one day.


    A third-rank official needed to go to court for work. When Shen Yijia woke up, Song Jingchen had already left.


    She shook her sore wrist and gritted her teeth angrily. She had already said that she had to get up early, but she didn¡¯t manage to do it.


    She had wanted to send him off.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, are you up?¡± Sister Huan¡¯s voice sounded from outside the door.


    On the first day of school, Shen Yijia promised to send them to the academy yesterday.


    She hurriedly dressed, washed up, and had breakfast. Because the boys¡¯ school was closer, she sent Brother Hao to the boys¡¯ school first, then Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao.


    The academy had a canteen, but it had to be charged separately. Moreover, it was not cheap, so the three of them brought their own lunch. Each of them had a small food box.


    Mo Yuan had prepared the food early in the morning.


    Shen Yijia watched the two of them enter before leaving. She did not go home directly. Instead, she went to the market.


    When she saw the trellis in Madam Qiu¡¯s courtyard yesterday, she thought of building one at home and a few swings.


    Be it her or Mo Yuan, they were not familiar with the capital. The two of them searched for a long time before they found a wood shop.


    A piece of wood not much thicker than an adult man¡¯s arm cost fifty copper coins.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Why don¡¯t you rob someone?¡±


    She asked for 30 sticks in pain and only paid the deposit. She would pay the rest after the shop delivered the items home.


    After leaving the wood shop, she still had to buy some vegetable seeds.


    In the past two days, Lin Shao and Bruiser had quietly prepared the land in front of the back courtyard.


    Everything was ready except for the vegetable seeds.


    Every street in the capital had a certain standard for selling everything. The vegetable seller was on another street.


    Not long after the carriage left the street where the timber was sold, it suddenly stopped.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°Miss, the road ahead is blocked.¡±


    Shen Yijia lifted the curtain and saw that not far ahead, the entrance of a shop was filled with people. The people behind were all lined up in the middle of the road.


    This was not the main street. The road was not wide to begin with, and it was only wide enough for a carriage to pass through. It was impossible for them to pass through.


    There was no signboard on the shop. The door was blocked, and no one could see inside.


    Shen Yijia asked curiously, ¡°What does that shop sell?¡±


    With such a good business, it must be very profitable, right?


    Moreover, most of those people were dressed as servants from wealthy families.


    Mo Yuan stopped the carriage by the side and walked over to hold someone¡¯s hand. After chatting for a while, she returned. ¡°That¡¯s a bookstore. That person said that the Romantic Scholar¡¯s new book is being released today. They¡¯re all here to buy it.¡±


    ¡°Romantic Scholar?¡±


    Why did this name sound so familiar?


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment before remembering. Her eyes widened. ¡°The capital also sells his romance novels?¡±


    With his trashy stories, how did he manage to sell his novels in the capital?

 Chapter 408 - 408 A Blockade (1)

    408 A Blockade (1)


    Mo Yuan did not understand why Shen Yijia had such a big reaction. She was about to say that she did not know when a voice sounded.


    ¡°Pfft, this young lady isn¡¯t from the capital, right? The Romantic Scholar¡¯s books originally circulated from the capital.¡±


    Therefore, to be precise, it was not sold to the capital, but from the capital.


    Shen Yijia turned around.


    Their carriage was parked by the roadside, next to a tea stall. The person who spoke was a baby-faced young man sitting in a tea stall.


    !!


    The young man looked out of place at the slightly dirty tea stall, but he didn¡¯t seem to mind at all.


    Noticing Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, he even winked at her.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and asked, ¡°Do you know him?¡±


    Otherwise, how would he know where he had placed his books to sell in the beginning?


    The young man choked and looked away. ¡°I don¡¯t know him.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia turned to look at the crowd in front of her again.


    The young man thought, ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    He was puzzled and put his head above the tea bowl. Unfortunately, the tea soup was too turbid to reflect his face.


    He turned around and asked his attendant, ¡°Didn¡¯t I wash my face today?¡±


    The follower really leaned over to take a look seriously. After a long time, he said, ¡°It¡¯s very clean.¡±


    ¡°Then am I not good-looking?¡± That shouldn¡¯t be the case. He could still sense several pairs of eyes secretly looking at him from the teahouse opposite.


    So it wasn¡¯t his problem. His charm was still there.


    The young man was relieved.


    The tea stall and the carriage were so close that Shen Yijia heard every word of their conversation.


    She rolled her eyes. Actually, the young man was indeed good-looking, but Shen Yijia had seen too many beautiful men. She was no longer as shallow as before.


    Besides, her beautiful husband would be jealous if she kept staring at other beautiful men.


    After waiting for a while, the crowd in front showed no signs of dispersing. Instead, there were a few more masters squeezing in with their servants.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, take another path,¡± Shen Yijia instructed.


    ¡°Hey, aren¡¯t you going to buy a storybook? This time, it¡¯s Lu Mingyan¡¯s fifth book.¡±


    Since she knew about the Romantic Scholar, she must have read his novels.


    Everyone who had seen it liked it!


    The young man felt that Shen Yijia must have just arrived in the capital, so he did not know which volume Lu Mingyan had updated.


    Usually, after these books were sold in the capital, it would take some time to spread them elsewhere. Then, it would take time to hire someone to transcribe them. By the time they started selling them, the capital had already started selling the next book.


    It was precisely because of this that many people from outside the capital would ask their relatives and friends to help buy and send the new book over in order to see it sooner.


    There were even some smart vendors who found business opportunities among them. As soon as they sold them, they came to buy more than ten books.


    If they bought it here and sold it elsewhere, the price could be doubled.


    This was also why there were so many people crowding at the entrance of the bookstore.


    Shen Yijia looked at the young man strangely. ¡°Why should I buy it?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s because he wrote a good book,¡± the young man said matter-of-factly. Noticing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, he widened his eyes in disbelief. ¡°Don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    His face was just short of saying, ¡°Everyone likes it. How can you not like it?¡± Coupled with his baby face, he looked innocent and aggrieved.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. Why did it seem like she was guilty of a heinous crime if she didn¡¯t like it?


    Something was wrong with this person.


    Coincidentally, Mo Yuan had already turned the carriage around. Shen Yijia tugged at her sleeve.


    Mo Yuan understood and waved her whip. The carriage left.


    ¡°Hey, you¡­¡±


    The young man still wanted to chase after her, but his subordinate quickly stopped him.


    ¡°Your Highness, what are you doing?¡± There was no reason to force a cow to drink water.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if she doesn¡¯t like my face, but she actually doesn¡¯t like my book. How ridiculous¡­¡± Shangguan Heng stomped his feet in anger.


    It was too hateful to be attacked by the same person twice.


    He was so angry that he had no idea that he had temporarily escaped the fate of being beaten up.


    ¡°Oh my, Your Highness, look, there are still so many people who like your books. She¡¯s missing out.¡± The follower comforted him.


    Shangguan Heng glanced at the crowd blocking the way and sat back down angrily to take a sip of tea. He took out the fan hanging on his waist and fanned himself.


    After a long time, he nodded in agreement. ¡°You have a point.¡±


    Song Jingchen went straight to the Court of Judicial Review after the morning court session.


    In the past, when there was no conflict of interest, everyone would either praise or pity Song Jingchen.


    However, it was different now that he had suddenly parachuted in and become their boss.

 Chapter 409 - 409 A Blockade (2)

    409 A Blockade (2)


    Under the court minister were the left and right deputy ministers. It was not easy to wait until the previous court minister retired from old age.


    Everyone, including the deputy ministers, thought that one of the two could be promoted to replace the minister of the Court of Judicial Review and bring up another person to replace the deputy minister.


    Even if he might not be the one promoted, at least he had some hope. Now, he could forget about it.


    Severing their career advancement was like killing their parents. It would be strange if they treated Song Jingchen nicely.


    Everyone bowed to Song Jingchen perfunctorily. When they saw Luo Sicheng enter behind Song Jingchen, they all went up to him.


    ¡°Lord Luo is here.¡±


    ¡°Good morning, Lord Luo.¡±


    Speaking of which, the most miserable person among them was Luo Sicheng. He had stayed in the Hanlin Academy as the top scholar for a year before coming to the Court of Judicial Review to take on the position of left deputy minister.


    As soon as the previous minister of the Court of Judicial Review retreated and Minister Luo and Count Xuan Ping worked together, he could naturally take the position of the head of the Court of Judicial Review.


    Others might not know, but he knew very well that he was the one who had been recommended by the previous court minister.


    He was just waiting for Emperor Chong¡¯an to promote him. However, he did not expect someone to appear.


    When he saw the official documents from above yesterday, he almost couldn¡¯t maintain his smile.


    It was fine if he was suppressed by Song Jingchen in school, but even now, Song Jingchen was still in his way.


    He suspected that Song Jingchen was here to counter him.


    Luo Sicheng suppressed the indignation in his heart and cupped his hands at his colleagues with a smile. ¡°Sirs, there¡¯s no need to gather here. Please do whatever work you need to do.¡±


    Everyone smiled awkwardly and cupped their hands before leaving. They weren¡¯t even so respectful to Song Jingchen.


    Only then did Luo Sicheng look at Song Jingchen. ¡°Congratulations.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and returned to his office.


    It was as if he could not remember who Luo Sicheng was.


    Luo Sicheng¡¯s face alternated between red and white, and he clenched his fists under his sleeves.


    After Shen Yijia bought the vegetables and planted them at home, it was already lunchtime. The three students and one working professional would not come back for lunch.


    Madam Li, Lin Shao, and the others waited for her to come back for lunch.


    Shen Yijia had just walked into the main hall.


    Madam Li came up to her. ¡°Sister Jia, where were you? Why are you only back now?¡±


    She did not blame Shen Yijia for returning late, but the capital was too chaotic. She was worried that Shen Yijia had encountered something outside.


    Shen Yijia was too embarrassed to say that she was not familiar with the capital. She brought Mo Yuan along and took many wrong paths. She only said that the road was blocked, so they took a detour to buy groceries.


    After dinner, Shen Yijia brought Lin Shao and Bruiser to set up the trellis and placed it on the stone table in the front courtyard.


    She also bought grape seedlings that could be planted next to wooden stakes. When the seedlings grew, they could be used to block the sun.


    They set up a swing in each of the three courtyards.


    After doing this, it was almost time for school to end. Shen Yijia hurriedly took a shower and changed her clothes before leaving.


    When they came from Xiagou Village, they drove three carriages. One was now used for Song Jingchen to get to work, and Shen Yijia used another. Shen Yijia let Pinellia and the others use the last one.


    When she arrived at the men¡¯s school, there were already many carriages parked there. They were all here to pick the students up.


    Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to stop the carriage and was about to look for Brother Hao.


    Brother Hao came over himself.


    ¡°Sister-in-law,¡± Brother Hao called out weakly.


    Shen Yijia thought that he was tired and rubbed his head to let him get into the car first.


    Brother Hao opened his mouth, but in the end, he didn¡¯t say anything and obediently climbed into the car.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, stay here and watch over Brother Hao. I¡¯ll go pick up Sister Huan and Miaomiao.¡±


    It was too crowded in front. It was faster to just walk.


    After instructing him, Shen Yijia darted into an alley at the side and went from the alley to the women¡¯s school.


    The time taken for boys and girls to leave school was the same. Sister Huan and Miaomiao must be waiting at the door. She was afraid that the two of them would be anxious if she were late.


    Shen Yijia wanted to hurry up, but another obstacle appeared in the alley.


    It was not that they were stopping her, but that someone was beating someone up in the alley. They were students of Autumn Deer Academy, four to five people were beating one person up.


    There was a straight road in the alley. As soon as Shen Yijia appeared, the other party discovered her.


    The academy did not allow students to fight. This alley, which few people walked, became a holy land for them to fight.


    The people were shocked. They looked up and saw a delicate young lady. Interest flashed across their eyes.


    Shen Yijia frowned and glanced at the student lying on the ground.


    She did not intend to interfere in this matter. They were only blocking the way. Shen Yijia could still go over.


    However, those people did not intend to let her go. They reached out and blocked the remaining half of the path.


    ¡°Young lady, where are you going?¡± The student in the lead stared at Shen Yijia¡¯s good-looking face and asked without blinking.


    Autumn Deer Academy had a good reputation, but there were troublemakers everywhere.


    For example, these people all had some status in their families, but the quota for official studies was limited. They were all given to children with better aptitude.


    Since they could not go, they could only come to Autumn Deer Academy. On the surface, they were good students, but behind their backs, they vented their grievances on the commoners and lorded over Autumn Deer Academy.


    ¡°Do you have money on you?¡± Shen Yijia asked the people blocking her way.


    ¡°What?¡± The leading student did not understand. Shouldn¡¯t he be screaming and asking what they wanted to do?


    Shen Yijia sighed and asked again, ¡°Do you have it or not? I¡¯m in a hurry.¡±


    The leader pondered over Shen Yijia¡¯s words and came to a realization. He laughed and said, ¡°Yes, yes. As long as you have fun with us brothers¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him and nodded in satisfaction.


    Before the leader of the students could react, his arm was suddenly grabbed.


    The scene played out.

 Chapter 410 - 410 Madam Qiu’s Gift of Thanks (1)

    410 Madam Qiu¡¯s Gift of Thanks (1)


    ¡°How dare you hit me? Do you know that I¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re all¡­ dead meat¡­¡±


    It would have been better if he hadn¡¯t reminded her. With this reminder, the alley, which had only him crying out in pain, immediately became lively.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t hit my face!¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t do it again!¡±


    Shen Yijia played with them for a while and looked at the six people lying on the ground with swollen faces.


    One of them wasn¡¯t her victim.


    She clapped her hands in satisfaction and squatted down in front of them. She reached out. ¡°Where¡¯s the money?¡±


    The five of them looked at each other and looked at Shen Yijia in horror. They trembled and took out their money bags and placed them in her hand.


    Shen Yijia shook the five money bags in her hand. It was not a small amount!


    She poured out all the money and placed it in her pouch. It added up to about a hundred taels of silver.


    Shen Yijia could not help but sigh at how rich the people in the capital were. Everyone had all their assets. She liked it!


    She threw the money bag back to them and thought for a moment. ¡°If you still want to play next time, come here and wait for me. But remember to bring more silver.¡±


    The five students¡¯ heads buzzed.


    Why did this scene look so familiar?


    They had always treated others like this. The money was just an excuse for them. They mainly enjoyed bullying others.


    Shen Yijia did not know what they were thinking. She was about to get up and leave.


    A dirty hand was stretched out in front of her. In that hand was a battered but clean purse.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She looked in the direction of the owner of the hand. It was a young man with a broken mouth and a dirty face. He looked about the same age as Lin Shao.


    There was a stubborn look in the young man¡¯s eyes.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that she didn¡¯t want it, but when she saw the indignant gazes of the others, she reached out and took the money bag.


    She stood up and walked around them. After taking a few steps, she stopped and turned around to smile at them. ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you here next time.¡±


    Just now, she had asked them to wait for her here, but now, she said she would wait here for them.


    Did this mean that this demoness would come here often in the future?


    The few of them originally wanted to wait for her to leave before venting their anger on the person they had bullied.


    Hearing this, their pupils constricted. They endured the pain in their bodies and ran away.


    Soon, only one of the six people was left lying there.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue. It seemed that this way of earning money would not work.


    She glanced at the remaining student and took out the old money bag. There were only a dozen copper coins inside.


    He was even poorer than her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. Brother Hao at least had a tael of silver that she had given him.


    She took out a piece of silver worth about two taels from her pouch and stuffed it into the money bag. She casually threw the money bag back and said indifferently, ¡°Those people compensated you for your medical expenses.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not being kind, understand?¡± she thought.


    The young man looked in the direction Shen Yijia had left in a daze. He only retracted his gaze when she disappeared at the end of the alley.


    With red eyes, he picked up his money bag and took out the piece of silver. He was about to throw it away when he thought of something and paused. He closed his eyes and put the silver back.


    The current Shen Yijia did not know that the young man she had casually saved would play a role in her life in the future. If she knew, she would only sigh at how magical fate was.


    Because of this delay, there were only a few carriages left at the entrance of the women¡¯s school. Therefore, she immediately saw Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao standing at the side.


    The two of them also saw her. Their eyes lit up and they pounced on her. ¡°Sister-in-law, we thought you had forgotten about our school hours.¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed their heads and explained, ¡°I was delayed by something.¡±


    ¡°There were too many carriages here just now. I asked Mo Yuan to park the carriage at the boys¡¯ school. Let¡¯s walk over.¡±


    The two of them naturally had no objections.


    At this moment, a carriage with bells on its body drove in their direction.


    Shen Yijia frowned and protected the two little girls.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the women¡¯s school. Mo Yu took out his foot pedal and placed it there.


    ¡°Young Master, we¡¯re here.¡± She reminded the person in the carriage.


    The curtain was lifted by a fair hand. Ji Yunxi, who was wearing a veil, got out of the carriage.


    She frowned and looked back at Shen Yijia.


    A few female servants welcomed her. ¡°Miss Ji, you¡¯re here. Our Madam is waiting for you inside.¡±


    Ji Yunxi retracted her gaze and followed them into the academy.

 Chapter 411 - 411 Madam Qiu’s Gift of Thanks (2)

    411 Madam Qiu¡¯s Gift of Thanks (2)


    Shen Yijia noticed that Sister Huan kept looking behind her as she walked. She asked curiously, ¡°What are you looking at?¡±


    Sister Huan scratched her head in embarrassment. ¡°I heard from them in the academy that Madam Qiu almost went yesterday. She was saved by a girl surnamed Ji.¡±


    ¡°As soon as Madam Qiu woke up today, she asked someone to invite Miss Ji to the academy. She seemed to want to thank her in person,¡± Lin Miaomiao added.


    In the past, they did not understand, but after staying in the academy for a day, they quickly knew how high Madam Qiu¡¯s status was.


    Not to mention her talent, just the fact that the current empress dowager was her good friend showed that.


    Although the empress dowager had not returned to Chang¡¯an¡¯s capital for a long time since the late emperor left, she was still the empress dowager.


    Besides, how could Madam Qiu¡¯s gratitude be as simple as a simple thank you? This was a life-saving favor!


    ¡°Did you see the carriages parked there just now? They¡¯re all specially waiting there to see who this Miss Ji is,¡± Sister Huan said, her eyes flashing with curiosity.


    Shen Yijia found it funny. ¡°Why? Do the two of you want to take a look too? Why don¡¯t you go back and see it before going home?¡±


    Sister Huan paused and said obsequiously, ¡°I don¡¯t want to. Anyway, that person is definitely not as good-looking as Sister-in-law. I¡¯m not curious at all.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao also hurriedly nodded in agreement.


    There was only one sentiment written on their faces. Sister-in-law was the best-looking!


    Shen Yijia snorted. She finally let the two little bootlickers off, but she was overjoyed.


    Her beautiful husband was the most handsome, so she had to be the most good-looking.


    On the academy¡¯s side, Madam Qiu specially asked the maidservant to dress her up to show her respect for her benefactor.


    Although she was over 50 years old, it was not difficult to tell that she was a beauty when she was young.


    ¡°Madam, Miss Ji is here.¡± A female servant hurriedly walked in and reported.


    Madam Qiu was originally leaning against the soft couch, but when she heard this, she sat up. ¡°Hurry up and invite her in.¡±


    Soon, the maidservant led a young girl in.


    When Ji Yunxi treated Madam Qiu yesterday, she was still unconscious. Afraid that Emperor Chong¡¯an would look for her, she left a prescription after the acupuncture.


    After waking up today, Madam Qiu clearly felt that her body had become much better. She no longer felt like she was about to faint from time to time.


    Moreover, being sick all year round made it difficult for her to even get out of bed and walk. However, it was different today. She walked around the courtyard twice and did not feel tired.


    She also heard that Miss Ji had been asked to come over yesterday and thought that it was the effect of her diagnosis.


    To Madam Qiu, every time she fainted, she might never wake up again. It was worth living another day. She never thought that there would be a day when she would recover.


    She naturally wanted to see her savior. In fact, this was the first time Madam Qiu had seen Ji Yunxi.


    ¡°Greetings, Madam.¡± Ji Yunxi stood still and bowed.


    She was confident and also a smart person. For example, Great Xia, she would never act as arrogantly as she did in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    However, she would not grovel. At the very least, she would never forget her manners.


    Madam Qiu¡¯s smile froze for a moment.


    ¡°Madam, this is Miss Ji,¡± the nanny guarding her reminded her softly.


    Madam Qiu reacted and looked at Ji Yunxi apologetically. She waved for her to sit beside her.


    Ji Yunxi did not seem to notice her loss of composure just now. She smiled and walked over to sit down.


    Madam Qiu admired her natural appearance. She held her hand and said lovingly, ¡°I heard from them that it¡¯s all thanks to you yesterday. Otherwise, I wouldn¡¯t have woken up.¡±


    ¡°Yunxi was just entrusted by someone. Besides, Madam is a good person. Even without Yunxi, you will definitely live to be a hundred years old.¡±


    Speaking of this, Ji Yunxi found it strange. It was rumored that Madam Qiu was seriously ill, but the pulse she took yesterday did not seem to be that of a terminally ill person.


    At most, her body was a little weak. It was not as serious as the rumors said.


    She had come with the secret medicine yesterday, but because Madam Qiu¡¯s body did not need it, she did not use it at all.


    She even suspected that Madam Qiu had been pretending to be sick previously, but from the reactions of these people, it was obvious that she wasn¡¯t.


    It seemed that Madam Qiu had really recovered because of her.


    Moreover, from Madam Qiu¡¯s physiognomy, she was indeed not a person with a long life, but there was a part she could not see through.


    Thinking of this, she shook her head and suppressed that ridiculous thought. It wasn¡¯t easy to change one¡¯s fate. It was already rare to have Song Jingchen as a variable. It was impossible for Madam Qiu to also have such a fortuitous encounter.


    However, since these people wanted to give her the credit, she naturally wouldn¡¯t stupidly decline.


    Saving Madam Qiu was equivalent to letting Dean Lu owe her a favor.


    Behind Dean Lu were tens of thousands of students.


    She spoke modestly, but she had no intention of denying it.


    The smile on Madam Qiu¡¯s face faded a little. Unfortunately, other than her nanny, no one could tell.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to comfort me with these words. I know my own body best.¡± Madam Qiu patted her hand.


    She turned to look at the nanny beside her. ¡°The empress dowager gave me a set of ruby noodles previously. Go and get it.¡±


    The gift from the empress dowager was naturally expensive, and it was given by Madam Qiu. No matter how one looked at it, this gift was extraordinary.


    Ji Yunxi was overjoyed, but she did not show it on her face. She quickly said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Madam Qiu comforted her. ¡°It¡¯s my duty.¡±


    Nanny had already noticed that Madam Qiu¡¯s expression was off. Now that she heard her instructions, she found it even stranger.


    Ji Yunxi was invited by Madam Qiu. Knowing that she was coming, she naturally prepared a gift long ago.


    Madam Qiu had personally gone to the storeroom to take it out. It was a set of the Four Treasures of the Study that she had treasured for a long time and a set of her favorite calligraphy.


    She couldn¡¯t even bear to give that set of Four Treasures of the Study to Dean Lu.


    Now, she was asked to get some noodles. The nanny was puzzled, but she did not dare to say anything.


    She turned around and left with a strange expression.

 Chapter 412 - 412 Searching For Someone (1)

    412 Searching For Someone (1)


    There was an alley in the south of the city called Nu¡¯er Alley, or Servants Alley.


    This was because most of the people living inside relied on helping rich families make a living.


    Unlike those families, they usually only signed living contracts and did some rough work in rich families. They usually did not live in the main house.


    At this moment, other than the woman squatting at her door washing vegetables and rice, there were also many children playing in the alley.


    ¡°Mingan, why are you only back now? Your mother¡­¡± A woman in coarse clothes pulled a young man back. When she saw the injury on the young man¡¯s face, she exclaimed, ¡°Oh my, Mingan, did you get beaten up?¡±


    ¡°I have medicinal wine at home. Wait for me. I¡¯ll get it for you.¡± As the woman spoke, she was about to turn around and enter the house.


    Wang Mingan stopped her. ¡°Thank you, Auntie. I¡¯m fine. What did you say about my mother just now?¡±


    ¡°Sigh, your mother took advantage of you going to the academy and went to take on the washing job. In the end, she got someone to carry her back.¡±


    Seeing that Wang Mingan was about to leave anxiously, the woman quickly stopped him. ¡°I¡¯ve already called a doctor for your family. The doctor said it¡¯s because of hunger, she¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°She was already awake when I sent the porridge over just now. Won¡¯t she be even more worried if you go back like this?¡±


    Wang Mingan was stunned. He had already tidied up his clothes before returning. There was nothing he could do about the injuries on his face, but his mother would believe him if he said that he had fallen. Anyway, this wasn¡¯t the first time.


    The woman sighed and tugged at his sleeve. ¡°Take off your outerwear. I¡¯ll help you mend it before you go back.¡±


    Wang Mingan looked in the direction she was tugging at and realized that there was a hole in his sleeve.


    He bowed gratefully to the woman.


    Soon, the woman took out the mended clothes.


    Wang Mingan took it and put it on. He pursed his lips and asked, ¡°Thank you, Auntie. How much did it cost to hire a doctor? I¡¯ll bring it to you.¡±


    The woman waved her hand and said indifferently, ¡°We¡¯re neighbors. Why are you saying this? Besides, the doctor didn¡¯t prescribe any medicine. It¡¯s just a few copper coins. Hurry up and go home.¡±


    Wang Mingan didn¡¯t move.


    The woman said helplessly, ¡°Alright, just give me ten copper coins.¡±


    Afraid that he wouldn¡¯t believe her, the woman added, ¡°I didn¡¯t hire a doctor from a big medical center. That¡¯s all he asked for.¡±


    Only then did Wang Mingan count ten copper coins from his money bag and hand them over. He bowed deeply to the woman. ¡°I¡¯ll remember Auntie¡¯s kindness.¡±


    Looking at Wang Mingan¡¯s straight back, the woman shook her head and smiled. ¡°This child.¡±


    When he reached the door of a dilapidated residence in the innermost part of the alley, Wang Mingan stood there and took a deep breath before reaching out to push open the dilapidated wooden door.


    Ever since Miss Ji left Autumn Deer Academy, Madam Qiu had been staring at the wall in the courtyard in a daze. She had always been reading books whenever she had the energy, so this was unusual.


    ¡°Madam, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Nanny asked worriedly.


    Madam Qiu came back to her senses and was about to say something when she suddenly felt an itch in her throat. She quickly covered her mouth with a handkerchief.


    For a moment, there was a low cough in the courtyard.


    The nanny was extremely worried and went forward to help her calm down.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you¡¯re much better today? Why are you coughing again?¡± An old voice sounded. Even without looking at the person¡¯s face, one could tell that this voice was filled with worry.


    Madam Qiu waved her hand to stop Nanny from continuing. She looked up at the person and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m much better. Look, I¡¯m fine now, right?¡±


    In the past, she would never stop coughing. Today, she only coughed a few times.


    Dean Lu clearly did not believe her. He walked over and held Madam Qiu¡¯s hand to test the temperature. He frowned and said, ¡°Why are you wearing so little? Do you want your body anymore?¡±


    These words seemed to be blaming Madam Qiu, but he looked at the nanny, his blame obvious.


    Madam Qiu¡¯s body was weak. Even though it was a hot day, her body was cold. In the past, when others wore thin clothes, she would wear a cotton jacket. Today, she had changed into a light autumn shirt.


    The nanny knelt down with a thud. ¡°Madam said that she wants to see Miss Ji today and wants to dress up.¡±


    Without waiting for Dean Lu to say anything else, Madam Qiu glared at him. ¡°Don¡¯t blame Lan. I was the one who wanted to dress like this. Are you trying to suffocate me to death so that you can find a younger child?¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about? You¡¯re trying to hurt me with those words again.¡± Dean Lu sighed helplessly and waved his hand to get Nanny Lan up. ¡°Go and get a thicker shirt for Madam.¡±

 Chapter 413 - 413 Searching For Someone (2)

    413 Searching For Someone (2)


    Nanny Lan probably returned to the house and came out with a cloak soon after.


    Dean Lu took it and personally draped it over Madam Qiu. After Nanny Lan left, he sat down in the chair beside her. ¡°Have you seen Miss Ji?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did,¡± Madam Qiu replied indifferently.


    Madam Qiu¡¯s poor health was actually the root cause of her illness since she was young. However, it was not so serious when she was young, so not many people knew about it.


    As she grew older, her condition became more and more serious. Until one time, she fainted and almost couldn¡¯t wake up. Dean Lu was afraid that she would really leave one day, so he resigned from his position because he wanted to accompany her more.


    This was similar to what the rumors said.


    With such a body, they naturally could not have children. Dean Lu was unwilling to add anyone to the room, so the two of them had no children.


    This had always been Madam Qiu¡¯s regret. Dean Lu had once suggested choosing one from the clan to raise. She only said that this kind of thing depended on fate, but in the end, it was left unsettled.


    Unexpectedly, after lunch today, when the couple was chatting, she suddenly said that she wanted to acknowledge an adopted daughter. Dean Lu guessed who she was referring to. He never had any objections to Madam Qiu¡¯s decision, so he naturally agreed.


    ¡°Then Miss Ji doesn¡¯t suit you?¡± Dean Lu asked.


    The two of them had been husband and wife for decades. How could they not understand each other?


    Her attitude was obviously off.


    Madam Qiu frowned. ¡°I just feel that something is wrong.¡±


    She paused, joking. ¡°You know I¡¯m the best judge of character.¡±


    Back then, she was the one who had taken a fancy to Dean Lu, who was more than ten years older than her.


    Her life was coming to an end, which also proved that she had not misjudged him.


    Dean Lu shook her head with a bitter smile. She had said this countless times, but he felt that he had not done enough.


    ¡°Then tell me, what¡¯s wrong? I¡¯ll analyze it for you.¡± He still hoped that she could fulfill this wish before she left.


    ¡°I keep feeling that she wasn¡¯t the one who saved me.¡± Madam Qiu rubbed her forehead. ¡°Back then, I seemed to have seen a back view in a daze. She didn¡¯t look like a female student.¡±


    After a long time, she pointed in a direction. ¡°I watched her walk out of there.¡±


    Dean Lu looked in the direction she was pointing. It was clearly a wall. ¡°Could it be that you saw wrongly?¡±


    ¡°I was wondering the same thing.¡± Madam Qiu¡¯s voice became softer and softer.


    Dean Lu looked over. She was already asleep in the rattan chair.


    Dean Lu¡¯s eyes instantly turned red. He closed his eyes in pain, his heart aching. He had never dared to show this in front of Madam Qiu.


    A long sigh sounded in the courtyard. He stood up and carried her back to her room, carefully tucking Madam Qiu in.


    Madam Qiu usually did not like to be served by too many people. She only had a nanny and a female servant by her side.


    Thinking of her dilemma, Dean Lu summoned the two of them and asked, ¡°Did anyone else come yesterday when Madam fainted?¡±


    Nanny Lan happened to go out to pick up Ji Yunxi. When she returned, she saw that Madam Qiu had already fainted. Everyone she saw along the way could testify.


    At that time, he had left the female attendant here to guard it.


    Dean Lu looked at the female attendant. The female attendant¡¯s heart tightened and she stammered, ¡°I¡¯ve been standing guard here and didn¡¯t see anyone come by.¡±


    Dean Lu narrowed his eyes and said sternly, ¡°Tell me the truth.¡±


    The female servant was so frightened that she knelt down. ¡°I had a stomach ache and left for a while. When I returned, Madam had already fainted. I really didn¡¯t see anyone come in.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve told you a few times that Madam has to be guarded by someone. How can you leave Madam alone?¡± Nanny Lan lectured.


    Fortunately, nothing happened to Madam. Otherwise, she would have been implicated.


    Ignoring the maidservant¡¯s cries and excuses, Dean Lu got someone to bring the maidservant away.


    After some thought, he instructed Nanny Lan, ¡°Go and ask Supervisor Xu if anyone came to the women¡¯s school yesterday.¡±


    Nanny Lan left and returned about 15 minutes later. Behind her was not only Supervisor Xu, but also a female servant.


    ¡°Director.¡±


    Supervisor Xu bowed.


    Dean Lu nodded.


    Without waiting for him to ask, Supervisor Xu said, ¡°Other than the female students, only Mrs. Song brought the two girls here yesterday. At that time, I saw that she was bored in the etiquette hall, so I asked Bi Tao to bring her out for a walk.¡±


    She looked at the waitress. ¡°You tell me.¡±


    Shen Yijia sneezed. She rubbed her nose and planted the last grape seedling.


    As for the vegetable seeds, Bruiser and Lin Shao had finished planting them before she returned.

 Chapter 414 - 414 Searching For Someone (2)

    414 Searching For Someone (2)


    They were practicing in the courtyard.


    As soon as she finished watering the plants, Mo Yuan came to call her for dinner.


    The dinner was placed in the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction of the door from time to time.


    !!


    Madam Li said in amusement, ¡°Previously, South Wind came back and said that there were many things to do in the government office. Brother Chen won¡¯t be back until later, so he told us not to wait for him to eat.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head.


    ¡°Does Sister-in-law miss Big Brother?¡± Sister Huan asked.


    Shen Yijia knocked her forehead. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    The children laughed together. Even Madam Li was full of smiles.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks, not understanding what was so funny.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it normal to miss your husband? It¡¯s not like I¡¯m thinking about someone else!¡± she thought.


    The family chatted in the courtyard after dinner.


    When she was in the countryside, she did not have much to do at night. She was used to going to bed early. In addition, the children had to wake up early for school tomorrow.


    After sitting for a while, Madam Li brought Sister Huan and the others back to their rooms to rest.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and moved the chair to the door.


    Song Jingchen was really late. He only returned when it was almost time for curfew.


    There were two lanterns hanging at the entrance of the residence. Under the dim yellow light, one could see the person sitting at the door with her hands supporting her chin.


    Song Jingchen jumped out of the car without waiting for South Wind to stop and walked over.


    The sound of the carriage wheels turning was so loud, but it didn¡¯t wake anyone up. Song Jingchen felt a little guilty and bent down to pick her up horizontally.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡± Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze. When she saw that it was Song Jingchen, she shrank into his arms and muttered, ¡°There¡¯s food in the kitchen.¡±


    She had slept too late last night and woke up early to send Sister Huan and the others to school today. She had been running around during the day and had not rested at all. She was already exhausted.


    ¡°I understand. Go to sleep. I¡¯ll eat later.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was very soft.


    Shen Yijia nodded vaguely and fell asleep.


    In the Imperial Palace.


    Ji Yunxi sat in front of the dressing table. At this moment, she was not wearing a veil. The bronze mirror reflected a face that could charm all men in the world.


    Her skin was as smooth as jade, and her lips were red. She was delicate and beautiful, and her beautiful eyes curled up slightly.


    Coupled with the flower bud between her eyebrows, she looked even more seductive.


    Even Mo Yu, who had seen it many times, was stunned.


    ¡°What are you waiting for?¡± Ji Yunxi frowned and reminded her.


    Mo Yu came back to her senses and quickly lowered her head, not daring to look again. She picked up a small porcelain bottle on the dressing table.


    She poured the powder from the porcelain bottle into the copper basin. When the powder had completely melted into the water, she picked up a handkerchief and wet it.


    Ji Yunxi glanced at the porcelain bottle in disgust, closed her eyes, and asked, ¡°Did you find anything?¡±


    Mo Yu wrung out the handkerchief and placed it between Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyebrows. She said respectfully, ¡°I found it. He seems to be here to look for someone.¡±


    ¡°Looking for someone?¡± Ji Yunxi frowned.


    ¡°Yes, he has been living in the Hidden Spirit Temple ever since he arrived in the capital of Great Xia. Someone heard his conversation with the host and mentioned the words ¡¯17 years ago¡¯ and ¡®daughter¡¯.¡± Mo Yu took off his handkerchief.


    The flower bud between Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyebrows miraculously disappeared, causing her good mood to plummet.


    There was no fluctuation in Mo Yu¡¯s eyes. She picked up the red brush at the side and dipped it in some special paint that she had mixed earlier. He drew the flower between her eyebrows again.


    Her movements were very skilled, as if she had repeated it countless times. Soon, a spider lily identical to the one before appeared between Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyebrows.


    It was like heaven had crafted it.


    Ji Yunxi sneered. ¡°Isn¡¯t his daughter in the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s residence? Why did he come to Great Xia to look for her?¡±


    At this point, she paused and looked at Mo Yu steadily. ¡°You mean seventeen years ago?¡±


    Mo Yu nodded. She clearly knew what her young master had thought of.


    Seventeen years ago, the previous Valley Master left the Valley of Heavenly Secrets on her own because she was playful. Later on, she even threatened to leave the valley for a man and gave up her status as the Valley Master.


    In the end, she met a bad person. When she returned to the valley, her cultivation was crippled.


    Because she had violated the clan rules first, she was still locked in the forbidden area.


    The elders had always used her deeds to warn the younger generation, so this matter was not a secret in the valley.


    Because she was by Ji Yunxi¡¯s side, Mo Yu knew more than others.


    The man who had betrayed that person was Xuanyuan Ce.


    Ji Yunxi looked at herself in the mirror and reached out to stroke the bud between her eyebrows. ¡°That woman left the valley 17 years ago and only returned seven years ago. If they had a daughter¡­¡±


    As she spoke, she suddenly laughed and said faintly, ¡°Mo Yu, there seems to be someone more legitimate than me!¡±


    Mo Yu lowered his eyes. ¡°Even if such a person really exists, she¡¯s only the daughter of a sinner. Perhaps she doesn¡¯t even know divination. Young Master, you¡¯re the only one who¡¯s qualified to be the Valley Master.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Ji Yunxi was very satisfied with her answer. Suddenly, her eyes turned cold. ¡°But those old fellows probably don¡¯t think so. After all, they¡¯re very afraid of death. If someone can make them live longer¡­¡±

 Chapter 415 - 415 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (1)

    415 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (1)


    On the first day of Song Jingchen¡¯s court session, everyone was in a daze. Initially, most of the officials thought that even if Emperor Chong¡¯an called him back, he wouldn¡¯t put him in an important position. They didn¡¯t expect him to become the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review as soon as he returned.


    Those who had stepped on the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence before felt their scalps tingle, afraid that Song Jingchen would use his position to take revenge.


    Especially when they looked at Grand Tutor Zhao, they could not help but look at him sympathetically.


    Wasn¡¯t Grand Tutor Zhao afraid? He was naturally afraid. He was so afraid that he fell sick when he returned home that day and called in sick the next day.


    Because of this, everyone looked at Song Jingchen strangely.


    At this moment, the palace door hadn¡¯t opened yet. The ministers were gathered in groups of two or three to chat. Only Song Jingchen¡¯s surroundings were empty, as if he was a ferocious beast.


    General Xiao also came. He nodded at Song Jingchen and stood with the general he was familiar with.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes, his face expressionless.


    At this moment, the ministers who were whispering looked in one direction. It turned out that Shangguan Yu had arrived.


    Song Jingchen stood at the back and bowed with the minister before stopping.


    A few ministers wanted to get close to him as usual, but Shangguan Yu nodded and walked straight towards Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Morning, Ah Chen,¡± Shangguan Yu greeted with a smile.


    Song Jingchen cupped his hands. ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    And that was it.


    Shangguan Yu rubbed his nose. ¡°You won¡¯t have any friends like this.¡±


    Song Jingchen reminded him, ¡°The palace door is about to open.¡±


    Shangguan Yu didn¡¯t manage to have a proper conversation with Song Jingchen, but there was a smile on his face. This made Shangguan Heng, who had just arrived, furious.


    He was not the same kind of person as Song Jingchen, so they didn¡¯t interact much. He didn¡¯t hate him or like him, and his attitude was ordinary.


    However, he liked Shangguan Yu very much. In his opinion, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what was good for him.


    The palace door opened, and the officials lined up according to their ranks to enter the hall.


    Unless something major happened, the morning court session usually wouldn¡¯t last long. It was the same today.


    After the court session, Song Jingchen went straight to the Court of Judicial Review. Yesterday, he had been familiarizing himself with the past cases.


    Originally, these cases would be categorized so that they could be checked specifically in the future. However, what he received had been deliberately messed up.


    He didn¡¯t say anything and just looked at the cases for the rest of the day.


    This gave people the illusion that he was easy to bully. When he walked into the government office today, they did not even bow perfunctorily, as if he was not there.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t angry. He called over another official. It was Lord Du, who was in his thirties.


    Lord Du was not as popular as Luo Sicheng in the Dali Temple. In other words, his backer was not as strong as Luo Sicheng.


    ¡°Do you want to go further?¡± Song Jingchen went straight to the point.


    Lord Du was speechless.


    What nonsense was this? Who didn¡¯t want to be promoted and get rich?


    ¡°As long as I get promoted, I¡¯ll be fine!¡± he thought.


    After Shen Yijia sent Sister Huan and the others to the academy, she went to the wine shop Pinellia and the others opened.


    She had yet to think about what she wanted to do for a living. When she arrived in the capital, she had to buy everything. She spent the money like water. She only had about a thousand taels of silver left in her small treasury.


    Over the past few days, she had more or less understood the situation in the capital. She finally understood how difficult it had been for Pinellia and the others.


    Only she would dare to give such an order to run a business in the capital with five hundred taels of silver, right?


    At least those girls managed to survive here.


    Pinellia had told her about the location of the wine shop before. It was at the 37th Alley in the south of the city.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the alley. Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to wait at the entrance of the alley and walked in.


    The reason why she could confirm that it was this alley was because she could smell the fragrance of wine from afar.


    The alley was not big, but it was clean. The wine shop was near the middle.


    As soon as Shen Yijia arrived, she saw a person fly out and fall to the ground. The person cursed and did not dare to go in again. He spat and limped away.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a look at yourself in the mirror? A toad wants to eat swan meat and wants to marry our Sister Pinellia. Wait until your next life.¡± A young lady stood at the door with her hands on her hips and cursed at that person.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and glanced at the man¡¯s back. He was almost old enough to be Pinellia¡¯s father, so she nodded in agreement. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t think about it even in your next life.¡±


    ¡°Yes, in your next life too.¡± Wolfiporia subconsciously added. She paused in mid-sentence and turned around to see who it was. She said in surprise, ¡°Miss, why are you here?¡±

 Chapter 416 - 416 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (2)

    416 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (2)


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that she was here to take a look, but Wolfiporia had already shouted into the shop, ¡°Sister Pinellia, Sister Ginkgo, come out quickly. Miss is here.¡±


    With her roar, Shen Yijia suspected that half the people in the alley could hear her.


    Why didn¡¯t she realize that this girl had such a noisy personality before?


    Before long, Shen Yijia was surrounded by five people.


    !!


    One wanted to show her the wine, and the other wanted to show her the account book. Wolfiporia even said that they had just developed a new wine for Shen Yijia to try.


    Shen Yijia was overwhelmed. There was no need for that.


    Shen Yijia came over to take a walk and see if she could enlighten herself, but she did not.


    Now, Shen Yijia deeply understood a principle. It was really impossible to only know how to fight without some skills.


    She suddenly missed the underground arena in Qingping Town.


    Knowing that they slept on the floor at night, Shen Yijia pursed her lips and asked them to rent a house nearby with the money in their hands.


    They could sleep like this now, but definitely not in winter. Sooner or later, they would have to rent a house.


    Of course, they could also return to the residence every day, but this place was a little far from Liu¡¯er Street.


    The five of them were so touched that tears streamed down their faces.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°By the way, Miss, I saw Daya,¡± Banxia suddenly said.


    ¡°Daya?¡± Shen Yijia was a little stunned. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s an older sister who lived next door to me in Xunyang City. I haven¡¯t seen her since two years ago.¡± Pinellia explained, ¡°Although she¡¯s changed a lot in the past two years, I still recognized her at a glance.¡±


    Pinellia¡¯s eyes lit up as she spoke. If Daya appeared in the capital, did that mean that her sister was also here?


    Unfortunately, she only saw her once and never saw her again.


    ¡°Have you met her?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Pinellia shook her head. ¡°I saw her pass by the alley entrance. When I chased after her, she was already gone.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°I¡¯ll go back and tell my husband. Just remember it if you see anyone you know next time. Don¡¯t go up and acknowledge them.¡±


    Although they were puzzled, they still agreed.


    After coming out of the wine shop with a few jars of wine, Shen Yijia thought about what Pinellia had said. Her beautiful husband had already given Emperor Chong¡¯an the name list, but it was not the one Liu Piaopiao had given him.


    He imitated Old Master Liu¡¯s handwriting and made a new one. He only picked a portion and copied it.


    Not only that, but he also added some people who shouldn¡¯t be on it. He deliberately made it look old, so Emperor Chong¡¯an wouldn¡¯t be able to discover the authenticity of the list.


    What Shen Yijia did not know was that on the day Emperor Chong¡¯an received the name list, five or six palace maidservants were arrested for their mistakes.


    Among them was even a concubine who had been favored by Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Unfortunately, those people had long been brainwashed. No matter how they tortured them, they did not say anything useful.


    This also caused Emperor Chong¡¯an to be even more afraid of the person who did this. Relatively speaking, he didn¡¯t know who else in the court could be trusted, but Song Jingchen became an exception.


    This was only the name list of Xunyang City. No one knew how many there were in other places. Where were they?


    Were they in the palace or in the residences of the officials?


    After walking out of the alley, Shen Yijia climbed into the carriage and placed the wine away. She instructed them to go to Chang¡¯an Avenue. As soon as the carriage started moving, a green cloth carriage drove past.


    This kind of carriage was usually rented. There was nothing special about it.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± Shen Yijia suddenly stopped the carriage.


    The carriage stopped. She lifted the curtain and looked back. The green cloth carriage had already turned into an alley. She quickly jumped out and chased after it.


    ¡°Buy buns. Fragrant meat buns.¡±


    A vendor turned out of an alley with a basket. Shen Yijia almost kicked him away. Fortunately, she stopped in time.


    The vendor had no idea that he had almost lost everything. He even looked at Shen Yijia happily and asked, ¡°Miss, do you want a bun?¡±


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°No.¡±


    With that, she walked around the vendor. However, just as she reached the entrance of the alley, the green cloth carriage drove out.


    When the carriage passed by her, Shen Yijia specially took a look. The person sitting inside had disappeared.


    Standing at the entrance of the alley and looking at the row of houses with closed doors, Shen Yijia was in a dilemma.


    ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Mo Yuan chased after her.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Interest.¡±


    Mo Yuan thought to herself, ¡°When did you borrow money from others again?¡±


    Before she could ask, Shen Yijia tore a piece of fabric from her skirt and covered her face. She walked to the first house and knocked.

 Chapter 417 - 417 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (3)

    417 Coincidental Encounter with the Scumbag Father (3)


    Mo Yuan thought for a moment and imitated her.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± A fat woman answered the door.


    Seeing two strangely dressed girls standing outside the door, the fat woman wanted to close the door without thinking.


    It was not bad for young ladies from wealthy families in the capital to wear veils when they went out, but they were not as strange as these two.


    !!


    Shen Yijia stretched out her foot and pressed it against the door. She generously handed over a corner of silver. ¡°Auntie, we¡¯re not bad people. We just want to ask you something.¡±


    The fat woman looked at Shen Yijia strangely. She looked young, but she was quite strong.


    Glancing at the silver that was almost a tael, she reached out and took it. She raised her chin. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Is there a person surnamed Shen living nearby? Or have you seen an old man who looks like a dog?¡± Shen Yijia continued to describe him against her will. ¡°He looks like he¡¯s in his thirties or forties. He¡¯s quite handsome and looks like a gentleman.¡±


    He was actually a scumbag.


    The fat woman was about to answer when she heard the second sentence.


    Unfortunately, he couldn¡¯t see anything other than a pair of big, lively eyes.


    She poked her head out and looked in both directions. She opened the door a crack. ¡°Come in and talk.¡±


    ¡°Is there a chance?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±


    The fat woman¡¯s attitude was not good, but she still moved two chairs to the courtyard and gestured for the two of them to sit.


    Soon, two more bowls of water were brought over.


    There was a large pagoda tree in this courtyard. It was quite cool to sit under it.


    Shen Yijia took the bowl but did not drink it. It was mainly because she did not want to show her face.


    The fat woman was only used to guests coming to her door to bring water. She sat down at the side. ¡°Who are you to that person?¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and scratched her head, not knowing what to say.


    The fat woman suddenly understood and looked at Shen Yijia with sympathy.


    ¡°I know the person you¡¯re talking about. He comes over often and stays in the fifth house.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know what she was thinking. She stood up, thanked her, and was about to leave.


    The fat woman pulled her back. ¡°You have to think carefully. The woman living inside gave birth to a son for him.¡±


    ¡°If you go over and cause a scene, you might have to bring the mother and son home. Wouldn¡¯t that be even more disgusting?¡± she thought.


    ¡°In my opinion, there¡¯s no man in this world who doesn¡¯t cheat. Sister, open your mind.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. This auntie seemed to think she was here to catch him cheating on her.


    Even if she couldn¡¯t see her face, she could tell that she was young, right?


    What was with this auntie¡¯s gaze?


    Shen Yijia did not know that as long as men had status and money, there were many old men wedded to young wives in the capital.


    She opened her mouth to explain that she wasn¡¯t, but thought it unnecessary. She nodded at her and left.


    The fat woman clicked her tongue. ¡°I knew that Madam Zhang wasn¡¯t a good person. She usually looks foxy. She even said that her man is in business and doesn¡¯t come home often because he¡¯s busy doing business.¡±


    The fat woman muttered more and more excitedly. She thought for a moment and went out to talk to someone else.


    She couldn¡¯t be the only one who knew about this.


    When she walked out of the door, the two people were no longer around. The fat woman thought that the other party had listened to her advice and returned.


    She shook her head and sighed. ¡°What a pitiful woman.¡±


    Shen Yijia, lay on the roof and glanced at the adulterous couple rolling around below.


    It stung her eyes.


    She was no longer the ignorant Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia would use her hands to relieve her beautiful husband!


    She looked away after a while, afraid that her eyes would get damaged by the scene.


    After a while, another person landed on the roof.


    When Shen Yijia saw the sack in Mo Yuan¡¯s hand, she gave her a thumbs up.


    ¡°Help me knock out that woman and put that man in.¡±


    With that, she explained, ¡°They¡¯re naked. I can¡¯t look, or my husband will be jealous. But don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll help you keep it a secret. I promise not to let your future husband know.¡±


    The corners of Mo Yuan¡¯s mouth twitched. Shen Yijia had already told her who the person below was.


    He was Miss¡¯s father and had treated her badly since she was young.


    She jumped into the courtyard expressionlessly and kicked the door open.


    Shen Yijia covered her face. ¡°Is that what thieves do? Do you want everyone to know?¡± she thought.


    The woman¡¯s scream had just reached her throat when she was knocked unconscious by Mo Yuan¡¯s hand.


    ¡°How dare you? Who are you?¡± Shen Pingxiu was shocked and furious. The first suspicion in his mind was that Madam Chen had sent someone to follow him.


    Mo Yuan glanced at him in disdain and casually picked up the clothes on the ground and stuffed them into his mouth.


    She put him in the sack and tied a dead knot.


    She looked up at Shen Yijia, as if asking again, ¡°What happens next?¡±


    Shen Yijia jumped out of the courtyard and looked at the person struggling in the sack. She was in a good mood.


    She walked over and picked him up. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    With that, she climbed up the roof again.


    Mo Yuan had just thought of carrying the sack, but she realized that she could not carry it at all. She watched as Shen Yijia ran on the roof with the sack on her shoulder and fell into deep self-doubt.

 Chapter 418 - 418 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (1)

    418 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (1)


    Shen Yijia did not expect her luck to be so good.


    During this period of time, she had been too busy to look for Shen Pingxiu. In the end, this person sent himself to her.


    If she didn¡¯t do anything, wouldn¡¯t she be wasting this great opportunity?


    What she did not expect was that this bastard was actually raising a mistress behind Madam Chen¡¯s back.


    !!


    Madam Chen looked dignified and virtuous, but she was actually the most jealous. Otherwise, it was impossible for the Shen family to not have a concubine.


    If Madam Chen found out about this bastard¡¯s actions, wouldn¡¯t the Shen family be in chaos?


    She originally wanted to find a secluded place to beat him up and collect some interest.


    When she thought of something, she knocked him unconscious and threw him into the carriage. She went to buy some incense, candles, and paper money and instructed Mo Yuan to leave the city.


    She went to Madam Wang¡¯s burial ground according to the original host¡¯s memories.


    Back then, Madam Wang died of illness at a young age. Madam Chen convinced Shen Pingxiu to find another place to bury her instead of burying her in the Shen family¡¯s ancestral grave.


    Shen Yijia felt that Madam Wang would be grateful for Madam Chen¡¯s decision.


    The carriage stopped at the foot of a mountain outside the capital. Mo Yuan followed behind with incense, candles, and paper money. Shen Yijia carried Shen Pingxiu up the mountain.


    It was noon, and the hot sun made Shen Yijia sweat. She wiped her forehead with her sleeve and was stunned when she saw a lonely grave not far away.


    With Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen¡¯s personality, they would definitely not send anyone to take care of it. Shen Yijia thought that she would see a scene where the grass on the grave was half the height of a person.


    Unexpectedly, the surroundings of the lonely grave were so clean that not only were there no weeds, but there were also two white and fat steamed buns in front of the tombstone.


    In the original host¡¯s memory, ever since the two elders of the Wang family passed away, Madam Wang had become an orphan with no one to rely on. At least, the original host had never heard of her maternal family having any relatives until she was five years old.


    If not for that, the two elders of the Wang family would not have chosen Shen Pingxiu to rely on.


    Therefore, she could not figure out who else would come here to pay respects to Madam Wang.


    Struggled cries sounded.


    At this moment, Shen Pingxiu, who had been bumping around in the carriage, suddenly woke up.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and threw him in front of Madam Wang¡¯s tombstone.


    She walked over and touched the two steamed buns. They were soft and still warm, indicating that they had been placed today.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Could it be that beautiful uncle?


    It was no wonder she thought that way. She had previously believed that the beautiful uncle was someone who could not get Madam Wang. It was normal for him to come and pay his respects after knowing about her death.


    However, what Shen Yijia could not figure out was that there were no signs of anything being burned here.


    The beautiful uncle did not look like someone who was short of money. Why did he not even bring paper money and candles to pay his respects?


    ¡°If you really can¡¯t do it, put some meat in it. What¡¯s with just two steamed buns?¡± she thought.


    However, she only thought about it. It was already very kind of him to come.


    At least it was better than her, who had occupied Madam Wang¡¯s daughter¡¯s body. If not for her sudden thought today, she would not have thought of paying her respects. Shen Yijia blushed with shame.


    With this thought in mind, she temporarily ignored Shen Pingxiu, who was struggling at the side.


    She lit the candle and knelt down at Madam Wang¡¯s tombstone to burn the paper money bit by bit. At the same time, she muttered softly, ¡°If you¡¯re in heaven, you should have seen your daughter.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to occupy her body. She was already dead when I came over. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask her.¡±


    ¡°However, although the responsibility isn¡¯t mine, it¡¯s a fact that I used her body. To express my gratitude, I¡¯ll avenge you and your daughter.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t let off anyone who harmed you or bullied your daughter.¡±


    After muttering for a long time, Shen Yijia did not know if it was her imagination, but she saw the flames on the two candles move without any wind.


    What the heck?


    Shen Yijia fell to the ground in fear, her face instantly turning pale.


    ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Mo Yuan hurriedly went forward to help her up.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and glanced at Mo Yuan. She calmed herself down and looked at the candle again. When she realized that there was nothing wrong, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    She had never harmed Madam Wang and her daughter. She shouldn¡¯t be the one who was afraid.


    After thinking it through, Shen Yijia looked at the tombstone and promised softly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let the Shen family have an easy time.¡±


    With that, she threw the remaining paper money into the fire, got up, walked to Shen Pingxiu¡¯s side, and kicked him hard.


    At some point, the thing in Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mouth got dislodged. He cried out in pain, ¡°Ah, who are you? Let me go quickly, or else!¡±

 Chapter 419 - 419 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (2)

    419 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (2)


    Before he could finish, Shen Yijia kicked him again.


    She didn¡¯t know where she kicked, but she vaguely heard a crack.


    Shen Pingxiu cried out in pain and curled up into a ball.


    ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Even if she couldn¡¯t see his expression, she could imagine that it must be twisted.


    Shen Yijia raised her leg to kick again, but she stopped when she thought of something. She squatted down and dragged the sack to Madam Wang¡¯s tombstone.


    She reached out to untie the sack, but then she remembered that the person inside was naked, so she tore open a hole in the bottom of the sack.


    Shen Yijia grabbed Shen Pingxiu¡¯s hair and let his head fall out.


    Shen Pingxiu was about to turn around and see who dared to treat him like this when his head was held down by a strong hand.


    The words ¡°Tomb of the Shen family¡¯s deceased wife, Ruxuan¡± were reflected in his eyes.


    Shen Pingxiu¡¯s pupils constricted as he asked in fear, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    Shen Yijia sneered and cleared her throat. ¡°How did you force Madam Wang to death back then?¡±


    Because she deliberately lowered her voice, coupled with the fact that Shen Pingxiu was in great panic, he actually felt that the voice behind him was deep.


    He wanted to shake his head and deny it, but he couldn¡¯t move his head at all. He could only tremble and say, ¡°I- I didn¡¯t force her to death. She died of illness.¡±


    Shen Yijia was impatient to hear this. She pulled his head up and pressed it against the ground, causing blood to flow from his forehead. The blood flowed down his forehead, looking especially terrifying.


    ¡°If you say one more wrong word, I¡¯ll twist your head off.¡± Shen Yijia threatened fiercely.


    She could not figure this out before. In her dream, the original host accidentally overheard him asking Madam Wang where her things were.


    If it was really the map of that secret room, why didn¡¯t he suspect the jewelry box which had been in the Shen family for more than ten years?


    As soon as the original host got married, he seemed to have made up his mind. He even asked Shen Ruyun to travel thousands of miles to Xiagou Village to ask her for it.


    Seeing that Shen Pingxiu was lying there without saying anything, Shen Yijia tightened her grip on his head.


    ¡°I accidentally heard that Old Master Wang left her a large sum of money. There was a chance for me to get promoted, and I wanted to use money to make the process easier. However, she said that that money was for the second daughter¡¯s dowry and couldn¡¯t be touched.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. As expected, it was not the same thing. Then who asked him to look for the jewelry box?


    ¡°I just wanted to find that money. Who knew that she was so sick that she couldn¡¯t even stand straight? I only pushed her gently.¡±


    This was the same as what the original host had seen. She had seen her father kill her mother with her own eyes.


    Little Yijia hid in her room in fear. After that, she fell seriously ill and forgot about this memory.


    The more Shen Pingxiu spoke, the more self-righteous he felt. ¡°I¡¯m her husband, her everything. Shouldn¡¯t she give me the money?¡±


    Hearing his shameless quibble, Shen Yijia gritted her teeth in anger and knocked his head a few times.


    Noticing that Shen Pingxiu¡¯s eyes had rolled back and he was about to faint, she stopped. ¡°Where¡¯s the money?¡±


    Shen Pingxiu¡¯s head was dizzy and he could not think at all. He replied based on his fear of the person behind him, ¡°I gave the money to Father-in-law. He said that he could help me.¡±


    The father-in-law he was talking about was naturally Madam Chen¡¯s father, Minister Chen.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. This person was so stupid. No wonder he only became an assistant minister after more than ten years. He would probably count the money for the Chen family if they sold him off.


    In fact, Shen Pingxiu later regretted it very much. Back then, he barely entered the second round of the Imperial Examination and relied on Minister Chen to stay in the capital.


    At that time, he had to rely on Minister Chen for everything, so he naturally did not doubt his words.


    Unexpectedly, Minister Chen saw that he had abandoned Madam Wang, his wife, after gaining power. He was afraid that he would treat Madam Chen the same way in the future, so he did not want him to climb up so quickly.


    However, so what if Shen Pingxiu finally opened his eyes? He still had to rely on his Chen family in the capital. He couldn¡¯t go and ask for his money back.


    Later on, the Shen family was more or less relieved to see that he had been obedient to Madam Chen all these years, so they let him get a small promotion.


    If he had been down-to-earth back then, even if he stopped relying on them, as long as he made good political achievements, he would probably have been promoted to the capital in more than ten years.


    Unfortunately, Shen Pingxiu had no choice but to continue supporting the Chen family.


    This was because if he did anything else, it would be equivalent to offending the Chen family. It would be even worse.


    Shen Yijia did not know about Shen Pingxiu¡¯s grievances over the years. She only knew that the money that belonged to the original host had been lost by this person.


    She gritted her teeth and resisted the urge to slap him to death. She asked one last question, ¡°Then what¡¯s in the box Madam Wang left for Second Miss Shen?¡±

 Chapter 420 - 420 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (1)

    420 Beating Up Her Scumbag Father and Learning the Truth (1)


    ¡°A box? I don¡¯t know. Someone looked for me and said that someone had left it with Madam Wang. As long as I handed it to him, he would let me get what I wanted.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Who is that?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. That person had a royal token. I didn¡¯t even see his face.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°This person is so stupid. How did he get into the imperial examination?¡±


    !!


    Since she couldn¡¯t get anything out of him, Shen Yijia simply pressed him back into the sack.


    ¡°What do you want to do? I¡¯ve told you everything you want to know. Let me go!¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°I want to mess with you.¡±


    With that, she pinched the hole, picked up the sack, and started spinning it on the ground.


    Shen Yijia was covered in sweat. She only stopped when Mo Yuan reminded her that there was no more movement inside.


    She threw him aside and looked at the tombstone. ¡°I¡¯ll help you get some interest payments today.¡±


    She would be letting him off too easily if she just killed him.


    ¡°Miss, are you sure he¡¯s still alive?¡± Mo Yuan suddenly asked.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I restrained my strength.¡±


    She bowed to Madam Wang¡¯s tombstone again before bringing Mo Yuan down the mountain.


    As for Shen Pingxiu?


    The mistress would definitely report it to the authorities when she woke up. Naturally, someone would come looking for him.


    However, this way, Madam Chen would definitely know about the existence of the mistress. Then, there would be a good show to watch.


    After coming down from the mountain, Shen Yijia did not return to the city directly. Since she had already come out, she might as well visit Furball again and bring some free fish back.


    Looking at the person squatting there and catching fish happily, Furball rolled its eyes. Its initial gratitude at seeing its unscrupulous master visit it quickly disappeared.


    It felt that catching fish was this person¡¯s goal. It was just a coincidence that she also visited Furball.


    Shen Yijia thought that she could not dirty this place, so she did not kill them here this time. She prepared to capture them and deal with them later.


    ¡°Furball, no one has come here to steal fish these past few days, right?¡± Shen Yijia took the time to look back at Furball. Why did she feel that there were more fish here than last time?


    Furball shook its head.


    What should it say? It had been guarding the place for a few days, but it didn¡¯t see anyone stealing fish. However, it saw people coming here to release fish from time to time.


    Especially the man from last time. He would pour a bucket of fish in every day.


    Shen Yijia did not know what it was thinking. It was good that no one had come. Her hands did not stop moving as she urged Mo Yuan to quickly tie up the fish with vines.


    Mo Yuan was silent for a moment. She looked at the stone tablet standing at the side. The words ¡°Release Pond¡± were especially eye-catching.


    It turned out that Miss had previously said that she had discovered a pond with a lot of fish in the mountains. However, was it really fine to catch fish in the pond?


    Thinking of this, her hands moved faster. She had to leave before she was discovered.


    ¡°Ahem.¡±


    There was a cough behind them.


    Mo Yuan was shocked and immediately stood in front of Shen Yijia.


    The latter was not flustered at all. He even turned around with sparkling eyes and asked in the direction of the voice, ¡°Beautiful Uncle, is that you?¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, she saw the pale Xuanyuan Ce being helped out of the bamboo forest by Chu Feng.


    ¡°You¡¯re sick?¡± Shen Yijia was surprised. After not seeing him for a few days, how did he become a little white flower that looked like it had been ravaged?


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched. He inexplicably understood her unfinished words and waved his hand in disdain to ask Chu Feng to move away.


    He walked to a large rock and sat down. He shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I just caught a cold.¡±


    Chu Feng rolled his eyes. His master needed him to help him around, and yet he was saying this.


    Cold? Shen Yijia looked up at the sun in the sky strangely.


    Thinking of something, she tied the fish in her hand and ran to the side to wash her hands before pulling Mo Yuan over.


    ¡°My Mo Yuan¡¯s medical skills are very good. Let her take a look at you.¡±


    Before Xuanyuan Ce could speak, Chu Feng blocked him. ¡°There¡¯s no need. The abbot has already sent someone to invite Miss Ji. She should be here soon.¡±


    It was said that servants were like their masters. Since Shen Yijia was so unreliable, Chu Feng did not dare to hand his lord over to her servant to treat.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. She could clearly feel that Chu Feng was very hostile to her this time. She felt that she did not owe these two anything.


    She suggested asking Mo Yuan to treat him because this uncle was good-looking. Since the other party was unwilling, she would not push him.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and pulled Mo Yuan away.


    Anyway, they were almost done catching the fish.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Chu Feng warningly and said, ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    Shen Yijia stopped and turned around. ¡°I¡¯m going home.¡± If he had something to say, he should say it quickly.


    Xuanyuan Ce coughed softly and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted at Chu Feng. She was about to remind Mo Yuan to treat him well and take a look at him.


    Coincidentally, a monk walked over quickly.


    When the person saw the fish, he pretended not to see it. He pressed his palms together and chanted a Buddhist prayer to them before saying to Xuanyuan Ce, ¡°The abbot asked me to tell you that Miss Ji has arrived.¡±

 Chapter 421 - 421 Finally Meeting (1)

    421 Finally Meeting (1)


    ¡°That¡¯s great.¡± Chu Feng immediately leaned over to help Xuanyuan Ce, as if he had seen his savior.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and looked at Shen Yijia. The little girl was clearly unhappy.


    ¡°Master, the abbot specially invited people from the palace for you. They¡¯re all here. It¡¯s not appropriate for you not to go over, right?¡± Chu Feng saw his hesitation and hurriedly persuaded him.


    Miss Ji was quite famous.


    !!


    On the other hand, this little girl in front of him vomited all over His Highness the first time they met. The second time she cheated His Highness of his money, and the third time she went overboard. A few grilled fish made His Highness fall sick.


    If not for her, His Highness¡¯s condition would not have been so serious.


    In short, he felt that nothing good would happen if His Highness met her.


    How could he dare to let one of her maidservants treat His Highness now? If anything happened to him, even if he killed these two people, it would not be enough to pay for His Highness¡¯s life.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. The word ¡°distrust¡± was almost written on Chu Feng¡¯s face.


    Originally, she didn¡¯t care if the other party let Mo Yuan treat her or not. However, Chu Feng¡¯s attitude was too annoying, and it provoked her.


    Since he didn¡¯t believe in Mo Yuan, it meant he didn¡¯t believe in Shen Yijia either. Since he didn¡¯t want Mo Yuan to try and cure Xuanyuan Ce, Shen Yijia wanted to do it even more.


    She flashed forward and grabbed Chu Feng¡¯s collar. ¡°Get up.¡±


    With a bang, Chu Feng was sent flying and fell to the ground.


    No one expected Shen Yijia to suddenly attack, nor did they expect her to be so fast. All of this happened in a breath.


    Chu Feng was stunned for a moment until he felt a pain in his butt.


    However, even if he reacted, he still found it unbelievable. How could this girl be so fast?


    Then his face turned red. He had been thrown out like a rag by a little girl. Although she had caught him off guard, he still felt embarrassed.


    He endured the pain and got up. He pulled out the sword at his waist and was about to attack Shen Yijia. ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°Chu Feng, stop!¡± Xuanyuan Ce berated.


    He was talking to Chu Feng, but his eyes were fixed on Shen Yijia.


    To be precise, ever since Shen Yijia attacked, his gaze had never left her fair and exquisite face.


    There was shock and an indescribable emotion in his eyes.


    Seeing that Chu Feng did not dare to move, Shen Yijia let go of her clenched fists and prepared to beat him up. She made a face at Chu Feng before smiling at Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my Mo Yuan¡­¡± She paused mid-sentence. ¡°Beautiful Uncle, why are you crying?¡±


    As soon as she said this, Chu Feng looked at his lord in surprise.


    She wasn¡¯t crying, but her eyes were a little red and moist.


    Chu Feng would never admit that his lord would cry.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and sized Xuanyuan Ce up seriously. She rubbed her chin and praised him seriously, ¡°But you look really good like this.¡±


    Tears were about to fall. Coupled with his weak expression, he looked like a sickly beauty.


    Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes and hid the emotions in them. He forced a smile and said, ¡°There¡¯s sand in my eyes.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia did not believe it. There was no wind, so how could there be sand? However, she did not care. She stood to the side. ¡°Mo Yuan, come and take a look at him.¡±


    The monk, who had been ignored, was a little embarrassed. ¡°Benefactor Xuanyuan, then the abbot¡­¡±


    ¡°Go back and tell him that¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ce paused and said, ¡°I¡¯ll look for him later.¡±


    However, he did not mention asking Miss Ji to treat him. The monk opened his mouth and chanted a Buddhist proclamation before turning to leave.


    ¡°There¡¯s a pavilion over there. Can we go there?¡± Xuanyuan Ce looked at Shen Yijia inquiringly.


    Shen Yijia blinked, feeling puzzled.


    Although the beautiful uncle had been very polite to her previously, why did he still feel a little cautious now? Could it be that he was afraid of being beaten up by her because she was so powerful?


    Shen Yijia felt that she had told the truth. She nodded guiltily and did not forget to pick up her fish.


    Chu Feng was a little worried, but he did not dare to disobey his lord. He could only follow weakly.


    Unexpectedly, after taking two steps, a big tiger suddenly darted in front of him. If not for his timely reaction, he would have been torn apart.


    Furball turned around and glanced at him before chasing after its master.


    Chu Feng thought to himself, ¡°Am I being despised by an animal?¡±


    In the pavilion, Mo Yuan retracted her hand and said indifferently, ¡°He¡¯s been plagued by worries for a long time.¡±


    This situation was not very serious, but it wasn¡¯t a small matter either.

 Chapter 422 - 422 Finally Meeting (2)

    422 Finally Meeting (2)


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s meridians were blocked because of his long-term worries.


    Speaking of which, being angered by the abbot previously was actually beneficial to him. Otherwise, in another three to five years, if he couldn¡¯t suppress it and erupted again, there would really be no cure.


    However, because his condition had lasted for too long, he could not recover easily. He needed to recuperate slowly.


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned for a moment. He lowered his eyes and said nothing.


    Shen Yijia did not understand, but she believed in Mo Yuan. However, Chu Feng was different. He did not trust Shen Yijia and her servant at all.


    Hearing Mo Yuan¡¯s casual words, he could not help but want to retort. Coincidentally, a sudden voice sounded.


    ¡°Imperial Uncle, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s back was facing the person. When she heard this familiar voice, she turned around and said in surprise, ¡°Qian Youde, why are you here?¡±


    The person was dressed in luxurious clothes and looked silly and rich. Then, he looked at Zhu Zi and Shuan Zi, who were beside him. It was none other than Qian Youde.


    Qian Youde¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°Sister-in-law.¡±


    Why was this girl here?


    Shen Yijia saw Furball in the mountain and climbed up illegally. The monks in front did not know that she was in the back mountain.


    Moreover, Qian Youde had come looking for Xuanyuan Ce after asking about his whereabouts, so it was even more impossible for him to know.


    Shen Yijia frowned and pointed at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Do you know each other?¡±


    ¡°Qian Youde?¡± The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Qian Youde looked away.


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, he coughed dryly. ¡°He¡¯s my uncle. Of course I know him.¡±


    Shen Yijia was enlightened, but then she had a strange expression. ¡°Then did you call him Imperial Uncle just now?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming almost bit his tongue. ¡°Well, actually¡­¡±


    He was about to explain that the name Qian Youde was fake when he glanced at Shen Yijia and Xuanyuan Ce. He said in surprise, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your face? Where¡¯s the mark between your eyebrows?¡±


    Back then, he relied on this mark and that familiar expression to confirm that this person was related to the person his imperial uncle was looking for.


    There were many people in the world who looked alike, but it was extremely rare to see someone born with a flower bud between their eyebrows, not to mention that the pattern was identical.


    Hearing his question, Shen Yijia subconsciously reached out to cover her forehead, but she quickly reacted.


    She puffed up her cheeks and retorted, ¡°There¡¯s no mark. I just drew it for fun.¡±


    However, the guilt in her eyes did not escape Xuanyuan Ce, who had been paying attention to her face. Coupled with her subconscious actions just now¡­


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not believe it. Previously, he had seen Shen Yijia use charcoal to cover the mark. If it was really drawn, she could have just wiped it off. There was no need to do anything unnecessary.


    He suspected that Shen Yijia had covered it with cosmetics. He took a few steps over and reached out to rub the space between her eyebrows.


    Shen Yijia shook her head at Mo Yuan and resisted the urge to kick her away.


    She let him rub her eyebrows red before slapping his hand away. She said fiercely, ¡°I already said that there¡¯s no more. Do you want to die?¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming muttered. He refused to give up and reached out to confirm again.


    When the monk returned to the master¡¯s meditation room, the master was looking at Ji Yunxi, who was kneeling on the futon opposite him, in shock.


    The monk was puzzled, but he still repeated Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s words.


    The abbot was stunned. Before he could speak, Ji Yunxi smiled faintly and said, ¡°He can¡¯t avoid treatment. Why don¡¯t I go over?¡±


    The abbot was thinking about how to let the two of them meet when Ji Yunxi¡¯s words played into his hands.


    ¡°Amitabha, Benefactor Ji is right.¡±


    With that, he instructed the monk to lead the way. The monk wanted to say that he had already found another doctor, the kind who would beat someone up if she was not allowed to treat them.


    However, when he met the abbot¡¯s gaze, he finally kept quiet and led the way silently.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    As soon as the group arrived, a figure suddenly flew towards them. Ji Yunxi¡¯s hand, which was hidden under her long sleeve, moved, but she quickly retracted it. She grabbed Mo Yu, who was about to attack, and dodged.


    The abbot¡¯s eyelids twitched and he hid behind the monk.


    The person in front suddenly dodged. The monk was hit by the person who flew out.


    The monk thought, ¡°I should have asked Senior Brother to help me read my fortune before I went out today.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not expect Shen Yijia to suddenly fly into a rage when he wanted to touch her forehead for the second time.

 Chapter 423 - 423 Finally Meeting (3)

    423 Finally Meeting (3)


    When his body was suspended in the air, he was already prepared to lie in bed for the next few days.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Master, are you alright?¡± Zhu Zi and Shuan Zi ran over and helped him up.


    At this moment, Xuanyuan Ziming realized that he had knocked someone down. He stood up and helped the unlucky monk stand up. Seeing that he was fine, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    He turned to look at Shen Yijia accusingly and realized that the atmosphere was not right.


    Shen Yijia and the expressionless Mo Yuan looked at the person beside him.


    His usually motionless imperial uncle was even more exaggerated. He was clearly sitting just now, but he had already stood up with a shocked expression.


    He turned around curiously and was stunned on the spot. So he was ignorant? Why did this person also have that flower bud?


    Shen Yijia blinked and suppressed the suspicion in her heart. She retracted her foot and waved her fist at Xuanyuan Ziming. She snorted. ¡°If you dare to take advantage of me again, I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    He felt wronged. ¡°I just wanted to¡­¡±


    Halfway through his sentence, he noticed his imperial uncle¡¯s warning gaze. He said aggrievedly, ¡°I just missed you and wanted to say hello.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Shen Yijia turned her head away proudly and ignored him. Instead, she played with Furball, who was lying at her feet.


    Ji Yunxi frowned and paused between Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows before looking away.


    She glanced at Chu Feng and finally at Xuanyuan Ce. As if she did not notice his abnormality, she bowed to him. ¡°We meet again.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s you,¡± Chu Feng said in surprise.


    Ji Yunxi smiled. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect the patient to be your master.¡±


    ¡°Chu Feng, you¡¯ve seen her?¡± Xuanyuan Ce stared at Ji Yunxi¡¯s forehead without blinking. He clenched his fists on the stone table. It could be seen that he was not calm.


    Chu Feng rubbed his nose and said guiltily, ¡°She was the one who collided with our carriage previously.¡±


    At that time, he had even lied to His Highness. He did not expect to get exposed so quickly.


    However, at that time, he did not know that she was Miss Ji. Otherwise, he would not have rejected her suggestion to treat His Highness.


    ¡°Amitabha.¡± The host chanted a Buddhist proclamation. ¡°Benefactor Ji is a famous divine doctor. I brought her here to show you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned. He glanced at Shen Yijia and nodded at Ji Yunxi. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Mo Yuan had already taken a look at him.


    She patted Furball¡¯s head angrily and stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    With that, she picked up the fish and left without looking at Xuanyuan Ce.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s gaze swept across Ji Yunxi¡¯s forehead before following Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Hey, wait for me. I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming shouted and left the pavilion.


    Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s back as she left, Xuanyuan Ce felt a sharp pain in his heart. His body swayed and he almost fell.


    Chu Feng quickly helped him sit down and said anxiously, ¡°Miss Ji, my master¡­¡±


    Ji Yunxi went forward and checked his pulse. The result was the same as Mo Yuan¡¯s.


    Chu Feng muttered, ¡°So that girl really knows how to treat illnesses.¡±


    He spoke softly, but everyone present still heard him.


    Ji Yunxi understood. No wonder she felt that the master and servant were furious when they left just now. It was because she had snatched their patient.


    However, that person¡¯s appearance just now¡­


    ¡°Your surname is Ji?¡± Xuanyuan Ce suddenly asked.


    Ji Yunxi looked at Xuanyuan Ce in confusion, as if she did not understand why he asked that. After a long time, she nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia went down the mountain and climbed into the carriage after greeting Furball. Ignoring Xuanyuan Ziming, who was shouting from behind, she urged Mo Yuan, ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Her heart was pounding. She was actually not angry just now.


    Because the moment she saw Ji Yunxi, she couldn¡¯t think of anything else.


    However, she remembered what her beautiful husband had said. Without knowing if the other party was a friend or foe, she could not let the other party see through her. However, she was afraid that she could not hide it well, so she pretended to be angry.


    She knew where the mark between her eyebrows came from and had seen the portrait of the first Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    She looked so similar to the person in the portrait.


    It was impossible for her to have nothing to do with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    This was also the reason why she asked Mo Yuan to help her hide the mark between her eyebrows.


    Moreover, she also thought of something. That person¡¯s surname was Ji, and the first Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets also had the surname Ji.

 Chapter 424 - 424 Following the Wind (1)

    424 Following the Wind (1)


    When the carriage was about to reach the city gate, they saw a team parked there from afar. At the front of the team were a few luxurious carriages, and both sides of the road were filled with commoners. Many officials blocked the commoners from approaching.


    Shen Yijia lowered the curtain.


    It seemed that they could only enter after that team entered the city.


    Mo Yuan stopped the carriage by the side. Without needing them to ask, they heard the commoners discussing.


    !!


    ¡°As expected of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Look, that carriage is filled with gems.¡±


    ¡°I heard that not only is the emperor¡¯s favorite Third Prince here, but even Lord Jing¡¯an is here.¡±


    Who was Lord Jing¡¯an? He was the younger brother of the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    The previous emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom died suddenly. The emperor was only 15 or 16 years old when he took over.


    Because he was young, the imperial court of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had been controlled by cunning officials for a long time. The emperor was almost overthrown.


    This situation lasted for five to six years before it was turned around by the two brothers. Later on, the Emperor of Xuanyuan Kingdom conferred the title of Lord on his brother, who was on par with the Emperor.


    Although one had rarely heard of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s deeds in the past few years, it did not affect his status in the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Shen Yijia did not take it to heart. On the other hand, Mo Yuan¡¯s eyes moved when she heard the words ¡°King Jing¡¯an¡±, but she quickly calmed down.


    After waiting for about 15 minutes, the diplomatic mission team was welcomed in. Shen Yijia also heard people discussing that the emperor had sent Lord Xian, the second prince, to receive them.


    Lord Xian? Shen Yijia frowned. It took her a long time to remember that the Second Prince, Shangguan Yu, was also called Lord Xian.


    After the diplomatic mission entered, the officials finally let them in. The commoners entered the city one after another.


    After such a long time, Shen Yijia calmed down.


    What did it have to do with her whether Ji Yunxi was from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?


    The original host was born to Shen Pingxiu and Madam Wang. These two people were not related to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    It was even more impossible that the original host was not born to Madam Wang. In the Shen family, Madam Wang did not have the ability to deceive the world.


    As for herself, he was not from this world at all. After thinking this through, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. At the same time, she blamed herself for being too impatient.


    Because there were already many people in front, their carriage did not move.


    Unexpectedly, not long after, there was a commotion in front of them. The rapid sound of hooves was getting closer and closer.


    Shen Yijia curiously lifted the curtain and saw the person in the lead.


    Then her eyes were fixed on that person and she could no longer see anyone else.


    That person was sitting on a horse. He was wearing a black veil hat and a purple python robe. There was a long sword at his waist, and his handsome face was a little cold.


    Shen Yijia did not know how to describe the person in front of her. She had to say that he was extremely handsome.


    ¡°How can my beautiful husband be so handsome?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Such a handsome man was hers!


    Song Jingchen had been in office for two days and had to wake up before dawn every day. This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen him in an official¡¯s uniform.


    Perhaps because her gaze was too intense, the people who were looking straight ahead, as if they were not interested in anything, suddenly looked over.


    Shen Yijia blew him a kiss.


    Then she saw the man stiffen. The horse under him neighed and raised its front hooves to stop directly beside her carriage.


    As soon as he stopped, the people behind him naturally stopped.


    Shen Yijia blinked and noticed Song Jingchen¡¯s slightly red earlobes. She smiled sweetly at him. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    The voice was as soft as honey.


    Everyone in the capital knew that the Song family had undergone a huge change on the day of his marriage.


    In other words, everyone knew that he was married. However, because the original host was too unnoticeable in the past, very few people knew what she looked like.


    Now that they saw such a fairy-like beauty, they couldn¡¯t help but look at Song Jingchen enviously.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and coughed lightly. ¡°Why did you leave the city today?¡±


    Oh my, he was quite serious.


    Shen Yijia blinked and revealed the box containing the fish in the carriage to him. ¡°I went to catch fish.¡±


    The corners of the mouths of the people behind Song Jingchen twitched. The fish were so fat. They knew she must have gone to the fish pond to catch them.


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Shen Yijia asked again.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her, making Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skip a beat. Then, he said, ¡°Father-in-law was kidnapped by some evil people. I happened to hear about this, so I brought my men out of the city to look for him.¡±


    When Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mistress ran to the capital to report to the authorities, Song Jingchen happened to go there to look at the case file.

 Chapter 425 - 425 Following the Wind (2)

    425 Following the Wind (2)


    The capital magistrate remembered that Lord Shen was Song Jingchen¡¯s father-in-law and told him about this.


    Of course, there was more or less a hint of some drama happening. It was fine if his father-in-law took care of his mistress, but he was even kidnapped from her bed. No matter how one looked at it, this was very embarrassing.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s first thought was that the little girl at home had done it. He didn¡¯t say anything and took the initiative to take on this case.


    At the same time, he asked South Wind to return to the Song residence. When he heard that Shen Yijia was not at home, he was even more certain of this guess.


    He originally thought that Shen Yijia would bring them to a deserted place to teach them a lesson or kill them. He only brought the search team out of the city to stall for time.


    Now it seemed that this girl had clearly brought Shen Pingxiu out of the city.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°My father is missing. Hurry up and look for him.¡±


    There was no change in her expression, but she didn¡¯t dare to look Song Jingchen in the eye.


    An imperceptible smile flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. ¡°Go home quickly. I¡¯ll go back early tonight.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia quickly nodded meekly.


    Song Jingchen moved his fingers and resisted the urge to rub her head. He waved his whip and left.


    The people he brought looked at each other as if they had seen a ghost. They felt that what they had seen just now was too dreamy.


    Lord Song was too gentle.


    Although they had only interacted with each other for two days, it seemed to them that his usual aura of keeping strangers away was fake.


    ¡°My beautiful husband must have guessed it.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her chin and grinned.


    When the carriage arrived home, Shen Yijia had just gotten out of the carriage and had yet to stabilize herself when an air-piercing sound attacked her.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and spun to avoid it.


    When she saw who it was, she raised her eyebrows and drew the long whip at her waist to meet it.


    The two figures instantly fought. Mo Yuan frowned and drew her sword to help.


    However, before she could go up, the outcome had already been decided.


    Xiao Ruoshui looked at her whip that was entangled and could not move. She snorted and threw it down. She said angrily, ¡°Alright, you didn¡¯t look for me after coming to the capital for so many days. If I hadn¡¯t heard my father say it by chance, I wouldn¡¯t have known that you were so heartless.¡±


    Previously, she had been grounded by her father for visiting a brothel. Later on, she secretly ran out a few times. In the end, someone gossiped and caused his parents to quarrel. Helpless, she could only stay at home obediently.


    Coincidentally, she was about to get married, so her mother kept her in her room every day to embroider her wedding dress.


    It was only today that she heard that Brother Chen had returned to the capital.


    When Brother Chen returned to the capital, how could Jiajia not follow him?


    Hence, she found out the Song family¡¯s current address and came over.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and felt a little guilty. ¡°I just arrived in the capital and was about to settle down before looking for you.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t say that she had forgotten about this person.


    Xiao Ruoshui glanced at her. ¡°Really?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded seriously. ¡°Of course it¡¯s true.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui snorted proudly. ¡°Even if you¡¯re not free, you should have instructed someone to tell me. If I knew, I would have come to look for you.¡±


    Xiao Ruishui continued, ¡°I don¡¯t care. You were in the wrong first. You have to apologize to me.¡±


    Shen Yijia pinched her fingers. ¡°You¡¯re trying to take advantage of my kindness?¡± she thought.


    The two did not chat for long before the servants of the Xiao family came to call them home. When Shen Yijia returned, Xiao Ruoshui had already been waiting for more than half a day. Even lunch had been served at the Song family¡¯s house.


    This was also why Xiao Ruoshui was so angry.


    Shen Yijia felt that she was in the wrong and personally sent her to the door. After Xiao Ruoshui left, she sighed deeply.


    She had yet to think of a way to tell her that Fan Mingyuan had acknowledged her as his adopted sister.


    Shen Yijia returned too late. Madam Li had left food for her in the kitchen. After filling her stomach, she helped deal with the fish.


    They had yet to finish the fish from last time, and this time, she brought back so much. They cleaned up and packed the fish for the entire afternoon.


    ¡°Sister, are we going to sell fish?¡±


    Shen Yijia could not help with the cured fish and bean sauce. She brought Lin Shao and Bruiser to clean up the courtyard when Bruiser suddenly asked.


    He and Lin Shao did not have to go to school and were bored at home, so they wanted to find something to do.


    Shen Yijia thought about it seriously for a while. The fish in that pool could indeed be sold for some money, but it was definitely not enough to specialize in this business.


    She couldn¡¯t possibly dig another pool to raise fish to sell, right? That wouldn¡¯t earn her much money.


    Therefore, she shook her head. ¡°We¡¯re not selling fish. Let¡¯s keep them for ourselves.¡±


    Noticing Bruiser and Lin Shao¡¯s instantly stunned expressions, Shen Yijia also began to think about finding something for the two of them to do.

 Chapter 426 - 426 Following the Wind (3)

    426 Following the Wind (3)


    The two of them would be old enough to get married in a few years. They might not move out then, but they at least had to have something to do.


    In the afternoon, she went to the academy to pick up Brother Hao and the others.


    When she arrived at the men¡¯s school, Brother Hao was waiting at the door. He seemed to be in a good mood.


    When he saw Shen Yijia, his eyes lit up. He looked like he wanted her to ask him what happened.


    Shen Yijia rubbed his head in amusement and asked cooperatively.


    Brother Hao was a little embarrassed. He stammered for a long time before speaking.


    It turned out that he had been mocked and ridiculed by a few students yesterday. He was afraid of causing trouble for his brother, so he silently endured it.


    Unexpectedly, when he went to the academy today and saw those people again, all of them were bruised and swollen. It was obvious that they had been taught a lesson, so his mood naturally improved.


    Shen Yijia choked and had a guess.


    Thinking of Brother Hao¡¯s unhappy expression yesterday, she regretted being too gentle.


    She said angrily, ¡°Next time they bully you, come back and tell me. I¡¯ll take you to get back at them.¡±


    ¡°Is that okay?¡± Brother Hao¡¯s eyes lit up. Although those people had suffered retribution, it was different if he didn¡¯t do it himself.


    ¡°Of course. We just won¡¯t let them see that we did it.¡±


    It seemed that those people did not dare to let their families know that they usually bullied others.


    Otherwise, they would definitely have gone back to complain after being beaten up yesterday. It was impossible for there to be no news today.


    However, some paper tigers would be obedient after being beaten up a few more times.


    At this point, the carriage had already arrived at the women¡¯s school.


    Looking at the two little girls crawling in, Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°The space between your eyebrows¡­¡±


    Sister Huan grinned and leaned her face in front of Shen Yijia. ¡°How is it? Isn¡¯t it beautiful?¡±


    Looking at the familiar pattern, the corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°It looks good. Why is it like this?¡±


    Lin Miaomiao continued, ¡°They saw Miss Ji¡¯s makeup yesterday. Today, more than half of the students in the academy are drawing this between their eyebrows.¡±


    In order to fit in, the two of them also drew. Moreover, because they had seen the flower bud between Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows, they drew better than others.


    Later on, those people asked the two of them to help draw. For this, they even gained a large group of sisters.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids twitched. She lifted the curtain and looked over. Indeed, every girl had such a pattern drawn between their eyebrows.


    Shen Yijia covered her face. She did not know what to say.


    She felt an inexplicable urge to laugh.


    ¡°However, Sister-in-law, why is yours gone?¡± Sister Huan pointed at her forehead and asked curiously.


    Didn¡¯t she say it was tattooed previously? How could she remove it so easily?


    Shen Yijia blinked and said casually, ¡°I got tired of looking at it, so I got Mo Yuan to wash it off with medicine.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Sister Huan was enlightened and praised her daily. ¡°But Sister-in-law is also good-looking like this.¡±


    Because of Miss Ji, there was a commotion in the capital. She wondered if Miss Ji would feel a sense of accomplishment when she found out.


    The carriage passed by the alley from yesterday. Shen Yijia thought for a moment and shouted for the carriage to stop. She entered the alley alone and returned.


    As soon as she left, a few bruised and battered people appeared around the corner of the alley.


    One of them said bitterly, ¡°Is that demoness really going to come every day?¡±


    Was their holy land for fighting going to be ruined from now on?


    At Nu¡¯er Alley in the south of the city.


    It was rare for Wang Mingan not to be beaten up after school, and it was rare for him not to go home injured.


    He pushed open the dilapidated courtyard door and saw a thin woman sitting in the courtyard washing clothes.


    He pursed his lips and walked over to snatch the clothes from the woman¡¯s hand. ¡°Mother, didn¡¯t I tell you to lie down in bed? The money I earned from copying books is enough to feed us.¡±


    In fact, the money earned from copying books was too little, and Madam Wang insisted that he study and take the imperial examination in the future.


    He took another path and began to write novels for the bookstore. One book could be sold for five to six taels of silver, but Madam Wang did not know.


    With that, he helped Madam Wang sit down on a chair at the side. He put down the book bag and sat at Madam Wang¡¯s seat to start washing clothes.


    The clothes in the basin were colorful, and there were even women¡¯s undergarments.


    These clothes belonged to the women in the brothel in the nearby alley. Only they would throw the clothes to Madam Wang to wash.


    Sometimes, Madam Wang would go there to wash the clothes, and sometimes, she would bring it home to wash.


    After being patted on the shoulder twice, Wang Mingan blinked and hid the tears in his eyes before looking up.


    Madam Wang gestured guiltily with her skinny hands.


    ¡°You left the city again today?¡±


    Ordinary people might not understand, but Wang Mingan did.


    He had never heard his mother speak for as long as he could remember.


    Madam Wang nodded and gestured again.


    ¡°I heard that Second Miss is back. Go and help Mother sneak a look. She¡¯s doing well.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Wang Mingan closed his eyes, feeling powerless.

 Chapter 427 - 427 Princess (1)

    427 Princess (1)


    From the time Wang Mingan could remember, he knew one thing. Without Miss Wang, the two of them wouldn¡¯t be around today.


    Miss Wang¡¯s kindness was like a curse that imprisoned him. He could not escape.


    Even Madam Wang wanted him to take the imperial examination to avenge Miss Wang.


    Sometimes, Wang Mingan wondered if his purpose in life was to repay kindness.


    !!


    Even if her family had already become like this, Madam Wang still had to care about others¡¯ well-being. Why didn¡¯t she ask him if it hurt when he was pressed to the ground and beaten up?


    Meeting Wang Mingan¡¯s forbearing and accusing eyes, Madam Wang¡¯s heart felt like it had been pricked by a needle.


    She turned her head away, not daring to meet his gaze. She gestured. ¡°Alright, don¡¯t go.¡±


    After gesturing, she pulled Wang Mingan up from the short stool and pointed at the book bag beside her, urging him to read.


    Wang Mingan clenched his fists and returned to the house without a word.


    After picking up the kids, Shen Yijia did not go home immediately. Instead, she turned into Chang¡¯an Avenue.


    Song Jingchen had left early and returned late these past two days, so he didn¡¯t have time to eat with his family.


    Today, he said that he would come back early. Before leaving, Shen Yijia specially asked Madam Li.


    Knowing that he liked to eat crab meatballs from Ruyi Restaurant on Chang¡¯an Street, Shen Yijia prepared to pack them up and add some dishes for dinner. For this reason, she even brought a food box.


    She asked Brother Hao and the other two what they wanted to eat, but they only shook their heads.


    Lin Miaomiao led a hard life. She had never been picky about food. Brother Hao and Sister Huan probably didn¡¯t want to waste that money.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and ordered two more dishes.


    It was not time for dinner yet. There were not many guests in the Ruyi Building. After waiting for less than 15 minutes, the waiter brought back the food box.


    The three dishes cost two taels of silver.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached a little, but when she thought about how it was Song Jingchen¡¯s favorite food, she felt much better.


    ¡°Sister Piaopiao, what are you looking at?¡±


    In the candied plum shop opposite Ruyi Restaurant, the pink-skinned boy tugged at the sleeve of the woman beside him. He looked in the direction she was looking and did not understand what was so interesting about a carriage.


    Liu Piaopiao retracted her gaze. Only then did she realize that her hand under her sleeve was hurting.


    The corners of her mouth curled up into a gentle smile. ¡°I just saw an old friend.¡±


    ¡°Are they your friends?¡± Seeing that the carriage was about to leave, the boy suggested, ¡°They seem to be leaving. Should we send someone to stop them?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need.¡± Liu Piaopiao squatted down and tidied the boy¡¯s clothes. She smiled and said, ¡°We¡¯re not very familiar with each other.¡±


    Her words and actions were so gentle that water seemed to drip from them.


    The boy pursed his lips and looked around before whispering in Liu Piaopiao¡¯s ear, ¡°They all said that when the child in the new princess consort¡¯s stomach is born, she¡¯ll chase me out. I don¡¯t want to be chased away. Can you stop her from giving birth?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao paused and did not ask who she had heard it from. She only rubbed the little packrat¡¯s head gently. ¡°No, unless the baby in her stomach is gone.¡±


    Shen Ruyun had been pregnant for more than two months, but Shangguan Pu did not let the news spread. He planned to wait until the emperor¡¯s birthday to add to the joy.


    Perhaps because they were related by blood, although the emperor was not very close to his sons, he liked his grandchildren very much.


    Originally, only the people in the main courtyard knew about this matter. However, Shen Ruyun was stupid. Seeing that she had no status in Lord Jing¡¯s residence and was close to Shangguan Pu, they determined that she was a threat.


    She came to show off her pregnancy, so everyone in the residence knew about it. When Shangguan Pu found out, he was furious and grounded her in the courtyard to recuperate.


    The boy lowered his eyes and muttered, ¡°Will she not give birth if the baby is gone?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao did not seem to hear him. She held his hand. ¡°Alright, see what else you want to eat. Sister Piaopiao will buy you everything.¡±


    On the way back, the carriage passed by the bookstore again. Although it was not as crowded as before, there were still many people inside.


    Shen Yijia took a look and lowered the curtain. She did not like those books, but she was a little envious of the bookstore¡¯s business. It must be very profitable, right?


    ¡°Ah, Brother Hao, why are you writing on your hand?¡± Sister Huan¡¯s exclamation brought Shen Yijia back to her senses.


    Shen Yijia looked over and saw that one side of Brother Hao¡¯s palm was dark.


    Brother Hao retracted his hand and explained in embarrassment, ¡°I probably pressed my hand on it before the ink dried. I didn¡¯t write it. I accidentally printed it.¡±

 Chapter 428 - 428 Princess (2)

    428 Princess (2)


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and grabbed Brother Hao¡¯s hand to take a closer look. The words on it were reversed and not very clear.


    After returning home, Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to bring the food box to the kitchen and entered the backyard alone.


    On the other hand, when Song Jingchen brought people to find Shen Pingxiu, he was lying by the roadside. He was wearing a tattered sack, revealing only his head.


    If not for the reminder of the person he brought, Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t have recognized him at all. He would have thought that someone had killed someone and dumped the corpse here.


    Actually, he had only seen Shen Pingxiu once when he was picking up the bride. Not to mention his unrecognizable appearance, even Song Jingchen might not be able to recognize him.


    His entire face was dyed red with blood. Through the torn sack, he could see that there were many scrapes on his body. The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. This girl¡­


    ¡°Lord Song, this¡­¡±


    Everyone present gasped. How much hatred was this? It was so cruel.


    ¡°He¡¯s still alive,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently as he retracted his finger from Shen Pingxiu¡¯s nose.


    The officials seemed to think, ¡°It¡¯s cruel because he¡¯s still alive. Killing him would have been more merciful. Isn¡¯t this your father-in-law? Why is your reaction so dull?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. Seeing that it was getting late, he casually pointed at a few people and instructed, ¡°The few of you go up and see if there are any clues. I¡¯ll send him back first.¡±


    Those people nodded, thinking that Song Jingchen was in a hurry to bring them back to see the doctor. They felt that this attitude was normal.


    Unexpectedly, just as she finished thinking this, their Lord Song picked up the sack and placed it on his horse¡¯s back. He turned around and sat on it.


    The officials were stunned. ¡°That¡¯s it? You should at least put on some clothes for him. Can¡¯t you see that his bare thighs are exposed?¡± they thought.


    Song Jingchen frowned at the person who was still in a daze and asked, ¡°You don¡¯t want to go back?¡±


    The officials who were not called shivered and quickly got on their horses.


    Then, they saw Lord Shen hanging from the horse¡¯s back like a dead pig. He was jolted awake a few times along the way, but he quickly fainted again.


    Only the few of them could see it outside the city.


    There were too many pedestrians in the city. Lord Song specially slowed down his horse. They passed through the bustling Chang¡¯an Avenue and stopped at the entrance of the Shen residence.


    The news of the mistress reporting to the officials had long spread throughout the capital. It was no secret that Lord Song had personally brought people out of the city to look for him.


    Even if one could not see the face of the person on the horse, it was not difficult to guess who it was.


    It could be said that Shen Pingxiu had completely lost his dignity.


    When Madam Chen heard the servant¡¯s message, she rushed out to pick him up. When she saw the person on the horse, she pointed at Song Jingchen for a long time without saying anything. She staggered and almost fainted.


    It was over. Their Shen family would never be able to raise their heads in the capital again.


    Whether it was her, Wenbo, or Yun¡¯er, they would become everyone¡¯s laughing stock from now on.


    ¡°Madam Shen, I¡¯ve brought Lord Shen back for you, but we haven¡¯t found that thief yet.¡±


    ¡°If Lord Shen wakes up, please send someone to the government office to inform them if there are any clues.¡±


    Song Jingchen cupped his hands politely and left with the servants of the Shen family.


    ¡°Quick, carry Old Master in. Also, call a doctor. Hurry up and call a doctor.¡± Madam Chen was in no mood to argue with Song Jingchen for the time being. After yelling the instructions at the top of her lungs, she walked into the residence.


    She felt that countless people were mocking her just by standing at the door. This was the man she wanted to marry even though she would be the second wife.


    After taking a few steps, she thought of something and instructed the nanny, ¡°Send someone to find Wenbo. Go to Lord Jing¡¯s residence personally and tell Yun¡¯er not to come home for the next few days.¡±


    Shen Wenbo was originally on duty at the Hanlin Academy. When he heard that Shen Pingxiu had been kidnapped, he personally brought people to look for him. He had yet to return.


    The nanny beside her quickly made arrangements. The Shen family was in a complete mess.


    Song Jingchen sent someone to the Jingzhao Residence to inform them before taking a carriage home.


    Passing by the candied plum shop, he went in and chose some of Shen Yijia¡¯s favorite candied fruits.


    When he came out, he saw a vendor selling candied hawthorns opposite him. After some thought, he instructed South Wind to wait on the spot and walked over. ¡°Bring me ten sticks of candied hawthorns.¡±


    It was getting late. The vendor thought that he wouldn¡¯t be able to finish selling them. He was about to bring the rest back for his children to eat when he saw a customer coming. He said happily, ¡°Coincidentally, there are only ten skewers left. It¡¯s a total of 50 copper coins.¡±

 Chapter 429 - 429 Princess (3)

    429 Princess (3)


    Song Jingchen nodded and took out the pouch that had turned white from washing. He lowered his head and began to count the copper coins.


    The vendor was speechless. This was the first time he had seen such a stingy official.


    In the past, they would either not come to buy it personally, or even if they did, they would directly throw down a corner of silver and say, ¡°There¡¯s no need to keep the change.¡±


    How impressive was that?


    ¡°I want two sticks of candied hawthorn.¡±


    At this moment, a crisp voice sounded.


    The vendor looked at the girl who suddenly appeared and then at Song Jingchen¡¯s official uniform. He apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss. The rest have been bought by this official.¡±


    Before the girl could speak, the maidservant beside her said, ¡°He hasn¡¯t paid yet, right?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The vendor looked at Song Jingchen awkwardly.


    With his years of experience walking the streets, he would definitely be able to earn more if he sold the candied hawthorn to that lady. However, he was also afraid that he would offend Song Jingchen because of this.


    He hoped that this official would take the initiative to give up two skewers on account of the girl¡¯s good looks.


    However, Song Jingchen was destined to disappoint him. Without looking at the person beside him, he stuffed a handful of copper coins into the vendor¡¯s hand and reached out to take the candied hawthorns.


    His attitude was obvious. He had already paid, so these were his!


    The vendor thought, ¡°Not only is he stingy, but he also doesn¡¯t know how to cherish women. What a waste of his good looks.¡±


    ¡°Hey, can you finish all this? What¡¯s wrong with letting me have two skewers?¡±


    Seeing that he was about to pull out the last two sticks, the girl was so anxious that she wanted to stop him.


    Song Jingchen frowned and avoided her hand. He pulled out both skewers.


    The girl touched his sleeve and was stunned for a moment. Did this person shun her just now?


    Ridiculous. She looked at Song Jingchen with a red face.


    It wouldn¡¯t have mattered if she didn¡¯t look. When she saw his face, the words she wanted to say were stuck in her throat.


    ¡°How dare you! Do you know who we are?¡± The maidservant spoke for her.


    The girl came back to her senses and glared at the maidservant. The anger on her face instantly turned to shyness. ¡°It¡¯s you? I¡¯ve seen you before.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not selling these,¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently and turned to walk towards the carriage.


    Did he think that she was deliberately trying to get close to him to buy his candied hawthorn?


    The girl blushed again and chased after him. ¡°I¡¯ve really seen you before. When you left the city today, my carriage happened to enter the city.¡±


    ¡°Princess, why are you telling him this?¡± The maidservant stomped her feet and was about to chase after him when she noticed the peddler¡¯s expression. She glared at him.


    The vendor thought, ¡°If you don¡¯t chase after your princess, she¡¯ll lose her soul.¡±


    Seeing that she was chasing after him, Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and turned to look at the girl. He didn¡¯t hide the impatience on his face and said coldly, ¡°I have a wife. Miss, please respect yourself.¡±


    With that, he ignored the girl¡¯s pale face and turned to enter the carriage.


    South Wind had long seen his master being pestered by a girl. Thinking of Young Madam¡¯s fist, he wished he could personally go up and pull his master back.


    Although he knew that his master would ignore that girl, Young Madam¡¯s train of thought was too strange. If he found out later, what if she came to blame him for letting his master buy candied hawthorn personally?


    After all, if he didn¡¯t buy it, he wouldn¡¯t have encountered such a thing!


    Seeing Song Jingchen get into the carriage, he didn¡¯t care if he sat still or not. He waved her whip and let the horse gallop away.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He looked at the candied hawthorn that he had almost dropped and rubbed his forehead. He roughly guessed the reason why South Wind did this.


    After being speechless, he remembered that Shen Yijia had grabbed South Wind to spar because she knew that he did not eat on time. He could not help but smile.


    She had improved now. She knew that Rooster and Thirty Thousand had been sent by him to do other things. He only had South Wind by her side. When she hit people, she didn¡¯t hit their faces. She only hit their bodies.


    The reason was that it would embarrass him.


    ¡°Princess, are you alright?¡±


    After the carriage left for a long time, the girl still stood rooted to the ground, looking in that direction. The maidservant asked carefully.


    The girl looked away, bit her lower lip, and turned to walk in the opposite direction. She said angrily, ¡°Back to the courier station.¡±


    The maidservant heaved a sigh of relief and quickly followed. At the same time, she advised, ¡°That person just now was too ungrateful. Princess, don¡¯t be angry. I¡¯ve already remembered his appearance. We¡¯ll tell His Highness later and let him tell the emperor that we have to punish him.¡±


    The girl paused. ¡°Bai Zhi, do you think Father will really care about me and stand up for me?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± Bai Zhi stopped mid-sentence and said weakly, ¡°The princess came all the way here to see His Highness. He will definitely be touched.¡±


    The girl sneered and stopped talking.

 Chapter 430 - 430 Xuanyuan Ye (1)

    430 Xuanyuan Ye (1)


    She pretended not to care, but Xuanyuan Ye still had hope in her heart.


    She hoped that it was really as Bai Zhi had said. She hoped that her father would be touched when he found out that she had come to Great Xia.


    However, when she returned to the posthouse and saw Xuanyuan Ziming sitting in the lobby drinking tea, the hope in her heart disappeared.


    !!


    She should have known. Her father had someone he liked and didn¡¯t care about her mother, so he didn¡¯t care about her either.


    Sometimes, Xuanyuan Ye felt that it was ridiculous. In her life, she had only seen her biological father a few times.


    She had once heard from the old man in the residence that even when she was born, her father did not return to Phoenix City.


    Xuanyuan Ye still remembered that the first time she saw him was when she was three years old. The empress dowager¡¯s grandmother was unwell, and her father returned to Phoenix City to stay for three days.


    However, he did not return to the prince¡¯s residence at all in those three days. Instead, he stayed in the palace.


    At that time, she still did not understand that she was disliked. She happily asked Nanny to bring her to the palace to see him.


    Her mother had shown her her father¡¯s portrait, but she felt that he was even better-looking in person than in the portrait.


    She called out softly, ¡°Father.¡±


    She remembered that he had said two words.


    He said, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Yes, he had chased her away without looking at her. She had cried and said that she would never like her father again.


    Later on, he even went back to Phoenix City a few times. It was the Empress Dowager¡¯s grandmother who pretended to be sick and tricked him back. Unfortunately, he left again after staying for two days.


    Moreover, even if he returned to Phoenix City, he had never stepped into the residence. If she wanted to see him, she could only hide in the palace path and take a look.


    Although she said in her heart that she didn¡¯t like her father anymore, she was still a child who yearned for her father¡¯s love.


    Seeing that her father would come back every time the empress dowager¡¯s grandmother fell sick, she secretly jumped into the pool in the middle of winter to make herself sick.


    That time, she almost died, but her father never appeared.


    His mother comforted her and said that her father was busy and did not know that she was sick. She felt better.


    This year, she had just turned 15.


    Seeing that her father had returned to Phoenix City, she thought that he had returned for her coming-of-age ceremony.


    She was wrong again. Her father still came to Great Xia without visiting her.


    She was supposed to hold her coming-of-age ceremony in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but she ignored her mother¡¯s objections and chased him to Great Xia.


    She did not know why she was doing this. Perhaps it had become her obsession to obtain her father¡¯s attention.


    However, it was precisely because of her father¡¯s coldness and neglect that both the empress dowager and the emperor doted on her excessively, even surpassing her cousins.


    She knew that their hearts ached for her, but they were not her father after all.


    ¡°Little Yezi, where did you go? Don¡¯t you know that you should bring more people out? Do you think this is the Xuanyuan Kingdom?¡±


    ¡°Let me tell you, not many people in Great Xia know you.¡±


    ¡°If you want to go out, at least leave a message. I almost brought someone to report it to the authorities. Do you know that?¡± When Xuanyuan Ziming saw her return, he bombarded her with questions.


    Xuanyuan Ye retracted her thoughts. Her nose felt a little sour and she was a little touched.


    This cousin of hers usually looked unreliable. He only knew how to do bad things because the emperor and the empress dowager doted on him. She did not expect him to know how to care about others after coming to Great Xia.


    Although she still hated how he addressed her, Xuanyuan Ye had just suffered two blows. Her heart was weak and she was about to apologize.


    Zhu Zi and Shuan Zi each came out from behind with a tray and shouted, ¡°Hey, make way, make way.¡±


    As the two of them walked, a fragrance wafted out.


    Soon, a plate of delicious food filled the square table in front of Xuanyuan Ziming.


    Zhu Zi even stood at the side and introduced them one by one. ¡°Your Highness, these are all what you specifically asked to eat. Ruyi Restaurant¡¯s crab meatballs, sesame phoenix rolls, First-grade Restaurant¡¯s jade belt prawns, Eight Treasure Duck, Mandarin Fish, and Heavenly Fragrance Restaurant¡¯s lotus leaf chicken¡­¡±


    These were all famous dishes in the capital. They had to go to all the major restaurants in the capital to gather them.


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless.


    She would be a fool to believe his nonsense.


    However, after this interruption, the sadness in her heart turned into anger.


    Xuanyuan Ye rolled her eyes and was about to go upstairs.


    Xuanyuan Ziming picked up a meatball and put it into his mouth. He sighed and called out, ¡°Hey, Little Yezi, aren¡¯t you going to eat some with us? It¡¯s not easy to gather these. If you don¡¯t eat them now, you won¡¯t be able to eat them even if you want to in the future.¡±

 Chapter 431 - 431 Xuanyuan Ye (2)

    431 Xuanyuan Ye (2)


    Xuanyuan Ye paused. She had gone out just now to find something to eat.


    Unexpectedly, she was attracted by the candied hawthorn before she reached the restaurant. She even met the person she saw when she entered the city.


    Thinking of what the man had said, she narrowed her eyes.


    ¡°Look at your expression. Did you fall for someone¡¯s husband or something?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming pretended to be afraid and patted his chest.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    However, she quickly calmed down and sat down opposite Xuanyuan Ziming. She said angrily, ¡°Third Cousin, if you continue to spout nonsense, I¡¯ll go back and tell the emperor¡¯s uncle and grandmother.¡±


    Bai Zhi added a pair of chopsticks in front of her.


    Xuanyuan Ziming choked and said bitterly, ¡°Xiao Yezi, since you call me cousin, I have to talk to you properly. Can you stop complaining at the drop of a hat? You¡¯re already a young lady of marriageable age. Why are you still doing such despicable things like when you were young?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye paused at the mention of her coming-of-age ceremony. She took a deep breath and put down the chopsticks she had just raised. She reached out her hand to Xuanyuan Ziming. ¡°Since you know that I¡¯m coming of age, where¡¯s my coming-of-age ceremony? Cousin.¡±


    She emphasized the last word.


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked at the hand in front of him and then at the drumstick he had just pulled off. A wicked smile flashed across his eyes.


    He pretended to feel sorry for her and placed the drumstick in her fair hand. ¡°If you like my drumstick, just say so. As your elder, how can I not let you eat it?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye cried out in surprise and shook off the drumstick. She was so angry that her teeth were chattering. She pointed at Xuanyuan Ziming and could not say anything for a long time. The grievances in her heart appeared.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was still waiting for Xuanyuan Ye to flare up as usual, but he suddenly heard sobbing.


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked at the crying person opposite him as if he had seen a ghost. He swallowed the prawns in his mouth. ¡°No way. You¡¯re crying just because I didn¡¯t give you a gift?¡±


    Bai Zhi couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. Putting aside the fact that she didn¡¯t have a father to dote on her, her princess was doted on in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but this Third Prince always liked to bully her.


    She said angrily, ¡°Your Highness, where¡¯s His Highness? Didn¡¯t you go to look for His Highness?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming blinked. Only then did he remember that in order to prevent Xuanyuan Ye from following him to the Hidden Spirit Temple, he had promised to bring his uncle back.


    In the end, because he met that little girl, he forgot to tell her that Xuanyuan Ye had also come.


    He rubbed his nose guiltily. ¡°Well, actually¡­ Imperial Uncle is sick.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye stood up and interrupted him. ¡°What? What happened to my father?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s sick. His face is pale. I didn¡¯t dare to disturb his rest, so I came back first.¡±


    ¡°Come, we¡¯re going to the Hidden Spirit Temple.¡±


    There were still tears on her face, but she had already walked out. Xuanyuan Ziming felt a headache coming on. If he went over now, he would have to go up the mountain in the dark, right?


    To prevent any accidents from happening, he quickly followed. He did not forget to turn around and instruct Zhu Zi, ¡°Pack these up. We¡¯ll bring them to the Hidden Spirit Temple to eat.¡±


    Zhu Zi muttered, ¡°But these are all meat dishes.¡± Aren¡¯t you afraid of being thrown out?


    ¡°Then we¡¯ll eat in the carriage. I wonder what Imperial Uncle is thinking. He went to the temple to recuperate after recuperating. He didn¡¯t even have any meat or fish. How can he recover from his illness?¡±


    Although Xuanyuan Ce did not say that he was there to recuperate, Xuanyuan Ziming automatically thought so.


    As soon as Song Jingchen arrived home, he saw Brother Hao and the others doing their homework in the courtyard. Lin Shao and Bruiser were fiddling with something at the side, and he could smell the fragrance coming from the kitchen.


    ¡°Big Brother, you¡¯re back!¡± They looked up and shouted. Although they were afraid, they still respected Song Jingchen as their big brother.


    Especially when they saw the candied hawthorn in his hand, they felt that their brother looked especially lively today.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen handed five sticks of candied hawthorn to Sister Huan and asked her to share it with them. He then placed a bag of candied plums on the stone table. Looking around, he didn¡¯t see a certain someone. He coughed lightly and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s your sister-in-law?¡±


    The five of them happened to have one each. Song Jingchen still had a few candied hawthorns and a few bags of candied plums.


    Sister Huan sighed deeply.


    Sighing, she took the opportunity to grab a few candied plums and hide them. She stuffed a few more into her mouth before pointing in the direction of the backyard. ¡°Sister-in-law went back to the courtyard as soon as she returned.¡±

 Chapter 432 - 432 Xuanyuan Ye (3)

    432 Xuanyuan Ye (3)


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and knocked Sister Huan¡¯s head. ¡°Eat less candied plums.¡±


    Sister Huan puffed up her cheeks. The five of them had only shared a bag of candied plums. If she didn¡¯t eat more now, it would be gone in a while.


    ¡°Big Brother is getting more and more biased.¡± Brother Hao leaned over and muttered. In the past, he could still be fair, but now, it was completely different.


    Sister Huan nodded in agreement. ¡°Well, sister-in-law is just too good.¡±


    The two of them sighed in unison.


    Lin Shao looked at the twins¡¯ acting skills in amusement.


    Holding the candied hawthorn in his hand, his heart swelled. Brother Song looked cold, but be it the siblings or Bruiser, he treated them as family.


    ¡°Brother, aren¡¯t you eating?¡± Lin Miaomiao stuffed a candied hawthorn into her mouth. Her face was pale and red, and her cheeks puffed up.


    Lin Shao vaguely remembered that before he came to the Song family, Miaomiao would fall seriously ill from time to time because of her illness. She even starved with him every day.


    If not for his sister-in-law¡¯s appearance and bringing them back to the Song family, he knew that they would not have survived that winter.


    He rubbed Lin Miaomiao¡¯s head and was about to hand her his stick of candied hawthorn when a hand suddenly reached over.


    The four of them looked at the same time.


    Bruiser paused and scratched his head awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯m already so old. How can I eat something that only girls like to eat? Which one of you wants it?¡±


    He moved his hand to the middle.


    Lin Shao frowned and handed his over. ¡°I¡¯ll give mine to you too.¡±


    Sister Huan and Miaomiao were girls. The two of them looked at each other and smiled.


    After that, they looked at Brother Hao.


    Brother Hao took a bite. ¡°One stick is enough for me. The two of you can eat.¡±


    Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao were speechless.


    As soon as Song Jingchen entered the courtyard, he saw that the study door was wide open. Someone was sitting in front of the desk and fiddling with something.


    ¡°Is she starting to work hard?¡± he thought.


    He was a little relieved.


    Shen Yijia looked up and saw who it was. She subconsciously hid her right hand behind her back. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back?¡±


    She didn¡¯t ask if he had found Shen Pingxiu, because she felt that Song Jingchen would definitely be able to find him.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He put down the candied plums and took out a handkerchief to wipe the ink off her face.


    When he looked down, he saw a piece of rice paper spread on the top of the desk. The ink on it was still wet. It was obvious that it had been written not long ago.


    Stunned, he asked incredulously, ¡°Did you write all this?¡±


    Although there were only a few words, the handwriting was neat. Because he looked in the opposite direction, he only found it a little familiar.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Shen Yijia pointed at the candied hawthorn in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°Did you buy this for me?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and handed it to her. He picked up the rice paper. No wonder it looked familiar just now. Wasn¡¯t this his handwriting?


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Before he could ask, Shen Yijia took a bite of the candied hawthorn and glanced at him. ¡°Did I write well?¡±


    There were two words written on her face. Praise me.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment and didn¡¯t answer. He asked, ¡°What are you hiding in your hand?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Tell me first, am I good at writing?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Noticing the smug expression on Shen Yijia¡¯s face, he changed the topic. ¡°My handwriting is indeed not bad.¡±


    Shen Yijia choked, but she quickly stopped caring. She finished the stick of candied hawthorn and asked Song Jingchen to help her carry the rest.


    Then, she mysteriously took out her right hand.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched when he saw her ink-stained hand.


    Shen Yijia noticed his gaze and the corners of her mouth twitched. ¡°I¡¯m not asking you to look at my hand. Look at this.¡±


    She shook the wooden board in her hand. A few words had been carved into it. It was already smeared black.


    ¡°This is?¡± Song Jingchen had actually guessed it.


    Shen Yijia chuckled and picked up a brush to brush a layer of ink on the carvings on the wooden board.


    She picked up another piece of rice paper and printed it on it. Soon, the same words appeared on the paper.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia put the rice paper aside. ¡°How about I open a bookstore?¡±


    In the past, Song Jingchen had also copied books for others to earn money. If he wrote well, he could earn a few taels a month.


    The books here were expensive not only because the paper was not cheap, but also because every book was copied by hand.


    However, if she printed books and sold them, the cost would be much lower and it would be much more efficient.


    She had thought about it. She could sell it at a slightly cheaper price than others. She would not be boycotted by other bookstores and could earn more.


    If she had half of that bookstore¡¯s business, wouldn¡¯t she be able to make a killing?


    This method was naturally excellent. Moreover, Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia had been worrying about what business to do recently. Even though he had said many times that he had the ability to support the family, it was useless.


    He rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. ¡°I¡¯ll help you find a shop.¡±


    Shen Yijia leaned over and took a bite of the candied hawthorn in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She narrowed her eyes and said vaguely, ¡°There¡¯s no need. You¡¯re so busy every day. I¡¯ll go and ask an agent tomorrow.¡±


    Moreover, she had to make other preparations.

 Chapter 433 - 433 Father and Daughter Meet (1)

    433 Father and Daughter Meet (1)


    When he bought the candied hawthorn, Song Jingchen only thought about how Shen Yijia liked it, but when he saw that she had eaten one skewer after another and was about to bite into the third skewer, he decisively reached out and stopped her.


    Shen Yijia paused and looked at Song Jingchen accusingly. ¡°Didn¡¯t you buy it for me? Am I supposed to just stare at it?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. ¡°We still have to eat later. Save it for tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I can still eat after eating these.¡± Shen Yijia licked the sugar stains on her lips and looked eagerly at the candied hawthorn skewer in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°Besides, look, the sugar coating on it is about to melt. It¡¯ll definitely spoil by tomorrow.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her red lips and his eyes darkened. He quickly looked away and coughed lightly. ¡°You can put it in the ice cellar.¡±


    ¡°You can do that?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face fell. ¡°Do we really have to do this?¡±


    Her face was filled with resentment, as if Song Jingchen had done something wrong to her. Song Jingchen reached out and pinched her nose in amusement. ¡°Really.¡±


    With that, he left the study with the candied hawthorn and returned after a while.


    As soon as he entered, he saw Shen Yijia unwrapping the paper bag containing the candied plums with one hand. He walked over and took the candied plums away.


    As expected, he received Shen Yijia¡¯s dissatisfied gaze.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. He personally opened one and fed it to Shen Yijia. ¡°You can only eat one today.¡±


    His fingers were slender and beautiful. The ordinary candied plums looked extraordinary in his hands.


    Just like the same hairpin, the effect of putting it in a wooden box was different from putting it in a glass box.


    In short, Shen Yijia felt that the candied plum in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand was even more tempting than what she had eaten in the past.


    However, his words did not sound good.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. She came back to her senses in a second. He bought three packets and only let her eat one?


    ¡°Are you kidding me?¡± she thought.


    She swallowed and shut her mouth without answering. She snorted and turned her head away.


    ¡°Without at least two, don¡¯t even think about coaxing me!¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen suppressed the smile on his face and said regretfully, ¡°I originally wanted to leave these for you to eat slowly. Since you don¡¯t like them, I¡¯ll take them out and share them with Brother Hao and the others later.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Song Jingchen waited for a while, but Shen Yijia didn¡¯t open her mouth. He pretended to retract his hand.


    Unexpectedly, the next moment, he felt a soft brush across his fingertips, leaving behind a little wetness and sweeping away the candied plum.


    Song Jingchen twisted his fingers. The touch just now seemed to be still there.


    Shen Yijia put the candied plums in her mouth and complained in a muffled voice, ¡°Since you won¡¯t let me eat them, why did you buy so many?¡±


    Song Jingchen suppressed the throbbing in his heart and reflected on himself.


    When he saw it, he thought about how she liked it and couldn¡¯t help but want to buy more for her. He didn¡¯t consider that she couldn¡¯t eat too much.


    After reflecting, he nodded seriously and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll buy less next time.¡±


    Shen Yijia cringed.


    Did she shoot herself in the foot?


    Song Jingchen chuckled. He put away the remaining candied plums and pulled Shen Yijia to the courtyard. He fetched water and helped her wash the ink off her hands.


    At the same time, he mentioned the matter of printing books. ¡°Have you ever thought about making an engraved version in advance? Printing books is convenient.¡±


    ¡°However, once a word was carved wrongly, the entire carving would be useless.¡±


    ¡°Moreover, you need to prepare an engraved version for one page. How many engraved versions do you need to prepare to open your bookstore?¡±


    ¡°Not only that, if the books you print are only sold in your own bookstore, can you earn back the cost of hiring someone to carve the version?¡±


    Shen Yijia did not expect this person to think so much in such a short time. He even thought of it when he was talking to her about candied hawthorn.


    She did not expect there to be so many problems with printing a book.


    Shen Yijia spread her hands. ¡°Then what do you think we should do?¡±


    With a smart brain, it would be a waste not to use it. She directly let her brain, which didn¡¯t have many cells to begin with, shut down.


    Song Jingchen took a handkerchief and wiped her hands dry. The reason why he thought about this was because books were expensive, causing many commoners to be unable to afford books and unable to go to school.


    If the book printing method was promoted, not only could it increase efficiency and reduce costs, but it could also reduce the price of books.


    Most importantly¡­


    He smiled and whispered in Shen Yijia¡¯s ear for a long time.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up as she listened. When she heard the rest, she was puzzled. When Song Jingchen finished speaking, she puffed up her cheeks in dissatisfaction. ¡°Why me?¡±

 Chapter 434 - 434 Father and Daughter Meet (2)

    434 Father and Daughter Meet (2)


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and comforted her. ¡°Be good. That¡¯s the only way I can be at ease.¡±


    In his path of revenge, Shen Yijia was implicated by their family. Since he could no longer bear to let her go, he could only give her more protection.


    As for Mother, Brother Hao, and Sister Huan, they would definitely understand and agree.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and did not retort, but she had other plans.


    !!


    Ji Yunxi gave Xuanyuan Ce acupuncture. While waiting for the needle to function, she prescribed another prescription and even prepared a medicinal bath.


    After doing this, the sky had already darkened.


    The emperor had instructed her to leave the palace today to treat Xuanyuan Ce.


    The monk sent by the abbot went to ask the emperor for instructions. For one thing, Xuanyuan Ce could not get into trouble in Great Xia. This was also an opportunity to befriend the Xuanyuan Kingdom, so the emperor naturally would not refuse.


    If not for the fact that he knew that Ji Yunxi¡¯s medical skills were better than the imperial physicians in the imperial hospital, the emperor would have even sent those imperial physicians over.


    Therefore, she was not in a hurry to return to the palace today.


    The host got someone to arrange a room for her.


    After putting away the needles, Ji Yunxi¡¯s head was already covered in sweat. Mo Yu wiped her sweat with a handkerchief.


    The bud between her eyebrows was already as red as fire. With this rub, it seemed to come alive, making people¡¯s gazes sink into it.


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned.


    This was originally a very rude behavior, but Ji Yunxi pretended not to see it. Instead, she instructed, ¡°Your Highness, you can¡¯t think too much now. You have to try your best to relax. Otherwise, no matter how good the medicine is, it¡¯s useless.¡±


    She had a frank expression on her face. She did not flatter him, nor did she feel superior just because she was the one who saved him. She only reminded him because she was a doctor.


    Xuanyuan Ce came back to his senses and a trace of disappointment flashed across his face. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard. Go back and rest early. Chu Feng, send Miss Ji off.¡±


    Ji Yunxi bowed. ¡°I¡¯ll check your pulse again tomorrow.¡±


    With that, she turned around and left.


    Chu Feng followed Xuanyuan Ce and did not forget to close the door.


    The abbot sat quietly at the side. After they left, he looked at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Amitabha. It seems that you¡¯ve found the person you¡¯re looking for.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not answer him. The melancholy he had when he faced Ji Yunxi was gone.


    He lowered his head and twirled the jade ring on his finger. ¡°You said that when Ji Luo appeared back then, she was covered in injuries. Moreover, after she left, someone came here to look for her?¡±


    The abbot nodded. ¡°That¡¯s true. If not for the fire, the Hidden Spirit Temple would have suffered too.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes. ¡°Those people must have found some clues and left. They just know that she¡¯s no longer here.¡±


    ¡°And they never appeared again. Could it be because Ji Luo was already in their hands?¡±


    The host¡¯s expression softened slightly. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I believe in my intuition,¡± Xuanyuan Ce suddenly said, then smiled. ¡°But you¡¯re right. I¡¯ve indeed found my daughter.¡±


    The abbot was confused, but he did not pursue the matter. The karma between him and his benefactor had long been resolved when she appeared in the Hidden Spirit Temple covered in blood.


    If not for the fact that this fellow was too difficult to deal with, he would not have mentioned this matter.


    He chanted a Buddhist proclamation with a benevolent expression on his face, but his words were impolite. ¡°When are you leaving?¡±


    As long as this person stayed in the Hidden Spirit Temple, he would not be able to rest in peace.


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows and was about to answer when he suddenly looked at the closed door with a cold expression. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    At the same time, the jade ring flew out of his hand.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    A woman¡¯s cry came from outside the door.


    The host and Xuanyuan Ce pushed open the door and walked out almost at the same time.


    Under the moonlight, a girl in pink sat weakly on the ground. Beside the girl in pink stood a man in black with a silver mask. The mask shone coldly under the moonlight.


    ¡°Demon Guards,¡± Xuanyuan Ce spat out. The murderous aura on his body dissipated. He looked coldly at the girl who had her head lowered and was clearly frightened. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    The Demon Guards were not ordinary secret guards, just like how the emperor had secret guards by his side.


    In the Xuanyuan Kingdom, although the Shadow Guards were also responsible for protecting the safety of the royal family, they were not the most powerful.


    Above the Shadow Guards were the Demon Guards.


    If there were a thousand people who had been training since they were young, and the ten people who stood out could be chosen as Shadow Guards, then only one person could be chosen as a Demon Guard. Moreover, a Demon Guard needed to have the ability to fight against ten Shadow Guards.

 Chapter 435 - 435 Father and Daughter Meet (3)

    435 Father and Daughter Meet (3)


    There were only ten Demon Guards passed down to them from their father. Among them, there were three by his side and seven by their brother¡¯s side.


    They would only appear when their master¡¯s life was threatened, or when their master summoned them.


    Therefore, this was clearly not his Demon Guard. He must have been sent by his brother to protect this girl.


    ¡°Princess, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    !!


    At this moment, a group of five or six people walked in from outside the courtyard. When she saw the scene in the courtyard, Bai Zhi quickly ran over to help Xuanyuan Ye up.


    Seeing that the young man he had seen during the day was also here, the abbot knew that these were all people from the Xuanyuan Kingdom. He chanted a Buddhist proclamation and left.


    Princess? Xuanyuan Ce frowned. There were many princesses in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but there was only one at this age.


    Xuanyuan Ce rubbed his forehead. His brother was too reckless. It seemed that it was time to clarify some things when they returned to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    ¡°Uncle.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming bowed to Xuanyuan Ce nervously.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± The people following him bowed.


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not expect this to happen.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him and was about to reprimand him when he thought of something and swallowed it. He nodded and asked, ¡°Why are you here so late?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned and reached out to twist his waist.


    It didn¡¯t hurt!


    He was indeed dreaming.


    He knew it. When had his imperial uncle ever been so kind to him?


    No, Imperial Uncle had never been kind to anyone. He clearly had a good face that could attract both men and women, but he insisted on being cold every day. What a waste of his skin.


    With this thought in mind, he twisted the piece of meat around again.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Zhu Zi did not dare to lose his composure in front of Xuanyuan Ce. At this moment, he could not help but grimace in pain.


    Xuanyuan Ziming lowered his head in a daze and quickly let go.


    He looked up at Xuanyuan Ce as if he had seen a ghost and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s not a dream?¡±


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched. His nephew was really¡­


    ¡°Princess, what¡¯s wrong? Don¡¯t scare me.¡± Bai Zhi¡¯s worried voice sounded.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked over. The Demon Guard had already disappeared when these people appeared.


    Only Xuanyuan Ye was still sitting on the ground, maintaining her original posture.


    He frowned and noticed that the imperial physicians of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had also arrived. He had a guess as to why these people had gone up the mountain overnight.


    ¡°Go and take a look at her.¡±


    Imperial Physician Qin was stunned for a moment before realizing that he was talking to him. He quickly bowed and walked to Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s side.


    Only then did Xuanyuan Ye react. Her eyes moved. Her father still cared about her, right?


    When Chu Feng returned after sending them off, he was stunned to see so many people in the courtyard.


    After bowing to Xuanyuan Ziming, he did not wait for him to go over and bow to Xuanyuan Ye.


    Xuanyuan Ce instructed, ¡°Get someone to arrange a residence for them. I¡¯ll go down the mountain with you tomorrow morning.¡±


    The last sentence was directed at Xuanyuan Ziming.


    With that, he ignored the people in the courtyard and returned to the house.


    Imperial Physician Qin checked Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pulse. After about ten minutes, he retracted his hand and heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°The Princess is fine. She was just a little shocked.¡±


    ¡°Then the princess¡­¡± Bai Zhi didn¡¯t believe it. How was she ¡°just a little shocked¡±? She was clearly frightened out of her wits.


    Xuanyuan Ye waved her hand to interrupt her and stood up.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s status in the Xuanyuan Kingdom was even higher than that of ordinary princes and princesses. Imperial Physician Qin did not dare to be negligent. To be safe, he said, ¡°If you¡¯re worried that you won¡¯t be able to sleep at night, I can prescribe you a calming medicine.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯m fine.¡± Xuanyuan Ye looked at the closed door.


    ¡°Little Yezi, what happened just now? Or did you see something?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked.


    He did not think that his uncle would attack a little girl for no reason, let alone that she was his daughter. In the past, he would at most ignore her.


    Actually, he had never understood why his imperial uncle was so indifferent to this little cousin. Even the grudges of the previous generation should not involve her.


    He felt that Xuanyuan Ye was a little wronged. The reason why his father and grandmother doted on her so much was probably because she was his uncle¡¯s only bloodline.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ye closed her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Since she was unwilling to say it, there was nothing Xuanyuan Ziming could do. Fortunately, nothing happened.


    Coincidentally, Chu Feng returned with a few novice monks. They returned to their assigned rooms.


    Bai Zhi brought over water to help Xuanyuan Ye wash up. Seeing that she was in a daze again, she couldn¡¯t help but ask worriedly, ¡°Princess, are you alright?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye frowned and said coldly, ¡°Get out!¡±


    Bai Zhi¡¯s body trembled. She did not dare to ask further and quickly retreated.


    The crackling of the candlelight was especially loud in this silent room.


    Xuanyuan Ye suddenly looked up. ¡°Demon, find out who else my father saw today besides the monks of the Hidden Spirit Temple.¡±

 Chapter 436 - 436 Shocked (1)

    436 Shocked (1)


    The night was dark and the room was silent.


    However, Xuanyuan Ye tossed and turned in bed, unable to fall asleep.


    From time to time, that smiling and expectant voice would ring in her ears. ¡°I¡¯ve found my daughter.¡±


    How ironic. She¡¯d been there all along, waiting for him to look back.


    She suddenly thought of her mother, that gentle woman who spoke softly.


    If she knew about this, she would definitely be even sadder than her.


    Moreover, she was no longer her father¡¯s only bloodline. Would her imperial uncle and grandmother dote on her like before?


    Speaking of which, they cared about her father the most. Would they spoil his other daughter more because of their father¡¯s biased love?


    She could almost see the gloating gazes of her cousins.


    Xuanyuan Ye regretted not listening to her mother and stubbornly coming to Great Xia. At the same time, she was glad that she had grasped the initiative.


    Although they were on the mountain, the temperature in July was still very high. Xuanyuan Ye felt inexplicably cold. It was a coldness that came from her bones.


    She curled up in a thin blanket. After an unknown period of time, she returned to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    In the Prince Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence, guests were everywhere.


    Not only did the upper echelons of the Xuanyuan Kingdom come, but even her imperial uncle personally presided over it. They were all smiling as they lined up to give her their coming-of-age gifts and blessings.


    However, just as her emperor¡¯s uncle got someone to read the imperial edict to confer her the title of princess, his father walked in with a girl.


    The scene changed. That girl was surrounded by stars, while she and her mother were abandoned in a corner of the residence.


    The people she looked down on in the past came to mock her.


    Look, she was just someone who occupied a magpie¡¯s nest.


    Why did they have to use the word ¡°dove occupying a magpie¡¯s nest¡±? She was also her father¡¯s daughter!


    ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ye suddenly sat up, her eyes wide as she took in deep breaths of fresh air.


    The morning light shone through the window paper, allowing her to see her surroundings clearly.


    ¡°Princess, are you awake? Can I come in?¡±


    Bai Zhi¡¯s voice came from outside the door.


    Xuanyuan Ye felt that her head was dizzy, as if she had not rested all night. She hammered her dull head.


    It took her a long time to realize where she was and what Demon had reported before she fell asleep.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Come in.¡±


    As soon as she spoke, she realized that her voice was hoarse.


    The door was pushed open with a creak. Bai Zhi came in with a basin of water. She placed the basin aside and walked to the bed as usual to help Xuanyuan Ye change.


    Noticing Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pale face, she couldn¡¯t help but ask worriedly, ¡°Princess, you didn¡¯t sleep well last night. Do you want to sleep again?¡±


    ¡°No need. What time is it?¡± Xuanyuan Ye said indifferently.


    ¡°Just past five.¡± Seeing that she was in a bad mood, Bai Zhi didn¡¯t dare to say anything else.


    Xuanyuan Ye frowned. ¡°Go get some water first. I want to take a shower.¡±


    Her inner clothes were drenched in cold sweat and stuck to her body. It was especially uncomfortable.


    After taking a shower, Xuanyuan Ye asked Bai Zhi to put on some makeup for her to cover her haggard face.


    By the time she was done packing, the sky was already bright outside.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and pay our respects to Father.¡±


    Bai Zhi opened her mouth, but in the end, she followed silently.


    Ji Yunxi came to check on Xuanyuan Ce early in the morning.


    She retracted her hand. ¡°It seems that His Highness rested very well last night. As I said, don¡¯t worry about overthinking.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded. ¡°I feel much better today. Thanks to the medicine you prescribed, I slept well.¡±


    He looked at the space between Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyebrows and said casually, ¡°I¡¯ve been in Great Xia for a few days and have long heard of Miss Ji¡¯s medical skills. I wonder who your master is?¡±


    Ji Yunxi paused. ¡°I¡¯ve just been influenced by my mother since I was young.¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s your mother?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked anxiously.


    Ji Yunxi looked over strangely.


    Xuanyuan Ce coughed and explained, ¡°I just feel that someone who can teach someone like you must be even more extraordinary. If she¡¯s famous, I might have heard of her before.¡±


    Ji Yunxi nodded thoughtfully. Then, she said apologetically, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. My mother once instructed me not to tell anyone her name.¡±


    Chu Feng had only followed Xuanyuan Ce after he left Phoenix City. He did not know what had happened back then, but Xuanyuan Ce had not avoided him during his conversation with the abbot, so he had more or less guessed something.

 Chapter 437 - 437 Shocked (2)

    437 Shocked (2)


    Xuanyuan Ce looked disappointed for a moment before saying, ¡°I was rude.¡±


    Ji Yunxi smiled and did not continue this topic. She turned around and gave him a few more detailed instructions before leaving.


    Chu Feng received Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s instructions and sent her out of the courtyard.


    As soon as she left the courtyard, she bumped into Xuanyuan Ye, who had come to pay his respects.


    ¡°Princess.¡± Chu Feng cupped his hands and bowed.


    Xuanyuan Ye stopped in her tracks. Her gaze bypassed Chu Feng and landed on a girl in white with a veil.


    Although her appearance could not be seen clearly, just from her slightly raised eyes, it was obvious that she was outstanding.


    Xuanyuan Ye subconsciously tightened her grip. The girl who could not be seen clearly in the dream last night also became clear at this moment.


    Chu Feng noticed her gaze and thought that the person behind her might also be His Highness¡¯s daughter. Moreover, she was valued by His Highness.


    He moved his feet subtly to block Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s vision and explained, ¡°Miss Ji was sent by the emperor of Great Xia to treat His Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye saw Chu Feng¡¯s small action and inexplicably overlapped with the dream, making her feel even more upset. She stabilized her mind and nodded. ¡°I¡¯m here to pay my respects to Father.¡±


    Chu Feng looked a little troubled.


    He had been by His Highness¡¯s side for so many years, so it was impossible for him not to know his attitude towards the princess consort and her daughter. He was no different from a stranger.


    In the past, even if His Highness returned to Phoenix City, these two people would not approach him, let alone greet him. What was wrong with them today?


    Chu Feng cursed in his heart, but he did not dare to show it. He said, ¡°Your Highness, you haven¡¯t eaten breakfast yet. Why don¡¯t you¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye interrupted him. ¡°I¡¯ll leave after paying my respects. It won¡¯t take up too much of Father¡¯s time.¡±


    Chu Feng was speechless.


    Could it be that he was being too tactful? But he couldn¡¯t just say that His Highness might not want to see her.


    Sensing that the atmosphere was a little off, Ji Yunxi said at the right time, ¡°Lord Chu, let¡¯s part here. I can go back alone.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Xuanyuan Ye suddenly stopped him.


    Ji Yunxi stood still and looked back at her. Their eyes met, and there was a faint smell of gunpowder in the air.


    Chu Feng thought to himself, ¡°This is bad.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was angered by her gaze and sneered. ¡°You¡¯re just a doctor. Why didn¡¯t you bow when you saw me? Is this the etiquette of your Great Xia?¡±


    She was wrong. So what if her father did not like her? She was still the most respected princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    No one could come and ruin this. No one could snatch her things away.


    Mo Yu frowned unhappily. She was about to move when Ji Yunxi stopped her.


    She looked at Xuanyuan Ye with a teasing gaze and slowly bowed. ¡°Greetings, Princess.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye clenched her fists. The other party had clearly bowed according to her request, but she did not feel happy at all.


    ¡°Why are you all standing here? Are you waiting for me?¡± A sloppy voice sounded.


    Chu Feng heaved a sigh of relief when he saw who it was.


    Xuanyuan Ziming seemed to not sense anything wrong with the atmosphere at all. He walked up to Ji Yunxi and sized her up. ¡°Eh, it¡¯s you. Why are you here?¡±


    Chu Feng could only introduce them again.


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked enlightened and asked, ¡°Is my imperial uncle alright?¡±


    Ji Yunxi shook her head. ¡°His Highness is fine.¡±


    ¡°I knew it. Imperial Uncle has always been in good health. How can he fall just like that?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said matter-of-factly and waved his hand. ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, you can leave first.¡±


    Ji Yunxi bowed and turned to leave.


    Xuanyuan Ye kicked Xuanyuan Ziming unhappily, but she did not dare to flare up because this was the courtyard where Xuanyuan Ce lived.


    ¡°Why? Are you mesmerized by my beauty so early in the morning? I¡¯m really sorry. I¡¯m your cousin. It¡¯s destined to be impossible between us.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his chin in distress. ¡°It¡¯s also a sin to be too good-looking. It seems that I¡¯ve already committed an unpardonable sin.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was shocked by his words. She stopped calling him cousin and scolded with a red face, ¡°Xuanyuan Ziming, can you be any more shameless?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked at Chu Feng with an understanding expression. ¡°I¡¯m here to pay my respects to Imperial Uncle.¡±


    The commotion in the courtyard could definitely be heard from inside. His Highness¡¯s silence was equivalent to tacit agreement.


    Chu Feng thought that he understood what Xuanyuan Ce meant. This time, he did not say anything else and respectfully invited the two of them in.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes darkened.


    After returning to the room, Mo Yu said coldly, ¡°Young Master, she¡¯s just a princess. Why do you have to¡­¡±

 Chapter 438 - 438 Shocked (3)

    438 Shocked (3)


    However, Ji Yunxi did not care. ¡°Did you see that? She looked at me as if I had snatched her beloved toy.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce will really treat you as that woman¡¯s¡­¡± Mo Yu did not finish her sentence, but both of them understood.


    Ji Yunxi stroked the bud between her eyebrows and sneered. ¡°Otherwise, why do you think he lost his composure repeatedly in front of me?¡±


    ¡°It seems that there¡¯s something else going on back then. It¡¯s really interesting.¡±


    !!


    With the identity of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s daughter, the Xuanyuan Kingdom did not seem so troublesome.


    Mo Yu felt that Xuanyuan Ce was not so easy to fool, but when she saw her young master¡¯s confident expression, her trust in her surpassed her uneasiness.


    Perhaps because he was in a good mood, Xuanyuan Ce did not blame Chu Feng for inviting her into the courtyard without permission. He did not refuse Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s offer to accompany him for dinner.


    Xuanyuan Ye was in a daze. This was the first time she had eaten at the same table as her father.


    However, she could not be happy because she knew why her father allowed her to sit here.


    When she fell asleep last night, Shen Yijia felt that she had forgotten something. Even when she fell asleep, she couldn¡¯t sleep well. She woke up the moment Song Jingchen moved in the morning.


    Song Jingchen reached out and patted her back rhythmically. He said softly, ¡°It¡¯s still early. Continue sleeping.¡±


    These words and his gentle patting seemed to have magic, almost making Shen Yijia fall asleep again.


    She forced her eyelids open and grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She muttered about how Pinellia had seen her eldest daughter and how Ji Yunxi might be from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Song Jingchen frowned. He felt that something was wrong when Eunuch Li mentioned Miss Ji.


    The emperor was sick, and there happened to be such a divine doctor in the old prince¡¯s residence.


    He did not believe that there was such a coincidence in the world, but he did not expect it to be someone from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    He recalled the rumor that the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets only assisted people acquainted with emperors and generals.


    He naturally did not think that the emperor was that kind of person, so he deduced that someone used a noble¡¯s name to send her to the emperor¡¯s side.


    Song Jingchen put away his thoughts and looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. The medicine had lost its effect, and the flower bud appeared again.


    He reached out and stroked it gently. ¡°I¡¯ll investigate what Pinellia said. As for Ji Yunxi, it¡¯s best if you don¡¯t meet her. If you do, you don¡¯t have to take notice of her.¡±


    He paused and said, ¡°Don¡¯t let her see the flower bud on your forehead.¡±


    Speaking of this, Shen Yijia wanted to laugh. She perked up and told him about the flower bud between the eyebrows of the female students.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He felt that this girl was a little silly, but her luck was extraordinary. It was as if the heavens were on her side.


    The noble ladies in the capital followed suit. It looked like a small matter, but it could confuse one¡¯s eyes.


    If someone accidentally saw the flower bud between this girl¡¯s eyebrows one day, they would only treat her as a copycat and not directly associate her with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was getting more and more energetic, he said helplessly, ¡°Alright, go to sleep. You won¡¯t be able to sleep later.¡±


    It turned out that he had underestimated Shen Yijia. The person who was talking excitedly a moment ago turned around and snored.


    Song Jingchen kissed her between her eyebrows in amusement.


    After some thought, he was still a little worried. He asked South Wind to find Mo Yuan and give her detailed instructions before leaving.


    She slept until dawn. It was already past the time for classes in the academy.


    Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to apply medicine on her again and rushed to the front courtyard, but she only saw Madam Li at home.


    Madam Li explained, ¡°I saw that you were sleeping soundly, so I didn¡¯t let them wake you up.¡±


    Knowing what Shen Yijia wanted to ask, she said, ¡°I asked Lin Shao and Bruiser to send Brother Hao and the other two off. Otherwise, those two children won¡¯t be able to help. They can go out for a walk.¡±


    Usually, Lin Shao and Bruiser would fight to do whatever she did. They were also the ones cleaning the courtyard every day.


    Madam Li was meticulous and naturally saw their uneasiness.


    Shen Yijia finished a bowl of porridge with pickled vegetables and added another bowl to drink slowly. She rubbed her chin and said, ¡°Then let the two of them bring the children to school in the future. When they return, I¡¯ll get them to help me do something.¡±


    According to her beautiful husband, there was no hurry to open the bookstore for the time being, but she had to carve some words first. Lin Shao and Bruiser could help with a lot of things here.


    After breakfast, Shen Yijia informed Madam Li and left with Mo Yuan. She had to prepare the things she needed first.


    She could not reveal this matter yet, so she did not intend to hire anyone to carve it for the time being.


    Neither of the two carriages were at home. They walked there. When they arrived at Chang¡¯an Avenue, Shen Yijia was stunned.


    Seven of the ten girls she saw had flower buds drawn between their eyebrows.


    She didn¡¯t know what they were thinking, but she saw several colors.


    The customs of this dynasty were more open than the previous dynasty. There was no rule that women had to wear a veil when they went out. Other than those noble ladies, many people no longer wore veils.


    However, it was different today. There were veils and flower buds everywhere.


    Shen Yijia had never seen the previous dynasty. Otherwise, she would have suspected that she had transmigrated to the previous dynasty after sleeping for the night.


    She was not the only one who was shocked. Ji Yunxi and Xuanyuan Ce, who had left the Hidden Spirit Temple, were also shocked.


    They must have gone down the mountain in the wrong way!

 Chapter 439 - 439 Madam Qiu’s Visit

    439 Madam Qiu¡¯s Visit


    Ji Yunxi¡¯s good mood from the morning completely disappeared when she saw the people wearing veils coming and going on the streets.


    If not for her rationality, she would have poisoned all those ignorant people to death.


    ¡°How dare they!¡± she thought.


    In the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, the spider lily was a family flower. Only the Valley Master was qualified to wear it. Every successor was born with a flower bud between their eyebrows.


    In other words, the spider lily was the symbol of the Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Just like how only emperors were qualified to use things with a five-clawed golden dragon pattern in the mortal world.


    On the other hand, these people¡¯s actions seemed to remind her that the flower bud between her eyebrows was also fake.


    ¡°Young Master.¡± Mo Yu looked at the woman who walked past her, her eyes filled with killing intent.


    Ji Yunxi closed her eyes and said coldly, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    She was afraid that if she continued watching, she would kill someone in anger.


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer. It¡¯s not time yet. When that person sits on the throne and the Valley of Heavenly Secrets regains its former glory, then¡­¡±


    The carriage suddenly accelerated, causing a commotion in the downtown area.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with them?¡± Chu Feng muttered in confusion. Xuanyuan Ce lifted the curtain and took a look. The corners of his mouth twitched. The old abbot was indeed unreliable. If he only relied on this flower bud to find people, would all of these people be his daughters?


    However¡­


    He looked at the carriage that was getting further and further away, his expression dark.


    Those eyes were too similar to the man who had once come to look for Ji Luo.


    Actually, if Ji Yunxi didn¡¯t wear a veil, he might not have thought of that person at a glance. After all, more than ten years had passed.


    However, she brought it along. When Xuanyuan Ce saw that man, his face was covered, so it was difficult for him not to associate the two of them.


    Could they have been the ones who took Ji Luo away?


    She had once told him that she didn¡¯t want to go back.


    The blood in his body surged. Xuanyuan Ce frowned and suppressed the discomfort. He was about to put down the curtain when he saw a blue figure from the corner of his eye.


    That person seemed to be born with a certain halo that could be seen at a glance in the crowd.


    However, just as he thought this, before Xuanyuan Ce could instruct Chu Feng to rush over, that person slipped into the crowd and disappeared.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    The slap in the face came too quickly.


    Shen Yijia, who was born with a proverbial halo, crossed Chang¡¯an Avenue and ran through most of the capital with Mo Yuan. She finally bought everything she needed. Wood, carving knives, saws¡­


    When the two of them returned home, it was already past noon. From afar, they saw a carriage parked outside their house. It was not their family¡¯s carriage, and Shen Yijia had never seen the emblem on it.


    They had been in the capital for so long, but only Shangguan Yu and Xiao Ruoshui had come to their house.


    Shen Yijia was curious about who else would come to visit. As soon as she walked into the courtyard, she saw Madam Li accompanying them out of the living room.


    When she saw the woman who was being supported at the front, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyebrows twitched. She reflexively raised the bag in her hand to cover her face. However, before she could hide, she was discovered by the sharp-eyed Bruiser.


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re back.¡±


    He sounded quite happy.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Don¡¯t expose me.¡± she thought.


    Madam Li also said, ¡°Sister Jia is back.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t hide anymore. Shen Yijia put down the bag and forced a smile. ¡°Mother.¡±


    After that, she immediately pretended to be surprised. ¡°There¡¯s a guest at home?¡±


    Madam Li looked at her strangely. Wasn¡¯t this acting a little exaggerated?


    She coughed lightly and introduced, ¡°This is Madam Qiu of Autumn Deer Academy.¡±


    Shen Yijia tried her best to ignore Madam Qiu¡¯s scrutinizing gaze and greeted her with a smile, ¡°Hello, Madam Qiu.¡±


    However, she did not understand why this person would come to the house. Wasn¡¯t that incident unrelated to her?


    She had even saved someone.


    So why did she feel guilty just now?


    Oh, because it was a fact that she had overturned someone¡¯s courtyard wall first, regardless of whether she had saved them or not.


    However, no one saw it. If not for the fact that there was no one around, she would not have used the spiritual liquid.


    Madam Li did not know what she was thinking. Seeing that Madam Qiu was only staring at Shen Yijia without saying anything, she could only explain, ¡°Madam Qiu said that you helped her last time and specially came to thank you today.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Now, she did not have to worry about whether this person was here to denounce her. Instead, she had to worry if someone had seen her actions.


    She pretended to be puzzled. ¡°Help? Help with what? No, Madam Qiu got the wrong person.¡±


    This time, without waiting for Madam Li to speak, Madam Qiu smiled and said, ¡°Is it convenient for me to talk to you alone?¡±


    The grape seedlings had yet to grow. In order to block the sun, Shen Yijia found some dried thatch and laid it on the wooden shelves. The entire shed looked out of place in this residence. It was obvious that it was built as an afterthought.


    Seeing that Madam Qiu was heading straight for the thatched shelf, Shen Yijia was even more certain that she was referring to that matter.


    Madam Qiu dismissed Nanny Lan and the female servant who were supporting her. Seeing that Shen Yijia was only standing at the side, she comforted her, ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. Sit.¡±


    Shen Yijia was not afraid. She was just thinking about the consequences of killing this person to silence her if she asked about the spiritual liquid.


    She didn¡¯t move.


    Madam Qiu did not know what she was thinking at all. She still smiled gently and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t want others to know that you know medicine, I¡¯ll definitely help you keep it a secret.¡±


    She had lived a long life, and knew that everyone had their own secrets.


    Dean Lu had sent someone to investigate and heard from Madam Li that Shen Yijia knew medicine. Madam Qiu thought that she had hidden it from everyone.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia blinked. Medical skills? If she saw her use spiritual liquid, shouldn¡¯t she have said that it was a demonic technique or an immortal technique?


    Madam Qiu was amused by her adorable appearance. She covered her mouth with a handkerchief and coughed softly before saying, ¡°That day, I vaguely heard someone call me. Unfortunately, my body was weak and I fainted before I could see the person clearly.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it wasn¡¯t me,¡± Shen Yijia said seriously.


    Since she didn¡¯t see it clearly, she decided to deny it. What if Madam Qiu asked her to keep treating her?


    However, other than using spiritual liquid, she did not know any medicinal techniques at all.


    Madam Qiu was stunned. This was clearly the first time she had seen this girl, but she inexplicably understood what she meant. Her face said, ¡°I won¡¯t admit it. What can you do to me?¡±


    She wanted to laugh, but she was afraid that it would cause a more serious cough. She could only endure it with difficulty and say with a smile, ¡°I didn¡¯t see it clearly at first, but I happened to wake up when she left. That girl was wearing the exact same lake-blue dress you¡¯re wearing.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Haha, what a coincidence.¡±


    Madam Qiu was silent. Was this what it meant to do a good deed without leaving a name? This was different from Miss Ji, who pretended to have contributed.


    The more Madam Qiu looked at Shen Yijia, the more she liked her. The way she looked at her became even more gentle and loving.


    Shen Yijia did not know what she was thinking. Otherwise, she would have sighed. This was really a beautiful misunderstanding.

 Chapter 440 - 440 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (1)

    440 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (1)


    Shen Yijia refused to admit it, so Madam Qiu did not force her. She asked her something else.


    As long as it had nothing to do with treating illnesses, Shen Yijia answered the questions one by one. She looked like a good child, as if she had never thought of killing Madam Qiu to silence her.


    It was not until Nanny Lan came over to remind her that it was time to go back and drink the medicine that Madam Qiu stopped talking.


    She then got someone to bring the gifts from the carriage.


    Perhaps because she had learned about their family before coming, she had prepared a full set of gifts.


    Madam Li was given an exquisite and not ostentatious set of hair accessories. The younger ones at home each had a piece of high-quality suet jade. When Nanny Lan introduced them, she even said that they were all consecrated at Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Five identical jade pendants. It was obvious that they had been cut from the same jade.


    Even Song Jingchen was included. It was a set of calligraphy treasures that Dean Lu treasured.


    Apart from the precious set of four treasures and calligraphy that she had prepared for Shen Yijia, she also added another set of clothes.


    These gifts were indeed thoughtful and carried some weight. Even Madam Li, who had seen good things, could not help but be surprised. What kind of huge favor did Sister Jia help her with to deserve this?


    Madam Qiu did not explain. She instructed Shen Yijia to visit the academy more often when she was free and bade farewell.


    She was indeed a little tired after being out for more than half a day.


    This was also because her body was much better now. In her previous state, she wouldn¡¯t have been able to hold on for so long.


    Thinking about how Dean Lu had gotten someone to ask about the prescription Ji Yunxi had given her and found out that it was only a prescription to nourish her Qi and blood, Madam Qiu was even more grateful to Shen Yijia.


    Although that prescription was rare, it would never have such an effect on her body.


    This was also the reason why she had delayed until today. She did not want to rely on her intuition to erase Ji Yunxi¡¯s contributions. Reality proved that she was not overthinking.


    ¡°Madam, why didn¡¯t you mention recognizing Madam Song as your adopted daughter?¡±


    In the carriage, Nanny Lan sat at the side and rubbed Madam Qiu¡¯s forehead. She could tell that she had a good impression of Shen Yijia and could not help but ask.


    Madam Qiu smiled. ¡°I¡¯m just afraid of scaring that girl.¡±


    As she spoke, she recalled Shen Yijia¡¯s guarded expression when she saw her. She said sadly, ¡°Your master has been away from the bureaucracy for so many years. He¡¯s just a lousy teacher now. I wonder if he¡¯ll like her.¡±


    The corners of Nanny Lan¡¯s mouth twitched. She could tell that Madam Song had really caught Madam Qiu¡¯s eye. Otherwise, how could she bear to hurt the director?


    It was unknown where Madam Song got such good luck. Although the director had no official position, he was someone that even a few princes wanted to rope in.


    His students were not high-ranking officials, but they were spread throughout the entire Great Xia. They ranged from county leaders to important ministers in the court.


    It was not an exaggeration to say that his students were everywhere.


    On the other side, Madam Li also asked Shen Yijia what was going on between her and Madam Qiu.


    She rarely asked about Shen Yijia¡¯s private matters, but Madam Qiu¡¯s status in the capital was not ordinary. She was worried that Shen Yixia would be used.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head and told him everything that had happened on the day she sent Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao to register. ¡°I just wanted to ask for directions, but I happened to see her faint.¡±


    ¡°I thought that she wouldn¡¯t be suffering from heatstroke if she was still sitting in the courtyard under such a hot sun, so I fed her some water. I was afraid that others would misunderstand that it was my fault, so I ran away after feeding her water.¡±


    She didn¡¯t say what water it was, so it wasn¡¯t a lie, right?


    The corners of Madam Li¡¯s mouth twitched, and she was speechless.


    After some thought, she said, ¡°You can¡¯t be so rash next time. Nothing happened. If anything happens to Madam Qiu, we won¡¯t be able to explain ourselves.¡±


    ¡°Mother, I understand.¡± Shen Yijia shrank back and listened obediently.


    Although it was impossible for what Madam Li was worried about to happen, she was in the wrong this time. Fortunately, Madam Qiu did not see her use the spiritual liquid. Otherwise, this matter would have been difficult to resolve.


    She was lucky this time. What about next time? She couldn¡¯t be so lucky every time.


    Seeing her like this, Madam Li couldn¡¯t bear to say anything else and only urged her to quickly eat.


    Something expected happened in the court today. Shen Pingxiu was impeached and handed over to the emperor¡¯s court.


    What was he even doing by prancing around in disheveled clothes? Coincidentally, the emperor¡¯s birthday was imminent. The envoys of other countries were still around. This was incredibly humiliating for the officials of Great Xia.

 Chapter 441 - 441 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (2)

    441 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (2)


    The censors¡¯ saliva flew everywhere as they spoke. Fortunately, Shen Pingxiu did not go to court today. Otherwise, he would have been criticized by so many people and had to kill himself to apologize.


    The emperor was also furious. He sent someone to the Shen residence to pass on his oral order on the spot. He fined Shen Pingxiu¡¯s salary for a year and suspended him from work to reflect on his actions.


    This was on account that he was Consort Jing¡¯s biological father. He could be considered a relative. If it were anyone else, he would have stripped this person of his official position.


    Even so, he still felt that this was not enough to vent his anger. He scolded Lord Jing for some trivial matters.


    Lord Jing¡¯s face was still dark when the court session ended.


    Minister Chen was also as dark-faced as him. His son-in-law was raising a mistress, and his daughter was shameless. How could he be any better off? Everyone knew that Shen Pingxiu had been backed by him.


    Everyone could not help but look at the two of them with sympathy. They had clearly done nothing, but they had lost some dignity because of an unreliable relative. Wasn¡¯t it unfair?


    Apart from these two people who were directly related to Shen Pingxiu, there was another person in the imperial court who also married Shen Pinxiu¡¯s daughter, Song Jingchen.


    However, he still looked like it had nothing to do with him. Thinking about it, wasn¡¯t he the one who brought Shen Pingxiu around the city with him?


    He was clearly present when the Jingzhao Residence received the report. If he had been careful, Song Jingchen could have suppressed it at that time, and everyone wouldn¡¯t have known about it.


    If he was only taking care of his mistress, the emperor would at most punish him with a few months of salary.


    Now that things had gotten out of hand, it was hard not to suspect that he didn¡¯t do it on purpose.


    Although it was a suspension, it still depended on the emperor¡¯s mood. If the emperor forgot about this person, Shen Pingxiu¡¯s position as an official would come to an end.


    ¡°Lord Song, what good will this do you?¡± As soon as they left the palace, Shangguan Pu stopped Song Jingchen. The other officials avoided him.


    Song Jingchen frowned and said in confusion, ¡°Lord Jing means that I shouldn¡¯t have brought him back?¡±


    Then, he said with a disapproving expression, ¡°Although it¡¯s not a glorious thing to raise a mistress, we can¡¯t take someone¡¯s life because of this. After all, he¡¯s my father-in-law.¡±


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    After not seeing him for two years, how did Song Jingchen learn to pretend to be stupid? Was that what he meant?


    Thinking of how his many years of planning had almost been ruined by this person, Shangguan Pu sneered and said, ¡°No matter what, we¡¯re brothers-in-law now. I advise Lord Song to see the situation clearly. The Song family doesn¡¯t have any more chances. I believe Lord Song doesn¡¯t want what happened two years ago to repeat itself, right?¡±


    In Shangguan Pu¡¯s opinion, Shen Pingxiu wasn¡¯t worthy of Song Jingchen¡¯s vengeance. The person he wanted to deal with was Shangguan Pu.


    He didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to really target Shen Pingxiu.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and cupped his hands. ¡°Thank you for your advice, Your Highness. I¡¯ll remember it.¡±


    His attitude made Shangguan Pu feel like he had punched cotton. He felt even more depressed. He looked at Song Jingchen for a long time and snorted before leaving.


    Song Jingchen frowned and looked at Shangguan Pu¡¯s back thoughtfully.


    In the Shen residence.


    After sending away the eunuch who had come to deliver the verbal order, Shen Pingxiu, who was kneeling at the front with a swollen face, fainted.


    Madam Chen looked at him with hatred in her eyes.


    Without her saying anything, no one dared to move. It was only when Shen Wenbo reminded her that she gritted her teeth and instructed the servant to carry him back to his room, but she did not get anyone to look for a doctor.


    Shen Wenbo could not stand it anymore and could only instruct his subordinates to find a doctor.


    Because of this incident at home, he did not go on duty at the Hanlin Academy today.


    He was a little glad now. Otherwise, Shen Wenbo did not dare to imagine what his colleagues would think of him. However, he could not hide forever. He had to think of a way to resolve this matter from the root.


    Thinking of the mother and son locked up in the woodshed by Madam Chen, his gaze darkened.


    His appearance was more vicious than Madam Chen¡¯s. Now that he looked like this, people felt a chill run down their spines.


    In the reception pavilion, Madam Chen waved away the servants and tightened her grip on her handkerchief. ¡°Wenbo, what do you think we should do about this?¡±


    Shen Wenbo did not answer. Instead, he asked, ¡°Mother, what are you going to do with that mother and son?¡±


    His voice was cold. One of them was clearly his younger brother with the same bloodline as him, but he sounded no different from a Tom, Dick, or Harry.

 Chapter 442 - 442 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (3)

    442 Scumbag Father Causing Trouble (3)


    At the mention of the mother and son, Madam Chen subconsciously thought of that little bastard who looked like Shen Pingxiu. She gritted her teeth and said angrily, ¡°Of course they have to die.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Shen Wenbo said.


    ¡°What?¡± Madam Chen did not expect her only son to refute her. She jumped up from her chair and screamed in disbelief, ¡°Even you have to stop Mother? Don¡¯t tell me you can¡¯t bear to see that it¡¯s your father¡¯s son? That¡¯s a bastard, not your brother.¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Wenbo rubbed his forehead with a headache. He personally poured a cup of tea and handed it over. He comforted her, ¡°Listen to me first.¡±


    Madam Chen took a deep breath and sat back down.


    ¡°Mother, if we want to resolve this matter, we have to do it from the root. This mother and son are the root of the issue.¡±


    The mother and son discussed in the reception pavilion for an hour before a maidservant rushed in.


    ¡°Madam, Young Master, Old Master is awake. He said that he knows who did it and is going to settle scores with someone.¡±


    ¡°He still has the cheek to make a fuss. If he hadn¡¯t done such a dishonorable thing, who would have taken advantage of this loophole?¡± Madam Chen reprimanded coldly.


    Usually, no matter who she was talking to, she would always put on a gentle mask. This was the first time she had lost her composure like this. It could be seen that the existence of Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mistress had shocked her greatly.


    Compared to Madam Chen, Shen Wenbo was much calmer.


    Not long after Shen Pingxiu woke up today, someone came to the palace. He had yet to understand the situation.


    He stood up and advised, ¡°Mother, do as I say. Go and comfort that woman first. I¡¯ll go and see Father.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s that unfilial daughter. It must be her. She¡¯s here to avenge her mother.¡±


    As soon as Shen Wenbo stepped into the main courtyard, a porcelain bowl hit him with a bang.


    He frowned and glanced unhappily at the servants in the house. He said coldly, ¡°Clean up this place and bring up another bowl of medicine.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    After they left, he walked to the bed and sat down. He said emotionlessly, ¡°Father, what are you doing?¡±


    Shen Pingxiu propped himself up and grabbed Shen Wenbo¡¯s hand. ¡°Wenbo, it¡¯s her. It was that unfilial daughter who did it. Bring her here. I¡¯ll beat her to death today.¡±


    Shen Wenbo frowned and retracted his hand without a trace. ¡°You¡¯re saying that Second Sister kidnapped you out of the city and beat you up like this?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not your sister. She¡¯s a demon who¡¯s here to collect a debt.¡± Shen Pingxiu roared.


    Because he moved too much, he accidentally pulled at his wound, causing his face to twist in pain.


    A glint flashed across Shen Wenbo¡¯s eyes. He confirmed again, ¡°Father, can you see clearly that she did it?¡±


    Shen Pingxiu paused and quickly became self-righteous. ¡°Who else could it be? Do you know where I was kidnapped?¡±


    ¡°In front of Madam Wang¡¯s grave! That unfilial daughter asked me to kowtow to Madam Wong¡¯s grave.¡±


    He did not say that the other party had also asked about Madam Wang¡¯s death. He had accidentally killed someone for his wife¡¯s dowry. He could not bring himself to say such a thing even to his own son. If not for the fact that he wanted to save his life at that time, he would have kept this matter to himself for the rest of his life.


    Shen Wenbo glanced at Shen Pingxiu¡¯s forehead and naturally did not miss his reaction just now.


    However, it did not matter whether he saw it clearly. There was no one else in this world who would stand up for Madam Wang.


    Moreover, that mistress was already six or seven years old. His father would have to take care of that mistress for a longer time. Why didn¡¯t anything happen in the past, but something happened right when that wretched girl returned to the capital?


    If Shen Yijia knew what he was thinking, she would definitely refute. After all, even the heavens wanted to help her. She would beat him up regardless of whether he had a mistress or not.


    The more Shen Pingxiu thought about it, the angrier he became. He urged, ¡°Go and call that unfilial daughter home now.¡±


    After saying that, he was afraid that Shen Yijia would not come. He narrowed his eyes and continued, ¡°Just say that I¡¯m seriously injured. As a child, she didn¡¯t even come to take a look. Is she trying to be unfilial?¡±


    Great Xia ruled the world with filial piety. If they were disobedient and unfilial, their parents could report them to the officials, but the consequences would be that they would also be charged with lax discipline.


    Moreover, it was said that family scandals could not be publicized. Usually, families would close their doors and resolve it themselves. Very few people would cause trouble in the government office.


    Shen Pingxiu naturally did not intend to report it to the authorities. He just wanted to use this to threaten Shen Yijia to come back.


    Because she was already married, she was given the surname of her husband. It was said that if she was accused of being unfilial, Song Jingchen would be the first to be implicated.


    ¡°Sister, do you think so?¡± Bruiser showed Shen Yijia the small wooden block he had worn down.


    The small wooden block was sawn off from the wooden board Shen Yijia had carved. Then, Lin Shao and Bruiser polished it into a single word.


    Shen Yijia looked up from the wooden board and rubbed her sore eyes. She took the single word and glanced at it. ¡°I¡¯ll polish it here again. Every wooden block has to be the same size and height, according to the standard I used at the beginning.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Bruiser scratched his head and looked at Lin Shao enviously.


    He was used to being rough since he was young, so he was never as meticulous as Lin Shao.

 Chapter 443 - 443 Framing Someone (1)

    443 Framing Someone (1)


    Madam Li placed the last stroke on the wooden board and put down the brush to rub her wrist. She had not held a brush for a long time, and her hands ached after writing for a while.


    Seeing this, Shen Yijia said, ¡°Mother, you can rest for today. It¡¯s enough for me to carve for a long time.¡±


    The most time-consuming part of the whole process was carving the words.


    ¡°Alright, the pea paste we made previously can be cut into pieces. I¡¯ll bring some over. You guys can rest for a while then.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes flashed and she smiled sweetly at Madam Li. ¡°Thank you, Mother.¡±


    Madam Li stroked her chest. No wonder Brother Chen cared about her. Who could withstand such a sweet and soft wife?


    As soon as Madam Li left, Shen Yijia immediately put down the carving knife, took out a few candied plums from her pouch, and stuffed them into her mouth.


    Bruiser was speechless. ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law said¡­¡±


    As soon as he opened his mouth, a candied plum flew into his mouth from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, blocking Bruiser¡¯s unfinished words.


    The candied plum hit his throat. Bruiser almost rolled his eyes and died on the spot. He coughed for a long time before recovering.


    He glanced at Shen Yijia resentfully and picked up his stool to move away from her.


    He wouldn¡¯t say anything unnecessary in the future.


    Lin Shao looked at Bruiser, then at Shen Yijia. He opened his mouth.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°You want to eat it too?¡±


    Lin Shao immediately shut his mouth and shook his head.


    Shen Yijia looked at Mo Yuan, who was sawing the wooden board at the side.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t like sweets.¡±


    The two would not dare to snitch on her to Song Jingchen. Mo Yuan would not betray her either. Shen Yijia happily stuffed a few more candied plums into her mouth and stuffed her cheeks.


    This matter started after dinner yesterday.


    Song Jingchen had something on and went out for a while. When he returned, Shen Yijia had already finished the two sticks of candied hawthorn in the ice cellar. There were only two packets left.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart didn¡¯t ache for food, but it wasn¡¯t good to eat too much sweet food.


    Shen Yijia had no sense of propriety. She wanted to finish it all after finding it, so Song Jingchen instructed Madam Li to watch over her. He also hid the remaining two packets of candied plums.


    Even so, Shen Yijia found the packets.


    When Madam Li returned with a tray, she saw Shen Yijia humming and working hard.


    She didn¡¯t notice anything wrong. ¡°Stop and eat something,¡± she called out.


    The yellow pea snacks were made in the morning and had been kept in the ice cellar. In this weather, they could quench their thirst and reduce the heat.


    There were four pieces on a small plate, one for each person.


    Shen Yijia washed her hands and was about to take it when Madam Li stopped her. ¡°This is yours.¡±


    Shen Yijia took it in confusion. She looked at the others and then at her own. Weren¡¯t they all the same?


    When she picked up a piece and took a bite, she paused. ¡°Mother, have you run out of sugar at home?¡±


    This was clearly not as sweet as what she had eaten previously. No, it was not sweet at all!


    She clearly remembered that there was still sugar at home.


    Madam Li explained, ¡°Yes, Brother Chen said that you¡¯ve eaten too many sweet things in the past two days. I thought that it was indeed not good to eat too many sweets, so I made some other sweets without much sugar.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°My beautiful husband did this to me!¡±


    Looking at the other plates of sweet-smelling pastries, tears streamed down Shen Yijia¡¯s face.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Does it not taste good?¡± Madam Li asked. She had tasted it before. It was alright.


    Shen Yijia pouted. ¡°It¡¯s not sweet.¡±


    Madam Li stopped talking. She just sprinkled a little sugar into it. It would be strange if it was sweet.


    The sound of knocking came from outside.


    Madam Li placed the tray on the stone table. ¡°You guys eat first. I¡¯ll open the door.¡±


    After taking two steps, she thought of something and paused. ¡°Sister Jia, you should go.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, which had just reached out to Mo Yuan, paused. Was she so guarded against her?


    She withdrew her hand wearily and walked quickly out.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± She pulled open the door. Their house didn¡¯t have a gatekeeper, so the door was usually ajar, in case Song Jingchen had to wait for someone to open the door after he returned from work. If it were him, he clearly wouldn¡¯t knock.


    Outside the door stood a manservant holding a horse.


    Shen Yijia felt that the servant¡¯s clothes looked familiar, but she could not remember which family he was from. She thought that she had seen them on the streets. ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    The servant sized up Shen Yijia for a long time before saying, ¡°I¡¯m from the Shen family.¡±


    Now that Shen Yijia had grown up and was raised to be fair and tender, she was a completely different person from the previous skinny and submissive host. If the servant did not look carefully, he would not have recognized her.

 Chapter 444 - 444 Framing Someone (2)

    444 Framing Someone (2)


    As a servant, it was actually very disrespectful to size up her master. Even though Shen Yijia was married, she was still the Second Miss when she returned to the Shen family.


    However, the previous host¡¯s status in the residence was worse than that of a servant, so this servant was naturally not afraid of her. Fortunately, Shen Yijia did not care about such a small matter.


    ¡°The Shen family? They¡¯re looking for me?¡± She narrowed her eyes. No wonder they looked familiar. She had seen them in the original host¡¯s memories.


    She was unhappy with everything in the Shen residence. Shen Yijia¡¯s expression darkened. She raised her chin and looked down at the servant. ¡°If you have something to say, say it quickly. After that, get lost.¡±


    She had no time to care about the Shen family now. If she wanted to hit someone, she had to wait for Shen Pingxiu to recover from his injuries.


    Otherwise, not only would she not be satisfied, but she would also have to worry about losing control of her strength and killing him by accident.


    The servant paused. He did not expect that not only had Second Miss¡¯s appearance changed, but even her personality had changed.


    Thinking of Eldest Young Master¡¯s instructions, the servant immediately put on a terrified expression and knelt down. ¡°Second Miss, Master was harmed by someone. He wants to see you now. Please go back and take a look at him.¡±


    Shen Yijia sneered. ¡°If he¡¯s sick, find a doctor to treat him. If he¡¯s going to die, go to the coffin shop and book a coffin. Why are you looking for me? Do you want me to gather money for him?¡±


    What did her beautiful husband say? There must be something wrong with this abnormality. Shen Pingxiu probably wanted to see her and kill her.


    She wasn¡¯t that stupid to fall for it!


    The servant thought, ¡°That sounds quite reasonable.¡±


    His expression changed a few times. He gritted his teeth and kowtowed to the ground. He said sadly, ¡°Second Miss, it¡¯s fine if you haven¡¯t returned to the capital even once.¡±


    ¡°But Master is lying on the hospital bed and can¡¯t get out of bed. He still thinks about you. Even if it¡¯s on account of your kindness, Second Miss should go back¡­¡±


    Hearing the commotion, the servants stuck their heads out curiously and were speechless.


    This was because they couldn¡¯t figure out the emperor¡¯s attitude towards Song Jingchen.


    The officials living on Liu¡¯er Street did not dare to interact with the Song family. Although they were neighbors, they rarely even met. Even if they did, they would not greet them.


    Now, her father wanted her to return to the Shen residence!


    Shen Yijia dug her ears impatiently. ¡°Are you done? If you¡¯re done, get lost.¡±


    The servant choked. ¡°But¡­¡±


    The door slammed shut in response.


    ¡°Sister Jia, who is it?¡± Madam Li asked worriedly when she saw Shen Yijia return angrily.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°No one. He¡¯s just a beggar.¡±


    Madam Li looked at her strangely. Now, they even dared to knock on the door and ask for food?


    Shen Yijia did not say anything else.


    It was not that she did not dare to visit the Shen family, but it was really strange that Shen Pingxiu suddenly sent someone to visit.


    She wasn¡¯t afraid that they would come out in the open, but she was afraid that they would dig a trap and wait for her to jump into it. She wanted to ask Song Jingchen after he came home from work.


    Shen Yijia was thinking about it carefully, but South Wind returned with a message. Someone reported that a large number of female corpses had been discovered in a town outside the city.


    The case was transferred to the Court of Judicial Review. Song Jingchen had to go out of the city to investigate the case, so he might not be able to make it back tonight.


    Shen Yijia could only help Song Jingchen pack two sets of clothes and get South Wind to bring them over for him. After thinking about it, she was afraid that she would distract Song Jingchen, so she didn¡¯t mention that someone from the Shen family had come.


    On the other side, the servant left with a swollen forehead and went straight to the Yuelai Restaurant on Chang¡¯an Avenue.


    He knocked on a private room on the third floor and a follower walked out.


    The servant nodded and bowed. ¡°Brother Ming, I¡¯ve done what Eldest Young Master instructed.¡±


    The man called Brother Ming glanced at him and took out a money bag. ¡°Eldest Young Master gave it to you. Go to a medical center and apply some medicine.¡±


    ¡°Ah, thank you, Brother Ming. Thank you, Eldest Young Master.¡± The servant happily accepted it and left.


    In the private room, Shen Wenbo sat below a man in white. After hearing his follower¡¯s words, he waved his hand to dismiss him.


    ¡°Second Young Master.¡±


    ¡°I understand. You can go back first. He won¡¯t rush back,¡± the man in white said gently.


    Shen Wenbo stood up and cupped his hands at the man in white. ¡°Thank you, Second Young Master.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s just a woman. Why go through so much trouble?¡± Ji Yunxi walked out from behind the screen.


    The man in white personally poured a cup of tea and placed it opposite him. He smiled faintly and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that someone changed Song Jingchen¡¯s fate?¡±


    ¡°After thinking about it, there was only one additional person by his side after the incident at the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. If there¡¯s anyone who¡¯s most likely to change his fate, it can only be her.¡±

 Chapter 445 - 445 Framing Someone (3)

    445 Framing Someone (3)


    Unexpectedly, that delicate figure appeared in his mind. He smiled bitterly and shook his head. Things in the world were so unpredictable.


    Back then, if he hadn¡¯t thought that he could rope in Minister Chen, he wouldn¡¯t have interfered. Without his reminder, Shen Ruyun would have been the one to marry Song Jingchen, so there naturally wouldn¡¯t have been a change in fate.


    He didn¡¯t expect the Shen family to have such a variable. He even personally sent this variable to Song Jingchen¡¯s side.


    Ji Yunxi picked up her teacup and took a sip. She frowned and said, ¡°In that case, we should get rid of it as soon as possible to prevent any more trouble.¡±


    ¡°Did you treat Lord Jing¡¯an yesterday? Did you gain anything?¡± The white-robed man did not continue this topic and asked about something else.


    Speaking of Xuanyuan Ce, Ji Yunxi¡¯s depression from the flower bud incident eased a little. She told him about Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s past and his search.


    Everyone thought that the matter of Shen Pingxiu recuperating should end here. Unexpectedly, early the next morning, the drum in front of the capital¡¯s residence was beaten.


    Everyone looked over.


    ¡°Eh, isn¡¯t this the mistress who came to report that Lord Shen was missing yesterday? Could she have disappeared again today?¡± people thought.


    Madam Zhang was in a sorry state. Under everyone¡¯s gazes, she stumbled into the court with the bailiffs.


    ¡°Who are you? What grievances do you have?¡± The capital magistrate was an official surnamed Cai. He sat on the high platform in his official uniform and looked at Madam Zhang below with a burning gaze. Not only were the onlookers curious, but he was also curious.


    Madam Zhang knelt down with a thud. ¡°Sir, please save me. Someone wants to kill me to silence me.¡±


    As soon as she said this, everyone, including Lord Cai, first thought that the culprit she was talking about was Shen Pingxiu¡¯s official wife, Madam Chen.


    Without waiting for Lord Cai to ask, Madam Zhang continued to cry, ¡°It¡¯s the second daughter of the Shen family. She wants to kill me to silence me. Yesterday, she was the one who asked me to call myself Lord Shen¡¯s mistress and report the case.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just a widow whose man died early. I worked hard to raise my child alone. How would I know Lord Shen?¡± she continued.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s Second Miss Shen. She saw that my family was poor and gave me a hundred taels of silver. She said that as long as she helped me do something, she would give me another five hundred taels of silver.¡±


    ¡°I was also blinded by the money. I thought that with this money, I could send my son to school, so I agreed. That¡¯s why I reported the case yesterday. I didn¡¯t expect her to want to silence me after that. Sir, you have to save me.¡±


    It was a huge accusation.


    No one expected things to turn around like this.


    Lord Cai thought of how Madam Zhang had mentioned that Second Miss Shen was married to Song Jingchen and narrowed his eyes. ¡°Do you have evidence? You have to know what kind of crime it is to slander others.¡±


    In order to prevent anyone from treating the court as a game, their tongues would be chopped off if they lied.


    Madam Zhang was so frightened that her entire body trembled. She gritted her teeth and kowtowed a few times. ¡°Sir, everything I said is true. I¡¯m not lying. I still have the 100 taels of silver she gave me.¡±


    As she spoke, she took out a crumpled banknote.


    There was no name on the banknotes. What evidence was there?


    Lord Cai slapped the wood. ¡°Nonsense. What can a banknote mean? Do you have any other evidence? If not¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. When Second Miss Shen came to look for me, some neighbors saw her. They can testify,¡± Madam Zhang quickly said.


    Seeing that she did not seem to be lying, Lord Cai instructed the bailiffs to bring people along. Apart from the witnesses Madam Zhang mentioned, there were also people related to this case.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelids had been twitching the entire morning. When she stood in the court, she was still in a daze. When she saw Shen Pingxiu being carried in on a stretcher, she frowned.


    What was Shen Pingxiu trying to do?


    Madam Li, Lin Shao, Bruiser, and the others also arrived. However, the bailiffs did not let them in, so they could only stand outside.


    ¡°Second Sister.¡± Shen Wenbo had a smile on his face, but the viciousness in his eyes could not be hidden.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and ignored him.


    The witness Madam Zhang mentioned was the last to arrive. There were a total of three women, and the woman walking in the middle was round.


    Seeing her, Shen Yijia felt even more strange. Wasn¡¯t this the fat woman she had asked if she had seen Shen Pingxiu the other day? The reason why she remembered was because she had given her a piece of silver.


    After the women entered, they knelt beside Madam Zhang without looking at Shen Yijia.


    For a moment, other than Shen Wenbo and Shen Pingxiu, only Shen Yijia was standing in the hall.


    Because she was beautiful, the gazes of the surrounding commoners landed on her.


    They really did not believe that such a young lady would do such a vicious thing to frame her biological father.

 Chapter 446 - 446 Blaming Others (1)

    446 Blaming Others (1)


    The people around them spoke one after another. Madam Li and the others finally pieced together the whole story.


    They would believe that Shen Yijia had hit someone, but it was impossible for her to be willing to spend a hundred taels of silver to bribe others, let alone plot to frame and silence them.


    This was simply slander!


    Lin Shao asked worriedly, ¡°Auntie, what should we do? Will Sister-in-law be fine?¡±


    Madam Li tightened her grip on the handkerchief in her hand. Two years ago, the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence had been framed and her husband had been taken away by the imperial guards who had broken into the residence. At that time, she did not even have time to say anything.


    This morning, the bailiffs suddenly came to her door and wanted to take Sister Jia away without a word. She held her breath and did not faint.


    Even now, Madam Li¡¯s head was still buzzing, and her hands were trembling uncontrollably.


    She did not comfort Lin Shao. She only turned around and instructed Mo Yuan, ¡°Go and find out where Brother Song went. Tell him to come back quickly.¡±


    Mo Yuan did not move. If the people inside dared to attack Miss later, she was prepared to kill to force her way in.


    Madam Li said anxiously, ¡°Only he can save Sister Jia now. Nothing will happen here for the time being. Go quickly!¡±


    Mo Yuan glanced at Madam Li and turned to look at the people standing in the hall. She frowned and turned to squeeze out of the crowd.


    In the high hall, Lord Cai did not expect the second daughter of the Shen family to be such a delicate little girl. Not only was she not afraid of him, but her eyes were also sizing him up.


    He coughed lightly and slapped the wood. He shouted, ¡°How dare you, Madam Song Shen? Why didn¡¯t you kneel when you saw me?¡±


    Oh, one had to kneel in court!


    Shen Yijia looked around and met Shen Wenbo¡¯s half-smile.


    She pursed her lips and walked towards Shen Wenbo.


    Everyone was still curious about what she was doing when they saw the young lady suddenly raise her leg and kick Eldest Young Master Shen¡¯s knee.


    Shen Wenbo did not expect Shen Yijia to dare to attack him in the court. He lost his balance and staggered to his knees.


    He grunted and put on a pained expression. He gritted his teeth and glared at Shen Yijia. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her hand and patted Shen Wenbo¡¯s shoulder, stopping him from standing up. She grinned at him with an expression that had ¡°you don¡¯t need to thank me¡± written all over it.


    Then, she knelt down beside him and looked up at Lord Cai, who was still in a daze.


    ¡°Look, we¡¯re all kneeling. You can start now.¡±


    To outsiders, Shen Yijia¡¯s movements were light, including the kick just now. After all, how strong could a little girl be?


    However, Shen Wenbo, who had experienced it himself, felt that his shoulder was almost dislocated. His leg that had been kicked was still numb.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s face twisted for a moment. He had an official position and was not involved in the case. He could choose not to kneel.


    He was about to stand up when Shen Yijia¡¯s faint voice came from his side.


    ¡°Kneel properly, or else¡­¡±


    The threat was too obvious.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s expression changed a few times. He thought of something and sneered.


    Hee would let this little b*tch be smug for a while. When the time came, she would cry.


    Yesterday, Shen Pingxiu only wanted to trick his first suspect, Shen Yijia, back to the residence and beat her to death to vent his anger.


    Shen Wenbo felt that this was inappropriate and suggested something else, and Shen Pingxiu immediately agreed.


    This matter had already happened. Even if they killed her, not only would it be useless, but it would also bring about other troubles.


    After all, things were different now. Shen Yijia was already married, and they could not kill her just because they wanted to.


    Shen Wenbo let Madam Chen find Madam Zhang first and analyze the stakes with her.


    Madam Zhang knew that Shen Pingxiu¡¯s fall would not benefit her at all.


    Moreover, she knew Shen Pingxiu well. At this point, even if Madam Chen killed the mother and son, that man would probably not blink.


    Madam Chen called her sister affectionately and sincerely said that it was not easy for women. She understood.


    She also promised that as long as she appeared to testify, she would definitely ensure her safety and agree to let her bring her son into the residence.


    A concubine who stayed in the backyard all year round. In a few years, who would remember her?


    How could Madam Zhang not know that there was some underlying scheme in this?


    However, she had no choice. If she didn¡¯t agree, she and her son wouldn¡¯t be able to see the sun the next day.


    She also knew that Madam Chen would not save her. She only hoped that Shen Pingxiu would spare her son¡¯s life on the account that she had made up for her mistakes. After all, that was Shen Pingxiu¡¯s bloodline.


    That was how the lawsuit against Shen Yijia this morning came about.

 Chapter 447 - 447 Blaming Others (2)

    447 Blaming Others (2)


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s idea was indeed vicious. This way, Shen Pingxiu went from being the target of everyone¡¯s ridicule to a victim.


    They would think that his mistress was fake, and the mastermind was his biological daughter. When the time came, more people would sympathize with him. Who would still remember that he had swaggered around naked?


    This matter would get resolved, but Shen Yijia, who was the scapegoat, could not escape death.


    In order to prevent Song Jingchen from coming out to cause trouble, he specially begged Second Young Master to get him out of the capital. When he returned, the matter would already be settled.


    !!


    Lord Cai spoke. ¡°Madam Song Shen, Madam Zhang complained that you bribed her to slander the imperial court¡¯s officials first. After that, you intended to silence her. Do you plead guilty?¡±


    Now, they were only talking about Madam Zhang¡¯s complaint. However, if she admitted it, Shen Yijia would also be charged with kidnapping and beating up an official of the imperial court.


    Beating up an official of the imperial court was a serious crime. It could result in several beheadings.


    ¡°What?¡± Before Shen Yijia could speak, Shen Pingxiu, who was lying half-dead on the wooden frame, struggled to sit up. He looked at Shen Yijia bitterly. ¡°You did it? Second Daughter, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t listen to me. I remembered that you¡¯ve lost your biological mother since you were young and thus indulged you, but I didn¡¯t expect you to¡­¡±


    As he spoke, tears streamed down his face. It was said that men did not cry easily, but they would if they were hurt deeply enough.


    Putting aside whether it was true or not, his actions made the surrounding commoners who were watching outside sigh.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and straightened her back. ¡°I didn¡¯t do it. I won¡¯t admit it.¡±


    Lord Cai stared at Shen Yijia for a long time but did not find any guilt on her face. He turned to look at the three witnesses kneeling in the middle.


    The people living in the south of the city were all commoners. How could they dare to go against officials? They had long been bribed by Shen Wenbo.


    As soon as Lord Cai asked, they spilled the beans they had prepared.


    It was nothing more than proving that Madam Zhang was a widow and seeing Shen Yijia looking for Madam Zhang on the day of the incident.


    After they finished speaking, the bailiffs who had gone to the city gate guards to take out the city record book returned.


    One had to register to leave the city. It clearly stated the time Shen Yijia left the city. It was two hours before Madam Zhang reported the case.


    At this moment, there was a commotion among the surrounding commoners.


    Lord Cai frowned and asked the advisor to see what had happened.


    Soon, the advisor returned, followed by a sixteen-year-old boy.


    The young man trembled in fear and did not dare to look around. He knelt down and kowtowed.


    The advisor whispered in Lord Cai¡¯s ear. Lord Cai raised his eyebrows and looked at the young man. ¡°Who are you? Why are you making so much noise outside?¡±


    The young man shrank back and said with a trembling voice, ¡°I¡¯m a shop assistant in a longevity shop.¡±


    ¡°A day ago, I saw this young lady come to the shop to buy incense, candles, and paper money.¡±


    The reason why he remembered was because Shen Yijia was good-looking. He took a few more glances.


    This way, as soon as he contacted Shen Pingxiu, everything would make sense.


    Lord Cai slammed the wooden stick in his hand on the table and said in a low voice, ¡°Madam Song Shen, the witnesses and evidence are all here. What else do you have to say?¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know that the Shen family was so powerful. They had figured out her schedule within a day.


    There was also this shop assistant. It was such a coincidence that he was watching from outside and recognized her. She did not believe that there was such a coincidence. It must have been arranged in advance.


    ¡°I did buy paper money before leaving the city that day.¡± These two things were set in stone. There was no way to deny it.


    As soon as she said this, a smug look flashed across Shen Pingxiu and Shen Wenbo¡¯s eyes.


    Shen Yijia blinked and continued innocently, ¡°But I didn¡¯t do anything else. Is it illegal to buy paper money and leave the city?¡±


    ¡°As for what the three of them said¡­¡± Shen Yijia looked at the three women kneeling in front of her with disdain. ¡°Who knows if they¡¯ve been bribed? After all, some people are rich. It¡¯s not difficult to bribe a few people.¡±


    Shen Wenbo sneered. ¡°You¡¯re saying that these people were arranged by our Shen family to slander you?¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and looked over. ¡°Are you admitting it?¡±


    Shen Wenbo choked and snorted. ¡°Nonsense! If we hadn¡¯t heard this today, we wouldn¡¯t have known that you were so vicious.¡±


    He seemed to be angry and said, ¡°You¡¯ve been back in the capital for so many days and never returned to your parents¡¯ house to take a look.

 Chapter 448 - 448 Blaming Others (3)

    448 Blaming Others (3)


    ¡°After what happened to Father this time, he was injured and bedridden. He wanted to see you. Yesterday, he specially instructed someone to look for you in the Song residence. Unexpectedly, not only did you ignore him, but you also said evil words¡­¡±


    ¡°Brother Bo, stop talking. I didn¡¯t discipline your second sister well¡­¡± Shen Pingxiu shook his head in pain, vividly portraying the image of an old father who had been heartbroken by his daughter.


    If not for the fact that the timing was bad, Shen Yijia would have applauded him. His acting skills were even better than the actors on the stage.


    No wonder he could trick the two elders of the Wang family into handing their precious daughter to him when he was young.


    !!


    It was unknown if Lord Cai had the intention to watch the show, but he did not say a word and let the Shen father and son sing and fight below like women.


    ¡°Father, what does this have to do with you? Who would have thought that our Shen family would have such a¡­¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s the motive?¡± Shen Yijia interrupted Shen Wenbo impatiently. ¡°Since you¡¯ve treated me so well, why should I do these things that won¡¯t do me any good? I¡¯m not tired of living.¡±


    Lord Cai thought to himself, ¡°Why do I feel like I¡¯m no longer needed here?¡±


    Shen Pingxiu¡¯s pupils constricted. If he wanted to talk about motives, he naturally had to start with Madam Wang¡¯s death.


    ¡°Because of jealousy,¡± a female voice said from outside the crowd.


    The surrounding commoners automatically made way.


    Shen Ruyun, who was wearing a princess consort suit, walked in surrounded by a few maidservants.


    She walked up to Shen Yijia and looked down at her with a pained expression. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to say it, but you went too far this time. This is your biological father. How could you do this?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Who am I? Where am I? Did I accidentally enter a stage?¡±


    Shen Ruyun pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and smiled mockingly at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Your smile is really ugly.¡±


    Her voice was neither loud nor soft, but it was loud enough for everyone to hear. No one cared if they would offend her or not. Their gazes darted to Shen Ruyun¡¯s face.


    Shen Ruyun was speechless.


    She took a deep breath and pretended not to hear her. She lowered her eyes and continued, ¡°Back then, your biological mother saved Madam Song, who was pregnant for ten months, so the Song and Shen families made a verbal engagement.


    ¡°When Eldest Young Master Song reached the age to get married, Madam Song went to the Shen family to discuss the marriage. Unexpectedly, Madam Song chose me instead of you for some reason.¡±


    ¡°However, you took into account the power of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence at that time. You went on a hunger strike at home and threatened me to give up the marriage to you. Father couldn¡¯t bear to see you like this, so he agreed in the end.


    ¡°However, on the day you got married¡­¡±


    She did not continue, but everyone understood that her husband¡¯s family had been implicated in a rebellion on the day of their marriage. Two elders had passed away one after another.


    Because of this, many people in the capital said that the second daughter of the Shen family was tough and had jinxed her husband¡¯s family.


    Two years had passed. If Shen Ruyun hadn¡¯t mentioned it today, they would have almost forgotten about it.


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s words firstly meant that Shen Yijia was favored at home, and secondly, she hinted that she even dared to snatch her sister¡¯s marriage. What else could she not do?


    As for the reason why Madam Song did not choose Shen Yijia, it was because she was not a good match. There was something wrong with her character.


    At the same time, she pushed all the responsibility of the Shen family suddenly changing their tune to Shen Yijia. The rest of the Shen family were forced to do so.


    Shen Pingxiu loved his daughter.


    ¡°You were chased out of the capital, but I married Lord Jing. You were jealous of me and felt that the family owed you, so you attacked Father.¡±


    As Shen Ruyun concluded, the surrounding commoners began to discuss.


    ¡°This is too vicious. She even snatched her biological sister¡¯s marriage.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. She was clearly the one who lost her husband¡¯s family because she was too stubborn. Her life wasn¡¯t good, but she still came back to resent her family.¡±


    ¡°My master¡¯s house is on Liu¡¯er Street. I heard it was true yesterday. The servant of the Shen family knelt in front of the Song family¡¯s door and kowtowed, begging Second Miss Shen to go back and take a look. Do you know what Second Miss Shen said?¡± a servant said mysteriously.


    Someone asked curiously, ¡°What did she say?¡±


    The servant placed his hands on his hips and raised his chin. He lowered his voice and said, ¡°If you¡¯re sick, find a doctor to treat you. If you¡¯re about to die, go to the coffin shop and book a coffin. Why are you looking for me? Do you want me to gather money?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s ears and eyes were sharp, so she heard the discussions outside clearly. She had been wearing a straight face, but when she heard this, she could not help but laugh.


    That tone was quite like hers.


    Someone exclaimed, ¡°Oh my god, isn¡¯t this like cursing him to die? That¡¯s her biological father. Isn¡¯t she afraid of being struck by lightning?¡±


    ¡°No wonder Madam Song didn¡¯t like her back then. I wonder how unlucky she was to marry such a person.¡±


    ¡°This kind of person can¡¯t bear to see others doing well. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s a need to interrogate this case anymore. She must have done it.¡±


    ¡°Tsk, I really couldn¡¯t tell that you¡¯re so evil despite your innocent appearance.¡±

 Chapter 449 - 449 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (1)

    449 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (1)


    Madam Li, who was standing in the crowd and listening to everyone¡¯s discussion, turned pale. She knew that what Shen Ruyun said was not the truth at all.


    However, she had no way to explain herself because she had indeed chosen Shen Ruyun back then. No matter how much she thought about it, she could not change this fact.


    She was in the wrong. She had let Sister Jia down. For the past two years, she had not dared to mention this matter, afraid that Sister Jia would fall out with her family because of it. She did not know how to face it.


    Unexpectedly, someone still mentioned it and even put Sister Jia in such an embarrassing situation.


    !!


    ¡°No.¡± Madam Li clenched her fists, her fingertips turning white. ¡°It¡¯s me. I mistook pearls for rubble back then.¡±


    ¡°Sister Jia is a good girl. Our Song family is lucky to have such a daughter-in-law.¡±


    She raised her voice, but unfortunately, no one listened to her. Some people even wondered if the second daughter of the Shen family was too powerful and had Madam Song under her control.


    Shen Yijia turned around and grinned at Madam Li, indicating that she was fine.


    In any case, she did not care if these people insulted or slandered her.


    All she cared about was the family she acknowledged.


    She could also tell that the Shen family was trying to push the blame to her and clear Shen Pingxiu¡¯s name.


    On the other side, Mo Yuan left the Imperial Capital and went straight to the Court of Judicial Review.


    She reported her identity and explained her intentions. Unexpectedly, when the people from the Court of Judicial Review heard that she was from the Song family, they wanted to chase her away without a word.


    Mo Yuan frowned. These people were clearly instructed by someone.


    She wanted to go in. If these people refused to talk, someone would eventually.


    Amidst the pushing, someone walked out.


    Deputy Minister Du looked at the people outside the door and shouted sternly, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    A guard replied, ¡°Lord Du, this crazy woman is obstructing official business here. We¡¯re about to chase her away!¡±


    Deputy Minister Du glanced at Mo Yuan and said coldly, ¡°Hurry up and leave. Fortunately, Lord Song went to Cangtong Town today and isn¡¯t here. Otherwise, if you dare to cause trouble in the Court of Judicial Review, he¡¯ll definitely lock you up.¡±


    Mo Yuan pushed away the person tugging at her sleeve and turned to leave.


    Deputy Minister Du raised his eyebrows and reprimanded, ¡°What a commotion. Is this a market? The next time someone comes to cause trouble, they¡¯ll naturally leave after you scare them. Otherwise, are the cells inside just decorations?¡±


    All the guards thought to themselves, ¡°Are you sure that she was scared away by you? Not because you told her what she wanted to know? Besides, didn¡¯t Lord Luo say¡­¡±


    Seeing that they were still in a daze, Deputy Minister Du said impatiently, ¡°What are you waiting for? Do you have nothing to do?¡±


    Cangtong Town was not considered close to the capital. It would take about four to six hours to walk southwest from the western city gate.


    It would have been fine if they could meet halfway. If not, they would have to waste even more time. They might not even be able to rush back in the afternoon.


    Mo Yuan went home first and got a horse. When she left the city gate, she saw a little beggar. She thought for a moment and rode over.


    Hearing more and more criticism outside, a mocking expression flashed across Shen Ruyun¡¯s face. She looked up at Lord Cai, who had stood up as soon as she entered.


    Lord Cai exhaled. ¡°She finally noticed me.¡± he thought.


    He was about to go down and greet Consort Jing when Shen Ruyun waved her hand to stop him and said with a smile, ¡°This case involves my father. I¡¯m just here to take a look. Lord Cai, you don¡¯t have to care about me. Please continue.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Lord Cai broke out in a cold sweat. Consort Jing was already here, and those words just now. Did she represent Lord Jing?


    Shen Ruyun spoke politely, but Lord Cai did not dare to treat her as if she did not exist.


    He called for someone to bring a chair for her before sitting back down. He patted the wood and came to a conclusion for this case. ¡°The criminal, Madam Song Shen, was framed, kidnapped, and beat up an official of the imperial court. The evidence is conclusive. Her crimes are unforgivable.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Shen Yijia suddenly interrupted him.


    Lord Cai choked. ¡°What else do you have to say?¡±


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes and said indignantly, ¡°I haven¡¯t confessed yet, but you want to convict me just because of what they said. What kind of crime are you convicting me of?¡±


    Before Shen Ruyun came, Lord Cai was still watching the show. As soon as she arrived, he immediately wanted to convict Shen Yijia. It was obvious that he was a muddle-headed official.


    No matter what, she would probably be charged with this crime today. If she was locked up, there would probably be news of her ¡°committing suicide¡± in less than a day.


    Shen Yijia knew that it was useless for her to say anything now. She had taken a look just now and did not see Mo Yuan. She must have gone to look for her beautiful husband. What she had to do now was to stall for time.

 Chapter 450 - 450 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (2)

    450 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (2)


    Lord Cai¡¯s eyes flashed. He felt a little guilty and did not dare to look into Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes. However, there were so many commoners watching outside. He could only brace himself and say, ¡°There are witnesses and physical evidence. Isn¡¯t the evidence conclusive? How can you say that it¡¯s a one-sided story?¡±


    Shen Yijia sneered. ¡°These witnesses? I¡¯ve never seen them before. They¡¯re just some people who colluded to slander me. What kind of witnesses are they? I won¡¯t acknowledge any of them.¡±


    She just knelt there, not feeling that she was about to become a prisoner at all.


    Shen Ruyun glanced at Lord Cai unhappily.


    !!


    Lord Cai shuddered. He also wanted to close the case quickly, but Shen Yijia had to confess for him to do anything.


    He thought to himself that the Shen family was really messy. He didn¡¯t understand at first.


    However, after Consort Jing appeared, if he still didn¡¯t understand what the Shen family was up to, his years as the capital magistrate would have been in vain.


    However, what could he do if he knew? He was a higher-ranking official.


    In the capital, where a random rock could hit a third-grade official, he was really nothing.


    That person was related to the Imperial Family now, and he could not afford to offend her.


    Besides, the reason why he could sit here safely for so many years was not because of his godly judgment, but because of his keen eyes.


    In a place like the capital, justice was not needed, especially when it came to cases involving officials. Whoever had the stronger backing had always been in the right.


    These thoughts flashed through his mind. He gritted his teeth and sneered. ¡°I¡¯ve seen many criminals like you who refuse to confess after entering court. Men, give her a beating.¡±


    He did not believe that a delicate little girl could be stubborn after being beaten up a few times.


    Compared to being worried that Song Jingchen would take revenge, he was clearly more afraid of the powerful Lord Jing. After all, Song Jingchen was no longer the son of the Bulwark Duke.


    No matter how smart he was, he was still alone.


    As soon as he finished speaking, two bailiffs stepped forward and were about to press Shen Yijia to the ground. One of them held a board and was prepared to hit her at any moment.


    The three members of the Shen family revealed smug smiles at the same time. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned red with anger.


    When this matter was over, she would write her name upside down if she didn¡¯t beat them up until they cried for their parents.


    She resisted the urge to punch the unconscious official¡¯s head and struggled. ¡°I¡¯m a woman. How can I avoid everyone and bring a man out of the city?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re simply trying to force a confession. When my husband returns, he definitely won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    Shen Yijia knew that if she resisted and hit someone now, it would only make things worse.


    The commoners watching outside could not bear to watch. Their minds, which had been washed by Shen Ruyun¡¯s words, also regained a trace of clarity. This really felt like trying to obtain a confession using torture.


    ¡°Could it be that she really didn¡¯t do it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible. She¡¯s just a little girl. How would she be able to carry him out of the city?¡±


    ¡°Then aren¡¯t you accusing someone wrongly?¡±


    ¡°Shh, can¡¯t you see who¡¯s sitting inside?¡±


    There were more and more such discussions. These people were like this. They were fence-sitters who would explain themselves one after another.


    Madam Li, Lin Shao, and Bruiser were so anxious that their eyes turned red. They tried their best to push past the bailiffs in front of them and rush in.


    Lord Cai¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He glanced at Consort Jing and met Shen Ruyun¡¯s gaze. He calmed down and sneered. ¡°Since you said that you didn¡¯t do it, where did you go out of the city on the day of the incident? Who can testify for you?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She naturally could not say that she was going to Madam Wang¡¯s grave.


    ¡°When you confess, I naturally have a way to make you reveal your accomplices.¡± With that, he waved his hand to signal the bailiffs to attack.


    Shen Wenbo sneered. He had naturally made arrangements for these accomplices.


    ¡°Sister Jia¡­¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law¡­¡±


    ¡°Sister¡­¡±


    Seeing the board raised high, Madam Li, Lin Shao, and Bruiser exclaimed at the same time.


    ¡°I can.¡±


    Amidst the exclamations, a cold voice suddenly sounded.


    At the same time, a figure quickly rushed into the hall and kicked the raised board away.


    The board landed on Shen Pingxiu¡¯s head, who had craned his neck to see Shen Yijia get beaten up.


    He fainted on the spot before he could even cry out in pain.


    ¡°Father.¡± Shen Wenbo and his sister were shocked.


    Xuanyuan Ce walked in from the path made by the commoners and glanced at the chaotic hall with a frown.


    Chu Feng looked at Shen Pingxiu, who was surrounded by people. He rubbed his nose guiltily.

 Chapter 451 - 451 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (3)

    451 Obtain A Confession Under Torture (3)


    Shen Yijia took advantage of the chaos to break free from the restraints of the two bailiffs. When she saw the person who suddenly appeared, she said in surprise, ¡°Beautiful uncle?¡±


    When he looked at Shen Yijia, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s gaze instantly softened. He even nodded at her comfortingly.


    Lord Cai stood up and pointed at the two unfamiliar men who had suddenly appeared in the hall. ¡°How dare you disturb the court?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the bold one. Why aren¡¯t you bowing when you see our lord?¡± Chu Feng¡¯s voice wasn¡¯t as loud as his, but his aura was stronger.


    !!


    The Xuanyuan Kingdom was more powerful than Great Xia. Even Shangguan Yu had to bow to their lord, let alone a mere capital magistrate.


    Lord Cai was shocked. This time, Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom came.


    He quickly walked down the hall and bowed to Xuanyuan Ce. He asked in confusion, ¡°May I know why Lord Jing¡¯an is here in the capital?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce waved the non-existent dust off his robe and said casually, ¡°I heard that you had an interesting case, so I came to take a look. I didn¡¯t expect to see an acquaintance.¡±


    An acquaintance? Lord Cai was stunned and looked at the Shen siblings, who were also stunned.


    Chu Feng followed his gaze and sneered. ¡°Could it be that these two are even more powerful than the emperor of the Grand Xia? They don¡¯t even bow when they see our prince?¡±


    Shen Ruyun bit her lower lip. She had a bad feeling, but she did not dare to say anything. She could only lead the way and bow.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce did not seem to notice. If he did not say anything, the Shen siblings could only maintain their bow.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She did not expect the beautiful uncle to have such a powerful background. This was the first time she realized the importance of power.


    ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an, this¡­¡± Lord Cai complained in his heart. If he wasn¡¯t on Lord Jing¡¯s side, he could only be here to help Shen Yijia.


    He had kicked an iron plate.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. Just continue to solve the case.¡± Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand amiably. He thought of something and said, ¡°I heard you ask where this girl went a day ago. Coincidentally, I met her at Hidden Spirit Temple that day.¡±


    It was no secret that the abbot had gone to the palace to invite a divine doctor for Xuanyuan Ce. Many people knew that Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had come to the capital in advance to recuperate in the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Lord Cai forced a stiff smile and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you say anything when I asked you just now?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°I didn¡¯t know who he was at that time. What should I have said? Besides, did you give me a chance to say it?¡±


    Lord Cai¡¯s lips twitched. Before he could speak.


    Xuanyuan Ce continued, ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Miss Ji of Great Xia. She came to treat me that day and saw this little girl.¡±


    If even Miss Ji could testify, what else could Lord Cai say?


    Lord Jing¡¯an clearly wanted to protect Madam Song Shen. On one side was Consort Jing, who represented Lord Jing¡¯s residence, and on the other side was Lord Jing¡¯an, who represented the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    He could not afford to offend either side, so he could only compromise. ¡°Then there must be a misunderstanding. Someone else harmed Lord Shen.¡±


    With that, he looked angrily at Madam Zhang and the witnesses, who were kneeling at the front in fear. He said seriously, ¡°How dare you slander others? Guards, suppress them. We have to find out who framed Lord Shen.¡±


    He did not dare to interrogate them in public because he was afraid that these people would say something they shouldn¡¯t.


    He didn¡¯t care about the Shen family, but if he embarrassed Consort Jing and offended Lord Jing because of this, his position as an official would probably end soon.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡± How could Shen Yijia let him have his way? It wasn¡¯t easy for her to have such a powerful backer. It would be a waste not to use it. She said righteously with a straight face, ¡°I also want to know who wanted to frame me¡­ Father.¡±


    She emphasized the last word. After saying that, she turned to look at Shen Ruyun, who was on the verge of collapse from maintaining her bowing posture for too long.


    ¡°Let¡¯s interrogate them here. I¡¯m sure the citizens of Great Xia are curious too,¡± Xuanyuan Ce echoed.


    The matter of Lord Shen raising his mistress had been reversed again and again. Compared to their initial intention to watch the show, the surrounding commoners were even more curious about the truth now.


    The Shen siblings looked at each other and thought to themselves, ¡°It¡¯s over.¡±


    Especially Shen Ruyun. She did not come here under Lord Jing¡¯s instructions.


    During this period of time, she had been grounded in the courtyard to recuperate. Even the letter Madam Chen had sent her previously did not reach her.


    When she found out that something had happened to the Shen family, she accidentally heard a few maidservants gossiping this morning. Coincidentally, Lord Jing had not returned to the residence since last night, so she left the residence by threatening the servants using the fetus in her stomach.


    She first returned to the Shen family and heard Shen Wenbo¡¯s plan from Madam Chen.


    Shen Ruyun had always hated Shen Yijia for attacking her several times in Xiagou Village. Naturally, she did not want to miss this opportunity to kill her, so she came to the Imperial Capital.


    Originally, everything was going according to their plan. Who would have thought that Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom would suddenly interfere in this matter?

 Chapter 452 - 452 Settled (1)

    452 Settled (1)


    The hot sun was in the sky, but it did not dissuade the commoners who were watching the commotion outside the Imperial Capital.


    In fact, more and more people came to watch.


    Even if they couldn¡¯t squeeze in, it was good to stand outside and listen.


    It was clearly just a small matter of raising a mistress and losing some face. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that something big had happened.


    In the hall, Xuanyuan Ce sat on the left. Behind him stood Shen Yijia and Chu Feng.


    Thanks to him, Shen Yijia was cleared of suspicion. Moreover, with Xuanyuan Ce as her backer, Lord Cai did not dare to ask her to kneel again.


    The Shen siblings stood opposite them. As for Shen Pingxiu, he was carried to the back office for a doctor to treat him.


    For the sake of her son, Madam Zhang refused to admit that she was Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mistress, but she refused to say anything else.


    However, the three women were different. They had been instructed to identify Shen Yijia. They could not use this excuse now, and the situation did not give them a chance to collude in advance. Their words were full of flaws.


    Even the commoners outside who were watching the commotion could tell that something was wrong. Lord Cai could not cover up for the Shen family even if he wanted to.


    He could only brace himself and continue asking. Not long after, the women could not take the pressure and told him the truth.


    Shen Ping had been recuperating in this outer chamber for a long time. Moreover, he would go once or twice a month. No matter how careful he was, there would be times when he was seen by others.


    These women had all seen him before and pointed him out on the spot. This way, the excuse of someone framing him would naturally be exposed.


    They revealed everything, including the fact that someone had come to threaten and lure them to perjure themselves.


    Everyone thought that even if Shen Yijia did not do it, it was someone else. Unexpectedly, the truth was orchestrated by the Shen family.


    The surrounding commoners were in an uproar.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t they say that they doted on Second Miss Shen a lot just now? Why doesn¡¯t it look like it?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re from a wealthy family. You have a lot of dirty secrets. You do whatever you want. Do you even take the law seriously?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s said that with a stepmother, there will be a stepfather. Second Miss Shen must have been heartbroken that she didn¡¯t want to go home after getting married,¡± a woman said with red eyes.


    She had grown up being tortured by her stepmother. When she heard others criticizing Shen Yijia just now, she did not say anything.


    It was unknown if she was thinking about her experience, but after saying that, she covered her mouth and started crying.


    If she had half the courage of Second Miss Shen to cut ties with her family, her life would not have been so bad.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s face was terrifyingly dark. This time, not only did the Shen family not pick up their lost dignity, but they also personally placed it in front of everyone and let them step on it again.


    He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Those people were not sent by our Shen family at all.¡±


    The only thing he was glad about now was that when he went to buy those people last night, he had been careful. He did not appear, nor did he send anyone from the residence.


    ¡°Does that mean that someone is using the Shen family¡¯s name to do something?¡± Lord Cai tried his best to save his skin.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Shen Wenbo said something that he didn¡¯t believe. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°As for who pretended to be a member of our Shen family, we¡¯ll investigate this ourselves. There¡¯s no need to trouble you.¡±


    He did not mention that when Madam Zhang said that she was not Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mistress, he did not deny it.


    Lord Cai also indirectly lost his memory. He agreed and did not completely remove the Shen family¡¯s cover.


    After all, Xuanyuan Ce was not from the imperial family of Great Xia. Even if he could not stand it, he could not interfere too much. He watched coldly the entire time.


    No one noticed that a servant had pushed his way through the crowd.


    He walked straight to a carriage parked opposite the Imperial Capital and bowed. ¡°Director, Madam Song is fine.¡±


    Then, he told the director what he had seen and heard.


    After a long time, Dean Lu, who was in the carriage, sighed. ¡°The current bureaucracy¡­¡±


    At this point, anyone who was not stupid would understand this case. In order to clear Shen Pingxiu¡¯s name, the Shen family had slandered Second Miss Shen, who had lost her mother since she was young.


    As for who kidnapped him and left the city, no one cared anymore.


    Madam Zhang falsely accused someone. According to the laws of Great Xia, the person who falsely accused someone would be punished.


    If Shen Yijia was convicted, she would have been beheaded. Correspondingly, Madam Zhang would be beheaded after being exposed.

 Chapter 453 - 453 Settled (2)

    453 Settled (2)


    Because she refused to reveal who instructed her, she could only bear this responsibility herself.


    Hearing the outcome of Lord Cai¡¯s punishment, Madam Zhang fell to the ground.


    After a long time, she suddenly knelt in front of Shen Yijia. ¡°Madam Song, I was bewitched. Madam Song, please forgive me this time.¡±


    Shen Yijia pulled her feet away and pursed her lips. ¡°I¡¯m not the one who can save you. It¡¯s you. As long as you reveal who instructed you, you naturally don¡¯t have to die.¡±


    !!


    The one who was going to die was the instigator.


    Madam Zhang paused and looked at Shen Wenbo in a daze.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s eyes turned cold. He tilted his body subtly, and a small and exquisite longevity lock leaked out from his waist.


    Madam Zhang¡¯s pupils constricted. That was a gift from Shen Pingxiu when her son was born. He had never left her side all these years.


    She closed her eyes and suddenly laughed crazily. ¡°I did it alone. No one instructed me to.¡±


    It was her. She had caused all of this.


    Actually, when Shen Pingxiu disappeared that day, she did not have to say that she was his mistress when she went to report the case.


    However, she was greedy!


    She thought that she could not be a mistress for the rest of her life. She was still young now. Shen Pingxiu could come once in a while, but what would happen when she got old?


    She thought about how she had her son by her side. As long as this matter was exposed, Shen Pingxiu would bring the mother and son into the residence, even if it was for his son¡¯s sake.


    However, she did not expect the matter to be so serious, nor did she expect Shen Pingxiu to be so heartless.


    When Madam Chen locked the mother and son in the woodshed for a day and night and Shen Pingxiu did not appear, she knew that she had made the wrong move.


    However, it was too late for regrets.


    Madam Zhang alternated between crying and laughing. She kept repeating these words, as if she had gone crazy.


    Lord Cai waved his hand and asked someone to bring her away.


    As for the three women, they had each been beaten twenty times for perjury. Moreover, they had to hand over all the silver they had obtained from the bribes.


    After the matter came to an end, Lord Cai heaved a sigh of relief and was about to leave.


    Shen Yijia stood up. ¡°What about me? I was escorted to court by you guys like a criminal early in the morning. I was framed for no reason and was pointed at and scolded by so many people. I was almost beaten up just now. Don¡¯t you have any compensation for me?¡±


    Lord Cai¡¯s eyelids twitched. ¡°Then what do you want?¡±


    He only wanted to send her away as soon as possible.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°I was slandered by them. It¡¯s not too much to ask for some mental damages, right? Of course, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t give it to me. Then I can only continue to sue. I have to find out who¡¯s behind this.¡±


    He had never heard of mental damage payments, but he understood what Shen Yijia meant.


    She meant to ask for money!


    If he didn¡¯t pay, she would tear apart the Shen family¡¯s cover.


    The corners of Lord Cai¡¯s mouth twitched. In order to please Lord Jing, he had already sided with the Shen family. He couldn¡¯t push her out at the last moment.


    However, it was best if he could settle it with some money. He immediately agreed. ¡°It¡¯s not too much. Then¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia reminded him, ¡°Just now, Madam Zhang said that I promised her 600 taels of silver.¡±


    Lord Cai was shocked. ¡°Six hundred taels! Why don¡¯t you rob someone?¡±


    A trace of disdain flashed across Shen Ruyun¡¯s eyes. She disagreed. ¡°Second Sister, why did you¡­¡±


    ¡°Be quiet.¡± Shen Yijia interrupted her impatiently.


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s nails dug into her flesh.


    She was Consort Jing. How dare this girl speak to her like that?


    She wanted to ask someone to slap Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth, but there were so many people watching outside. She had to maintain the image of a good sister.


    After all, she could even ¡°give up¡± her marriage to Song Jingchen. So what if she was casually criticized?


    Moreover, she was afraid that Shen Yijia would really hold on to this matter.


    Shen Yijia could care less about the Shen family, but she could not. If her maternal family was too weak, how good could her reputation as the eldest daughter of the Shen family be?


    She took a deep breath and glanced at Lord Cai.


    Lord Cai gritted his teeth. ¡°Alright, six hundred taels it is.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not 600 taels. 600 taels is just the price of one person. Just now, four people identified me. It¡¯s a total of 2,400 taels. Rounding it up, it¡¯s 2,500 taels.¡± Shen Yijia extended four fingers.


    ¡°You can calculate it that way?¡± he thought.


    Lord Cai¡¯s eyes widened. He did not expect Shen Yijia to dare to ask for so much.

 Chapter 454 - 454 Settled (3)

    454 Settled (3)


    He looked at Shen Ruyun again. He couldn¡¯t possibly fork out the money, right?


    Shen Ruyun gritted her teeth and nodded with her eyes closed. She did not care about a few thousand taels of silver, but when she thought about giving it to Shen Yijia, she was indignant.


    Lord Cai nodded. ¡°It¡¯s my duty.¡±


    He instructed his assistant to get the banknotes.


    !!


    The commoners who were still criticizing Shen Yijia just now were all looking at the Shen siblings with disdain.


    However, due to Shen Ruyun¡¯s status, they did not dare to be as brazen as they were when they scolded Shen Yijia.


    However, even so, the Shen siblings were furious.


    This was especially true for Shen Ruyun. No matter what she did at home, she had always been praised by others. When had she ever gone through something like this? At this moment, she felt a chill down her spine.


    She looked at Shen Yijia and said gently, ¡°Second Sister, we were also misled. We thought that you really did these things. Fortunately, the misunderstanding was resolved.¡±


    Shen Ruyun had never been a smart person. She only maintained a good reputation due to Madam Chen¡¯s guidance before she married.


    Actually, she was still a fool. For example, now, she felt that Shen Yijia only wanted the money because she did not intend to fall out with her family.


    She believed that if she gave Shen Yijia a way out, Shen Yijia would cling onto it.


    Anyone with a brain would know that it was best not to say anything at this time, let alone provoke Shen Yijia.


    However, she did it.


    ¡°Misunderstanding? Don¡¯t you know if Lord Shen has a mistress? Doesn¡¯t he know?¡±


    Shen Yijia was disgusted. She did not understand what else to do at this time. They were not blind.


    Shen Pingxiu was not worthy of the word ¡°father.¡±


    Shen Yijia originally wanted to ignore him. She only wanted to use her fists to deal with him once after she went out. She noticed the citizens craning their necks outside.


    She rolled her eyes and blinked. ¡°If there¡¯s a misunderstanding, I¡¯m the one who has misunderstood your so-called good intentions. You wanted me to be your maidservant since I was young. You wanted me to kneel in the courtyard as punishment in the winter and lock me in the woodshed for no reason. Is this what you mean by kindness? I really don¡¯t care about your so-called kindness to me.¡±


    When all the evidence pointed to Shen Yijia, no one would believe her. However, it was different now.


    Shen Yijia did not know that as soon as she said this, Xuanyuan Ce clenched his fists under his sleeves, his entire body emitting dense killing intent.


    ¡°Also, about the marriage exchange.¡± Noticing the panic on Shen Ruyun¡¯s face, Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t mentioned it, I would have forgotten. I¡¯m an orphan without a mother and can¡¯t even eat my fill. How can I have the ability to snatch the marriage from you?¡±


    ¡°Initially, I didn¡¯t understand why you suddenly asked me to get married a month before the wedding. Now that I think about it, could it be that you already knew something?¡±


    What was Shen Yijia referring to?


    Did Shen Ruyun know that the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence would be implicated in the rebellion, or did she know that someone would frame the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence?


    This was worth thinking about.


    If it was the former, why didn¡¯t she report it to His Majesty after knowing?


    If it was the latter, could it be that the Shen family was also involved in the framing?


    Lord Cai almost knelt down. This girl was not only greedy, but she also dared to say anything.


    At the same time, he cursed Lord Jing in his heart for marrying such a stupid thing.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s pupils constricted as he reprimanded, ¡°Shen Yijia, stop spouting nonsense.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head innocently. ¡°Am I wrong? Otherwise, why would things be so coincidental? At that time, Shen Ruyun¡¯s dowry should be almost ready, right? We should be able to find any famous shops in the capital.¡±


    ¡°But at the end of the day, she asked me to get married. She even asked me to get married with an empty box¡­¡±


    Was she not afraid of offending the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence?


    ¡°Oh my, my stomach hurts¡­¡± Before Shen Yijia could finish, Shen Ruyun covered her stomach and cried out in pain.


    The maidservants she brought all shouted in fear, ¡°Hurry up and call a doctor.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned her head away in disdain. Shen Ruyun was acting again.


    Lord Cai felt a headache coming on. Why did she come out to cause trouble when she was pregnant? He quickly got someone to get a doctor.


    ¡°Back to the residence,¡± Shen Ruyun screamed.


    She secretly squeezed Lian¡¯er¡¯s hand. Lian¡¯er understood and quickly called for the others to help Shen Ruyun leave.


    Shen Wenbo followed.


    Lord Cai was speechless.


    What was going on?


    ¡°What more do you want?¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed when she received a stack of banknotes from him.


    As soon as she walked out of the hall, Madam Li and the others surrounded her.


    Madam Li¡¯s face was filled with guilt. She opened her mouth to say something.


    Shen Yijia smiled and showed her the banknotes. ¡°Mother, look, there¡¯s so much money.¡±


    She knew what Madam Li was feeling guilty about, but she was not the original host. Madam Li had always been very good to her, so she could not blame her on behalf of the original host.


    Moreover, the original host was in a place like the Shen family. If nothing happened to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, even if Madam Li chose the original host, Madam Chen would not let her get married properly.


    After all, it was too easy to ruin someone¡¯s marriage. She just had to destroy that person¡¯s innocence and reputation.


    Madam Chen was even more ruthless and killed the original host. It was not impossible for her to accuse the original host of eloping with someone.

 Chapter 455 - 455 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (1)

    455 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (1)


    Madam Li could tell that she was deliberately changing the topic. Her eyes turned red as she held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and patted it. ¡°In the future, I¡¯ll be your biological mother. If Brother Chen dares to let you down, I¡¯ll be the first to go after him.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°My husband won¡¯t. He likes me.¡±


    Madam Li was amused by her shameless words. She noticed Xuanyuan Ce, who was following Shen Yijia with a dark expression, and looked at Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s white hair was too recognizable. Madam Li had seen him from afar at the docks and once at the inn, so she naturally remembered him.


    However, she did not expect him to be the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. She was so happy to get the banknotes that she almost forgot about the beautiful uncle.


    Thinking of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s identity, she swallowed the word ¡°uncle¡± and stood up respectfully. ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she addressed him formally. He nodded. ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯re fine.¡±


    Shen Yijia was a little embarrassed. She had left the city that morning, so it didn¡¯t match the time she arrived at Hidden Spirit Temple. If that Cai fellow wasn¡¯t so afraid of the beautiful uncle just now, she would have been exposed after asking a few more questions.


    She felt that the beautiful uncle definitely knew.


    She scratched her head and asked, ¡°But why are you here, Your Highness?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce paused. ¡°A little beggar came to the courier station to look for me. Didn¡¯t you ask him to come?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t even know you were staying at the courier station. How could I have gotten someone to look for you there?¡±


    The two of them stood in the middle of the road and spoke. From time to time, the people around them would look at them, sizing them up. Madam Li said politely, ¡°Why don¡¯t you invite Lord Jing¡¯an to our house?¡±


    She was really just being polite. Lord Jing¡¯an was an outsider, and Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t at home. She couldn¡¯t let Lin Shao and Bruiser entertain him.


    If she wanted to thank him, she had to wait for Song Jingchen to return and let him handle it.


    However, Shen Yijia did not notice. She looked at Xuanyuan Ce inquiringly.


    Xuanyuan Ce also felt that something was wrong. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze, he nodded.


    Madam Li was speechless.


    Before the case was concluded, the news spread to the palace. Looking at the memorial handed over by Official Zhao, the emperor was so angry that he almost flew into a rage.


    The Shen Residence!


    What a good Shen family!


    It was like they would be indignant if they did not embarrass Great Xia!


    If this matter succeeded, he might have had to praise the Shen family for being sneaky enough to pull off something like this. However, they failed.


    He sent the imperial official away and asked Eunuch Li to bring over a blank imperial edict. He wrote a few lines on it.


    Eunuch Li looked down and silently took the jade seal. It was unknown if it was his imagination, but he felt that His Majesty had become more and more easily angry recently.


    At the same time, he cursed the Shen family in his heart. It was about to be His Majesty¡¯s birthday. The envoy was still around. Could they not behave themselves?


    Who didn¡¯t know that the emperor loved his reputation the most?


    People who were so keen on courting death. He had finally seen it today.


    ¡°Your Majesty, Miss Ji is here.¡±


    The eunuch¡¯s voice came from outside the door.


    The emperor suppressed his anger. ¡°Let her in.¡±


    As he spoke, he picked up the jade seal and stamped the imperial edict heavily. He instructed Eunuch Li, ¡°Tell someone to make a trip to the Shen family.¡±


    Eunuch Li replied respectfully, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Soon, Ji Yunxi walked in with a tray. When she saw the imperial edict in Eunuch Li¡¯s hand, she frowned slightly.


    She had yet to leave the palace today and did not know what had happened outside.


    ¡°That day when you went to treat Lord Jing¡¯an, did you see a woman?¡±


    Ji Yunxi did not understand why the emperor asked this. She thought of the master and servant who had left in anger. She nodded. ¡°When I saw Lord Jing¡¯an, I saw a woman beside him.¡±


    The emperor nodded. It seemed that Lord Jing¡¯an was telling the truth. Otherwise, he would have to worry about whether the people of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had gotten in touch with Song Jingchen. If that was the case, he would suspect that Lord Jing¡¯an was testifying because of Song Jingchen.


    He stopped talking about this topic and changed the topic. ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an specially sent someone to the palace to praise you. You did very well.¡±


    Ji Yunxi pursed her lips. She felt that something was wrong, but she could not figure it out at the moment. She could only say respectfully, ¡°It¡¯s my blessing to be able to share His Majesty¡¯s worries.¡±


    She handed the tray to Eunuch Deng. On the tray was a three-inch black box.


    Eunuch Deng placed the tray in the hands of a small eunuch beside him and personally placed the box on the table in front of the emperor.


    He opened the box and saw two brown medicinal pills inside. They emitted a faint medicinal fragrance.

 Chapter 456 - 456 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (2)

    456 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (2)


    The emperor glanced at Eunuch Deng.


    Eunuch Deng understood and took one out.


    The emperor looked at Ji Yunxi. Through the thin veil, there was no change in her expression.


    He seemed to sigh. ¡°You saved me, the old princess consort, and Lord Jing¡¯an. I also heard that Madam Qiu¡¯s health has improved after your treatment. Tell me, what reward do you want?¡±


    Ji Yunxi pondered for a moment and bowed again. ¡°Yunxi begs Your Majesty to allow Yunxi to leave the palace to stay outside.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Why? Isn¡¯t it good to live in the palace?¡± the emperor said meaningfully.


    Ji Yunxi was such a beauty, so the emperor naturally had the thought of taking her into his harem.


    Unfortunately, the other party did not respond to his hints.


    During this period of time, the emperor had eaten the pills refined by Ji Yunxi and was clearly much more energetic. He did not feel weak after spending the night in the harem, as if he had returned to his youth.


    He still wanted Ji Yunxi to continue refining pills for him, but he did not dare to push her too far.


    ¡°The palace is naturally excellent, but Yunxi practices saving the dying and healing the injured. If I stay in the palace all day, my abilities will be useless.¡± Ji Yunxi lowered her eyes and pretended not to understand the emperor¡¯s words.


    The emperor refused to give up. ¡°How can that be? I can¡¯t do without your alchemy skills.¡±


    ¡°Even if I live outside the palace, Yunxi can refine pills for His Majesty every day. Moreover, I can help some people who need Yunxi in my free time. I hope His Majesty can fulfill my wish.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s eyes darkened. He narrowed his eyes and looked at Ji Yunxi. After a long time, he said, ¡°Forget it. I¡¯ll confer you the title of princess tomorrow. At that time, you can move into the princess¡¯s residence.¡±


    He casually picked up a memorial and opened it. He continued, ¡°A young princess has come to the Xuanyuan Kingdom this time. Coincidentally, you can entertain her with Linghui.¡±


    Ji Yunxi should have been rewarded much earlier for her achievements.


    The emperor originally wanted to give her a position, so he did not mention this matter. Unexpectedly, Ji Yunxi was unwilling.


    He was the emperor of Great Xia. What kind of beauty could he not get?


    Although Ji Yunxi¡¯s rejection made him a little angry, the emperor endured it when he thought of her value.


    ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty,¡± Eunuch Deng reminded him.


    The emperor glanced at the hourglass beside him and nodded.


    Eunuch Deng waved his hand and asked the eunuch to pour a cup of tea and bring it in before going forward to serve the emperor.


    Seeing the emperor swallow the pill, Ji Yunxi smiled and said respectfully, ¡°Then I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    As soon as the pill entered his throat, the emperor felt his entire body lighten. He closed his eyes and felt it for a while before waving his hand in enjoyment.


    Knowing that the little beggar was not summoned by Shen Yijia, Xuanyuan Ce immediately instructed Chu Feng to return to the vicinity of the courier station to look for him.


    Unfortunately, the capital was so big. After a few hours, the little beggar had long disappeared.


    However, he brought back news that Shen Pingxiu¡¯s official position had been stripped.


    ¡°So soon?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. She was so happy that she almost jumped up on the spot.


    ¡°But how did that person in the palace receive the news so quickly?¡±


    They had only returned to Liu¡¯er Street for less than an hour. Didn¡¯t that mean that the useless emperor had received the news while she was still in the Imperial Capital?


    Shen Yijia did not know that Dean Lu had been to the Imperial Capital. She only thought that it was because of Xuanyuan Ce.


    Even Xuanyuan Ce thought so. As an envoy, it was normal for the emperor to pay attention to his movements.


    In the reception pavilion, Xuanyuan Ce asked Shen Yijia about her childhood from time to time, and she answered obediently.


    However, she was very depressed. Why was the beautiful uncle so curious about her childhood?


    Even her biological father had never paid so much attention to her.


    Moreover, the way Xuanyuan Ce looked at her always made Shen Yijia feel uncomfortable. It was clearly not like this when she saw him at the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Shen Yijia was conflicted.


    She had already thanked him.


    She also treated him to tea.


    Why didn¡¯t the beautiful uncle say goodbye?


    Just as Shen Yijia felt that she was about to suffocate to death, Bruiser¡¯s surprised voice sounded from outside the door.


    ¡°Sister, Brother-in-law is back!¡±


    Madam Li instructed him and Lin Shao to guard the courtyard. As soon as Song Jingchen stepped into the courtyard, he ran over to report.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she quickly stood up to run out.


    Seeing the person walking towards her in a hurry, Shen Yijia smiled and pounced on him. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Song Jingchen relaxed a little and hugged the person in his arms tighter. His breathing was a little unstable as he said in a hoarse voice, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I came back late. You must have been frightened.¡±

 Chapter 457 - 457 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (3)

    457 The Meeting of Father and Son-in-law (3)


    He had been feeling uneasy all day. Before he finished dealing with the matters there, he returned alone. Halfway through, he met Mo Yuan and found out that Shen Yijia had been taken to court.


    Thinking of the corpse that suddenly appeared in Cangtong Town, he almost immediately concluded that someone had deliberately released this bait to lure him out of the capital to deal with Shen Yijia.


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia grinned and shook her head in his arms. ¡°I knew you would come back.¡±


    For some reason, she was confident in Song Jingchen. It was precisely because of this that she didn¡¯t attack anyone in court.


    Otherwise, when Song Jingchen returned, he would have to clean up another mess.


    Song Jingchen felt his heart ache.


    Xuanyuan Ce waited for a while, but no one came in. When he came out, he saw the two of them hugging in broad daylight. His face instantly darkened.


    Song Jingchen let go of Shen Yijia. Thinking of what he had heard on the way, he guessed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s identity. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°Thank you, Lord Jing¡¯an, for testifying for my wife.¡±


    After interacting with Lord Cai a few times, he naturally knew who he was. It was obvious from Lord Cai¡¯s attitude towards Deputy Minister Luo and him.


    Lord Cai was just a despicable person who curried favor with the powerful.


    Fortunately, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s status was high enough. Otherwise, if someone else had testified, this would not have happened.


    ¡°Is there a need for you to thank me?¡± he thought.


    Xuanyuan Ce was depressed. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s resentful gaze, his face darkened.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t seem to notice anything wrong with Xuanyuan Ce. Besides, this person had just helped Shen Yijia.


    He said politely, ¡°Your Highness, come in and sit down.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce didn¡¯t say anything and sized Song Jingchen up.


    The more he looked at him, the more he disliked him. Why didn¡¯t he notice this kid when he first saw him? His face was handsome enough to deceive any girl.


    His face was filled with disdain. Even Shen Yijia, who was slow to react, noticed it.


    She puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Don¡¯t think that you can embarrass my beautiful husband just because you saved me once!¡± she thought.


    She went forward and held Song Jingchen¡¯s arm. ¡°His Highness has been sitting there for a long time. He¡¯s very busy. Let¡¯s not waste his time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He was about to say that he wasn¡¯t busy when Song Jingchen spoke first. ¡°Then I¡¯ll send His Highness off.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Standing in front of the Song residence, Xuanyuan Ce had the illusion that he had been chased out.


    Was it an illusion?


    Shen Yijia ran to the carriage and personally lifted the curtain. ¡°Your Highness, quickly get in the carriage. It¡¯s so hot outside.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    When he got into the carriage, a small hand lifted the curtain at the side. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s smiling eyes, Xuanyuan Ce felt better.


    In the next moment, Shen Yijia said, ¡°Thank you for your help today, Your Highness, but I don¡¯t like to owe people favors. This is for you. We¡¯ll split it equally.¡±


    With that, she stuffed a stack of banknotes in. Before Xuanyuan Ce could refuse, the little head disappeared.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless once again.


    What had he done? Why did she have to draw a line with him? He clearly didn¡¯t say that he wanted her to split the money with him.


    Xuanyuan Ce counted the banknotes in a daze. There were a total of twelve banknotes.


    It was missing 50 taels!


    Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. Otherwise, she would definitely say righteously that she had asked for the extra 100 taels with her own ability.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not know whether to laugh or cry as he put away the banknotes. He rubbed his eyebrows and said, ¡°Chu Feng, look for that little beggar later and investigate the Shen family.¡±


    At this point, he paused. ¡°I¡¯m mainly investigating Madam Wang and this girl in the Shen family.¡±


    There were many similar people in the world. It wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t seen people who looked like Ji Luo all these years, but no one gave him such a feeling.


    Moreover, the speed at which Shen Yijia attacked that day was not something ordinary people could have.


    It was a coincidence that they looked alike, but what if their skills were the same?


    The carriage drove out of Liu¡¯er Street and a person walked out of the alley.


    Looking at the carriage that was getting further and further away, Mo Yuan¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent.


    On the other hand, Shen Yijia counted the remaining banknotes in her hand several times. Her heart ached so much that she wanted to cry.


    ¡°How did you shrink in such a short time?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen found it funny and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. ¡°You can¡¯t bear to give it to him?¡±


    He did not expect Shen Yijia to get so much money from a single trip to the court. It was an eye-opener.


    Shen Yijia cried, ¡°If I don¡¯t give it to him, I¡¯ll feel like I owe him. If he treats you like that again, I¡¯ll be too embarrassed to attack.¡±


    She could only blame herself for being too principled!


    She recalled the banknotes and noticed the fatigue on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. Her heart ached as she asked, ¡°Is the case very difficult?¡±


    Song Jingchen was still touched by her words. When he heard this, his eyes darkened. ¡°The corpse was thrown in a river. It took all night to salvage it.¡±


    Although he had yet to investigate, he had a vague guess.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°So many people died and no one noticed?¡±

 Chapter 458 - 458 Revenge Is Easy (1)

    458 Revenge Is Easy (1)


    There was the Wutong River outside Cangtong Town. The river was nearly bottomless, and almost all the nearby citizens relied on that river to live.


    The weather had been too hot recently. The farmers often went into the water to cool down.


    Previously, they did not notice anything unusual until the group of people went into the river yesterday. When they went ashore, they realized that one person was missing.


    He didn¡¯t see anyone go ashore, but he was gone. Other than an accident in the river, he didn¡¯t think about anything else.


    Everyone gathered the people from Fushui and dived into the water to search. Not only did they find their companions who were entangled in the seaweed, but they also found a corpse that had long become bloated from the river.


    Everyone was so frightened that they quickly got someone to report it to the authorities.


    It was a female corpse. Her body had already rotted so much that her original appearance could not be seen.


    Especially that face. It was the most rotten. In some places, bones were already exposed, but it was still obvious that the victim was naked.


    The legs of the corpse were tied with heavy rocks. Initially, everyone wondered if some young lady had taken things too hard and tied rocks to her legs to throw them into the river.


    Unexpectedly, after the autopsy, the coroner concluded that the dead woman¡¯s face was the most rotten because it had been slashed after death.


    She was disfigured after death. It couldn¡¯t be suicide.


    With a corpse that couldn¡¯t even be identified, this case couldn¡¯t continue.


    The county magistrate thought that since the body had been found in the river, they might be able to find other clues, so he sent someone to block the upper and lower reaches of the river and drain the water.


    The bottom of the river was filled with mud. Everyone searched below and quickly realized that something was wrong.


    There wasn¡¯t just one corpse.


    Soon, five or six corpses were fished out one after another. The degree of decomposition was different, and the most serious one was only left with a skeleton.


    The corpses were all naked. Their faces were severely rotten, and they were all women.


    Unlike the first corpse whose legs were tied to rocks, the others had rocks tied to all four of their limbs.


    It wasn¡¯t hard to guess that the first body had been discovered because the rope tied to the hands had somehow fallen off and the body had risen out of the muck.


    So many female corpses had appeared within his jurisdiction, and they had been discovered in front of everyone.


    The county magistrate didn¡¯t dare to hide the matter and immediately sent someone to the capital to report it. Hence, Song Jingchen left the capital to investigate.


    Song Jingchen voiced his guess. ¡°I suspect that those are the missing girls from all over the country.¡±


    The coroner performed an autopsy and tentatively determined that the shortest time of death was seven or eight days ago. At that time, they should have just arrived in the capital.


    If he was not wrong, the other party should have long known that he had the list.


    He had dealt with the girls abducted from Xunyang City. No wonder he had not found anyone these past few days.


    The successive attacks on Xiagou Village might have been that person¡¯s doing.


    Shen Yijia thought of Widow Wang¡¯s death and Bruiser, who looked happy on the surface but often hid at the side in a daze, holding a silver hairpin.


    The family had yet to eat lunch. Madam Li originally thought that Lord Jing¡¯an would eat at their house, but by the time she came out of the kitchen, he had already left.


    Seeing Song Jingchen return, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    After dinner, Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen back to the house to catch up on his sleep.


    Looking at the person lying on the bed and waving at him, Song Jingchen opened his mouth, but in the end, he lay down beside her.


    He originally wanted to wait for Shen Yijia to fall asleep before getting up, but he did not expect Shen Yijia to be such an unpredictable person.


    In order to let him rest, she drugged him again!


    It was not for his health. She just wanted him to rest!


    Moreover, he had no idea when that girl drugged him.


    When Song Jingchen woke up, it was already two hours later.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re awake?¡±


    As soon as he opened his eyes, he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s careful voice.


    Song Jingchen turned around and saw a certain someone meekly sitting on a short stool by the bed, staring at him without blinking.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. He couldn¡¯t blame her at all.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to confirm if those people were from Xunyang City? I thought Pinellia and the others might be able to help.¡±


    ¡°I went to call Pinellia and Ginkgo over. You can bring them along later.¡± Shen Yijia tugged at Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve ingratiatingly.


    ¡°I know my mistake. I won¡¯t dare to do it again!¡± Those words were written all over her face.


    Song Jingchen sighed and pulled Shen Yijia closer.


    Shen Yijia lost her balance and lay on him. Their eyes met.


    Shen Yijia blinked, pouted, and closed her eyes obediently.


    She could accept this punishment!

 Chapter 459 - 459 Revenge Is Easy (2)

    459 Revenge Is Easy (2)


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. He reached out and ruffled her hair. He only stopped after kneading Shen Yijia¡¯s hair into a chicken coop.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m getting up.¡±


    Only this girl dared to drug him a few times. Moreover, the reason for drugging him was always so strange.


    Shen Yijia blushed and got up from him. ¡°Oh.¡±


    !!


    Song Jingchen got out of bed and changed his clothes in amusement. He noticed something and frowned. ¡°Did you fight with someone?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. She shook her head and shook it again.


    Song Jingchen tied his belt and looked at Shen Yijia without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s scalp went numb from his gaze. ¡°I really didn¡¯t fight.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the reddish-brown blood on Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve and wondered if he had guessed wrongly. Wasn¡¯t that blood?


    Unexpectedly, just as he finished thinking this, he heard a certain someone say, ¡°I¡¯m not fighting. I¡¯m helping out when I see injustice.¡±


    She said it confidently, but she was wailing in her heart. Her beautiful husband was clearly sleeping at home just now. How did he know?


    She had no idea that she had left evidence behind.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Alright, so she did fight.¡±


    He walked to the table and sat down. He poured a cup of tea and took a sip, indicating for Shen Yijia to continue.


    He knew that Shen Yijia would not hit someone for no reason, but in order to prevent what happened today from happening again, he still had to ask clearly.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and told him what had happened when she went to look for Pinellia.


    This time, she was considered familiar with them. They were the little troublemakers she had encountered in the alley on the first day she picked Sister Huan up from school.


    Although Shen Yijia did not pick up Sister Huan and the others these few days, she had already spread the word. Those troublemakers were afraid that she would suddenly appear, so they did not dare to hit anyone in that alley again.


    However, it was said that dogs couldn¡¯t change their ways. If this place didn¡¯t work, they would change locations.


    After a few days of silence, the few of them ran to the alley in the south of the city to harass people.


    That alley and Nu¡¯er Alley were both in the south of the city, but there was still a distance between the two alleys.


    It was unknown if Wang Mingan was too lucky or if those people were too unlucky. There were so many alleys, but they chose the one Shen Yijia walked through.


    Then, Shen Yijia earned a small sum of money.


    Looking at the silver pieces on the table, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what to say.


    He suspected that Shen Yijia only attacked for the money, but he had no evidence.


    ¡°Sigh, that person is so pitiful. I can¡¯t just leave him in the lurch, right?¡± Shen Yijia shrugged and concluded.


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°Don¡¯t be rash next time.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and nodded. ¡°It won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    She felt that those people would probably be traumatized and wouldn¡¯t dare to hit anyone in the future.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had guessed correctly.


    Holding back the urge to go to Cangtong Town, she sent Song Jingchen out. When she returned home, she quietly carved some words.


    After dinner at night, she said goodnight and returned to her courtyard.


    Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s back, Sister Huan asked curiously, ¡°Sister-in-law, are you going to rest so early today?¡±


    Madam Li sighed. ¡°She¡¯s probably tired. The few of you should go back and sleep.¡±


    No matter what, those people from the Shen family were Sister Jia¡¯s blood relatives. She probably felt sad to be schemed against by her family.


    Shen Yijia returned to her room and sent Mo Yuan away. She took out the sack she had hidden in advance, her eyes sparkling.


    It was easy to take revenge in the dark night!


    Shen Pingxiu might have returned to the bureaucracy in the past, but it was impossible now.


    There was no punishment for Shen Wenbo in the imperial edict, but his performance in the Imperial Capital had been seen by so many people, and his reputation had also been ruined.


    The Shen family had gotten a bad name. It would probably be impossible for them to straighten their backs in the capital in the near future.


    ¡°Your grandfather wants you to go out first and come back in a few years.¡± Madam Chen looked haggard. In just a day, she looked like she had aged more than ten years.


    The only thing she was glad about now was that Shen Ruyun was pregnant. Otherwise, she would have to worry that this matter would affect her status in Duke Jing¡¯s residence.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s eyes darkened. He knew that this was the best arrangement for him. He nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll listen to Grandfather.¡±


    Seeing that her son, whom she had always been proud of, had no choice but to leave the capital because of Shen Yijia, Madam Chen gritted her teeth and said hatefully, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, leave that b*tch to me. I won¡¯t let her off.¡±

 Chapter 460 - 460 Revenge Is Easy (2)

    460 Revenge Is Easy (2)


    In the past, she controlled Shen Yijia for more than ten years. She did not believe that she could not do it now.


    She naturally hated Shen Pingxiu for his affair. However, she hated Shen Yijia even more. Why couldn¡¯t she take the blame obediently?


    If she had admitted that to framing Shen Pingxiu, the Shen family would not have become like this.


    Shen Wenbo frowned. ¡°Mother, I keep feeling that she¡¯s a different person. You have to be careful.¡±


    !!


    He suspected that the current Shen Yijia was not the same person at all. Unfortunately, he could not find evidence.


    ¡°Hmph, it¡¯s just that her wings have hardened. She can¡¯t even remember her family name. Don¡¯t worry about this. When the envoy leaves the capital, Mother will naturally have a way to deal with her.¡±


    With that, Madam Chen stood up. ¡°Go back to your room and rest early. Don¡¯t go to the Hanlin Academy for the next few days. Your grandfather will help you arrange for you to be released.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    The mother and son walked out of the reception pavilion and headed for their courtyards.


    In the night, a pair of eyes stared in the direction the two of them had left. Shen Yijia scratched her head and chose Madam Chen first.


    This old woman was full of evil tricks. She must be asking for a beating.


    She followed quietly.


    Madam Chen had a nanny and two maidservants with her. Knowing that Madam Chen was in a bad mood, the three of them did not dare to say anything and only followed silently.


    Bang! A lantern landed on the ground and went out.


    Madam Chen frowned and was about to reprimand them when another lantern fell to the ground.


    There were no lights on this road, and the surroundings were instantly dark.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? You can¡¯t even hold a lantern properly?¡±


    Before she could finish, a hand covered her mouth.


    Before she could react, something stuffed into her mouth, and her head was covered by something.


    Madam Chen¡¯s eyes widened in fear. She thought of how someone had put a gunny sack on her two years ago.


    Shen Yijia carried her and looked around. In the end, she chose the place where Madam Chen often locked up the original host, the woodshed.


    No one usually came here, but as soon as Shen Yijia approached, she heard a weak voice coming from the woodshed.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the lock on the woodshed door. Which unlucky person had taken over the original host¡¯s position?


    Madam Chen struggled on her shoulder.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself that she was lucky today and went forward to open the lock.


    The moonlight shone through the open door, bringing a hint of light to the otherwise dark woodshed.


    She smelled the stench of excrement in the air.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Who¡¯s so rude as to go to the woodshed to poop?¡±


    She looked around and saw a huddled figure behind the woodpile. It was a small child.


    The child¡¯s entire body kept trembling. The sound of the door opening did not wake him up.


    The voice Shen Yijia heard just now came from his intermittent muttering.


    The stench came from beside him. Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose in disdain and threw Madam Chen to the ground.


    After some thought, she carried the child out and placed him in the courtyard before returning to the woodshed.


    She did not tie Madam Chen¡¯s hands up. When she returned, Madam Chen had already struggled out of the sack.


    ¡°You¡­¡± When she saw who it was, Madam Chen was stunned for a moment before recognizing who it was. Her eyes were filled with hatred. ¡°Little b*tch, how dare you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and walked up to Madam Chen. She looked down at her for a long time.


    Madam Chen stopped cursing and an inexplicable panic rose in her heart. ¡°What¡­ what do you want?¡±


    Shen Yijia remained silent. She tilted her head and grinned at Madam Chen. She reached out and grabbed Madam Chen¡¯s collar, lifting her up.


    ¡°Let go of me!¡±


    Her response was a slap. At the same time, she felt a burning pain on her face.


    ¡°Ah, little b*tch, you¡¯re courting death.¡±


    Compared to the humiliation of being slapped in the face by someone she could crush with one finger, the pain on her face seemed to be nothing.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°She can still scold me? Did I go easy on her?¡±


    It seemed that this old woman¡¯s endurance was stronger than she had imagined.


    That was fine.


    She was relieved.


    Then, slaps sounded one after another in the woodshed.


    At first, Madam Chen¡¯s curses were mixed in, but later on, there was only a rhythmic sound.


    An old woman passed by the courtyard at night and spat when she heard this voice.


    The little b*tches in this residence were getting bolder and bolder. They actually came to the woodshed to mess around.


    After cursing, she covered her stomach and ran away.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had made such a mistake.


    She slapped Madam Chen¡¯s face until it was swollen. She spat out blood before letting go.


    Madam Chen was beaten speechless and fell to the ground like a rag. When she looked at Shen Yijia again, there was only fear in her eyes.


    Shen Yijia shook her numb hands and said, ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. This is just the appetizer.¡±


    Madam Chen, who had lost a few teeth, was speechless.

 Chapter 461 - 461 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (1)

    461 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (1)


    Shen Yijia did this to Madam Chen for fifteen minutes. Looking at the weak Madam Chen, she felt extremely comfortable.


    She glanced at the corner where the child had curled up and threw Madam Chen over.


    The smell here was strong enough!


    Madam Chen had been doted on since she was young. After she got married, she controlled Shen Pingxiu tightly.


    Before his mistress was exposed, the only thing she was unhappy about was her status as a wife.


    She had lived a smooth life. When had she ever been humiliated like this?


    Her face was swollen, and her mouth and nose were crooked. She could only lie on the ground like a dead dog and glare at Shen Yijia.


    ¡°If you look again, I¡¯ll dig out your eyeballs.¡± Shen Yijia waved her two fingers.


    Madam Chen closed her eyes and did not dare to look again.


    Shen Yijia clapped her hands in satisfaction and left.


    After leaving the woodshed, she hung the lock up again. Noticing the child still cowering at the side, she scratched her head in distress.


    It was impossible to bring him home, but this child reminded her of Little Yijia, who had been locked up in the woodshed. After some thought, she brought him along.


    If he stayed in the Shen family, he would die. If he was thrown out, he would have to depend on himself.


    She avoided the servants of the Shen family and hid the smelly child. She flashed into Shen Wenbo¡¯s courtyard.


    Shen Wenbo was still awake and knew some martial arts. He discovered Shen Yijia as soon as she approached, but it did not change the outcome of being beaten up.


    Shen Yijia punched his front teeth off, blocking a cry of help from his mouth.


    Without giving Shen Wenbo a chance to react, a snowflake-like fist landed on his face.


    Shen Wenbo felt his head buzz. He wanted to dodge, but he was not as fast as Shen Yijia. He wanted to block, but he was not as strong as Shen Yijia.


    Facing Shen Yijia, who was enraged, Shen Wenbo could only be beaten up.


    ¡°Who asked you to frame me!¡± she thought.


    Who asked you to be so black-hearted!


    Who asked you to bully the original host!


    It was not until Shen Wenbo could no longer scream that Shen Yijia let go of his pitiful face and punched and kicked the person who had fallen to the ground.


    Shen Wenbo was a man who had practiced martial arts.


    Shen Yijia naturally equated him with being beaten up.


    It only took 15 minutes to beat Madam Chen, but it took an hour to beat him up.


    After leaving Shen Wenbo¡¯s house, Shen Yijia felt refreshed. Even the air was filled with a sweet fragrance.


    One word. Awesome.


    Madam Chen arranged for Shen Pingxiu to recuperate in the front courtyard. Shen Yijia did not look for him. She was afraid that she would accidentally kill him.


    For the current Shen Pingxiu, death was too easy for him.


    His lifelong wish was to occupy a place in the bureaucracy. Now that he had nothing left, it was worse than death.


    Shen Yijia looked around and ran excitedly to Madam Chen¡¯s treasury with the sack.


    Although the surname Shen was here, Madam Chen had always been in charge.


    Usually, if Shen Pingxiu needed money, he could directly withdraw small amounts of money from the accounting room, but he had to get approval for large expenses from Madam Chen.


    However, which man was willing to be suppressed by the woman in the back residence? He could only find comfort outside.


    Unlike Madam Chen, his mistress was gentle and considerate. She needed to rely on him for everything, greatly satisfying his fake pride.


    This was also the reason why Shen Pingxiu had raised a mistress like Madam Zhang for so many years. He did not have any sincerity towards Madam Zhang.


    At the end of the day, other than himself, the person he loved the most was probably Shen Wenbo, whom he had high hopes for.


    Shen Yijia rummaged through the storeroom in Madam Chen¡¯s courtyard. It was filled with some large items that looked quite valuable, but Shen Yijia had never been interested in these.


    The master was not back yet, and the servants in the courtyard did not dare to rest. Shen Yijia avoided them and entered Madam Chen¡¯s house.


    With her sharp sense of money, Shen Yijia quickly found a secret compartment.


    After spending some time opening the secret compartment, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw what was inside.


    It was illuminated by the golden bars inside.


    So much money!


    Shen Yijia swallowed. This was much more exciting than her painstaking search for the secret room in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, which was filled with trash.


    Behind the secret compartment was a square space that could accommodate a five or six-year-old child. The gold bars were neatly stacked there, and there was a box at the top.


    The box was locked, and Shen Yijia easily removed the chain buckle.


    There was a stack of banknotes in the box, as well as the deeds to various shops.


    She was rich!

 Chapter 462 - 462 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (2)

    462 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (2)


    She took out the banknotes and stuffed them all into the sack. When she noticed the name on the deed, her eyes widened.


    Wang Ruxuan!


    Wasn¡¯t this the name of the original host¡¯s mother?


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia almost laughed in anger.


    Shen Pingxiu probably thought that after he killed Madam Wang, she would foolishly send her money to him. However, she handed the money to her daughter as a private stash.


    Of course, Madam Chen¡¯s own savings were also included, but did it matter?


    It wasn¡¯t important!


    Shen Yijia would take it as interest for holding her assets for so many years.


    Shen Yijia felt even more at ease taking her things.


    An hour later, Shen Yijia carried the bulging sack in one hand and the smelly child in the other, preparing to leave through the back door.


    Unexpectedly, halfway through, a commotion suddenly sounded in the originally silent Shen residence.


    Had she been discovered? It was probably impossible for her to leave through the back door.


    Shen Yijia turned around and walked another way calmly.


    Looking at the tall courtyard wall in front of her and the things in her hand, she frowned. She put the child down and climbed up with the sack.


    Behind this wall was an alley. As soon as Shen Yijia climbed up, she met the gaze of someone outside the wall.


    ¡°Beautiful uncle? Why are you here?¡± She was so excited that she even forgot to call him Lord.


    After shouting, Shen Yijia realized that something was wrong.


    She turned around and saw a masked man in black standing at the entrance of the alley with a cold sword.


    ¡°Oh, is this an assassination attempt?¡± she thought.


    The man in black also saw her and paused.


    Shen Yijia looked around but could not find anyone who could hit them. She dug out a gold bar from the sack and shook it.


    She never expected that she would one day be able to enjoy the pleasure of smashing someone with gold.


    However, when she looked up again, the man in black at the entrance of the alley had long disappeared.


    ¡°Huh? Why did he leave?¡± Wasn¡¯t he going to give her a chance?


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and gestured subtly.


    Shen Yijia looked in a certain direction. She did not realize that someone was hiding there just now.


    The commotion behind her was getting closer and closer. Shen Yijia came back to her senses and waved at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Beautiful uncle, take this.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded and reached out to her.


    Although it was a little unreasonable, it was an emergency.


    Before Xuanyuan Ce could finish thinking, a sack fell on him.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    It was unknown what was so heavy in the sack, but he staggered and almost missed it.


    He looked up and saw that Shen Yijia had already disappeared. Soon, she appeared on the wall again.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Take another one.¡±


    Seeing that it was a child who was thrown out, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyebrows twitched and he quickly caught him with both hands.


    The next moment, he froze in place. The child was weightless and light.


    However, it smelled so bad!


    Shen Yijia jumped down from the wall. Seeing that he was still in a daze, she picked up the sack and waved at him. ¡°Let¡¯s leave this place first.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce resisted the urge to throw away the child in his arms and followed.


    A carriage stopped at the entrance of the alley. Chu Feng was driving it.


    Shen Yijia was even more puzzled. Chu Feng was around, and there were also people protecting the beautiful uncle. Why did he look like he was being hunted down when she saw him just now?


    ¡°Where are we going?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Alley Thirty-seven.¡±


    As soon as the carriage left, a group of guards holding torches appeared in the alley.


    However, it had nothing to do with Shen Yijia anymore.


    It was unknown if the child was sick, but he had never woken up.


    Shen Yijia sent him to the wine shop. Pinellia and Ginkgo were not around. Wolfiporia opened the door for them.


    ¡°Miss, why are you here so late?¡± Wolfiporia quickly invited her in.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand and refused her offer. She pointed at the child in Chu Feng¡¯s arms. ¡°Find a doctor for him. When he wakes up, see if there¡¯s anyone outside the capital who wants to adopt a child. Send him out of the capital.¡±


    At first, she wondered where the Shen family¡¯s child came from. After seeing that face clearly, she understood everything.


    He was the son of the mistress and the younger brother of this body.


    Shen Pingxiu was hateful. It was also hateful for his mistress to frame her, but this little fellow had never offended her.


    Shen Yijia would not vent her anger on others. She would think of arranging a home for him and not leave him on the streets. It was also because of their bloodline.


    Before leaving, Shen Yijia took out another gold bar from the sack and gave it to Wolfiporia. ¡°This is for you. Hurry up and find a place to stay.¡±

 Chapter 463 - 463 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (3)

    463 Coincidental Encounter with Xuanyuan Ce (3)


    Shen Yijia had clearly told them last time to get a better living space. She did not know if it was because she could not find a house or because she could not bear to part with money, but Shen Yijia felt a little disgusted.


    Wolfiporia and the other two were stunned, and so was Chu Feng.


    The few of them looked at the ordinary sack in Shen Yijia¡¯s hand in unison and suddenly felt that it was extraordinary.


    The Shen family was in a mess. Shen Wenbo and Madam Chen were both unconscious when they were discovered, and Shen Pingxiu was lying sick in bed.


    There wasn¡¯t even anyone in charge, and they hadn¡¯t caught the thief.


    The butler could only instruct someone to get a doctor. Whether they wanted to report it to the authorities or not would have to wait for Madam and Young Master to wake up and see how they arranged it.


    Looking at the terrified servants, the butler sighed. It was unknown which immortal the Shen family had offended, but unlucky things happened one after another.


    Xuanyuan Ce suggested sending Shen Yijia back to Liu¡¯er Street. There was a carriage, so Shen Yijia naturally would not refuse.


    The ice box in the car kept emitting cold air. Shen Yijia leaned over curiously. When the cold air hit her, her eyes lit up.


    This thing was good!


    Now that she had money, she had to arrange one for the carriage at home.


    In the future, her beautiful husband would no longer be afraid of the heat!


    She patted the sack in her arms, feeling wonderful.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. It was just an ice box. How difficult was this girl¡¯s life?


    He thought of how many times Shen Yijia had gone to the Hidden Spirit Temple to catch free fish.


    He felt inexplicably suffocated.


    After Shen Yijia finished looking, she remembered that she was in someone else¡¯s carriage and sat back down.


    The cushions in this carriage were also very soft. She would also get them for her beautiful husband!


    For a moment, neither of them spoke in the car. Shen Yijia had just received a large sum of money and was secretly thinking about what she should buy for Song Jingchen and the family. Meanwhile, Xuanyuan Ce was sizing her up quietly.


    ¡°I have a husband,¡± Shen Yijia suddenly said.


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned and did not understand.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She thought about how powerful this person was. What if he snatched her away like in the book and forced her to divorce her beautiful husband?


    It seemed that it was not safe even if she said that she had a husband. She thought for a moment and added, ¡°Although you¡¯re good-looking, I don¡¯t like old people. Even without a husband, I wouldn¡¯t have followed you.¡±


    She knew that this person had been peeping at her just now.


    It was also a vexing thing to be too good-looking.


    Xuanyuan Ce almost choked on his own saliva. What was this girl thinking? How could a girl be like this?


    Afraid that Shen Yijia would say something treasonous again, he explained, ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood. I just think you¡¯re very similar to my daughter.¡±


    Shen Yijia sized him up suspiciously for a long time, but she did not find any guilt on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face. She heaved a sigh of relief.


    Shen Yijia was not someone who could hide her thoughts. Xuanyuan Ce could tell what she was thinking at a glance. He did not know whether to laugh or cry. He reached out and opened the lid of the ice box. ¡°There¡¯s still fruit inside. Take whatever you want to eat.¡±


    Looking at the various fresh fruits inside, Shen Yijia opened her mouth and was about to reach out when she thought of something and retracted her hand.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He picked up a grape and popped it into his mouth. He peeled another lychee.


    After eating, she poured some ice water and rinsed her mouth. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not poisonous.¡±


    He rarely ate the fruits in the carriage, but Chu Feng would still change them into fresh fruits every day.


    Shen Yijia waited for a long time to make sure that Xuanyuan Ce was fine before taking a grape. She sniffed it before stuffing it into her mouth.


    She grinned at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°I¡¯m a weak woman. I have to be careful.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything against you!¡± she thought.


    Xuanyuan Ce was dazzled by her smile.


    Da Hua had brought her to eat lychees and longan in her previous life, but this was the first time she had eaten them in this world.


    Shen Yijia peeled two of them and stuffed her cheeks. She sniffed uncomfortably.


    She wondered how Da Hua was doing. Had she been captured and taken back to be sliced open?


    She recalled the days after the two of them escaped from the courtyard. Because they were penniless, they had to rely on Da Hua¡¯s superpower to eat and survive. In short, they had to steal!


    She could take things from afar, so it was too easy for her to steal something.


    Seeing that she did not put down the sack while eating, Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°Did you just come out of the Shen family?¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and nodded.


    Thinking of what the Shen family had done to her, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent. He thought of something and asked tentatively, ¡°Did you spare him because he¡¯s your father?¡±


    Shen Yijia knew that Xuanyuan Ce had already guessed that she was the one who beat Shen Pingxiu up.


    She pursed her lips in disgust. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then why?¡± Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    Shen Yijia peeled a lychee and stuffed it into her mouth. It was meaty and small, cold and sweet. She shook her head happily and said without thinking, ¡°Because death is too easy for him.¡±

 Chapter 464 - 464 Father and Daughter (1)

    464 Father and Daughter (1)


    Xuanyuan Ce felt a lump in his throat. ¡°Do you hate him?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not know if he was asking about the Shen family or himself.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She did not like to mention Shen Pingxiu. She wiped her mouth and stopped eating. She said with a straight face, ¡°I don¡¯t hate him. He¡¯s not worthy of my hatred, but not only did he betray my mother, but he also caused her death, so I want to avenge my mother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was almost out of breath.


    !!


    After a long time, he asked again, ¡°What if there¡¯s a misunderstanding?¡±


    ¡°What misunderstanding can there be? He clearly promised to treat my mother well for the rest of his life, but he married someone else. Everyone knows this.¡±


    ¡°Besides, isn¡¯t manslaughter considered murder? No matter what the reason is, it¡¯s a fact that my mother died because of him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce swallowed his blood and his hand trembled.


    ¡°Your Highness, we¡¯re here.¡± Chu Feng¡¯s voice came from outside.


    Xuanyuan Ce heaved a sigh of relief.


    Shen Yijia did not get out of the car immediately. She scratched her head and said awkwardly, ¡°Can I buy some fruits from you?¡±


    She had eaten, but her beautiful husband had not. The others in the family had not eaten either.


    Xuanyuan Ce guessed why she mentioned this and nodded.


    He did not say that he did not need money because after interacting with her a few times, he more or less understood Shen Yijia. She looked carefree, but she had her own principles in doing many things.


    Shen Yijia grinned and took out a piece of silver from her pouch. She opened the sack and looted the dragon¡¯s eye and lychee in the ice box. These two fruits could hardly be seen in the market, so she suggested buying them from Xuanyuan Ce.


    Seeing the gold bars in the sack, the corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched.


    He had originally planned to attack the Shen family. Since this girl had her own thoughts, he could only let her be.


    Not long after Shen Yijia left, a Demon Guard suddenly appeared in front of the carriage.


    ¡°Did you let them escape?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    The Demon Guard knelt down and apologized. ¡°I didn¡¯t do my job well.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at him strangely. ¡°Even you¡¯re no match for that person?¡±


    He had fought with the men in black just now, so his skills were not top-notch.


    The Demon Guard said, ¡°The other party used poison.¡±


    He wanted to catch him, but he did not expect the other party to trick him. If he had not dodged quickly, he would not have been able to return.


    After saying that, he waited for a while. When he didn¡¯t hear anything else, he flashed into the night.


    Xuanyuan Ce leaned back into the carriage. ¡°Use poison!¡± he thought.


    When Chu Feng found the little beggar today, he had already been silenced. Beside the corpse was a line of small words, asking him to go to the City God Temple alone at midnight tonight.


    He gladly went to the appointment, but he did not expect the other party to have the intention to kill him.


    Because his body had yet to recover, he could only use less than 30% of his strength. He could only stall for time until the Demon Guards arrived. Only then did Shen Yijia see him.


    This person was certain that he would save that little girl and had a strong killing intent towards him. Could it be someone Ji Luo had left behind?


    Although he did not capture her, this made him even more certain of his guess.


    Thinking of what Shen Yijia had just said, his heart ached again.


    That girl¡­ was infuriating!


    ¡°Wow, there¡¯s cinnamon and lychees!¡±


    At the dining table, Shen Yijia had just served two plates of fruits when Sister Huan and Brother Hao cheered.


    There were more than ten fruits on each plate.


    The Lin siblings and Bruiser had never even seen it before, let alone eaten it. However, when they saw Brother Hao and Sister Huan drooling, their faces were filled with anticipation.


    Madam Li placed the breakfast on the table and asked curiously, ¡°Sister Jia, where did this come from?¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to say that she had bumped into a vendor selling some this morning when Madam Li said, ¡°Fresh cinnamon and lychees can¡¯t be bought easily on the market.¡±


    Because these two fruits were not produced in the capital, they had to be transported from other places. This way, the cost would be high, and the price would naturally not be cheap.


    Often, as soon as they entered the capital, they would be bought by those wealthy families. Not only could they not afford it, but they also could not compete with them.


    The Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence had never liked to be extravagant. The number of times they could eat these at home every year was only during the one or two times they were rewarded by the palace.


    If not for Madam Li, Shen Yijia would not have known about this. She could only tell the truth. ¡°I bought it from Lord Jing¡¯an.¡±


    Madam Li was stunned for a moment. The emperor would also treat the envoys to good food and drinks for the sake of their reputation. There was nothing strange about Lord Jing¡¯an having these.


    However, was the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom so poor that he wanted to sell the fruits provided by the courier station?

 Chapter 465 - 465 Father and Daughter (2)

    465 Father and Daughter (2)


    Shen Yijia called for them to eat. She looked around and realized that someone was missing. She asked curiously, ¡°Eh, Mo Yuan hasn¡¯t woken up yet?¡±


    Mo Yuan usually prepared breakfast with Madam Li.


    ¡°Sister Mo Yuan seems to be sick.¡± Sister Huan gave Lin Shao and the others a demonstration. After peeling it open, she stuffed the white lychee meat into Lin Miaomiao¡¯s mouth and continued, ¡°I went to look for her just now and saw her lying on the bed with a pale face. I asked her if she wanted to hire a doctor, but she said that she¡¯s a doctor herself. She¡¯ll be fine after taking medicine and sleeping.¡±


    She sounded helpless.


    Lin Miaomiao was caught off guard and stuffed with a lychee. Her face was puffed up as she blinked her watery eyes at everyone innocently.


    So cute!


    Shen Yijia thought she was extremely adorable. She reached out and rubbed her head. She nodded. ¡°Then I¡¯ll send her something to eat later.¡±


    After breakfast, the few of them shared the two plates of fruits and left a few for Mo Yuan.


    Shen Yijia scooped up a bowl of porridge and placed some pickled vegetables on a small plate.


    ¡°Sister Jia, is this yours?¡± Madam Li handed her a booklet as thick as a book. She had found it in Shen Yijia¡¯s pocket when she packed the clothes she had changed out of this morning.


    There were no words on the book. Due to her respect for Shen Yijia, she had never opened it.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She was about to say that it wasn¡¯t hers when she thought of something. She slapped her forehead and took it. ¡°I picked it up on the way when I went to look for Pinellia yesterday.¡±


    After she finished packing up the troublemakers, the unlucky child who had been bullied had already disappeared. There was only one book on the ground, so she picked it up.


    Actually, she had never opened it before.


    Thinking that the unlucky child was also from Autumn Deer Academy, she opened the booklet to see if there was a name inside.


    ¡°Huh?¡± After reading the first page, Shen Yijia exclaimed in surprise. Why did this look like a book? She thought that the student had taken notes.


    Brother Hao and the others also came over to take a look.


    ¡°I think I¡¯ve seen this handwriting somewhere before.¡± Brother Hao rubbed his chin.


    Shen Yijia blinked and handed the booklet to Brother Hao. ¡°Take a good look.¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, Brother Hao became nervous.


    His mind went blank.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao drove the carriage to the academy. Shen Yijia brought the porridge to the back room. The seeds scattered in the ground had already sprouted, and it looked gratifying.


    Apart from that, Mo Yuan opened another small plot of land to plant the herbs she had dug up from the mountains. She added a few shelves to the corner of the courtyard, which were also filled with herbs.


    Every time she thought of Mo Yuan, she would turn around and see her by his side. She did not know when Mo Yuan had the time to get them.


    Shen Yijia reached out to knock on the door. The door was only ajar and not bolted.


    She pushed open the door and entered. Mo Yuan¡¯s room was so simple that it didn¡¯t look like a girl¡¯s room. Apart from a bed, there was only a table. There was no dressing table or mirror.


    Shen Yijia felt that this did not look like a home, but a temporary residence.


    She did not know that Mo Yuan had developed a habit of moving around with her young lady since she was young.


    To Mo Yuan, her home was not a residence, but where the people she followed were.


    Shen Yijia sniffed and smelled a faint smell of blood. Her heart tightened.


    Hearing the commotion, Mo Yuan, who was lying on the bed with her back facing the door, turned around. When she saw that it was Shen Yijia, she was stunned. ¡°Miss, why are you here?¡±


    Shen Yijia placed the tray on the table. ¡°I¡¯m bringing you breakfast. Are you injured?¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Miss.¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s face was very pale. She was as expressionless as ever and shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not believe it. She took a few steps to the bed and wanted to lift her blanket. It was so hot, yet she still covered herself with a blanket. Wasn¡¯t she afraid of the heat?


    ¡°Miss.¡± Mo Yuan was shocked and explained, ¡°I¡¯m just on my period.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused, pursed her lips, and retracted her hand. ¡°Get up and eat some porridge first. I¡¯ll cook brown sugar water for you.¡±


    Mo Yuan wanted to say no, but Shen Yijia had already gone out.


    She lowered her eyes and guilt flashed across her face.


    Madam Li was still cleaning up in the kitchen. When she saw Shen Yijia enter, she asked, ¡°Is Mo Yuan alright?¡±


    Although Mo Yuan did not speak much, she was meticulous. Madam Li still liked her.


    ¡°She¡¯s having her period. I¡¯ll boil some brown sugar water for her.¡± Shen Yijia found a piece of ginger in the vegetable basket, picked up a knife, and chopped it on the vegetable board.


    Madam Li¡¯s eyelids twitched. She walked over to stop her. ¡°Let me do it instead.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. It¡¯s just a bowl of brown sugar water. Mother, go and rest.¡± Shen Yijia avoided Madam Li¡¯s hand that was about to snatch the knife.


    Madam Li knew that a bowl of brown sugar water was easy to boil, but her heart ached for Mo Yuan.


    A bowl of dark brown sugar water was soon out of the pot. The entire kitchen smelled of burning and pungent spiciness.


    Madam Li swallowed and her heart ached even more for Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan did not say anything. She looked up at the bowl of brown sugar water that was as black as medicine and drank it.


    If not for the crack on her usually expressionless face, one would have thought that she had just drunk an ordinary bowl of brown sugar water.


    ¡°Miss, if you¡¯re going out, remember to call me.¡±


    When Shen Yijia walked out of Mo Yuan¡¯s room, she heard her reminder.


    Shen Yijia felt a little upset. This person did not cherish herself. What kind of young lady was she? When Mo Yuan found the real young lady, she would regret it.


    She returned to the front courtyard. Bruiser and Lin Shao had just returned from outside. Their faces were filled with excitement.


    ¡°Sister, Sister.¡± Seeing Shen Yijia, Bruiser ran over. ¡°Sister, do you know what we heard outside just now?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked humbly, ¡°What did you hear?¡±

 Chapter 466 - 466 The Best Actress (1)

    466 The Best Actress (1)


    ¡°You definitely didn¡¯t expect the Shen family to cause trouble again.¡± When the Shen family was mentioned, Bruiser still looked angry, but in the blink of an eye, he became happy. ¡°I heard that this morning, the Shen family went to report another case. They said that you went to the Shen family last night and beat up Eldest Young Master Shen and Madam Shen. You even stole Madam Shen¡¯s private property.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s right. I did it.¡±


    ¡°Then guess what?¡± Bruiser kept her in suspense.


    Hearing that the Shen family had reported Shen Yijia to the Imperial Capital, Madam Li put down her work and came over. She looked at Bruiser nervously.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao looked at each other and smiled mysteriously.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at them. ¡°What are you waiting for? Hurry up and tell me.¡±


    Bruiser rubbed his forehead and chuckled. ¡°The capital magistrate didn¡¯t even accept the case. The court ordered the families to solve their own problems. Don¡¯t even think about treating the court as a game.¡±


    ¡°Now, everyone is talking about how the Shen family has gone crazy trying to harm you. They¡¯re even using the ruse of self-injury to gain sympathy,¡± Lin Shao continued.


    Actually, the commoners¡¯ analysis was more comprehensive. For example, how could a weak woman like Shen Yijia have the ability to hit someone in their residence? Were the Shen family¡¯s guards useless?


    Also, since she had already stolen money, wouldn¡¯t it be better to steal from the big warehouse? Could it be that Madam Shen¡¯s private room had more money than the big warehouse?


    They had guessed correctly, but Madam Chen did not dare to say how much dowry she had when she got married. Others might not know, but it was recorded in the government ledgers.


    This was originally to protect the dowry of the married woman from being invaded by her husband¡¯s family, but now, it was an arrow that was aimed at her vitals.


    Moreover, Madam Wang was on good terms with the Bulwark Duchess back then. If she had recently died, those shops that belonged to Madam Wang would definitely be transferred to her name, and it would definitely cause unnecessary trouble. Therefore, Madam Chen did not go to the government to apply for the transfer document.


    However, she changed the person in charge of the shop to herself.


    Later on, the original host and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s family were chased out of the capital, so there was even less need to do so.


    Who would have thought that they would return?


    In the end, it was a shady sum of money. How could she dare to say it?


    Even the good-tempered Madam Li was furious when she heard this. However, when she thought about how it was Shen Yijia¡¯s maternal family, she could not say, ¡°You¡¯re going too far.¡±


    ¡°Sister Jia, you¡­¡± Madam Li was afraid that Shen Yijia would feel uncomfortable, so she wanted to comfort her. However, when she turned around, she saw Shen Yijia grinning from ear to ear. Her eyelids twitched. ¡°Sister Jia, did you really do it?¡±


    Thinking about it carefully, it might really be something this girl dared to do.


    Shen Yijia blinked, looking like she did not understand what he was talking about. She left with her hands behind her back, leaving behind an unfathomable back view.


    Madam Li was speechless.


    Bruiser chuckled. He had guessed it when he heard others discussing it. Other than her, no one else could do such a thing.


    Unfortunately, after the fake case, no one believed what the Shen family said anymore.


    Even if Shen Wenbo lifted the veil on his head for everyone to see, everyone would only sigh. The Shen family was so ruthless to themselves. No wonder they could do such a vicious thing to frame their siblings.


    When Shen Wenbo heard everyone¡¯s discussion, he was so angry that he almost died on the spot.


    He wanted Lord Jing to make the decision, but he was told that Lord Jing was not in the residence.


    He sought an audience with Consort Jing, but he didn¡¯t get the answer he wanted.


    ¡°Eldest Young Master Shen, don¡¯t make things difficult for me. The guards who let Consort Jing out of the residence yesterday are still lying in bed recuperating.¡±


    What he did not say was that the guards had only been punished. All the servants in the princess consort¡¯s courtyard had been sold, including the princess consort¡¯s personal maidservant, Lian¡¯er.


    The princess consort¡¯s power to manage the family had been snatched away. If not for the fact that she was pregnant, Lord Jing would probably have gone to the palace to invite his wife to be demoted to a concubine today.


    However, on account of Minister Chen, even if she was demoted, she would only be demoted to a secondary consort.


    ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t this Big Brother? What a coincidence.¡±


    Hearing this voice that made him grit his teeth in hatred, Shen Wenbo suddenly turned around.


    Shen Yijia blinked and jumped out of the carriage. She walked to Shen Wenbo¡¯s side and looked around. ¡°Big Brother, why did you learn to wear a veil like a woman? What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Shen Yijia!¡± Shen Wenbo gritted his teeth and shouted this name. He clenched his fists tightly.


    ¡°Huh? Why aren¡¯t you calling me Second Sister anymore? I¡¯ll be sad if you do that.¡± Shen Yijia sniffed, looking aggrieved.

 Chapter 467 - 467 The Best Actress (2)

    467 The Best Actress (2)


    If not for the fact that he knew he could not defeat this b*tch, Shen Wenbo really wanted to rush up and tear her apart.


    Thinking of something, he sneered and leaned closer to Shen Yijia. He lowered his voice and said, ¡°Don¡¯t be smug too early. There are many people who want to deal with you just because you¡¯re Song Jingchen¡¯s wife. I want to see how long you can laugh.¡±


    Shen Yijia giggled. ¡°Then you have to live longer. Otherwise, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to see that day, so¡­ Brother, you have to live to a ripe old age.¡±


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s eyes were so red that blood could drip from them. He looked at Shen Yijia for a long time and snorted before leaving.


    !!


    Shen Yijia was hit by his sleeve and swayed unsteadily.


    She pursed her lips and dug around in her arms aggrievedly for a long time. When she couldn¡¯t find a handkerchief, she could only settle for pressing the corners of her eyes with her sleeve.


    She had to bring a handkerchief next time.


    The beauty secretly shed tears. The iron-blooded guards at the entrance of the residence could not bear to see her like this.


    Shen Wenbo sat in the carriage and happened to see this scene. Thinking of the scene their family had acted in the capital yesterday, he felt that Shen Yijia was mocking him and fell back in anger.


    This b*tch, this b*tch¡­


    Shen Yijia became a drama queen. She wiped her non-existent tears for a long time and began to shake her shoulders again.


    Bruiser couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. This was too eye-catching.


    He glanced at the guard standing at the entrance of Lord Jing¡¯s residence and tugged at her sleeve. He whispered, ¡°Sister, he¡¯s already gone.¡± Let¡¯s not act anymore. If you continue acting, you¡¯ll be too dramatic and go overboard.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia put down her hand and raised her head and puffed out her chest. She smiled politely at the two guards who had been sizing her up and went back to the carriage to circle around the corner door of Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    The guard said nothing.


    Shen Yijia was here to look for An Xiu¡¯er. She had promised Auntie Tian to help bring her something.


    In the end, after a few twists and turns on the way to the capital, she was so busy that she forgot about this matter. It was only when Madam Li was drying the bedding today and rummaged through Auntie Tian¡¯s bag that she remembered this.


    Before leaving, Madam Li specially reminded her that An Xiu¡¯er was a concubine. If she wanted to see her, she had to go through the corner door.


    Bruiser went forward and knocked on the door.


    An old woman opened the door. She sized up the two of them. ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    Shen Yijia explained her intentions. When she heard that they were here to look for Madam An, the old woman smiled. ¡°Wait a moment. I¡¯ll go in and ask Madam An.¡±


    Ever since the princess consort was pregnant, as long as His Highness returned to the backyard, he would stay at Madam An¡¯s place five times out of ten. The remaining five times would be in the other concubines¡¯ rooms.


    The people below were used to taking advantage of the situation, so they were naturally more proactive towards An Xiu¡¯er.


    About 15 minutes later, the old woman came out and invited the two of them in.


    Shen Yijia was very curious about Lord Jing¡¯s residence and asked about everything she saw.


    ¡°What is that place over there?¡±


    ¡°That house is so tall. What does it do?¡±


    ¡°Your princess consort¡¯s courtyard must be very big, right?¡±


    ¡°Lord Jing¡¯s residence is really big. Won¡¯t you get lost when you walk around here?¡±


    The old woman rolled her eyes, but when she thought about how this person knew Madam An, she still patiently explained everything to her.


    When they arrived at a small garden, the old woman stopped and panted for a while before saying, ¡°Wait here. Madam An will be here soon.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not say anything. There was a pavilion in the garden, so she brought Bruiser inside to wait.


    Lord Jing¡¯s residence was huge. This was the only description she could think of now.


    The old woman said that she would come soon, but the two of them sat there for nearly half an hour without seeing her. From time to time, maidservants would walk past the pavilion, but no one paid attention to them.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Leave the things here. We¡¯re leaving.¡±


    Bruiser naturally had no objections. He had long wanted to leave. He had been here for so long, but she didn¡¯t even give him a glass of water. No matter how he looked at it, she seemed to be deliberately ignoring them. However, since Shen Yijia didn¡¯t say anything, he didn¡¯t say anything.


    Before the two of them could walk out of the pavilion, a graceful figure walked in from outside the flower door in the small garden.


    After a year, when she saw An Xiu¡¯er again, two words inexplicably appeared in Shen Yijia¡¯s mind.


    No matter what, she was Lord Jing¡¯s woman, but she was dressed very plainly.


    She was dressed in white. If there was a small white flower on her head, she could hold a mourning ceremony.


    ¡°How dare you not bow to our Madam An?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at the maidservant who spoke and did not move.


    ¡°Hong Yu, shut up.¡± An Xiu¡¯er berated her indifferently and said apologetically, ¡°This maidservant is insensible. Sister Shen, don¡¯t lower yourself to her level.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in agreement. ¡°She¡¯s indeed insensible. She spoke before her Master could speak. Those who don¡¯t know better would think that you instructed her.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er choked. ¡°How could that be? I¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think you would either.¡± Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°Does she think nothing of you just because you¡¯re a concubine? I¡¯ve seen too many such people in my books. You can¡¯t let her do whatever she wants. Otherwise, she¡¯ll think that you¡¯re easy to bully and sh*t on your head in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia suggested it sincerely. As long as this person did not snatch her husband from her, everything would be fine.


    However, An Xiu¡¯er did not think so. When she heard the word concubine, her grip on her handkerchief tightened.


    Hong Yu¡¯s face turned pale as she scolded, ¡°What nonsense are you spouting?¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er frowned. ¡°Kneel outside.¡±


    Hong Yu glared at Shen Yijia, bit her lower lip, turned around, and knelt down in the pavilion.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Look, she¡¯s still glaring at me.¡±


    Hong Yu was speechless.


    An Xiu¡¯er was speechless.


    ¡°Ah, right. I¡¯m here because your mother asked me to bring you something.¡± Shen Yijia asked Bruiser to bring over the bag on the stone table.


    An Xiu¡¯er glanced at the rough cloth bag and took it. Her eyes turned red. ¡°I thought my mother wouldn¡¯t acknowledge me as her daughter anymore.¡±


    Back then, when she insisted on participating in the maiden selection, Auntie Tian said angrily, ¡°If you leave, I¡¯ll pretend that I don¡¯t have a daughter like you.¡±


    She didn¡¯t turn around because she wanted to help that person.

 Chapter 468 - 468 Freeloading (1)

    468 Freeloading (1)


    Before meeting Song Jingchen, An Xiu¡¯er had never known that there was such a good-looking man in the world. However, that good-looking man was prickly, and his gentleness was only given to Shen Yijia.


    She was indignant. Why? She thought that she wasn¡¯t bad-looking either. Compared to Shen Yijia, who had brute force but didn¡¯t know anything, she felt that she was much better. However, Song Jingchen seemed to be blind and couldn¡¯t see how good she was.


    She swore to find someone better than Song Jingchen.


    Unexpectedly, her opportunity came so quickly that she met another man.


    His appearance was not inferior to Song Jingchen¡¯s. He was gentle and polite, unlike Song Jingchen who was unreasonable.


    More importantly, that man had a noble status. He satisfied all her fantasies about her other half.


    The man asked her to supervise the Song family, and she did as he asked. Even if she didn¡¯t do a good job, he didn¡¯t blame her.


    How could there be such a good person in the world? she thought. She could do anything for him.


    ¡°Madam, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Hong Yu asked worriedly.


    An Xiu¡¯er came back to her senses and folded the clothes in her hand before putting them back. ¡°Throw them away.¡±


    In the past, she envied Shen Yijia for being able to wear fine cotton, but now, she no longer looked up to such clothes.


    She opened the letter in her bag. It was filled with concern for her.


    Hong Yu paused for a moment. Wasn¡¯t this made by the madam¡¯s mother? Then, she understood that even maidservants like her disdained to wear such fabric in the prince¡¯s residence.


    She picked up the package and prepared to leave.


    ¡°Wait.¡± An Xiu¡¯er suddenly called out to her and opened her mouth. ¡°Let¡¯s put it away first.¡±


    Hong Yu turned into the cubicle. It was specially used to store clothes for An Xiu¡¯er.


    At this moment, a maidservant came in with a pot of bird¡¯s nest. ¡°Madam, this is the bird¡¯s nest you said you wanted to eat yesterday. I bought it from the kitchen today and stewed it for you.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er picked up the porcelain cup and quietly took out the note under it and hid it in her sleeve. ¡°Go and get the reward from Hong Yu.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Madam.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao, who lived in the guest courtyard, also heard that Shen Yijia had come to Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    Although she lived in Lord Jing¡¯s residence, she usually did not interact with the women in the residence. Apart from knowing that the princess consort was Shen Yijia¡¯s biological sister, she did not expect Concubine An to know her.


    When the female corpse of the Wutong River was discovered, Lord Jing had always suspected that a spy beside him had leaked the news. However, apart from his own trusted aides, only she, an outsider, had participated in this matter some time ago. Naturally, she became Shangguan Pu¡¯s first suspect.


    ¡°Could it be Concubine An?¡± Liu Piaopiao muttered.


    The boy was originally practicing calligraphy at the side. When he heard this, he looked up and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Madam An?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao shook her head. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    After some thought, she said, ¡°The princess consort¡¯s management rights have just been taken over by your father. She must be in a bad mood. Apart from paying your respects, try your best to avoid her for the next few days.¡±


    Shen Ruyun was not just in a bad mood. She was so angry that her face turned red. This morning, the main courtyard even called the doctor to protect the baby.


    ¡°Why?¡± The boy was a little unhappy. As the eldest grandson of the emperor, did he not even have the freedom to go anywhere in this residence?


    If this was the case now, when that woman gave birth to a son in the future, would he still have a place to stay?


    Liu Piaopiao rubbed his head and explained, ¡°Because she doesn¡¯t like you. She¡¯ll only get angrier when she sees you. Besides, it¡¯s not good for the fetus to be angry. If anything happens to the fetus in her stomach, it won¡¯t be good if she maligns you.¡±


    The boy pursed his lips and lowered his eyes without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia was very regretful. She originally wanted to take advantage of the excuse of sending something to An Xiu¡¯er to trample on Lord Jing¡¯s residence. Unexpectedly, when she came out, she heard a few maidservants talking about the princess consort¡¯s fetus.


    Since she was pregnant, she couldn¡¯t hit her.


    ¡°Forget it. She has to give birth to the child.¡±


    After the carriage left Vermilion Bird Avenue, Shen Yijia thought of the ice box in Xuanyuan¡¯s carriage and asked Bruiser to rush the carriage to the copper shop to customize two ice boxes.


    She had already thought it through. One would be placed in her beautiful husband¡¯s carriage, and the other would be placed at home with iced fruits.


    Shen Yijia was rich now. She wanted to buy everything she saw. After leaving the copper shop, she brought Bruiser around Chang¡¯an Avenue. Ever since she came to the capital, she had not bought anything for a long time.


    Seeing Shen Yijia casually give him a banknote worth 100 taels of silver, Bruiser almost knelt down to her. How much did his sister steal from the Shen family yesterday?

 Chapter 469 - 469 Freeloading (2)

    469 Freeloading (2)


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°No, that¡¯s my money. How can taking my own money be considered a robbery?¡±


    The envoy from the Wu Kingdom arrived in Chang¡¯an Capital a day later than the envoy from the Xuanyuan Kingdom. This time, it was Princess Changle and Duke Ping of the Wu Kingdom. Although the lineup was not as impressive as the Xuanyuan Kingdom, they had given the emperor of Great Xia enough respect.


    Princess Changle was the only princess in the Wu Kingdom who had yet to marry. The little emperor had to call her aunt.


    It was not difficult to guess what the Wu Kingdom, who had just experienced a coup, was up to. However, it was unknown if the other party¡¯s target was the Xuanyuan Kingdom or Great Xia.


    !!


    As for Duke Ping, he was the only duke with a different surname in the Wu Kingdom.


    The envoys of the two countries stayed in the courier station together. The emperor arranged for Lord Jing, Shangguan Pu, and the Lord Xian, Shangguan Yu, to entertain them. Although it was said to be a reception, it was actually to bring them to eat, drink, and have fun.


    Apart from Xuanyuan Ce, the other important people were about the same age. Xuanyuan Ce was impatient to be disturbed, so Shangguan Pu suggested that they travel together.


    The relationship between the three countries was subtle. No matter what happened in private, at least on the surface, it was peaceful.


    Moreover, he had to prevent the other two countries from colluding behind his back, so he naturally agreed.


    Shen Yijia transformed into a little squirrel demon and carried what she liked into the carriage bit by bit.


    Most of them belonged to Song Jingchen, and a small portion belonged to her and the others in the family.


    Bruiser followed behind her and listened to her mutter.


    ¡°This jade hairpin is beautiful and suitable for my beautiful husband.¡±


    ¡°This jade pendant is beautiful and suitable for my beautiful husband.¡±


    ¡°This color of fabric will definitely look good on my beautiful husband.¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡±


    Bruiser was numb to it at this point.


    After filling the carriage to the brim, Shen Yijia was tired of shopping. She stood in front of the Yuelai Restaurant and finally chose to eat here instead of going home for dinner.


    It was too fragrant.


    It was still early, so she decided to have a meal here with Bruiser first before packing a portion for Madam Li and the others.


    ¡°Please come in.¡± The waiter welcomed them warmly. ¡°May I know how many of you are here?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked around the noisy hall. Business had not been so good the last time she came here.


    ¡°Is there another private room upstairs?¡± she asked.


    ¡°What a coincidence. There¡¯s one last one. Please come upstairs.¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia follow the waiter to the second floor with her head held high, Bruiser followed silently.


    When they reached the second floor, the fragrance they smelled outside became even stronger. Shen Yijia sniffed. ¡°What smells so good?¡±


    The waiter¡¯s smile froze. He naturally knew what Shen Yijia was asking. Almost all the customers who came to the shop today had to ask this question. He said awkwardly, ¡°That¡¯s the smell of the food powder that the customers brought with them.¡±


    He didn¡¯t see what it was, but based on the fact that it could attract so many customers just by relying on the fragrance, if their restaurant could also make it, would they have to worry about not having customers?


    The waiter pushed open the door of a private room and extended his hand.


    However, Shen Yijia stopped.


    She tilted her head and asked, ¡°You mean you can¡¯t buy it in your restaurant?¡±


    The waiter smiled awkwardly and nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted one of her feet that had already stepped into the private room. ¡°Then I won¡¯t eat here.¡±


    She might as well go home and eat her mother¡¯s cooking.


    With that, Shen Yijia turned around and left.


    The waiter¡¯s mouth twitched, although most of the customers in the shop had come in because of that fragrance.


    However, no one turned around and left after hearing that it was not from their restaurant. This was the first time he had received so many guests.


    When they passed by the door of the most fragrant private room, tears streamed down Shen Yijia¡¯s face again.


    Which immoral thing didn¡¯t eat delicious food at home secretly but brought it out to tempt others?


    She suspected that those who hadn¡¯t left stayed behind just to freeload on the fragrance and rice. She wouldn¡¯t be so useless.


    Shen Yijia slowed down.


    Among all the things in the world, only her beautiful husband could live up to his expectations.


    Bruiser also sniffed and his stomach growled.


    The two of them moved bit by bit at a speed not much faster than a turtle.


    The waiter rolled his eyes and didn¡¯t rush them. He cooperated with their speed and sniffed.


    At this moment, the door of the private room was opened from the inside. A young man in white walked out. When he saw the three strange people outside the door, he was stunned.

 Chapter 470 - 470 Freeloading (3)

    470 Freeloading (3)


    ¡°Sister-in-law?¡± he greeted.


    Shen Yijia suddenly turned around and saw who it was. Her eyes lit up. ¡°Ah Yu, what a coincidence. You¡¯re here to eat too?¡±


    Ah Yu?


    The smile on Shangguan Yu¡¯s face froze. He clenched his fists and coughed lightly before nodding. ¡°I brought the envoys of the two countries here for dinner. Sister-in-law, are you preparing to leave?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. With the envoy around, the dishes definitely wouldn¡¯t be poisonous. Thinking of this, her face immediately fell. ¡°Hey, I haven¡¯t eaten yet. This shop¡¯s business is too good. There¡¯s no room left.¡±


    The waiter was stunned and retorted, ¡°Ma¡¯am, it¡¯s clearly over there¡­ Ouch!¡±


    Shen Yijia stepped on him heavily and looked at Shangguan Yu, blinking her big eyes innocently.


    ¡°Waiter, I¡¯ll pay for one room.¡±


    ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you done eating? Please come downstairs.¡± The waiter led the way downstairs.


    Shen Yijia, who did not have a private room, was speechless.


    Shangguan Yu had seen Shen Yijia¡¯s actions just now. Seeing her dumbfounded expression, he couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    He pretended not to know anything and said kindly, ¡°Sister-in-law, if you don¡¯t mind, eat with us.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Hehe, can you stop smiling as if you¡¯ve seen through everything?¡±


    Although she thought so, she still had to cooperate. She nodded seriously. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    He felt that Shen Yijia was waiting for him to say this.


    This private room was the best in Yuelai Restaurant.


    There were two compartments inside and outside. There was a screen in the middle.


    Shen Yijia and Bruiser followed Shangguan Yu around the screen and saw a certain someone inside. Her eyes widened. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming, who was toasting Duke Ping and Lord Jing, shuddered and spilled the wine.


    ¡°I- I¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ziming stammered, not knowing what to say.


    He had been wondering why he felt that he had forgotten something these past few days. It turned out that he had forgotten to confess his identity to this girl.


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s sudden abnormality made the others present look at the unfamiliar woman Shangguan Yu had brought in.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, do you know the Third Prince?¡± Shangguan Yu asked.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°The Third Prince?¡±


    By the way, Qian Youde said that the beautiful uncle was his biological uncle. If the beautiful uncle was Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, wouldn¡¯t Qian Youde be the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom?


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia carefully sized up Xuanyuan Ziming for a long time and shook her head seriously. ¡°I don¡¯t know him. I got the wrong person. He looks like someone I know.¡±


    She was Song Jingchen¡¯s wife and could be familiar with Qian Youde, but she couldn¡¯t be on good terms with the Third Prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ziming patted his chest in fear. ¡°You scared me to death. I thought one of my female friends had come looking for me again.¡±


    ¡°However, this young lady is so good-looking. If she¡¯s really my confidant, I definitely can¡¯t bear to abandon her.¡± After saying that, he opened his fan and waved it.


    These words were clearly very frivolous to a woman.


    Shangguan Yu frowned. ¡°Third Prince, please be careful with your words.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming seemed to have realized that something was wrong. He knocked his head with his folding fan. ¡°Oh my, look at me. I¡¯ll drink three cups as punishment.¡±


    He drank three glasses of wine in a row and stood up. He cupped his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°Young lady, just treat what I said just now as nonsense. Just let it go. Don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    The two women present looked disgusted when they heard him say such vulgar words.


    Lord Jing¡¯s gaze lingered on Xuanyuan Ziming and Shen Yijia¡¯s faces. In the end, he smiled at Shangguan Yu. ¡°Second Brother, who are these two?¡±


    Shangguan Yu introduced, ¡°This is Ah Chen¡¯s wife, Second Miss Shen. The other one is Sister-in-law¡¯s sworn brother. I happened to meet them outside just now, so I invited them in for a meal.¡±


    Actually, no one had told him who Bruiser was, but when he heard Bruiser call Shen Yijia Sister, he automatically thought so.


    Lord Jing was not interested in a sworn brother. He looked at Shen Yijia with a faint smile. ¡°So you¡¯re my sister-in-law. I¡¯ve heard a lot about you!¡±


    Shen Yijia called out obediently, ¡°Brother-in-law.¡±


    Lord Jing was speechless.


    Was this the same person he had heard of?


    According to An Xiu¡¯er, Song Jingchen¡¯s wife only had brute force, and she was actually extremely vulgar.


    Shen Ruyun said, ¡°My second sister is as timid as a mouse and as stupid as a pig.¡±


    As for Liu Piaopiao, she said Shen Yijia was hypocritical and cunning. If not for her, her parents would not have died.

 Chapter 471 - 471 Investigating the Past (1)

    471 Investigating the Past (1)


    Xuanyuan Ye looked at Shen Yijia and frowned.


    The waiter came in with two sets of cutlery.


    Bruiser was stunned the entire time. He had to rely on Shen Yijia to move.


    After sitting down for a long time, he still found it unbelievable. Who were these people at this table? There were three princes, a princess, a lady, and a lord.


    He felt that after this meal, he could brag about this for the rest of his life.


    On Shen Yijia¡¯s left was Xuanyuan Ziming. She glanced at him.


    This glance made Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s heart turn cold. It was over, it was over. This time, he would suffer.


    He noticed that Shen Yijia was staring at the table.


    Xuanyuan Ziming waved away Zhu Zi who was serving him vegetables and personally picked up a spoon to scoop up a bowl of soup. He handed it to Shen Yijia with both hands. ¡°I said something wrong just now. I apologize to the young lady.¡±


    Could she beat him up more gently later?


    Shen Yijia looked at the bowl of golden soup in his hand and swallowed.


    She could consider sparing a punch.


    Shangguan Yu smiled and introduced, ¡°The Third Prince brought this here. I heard that he created it himself. It¡¯s all thanks to him that we¡¯re so lucky today. Sister-in-law, you can try it.¡±


    He then instructed Lianshan, ¡°Give that young master a bowl too.¡±


    So that wicked thing was Qian Youde.


    Shen Yijia was here for this, so she naturally would not stand on ceremony.


    There were at least ten ingredients in the soup, none of which she had seen before.


    Shen Yijia picked up the spoon and tasted it.


    It was so fresh.


    She narrowed her eyes in contentment.


    The bowl of soup was quickly emptied. Shen Yijia looked up and was stunned. ¡°Why are you looking at me? Eat.¡±


    Would they be full just looking at her?


    How strange!


    Bruiser¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Oh my god, can you not be so fierce?¡± he thought.


    Lord Jing suddenly laughed. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect my sister-in-law to be such an interesting person. In the future, you can often go to my residence to talk to the princess consort. No matter what, you¡¯re still sisters.¡±


    ¡°Sure!¡± Shen Yijia agreed without thinking.


    Over the past two days, the citizens of the capital had been discussing the Shen family¡¯s matters over dinner. She did not believe that Lord Jing did not know about her relationship with Shen Ruyun.


    She did not know if Lord Jing was stupid or if he did not care about his consort at all.


    The interest in Lord Jing¡¯s eyes intensified. He picked up the wine in his glass and drank it in one gulp.


    Shangguan Yu frowned and was about to say something.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at him and asked politely, ¡°Can I have another bowl?¡±


    One bowl was not enough!


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    He reached out and scooped a bowl for Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Actually, I can do it myself.¡±


    ¡°Consort Jing¡¯s sister? Isn¡¯t the second daughter of the Shen family this person in front of us?¡± Princess Changle suddenly said.


    It was actually very inappropriate to mention this at this time. After all, among the people present, Lord Jing was somewhat related to this matter.


    If not for this, the emperor would have given him the job of entertaining the envoys of the Wu Kingdom.


    Because of the Shen family, that job would not fall to him.


    Princess Changle paused for a moment before continuing, ¡°Although there are different opinions among the commoners, I feel that filial piety is the most important thing. Even if we don¡¯t talk about the truth, Second Miss Shen shouldn¡¯t forget the kindness of raising her.¡±


    She almost said that Shen Yijia was ungrateful.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Alright, so she just wanted to look good in front of Lord Jing.¡±


    Her words made everyone look at Shen Yijia again.


    Shen Yijia took the time to look up at her. She was a typical oval-faced beauty, but she was not as likable as the princess beside her.


    Thinking that this princess was the daughter of the beautiful uncle, Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze paused on Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face for a moment before quickly retracting.


    They clearly didn¡¯t look alike at all.


    She continued to bury her head in the soup, completely ignoring Princess Changle.


    Princess Changle frowned unhappily. ¡°The women of Great Xia are so rude.¡±


    Shen Yijia swallowed the food in her mouth and pointed at herself. ¡°Are you talking to me?¡±


    ¡°Could there be a second woman from Great Xia here?¡±


    Princess Changle¡¯s face was filled with disdain.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    She picked up the bowl and gulped down the rest of the soup. She took out a piece of silver and placed it on the table.


    Everyone inexplicably understood what this piece of silver meant. It was meant to pay for the food.


    After paying, Shen Yijia stood up and bowed to Shangguan Yu. ¡°I¡¯m full. You can continue, I¡¯ll be off.¡±


    Bruiser was furious at Princess Changle¡¯s words. When he heard Shen Yijia say that she was leaving, he quickly followed.

 Chapter 472 - 472 Investigating the Past (2)

    472 Investigating the Past (2)


    Shangguan Yu did not seem to see Changle¡¯s angry face. He nodded and said, ¡°I¡¯ll send Sister-in-law down.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming burped and threw his chopsticks on the table. ¡°I¡¯m full too. I¡¯ll go back to the courier station and rest first.¡±


    ¡°Are you leaving?¡± He kicked Xuanyuan Ye, who was watching the show.


    Xuanyuan Ye rolled her eyes and stood up to leave.


    Instantly, more than half of the people in the private room left.


    Lord Jing glanced at Princess Changle, then at the helpless Duke Ping. The corners of his mouth twitched.


    As soon as Shen Yijia reached the stairs, she felt that something was wrong. She shook her head.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Shangguan Yu asked.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she finished speaking, she accidentally missed her footing and fell forward.


    Shangguan Yu quickly held her waist to prevent Shen Yijia from rolling down the stairs.


    Bruiser was shocked and quickly snatched Shen Yijia from Shangguan Yu¡¯s hand to support her.


    Shangguan Yu looked at his empty hand and frowned slightly.


    Shen Yijia hammered her dizzy head and tried her best to stabilize herself. She turned around and looked at Xuanyuan Ziming, who was following behind. ¡°What did you put in your soup?¡±


    She had only drunk the soup inside, so her first suspicion was that there was something wrong with the soup.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was also shocked just now. Unfortunately, he was a few steps behind and could not make a move in time. When he heard this, he frowned and said, ¡°Abalone, sea cucumber, flower sap, hoof sinew, cuttlefish, jade plant¡­¡±


    He counted nearly ten expensive ingredients in a row. Finally, he promised, ¡°I personally watched the chef I brought make them. There can¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    Moreover, everyone had eaten it. If there was really a problem, it was impossible for Shen Yijia to be the only one affected.


    Shen Yijia looked at Bruiser, who shook his head to indicate that he was fine.


    Zhu Zi reminded him silently, ¡°Your Highness, didn¡¯t you add an entire jar of Red Dust Wine?¡±


    Red Dust Wine was a famous hard liquor.


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s eyes widened as he looked at Shen Yijia, whose eyes were starting to blur.


    She had drunk two big bowls just now.


    Shen Yijia glared at Xuanyuan Ziming and patted Bruiser¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go home.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s alcohol tolerance was poor. She could get drunk just by drinking fruit wine. She knew this, so unless it was in front of Song Jingchen, she usually didn¡¯t drink at all outside. Today, she had really been tricked.


    She asked for it. How could she reason with him?


    However, who would have thought that Xuanyuan Ziming would think of making soup with wine?


    The effects of the alcohol came quickly and fiercely. When they reached the lobby downstairs, Shen Yijia could no longer stand steadily. She could see double.


    Seeing that she was about to fall again, Bruiser quickly helped her up before Shangguan Yu could. He was determined not to give the man a chance to attack.


    Shangguan Yu retracted his hand and watched Bruiser send her into the carriage. He still felt uneasy. He apologized to Xuanyuan Ziming and got into the carriage. Since men and women had to keep a distance, he did not enter the carriage.


    Seeing this, Bruiser swallowed his refusal.


    Xuanyuan Ziming also wanted to follow, but it was inappropriate. He could only watch the carriage leave.


    Xuanyuan Ye snorted. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve taken a fancy to her. She¡¯s a married woman.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming frowned. ¡°You know she¡¯s married, why are you joking about this?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye paused. In her memory, Xuanyuan Ziming was always smiling cheekily. This was the first time he was so serious.


    However, she quickly realized that what she said was inappropriate. If word got out, it would not affect Xuanyuan Ziming much, but it would damage the woman¡¯s reputation.


    It was one thing to know that she had said something wrong, but she was still very unhappy that Xuanyuan Ziming was reprimanding her for an outsider. She glared at him. ¡°Bai Zhi, let¡¯s go.¡±


    If she hadn¡¯t promised Imperial Uncle that she would perform well, she wouldn¡¯t have been so impatient to follow these people around.


    Over the past few days, she had sent people everywhere to investigate Ji Yunxi. However, all she heard were praises from the outside world. She could not find out anything about her past.


    The more this was the case, the more Xuanyuan Ye felt that Ji Yunxi was not simple. If she really followed her father back to the Xuanyuan Kingdom, what happened in the dream would happen sooner or later. She would definitely not allow it.


    On the other side, Xuanyuan Ce, who had said that he wanted to recuperate, was sitting in a tea shop.


    Opposite him stood an old woman.


    ¡°I heard that you delivered Madam Shen¡¯s child seventeen years ago?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Before being brought here, this old woman had already been interrogated by Chu Feng. There was no need to think to know who Madam Shen was.


    The old woman quickly nodded. ¡°Yes, I delivered the child.¡±


    Madam Wang was just soft-hearted, but she was not stupid. She was worried about the midwife prepared by Madam Chen. Madam Wang even brought her personal maidservant to personally invite her over.


    She had been a midwife all her life, but she had never seen an official¡¯s wife visit her personally, let alone one who was pregnant. Therefore, more than ten years had passed, and her memory was still fresh.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Are you sure that Second Miss Shen was born to Madam Shen?¡±


    The old woman was stunned by his question and subconsciously said, ¡°How can that be fake?¡±


    ¡°I carried her out myself. She¡¯s so small, but she cries so loudly.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes turned cold. He narrowed his eyes and threatened, ¡°You have to think carefully. If you¡¯re lying, your family¡­¡±


    The aura on his body was too strong. The old woman was so frightened that she knelt down and hurriedly said, ¡°Everything I said is true.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce remained silent and instructed Chu Feng, ¡°Bring her family here.¡±


    The old woman was shocked. ¡°Wait, I have something to say.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand to indicate to Chu Feng that there was no need to go.


    The old woman heaved a sigh of relief. Thinking that this person might be here to stand up for Madam Wang, her heart skipped a beat again. She stammered, ¡°That Second Miss Shen was indeed born by Madam Wang, but¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hand paused. ¡°But what?¡±

 Chapter 473 - 473 Sweetness (1)

    473 Sweetness (1)


    ¡°However, another madam of the Shen family also looked for me. She asked me to¡­¡±


    Madam Chen did not expect Madam Wang, who had been drugged with childless medicine, to get pregnant. She hated her to the core.


    Due to Madam Wang¡¯s good relationship with the Duchess, she could not leave any evidence behind. It was inevitable that she would get in trouble.


    However, ever since she got pregnant, Madam Wang had been very careful. She had avoided her a few times.


    !!


    Madam Chen could only target Madam Wang when she was about to give birth. A woman¡¯s childbirth was a close call. There were too many opportunities to make a move without leaving any traces.


    She threatened the midwife¡¯s grandson, and asked the midwife to kill Madam Wang during the delivery.


    ¡°I was about to attack, but a woman suddenly appeared in the delivery room. That person held a sword to my neck and wanted to deliver the child for Madam Wang.¡±


    At that time, Madam Wang¡¯s lower body was already dyed red with blood, but she still cried and begged her to save the child.


    The old woman thought of the scene and shivered. She was suddenly glad that the woman appeared in time to stop her.


    As for why Madam Chen did not settle scores with her, the old woman guessed that it was probably because Madam Wang had only given birth to a daughter and had ruined her body.


    ¡°Although I have the intention to harm others, I was forced to do so.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was already impatient, but when he heard the last part, he was shocked. ¡°A woman? What woman? What does she look like?¡±


    The old woman choked. Wasn¡¯t he talking about Madam Wang? Why was he talking about that woman?


    She cursed in her heart, but she did not dare to show it.


    ¡°That woman stood behind me. I didn¡¯t dare to look back.¡±


    The sword was already at her throat. How could she be in the mood to look at someone else?


    After saying that, she was afraid that the other party would be dissatisfied with her answer, so the old woman added, ¡°However, from the sound of it, she shouldn¡¯t be old. I heard Madam Wang call her a divine doctor.¡±


    Hearing the words ¡®divine doctor¡¯, Xuanyuan Ce was almost certain that the woman was Ji Luo.


    Ji Luo did know Madam Wang, but this did not prove that Shen Yijia was his daughter.


    Thinking of what he had been neglecting, Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°When did Madam Shen give birth?¡±


    The old woman thought for a moment before answering, ¡°The 13th of December, the second year of Chong¡¯an.¡±


    If it were anyone else, the old woman might have forgotten about it long ago. However, the child she delivered for Madam Shen was different. It was the last child she would deliver in her life.


    Ji Luo was born on the 13th of September of the same year. There was a difference of three months. According to the host, Ji Luo left Hidden Spirit Temple in October. At that time, the child had already disappeared.


    After she left Hidden Spirit Temple, she should have come to the capital of Great Xia to stay. However, the difference between the children was so huge that it was impossible for her to replace them.


    It would be a lie to say that Xuanyuan Ce was not disappointed. In the past few times, he had almost treated that girl as his daughter, but it turned out that she was not.


    However, how could she explain the similarities between her and Ji Luo? There was also the man in black.


    He still refused to give up. ¡°Does the baby girl have any birthmarks?¡±


    ¡°Hubby?¡± When Shen Yijia opened her eyes, she realized that her surroundings were dark. Because she had just woken up, her vision was still a little blurry. She could only vaguely see a figure sitting by the bed.


    The person in the darkness nodded. The oil lamp lit up, and the room lit up.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and finally saw it clearly. She puffed up her cheeks and crawled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. She called out softly again, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded again and reached out to massage the forehead of the person in his arms. ¡°Does your head still hurt? Go back and lie down. I¡¯ll get you a glass of water.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and nodded, unwilling to get off him. She muttered, ¡°Carry me there.¡±


    Qian Youde added some really strong wine. Shen Yijia felt like her mind had been emptied.


    She had drunk twice before, and it felt different from this time.


    Song Jingchen looked at the person stuck to him and had no choice but to carry her to the table. He poured water with one hand and handed her the teacup.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t have the strength in my hands. Feed me.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. If she used any more strength, she would have strangled him to death.


    He didn¡¯t expose her. He brought the cup to her lips.


    After drinking a glass of water, Shen Yijia licked her lips. ¡°I want more.¡±


    After drinking three glasses in a row, Shen Yijia¡¯s mind finally cleared up a little. She asked, ¡°When did you come back?¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Have you forgotten everything?¡±

 Chapter 474 - 474 Sweetness (2)

    474 Sweetness (2)


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and tried her best to recall. Only then did she realize that she could only remember getting into the carriage.


    Thinking of something, she was shocked. ¡°Did I do something embarrassing?¡±


    Song Jingchen thought of the scene when he arrived home and saw a certain drunkard looking for her husband everywhere.


    He opened his mouth, not knowing what to say. Finally, he shook his head. ¡°No. I came back this afternoon. You must be hungry. I¡¯ll cook you something to eat.¡±


    !!


    When he said no, Shen Yijia did not think too much about it. It was mainly because she really felt hungry.


    Since she was unwilling to let go of him, Song Jingchen could only carry her to the kitchen. Madam Li was still warming the dishes in the pot.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to eat rice, she only wanted porridge. Song Jingchen washed the rice and cooked porridge for her. He was in a good mood.


    Shen Yijia felt that even if she said that she wanted the moon in the sky, her beautiful husband would probably think of a way to pluck it for her.


    He doted on his wife like his life depended on it.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°What¡¯s she thinking about?¡±


    ¡°Why are you looking at me? Are you not eating anymore?¡± Song Jingchen rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head and asked in amusement.


    ¡°Eat!¡±


    ¡°Has the matter in Cangtong Town been resolved?¡± Shen Yijia took two bites and could not help but ask.


    Song Jingchen shook his head and a trace of mockery flashed across his face. ¡°It¡¯s that person¡¯s birthday soon. Let¡¯s investigate after his birthday.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Has the identity been confirmed?¡±


    ¡°Pinellia recognized three corpses. One of them was the eldest girl she mentioned before.¡±


    Although there were only three, it was enough to prove that his previous guess was right.


    Most of the women from Xunyang City had probably been erased.


    Shen Yijia felt a little nauseous. Thinking that Song Jingchen had cooked it, she forced herself to eat two bowls.


    The two of them did not continue this topic.


    Speaking of which, the deaths of those women were more or less caused by them.


    The picture album and name list in their hands and their arrival in the capital were the reason the person behind them would attack those women.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care. Shen Yijia only cared about what Song Jingchen cared about.


    After eating the porridge, Song Jingchen took a bowl to the courtyard to wash it, and Shen Yijia followed beside him.


    The gentle moonlight shone on his handsome face. His eyelashes were long and his lips were pursed slightly. He was focused on what he was doing. Shen Yijia felt that she could not get enough of him.


    ¡°Hubby, I left you something delicious.¡±


    She had left some of the fruits she had bought from Xuanyuan Ce in the ice cellar.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand paused. ¡°I¡¯ve already eaten.¡±


    As he spoke, he placed the bowl back in the cupboard and squatted down in front of Shen Yijia. Shen Yijia took the opportunity to lie on his back.


    ¡°Huh? When? Why didn¡¯t I know?¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that she had slept for too long. Not only was it dark, but she had also missed a lot of things.


    ¡°You gave it to me this afternoon. Have you forgotten?¡±


    Earlier when she returned, as soon as he saw him, she wanted to pull him to the ice box, saying that she had left delicious food for him. The lychees and cinnamon had been in the ice box for so long that they had long been frozen, but she still insisted that he eat them.


    He could only bite nearly ten fruit-flavored ice lumps in front of Shangguan Yu and his entire family. He almost broke his teeth.


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head and thought for a moment, but she couldn¡¯t remember. She shook her hand that was wrapped around Song Jingchen¡¯s neck. ¡°I also bought you a lot of gifts.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks, his expression cracking.


    He really did not want to imagine himself with a head full of jade hairpins, a few jade pendants hanging from his waist, and various pieces of cloth draped over his body.


    He took a deep breath. ¡°You gave it to me this afternoon.¡±


    Feeling that it was too perfunctory to say that after receiving a gift, she said, ¡°I like it very much.¡±


    Shen Yijia was originally a little angry that he had snatched the opportunity for her to present a treasure to him. Now, she was finally a little happier.


    Song Jingchen carried Shen Yijia back to her room and was about to bring her water to take a shower. Shen Yijia quickly pulled him back and said with sparkling eyes, ¡°Go later.¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent.


    Shen Yijia bent down and searched under the bed for a long time, but she could not find the sack she had hidden inside.


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. I clearly placed it here.¡±


    Madam Li and the others wouldn¡¯t enter her and Song Jingchen¡¯s room without permission, let alone touch the things inside. They couldn¡¯t have been robbed, right?


    ¡°Is that what you¡¯re looking for?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s voice came from behind. Shen Yijia turned around and saw that he was holding her precious sack.


    She clattered over. ¡°How did you find it? I thought I¡¯d left it under the bed.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°You gave it to me this afternoon.¡±

 Chapter 475 - 475 Sweetness (3)

    475 Sweetness (3)


    She even said that these were all used to support him. She insisted that he find another place to hide them, so he placed them in the cabinet.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She suddenly wanted to see Qian Youde. Regardless of whether she consented to this drunkenness, she had to beat him up first.


    She had so many chances to impress her beautiful husband, to the point where he would hug her and spin her around. In her imagination, he said that he would love her deeply and that he would only love her in this life.


    !!


    That was what was written in the book!


    Song Jingchen seemed to know what she was thinking. He suddenly walked over and wrapped his arm around her waist.


    He turned around expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    What happened this afternoon?


    The next day, when the entire family looked at her and giggled behind her back, Shen Yijia¡¯s confusion deepened.


    At the same time, her resentment towards Qian Youde increased.


    In the courier station, Xuanyuan Ziming and Xuanyuan Ye sat together for breakfast and shivered inexplicably. ¡°Why do I suddenly feel a little cold?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye glanced at him. ¡°Did you do something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Little Yezi, you¡¯ve been a little angry recently. Do you want me to get Zhu Zi to brew some cold tea for you?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye paused and fell silent.


    When Chu Feng arrived, he immediately realized that the atmosphere was off. He bowed to the two of them and said, ¡°Your Highness, His Highness is looking for you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned. ¡°Uncle is looking for me?¡±


    Chu Feng said, ¡°Yes, His Highness wants you to go to his room.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming glanced at Xuanyuan Ye, put down his chopsticks, and stood up. ¡°Is Imperial Uncle feeling better?¡±


    After their first visit, Xuanyuan Ce did not let them go after that. He usually did not see them.


    ¡°His Highness is fine.¡±


    ¡°Little Yezi, do you want to go and see Imperial Uncle together?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked.


    Xuanyuan Ye was a little tempted, but before she could speak, Chu Feng said, ¡°His Highness only called you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye tightened her grip on her chopsticks and laughed at herself.


    Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his nose. ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡±


    ¡°Princess.¡± Bai Zhi was a little worried.


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Standing in front of the Song residence, Xuanyuan Ziming was a little timid. He did not expect his uncle to ask him if there was a mole on the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s neck.


    How could a man like him stare at a young lady¡¯s neck? He naturally didn¡¯t know.


    Then, he was instructed to apologize for making that girl drunk yesterday. It was unknown how his imperial uncle found out.


    This was not the main point. The main point was that this person clearly had ulterior motives.


    He wasn¡¯t ready to be beaten up yet!


    However, he did not dare to disobey his uncle¡¯s orders.


    Xuanyuan Ziming sighed for the third time.


    Zhu Zi could not stand it anymore and reminded him, ¡°Your Highness, are we still going in?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see that the people in the neighborhood have already stuck their heads out to take a look a few times?¡± he thought.


    ¡°Go, knock on the door.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming looked like he was about to die.


    If I don¡¯t go to hell, who will?


    Zhu Zi rolled his eyes and knocked on the Song family¡¯s door.


    Every hit seemed to hammer at Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s heart.


    It was Lin Shao who opened the door. Lin Shao had never seen Xuanyuan Ziming before and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°His Highness is here to apologize to Madam Song,¡± Zhu Zi said.


    The word ¡°His Highness¡± indicated the other party¡¯s identity. Lin Shao looked at Xuanyuan Ziming, then at the large wooden box on the ground, and invited him in.


    Shen Yijia was sitting in the courtyard carving words when she heard the commotion.


    When she saw that it was Xuanyuan Ziming, her aura changed. She threw down the carving knife in her hand and flashed to Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s side.


    She grabbed the other party¡¯s collar and was about to punch him.


    Xuanyuan Ziming covered his face with his hands and exclaimed, ¡°Don¡¯t hit my face.¡±


    Shen Yijia hit him.


    ¡°Be gentle!¡±


    Shen Yijia exerted more strength.


    Ten minutes later, the extraordinarily handsome Xuanyuan Ziming sat beside Shen Yijia with a pig¡¯s head and asked Zhu Zi to apply medicine.


    The medicine was given by Shen Yijia.


    Actually, before leaving, Xuanyuan Ziming had specially instructed Zhu Zi to bring high-quality ointment, but he did not have the time to take it out.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, I really didn¡¯t know that you didn¡¯t know how to drink. If I knew, I definitely wouldn¡¯t have let you drink that soup.¡±


    Shen Yijia focused on carving and did not speak.


    ¡°Hey, be gentle.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming glared at Zhu Zi and continued to explain, ¡°I¡¯m not deliberately hiding my identity. I¡¯m just protecting myself outside.¡±


    Shen Yijia still did not speak.


    Xuanyuan Ziming panicked. ¡°Didn¡¯t you hide your identity from the beginning? You even disguised yourself as a man.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at him coldly.


    Xuanyuan Ziming shrank back and admitted defeat obediently.


    Thinking of his other mission, he waved Zhu Zi away and walked behind Shen Yijia as if nothing had happened.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s head was lowered, and her entire neck was exposed. She could see it clearly at a glance, but normal people rarely paid special attention to it.


    ¡°There really is,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming muttered.


    Shen Yijia looked up. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s¡­ there¡¯s delicious food.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming opened the large wooden box. ¡°Look, I brought these as a form of apology.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.

 Chapter 476 - 476 Going Against Each Other (1)

    476 Going Against Each Other (1)


    There was only one small box in the big wooden box. Shen Yijia lowered her head and continued working without much interest.


    No matter what, Xuanyuan Ziming had spent some time with Shen Yijia. Compared to the others, he knew what she liked.


    It was nothing but money!


    He quickly took out the small box and opened it. ¡°Look, with this money, you can buy anything.¡±


    !!


    The box was filled with golden leaves that sparkled under the sun.


    Shen Yijia suddenly felt that Xuanyuan Ziming was not so annoying anymore.


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not stay for long. He still had to go back and report to Xuanyuan Ce. In addition, this was not Xunyang City, which was far away from the emperor, so he could not stay any longer.


    Shen Yijia sent him out in a good mood and watched the carriage leave.


    As she turned around and returned to the house, she saw the back of a woman leaving in a hurry from the corner of her eye.


    Shen Yijia did not take it to heart.


    On the other hand, Xuanyuan Ce also confirmed from Xuanyuan Ziming that there was indeed a mole on the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s neck.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s every frown and smile flashed across his mind. He had mixed feelings.


    ¡°Uncle, is she your daughter?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked.


    When he saw Ji Yunxi, he thought that he had found the wrong person.


    Xuanyuan Ce came back to his senses and glanced at him. ¡°It seems that you know a lot.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his nose guiltily. ¡°What a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°Who else knows about this besides you?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Xuanyuan Ziming shook his head repeatedly. ¡°No, I didn¡¯t even say anything about it to Grandmother.¡±


    The Empress Dowager did not like Ji Luo. She felt that if not for Ji Luo, Xuanyuan Ce would not have stayed in his residence. He traveled outside all year round, making her pretend to be sick if she wanted to see her son.


    She blamed Ji Luo for everything. Every time she mentioned Xuanyuan Ce, she would mutter that it was that woman¡¯s fault.


    The name Ji Luo was a taboo existence. No one dared to mention it, except the empress dowager.


    The reason why Xuanyuan Ziming first knew of such a person¡¯s existence was because he had heard it from the empress dowager.


    Out of curiosity, he investigated, so he naturally knew more. Later on, he accidentally saw a portrait from Xuanyuan Ce.


    After that, he came to Great Xia and met Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not say that Shen Yijia was not his daughter and chased her out.


    Standing at the entrance of the courtyard, Xuanyuan Ziming looked resentful. ¡°It must be father and daughter. I¡¯ll throw them away after using them.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, that Lord Xian is here again. He even brought Princess Yong¡¯an and Princess Linghui, who had just been conferred the title. He said that he¡¯s going to hunt outside the city. Shall we go?¡±


    Although it was only yesterday that Miss Ji was conferred the title of Princess Yong¡¯an, it had long spread. Countless people were envious of her.


    However, when they thought about who she had saved, they felt that it was only right.


    The emperor, the old princess consort, and Madam Qiu were all important figures in Great Xia.


    Thinking of Ji Yunxi, Xuanyuan Ziming smiled. ¡°Of course I¡¯m going.¡±


    After taking a few steps, he said, ¡°Go and ask Xiao Yezi if she¡¯s going. If she doesn¡¯t want to go, then forget it.¡±


    That wretched girl had clearly been out of sorts these past few days, so he would understand her this time.


    ¡°The princess is ready. She¡¯s just waiting for you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming stopped in his tracks and asked strangely, ¡°Xiao Yezi, why are you so proactive today?¡±


    There must be something wrong with this abnormality!


    It seemed that it was not enough to hunt wholeheartedly.


    It had to be said that Xuanyuan Ziming knew Xuanyuan Ye very well.


    Apart from them, the envoys from the Wu Kingdom also went with them. The group was majestic.


    There were so many people present. However, Xuanyuan Ye only saw Ji Yunxi and directly went against her.


    When they left the city, she had to race horses with her. When they hunted, she had to compete with her to see who could hunt more prey.


    However, she was inferior to Ji Yunxi. Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face darkened. Xuanyuan Ye did not only represent herself.


    There was a villa beside the royal hunting ground. Because it was a little far from the capital, they did not go back at night. Instead, they rested in the villa.


    ¡°Can you stop?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming pulled Xuanyuan Ye aside.


    Xuanyuan Ye was also in an extremely bad mood. She said coldly, ¡°What did I do again?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was so angry that he fell back. He sneered. ¡°Did Ji Yunxi give you any benefits? She made you stick your face out to be beaten up time and time again!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye said, ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop it. It¡¯s best to have some brains before doing anything. This isn¡¯t the Xuanyuan Kingdom, where my father and grandmother would take care of you,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming warned.

 Chapter 477 - 477 Going Against Each Other (2)

    477 Going Against Each Other (2)


    This girl was completely spoiled.


    With that, he ignored Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s flushed face and returned to his courtyard.


    Xuanyuan Ye gritted her teeth and looked hatefully at Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s departing figure. She said coldly, ¡°Demon Guard, I want her life!¡±


    Shen Yijia carved a single word at home for the entire day. Coupled with what she had carved previously, she finally finished the first chapter of the ¡°Analects of Confucius¡±. She finished carving a total of 493 words.


    She handed everything else to Bruiser and Lin Shao and started reading the book she had picked up.


    Mo Yuan¡¯s period came a little fiercely this time. She had been lying down for the entire day yesterday, but she could not get out of bed today.


    If not for the fact that she had changed out of her period belt, Shen Yijia would have suspected that she was seriously injured.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, I know whose book you¡¯re holding,¡± Brother Hao said anxiously as soon as he learned it.


    Shen Yijia paused. ¡°Whose?¡±


    ¡°Wang Mingan! It¡¯s my deskmate, Wang Mingan. I was wondering why the handwriting on it looked so familiar. I¡¯ve seen his proposal before,¡± Brother Hao said excitedly.


    ¡°Wang Mingan?¡± Shen Yijia frowned. Why did this name sound so familiar?


    Where had she heard it before?


    It was definitely not in the original host¡¯s memories after she transmigrated!


    ¡°Sister-in-law, what are you thinking about?¡± Brother Hao asked.


    Shen Yijia really couldn¡¯t remember. She shook her head. ¡°Then is Wang Mingan always bullied?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Speaking of this Brother Hao, he still looked indignant. ¡°Wang Mingan is well-educated and is often praised by the teachers. However, his background is bad, so those people often mock him. I think they¡¯re just jealous.¡±


    It was already a stretch to say that his background was poor. It was unknown where it came from, but it was said that the money Wang Mingan paid for his tuition was dirty money his mother earned from washing clothes for the women in the brothel.


    A person with such a lowly status was better than him. It would be strange if those high and mighty young masters were happy with the situation.


    Brother Hao had seen him sitting alone in the corner eating dry cornbread a few times, but that person was very stubborn. Every time he invited him to eat together, he refused.


    To be precise, although Brother Hao was his deskmate, the number of words the two of them had spoken could be counted on one hand. Every time, it was Brother Hao who said it. Wang Mingan ignored him.


    ¡°However, those bullies seem to have restrained themselves a lot recently. By the way, they¡¯re the ones I told you about before.¡±


    How could Brother Hao know that after being beaten up by Shen Yijia twice in a row, those people were now traumatized?


    As long as the thought of bullying appeared in their minds, they would subconsciously think of Shen Yijia¡¯s fist.


    It was as if those fair and tender fists were staring at them at all times. It was too strange. How could they dare to do anything rash?


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. ¡°He¡¯s quite good at writing. Am I not preparing to open a bookstore? Help me ask tomorrow if he can sell it to me.¡±


    What he wrote was different from dumb stories who only placed men on pedestals.


    The book in her hand was the story of a down-and-out scholar who got the help of a kind-hearted daughter of a rich family. After he became successful, he abandoned his wife and son. The daughter of a rich family raised her son alone. When her son grew up, he became the top scholar in high school and slapped his scumbag father in the face.


    This was completely a replica of Madam Wang and Shen Pingxiu¡¯s story!


    Although she did not become the top scholar, she had come back to take revenge.


    This was too much to Shen Yijia¡¯s liking. Unfortunately, the story did not continue after that.


    Brother Hao patted his chest. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you ask him tomorrow.¡±


    However, his heart was pounding. Would Wang Mingan care about his request?


    Song Jingchen returned very early today. The emperor¡¯s birthday was imminent. In order to avoid bad luck, all cases involving bloodshed had to be heard after the birthday. The Court of Judicial Review immediately became very free.


    Shen Yijia was very happy about this.


    She had bought a pile of cloth yesterday and Madam Li was prepared to make a few new clothes for everyone in the family.


    This was especially true for the younger ones. They had grown taller, and the clothes they had made previously were short.


    After dinner, Madam Li sat in the central room and asked them to line up in front of her to take her measurements again.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen sat in the courtyard to cool down. From time to time, they could hear laughter coming from the central room.


    Song Jingchen squeezed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head and looked at him.


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    If not for Shen Yijia, his legs would not have recovered, and their family would not be like this.

 Chapter 478 - 478 Going Against Each Other (3)

    478 Going Against Each Other (3)


    Although he had yet to take revenge, he could see hope in the days ahead.


    This hope was brought about by this silly girl.


    Shen Yijia blinked and grinned. ¡°Thank you. Just kiss me.¡±


    Her eyes were sparkling, as if they were filled with starlight. He was the only one in her eyes.


    Song Jingchen felt like his heart was stuffed with something.


    Shen Yijia leaned in front of him, her face filled with the words, ¡°Kiss, kiss.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled and pulled her into his arms, planting a kiss on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything!¡± Sister Huan¡¯s voice suddenly came from behind, followed by the sound of running footsteps.


    There seemed to be someone who wanted to come out.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go. I just saw Big Brother kissing Sister-in-law.¡±


    Sister Huan¡¯s voice was low, but the two of them had good hearing and could hear her clearly.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s been a long time since I gave them other homework.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Didn¡¯t she say that she didn¡¯t see anything?¡±


    It was impossible for Shen Yijia to be embarrassed. She raised her head. ¡°Let¡¯s continue.¡±


    Under the moonlight, Song Jingchen¡¯s earlobes turned slightly red.


    It was fine to do it behind closed doors, but it was embarrassing to be seen by his sister doing such a thing outside.


    He coughed lightly and helped Shen Yijia out of his arms. He changed the topic. ¡°Consort Jing¡¯s child is gone.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Shen Ruyun?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She even forgot to be angry. She subconsciously asked, ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Was it really good to pay so much attention to other people¡¯s wives?


    Song Jingchen was silent. He thought that she would ask why the child was gone.


    ¡°When the court session ended today, the servants of Lord Jing¡¯s residence were waiting for Lord Jing at the entrance of the palace. I heard something when I passed by.¡±


    If not for the fact that he felt that Shen Yijia would be interested, he would not have said it.


    Lord Jing originally wanted to announce it on the emperor¡¯s birthday. Unfortunately, Shen Ruyun was courting death. That day, she was shouted at by a maidservant in the court.


    Lord Jing had no choice but to get someone to report it to the palace that day. Normally, there would be a reward from the palace at this time, but because of the stupid actions of the Shen family, the emperor did not say anything.


    Only Noble Consort Liu rewarded Shen Ruyun.


    ¡°Oh, why is it gone?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Song Jingchen was really afraid that she wouldn¡¯t ask. In order to answer, he even specially asked South Wind to find out.


    He rubbed his nose. ¡°It seems to have something to do with the eldest grandson.¡±


    After all, information about what happened in the backyard of the prince¡¯s residence was limited.


    He only knew that the eldest grandson had gone to pay his respects to Consort Jing early this morning. For some reason, he had angered her.


    The imperial grandson refused to accept her punishment and wanted to run.


    No matter what, he was the eldest grandson of the emperor. The servants did not dare to use violence against him. Consort Jing was so angry that she chased after him. Fortunately, she fell and lost her child.


    Shen Yijia was silent. ¡°I think I inherited my stupidity from the Shen family.¡±


    Therefore, she could not be blamed in the future. If she wanted to blame someone, she could only blame the Shen family for having bad genes.


    Shen Yijia could still face it calmly.


    However, she would only accept this judgment when she was talking about herself.


    If anyone else dared to say it¡­


    Song Jingchen rubbed her hand. ¡°You¡¯re much smarter than them.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in agreement. ¡°I think so too.¡±


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but laugh. His laughter was pleasant, and his shoulders were trembling slightly.


    Seeing that he was smiling happily, Shen Yijia smiled too, revealing a few white teeth.


    From their hiding place, five small heads peeked out.


    Sister Huan said, ¡°Big Brother and Sister-in-law have such a good relationship. I want to find someone like Big Brother in the future.¡±


    Brother Hao said, ¡°If I can marry someone like Sister-in-law, I¡¯ll definitely have a good relationship with her!¡±


    Bruiser said, ¡°My mother said she wanted me to marry a gentle woman!¡±


    Sister Huan rolled her eyes. ¡°Then marry Miaomiao. Miaomiao, be gentle.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao ran away with a red face.


    Lin Shao glared at Bruiser and warned, ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to have designs on my sister.¡±


    Bruiser thought to himself, ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything though.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you guys too free? Come to my study later and collect a test question each.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s cold voice sounded beside them.


    They were so frightened that their hearts skipped a beat. ¡°Brother¡­¡±


    ¡°Come in in 15 minutes.¡±


    With that, Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia to the study.


    Shen Yijia turned around and smiled proudly at them. ¡°Who told you to peek at me kissing my beautiful husband?¡± she thought.


    Sister Huan and the others were speechless.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± On the roof of the official residence next door to the Song residence, Chu Feng couldn¡¯t help but remind Xuanyuan Ce, who was staring at his courtyard.


    Xuanyuan Ce came back to his senses and held his forehead helplessly. ¡°I still think she looks like¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t say what it was, but Chu Feng understood.


    It was unknown what kind of spell Madam Song had cast on His Highness. All kinds of evidence clearly proved that she was not His Highness¡¯s daughter, but His Highness refused to give up.


    However, Chu Feng also knew that Xuanyuan Ce had been searching for so many years. This had long become his obsession.


    He thought for a moment and said, ¡°I found out that Madam Shen still has a personal maidservant alive. Do you want to see her, Your Highness?¡±

 Chapter 479 - 479 Background (1)

    479 Background (1)


    The next day.


    Shen Yijia sent Brother Hao and the others to the academy and brought Mo Yuan to visit Madam Qiu.


    It was only when Song Jingchen mentioned it that Shen Yijia realized that the emperor knew what had happened in the capital so quickly because of Dean Lu¡¯s help.


    As for why Song Jingchen knew, it was because the Imperial Official, Vice Minister Zhao, had told him yesterday.


    !!


    Vice Minister Zhao was Dean Lu¡¯s student.


    Madam Qiu often talked about Shen Yijia, but she could not leave the house often with her weak body.


    Dean Lu couldn¡¯t find a reason for Shen Yijia to visit, so he asked Old Master Zhao to mention this to Song Jingchen and tactfully said that Madam Qiu liked Shen Yijia a lot.


    Song Jingchen was not at home during the day, but Shen Yijia would tell him what had happened at home every day. Naturally, he knew that Madam Qiu had once visited.


    Even the set of Four Treasures of the Study that Madam Qiu had given to Shen Yijia was given to him by Shen Yijia. It was still placed in his study.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand the value of that gift, but Song Jingchen did. To scholars, any one of them was a priceless treasure.


    Moreover, Song Jingchen was happy to see Shen Yijia gain another backer.


    At least when he was not around, if anything happened to Shen Yijia, she would not be so isolated in the capital.


    When Shen Yijia arrived, Madam Qiu had just woken up. When she heard that Shen Yijia had arrived, she quickly instructed someone to prepare tea.


    Previously, Shen Yijia was worried that she had caused trouble, so she did not have the time to appreciate this courtyard. At this moment, she looked at the fruits on the grape vines.


    She couldn¡¯t help but reach out and grab a grape and stuff it into her mouth. It was so sour that she quickly spat it out.


    Madam Qiu came out of the house and happened to see this scene. She smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯ll only ripen in a month. If you like it, I¡¯ll get someone to send some to you after you pluck it.¡±


    Nanny Lan helped Madam Qiu sit down on the stone bench and teased, ¡°Our Madam personally planted these grapes. They¡¯re sweeter than those bought outside. In the past, only the empress dowager could get a share. This year, Madam Song is in luck.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    These words successfully made Madam Qiu and Nanny Lan laugh.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She was here to thank them, so she naturally brought a gift.


    Madam Li had prepared the gifts. Among them was a wild ginseng that was more than a hundred years old. Shen Yijia had dug it up when she was in Xiagou Village.


    The wild ginseng roots were intact. It did not look cheap.


    Surprise flashed across Madam Qiu¡¯s eyes. ¡°I¡¯m already very happy that you can come and see me. Why did you bring such an expensive gift?¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°I heard from my husband that it was all thanks to the dean¡¯s help last time.¡±


    There were still a few such wild ginsengs at home, so they were not considered expensive. She originally wanted to give them a few gold bars, but Madam Li said that it was not appropriate.


    Madam Qiu was stunned and immediately understood the cause and effect of Shen Yijia¡¯s visit. She was helpless and amused by Dean Lu¡¯s actions.


    Shen Yijia chatted with Madam Qiu for a while and suggested that Mo Yuan take her pulse.


    This was also the reason why she specially brought Mo Yuan along.


    Madam Qiu glanced at Mo Yuan and did not refuse.


    After taking Madam Qiu¡¯s pulse, Mo Yuan said, ¡°Madam, don¡¯t take the medicine from before. It¡¯s weak and can¡¯t nourish you. It looks effective in the short term, but it¡¯s actually draining your vitality.¡±


    Nanny Lan was shocked. Madam had been taking medicine concocted by Miss Ji these days.


    She looked at Madam Qiu and opened her mouth.


    Madam Qiu shook her head, indicating that she did not have to say anything else. She turned to Shen Yijia and asked, ¡°This is?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°She taught me medicine.¡±


    Although she had only learned a little, it was not a lie. This also made sense for her to save someone.


    As expected, Madam Qiu did not suspect anything. She looked at Mo Yuan more seriously.


    Mo Yuan did not prescribe a prescription for her. Madam Qiu was a classic medicine jar. Ordinary medicine was no longer effective on her body. If she used heavy medicine, it would be no different from the medicine she had originally taken.


    ¡°Then¡­ doesn¡¯t my madam need to take her medicine?¡± Nanny Lan expressed her doubts.


    Mo Yuan glanced at Shen Yijia. ¡°I¡¯ll make some health pills in a few days. When the time comes, Madam only needs to eat that.¡±


    Although she was already used to it, no one liked to take medicine. In addition, she trusted Shen Yijia.


    Madam Qiu immediately asked Nanny Lan to bring Mo Yuan to the pharmacy to see what medicine was needed. They could take whatever they had here. If they didn¡¯t, they would send someone out to find it.

 Chapter 480 - 480 Background (2)

    480 Background (2)


    Fortunately, Madam Qiu had a lot of medicinal herbs here. She had everything Mo Yuan needed.


    Unable to resist Madam Qiu¡¯s enthusiasm, Shen Yijia ate lunch at Madam Qiu¡¯s place. Madam Qiu even got someone to call Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao over for lunch.


    Madam Qiu¡¯s taste was relatively bland, so she got someone to add a few more dishes with heavier flavors. The guests and hosts enjoyed the meal.


    When they left, a box of medicinal herbs was carried into the carriage, attracting the attention of many people. Some curious people asked and found out that it was to treat Madam Qiu.


    !!


    But wasn¡¯t it Princess Yong¡¯an who saved Madam Qiu?


    If it was really Princess Yong¡¯an who saved Madam Qiu, why would Madam Qiu change doctors?


    Human imagination was unlimited. All kinds of guesses spread. Some said that Princess Yong¡¯an was pretending to take credit, while others said that Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s medical skills were not good. Previously, it was just a coincidence.


    There were also those who were unconvinced. If Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s medical skills were not good, what would happen to the emperor and the old princess consort?


    If the imperial physician couldn¡¯t treat her, Princess Yong¡¯an could!


    There were all kinds of things, but Shen Yijia did not care. The people she cared about were still at the royal hunting ground.


    ¡°She won¡¯t live past three years,¡± Mo Yuan said.


    This was the effect of taking Mo Yuan¡¯s health pills. If he continued to take the previous medicine, she would not live for more than a year.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look like it.¡±


    Mo Yuan paused for a moment and said, ¡°If not for Miss, she would have died long ago.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart pounded.


    Previously, when she mentioned the antidote for the Daylily Powder in Xunyang City, Shen Yijia suspected that Mo Yuan knew something when she looked at her. Now, she was even more certain.


    ¡°Mo Yuan, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Miss, you have to be careful of Ji Yunxi,¡± Mo Yuan said expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Do you know something?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°She should have come from the same place as my young lady.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. If Ji Yunxi was from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, then wouldn¡¯t Mo Yuan¡¯s previous lady be the same?


    ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    Mo Yuan said expressionlessly, ¡°The prescription she gave Madam Qiu. Miss taught me before.¡±


    The more precious a prescription was, the more it would not be leaked unless they came from the same lineage.


    However, Ji Yunxi did not seem to care.


    ¡°Then is it possible to find your young lady through Ji Yunxi?¡±


    For some reason, Shen Yijia felt inexplicably nervous.


    Mo Yuan did not say anything. She was not sure if Miss was still alive.


    Shen Yijia stopped asking. Mo Yuan definitely did not know for no reason that she had spiritual liquid that could detoxify poison and save people. She could only have learned about it from her Miss.


    Who was that person who seemed to have the ability to predict the future? What did it have to do with her? Could it be that her transmigration was not a coincidence?


    Since Mo Yuan had yet to recover, Shen Yijia did not ask her to drive the carriage.


    When the carriage arrived at the house, she saw the back of the woman she had seen yesterday.


    Shen Yijia frowned and drove the carriage into the courtyard.


    Madam Wang walked all the way home. As soon as she opened the courtyard door, she saw two people standing in her dilapidated courtyard.


    With two strangers suddenly in the house, her first reaction was to turn around and run. Unexpectedly, she heard muffled sounds from the side.


    She turned around and saw who it was. Her pupils constricted.


    In a corner of the courtyard, Wang Mingan was tied to a pillar with his arms and legs trussed up, a ball of cloth stuffed in his mouth.


    Speaking of which, he was unlucky. The academy had a test today. He wanted to come back early to help Madam Wang do some work, so he handed in his paper in advance. He did not expect to be a hostage.


    Madam Wang staggered over. Chu Feng stood in front of her in a flash. ¡°My master just wants to ask you a few questions. As long as you answer honestly, we won¡¯t hurt your son. However, if you¡¯re lying¡­¡±


    They didn¡¯t want to kidnap Wang Mingan either. After all, that kid ran away as soon as he saw them. When he was captured, he even clamored to report it to the authorities. His Highness had a headache from the commotion, so he could only do this.


    However, the situation was perfect now. He was not afraid that this woman would not tell the truth.


    Madam Wang glanced at Wang Mingan, then at Xuanyuan Ce. She knelt down with a thud. She opened her mouth to say something, but no sound came out. She could only gesture with her hands.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at Chu Feng in confusion.


    Chu Feng scratched his head and almost forgot to say, ¡°She can¡¯t speak.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    How could he ask anything if she didn¡¯t know how to speak?


    ¡°But she can write.¡± No matter what, she was Madam Shen¡¯s personal maidservant, so she naturally recognized words from her master.


    Wang Mingan was a scholar, so Chu Feng quickly took out a pen and paper.

 Chapter 481 - 481 Background (2)

    481 Background (2)


    However, Madam Wang only pointed at Wang Mingan and refused to take the brush.


    Wang Mingan also kept struggling.


    Xuanyuan Ce gestured for Chu Feng to remove the cloth from his mouth.


    As soon as he was free, Wang Mingan¡¯s eyes turned red. ¡°What do you want to ask? My mother doesn¡¯t know anything.¡±


    ¡°Your mother used to be close to Madam Shen. No one knows more about Madam Shen than her, right?¡±


    Wang Mingan paused and looked at Madam Wang.


    Madam Wang was once Miss Wang¡¯s personal maidservant, even before Miss Wang married into the Shen family and became Madam Shen. The two of them grew up together.


    Miss Wang was kind and generous. She treated Madam Wang as her biological sister. After Madam Wang married a steward in the Wang family¡¯s shop, Miss Wang removed her from her life of servitude.


    However, Madam Wang was worried about Miss Wang staying alone in the back residence of the Shen family. After she got married, she still served her.


    Later on, Wang Mingan¡¯s father died in an accident, and Madam Wang had no intention of leaving.


    With her by her side, she helped Miss Wang block Madam Chen¡¯s schemes and difficulties a few times, but at the same time, she angered Madam Chen.


    It was so simple for Madam Chen to get rid of a servant. She casually found a reason to steal and sold Madam Wang.


    When Miss Wang received the news and rushed over, Madam Wang had already been drugged and was pressed to the ground.


    Miss Wang was so anxious that she went forward to help her block it. The old woman who hit her deliberately killed her. How could Miss Wang, who had been pampered and spoiled since she was young, withstand this beating?


    She protected Madam Wang, but she was seriously injured. Madam Wang was not a slave, so Madam Chen had no right to sell her, but she chased her out.


    At that time, Wang Mingan was only two years old. It was Miss Wang who dragged her sickly body to find a doctor for Madam Wang to save her life.


    She thought that the matter would pass just like that, but not long after, she heard that Miss Wang had passed away.


    Madam Wang felt guilty. She felt that she had implicated her and made herself a sinner. She even perpetuated this guilt on Wang Mingan.


    She ruthlessly forced her son to study and take the imperial examination. She hoped that one day, Shen Pingxiu, who had betrayed Miss Wang, would receive the retribution he deserved.


    The young Wang Mingan was bullied in a private school. When he returned, he cried and said that he didn¡¯t want to study, but Madam Wang only treated his wounds while crying and turned a deaf ear to his words.


    Gradually, Wang Mingan stopped talking about this. After being bullied, he stopped crying and came back to complain.


    Seeing Madam Wang cry from heartache, he comforted her by saying that she had fallen. He used clumsy excuses again and again.


    He knew that Madam Wang knew everything, but she had never said that he could stop studying.


    Now that these people wanted to use him to threaten Madam Wang to betray Miss Wang, Wang Mingan also wanted to know who his mother would choose.


    Just as he was thinking this, Madam Wang nodded.


    She kowtowed to Xuanyuan Ce a few times and gestured with her hands.


    Madam Wang did not know what Xuanyuan Ce wanted to ask, but she had let her son down too much. She could not harm him because of her selfishness.


    Wang Mingan instantly burst into tears. He closed his eyes and choked. ¡°My mother said that as long as you don¡¯t hurt me, she¡¯ll say anything.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°Someone once drugged Madam Shen with infertility medicine. Who cured her?¡±


    Madam Wang was stunned. Clearly, she did not expect Xuanyuan Ce to ask this. She reached out and gestured.


    Wang Mingan said, ¡°Miss went to Hidden Spirit Temple to burn incense and met a divine doctor. The divine doctor helped Miss detoxify the poison.¡±


    Before Shen Pingxiu was in high school, he had sweet-talked Miss Wang, coaxing her into falling in love with him.


    Later on, Shen Pingxiu married his wife, Madam Chen, because she had been single for many years. Miss Wang also felt that it was her fault and would go to Hidden Spirit Temple to burn incense and pray to Buddha from time to time.


    Bearing a child had become Miss Wang¡¯s obsession. Little did she know that she had long been poisoned.


    It was not until she met Ji Luo, who was recuperating in the back mountain of the Hidden Spirit Temple, that she realized that it was impossible for her to be pregnant in this lifetime.


    ¡°Back then, when Madam Shen gave birth, was it also that divine doctor who appeared to save her?¡±


    Madam Wang nodded.


    Xuanyuan Ce had already guessed this, but he just wanted to confirm it again.


    ¡°Did she say why she helped your young lady like this?¡±


    After thinking about it, he concluded that Ji Luo must have known that the people chasing after her were about to find her.


    Even under such circumstances, she still stayed in the capital for three months.


    She only left Chang¡¯an Capital after Madam Wang gave birth safely. There must be a reason why they had to do this.


    Moreover, the child had disappeared. Instead of looking for the child, she returned to the Hidden Spirit Temple and set fire to remove any traces.


    There were only two possibilities. Either she knew that she could not find her child, or she had sent her child away herself.


    Madam Wang¡¯s pupils constricted, and her thoughts drifted to 17 years ago.


    That day, Miss brought her to the Hidden Spirit Temple to offer incense and let her go to the Release Pool at the back of the mountain as usual.


    Just as they were about to leave, a woman¡¯s voice suddenly sounded above their heads. ¡°It¡¯s a blessing for you to have no children. There¡¯s no need to force it.¡±


    Miss Wang looked up in the direction of the voice and saw a beautiful woman lying lazily on a tree branch.


    Before Miss Wang could speak.


    The woman continued, ¡°You¡¯re destined to have no children. Even if you force it, you won¡¯t be able to keep it. If you can¡¯t keep it, you¡¯ll even harm your life. Even so, do you still want it?¡±

 Chapter 482 - 482 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (1)

    482 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (1)


    Miss Wang foolishly thought that with a child, she could win back Shen Pingxiu¡¯s heart.


    Madam Wang knew that the woman was right. Without any children, Madam Chen could still tolerate her Miss in the back residence of the Shen family. However, once her Miss was pregnant, Madam Chen would definitely not let her off.


    Unfortunately, Miss Wang refused to listen to her advice and stubbornly wanted a child.


    The next day, she went to look for that woman and begged her to help.


    !!


    The woman said, ¡°Everything in the world is predestined. Letting a person who shouldn¡¯t exist appear is a heaven-defying act. If I help you, you¡¯ll owe me some karma and need your child to repay it. Are you sure you won¡¯t regret it?¡±


    Miss Wang said that she had no regrets.


    Not long after she left the Hidden Spirit Temple, Miss Wang was indeed pregnant. She went to Hidden Spirit Temple to thank that woman, but that woman never appeared again.


    It wasn¡¯t until the day she gave birth that the woman suddenly appeared in the delivery room in September.


    She coerced the midwife to help Miss Wang deliver the child, so that the child could be born safely.


    ¡°Thank you, divine doctor, for saving us.¡± Miss Wang wanted to get out of bed and kowtow to her.


    The woman stopped her and looked at the newborn child. ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me. I¡¯m just saving my own child.¡±


    Before leaving, she placed a box in her swaddling cloth and said, ¡°I hope you won¡¯t regret it.¡±


    Miss Wang did not take her words to heart, but Madam Wang felt that something was wrong.


    This was clearly Miss¡¯s child.


    When they saw Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance this time, they seemed to have an explanation.


    Although Madam Wang did not understand why this had happened, she knew that Madam Song, who was now Second Miss Shen, was not her Miss¡¯s child.


    Was this what the divine doctor had said to Miss? ¡°You need your child to repay the karma you owe.¡±


    Where did her young lady¡¯s child go?


    Xuanyuan Ce had always known that Ji Luo had many unknown abilities, but he could not figure out how his daughter became the second daughter of the Shen family.


    After leaving the Wang family¡¯s small courtyard, his heart was in turmoil, and he could not calm down for a long time.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s fingers trembled under his sleeves. That girl was really his daughter, right?


    He thought of what Shen Yijia had said when she confronted the Shen family in the court.


    His daughter should have been precious and pampered by everyone, but she was living worse than a servant in the Shen family.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Chu Feng¡¯s voice sounded.


    Only then did Xuanyuan Ce realize that he was standing in front of the Song residence.


    The door of the residence was half-closed. From time to time, laughter could be heard.


    ¡°Your Highness, do you want me to knock on the door?¡± Chu Feng asked.


    He was confused the entire time. He felt that he understood, but he also felt that he did not understand anything. However, from His Highness¡¯s attitude, it was obvious that he had confirmed something.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth. Coincidentally, the half-closed door was opened from the inside. A little girl stuck her head out and asked, ¡°Uncle, who are you looking for?¡±


    When Xuanyuan Ce came to their house, Sister Huan and the others had all gone to the academy, so they did not know that the person who helped them was Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°I was just passing by.¡± Xuanyuan Ce turned around and got into the carriage.


    Seeing this, Chu Feng could only drive the carriage away.


    Before confirming it, Xuanyuan Ce wanted to acknowledge Shen Yijia as soon as he found evidence.


    However, before he reached the door, he retreated.


    ¡°I don¡¯t hate him. He¡¯s not worthy of my hatred. However, not only did he betray my mother, but he also caused her death. Therefore, I want to avenge my mother.¡±


    ¡°You clearly promised to treat my mother well for the rest of your life, but you married someone else.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t manslaughter count as murder? Whatever the reason, it¡¯s a fact that my mother died because of him.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s theory of revenge was still vivid in his mind.


    She had grown up by Shen Pingxiu¡¯s side. For the sake of Madam Wang, she wanted to take revenge on Shen Pingxiu.


    He didn¡¯t know what would happen if she knew that he was her biological father, but he did not even know about her birth.


    And what happened back then¡­


    She would probably hate him even more.


    ¡°Sister Huan, is your brother back?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice came from the courtyard.


    Sister Huan glanced at the departing carriage and scratched her head before closing the door again. ¡°It¡¯s not Big Brother. It¡¯s that white-haired uncle.¡±


    ¡°Beautiful uncle? Then invite him in.¡± Shen Yijia was helping Mo Yuan crush the medicinal herbs and did not look up.


    He did not notice that Mo Yuan had paused.


    ¡°He said he was passing by. He¡¯s already gone.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia did not mind. She looked at Mo Yuan and said, ¡°When the pill is ready, get Sister Huan to bring it to Madam Qiu.¡±


    She did not want to go. She was afraid that if she interacted with Madam Qiu too much, she would not be able to help but want to save her with the spiritual liquid.

 Chapter 483 - 483 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (2)

    483 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (2)


    With Ji Yunxi around, she could not let the spiritual liquid be exposed.


    Mo Yuan nodded.


    With Shen Ruyun¡¯s child gone, it was another fatal blow to the Shen family. Shen Ruyun was clearly the one who courted death, but the Shen family thought that Shen Yijia had done something.


    Not only did Shen Ruyun fall in front of everyone, but Shen Yijia also did not have the ability to attack Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    !!


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t that they hadn¡¯t thought of it. They were just willing to believe their own delusions.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she had been blamed again, but even if she knew, she would not care.


    After asking Madam Li, she brought Mo Yuan to collect the shop the next morning.


    The title deed and house deed of the shop were in her hands, but the workers were all from the Chen family. The monthly profits would naturally be sent to the Shen family.


    Without income, what was the use of those pieces of paper?


    Back then, the Wang family¡¯s business was extensive. However, their main business was not in the capital, but in Qingyang City east of the capital.


    Shen Yijia took a look. She only had two shops in the capital. One was a cosmetics shop, and the other was a silk shop.


    She did not intend to go to Qingyang City herself. She was prepared to let Pinellia and the others make a trip.


    Moreover, she happened to need a shop to open a bookstore, so she naturally had to take back the two shops in the capital first.


    The two shops were on a street behind Chang¡¯an Avenue. A place in Chang¡¯an Avenue could not be bought without background or money.


    It was already very impressive for an ordinary merchant family to buy a shop near Chang¡¯an Avenue.


    Madam Wang had two under her name. It seemed that the Wang family was richer than everyone had imagined. Perhaps because they did not reveal their wealth, not many people knew this.


    Shen Yijia went to the cosmetics shop first. The words ¡°Jin Yuzhai¡± were especially eye-catching on the plaque. At this moment, a few customers were choosing in the shop.


    There was a dazzling array of goods on the counter. Shen Yijia did not usually use these, so she was immediately dazzled.


    The waiter who ran the hall had stayed in this shop for many years. He was familiar with most of the young ladies and madams in the capital.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was an unfamiliar face and was dressed ordinarily, the smile on her face immediately disappeared. ¡°Take a look at what you want, but don¡¯t touch it with your hands. You won¡¯t be able to afford it if you break it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to reach for an exquisitely carved wooden box when she paused and said with a straight face, ¡°I¡¯m not here to buy anything. I want to see the shopkeeper here.¡±


    A look of disdain flashed across the shopkeeper¡¯s face. ¡°If you¡¯re not buying anything, why are you looking at it for so long? Aren¡¯t you causing trouble? Go, go. My shopkeeper isn¡¯t free.¡±


    As he spoke, he reached out to push Shen Yijia.


    Mo Yuan grabbed his hand and twisted it. She said expressionlessly, ¡°Call the shopkeeper out. My young lady wants to see him.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± He cried out in pain. He wanted to break free, but she was not as strong as Mo Yuan. He could only say angrily, ¡°Where did this crazy woman come from? Is our shopkeeper someone you can see just because you want to? Men, someone is causing trouble here. Hurry up and chase her out.¡±


    Immediately, two burly men with clubs walked out from behind. Both of them looked fierce.


    Although the capital was under the emperor, there were also many people who did not care about their lives. Many shops would hire one or two thugs to guard the shops.


    They had just started arguing when the guests felt that something was wrong. They had long retreated outside the door to watch the show. At this moment, there were a few passers-by surrounding them.


    The two thugs did not care if the other party was a delicate young lady. They raised their clubs and charged at the two of them.


    Shen Yijia did not move. In the blink of an eye, the two thugs were easily beaten down by Mo Yuan.


    ¡°Stop.¡± A man with bright eyes walked out.


    He first glared at the three of them resentfully before looking at Shen Yijia. ¡°May I know why this madam is looking for me?¡±


    ¡°Are you the shopkeeper here?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The man smiled proudly. ¡°That¡¯s me. May I know who you are, Madam?¡±


    ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that the second daughter of the Shen family?¡±


    Without waiting for Shen Yijia to reveal her identity, some of the onlookers outside the door had seen Shen Yijia in the court and recognized her at a glance.


    ¡°The one who was framed by her biological father and almost lost her life?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°Who else could it be? But what¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°This seems to be the Shen family¡¯s shop.¡±


    Shen Pingxiu had only given her the money and gold bars. In order to please Madam Chen, he had given her the shop to manage.


    These words connected Shen Yijia to the Shen family.

 Chapter 484 - 484 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (3)

    484 Background, Collecting the Shophouse (3)


    Everyone was in an uproar.


    Oh, the Shen family¡¯s gossip was delicious.


    The shopkeeper naturally heard the discussions outside. When he looked at Shen Yijia again, the smile on his face was no longer there, but he still pretended to cup his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°So it¡¯s Second Miss. I was blind. Why are you here today?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°This shop is mine. I came to my own shop. What do you think I want?¡±


    Panic flashed across the shopkeeper¡¯s face. ¡°Second Miss, you really know how to joke. How can this be your shop? Although your surname is also Shen, you¡¯re already a married woman. There¡¯s no reason for a married woman to occupy her maiden shop in Great Xia.¡±


    Back then, as soon as Madam Chen received the title deed, she changed the original people in the shop for various reasons.


    That was when he took over. He naturally knew that the original owner of this shop was Madam Wang.


    However, more than ten years had passed. He was certain that Shen Yijia had no evidence to prove it. As soon as he spoke, he labeled her as someone who wanted to invade her family¡¯s business.


    This shopkeeper probably did not expect Madam Chen to be so magnanimous. She had not changed the name on the deed for more than ten years.


    He also did not expect these deeds to fall into Shen Yijia¡¯s hands.


    Therefore, when Shen Yijia took out two contracts with the seal of the government, he was dumbfounded.


    Shen Yijia handed the contract to Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan understood and raised the two contracts to the surrounding commoners so that they could see it.


    Some literate people read the words out loud on the spot, especially when they heard the name Wang Ruxuan.


    Shen Yijia swore that she was not the one who invited those people.


    The surrounding commoners were in an uproar again. Wasn¡¯t it the Shen family¡¯s shop? And who was Wang Ruxuan?


    Shen Yijia cleared her throat and put on a show. ¡°My mother left this shop to me when she was alive. When she left, I was still young. Lord Shen said that he would help me manage it. Unexpectedly, more than ten years have passed. Not only did he not give me a single bit of the profits from the shop, but he also wanted to occupy it. I originally thought that since he was my father, I would take it as me showing my filial piety to him, but what he did really disappointed me.¡±


    After saying that, the drama queen took out a handkerchief and began to wipe her tears. Her small shoulders trembled. No matter how one looked at it, she was crying badly.


    She had learned this from the Shen family, but she also realized that beating people up was only suitable when no one was watching. On the surface, this move was still the best.


    As soon as she cried, the commoners stood up to help her scold the Shen family. She didn¡¯t even need to rack her brains to think of words.


    ¡°This Shen family is too much. Isn¡¯t this bullying? She lost her mother long ago.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s worse than a beast. Second Miss is so filial. Look at what the head of the Shen family has done.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re insulting an animal by comparing it to him. Even a vicious tiger wouldn¡¯t eat its cubs.¡±


    ¡°Pfft, if I die one day, I won¡¯t let them off even if I become a ghost.¡±


    ¡°I heard that the head of the Shen family was only a poor scholar back then. It was Second Miss¡¯s family who paid for his studies to get in. In the end, as soon as he got in, he married a young lady from a wealthy family.¡±


    This was something that Shen Pingxiu had done more than ten years ago. Therefore, it was not that everyone had a bad memory, but they had temporarily forgotten about it when no one mentioned it.


    More and more people were denouncing Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen. Some people even asked Shen Yijia if the Shen family¡¯s name was also hanging in a shop.


    There were also people who advised her earnestly, ¡°You can¡¯t be stupid. That kind of family is unreliable. It¡¯s better to keep these things in your hands. Why would you let that adulterous couple benefit from the things your mother left for you?¡±


    Shen Yijia almost couldn¡¯t help but look up and laugh.


    The shopkeeper was completely flustered. He glanced at the errand boy and asked him to return to the Shen family to ask what to do.


    Unfortunately, there were so many people outside. Someone saw him arguing with the court official and he was caught before he could walk out.


    Seeing that the situation was about right, the drama queen sniffed and bowed to everyone. ¡°I¡¯ll remember all the uncles and aunties¡¯ words. I¡¯ll listen to you. I won¡¯t let those people from the Shen family take advantage of me again.¡±


    Everyone felt that something was wrong. Why did she listen to them? Didn¡¯t she say that she wanted to take back her shop first?


    However, on careful thought, Shen Yijia only said that this shop belonged to her from the beginning to the end. She did not say what she was here for.


    This was awkward.


    The drama queen continued to work hard and rubbed the corners of her eyes. ¡°Everyone is a good person who speaks up for justice. Unfortunately, I don¡¯t have anything to thank everyone for. Each of you can enter the shop and choose something that suits you. Take it as my thank-you gift to everyone.¡±


    ¡°Second Miss, you can¡¯t do that. Even if this shop and the deed are yours, these things are not.¡±


    With the deeds, he could not refute. Now, he wanted to keep these goods or stall until the Shen family sent someone over.


    The drama queen looked at the restless commoners and said with a troubled expression, ¡°But even if we just rented out these shops, that rent money from the past ten years should be more valuable than these goods.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± The shopkeeper was speechless. Every inch of land in the capital was worth more than that.


    ¡°Second Miss is right. These things should be yours.¡±


    It belonged to Second Miss Shen, so she had the right to give it to them. Even a fool knew who to speak up for.


    Shen Yijia nodded in agreement. ¡°Then come in and choose. However, you can only take one each!¡±


    At first, some people were too embarrassed to come in and take it, but there were always people who wanted to take advantage of others. As soon as Shen Yijia finished speaking, people rushed into the shop. Seeing this, the others did not dare to hesitate. If they hesitated any longer, they would not be able to snatch anything.


    The shop was instantly filled with people. Before the shopkeeper could say anything, he was drowned out by the crowd.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°By the way, my mother left the Glittering Pavilion for me too. You can go to that store and take what you want.¡±

 Chapter 485 - 485 An Expert at Courting Death (1)

    485 An Expert at Courting Death (1)


    It was not that Madam Chen did not expect Shen Yijia to ask her for the shop with those contracts, but she did not expect Shen Yijia to be so simple and direct.


    Coupled with the fact that she had yet to recover from her injuries and that something had happened to Shen Ruyun, she did not have the time to deal with this issue yet.


    Therefore, when the two shopkeepers knelt in front of her and cried, she was so angry that she almost fainted on the spot.


    ¡°B*tch, that b*tch.¡± Madam Chen angrily swept the teacup on the table to the ground and said angrily, ¡°So the two of you let her give it away?¡±


    The two shopkeepers cowered and stammered. They wanted to stop the crowd, but there were so many people. One spit from each of them could drown them.


    The contract was in black and white. What could they do?


    At that time, not snatching things with others was their last loyalty to Madam Chen.


    In fact, those people knew them and did not let them touch those goods at all.


    The shopkeeper of the Golden Jade House at least knew the ins and outs of the matter and could say a few words to defend himself.


    The shopkeeper of the Glittering Jewels Pavilion was stunned the entire time. He was checking the accounts in the shop when a group of people suddenly surged in, claiming that the owner of the shop had asked them to come.


    It was only when the shop was in a mess that he realized that something was wrong, but it was too late.


    Madam Chen was so angry that her chest heaved and her nails dug into her palms.


    It seemed that those things did not belong to the little b*tch, so the little b*tch¡¯s heart did not ache, right?


    She had really underestimated that b*tch in the past.


    Madam Chen had been thinking about it recently. The childless medicine that she had given Madam Wang back then was brought out of the palace by her mother. There was definitely no problem with it.


    Madam Wang must have avoided some doses. Who would have thought that the usually gentle and weak b*tch would be so shrewd?


    It was the same for Shen Yijia. Back in the residence, she was so submissive, but in the end, she was a wolf in sheep¡¯s clothing.


    They were indeed mother and daughter. They were not easy to deal with.


    ¡°Madam, what should we do now?¡± Seeing that Madam Chen did not speak for a long time, the shopkeeper of the Golden Jade House could only muster his courage and ask.


    Madam Chen still had a veil on her head. Even if they could not see her face clearly, the two of them knew that she would definitely not look good.


    Madam Chen said coldly, ¡°What should we do? Can you report it to the officials or snatch it back?¡±


    It was useless to report it to the authorities. Wang Ruxuan¡¯s name was written on the shop.


    According to the laws of Great Xia, if a woman died, this dowry could only be inherited by her biological children. If there were no children, it would be inherited by her own family. There was no reason for her husband¡¯s family to take it.


    If this matter really got out, they would be in the wrong.


    Now that things had become like this, unless Shen Yijia died and Madam Wang¡¯s family had no one left in it, they would not be able to take back these two shops.


    Moreover, the Chen family had just sent someone to remind her yesterday that the emperor¡¯s birthday was imminent and the envoy was still around. If she did not have the confidence to hit the jackpot with one strike, she could not act rashly and cause trouble again.


    However, after these few confrontations, she realized that Shen Yijia was slippery. It was impossible.


    Therefore, she could not do anything to Shen Yijia now.


    She couldn¡¯t beat her physically, or hurt her with words while recuperating.


    The shopkeeper naturally knew that it was difficult to get the shop back, but he did not expect even Madam Chen to be helpless. ¡°This¡­¡±


    Madam Chen took a deep breath. Thinking of the money and contracts that Shen Yijia had stolen, she gritted her teeth and said, ¡°The two of you go to Qingyang City and take my father¡¯s letter. You have to get Judge Liu Tong to transfer those shops to my name before that little b*tch changes the ownership.¡±


    The shopkeeper looked at each other. Even the contract for the shop over there had fallen into Shen Yijia¡¯s hands?


    Thinking of Shen Yijia¡¯s swift and decisive actions, the two of them did not dare to delay any longer and quickly agreed to leave.


    Madam Chen gritted her teeth and said, ¡°I really regret letting that little b*tch live back then.¡±


    The nanny at the side advised, ¡°Who would have thought that a little girl could hide it so well?


    ¡°Madam, bear with it for now. After the emperor¡¯s birthday, Master will definitely seek justice for you.¡±


    Thinking that her maternal family could still be relied on, Madam Chen¡¯s mood improved a little.


    Seeing that she had listened, the nanny went out and called for a maidservant to clean up the mess on the ground. She put on a new teacup. ¡°You can¡¯t be angry now. If you¡¯re angry, you¡¯ll harm your body and benefit that little tramp.¡±


    Madam Chen did not allow the people around her to call Shen Yijia Second Miss. Everyone called her nasty nicknames.

 Chapter 486 - 486 An Expert at Courting Death (2)

    486 An Expert at Courting Death (2)


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I can¡¯t do as that little b*tch wants.¡± Madam Chen picked up her tea. ¡°By the way, have you found that little bastard?¡±


    Sometimes, Madam Chen really could not understand Shen Yijia. It was fine if she stole money, but why did she steal the little bastard?


    Speaking of which, that little bastard¡¯s mother had even personally sued Shen Yijia in court.


    It couldn¡¯t be because of that ridiculous kinship, right?


    She could even hurt her biological father. Madam Chen did not believe that Shen Yijia would be soft-hearted towards the son of someone who had harmed her own people.


    ¡°Not yet. I got someone to ask around. The Song family doesn¡¯t have any more boys around six or seven years old. Do you think she killed them?¡±


    Clearly, the nanny also felt that Shen Yijia was not so kind.


    Madam Chen paused and sneered. ¡°She¡¯s indeed ruthless. If you can¡¯t find him, don¡¯t look for him. Anyway, I just want him dead. It doesn¡¯t matter who kills him.¡±


    The nanny nodded in agreement.


    A maidservant stumbled in. ¡°Madam, bad news, bad news.¡±


    Madam Chen had just taken a sip of tea when she choked from the little maidservant¡¯s shout.


    The nanny quickly calmed her down and reprimanded, ¡°Do you have any manners? Why are you shouting?! Also, what do you mean by that?¡±


    The little maidservant trembled from the reprimand and quickly knelt down. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s¡­¡±


    Madam Chen¡¯s forehead throbbed. ¡°Speak properly!¡±


    ¡°Consort Jing has been sent back. She said that Lord Jing instructed her to recuperate in her maiden home before returning to the residence. She¡¯s already at the door.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Madam Chen was shocked. The teacup in her hand fell to the ground, and the tea splashed all over her. She stood up from her chair and walked out.


    When she walked to the front yard, she bumped into Shen Wenbo, who had rushed over after hearing the news.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Wenbo bowed to Madam Chen.


    ¡°Bo¡¯er, your sister¡­¡± Madam Chen grabbed Shen Wenbo¡¯s hand as if she had seen a life-saving straw.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s expression was gloomy. He comforted her, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be anxious. Let¡¯s see Eldest Sister first.¡±


    At the entrance of the Shen residence.


    Shen Ruyun was forcefully pulled out of the carriage by the two old women.


    ¡°Let go of me¡­ I was wronged¡­ Let go of me¡­ You dogs don¡¯t want to live anymore¡­¡± Shen Ruyun kept shouting. Coupled with her messy hair from the struggle, she looked like a crazy woman. She was no longer as graceful as before.


    Disdain flashed across the two old women¡¯s faces.


    It was hard to say if she would still be Consort Jing in the future.


    They had never seen anyone so suicidal. That day, the eldest grandson only asked when his sister would be born, and she wanted to slap the eldest grandson¡¯s mouth, but she fell and lost her child.


    After Lord Jing understood the whole story, in order to give the Chen family an explanation, he punished the imperial grandson to kneel in the scorching sun for four hours.


    It was said that children¡¯s words carried no harm. The eldest grandson was just a child. What could he know? This punishment was enough.


    However, Shen Ruyun was not satisfied. Seeing the commotion in the residence, she kept saying that she wanted the eldest grandson to pay with his life for her unborn son.


    This morning, she even avoided the guards and ran to the imperial grandson¡¯s courtyard alone. If not for the servants discovering it in time, the imperial grandson would have been killed by her.


    Lord Jing couldn¡¯t take it anymore and instructed someone to send her back to her mother¡¯s house.


    ¡°Stop.¡± Madam Chen was angry and her heart ached when she saw this scene.


    When the two old women heard this, they immediately let go of Shen Ruyun and bowed. ¡°His Highness asked me to tell Madam Shen that the princess consort misses her family and has fallen ill. He¡¯ll pick her up after she recovers from her injuries.¡±


    Lord Jing said that he would come to pick her up. That meant that if he didn¡¯t come, Shen Ruyun would have to stay at her maiden home.


    With that, the two of them instructed the people accompanying them to unload the things in the two carriages behind them. Without giving Madam Chen a chance to speak, they turned around and climbed into the carriage. The group left.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Ruyun threw herself into Madam Chen¡¯s arms and cried, ¡°I was wronged. It was that little brat who harmed me. You have to avenge me.¡±


    She had said that she wanted the eldest grandson to pay with his life, but those were words spoken in anger. She was not stupid enough to harm the prince¡¯s grandson.


    As for why she would go to the eldest grandson¡¯s courtyard today, it was actually because that little brat asked her to go. That little brat said that it was not an accident that she fell. Someone had harmed her.


    Unexpectedly, what awaited her was a trap.


    However, because of her previous words of anger, no one believed her.


    When Madam Chen heard her cries, she felt sad. Why did she raise such a stupid thing?

 Chapter 487 - 487 An Expert at Courting Death (3)

    487 An Expert at Courting Death (3)


    As expected, what was fake was fake. No matter how well she helped Shen Ruyun manage her reputation, it could not change the fact that Shen Ruyun was an idiot.


    Shen Wenbo¡¯s expression was equally ugly. Fortunately, Shen Ruyun had entered the Eldest Prince¡¯s residence. If she had entered a residence with less influence, the Shen family would really have no way out.


    After being generous, Shen Yijia closed the doors of the two shops.


    There was also a small warehouse behind the shop. There were a lot of goods piled up inside, but she had no intention of giving them away.


    She asked Mo Yuan to call Pinellia and the others over. They cleaned up the shop first.


    After packing up, Shen Yijia picked out a few boxes of rouge and a few pieces of cloth and asked Pinellia to send them to General Xiao¡¯s residence.


    Half of the cloth was green, bean green, tender green, dark green, dark green¡­


    She hoped that Xiao Ruoshui would understand her.


    ¡°Miss, are these two shops yours from now on?¡± Wolfiporia asked with stars in her eyes.


    Shen Yijia puffed out her chest. ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    From now on, she was also a person with a business!


    Wolfiporia¡¯s mouth fell open in surprise. ¡°Will you still sell rouge and cloth in the future?¡±


    The wine shop did not need all five of them to be there. Unfortunately, Shen Yijia did not want them to serve her either. Wolfiporia felt that she was useless.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°The cloth shop will be changed to a bookstore. We can keep this rouge shop.¡±


    Lin Shao¡¯s abilities could not be wasted.


    Actually, she felt that she could set up a medical center for Mo Yuan, but she thought that it was easy for something to happen in the medical center, so she dismissed this thought.


    It was close to General Xiao¡¯s residence from Chang¡¯an Avenue. When they arrived home, Pinellia had also returned.


    ¡°Did she say anything?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Pinellia shook her head. ¡°No, she said that she would personally come and thank you.¡±


    Actually, Xiao Ruoshui had said a lot, saying that Shen Yijia had no conscience. She was locked up at home by General Xiao and could not leave, but Shen Yijia did not know to visit her.


    Xiao Ruoshui also said that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t tell her about what had happened last time. Did she still treat her as a friend?


    In any case, they were all complaints, so she did not express a strong sentiment toward those gifts.


    However, it was hard to say these words to Pinellia.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. Could it be that her hint was not obvious enough?


    Forget it. She would tell her directly when she came tomorrow.


    Shen Yijia took out the contract from Qingyang City and handed it to Mo Yuan. ¡°Bring Pinellia and the others to Qingyang City.¡±


    Just as she finished giving her instructions, Bruiser brought Nanny Lan in.


    ¡°Nanny Lan, why are you here?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Didn¡¯t Sister Huan send the pills over this morning?


    Nanny Lan bowed to Shen Yijia and glanced at everyone present. She took out a letter and handed it to Shen Yijia. She smiled and said, ¡°Fortunately, I made it in time. Madam asked me to send this to Madam Song.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Shen Yijia took it. The name Du Yancheng was written on the envelope.


    ¡°Who is Du Yancheng?¡± Shen Yijia asked again.


    ¡°It¡¯s the magistrate of Qingyang City,¡± Mo Yuan said without waiting for Nanny Lan to answer.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°This¡­¡±


    Nanny Lan smiled and said, ¡°My madam heard about what happened today and guessed that Madam Song would send people to Qingyang City next.¡±


    Magistrate Du was once the dean¡¯s disciple. He should be able to help Madam Song a little.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt a little dizzy. How was this just a little? This was a huge help.


    It was said that Dean Lu had a wide network of connections and thousands of students behind him, but Shen Yijia did not expect him to have such a wide network. Last time, it was one of the imperial officials, but this time, it was the magistrate of a city.


    She only wanted to say one word. Awesome!


    Shen Yijia did not ask how Madam Qiu knew that she had a shop to buy in Qingyang City.


    After all, it was no secret that Madam Wang¡¯s maiden family was from Qingyang City.


    Anyone with a brain could imagine that Madam Chen had even occupied a shop in the capital. How could she let go of the bigger piece of meat in Qingyang City?


    With this letter, it meant that she could obtain the protection of the magistrate. She didn¡¯t need to fight at all.


    Shen Yijia did not let Mo Yuan go. Instead, she wanted the two young men at home, Lin Shao and Bruiser, to see the world.


    The two of them agreed happily.


    Coupled with Pinellia, Wolfiporia, and Ginkgo, the five of them immediately left the city.


    Even Madam Qiu knew that after she finished collecting the shops in the capital, she was going to go after the shops in Qingyang City.


    It was impossible for Madam Chen not to think of it. Of course, she wanted to catch them off guard.


    Shen Yijia was in a good mood.


    However, on second thought, this meant that she owed Madam Qiu another favor. This was a little troublesome.


    However, those shops were in Qingyang City. The temptation of the magistrate¡¯s protection was too great, and she could not refuse.


    ¡°What are you thinking about? Why are you so engrossed?¡±


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and realized that Song Jingchen had returned.


    ¡°Ah, I forgot to pick up Brother Hao and the others.¡± Shen Yijia jumped up.


    Song Jingchen pressed her back down in amusement. ¡°I asked South Wind to pick them up.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and told him about what had happened during the day.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Mo Yuan said that she can live for another three years.¡±


    Three years was enough!

 Chapter 488 - 488 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (1)

    488 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (1)


    If there was anyone in this world who was more unwilling to expose the spiritual liquid than Shen Yijia, it would be Song Jingchen.


    It was comparable to a divine medicine that could bring people back from the dead. It was obvious how many people would go crazy over it. At that time, Shen Yijia would become a piece of cake. Everyone wanted her for themselves.


    However, it would seem hypocritical to say that he would rather Shen Yijia not have this. After all, he had benefited from it.


    He could only work hard to become stronger, so strong that he was not afraid of anything that could threaten Shen Yijia. He could become her strongest backing, so that she would not have to worry about anything in the future.


    !!


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°So my beautiful husband wants me to hide away.¡±


    Although they could not give Madam Qiu the spiritual liquid for the time being, they could still go and see her. After all, she had helped them a lot.


    Coincidentally, Song Jingchen was on leave today, so he accompanied Shen Yijia.


    Madam Qiu seemed to have known that they were coming. When the two of them arrived, the reception hall was already filled with fruits and snacks. Even Director Lu did not go to the boys¡¯ school.


    ¡°See, I knew they would come,¡± Madam Qiu said with a smile as she looked at the couple led in by Nanny Lan.


    She had seen Song Jingchen from afar a few times in the past, but this was the first time she had sized him up so closely.


    As soon as the two of them walked in, she felt that the reception hall lit up.


    Yes, a handsome man and a beautiful woman. They were very compatible.


    Madam Qiu was very satisfied. If she could see this scene often, she should be able to live for a few more years.


    Dean Lu¡¯s face darkened. Without waiting for Song Jingchen to bow, he stood up and said, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    Song Jingchen had received a few pointers from Dean Lu in the past, but it wasn¡¯t necessarily true that they were familiar with each other.


    Because Dean Lu was purely a scholar, he had always felt that it was a pity that Song Jingchen studied literature and practiced martial arts. If he focused all his energy on studying literature, he would definitely surpass him in the future.


    However, the Bulwark Duke¡¯s status was earned from their military achievements. It was impossible, so he didn¡¯t want to see Song Jingchen anymore.


    Otherwise, his heart would ache every time he saw him. He was not the kind of person who would make things difficult for himself.


    Shen Yijia saw the change in Dean Lu¡¯s expression and looked at Madam Qiu¡¯s helpless expression. She suddenly understood.


    Was he being jealous?


    Dean Lu turned around and walked out of the reception pavilion. He turned around and realized that Song Jingchen was still bowing to Madam Qiu, who was staring at the brat without blinking.


    He was so angry that he glared at him. ¡°What are you waiting for? Hurry up and follow me.¡±


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, Shen Yijia was unhappy. She asked with a straight face, ¡°Where are your manners?¡±


    Dean Lu paused. ¡°How am I being rude?¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and said seriously, ¡°Even three-year-old children know that you have to bow and greet your elders. You can¡¯t ask my husband to be arrogant just because he¡¯s prettier than you.¡±


    Dean Lu was speechless.


    What nonsense was this little girl spouting?!


    Dean Lu felt as if his heart had been stabbed twice.


    He was not good-looking. He was not good-looking when he was young. On the contrary, Madam Qiu was a woman with both talent and beauty.


    It was no exaggeration to say that the list of men who asked to marry her back then could circle the capital three times.


    However, Madam Qiu fell in love with him at a glance among so many people who were much better than him in terms of looks and family background.


    For this reason, he rushed back to his hometown overnight and lit three incense sticks for the ancestral tablet.


    Ahem, he was thinking too far ahead.


    Dean Lu¡¯s face was even more serious than Shen Yijia¡¯s. ¡°You¡¯re shallow.¡±


    Shen Yijia was indignant. ¡°You¡¯re saying that grapes are sour because you can¡¯t eat them.¡±


    Madam Qiu could not help but laugh. She reached out and patted Shen Yijia, who was protecting her husband. ¡°Alright, ignore him. He¡¯s like this.¡±


    Dean Lu would not scowl at Madam Qiu.


    Not to mention that Shen Yijia was under Madam Qiu¡¯s protection, even if she wasn¡¯t, he wouldn¡¯t argue with a little girl. He could only glare at Song Jingchen angrily. ¡°Aren¡¯t you coming?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    With that, he cupped his hands at Madam Qiu and left the reception pavilion.


    He received Madam Qiu¡¯s loving smile again.


    Dean Lu was furious. So what if he was good-looking?


    He glanced at Song Jingchen, who was following respectfully behind him. He thought of something and suddenly sneered.


    Previously, Madam Qiu had said that she wanted to acknowledge Shen Yijia as her adopted daughter. He only agreed because he did not want her to have any regrets.

 Chapter 489 - 489 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (2)

    489 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (2)


    Now, he suddenly felt that it was not bad to acknowledge that little girl.


    In the future, this brat would have to call him father-in-law. What was the use of being good-looking? He still had to please him.


    He was scheming in his heart. He did not expect Shen Yijia to reject this suggestion. After all, with the couple¡¯s influence, many people could not get it even if they begged.


    ¡°Why?¡± Madam Qiu was also very surprised.


    !!


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°I like Madam very much too, but I don¡¯t want to acknowledge you as my mother.¡±


    She had two mothers. One of them had abandoned her in a mental hospital at some point, and the other belonged to the original host and had died early.


    If she suddenly had another mother, she would feel very troubled.


    Madam Qiu was stunned for a moment. She thought that Shen Yijia¡¯s feelings for Madam Wang were too deep and that she was unwilling to call anyone else her mother.


    Although she was a little regretful about being rejected, she was not angry.


    Actually, she had long gotten over whether she had children or not after so long. She did not care as much as Dean Lu had imagined.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have had such thoughts when she was old. She only asked because Shen Yijia really suited her taste.


    ¡°I¡¯ll come and visit Madam often in the future,¡± Shen Yijia said carefully.


    Seeing her like this, Madam Qiu couldn¡¯t help but laugh. She patted her hand and teased, ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you to say this. You can¡¯t stop coming because you find it boring.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and shook her head vigorously. ¡°No, no. Just don¡¯t find me annoying.¡±


    Although Shen Yijia rejected the proposal, it did not affect Madam Qiu¡¯s liking for her.


    After chatting for a while, Song Jingchen returned. The two of them bade farewell.


    Xiao Ruoshui had said that she was coming today, so Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t ask her to wait at home again.


    When Dean Lu found out that Shen Yijia had refused to acknowledge him as her relative, he was a little dumbfounded. Could it be that his attitude just now had frightened that girl away?


    Madam Qiu could tell that he had misunderstood, but she did not explain.


    Who asked this person to be jealous? She was already so old, yet he still thought that she was as desirable as she was back then. She should let him reflect on himself.


    Shen Yijia returned early, but Xiao Ruoshui was even earlier. As soon as she entered the central room, she met a pair of accusing eyes.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose guiltily.


    Why did she have the illusion that she was a heartless person?


    Xiao Ruoshui snorted and walked around Shen Yijia to greet Song Jingchen with a smile. ¡°Brother Chen, long time no see.¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. To hell with feeling guilty.


    She opened her hand and stood in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, go to the study.¡±


    Leave this little vixen to her!


    Song Jingchen nodded in amusement and left without looking back.


    ¡°Hey, Brother Chen, don¡¯t go. We haven¡¯t seen each other for so long. We have to catch up.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui wanted to chase after him, but Shen Yijia grabbed her collar and carried her back. ¡°You promised not to call my husband Brother Chen.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Xiao Ruoshui turned her head away and ignored her.


    Last time, she could blame herself for not informing Shen Yijia in advance. However, this time, Shen Yijia still went out even though she knew Xiao Ruoshui was visiting. She was furious.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to come out even once!


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s my fault this time. I¡¯ll go and see you next time.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui glanced at her. ¡°Really?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded.


    Xiao Ruoshui was happy, but in the blink of an eye, her face fell. ¡°Forget it, you shouldn¡¯t come. My house has been very chaotic recently.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    She did not know much about Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s family. Apart from knowing that her father was a general, she heard most about Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s step-sister, Xiao Ruoqian.


    Every time Xiao Ruoshui came, she would complain to her. Although she had yet to see who it was, Shen Yijia knew this name by heart.


    ¡°It¡¯s all because of my brother.¡± Xiao Ruoshui scratched her head in frustration. She remembered that Shen Yijia was not a talkative person.


    She explained, ¡°My brother has a fianc¨¦e who has been engaged to him since he was young. He should have gotten married long ago.¡±


    However, an elder in my future sister-in-law¡¯s family suddenly passed away. She had to observe mourning, so the two families discussed postponing the wedding.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the mourning period over last month? My parents mean that they can¡¯t let me go out first as a younger sister. They want to discuss with my brother about marrying my future sister-in-law before the end of the year.¡±


    In the end, my brother actually said that he had someone he liked and wanted to break off the engagement.


    They had already received half of the engagement gifts. The bride¡¯s family had not done anything wrong. Wasn¡¯t it ridiculous to suddenly say that they wanted to annul the engagement?

 Chapter 490 - 490 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (3)

    490 Friendships Can Manifest Anywhere (3)


    My father was so angry that he beat him up and locked him in the ancestral hall. It had been a few days, but he wasn¡¯t even allowed to go to the military camp.


    ¡°I¡¯m quite conflicted. On the one hand, I understand my brother a little. Who doesn¡¯t want to marry the person they like?


    ¡°On the one hand, I feel that my brother did something wrong. If he really broke off the engagement, wouldn¡¯t he be forcing my future sister-in-law to die?¡±


    She sighed and continued with a sad expression, ¡°This world is unfair to women.


    !!


    ¡°My sister-in-law¡¯s marriageable age has been delayed because of mourning. Now that her engagement has been broken off, outsiders won¡¯t think that it¡¯s because of my brother. They¡¯ll only think that there¡¯s something wrong with her.¡±


    ¡°Most importantly, I quite like my future sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°You have a brother?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought to herself, ¡°Is that the main point?¡±


    She picked up her teacup and took a sip to calm herself down. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious? Which family doesn¡¯t have a son to continue their lineage?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the only one who¡¯s heard so much from me.¡± Xiao Ruoshui pinched her arm. Otherwise, she was afraid that she would faint from anger.


    Xiao Ruoshui was here to ask her for advice.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°Why don¡¯t I tie up your brother and throw him into the new room on their wedding night?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes. ¡°I believe my brother is no match for you, but my father can¡¯t lock him up for a few months, right?


    ¡°But if we don¡¯t lock him up, he¡¯ll probably go to the Yuan family to annul the engagement before the wedding day.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not say anything because she suddenly thought of Fan Mingyuan.


    Xiao Ruoshui asked, ¡°What do you think we should do about this?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and asked tentatively, ¡°Ask your brother to marry a girl from the Yuan family and take in the person he likes?¡±


    Oh dear. This was definitely not what she meant. If she was a girl from the Yuan family, she would rather die alone than marry Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s brother.


    ¡°Why would you have such thoughts?¡± Xiao Ruoshui looked pained and asked in disbelief, ¡°If Brother Chen had fallen in love with someone else, would you have asked him to bring her home?¡±


    How was that possible?


    Just thinking about it made Shen Yijia unable to take it anymore. She gritted her teeth. ¡°I¡¯ll castrate my husband.¡±


    Song Jingchen subconsciously clamped his legs together when he heard this.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She immediately put on a smile and called out sweetly, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Her face said, ¡°I¡¯m very obedient and gentle.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and coughed lightly. ¡°I remember that a book was left here.¡±


    The book was placed on the table. Shen Yijia ran over, picked it up, and brought it to Song Jingchen.


    Well, she was still very virtuous.


    She was not bloody or violent at all. Not at all!


    Song Jingchen reached out to take it. After turning around, he paused and looked back at Shen Yijia. He said seriously, ¡°I won¡¯t like anyone else.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re talking about.¡± she thought.


    Xiao Ruoshui thought to herself, ¡°Enough, the two of you!¡±


    Actually, it was useless to say anything more about this matter. It still depended on the person involved.


    Firstly, Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s brother could not possibly let the person he liked be a concubine.


    Even if he was willing, it was hard to say if the girl from the Yuan family would still be willing to marry him after knowing that the person she was going to marry belonged to someone else.


    Shen Yijia felt that Xiao Ruoshui was just worrying. If she really liked to worry so much, she might as well worry about herself.


    Therefore, she asked Mo Yuan to bring over a green hat with two cute little tassels on it.


    She had asked Mo Yuan to make the hat overnight yesterday.


    ¡°For me?¡± Xiao Ruoshui was dumbfounded as Shen Yijia put on the hat for her.


    Weren¡¯t they talking about her brother? Besides, why would she wear a hat in the middle of summer?


    Shen Yijia did not say anything. She first took off the hairpin on Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s head and solemnly helped her put on her hat. She even thoughtfully helped her smooth her messy hair.


    It was quite cute.


    Next time, he would get Mo Yuan to make one for each of their family members. They didn¡¯t want green ones!


    After doing this, she sat back in her seat in satisfaction. She pointed at Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s head and reminded her, ¡°Wow, it¡¯s so green.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless. ¡°How can a green hat not be green? Also, why do you like green so much recently? The cloth you gave me yesterday is the same.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Da Hua had told her about being cuckolded because Da Hua had been cuckolded before he was captured.


    However, looking at Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s puzzled expression, it seemed that green didn¡¯t have much meaning to her.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. If the hint didn¡¯t work, she could only make it clear.


    ¡°I have a friend¡­¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was shocked. ¡°You have other friends besides me?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Miss, do you think too highly of yourself or underestimate me?¡±


    That was not the point!


    She rolled her eyes and gestured for Xiao Ruoshui not to interrupt before continuing, ¡°My friend has arranged a marriage. It¡¯s almost time for the wedding.¡±


    ¡°However, I realized that the man had acknowledged an adopted sister and the two of them were very intimate. I didn¡¯t know how to remind my friend, so I could only give her a green hat!¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you being a little rude?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Do you understand?¡±

 Chapter 491 - 491 Doubt

    491 Doubt


    Shen Yijia thought that with Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s personality, she would immediately make a fuss about killing her way to Anyang County or breaking off the engagement.


    Unexpectedly, after being stunned for a few seconds, she pulled off the green hat on her head and waved her hand indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s just a foster sister. Is it worth you beating around the bush?¡±


    This time, it was Shen Yijia¡¯s turn to be surprised. She clicked her tongue. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be so magnanimous.¡±


    Previously, who was the one who pulled her along and said that she wanted to be with someone for the rest of her life? Who was the one who said that she had to marry someone who only cared about her?


    !!


    ¡°I knew about this long ago.¡± Xiao Ruoshui knew that Shen Yijia had misunderstood. She rolled her eyes and explained, ¡°After Brother Yuan¡¯s accident, he immediately wrote me a letter. He said that that woman ruined her reputation because she saved him. He had no choice but to take her in as his adopted sister. In the future, he¡¯ll introduce her to a good marriage. It¡¯s just a matter of taking responsibility.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and stopped talking.


    ¡°But what do you mean by intimate behavior?¡± Xiao Ruoshui finally caught the main point.


    Shen Yijia explained what she saw without adding any embellishments. She was only in charge of reminding Xiao Ruoshui and did not want to interfere with her judgment.


    The expression on Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face became solemn. In the end, she said, ¡°I believe Brother Yuan. With an unmarried wife like me, he definitely won¡¯t fancy anyone else.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know where her confidence came from. She wanted to say, ¡°Even if you believe Fan Mingyuan, do you believe that woman?¡±


    He was a young county magistrate and was not bad-looking. It was difficult for women to not be tempted, right?


    Wasn¡¯t there a saying that went, ¡°You¡¯re not afraid of thieves, but you¡¯re afraid of thieves thinking about you?¡±


    However, in the end, she did not say anything. Xiao Ruoshui was not the kind of person who would let herself suffer.


    Shen Yijia was right. Xiao Ruoshui looked confident in front of her and did not care at all. As soon as she returned home, she wrote three pages of letters to Fan Mingyuan.


    The main point was that he had to marry that woman off before the wedding. If there was nothing in Anyang County, he would send that woman to the capital. His father had many single soldiers under him. He did not believe that there was no suitable one.


    If this didn¡¯t work, she wouldn¡¯t get married. She would let Fan Mingyuan live with her sister.


    It was simple and direct!


    If she had to fight and scheme in the backyard all day after getting married like other women, she would rather be a sister-in-law for the rest of her life than get married.


    When Fan Mingyuan received the letter, he was on his way to the capital.


    Along with him was One Dot and the others, who had been recuperating in Xiagou Village.


    After reading the letter, Fan Mingyuan laughed helplessly. Then, he thought of something and his expression turned ugly.


    On the other hand, after Brother Hao accepted the heavy responsibility that Shen Yijia had given him to buy the book from Wang Mingan, he had never found a suitable opportunity to tell him about this.


    The first day was because there was a test at the academy, so it wasn¡¯t appropriate for him to disturb Wang Mingan during break time. In the afternoon, he left early again.


    The next day, Wang Mingan didn¡¯t come to the academy. Looking at the empty seat beside him, Brother Hao had already decided to look for him at Wang Mingan¡¯s house during lunch break.


    Unexpectedly, Wang Mingan appeared.


    ¡°Where have you been these past two days?¡± Brother Hao asked Wang Mingan.


    Wang Mingan took out his book without looking up. Brother Hao thought that he would ignore him, but he heard him say, ¡°Something happened at home, so I took two days off.¡±


    After Xuanyuan Ce left that day, Madam Wang was in a daze. She kept kowtowing to Miss Wang¡¯s memorial tablet.


    Worried that something would happen to her, Wang Mingan applied for leave to accompany her at home. He originally had an extra day off, but Madam Wang insisted that he come.


    Brother Hao was a little flattered and asked with concern, ¡°What happened? Do you need my help?¡±


    He could help fight. If he couldn¡¯t win, he could call his sister-in-law.


    Only then did Wang Mingan look up. The young man in front of him was a few years younger than him. He was the youngest student in this class and the only one who wouldn¡¯t look down on him. Moreover, no matter how cold he looked at him, this person didn¡¯t seem to care.


    Actually, the reason why he was unwilling to pay attention to him was more or less because he wanted to vent his anger.


    He knew who Song Jinghao was, and because of Madam Wang, he also knew that Second Miss Shen was married to Song Jinghao¡¯s elder brother.


    It didn¡¯t matter if he was ungrateful or an ingrate, after experiencing being bullied since he was young, he couldn¡¯t help but resent him.


    He hated the Shen family and also blamed Miss Wang, who had saved the mother and son. Especially Madam Wang¡¯s actions, which made him feel that she only had Miss Wang and her daughter in her heart and did not care about him at all.


    With Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s appearance and Madam Wang¡¯s choice, he had changed his mind.


    Wang Mingan pursed his lips and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s fine now.¡±


    The conversation died just like that.


    Brother Hao scratched his head. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Wang Mingan began to read.


    Brother Hao stood still.


    With someone standing in front of him and staring at him, Wang Mingan couldn¡¯t ignore him even if he wanted to. He closed the book and asked, ¡°What else do you want?¡±


    Brother Hao heaved a sigh of relief and looked around. After confirming that no one was paying attention, he leaned forward and asked in a low voice, ¡°Are you writing a novel?¡±


    Although many people read novels, they were not proper books.


    He couldn¡¯t even read the book openly, let alone write it. If others found out, he would definitely be scolded for being frivolous.


    If it was more serious, he would be reported and even punished by the academy.


    Wang Mingan¡¯s pupils constricted, but he quickly calmed himself down. He lowered his head and denied, ¡°No.¡±


    Brother Hao saw his reaction and already had a guess. He quickly explained, ¡°I¡¯m not reporting you. I want to cooperate with you.¡±


    Wang Mingan turned a page in his book. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about.¡±


    Clearly, his friendship with Brother Hao did not make him trust him.


    Brother Hao was a little dejected. If it were anything else, he wouldn¡¯t have forced Wang Mingan. However, this was what Shen Yijia had instructed him to do, and it was the only thing he could do. He couldn¡¯t let down his sister-in-law¡¯s trust.


    He thought for a moment and whispered two names in Wang Mingan¡¯s ear.


    Wang Mingan clenched his fists and glared at Brother Hao. ¡°What exactly do you want to do?¡±


    Brother Hao was talking about the name of the protagonist in the book he had written just now. The book disappeared before he could send it to the bookstore.


    Therefore, if he hadn¡¯t seen the original manuscript, she wouldn¡¯t have known. Moreover, his handwriting was on the original manuscript.


    Brother Hao frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t I say that I just want to work with you?¡±


    Wang Mingan sneered. ¡°You stole my things first, and now you want to cooperate with me?¡±


    Brother Hao was about to explode in anger. If not for the fact that he was afraid that things would blow up and harm Wang Mingan, he really wanted to punch his head and see what was inside.


    He took a few deep breaths to suppress the anger in his heart and continued to control his voice. ¡°Don¡¯t malign me. My sister-in-law picked it up when you were being bullied.¡±


    ¡°To think that my sister-in-law saved you,¡± Brother Hao muttered indignantly.


    ¡°Your sister-in-law?¡± Wang Mingan was stunned. He thought of the woman who had suddenly appeared to help him when he was blocked in the alley twice.


    So it was Second Miss Shen who saved him twice?


    Brother Hao snorted. ¡°Think about it carefully. In the alley in the south of the city, did someone save you? That¡¯s my sister-in-law.¡±

 Chapter 492 - 492 Yuan Family (1)

    492 Yuan Family (1)


    Wang Mingan was a sensitive and prideful person. Every time he was bullied, it was no different from a thousand cuts to him.


    Similarly, he didn¡¯t like being pitied.


    Second Miss Shen had seen his disheveled side twice, but she never had a pitiful expression on her face.


    Including the first time she gave him money. She said ¡°the medical fees that those people paid you¡±, not ¡°take the money to see a doctor.¡±


    !!


    He was also given money, but the former made him feel that he deserved it, while the latter only made him feel like he was being given charity.


    Regardless of whether Second Miss Shen had done it unintentionally, he was grateful to her.


    That¡¯s right. Compared to Shen Yijia saving him, Wang Mingan was clearly more grateful that she preserved his self-esteem.


    According to Song Jinghao, the book that he had yet to send to the bookstore should have been left behind when he was blocked in the south of the city. Second Miss Shen picked it up and brought it home, but Song Jinghao happened to recognize it as his handwriting.


    Knowing that he had wronged someone, Wang Mingan moved his lips and was about to apologize.


    At this moment, there was a commotion in the classroom. The teacher had arrived.


    Brother Hao snorted and sat back down.


    Didn¡¯t Sister-in-law want to sell novels? He could write them too!


    Shen Yijia did not know that Brother Hao had made up his mind to write his own novel because of this.


    Unexpectedly, she saw Miss Yuan in the afternoon.


    ¡°Miss Yuan, it¡¯s not that we don¡¯t want to help you, but your zither is too broken. Our shop¡¯s master can¡¯t repair it at all.¡±


    ¡°Besides, your zither looks ordinary, and it¡¯s not a famous zither. If you have the money to repair it, you might as well buy a new one. Its timbre will definitely be several times better than your original one.¡±


    ¡°This way, you won¡¯t have to make things difficult for us when you have a new zither. Don¡¯t you think that makes sense?¡± The shopkeeper of the zither workshop tried his best to send the master and servant out.


    Without waiting for the young lady to speak, she stuffed the zither wrapped in cloth back into the maidservant¡¯s hand.


    The maidservant was so angry at the shopkeeper¡¯s attitude that she stomped her feet. When she noticed her young lady¡¯s dejected expression, her heart ached and she felt helpless. She quickly comforted her. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t be sad. This isn¡¯t the only zither workshop in the capital. Let¡¯s go to another shop and ask. It can definitely be repaired.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled bitterly and shook her head. ¡°If even The Zither House can¡¯t repair the zither, who else can?¡±


    The maidservant choked. The Zither House was the best zither workshop in the capital. If they could not repair it, no one else could.


    Thinking of something, she looked at the shop angrily. ¡°That might not be the case. Perhaps Second Miss came to inform this shopkeeper in advance and didn¡¯t let them repair it for us? Isn¡¯t this zither deliberately¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, don¡¯t say anything without evidence,¡± Yuan Yuwan interrupted her.


    The maidservant stomped her feet. ¡°Miss, you¡¯re too good-tempered.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyes darkened. It wasn¡¯t that she had a good temper. It was just that she could see the situation clearly.


    After her grandfather passed away, there was no one in the Yuan family who could stand up for her.


    Fortunately, she was about to get married. When she left the Yuan Family, she would no longer have anything to do with the Yuan Family.


    The two ice mirrors that Shen Yijia had customized a few days ago could be picked up today. After lunch, she pulled Song Jingchen out.


    Coincidentally, the copperware shop and The Zither House were on the same street, but the road in front of the shop was not wide. If the Yuan family¡¯s carriage stopped there, their carriage would not be able to pass.


    South Wind could only stop the carriage and prepare to wait for the carriage in front to leave.


    Shen Yijia despised the stuffy heat in the carriage and lifted the curtain, so she took in this scene.


    Seeing the master and servant get into the carriage and leave, Shen Yijia turned around and asked Song Jingchen, who was reading the case file, ¡°Hubby, which girl from the Yuan family is engaged to Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s brother?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up and frowned for a moment before saying, ¡°The eldest daughter of the Yuan family.¡±


    In the past, the Yuan family could be considered a family of wealth. The late Old Master Yuan was an official who became the Cabinet Grand Secretary. Unfortunately, none of his children and grandchildren could hold the fort. Now, they were on the decline.


    In fact, it was already considered a light punishment to say that he couldn¡¯t do anything. When Old Master Yuan was still alive, he could still restrain his descendants.


    The Yuan family was in complete chaos after he left. Song Jingchen had already heard many jokes about the Yuan family in the past ten days.

 Chapter 493 - 493 Yuan Family (2)

    493 Yuan Family (2)


    Song Jingchen heard rumors about their uncle and nephew snatching a courtesan and having the same daughter. At the same time, he was afraid that he would dirty Shen Yijia¡¯s ears.


    ¡°Why are you asking about this?¡± Song Jingchen asked seriously. ¡°Don¡¯t ask about their family.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia agreed obediently. She thought for a moment and told him about Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s brother.


    Xiao Ruoshui was certain that Shen Yijia was not a talkative person who would tell her about the scandal at home. Unexpectedly, she told her husband about it.


    If she had known that she would be like this, Xiao Ruoshui would definitely not have said a word.


    Shen Yijia did not feel burdened at all. Her beautiful husband was not an outsider, so of course she could say it.


    Song Jingchen knew that she wasn¡¯t curious about the Yuan family, so he relaxed. He frowned and said, ¡°According to my understanding, Xiao Qirui isn¡¯t someone who doesn¡¯t know what¡¯s important and is willful.¡±


    He used two words in a row, showing his surprise at this matter.


    ¡°Are you very familiar with him?¡± Shen Yijia was very puzzled. Logically speaking, her beautiful husband had grown up in the capital and should have many friends, but she had never heard him mention anyone.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°Not really. He¡¯s a few years older than me. We¡¯ve hunted together a few times.¡±


    ¡°Then who are you familiar with?¡± Shen Yijia was suddenly curious about this.


    Song Jingchen found it funny to see her so eager and full of desire for knowledge. He coughed lightly. ¡°No, your husband is too outstanding. I have no friends.¡±


    He wanted to tease her, but after saying that, he felt a little embarrassed and the tips of his ears turned red.


    However, Shen Yijia did not notice it. Instead, she nodded in realization. ¡°No wonder.¡±


    Then, she threw herself into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms with a pained expression and patted his back gently. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    It was said that it was lonely at the top. Just like in her previous life, as a hospital tyrant, she had fought countless battles and bled to obtain it.


    Outstanding people did not need friends!


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    A man¡¯s low laughter came from the carriage. The passers-by could not help but look sideways.


    South Wind stood awkwardly by the carriage, wondering if he should remind the two masters inside that it was time to get out.


    Fortunately, this laughter did not last long. The curtain of the carriage was lifted from the inside. Shen Yijia stuck her head out and thought of something. She turned around and asked, ¡°From the conversation between Miss Yuan and her servant just now, is she also not favored at home?¡±


    The word ¡°also¡± made Song Jingchen feel uncomfortable.


    Fortunately, this girl had already left the Shen family when she transmigrated.


    However, when he thought about how this girl had not had a good day with him, he felt even worse.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia called out worriedly when she saw his expression suddenly turn ugly.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and explained, ¡°Eldest Miss Yuan was born from the original wife of the Yuan family¡¯s master. She was brought up by Old Master Yuan.¡±


    Once, when Old Master Yuan drank with someone, he said, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that my eldest granddaughter isn¡¯t a man. Otherwise, my Yuan family wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this.¡±


    He must have expected the Yuan Family¡¯s decline at that time. His words were filled with helplessness.


    When this sentence first spread, Eldest Miss Yuan had also been popular in the capital for a period of time. If not for the fact that she had an engagement early on, there would have been many people who wanted to marry her.


    However, it did not take long for her to disappear. It was obvious that Eldest Madam Yuan, Miss Yuan¡¯s stepmother, was involved.


    ¡°Then Xiao Qirui really doesn¡¯t know how to cherish it.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks.


    Perhaps because Eldest Miss Yuan¡¯s background was too similar to the original host¡¯s, Shen Yijia could not help but stand on her side.


    Although she didn¡¯t know how powerful Old Master Yuan was, someone who could support a family must be very outstanding. Therefore, she naturally thought of Eldest Miss Yuan as an outstanding person.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°Alright, Xiao Qirui can¡¯t cancel this marriage just because he wants to. Don¡¯t worry about others.¡±


    What he did not say was that even if General Xiao could not dissuade his son and agreed to annul the engagement, with the actions of those people from the Yuan family, it would be unreasonable not to take the opportunity to ask for 100,000 or 80,000 taels of silver.


    Therefore, the only person who would be hurt from the beginning to the end would be Miss Yuan. However, what did this have to do with him?


    Shen Yijia thought that it was indeed none of her business and sighed.


    The shop assistant at the copper shop was originally wondering which insensible person had blocked the carriage at his door for a long time. He was about to go out and ask her to stop further away when Shen Yijia came down.

 Chapter 494 - 494 Yuan Family (3)

    494 Yuan Family (3)


    As soon as he saw Shen Yijia, the dark-faced shop assistant immediately put on a smile. ¡°Oh my, Madam, you¡¯re here. The ice mirror you ordered is ready. We¡¯re just waiting for you to pick it up.¡±


    The two ice mirrors were as tall as Shen Yijia¡¯s thighs and had four wheels under them. They were especially eye-catching in the shop. She could see them at a glance without the shop assistant pointing them out.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    Actually, it was already a little late to use the ice mirror. The temperature in the capital would drop in mid-August, which was about half a month away.


    !!


    However, seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s excited expression, Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t bear to hurt her.


    In any case, this thing could still be used to store hot water or charcoal in winter.


    Shen Yijia was not dissatisfied with anything. She immediately paid generously. She got the money from the court and from Madam Chen. She was not short of money at all now. Most importantly, she bought what she wanted.


    The shopkeeper happily took the stack of banknotes. At this time, there were not many people who had ordered ice mirrors. Shen Yijia asked for two at once. She could be considered a big customer. It cost nearly a thousand taels of silver.


    Noticing that the waiter was still staring at the banknotes in his hand, the shopkeeper kicked him angrily. ¡°What are you waiting for? Hurry up and help this madam carry the things into the carriage.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll do it myself.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand to stop him. She would carry her things herself.


    The shopkeeper wanted to say that this ice mirror was a little heavy, but Shen Yijia easily picked it up and carried it away.


    The shopkeeper and the waiter opened their mouths at the same time. It took them a long time to close them.


    At the same time, they looked at Song Jingchen, who had a helpless expression.


    ¡°Your wife is too valiant.¡± they thought.


    Song Jingchen inexplicably thought of the first time he was picked up by Shen Yijia. At that time, his expression was probably similar to these two people.


    He glanced at the other ice mirror, pursed his lips, and walked over.


    He reached out and raised his breath!


    ¡°Yes, very good. I didn¡¯t move it.¡± he thought.


    The shopkeeper and the waiter looked at him with disdain.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He used 30% of his internal energy and finally picked up the ice mirror.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. It wasn¡¯t too embarrassing.


    However, after taking a few steps, Shen Yijia returned. She frowned and took the ice mirror from Song Jingchen. Her heart ached. ¡°This thing is so heavy. Let me do it.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Isn¡¯t there something wrong here?¡±


    The shopkeeper and shop assistant thought to themselves, ¡°This reveals a lot of information.¡±


    After Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen got into the carriage for a long time, the shopkeeper and the waiter were still standing on the spot, looking in the direction the carriage had left.


    Suddenly, the shop assistant slapped his forehead. ¡°I was wondering why that Madam looked so familiar. Isn¡¯t she the Second Miss of the Shen family who was framed by her biological father and sued in court?¡±


    The shopkeeper asked, ¡°So who is that handsome man?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master Song.¡±


    Therefore, the rumor that Eldest Young Master Song¡¯s wife was extremely strong and that he was like a delicate flower at home spread like a gust of wind.


    At this moment, the Shen family, who had stopped for a few days, had something to say.


    ¡°That girl is very powerful. How can we bully her? Previously, we said that she came to our house to hit people and steal money, but you didn¡¯t believe us.¡±


    The commoners said, ¡°Tsk, how can there be someone born with great strength? Second Miss Shen must have practiced too much from doing hard labor when she was young. She must have suffered a lot when she was young. Your Shen family is really inhumane. Second Miss Shen is so pitiful.¡±


    The Shen family was speechless.


    Shen Yijia laughed when she heard Sister Huan¡¯s imitation. You might not believe it, but she was really born with extraordinary strength.


    With a smile, she turned to look at Song Jingchen¡¯s strange expression. She stopped smiling and tilted her head. ¡°Delicate Master Song?¡±


    The entire family was instantly amused.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    That night, Song Jingchen let Shen Yijia see if he was a delicate flower.


    The next day, when Shen Yijia woke up, her hands were still trembling. Her beautiful husband was bullying her.


    She woke up late. Mo Yuan sent the children to the academy. Madam Li was rushing to make clothes for the family in the central room.


    She was extremely hungry and went straight to the kitchen to look for food. Madam Li had indeed saved breakfast for her.


    She was eating spoonful after spoonful of porridge when Xiao Ruoshui came over.


    Seeing her awkward expression, Xiao Ruoshui asked with concern, ¡°Is your hand injured?¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and put down the spoon. She picked up the bowl with both hands and poured it into her mouth. After finishing it, she wiped her mouth with her sleeve and said, ¡°You don¡¯t understand. You¡¯ll know after you get married.¡±


    There was no need to tell outsiders about the joys of the boudoir. Her beautiful husband had said so.


    Xiao Ruoshui had a strange expression. She had only heard of people with weak legs after marriage, but she had never heard of anyone with sore hands.


    ¡°Why are you here again?¡± Shen Yijia shook her hand. She felt that Xiao Ruoshui was up to no good.


    After confirming that her hand was fine, Xiao Ruoshui said, ¡°Come out with me.¡±


    Because of Xiao Qirui, General Xiao and his wife relaxed their control over her. If not for the fact that the timing was wrong, Xiao Ruoshui would have thanked Xiao Qirui.

 Chapter 495 - 495 Disfigured (1)

    495 Disfigured (1)


    ¡°What are we doing here?¡±


    The carriage entered a small alley in the south of the city and turned into another small alley. Finally, it stopped in front of a small two-story noodle shop.


    The noodle shop was a little remote. If not for the fact that she was familiar with the people nearby, not many people would have been able to find it.


    Xiao Ruoshui got out of the car and looked at the words ¡°noodle shop¡± on the sign. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°Noodles please.¡±


    !!


    With that, she took out a piece of silver from her pouch and was about to give it to the coachman.


    Mo Yuan had rushed the family¡¯s carriage to send Brother Hao and the others off, but they had yet to return. Xiao Ruoshui also said that she did not want to take the general¡¯s residence¡¯s carriage, so this carriage was rented.


    It was the most ordinary green cloth carriage that Shen Yijia had seen Shen Pingxiu in.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°You don¡¯t look like you¡¯re here to eat noodles.¡± she thought.


    Before she could figure out why Xiao Ruoshui brought her here from afar, Shen Yijia quickly snatched the silver from Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s hand. ¡°Wait.¡±


    The coachman¡¯s outstretched hand paused.


    Xiao Ruoshui was also a little stunned. Seeing Shen Yijia take out her pouch, she thought that she didn¡¯t want to spend her money.


    ¡°Oh my, it¡¯s not much money. I¡¯ll just pay¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, before she could finish, Shen Yijia placed her piece of silver into her pouch and counted out 30 copper coins.


    ¡°We agreed on thirty copper coins. Count them.¡± Shen Yijia handed the copper coins to the coachman.


    The coachman was speechless.


    The corners of Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you return that silver to me?¡± she thought.


    After paying, Shen Yijia put the pouch back into her pocket with a clear conscience.


    The piece of silver that Xiao Ruoshui had given out just now was at least two taels of silver.


    The coachman looked at Shen Yijia disdainfully. The carriage did not turn around anymore. The coachman waved his whip and left.


    How could a rich family be so stingy? He had learned something new.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t have change, tell me. I do.¡± Shen Yijia patted her chest and said generously.


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    There were five or six tables in the lobby of the noodle shop. The two of them found an empty seat and sat down.


    At this moment, there were guests sitting inside. Other than the sound of conversation, there was only the sound of noodles being slurped.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the bowl in front of the guests at the neighboring table. It did not look especially delicious. It looked ordinary.


    Xiao Ruoshui had eaten all kinds of delicious food. How could she have come all the way here just for this bowl of noodles? Shen Yijia was even more certain that she was not here just to eat noodles.


    She had a bold guess.


    Thinking of that possibility, Shen Yijia widened her eyes and looked around. She leaned in front of Xiao Ruoshui and asked in a low voice, ¡°Could this be your brother¡¯s woman?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui reached out and covered Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth. She nodded.


    After knowing about the existence of such a woman, General Xiao interrogated Xiao Qirui about who she was and where she was.


    However, Xiao Qirui refused to say anything even though his back was lacerated by General Xiao.


    Xiao Qirui had grown up in the military camp. He was a strict and well-behaved person.


    Not to mention how angry General Xiao was, even Xiao Ruoshui found it unbelievable that such a thing had suddenly happened.


    Based on her understanding of her brother, she knew that he had an unmarried fianc¨¦e. He would definitely not be involved with another woman.


    After all, so many years had passed. There was no reason for him to suddenly fall for someone else when she was about to get married.


    This was really not something Xiao Qirui would do.


    It had to be known that Xiao Qirui was already supposed to be married last year. Back then, the daughter of the Yuan family had to observe the filial piety. Not wanting to delay him, he even asked someone to send a message to the general¡¯s residence to propose an annulment. It was Xiao Qirui who personally told the person who came to pass the message that they could wait.


    He said this not because he had feelings for the Yuan family¡¯s girl, but because he was a man of his word.


    However, looking at how he protected that woman so tightly, not only did he break his promise, but he was also willing to fall out with his family to protect his love.


    It had only been a short while, but the entire Xiao family had already become gloomy because of him. Madam Xiao sighed all day. Because of this, General Xiao did not step into the main courtyard for a few days and stayed in his concubine¡¯s room every day.


    That little b*tch, Xiao Ruoqian, was so smug.


    Looking at the situation at home, Xiao Ruoshui was extremely anxious.


    She knew this place because she interrogated one of Xiao Qirui¡¯s followers last night.


    The follower did not dare to tell General Xiao because he was afraid that General Xiao would kill this woman in anger. However, he had no such worries about Xiao Ruoshui.


    On the contrary, the follower also hoped that Xiao Ruoshui could persuade Xiao Qirui.

 Chapter 496 - 496 Disfigured (2)

    496 Disfigured (2)


    ¡°That woman has too many thoughts, but Eldest Young Master doesn¡¯t listen to me at all.¡± The follower was beaten up. He lay on the bed and complained to Xiao Ruoshui.


    As the two of them whispered, a woman in a cotton dress and an apron came out of the kitchen with a bowl of noodles.


    Looking at her figure alone, this woman could be considered graceful. Looking further up¡­


    Alright, she had a thick black veil on her face, revealing only her almond-shaped eyes. She couldn¡¯t see anything else.


    !!


    The woman placed the noodles in front of a guest before turning around to entertain the two of them.


    Usually, the people who came here to eat noodles were usually from nearby families. Coupled with the fact that the people living in the south of the city were not rich, Shen Yijia and Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes looked out of place here.


    The woman paused and wiped her hands on her apron cautiously before saying, ¡°What would the two of you like to eat?¡±


    The woman¡¯s voice was very gentle.


    Xiao Ruoshui frowned and said coldly, ¡°Two bowls of plain noodles.¡±


    She came today to see who could charm Xiao Qirui. She was not here to eat noodles.


    Shen Yijia did not say anything. She was not picky about food.


    The woman smiled awkwardly. ¡°Please wait a moment.¡±


    ¡°Man, your business is getting better and better. It¡¯s time to consider hiring a companion. Otherwise, how can you handle it alone?¡± The middle-aged man at the neighboring table slurped a mouthful of noodles and suggested.


    She smiled and shook her head. ¡°No need. I can do it alone.¡±


    The middle-aged man sighed. ¡°You¡¯re so stubborn.¡±


    Feng Manman smiled and said, ¡°Uncle Li, eat. I¡¯ll go get busy first.¡±


    ¡°Hey, go ahead. I¡¯ll put the money on this table later.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Shen Yijia and Xiao Ruoshui looked at each other and saw that the man called Uncle Li was about to finish eating.


    Shen Yijia leaned over and asked, ¡°Uncle, are you familiar with the owner of this shop?¡±


    ¡°We both live in this area. How can we not be familiar with each other?¡± Uncle Li took a mouthful of noodles and wiped his mouth with his sleeve. He sized up the two of them and continued, ¡°The two of you don¡¯t look like people who would come to such a place to eat noodles.¡±


    Not only were they dressed well, but they were also quite good-looking.


    Shen Yijia laughed. ¡°We were passing by and happened to be hungry. I saw that this noodle shop was quite clean, so I came in.¡±


    This was the truth. This noodle shop was clean inside and out, in stark contrast to a messy alley.


    Uncle Li did not suspect anything and continued to eat the noodle soup.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at Xiao Ruoshui, indicating that she should ask her questions. The latter pressed her palms together and mouthed the words ¡°please¡±.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and scratched her head. ¡°I heard you talking to that boss just now. Is she the only one in this shop?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. She is also a pitiful girl. When she heard that her hometown was in trouble, she originally came to the capital with her family to seek refuge with her relatives.¡±


    Unexpectedly, when she arrived in the capital, her family was gone. Not only was she the only one left, but her relatives were also not good people. Seeing that she was good-looking, they actually wanted to sell her to such a despicable place.


    Fortunately, she was saved by a passing benefactor. That benefactor was a really good person. After saving her, he even lent money to Man¡¯er to set up a shop here to do business.


    ¡°She is beautiful and diligent. Many people came to propose to her. The marriage was about to be arranged, but unfortunately¡­¡±


    Uncle Li shook his head.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She felt that it would be a pity if this uncle didn¡¯t tell a story.


    He spoke in a cadence and fluctuated.


    She seemed to be able to imagine this woman¡¯s tortuous life. It made her feel a little sympathetic, but in the end, it whetted her appetite.


    Uncle Li looked at Shen Yijia strangely, and Shen Yijia immediately smiled.


    He continued, ¡°This isn¡¯t a secret. You saw the veil on Man¡¯s face, right? It¡¯s so hot, but she still brought such a thick thing. She was disfigured because she saved someone.¡±


    Thinking of something, he shivered. ¡°That face has been cut a few times. It¡¯s the kind that children have nightmares about. Because of this, the family who was engaged to her back then changed their minds.¡±


    At this point, he sighed and shook his head. He took out five copper coins and placed them on the table. ¡°My neighbors also feel sorry for her. They come here from time to time to take care of her business.¡±


    Otherwise, it was just a bowl of noodles. It wasn¡¯t like they couldn¡¯t eat it at home.

 Chapter 497 - 497 Disfigured (3)

    497 Disfigured (3)


    Uncle Li left with his hands behind his back. Shen Yijia looked at Xiao Ruoshui, who had an ugly expression, and poked her forehead. ¡°Why are you in a daze?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui pursed her lips and placed a piece of silver on the table. She sighed and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go back first.¡±


    ¡°The noodles haven¡¯t arrived yet.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened.


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll treat you to a big meal later.¡±


    Shen Yijia weighed the noodles and the feast. She decisively put away Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s silver and exchanged it for her ten copper coins.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    Not long after the two of them left, Feng Manman walked out with two bowls of noodles. Seeing no one, she looked around the hall in confusion.


    At this moment, most of the guests in the lobby had left, leaving only a very honest-looking man.


    Seeing this, the man said, ¡°Those two girls might have something on and left. Man¡¯er, sell the two bowls of noodles in your hands to me. I¡¯ll bring them back for your aunt and nephew to eat. I¡¯ll bring the bowls back to you later.¡±


    Feng Manman noticed the copper coins on the table and smiled. ¡°Alright, but there¡¯s no need for the money. The customers have already paid for these two bowls of noodles.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ve gained a lot today.¡± The man happily took two bowls of noodles from her and left.


    Feng Manman smiled and began to clear the table.


    At this moment, there was the sound of hooves outside the door. A tall man with cold and resolute facial features strode in.


    ¡°Brother Xiao, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Are you all right?¡±


    They both spoke at the same time.


    Feng Manman chuckled. She noticed the thin sweat on the man¡¯s forehead and wiped her hands on her apron. She took out a handkerchief and tiptoed to wipe the man¡¯s sweat.


    Xiao Qirui subconsciously took a step back to avoid the woman¡¯s hand.


    Disappointment flashed past Feng Manman¡¯s eyes.


    Xiao Qirui noticed it and looked guilty. He took the handkerchief from Feng Manman and explained, ¡°You¡¯ve been tired all morning. I¡¯ll do it myself.¡±


    ¡°How tiring can it be to wipe your sweat?¡± Feng Manman retorted softly. After saying that, she seemed to realize that it was inappropriate to say this. She was so nervous that her almond-shaped eyes were filled with tears. She changed the topic and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. My uncle¡¯s family no longer dares to find trouble with me.¡±


    Xiao Qirui sighed and stuffed the handkerchief back into her hand. He bent down.


    Feng Manman paused and raised her hand to carefully wipe Xiao Qirui¡¯s sweat.


    Looking at the man¡¯s handsome face, Feng Man¡¯s heart beat faster. She retracted her hand. ¡°Alright, I¡¯m done.¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten breakfast yet, right? I¡¯ll make you a bowl of noodles.¡±


    Xiao Qirui stopped her. ¡°Stop working. I¡¯ll leave in a while.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Feng Manman lowered her eyes, her eyes filled with reluctance.


    Xiao Qirui rubbed his forehead and looked around. ¡°Did you see any strange people today?¡±


    ¡°Strange people?¡± Feng Manman tilted her head and thought for a moment. ¡°Is it strange that two well-dressed women ordered two bowls of noodles and left without eating?¡±


    ¡°Two?¡± Xiao Qirui frowned. ¡°They didn¡¯t say anything to you, right?¡±


    Feng Manman shook her head. ¡°They didn¡¯t say anything.¡±


    Thinking of something, she reached out and touched her face. She said enviously, ¡°Those two women are very good-looking.¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart tightened. He grabbed her wrist. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. If not for saving me¡­¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with you.¡± Feng Manman quickly interrupted him. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t saved me in the beginning, I would have committed suicide long ago.¡±


    ¡°You saved my life in the first place. As long as I can save you, I¡¯m willing to die, let alone disfigure myself.¡±


    With that, she glanced at the man¡¯s hand and lowered her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m very grateful that the heavens gave me this opportunity.¡±


    Two years ago, Xiao Qirui met Feng Manman, who had escaped from a brothel. Saving her was as easy as lifting a finger.


    At that time, she said that she wanted to sell herself as a slave. The Xiao family did not lack a maidservant, so he naturally refused.


    Thinking that it was not easy for her to be alone, he gave her some money to settle down.


    Xiao Qirui did not take Feng Manman¡¯s words to heart.


    Later on, he happened to pass by and saw someone causing trouble in a noodle shop. Only then did he know that she had opened it with the money he had given her. The person causing trouble was his uncle¡¯s family, who had wanted to sell Feng Manman into a brothel.


    Xiao Qirui helped her out. In order to prevent that family from coming again, he would occasionally pass by and eat a bowl of noodles.


    Originally, their relationship had stopped there. Unexpectedly, one night four months ago, he was surrounded and attacked.


    The person who came was extraordinary. He was no match for the attackers and was seriously injured. When he was escaping, he bumped into Feng Manman, who was feeding wild cats at the entrance of the alley. She ignored the danger and stood in front of him.


    Fortunately, the city guards arrived in time and saved their lives.


    Actually, apart from her face, she also had several sword wounds on her body.


    Later on, the engagement was canceled because of her disfigurement.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the girl in front of him who had suffered but still maintained a kind heart. He felt quite upset.


    How could he let such a girl be hurt again?


    Feng Manman was a little embarrassed by his gaze. She struggled a few times and pulled her hand out.


    ¡°Oh right, wait a moment.¡±


    She turned around and went upstairs. Soon, she came down with a stack of rice paper.


    ¡°These are the words you taught me to write the last time you were here. You haven¡¯t been here for the past few days. I¡¯ve written so much. Help me see if I¡¯ve improved.¡±


    Xiao Qirui took them and looked at them one by one. ¡°You¡¯ve improved a lot.¡±


    Feng Manman smiled. ¡°Then teach me to write something else when you¡¯re free next time.¡±


    Xiao Qirui glanced at her and nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±

 Chapter 498 - 498 The Truth (1)

    498 The Truth (1)


    ¡°Four months ago, my brother was seriously injured.¡± Xiao Ruoshui looked at the person opposite her who had eaten her fill and rubbed her stomach.


    Shen Yijia nodded and summoned the waiter. She ordered the dishes she thought were delicious again.


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯re not full yet?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and said, ¡°Pack it up.¡±


    !!


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s breath was stuck in her throat. In the end, she gritted her teeth. ¡°Can¡¯t you tell that I¡¯m in a bad mood?¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her hand and asked the waiter to quickly instruct the kitchen to cook. Then, she looked at Xiao Ruoshui, who was furious. ¡°I know.¡±


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Without waiting for her to finish, Shen Yijia quickly poured a cup of tea and stuffed it into her hand. She raised her eyebrows and said, ¡°I guessed it. The benefactor who saved that woman was your brother. Then, that woman was disfigured because of your brother and even lost her marriage. She might not be able to get married in the future. With your brother¡¯s personality, he will definitely feel responsible for her, right?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui nodded in a daze. ¡°Why are you so smart?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia smiled proudly. ¡°I¡¯ve thought of a way.¡±


    Four hours later, Xiao Ruoshui returned home in high spirits and was dumbfounded.


    In the courtyard, a row of bruised and battered guards knelt. From afar, one could hear the sound of whips whipping flesh coming from the main hall.


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s heart skipped a beat and she quickly walked in.


    As expected, she saw her good brother kneeling there silently. Her father was waving his whip at him with a livid expression.


    Two broken whips had even been thrown to the ground at the side. It was obvious why they were broken.


    Her mother stood at the side and gritted her teeth to hold back her tears. She glanced at Xiao Ruoqian and her daughter¡¯s happy expressions.


    Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth in anger. Without thinking, she pulled out her long whip and blocked General Xiao¡¯s whip.


    The two long whips collided with a bang.


    General Xiao was stunned and his tiger eyes widened. ¡°How dare you?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui also widened her eyes. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m presumptuous. Father, do you want to beat Big Brother to death? Then don¡¯t use a whip. Just cut him down to save your strength and chase Mother and me out. Anyway, you¡¯re still young. It¡¯s not difficult for you to work hard to give birth to a son with Aunt Qiao. When you¡¯re old, he can inherit your mantle.¡±


    With that, Xiao Ruoshui really took out a dagger and threw it at Xiao Qirui¡¯s feet.


    Madam Xiao¡¯s lips trembled. She walked over and slapped Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s back. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? That¡¯s your biological brother.¡±


    General Xiao was also furious. He loosened his grip and the whip fell to the ground. He pointed at Xiao Ruoshui and was speechless for a long time.


    Auntie Qiao quickly went over and helped him sit down. She smoothed his back and served him tea. ¡°General, calm down. Eldest Miss is still young and insensible.¡±


    Xiao Ruoqian also went up to him. ¡°That¡¯s right, Father. I just feel sorry for Big Brother. I didn¡¯t mean to disobey you¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up, you two.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, you two.¡±


    The father and daughter spoke at the same time. They looked at each other and snorted coldly before turning away.


    Concubine Qiao and Xiao Ruoqian froze and their eyes turned red.


    General Xiao was also dizzy from Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s anger. He took a deep breath and waved his hand. ¡°Concubine Qiao, go back to your courtyard with Qian¡¯er first.¡±


    ¡°General,¡± Auntie Qiao bit her lower lip and called out indignantly.


    No matter how nice it sounded in her room, General Xiao never let the mother and daughter be present when it came to serious matters.


    It was because she was a concubine and her daughter was a concubine¡¯s daughter.


    He had always been very clear about the differences between the legitimate wife and the concubines.


    General Xiao¡¯s face darkened.


    Auntie Qiao¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She did not dare to dawdle anymore and pulled Xiao Ruoqian out of the main hall.


    After they left, General Xiao slammed the table. ¡°Do you know what good thing your brother did again?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui glanced at Xiao Qirui strangely and muttered, ¡°How would I know?¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± General Xiao snorted and pointed at Xiao Qirui. ¡°He injured the guard and ran out alone.¡±


    ¡°If you can attack your own people for that woman now, will you kill your father for that woman in the future?¡± The more General Xiao thought about it, the angrier he became. He stood up and kicked Xiao Qirui.


    Previously, he had thought that if this unfilial son really couldn¡¯t let go of that woman, he could agree to wait until Xiao Qirui married Yuan Yuwan before marrying that woman as a concubine.


    After today¡¯s incident, General Xiao had completely changed his mind. Not to mention a general who would lead troops into battle in the future, even an ordinary man could not be led by the nose by a woman.

 Chapter 499 - 499 The Truth (2)

    499 The Truth (2)


    Xiao Ruoshui covered her ears from his roar. She thought of something and widened her eyes.


    Could it be that Xiao Qirui knew¡­


    Seeing that she no longer talked back, General Xiao¡¯s anger finally dissipated a little.


    It was impossible to hit his daughter. He looked at Xiao Qirui with a dark gaze. ¡°You¡¯re a stubborn person. It¡¯s useless for me to hit you. Then continue to kneel in the ancestral hall. Come out when you¡¯ve thought it through, but it¡¯s impossible to break off the engagement with the Yuan family.¡±


    Xiao Qirui lowered his eyes and stood up without a word. He turned around and took two steps before staggering.


    ¡°Rui¡¯er¡­¡± Madam Xiao¡¯s face was filled with heartache. She and Xiao Ruoshui supported him from both sides.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to help him? Let him walk on his own. As a son, he¡¯s disobedient and unfilial. As a man, he¡¯s treacherous.¡±


    These words were too heartbreaking. Madam Xiao glared at him with red eyes. If not for her rationality, she really wanted to question who had betrayed her.


    However, she could not say this. Once she said it, the last relationship between the couple would be gone.


    General Xiao felt a little embarrassed by her gaze, and the rest of his words were stuck in his throat.


    He glanced at Xiao Qirui¡¯s lacerated back and strode away with a dark expression.


    ¡°Rui¡¯er, you¡¯re muddle-headed.¡± As soon as General Xiao left, Madam Xiao seemed to have lost her last breath of vitality and fell dejected.


    She looked at her son, whom she had always been proud of, in disappointment and said with heartache, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you and that woman have experienced, but have you ever thought about Yuwan? What will she do if you break off the engagement?¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyelids twitched. Unexpectedly, the image of the woman kneeling piously in front of the Buddha statue to pray for her family appeared in his mind.


    Although he had always known that he had a fianc¨¦e, that was the first time he had seen her.


    Later on, when Old Master Yuan passed away, he came to pay his respects. The woman knelt in the mourning hall in plain clothes, as if she had lost her soul.


    He, who had always adhered to the rules, couldn¡¯t help but pat her shoulder and comfort her. ¡°You still have me.¡±


    The woman, whose eyes were originally empty, instantly cried.


    Unexpectedly, the next day, she sent someone to send him a letter. There was only a short sentence on it.


    ¡°Young General is a good person. He really shouldn¡¯t have gotten involved with the Yuan family.¡±


    The handwriting was elegant and clean.


    She had already thought of a reason for him to withdraw the engagement. She only needed to use the excuse that she had to observe mourning.


    The scene in his mind turned to the person who had ruined her life because of her disfigurement. Xiao Qirui closed his eyes in pain and lowered his head, not daring to look at Mrs. Xiao.


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­ a good girl. She¡¯ll definitely be able to find a better man than me.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Madam Xiao raised her hand in anger, but seeing that there was not a single piece of good meat on him, she did not know where to start.


    Xiao Ruoshui reminded her, ¡°Mother, let¡¯s get someone to apply medicine for Big Brother first. Otherwise, Father will send someone over later.¡±


    Madam Xiao glanced at the stubborn Xiao Qirui and could only call for help.


    No matter what, the person who understood you the best would always be your ¡°enemy.¡± As expected of Xiao Ruoshui, who had fought with General Xiao since she was young. As soon as the servant applied the medicine on Xiao Qirui, a few guards came in and escorted him to the ancestral hall.


    Xiao Ruoshui sent Madam Xiao back to the main courtyard first and pinched the small box under her sleeve. She rolled her eyes and said, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll persuade Big Brother.¡±


    Madam Xiao rubbed her forehead tiredly and waved her hand. ¡°Go.¡±


    After Xiao Qirui broke out of the residence, General Xiao directly sent a team of soldiers to surround the ancestral hall.


    These soldiers were different from ordinary guards. They had really killed people and seen blood.


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless. She suddenly felt that her father had gone easy on her in the past.


    ¡°Eldest Miss, the general has orders not to let anyone in.¡±


    Looking at the person blocking her way, Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth. After coaxing and pestering for a long time, she finally managed to buy enough time.


    The ancestral hall door creaked open and closed.


    Looking at the person kneeling there, Xiao Ruoshui called out weakly, ¡°Big Brother.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t look for her. She doesn¡¯t know anything,¡± Xiao Qirui said indifferently without turning around.


    Actually, after the incident, Xiao Qirui had never thought of marrying Feng Manman. He only wanted to do his best to protect her for the rest of her life.


    However, he was not a fool. After spending a few months together, it was impossible for him not to see the longing in Feng Manman¡¯s eyes.

 Chapter 500 - 500 The Truth (3)

    500 The Truth (3)


    She pretended to be fine when facing him. There were a few times when he saw her crying alone. Coupled with the gossip around him, the guilt in his heart reached its peak.


    Even at that time, he was still pretending to be mute. He went around looking for scar removal medicine to help her remove those ferocious scars.


    However, it was useless.


    It was not until a while ago, the day before General Xiao suggested booking a date for the marriage with Miss Yun.


    He sent the medicine over and bumped into the drunk Feng Manman, although she didn¡¯t remember it after she woke up.


    However, he remembered that she threw herself into his arms and cried, saying that no one would want her anymore.


    At that time, he suddenly woke up. He knew that it was impossible to remove those scars, but he was still looking for medicine.


    Including when she said that she wanted to read, he taught her how to read.


    All he did was to ease the guilt in his heart.


    However, this was not enough to make up for it.


    He had caused her to lose her marriage and ruined her life. He owed her this. He should take responsibility.


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes. If this person in front of her wasn¡¯t her biological brother, she wouldn¡¯t have bothered.


    She walked over and squatted down beside Xiao Qirui. ¡°You know Father¡¯s temper better than anyone. Even if you cancel your marriage with Sister Yuwan, he won¡¯t agree to let you marry her.¡±


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and did not say anything.


    Xiao Ruoshui was furious and said angrily, ¡°Are you really going to abandon your mother for a woman? Are you going to fall out with your family because of her?¡±


    Xiao Qirui still didn¡¯t speak.


    Xiao Ruoshui took a deep breath. She was not angry. This was her biological brother, the person she and her mother could rely on in the future.


    After comforting herself, she took two steps forward and squatted in front of Xiao Qirui to look at him. ¡°I know why you want to marry her. It¡¯s just a few scars, right? Can¡¯t you just treat her?¡±


    Xiao Qirui opened his mouth. ¡°It can¡¯t be cured. I¡¯ve tried.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was delighted. She had guessed correctly.


    She took out a small round box from her pocket. ¡°That¡¯s because you didn¡¯t find a good scar removal medicine. I spent a lot of money to buy this. As long as she uses it, she can definitely remove those scars.¡±


    She had to spend a lot of money on Shen Yijia¡¯s food. She even had to work hard for two hours.


    Xiao Qirui glanced at the porcelain box and was about to say something when the door of the ancestral hall opened. The soldier reminded her, ¡°Eldest Miss, it¡¯s time.¡±


    ¡°Got it, got it,¡± Xiao Ruoshui said angrily.


    However, after confirming that her brother did not like that woman, she was relieved.


    She patted Xiao Qirui¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Stay here. Leave the rest to me.¡±


    After leaving the ancestral hall, Xiao Ruoshui went straight to the small noodle shop.


    There were no guests in the noodle shop. Feng Manman was sitting in the hall, writing.


    When she saw who it was, she was stunned for a moment. She quickly stood up and asked, ¡°Do you want to eat noodles?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui glanced at the brush, ink, paper, and inkstone on the table.


    The paper was top-notch Clear Heart Paper. One piece cost nearly a hundred copper coins.


    There was no need to mention the others.


    Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth. She didn¡¯t need to think to know who gave it to her. Even Xiao Qirui couldn¡¯t bear to use such paper.


    He actually gave it to someone to practice calligraphy.


    This prodigal man!


    Seeing that Xiao Ruoshui was silent and only staring at the table, Feng Manman put away the things in embarrassment.


    ¡°I¡¯m Xiao Qirui¡¯s sister.¡± Xiao Ruoshui went straight to the point.


    Feng Manman paused. ¡°Brother Xiao¡­¡±


    On the other side, Shen Yijia asked Mo Yuan to send Wang Mingan home and patted Brother Hao¡¯er¡¯s head. ¡°You did well.¡±


    Brother Hao turned his head awkwardly.


    He had already written the beginning, but Wang Mingan came to him and said that he wanted to sell the novel.


    He could only bring Wang Mingan home.


    Although his sister-in-law had also praised him, he still felt uncomfortable.


    He thought for a moment and stammered, ¡°Sister-in-law, actually, I wrote one too.¡±


    Moreover, it was definitely not inferior to what Wang Mingan had written!


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned. It took her a long time to react. She smiled and said, ¡°What book did you write?¡±


    Brother Hao blushed and took out the booklet he had written.


    Shen Yijia took it and flipped it open. She read the first few lines and could not help but laugh out loud.


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡± Brother Hao suddenly regretted it.


    Shen Yijia held back her laughter and rubbed Brother Hao¡¯s head. ¡°You wrote well, but you still have to focus on your studies. Our family isn¡¯t short of money now, right?¡±


    It turned out that not everyone could write a novel.

 Chapter 501 - 501 An Incident (1)

    501 An Incident (1)


    After Shen Yijia could not help but laugh, Brother Hao was completely dispirited. No matter how she comforted him, it was useless.


    Shen Yijia could only hand over the heavy responsibility of coaxing him to Sister Huan.


    Although Sister Huan and Brother Hao¡¯s personalities had also changed as they grew older, the natural connection between twins could not be changed.


    After a while, the two of them gathered together and discussed Brother Hao¡¯s story.


    !!


    Most of it was Brother Hao talking. Sister Huan listened with relish and occasionally added a few words.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. Perhaps every child had a burly hero living in their hearts?


    But would anyone really look like that?


    In the noodle shop, Feng Manman looked at the small porcelain box in front of her in a daze.


    ¡°Is Brother Xiao getting married?¡± she thought.


    That¡¯s right. In order to prevent Feng Manman from having thoughts that she shouldn¡¯t have, Xiao Ruoshui didn¡¯t say that Xiao Qirui wanted to break off the engagement and marry her, but he was beaten up by General Xiao.


    She only said that Xiao Qirui was about to get married. Because men and women were wary of each other, she would be in charge of delivering medicine to her in the future.


    ¡°If you encounter any difficulties in the future, come and look for me directly. Don¡¯t look for my brother. Miss Feng should know to avoid arousing suspicion, right?¡± Xiao Ruoshui said indifferently.


    Feng Man¡¯s eyes instantly turned red. ¡°I didn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, I know. You didn¡¯t look for my brother. My brother was worried about you because he felt guilty, so you have to apply this medicine properly. When your face recovers, you can get married and have children normally. That way, my brother won¡¯t have to worry about you anymore.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui felt like the vicious mother-in-law in the book, but she had no choice. She couldn¡¯t let this woman ruin her brother.


    There were many ways to repay kindness. It didn¡¯t necessarily have to involve her brother¡¯s life.


    ¡°I understand. Please help me tell Brother Xiao that he doesn¡¯t have to blame himself. I did everything willingly. Even if my face can¡¯t be cured, it doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Feng Man said with a sobbing tone.


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    She really did not like people who cried like this. They made it seem like she had bullied someone. Besides, she had given them medicine, not poison.


    However, thinking that this person was Xiao Qirui¡¯s savior, Xiao Ruoshui resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She controlled her temper and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, this medicine can definitely help you remove the scars on your face.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui believed in Shen Yijia. Even Shen Yijia praised Mo Yuan¡¯s medical skills. Xiao Ruoshui naturally believed in the ointment made by Mo Yuan.


    Feng Manman pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and bowed to Xiao Ruoshui. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui did not say anything else. She took out a money bag and placed it on the table. She turned around and left the noodle shop.


    She was still in the rented carriage and did not bring a maidservant out.


    Apart from the four of them and the people around Xiao Qirui, even Aunt Qiao and her daughter did not know the details. Everyone in the residence only guessed that he had made a mistake in the army.


    Therefore, this matter was temporarily covered up.


    The carriage had just turned out of the alley when it almost collided with another carriage that was about to turn. Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s body swayed and she frowned as she lifted the curtain. Coincidentally, the curtain of the carriage opposite was also lifted.


    It was a woman about her age.


    Their eyes met. The woman smiled politely at her. Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes and lowered the curtain.


    It was unknown if she had not looked at the almanac when she went out today, but when the carriage turned into Chang¡¯an Avenue, it almost collided with a horse again.


    This time, it was because the other party¡¯s horse was too fast that the coachman pulled the reins in time to prevent a car accident.


    Xiao Ruoshui was in trouble. She lost her balance and hit her head on the carriage, causing her to gasp in pain.


    She was furious. She lifted the curtain and was about to curse, but the other party did not seem to realize it at all. When Xiao Ruoshui stuck her head out, she only saw the back of a man from afar.


    ¡°Are you in a hurry to reincarnate?¡± Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth and cursed softly.


    In fact, it was about the same as reincarnation. The man rode quickly into Xuanwu Street and finally stopped at the Grand Tutor¡¯s residence.


    ¡°I¡¯m from the ancestral residence. I need to see you urgently.¡± The man was in a sorry state and his face was covered in sweat. Without waiting for the gatekeeper to ask, he reported his identity.


    When the gatekeeper heard this, he quickly led her in.


    Grand Tutor Zhao had already instructed him to bring the people from the ancestral residence to see him immediately.

 Chapter 502 - 502 An Incident (2)

    502 An Incident (2)


    ¡°Sir, something happened at the iron mine,¡± the man hurriedly said when he saw him.


    Grand Tutor Zhao had just returned from work and had yet to change out of his official uniform. When he heard this, his heart skipped a beat. ¡°What¡¯s going on? Didn¡¯t I ask you to deal with those people?¡±


    Back then, he had suggested disinheriting the crown prince, causing the entire Duke¡¯s Residence to either be killed or injured. Now that Song Jingchen was back, it was obvious that he wouldn¡¯t let the Zhao family off.


    If his hands were clean, he wouldn¡¯t have to be afraid of Song Jingchen. However, he had a private iron mine.


    !!


    It had to be known that iron was an important material for making weapons. It had always been controlled by the government. It was already a serious crime to hide the iron ore, let alone mine it privately.


    Once the higher-ups found out, the heads of the entire Zhao family would probably be chopped off.


    As a subject, why did he hide iron ore? Did he want to make weapons? What did he want weapons for? Was he trying to rebel?


    Who would believe him if he said no?


    ¡°We were indeed prepared to deal with those miners according to His Excellency¡¯s instructions, but someone leaked the news. A few people escaped when we were unprepared. When we found their houses, they were already gone.¡± As the man spoke, he lowered his head.


    Even if someone accidentally overheard their conversation, their people were everywhere around the mine. If no one saved them, it was impossible for ordinary citizens to escape.


    ¡°Where¡¯s County Magistrate Yang? Is he dead? He can¡¯t even catch a few people?¡± Grand Tutor Zhao said angrily.


    The private mine was only a day¡¯s journey away from the capital, and it was also where his ancestral home was.


    Although it was close, everyone from the county magistrate to the registrar was on their side.


    This was also the reason why no one had discovered it.


    The man lowered his head even more. ¡°There was a sudden fire in the county office. County Magistrate Yang is dead.¡±


    By the time the bailiffs put out the fire, County Magistrate Yang had already been burned beyond recognition.


    Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s pupils constricted and he slumped back in his armchair.


    What he was most worried about had happened.


    ¡°Sir, what should we do now?¡± The man was also afraid. This was a crime worthy of a beheading.


    Madam Zhao looked down. ¡°I¡¯ll think about it carefully. You can leave for now.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    After the man left, Grand Tutor Zhao summoned his personal follower and handed him a letter that he had prepared long ago. ¡°Bring people and place this letter in County Magistrate Yang¡¯s residence. At the same time, everyone who knows about it¡­¡±


    He made a throat-slitting gesture.


    He could not keep this private mine anymore. Now, he could only try his best to wash his hands of it. Otherwise, once he was implicated, that person would not be able to protect him, nor would he appear to protect him.


    Other than the county magistrate, there were only a few trusted aides he had sent to keep an eye on the operation, the so-called insiders.


    At the same time, Song Jingchen also received a letter from Rooster. Looking at the contents, his lips curled into a mocking smile.


    Grand Tutor Zhao! He was even bolder than he had imagined.


    Unfortunately, all the clues were cut off when they reached Grand Tutor Zhao. The master behind him could not be found at all.


    However, he was not in a hurry. A fox had to appear eventually.


    Sooner or later, those people would have to pay back the grudges of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence and the lives of their grandfather and father.


    None of them could escape!


    South Wind stood opposite the desk. When he saw the smile on his face, he inexplicably shivered. He had seen his master¡¯s gentle appearance in front of Young Madam many times. He was not used to such an expression.


    ¡°Hubby, come out quickly.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s voice came from outside the door. The killing intent on Song Jingchen instantly disappeared without a trace. He placed the letter on the candlestick and lit it.


    He pushed open the study door and walked out.


    The sky was about to turn dark. In the courtyard, Shen Yijia was skewering meat on bamboo sticks with Brother Hao and the others.


    The meat was sent by Chu Feng. Shen Yijia only found out after hearing him say it. The beautiful uncle found the capital boring and went to the royal hunting ground.


    Initially, Xuanyuan Ziming and the others were about to return, but because of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s sudden visit, they could only stay there for a few more days before returning today.


    ¡°Hubby, we¡¯ll have roasted meat tonight.¡± Shen Yijia waved the skewered meat and said self-righteously, ¡°You roast it.¡±


    Actually, the meat Mo Yuan roasted was also delicious, but it was different from what her beautiful husband roasted.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled up slightly. ¡°Okay.¡±


    South Wind thought, ¡°It¡¯s indeed different.¡±


    There was a charcoal basin on the table. Shen Yijia found an iron net and placed it on top. Song Jingchen looked at the meat skewers arranged beside him, then at the iron net.

 Chapter 503 - 503 An Incident (3)

    503 An Incident (3)


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Just put the meat skewers on it.¡±


    ¡°Will roasting like this really taste better than the roasted meat we usually eat?¡± Brother Hao swallowed and asked.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Of course. Why don¡¯t I roast a skewer for you to try first?¡±


    Brother Hao was shocked. ¡°Forget it. Sister-in-law, you¡¯ve been tired for so long. Let Big Brother roast it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Including Mo Yuan and South Wind, there were a total of eight people, so she naturally couldn¡¯t let Song Jingchen roast it alone. Shen Yijia¡¯s hands itched when she saw this. Unwilling to give up, she set up a simple grill and wanted to try it herself.


    In the end, the entire family unanimously rejected her suggestion.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Mo Yuan took a handful of meat skewers expressionlessly and placed them on the table. ¡°Miss, just sit down and rest.¡±


    Sister Huan heaved a sigh of relief and stuffed an ice bowl into Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°That¡¯s right, Sister-in-law. Eat this first. It¡¯s filled with peanuts and candied plums. It¡¯s delicious.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s too obvious?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and scooped up a spoonful of crushed ice before stuffing it into her mouth.


    Song Jingchen found it funny. ¡°Come here, I¡¯ll teach you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was happy.


    No one said anything about it.


    Fortunately, Song Jingchen knew Shen Yijia¡¯s culinary skills. He was really teaching her step by step. He didn¡¯t let her add any seasoning or let her touch the meat skewers alone.


    Shen Yijia really had a strong ability to turn magic into decay when it came to cooking.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I was so lonely!¡±


    The family was eating the fragrant roasted meat when there was a sudden knock on the door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll open the door.¡± Before Shen Yijia could finish speaking, she had already run to the door. She pulled it open. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was standing outside the door, and Lianshan was still beside him.


    Without waiting for Shen Yijia to ask, he continued, ¡°I¡¯ve accompanied the envoy to hunt these past two days and brought back some prey. I brought some over for you to try.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. Why were they sending meat to them one by one? She hadn¡¯t finished the meat sent by that beautiful uncle yet.


    Just as Shen Yijia was in a daze, Shangguan Yu turned around and brought out a cage from the carriage. ¡°I was lucky enough to catch it, so I sent it over.¡±


    In the cage was a snow-white little fox. Its two black eyes were fixed on Shen Yijia, and its furry tail was raised high.


    Shen Yijia stared at the little fox for a long time and frowned. ¡°Its meat doesn¡¯t seem to taste good.¡±


    Shangguan Yu paused.


    ¡°Jiajia, who is it?¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia hadn¡¯t returned for a long time, Song Jingchen followed her out worriedly.


    Seeing that it was Shangguan Yu, the smile on his face faded a little. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Coincidentally, Brother Hao and the others were almost done eating. Seeing that there were guests, Madam Li bowed to Shangguan Yu and brought them back to the backyard.


    For a moment, only the three masters were left in the courtyard.


    Shangguan Yu looked at the remaining roasted meat on the table and smiled. ¡°Looks like my prey arrived too late.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer him. He said indifferently, ¡°Have you eaten dinner? If you haven¡¯t, sit down and eat with us.¡±


    Shangguan Yu didn¡¯t mind that it was leftovers from someone else¡¯s meal at all. He lifted his robe and sat down opposite Song Jingchen. ¡°I happened to be hungry.¡±


    Apart from the small cage, there was also a basket of processed meat.


    They did not bring back much prey from hunting. They had to give the lion¡¯s share to the palace. Coupled with the gifts to the lords¡¯ residences, it was already not bad to have a basket left.


    Shen Yijia did not think that it was too little. She asked Mo Yuan to put the meat in the ice cellar while she sat aside with the little fox and teased it.


    Perhaps because the little fox did not know the dangers of the world, it was not afraid of Shen Yijia at all. After being carried out and placed on the table, it did not know how to run. Instead, it jumped into Shen Yijia¡¯s arms and acted cute.


    Shen Yijia stroked her fluffy fox fur with a resentful expression. ¡°No wonder you were caught. Do you know that if your meat was better, you might not have been able to see the sun tomorrow?¡± she thought.


    The little fox expressed that it did not know. It turned over on Shen Yijia¡¯s lap, revealing her snow-white stomach.


    It was acting cute.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    How could Shen Yijia know that foxes were the most cunning? Knowing that it could not escape, it naturally had to please its master as much as possible.


    Shangguan Yu stopped eating after eating two skewers of roasted meat. He took the tea from Lianshan and rinsed his mouth before saying, ¡°County Magistrate Yang of Songshan County is dead.¡±


    Song Jingchen retracted his gaze from Shen Yijia and his eyes darkened. ¡°Oh? Is that so?¡±


    It was rare for Shangguan Yu not to have a smile on his face. He said seriously, ¡°Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s ancestral residence is in Songshan County. Back then, he came forward to testify against Fifth Brother. I¡¯ve been investigating him for the past two years. Unfortunately, I¡­¡±

 Chapter 504 - 504 Palace Banquet (1)

    504 Palace Banquet (1)


    He paused for a moment and shook his head with a bitter smile. He continued, ¡°Unfortunately, the people I originally sent to Songshan County couldn¡¯t find anything useful.


    ¡°A while ago, my people sent a letter. They discovered that someone was mining privately in Songshan County. Unexpectedly, as soon as they found out about County Magistrate Yang, he died in a fire.¡±


    Song Jingchen picked up the teacup on the table and took a sip. ¡°Perhaps he was silenced.¡±


    The two of them chatted for a while more, but Song Jingchen remained cold.


    Shangguan Yu could feel it. This time, he did not pretend to be deaf and mute as usual. Instead, he pointed it out. ¡°I know that after what happened two years ago, you don¡¯t trust anyone now, but I still hope that I can help.¡±


    In the end, he said, ¡°I went to see Mother a while ago. Her health is getting worse.¡±


    Previously, when she found out about Xunyang City, Song Li began to fall sick. Later on, she barely survived, but she did not recover.


    It was getting late. Shangguan Yu bade farewell. Shen Yijia stuffed the little fox back into the cage and returned it to Lianshan.


    Shangguan Yu paused and smiled. ¡°Sister-in-law, aren¡¯t you keeping it?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and refused. She said in disdain, ¡°No, the meat doesn¡¯t taste good. Even if I peel off the fur, it won¡¯t be enough to make a scarf.¡±


    It¡¯ll be a waste.


    The little fox cowered in its cage.


    Shangguan Yu was speechless and could only bring the little fox away.


    In the blink of an eye, it was the emperor¡¯s birthday. Because the emperor had not established a new empress in the past two years, the position of the central palace was empty. All matters in the harem were handed over to Imperial Concubine Liu, including the emperor¡¯s birthday banquet.


    Although it was a universal celebration, not all officials could participate.


    Only ministers above the third rank could attend the banquet, and they could bring one or two family members.


    Song Jingchen happened to be stuck at the third-grade position, so Shen Yijia could go too.


    The banquet was at night, but after entering the palace, they didn¡¯t just sit down and eat. The women had to follow the other madams to meet the masters of the harem. The ministers had other activities in the front hall. After a long process, it was almost night.


    Madam Li had long prepared the clothes to wear to the palace banquet. She wore a light yellow collared dress. When it was still dark outside, Shen Yijia was dug out of the bed.


    Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze. When she saw that it was Madam Li, she muttered, ¡°Mother, I¡¯m sleepy.¡±


    Madam Li¡¯s heart softened at her soft voice. If not for the fact that she still had some rationality, she would have patted her gently to coax her to sleep.


    She lowered her voice. ¡°Sister Jia, we still have to enter the palace later. You can¡¯t sleep anymore.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and sat up, letting Madam Li and Mo Yuan torture her.


    After changing her clothes, Madam Li helped her tie her hair into a cross bun. When it was time to put on her makeup, Madam Li looked at Shen Yijia nodding off and felt troubled. Shen Yijia had good skin, so she felt that using any rouge or makeup was just redundant.


    After struggling for a while, she only helped her put on some lip gloss.


    Just like that, Song Jingchen carried Shen Yijia into the carriage.


    He originally wanted to explain further, but seeing that she was sleeping so soundly, Song Jingchen could only give up on this thought for the time being.


    When they were almost there, he woke her up. ¡°We¡¯re almost there. Get up and eat something first.¡±


    It was best not to touch any of the food in the palace.


    While Shen Yijia was filling her stomach, Song Jingchen explained what he had already told her.


    After receiving Shen Yijia¡¯s repeated assurance that she would remember it, he was relieved.


    When the carriage arrived at the palace gate, there was already a long line in front. The carriages of the various residences occupied a path in front of the palace gate and advanced slowly.


    If they were nobles or important ministers of the imperial court, they could cut the queue and enter the palace first.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have such privileges in his current position, so he could only line up obediently.


    It was already an hour later when it was their turn.


    Before getting out of the car, Song Jingchen tied a pouch to Shen Yijia¡¯s waist and instructed, ¡°I put some jerky and candied plums inside. If you¡¯re hungry, you can secretly eat some.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re so thoughtful.¡±


    ¡°I went to look for General Xiao previously and asked him to ask Madam Xiao to take care of you. However, the Xiao family should have entered ahead of us. If you encounter them, follow Madam Xiao.¡±


    They were all stuck here. The people in front could not wait for someone behind even if they wanted to. Moreover, the Xiao family¡¯s current status was different.

 Chapter 505 - 505 Palace Banquet (2)

    505 Palace Banquet (2)


    ¡°Got it.¡± Shen Yijia felt that Song Jingchen treated her like a child.


    After alighting from the carriage, there was a young eunuch leading the way at the entrance of the palace. After entering the door, the men and women had to separate. The men went to the front hall, while the women had to go to the back palace through the other door.


    Noticing Song Jingchen¡¯s worried gaze, Shen Yijia grinned at him and blinked. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll definitely be good and not cause trouble.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He inexplicably remembered that she had promised him the same thing the last time she went to Autumn Deer Academy.


    !!


    In the end, she climbed over Madam Qiu¡¯s wall.


    He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Try not to go anywhere less crowded.¡±


    Shen Yijia was about to nod when a cold voice sounded from behind. ¡°Is this Madam Song?¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw a slender girl standing behind her.


    Shen Yijia had seen her once. She was the eldest daughter of the Yuan family.


    However, the two of them didn¡¯t know each other. She glanced at Song Jingchen before nodding.


    Yuan Yuwan bowed to Song Jingchen before explaining, ¡°Ruoshui once mentioned Madam Song to me. If you don¡¯t mind, let¡¯s go in together.¡±


    The Yuan family¡¯s carriage was in front of the Song family. When she got out of the carriage just now, she saw them and did not enter with the rest of the Yuan family.


    Yuan Yuwan had often attended palace banquets with Pavilion Elder Yuan, and Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know when Shen Yijia would meet Madam Xiao after entering. With her around, Song Jingchen was much more relieved. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded with a faint smile.


    In the past, the Yuan family could also cut the queue and enter. However, after a few years, they were barely able to attend the palace banquet.


    Under the guidance of the palace maids, the two of them went to Changchun Palace to pay their respects to the Noble Consort.


    Imperial Concubine Liu was in charge of the phoenix seal now, and the empress dowager was not in the palace. It could be said that she dominated the harem alone. Apart from not having the title of empress, everything else was equivalent to the existence of the empress.


    There were already seven or eight women sitting in the Changchun Palace. They were all smiling and talking to Imperial Concubine Liu.


    As for those with insufficient status, they could enter and pay their respects one after another.


    When Shen Yijia and the other woman entered the hall, all the women looked at them.


    They had all seen the eldest daughter of the Yuan family before. At a glance, everyone¡¯s gazes landed on Shen Yijia. They were either probing, sizing her up, or stunned.


    The reason why they were curious about her was mainly because she was unknown when she was Second Miss Shen. This time, when she returned to the capital, she was framed by her family and sued in court. Everyone wanted to see who she was.


    After sizing her up, many people couldn¡¯t help but think to themselves, ¡°Madam Song is too good-looking.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was worried that Shen Yijia would show her fear under his gaze, so she walked in front of her quickly, blocking some unfriendly gazes.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. There was a hint of confusion in her eyes, but she quickly reacted. She blinked and followed Yuan Yuwan. She looked straight ahead and did not look at the women around her.


    The two of them quickly walked up to Noble Consort Liu and bent their knees to greet her. ¡°Greetings, Noble Consort.¡±


    Madam Li had already strictly taught Shen Yijia how to bow. It was not perfect, but at least there was nothing wrong.


    She felt that she had done a good job, but all the women present had sharp eyes and could tell at a glance that she was unfamiliar.


    Hence, after being stunned, everyone looked at her with more disdain.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to stand on ceremony.¡± Imperial Concubine Liu smiled and raised her hand to get them up.


    Shen Yijia thought that it was time for them to leave.


    Unexpectedly, a girl in a red palace dress and two buns suddenly spoke.


    ¡°I thought that a woman who can marry Master Song would be extremely talented. It turns out that she¡¯s just an idiotic beauty.¡± As the girl spoke, she looked at Shen Yijia with disdain.


    Apart from Princess Linghui, who had fallen in love with Song Jingchen in the past, no one else could be so arrogant in the harem.


    When everyone heard this, they could not help but cover their mouths with a handkerchief. This Princess Linghui was too direct.


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded seriously. ¡°Thank you for the compliment. I know I¡¯m good-looking.¡±


    As for the first part, she ignored it.


    A trace of shock flashed across Imperial Concubine Liu¡¯s face, but she quickly returned to normal. She reprimanded her calmly, ¡°Linghui, don¡¯t spout nonsense.¡±


    Princess Linghui snorted angrily. How was she praising her? Did this person not understand human language?

 Chapter 506 - 506 Palace Banquet (3)

    506 Palace Banquet (3)


    She looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s smug expression.


    She was even angrier. She felt like she had punched cotton.


    However, she also knew that this was not a place to cause trouble, so she didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Princess Linghui had known in the past that she wouldn¡¯t have a chance to marry Song Jingchen, let alone after the incident with the Song family.


    However, she would still hate any woman who married Song Jingchen. In the past, she had mocked Shen Ruyun a lot.


    Therefore, she was only doing this because Shen Yijia was Song Jingchen¡¯s wife.


    As Consort Jing, Shen Ruyun was also here today. However, she was sitting at the back. Seeing that Princess Linghui stopped after saying one sentence, she cursed in her heart. How useless.


    Princess Linghui was not polite at all when she bullied her in the past.


    After Imperial Concubine Liu pretended to reprimand Princess Linghui, she asked the nanny beside her to send Shen Yijia and Yuan Yuwan a brocade bag each before waving them off.


    These brocade pouches were all prepared in advance. They were filled with trinkets that girls liked. If they caught the eye of the imperial concubine, she would give them one.


    However, Shen Yijia and Shen Yijia were clearly not people she liked. At most, she was just trying to comfort Shen Yijia.


    Because Yuan Yuwan was also here, she couldn¡¯t leave her alone.


    After leaving Eternal Spring Palace, Yuan Yuwan looked at the brocade bag in her hand with a faint smile and said, ¡°I took advantage of you today.¡±


    No matter how stupid Shen Yijia was, she knew that Yuan Yuwan said that because she was afraid that she would be embarrassed by what had happened just now, so she deliberately teased her.


    She blinked and praised him sincerely. ¡°You¡¯re very good.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned by her strange words. Then, she burst out laughing. ¡°You¡¯re also very cute. No wonder Ruoshui often talks about you to me.¡±


    What Xiao Ruoshui told her was that Shen Yijia was strong and skilled in martial arts. She hit hard, and she was petty and unreasonable.


    Before she saw her, she thought that she would be a strong person. She did not expect the opposite.


    Shen Yijia did not believe that Xiao Ruoshui would say anything good about her.


    As the two of them spoke, a young girl in front of them was escorted over.


    Ji Yunxi was not wearing a veil today, but the flower bud on her forehead was too recognizable. Shen Yijia recognized it at a glance.


    Although this flower bud could be seen everywhere now, there was still a difference between a fake and a real one.


    Yuan Yuwan pulled Shen Yijia aside and bowed slightly. ¡°Princess Yong¡¯an.¡±


    Ji Yunxi¡¯s gaze paused on Shen Yijia¡¯s face for a moment before looking at Yuan Yuwan. It was unknown what she saw, but a sympathetic expression appeared on her face. She nodded and left.


    Shen Yijia had been paying attention to her, so she naturally saw her expression. She tilted her head and looked at Yuan Yuwan.


    Sympathy? Why should there be sympathy?


    ¡°Is there something on my face?¡± Yuan Yuwan felt a little embarrassed under her gaze. She reached out and stroked her face.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Next, Yuan Yuwan brought Shen Yijia around like a sister-in-law next door.


    If she met someone with a high status, she would bring her far away if she could avoid them. If she couldn¡¯t, she would introduce the other party¡¯s identity in a low voice and bow to her.


    Shen Yijia could still remember one or two of them, but in the end, she was completely stunned.


    She decided not to waste her time thinking about it. She simply followed Yuan Yuwan.


    ¡°Sister Yuwan, Jiajia, why are you here? I¡¯ve been looking for you.¡±


    Before she arrived, the voice had already sounded. It was none other than Xiao Ruoshui, but there was a girl beside her.


    Noticing that Xiao Ruoshui kept rolling her eyes at the girl, Shen Yijia immediately guessed who it was. It was Xiao Ruoqian.


    Xiao Ruoshui ran all the way to the two of them. Xiao Ruoqian gritted her teeth and jogged behind them. She shouted breathlessly, ¡°Sister, walk slower.¡±


    ¡°I told you not to follow me. Why did you have to follow me?¡± Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes again.


    Xiao Ruoqian bit her lip. ¡°Father agreed to let me come.¡±


    When she said this, she looked like she was about to cry. Shen Yijia finally understood why Xiao Ruoshui didn¡¯t like her.


    Apart from being born by his concubine, it was probably related to her personality.


    She didn¡¯t like it either!


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t said that. At the mention of General Xiao, Xiao Ruoshui exploded. ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re amazing. You can beg Father to let you enter the palace with him. Then go look for Father and let him bring you along. Why are you following me?¡±


    Xiao Ruoqian blinked her watery eyes, looking like she was about to cry at any moment.


    Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth. ¡°What is this place? You¡¯re crying. Are you trying to kill our family?¡±


    On such a day, the young lady of the general¡¯s residence was crying in the palace. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that the emperor had passed away and was crying.


    Xiao Ruoqian was so frightened by her reminder that she instantly retracted her tears and looked innocent.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and looked at Yuan Yuwan.


    ¡°How can this be?¡± she thought.


    Impressive.

 Chapter 507 - 507 Contest (1)

    507 Contest (1)


    No matter how much she disliked Xiao Ruoqian, she knew that the palace was not a place to mess around. However, she was afraid that she would cause trouble if she walked around alone, so Xiao Ruoshui could only tacitly let her follow.


    ¡°But Sister Yuwan, why are you walking with Jiajia?¡± Xiao Ruoshui sized up the two of them curiously.


    Yuan Yuwan was already used to Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s shocked expression. She smiled and told her about meeting Shen Yijia.


    In the end, she pursed her lips and smiled. ¡°At first, I wasn¡¯t sure if it was Madam Song, but I really didn¡¯t want to go with them.¡±


    !!


    The women she was talking about were the other women from the Yuan family who had come to attend the palace banquet.


    ¡°That¡¯s good, my mother was invited by Consort Shu to speak. She was worried about Jiajia, so she asked me to come out and look for her.¡± Xiao Ruoshui came to a realization and explained Madam Xiao¡¯s predicament.


    Although Madam Xiao had never seen Shen Yijia before, it was rare for Song Jingchen to ask for a favor. General Xiao and his wife could tell how much he valued this wife.


    Back then, when the Song family was implicated in the rebellion, the emperor quickly convicted the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. Anyone who wasn¡¯t stupid knew that the emperor was determined to attack the Song family.


    It wasn¡¯t that General Xiao didn¡¯t want to help, but he couldn¡¯t. Otherwise, any family member with the surname Xiao would have been implicated back then.


    Although there were many considerations, General Xiao had always felt guilty.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Was she that untrustworthy?


    The three of them chatted as they walked. There were many noble ladies walking in the same direction.


    Shen Yijia asked curiously, ¡°What are they going to do?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui slapped her forehead. ¡°I heard that there¡¯s a martial arts competition at Wuying Hall. Do you want to go over and take a look?¡±


    A martial arts competition?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she quickly nodded.


    The two of them looked at Yuan Yuwan and asked for her opinion.


    Before Yuan Yuwan could speak, Xiao Ruoqian, who had been ignored by the three of them, said, ¡°Speaking of which, Big Brother is also participating in the martial arts competition today.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s heart skipped a beat. As expected, she heard Xiao Ruoqian continue, ¡°Sister Yuwan, you still don¡¯t know, right? My brother has somehow angered my father recently and was locked up in the ancestral hall for a few days. Fortunately, there was a palace banquet today. Otherwise, my father wouldn¡¯t have let him out.¡±


    During this period of time, Xiao Ruoshui had been grounded at home to embroider wedding dresses. Yuan Yuwan had actually not seen her for a long time before today, so she naturally did not know about the Xiao family. Hearing this, she subconsciously looked at Xiao Ruoshui.


    Xiao Ruoshui turned around and glared at Xiao Ruoqian guiltily.


    Noticing the avoidance in her eyes, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart sank bit by bit.


    Based on her understanding of Xiao Ruoshui, she would definitely explain why Brother Xiao was punished at this moment and retort Xiao Ruoqian bluntly. However, she did not dare to look at her.


    Why didn¡¯t she dare to look at her? This meant that Brother Xiao¡¯s punishment had something to do with her.


    And what was related to her was nothing more than marriage.


    She thought of what the man had said. ¡°You still have me.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head to stop her imagination from running wild. Instead of answering Xiao Ruoqian¡¯s question, she smiled and said, ¡°Then let¡¯s go watch the martial arts competition.¡±


    Xiao Ruoqian didn¡¯t get the reaction she wanted.


    She was actually too curious about what Xiao Qirui had done to make her father so angry, so she wanted to use Yuan Yuwan as an excuse. Who would have thought that Yuan Yuwan would be so calm? She didn¡¯t even ask.


    She bit her lower lip and wanted to say something else. Shen Yijia, who was walking in front, suddenly turned around and glared at her fiercely. She waved her fist at her.


    Thinking of the rumors that Madam Song was extremely strong, Xiao Ruoqian¡¯s heart trembled inexplicably and she did not dare to speak again.


    Xiao Ruoshui took a few steps before realizing that her reaction just now was wrong. She explained softly, ¡°My brother made a mistake in the military camp, so my father punished him.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and nodded to show that she understood.


    No one mentioned this topic again.


    Shen Yijia thought that she might be able to see Song Jingchen later, and her heart had long flown away. If not for her image, she would have flown over.


    Yuan Yuwan was a meticulous person. She could tell at a glance that she was anxious. She did not tease her, but she quickened her pace.


    There was a huge training ground in front of Wuying Hall. For today¡¯s martial arts competition, an arena had been built in the middle of the training ground, and there were stands and seats around it.


    Apart from the imperial guards who stood guard every three steps, there were also warriors brought by the various countries to participate in the martial arts competition.


    The warriors of the three countries each occupied one side and were clearly separated.


    Song Jingchen was indeed sitting in the stands with the other ministers, but his expression was a little unpleasant. As for the reason¡­

 Chapter 508 - 508 Contest (2)

    508 Contest (2)


    ¡°Don¡¯t you remember me?¡± Xuanyuan Ye pointed at herself and asked indignantly again.


    The envoy and the emperor were still talking in the Hall of Supreme Harmony. Xuanyuan Ye felt that it was boring inside, so she brought her maidservant to the martial arts arena alone. Unexpectedly, before she could sit down, she saw Song Jingchen sitting at the back.


    Song Jingchen was pestered by her.


    Song Jingchen frowned and remained silent. The official beside him thought that he didn¡¯t know the other party¡¯s identity, so he introduced her in a low voice, ¡°This is the princess from the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡±


    !!


    With that, that person cupped his hands at Xuanyuan Ye.


    Song Jingchen also cupped his hands. ¡°Princess.¡±


    When Shen Yijia arrived, she saw Song Jingchen standing face to face with a girl from afar.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s back was facing her. Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t see his expression, but she could see the girl¡¯s expression. It was clearly the same expression Xiao Ruoshui had when she looked at Song Jingchen.


    Another little vixen who wanted to snatch him away.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and said to the two people beside her, ¡°Wait for me here.¡± Then she ran over alone.


    Xuanyuan Ye was dissatisfied with Song Jingchen¡¯s reaction. ¡°No, we¡¯ve met before. The candied hawthorn. Don¡¯t you remember?¡±


    The official uniform of the Xuanyuan Kingdom was different from that of Great Xia. Although Xuanyuan Ye had seen Song Jingchen wear an official uniform, she really didn¡¯t know what grade it was.


    However, she knew that those who could attend the palace banquet were at least third-grade ministers. To be able to sit in the third-grade position at this age, they either had a prominent family background or were young and promising. Therefore, she was even more curious about Song Jingchen.


    The surrounding officials could not help but look at the two of them curiously.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. Without thinking, he said, ¡°I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Xuanyuan Ye frowned. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Hubby.¡± A soft voice interrupted Xuanyuan Ye.


    Song Jingchen turned around and his expression instantly softened. He thought of something and nodded politely and distantly at Xuanyuan Ye. Then, he walked towards Shen Yijia and asked, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned for a long time before she reacted. When she saw who it was, she frowned. It was her!


    Shen Yijia secretly rolled her eyes at Xuanyuan Ye. She turned around and pointed at where Xiao Ruoshui was standing. ¡°I came to watch the competition with Ruoshui and the others. I didn¡¯t expect you to be here too.¡±


    She had run in a hurry just now, and her hair was in a mess. Song Jingchen reached out and tucked it behind her ear. ¡°Walk slower next time. Look at how sweaty you are.¡±


    After saying that, he remembered that Shen Yijia did not have the habit of carrying a handkerchief. He took out a handkerchief from his pocket.


    Shen Yijia looked up with sparkling eyes and let him wipe her sweat.


    The two of them showed off their love in public. The people around them looked at the two of them as if they had seen a ghost, as if it was their first time meeting Song Jingchen.


    When he looked at Xuanyuan Ye again, his eyes were unreadable.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face turned pale. She had never been so embarrassed even when she lost to Ji Yunxi in hunting and riding a horse.


    After all, there were not so many people present previously.


    ¡°Princess,¡± Bai Zhi reminded her softly.


    Just now, when she saw her princess coming this way, she already felt that it was inappropriate. However, Xuanyuan Ye had been praised since she was young. What she wanted to do depended on her mood. How could she persuade her?


    Xuanyuan Ye clenched her fists under her sleeves. The two people not far away were talking to each other and did not turn around to look at her.


    At this moment, Zhu Zi jogged over. ¡°Princess, His Highness wants you to go over.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned. She turned around and looked at the envoy of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. She realized that her father and Xuanyuan Ziming had already arrived.


    Shen Yijia had been paying attention to Xuanyuan Ye from the corner of her eye. Seeing that she had left, she snorted like a victorious rooster. ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯ll go back and sit there.¡±


    This row was filled with officials, and the women were watching from the outermost area.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and leaned forward slightly to smooth her hair. He whispered in her ear, ¡°Thank you for helping me out.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. If Shen Yijia did not come, he could not make her retreat.


    His words tickled Shen Yijia¡¯s ears.


    She returned to Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s side in a daze and was pulled down by her.


    When she came back to her senses, she realized that the emperor was already sitting on the platform. There were already people competing in the arena below.


    Shen Yijia looked at the two people beside her and realized that they were both looking nervously at the young man on the stage with a spear.

 Chapter 509 - 509 Contest (3)

    509 Contest (3)


    ¡°Do you know the people on the stage?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously.


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯ve finally come back to your senses? Although I know that Brother Chen is good-looking, you¡¯ve been watching him forever.¡±


    ¡°So what? I want to see it for the rest of my life,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted her bluntly.


    Yuan Yuwan looked at Shen Yijia with envy. She thought of something and explained with a red face, ¡°Brother Xiao is the one going on stage.¡±


    !!


    ¡°Hey, scumbag Xiao¡­¡± Shen Yijia almost blurted out the word scumbag. She quickly changed her words.¡± It¡¯s Brother Xiao. ¡±


    She called him that because she followed Xiao Ruoshui.


    Shen Yijia turned around.


    Alright, it was too far away to see his face clearly, but from his figure, he shouldn¡¯t be bad-looking.


    After all, Xiao Ruoshui and Xiao Ruoqian were not bad-looking. Things could not go astray when it came to the family¡¯s son.


    ¡°Your brother doesn¡¯t seem to be a match for the other party,¡± Shen Yijia said objectively.


    The person competing with Xiao Qirui was a burly warrior from the Wu Kingdom. Xiao Qirui was already considered tall among the men, but the other party was a head taller than him. The meteor hammer in his hand danced majestically.


    Compared to him, Xiao Qirui was like a weak chicken, forming a sharp contrast.


    The reason why Shen Yijia felt that he would lose was because after more than ten moves, Xiao Qirui had been defending and retreating step by step. He was forced to the edge of the arena.


    ¡°My brother is injured.¡± Xiao Ruoshui gritted her teeth. Her father was really something. He clearly knew that her brother wanted to compete, but he still wanted to kill him.


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart tightened. She hesitated for a moment but didn¡¯t ask.


    At this moment, warm applause suddenly erupted from the surrounding stands.


    The three of them looked at the arena at the same time and saw that the Wu Kingdom¡¯s warrior¡¯s meteor hammer had already landed on the ground, and Xiao Qirui¡¯s spear was pointed at his opponent¡¯s throat.


    Immediately after, the gong on the platform was rung by an official.


    Another official announced loudly, ¡°The winner is Xiao Qirui.¡±


    Great Xia won the first round. The emperor was also in a good mood. He raised his hand and clapped. He laughed. ¡°Reward him.¡±


    Unlike the excitement of the Great Xia people, the expressions of the people from the Wu Kingdom were not so good. Although such a competition was called a friendly spar, everyone knew what it meant.


    Shen Yijia looked at Xiao Ruoshui and then at Yuan Yuwan. What had just happened?


    Xiao Ruoshui thought to herself, ¡°I don¡¯t know. Anyway, my brother is the best.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan kept looking at the young man on the stage with a spear in his hand. She did not receive Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze.


    In the arena, Xiao Qirui seemed to have sensed something and looked up at the women¡¯s seats.


    They were clearly very far apart, but he still saw the girl in a lake-blue dress sitting beside Xiao Ruoshui.


    Their eyes met. Yuan Yuwan quickly turned her head away, so she didn¡¯t see the complicated expression on Xiao Qirui¡¯s face.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the two of them and frowned in deep thought.


    In the following competitions, the three countries each won and lost. In total, the Xuanyuan Kingdom won the most matches.


    Although the emperor felt that it was a pity, the Xuanyuan Kingdom had always been above the other two countries. It was normal for them to win in the end.


    As long as his country was not at the bottom, the emperor would not feel so uncomfortable.


    Actually, Great Xia had only won one match less than the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    The emperor could not help but look at the seats of the Great Xia officials on the right.


    Noticing the young man sitting at the back of the officials, his eyes darkened.


    If he went on stage, they would be able to get first place!


    Song Jingchen noticed the gazes on him from the platform, and the corners of his mouth curled up into a mocking smile.


    The emperor said a few polite words and was about to signal Eunuch Li to announce the end of the competition.


    Xuanyuan Ye suddenly stood up.


    ¡°I heard that your Great Xia¡¯s Song Jingchen¡¯s martial arts are extraordinary. The wife he married must not be an ordinary person. I want to ask for guidance. I hope Your Majesty can fulfill my wish.¡±


    In just a moment, she had already asked Bai Zhi to find out more about Song Jingchen¡¯s identity.


    Xuanyuan Ye did not expect that the first man she met in Great Xia was the once famous Young Master Song.


    She also heard that the woman he married was just an unfavored daughter of a small official, so he looked down on her even more.


    Thinking of how she had embarrassed herself just now, she naturally wanted to take this opportunity to get back at her.


    As soon as she finished speaking, before the emperor could speak, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face darkened and he scolded, ¡°Nonsense!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was also dumbfounded. Why was Xuanyuan Ye walking further and further down this suicidal path?


    Did she think that Shen Yijia was as soft and easy to bully as she looked?


    The emperor frowned. Someone had naturally reported what had happened between Xuanyuan Ye and Song Jingchen to him.


    He was used to seeing all kinds of women in the harem, so how could he not know what this young princess was thinking?


    If he could marry someone from the Xuanyuan Kingdom into one of the families of Great Xia, he would naturally be more than happy to do so. However, the marriage partner definitely couldn¡¯t be Song Jingchen!

 Chapter 510 - 510 Reward (1)

    510 Reward (1)


    As soon as Xuanyuan Ye finished speaking, there was a moment of silence, followed by whispers.


    Ji Yunxi, Princess Linghui, and the others were held up by Imperial Concubine Liu to talk, so they came a little late. Just as they sat down, they heard Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s words.


    Princess Linghui sneered. ¡°Why is this princess like a mad dog? She bites everyone she catches?¡±


    Previously, when they went hunting together, she had targeted Ji Yunxi. Now, she was targeting someone else. If she wasn¡¯t a mad dog, then what was she?


    !!


    Although she also did not like Shen Yijia, it did not mean that she was willing to see her embarrass Great Xia in front of another country.


    The corners of Ji Yunxi¡¯s lips curled up slightly. She didn¡¯t answer Princess Linghui¡¯s words. She didn¡¯t care if Great Xia was embarrassed, but she was very curious about who Song Jingchen¡¯s wife was.


    She was not the one who cured Madam Qiu, but she had naturally heard the rumors about Madam Song.


    Back then, she felt that there was something wrong with Madam Qiu¡¯s physiognomy. If it was really her doing¡­


    A cold glint flashed across Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyes.


    First, she changed Song Jingchen¡¯s fate, then Madam Qiu.


    This person could not be left alive!


    The seats of the Xuanyuan Kingdom also fell into a dead silence. The envoys sitting at the back looked at the father and daughter who had fallen into a deadlock with strange expressions.


    In the past, if Xuanyuan Ce had spoken, Xuanyuan Ye would definitely have sat down obediently.


    But not this time. She stood stubbornly and raised her chin at the emperor on the platform, waiting for him to speak up and agree.


    It was impossible for Xuanyuan Ce to order someone to suppress her in public. That would only make things worse.


    The emperor turned the ring in his hand and glanced in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction. He suddenly laughed and said, ¡°You¡¯re a guest. Since you wants to spar with someone, how can I not agree?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye had already spoken. If he did not agree, he would look like a coward.


    As far as he knew, Song Jingchen¡¯s wife was extraordinary.


    If she won, not only would she bring glory to Great Xia, but she would also definitely be hated by this young princess.


    However, if they lost and embarrassed Great Xia, the Song family would probably be infamous again.


    He looked at Eunuch Deng.


    Eunuch Deng understood and walked towards Shen Yijia.


    How could Song Jingchen not guess what the emperor was thinking? He looked at Xuanyuan Ye below with a dark gaze and already wanted to kill her.


    ¡°Jiajia, you¡­¡± Ever since Xuanyuan Ye spoke, Yuan Yuwan had been extremely worried.


    Xiao Ruoshui was the opposite of her. Her eyes were filled with excitement as she comforted her. ¡°Sister Yuwan, don¡¯t worry. Jiajia won¡¯t lose.¡±


    As the two of them spoke, Eunuch Deng had already approached. He had a fawning smile on his face. ¡°Madam Song, His Majesty means¡­¡±


    Without waiting for him to finish, Shen Yijia stood up with a straight face and walked straight to the arena in the middle of the training grounds.


    Since someone wanted to die, she couldn¡¯t stop them, right?


    ¡°Jiajia¡­¡± Although Xiao Ruoshui had said many times that Shen Yijia was powerful, Yuan Yuwan was still worried.


    Xiao Ruoshui quickly grabbed Yuan Yuwan, who had just stood up, and persuaded her earnestly, ¡°Sister Yuwan, even if you don¡¯t believe Jiajia, you should believe me, right? You have to know that I can¡¯t even withstand a single move from her.¡±


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t mentioned it, but now that she did, Yuan Yuwan became even more worried.


    Moreover, Yuan Yuwan was not only worried about winning or losing. She was more worried about what would happen to Shen Yijia after the competition.


    However, on second thought, the emperor had already spoken. What was the use of Jiajia not wanting to go?


    In the arena, two women, one yellow and one pink, stood facing each other.


    Unlike the previous matches where men went on stage, this competition was clearly more interesting.


    Not to mention anything else, the two of them had top-notch looks, and it was even more pleasing to the eye when they fought.


    When she saw Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance, Ji Yunxi tightened her grip.


    So she was Song Jingchen¡¯s wife!


    ¡°Imperial Uncle, Xiao Yezi is no match for that girl.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was really troubled.


    The worst mistake he had made in his life was agreeing to bring Xuanyuan Ye to Great Xia.


    If the heavens gave him another chance, he would not agree even if his father beat him to death.


    He thought that Xuanyuan Ce could think of a way to stop him, but Xuanyuan Ce heaved a sigh of relief and leaned back in his chair.


    ¡°No, your two daughters are about to fight. Aren¡¯t you going to interfere?¡± he thought.


    ¡°Our Xuanyuan Kingdom is about to lose all its face. Aren¡¯t you worried?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ignored him and stared at the yellow figure in the arena.

 Chapter 511 - 511 Reward (2)

    511 Reward (2)


    Now that everyone was here, the official acting as the referee was about to shout for the match to begin.


    Shen Yijia suddenly said, ¡°Wait.¡±


    She glanced at the smug Xuanyuan Ye opposite her and turned to look at the emperor. She bowed and said, ¡°Since it¡¯s a spar, will there be a reward after winning?¡±


    The emperor narrowed his eyes and sized up Shen Yijia. After a long time, he said, ¡°Of course. No matter which of you wins, I¡¯ll reward you.¡±


    ¡°Then the emperor of Great Xia will allow the winner to do one thing,¡± Xuanyuan Ye said matter-of-factly.


    Clearly, she was very confident in herself.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. This reward was good. She liked it!


    The emperor choked. These two people were really rude to each other, but at this time, as the emperor, he could not be so petty as to say no.


    He coughed lightly and said, ¡°As long as your request is reasonable, I¡¯ll agree.¡±


    He was right to say that. He couldn¡¯t possibly agree to give up the throne if they asked, right?


    As for what kind of request was reasonable, it was up to him.


    Neither of them had any objections to his words.


    Beside the arena was a row of shelves containing all kinds of weapons for the participants to choose from.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was standing still, Xuanyuan Ye did not take out her weapon.


    She said in a tone that was almost charity, ¡°I¡¯m not the kind of person to take advantage of others. Madam Song, you should choose a suitable weapon.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and said honestly, ¡°There¡¯s no need. I don¡¯t know how to use those things.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, not to mention Xuanyuan Ye, even the eyelids of the officials who were prepared to start at any moment twitched.


    Madam Song didn¡¯t even know how to use a weapon. Wasn¡¯t she here to die?


    The judge looked at the emperor blankly, not knowing what to do for a moment.


    However, the emperor thought that he was asking if the match could start, so he nodded.


    The judge was speechless.


    Since the emperor had spoken, the referee did not dare to delay any longer. He looked at Shen Yijia sympathetically and shouted, ¡°Begin.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye sneered. ¡°Then I¡¯ll let you¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, before she could finish, the person opposite her moved.


    Without waiting for her to react, there were two crisp sounds. Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face immediately burned.


    Everything happened too quickly. Everyone who was originally prepared to watch a visual feast was immediately in an uproar.


    They were not close to each other to begin with. All they could see was a yellow phantom quickly approaching the young princess. Before they even knew how she attacked, the slap sounded.


    ¡°Why do you like to stare at other people¡¯s men?¡± Shen Yijia was like a cat protecting its food, revealing her sharp claws.


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned for a moment. When she reacted, she felt all the humiliation surge into her heart.


    In her entire life, no one had ever dared to touch a single hair on her head.


    She glared at Shen Yijia with red eyes and gritted her teeth. ¡°You¡¯re courting death.¡±


    With that, she suddenly pulled out the blade at her waist and stabbed it at Shen Yijia.


    In order to prevent anyone from carrying weapons to assassinate the emperor, logically speaking, they would search everyone when they entered the palace.


    However, because of Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s identity, the staff did not dare to do the same to ordinary people. In addition, her soft sword was wrapped in her belt, so they let her in.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and quickly dodged the sword. She reached out and grabbed Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s wrist, grinning at her.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s scalp tingled from her smile, and an inexplicable panic surged in her heart.


    The next second, the soft sword fell to the ground with a crack. The pain in her wrist made her scream.


    She had been doted on by everyone since she was young. When had she ever suffered such pain? Then, she fainted.


    Shen Yijia looked at the person who had fainted from the pain in disdain. She pursed her lips and reached out to grab Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s collar to lift her up. She was about to throw her off the arena when a strong killing intent suddenly attacked her from behind.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened. This killing intent was the most dangerous she had sensed in her two lifetimes, making it impossible for her to avoid it. For a moment, she even felt that she was about to die on the spot.


    With a sharp ding, a black figure suddenly stood behind her, and the killing intent disappeared.


    If not for the fact that Shen Yijia had really felt it, she would have thought that she was hallucinating.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the two thin silver needles nailed to the edge of the arena.


    One was to kill her, and the other was to save her.


    She turned around and looked at the person behind her. She tilted her head and asked, ¡°I¡¯m hitting your daughter. Why did you save me?¡±

 Chapter 512 - 512 Reward (3)

    512 Reward (3)


    Her eyes were filled with confusion.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart tightened under her gaze. If not for his rationality, he would have told her the truth.


    He turned his head away and did not dare to look at Shen Yijia. He looked at Xuanyuan Ye coldly. ¡°She lost. Leave it to me.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded and threw the limp person to Xuanyuan Ce.


    !!


    Not to mention the onlookers, even the referee, who was closest to them, did not know what had happened.


    Seeing that Lord Jing¡¯an had brought the young princess out of the arena, they thought that he was worried that something would happen to his daughter.


    There were imperial physicians present, but Xuanyuan Ce did not let them tend to Xuanyuan Ye. Instead, he casually summoned a few people and said, ¡°Send the princess back to the courier station. Without my orders, she¡¯s not allowed to leave the courier station.¡±


    After giving the instructions, he was afraid that those people would not be able to keep an eye on Xuanyuan Ye. He looked at Chu Feng. ¡°You should follow them.¡±


    Chu Feng glanced at Xuanyuan Ye sympathetically and agreed respectfully.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless. ¡°Uncle, isn¡¯t this bad?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye had indeed done something, but she didn¡¯t have to be grounded.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him, and the latter immediately stopped talking.


    Shen Yijia did not care about the matters in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. She looked around but could not find anyone.


    In the end, she could only give up and look at the officials who were knocking on the gongs.


    The official shuddered under her gaze and subconsciously rang the gong.


    Another official immediately shouted, ¡°Madam Song wins.¡±


    No one said anything about it.


    It was over before it even started.


    The emperor was stunned for a long time before reacting. He looked at Shen Yijia with a dark expression. ¡°You win. What reward do you want?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and bowed. ¡°I¡¯ve been married to the Song family for so long, but I¡¯ve never seen my aunt. I want my husband to bring me to see her.¡±


    Although Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything, she could clearly feel that he was in a bad mood after Shangguan Yu left that day.


    Apart from Madam Li, Song Li was Song Jingchen¡¯s last family elder in this world. He definitely didn¡¯t want anything to happen to her.


    Song Jingchen, who had been worried, was stunned for a moment when he heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words.


    His heart ached and swelled. He was so lucky to have his wife like this.


    The emperor¡¯s gaze darkened. At the mention of Song Li, he could not help but think of what had happened two years ago.


    He sized Shen Yijia up for a long time, but he did not see any other expression on her face.


    It was as if she really just wanted to see an elder she had never seen before.


    Did this person know how precious a promise from an emperor was?


    ¡°I permit it,¡± the emperor said.


    There was nothing wrong with meeting someone in the palace.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    The competition ended here.


    Then, an official went on stage and asked the emperor if he wanted to take his seat.


    The emperor looked at the sky and nodded slightly. He said to the envoys of the two countries, ¡°It¡¯s almost time. Everyone, follow me to the seats.¡±


    Although Shen Yijia¡¯s skills surprised him, he was still in a good mood.


    Duke Ping and Princess Changle looked at each other. Although they had lost the competition, after the little princess made a scene, it seemed that the Wu Kingdom was not the one who had lost the most face.


    The emperor and the envoys of the two countries left. The princes and other relatives of the emperor also stood up and left.


    The others present bowed and shouted, ¡°Long live Your Majesty.¡±


    After they completely disappeared from the training grounds, the others dispersed.


    Song Jingchen squeezed out of the crowd and walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s side. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia did not wait for him to finish. She quickly pulled him to the side and squatted down to pull out the two silver needles. ¡°Look.¡±


    Without needing Song Jingchen to ask, she explained that someone had ambushed her.


    ¡°The person who saved me should be Lord Jing¡¯an.¡±


    Before she could finish, she was pulled into a thick embrace.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. If it weren¡¯t for me¡­¡±


    ¡°If it weren¡¯t for the fact that you¡¯re too good-looking?¡± Shen Yijia continued his words with a smile. She puffed up her cheeks and said, ¡°What does this have to do with you? It¡¯s because that bullsh*t princess is too shameless. You can¡¯t possibly destroy your appearance because you don¡¯t want others to think about you, right?¡±


    Her beautiful husband was willing, but she was not.


    Song Jingchen was speechless for a moment. His eyes darkened. ¡°Something almost happened to you just now.¡±


    Shen Yijia patted his back. ¡°Oh my, I¡¯m fine now. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    The two of them hugged each other in public as if no one was around. Princess Linghui gritted her teeth and cursed, ¡°Little vixen.¡±


    Noticing that Ji Yunxi was also staring at the person in the arena, she sneered. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you like Brother Song too?¡±


    Ji Yunxi came back to her senses and glanced at her indifferently. She turned around and left without a word.


    Princess Linghui was furious. ¡°Isn¡¯t she just a princess who was conferred the title because she saved Father? What¡¯s so great about her?¡±


    With that, she glanced at the arena again and stomped her feet. ¡°This little vixen is so powerful. How can we bully her in the future?¡±

 Chapter 513 - 513 Noble Conferment (1)

    513 Noble Conferment (1)


    The palace was not a place they could casually loiter in. The couple parted after exchanging a few words.


    Shen Yijia returned to Eternal Spring Palace with Yuan Yuwan and Xiao Ruoshui. Along the way, Xiao Ruoshui regretted that Shen Yijia hit Xuanyuan Ye too lightly. She was not so gentle when she dealt with her back then.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Who would have thought that Xuanyuan Ye would faint so easily? She regretted it a little.


    According to her beautiful husband, the person who wanted to kill her was the person hiding in the dark to protect Xuanyuan Ye. At that time, she wanted to throw her off the arena, but the other party thought that she wanted to kill Xuanyuan Ye, so he suddenly interfered.


    !!


    He even dared to attack in the arena. It would probably not be easy to deal with Xuanyuan Ye in private. At the very least, she had to deal with the person protecting her first.


    However, on account of the beautiful uncle, as long as Xuanyuan Ye no longer had any thoughts about her, she would not do anything to her.


    After all, she was a magnanimous person!


    After Xiao Ruoshui finished talking about Xuanyuan Ye, she turned the topic to Xiao Qirui. Yuan Yuwan, who would respond to her from time to time, was completely speechless.


    Therefore, Xiao Ruoshui was the only one left chattering non-stop. It was not until they entered Changchun Palace that she finally fell silent.


    Shen Yijia and Yuan Yuwan secretly heaved a sigh of relief at the same time. They did not know why Xiao Ruoshui was so talkative.


    There were many more people in Changchun Palace than when they left. Everyone was either sitting or standing around familiar people and talking softly.


    Beside Imperial Concubine Liu, other than the women with orders, there were also a few concubines in various palace clothes.


    Among the women in the emperor¡¯s harem, they were probably the only ones qualified to attend the birthday banquet.


    Shen Yijia knew that her status was not high enough, so she had no intention of approaching them. She found an inconspicuous spot behind the group of noble ladies and stood still.


    Then, a strange scene happened. With the four of them as the center, there was suddenly a large empty space around them. If not for the fact that the occasion was not right, Shen Yijia suspected that these people would have instantly scattered.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°No, am I a ferocious beast?¡±


    ¡°These people are like this. If you lose, they¡¯ll say that you¡¯ve embarrassed Great Xia. If you win, they¡¯ll think that you¡¯re too fierce. I think they¡¯re just envious and jealous. Ignore them,¡± Xiao Ruoshui said angrily.


    Yuan Yuwan was also worried that Shen Yijia would feel uncomfortable being isolated, so she comforted her.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I think this is good.¡±


    It was better to be afraid of her. In the future, no one would dare to snatch her man from her in the capital. Her beautiful husband was so outstanding. It would be quite troublesome to deal with them one by one.


    Yuan Yuwan and Xiao Ruoshui looked at each other and inexplicably understood what she meant.


    After waiting for another ten minutes, a young eunuch rushed in and reminded Noble Consort Liu that it was the auspicious time.


    Imperial Concubine Liu slowly stood up and led everyone in the direction of the Baohe Hall. The master of the harem was full of style.


    At dawn, a banquet had already been set up in the hall.


    The palace servants led everyone in. The seats were arranged according to everyone¡¯s official positions, so Shen Yijia naturally sat beside Song Jingchen.


    The Yuan family¡¯s seating area happened to be adjacent to theirs. However, the Xiao family was different. Xiao Ruoshui could only follow the palace maid reluctantly.


    When she left, she even glanced at the two of them resentfully, as if they had done something wrong to her.


    Shen Yijia and Yuan Yuwan were speechless.


    After everyone was settled down, with an announcement, the emperor walked in from outside the hall. He sat down on the high dragon table and accepted everyone¡¯s kowtows.


    ¡°Long live Your Majesty!¡±


    ¡°May Your Majesty¡¯s blessings be as boundless as the East Sea and live as long as the heavens!¡±


    Voices sounded in the hall in unison.


    Among the group of people kneeling on the ground, the foreign envoy, who only bowed slightly, was especially eye-catching, let alone Xuanyuan Ce, who did not even stand up.


    Although Xuanyuan Ce did not ask about the state affairs when he was in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he still had the title of ¡°Lord¡±. Now that he represented the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he naturally did not need to curtsy when he saw the emperor.


    The emperor¡¯s gaze paused on Xuanyuan Ce. His eyes darkened, and an ambition to make everyone submit to him rose in his heart.


    Seeing that the emperor was silent, Eunuch Li cleared his throat and reminded him.

 Chapter 514 - 514 Noble Conferment (2)

    514 Noble Conferment (2)


    Only then did the emperor come back to his senses. He forced a smile and called out politely.


    Everyone kowtowed again to thank him.


    Next, the birthday banquet officially began in an orderly manner under the guidance of the officials of the Ministry of Rites.


    First, the palace maids carried all kinds of dishes to the table in front of each guest. At the same time, the musicians who had been arranged beforehand began to play music, and graceful dancers flowed in.


    After a few entertainment programs, the palace maids removed the banquet and placed the wine and food on the table again.


    Starting from the princes, the ministers presented birthday gifts to the emperor one after another.


    There were all kinds of birthday gifts, but they could not escape the words ¡°treasures¡±. Shen Yijia was dazzled at first, but later on, she became numb.


    She could receive so many things on her birthday. No wonder everyone wanted to be emperor.


    It took more than two hours for it to be their turn. Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and walked out of the seat.


    They were the first to present gifts together, and they instantly attracted everyone¡¯s attention.


    Shen Yijia lowered her head and knelt down with Song Jingchen.


    ¡°I wish Your Majesty good health.¡±


    Everyone thought that with Song Jingchen¡¯s talent, he would definitely be able to say beautiful birthday wishes. Unexpectedly, they waited for a few seconds but didn¡¯t hear anything else.


    When the eunuch read Song Jingchen¡¯s gift, everyone was even more dumbfounded.


    What did he mean by the first volume of the Analects of Confucius? Was Song Jingchen so poor that he couldn¡¯t even afford to give her a complete Analects of Confucius?


    Also, why did he give the emperor the Analects of Confucius? Was he secretly mocking him for not being a benevolent ruler? Did he want the emperor to learn more from the ancients?


    The smile on the emperor¡¯s lips froze. Towards the end, he could barely maintain it.


    The thin booklet was brought to him on a tray. The emperor narrowed his eyes and looked at it for a long time. After confirming that it was really just an ordinary book and that the workmanship was extremely simple, he believed that he had not heard wrongly.


    He was the emperor, so he had seen all kinds of treasures. Those rare treasures were nothing to him, but the gifts people gave showed the respect they had for him.


    He sized up the couple kneeling in the middle with a dark gaze and said in a low voice, ¡°Is there a special meaning to this gift?¡±


    Song Jingchen knew that he would ask, so he responded, ¡°This booklet wasn¡¯t copied, but printed.¡±


    ¡°Printed?¡±


    Everyone present, including the emperor, was stunned.


    Song Jingchen nodded and slowly explained the printing technique.


    As he explained, everyone was in an uproar. Once this method was used, the price of books would definitely decrease in the future. Many students who could not afford books because they were expensive would have books to read.


    This would change the fate of many students.


    However, after the emperor recovered from his surprise, his face completely darkened. This innovation could indeed bring about many benefits.


    However.


    He looked at the foreign envoy who was discussing intensely, his breath stuck in his throat.


    Why did he ask just now? Couldn¡¯t he have asked later? Song Jingchen clearly didn¡¯t say anything at first!


    No, why didn¡¯t Song Jingchen tell him in private?


    If he told him privately, he could use this printing technique to make a deal with the other two countries in exchange for other benefits.


    There was no need to think about anything now. It wouldn¡¯t be long before this printing technique spread throughout the country.


    The more the emperor thought about it, the angrier he became. He wished he could burn two holes in Song Jingchen¡¯s body with his eyes.


    ¡°Great Xia is indeed filled with talents. His Majesty is blessed.¡± Xuanyuan Ce, who had been silent, said with a faint smile.


    The emperor took a deep breath and said with a smile, ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an is right. He deserves to be rewarded.¡±


    His gaze lingered on the couple. He thought of something and asked, ¡°Which of you came up with this method?¡±


    Song Jingchen cupped his fists and said, ¡°It¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°My husband thought of it. I¡¯m in charge of making it.¡± Shen Yijia suddenly interrupted Song Jingchen.


    She only thought of carving words on the wooden board. Song Jingchen was indeed the one who thought of the printing technique. She wasn¡¯t lying to the emperor.


    Song Jingchen had previously said that he wanted to publicize the printing technique at the birthday banquet. When the time came, Shen Yijia, who had thought of this method, would definitely be pursued by thousands of students.


    Water could carry a boat, but it could also overturn it. Even if something happened to the Song family, the emperor would not dare to attack Shen Yijia easily.


    This was the guarantee he was talking about.


    However, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t need it. If nothing happened to Song Jingchen, it would be the greatest guarantee for her.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The emperor was speechless.

 Chapter 515 - 515 Noble Conferment (3)

    515 Noble Conferment (3)


    Did they want to split the credit between the two of them?


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart ached again. He glanced at Song Jingchen in disdain and drank the wine in one gulp. He said, ¡°I¡¯ve long heard that there¡¯s a genius in Great Xia. Now that I¡¯ve seen him today, he¡¯s indeed worthy of his reputation.¡±


    The emperor saw the disdain on his face and thought that Xuanyuan Ce was saying this to disgust him. He didn¡¯t think that he was deliberately speaking up for Song Jingchen.


    Although he didn¡¯t know why Xuanyuan Ce despised Song Jingchen, he was more or less relieved.


    Otherwise¡­


    Everyone was waiting for him to speak. Even if the emperor did not want to reward Song Jingchen, he had no choice. He pondered for a moment before saying in a low voice, ¡°Minister Song has contributed to the invention of the printing technique. He is specially conferred the title of Earl Zhongyi, and his wife shall be known as Madam Zhongyi.¡±


    The name ¡°Zhongyi¡±, which meant loyalty, served to remind Song Jingchen that everything he had now was given to him by the emperor. Naturally, Song Jingchen should be loyal to him.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and kowtowed to thank the emperor.


    The two of them returned to their seats. Shen Yijia could clearly feel that Song Jingchen was a little angry. She tugged at his sleeve. ¡°Hubby?¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed helplessly. This girl did everything for him. She wished she could give him everything good. What reason did he have to be angry?


    ¡°Are you hungry? You can eat some jerky now.¡±


    Shen Yijia was very obedient. Song Jingchen said that she shouldn¡¯t eat anything from the palace if she could. She really didn¡¯t eat anything from the beginning to the end.


    Even though the dishes just now looked, smelled, and tasted good, she did not touch them.


    Hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s words, Shen Yijia knew that he wasn¡¯t angry anymore. She grinned and took out two candied plums from her pouch.


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep the rest. I¡¯ll give them to Aunt later.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°This silly girl.¡±


    With Song Jingchen and his wife¡¯s seemingly casual but extraordinary gifts, the emperor wasn¡¯t interested in the gifts given by the people afterwards. It was mainly because the matter of conferring him with the title of nobility made him feel like a fishbone was stuck in his throat. He couldn¡¯t pretend to be happy at all.


    After everyone finished giving their gifts, some civilian artists began to perform.


    The emperor symbolically drank a few glasses of wine with everyone before leaving the banquet in advance. He instructed Lord Jing, the eldest son, to entertain the guests on his behalf.


    As soon as the emperor left, the atmosphere in the hall became much livelier. The officials no longer restrained themselves and began to offer toasts everywhere.


    Song Jingchen had just received a reward, and there were many people who came to congratulate him.


    Since they were in the bureaucracy, even if Song Jingchen was unwilling, he had no choice but to curry favor.


    After drinking one glass after another, Shen Yijia was speechless. She resisted the urge to kick the person who approached her away.


    The birthday banquet only ended at the end of the day.


    After that, everyone left the palace according to their status.


    As soon as Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen walked out of the hall, Eunuch Li walked over and blocked their way.


    ¡°Lord Song¡­ Oh my, look at my memory. You should be called Earl Zhongyi now.¡± Eunuch Li smacked his lips as if he was playing with a treasure before continuing with a smile, ¡°His Majesty asked me to bring Earl and Madam Zhongyi to the Cold Palace.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the group of eunuchs behind Eunuch Li and nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Night fell. Unlike the other brightly lit palaces, Weiyang Palace seemed to be a world of its own. The darkness imprisoned this palace like a cage.


    With Eunuch Li leading the way, the imperial guards automatically opened the heavy door.


    ¡°Earl, please!¡± Eunuch Li extended his hand.


    Looking through the door at the desolation inside, Song Jingchen clenched his fists under his sleeves.


    Song Li had entered the palace before he was born, but Madam Li often brought him to the palace to talk to her.


    When he was a little older, he studied with Shangguan Han for a period of time.


    Almost every time he entered the palace, Song Jingchen would bring some commoners¡¯ toys to pay his respects to her first.


    Therefore, the two had always been very close.


    Thinking that he wouldn¡¯t be able to bring her out of the Cold Palace for a while, Song Jingchen blamed himself.


    As he was thinking, a soft hand squeezed into his palm domineeringly.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He turned around and met a pair of bright eyes.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s go in.¡±


    Song Jingchen loosened his grip and pursed his lips. ¡°Yes.¡±


    The two of them walked in front. Eunuch Li followed closely behind with his men.


    The group¡¯s footsteps were not light. Just as they entered the courtyard, a weak female voice came from the main hall. ¡°Su Yun, go and see who¡¯s here.¡±


    Today was the emperor¡¯s birthday. Even the cold palace could hear the festive sounds clearly.


    Song Li really couldn¡¯t figure out who would come to such an unlucky place like the Cold Palace at this time.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll go now,¡± Su Yun replied and quickly walked to the door.


    The dilapidated hall door opened and Su Yun froze on the spot when she saw the person outside.

 Chapter 516 - 516 Fight (1)

    516 Fight (1)


    ¡°Aunt Su Yun.¡±


    The cold male voice brought her back to her senses. Su Yun¡¯s pupils instantly dilated, and her lips opened and closed. It took her a long time to find her voice. ¡°Young Master Song?¡±


    Her short words even trembled.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and nodded slightly. ¡°I¡¯m here to see Aunt.¡±


    !!


    The heir!


    It was really the heir!


    Su Yun was delighted. Just as she was about to say something, there was a clang in the hall. She quickly wiped her tears and ran back.


    In the hall, half of Song Li¡¯s body was lying on the edge of the bed. There was a broken teacup on the ground.


    Su Yun¡¯s heart tightened. She quickly went forward and helped her lie down. Just as she was about to bend down to pick up the teacup on the ground, her hand was tightly held by a skinny hand. ¡°Who¡¯s here?¡±


    She had actually heard the conversation outside just now, but she could not believe her ears.


    Su Yun forced a smile. Tears flowed down her face as she smiled. ¡°Miss, you didn¡¯t hear wrongly. It¡¯s true this time. The heir is really here.¡±


    Her young mistress had been sleeping recently. Every time she woke up, she would say that she had seen the fifth prince, the heir, the duke, and the old master.


    She was afraid!


    She was afraid that Miss would never wake up one day!


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia in two steps behind. When he saw the scene in the hall, he choked and called out with difficulty, ¡°Aunt.¡±


    However, after not seeing her for two years, Song Jingchen almost couldn¡¯t believe that this withered woman in front of him was the former dignified and serious empress.


    Song Li trembled and looked up at Song Jingchen in disbelief with red eyes.


    She wasn¡¯t dreaming?


    It wasn¡¯t an illusion?


    Song Li looked at Song Jingchen, who was walking towards her, in a daze. She struggled to sit up.


    Song Jingchen quickened his pace and walked to the bed, pressing her back down. ¡°Aunt, you¡¯re still sick. Don¡¯t get up.¡±


    Hearing this familiar voice again, Song Li¡¯s pale lips trembled. She said in a hoarse voice, ¡°Brother Chen? Is it really you?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips tightly and knelt down beside the bed. He choked and nodded. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here to see you.¡±


    Song Li raised her hand and carefully touched Song Jingchen¡¯s face.


    The person in front of him did not disappear, and the touch was real.


    She retracted her hand and tears fell. ¡°Silly child, why did you come back?¡±


    Since he had already left the capital, why did he have to come back?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and only looked into her eyes.


    Song Li understood almost instantly. He was back to take revenge for her, Han¡¯er, and the entire Song family!


    However, he was just a child who had yet to take up a position!


    Thinking of what had happened two years ago, endless panic surged in her heart. Song Li closed her eyes and said in a desolate tone, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have come back. You really shouldn¡¯t have come back.¡±


    ¡°An ant trying to shake a tree. How are you going to fight that high and mighty person alone?¡± she thought.


    She didn¡¯t finish her sentence, but Song Jingchen understood.


    Eunuch Li and the others were guarding the door, but there were some things that couldn¡¯t be said. Song Li calmed down a little and turned to look at the obedient girl kneeling beside Song Jingchen. She asked, ¡°This is?¡±


    Ever since they entered this palace, news from the outside world could not enter.


    Song Li¡¯s memories still lingered on the day Song Jingchen got married. She had already agreed to leave the palace to attend the wedding banquet, but she didn¡¯t expect something to happen at the last minute and delay the time. After that, she no longer had the chance to step out of the palace.


    When the wedding date was first set, she had summoned Shen Ruyun twice. Although she could not remember her appearance, she was sure that it was not this person in front of her.


    When Shen Ruyun saw her, she was always careful and fawning. However, this person¡¯s eyes were clear and filled with innocence. She was like a spring that could be seen at a glance.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and introduced her. ¡°Shen Yijia, the second daughter of the Shen family, my wife. I specially brought her to see you today.¡±


    ¡°Aunt,¡± Shen Yijia called out obediently.


    Song Li was stunned. She looked down and noticed the two of them holding hands. She guessed that the two of them should be very close.


    She felt a little relieved and did not ask what had happened back then.


    She reached out to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen. The latter nodded before she held the outstretched hand.


    She was so thin!


    If not for the fact that she knew that Song Li was about the same age as Madam Li, Shen Yijia would have believed that she was an old woman in her seventies or eighties.

 Chapter 517 - 517 Fight (2)

    517 Fight (2)


    She was shocked and quickly loosened her grip. She only dared to hold it weakly, afraid that she would accidentally crush it.


    Song Li sensed her actions and was amused. ¡°Such a good girl. Stop kneeling. Get up quickly.¡±


    She endured the itch in her throat and exerted more strength to pull her up, but she could not exert much strength.


    Shen Yijia looked at her like a fragile porcelain doll now. How could she dare to let her tire herself out? She quickly stood up.


    !!


    At the same time, she pulled Song Jingchen up.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Only he knew that she was the one who lifted him up.


    The weight in his heart was swept away by her actions. Song Jingchen was helpless and amused, but he didn¡¯t show it on his face.


    Song Li asked about Shangguan Han¡¯s situation and was relieved to know that he was fine.


    She sized up the couple in front of her. She thought of something and turned around with difficulty. She reached out and fumbled under the pillow.


    Shen Yijia and the others did not understand what she wanted to do, but Su Yun understood at a glance. She quickly took out something and handed it over. ¡°Miss, are you looking for this?¡±


    It was wrapped in a plain handkerchief. When she opened it, she saw a pair of translucent jade bracelets.


    Song Li was stunned and shook her head in self-mockery. ¡°Look at my memory. I forgot that I told you to put it away.¡±


    This pair of bracelets had always been with her. Later on, because she was so thin, the bracelets kept falling off, so she took them off and placed them by the pillow. From time to time, she would take them out to take a look.


    When she fell asleep yesterday, one of the bracelets almost fell to the ground and broke. She simply asked Su Yun to put it away.


    Song Li took the bracelet from Su Yun and pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s hand to put one of them on.


    This simple action had already exhausted most of her strength.


    Seeing that the bracelet was firmly on Shen Yijia¡¯s wrist, she heaved a sigh of relief. She looked at Shen Yijia gently and said, ¡°This was given to me by my mother, your grandmother, when I got married. It¡¯s not anything expensive, but this is the only thing I have left. Please receive it.¡±


    With that, she handed the other one to Song Jingchen and continued, ¡°If there¡¯s a chance, help me give it to Han¡¯er. Tell him that I¡¯m the one who gave it to his future wife.¡±


    ¡°Aunt¡­¡± These words that sounded like her last words shocked Song Jingchen.


    Song Li waved his hand to stop him from continuing. She pursed his lips and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not a waste of my life since I was able to see you again.¡±


    Previously, when she heard that something had happened in Xunyang City, she was almost taken away by a serious illness. It was all because of the unwillingness in her heart that she could survive until now.


    However, she was too tired and could not take it anymore!


    She turned to look at Su Yun and said guiltily, ¡°It¡¯s just that your Aunt Su Yun has wasted most of her life because of me. If you have the chance, go and beg for some grace towards her and let her leave the palace.¡±


    Although Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything, with Song Li¡¯s understanding of the emperor, it wasn¡¯t difficult to guess that the emperor must have had a use for Song Jingchen since he let him return to the capital.


    It wasn¡¯t that she wasn¡¯t worried, but she also knew that she couldn¡¯t stop Song Jingchen.


    When Su Yun heard her words, the tears that she had been hiding welled up again. She knelt down with a thud. ¡°I won¡¯t leave the palace. I¡¯ll go wherever Miss goes.¡±


    Song Li pointed at her helplessly. ¡°You¡¯ve been so stubborn since you were young.¡±


    ¡°Aunt gave me a greeting gift, but I haven¡¯t served her tea yet.¡± Shen Yijia, who was originally as quiet as a chicken, suddenly spoke.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened and he looked at Shen Yijia.


    He knew what she wanted to do. For Shen Yijia¡¯s safety, he should have stopped her, but now, he wanted to save his aunt, who had doted on him since he was young.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth a few times, but he realized that he couldn¡¯t say a word.


    Shen Yijia smiled at him comfortingly and turned to walk out. ¡°One of you, bring me two cups of tea.¡±


    She said it matter-of-factly. The eunuchs guarding the door looked at each other for a while before looking at Eunuch Li.


    Eunuch Li coughed lightly and waved his hand casually. ¡°Go.¡±


    Since Eunuch Li had spoken, an eunuch ran out and returned with a tray.


    Shen Yijia did not let him enter the hall. She took it herself and handed the tray to Su Yun.


    The tea was a little hot. In order to cool it down faster, Shen Yijia even opened the lid of the tea and fanned it with her hand.

 Chapter 518 - 518 Fight (3)

    518 Fight (3)


    Others didn¡¯t see it, but Song Jingchen paid attention to her movements at all times. He clearly saw that when her hand flapped, a drop of liquid fell steadily into one of the teacups.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes trembled and he quickly reached out to pick up the tea containing spiritual liquid.


    Although the Cold Palace was remote, it did not mean that the emperor would not pay attention. If her aunt suddenly recovered, it would definitely arouse the emperor¡¯s suspicion.


    He could think of a way to bring Mo Yuan to treat his aunt, but he could not let Shen Yijia take the risk.


    Shen Yijia had been guarding against him from causing trouble. Before his hand touched the cup of tea, she picked up another cup and stuffed it into his hand. She smiled and said, ¡°Hubby, this cup of tea is yours.¡±


    Although she was not good at learning, she had more or less learned some basic knowledge about treating illnesses from Mo Yuan.


    Song Li¡¯s face was pale, and her lips were pale. She was clearly terminally ill.


    If she did not make a move tonight, there would be news of her passing in the palace tomorrow.


    She didn¡¯t want Song Jingchen to regret it in the future.


    Because she moved too quickly, a few drops of tea spilled out and landed on the back of Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. He took a deep breath. ¡°Jiajia¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia bared her teeth at him and steadily picked up another cup of tea, not giving Song Jingchen a chance to ¡°accidentally¡± knock it over.


    She carried the tea to the bed and knelt down. Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t move, she tilted her head and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, come quickly. Let¡¯s serve tea to Aunt together.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. It would be too obvious to change the tea now. He could only carry the tea to the bed and kneel down beside Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia grinned and raised her teacup with both hands. ¡°Aunt, please have some tea.¡±


    In the end, she pretended to joke unintentionally, ¡°This is the first time your niece-in-law has served tea to you. Aunt, you have to finish it all.¡±


    Apart from themselves, no one else present could see the confrontation between the two of them.


    Looking at the tea handed to her, Song Li¡¯s eyes turned red and tears fell. She forced her heavy eyelids open and forced a smile. ¡°I will definitely finish it.¡±


    Su Yun went forward and helped her lean against the headboard. She wanted to raise her hand a few times, but she failed in the end. She could only look at Su Yun helplessly.


    Su Yun understood and wiped her tears. She took the teacup from Shen Yijia and brought it to Song Li¡¯s lips.


    She took a sip. Su Yun was about to take it away when she stopped her.


    ¡°I promised this girl that I would finish it.¡±


    Su Yun could only carefully serve her until she finished it.


    After drinking Shen Yijia¡¯s cup, Su Yun wanted to take the cup in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand again.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen avoided her hand. ¡°Let me do it.¡±


    With that, he stood up. Although Su Yun felt that something was wrong, she remembered that the heir would definitely not harm her lady, so she walked to the side and made way.


    Song Jingchen sat down by the bed, pursed his lips, and carefully handed over the tea.


    However, when the teacup was brought to Song Li¡¯s lips, his hand suddenly trembled. Most of the tea spilled out of the teacup and dripped onto his sleeve. A small portion splashed onto Song Li.


    ¡°Hubby!¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    Shen Yijia and Su Yun exclaimed at the same time.


    One ran to see if Song Jingchen was scalded, and the other ran to wipe Song Li¡¯s face.


    Song Jingchen held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and mouthed two words where no one could see.


    Shen Yijia understood.


    Pretending to be sick!


    She instantly understood what Song Jingchen meant. She walked to Song Li¡¯s side and said, ¡°Aunt, your health isn¡¯t good to begin with. You should quickly change into clean clothes. I¡¯ll help you!¡±


    Song Li was extremely shocked. She glanced at Song Jingchen and nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    It was true that Song Li was a deposed empress, but she was once the emperor¡¯s woman. If she wanted to change her clothes, who would dare to watch?


    As soon as Song Jingchen came out, Eunuch Li left with his men.


    Only Shen Yijia and the other two were left in the hall.


    ¡°Su Yun, go and get a clean set of clothes.¡± Song Li instructed as she gave her a look.


    Having lived in the palace for most of her life, Su Yun was not stupid. She knew that her Miss had something to say to the heir¡¯s wife, so she agreed and went to the cubicle.


    ¡°Jiajia, my body¡­¡±


    She had been sick for so long, so she couldn¡¯t be wrong. As soon as she drank that tea, a warm current surged through her body.


    His originally exhausted limbs and bones seemed to have been rejuvenated and were slowly recovering.


    ¡°Aunt, don¡¯t be afraid. Listen to me.¡±


    Shen Yijia used an old excuse. It was a miracle pill given by the old divine doctor!


    After explaining, she mentioned Song Jingchen¡¯s worries, afraid that the emperor would be suspicious.


    In the end, he said, ¡°So, I¡¯ll have to trouble Aunt to pretend to be sick for a period of time in the future. But don¡¯t worry, my husband and I will definitely save you soon.¡±

 Chapter 519 - 519 Confrontation (1)

    519 Confrontation (1)


    Shen Yijia said it so matter-of-factly, as if it was not a big deal to save a deposed empress from the Cold Palace.


    Meeting her determined eyes, Song Li¡¯s uneasy heart inexplicably calmed down.


    Previously, when she was plagued by illness, she held on desperately because she wanted to see her family. Now that she knew that her family was safe and sound and that there was hope for revenge, what reason did she have to not live well?


    The emperor¡¯s men were waiting outside, so it was not good to waste too much time. After explaining, Shen Yijia and Su Yun helped Song Li change into clean clothes.


    !!


    She was too thin and did not have much flesh on her body. There were a few times when Shen Yijia felt that she had hurt her bones.


    Seeing her tense face the entire time and her clumsy and careful movements, as if she was doing something important, Song Li held her hand in amusement. ¡°Just let Su Yun help me. She¡¯s used to doing this.¡±


    Su Yun also said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Madam Heir, rest for a while. I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Song Jingchen was no longer the heir of the Bulwark Duke, and Madam Heir was not a proper title. It was just that Su Yun was used to calling her that and hadn¡¯t changed her words.


    Shen Yijia did not mind the way he addressed her. She heaved a sigh of relief and stood aside obediently.


    While changing, Song Li asked about the Song family¡¯s situation over the past few years.


    Shen Yijia naturally said everything was good.


    In fact, in her opinion, it was indeed good to be able to eat and wear warm clothes.


    After changing, Su Yun went to open the hall door.


    Song Jingchen walked in and looked at Shen Yijia before turning to speak to Song Li.


    Not long after, Eunuch Li reminded him, ¡°Earl, the palace door is about to be closed. About that¡­¡±


    Song Li wasn¡¯t surprised that Eunuch Li addressed Song Jingchen as Earl. Shen Yijia had just told her all this.


    Thinking of the emperor¡¯s narrow-minded personality, she wasn¡¯t happy about Song Jingchen being conferred a title of nobility. She was only more worried.


    However, she also knew that at this point, other than not causing trouble for Song Jingchen, she couldn¡¯t do anything else.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, she waved her hand. ¡°Go. Don¡¯t come again.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Aunt, take care.¡±


    They would probably have to wait until the day the Song family¡¯s injustice was cleared.


    Song Li turned around and didn¡¯t dare to look again. Shen Yijia pursed her lips and took off the pouch at her waist. She placed it beside the pillow and left with Song Jingchen.


    The footsteps behind her became further and further away, followed by the sound of the heavy palace door closing.


    ¡°Miss, the heir and the others have left,¡± Su Yun reminded her.


    Song Li reached out and wiped the tears from the corners of his eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t call him the heir in the future.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Noticing the pouch by her pillow, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    Su Yun helped her sit up and handed her the pouch. ¡°Young Madam Song left it behind.¡±


    Song Li opened the pouch and saw the candied plums and jerky inside. She smiled and sighed. ¡°That girl¡­¡±


    ¡°Young Madam Song looks innocent and lively.¡± Seeing that she was in a much better mood, Su Yun praised her.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. She¡¯s quite compatible with Brother Chen.¡±


    Perhaps this was fate!


    In just a day, the printing technique had completely spread among the commoners.


    Even illiterate people knew that ¡°everything is inferior except for studying.¡± It could be seen how much this era respected scholars.


    To the commoners, the imperial examination was the only shortcut they could take to change their status.


    Therefore, in the eyes of most people, this innovation was worth paying more attention to than the change in who sat on the throne.


    After all, no matter who the higher-ups were, the commoners were still commoners.


    However, the printing technique could bring them practical benefits.


    Song Jingchen and his wife, who had changed everything, were naturally remembered by everyone.


    Many years later, one could still hear this sentence from time to time. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to the heir and his wife that our family can afford books. You have to remember their kindness.¡±


    Of course, this was all in the future.


    After Xuanyuan Ce returned to the courier station, he heard Chu Feng report, ¡°After the princess woke up, she kept clamoring to settle scores with Madam Song.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was already holding back his anger because he could not acknowledge Shen Yijia. When he heard this, his face darkened. He thought of something and summoned a Demon Guard. ¡°You Yi, protect the young miss.¡±


    You Yi was the one who helped Shen Yijia block the silver needles shot by Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s Demon Guard, Night Soul.


    The Demon Guards rarely appeared in front of people, but no one in the world knew their master better than them. He naturally knew who the young lady Xuanyuan Ce was talking about was.

 Chapter 520 - 520 Confrontation (2)

    520 Confrontation (2)


    Their mission was to obey their master¡¯s orders. You Yi cupped his fists and disappeared in the blink of an eye.


    In fact, in order to prevent Xuanyuan Ye from taking revenge on Shen Yijia, the best way was to take back Night Soul. Unfortunately, Night Soul¡¯s master was the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. He would not attack Xuanyuan Ce, nor would he listen to him.


    To Night Soul, who had received the order to protect Xuanyuan Ye, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s words were not as effective as Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s.


    Surprise flashed across Chu Feng¡¯s face. His lord was too biased.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him and did not explain. He fiddled with the ring on his finger and asked, ¡°Have you found out what I asked you to find out?¡±


    Chu Feng immediately straightened his expression and took out a few envelopes. ¡°Your Highness, have you heard of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    ¡°The Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡± Xuanyuan Ce frowned and thought for a moment before saying, ¡°The Imperial Preceptor of the previous dynasty?¡±


    Anyone who had heard of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets would naturally think of the Imperial Preceptor, who was second only to one person in the previous dynasty.


    Chu Feng nodded and opened one of the envelopes. He took out the neatly folded parchment inside and opened it. On it was a woman in a white dress.


    ¡°Our people found this among the commoners. It¡¯s a portrait of the Imperial Preceptor of the previous dynasty,¡± Chu Feng explained.


    Xuanyuan Ce took the portrait and saw the mark between the woman¡¯s eyebrows. His pupils constricted.


    Chu Feng probed, ¡°I suspect that Princess Yong¡¯an is from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Could the person Your Highness is looking for be¡­¡±


    The once prosperous Valley of Heavenly Secrets disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight with the destruction of the previous dynasty, along with the records of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    It was lucky that his subordinates could find this portrait. It would probably be even more difficult to find the location of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Xuanyuan Ce naturally knew that. The world was so big that it was difficult to find the hiding place of a hidden family.


    However, it was different now. Ji Yunxi was around. Since she wanted to get close to him, how could he not give her a chance?


    He did not know why Ji Yunxi approached him, nor did he know if Ji Luo was still alive.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce knew that if he wanted to find out about Ji Luo, he had to find the Valley of Heavenly Secrets first. If he wanted to find the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, he had to start with Ji Yunxi.


    Moreover, Ji Luo had risked his life to send his daughter away back then because he definitely didn¡¯t want others to know of her existence. If he rashly went up and acknowledged her, he would inevitably put her in danger.


    Therefore, what he had to do now was not to go up and acknowledge them, but to figure out what had happened to Ji Luo back then.


    This way, he could give that girl an explanation.


    At that time, whether she acknowledged him as her biological father or wanted to kill him to avenge Ji Luo, he would tell her the truth.


    That was, if he could find Ji Luo.


    Then he would have no regrets in this life!


    The concealment skills of the Demon Guards were clearly not something ordinary people could compare to. This was obvious from how Shen Yijia had not discovered them after meeting Xuanyuan Ce so many times.


    She did not realize that there were many people around her. She only occasionally felt a pair of eyes looking at her. Although that gaze was not malicious, it always made her feel uneasy.


    Previously, she was worried that the printing technique would be leaked, so the bookstore had never opened. Now, she did not have to worry about this. Shen Yijia would bring Mo Yuan out for the next few days.


    She hired a master who carved the words and pasted job recruitment information outside the shop. Apart from the workers needed for the workshop¡¯s printing, there were also the shopkeeper and shop assistants.


    As for the workshop, she found another place to rent two courtyards in the south of the city. Once the single word was carved, the workers could start work.


    At first, she thought that that gaze might be a coincidence. After working for a few days, she realized that it was still there. She couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    At night, she decisively reported to Song Jingchen, ¡°Hubby, I think I¡¯ve been targeted by a ghost.¡±


    You Yi, who was hiding in the dark, was speechless.


    Apart from their skills, the Demon Guards had also been trained to hide since they were young. This was very difficult for others, but to them, it had already become an instinct.


    He had protected Xuanyuan Ce for so long. As long as he was unwilling, no one had ever discovered his existence.


    It was not until he was sent to Shen Yijia¡¯s side that he realized for the first time that eating and drinking was so difficult.


    In the past few days, he had been on the verge of being exposed.


    ¡°I¡¯m so f*cking tired!¡± he thought.


    Now, he was even treated as a ghost.


    You Yi resisted the urge to go out and prove his identity. He silently retracted his aura and hid himself even more.

 Chapter 521 - 521 Confrontation (3)

    521 Confrontation (3)


    He could not be discovered!


    Otherwise, he would become a disgrace to the Demon Guards.


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    Before he could speak, Shen Yijia looked around and whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear, ¡°Do you think I should go to the Hidden Spirit Temple to ask for a talisman and get the monks there to chant scriptures for me? Didn¡¯t they say that blessings from the Hidden Spirit Temple were very effective?¡±


    !!


    Her thoughts were simple. She was trying to figure out a way to deal with the ghost. She couldn¡¯t let the ghost hear her. What if the ghost took precautions in advance?


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I¡¯m not afraid of talismans.¡±


    When Song Jingchen heard Shen Yijia¡¯s theories getting more and more ridiculous, he pressed a finger against her forehead and pushed her away. He asked in a low voice, ¡°When did you realize that someone was watching you?¡±


    He believed that Shen Yijia sensed something, but he did not think that it was a ghost.


    After all, ghosts couldn¡¯t appear during the day.


    As soon as this thought appeared, Song Jingchen was stunned for a moment.


    He had been led astray by this girl again.


    Shen Yijia was extremely nervous, but she did not notice anything wrong with him. She scratched her head and said, ¡°It happened after the emperor¡¯s birthday.¡±


    Thinking of something, she widened her eyes and jumped onto Song Jingchen¡¯s body. She buried her head in Song Jingchen¡¯s neck and kept muttering, ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. They must have been brought out of the Cold Palace. Didn¡¯t they say that the Cold Palace is filled with wandering ghosts? And they¡¯re the kind with deep resentment. Did they take a fancy to my ability and want me to avenge them?¡±


    As she spoke, her small body trembled.


    Song Jingchen was almost out of breath. He tried to make Shen Yijia relax, but it was useless. He could only pat her back comfortingly. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. If there are really those ghosts in the Cold Palace, they¡¯ll only pester the people that hurt them.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not believe it. Didn¡¯t they say that the emperor had the aura of a true dragon? Perhaps those ghosts were pestering her because they did not dare to pester the useless emperor.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He tried his best, but Shen Yijia refused to get off him. If not for the fact that he could feel her body trembling, Song Jingchen would have suspected that she was deliberately trying to take advantage of him.


    It was not until Shen Yijia fell asleep in his arms that Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. If she continued to strangle him, he wouldn¡¯t be able to protect himself from following this girl after he turned into a ghost.


    Thinking of Shen Yijia¡¯s words, Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes and called Mo Yuan over to ask her to guard Shen Yijia by the bed.


    He went out alone in the dark.


    You Yi had an ominous feeling.


    Song Jingchen went all the way to the courier station. He avoided the guards in the courier station and found Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s courtyard.


    He did not ask where Xuanyuan Ce lived. He had the highest status among the envoys, so it was naturally arranged for him to stay in the best courtyard.


    In fact, he had guessed correctly.


    As soon as Song Jingchen jumped into the courtyard, two men in black wearing silver masks blocked his way.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, the two of them charged at him ruthlessly.


    Song Jingchen frowned. They seemed to be waiting for him.


    The other party¡¯s moves were strange. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t dare to be distracted and focused on fighting the enemy. Even so, his body quickly turned red with injuries.


    ¡°Let him in.¡± Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s voice came from inside the house.


    The two men in black immediately put away their swords and hid in the night.


    Song Jingchen looked in the direction the other party had left and frowned. It seemed that he hadn¡¯t guessed wrongly.


    The door opened and Chu Feng walked out. He cupped his fists at Song Jingchen. ¡°Young Master Song, my lord invites you.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Chu Feng and didn¡¯t refuse.


    It was a study. Xuanyuan Ce sat behind a desk with two cups of tea in front of him. Obviously, one of them was prepared for him.


    Song Jingchen sat down in front of the desk.


    Xuanyuan Ce pushed one of the teacups in front of him and glanced at the wound on his arm. He cursed the two Demon Guards for being too gentle.


    He had said that they could not kill him, but did the two of them have difficulty understanding his intentions?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t touch the tea in front of him and asked directly, ¡°Why?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows and pretended not to know. ¡°What do you mean? Earl Zhongyi barged into my courtyard at night. Those who don¡¯t know better would think that your emperor sent you to assassinate me.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and interrupted him impatiently. ¡°You saved my wife in the arena and sent someone to protect her afterward. Why?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce choked. Indeed, there was a reason why he hated this kid.


    ¡°I thank Your Highness for saving my wife. If you need me to do anything, just mention it. However, Your Highness, you should take that person back. My wife doesn¡¯t like him.¡±


    Not only did she not like him, but she was also frightened out of her wits by that person¡¯s existence.


    Who would have thought that Shen Yijia, who was fearless and felt that she was the best in the world, was most afraid of illusory things?


    Xuanyuan Ce was so angry that he vomited blood. He sneered. ¡°You can fulfill any request I make?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Your Highness, just tell me.¡±


    ¡°What if I want you to divorce that girl?¡±

 Chapter 522 - 522 Incident (1)

    522 Incident (1)


    As soon as the word ¡°divorce¡± was spoken, the atmosphere around them instantly turned cold, and Song Jingchen¡¯s expression turned cold.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not seem to notice. He picked up the teacup on the table and took a sip. ¡°You have a blood feud. There will definitely be a life and death battle between you and the emperor of Great Xia.¡±


    At this point, he paused and glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s ugly expression before continuing, ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that you only returned to the capital this time for the sake of the world.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it, and I don¡¯t think the emperor of Great Xia will believe it either. But how are you going to fight against the entire imperial power?¡± he thought.


    Once he lost, where would that girl go?


    ¡°She doesn¡¯t owe the Song family anything! On the contrary, according to what I know, if not for her, your family would have long died in the wilderness. She¡¯s already done enough for your family. Aren¡¯t you being too selfish by dragging her into danger with you?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce spoke casually, but his words hit the nail on the head. Every word was like a sharp blade stabbing into Song Jingchen¡¯s heart.


    That¡¯s right. It was impossible not to take revenge on behalf of the Song family. If he lost, did he want that girl to accompany him to hell?


    That girl thought about him before making any moves. She clearly didn¡¯t like owing others favors, but in order not to cause trouble, she endured it and didn¡¯t take out the spiritual liquid to save Madam Qiu.


    When she arrived at her aunt¡¯s place, she used the spiritual liquid without thinking because that girl knew that it was a family member he cared about. Just because it was related to him, that girl took care of the matter with all her heart.


    But what had he done for her?


    Nothing. Ever since that girl married into the Song family, he didn¡¯t seem to have done anything for her. Instead, he brought her endless trouble.


    She earned money to support his family, treated his legs, and went to Xunyang City alone to look for him.


    Everything that girl did was for him!


    She had indeed done enough!


    Seeing Song Jingchen¡¯s face turn pale bit by bit, Xuanyuan Ce felt much better. He snorted and said, ¡°As long as you divorce her, I¡¯ll acknowledge her as my adopted daughter. In the future, she¡¯ll be the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. She can choose any man in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Isn¡¯t it better than following you around?¡±


    ¡°If you really want the best for her, why don¡¯t you listen to me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly interrupted him.


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows and a smug look flashed across his face.


    Brat, you want to fight with me?


    Why did his daughter have to work for others?


    Unexpectedly, just as he thought this, Song Jingchen continued, ¡°If I¡¯m really doing this for her own good, I should know what she wants the most, not make a decision on my own.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was stunned for a moment.


    This didn¡¯t sound like Song Jingchen agreed with his request!


    The panic from before could no longer be seen on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. He was very calm. ¡°I don¡¯t think Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s men have found out enough. When I went to Xunyang City back then, I knew that the road ahead was dangerous, so I didn¡¯t want her to take the risk and chose to leave without saying goodbye. I didn¡¯t expect that girl to chase after me alone from Anyang County.¡±


    He didn¡¯t continue, but his meaning was clear.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought that the divorce could keep Shen Yijia away from danger, but that was not what Shen Yijia wanted.


    Of course, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s men did not find out.


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not tell him in detail. After all, at that time, he only suspected that Shen Yijia was the person Xuanyuan Ce was looking for. Moreover, that was Shen Yijia¡¯s private matter, so there was naturally no need to say it.


    ¡°However, Your Highness reminded me of something. If it¡¯s for my wife¡¯s safety, I won¡¯t lose!¡± Song Jingchen stood up and cupped his fists at Xuanyuan Ce before turning to leave.


    ¡°You don¡¯t want me to call my men back?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and smiled. ¡°Why should I chase him away when I can get a free expert to protect my wife?¡±


    From the looks of the two people who had fought him just now, the person beside Shen Yijia was definitely not weak.


    ¡°Then why are you here today?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was puzzled. Even he didn¡¯t realize that Song Jingchen had taken over the topic of discussion.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and explained kindly, ¡°I just want to confirm what Your Highness thinks of my wife.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce gritted his teeth. He had just said that he wanted to acknowledge that girl as his adopted daughter!


    Wasn¡¯t this brat¡¯s goal from the beginning to convince him to call You Yi back?

 Chapter 523 - 523 Incident (2)

    523 Incident (2)


    ¡°You Yi!¡± Xuanyuan Ce said angrily, ¡°That¡¯s his name.¡±


    This meant that he was going to give the Demon Guard to Shen Yijia completely.


    Song Jingchen smiled and turned around to cup his fists at Xuanyuan Ce again. ¡°Although I don¡¯t know why, thank you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s breath was stuck in his throat. He rolled his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m protecting my own daughter. Do you have to thank me?¡± he thought.


    !!


    Unfortunately, he couldn¡¯t say this. He was so angry.


    ¡°By the way, if the princess of your country causes trouble for my wife again, I don¡¯t mind helping Your Highness teach her a thing or two. At that time, something else will inevitably happen. I hope Your Highness can control her more.¡±


    If the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom died in Great Xia, the peace between the two countries would probably cease to exist.


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°It¡¯s all because of you.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose innocently. ¡°My wife likes my face. It¡¯s impossible for me to destroy it.¡±


    Therefore, he could only resolve the trouble brought about by this face.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Why didn¡¯t he realize that this brat had such a shameless side?


    At the thought that this face had charmed the daughter he had been looking for for more than ten years, Xuanyuan Ce was furious.


    He waved his hand impatiently. ¡°Get lost. Don¡¯t let me see you again.¡±


    Song Jingchen bowed good-naturedly before leaving.


    Standing in front of the courier station, he let out a long breath. He would just take it that he was selfish. Anyway, he would never let that girl go in his life.


    Shen Yijia woke up from being stifled. She opened her eyes and realized that her lips were blocked by someone.


    It was not as gentle and lingering as usual. Kisses rained down on her like a storm, almost suffocating her.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She couldn¡¯t take it anymore and bit someone¡¯s lips.


    Song Jingchen gasped and came back to his senses. He looked at the person glaring at him in shock.


    The two of them stared at each other for a while.


    In the end, Song Jingchen was defeated. He rested his head on Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    His tone was extremely aggrieved.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened and she instantly forgot what had just happened. She wrapped her arms around his head and asked softly, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Who bullied you?¡±


    At the same time, she had already figured out 108 ways to avenge Song Jingchen.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who was sleeping soundly in the courier station, shivered and woke up from his sleep. ¡°Why do I have a bad feeling?¡±


    Song Jingchen said weakly, ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an, he said that I would harm you and persuaded me to divorce you.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Beautiful uncle?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°I didn¡¯t agree.¡±


    He originally did not want to complain, but not only did Lord Jing¡¯an save Shen Yijia¡¯s life, but he also cared about her. What if he coaxed this girl away one day?


    Some things had to be nipped in the bud!


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and gritted her teeth angrily. ¡°What does this have to do with him? Why does he care so much?¡±


    ¡°No, I have to ask him.¡± The more Shen Yijia thought about it, the angrier she became. Her beautiful husband was always worried that he would implicate her. If he was really convinced to divorce her, who would she cry to?


    She didn¡¯t doubt that Song Jingchen was lying at all. She pushed the person on top of her away and got up to get out of bed. She muttered, ¡°If he doesn¡¯t explain himself, I won¡¯t let him off.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and quickly pulled her back. ¡°He already knows his mistake.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded seriously. ¡°In order to compensate you, he sent you a secret guard.¡±


    Therefore, she could take that as compensation. She didn¡¯t have to feel like she owed Xuanyuan Ce a favor for giving her a secret guard.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She felt that something was wrong.


    For example, when did her beautiful husband meet Lord Jing¡¯an in the middle of the night?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t give her a chance to continue letting her imagination run wild. He got out of bed and helped Shen Yijia put on her shoes before pulling her out of the room.


    The sky was slightly bright, and it was quiet everywhere.


    Song Jingchen suddenly called out to the empty courtyard, ¡°You Yi!¡±


    So strange? Shen Yijia shrank her neck and kept moving closer to Song Jingchen.


    In the blink of an eye, a figure suddenly appeared in front of the two of them.


    ¡°He, he¡­¡± Shen Yijia pointed at You Yi and could not speak for a long time.


    Why didn¡¯t she feel it when a living person was beside her?


    ¡°You Yi is his name.¡± In case Shen Yijia suspected that she was being targeted by a ghost again, the best way was to let her know of the existence of such a person.

 Chapter 524 - 524 Incident (3)

    524 Incident (3)


    The corners of You Yi¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Song Jingchen called out his name. He knew that His Highness had indeed sold him out!


    The Demon Guard absolutely obeyed his orders. He cupped his fists and knelt on one knee. ¡°Greetings, Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia was not really stupid. She quickly understood that the reason why she could not sense You Yi¡¯s existence was because he was powerful.


    !!


    Then she thought of the person who had ambushed her in the arena. She asked, ¡°In the arena, someone ambushed me. Were you the one who saved me?¡±


    You Yi said, ¡°I was just following His Highness¡¯s orders.¡±


    As expected.


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Then who¡¯s more powerful, you or that person?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t fought him in a long time, so I don¡¯t know,¡± You Yi said honestly.


    He and Night Soul protected different masters. Although they had trained together since they were young, they did not even know what the other party looked like. The same went for him and the other Demon Guards beside Xuanyuan Ce.


    Moreover, before the late emperor sent them to their respective masters, his last order was that they were not allowed to attack each other.


    In other words, even if Xuanyuan Ce and the king turned against each other and instructed them to kill each other, they would not attack. This meant that there was no chance for the Demon Guards to fight each other.


    After receiving a free guard, Shen Yijia immediately instructed him to protect Song Jingchen.


    In the end, she realized that You Yi listened to everything she said, except for this order. The other party ignored her.


    Shen Yijia stomped her feet in anger.


    Song Jingchen comforted her in amusement. ¡°Alright, I still have South Wind by my side. I don¡¯t need him. Besides, I¡¯ll be at ease if he stays by your side.¡±


    Shen Yijia could only give up.


    It was impossible to return it. It was free. It would be a waste not to take it!


    Ever since she had such a mysterious person by her side, Shen Yijia often suddenly said, ¡°You Yi, I can see you. Don¡¯t hide anymore.¡±


    It was also because she said this, from time to time when the Demon Guards gathered again, the others realized that You Yi¡¯s concealment ability had improved by leaps and bounds, leaving them in the dust.


    That would come later.


    After the emperor¡¯s birthday, the cases that had been accumulated previously were also brought up.


    Apart from the case of the corpses at the bottom of the lake, the most shocking thing was the matter of the county magistrate of Songshan County privately mining iron ore.


    When iron ore was mentioned, it often reminded people of weapons.


    Forging weapons privately was prohibited.


    Everyone¡¯s first reaction was that this county magistrate wanted to rebel.


    The person who proposed this case was none other than Grand Tutor Zhao himself.


    He claimed that his servants in Songshan County went hunting in the mountains and were killed for accidentally running into one of the miners.


    Grand Tutor Zhao felt that something was wrong, so he sent someone to investigate. He did not expect to find that it was an iron mine, and the person who privately mined it was the county magistrate of Songshan County.


    County Magistrate Yang knew that his plan had been exposed and did not want to implicate his family, so he set himself on fire.


    The emperor was furious. He sent someone to Songshan County and found a confession letter at the county magistrate¡¯s house. The confession letter stated that he had sold the iron ore to foreigners. The people sent by the emperor even found a large amount of money in his house.


    The other officials in Songshan County who were involved also unanimously pointed out that County Magistrate Yang had forced them to do this.


    Actually, they all knew that there was someone else from the capital who was involved. Unfortunately, other than County Magistrate Yang, the others did not know who it was.


    Instead of randomly pulling out people they could not afford to offend, it was better to bite County Magistrate Yang to death.


    After all, the dead couldn¡¯t speak.


    Apart from the confession, there was also an account book found in County Magistrate Yang¡¯s house.


    The amount of money involved in all the transactions and the distribution of the money was clearly written on it.


    In the end, it was the same amount of money found in County Magistrate Yang¡¯s house.


    The most ironic thing was that the largest portion of the money in the account book had been silently sent to the emperor.


    It was the birthday gift he had sent to the capital before he died.


    Thinking of the adult-sized golden statue, the emperor was so angry that he took three medicinal pills to recover.


    ¡°Yang Kaiming, how dare you act so boldly under my nose? I don¡¯t even dare to think about how many vermin like him there are in my vast Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, please calm down!¡± The ministers hurriedly kowtowed and shouted.


    ¡°Calm down? How do you want me to calm down?¡± The emperor swept all the memorials to the ground.


    Now that Yang Kai had died, he couldn¡¯t vent his anger even if he wanted to.


    The emperor flew into a rage in the imperial court and immediately appointed Grand Tutor Zhao as the imperial envoy to audit the officials everywhere for him.


    After the court session, the ministers looked at Grand Tutor Zhao with different expressions. There was envy, sympathy, and wariness.


    Lord Zhao was amazing. It was not a small matter to report him accurately.


    Grand Tutor Zhao ignored them and quickly caught up to Song Jingchen. ¡°Earl Zhongyi.¡±


    Song Jingchen turned around and glanced at him coldly. ¡°Lord Zhao, what¡¯s the matter?¡±


    A smug expression flashed across Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s face. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just want to remind Earl Zhongyi that it¡¯s not easy to return to the capital. Earl Zhongyi should cherish his blessings.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t chase after the past. Otherwise, His Majesty won¡¯t be at ease.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Song Jingchen sneered and left.


    In Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s opinion, he was exasperated.

 Chapter 525 - 525 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (1)

    525 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (1)


    The Songshan County case was another wake-up call for the emperor, although all the evidence pointed to County Magistrate Yang.


    However, the emperor was not stupid. On the contrary, he was more suspicious than any emperor.


    Therefore, the more conclusive the evidence was, the more the emperor suspected that there was something fishy going on.


    He even thought that the mastermind behind the abduction case was the same person behind Yang Kaiming.


    Unfortunately, all clues were cut off with Yang Kaiming¡¯s death.


    It was also because of this that he began to summon Song Jingchen frequently to ask about the progress of the girl abduction case.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve always felt that your Song family is innocent, but the evidence back then was conclusive. I¡¯m an emperor. If I don¡¯t punish you severely, won¡¯t others imitate you?¡± The emperor looked down at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes. ¡°The lightning and rain are all thanks to the emperor. I¡¯ll definitely find out who¡¯s behind the case as soon as possible and share His Majesty¡¯s burden.¡±


    The emperor narrowed his eyes and his gaze lingered on Song Jingchen¡¯s face, as if he wanted to see how sincere he was.


    After a long time, he laughed at himself. He was confused. He had actually started to count on loyalty.


    In front of power and high-ranking officials, loyalty was worthless. There was only an equivalent exchange.


    He pondered for a moment and seemed to have made a decision. He said in a low voice, ¡°As long as you find out who¡¯s behind the girl¡¯s case, I can consider reopening the case back then, provided that you have conclusive evidence to prove that your Song family was wronged.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up. Wasn¡¯t this a tacit understanding from the moment he was summoned back?


    Their eyes met. The emperor clenched his fists. His eyes darkened, and he felt inexplicably unhappy.


    He was clearly sitting on a high seat and looking down at Song Jingchen, but he felt oppressed.


    He was the emperor, the emperor of Great Xia. The other party was just a subject.


    The emperor almost blurted out the bold words, but in the next moment, Song Jingchen had already lowered his head again and stood with his head lowered respectfully, as if everything that had happened just now was just his imagination.


    The emperor exhaled and waved his hand. ¡°Go investigate the case.¡±


    Song Jingchen cupped his hands. ¡°I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    After he left, the emperor seemed to have instantly aged ten years. He leaned against the dragon throne tiredly. Seeing this, Eunuch Li quickly went forward to help massage his back. ¡°Your Majesty, you must be tired.¡±


    The emperor rubbed his temples. ¡°Go and get the pills.¡±


    Eunuch Li paused and reminded him after some deliberation, ¡°Princess Yong¡¯an said that you can¡¯t overdo it with this pill. Your Majesty, how about¡­¡±


    Ji Yunxi said that he could take three pills a day, but the emperor had long changed from one pill to two pills at a time. Over the past few days, because of the incident in Songshan County, he had treated the pills as candy.


    In just a few days, they had almost finished a month¡¯s worth of it.


    Before he could finish, the emperor suddenly raised his head. His scarlet eyes were filled with ruthlessness as he said coldly, ¡°Am I the emperor or is she? My words don¡¯t work anymore, right?¡±


    Eunuch Li was terrified and quickly knelt down to beg for forgiveness. ¡°Your Majesty, calm down.¡±


    The emperor kicked him impatiently and walked to the Multi-Treasure Pavilion.


    ¡°Where¡¯s the medicine? Where did you put my medicine?¡± As he roared, the sound of things falling to the ground kept coming from the hall.


    A young eunuch guarding outside the hall rolled his eyes and quietly left the imperial study after informing the person beside him.


    The emperor gave Grand Tutor Zhao three days to set off. Unexpectedly, a day before the departure, on the fifth day of August, a man in ragged clothes who looked like a beggar suddenly sounded the drum in front of the Imperial Capital.


    The last time this drum was beaten was because of the Shen family. When the commoners heard the sound, they saw that there was a chance to watch again and surrounded it.


    Lord Cai sat in the high hall with a dark expression. Looking at the old beggar who had been brought in by the bailiffs, he slapped the shocking wooden stick impatiently. ¡°Who are you? What injustice do you have?¡±


    The old beggar knelt down shakily, as if he was worried about something. He looked at the surrounding commoners a few times.


    It was not until Lord Cai banged on the wood again that he woke up and kowtowed to the person in the high hall a few times.


    However, as soon as he spoke, Lord Cai broke out in a cold sweat.


    He said, ¡°I¡¯m Yang Kaiming.¡±


    Yang Kaiming was dead. Everyone in the court knew that he died in that fire. Because of him, the emperor had to audit the officials everywhere, making all the ministers tense up, afraid that they would be found out.


    Then who was this person in front of him who called himself Yang Kaiming?

 Chapter 526 - 526 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (2)

    526 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (2)


    ¡°So Yang Kaiming was saved by you?¡± In the Song residence, Shen Yijia sat lazily on a rattan chair in the courtyard.


    There was a basket of fruits beside her hand. There were lychees, cinnamon, and grapes. As long as it was the right season, there was everything.


    Shen Yijia did not buy it.


    You Yi took it from the courier station!


    !!


    Because of Song Jingchen¡¯s comforting words, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t settle scores with Xuanyuan Ce.


    However, when she thought of what he had said to her beautiful husband, she was furious, so she instructed You Yi to go to the courier station every day to steal fruits.


    Wait no, one shouldn¡¯t call it stealing.


    She merely took the share that was given to Xuanyuan Ce.


    You Yi left quickly and did not hide it from Xuanyuan Ce. After all, the Demon Guards around Xuanyuan Ce were not to be trifled with.


    Xuanyuan Ce found out that Shen Yijia knew about his attempt to persuade him to leave. She almost came over, but Song Jingchen stopped her in the end.


    Xuanyuan Ce almost vomited blood. Song Jingchen!


    After being angry, he had to instruct Chu Feng to pack fruits for her.


    Therefore, all the fruits distributed to the envoy of the Xuanyuan Kingdom were gone, including Xuanyuan Ziming and the grounded Xuanyuan Ye.


    Shen Yijia did not know this. When she saw that You Yi could bring back a large basket of fruits every day, she threw praises at him.


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°I think it¡¯s not bad to follow Miss!¡±


    Rooster glanced at Thirty Thousand, who only knew how to eat at the side, and nodded. ¡°Yes, after we rescued those miners, we returned to the county magistrate¡¯s residence to look for evidence. We didn¡¯t want to bump into County Magistrate Yang, who was trapped in the fire. Master said that County Magistrate Yang was an important witness, so we saved him. The person who died in the fire was actually an advisor of the county magistrate.¡±


    With that, Rooster panted heavily.


    He suddenly realized that it was good for Thirty Thousand to be so thick-skinned. Young Madam said that he could eat whatever he wanted.


    He squatted at the side and ate fruits with a clear conscience.


    There were already a pile of fruit cores by the side.


    Seeing that he kept glancing at Thirty Thousand, Shen Yijia thought that he wanted to eat it but was embarrassed. She grabbed a few lychees and handed them over. She asked, ¡°Did Grand Tutor Zhao get someone to set the fire?¡±


    He would kill them to silence them and make them take the blame. Then, he would shout that he had caught a thief!


    Rooster was flattered and reached out to take it. He scratched his head. ¡°Master said that it¡¯s not him. It should be someone behind Grand Tutor Zhao.¡±


    After saving County Magistrate Yang, they did not leave immediately. They saw with their own eyes that Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s men were looking for County Magistrate Yang.


    The culprit seemed to know their every move. As soon as they realized that something was wrong, they immediately abandoned the carriage to protect the commander. This was to protect Grand Tutor Zhao.


    Unfortunately, they did not expect Rooster and Thirty Thousand to not leave the city immediately after saving the miners. Instead, they returned to the county magistrate¡¯s residence at the risk of being tracked down and saved County Magistrate Yang, who was in the sea of fire.


    Actually, Shen Yijia was not the only one who thought so. Yang Kaiming thought so too.


    An accomplice would not implicate his clansmen, but the main culprit was different. He did not expect Grand Tutor Zhao to be so ruthless. Not only did he kill him to silence him, but he also wanted his entire family to die with him.


    Without needing Rooster and the others to pressure him, Yang Kaiming planned to fight Grand Tutor Zhao to the death.


    He knew that he had killed someone. How could he leave no evidence?


    Hence, there was the matter of beating the drum.


    Lord Cai did not dare to hide such a huge matter and reported it to the emperor.


    The emperor did not care about Grand Tutor Zhao. It could be said that as long as anyone threatened his throne, he wished he could kill them all.


    He wanted to find out if the girl¡¯s case was the same person as this. Was there anyone else behind Grand Tutor Zhao?


    Therefore, this case was finally handed over to the Court of Judicial Review. Song Jingchen was the judge, the Minister of Justice assisted, and the imperial officials supervised from the side.


    In short, Grand Tutor Zhao was completely finished.


    Rooster and Thirty Thousand returned after reporting to Song Jingchen.


    Madam Li was also listening from the side. In the end, she could not help but cover her mouth with a handkerchief and sob.


    Back then, it was this Zhao fellow!


    They reported the Crown Prince, causing the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence to be accused of treason. The Crown Prince was disinherited, and the Empress was still imprisoned in the Cold Palace. The Song family had two deaths, and Song Jingchen was crippled. As for the Song family¡¯s army¡­


    The beginning of all the trouble was this Zhao fellow!


    Retribution. This was retribution!


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and waved Rooster and the others away. She walked to Madam Li¡¯s side and patted her back. ¡°Mother.¡±


    Madam Li wiped her tears and grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. She smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just too happy.¡±


    ¡°As long as Mother is happy.¡± Shen Yijia did not know how to comfort her. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°However, Mother, save your tears first. When Hubby catches the mastermind, he¡¯ll completely avenge our family.¡±

 Chapter 527 - 527 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (3)

    527 Grand Tutor Zhao Falls (3)


    s


    ¡°I¡¯ll cry with Mother when the time comes,¡± she said after holding it in for a long time.


    Madam Li was amused by her. With the good atmosphere gone, she couldn¡¯t cry anymore. She reached out and tapped Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. She rebuked, ¡°Why are you crying? This is a good thing. I¡¯m not crying. You¡¯re not allowed to cry either.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. She did not want to cry!


    Madam Li was speechless.


    ¡°Today is Brother Chen¡¯s birthday, and there¡¯s such a good thing. Let¡¯s go make him a delicious meal.¡± Madam Li couldn¡¯t stand Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze and changed the topic.


    ¡°Alright, we can make the cake from last time.¡± Shen Yijia grinned.


    Song Jingchen was busy at the Court of Judicial Review until late at night. Even if Yang Kaiming gave him enough evidence, Grand Tutor Zhao still insisted that he was framing him.


    The motive was because he had reported Yang Kaiming in the royal court. Yang Kaiming wanted to take revenge on him for making false evidence.


    It was unknown if these words were directed at Yang Kaiming or at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care what others thought of him. All the evidence was there, so he had no choice but to admit it.


    Knowing that he could not escape, Grand Tutor Zhao simply took responsibility for everything.


    However, when Song Jingchen asked about the crown prince¡¯s rebellion back then, he refused to change his mind.


    If he asked further, it would mean that Song Jingchen had used his position to take revenge and wanted to force a confession.


    He was only so arrogant because he saw that the people from the Ministry of Justice and the Censorate were around. He knew that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t dare to torture him to extract a confession.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised by this outcome, but he was still disappointed.


    He returned home with a cold expression. He thought that everyone was asleep, but he did not expect to step into the courtyard.


    A human-shaped steel cannon flew towards him. Song Jingchen paused and hurriedly reached out to catch Shen Yijia.


    Under the bright moonlight, Shen Yijia hung on Song Jingchen¡¯s body. She smiled and cupped his face. ¡°Hubby, happy birthday!¡±


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and looked at the person in front of him. The frustration in his heart was swept away and he was about to do as he pleased.


    There was another low cough in the courtyard.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s body stiffened. He looked up and realized that the entire family was standing not far away.


    Song Jingchen thought, ¡°Why didn¡¯t I see it just now?¡±


    Madam Li covered her mouth and smiled. ¡°Let¡¯s eat first.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Big Brother. I was starving just to wait for you,¡± Sister Huan added.


    Shen Yijia looked back resentfully and kissed Song Jingchen again before jumping down.


    Sister Huan and the others were speechless.


    Sister-in-law, you¡¯re so shameless!


    After the family finished their meal, Mo Yuan brought out the cake. This cake was made by her and Madam Li. It looked much better than the one Shen Yijia had made previously.


    Shen Yijia lit the candle and looked at him with sparkling eyes. She urged, ¡°Make a wish!¡±


    After making a wish, they could eat cake!


    Song Jingchen glanced at her, pursed his lips, and lowered his eyes. After a few seconds, he blew out the candle.


    Sister Huan and the others cheered and began to distribute the cake.


    If it wasn¡¯t made by their sister-in-law, they could eat it in peace!


    Shen Yijia leaned in front of Song Jingchen and whispered, ¡°Hubby, your wish will definitely be fulfilled.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked up and asked in amusement, ¡°Do you know what I made?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but no matter what the wish is, it will be fulfilled.¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head with a matter-of-fact expression.


    Da Hua had said that wishes wouldn¡¯t come true if people said them out loud, so she wouldn¡¯t ask.


    Song Jingchen chuckled and looked down at her.


    Shen Yijia looked at him too.


    There seemed to be stars in her eyes.


    Song Jingchen felt as if something was slowly filling his heart.


    It would definitely happen.


    ¡°My wish is hers.¡± he thought.


    After eating the cake, everyone gave him gifts one by one.


    Sister Huan had given him a dagger. She had bought it, but she had engraved a few words on it. ¡°For Big Brother.¡±


    Brother Hao copied an article that Song Jingchen had written when he was young.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Write your own essay for me next time.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao made a sachet herself. ¡°Brother Song, thank you.¡±


    Everyone present knew what her thank you meant.


    Madam Li took out the clothes she had made for Song Jingchen.


    Bruiser and Lin Shao had yet to return.


    Finally, it was Shen Yijia¡¯s turn. She felt awkward for a long time before taking out a pouch. ¡°There are two more leaves this time.¡±


    She saw that the bamboo shoot pouch from before was still used by her beautiful husband.


    She had originally said that she would never touch needles and thread again. Who would have thought that her beautiful husband only used her pouch?


    What a sweet burden.


    Song Jingchen took the pouch and looked at the two black sticks on it. He held back his laughter and said, ¡°Yes, there¡¯s been some growth.¡±


    It was unknown if he was talking about the bamboo or Shen Yijia.

 Chapter 528 - 528 Dead (1)

    528 Dead (1)


    In the dead of night, the moon was bright and the stars were sparse. The dim cell fell into silence.


    A few prison guards were lying on the table and dozing off.


    Suddenly, a dull thud came from a cell. The prison guards suddenly woke up.


    Before they could move, a group of people rushed out of the darkness. The leader was Vice Minister Du.


    !!


    A knock sounded at the door.


    The first knock on the door made Song Jingchen open his eyes. He first glanced at Shen Yijia, who was still sleeping, before getting up, putting on his clothes, and opening the door.


    Last night, Shen Yijia drank a little and slept soundly. Actually, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have to worry about waking her up.


    ¡°Master, someone from the Court of Judicial Review is here,¡± South Wind reported in a low voice.


    Song Jingchen turned around and closed the door before asking, ¡°Where is he?¡±


    The person who wanted Grand Tutor Zhao to die the most was probably the person behind him.


    Song Jingchen was guarding against this. He instructed Vice Minister Du to bring people to guard the prison. This was an opportunity.


    ¡°Outside the door.¡±


    Before South Wind could finish speaking, Song Jingchen had already strode out.


    At the entrance of the Song residence, an official was waiting anxiously. When he saw Song Jingchen come out, he hurriedly said, ¡°Sir, bad news. Grand Tutor Zhao is dead.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. He snatched the official¡¯s horse and rushed towards the Court of Judicial Review.


    Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s death meant that the clues to this case had been cut off again.


    Damn it!


    In the prison of the Court of Judicial Review, the fire was burning brightly. Looking at the two corpses in front of him, Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    The two corpses were about the same size. Coupled with their disheveled appearances, it was actually very difficult to tell the difference if one did not look carefully.


    One of the corpses was Grand Tutor Zhao, and the other was a death row inmate detained by the Court of Judicial Review.


    The cause of their deaths was the same. They bit their tongues and committed suicide.


    Song Jingchen guessed that someone would find an opportunity to attack Grand Tutor Zhao, so he specially switched Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s prison cell with another death row inmate.


    As for the real Grand Tutor Zhao, he was locked in an ordinary cell.


    This was a trap he had set for the other party. In order not to leak the news, no more than three people knew about this.


    He trusted Vice Minister Du and South Wind.


    However, Grand Tutor Zhao still died.


    The other party killing this substitute was more like a provocation to him.


    ¡°Sir, I found this on Grand Tutor Zhao.¡± Du Shaoqing took out an envelope.


    Song Jingchen glanced at it and didn¡¯t take it. He didn¡¯t need to look to know that it was the so-called confession.


    He clearly knew that it was fake, but it was enough to end this case.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see the person who attacked?¡± Song Jingchen took a deep breath and suppressed the anger in his heart.


    Vice Minister Du lowered his head in shame. ¡°I rushed out as soon as I heard the prisoner fall to the ground. I also sent people out to investigate, but I didn¡¯t find anything.¡±


    According to the prison guard guarding the ordinary prisoners, Grand Tutor Zhao, who was originally leaning against the corner of the wall, suddenly fell to the ground.


    No one had broken in, but the two criminals had been killed silently under their noses.


    One was to silence him, and the other was to provoke him. The person who attacked seemed to know the situation in this prison like the back of his hand.


    To be precise, he knew Song Jingchen very well.


    It was as if he knew all his arrangements, which was why he was so precise.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and only looked at Vice Minister Du with a dark gaze.


    Vice Minister Du¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He bent his knees and wanted to kneel down. Then, he pointed at the sky and swore that he had definitely not leaked the news.


    He felt bitter. Song Jingchen had painted the big picture for him. From then on, he would become the lackey of Song Jingchen in the Court of Judicial Review.


    It was so comfortable to hug his wife and children at home at night.


    However, in order to catch any potential saboteurs, he stayed here for the entire night. He had been bitten by mosquitoes countless times, and he felt that he was about to become anemic.


    Now he had to be suspected. Was it easy for him?


    Indeed, those who knew too much would not have a good ending!


    What a pity.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that people who usually had their heads empty had so many thoughts in their minds. He asked in a low voice, ¡°Who came to the prison after the prisoners were locked up?¡±


    He was referring to the people who came after changing Grand Tutor Zhao¡¯s cell.


    Even if the other party knew him well and knew that he would set a trap, there were so many cells. They couldn¡¯t possibly know where he had switched the prisoners, right?


    The prison guards on guard duty usually rotated in two shifts. He only transferred Grand Tutor Zhao to an ordinary cell after the change of duty.


    Normally speaking, everyone who had been here should be here.


    As expected, the clerk checked the people present with the booklet and finally said, ¡°Sir, everyone is here.¡±

 Chapter 529 - 529 Dead (2)

    529 Dead (2)


    Song Jingchen nodded slightly and sized up everyone present. He noticed that one of the prison guards was trembling nervously.


    He narrowed his eyes and was about to get someone to arrest him.


    The jailer knelt down with a thud. ¡°No, it¡¯s not me. My lord, please investigate. I really didn¡¯t do it.¡±


    With his appearance, it was difficult not to suspect him.


    !!


    Thinking about how he had waited all night for nothing and how he had almost been wronged, Vice Minister Du gritted his teeth and kicked him.


    He scolded, ¡°If it¡¯s not you, why are you trembling? I think you¡¯re just feeling guilty.¡±


    The prison guard choked and glanced at Song Jingchen with a bitter expression.


    ¡°Try being stared at by Lord Song for a few seconds. Let¡¯s see if you¡¯ll tremble.¡± he thought.


    He had this problem since he was young. He would tremble when he was nervous. Was this his fault?


    It was because he wanted to train his courage that he used his connections to become a jailer. He had not trembled in a long time, but who would have thought that Lord Song was so lethal that he instantly broke through his defense?


    He had trained her courage for more than ten years for nothing!


    In the end, the other prison guards who were familiar with him proved that this prison guard really trembled when he was nervous. It had nothing to do with his guilt.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. Just as Vice Minister Du thought that he couldn¡¯t figure it out, another prison guard hiding at the back suddenly knelt down. ¡°I know that another person came.¡±


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    This jailer was guarding outside the felon¡¯s cell. He was sleeping with his companions when the condemned prisoner died.


    He stammered for a long time before saying, ¡°His name is Little Wang. After the adults left, Little Wang suddenly came back and said that he had left his house keys here. I helped him look for them for a long time, but I couldn¡¯t find them. He said that he might have forgotten to bring them out and left directly. I didn¡¯t think too much about it at that time.¡±


    At this moment, another prison guard seemed to have been reminded and said, ¡°When Little Wang left, he passed by and muttered about why there were so many prisoners these past few days.¡±


    At that time, he had even added, ¡°That¡¯s right. One of them was just locked up here.¡± At that time, he had no idea that it was Grand Tutor Zhao who had just been locked up. After all, Grand Tutor Zhao was not an ordinary prisoner.


    After saying that, he realized that his words might have reminded Little Wang, who was deliberately trying to get information out of him. He was so frightened that he knelt down and kowtowed repeatedly to beg for forgiveness.


    Song Jingchen had no time to pay attention to him for the time being. He instructed, ¡°Bring people to capture him immediately.¡±


    Unexpectedly, just as he finished speaking, a guard walked in from outside the prison.


    Noticing that the atmosphere inside was a little off, the guard quickly knelt on one knee and said, ¡°Sir, a woman outside said that her man is missing.¡±


    ¡°If he¡¯s gone, let her report to the officials in the Imperial Capital. Is our Court of Judicial Review a place to care about such trivial matters?¡± Vice Minister Du frowned.


    Didn¡¯t they see that Lord Song was in a bad mood? All of them were so troublesome.


    The guard said awkwardly, ¡°But that woman said that her man is on duty here.¡±


    Du Shaoqing was stunned. Coincidentally, he met Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze. The two of them thought of the same person at the same time.


    Little Wang!


    Little Wang was dead. He had drowned in a latrine in a brothel.


    Since he was a regular customer of that brothel, and the lady knew that he was on duty at the Court of Judicial Review, as soon as she found out, she sent people to the Court of Judicial Review to report the case.


    In the end, the coroner¡¯s autopsy results showed that Little Wang lost his footing and fell into a latrine pit. The filth covered his mouth and nose and he suffocated to death.


    Little Wang¡¯s relative also said, ¡°Brother Wang said that he wanted to go to the toilet, but I waited for a long time and didn¡¯t see him return.¡±


    The salary of the prison guards was not high. If not for special reasons, no one would be willing to do this unlucky job.


    It was already unusual for Little Wang to frequent brothels with money. Unfortunately, no one had noticed it before.


    In fact, before this matter, in the eyes of his wife and colleagues, he was an honest person.


    ¡°Sir, what should we do now?¡± After dismissing the others, Vice Minister Du asked worriedly.


    They originally thought that there was a silver lining, but who would have thought that it was a dead end?


    Song Jingchen checked the surroundings of the two cells and finally fixed his gaze on the beam. After a long time, he said, ¡°It¡¯s time to repair this roof.¡±


    Vice Minister Du paused, not understanding why he had suddenly switched topics to repairing the roof.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t explain and only said, ¡°Close the case.¡±


    This meant that there was no need to investigate further. Grand Tutor Zhao would be sentenced as the main culprit for privately mining iron ore.


    Vice Minister Du also knew about this case. There was evidence and a confession. Even if they continued to investigate, they would not find anything useful. He could only agree in silence.


    In Princess Yong¡¯an¡¯s residence on Vermillion Bird Street.

 Chapter 530 - 530 Dead (3)

    530 Dead (3)


    Ji Yunxi sat in the waterside pavilion in a white dress. Layers of white gauze fluttered in the wind around the pavilion.


    Opposite her sat a handsome man in white.


    The man¡¯s fingertips moved, and the sound of the zither sounded.


    A woman in black suddenly appeared outside the pavilion. She was about to say something when Ji Yunxi raised her hand to stop her.


    When the song ended, the man retracted his hand. Ji Yunxi personally handed him a handkerchief and asked, ¡°Is he dead?¡±


    Mo Yu was dissatisfied. She frowned and met Ji Yunxi¡¯s warning gaze. She lowered her head and said respectfully, ¡°Yes.¡±


    The man saw the conflict between the master and servant. After carefully wiping his fingers, he folded the handkerchief and placed it back on the table. He smiled and said, ¡°The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets are indeed not ordinary.¡±


    Ji Yunxi raised her eyebrows and waved Mo Yu away. ¡°At least I can help you get what you want.¡±


    Apart from ambition, her face was filled with confidence.


    The man shook his head and laughed. Then, he straightened his expression and said, ¡°Have you been to Madam Qiu¡¯s place?¡±


    Ji Yunxi¡¯s face suddenly darkened. ¡°She handed over a visiting card. Her maidservant said that Madam Qiu is not in good health and doesn¡¯t want to meet guests.¡±


    Now that she thought about it, the person who made her feel smug back then was a joke.


    Madam Qiu had always thought highly of herself. If she was really grateful to someone, why would she give her such flashy things?


    The man paused for a moment and raised his hand to brew two cups of tea. He pushed one cup in front of Ji Yunxi and said gently, ¡°Since Madam Qiu doesn¡¯t want to see you, don¡¯t go. You can¡¯t rope her in, but you can¡¯t offend her either.¡±


    ¡°However, I found out that the person who treated Madam Qiu was actually a maidservant beside Madam Song. Back then, that maidservant even treated Lord Jing¡¯an.¡±


    Most of Ji Yunxi¡¯s sources in Great Xia came from men. Hearing this, she frowned.


    The man continued, ¡°It¡¯s a coincidence. Madam Song¡¯s maidservant is fated with you. The person beside you is called Mo Yu, and that person is called Mo Yuan.¡±


    The surname Mo was rare to begin with. So far, the man had only heard of a few people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets with that surname.


    Ji Yunxi looked at the tea in front of her and said unhappily, ¡°I¡¯ve seen her before. She¡¯s not from our Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    The man picked up his tea and took a sip. He smiled and said, ¡°Of course I believe you. I just want to remind you to be careful of this person.¡±


    Ji Yunxi paused, and the displeasure on her face disappeared, replaced by a shy expression. After a long time, she asked, ¡°Then was she the one who changed Song Jingchen¡¯s fate?¡±


    The man shook his head. ¡°Song Jingchen¡¯s legs had already recovered before he met that maidservant.¡±


    Therefore, the most likely person was still Shen Yijia.


    Ji Yunxi wanted to say that regardless of whether it was true or not, she could just kill the two of them together.


    The man continued, ¡°Let¡¯s put these aside for the time being. Since the person above is so worried about the kidnapping case, it¡¯s time for Lord Jing to take the lead.¡±


    Ji Yunxi did not speak. A white furball jumped in from outside the pavilion and threw itself into her arms.


    The man looked at the little fox nestled obediently in Ji Yunxi¡¯s arms and smiled. ¡°You raised it well.¡±


    Grand Tutor Zhao committed suicide in prison.


    The confession showed that he had privately mined iron ore, killed Yang Kaiming after the incident, and made him take the blame.


    The confession was full of words, clearly describing how he had framed Yang Kaiming.


    He had placed the account books, confessions, and money he had found at County Magistrate Yang¡¯s place. He had also replaced the emperor¡¯s birthday gift beforehand.


    In the end, he said that he knew that his sins were unforgivable and could only apologize with his death.


    However, in the end, he did not tell him where he had used the iron ore.


    This made the emperor panic even more than when he found out that the iron ore had been sold to foreigners.


    Such a huge amount had already been mined. If the ore had been made into weapons, it would be a ticking time bomb.


    The emperor was so angry that he immediately issued a decree to throw the entire Zhao family into prison. After autumn, he would be executed and all his clansmen would be exiled.


    He also ordered Song Jingchen to continue investigating the whereabouts of the iron ore.


    Song Jingchen knew that this wasn¡¯t because the mastermind forgot to include the details about the iron ore.


    The reason why he did not write it was to make the emperor nervous and find something for him to do.


    To dare to be so brazen, it could only mean that the other party knew that it was impossible for him to find it.


    Song Jingchen was busy with so many things at once, and Shen Yijia was also busy at home.


    After engraving the words and hiring most of the people needed, the printing workshop finally started work.


    The two courtyards were connected into one.


    On the first day of work, she specially called Xiao Ruoshui and Yuan Yuwan out and brought them to visit her workshop.


    Because the workshop was in the south of the city, most of the people who came to work were commoners living in the south of the city.


    The literate ones were in charge of typography, and the illiterate women were in charge of printing and binding.


    Each person was in charge of printing two to three versions. The efficiency was high.


    Xiao Ruoshui was different from Yuan Yuwan. She did not like these things.


    At first, she was surprised, but later on, she lost interest. After watching for a while, she thought of something and left with her maidservant.


    Shen Yijia guessed that she might be going to the noodle shop. She puffed up her cheeks and pulled Yuan Yuwan to continue looking around.

 Chapter 531 - 531 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (1)

    531 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (1)


    In the early years, Old Master Yuan was busy with official matters and neglected his sons. When he realized that something was wrong, his brothers were already old enough to get married.


    He was filled with regret. He had beaten and scolded them. The brothers had restrained themselves in front of him, but they still did what they did behind his back.


    Helpless, Old Master Yuan could only place his hopes on his grandchildren. However, once he became stricter with his grandchildren, his daughters-in-law would cry and complain to Madam Yuan.


    Mrs. Yuan¡¯s heart ached for her grandson. She looked for him every few days, causing chaos in the entire Yuan family.


    The saying that a wife should marry a virtuous person had almost become Old Master Yuan¡¯s mantra.


    No matter how much he didn¡¯t want to admit it, he knew that his grandsons were useless. All of them had learned their father¡¯s bad habits.


    In his words, the Yuan family¡¯s luck had come to an end.


    After getting so angry that he almost had a stroke a few times, he simply brought Yuan Yuwan to the old residence to stay and focused on teaching her alone.


    Fortunately, Yuan Yuwan was smart and gave him some comfort.


    Seeing that she was interested, Shen Yijia tilted her head and asked, ¡°Sister Yuwan, do you want to try?¡±


    ¡°Can I?¡± When she asked this, her eyes were filled with eagerness.


    Although Shen Yijia had not interacted with her for long, Yuan Yuwan had always given off a quiet and steady feeling. This was the first time she had done this.


    Shen Yijia, who was a little slow to sense the emotions of everyone except Song Jingchen, inexplicably felt that this girl must be tired of living.


    Without a word, she pulled Yuan Yuwan to the cubicle and handed her a word plate. ¡°Try it.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She reached out and took it. She chose words from the neatly arranged list and lined them up on the calligraphy plate.


    Shen Yijia also lined up a page. After that, the two of them returned to the printing room.


    Printing did not require any technical skills. At most, it would be novel to the people who saw it for the first time.


    Yuan Yu printed two sheets. When she looked up, she burst out laughing.


    ¡°Hurry up and bring your young lady to wash up.¡± She couldn¡¯t help but turn to Sana and say.


    Sana was mainly in charge of the workshop.


    Shen Yijia blinked and guessed something. She awkwardly followed Sana to the backyard.


    Apart from the work houses, there were also a few rooms left in the backyard. One of them was prepared for Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia washed the ink off her face and asked, ¡°Did you send that child away?¡±


    She was asking about the son of Shen Pingxiu¡¯s mistress. Ever since she sent him to the wine shop, this was the first time she had asked.


    Sana handed her a handkerchief and said, ¡°I just sent him away a few days ago.¡±


    Actually, that child had been in the wine shop for a few days and was very obedient. If not for his special status, the few of them would not have been willing to send him away.


    Shen Yijia nodded and did not ask further. It was enough to save the child. She did not intend to interfere too much in the child¡¯s future.


    When she came out of the room, Yuan Yuwan happened to come over with a maidservant. She was still holding the paper that the two of them had printed just now.


    Sana brought her more water to wash her hands before the two of them sat down in the courtyard to talk.


    ¡°If my grandfather saw this, he would definitely be very happy.¡± Looking at the neat handwriting in her hand, Yuan Yuwan sighed.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°Then burn this for him to see.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan laughed out loud. ¡°That¡¯s a good idea.¡±


    The two of them chatted for a while longer, but Xiao Ruoshui did not return. Yuan Yuwan suggested looking for her.


    Coincidentally, at this moment, the Yuan family¡¯s servant came looking for them.


    Perhaps because he had been searching for a long time, the servant¡¯s face was covered in sweat. When he saw that Yuan Yuwan did not bow, he said impatiently, ¡°Eldest Miss, go home quickly. Master has something urgent to tell you.¡±


    Although he called her Eldest Miss, he had no respect for her at all.


    Yuan Yuwan seemed to be used to it and did not care. She only looked at Shen Yijia apologetically and said, ¡°I have to go back first. Ruoshui¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Go home first. I¡¯ll look for her alone.¡±


    After Yuan Yuwan left, Shen Yijia did not stay in the workshop for long. She reminded Sana about a couple of things and brought Mo Yuan out to look for Xiao Ruoshui.


    She had come in the Xiao family¡¯s carriage. Fortunately, this place was not far from the noodle shop. The two of them arrived after walking for 15 minutes.


    However, when she arrived at the noodle shop, she only saw Feng Manman sitting in the lobby with tears in her eyes. She did not see Xiao Ruoshui.


    Seeing a guest enter, Feng Manman quickly wiped her tears and put on her veil in a panic. She apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, the noodle shop is about to be transferred. We¡¯re not doing business anymore.¡±

 Chapter 532 - 532 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (2)

    532 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (2)


    Although she moved quickly, Shen Yijia could still see her face clearly.


    There were two hideous scars crossed on the left side of her face. They were even a little swollen and festering.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    How could that be?


    !!


    Although she had never seen Feng Manman¡¯s original face, she knew that the wound would not be in this state after a few months.


    Coupled with the fact that it had been so long since she gave Xiao Ruoshui the scar removal ointment, even if it had not completely removed those scars, it should be able to fade a lot.


    Even if the scar removal ointment didn¡¯t work, it would at most make the scars on her face remain.


    Why did it look more serious?


    ¡°Your face¡­¡± Shen Yijia had a bad feeling.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Feng Manman covered her face in a panic. Realizing that she had already put on a veil, she lowered her eyes. ¡°I must have frightened Madam. I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and was about to ask again when there was a commotion outside the door.


    She turned around and saw the Xiao family¡¯s carriage. Beside the carriage was a horse.


    Shen Yijia had seen the man on the horse before. He was Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s elder brother, Xiao Qirui.


    After the emperor¡¯s birthday, Xiao Qirui was asked by the Eldest Prince to go to the Ministry of Works to help, so General Xiao could not continue to lock him up.


    But why were these two people together?


    Xiao Qirui glanced at Shen Yijia coldly and got off the horse trail to walk to Feng Manman¡¯s side. ¡°Go upstairs first. I¡¯ll definitely give you an explanation for this.¡±


    Feng Manman¡¯s eyes instantly turned red, but she held back her tears and persuaded gently, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Brother Xiao, don¡¯t blame Miss Xiao.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my fault. Not to mention that you¡¯re engaged, even if you¡¯re not, we should avoid arousing suspicion.¡±


    ¡°With my background, I still have to trouble you time and time again. It¡¯s normal for Miss Xiao to misunderstand.¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused. She blinked and looked at Xiao Ruoshui, who had gotten out of the carriage with a dark expression.


    What was going on here?


    Xiao Ruoshui glared at Feng Manman angrily and pulled Shen Yijia into the carriage.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to take your brother with you?¡±


    Wasn¡¯t keeping him here giving Feng Manman a chance?


    Xiao Ruoshui was incredibly angry. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Ignore him. He¡¯ll regret it one day!¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. If it was just Xiao Qirui, she naturally wouldn¡¯t care, but the innocent Yuan Yuwan was also implicated.


    ¡°What happened? Why are you with your brother? Also, I saw Feng Manman¡¯s face just now.¡±


    Before she could finish asking, Xiao Ruoshui took out something. Shen Yijia recognized it at a glance as the scar removal ointment she had taken from her.


    She took it and opened it. It was not much different from before. It had probably only been used once or twice.


    Xiao Ruoshui said angrily, ¡°Someone tampered with it.¡±


    She had just remembered that Feng Manman had been using medicine for a while, so she wanted to see how her face was recovering. Unexpectedly, she bumped into Xiao Qirui.


    As soon as Xiao Qirui saw her, he reprimanded her indiscriminately.


    ¡°I thought you were just spoiled by your parents. I didn¡¯t expect you to do such a vicious thing.¡± These were Xiao Qirui¡¯s words.


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned by the scolding.


    Xiao Qirui was five years older than her. He usually spent most of his time in the military camp, and there was a saying that men and women in big families sat at different tables when they were seven years old.


    The siblings might not be close, but they were still biological siblings. Xiao Qirui had always treated her well, and Xiao Ruoshui also respected her big brother.


    This was the first time Xiao Qirui had said such harsh words to her.


    Xiao Ruoshui was furious, but she still patiently tried to figure out the whole story.


    Then, she found out that not only did Feng Manman¡¯s face not recover from the scar removal ointment she had given her, but it also became worse.


    The scar removal ointment was given to her by Xiao Ruoshui, so she naturally became the first suspect.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s thoughts were very simple. There was no woman who didn¡¯t cherish her appearance. It couldn¡¯t be Feng Manman who did it herself.


    Moreover, he knew Xiao Ruoshui well. She had been used to being willful since she was young. When she didn¡¯t like someone, she dared to do anything.


    Giving Xiao Ruoqian laxatives and catching cockroaches to scare her was child¡¯s play.


    Additionally, he took into account what Xiao Ruoshui had said about Feng Manman.


    It was possible to use the scar removal ointment with poison to warn Feng Manman not to look for him again.


    If not for his interrogation after seeing the transfer of the shop today, he would not have known that his savior had almost been forced to a dead end by his biological sister.


    Xiao Ruoshui definitely believed Shen Yijia. Her first reaction was that Feng Manman was lying and pulled off her veil on the spot.

 Chapter 533 - 533 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (3)

    533 Beating Xiao Qirui Up (3)


    ¡°So you and your brother went to the medical center to test the medicine just now?¡± Shen Yijia blinked and handed the scar removal ointment to Mo Yuan.


    Mo Yuan dabbed some ointment on her fingertips and sniffed it. She said expressionlessly, ¡°It¡¯s the Hundred Withered Grass.¡±


    The sap of the Hundred Withered Grass has the toxicity of festering the skin.


    Shen Yijia also knew this.


    !!


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you suspect that there¡¯s something wrong with the medicine I gave you?¡± Shen Yijia asked strangely.


    She had just said that someone had tampered with it.


    ¡°It can¡¯t be you.¡± Xiao Ruoshui said without thinking, ¡°It must be that Feng Manman. If she really wanted to leave, why didn¡¯t she leave directly? The money I gave her at that time was enough for the commoners to live for the rest of their lives, but she still had to transfer a shop there. Afterwards, Xiao Qirui bumped into her.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui sneered. ¡°I don¡¯t think she wants to leave at all. She deliberately posted a shop transfer outside and waited for Xiao Qirui to look for her! Only that fool, Xiao Qirui, thinks that she¡¯s innocent.¡±


    She did not even call him Big Brother anymore. It was obvious that she was really angry this time.


    ¡°Have you told him?¡± Shen Yijia nodded in agreement.


    ¡°Of course I did! However, when Feng Manman¡¯s eyes started turning watery, Xiao Qirui said that I went overboard. Don¡¯t think so highly of everyone.¡± Xiao Ruoshui slapped the table and gritted her teeth. ¡°What do you think he means? It seems to him that Feng Manman is innocent and kind. As his biological sister, I¡¯m full of evil tricks.¡±


    ¡°I really want to put a gunny sack on him,¡± Shen Yijia said angrily.


    As an outsider, she was already angry. No wonder Xiao Ruoshui was furious.


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned and stared straight at Shen Yijia. ¡°What a coincidence. I want to do it too.¡±


    The carriage, which had been traveling well, suddenly stopped. There was a restaurant in front of them. The two of them jumped out of the carriage and looked at each other.


    The timing, location, and people were perfect!


    After entering the restaurant, the two of them asked for a private room at the back. They instructed Xi Que and Mo Yuan to wait in the private room and climbed out of the back window.


    After coming out of the restaurant, the two of them quickly rushed to an alley that they had to pass through to get out of the noodle shop.


    Xiao Ruoshui knew Xiao Qirui well. He felt that Feng Manman had been hurt because of him again and would definitely go home to mention marrying her again. Moreover, he would be wary and would not stay there for long.


    As expected, as soon as Xiao Ruoshui hid, the sound of hooves came from the alley.


    Xiao Qirui sat on the horse, his face filled with exhaustion. He was thinking about how to break off the engagement to reduce the damage done to Miss Yuan.


    As he was thinking, something suddenly fell from the roof. Before he could see clearly, he felt a weight behind him and a sack was placed over his head.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s attack succeeded. She knocked Xiao Qirui gently on the back of his neck. After confirming that he had fainted, she pulled the sack and threw it down before jumping off the horse.


    Xiao Ruoshui ran in from the alley and glanced at Xiao Qirui, who was lying unconscious on the ground. She gave Shen Yijia a thumbs up. ¡°Impressive!¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and carried Xiao Qirui away.


    Xiao Qirui was woken up by the stench. His vision was dark. He moved his sore neck and his hands and feet were tied.


    He said warily, ¡°Who exactly is it that dares to attack an official of the imperial court in broad daylight?¡±


    The response was a flurry of punches and kicks.


    As the fists landed on his body, Xiao Qirui felt that his entire body was about to fall apart.


    He tried to break free.


    Shen Yijia grabbed the sack and spun it above her head before smashing it to the ground.


    Xiao Qirui was speechless.


    Shen Yijia fought alone for a long time and realized that there was no movement behind her.


    She turned around strangely and looked at Xiao Ruoshui, who was pinching her nose with one hand and standing there motionless.


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t you fighting anymore? Can¡¯t bear to hit him?¡± she thought.


    Xiao Ruoshui silently took out a stick as thick as an arm.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    They were indeed biological siblings.


    The two of them fought a mixed double. Xiao Qirui successfully fainted again. Xiao Ruoshui threw the stick away and pulled Shen Yijia away.


    This was an abandoned horse shed that stank. She was unwilling to stay any longer.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to untie him?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Xiao Ruoshui took a deep breath of fresh air and waved her hand indifferently. ¡°His horse went home to call for reinforcements.¡±


    Thinking of the horse that disappeared as soon as she turned around, Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows.


    She thought that the horse was frightened by her.


    ¡°Fortunately, Sister Yuwan went home early.¡± Xiao Ruoshui suddenly sighed.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. So what if she went back? Xiao Qirui could not hide this matter for long.


    Moreover, hiding it from her might not be good for her!


    Xiao Ruoshui said, ¡°No, that b*tch framed me. I have to find her fox tail!¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°You don¡¯t want your brother to be deceived by her, do you?¡±


    She had just said that she would ignore him and make him regret it in the future!


    Xiao Ruoshui scratched her head. ¡°No matter what, he¡¯s my big brother. Besides, didn¡¯t I beat him up to appease my anger?¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.

 Chapter 534 - 534 Incident (1)

    534 Incident (1)


    If it was a special medicine, they could go to the medical center to find out who had bought it recently.


    However, the Hundred Withered Grass was not the same. On the contrary, the Hundred Withered Grass could be seen everywhere like weeds, but many people did not know that its sap was poisonous.


    Therefore, it was easier said than done to investigate.


    After hearing Shen Yijia¡¯s explanation, Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face fell. ¡°Then what should we do?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and did not say anything. She could not think of a good solution.


    In her opinion, Xiao Qirui was hopeless. What she needed to think about now was how to get Yuan Yuwan out of this matter and not get hurt.


    However, Xiao Ruoshui still felt that as long as Xiao Qirui broke up with Feng Man and married Yuan Yuwan, everyone would be happy.


    There was no need to add to her troubles.


    Since she had already said so, Shen Yijia could not betray her.


    However, neither of them expected that paper could never hide fire.


    The August day was still a little stuffy.


    Yuan Yuwan stood in the main hall. She only needed to take a step back to see the bright sunlight, but she felt as if her entire body was covered in ice.


    A coldness seeped out of her bones.


    Master Yuan and Madam Yuan, who were sitting in the high hall, were talking.


    She couldn¡¯t listen to a single word. The only thing that echoed in her ears was two words: annul the engagement!


    ¡°Unfilial daughter, didn¡¯t you hear what I said to you?¡± Master Yuan shouted, pulling Yuan Yuwan back to reality.


    She secretly clenched her fists and looked up at Master Yuan. She said indifferently, ¡°Who told Father that the Xiao family is here to annul the engagement?¡±


    ¡°So Sister doesn¡¯t know yet?¡± A girl in green standing beside Eldest Madam covered her mouth with a handkerchief and said in surprise, ¡°But I heard that Eldest Young Master Xiao would rather suffer the family punishment and kneel in the ancestral hall for a few days to break off the engagement with Sister!¡±


    As she spoke, she seemed to mutter in confusion, ¡°Isn¡¯t Sister on good terms with Miss Xiao? Why didn¡¯t she even tell you about this?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan glanced indifferently at the woman who spoke.


    The Second Madam had a son and a daughter, Yuan Leyao.


    Ignoring Yuan Leyao¡¯s sarcasm, Yuan Yuwan looked at Master Yuan in the high hall. ¡°So? What do you want me to do about this?


    It turned out that he had said all that for nothing.


    Master Yuan was furious. He said righteously, ¡°Your grandfather helped you arrange your marriage when he was still alive. The Xiao family has delayed you for so long. How can they cancel it just like that?¡±


    Hearing these dignified words, a trace of mockery flashed across Yuan Yuwan¡¯s face. She waited quietly for him to continue.


    Master Yuan felt a little embarrassed under her gaze. He coughed lightly and turned his face away, indicating for the stepmother to speak.


    The Second Madam laughed dryly and went forward to shake Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand.


    Yuan Yuwan dodged to the side.


    The smile on the Second Madam¡¯s face froze. She said awkwardly, ¡°Your father¡¯s heart ached for you. Just now, he even wanted to look for the Xiao family to seek justice for you.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan sneered. ¡°Did Father go?¡±


    The Second Madam choked. Of course he didn¡¯t go!


    Not only did he not go, but when he heard about this, the first thing that came to his mind was whether Yuan Yuwan had done something to offend the Xiao family. He wished he could bring her to the Xiao family to apologize.


    He only heaved a sigh of relief when he found out from Yuan Leyao that Eldest Young Master Xiao had fallen in love with another woman.


    There was no need to say anything else. The stepmother rubbed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and explained, ¡°I persuaded him. Yuwan, don¡¯t blame me.¡±


    ¡°Things are really different now. The Xiao family is not someone our family can afford to offend. However, don¡¯t worry, our family isn¡¯t easy to bully. If they really come to annul the engagement¡­¡±


    ¡°If they really come to annul the engagement, what benefits do you want from the Xiao family? I heard that Third Brother owes a lot of money in the gambling den¡­ Oh right, Father has been a small Hanlin official in the Hanlin Academy for so long. It¡¯s time for you to move up, right?¡± Yuan Yuwan continued.


    What a joke. He said so much because he was afraid that she would go to the Xiao family to cause trouble!


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t let go of the furious expression on Master Yuan¡¯s face. She sneered in her heart. Her biological father had never disappointed her.


    The Second Madam smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°Child, no matter what, Chang¡¯er is still your younger brother. Moreover, your father¡¯s official position has been moved up, so no one in your husband¡¯s family will dare to bully you in the future. Your father is doing this for your own good!¡±


    It seemed that they had already discussed who she would marry before she returned!

 Chapter 535 - 535 Incident (2)

    535 Incident (2)


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart sank, but she didn¡¯t show it on her face. ¡°Then let¡¯s talk about it after the Xiao family breaks off the engagement.¡±


    With that, she bowed to Master Yuan. ¡°I¡¯m a little tired, so I¡¯ll go back first.¡±


    Seeing that she was leaving just like that, Master Yuan was so angry that he slapped the table. ¡°This unfilial daughter has read so many books. If not for the fact that she¡¯s useless and can¡¯t even hold a man¡¯s heart, I wouldn¡¯t have lost my dignity with her.¡±


    Yuan Leyao¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°Father, don¡¯t be angry. Sister must be feeling terrible too.¡±


    The Second Madam also went up to calm him down. ¡°That¡¯s right, Master. Yuwan has been spoiled. It¡¯s normal that she can¡¯t accept the news that the Xiao family wants to annul the engagement. She¡¯ll definitely understand you in the future.¡±


    As she spoke, she gave Yuan Leyao a look. Yuan Leyao understood and bowed, leaving the couple alone.


    ¡°Sister, why are you walking so quickly?¡± Yuan Leyao jogged over and blocked Yuan Yuwan¡¯s path. She no longer put on an act like before. Instead, she looked like she was gloating.


    Yuan Yuwan knew these monsters of the Yuan Family very well. If she didn¡¯t let Yuan Leyao finish mocking her, she probably wouldn¡¯t be able to have peace for a long time.


    Yuan Yuwan stopped in her tracks and looked up at the sun hanging in the sky. The light was so glaring that she almost cried.


    ¡°Sister, you definitely don¡¯t know why Eldest Young Master Xiao broke off the engagement with you, right?¡± Yuan Leyao sneered. ¡°I¡¯ve heard that he fell in love with a commoner woman. I heard that Eldest Young Master Xiao fought back and taught that woman how to read and write. Really, a man and a woman alone. How good is their relationship?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan admitted that she had been indifferent to everything since she was young, but when she thought of that scene, her heart couldn¡¯t help but ache.


    ¡°After all, Sister knows everything. Eldest Young Master Xiao won¡¯t be able to experience these joys from you.¡± Yuan Leyao shook her head sympathetically. ¡°Unfortunately, Sister, there was originally a good marriage, which made the sisters in the family extremely envious. This is unexpected.¡±


    She paused for a moment and thought of something fun. She chuckled. ¡°But don¡¯t worry, Sister. Father and Mother have already thought of a way out for you. When the Xiao family breaks off the engagement, they¡¯ll marry you off to Earl Rong¡¯s residence. In the future, you¡¯ll be the wife of an earl, not inferior to the Young General¡¯s wife.¡±


    Earl Rong¡¯s residence was in-laws with the Prime Minister¡¯s residence, and the Prime Minister¡¯s residence was Consort Liu¡¯s maternal family. Therefore, Earl Rong¡¯s residence belonged to the Eldest Prince¡¯s faction.


    Of course, this was not the main point. The main point was that Lord Rong was already in his fifties this year. He had married three main wives before this, and all of them died of an illness a few years later.


    Anyone who cared about their dignity or doted on their daughter would not let their daughter marry him.


    Unfortunately, the Yuan family could really do such a thing.


    As Yuan Leyao spoke, she observed Yuan Yuwan¡¯s expression. Seeing that her expression was indifferent, she sneered. ¡°It¡¯s just that Lord Rong is a little old. His eldest son seems to be a year older than Sister, right? However, it¡¯s fine. Old people dote on others.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan finally looked at Yuan Leyao and frowned. ¡°Second Sister seems to have reached marriageable age, right?¡±


    Yuan Leyao did not know why she suddenly asked this, but she still said proudly, ¡°I only reached adulthood last month. I¡¯m not like Sister, who¡¯s already¡­¡±


    With a serious expression, Yuan Yuwan said, ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re already of marriageable age. You¡¯re no longer a young girl. How can you not know what you can and can¡¯t say? Do you think it¡¯s appropriate for a young lady to say that?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Yuan Leyao¡¯s expression changed. She also felt that she had been too frivolous just now. Her expression changed a few times, and she said angrily, ¡°My mother will control me if I say anything wrong. Unlike you, who killed your own mother at birth¡­¡±


    ¡°Second Miss, please be careful with your words.¡± Yuan Yuwan¡¯s personal maidservant, You Bai, said in surprise.


    A slap sounded loudly.


    For a moment, everyone was stunned.


    Yuan Leyao covered her face in disbelief. ¡°You, you b*tch, how dare you hit me!¡±


    She raised her hand to slap her back, but before she could do so, Yuan Yuwan grabbed her wrist.


    ¡°Second Sister, don¡¯t provoke me. Otherwise¡­¡± She leaned over and whispered something in Yuan Leyao¡¯s ear.


    Yuan Leyao¡¯s eyes widened and she staggered back two steps. ¡°How did you¡­¡±


    Yuan Yuwan let go of her hand and said coldly, ¡°If you don¡¯t want others to know, don¡¯t do it.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t say it because I feel disgusted, but if you talk about my mother again, I don¡¯t know what I¡¯ll do.¡±

 Chapter 536 - 536 Incident (3)

    536 Incident (3)


    Yuan Leyao shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, you wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan sneered. ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t I dare? There have been many scandals about the Yuan Family.¡±


    ¡°You!¡±


    Yuan Yuwan rubbed her wrist and asked, ¡°Where did you hear that the Xiao family wants to annul the engagement?¡±


    !!


    ¡°Xiao Ruoqian told me. She eavesdropped on Xiao Ruoshui and Madam Xiao. That woman even opened a small noodle shop in the south of the city. If you don¡¯t believe me, you can investigate it yourself.¡±


    After Old Master Yuan died, Yuan Yuwan did not move back to the Yuan residence. Instead, she continued to live in the old residence. Apart from special circumstances, she would only go back on the first and fifteenth days of the new year.


    Although the old residence was not as big as the Yuan residence, and there were not many people serving it, it was still quiet.


    Yuan Yuwan returned to the old residence and locked herself in the study to practice her calligraphy for the entire afternoon.


    At night, she leaned against the rattan chair in the courtyard as if nothing had happened.


    However, the calmer she was, the more worried You Bai was, just like when the old master left back then.


    ¡°Miss.¡± she called out worriedly.


    Yuan Yuwan blinked and turned around to ask, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Her tone was as calm and gentle as ever.


    Actually, other than facing the wolves, tigers, and leopards of the Yuan family, she rarely got angry.


    However, You Bai felt sad and comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t believe what Second Miss said. The Young General won¡¯t do such a thing.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s telling the truth.¡± Yuan Yuwan looked up at the night sky again.


    She thought of Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s evasion during the last emperor¡¯s birthday banquet.


    It was probably because of this.


    After returning from the palace banquet, she even asked You Bai to send over some medicine. She thought that she would be able to get a word or two from him.


    But there was nothing.


    She could only blame herself for being too slow. That was why she was caught off guard.


    Seeing that she was so sure, You Bai¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°Then, what should we do, Miss?¡±


    ¡°You Bai.¡± Yuan Yuwan closed her eyes. Her eyelashes fluttered, and a faint bitter smile appeared on her lips.


    ¡°Miss?¡± Young Bai¡¯s voice trembled.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you your indenture. Leave.¡± Her voice was a little hoarse. ¡°I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to protect you in the future.¡±


    ¡°Miss.¡± Seeing her like this, You Bai was so anxious that tears fell.


    Her Miss was clearly such a good person, but why was her life so bitter?


    She still remembered that when the old master left, Miss had also said such a thing to her.


    She had served Yuan Yuwan since she was young, so how could she not understand that her young mistress was determined to die again?


    Back then, it was Young General Xiao who gave her hope of survival.


    Now, it was the same person who had destroyed her hopes.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯m not leaving.¡± You Bai shook his head repeatedly with a sobbing tone. ¡°Even if you want to leave, you have to take me with you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Miss. Let¡¯s escape. This way, the Yuan family won¡¯t be able to force you to marry that bullsh*t uncle.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan chuckled. ¡°Silly girl, where can the two of us escape to? Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t court death.¡±


    ¡°Then Miss, you¡­¡±


    ¡°No matter how much I dislike the Yuan family, I¡¯m still a girl of the Yuan family. Since ancient times, I¡¯ve been ordered by my parents to matchmake.


    ¡°As long as my surname is Yuan, I won¡¯t be able to escape.¡±


    There was a hint of desolation in her voice.


    ¡°But you know what kind of place Earl Rong¡¯s residence is. I bring you with me because I know it¡¯s a fire pit.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid,¡± You Bai said firmly as she wiped her tears. However, she was afraid that Yuan Yuwan would insist on chasing her away. She gritted her teeth and continued, ¡°If Miss insists on not letting me serve you, I¡¯ll hang myself in front of Miss¡¯s room with three feet of white silk. I¡¯ll follow you wherever you go in the future.¡±


    She was clearly threatening someone, but she shivered.


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She shook her head and laughed. ¡°It¡¯s cooler here. I¡¯ll take a break.¡±


    With that, she raised her hand to cover her eyes.


    You Bai pursed her lips. ¡°It¡¯s still a little cold at night. Miss, wait. I¡¯ll go get a thin blanket.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t say anything. She just nodded slightly.


    Knowing that she was not chasing her away, You Bai heaved a sigh of relief and hurriedly ran back to the room to get a blanket.


    Yuan Yuwan was still in the same position as when she left.


    She gently covered Yuan Yuwan with the thin blanket and glanced at her. She noticed that the hair at her temples was wet.


    You Bai was stunned, but she quickly understood what was going on. Her heart immediately ached.


    ¡°Miss, shall we go and look for Miss Xiao?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan remained silent.


    You Bai knew that she was not asleep. She sobbed and said, ¡°We have to at least find out what¡¯s going on, right? Even if¡­ even if they want to annul the engagement, they can¡¯t do it for no reason, right? My Miss is clearly so good!¡±


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s body stiffened. That¡¯s right. They couldn¡¯t be so ambiguous. At the very least, she had to see what kind of woman could make Brother Xiao break his promise.


    An hour later, the carriage stopped at Liu¡¯er Street.


    ¡°Miss, didn¡¯t you say that you were going to look for Miss Xiao?¡± You Bai helped Yuan Yuwan out of the carriage.


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head. ¡°Ruoshui must be in a difficult position.¡±

 Chapter 537 - 537 Meeting (1)

    537 Meeting (1)


    At the Song family residence.


    After dinner, the family gathered in the courtyard to cool down. This was one of the few times the entire family could gather together.


    As long as they were at home, Song Jingchen would take the time to check the homework of the three students.


    Female studies were different from male studies. Apart from learning music, chess, calligraphy, and painting, needlework and needlework were also indispensable.


    The only things Sister Huan could show off were the first few things. Among them, she was the best at chess. As for needlework, it was completely up to Lin Miaomiao to help her cheat.


    Looking at Brother Hao and Lin Miaomiao, who had been defeated by Sister Huan, Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. She seriously suspected that she had deliberately done badly back then. Protecting Lin Miaomiao was one of the reasons, but she was more afraid that this was her goal.


    Knock, knock, knock!


    There was a knock on the door. Shen Yijia looked up and saw that Mo Yuan had gone to open the door.


    Soon, Mo Yuan led the two of them in.


    Seeing the person, Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°Sister Yuwan, why are you here so late?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan bowed and greeted Madam Li. She said apologetically, ¡°It¡¯s so late. Sorry to disturb you.¡±


    Madam Li also knew about Yuan Yuwan. The last time Shen Yijia returned from the palace banquet, she had said a lot of good things about this girl. She smiled and said, ¡°What do you mean by not disturbing her? It¡¯s all thanks to you taking care of our Jiajia at the palace banquet last time.¡±


    Guessing that Yuan Yuwan must be looking for Jiajia for something, Madam Li suggested, ¡°Don¡¯t stand there. Jiajia, bring Miss Yuan to the central room to talk.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Shen Yijia went forward and held Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand. ¡°Sister Yuwan, follow me.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded.


    The two of them sat down in the central room. Mo Yuan brought in two ice bowls and a few plates of snacks.


    Shen Yijia pushed the ice bowl over. ¡°Sister Yuwan, try it. My mother made these. They¡¯re delicious.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and took a sip. She praised, ¡°Auntie¡¯s culinary skills are really good.¡±


    ¡°Right? If you like it, eat more. Mo Yuan, bring in two more bowls.¡± Seeing that she agreed with her, Shen Yijia felt proud. She picked up her bowl and ate happily.


    Song Jingchen usually didn¡¯t allow her to eat too much, so she could eat her fill today!


    Mo Yuan said expressionlessly, ¡°When I came in just now, I met Young Master. He specifically said that Miss Yuan can eat it, but you can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°At most, you can eat one more bowl,¡± she added faintly.


    Although Mo Yuan was Shen Yijia¡¯s subordinate, as long as it was for Shen Yijia¡¯s own good, she listened to Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia choked and glanced at Mo Yuan resentfully. Could she save her some face?


    The atmosphere in the Song family made Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart relax a little. She put down her bowl and pursed her lips. ¡°Jiajia, actually, I came here today to ask you something.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked Mo Yuan to leave first.


    ¡°Are you going to ask about the Xiao family?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Yuan Yuwan paused for a moment and nodded with a bitter smile. ¡°Ruoshui has always been a person who can¡¯t hide anything. I think she¡¯ll definitely tell you what she can¡¯t tell me.¡±


    ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Yuan Yuwan shook her head. Noticing the worry on Shen Yijia¡¯s face, she smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m not as weak as you think.¡±


    As if afraid that Shen Yijia would not believe her, she lowered her eyes. ¡°Since I was young, I knew that I had lost my biological mother and that my biological father was unreliable. If I want to live well, I have to study hard and surpass all the brothers and sisters in the family.¡±


    ¡°Because that¡¯s the only way to catch my grandfather¡¯s eye and obtain his protection.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not understand.


    Yuan Yuwan said self-deprecatingly, ¡°Don¡¯t you think I¡¯ve been more cautious than others since I was young?¡±


    At an ignorant age, she already knew how to analyze the situation that was most beneficial to her and plan.


    Sometimes, she felt that she was a little scary like this.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°You just want to live well.¡±


    She didn¡¯t harm anyone.


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She smiled and said, ¡°So, you really don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡±


    Seeing that she did not seem to be faking it, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°What do you want to know?¡±


    Since she already knew, there was no need to continue hiding it. Besides, she already felt that it was unfair to her to hide this from Yuan Yuwan.


    ¡°Can you tell me about them?¡±


    They were naturally referring to Xiao Qirui and Feng Manman.


    Fifteen minutes later, Shen Yijia greeted Song Jingchen and left with Yuan Yuwan.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to go with me,¡± Yuan Yuwan said helplessly.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m worried about you going alone.¡±

 Chapter 538 - 538 Meeting (2)

    538 Meeting (2)


    After the scar removal ointment incident, she had the same thoughts as Xiao Ruoshui. She felt that Feng Manman was not a simple person.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the alley. Yuan Yuwan did not let Shen Yijia get out of the carriage. She advised, ¡°I don¡¯t want you to make things difficult for Ruoshui. It¡¯s better if you don¡¯t show your face.¡±


    The south of the city was so big. If not for the fact that she had no other choice, she would not have gone to look for Shen Yijia.


    Thinking that Feng Manman had seen her before, Shen Yijia nodded. She watched as Yuan Yuwan and her servant entered the alley before quietly following them.


    She couldn¡¯t go in the open, but she could at least watch from afar.


    After they entered the alley one after another, a young man dressed as a servant walked out of the darkness at the entrance of the alley opposite.


    The young man sized up the carriage for a long time and slapped his forehead. ¡°It¡¯s bad.¡±


    If Xiao Ruoshui was here, she would have recognized this young man as Xiao Li, Xiao Qirui¡¯s personal follower.


    Xiao Qirui was beaten up by someone. Although it was only a superficial wound, it was enough for him to lie down for a while.


    The other party was lying in ambush near the noodle shop. Thinking of the people who had chased after him last time, Xiao Qirui was worried that they would attack Feng Manman, so he sent someone to protect her nearby.


    Xiao Li was only one of them. He did not expect to see Miss Yuan after waiting for a long time.


    Thinking of the engagement between Miss Yuan and his young master, Xiao Li did not dare to delay and quickly ran back to report.


    The door of the noodle shop was still open. It turned out that the words ¡°transfer¡± had already been torn off.


    Yuan Yuwan stood at the door and saw a woman sitting in the hall, writing.


    Noticing the veil on the woman¡¯s face, Yuan Yuwan guessed her identity.


    After Feng Manman finished writing, she looked up and met Yuan Yuwan¡¯s gaze. Surprise flashed across her eyes. She stood up and said gently, ¡°The shop is already closed.¡±


    ¡°Since it¡¯s closed, why aren¡¯t you closing the door? Who are you waiting for? Unfortunately, that fool Xiao Qirui is probably still lying in bed.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and muttered softly.


    At the side, You Yi, who wished he could shrink into a ball, complained endlessly. Miss, you¡¯re snatching my position.


    ¡°Also, the most taboo thing to do as a secret guard is not to keep your mouth shut. It¡¯s fine if you expose yourself, but this will easily cause me to be exposed too!¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and asked, ¡°If you had to choose one of them as your wife, who would you choose?¡±


    You Yi closed his mouth and shook his head again.


    He shouted in his heart, ¡°Have you forgotten that you¡¯re hiding? Can you stop talking?¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. She narrowed her eyes and threatened, ¡°This is an order. You have to answer.¡±


    You Yi was speechless.


    Why did he have to answer? He wasn¡¯t getting married!


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Huh?¡±


    You One said, ¡°Miss¡­ Miss Yuan.¡±


    Shen Yijia was satisfied. ¡°At least you have good taste. You¡¯re better than that blind Xiao Qirui.¡±


    You One said, ¡°Thank you, but please don¡¯t say anything else.¡±


    Shen Yijia stopped talking.


    Actually, You Yi was thinking too much. Shen Yijia¡¯s voice was not loud. Yuan Yuwan and Feng Man were not experts, so how could they hear their voices?


    Yuan Yuwan came back to her senses and said with a calm expression, ¡°When we passed by this place, you were the only one who opened the door. Can we get a bowl of water?¡±


    This excuse was actually very lame.


    Feng Manman looked at the master and servant at the door strangely. Her master¡¯s expression could not be seen, but the maidservant behind her looked angry.


    Her eyes flickered slightly. She picked up the calligraphy piece below and pressed it against the rice paper on the table. She nodded and said, ¡°Of course. The two of you can come in first.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded and thanked him before walking in with You Bai.


    ¡°Sit down for a while. I¡¯ll get you some water.¡± Feng Manman moved two stools to the table and turned to the back.


    They were also unprepared for people who appeared in the middle of the night.


    You Bai said, ¡°Miss¡­¡±


    She suggested looking for Xiao Ruoshui because she didn¡¯t want Yuan Yuwan to hold it in alone. She didn¡¯t want her to come here.


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head, indicating for her to stop talking. Her gaze fell on the table in front of her.


    Even Xiao Ruoshui, who did not like to read, could tell that these things were not ordinary. How could she not tell?


    And that calligraphy piece.


    Ever since Xiao Ruoshui became good friends with her, she would often secretly show her Xiao Qirui¡¯s articles. Although she only took a look at it before returning it, she wouldn¡¯t remember it wrongly. It was Xiao Qirui¡¯s handwriting.


    ¡°I heard that Eldest Young Master Xiao retaliated and taught that woman how to read and write. Really, a man and a woman alone. How good is their relationship?¡±

 Chapter 539 - 539 Meeting (3)

    539 Meeting (3)


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart tightened, and she inexplicably recalled what Yuan Leyao had said.


    Feng Manman came out with a tray with two teacups on it. Noticing her gaze, she said awkwardly, ¡°I¡¯ve embarrassed myself. My handwriting isn¡¯t good.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan forced a smile. ¡°No.¡±


    Then, she reached out to pick up the teacup.


    !!


    ¡°Be careful, it¡¯s a little hot!¡± Feng Manman exclaimed.


    However, she was too late. Yuan Yuwan¡¯s fingers were scalded, and she accidentally knocked over two cups of tea.


    The overturned teacup rolled on the tray, spilling all the hot tea. It was about to splash onto Feng Manman¡¯s hand, which was holding the tray.


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t have time to think. She quickly knocked the tray to the ground. This way, all the tea was tilted to her side, soaking her dress.


    A clang sounded especially loud in the silent night.


    ¡°Miss, are you alright?¡± You Bai pulled Yuan Yuwan back and said angrily, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡±


    Feng Manman was shocked and apologized in a panic. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s all my fault.¡±


    Tears appeared in her beautiful eyes. She stood there at a loss, looking helpless and anxious.


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned.


    Shen Yijia, who was hiding in the dark, wanted to go out when the tea was spilled, but You Yi grabbed her by the back of her collar and dragged her back.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    You Yi quickly let go and explained, ¡°Someone¡¯s here.¡±


    He had accidentally treated Miss as his teammate.


    As soon as he finished speaking, there was the sound of hurried hooves in the alley. A carriage stopped in the noodle shop.


    A pale-faced man alighted from the carriage with the help of his attendants.


    ¡°Why is Xiao Qirui here?¡± Shen Yijia shrank back.


    You One thought to himself, ¡°Please treat me as a prop.¡±


    ¡°Young General Xiao¡­¡±


    ¡°Brother Xiao.¡±


    You Bai and Feng Manman spoke at the same time.


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t say anything. She just looked calmly at the man limping towards her.


    Xiao Ruoshui and Shen Yijia did not hold back. In order to protect his vitals, Xiao Qirui instinctively covered his head with his hand, so his hand was dislocated. He was still holding it in front of his chest with a bandage.


    ¡°Brother Xiao, why are you injured?¡± Feng Manman exclaimed and ran over, reaching out to help him.


    Xiao Qirui subconsciously turned his body to the side to avoid her hand. It was a simple action, but it hurt so much that he frowned and cold sweat broke out on his forehead.


    Feng Manman did not seem to notice his intention to avoid suspicion. She held his hand and took out a handkerchief to wipe his sweat. Her heart ached so much that tears fell. ¡°Brother Xiao, what¡¯s wrong? Weren¡¯t you fine in the morning?¡±


    Just as she raised her hand, she noticed Xiao Qirui¡¯s gaze. Feng Manman stopped and followed his gaze. She asked, ¡°Do you know each other?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan pinched her fingers and smiled faintly. She bowed slightly. ¡°Young Master Xiao.¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart tightened.


    For some reason, when he heard that Miss Yuan had come to the noodle shop, his first reaction was not to be afraid that something would happen to Feng Manman, but to be worried that Yuan Yuwan would misunderstand.


    However, hadn¡¯t he already made his choice?


    He endured the pain in his body and pulled his hand out. When he met Yuan Yuwan¡¯s calm eyes, he suddenly felt disgusted with himself.


    ¡°Why did you meddle in other people¡¯s business on Chang¡¯an Avenue that day?¡± he thought.


    If he hadn¡¯t saved Feng Manman, these things wouldn¡¯t have happened.


    Xiao Qirui said, ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Can we talk?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked.


    Panic flashed across Feng Manman¡¯s face, but You Bai had already come to pull her back.


    She looked at Xiao Qirui for help. Xiao Li took a big step behind her and blocked her vision.


    ¡°Miss Feng, I¡¯m hungry. Can you help me make a bowl of noodles?¡±


    You Bai puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Coincidentally, I¡¯m hungry too.¡±


    Feng Manman had no way of asking for help. She was sandwiched between the two of them and went to the kitchen.


    Only Yuan Yuwan and Xiao Qirui were left in the hall.


    Xiao Qirui noticed the mess on the ground and the tea stains on Yuan Yuwan¡¯s body. He opened his mouth. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Young Master Xiao is injured. Please sit down.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan moved a stool in front of him, but she didn¡¯t support him.


    Xiao Qirui nodded.


    Apart from the distant glance at the palace banquet, this could be considered the second time the two of them had officially met.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± Xiao Qirui said guiltily.


    ¡°Young Master Xiao, you don¡¯t have to apologize to me.¡± Yuan Yuwan sat down opposite him. ¡°I should thank Young Master Xiao. If not for you, I would have gone with Grandfather when he left.¡±


    Although the previous Pavilion Master Yuan, Old Master Yuan¡¯s protection was based on her calculations, it was the only love she had received.


    When the sky fell, she did have the intention to die. It was Xiao Qirui who gave her hope of survival.


    ¡°Are you worried that I¡¯ll hurt her, so you rushed over despite your health?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked.


    When Xiao Qirui saw her just now, he looked nervous but not surprised.


    He must have sent someone to protect Feng Manman.


    Xiao Qirui opened his mouth but did not say anything. Since he had already decided to break off the engagement, what was the point of explaining?


    Yuan Yuwan nodded. ¡°Does General Xiao not agree to let you marry her?¡±


    She was terrifyingly calm, as if the person opposite her was not the man she was engaged to.


    Xiao Qirui panicked. ¡°Miss Yuan, you¡­¡±


    Yuan Yuwan interrupted him and continued, ¡°I don¡¯t think General Xiao will agree to her marriage even if you break off the engagement with me. Why don¡¯t I help you?


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth and turned around to look at You Yi.


    In the end, she met a pair of phoenix eyes.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Why did You Yi become my beautiful husband?¡±

 Chapter 540 - 540 Agreement (1)

    540 Agreement (1)


    When they returned home from the noodle shop, Shen Yijia still found it a little unbelievable, but then she felt that this outcome was reasonable.


    However, why did she feel so uncomfortable?


    ¡°Unless Xiao Qirui isn¡¯t a member of the Xiao family in the future, it¡¯s impossible for General Xiao to let him marry that woman. Taking a concubine is already the best outcome.¡± Song Jingchen knew what she was thinking and comforted her. ¡°This outcome is good for the three of them.¡±


    After he got off work today, he specially went to Chang¡¯an Avenue to buy dried fruits for Shen Yijia and saw Eldest Master Yuan enter the restaurant with Earl Rong.


    If he was not wrong, as soon as Xiao Qirui broke off the engagement, Earl Rong¡¯s Residence would send a betrothal gift to the Yuan family.


    Eldest Miss Yuan was a smart person. She knew what choice was best for her. That was why she said those words to Xiao Qirui tonight.


    ¡°Wouldn¡¯t that be too unfair to Sister Yuwan?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks angrily.


    Song Jingchen said objectively, ¡°This world is already harsh on women. She has no choice.¡±


    The Yuan family¡¯s style was just chaotic, but Earl Rong had a fetish for abusing people. Every legitimate wife of his did not have a high family background. Once they died, he would give that family some benefits and only say that they had passed away from illness.


    Once Eldest Miss Yuan married into the family, it was obvious what she would experience. If she could not even keep her life, love was naturally not important.


    Shen Yijia liked Yuan Yuwan, so she was still indignant for her.


    She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Don¡¯t encounter any danger in the future.¡±


    This topic changed a little too quickly. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t react for a moment. He heard Shen Yijia say, ¡°What a coincidence. Why did the Xiao family encounter all the life-saving graces in this world?¡±


    ¡°Look, when Fan Mingyuan marries Xiao Ruoshui, he¡¯ll be considered half a member of the Xiao family, right? Doesn¡¯t he have a sister now?!¡±


    ¡°So, don¡¯t get injured. Don¡¯t give others a chance to save you.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes suddenly darkened.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and shrank back. ¡°I said, don¡¯t get injured.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression turned a little ugly. ¡°No, the first sentence.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Fan Mingyuan has another sister.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°One more sentence.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a coincidence that the Xiao family encountered all the life-saving graces in this world?¡±


    Song Jingchen suddenly stood up and looked at Shen Yijia with a burning gaze.


    Shen Yijia panicked a little. Did she say something wrong?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t explain. He turned around and walked out. ¡°I¡¯m going out for a while.¡±


    ¡°Where are you going? I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Shen Yijia quickly followed.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and turned around to rub her head. ¡°It¡¯s too late. Don¡¯t go.¡±


    ¡°But there¡¯s something I need your help with.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll borrow You Yi to help me keep an eye on Feng Manman!¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What kind of help is this? You Yi is going, not me.¡±


    However, did her beautiful husband also think that there was something wrong with Feng Manman?


    As expected, her husband was outstanding. He could tell the problem after seeing Feng Manman once.


    If Shen Yijia had a problem with it, so did You Yi!


    His mission was to protect Miss, not spy on any Tom, Dick, or Harry!


    In the end, Shen Yijia submitted to Song Jingchen and stayed at home obediently. Under the threat of Shen Yijia wanting to return the goods, You Yi went down to the noodle shop.


    Song Jingchen won completely.


    He did not bring anyone with him. He hid in the night and went to General Xiao¡¯s residence, pulling General Xiao out of his concubine¡¯s bed.


    ¡°Nephew, what are you doing so late at night?¡± General Xiao stood under the wall of his house in his middle clothes, looking resentful.


    ¡°Uncle Xiao, if Eldest Miss Yuan suggests taking Feng Manman as a concubine for Brother Xiao, I hope you won¡¯t refuse,¡± Song Jingchen said with cupped hands.


    General Xiao¡¯s eyes widened. Song Jingchen knew about Feng Manman?


    Moreover, what did he mean? Did he mean that even the eldest daughter of the Yuan family knew?


    That b*stard Xiao Qirui¡­


    No, that wasn¡¯t the point.


    He shook his head. ¡°Nephew, you don¡¯t know, but that woman is causing a ruckus in the Xiao family now. I won¡¯t even let her in, let alone a concubine.¡±


    This was the truth.


    He had already thought it through. If Xiao Qirui insisted on marrying that woman, he would chase him out of the Xiao family.


    Instead of letting a woman destroy Xiao Qirui, it was better for him to do it himself.


    The son he had painstakingly raised had to be destroyed by him personally.


    Also, what was wrong with the eldest daughter of the Yuan family? Pavilion Elder Yuan had even praised her for being smart, but why did he feel that she was a little stupid?

 Chapter 541 - 541 Agreement (2)

    541 Agreement (2)


    If Miss Yuan was really so insensible, then it was fine to annul this marriage.


    Even if Song Jingchen knew that General Xiao was stubborn, he didn¡¯t expect him to have such a strong opinion of Feng Manman.


    If he didn¡¯t make this trip, Eldest Miss Yuan¡¯s plan would probably fail.


    He pursed his lips and said something in a low voice.


    ¡°All the more reason not to let her enter the residence,¡± General Xiao shouted sternly. After saying that, he felt that his voice was too loud. He gritted his teeth and lowered his voice. ¡°No, I¡¯ll talk to that brat. If he still refuses to realize his mistake, I¡¯ll definitely beat him awake today.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped him helplessly. ¡°Uncle Xiao, I¡¯m just suspicious. I don¡¯t have any evidence yet.¡±


    ¡°Besides, if someone really schemes against your Xiao family again and again, you might be able to avoid it this time. What about next time?¡±


    ¡°Instead of being passively guarded, why don¡¯t we see what the person behind this wants to do? How can we guard against thieves for a thousand days?¡± Song Jingchen guided patiently.


    General Xiao frowned and pondered. Why would someone want to scheme against their family? Of course, it was because they had 100,000 soldiers stationed in the camp outside the city!


    Half of the tiger talisman was in his hand, and the other half was in the emperor¡¯s hand.


    At this point, Song Jingchen knew that General Xiao would definitely agree to his suggestion.


    At first, he only felt that Feng Manman was a little out of place. It was Shen Yijia¡¯s words that reminded him. He did not believe that there were so many coincidences in the world.


    Compared to the time Feng Man was disfigured, he had just obtained the name list not long ago.


    Even now, he could not figure out where the matter of the name list had been leaked.


    The person above would know that it was because he had deliberately revealed it. No matter how stupid he was, he wouldn¡¯t make a fuss before finding the culprit.


    Apart from the emperor and Lord Zhou, there was another person who knew about the name list.


    Liu Piaopiao, who took out the name list!


    Could it be her?


    ¡°Nephew, nephew?¡±


    General Xiao¡¯s voice brought Song Jingchen back to his senses. He said apologetically, ¡°Uncle Xiao, what did you just say?¡±


    ¡°What I mean is, will the status of a concubine restrict that woman? If there¡¯s really no other way, I¡¯ll beat that brat up again and force him to marry her!¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. Wasn¡¯t this change a little too fast?


    The main wife was naturally the best. However, when he thought about how that girl at home liked Miss Yuan, he decided to help her this time.


    He shook his head and said righteously, ¡°If it¡¯s the official wife, it¡¯s too deliberate.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I said that I would beat him up again. Then, he was forced to agree!¡± General Xiao felt that this method was quite good.


    ¡°It hurts to hit my son!¡± he thought.


    In the past, he was actually quite satisfied with his son, Xiao Qirui. Now, compared to this young man in front of him, he felt a little disgusted.


    He was fooled by a woman. How embarrassing.


    Song Jingchen suspected that General Xiao simply wanted to hit his son.


    Song Jingchen took two steps back and distanced himself from him. He still shook his head. ¡°No need. You can do whatever you want. There¡¯s no need to deliberately create conditions for her. The harder it is to obtain something, the more people will believe it.¡±


    It was like a person picking up a piece of gold on the streets. They would suspect that it was fake, but what if it was stolen from someone else¡¯s house?


    Song Jingchen almost believed his own words!


    General Xiao was speechless.


    He said so much because that woman had ulterior motives.


    ¡°Then if that woman isn¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Then treat it as you fulfilling Brother Xiao¡¯s wishes,¡± Song Jingchen said irresponsibly.


    General Xiao was speechless.


    After watching Song Jingchen leave, he turned around and returned to the concubine¡¯s courtyard. Thinking of Song Jingchen¡¯s words, he shivered. He remembered that this concubine was given to him by someone else.


    He shrank back and wanted to go to the main courtyard. Thinking of Madam Xiao¡¯s temper, he could only return to the front courtyard gloomily.


    The poor concubine waited in the room for the entire night.


    At the Yuan Family¡¯s old residence.


    You Bai spun around in circles gloomily.


    Yuan Yuwan said helplessly, ¡°If you have something to say, just say it.¡±


    You Bai turned around and said with a bitter expression, ¡°Miss, that Xiao guy is so protective of that woman. Why did you¡­¡±


    She stopped calling him Young General Xiao.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for myself. Marrying him is better than losing my life after marrying into Earl Rong¡¯s residence.¡± Yuan Yuwan lowered her head. Her gaze fell on the book in her hand, but her thoughts flew back to two hours ago.


    After confirming that General Xiao would definitely not agree to Xiao Qirui marrying that woman, she suggested that Xiao Qirui marry her as the main wife. Then, she would help him take that woman into the residence as a concubine.

 Chapter 542 - 542 Agreement (3)

    542 Agreement (3)


    Xiao Qirui refused. He would rather be expelled from the family than let that woman be a concubine. He probably didn¡¯t want to wrong that woman.


    Unexpectedly, Feng Manman came out and begged, saying that she knew that her status was low and was not worthy of Xiao Qirui, nor was she willing to implicate him. If Xiao Qirui insisted on marrying her, she would rather die.


    This was something that Yuan Yuwan had not expected.


    To be honest, she could not understand such feelings.


    !!


    Perhaps she had indeed had fantasies about Xiao Qirui in the past, but after knowing these things, her rationality shattered those fantasies.


    As for the discomfort in his heart, it was not enough.


    ¡°But¡­¡± You Bai was about to cry.


    Xiao Qirui and that woman looked affectionate. One did not want to wrong the other party and would rather be expelled from the family, while the other did not want to implicate the other party and would rather die.


    With such a relationship, what good could her young lady get if she married into the family?


    ¡°No buts.¡± Yuan Yuwan closed the book and rubbed her temples tiredly. ¡°I remember that there are still a few parts left to embroider for that wedding dress. If you¡¯re not tired, help me embroider it.¡±


    ¡°But didn¡¯t Miss specially keep it to embroider it the day before you got married?¡± You Bai wanted to cry even more. She felt that her Miss was even more Buddha-like than before.


    ¡°Things are different now. There¡¯s no need.¡± Yuan Yuwan smiled bitterly.


    Yuan Yuwan was not a procrastinator. The next day, she visited the Xiao family. There was no need to mention how interesting Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s expression was after knowing her intentions.


    Yuan Yuwan thought that convincing General Xiao would be more difficult than convincing Madam Xiao, but he agreed without thinking.


    How could she have known that if Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t interfered, General Xiao would have thought that she didn¡¯t know her limits and went to the Yuan family to annul the engagement on behalf of his son?


    General Xiao¡¯s taboo towards a woman who could affect his son was something she did not expect.


    On the other hand, Madam Xiao held Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand guiltily. ¡°Yuwan, our family has let you down.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s good that Madam doesn¡¯t think that Yuwan has no manners.¡±


    It was indeed impolite to go to her future husband¡¯s house to take in a concubine for him before they even got married.


    However, Madam Xiao thought that she had come to speak up for Xiao Qirui after knowing about the Xiao family. She pitied her even more.


    She was also a woman and had suffered from being a concubine. She understood how difficult it would be if her husband¡¯s heart was not with her.


    Seeing that Yuan Yuwan was so sensible, even Madam Xiao felt a little resentful.


    Why didn¡¯t that brat cherish such a good girl?


    After being beaten up by his biological father a few times, Xiao Qirui was successfully despised by his biological mother again.


    Xiao Qirui was already seriously injured. After returning from the noodle shop yesterday, not only did his wound split open again, but the joints in his hands also dislocated again. The doctor in the residence worked late into the night to change his dressing and straighten his bones.


    In the latter half of the night, he developed a high fever again. It did not subside until dawn.


    He had just fallen asleep when the door was pushed open.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Master, the eldest daughter of the Yuan family is here,¡± Xiao Li reported excitedly.


    He didn¡¯t know why he was so excited, but he felt that the tables had turned.


    Xiao Qirui suddenly opened his eyes and struggled to sit up.


    Xiao Li quickly stopped him. ¡°Young Master, what are you doing? The doctor said that you can¡¯t do this again before you recover.¡±


    Xiao Qirui frowned and said, ¡°My father doesn¡¯t like Miss Feng. If Miss Yuan mentions it, she will definitely anger him. If my father vents his anger on her¡­¡±


    Xiao Li looked at him strangely. ¡°Master agreed.¡±


    He could not understand. His young master was so concerned about the eldest daughter of the Yuan family, so did he like the eldest daughter of the Yuan family or Miss Feng?


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. ¡°My father agreed?¡±


    Xiao Li nodded. He also found it unbelievable that the person who had beaten Young Master up would let go so easily.


    ¡°Then Eldest Miss Yuan¡­¡±


    Xiao Li said, ¡°The eldest daughter of the Yuan family has already left.¡±


    ¡°She left?¡± Xiao Qirui muttered. He lay back down and waved his hand. ¡°I understand. You can leave.¡±


    Xiao Li looked at him strangely again and silently retreated.


    The door closed. Xiao Qirui turned around with difficulty and took out a bottle of medicine from under his pillow with his good hand.


    The last time she found out that he was injured, she sent him a bottle of medicine, but she didn¡¯t ask about him at all this time.


    Xiao Qirui smiled bitterly.


    He was the only son of the Xiao family and the future head of the family. Actually, he knew from the beginning that General Xiao would not agree to him marrying Miss Feng.


    The reason why he used her as an excuse to break off the engagement and not mention Feng Manman as a concubine from the beginning was not because of her, but because he did not want to wrong Miss Yuan.


    Such a woman deserved a man who was devoted to her!


    He did not expect things to end up like this.


    He should have been happy to be able to marry her and repay her kindness.


    However, Xiao Qirui inexplicably felt that the woman who had put down the high wall around her and cried because of his words was getting further and further away from him.

 Chapter 543 - 543 Yuan Yuwan Strikes Back

    543 Yuan Yuwan Strikes Back


    The news that there was a change in the engagement between the Yuan and Xiao families flew out like wings after a banquet between Old Master Yuan and Earl Rong.


    Earl Rong¡¯s residence began to prepare the betrothal gifts with great fanfare, as if they were afraid that others would not know that Earl Rong was going to remarry for the fourth time.


    When the news reached the Xiao family, General Xiao was so angry that he almost beat Xiao Qirui up again. He only gave up when he saw him lying on the bed sickly.


    Madam Xiao was also tough this time. She quickly reorganized the people in the residence. Xiao Ruoqian, who had eavesdropped and spread the scandal in the family, did not have a good time.


    !!


    Because of this matter, in order to suppress the rumors, the Xiao family directly carried the betrothal gifts to the Yuan residence and sent them to the Yuan family¡¯s old residence. They quickly set the wedding date to be a month later.


    Actually, their marriage should have been scheduled three years ago when Yuan Yuwan became an adult. However, the wedding was postponed because of Pavilion Elder Yuan¡¯s sudden death.


    As for what needed to be prepared, they had already prepared it, so it was not a rush.


    On the other hand, the Yuan family was completely dumbfounded. In order to please Earl Rong, Old Master Yuan almost handed over Yuan Yuwan¡¯s invitation with both hands. Now that the Xiao family did not want to cancel the marriage, where could he find a second Yuan Yuwan to marry into Earl Rong¡¯s residence?


    Moreover, everyone knew that Earl Rong¡¯s residence was going to hold a wedding. Earl Rong¡¯s residence was embarrassed and was unwilling to fight the Xiao family head-on.


    They could not possibly compete.


    He could only find trouble with Old Master Yuan.


    Old Master Yuan was a classic example of bullying the weak and fearing the strong. He didn¡¯t even dare to fart when people found problems with him. In shock and fear, he ran straight to the old residence to vent his anger on Yuan Yuwan.


    He heard that Yuan Yuwan had gone to the Xiao family¡¯s residence and guessed that she had done something to make the Xiao family change their minds.


    Yuan Yuwan looked at Old Master Yuan, who was so angry that his face turned red. She sneered in her heart, but she still got someone to serve tea. After he finished cursing, she reminded him indifferently.


    ¡°That day, I said that I would wait for the Xiao family to break off the engagement. Father couldn¡¯t hold it in and insisted¡­¡±


    The anger that had subsided a little soared again. He slapped the table. ¡°How dare you? I¡¯m doing this because I¡¯m afraid that you, this unfilial daughter, won¡¯t be able to get married and embarrass our Yuan family.¡±


    The Yuan Family¡¯s reputation?


    Yuan Yuwan felt that this was the funniest joke she had ever heard in her life.


    She slowly used the tea lid to gently float the tea leaves. She took a sip and said, ¡°Father, I¡¯m afraid you¡¯re thinking too much. Earl Rong only wants an official wife, he¡¯s not in love with me.¡±


    Old Master Yuan¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled. ¡°It¡¯s just on the surface. Father can just let him marry an official wife.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Why didn¡¯t I think of that?¡± Old Master Yuan¡¯s eyes lit up and he was enlightened.


    This way, not only would the Rong family not feel embarrassed and cause trouble for him, but he could also be in-laws with the Rong family.


    After figuring this out, Old Master Yuan stood up and walked out.


    ¡°Father, I¡¯m afraid the concubine¡¯s daughter won¡¯t be able to satisfy Lord Rong.¡± Yuan Yuwan reminded him calmly.


    Old Master Yuan paused and turned to look at Yuan Yuwan with narrowed eyes.


    Yuan Yuwan raised her head and looked into his eyes. She smiled and said, ¡°Father doesn¡¯t want to become enemies instead of allies with Lord Rong, right?¡±


    A chill ran down Old Master Yuan¡¯s spine under her gaze. He shivered in the hot day.


    In the beginning, he was indeed prepared to marry off his concubine¡¯s daughter. If Earl Rong felt that he was humiliating him¡­


    A layer of cold sweat broke out on Old Master Yuan¡¯s forehead.


    ¡°Are you feeling unwell? Do you want me to get you a doctor?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s cold voice brought him back to his senses. He stared at her for a long time before turning around and leaving.


    Yuan Yuwan lowered her eyes and quietly spent ten minutes before getting up and going to the study. She took out the zither that Yuan Leyao had broken and gently wiped it. She sighed and said, ¡°Grandfather, don¡¯t blame me for being heartless.¡±


    Shen Yijia knew that after the Xiao family sent the betrothal gifts to the Yuan family, she brought the guilty Xiao Ruoshui to see Yuan Yuwan once.


    Apart from occasionally sending Sister Huan and the others to school to visit Madam Qiu, she was extremely busy the rest of the time.


    Lin Shao, Pinellia, and the others returned, but Bruiser stayed in Qingyang City.


    Not only that, but they also brought back ten other people.

 Chapter 544 - 544 Progress

    544 Progress


    ¡°So you¡¯re all following the Wang family?¡±


    The ten men kneeling in front of Shen Yijia were all sallow and thin. They were in their forties or fifties.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯ve always worked in the Wang family¡¯s shop. After the young master passed away, the Shen family chased me away in order to occupy the shop,¡± a middle-aged man who looked more energetic said with red eyes.


    The person beside him also said angrily, ¡°It¡¯s fine if the Shen family only chased us away. I can always find work with my good legs and experience, but the Shen family colluded with Judge Liu Tong, so no one in Qingyang City dared to hire us.¡±


    !!


    Shen Yijia blinked.


    She looked at Lin Shao.


    Lin Shao pursed his lips and told them what had happened in Qingyang City.


    After the five of them rushed to Qingyang City, they initially went to Magistrate Du with the letter from Madam Qiu. Unexpectedly, they were unlucky and Magistrate Du personally led the troops to suppress some bandits outside the city.


    In order not to cause trouble, and thinking that they had the contract, the five of them went straight to those shops.


    Unexpectedly, those people seemed to be prepared. As soon as they saw the contract, they said that they were lying. Not only that, but they also brought officials with them.


    It was obvious that something was wrong. Only a fool would stay and let themselves get caught.


    The five of them ran away, but the other party was already prepared. It was difficult for them to escape.


    In the end, it was only when Bruiser stayed behind to cover the retreat that they shook off the pursuers. This caused a commotion in Qingyang City.


    It was probably because five lunatics wanted to occupy someone else¡¯s shop with a fake contract. They were crazy about money!


    The four of them hid for a day and didn¡¯t see Bruiser. They went out to ask around and found out that he had been captured.


    Afraid that something would happen to Bruiser, the few of them prepared to beat the drums and voice their grievances. Unexpectedly, they were stopped before they reached the government office.


    The person who stopped them was one of the people who had been in charge of the Wang family¡¯s shop and was chased out by Madam Chen.


    It was only from that person that they knew that Judge Liu Tong was in cahoots with the Shen family. If they went out, they would be walking into a trap.


    ¡°Bruiser is injured?¡± Shen Yijia asked with a dark expression. Just now, Lin Shao had only said that Bruiser was staying in Qingyang City to help.


    Lin Shao shook his head. Noticing Shen Yijia¡¯s ugly expression, he nodded again. ¡°Those people went after him, but he¡¯s fine now.¡±


    Magistrate Du returned to Qingyang City the day after Bruiser was captured. Afraid that something would happen again, they stopped his horse on the streets.


    After seeing Magistrate Du with Dean Lu¡¯s letter, everything went much smoother. Liu Tong was convicted of accepting a bribe and privately changing the contract to occupy someone else¡¯s property. The evidence was conclusive and he was sent to prison. The shop was successfully taken back.


    However, what they had to do was not only take back the shop. Coincidentally, they encountered the old man who was helping the Wang family. Under his lead, they found many more people.


    It turned out that those people were either accountants or shopkeepers. Those who came out with the Wang family were all experts in managing the shop. They were targeted because they were unwilling to collude with Madam Chen.


    Lin Shao and Bruiser confirmed their identities. After discussion, they decided to hire these people again, and the shop could operate normally.


    Shen Yijia was the current owner of the shop. She had to meet these people, so Lin Shao brought them back.


    ¡°Is Bruiser really fine?¡± Shen Yijia was more concerned about this for the time being.


    Lin Shao said, ¡°It¡¯s true. Sister-in-law, if you don¡¯t believe me, you can ask Pinellia and the other two. They won¡¯t dare to lie to you!¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Pinellia.


    Pinellia said respectfully, ¡°Young Master Li is really fine.¡±


    Young Master Li?


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. She had been calling him Bruiser every day. She had almost forgotten that that brat had the name Li Wu.


    Apart from meeting the owner, they also brought back the profits from all the shops in Qingyang City in July and the account books they found in those shops.


    Shen Yijia ignored the boxes of ledgers and looked at the box of banknotes in front of her. It was at least three to four thousand taels of silver!


    This was like a person who had been poor for a long time suddenly inheriting a large sum of assets.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°How great!¡±


    Since Bruiser and Lin Shao had already confirmed the identities of these people, Shen Yijia handed the shop to them.


    However, she still had to get the accounts right. She dragged the entire family along and spent a few days doing the accounts together.


    In the end, the money she received from Madam Chen last time was far from enough. There was a difference of at least 100,000 taels.


    Shen Yijia was unhappy. She secretly wondered when she would go to the Shen family¡¯s house to get some money.


    As for Bruiser, he wasn¡¯t young anymore. Since he had his own thoughts, Shen Yijia naturally wouldn¡¯t object.


    It was good that he stayed in Qingyang City. He could keep an eye on those people.


    Lin Shao actually wanted to stay there too. Unfortunately, Lin Miaomiao was still in the capital, so he decided to help manage the two shops in the capital.


    Shen Yijia was happy to be a hands-off shopkeeper, so there was no reason for her to refuse.


    At the same time, Madam Chen also received news that the person she had sent had not returned. She had received the news from the Chen family.


    She had indirectly harmed Judge Liu once, and it was in the name of Minister Chen. Even Minister Chen, who had doted on her since she was young, had something to say about her this time.


    Madam Chen was furious. After cursing Shen Yijia, she wanted to go to the Song family to settle scores with her, but she was stopped by Shen Wenbo.


    Shen Yijia did not know that she could almost loosen up again. After she finished dealing with the trivial matters in the shop, she was finally free. You Yi, who was monitoring Feng Manman, also delivered some news.


    Every three days, a woman would go to the noodle shop to eat noodles.


    You Yi said, ¡°And that woman always goes when the noodle shop is about to close.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Could that woman be Feng Manman¡¯s contact?¡±


    If they could catch Feng Manman before the wedding of the Xiao and Yuan families and throw it at Xiao Qirui¡¯s face, would he not have to let Feng Manman enter the Xiao family to disgust Yuan Yuwan?


    ¡°That¡¯s very likely.¡± Song Jingchen tapped his fingers on the table and narrowed his eyes. ¡°When did that woman go to the noodle shop last time?¡±


    You Yi said, ¡°Today.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    In other words, the next time she appeared would be three days later!


    After reporting, You Yi continued to keep an eye on them.


    Shen Yijia lay on the bed and was no longer sleepy. ¡°Hubby, who do you think is the most likely culprit?¡±


    If Feng Manman was really just a girl who had been brainwashed, not only could they catch her red-handed this time, but the case could also take another step forward.


    They had been in the capital for almost a month. The emperor was already vaguely dissatisfied and felt that Song Jingchen was patronizing him.


    Song Jingchen picked up a strand of Shen Yijia¡¯s hair and played with it. He paused and said, ¡°Anyone is a possible suspect.¡±


    Without evidence, he wouldn¡¯t make wild guesses, lest he guessed wrongly and overlooked the true mastermind.


    To be honest, the ambitious Lord Jing, Shangguan Pu, the seemingly unreliable Lord Rui, Shangguan Heng, and Lord Shun, Shangguan Yao, who had always followed Shangguan Pu¡¯s lead, and even Lord Jing, Shangguan Yu.


    They were all suspects!


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Isn¡¯t that equivalent to not saying anything?¡±

 Chapter 545 - 545 Wedding Gifts

    545 Wedding Gifts


    Under Shen Yijia¡¯s watch, three days finally passed. However, to her disappointment, she and Song Jingchen didn¡¯t see the person You Yi mentioned.


    In fact, on the day Xiao Ruoshui agreed to bring Yuan Yuwan her wedding gifts, that person never appeared again. Shen Yijia even suspected that they had guessed wrongly.


    It was worth mentioning that Yuan Yuwan did not return to the Yuan residence to get married. Instead, she was preparing to get married directly from the old residence.


    Normally, the stepmother would definitely not let go of the Xiao family¡¯s betrothal gifts. However, she could not even protect her daughter now. How could she have the mood to interfere in Yuan Yuwan¡¯s matters?


    The mother and daughter argued in front of Old Master Yuan for a while, but it was useless. In the end, they could only accept their fate.


    It was unknown what Earl Rong¡¯s residence was thinking, but they decided to set the wedding date on the same day as the Xiao family¡¯s wedding.


    After a month of preparation, it was obvious how busy the stepmother was. No matter how much she wanted to cause trouble for Yuan Yuwan, she couldn¡¯t spare the time.


    When Shen Yijia and Xiao Ruoshui arrived at the Yuan family¡¯s old residence, it was already decorated festively. The residence was filled with red lanterns with the word ¡°happiness¡± on them, and red wedding silk was hung around the corridor.


    Seeing this, Xiao Ruoshui heaved a sigh of relief. Did this mean that Yuan Yuwan did not have any grudges against this marriage?


    What she did not know was that these were not ordered by Yuan Yuwan at all. Instead, it was arranged by the old butler of the old residence. Yuan Yuwan just did not object.


    She followed the servant into the backyard. Yuan Yuwan was sitting in the courtyard reading a book. When she saw them, a hint of surprise flashed across her eyes, but she immediately understood.


    That¡¯s right, the day after tomorrow was the wedding day.


    According to the rules, family and friends would come to visit and present her with some gifts two days before the wedding. The day before the wedding, they had to send the dowry to the groom¡¯s intermediate family.


    Yuan Yuwan picked up a bookmark and closed it. She smiled and went up to them. ¡°You¡¯re here. Sit down.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and took a box from Mo Yuan. ¡°Ruoshui and I came to give you some gifts.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui hurriedly took out the things she had prepared. She was Yuan Yuwan¡¯s close friend today, not her sister-in-law.


    She gave her a set of hair accessories and an exquisite bookmark. She could be considered to have put in a lot of effort.


    Shen Yijia was much simpler. As soon as the box was opened, there were a few banknotes, two gold bars, and a stack of gold leaves.


    This was the most generous she had ever been.


    ¡°I heard from others that women still need more money to protect themselves after getting married,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    It was also because Xiao Ruoshui was present that she didn¡¯t say anything about her husband being unreliable.


    However, Yuan Yuwan understood. She smiled and did not stand on ceremony with the two of them. She asked You Bai to put away the things and instructed the servants to bring tea and snacks.


    ¡°Sister Yuwan, if my brother makes you suffer in the future, tell me. I¡¯ll definitely help you.¡± Although Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t blame her, Xiao Ruoshui still felt guilty and spoke carefully.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and teased, ¡°So you¡¯re not getting married?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face turned red. Her wedding day was not far away.


    ¡°I¡¯m not used to seeing you like this.¡± Yuan Yuwan chuckled and said seriously, ¡°Alright, don¡¯t worry about me. Don¡¯t you know what kind of person your brother is? How can I suffer?¡±


    The name Feng Manman almost slipped out of Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s mouth. Shen Yijia, who was eating silently at the side, quickly stuffed a snack into Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s mouth. ¡°This is delicious. Try it.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui choked and realized that she had almost said something wrong. She smiled awkwardly and echoed, ¡°It¡¯s indeed not bad.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan pursed her lips and smiled faintly. She didn¡¯t say anything.


    As the three of them chatted and laughed, someone came to their door again.


    It was a few girls from the Yuan family. There were nearly ten daughters from the third branch.


    The graceful girls walked in together, and Yuan Leyao, who was also waiting to get married, walked in front.


    ¡°Big Sister, I brought my sisters to give you some wedding gifts.¡± Yuan Leyao said politely, but the resentment in her eyes could not be hidden.


    The smile on Yuan Yuwan¡¯s face faded a little. ¡°Coincidentally, I was also planning to go over and give Second Sister some wedding gifts, so I didn¡¯t have time to come over. Since Second Sister came over, please bring the gifts back later.¡±


    Who cared about what she gave her?


    Yuan Leyao gritted her teeth and looked around at the arrangements. She sneered. ¡°Big Sister is too busy preparing for her marriage. I can understand. After all, Big Sister¡­¡±


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyes turned cold and she interrupted her. ¡°Second Sister is about to become Madam Bo¡¯s wife. You should know what to say and what not to say. You don¡¯t need me to remind you, right?¡±


    Actually, Yuan Yuwan could not understand Yuan Leyao. At a time like this, she was not thinking about how to protect herself. Instead, she was in the mood to find trouble with her.


    Apart from being able to annoy her, she couldn¡¯t think of any other benefits for Yuan Leyao.


    In the end, Yuan Yuwan could only attribute it to Yuan Leyao¡¯s stupidity.


    This was the first time Shen Yijia had seen Yuan Yuwan criticize someone. Seeing that she had made her ill-intentioned sister¡¯s expression change with just a simple sentence, she silently relaxed her restless fists and chose to watch the show.


    Yuan Leyao was furious at everyone¡¯s gazes. She took a deep breath and said, ¡°Big Sister, I¡¯m not here to quarrel with you today.¡±


    Perhaps afraid that she would say something she didn¡¯t want to hear again, Yuan Leyao paused for a moment and continued, ¡°Apart from giving you some gifts, Father also asked me to tell you that you¡¯re the eldest daughter of the Yuan family. Wouldn¡¯t you be a joke if you didn¡¯t exit from the official residence on your wedding day?¡±


    ¡°So Father wants me to move back?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked calmly.


    Yuan Leyao nodded.


    This matter was suggested by Yuan Leyao and the stepmother, and Old Master Yuan agreed.


    However, the last time he came to the old residence, he felt that Yuan Yuwan was becoming more and more like the deceased Pavilion Elder.


    He was a little afraid of her and did not want to see her, so he asked Yuan Leyao to do it.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled mockingly. ¡°I didn¡¯t go back because I didn¡¯t want to trouble Second Madam. After all, it¡¯s tiring enough for her to help you manage the marriage alone. I think Second Sister will feel sorry for her biological mother.¡±


    ¡°But Father asked you to go back!¡± Yuan Leyao suddenly raised her voice.


    Yuan Yuwan looked at her deeply and noticed that her hands were clenched into fists. She said coldly, ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble Second Sister to help me persuade Father to dispel this thought. However, tell him not to worry. I¡¯ll go over and kowtow to him on the day of the wedding.¡±


    This was a rule. She would not disobey it.


    Yuan Leyao said, ¡°Why should I help-¡±


    She stopped mid-sentence. Yuan Leyao was so angry that her face turned red and her lips trembled. ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t say anything. She just looked at her steadily.


    Apart from the two of them, everyone else was at a loss.


    In the end, Yuan Leyao could only leave angrily. When the other girls of the Yuan family saw this, they put down the gifts they had brought and bade farewell.

 Chapter 546 - 546 Following

    546 Following


    There were handkerchiefs, pouches, and pearls scattered on the table. Yuan Yuwan instructed You Bai, ¡°Put them all away.¡±


    ¡°Yes, my lady.¡±


    You Bai felt upset. They said that they were here to give wedding gifts, but it was obvious that these things were usually used to reward servants.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Apart from those elderly servants, Yuan Yuwan only had You Bai. She asked, ¡°Do you want me to leave Mo Yuan with you for the next few days?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked.


    ¡°My Mo Yuan knows martial arts.¡± Shen Yijia was afraid that Yuan Yuwan would not understand, so she said seriously, ¡°I think that mother and daughter might want to exchange marriages.¡±


    She was familiar with the plots in the book!


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t you think they¡¯re stupid? To use a scheme that could be seen through so easily.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in agreement. ¡°It¡¯s not scary to be stupid. What¡¯s scary is if they¡¯re stupid and poisonous.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought to herself, ¡°Am I the only one who didn¡¯t think of this?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan also knew that there was no one useful around her, so she did not refuse Shen Yijia¡¯s kindness.


    What she did not know was that when Xiao Ruoshui returned home and told Xiao Qirui about this, Xiao Qirui sent someone to guard her house as well.


    It was only after the incident between the Yuan family and Earl Rong¡¯s residence was exposed that Xiao Qirui realized that he had almost pushed Yuan Yuwan into a fire pit. He couldn¡¯t tell if he blamed himself or felt relieved.


    As soon as Shen Yijia arrived home, she was shocked by You Yi.


    She patted her small chest.


    ¡°Wait, why is You Yi back?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia paused and looked at You Yi with a burning gaze. ¡°That person appeared?¡±


    You Yi nodded.


    ¡°Then what are we waiting for? Let¡¯s go.¡± With that, Shen Yijia ran out without even saying goodbye to Madam Li.


    She had only taken a few steps when a gust of wind blew past her.


    Shen Yijia stomped her feet. ¡°Bring me along.¡±


    You Yi flew back.


    He stood in front of Shen Yijia and scanned her from head to toe, as if he was conflicted about where to grab.


    In the end, his gaze froze. Without waiting for Shen Yijia to speak, he grabbed the back of her collar.


    With a whoosh, he flew far away with her.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m going to get strangled to death!¡±


    She had always been the one carrying others. When had she ever been carried like this?


    Shen Yijia was so angry that her face turned red. However, You Yi was too fast. The wind rendered her speechless.


    Shen Yijia could only curse You Yi¡¯s ancestors in her heart.


    She finally realized that You Yi was strong and obedient. His only flaw was that he was too one-track-minded.


    Song Jingchen asked him to keep an eye on Feng Manman and return to report when he realized that something was wrong.


    He really stared at her seriously. Then, as soon as he realized that there was a problem, he came back and said it. He never thought that he should have followed that person before returning.


    The reason was that there were no instructions from the higher-ups!


    Shen Yijia felt that no one would do such a stupid thing.


    If he had followed that person earlier, he would at least have known where that person was going. He wouldn¡¯t have had to wait for nearly a month.


    He even made her wait for so long.


    He was an idiot.


    While she was thinking, You Yi had already brought her to a small attic opposite the noodle shop. From this position, she could see everything in the lobby of the noodle shop.


    Shen Yijia did not forget what she wanted to do. She secretly made a mental note of You Yi.


    At this moment, there was only a woman in pink sitting alone in the noodle shop, eating noodles. She didn¡¯t see Feng Manman.


    The woman¡¯s back was facing them, so they couldn¡¯t see her face clearly, but it wasn¡¯t difficult to guess that she was young from her figure.


    Shen Yijia waited for a while before Feng Manman came out of the kitchen with a food box.


    She placed the food box on the table in front of the woman and began to clean up the tables, chairs, and benches in the hall.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°Go and find a food box identical to that.¡±


    It was a very ordinary food box. You Yi returned soon.


    After the woman finished eating the noodles, Shen Yijia vaguely heard her ask, ¡°How much?¡±


    Feng Manman wiped her hands on her apron and walked over. The woman took out money from her pouch and handed it to her. She left with the food box.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and put a few tiles into the food box that You Yi had brought back. She urged, ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go in front of her.¡±


    There were only two exits in this alley. After confirming the direction the woman was going, You Yi picked Shen Yijia up and flew to the corner of the alley.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Very good, you¡¯re dead meat!¡±


    Shen Yijia staggered two steps before stabilizing herself. She took a deep breath and muttered to herself, ¡°It¡¯s more important to get down to business.¡±


    She handed the food box to You Yi and said angrily, ¡°Think of a way to change the food box in her hand.¡±


    You Yi glanced at her faintly and was about to leave with the food box.


    Thinking of his stubborn personality, Shen Yijia hurriedly reminded him, ¡°Don¡¯t let her find out!¡±


    You Yizhi paused.


    Coincidentally, the door of a family in the alley opened. A few children ran out playfully and bumped into the woman.


    Without Shen Yijia¡¯s reminder, You Yi had already attacked. In the blink of an eye, he appeared again.


    Shen Yijia took the food box and opened it. There was a bowl of hot noodles inside.


    You Yi was so fast just now, but none of the broth spilled out. With such skills, no wonder she could clearly feel the aura of death in the arena that time.


    Shen Yijia carefully brought out the noodles. There was nothing at the bottom of the bowl. She checked the food box again but did not find any secret compartments.


    She put the bowl back and fixed her gaze on the bowl of noodles.


    ¡°Miss, she¡¯s coming over soon,¡± You Yi reminded her.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Her beautiful husband had specially instructed her not to alert the enemy!


    Thinking of this, she could only give up on the idea of stirring the noodles with her chopsticks. She covered the food box again and handed it to You Yi.


    ¡°Give it back to her.¡±


    ¡°We have to keep it a secret!¡±


    You Yi was speechless.


    With the food box in her hand, he was lucky to have been able to get it easily just now. Now, it was not so easy to change it back silently.


    Perhaps because their luck had run out, the two of them followed the woman out of the alley and crossed a few streets. They did not find an opportunity even when they reached Chang¡¯an Avenue and East Avenue.


    Not knowing where her destination was, Shen Yijia was extremely anxious. She was afraid that they would not be able to change the food box back when they arrived.


    Noticing that there was a mask stall by the roadside, Shen Yijia suddenly had an idea.


    Da Hua had said that if there were no conditions, they had to create conditions!


    She handed the food box to You Yi and instructed the two of them to split up.


    Shen Yijia went to buy a mask and put it on. She walked around to the front of the woman.


    She had originally imagined that she would bump into that woman and You Yi would take the opportunity to attack.


    However, before she could reach the woman, the woman stopped in front of a teahouse.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Without thinking, she prepared to rush up to encounter her.


    Unexpectedly, someone had already gone up.


    ¡°Please do me a favor. I haven¡¯t eaten for three days¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and stopped.


    She looked back at the dirty beggar in disbelief and winced.

 Chapter 547 - 547 Fragrant Teahouse

    547 Fragrant Teahouse


    The temperature in the capital had already dropped in September, and the sky had darkened a little earlier.


    The vendors by the roadside began to pack up their stalls and prepare to go home.


    With a clang, a copper coin was thrown into the chipped bowl in front of him. It turned twice at the bottom of the bowl before calming down.


    A fair hand reached out from the side and quickly put away the copper coin.


    Rooster glanced at Shen Yijia, who was squatting at the side with a mask on. After hesitating for a moment, he lowered his voice and said, ¡°Young Madam, that¡¯s my money.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m squatting here too. They didn¡¯t specify that it was for you, so it might be mine.¡±


    Rooster was speechless.


    Was it easy for him to earn extra money?


    Shen Yijia coughed lightly and looked at Mingxiang Residence opposite her. ¡°Why are you dressed like this?¡±


    Rooster said concisely, ¡°Master suspects that there¡¯s something fishy about this teahouse and asked Thirty Thousand and I to keep an eye on it.¡±


    One of them was at the front door, and the other was at the back.


    It was also a coincidence that he saw Shen Yijia following a woman over, so he went up.


    Song Jingchen had actually arranged for more than just the two of them. There were also people from the Court of Judicial Review disguised as commoners or peddlers nearby. It was just that Rooster didn¡¯t know them.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. Her beautiful husband suspected that there was something wrong with this teahouse. That woman had never come out after entering the teahouse. In summary, there was something wrong with Feng Manman.


    ¡°How long have you been guarding this place?¡± Shen Yijia asked again.


    Rooster subconsciously pressed down on the money bag on his body and stammered, ¡°Almost half a month.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not notice his small movements. Her feet were a little numb after squatting for so long. She moved to the side and looked at the pedestrians coming and going in front of her. She asked softly, ¡°Have you seen that woman before?¡±


    At this moment, the mask on her face became useful. No one could see her speak.


    They thought that she was squatting by the roadside to rest and wait for someone.


    Rooster lowered his head and scratched the holes in his clothes. He replied softly, ¡°I¡¯ve seen her a few times. I heard someone mention that she¡¯s the niece of the teahouse shopkeeper. The shopkeeper brought her to the capital to take care of his wife.¡±


    It was said that there were many who wanted to marry her. That girl was good-looking. Many people came to propose marriage, but they were all rejected by the shopkeeper, so this news spread.


    At this moment, a gust of wind blew past. Shen Yijia stood up and patted the nonexistent dust off her body. She generously took out a copper coin and threw it into the bowl in front of Rooster before turning to leave.


    Rooster thought, ¡°You clearly took a total of ten copper coins from me earlier!¡±


    Since Song Jingchen had already noticed this teahouse, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t enter rashly.


    There was a dried fruit shop nearby. She went in and bought some snacks. After paying the bill, she came out and saw a carriage stop in front of the teahouse opposite. A fair-skinned little boy was carried down from the carriage by a maidservant.


    The little boy pointed in her direction, and the maidservant led him over.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. It took her a moment to realize that the child was referring to the shop behind her.


    The little boy was quite good-looking. Shen Yijia took another look before leaving.


    What she did not know was that just as she turned around, a woman alighted from the carriage and entered the teahouse.


    The woman was slender. Rooster might not be able to recognize her, but if Shen Yijia saw her, she would definitely recognize her as the skinny Liu Piaopiao.


    When Song Jingchen arrived home from work, he realized that Shen Yijia was not around. He decided to go out and look for her. Unexpectedly, as soon as he crossed the threshold, he saw Shen Yijia standing alone at the door. She had one hand on her waist and the other on the stone lion, retching.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He could already remember when Madam Li was pregnant with Brother Hao and Sister Huan. He clearly remembered that Madam Li often did this back then. Then, someone told him that he was about to have a younger brother or sister.


    As soon as this thought appeared, Song Jingchen was shocked by himself. They hadn¡¯t consummated their marriage at all. How could it be the same?


    Shen Yijia vomited for a long time, but she still felt uncomfortable in her stomach. When she turned around, she saw Song Jingchen standing there. She pouted. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen reached out to help her and asked with concern.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°It¡¯s all because of You Yi.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    ¡°He grabbed my collar and flew. I feel sick.¡± Shen Yijia grabbed the back of her collar and demonstrated.


    Thinking about that scene, it was like carrying a chick. It was really not a good scene.


    Actually, there was no problem when she went. Shen Yijia felt that it was too difficult for her to walk back, so she asked him to carry her.


    In the end, in order to take a shortcut, that person made her dizzy.


    After complaining, she thought of her discoveries today and immediately became energetic again. She picked up the food box at the side and pulled Song Jingchen into the residence. ¡°I have something to tell you.¡±


    Song Jingchen was helpless and let her pull him along. ¡°Yes.¡±


    You Yi, who was hiding in the dark, felt wronged. Miss clearly said that she had to go back quickly. Otherwise, Young Master would be anxious!


    Madam Li was preparing dinner in the kitchen, while Sister Huan and the others were doing their homework in the courtyard.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia placed the food box on the table. ¡°I bought preserved fruits. Take them and eat them.¡±


    With that, she pulled Song Jingchen to the study.


    ¡°That person appeared?¡± Song Jingchen asked before Shen Yijia could speak.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re so smart.¡± Shen Yijia turned and gave him a thumbs up.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Wasn¡¯t it obvious? If not for this, You Yi would still be waiting outside the noodle shop.


    Shen Yijia did not care so much. In any case, she would not let go of any opportunity to praise her beautiful husband.


    She told him what had happened today and sighed. ¡°I originally wanted You Yi to go in and investigate, but as soon as he approached, he realized that there were many experts hidden inside. He was worried that he would alert the enemy, so he retreated.¡±


    ¡°However, there must be something wrong with Feng Manman.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and told her about Mingxiang Residence.


    There were so many female corpses in the Wutong River. Although Pinellia and the others only recognized a few of them, Song Jingchen was basically certain that those corpses were the girls who had been abducted.


    The corpses couldn¡¯t have appeared out of thin air. As long as there were traces, they could follow them. Unfortunately, those people had done it too cleanly. The people he sent to investigate didn¡¯t find anything useful.


    Unexpectedly, half a month ago, an old man who relied on the Wutong River to catch fish secretly found him.


    It turned out that at night, the old man would dock the boat by the shore and go home to rest.


    He recalled that it was a year ago. One night, it suddenly rained heavily. The old man was worried that the supplies for his family¡¯s livelihood would be ruined by the heavy rain, so he went out in the rain to drag the boat ashore.


    Unexpectedly, not long after he arrived, there was the sound of hurried hooves. The old man was worried that the bandits had gone down the mountain and hurriedly hid. The carriages stopped by the river, and then there was the sound of something falling into the water.


    The commotion was so loud that even the sound of the heavy rain could not cover it.


    The thuds continued for a long time before those people left. The old man even specially went to take a look. There was nothing in the river. He thought that those people had thrown stones, so he didn¡¯t take it to heart.


    It was not until the matter of the female corpses was exposed that he realized that something was wrong. He was afraid that he would be killed, so he did not dare to say anything.


    Perhaps because of his conscience, after more than a month of silence, the old man finally secretly looked for Song Jingchen¡¯s people.

 Chapter 548 - 548 Grand Wedding

    548 Grand Wedding


    With the information provided by the old man, Song Jingchen found out from the records that only the Mingxiang Residence had a convoy leaving the city to transport tea leaves that day. That was why he locked his suspicion on that place.


    Speaking of Mingxiang Residence, it hadn¡¯t been established in recent years. It had been established in the capital for dozens of years, but the kidnapping case had started five to six years ago. This was also why Song Jingchen didn¡¯t notice it at first.


    In addition, it was not an ordinary teahouse.


    It was backed by the old aristocrats, and the words ¡°Fragrant Teahouse¡± were personally written by the late emperor.


    It could be said that without concrete evidence, even the emperor would not touch it easily.


    This way, Song Jingchen would inevitably be restrained. He couldn¡¯t alert the enemy, so he could only send someone to keep an eye on the things sent out of Fragrant Teahouse.


    He didn¡¯t care about small fries.


    Shen Yijia thought about how Thirty Thousand and Rooster disguised themselves as beggars to rummage through those things and felt a chill down her spine.


    She decided that after this matter was over, she would definitely get Mo Yuan to add drumsticks for the two of them.


    In the blink of an eye, it was Yuan Yuwan¡¯s wedding day. With Mo Yuan guarding her, Shen Yijia was actually not worried about her safety.


    However, just in case, she got up before dawn and decided to take a look at the Yuan Family¡¯s old residence.


    There happened to be a break in the court today. Earl Rong¡¯s residence and the general¡¯s residence held a wedding on the same day. More than half of the officials received two wedding invitations.


    It was easy to offend either family. Apart from the fact that Lord Jing went straight to Earl Rong¡¯s residence on the surface, most of the other officials had the idea of not offending anyone. The couples separated and went to one family each.


    The Song family had a noble title now, so they naturally received two invitations.


    However, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had no intention of going to Earl Rong¡¯s residence.


    After Shen Yijia packed up, she saw Song Jingchen staring at her without blinking through the bronze mirror. She leaned over and cupped Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°Hubby, go to the Xiao family¡¯s house yourself later. I¡¯ll go over after Yuwan gets into the bridal sedan.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and lowered his eyes to continue reading. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia walked away, but she didn¡¯t notice Song Jingchen¡¯s dark expression.


    When she arrived at the Yuan Family¡¯s old residence, Yuan Yuwan was already dressed. She usually wore plain clothes, giving off a quiet and gentle feeling.


    Now that she was wearing a phoenix coronet and robes, her lips were red, making her look bright and lively.


    ¡°Wow, Sister Yuwan, you¡¯re really good-looking today.¡± Shen Yijia was stunned.


    Yuan Yuwan pursed her lips and smiled. She didn¡¯t look shy like a newlywed. Instead, she looked very calm.


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that the atmosphere was a little off. An unfamiliar woman stood awkwardly in the room, while Mo Yuan was still expressionless. On the other hand, You Bai¡¯s eyes were red. It was obvious that she had cried.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia looked at Mo Yuan.


    Without waiting for Mo Yuan to speak, You Bai choked and said, ¡°Madam Song, persuade my Miss. She insisted on arranging for Feng Manman to enter the Xiao family today. No matter how I persuade her, it¡¯s useless.¡±


    Moreover, she would become a noble concubine!


    Shen Yijia paused.


    She had heard Madam Li say that even if her husband wanted to take in a concubine, it would usually be three months after the wedding. This was to stabilize her position as the main wife.


    ¡°Sister Yuwan, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master Xiao gave me a place to stay. I naturally have to return the favor,¡± Yuan Yuwan said indifferently.


    Seeing that she was still smiling, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She went forward and held her hand, only to realize that it was cold to the touch. She frowned and said, ¡°Sister Yuwan, why don¡¯t you stop marrying? Anyway, Earl Rong¡¯s residence¡­¡±


    Halfway through, Shen Yijia knew that this was unrealistic. Not to mention that she would offend the Xiao family because of this.


    As long as Yuan Yuwan¡¯s surname was still Yuan, her marriage was not something she could decide on her own. Without Earl Rong¡¯s residence, there was still a second and third person.


    Who knew who the Yuan family would sell Yuan Yuwan to in order to get some small benefits?


    Yuan Yuwan knew that Shen Yijia had figured this out, so she did not say anything else. She only patted Shen Yijia with her free hand. ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten breakfast yet, right? I haven¡¯t eaten yet. Eat with me.¡±


    She pointed at the food box beside her.


    The newly married woman should have eaten good food before putting on her makeup and wedding dress. Moreover, in order to prevent herself from embarrassing herself later, she could not eat too much.


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t have much of an appetite before, so she didn¡¯t eat it.


    With that, she instructed You Bai, ¡°Bring Mrs. Yan to eat something first.¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Yan is the Madam I invited.¡±


    She introduced Mrs. Yan to Shen Yijia.


    Madam Xiao knew about the Yuan family¡¯s situation and sent someone over to ask if they could help. Yuan Yuwan refused. How could her in-laws help her future daughter-in-law manage these things?


    Madam Yan and her husband were well known. She was famous for being blessed among the commoners. The commoners would invite her to marry off their daughters. This was the first time she had accepted a job from an official¡¯s daughter.


    The corners of her mouth twitched as she nodded at Shen Yijia with a dry smile. She put the veil aside and bowed. ¡°Then I¡¯ll come back later to touch up Eldest Miss¡¯s makeup.¡±


    Mo Yuan set out the food in the food box. Shen Yijia knew that there were some things that she could not interfere with, so she could only ask if the Yuan family had caused any trouble.


    Yuan Yuwan picked up a crystal dumpling for her and nodded mockingly. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you lending me Mo Yuan.¡±


    Reality proved that they did not think too much about it. Last night, a group of men in black wanted to break into the old residence and abduct people. Unfortunately, they were captured by Xiao Qirui¡¯s men before they could enter.


    Of course, Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t know about this.


    Apart from the men in black, the stepmother also bribed an old woman in the kitchen of the old residence to drug Yuan Yuwan. In the end, Mo Yuan saw through her.


    When Shen Yijia heard this, she was angry and glad. Seeing that Yuan Yuwan was unwilling to say anything else, she sighed and stopped talking.


    After the two of them finished eating, the sound of gongs and drums came from outside the residence.


    Shen Yijia clearly saw Yuan Yuwan¡¯s body stiffen.


    Coincidentally, You Bai returned with Mrs. Yan. Mrs. Yan said something auspicious as she touched up Yuan Yuwan¡¯s makeup. She was about to pick up the veil and cover her up.


    Yuan Yuwan said, ¡°I¡¯ll do it myself.¡±


    Lady Yan paused. Thinking about how she had not seen a relative of her new mother¡¯s after coming for so long and hearing that this girl was even in charge of the marriage, she sighed.


    She smiled and said a few more good words before handing over the veil.


    According to the custom, there should be brothers blocking the bride¡¯s door. After the groom cleared the level, he would bid farewell to his parents with the bride, and the bride would be carried onto the bridal sedan by the brothers.


    However, Yuan Yuwan had nothing here.


    Outside the residence, Xiao Qirui was sitting on a horse in a red groom¡¯s suit. Accompanying him were his brothers in the military camp and the Xiao family¡¯s best man, who was about his age.


    The majestic group of people stood at the entrance of the residence. The lineup to pick up the bride was huge. Looking at the cold and cheerless Yuan family, the people behind them had strange expressions for a moment before quickly heckling, ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡¯re the best. You can easily marry a beautiful lady without anyone blocking the door.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right¡­¡±

 Chapter 549 - 549 Wedding (1)

    549 Wedding (1)


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The earlier we bring the bride back, the earlier you can give birth to a fat kid next year.¡±


    The person who said this was obviously from the military camp.


    His words immediately caused everyone to laugh.


    ¡°Who said that you could easily take Sister Yuwan away?¡±


    As everyone was cheering, a petite woman suddenly walked out with a group of servants holding clubs.


    Apart from a young maidservant beside the woman, the others were all old servants.


    Without exception, everyone was on guard.


    This scene made the corners of the mouths of the youths on horseback twitch.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes flashed. He dismounted and cupped his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°Madam Song.¡±


    After recuperating for more than a month, Xiao Qirui¡¯s injuries had completely recovered. His red clothes had made his face lose its usual coldness and seriousness.


    He had sharp eyebrows and bright eyes. It had to be said that he was considered a handsome man.


    He was indeed worthy of Sister Yuwan. Why did he have to be blind?


    Shen Yijia shook her head regretfully and coughed lightly. ¡°I¡¯m representing Sister Yuwan¡¯s family now. Since you want to marry Sister Yuwan, you have to pass through me first. Do you have any objections?¡±


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. He glanced at the servants holding sticks and shook his head. ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in satisfaction and said considerately, ¡°Since you¡¯re a general, I won¡¯t make things difficult for you. My request is very simple.¡±


    As she spoke, she waved her hand, and the servants with clubs immediately stood in a row to block the door.


    ¡°Just one! Just break in from here.¡±


    She wouldn¡¯t say that she didn¡¯t know those poems.


    Before Xiao Qirui could speak, the bridal escort behind him had already laughed. ¡°Hahaha¡­ Young lady, are you joking? What¡¯s the difference between your conditions and letting us in directly?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You might as well come up with a few pairs!¡±


    Look, those servants¡¯ hands were trembling.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows and pointed at the bridal escort group behind Xiao Qirui. ¡°You can attack together!¡±


    Xiao Qirui had seen Shen Yijia and Xuanyuan Ye compete, but because the outcome of the battle was decided too quickly and she did not use any moves, he really could not tell how strong she was.


    The only thing he could confirm was that she knew some martial arts.


    Xiao Qirui only thought that she was at the same level as Xiao Ruoshui.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia insisted on not exchanging for anything else, he nodded. ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to offend you.¡±


    He felt that he could completely bypass her and enter.


    ¡°Young General, you¡¯re the groom today. There¡¯s no need for you to do anything. I¡¯ll do it.¡± A young man in a blue brocade stopped him with a smile.


    With that, he rushed towards Shen Yijia without waiting for her agreement. He wanted to strike first.


    Xiao Qirui frowned and reminded him, ¡°Don¡¯t hurt anyone¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, before he could finish speaking, the young man in blue clothes had already flown back in a parabola. Xiao Qirui caught him and prevented him from falling to the ground.


    The young man in blue was still in a daze. He blinked and looked at Shen Yijia. The latter grinned at him, and the young man inexplicably shivered.


    ¡°Hahaha, Liu Mu, what¡¯s wrong with you? You can¡¯t even deal with a young lady.¡± The others cheered.


    Liu Mu blushed. Could he say that he didn¡¯t even touch a corner of her clothes just now?


    Wouldn¡¯t that be even more embarrassing?


    After laughing for a while, another purple-robed youth stood up and said, ¡°Let me do it.¡±


    He had been paying attention to Shen Yijia just now and knew how fast she was.


    Therefore, he did not laugh at Liu Mu like the others, nor did he let his guard down.


    However, he still could not withstand three moves from Shen Yijia before being thrown out.


    The others did not believe it and took turns, but without exception¡­


    Unlike the dispirited people on Xiao Qirui¡¯s side, the servants, who were originally trembling and could not hold their clubs steadily, straightened their backs when they saw this.


    It was as if they had won.


    Xiao Li went forward and reminded him, ¡°Young Master, the auspicious time is almost here.¡±


    After picking up the bride, he had to make a trip to the Yuan residence and make a detour to General Xiao¡¯s residence. If he delayed any longer, the auspicious time for the wedding ceremony would be over.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°I told you to attack together.¡±


    It was very troublesome for her to throw them out one by one.


    This time, no one dared to underestimate Shen Yijia. Xiao Qirui first turned around and reminded them not to hurt anyone before cupping his hands at Shen Yijia. ¡°Madam Song, please do not be offended.¡±


    With that, the group of people swarmed forward.

 Chapter 550 - 550 Wedding (2)

    550 Wedding (2)


    ¡°Let¡¯s get to work,¡± Shen Yijia ordered and led her team forward.


    Of course, she had no hope for those servants. She quickly grabbed the men and threw them at their feet. Whoever got up to resist would be attacked by Mo Yuan.


    The servants were stunned when they saw this. When they came back to their senses, they quickly rushed forward with their clubs.


    Those who saw this scene would think that these young men were here to snatch the bride.


    !!


    After assigning the bridal escort group, Shen Yijia personally entertained Xiao Qirui.


    She had been waiting for this moment for a long time!


    On the account that this guy was going to pay his respects to Yuan Yuwan later, Shen Yijia would definitely embarrass her if he injured his face. Shen Yijia did not attack his face this time.


    However, she was not polite to the rest of his body.


    Every punch of hers hit him hard.


    Xiao Qirui groaned in pain and looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief. Why did this feeling feel so familiar?


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°Why? Are you still in a daze? It seems that you don¡¯t really want to marry Sister Yuwan.¡±


    Xiao Qirui did not dare to be distracted anymore. He quickly turned around and dodged Shen Yijia¡¯s fist. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Madam Song, I don¡¯t know how I offended you, but today is a big day for Miss Yuan and me. Please show mercy.¡±


    ¡°Mercy, of course I¡¯ll show mercy!¡± Shen Yijia said with a smile.


    As soon as she finished speaking, she punched Xiao Qirui in the abdomen.


    ¡°You let Sister Yuwan down!¡± she thought.


    Another shoulder throw¡­


    Who asked you to be blind at such a young age?


    Who asked you to take in a concubine!


    ¡°Who asked you to be half-hearted!¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. In short, it was the right thing to do.


    This beating was fair and square. It was much more satisfying than the last time.


    However, Shen Yijia did not forget what she was doing. She estimated that it was about time, so she deliberately revealed a flaw to let Xiao Qirui rush in.


    Seeing this, the others immediately stopped and retreated. The bridal escort team quickly ran to Xiao Qirui¡¯s side as if they had seen a ghost.


    When they stood outside the door, they were still energetic and handsome. However, after passing the threshold, they all became dejected.


    No wonder the bride did not arrange for her brothers to block the door. This alone was enough to make them suffer.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Xiao Qirui asked.


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s fine. However, we were beaten up for you today. You have to drink a few more glasses with us later.¡±


    Liu Mu gritted his teeth in pain and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, Young General. Why don¡¯t we all get drunk and not return before then?¡±


    Before he could finish, he was patted on the back of his head. ¡°Brat, what do you mean by that? Can Young General even drink with us today? You still want to be beaten up!¡±


    Liu Mu quickly corrected himself. ¡°Oh my, I was wrong. Young General, accompany your wife. Let¡¯s not go home until we¡¯re drunk, okay?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s more like it.¡±


    They could even laugh and play. It seemed that they were really fine. Xiao Qirui was relieved. He lowered his head and tidied his robe. He nodded at Shen Yijia. ¡°Thank you!¡±


    Looking at the person limping in, Shen Yijia sneered.


    She was clearly targeting him, but he wasn¡¯t angry. It had to be said that Xiao Qirui was quite magnanimous.


    She could only pity him again. Why did his eyesight have to be so bad?


    You Bai had been peeking outside just now.


    Seeing that her future son-in-law had been beaten up so badly, she felt relieved and worried. She was afraid that Shen Yijia would hit him too hard and ruin his wedding.


    Fortunately, he was finally let in.


    You Bai heaved a sigh of relief and quickly ran back, shouting, ¡°Miss, Miss, Young Master is here.¡±


    The memorial tablets of Cabinet Elder Yuan and Yuan Yuwan¡¯s biological mother were placed in the main hall. At this moment, Yuan Yuwan was kneeling on the futon with a calm expression.


    Hearing this, she opened her eyes and kowtowed three times to the memorial tablet at the top.


    ¡°Grandfather, Mother, Yuwan is getting married today.¡±


    ¡°Yuwan is doing well. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    The footsteps behind her got closer and closer. Yuan Yuwan kowtowed again and covered her head again. With You Bai¡¯s help, she stood up.


    After taking a few steps, she saw a pair of men¡¯s embroidered boots. Yuan Yuwan reminded him, ¡°Young General, we can leave now.¡±


    Xiao Qirui looked at the woman in front of him and pursed his lips. ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was slightly stunned. She saw the owner of the boots walk around her and enter. Then, she heard the sound of clothes being lifted and knees touching a futon.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go,¡± Xiao Qirui walked back to her and said softly.


    Yuan Yuwan clenched her fists, took a deep breath, and nodded.


    She had specially shortened the veil, but it did not affect her walking. Unexpectedly, just as she took a step, a hand suddenly landed on her waist.

 Chapter 551 - 551 Wedding (3)

    551 Wedding (3)


    Startled, Yuan Yuwan was picked up by the waist.


    She subconsciously reached out and grabbed the lapels of the person in front of her. When she reacted, she quickly let go and said in a trembling voice, ¡°Young General, this is inappropriate.¡±


    Her body was so stiff that she did not dare to move.


    Xiao Qirui was a person who followed the rules to begin with. Feeling the resistance of the person in his arms, he should have let go, but this time, he tightened his grip and asked in a low voice, ¡°Is it appropriate to let the new bride walk out?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned.


    It was naturally appropriate!


    Since both options were not appropriate, there was no need to worry about which option was correct.


    Although Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t say that, Yuan Yuwan understood what he meant.


    Shen Yijia only remembered that she had to carry the bride into the bridal sedan after she left. She could only get Mo Yuan to drive the carriage back. Unexpectedly, she saw Xiao Qirui hobbling out with the bride in his arms.


    You Bai followed behind, his face flushed with excitement. The youths of the bridal escort group also winked.


    However, when he saw Shen Yijia, he immediately put on a guarded expression.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes speechlessly and crawled back into the carriage. ¡°Mo Yuan, we have nothing to do here.¡±


    ¡°Miss, Miss Yuan still has to kowtow to the Yuan residence,¡± Mo Yuan reminded her.


    She was afraid that Shen Yijia would suddenly remember and ask her to turn around again.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°I know, but Xiao Qirui is here. If the bride is handed over to him and he still manages to hand her off to someone else, then Sister Yuwan really doesn¡¯t have to marry him.¡±


    ¡°At most, I¡¯ll bring You Yi to Earl Rong¡¯s residence to steal her.¡± As she spoke, Shen Yijia was a little excited.


    Mo Yuan was speechless. Her face said it all. ¡°Miss, you seem to want this to happen?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at her, her rebuttal written on her face. ¡°I didn¡¯t. Don¡¯t spout nonsense.¡±


    After fighting, she was sweating a lot. Shen Yijia decided to go home and change her clothes before going to the Xiao family.


    When she reached home, she realized that Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t left yet.


    ¡°Hubby, why haven¡¯t you gone yet?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It¡¯s still early.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head and did not think too much about it. She said happily, ¡°Then wait for me. I¡¯ll go change first. Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    He continued to read.


    ¡°Master, do you still need me to send this congratulatory gift?¡± South Wind asked strangely.


    Just before Young Madam returned, Master said that he wouldn¡¯t go and instructed him to send the congratulatory gift to General Xiao¡¯s residence.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him coldly. ¡°Did I say something just now?¡±


    ¡°You just said¡­¡± Halfway through his sentence, he noticed Song Jingchen¡¯s slowly curling lips. South Wind shuddered and quickly corrected himself. ¡°Master didn¡¯t say anything just now.¡±


    ¡°Nothing?¡± Song Jingchen asked again.


    So did he say it or not?


    South Wind groaned inwardly.


    If possible, he would rather switch places with Thirty Thousand and Rooster to rummage through the slop buckets.


    Noticing that Song Jingchen had glanced at the congratulatory gift at the side, South Wind suddenly had an idea. He slapped his forehead and said, ¡°Master asked me to put the congratulatory gift in the carriage. We can set off later. I¡¯ll go now!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with him?¡± When Shen Yijia came out after changing, she saw South Wind running away as if he was being chased by a ghost.


    Song Jingchen said concisely, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Oh, then let¡¯s go quickly. Otherwise, we won¡¯t be able to see the bride and groom,¡± Shen Yijia urged.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t move. After a long time, he hesitated and said, ¡°You¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°What about me?¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°Have you been paying too much attention to Miss Yuan recently?¡±


    It was fine if she nagged at him from time to time, but she left him alone and ran to the Yuan residence.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for him to bring his wife to the banquet!


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She blinked, then burst out laughing. She leaned forward, held Song Jingchen¡¯s face, and rubbed it hard.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ll always be the only one in my heart.¡±


    Back then, she had to secretly pinch this person¡¯s face while he was asleep, unlike now.


    She felt a sense of accomplishment just thinking about it!


    Hence, Shen Yijia tugged harder and kissed him twice. ¡°I love you the most.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    There was no need to be so direct!


    She was pressed down by a certain wolf cub and kissed fiercely for a while.


    When Shen Yijia walked out of the door, her face was still red. Coupled with her red lips, no one would believe that the two of them had not done anything.


    But¡­ wasn¡¯t Master¡¯s time with her a little too short?


    No wonder Young Madam¡¯s stomach didn¡¯t move for so long.


    South Wind felt that he had learned the truth.

 Chapter 552 - 552 Wedding (4)

    552 Wedding (4)


    He glanced at Mo Yuan. ¡°Don¡¯t you know about medicine? See if Master can still be saved.¡±


    The treatment had to be done as soon as possible!


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave Little Master¡¯s life in your hands!¡± he thought.


    Mo Yuan turned her head away expressionlessly.


    ¡°I heard that the tea in the Fragrant Teahouse is not bad. South Wind, you¡¯ve worked hard recently. I¡¯ll give you a day off today to try the tea there.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s cold voice sounded in his ear.


    South Wind¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He turned around in fear. Song Jingchen had already entered the carriage with Shen Yijia.


    Mo Yuan looked at him disdainfully, got into the carriage, and left with a wave of the whip.


    The young master was still around, but he dared to stare at Miss¡¯s lips. How stupid!


    However, he could indeed consider preparing some medicine for Young Master.


    Mo Yuan demonstrated the benefits of facial paralysis on the spot.


    Only South Wind, whose face was ashen, came back to his senses after a long time.


    He actually saw disdain on Mo Yuan¡¯s face.


    No, did Master ask him to go for tea? The focus should be on the words ¡°one day¡±!


    Also, the tea in Fragrant Teahouse was not something ordinary people could afford. Then was this considered a public expense? Was he reimbursed?


    Oh, Master said that he would give him a break, so the answer was naturally no.


    South Wind envied Thirty Thousand and Rooster again.


    The carriage headed straight for General Xiao¡¯s residence on Xuanwu Street. At the same time, Feng Manman, who was dressed in pink, got into the sedan chair Yuan Yuwan had booked for her with the help of the bridesmaid.


    The sedan chair was carried by four people, and beside it was the bridesmaid, who kept shouting auspicious words. If one ignored the pink wedding dress on her body, the standard of her bridal procession would simply be so-so.


    ¡°Miss Feng, have you caught the eye of a benefactor?¡± The 500 meters neighbor asked curiously when he heard the commotion.


    A woman twisted her waist and continued enviously, ¡°You came out late and didn¡¯t know. The bridesmaid revealed to us just now that Feng girl is going to General Xiao¡¯s residence to be Young General Xiao¡¯s concubine.¡±


    As the woman spoke, she stroked her hair.


    The Young General did not mind that Feng Jiu¡¯s face had been ruined. Although she was a little old, she was still a flower in the south of the city back then. She wondered if Young General Xiao would like her.


    She was willing to be General Xiao¡¯s concubine.


    A woman who was familiar with her knew what she was dreaming about when she saw her like this. She mocked bluntly, ¡°Zhihua, don¡¯t even think about it. I heard that Feng¡¯er¡¯s face was destroyed to save the Young General. He is repaying her kindness.¡±


    ¡°No way. Why haven¡¯t I heard of this before?¡± someone asked.


    Everyone only knew that Feng Manman had been disfigured after saving someone, but they didn¡¯t know who she had saved. When they suddenly heard this, they stopped looking at the bridal sedan and leaned towards the woman who said this curiously.


    ¡°Ah, in any case, I just know.¡± The woman waved her hand and was unwilling to say anything else, but she enjoyed the feeling of being praised by everyone. Her eyes darted around and she said, ¡°Not only that, but the Young General values friendship and righteousness. He had feelings for Miss Feng. He originally wanted to marry Miss Feng as his official wife. However, he had an arranged marriage since he was young, so he had no choice but to take her in as a noble concubine. He didn¡¯t want Miss Feng to suffer, so he brought Miss Feng into the residence on the day of his marriage. Just wait and see. Miss Feng will be very lucky in the future.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, I was wondering why he left without a word. The Wang family will probably regret it so much that their intestines turn green. If they hadn¡¯t broken off the engagement back then, wouldn¡¯t their family have been saved?¡±


    The Wang family was the family that broke off the engagement with Feng Manman after she was disfigured.


    ¡°Ah, that makes sense.¡±


    ¡°I told you back then that Feng girl was blessed.¡±


    ¡°Then won¡¯t life be difficult for the Young General¡¯s official wife in the future?¡± Everyone spoke one after another. It was rare for someone to think of another woman who had entered the Xiao family on the same day.


    ¡°What are you worrying about? She¡¯s engaged to Young General. How can she not have any family background? She definitely has everything she wants. Unlike that Feng girl, she¡¯ll have to rely on her husband¡¯s love in the future.¡±


    The woman who had mentioned the official wife frowned in disagreement, but she did not say anything else.


    ¡°Young lady, listen. Everyone is praising you for being lucky. Your good days have just begun.¡± The bridesmaid heard everyone¡¯s discussion and went to the side of the sedan chair to flatter her.


    Under the veil, Feng Manman lowered her eyes shyly, her eyes filled with happiness.


    However, in less than a breath, her expression changed. She took out a pill from her pocket with trembling hands. She did not even have time to open the beeswax on it before she stuffed the pill into her mouth.

 Chapter 553 - 553 Wedding (5)

    553 Wedding (5)


    The bridesmaid outside only thought that her new wife was shy. She kept saying good things about her, thinking that the young lady in the intermediate sedan chair could give her more red seals.


    She did not know that the person in the palanquin could not listen to a word.


    The two bridal sedans entered Xuanwu Street one after another. Yuan Yuwan¡¯s bridal sedan set off early. She was supposed to arrive first, but because they had taken a detour to the Yuan residence and the stepmother and daughter had caused some demonic spirits there, they wasted a lot of time, causing Feng Manman to be in front.


    You Bai walked beside the bridal sedan and saw this scene. She was so angry that her eyes turned red.


    !!


    She wanted to complain to her lady, but she was afraid that she would be sad, so she could only get angry on her own.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Xiao Qirui asked with a frown.


    Xiao Li opened his mouth and stammered, ¡°It¡¯s Miss Feng. Yesterday, Eldest Miss Yuan sent someone to the residence to discuss this matter. When you weren¡¯t around, Master agreed.¡±


    This matter naturally referred to the matter of bringing Miss Feng in today.


    He thought that his master would tell Young Master, so he didn¡¯t say anything.


    So Young Master didn¡¯t know at all?


    It was strange. In the past, the general kept saying that he would never let that woman enter the house. The young master would rather kneel down and ask to marry her.


    Now, the general easily agreed, but he felt that Young Master treated Miss Feng¡­


    Xiao Li sighed. This father and son might have been born to oppose each other!


    Xiao Qirui was indeed unaware. When he heard that it was arranged by Yuan Yuwan, he turned around and glanced at the bridal sedan behind him.


    He patted the horse¡¯s abdomen. The horse received its master¡¯s order and raised its front hooves to accelerate to the pink bridal sedan in front.


    The bridal escort team stopped for a moment.


    After being stunned, Xiao Li slapped himself. Why did he think that Young Master didn¡¯t care about Miss Feng?


    If he had known that he would ignore him, he wouldn¡¯t have said anything just now.


    You Bai cried.


    Why was her young lady¡¯s life so bitter?


    She sniffled quietly.


    She sobbed softly, afraid to let the people in the palanquin hear her.


    A slender hand reached out of the window of the bridal sedan. Then, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s gentle voice sounded. ¡°Wipe your tears. Don¡¯t cry today.¡±


    ¡°Miss¡­¡± You Bai took the handkerchief and choked.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, it¡¯s fine,¡± Yuan Yuwan comforted her.


    However, she did not know if this sentence was meant to comfort You Bai or herself.


    Seeing the bridal sedan behind them turn in, the bridesmaid was originally conflicted about whether to make way. Unexpectedly, she saw the groom in red riding over.


    Thinking of what she had heard in front of the noodle shop, the bridesmaid instantly straightened her back. So what if she was escorting a concubine? His main wife was ranked last.


    After being smug, she did not forget to remind the person in the sedan chair, ¡°Madam Feng, Young General is here personally. What did I say? Madam Feng¡¯s good day has just begun.¡±


    ¡°What? Brother Xiao is here?¡± Feng Manman was surprised and delighted. She quickly covered her mouth.


    Although she could not see what was going on outside, she could hear the sound of gongs and drums behind her. She naturally guessed what was going on.


    Her joy at being able to walk in front of Yuan Yuwan instantly rose from 30% to 70%.


    As for the remaining part¡­


    Feng Manman looked down at the pink wedding dress on her body.


    What a pity.

 Chapter 554 - 554 Bullying Children (1)

    554 Bullying Children (1)


    The eldest branch of the Yuan family married two daughters off in a day. One was married to Earl Rong, who was more than 50 years old, and the other was married to Young General Xiao, who had a good family and good looks.


    Due to the difference in their marriages, the two sisters were discussed enthusiastically. It was about how Eldest Miss Yuan had married well, unlike Second Miss who did not know how long she could live.


    However, when they saw that Young General Xiao had taken in a noble concubine on the day he married his main wife, the person who said these words fell silent.


    The Yuan family had not chosen their ancestral graves well. Not only had they gradually declined since Pavilion Elder Yuan, but their daughters were also getting more and more miserable.


    When they heard that Miss Yuan was the one who made the decision to let Xiao Qirui marry the concubine, everyone could only be envious of Xiao Qirui. After all, which man didn¡¯t want to marry a magnanimous wife and have multiple concubines?


    Feng Manman tried her best to suppress the excitement in her heart. She raised her hand and lifted the curtain, wanting to sneak a look at the man outside.


    As soon as she placed her hand on a corner of the curtain, the sedan chair suddenly stopped.


    Feng Manman paused. Before she could ask, she heard the bridesmaid¡¯s voice. ¡°Madam Feng, Young General said that according to the rules, we have to wait for the person behind to pass before entering the residence through the back door.¡±


    The bridesmaid¡¯s words were like a basin of cold water that poured over her.


    Feng Manman felt that she must be mocking her in her heart at this moment. Her face burned as if she had been slapped.


    She clenched her fists and tried her best to keep her voice normal. ¡°Brother Xiao values rules the most. That¡¯s how it should be.¡±


    The bridesmaid glanced at the sedan chair strangely and agreed with a smile.


    You Bai was still holding the handkerchief that Yuan Yuwan had given her. However, there were no longer tears in her eyes. She looked like a victorious rooster. She raised her head and puffed out her chest. When she passed by the pink sedan chair, she spat.


    Yuan Yuwan felt helpless. She knew that this wasn¡¯t the time to lecture someone.


    The Song family¡¯s carriage fell behind the two bridal sedans. Shen Yijia saw all of this and snorted.


    ¡°Xiao Qirui isn¡¯t someone who doesn¡¯t know his limits,¡± Song Jingchen said helplessly.


    Not only was he as stubborn as General Xiao, but he was also less discerning. This was also why Song Jingchen told General Xiao about his suspicions but didn¡¯t tell Young General Xiao.


    The onlooker had a clearer view of the situation. Xiao Qirui believed that Feng Manman had saved his life, and thus ruined her own life. Without evidence, it was very difficult for him to suspect Feng Manman.


    In Song Jingchen¡¯s opinion, he had suffered too little.


    Due to the fact that Xiao Qirui¡¯s actions were pleasing to the eye just now, Shen Yijia did not refute. She also realized that apart from being blind, Xiao Qirui did not have any other major flaws.


    The bridal escort team stopped in front of General Xiao¡¯s residence. Xiao Qirui dismounted and walked straight to the bridal sedan chair, extending his well-defined hand.


    Looking at the hand that suddenly appeared in front of her, Yuan Yuwan was a little dazed.


    Before knowing Feng Manman, she had also looked forward to her life with her husband after marriage and teaching her children in the backyard.


    However¡­ this did not belong to her in the end!


    Yuan Yuwan hesitated for a moment, but in the end, she did not put her hand on his.


    Once a person had wild thoughts, they would easily lose themselves. She didn¡¯t like it!


    Xiao Qirui waited for a while and saw that there was no movement inside. Worried that something had happened, he was about to lift the curtain when someone suddenly grabbed his sleeve. At the same time, the curtain of the sedan chair was lifted and Yuan Yuwan walked out.


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. He looked down at the place where the two of them were intertwined. The sleeves of the wedding robes were wide and covered their hands. To outsiders, it looked like they were holding hands, but in fact, she was only tugging at the corner of his sleeve.


    The bridesmaid came over with the red silk with a smile. Before Xiao Qirui could react, Yuan Yuwan had already let go of him to grab one end of the red silk.


    ¡°Oh my, Young General, you can¡¯t take your eyes off the bride. However, this auspicious time doesn¡¯t wait for anyone. You have to pay respects first. When you return to the new house, you can look as much as you want,¡± the bridesmaid reminded him teasingly.


    It caused the surrounding crowd to roar with laughter.


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and retracted his complicated gaze. He reached out to take the red silk.


    The bride stepped over the brazier, intending to live happily ever after as husband and wife.


    Then, with a series of auspicious words from the bridesmaid, the two of them arrived at the lobby.


    General Xiao and his wife sat in the armchair at the head of the table. Looking at the couple below them, Madam Xiao finally smiled.


    The two of them have been engaged since young, but it was not easy for them to reach this stage.


    Thinking of the whips that General Xiao had broken, Madam Xiao¡¯s heart still ached.


    Xiao Ruoshui stood at the side and heaved a sigh of relief. She noticed the people who had entered behind the newcomers and pushed through the crowd. ¡°Jiajia, Brother Chen¡­ Brother Song, why are you only here now?¡±

 Chapter 555 - 555 Bullying Children (2)

    555 Bullying Children (2)


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Didn¡¯t we come right on time?¡±


    From the bridal escort to the entrance, she had seen the entire wedding without missing a single detail.


    Xiao Ruoshui choked. That seemed to be the case!


    She wanted to say something else, but Shen Yijia held her face and turned her head back. ¡°Watch and learn. Don¡¯t make a fool of yourself when it¡¯s your turn to get married.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°You should learn well.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the first time I¡¯ve seen someone pay their respects. How much could I learn?¡± Xiao Ruoshui muttered. She noticed that Shen Yijia was looking at the hall without blinking. Her face was filled with curiosity. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°It¡¯s not like you haven¡¯t been married before. Why¡­¡±


    Halfway through her sentence, Xiao Ruoshui thought of what had happened during the Song family¡¯s wedding and shut her mouth awkwardly.


    Shen Yijia did not think too much about it. She would not say that the person at that time was not her.


    She had never experienced this before.


    ¡°One bow to heaven and earth.¡±


    ¡°Second bow to the ancestral hall!¡±


    ¡°Next, the wedded couple shall bow to each other¡­¡±


    ¡°The ceremony is complete. Please enter the bridal chamber.¡±


    With that, the two of them were sent to the bridal chamber by the guests.


    The new house was in the Splendid Courtyard. Apart from the main courtyard, it was the best courtyard in the general¡¯s residence.


    Because of her guilt towards Yuan Yuwan and her love for her, Madam Xiao even specially got someone to renovate it.


    They sat down and scattered the tents. In the end, the groom lifted the veil.


    Yuan Yuwan had not appeared in public for many years because she was mourning. Even when she went out, she was dressed plainly. Today was an eye-opener.


    She had exquisite makeup on her face, and her wedding dress made her look even more beautiful than usual.


    She had bright eyes and white teeth. She smiled sweetly.


    Amidst everyone¡¯s exclamations, Yuan Yuwan lowered her head and pretended to be shy. However, Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart was filled with bitterness.


    She did not even look at him just now.


    Although Yuan Yuwan had never said anything about what he had done or even complained about it, Xiao Qirui understood what she meant at this moment.


    He gave her a place to stay, and she let him ¡°get his wish.¡±


    After the ceremony, the onlookers were chased out and the two of them sat quietly on the wedding bed.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Xiao Qirui wanted to ask something, but he only said three words. ¡°Are you hungry?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not hungry.¡±


    ¡°I have You Bai here to serve me. Young General, go and do your work.¡± Yuan Yuwan could tell that he was uncomfortable and kindly helped him out.


    Xiao Qirui glanced at her and finally nodded. ¡°If you¡¯re tired, rest for a while.¡±


    He stood up and noticed the hair that the bridesmaid had placed aside. For some reason, he walked over and picked it up. He said, ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to bring you food. Eat something before resting.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Yuan Yuwan thanked him with a smile.


    The atmosphere was a little stiff.


    Xiao Qirui was a clumsy speaker to begin with. Coupled with the fact that he had guessed her thoughts, he didn¡¯t know what to say to ease the situation.


    Was he supposed to explain? Tell her that he was only grateful to Feng Manman?


    But didn¡¯t she know all this?


    Coincidentally, Xiao Li¡¯s voice came from outside the door, saying that he had been urged again.


    Xiao Qirui could only push the door open and leave. He also took away the strand of hair that the two of them had tied together.


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t mind. She asked You Bai to help her take off the hairpin and remove her makeup.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t like Miss Feng, avoid her. Don¡¯t do what you did today. She doesn¡¯t owe us anything.¡± Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t forget how You Bai spat at the bridal sedan chair.


    ¡°Miss, she¡­¡± You Bai wanted to refute.


    Yuan Yuwan sighed. ¡°She saved the Young General, and the Young General has given us a place to stay. On account of the Young General, we should be polite to her.¡±


    ¡°You have to be content.¡±


    You Bai bit her lower lip and remained silent.


    She felt that the Young General had feelings for her young lady. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been so protective of her in the Yuan family today. He even let her young lady¡¯s sedan chair go first.


    If Miss fought for it, she would definitely not lose to Feng Manman.


    ¡°From today onwards, I¡¯m the wife of the Xiao family. Protecting me is equivalent to protecting the face of the Xiao family. As for letting my palanquin go first, this is proper etiquette,¡± Yuan Yuwan explained, seeing through her thoughts.


    If she thought like You Bai, she would probably have to spend the rest of her life twisted with jealousy.


    You Bai felt that something was wrong, but she could not find a way to refute her. She could only agree silently.


    Yuan Yuwan did not say anything else. Seeing that it was still early, she was about to ask her to find a book for her to pass the time when Xiao Ruoshui pulled Shen Yijia in.

 Chapter 556 - 556 Bullying Children (3)

    556 Bullying Children (3)


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡± Xiao Ruoshui put down the food box with a smile. ¡°My brother was afraid that you would be hungry, so he asked me to bring you food.¡±


    The hot dishes were all Yuan Yuwan¡¯s favorites, and they filled the table.


    Yuan Yuwan was a little surprised. ¡°Since when did you know what I like?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s personality was not at all compatible with her name. She was carefree and was not a meticulous person. Yuan Yuwan was a little touched that she could notice this.


    ¡°They¡¯re all your favorites?¡± Xiao Ruoshui was stunned. ¡°My brother only asked me to go to the kitchen to pick up the food boxes, but I didn¡¯t instruct them to do that.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what your brother instructed.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. At the same time, she was finally relieved by Yuan Yuwan¡¯s marriage.


    Yuan Yuwan glanced at You Bai, who shrank back and hid behind Shen Yijia.


    There was too much food for Yuan Yuwan to finish alone. Fortunately, Xiao Ruoshui and Shen Yijia had yet to eat, so she pulled the two of them to sit down.


    After dinner, the two of them chatted with her for a while before leaving.


    ¡°Which courtyard is that Feng person in?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Xiao Ruoshui rolled her eyes and pointed in a direction. ¡°She¡¯s in the Magnolia Courtyard. Why are you asking about her?¡±


    ¡°Just curious.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction she was pointing. It was quite close to here.


    Xiao Qirui finally managed to get away from the wine table.


    Xiao Li helped him back to the backyard. When they passed a fork in the road, he stopped. One way was to the Magnolia Courtyard, and the other was to the Splendid Courtyard.


    Normally, he should have gone to the Splendid Courtyard, but nothing had been normal since his master met Feng Manman.


    Xiao Qirui glanced in the Magnolia Courtyard¡¯s direction and pushed Xiao Li away with a frown. ¡°Go and tell Miss Feng to rest early.¡±


    With that, he headed straight for Splendid Courtyard.


    Xiao Li reacted and his eyes lit up. He sighed and ran off.


    The lights in the new room were still on. Xiao Qirui heaved a sigh of relief. He stroked the nonexistent creases on his clothes and pushed the door open.


    When he saw the scene inside, he was stunned.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing interesting about a wedding,¡± Shen Yijia muttered in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms, feeling extremely sleepy.


    The men could still drink and have fun, so she had to listen to the opera with those women.


    She felt a headache coming on.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you were afraid of being late?¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°I hadn¡¯t seen one before today.¡±


    Back then, An Dong¡¯s marriage was much simpler.


    The main reason was that she was afraid of having to listen to the opera again.


    When the carriage stopped, Mo Yuan reminded her, ¡°Miss, Young Master, we¡¯re home.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and got out of the car without waiting for Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen was helpless against her energetic personality. When they entered the residence and saw the people in the courtyard, the two of them were stunned.


    ¡°Beautiful Uncle, why are you here?¡±


    In the courtyard, Chu Feng was teaching Sister Huan martial arts, Brother Hao was sitting at the stone table playing chess with Xuanyuan Ce, and the others were not around.


    Seeing the two of them, Brother Hao seemed to have seen his savior. He hurriedly put down his chess piece. ¡°Big Brother, Sister-in-law, you¡¯re finally back. This uncle has been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


    Originally, Brother Hao was quite happy when Xuanyuan Ce asked him to play chess with him.


    In the end, he realized that this person wasn¡¯t polite at all. He didn¡¯t give him any pointers like Song Jingchen usually did. Xuanyuan Ce simply defeated him again and again.


    However, Xuanyuan was not tired of it.


    He tortured him for the entire night!


    He was still a child. Why did he have to go through this?


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at Song Jingchen and tapped the chessboard. ¡°You do it.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and walked over to sit at Brother Hao¡¯s original seat. He looked at the chessboard, picked up a chess piece, and nonchalantly placed it down.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    No, was he ignoring her?


    The game of chess was quickly over. Brother Hao¡¯s original strategy was too lousy, and Song Jingchen lost.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not realize that he had taken advantage of him at all and raised his eyebrows proudly.


    Shen Yijia clapped her hands. ¡°Hubby is amazing.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°He lost.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Shen Yijia turned around. Although she could not understand the process, she could understand the outcome.


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly, ¡°Brother Hao played so badly previously. My husband almost turned the tables. Isn¡¯t he very powerful?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He had nothing to say.


    However, if this kid were to do it from the beginning, it would indeed be different.


    He glanced at Brother Hao in disdain. ¡°Did you hear that? You¡¯re too lousy. You should study hard in the future.¡±


    Brother Hao thought to himself, ¡°Why do you keep bullying a child?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t the diplomatic party leave the capital long ago? Why haven¡¯t you left yet, beautiful uncle?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Shen Yijia did not pay much attention to the envoy. She only found out about it when Xuanyuan Ziming came to look for her before he left.


    Xuanyuan Ce picked up a box on the table and handed it to her. ¡°I haven¡¯t recovered yet. I¡¯ll stay and recuperate. The emperor of Great Xia has also agreed.¡±


    He said the last sentence while looking at Song Jingchen.

 Chapter 557 - 557 The Truth about the Assassination (1)

    557 The Truth about the Assassination (1)


    The box was light. Shen Yijia asked, ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce coughed lightly. ¡°It¡¯s for you.¡±


    ¡°For me?¡± Shen Yijia pushed him back and held Song Jingchen¡¯s arm. She shook her head repeatedly. ¡°Why did you give me something for no reason? I don¡¯t want it.¡±


    She did not forget that this person had asked her beautiful husband to divorce her.


    Could it be that her beautiful husband was unwilling, so he was prepared to attack her?


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. That was a huge mistake!


    She could earn money. It was fine if she didn¡¯t eat delicacies.


    However, it was impossible for her to give up on her beautiful husband!


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat. What did this expression mean?


    He took a deep breath and opened the box in front of everyone. ¡°It¡¯s not anything valuable. It¡¯s for you to play with.¡±


    Shen Yijia took a rough look. There were four things inside. One was a longevity lock, one was an exquisite hairpin, one was a jade hairpin carved into the shape of a magnolia, and the last was a jade pendant.


    The jade pendant and jade hairpin should have been made by the same person. The carvings on them were a little rough.


    The longevity lock was even made of silver. From the looks of it, it was indeed worthless.


    ¡°These seem to be for children to play with, right?¡± Shen Yijia picked up the longevity lock and golden hairpin and looked at him strangely. ¡°I¡¯m already seventeen.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why I said it¡¯s for you to play with.¡± Xuanyuan Ce was a little speechless. Why was this girl so serious?


    Not only did he know that she was seventeen, but he also knew that today was the thirteenth of September, according to the old monk.


    Today should be this girl¡¯s birthday, but from the looks of it, no one was celebrating her birthday. Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Song Jingchen and despised him even more.


    Due to his previous lesson, he did not dare to make it too obvious.


    However, Song Jingchen still felt it. He frowned, feeling wronged about the hostility Xuanyuan Ce revealed from time to time.


    He didn¡¯t snatch any of his treasures, right?


    If it was strange that Xuanyuan Ce came to give gifts for no reason, then it was even more inexplicable that he ran to the Song family¡¯s kitchen after delivering the gifts and personally cooked a pot of noodles for everyone to eat.


    Fortunately, his culinary skills were not bad. Otherwise, Shen Yijia would have suspected that he was here to take revenge on her.


    As a prince of a country, it would be a waste not to eat the noodles personally cooked by him. Hence, Shen Yijia¡¯s stomach bulged.


    After eating, Xuanyuan Ce had no intention of leaving. Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°I heard that His Highness has been close to Princess Yong¡¯an recently.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°You know a lot about me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only heard a little about it.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care about his attitude.


    Moreover, he did not deliberately ask about this matter, so he did not feel guilty at all.


    This was because Xuanyuan Ce often met Ji Yunxi. Although they were all using the excuse of seeing a doctor, there were rumors among the officials that Xuanyuan Ce had taken a fancy to Princess Yong¡¯an and had plans to have a marriage alliance with Great Xia.


    Because Princess Yong¡¯an was not in the mood to get married, the lord could not bear to force her, so they could only stay in Great Xia and fight for the hearts of the beauties.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe in these things, but the person behind Ji Yunxi was an enemy, not a friend. Song Jingchen definitely didn¡¯t want to see the Xuanyuan Kingdom being roped in by them.


    Xuanyuan Ce had naturally heard this rumor before. His face darkened. ¡°Why are the officials of Great Xia like gossipers?¡±


    Shen Yijia tugged at Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°What did they say?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°They said¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce quickly interrupted him. ¡°Lord Song shouldn¡¯t be such a gossipy person.¡±


    Song Jingchen was slightly stunned. He nodded and whispered in Shen Yijia¡¯s ear.


    He performed for Xuanyuan Ce on the spot.


    Therefore, Xuanyuan Ce successfully received a disdainful look from Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not care what others said, but he was still hoping to reunite with Shen Yijia one day. How could he dare to let her misunderstand?


    Embarrassed by his gaze, he quickly explained, ¡°That didn¡¯t happen. I just¡­¡±


    He just wanted to investigate Shen Yijia¡¯s mother through Ji Yunxi!


    However, there was no way to say this. Not only did this girl not know anything, but now was not the time to implicate her.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to explain. We understand,¡± Shen Yijia said considerately.


    ¡°Do you really understand?¡± he thought.


    Xuanyuan Ce felt that if he stayed with this couple for a while longer, his lifespan would definitely be reduced.


    He took a deep breath and stood up. He had yet to find Ji Luo. He could not be angered to death.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly called out to him.

 Chapter 558 - 558 The Truth about the Assassination (2)

    558 The Truth about the Assassination (2)


    Xuanyuan Ce turned around and glanced at him angrily.


    ¡°There¡¯s something that His Highness might be interested in.¡± Song Jingchen turned around and instructed Mo Yuan, ¡°Go to my study and take out the box I placed on the third row of the bookshelf.¡±


    Mo Yuan paused and glanced at Xuanyuan Ce before turning around.


    Soon, she came out with a box. Song Jingchen gestured for her to give it to Xuanyuan Ce.


    !!


    Chu Feng wanted to reach out to take it, but Xuanyuan Ce stopped him. He personally took the box and noticed something. His eyes flashed.


    However, Mo Yuan had already retracted her hand and retreated behind Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ce narrowed his eyes, retracted his thoughts, and opened the box. There was a book inside. He opened it and read the first page. His eyes narrowed. ¡°Why do you have this?¡±


    ¡°I obtained it by chance.¡± Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t too surprised by his reaction. He continued, ¡°Since Your Highness knows about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, you should be able to guess why the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets appeared in Great Xia. I hope Your Highness won¡¯t be a stepping stone for others.¡±


    He was referring to the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets who only assisted people like emperors and generals.


    Xuanyuan Ce understood what he meant and sneered. ¡°How do you know that I¡¯m not that person?¡±


    ¡°Are you?¡± Song Jingchen met his gaze.


    No, he was just a mortal. He only wanted to find his wife and daughter and could not even be bothered to participate in the politics of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ce closed the book and asked angrily, ¡°Do I look like an idiot?¡±


    Song Jingchen shrugged. Who knew?


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He couldn¡¯t stay here any longer. He turned around and walked out. After taking two steps, he thought of something and stopped. He turned around and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°I didn¡¯t come in a carriage. Please arrange for someone to give me a ride.¡±


    Shen Yijia was a little unhappy. South Wind was not back yet, and Mo Yuan was the only one at home.


    Unexpectedly, Mo Yuan stood up herself. ¡°Miss, His Highness is a guest. I¡¯ll send him off.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Mo Yuan and Xuanyuan Ce. She felt that something was wrong, but she couldn¡¯t figure it out. Seeing Song Jingchen nod, she didn¡¯t object.


    Mo Yuan went to the backyard to drive the carriage to the door and left with Xuanyuan Ce and Chu Feng.


    ¡°You Yi,¡± Shen Yijia roared at the sky.


    You Yi fell from the tree.


    ¡°Is there something wrong with your lord?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    You Yi was speechless.


    ¡°Like how an old cow likes eating young grass?¡±


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°What kind of problem is this? Isn¡¯t this what every old man likes?¡±


    Song Jingchen picked up the jade pendant on the table. The jade was good, but its craftsmanship was poor. ¡°He probably doesn¡¯t have any ill intentions.¡±


    He would not intentionally implicate Xuanyuan Ce.


    Shen Yijia actually knew that Xuanyuan Ce had no ill intentions, but she felt puzzled.


    The sound of horse hooves was especially loud in the quiet night. Every step felt like a step on one¡¯s heart.


    Xuanyuan Ce sat in the carriage with his eyes closed. Suddenly, a horse neighed outside and the carriage stopped.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his eyes and Chu Feng lifted the curtain. Under the night sky, the woman who was driving the carriage was fighting with a man in black.


    The man in black pressed forward step by step, but he clearly did not kill her. It was more like he was forcing the woman to attack.


    After more than ten moves, Xuanyuan Ce seemed to have confirmed something. He gently knocked on the wall of the carriage and the man in black instantly hid in the night.


    Mo Yuan stood still and looked expressionlessly at the calm person in the carriage.


    ¡°You know Ji Luo?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked coldly.


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t know him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows and decided to ask another question. ¡°Who taught you martial arts?¡±


    Mo Yuan tightened her grip. ¡°Your Highness is not my master.¡±


    In other words, she could choose not to answer.


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°If I tell the emperor of Great Xia about your assassination attempt, do you think your master will be implicated?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what Your Highness is talking about.¡± Mo Yuan¡¯s hand moved under her sleeve.


    Xuanyuan Ce turned the jade ring on his hand. There were also small wounds on his fingers. ¡°She taught you how to use poison, right?¡±


    ¡°I wonder if you¡¯re faster at poisoning people or if my men are faster.¡±


    Mo Yuan estimated the distance between her and the carriage and frowned. Back then, when she fought the man in black at close range, she did not succeed in poisoning him.


    She let go and said expressionlessly, ¡°I don¡¯t know the Ji Luo that His Highness is talking about. As for the assassination attempt, I have no grudge against Your Highness, so I have no reason to do it.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with learning? Learn from that girl.¡± Xuanyuan Ce sneered and leaned back against the wall lazily. ¡°Whether you¡¯ve done it or not, it¡¯s not up to you. It¡¯s up to me.¡±

 Chapter 559 - 559 The Truth about the Assassination (3)

    559 The Truth about the Assassination (3)


    Once the emperor found out about this, the truth was not important. What was important was how to appease Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s anger.


    Mo Yuan knew this, and killing intent appeared in her eyes. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°I only want to ask you a few questions.¡±


    ¡°Where did the person who taught you martial arts go?¡±


    Mo Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce had actually sent people to investigate everyone around Shen Yijia, including Mo Yuan. He knew that she was not lying.


    He asked again, ¡°Why did you try to assassinate me?¡±


    When that girl was in trouble, this person even asked the little beggar to look for him to save her. No matter how he looked at it, she must have treated him as an ally.


    In the end, she turned around and wanted to kill him again.


    Back then, Ji Luo didn¡¯t kill him when she left, so it was obvious that she wasn¡¯t the one who ordered it.


    Mo Yuan frowned, thinking of the first year she had been by Miss¡¯s side.


    One night, they were inexplicably hunted down.


    After that, Miss found a token on those people. There was a word engraved on it.


    Later on, when Miss was drunk, she found out that Miss had a daughter with a man called Xuanyuan Ce. Not only did that man betray her Miss, but he also sent people to hunt her down.


    After that, she never heard her Miss mention that person again, including Miss¡¯s daughter. Before Miss left, she only reminded her to protect Young Miss, but she did not tell her where to find Young Miss.


    Even though she guessed that Xuanyuan Ce already knew Shen Yijia¡¯s identity, Mo Yuan did not say the details. She only said that Xuanyuan Ce had once sent people to kill her previous master.


    ¡°I sent someone to hunt her down?¡± Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°What kind of token?¡±


    Mo Yuan said nothing.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Chu Feng. Chu Feng understood and took out a token from his pocket and threw it over.


    Mo Yuan caught it. The token was completely gilded. It had the symbol of a holy beast, the Qilin. On one side was engraved the image of a four-clawed flood dragon, and on the other side were the words ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an¡±.


    Apart from the words being different, the rest were exactly the same.


    However, the word ¡°Ce¡± was also engraved on Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s token. It even had more power than the one in Mo Yuan¡¯s hand.


    One represented the people of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence. Almost all of them were Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s trusted aides.


    The other piece could represent Xuanyuan Ce himself.


    Although Xuanyuan Ce was confident, he was not conceited. Besides, it was impossible for him to really kill Shen Yijia¡¯s men.


    Therefore, he decisively got out of the carriage.


    Seeing Mo Yuan turn the carriage around and leave without hesitation, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face turned cold bit by bit. ¡°Tell me, who used my name to hunt her down back then?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Chu Feng actually had a guess in his heart, but he didn¡¯t dare to say it.


    ¡°Not many people can get my token.¡± Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°Go and investigate.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    South Wind had been drinking tea at the Fragrant Teahouse all day and almost couldn¡¯t come back.


    However, he did not drink the tea for nothing. For example, he realized that the officials of Great Xia liked to drink tea too much. They went in and stayed for a few hours.


    Rooster and Thirty Thousand, who had returned to report the news together, rolled their eyes. They had long discovered this.


    Besides, wasn¡¯t it normal to drink tea and chat for a few hours?


    ¡°That¡¯s it?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    South Wind shook his head. ¡°Yes.¡±


    He sat alone in the lobby for the entire day, drinking cup after cup of tea. The others almost treated him as a fool.


    It was already good enough to know this.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°Can¡¯t you ask for a private room?¡±


    South Wind said with a bitter expression, ¡°I want to, but only people with invitations can enter the private room.¡±


    The old prince did not have many hobbies in his life. Apart from accompanying the old princess consort in the residence, he simply treated a few friends to tea.


    As for those invitations, they were all posted from the old lord¡¯s residence. Those who could get them were either rich or noble.


    Previously, when the old princess consort was still seeking medical treatment, people could use expensive medicinal herbs to exchange for it. However, now that Ji Yunxi was treating the old princess consort, this thread had long been removed.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it just another place to drink tea? Why are you making it so mysterious?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°You must be doing something shameful inside.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at Rooster and Thirty Thousand. Rooster silently took out a red cloth from his pocket.


    Shen Yijia sniffed. It smelled bad.


    Rooster opened the cloth with a red face. It was a woman¡¯s undergarment.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°We dug this out from the junk pile,¡± Rooster quickly explained.


    After searching through the junk and slop buckets for more than half a month, they found either leftovers or rotten vegetable leaves. This was the first time they had found something women used, so they brought it back.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Mo Yuan. Mo Yuan took the undergarment and examined it.


    After a while, she said, ¡°There¡¯s a hint of Misty Fragrance on it.¡±


    From the name, one could tell that it was a stimulating drug that was usually used in brothels.


    ¡°How could an undergarment thrown out of the Fragrant Teahouse be tainted with Misty Fragrance?¡± Shen Yijia muttered.


    Moreover, she could still smell it even now. The woman in this undergarment must have stayed in a place that contained the Misty Fragrance for a long time. It was impossible for her to have accidentally touched it.


    ¡°Could it be¡­¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°The Fragrant Teahouse is actually a brothel, right?¡±

 Chapter 560 - 560 Meeting

    560 Meeting


    Rooster felt that Young Madam was thinking too much. He stammered, ¡°If it¡¯s a brothel, why can¡¯t I hear any movement around?¡±


    ¡°A place of fireworks is nothing more than songs and dances. These sounds can¡¯t be¡­¡±


    Halfway through his sentence, Rooster was stunned. He almost forgot where he came from.


    Seeing that he had thought it through, Shen Yijia turned to look at Song Jingchen, who had been silent. ¡°Hubby, if we confirm that there¡¯s something going on in the Fragrant Teahouse, will it be useful to report this matter to the higher-ups?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head and said seriously, ¡°It¡¯s not illegal to open a brothel.¡±


    Moreover, Great Xia did not explicitly state that officials were not allowed to go to the brothel. At most, it would embarrass them.


    Most importantly, the old prince did not know anything about politics at all. Apart from his title as a prince, he did not have any real power in his hands. No one would think that he was forming a party for personal gain.


    If something happened, he would cry to the emperor. Even if it was for the sake of the royal family¡¯s reputation, the emperor would not make a fuss. At most, he would ask him to close the Fragrant Teahouse. This way, the clues would be cut off again.


    Song Jingchen even suspected that the other party wasn¡¯t worried about this being exposed at all.


    Taking ten thousand steps back, if it was confirmed that the women in the Fragrant Teahouse had been kidnapped, the final outcome would only be that the old prince would be dealt with as the mastermind, but¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s impossible for those things to be planned by the old king.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that Song Jingchen looked down on him, but in fact, he didn¡¯t have the brains to do so.


    Because his brother had become the emperor, he had jumped from a bumpkin who could not even eat his fill to a relative of the emperor.


    His knowledge was not enough for him to do this.


    Either he had been used and he knew nothing about it, or the other party had promised him something and he participated as an accomplice.


    Song Jingchen was more inclined to the latter.


    ¡°The most important thing now is to confirm if it¡¯s as we guessed.¡± Shen Yijia was a little discouraged. ¡°But we can¡¯t enter at all. We can¡¯t investigate openly. It¡¯s easy to alert the enemy. As for a secret visit¡­¡±


    Even someone like You Yi couldn¡¯t sneak in. If they went, wouldn¡¯t they alert the enemy?


    Shen Yijia tapped the table with her nails in boredom. She thought of something and slapped the table. ¡°Can I steal an invitation and sneak in?¡±


    ¡°Do you think they don¡¯t know who has the invitations?¡± Song Jingchen rejected her suggestion.


    ¡°This won¡¯t do, and that won¡¯t do either. We can¡¯t expect them to personally send us an invitation, right?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks.


    They were definitely guarding against Song Jingchen now. They might as well hope that the sun would rise from the west tomorrow.


    Song Jingchen said in amusement, ¡°We can¡¯t get the invitation, but one person can.¡±


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Shen Yijia looked at him. A figure flashed across her mind. She asked in disbelief, ¡°A beautiful uncle?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    No one would associate him with Xuanyuan Ce, but there shouldn¡¯t be anyone who didn¡¯t want to rope him in, right?


    Shen Yijia felt that this was a good idea. She originally wanted to look for Xuanyuan Ce personally, but thinking that she should interact less with him, she could only ask You Yi to make a trip.


    Therefore, as soon as Xuanyuan Ce returned to his temporary residence, he saw You Yi waiting there.


    You Yi explained his intentions.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    That couple was really rude.


    Forget it, forget it. Anyway, he owed that girl.


    After receiving Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s reply, Shen Yijia nestled in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and fell asleep.


    General Xiao¡¯s residence.


    Feng Manman waited for Xiao Qirui for the entire night, but she did not see him. Instead, she received a reminder to rest early.


    She knew that Xiao Qirui was a person who valued rules. He wouldn¡¯t abandon his first wife and go to a concubine¡¯s room on their wedding night.


    However, understanding was one thing, but the discomfort in her heart was not reduced at all. After all, no one didn¡¯t want to be favored.


    She tossed and turned until midnight before falling asleep. When she woke up, the sky was already bright.


    She quickly asked the maidservant to come in and help her wash up before hurriedly bringing her to the Splendid Courtyard.


    Yuan Yuwan had just returned from outside when the two of them bumped into each other at the entrance of the courtyard.


    Seeing her, Yuan Yuwan was stunned for a moment before she quickly reacted. ¡°Are you here to look for the Young General? Father called him to the front courtyard.¡±


    Xiao Qirui accompanied her to the main courtyard to offer tea to the two elders before being called away by General Xiao.


    She stayed with Madam Xiao and chatted with her for a while.


    Feng Manman found it strange how she addressed her. She sized up Yuan Yuwan imperceptibly and saw something. The corners of her lips curled up slightly under the veil.


    ¡°They didn¡¯t consummate their marriage?¡± she thought.


    Seeing that she was in a daze, the maidservant tugged at her sleeve to remind her.


    Feng Manman came back to her senses and quickly shook her head to explain, ¡°I¡¯m here to serve tea to Young Madam.¡±


    When a concubine entered the house, she had to kneel and serve tea to her first wife before her identity was truly recognized.


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t seem to notice that she had lost her composure. She nodded nonchalantly. ¡°Come in then.¡±


    You Bai was still holding the gift in her hand. When she passed by Feng Manman, she rolled her eyes.


    Why was she here to annoy them so early in the morning?


    After drinking the tea served by Feng Manman, Yuan Yuwan asked You Bai to pick a set of clothes for her from her dowry.


    She did not let the Yuan family touch the betrothal gifts given by the Xiao family. Instead, she brought them all back to the Xiao family. Coupled with the dowry that Pavilion Elder Yuan had prepared for her when she was still alive, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s dowry was quite generous.


    However, she did not intend to touch the betrothal gifts given by the Xiao family.


    Looking at the helpless person kneeling on the ground, Yuan Yuwan sighed and walked over to help him up. ¡°You don¡¯t have to specially come over to pay your respects to me in the future. If you need anything, just let the maidservant make a trip.¡±


    Feng Manman lowered her eyes and tears fell on the back of Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand. She choked and said, ¡°Young Madam, do you not like me? I know that if not for me, Brother Xiao wouldn¡¯t have¡­¡±


    You Bai couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and reprimanded, ¡°What about you? Concubine Feng, don¡¯t forget your current status. When you see my Miss, you should call yourself a servant.¡±


    Also, who gave her the confidence to think that she could affect her young lady and young master?


    Feng Manman was stunned and was about to kneel down in fear when Yuan Yuwan stopped her and frowned at You Bai. ¡°Go and pack up the things in the storeroom.¡±


    You Bai could only go aggrievedly.


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head helplessly. She let go of Feng Manman¡¯s hand and sat back in her chair. ¡°You can leave first.¡±


    She was referring to the maidservant who had followed Feng Manman in.


    After everyone left, Yuan Yuwan looked at Feng Manman.


    There was no additional expression on her face, but her eyes seemed to be able to see through everything. Feng Manman¡¯s heart tightened.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to come here to test me. I didn¡¯t consummate our marriage, and I won¡¯t snatch it from you,¡± Yuan Yuwan said indifferently as she picked up the teacup on the table and took a sip.


    Last night, she wasn¡¯t sure if Xiao Qirui would return to his new room, but regardless of whether he returned or not, she had no intention of sleeping on the bed.


    When Xiao Qirui returned, she had already made a bed on the floor.


    She thought that Xiao Qirui would turn around and leave, but she did not expect him to suggest sleeping on the floor as well.


    It would be good for her if her husband stayed in the room on their wedding night, so she did not refuse. The two of them spent the night in the same room safely.


    And today, Xiao Qirui was the one who took the initiative to cut his hand.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± Feng Manman avoided her gaze in a panic.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t understand.¡± Yuan Yuwan put down the teacup and pressed the corners of her lips with a handkerchief. ¡°You just have to serve Young General in peace in the future. When you give birth, I¡¯ll persuade Mother to put the child under my name.¡±


    ¡°Of course, if you¡¯re unwilling, I won¡¯t interfere in the children¡¯s matters. You¡¯ll still raise them by your side.¡±


    ¡°I only have one request. Don¡¯t get any ideas about me.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s expression suddenly became serious.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to leave the Yuan family. She really didn¡¯t want to live like that again.


    Thinking of something, Yuan Yuwan said, ¡°Oh, right. Only you and I know about this, as well as the Young General.¡±


    Neither Xiao Qirui nor she would tell her. If the news that the two of them didn¡¯t consummate their marriage got leaked, it could only be through Feng Manman.


    Feng Manman suddenly looked up and felt that this woman was too terrifying.


    ¡°Young Madam, Nanny Wang from the main courtyard is here.¡± A maidservant reported from outside the door.


    ¡°Let Nanny in.¡± After saying that, Yuan Yuwan looked at Feng Manman. ¡°Concubine Feng, is there anything else?¡±


    ¡°No, that¡¯s all.¡± Feng Manman didn¡¯t know how she walked out, but she vaguely heard the nanny behind her say that Mrs. Xiao wanted her to deliver the keys and accounts.


    Feng Manman frowned. If possible, she didn¡¯t want to go against such a person.

 Chapter 561 - 561 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (1)

    561 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (1)


    It had been almost two months since the publication of the printing technology. Many new printing workshops had opened in the capital, so the business of the Song family¡¯s workshop was naturally affected. However, this was within Shen Yijia¡¯s expectations.


    It was impossible for her to earn all the money alone. Besides, she was already too busy to do anything, so this was just right.


    She was not anxious, but Lin Shao was extremely anxious.


    Seeing that he was so anxious about the business of the printing shop that blisters appeared at the corners of his mouth, Shen Yijia personally cooked a bowl of fire tea for him. She could only persuade him to spend more energy on the cosmetics shop.


    !!


    It was unknown if it was because he didn¡¯t want to drink Shen Yijia¡¯s hot tea again, or if there was something else distracting him, but Lin Shao never got angry again.


    The medicine she had given Madam Qiu last time should run out soon. After lunch, Shen Yijia brought the pills that Mo Yuan had made to the academy and chatted with Madam Qiu for a long time.


    It was not until school ended that she brought Brother Hao and the other two home.


    Unexpectedly, the carriage passed by Song Jingchen, who was dressed strangely.


    The strangest thing was not his attire, but that he clearly saw that the person driving the carriage was Mo Yuan, but he still wanted to pretend not to see her and walk past the carriage.


    ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Shen Yijia shouted softly and jumped down before Mo Yuan could stop the carriage.


    Song Jingchen was shocked and quickly reached out to catch her.


    Shen Yijia wrapped her arms around his neck and tugged at the beard on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°What do you want to do behind my back?¡±


    Song Jingchen put her down awkwardly and looked around. There was no one around. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to investigate a case.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely. ¡°What case do you have to dress up like this for?¡±


    After asking, her eyes lit up. ¡°Did the beautiful uncle get the invitation?¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and looked around. ¡°How did you recognize me?¡±


    His face was smeared, his eyebrows were thickened, and his beard was stuck to his face. When he left, he even asked South Wind, who said that he would definitely not expose himself.


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly and sniffed. ¡°I smelled it.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    At this moment, three heads popped out of the carriage.


    Song Jingchen cleared his throat and said, ¡°Go home first. I¡¯ll tell you when I come back tonight.¡±


    Seeing this, Shen Yijia was even more certain that he was going to the Fragrant Teahouse. She waved her hand and asked Mo Yuan to bring Brother Hao and the others away first. She said unquestionably, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    It was so dangerous there. How could she let her beautiful husband go alone?


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t agree.


    Shen Yijia squeezed out two drops of crocodile tears and looked at Song Jingchen accusingly. ¡°If you need my help, ask me for help. You¡¯ll throw me away after using me, right?¡±


    ¡°You pig!¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen choked. Actually, when Shen Yijia recognized him, he knew that this girl would ask to go with him.


    He knew Shen Yijia too well. The possibility of not letting her go was almost zero.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and made a difficult decision. ¡°Then you¡¯re not allowed to act rashly.¡±


    Seeing that he had relented, Shen Yijia immediately patted her chest and promised, ¡°No problem.¡±


    He became more worried.


    Song Jingchen took a deep breath and brought Shen Yijia to change into men¡¯s clothes. He disguised himself before going to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s place.


    Looking at the two bearded men in front of him, the corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched. He pulled Song Jingchen aside and said angrily, ¡°Why did you bring this girl here? Don¡¯t you know where you¡¯re going later?¡±


    In order to create an image for himself, he had been spending almost every day in various brothels in the capital. Coupled with the rumors that he had taken a fancy to Ji Yunxi, everyone felt that he had been disappointed in Ji Yunxi and started to indulge himself.


    In short, he had lost all his dignity in Great Xia.


    For the sake of his daughter, so be it.


    However, it was already difficult enough for him to bring his son-in-law to a brothel. Why did he have to bring his daughter along?


    As a father, he would have to bring his daughter and son-in-law to brothels.


    This was unheard of!


    ¡°Don¡¯t ask my husband. I wanted to go myself.¡± Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen behind her.


    ¡°If it¡¯s really a brothel inside, there must be many vixens. Wouldn¡¯t it be dangerous for my husband to go? I have to protect him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce gritted his teeth and pointed at the annoying beard on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. ¡°Who would like him in this state?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Can¡¯t you not go?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at Song Jingchen, hoping that he could persuade Shen Yijia to dispel this terrifying thought.

 Chapter 562 - 562 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (2)

    562 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (2)


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°She¡¯s very obedient. She won¡¯t get into trouble.¡±


    As for going to a brothel¡­


    Ahem, this girl had been there a long time ago, but she had only taken a look at the roof of the brothel.


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded meekly.


    !!


    That¡¯s right, she was very obedient.


    Xuanyuan Ce was so angry that he almost spat out a mouthful of blood.


    He asked Song Jingchen to persuade that girl, not him!


    In the end, Xuanyuan Ce did not disappoint Shen Yijia. The three of them went to the Fragrant Teahouse.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce did not let the two of them dress up like this. Instead, he got someone to bring out new clothes and two masks.


    The reason was that their attire was too degrading.


    The tea in the Fragrant Teahouse was famous in the capital. It was said that the water used to make tea was specially transported back from outside the capital, and the tea leaves were of top quality.


    This also dissuaded many customers with low net worth.


    Even if their family was a little rich, they could only sit in the lobby and enjoy it like South Wind without any invitations.


    The only people who could enter the private room and enjoy the special tea master¡¯s hospitality were the people holding the invitation to the Fragrant Teahouse.


    The invitation was very exquisite. The words ¡°Fragrant Teahouse¡± outside were gilded and carried the seal of the old lord¡¯s residence. The identity of the person holding the post was written inside.


    This was a little similar to the membership card Shen Yijia had seen in her previous life. It was unknown which god came up with this idea.


    The person receiving them checked their identities before respectfully bringing them in.


    The private room was not upstairs, but in the backyard.


    When they arrived at a flower gate, the person in front left.


    A few guards guarded the door. The guards looked at the invitation and noticed that Xuanyuan Ce had two people with him. One of them said, ¡°Apart from the person holding the invitation, no one else is allowed to enter.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Can you take responsibility if someone inside wants to harm me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. If anything happened inside, not to mention them, even the old king could not bear the responsibility.


    The guard hesitated for a moment and could only ask for instructions.


    This request lasted for about ten minutes before he returned with a manager-like person.


    Xuanyuan Ce already looked impatient.


    The steward hurriedly apologized, ¡°These pigs are insensible. Your Highness, don¡¯t lower yourself to their level. Please come in.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted and did not say anything.


    After entering the Flower Door, she saw a beautiful landscape. Even though Shen Yijia had seen the splendor of the palace, she was stunned.


    The contrast was too great. The small lofts stood between the rockeries like bamboo shoots after a rain.


    The lofts were ventilated on all sides. There was a gauze curtain hanging around it, and one could see the situation inside clearly through the gauze curtain.


    It was clearly impossible to use such a place for that kind of thing.


    There was a lingering sound in her ear. The sound came from a waterside pavilion. Looking in the direction of the sound, she could vaguely see a few people sitting inside. A woman was kneeling between them making tea, and a young woman was playing the zither.


    This was completely different from what Shen Yijia had imagined. She thought that there would be a bunch of women standing there with a handkerchief in their hands like in a brothel, soliciting men to come and play.


    Or a group of people toasting each other.


    Could it be that this wasn¡¯t a brothel at all?


    While she was thinking, the person leading the way had already been replaced by a girl.


    The girl smiled sweetly and said, ¡°This is Master¡¯s first time here, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. After passing through the first two doors, it was unknown if anyone who could come here had an opaque identity.


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded coldly, ignoring the winks from the girl in front of him.


    Apart from the fact that he didn¡¯t like these things to begin with, more importantly, his daughter and son-in-law were behind him. Would he dare to make any inappropriate expressions?


    Even if Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know now, when they reunited in the future¡­


    Would he have any dignity left?


    It was really killing him!


    The girl did not mind his coldness and led the way up to a loft.


    ¡°Master, do you have any requirements for the tea master?¡± the girl who led the way asked.


    Xuanyuan Ce said impatiently, ¡°I want the best. You can arrange for the rest.¡±


    He made it so mysterious. Who knew if the requirement was appearance or skill?


    The girl leading the way choked and retreated with a smile.


    Soon, the girl came over with a beautiful girl in a thin veil.


    Behind the two of them was a group of maidservants carrying the things they needed to make tea. In addition, there was a girl carrying a zither.

 Chapter 563 - 563 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (3)

    563 Fan Mingyuan Is Severely Injured (3)


    The maidservants put down the things, bowed, and left, leaving the veiled woman and the person carrying the zither behind.


    The girl leading the way smiled and introduced, ¡°This is the best tea master in our Fragrant Teahouse, Miss Lan Qing. And this is Miss Liu Xuan, the zither master.¡±


    After receiving Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s nod, the girl leading the way left.


    The next step was to make tea and play the zither. There was not a single unnecessary word. He was really serious.


    Shen Yijia covered her face. This was really different from what they had imagined.


    How were she and her beautiful husband going to avoid being investigated?


    Actually, Xuanyuan Ce was also very puzzled. Song Jingchen was the one who provided him with the idea of attracting the old lord¡¯s attention by visiting a brothel. Song Jingchen was the one who said that this was a brothel, but in the end, this was simply a clean place to drink tea.


    He was definitely not disappointed.


    Absolutely.


    After drinking two cups of tea, Xuanyuan Ce asked coldly, ¡°You can only drink tea here?¡±


    Miss Lan Qing was stunned. She pursed her lips and smiled. ¡°Master, what else can we do if we don¡¯t drink tea in the teahouse?¡±


    Her voice was soft and delicate, with a slight drawl.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Shen Yijia without batting an eyelid. He gritted his teeth and held Miss Lan Qing¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s a pity that your hands are only used to make tea.¡±


    What the heck?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Was this the so-called ¡°I¡¯ll move if the enemy doesn¡¯t move¡±?


    Just as she thought this, her sleeve was gently tugged.


    Shen Yijia turned around and blinked at Song Jingchen. ¡°I understand, I understand. Control yourself, right?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°If you understand, close your mouth.¡±


    Shen Yijia immediately shut her mouth and lowered her head.


    However, no matter how Xuanyuan Ce tried to tease her, Miss Lan Qing did not say anything useful.


    However, he did not mind being taken advantage of at all.


    It angered Xuanyuan Ce to death, but he could not flare up. After all, he had done nothing.


    After the last cup of tea, Xuanyuan Ce pushed Miss Lan Qing away and said with a faint smile, ¡°I¡¯ve also drunk Miss Lan Qing¡¯s tea. Let¡¯s end it here today.¡±


    Coincidentally, the zither stopped at this moment.


    Miss Lan Qing was not surprised by Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s claim. She covered her mouth and smiled. ¡°More haste less speed. I¡¯ll send His Highness out.¡±


    This sentence had a deeper meaning.


    The three of them left the Fragrant Teahouse. As soon as they returned to their residence, Xuanyuan Ce instructed the servants to get water and take a shower, as if he had been stained with something dirty.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°He was clearly having fun just now.¡±


    When Xuanyuan Ce came out of the shower, his face was still dark.


    ¡°How are you going to investigate next?¡± he asked Song Jingchen.


    There were people following them everywhere inside. It was almost impossible to walk around in private.


    Knocking someone out would alert the enemy.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and said, ¡°Your Highness, go to the brothel a few more times.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    If it really didn¡¯t work out, he would trick someone out next time and tie them up to extort a confession.


    It was simple and crude.


    When he turned around and noticed the envious expression on Shen Yijia¡¯s face, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    Although there was no progress on the case, at least they were in. Was it still far from unveiling the final veil?


    Shen Yijia was very optimistic.


    As soon as the two of them arrived at the house, they saw South Wind waiting anxiously.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Song Jingchen asked with a frown.


    South Wind said, ¡°Lord Fan is here.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan?


    Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t received Fan Mingyuan¡¯s letter for a long time, so he naturally didn¡¯t know that Fan Mingyuan had entered the capital. He was puzzled.


    South Wind continued, ¡°Lord Fan entered the capital with One Dot and the others. Lord Fan was seriously injured.¡±


    What South Wind didn¡¯t say was that other than Fan Mingyuan being injured, several of his brothers had died.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°Where are they now?¡±


    ¡°One Dot entered the city to look for his subordinate. I saw that Lord Fan was seriously injured, so I secretly brought him back. Mo Yuan is treating his injuries.¡±


    As he spoke, he led the way.


    Afraid that someone would suddenly come, he arranged for him to stay in the back room.


    At this moment, the sky had already darkened. Madam Li was guarding there nervously with a few children.


    Seeing Song Jingchen return, Madam Li heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Brother Chen, you¡¯re finally back. Mingyuan¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, the door creaked open.


    Mo Yuan walked out covered in blood. Without waiting for Song Jingchen to ask, she shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ve tried my best.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan had taken an arrow to the chest and had many knife wounds on his body. It was not easy for him to hold his breath until now. She had taken off the arrow, but¡­

 Chapter 564 - 564 Progress (1)

    564 Progress (1)


    Shen Yijia frowned. If Fan Mingyuan was still the same as when they first met, she would not care about his life.


    However, when she and her beautiful husband went to Xunyang, he was the one taking care of the family. He was also engaged to Xiao Ruoshui. She couldn¡¯t let him die like this.


    Fortunately, she had already accumulated five drops of spiritual liquid during this period of time, so she was not so reluctant.


    ¡°He won¡¯t die, right?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Mo Yuan paused and instantly understood what she meant. She shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯ve already treated his wound. As long as he wakes up, he¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan¡¯s lungs were injured and he had lost too much blood. He did not wake up when Mo Yuan pulled out the arrow for him.


    Actually, if Shen Yijia did not make a move, the possibility of him waking up was very low. Even if he really woke up, he would still be a vegetable.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and turned to Madam Li. ¡°Mother, the smell of blood here is too strong. Take them to the front first.¡±


    Madam Li could tell that they had something to say, so she brought Brother Hao and the others to the front courtyard.


    On the hospital bed, Fan Mingyuan lay there with a pale face. His breathing was so weak that it seemed like it would stop at any moment.


    Shen Yijia raised her hand, but Song Jingchen grabbed her before she could do anything.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± She looked over in confusion.


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°Mix it with water.¡±


    He really couldn¡¯t say that he didn¡¯t want to save Fan Mingyuan.


    Song Jingchen asked Shen Yijia to drip the spiritual liquid into the well and boil the medicine for Fan Mingyuan.


    Although the effect was greatly reduced, it was not useless. It was not a problem to keep Fan Mingyuan alive. In the future, he would use this water to brew medicine for him. His body could slowly recover, but it would take a long time.


    This was the best solution Song Jingchen could think of at the moment.


    The effect of the spiritual liquid was too heaven-defying. Not only One Dot and the others, but even the person who attacked knew that Fan Mingyuan was injured.


    If he really ate this drop of spiritual liquid, how could he explain his injuries that were visible to the naked eye?


    According to One Dot, when he entered the city to look for South Wind, the others had already gone to look for a doctor for Fan Mingyuan. Those doctors didn¡¯t even dare to pull the arrow because they weren¡¯t confident.


    Shen Yijia only needed to confirm that Fan Mingyuan wouldn¡¯t die. As for the rest, she naturally listened to Song Jingchen.


    Mo Yuan quickly brewed the medicine and fed him a bowl of it. Fan Mingyuan¡¯s pulse had already stabilized.


    Only then did Song Jingchen meet One Dot and the others.


    Apart from Rooster and the other two who had entered the capital with Song Jingchen, there were six other Mahjong Brothers who had entered the capital with Fan Mingyuan, but now, there were only three left.


    One Dot, East Wind, West Wind¡­


    All three of them were injured, either lightly or severely.


    ¡°Are you alright?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t protect Lord Fan well. Master, please punish me.¡± One Dot led the way, and the three of them knelt down in front of Song Jingchen.


    Looking at their red eyes, Shen Yijia felt inexplicably depressed.


    Song Jingchen patted One Dot¡¯s shoulder and said in a low voice, ¡°Get up. He¡¯s fine.¡±


    South Wind, Thirty Thousand, and Rooster went forward and helped the three of them up.


    Compared to East Wind and West Wind, One Dot¡¯s injuries were the lightest. Song Jingchen asked Mo Yuan to take a look at them, leaving One Dot behind for questioning.


    ¡°Why did you enter the capital with Lord Fan? What happened?¡±


    One Dot pursed his lips. ¡°It was Lord Fan who found us and said that he wanted to enter the capital with us.¡±


    They did not set off so quickly. They only left early at Fan Mingyuan¡¯s request.


    One Dot suddenly asked, ¡°Master, do you still remember the woman surnamed Cheng who saved Lord Fan and was later regarded as Lord Fan¡¯s adopted sister?¡±


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other and nodded. ¡°I remember.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s something wrong with that Cheng fellow.¡± One Dot clenched his fists when he mentioned the woman.


    If not for that woman, three of their brothers would not have died at once.


    Miss Cheng¡¯s full name was Cheng Xiuying. In order to save the seriously injured and unconscious Fan Mingyuan, she picked him up and brought him home.


    That village was called Xiaokang Village. It was located in a remote area. There were only about ten families in the entire village. Every family basically had no secrets. An orphan girl taking care of an outsider was obvious, and this matter affected her reputation.


    In order to avoid the rumors, Fan Mingyuan brought her out of the mountains and acknowledged her as his adopted sister. He promised to find her a good family.


    He was a man of his word. After his injuries recovered, he began to look for a suitable man for Cheng Xiuying.


    Because he respected her choice, Fan Mingyuan would even let her hide and take a peek.

 Chapter 565 - 565 Progress (2)

    565 Progress (2)


    However, none of them caught Cheng Xiuying¡¯s eye.


    If that was all, Fan Mingyuan wouldn¡¯t suspect that there was something wrong with her.


    Perhaps because she saw that Fan Mingyuan was really going to marry her off, Cheng Xiuying was a little anxious. She started to treat Fan Mingyuan well, hinting that she didn¡¯t want to get married.


    Fan Mingyuan was not a fool. He could tell what she was thinking and clearly expressed to her that he already had a fianc¨¦e and would not take a concubine.


    Unexpectedly, Cheng Xiuying was even more ruthless. She actually drugged him and climbed into his bed. Although it didn¡¯t succeed, it made Fan Mingyuan suspicious of this person.


    Fan Mingyuan was unmoved by Cheng Xiuying¡¯s confession after the incident. He only got someone to buy a small house for her to live in alone.


    At the same time, he sent someone to keep an eye on her actions, but he did not find anything wrong with her after watching her for a while.


    Fan Mingyuan thought that he was thinking too much. The girl was probably telling the truth.


    Just as he was about to dispel his doubts, a man suddenly looked for him early in the morning.


    Fan Mingyuan had seen that man in Xiaokang Village before.


    From the man¡¯s words, he realized that he had been deceived from the beginning to the end. There was indeed a girl called Cheng Xiuying in Little Keng Village, but she was not the one he knew. The original Miss Cheng had died the year the snow disaster broke out.


    There was no one left in the Cheng family, but the land was still there. In order to prevent the government from taking back the Cheng family¡¯s acres of land, they did not go to the government to remove her household registration.


    Because of this selfishness, they harmed the entire village.


    At the moment, Cheng Xiuying had actually appeared the day she brought Fan Mingyuan to their village. There were four or five other people with her.


    Those people gave them money to put on a show with them, so they could hide it from Fan Mingyuan.


    If that was all, the man wouldn¡¯t have looked for Fan Mingyuan. Unexpectedly, those people even killed the villagers to silence them.


    Because the man went into the mountains to hunt, he returned home too late. By the time he returned to the village, all the men, women, and children in Xiaokang Village had been slaughtered.


    Xiaokang Village was a poor village. Usually, even bandits couldn¡¯t be bothered to go there. Apart from the people who had recently appeared, he couldn¡¯t figure out who else would attack the villagers.


    As soon as they understood the whole story, before Fan Mingyuan could send someone to Xiaokang Village, they received a report that Xiaokang Village had been attacked by wild beasts and that no one in the village was alive.


    After the bailiffs went to investigate, they indeed found traces of wild beasts. The corpses of the villagers were bitten beyond recognition.


    Everything had been arranged flawlessly. Fan Mingyuan felt that he didn¡¯t have the ability to let others set him up like this.


    Thinking of the case Song Jingchen was investigating, he didn¡¯t alert the enemy. Instead, he found One Dot and brought Cheng Xiuying into the capital.


    Unexpectedly, the other party still noticed. At first, their target was Fan Mingyuan, but later on, they wanted to silence Cheng Xiuying.


    The arrow wound on Fan Mingyuan¡¯s body was to protect Cheng Xiuying.


    One Dot spilled everything he knew. Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Where is that person?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s locked in the woodshed, but her condition isn¡¯t good either,¡± One Dot said.


    Cheng Xiuying was probably a breakthrough point. They had protected her along the way, so she was only slightly injured.


    However, for some reason, her entire body had been twitching as soon as she woke up recently. She even wanted to commit suicide when she found an opportunity. They could only knock her out.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had no choice but to go to the woodshed. They could hear banging at the door.


    One Dot was shocked. ¡°Not good.¡±


    With that, he quickly pushed open the door of the woodshed and saw the woman whose limbs were tied up and thrown to the ground. She kept knocking her head against the ground.


    One Dot restrained her. Cheng Xiuying¡¯s face was already covered in blood, and her eyes were red, as if she was in great pain.


    This was clearly not right. Shen Yijia went forward and grabbed her wrist. She checked her pulse and pulled out a dagger from her waist to cut open her palm. Black blood instantly flowed out.


    ¡°She¡¯s poisoned.¡± She wasn¡¯t very sure when she checked his pulse, but when she saw this, she was certain.


    One Dot said, ¡°How could that be? We¡¯ve been guarding it and didn¡¯t let anyone¡­¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t recent,¡± Shen Yijia guessed. She hated that she didn¡¯t have enough time to practice martial arts. She wasn¡¯t skilled enough, so she could only look for Mo Yuan.


    Cheng Xiuying had already been knocked unconscious by One Dot. After Mo Yuan¡¯s examination, she finally confirmed that she had indeed been poisoned.


    ¡°Heart Devouring Poison¡­¡± Mo Yuan looked confused. ¡°How could that be?¡±


    ¡°Is there a problem with this poison?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    ¡°This symptom and pulse are exactly the same as the Heart Devouring Poison. I¡¯ve seen it at Miss¡¯s place¡­¡± Mo Yuan shook her head as if she was uncertain. ¡°But I didn¡¯t make it because there¡¯s a most important medicine to make this poison, the Heart Devouring Grass. Miss once told me that the Heart Devouring Grass can only be found in her hometown.¡±

 Chapter 566 - 566 Progress (3)

    566 Progress (3)


    At that time, she was still thinking that since she couldn¡¯t find the medicine, she couldn¡¯t make this poison. She wouldn¡¯t have a chance to harm or save anyone. Why did Miss still teach her?


    Shen Yijia suddenly thought of someone. It was Ji Yunxi from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets!


    Could it be that the person Ji Yunxi assisted was the mastermind behind this girl¡¯s case?


    Song Jingchen clearly thought the same thing as her. He asked, ¡°Can this poison be cured?¡±


    !!


    Without Shen Yijia¡¯s spiritual liquid, of course.


    Mo Yuan shook her head. ¡°The Heart Devouring Grass leaves are poisonous, and the stem is medicine. The most important medicine is the stem of the Heart Devouring Grass.¡±


    Thinking of something, she frowned and said, ¡°Although I can¡¯t detoxify her, I can try to make a suppressing medicine. Moreover, from this person¡¯s pulse, she has been intermediate with the Heart Devouring Poison for no less than three years. She should have been relying on other medicine to suppress the poison.¡±


    The Heart-Devouring Poison did not kill people immediately. It had an incubation period of a month.


    If they did not take the antidote or suppress the poison within a month, the poison would completely spread to all parts of their heart and lungs. When it acted up, it would be like ten thousand ants eating their heart, making them wish they were dead.


    On the seventh day, the person¡¯s intestines would rot and they would die.


    ¡°How many days has she been like this?¡± Song Jingchen looked at One Dot.


    One Dot thought for a moment. ¡°Three days.¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°Then there are still four days.¡±


    Looking at Cheng Xiuying just now, even if she woke up, there was no way to interrogate her. She could only make the suppression medicine first.


    In order to prevent her from committing suicide again after she woke up, Song Jingchen asked Rooster to bring a blanket over and tied her to the pillar. The back of her head was covered with a thick blanket. Even a normal person wouldn¡¯t be able to knock themselves to death, let alone someone who was already in pain.


    In the next few days, Shen Yijia focused on researching the antidote for suppression with Mo Yuan, but there was little effect.


    There were some special herbs that were about to be used up at home, or they did not have them. They were afraid of alerting the enemy if they went to buy them, so the two of them could only go out of the city to look for them. At this moment, Furball was finally remembered by Shen Yijia.


    After not seeing Furball for a few months, it was not as fat as before, but it looked much sturdier. It finally looked like the king of the forest.


    The porcelain bottle that Shen Yijia had given it was still hanging around its neck.


    What surprised Shen Yijia the most was that Furball had found a wife, a snow-white tiger.


    At first, the white tiger was a little fierce when it saw people. Furball howled at it before lowering its guard.


    Shen Yijia did not understand, but she felt it.


    She walked over and touched Furball with one hand and Furball¡¯s wife with the other. She clicked her tongue in wonder. ¡°Furball, you¡¯re really something!¡±


    It had only been a short while, but he had already found himself a companion.


    Furball turned its head away angrily and ignored her, but it did not move at all, letting its heartless master¡¯s fingers play on its head.


    ¡°This white tiger should be pregnant,¡± Mo Yuan suddenly said.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She widened her eyes and looked at the white tiger¡¯s stomach. It was indeed a little round.


    Furball howled in embarrassment and walked up to the white tiger to block it from Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was amused by it. ¡°Why are you protecting it so tightly? I¡¯ll give it a name.¡±


    The white tiger did not understand, but Furball had drunk so much spiritual liquid from Shen Yijia and had long become intelligent.


    The two tigers howled at each other. After that, they looked at Shen Yijia.


    Did this mean that they had agreed?


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. ¡°You¡¯re called Furball¡­ Then let¡¯s call it Glutinous Rice, or Riceball for short. It¡¯s white. The two of you add up to be Glutinous Rice Furball.¡±


    Furball was very satisfied. It leaned in front of Shen Yijia and rubbed its head against her.


    Shen Yijia was tickled by it and laughed until tears came to her eyes.


    She asked Mo Yuan to check on Riceball. Riceball was already a month pregnant.


    The pregnancy period of a tiger was usually three months, which meant that it would take another two months for the baby tiger to be born.


    Shen Yijia carefully stroked her hot stomach and forced out a drop of spiritual liquid to feed it. She smiled and said, ¡°This is a greeting gift. I¡¯ll visit you again in two months.¡±


    Shen Yijia was completely relieved that Furball could have a companion. At the very least, she would not regret her decision to put it back in the forest.


    After catching up, Shen Yijia asked Furball to bring them into the mountains to look for medicine.


    Animals had a certain ability to distinguish the medicinal properties of medicinal herbs. Coupled with the fact that Mo Yuan had provided medicinal herbs with a similar smell, they found all the medicinal herbs in less than half a day.


    Apart from that, Furball also brought Shen Yijia to dig up three hundred-year-old wild ginsengs and a rather old lingzhi.


    Seeing that it wagged its tail as if it was asking for credit every time it brought her to find something, Shen Yijia felt a lump in her throat.


    It was obvious that he had already found it. He was just waiting for her to come and see it before bringing her to dig it up.


    Shen Yijia sniffed and grinned. ¡°Furball is amazing.¡±


    After saying goodbye to Furball and Riceball and returning home, Shen Yijia wrapped up the wild ginseng and lingzhi and asked Rooster to send them to the academy for Madam Qiu.


    She gave another ginseng to the Xiao family and the remaining ginseng to Madam Li.


    Then, she buried her head in Mo Yuan¡¯s pharmacy again.


    This work lasted until the fourth day, the last day of the Heart Devouring Poison¡¯s grace period. Mo Yuan stuffed a pill she had just made into Cheng Jingxiuying¡¯s mouth.


    Shen Yijia had already decided to use spiritual liquid if it was still ineffective.


    Unexpectedly, the person who was twitching a moment ago gradually calmed down.


    Her eyes lit up. It was done!

 Chapter 567 - 567 Profile (1)

    567 Profile (1)


    Shen Yijia reached out and tried to check Cheng Xiuying¡¯s pulse. She realized that her pulse was no different from that of an ordinary person. There were no signs of poisoning at all.


    She thought that it was because she was not skilled enough, so she pulled out the dagger and cut her palm unceremoniously. Bright red blood flowed out.


    ¡°Did we detoxify her?¡± Shen Yijia asked in surprise.


    Mo Yuan shook her head. ¡°No, this is the terrifying part of the Heart Devouring Poison. After the poison is suppressed, it will hide in the human body again until the next attack.¡±


    Once it acted up, they would only be given seven days. Without an antidote or a medicine to suppress the poison, they could only watch as the people around them experienced seven days of heart-wrenching pain and died. The poisoned people wished they could die to escape.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°In other words, if it didn¡¯t flare up, we wouldn¡¯t have known if that person was poisoned.¡±


    She still wanted to confirm if Feng Manman had been poisoned. If she could confirm that she had also been poisoned, wouldn¡¯t this be ironclad evidence?


    Mo Yuan nodded.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Cheng Xiuying, who had been tortured for seven days. It was unknown if she had fallen asleep or fainted. She nonchalantly, casually, and indifferently bandaged the wound on her hand. She rubbed her chin and asked, ¡°Then what medicine can trigger this poison to take effect in advance?¡±


    Mo Yuan paused for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡¯ve never heard of it, but I can try.¡±


    Hence, after they took a few bowls of poisonous blood from Cheng Xiuying to develop an antidote, the wound that had just been bandaged was untied by Mo Yuan.


    She cut open the unhealed wound expressionlessly and collected another bowl of blood after the poison was suppressed.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She didn¡¯t know how to have tender, protective feelings for the fairer sex. If she wanted to take the blood, she should have made another cut.


    At this moment, Rooster¡¯s voice came from outside. ¡°Young Madam, Lord Fan is awake.¡±


    He¡¯s finally awake?


    For the past few days, she had given him a bowl of medicine made from well water every morning and night. His pulse was stable, but he had yet to wake up.


    Mo Yuan said that his injuries were too serious, so this was normal. However, Madam Li was still worried. Since he couldn¡¯t eat anything, she used the wild ginseng she had just obtained to slice it and make chicken soup for him.


    With East Wind, Shen Yijia could get a bowl of ginseng soup every day. It was fine to drink it for a day or two, but who could stand drinking it every day?


    If he didn¡¯t wake up soon, Shen Yijia suspected that he would have a nosebleed.


    Therefore, when she heard that Fan Mingyuan had woken up, Shen Yijia¡¯s first reaction was to heave a sigh of relief.


    He finally didn¡¯t have to drink the ginseng soup anymore!


    When Song Jingchen returned from work and heard that Fan Mingyuan had woken up, Mo Yuan had just finished checking Fan Mingyuan and applied medicine to his wound.


    ¡°How do you feel?¡± Song Jingchen walked to the bed and asked.


    Fan Mingyuan turned to look at him. His expression was slightly better than before, but he was still pale. He said hoarsely, ¡°I thought I was doomed this time.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Almost.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan couldn¡¯t help but laugh. Halfway through his laughter, he coughed dryly and said, ¡°I thought you would say that you¡¯ll definitely have good fortune after surviving a disaster.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I don¡¯t know if it¡¯s a blessing, but I know that if you don¡¯t care about the consequences next time, even the gods of Zenith Heaven won¡¯t be able to save you.¡±


    ¡°Is that how you talk about your brother?¡± Fan Mingyuan shook his head helplessly. Then, he said seriously, ¡°That woman isn¡¯t dead, right?¡±


    ¡°You might as well worry about yourself instead of worrying about her.¡± Shen Yijia walked in angrily.


    Behind her was Madam Li, who was still holding a tray.


    That¡¯s right, she had been forced to drink another bowl of ginseng soup by Madam Li.


    ¡°Madam.¡± Fan Mingyuan struggled to remember.


    Madam Li quickly stopped him. ¡°Child, you¡¯re so injured. Why are you still being so polite? Lie down.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan felt guilty. ¡°I¡¯ve troubled you.¡±


    After a while, Brother Hao and Sister Huan, who were out of school, arrived. The two of them leaned in front of him and spoke.


    ¡°Brother Fan, you¡¯ve worried us to death.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Brother Fan. You have to recover quickly. I¡¯ve already conquered the chess formation you set up for me. I¡¯ll play it for you to see.¡±


    ¡°Alright, stop arguing with Mingyuan. Go do what you need to do,¡± Madam Li said angrily.


    When the soup was almost finished, she personally picked it up to feed him.


    Looking at the room full of people who cared about him, Fan Mingyuan felt a lump in his throat. Thinking back to what he had done after leaving the capital, he really felt that he was inhumane.


    ¡°Madam, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Fan Mingyuan¡¯s eyes were red as he said solemnly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±

 Chapter 568 - 568 Profile (2)

    568 Profile (2)


    Ever since he promised Song Jingchen that he would take care of Madam Li and the others, although he had interacted more with the Song family, he had the thought of repaying their kindness. There was always a barrier between them.


    In the end, he had only treated the Song family as his benefactors, but he had never treated himself as a member of the Song family.


    However, when the old master brought him back to the residence and handed him over to his son to raise, he had never thought of asking him to repay his kindness.


    They had always treated him as a family. He had just walked into a dead end.


    Madam Li stopped what she was doing and realized where this apology came from. Her eyes turned red. She pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. ¡°We¡¯re family. When you recover, get Brother Chen to bring you to see your teacher and the old master. They¡¯ll miss you too.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Fan Mingyuan wiped his tears.


    In the end, his face twisted in pain.


    Brother Hao¡¯s eyes were originally filled with tears because of this atmosphere, but when they saw this, they smiled.


    Madam Li also smiled. ¡°Alright, drink the chicken soup first. You still have to drink medicine later. After drinking the medicine, lie down and sleep. Recover from your injuries first.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan blushed a little. He didn¡¯t dare to let Madam Li feed him. He had to do it himself.


    Madam Li was afraid that he would pull on his wound.


    It was Song Jingchen who called Rooster in to relieve him.


    Fan Mingyuan was still in low spirits, so it was not appropriate to disturb his rest. Madam Li left with Brother Hao and Sister Huan.


    After drinking a bowl of soup and medicine, Fan Mingyuan glanced at Shen Yijia and blushed.


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡°If you want to take a sh*t, just say it. Don¡¯t hold it in.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Fan Mingyuan was speechless.


    Rooster and You Yi, who was hiding in the dark, were speechless.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled by their gazes. Did she say something wrong?


    After lying down for so many days, she didn¡¯t believe that he didn¡¯t want to.


    Song Jingchen changed the topic helplessly. ¡°One Dot told me everything. Leave the rest to me. Just recuperate well.¡±


    With that, he prepared to pull Shen Yijia away.


    Fan Mingyuan hurriedly said, ¡°Don¡¯t tell Ruoshui about this first.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. He hadn¡¯t expected this.


    After learning from Shen Yijia that Cheng Xiuying¡¯s poison had been suppressed, Song Jingchen pondered for a moment and called South Wind over to give him some instructions.


    After dinner, he heard South Wind report that Cheng Xiuying had woken up.


    Cheng Xiuying had already moved from the kitchen to the cellar. Her limbs were trapped in the chair, and her eyes were blindfolded.


    There was a faint fragrance at the tip of her nose. At this moment, because she could not see, the fear in her heart kept struggling.


    Song Jingchen gave South Wind a look. South Wind understood and went forward to pull off the cloth from her mouth.


    ¡°Who are you? What are you trying to do to me?¡± Cheng Xiuying said in fear as soon as she got the chance to speak.


    ¡°Your identity has been exposed, and the mission has failed. I thought you should know what will happen to you.¡± A cold voice sounded.


    Cheng Xiuying, who was struggling, froze.


    Her last memory was when Fan Mingyuan blocked the arrow for her and she was tortured by the Heart-Devouring Poison.


    After that, there were only intermittent scenes. It was as if she had been thrown into the woodshed and seen Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia. It was as if she had been saved.


    However, because she was tortured by the poison in her body at that time, she was not sure.


    What Cheng Xiuying didn¡¯t know was that the reason why her memories were in a mess was not only because she was tortured by the Heart-Devouring Poison, but also because of the incense burning in the cellar.


    This was a psychedelic incense passed down from the Lin Shao family¡¯s incense recipe. This incense was useless to determined people, but it was enough for Cheng Xiuying.


    In her subconscious, she was not tortured to death by the Heart Devouring Poison. Instead, the poison was suppressed, and only her master had the antidote.


    The first impression she had was that someone had taken her away from Fan Mingyuan.


    Why did she bring him along instead of saving him? Naturally, it was because she knew what would happen to her once her identity was exposed.


    ¡°I¡­ I didn¡¯t.¡± Cheng Xiuying¡¯s lips trembled as she shook her head desperately. ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know how Fan discovered it, but I didn¡¯t say anything. Aunt, please put in a good word for me in front of Master. Please spare me.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She blinked at Song Jingchen and gave him a thumbs up.


    Her husband was indeed powerful.


    Song Jingchen was delighted by her admiring gaze, but he didn¡¯t show it on his face. He looked down at the rice paper and wrote a line of words.

 Chapter 569 - 569 Profile (3)

    569 Profile (3)


    Shen Yijia immediately pulled a long face and imitated Mo Yuan¡¯s voice. ¡°Heh, if you didn¡¯t say anything, why would Fan protect you with his life? I think you¡¯ve been by his side for a few months. Have you forgotten what your mission is?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t,¡± Cheng Xiuying screamed.


    ¡°Then tell me what your mission is.¡±


    Cheng Xiuying hurriedly said, ¡°I got the evidence that Song Jingchen secretly harmed an official of the imperial court back then, as well as the evidence that he stayed by Fan Mingyuan¡¯s side to sow discord between the Song and Xiao families.¡±


    !!


    In the eyes of many people, Fan Mingyuan was also a member of the Song family.


    With that, Cheng Xiuying begged, ¡°He saved me because he was afraid that a criminal like me would die. Aunt, believe me, I really didn¡¯t say anything¡­¡±


    Secretly harming the officials of the Imperial Court? She was probably referring to that Hong fellow and County Magistrate Cao.


    Although Song Jingchen was indeed involved in this matter and the two officials had died at the hands of Rooster and the others, the two of them had already committed crimes.


    Even if Song Jingchen didn¡¯t kill them, they wouldn¡¯t be able to escape death if they did anything.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Oh? You didn¡¯t reveal who Master and I are?¡±


    There was only fear left in Cheng Xiuying¡¯s heart. Coupled with the effect of the incense, she was in adrift. Without thinking, she said, ¡°I don¡¯t even know what Aunt looks like. How can I know who Aunt is? As for Master, I¡¯ve never even seen him before.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. So useless?


    Song Jingchen was also a little disappointed. From her words, he could tell that the person in charge of these people was a woman who didn¡¯t show her face. As for the person behind this, she had never appeared.


    He wrote another line of words.


    Shen Yijia pressed the button. ¡°What about the Fragrant Teahouse? You¡¯ve been there for so long. Don¡¯t tell me you don¡¯t even know about it?¡±


    If this person couldn¡¯t even say this, Fan Mingyuan would have taken the arrow for nothing.


    ¡°Fragrant Teahouse¡­¡± Cheng Xiuying muttered,¡± No, I didn¡¯t say anything. I really didn¡¯t say anything¡­¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the cloth over her eyes was pulled off.


    When she saw the person in front of her, Cheng Xiuying¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°You, you¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you surprised?¡± Shen Yijia bared her teeth and waved at her.


    ¡°How could it be you?¡± Cheng Xiuying muttered in disbelief.


    ¡°I think you should be happy to see us. Otherwise, when you return to Fragrant Teahouse, I don¡¯t think you¡¯ll just be faced with a simple questioning.¡± Song Jingchen handed the rice paper in his hand to South Wind and asked him to burn it.


    The reason why he tricked Cheng Xiuying first was to prevent this person from lying to confuse him when he asked directly.


    Now, he knew what this person knew.


    It had to be said that Song Jingchen¡¯s words hit the nail on the head. Seeing that she wasn¡¯t in Fragrant Teahouse, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    Thinking of her sisters who had been tortured to death, Cheng Xiuying shivered. However, she gritted her teeth and said, ¡°I¡¯ll do anything¡­¡±


    ¡°How does it feel to have the Heart-Devouring Poison act up?¡± Shen Yijia interrupted her.


    Cheng Xiuying was stunned. ¡°How do you have the antidote?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°Even if you go back now, your master won¡¯t let you off. Tell us what you know, and we can provide you with the antidote. How about that? You won¡¯t lose out, right?¡±


    Cheng Xiuying hesitated.


    Seeing that it was getting late, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to waste any more time on her. He looked at South Wind and Thirty Thousand and said, ¡°Go ahead and interrogate her. Remember to ask her to draw a map of Fragrant Teahouse.¡±


    After instructing them, he brought Shen Yijia back to her room to rest.


    Early the next morning, South Wind replied.


    They were not wrong. There was indeed a secret space inside the Fragrant Teahouse, but it was underground, and the entrance was in those small lofts.


    However, because she could not move freely inside, a detailed map wasn¡¯t available.


    As for herself, her original name was Chen Duo¡¯er. She had been brought to the capital from Chenyang Prefecture five years ago. She had not been kidnapped, but sold by her family.


    In addition, they were training separately, so she didn¡¯t know Feng Manman.


    Some of them stayed in the Fragrant Teahouse to receive guests, while others were sent out to be placed beside various officials. They were either concubines or slaves.


    Everyone who entered would first be fed the Heart-Devouring Poison. They needed an antidote every month.


    However, for people like them who left the Fragrant Teahouse, in order to avoid being exposed, they would usually be given three pills at a time. She had just finished hers.


    It was originally the day to get the antidote. Unexpectedly, Fan Mingyuan brought her out of Anyang County. The people who came to deliver the medicine to her realized that something was wrong, so they chased after her.


    Chen Duo¡¯er even explained that at first, a steward was in charge of them. Around the beginning of the year, it was changed to a woman. When the woman appeared, she wore a veil and only asked them to call her Aunt.


    However, from the voice, it could be seen that the woman was not old. She was about sixteen or seventeen years old.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised by this.


    Chen Duo¡¯er didn¡¯t know Feng Manman, but that didn¡¯t mean that there was nothing wrong with Feng Manman.


    Thinking of how terrifying the Heart-Devouring Poison was, Shen Yijia was worried about Yuan Yuwan and Xiao Ruoshui and brought Mo Yuan to the Xiao family.

 Chapter 572 - 572 Leaving in Anger (3)

    572 Leaving in Anger (3)


    As she spoke, she inserted the jade hairpin into Yuan Yuwan¡¯s bun and clapped her hands. ¡°It¡¯s indeed beautiful. Mo Yuan, what do you think?¡±


    Mo Yuan didn¡¯t miss the shock in Feng Manman¡¯s eyes. She nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    This wasn¡¯t the first time Feng Manman had flaunted Xiao Qirui¡¯s gift, but Yuan Yuwan never took it.


    However, this time, she did not expose Shen Yijia. She stroked the jade hairpin and smiled. ¡°Concubine Feng has always had good taste. It would be impolite of me to decline.¡±


    Feng Manman tightened her grip on the handkerchief. She didn¡¯t expect Yuan Yuwan to really accept it. The corners of her mouth twitched as she said, ¡°Brother Xiao has good taste.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Feng Manman. ¡°The jade hairpin is beautiful, but the most important thing is that Sister Yuwan is good-looking. She¡¯ll look good even with a wooden hairpin.¡±


    She didn¡¯t target Feng Manman¡¯s appearance, but that was what Feng Manman thought.


    She was so angry that her face twisted under her veil.


    Yuan Yuwan tried to smooth things over. ¡°Concubine Feng, if there¡¯s nothing else, sit down and talk to me.¡±


    Feng Manman had suffered at Shen Yijia¡¯s place twice in a row and did not want to stay. She was about to postpone something when someone grabbed her wrist.


    She froze.


    Mo Yuan stood up and made way.


    Shen Yijia pulled Feng Manman over and sat down. She smiled and said, ¡°There are still many snacks here. Don¡¯t you think they¡¯re delicious? Eat some before going back.¡±


    Feeling the temperature on her wrist, Feng Manman was shocked. Before she could react, Shen Yijia had already retracted her hand.


    Since she had already sat down, it wasn¡¯t appropriate for her to leave. Feng Manman could only lower her head and thank her.


    At this moment, You Bai returned with a food box. When she saw Feng Manman, she immediately put down the food box and stood behind Yuan Yuwan.


    Mo Yuan walked over and said something to her. You Bai looked at Feng Manman awkwardly, then at Shen Yijia. In the end, she nodded and left with Mo Yuan.


    Feng Manman asked uneasily, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with them?¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently. ¡°Oh, Sister Yuwan¡¯s snacks are too delicious. Mo Yuan ate too much just now.¡±


    Seeing that they were indeed going in the direction of the reception room, Feng Manman didn¡¯t suspect anything.


    The general¡¯s residence was not decorated exquisitely like the more extravagant officials. This place looked neat and orderly. The only decoration was a few rockeries or green plants neatly planted on both sides of the road.


    Up ahead was the reception room. Mo Yuan stopped in her tracks and said, ¡°My stomach hurts. It might take a little longer. Wait for me here.¡±


    There was a rockery in front of her. You Bai could lean against it and rest.


    Although Shen Yijia was around, You Bai still did not want to leave Yuan Yuwan for too long. She urged, ¡°Then Sister Mo Yuan, go quickly.¡±


    After watching Mo Yuan walk into the reception room, You Bai found a place to sit down. Not long after, she started to fall asleep.


    ¡°Wake up!¡± A voice sounded in her ear. You Bai stood up with a shudder. Seeing that it was Mo Yuan, she heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Sister Mo Yuan, are you alright? Then let¡¯s go back quickly. You don¡¯t know how annoying Aunt Feng is¡­¡±


    Mo Yuan looked at her strangely. She wanted to protect others with this level of vigilance?


    Miss Yuan probably protected her more often.


    When the two of them returned to the waterside pavilion, Feng Manman happened to walk out with her maidservant. No matter what, Aunt was considered half a master. Mo Yuan followed You Bai and made way.


    When she walked past the two of them, Feng Manman frowned. It wasn¡¯t until they left Splendid House that she said, ¡°Did you smell the fragrance on Madam Song¡¯s maidservant just now?¡±


    The maidservant shook her head. ¡°No.¡±


    Didn¡¯t Madam Song say that they had gone to the banquet hall just now? How could they smell good when they came out of the banquet hall?


    ¡°But why do I smell the incense from my room on her?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s coming from you, right?¡± The maidservant smiled and said, ¡°I should have it on me too.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Feng Manman shook her head and thought to herself that she was thinking too much.


    Shen Yijia ate lunch at the Xiao family¡¯s house before leaving.


    Looking in the direction of the courtyard door, Yuan Yuwan took off the jade hairpin on her head and held it in her hand. She suddenly asked, ¡°Where has Young General been resting these past few days?¡±


    This was the first time Yuan Yuwan had asked about Xiao Qirui. Usually, when she wanted it to mention Yuan Yuwan, she would stop her.


    You Bai only thought that Shen Yijia had persuaded her young lady and that her young lady had finally decided to fight for it.


    She was first delighted, but her face fell when she thought of something. ¡°In the beginning, Young Master rested in the front courtyard. Later on, that person from the Magnolia Courtyard ran to the front courtyard with some soup. I don¡¯t know what he said, but Young Master has been resting there for the past few days.¡±


    After saying that, she spat. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen her so shameless.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Yuan Yuwan interrupted her helplessly and handed the jade hairpin to a maidservant beside her. ¡°When Young General returns from the military camp tonight, go and invite him over for dinner.¡±


    You Bai was stunned for a moment before realizing that she had not heard wrongly. She agreed happily. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Three days after the wedding, Xiao Qirui went to Yuan Yuwan¡¯s room every day to sleep on the floor. He could tell that she was uncomfortable, so he didn¡¯t go again.


    However, every day when he returned to the residence, he would still subconsciously walk to the entrance of the Splendid Courtyard, but he never dared to step in.

 Chapter 573 - 573 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (1)

    573 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (1)


    There was something going on in the military camp today. When Xiao Qirui returned to the residence, the sky had already turned dark. From afar, he could see the faint light coming from the Splendid Courtyard, and he could vaguely hear voices.


    He took a few steps closer to hear more clearly. Before he could approach, he heard footsteps. Xiao Qirui quickly turned around to leave.


    ¡°Young master?¡± A surprised voice came from behind.


    The only person who would call him that was the maidservant beside Yuan Yuwan. Xiao Qirui stopped in his tracks, but You Bai had already jogged in front of him and blocked his way.


    Xiao Qirui could only nod at her as if nothing had happened. ¡°I was passing by.¡±


    You Bai did not notice that something was wrong with him and said happily, ¡°That¡¯s good. Young Master, have you eaten?¡±


    Xiao Qirui had already eaten in the military camp. He was about to nod and say that he had eaten when he heard You Bai say, ¡°I received Miss¡¯s instructions and was about to go to the front courtyard to invite Young Master to the Splendid Courtyard for dinner. I didn¡¯t expect to meet Young Master here.¡±


    You Bai had been happy since she heard Yuan Yuwan¡¯s instructions in the afternoon. She was really happy.


    She knew that her mistress had already turned cold, but after a woman got married, she relied on her husband¡¯s doting to survive and give birth to a son and a daughter.


    If her Miss had nothing, the Xiao family would still treat her well because of guilt. What about in the future?


    You Bai did not even dare to imagine how her young miss would end up.


    ¡°Your young lady instructed you?¡± Xiao Qirui swallowed his words and asked in disbelief.


    You Bai nodded repeatedly. ¡°That¡¯s right. Miss instructed me this afternoon. We haven¡¯t eaten yet in order to wait for Young Master.¡±


    Before she could finish speaking, Xiao Qirui had already turned around and walked towards the Splendid Courtyard.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten yet? It¡¯s late. Aren¡¯t you messing around?¡± he thought.


    You Bai was stunned for a moment. She covered his mouth and snickered. See, she knew it. Young master had her young miss in his heart.


    Glancing somewhere, she snorted and happily chased after him.


    On the path, a maidservant saw Xiao Qirui enter the Splendid Courtyard and quickly turned around to run back to the Magnolia Courtyard to report.


    ¡°What did you say? My husband went to the Splendid Courtyard?¡± Feng Manman¡¯s fingers were pricked by a needle as she looked up in disbelief.


    ¡°Yes, I saw it with my own eyes. Eldest Young Master was about to come to our courtyard, but he was stopped by Young Madam¡¯s You Bai. I don¡¯t know what she said, but Eldest Young Master turned around and went to the Splendid Courtyard,¡± the maidservant said carefully.


    Feng Manman could almost imagine Xiao Qirui¡¯s expression at that time. Happy? Surprised?


    A strong wave of envy surged into her heart.


    She did not understand why Yuan Yuwan, who had always been pretentious, seemed to have become a different person today.


    Everyone thought that Xiao Qirui doted on her. Before she entered the Xiao family, she thought that he still had her in his heart, but reality slapped her in the face.


    Xiao Qirui married her only to repay her kindness and give her a place to stay. He would rather sleep on the floor than sleep with her.


    ¡°Aunt, do you want to prepare dinner?¡± the maidservant asked.


    A sharp glint flashed across Feng Manman¡¯s eyes. She shook her head and lowered her head to continue embroidering. She said weakly, ¡°I don¡¯t have an appetite. I¡¯m not eating.¡±


    The maidservant knew that Feng Manman was disfigured because she wanted to save Eldest Young Master. She could have been the main wife of a commoner. Seeing her like this, she couldn¡¯t bear it and comforted her. ¡°Aunt, don¡¯t worry. Eldest Young Master has rested in our courtyard more often than in the main courtyard. It can be seen that Eldest Young Master has taken a fancy to you. He might come over later.¡±


    The corners of Feng Manman¡¯s lips curled up into a mocking smile under her veil. He had rested here so many times for fools like her to see. It was just to prevent her from being looked down upon in this residence.


    He was clearly such a good person, but he was so heartless.


    In the Splendid Courtyard, the two of them quietly finished their meal. You Bai thoughtfully changed their teacups and retreated.


    Xiao Qirui was a little stuffed from eating, so he didn¡¯t touch his teacup. He looked at Yuan Yuwan, who was sitting opposite him, and said seriously, ¡°I¡¯ll try my best to come back early in the future. If I¡¯m late, you don¡¯t have to wait for me. Don¡¯t starve yourself.¡±


    After saying that, he felt that his words were a little wrong. She didn¡¯t say that she would invite him over for dinner every day. This made him look like he was thinking too much.


    Noticing that there was a new hairpin on Yuan Yuwan¡¯s head, he quickly changed the topic. ¡°This jade hairpin suits you very well.¡±


    His expression did not seem to be fake. It was clearly the first time he had seen this jade hairpin.


    After guessing something, Yuan Yuwan smiled faintly. ¡°Is that so? Aunt Feng gave it to me.¡±

 Chapter 574 - 574 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (2)

    574 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (2)


    The two of them rarely sat together and talked. This was the first time they had mentioned Feng Manman.


    Without waiting for him to speak, Yuan Yuwan continued, ¡°I heard that Young General chose it. This means that Young General has good taste.¡±


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. ¡°She said that I chose it?¡±


    He had indeed bought a hairpin, but that hairpin was still in his study.


    Yuan Yuwan picked up her teacup and took a sip. ¡°Yes, I made some snacks today and asked a maidservant to send them to her. This is her gift in return.¡±


    She would repay a few snacks with a jade hairpin? She was too rich.


    Xiao Qirui finally came back to his senses from the joy of Yuan Yuwan inviting him to dinner. He pursed his lips and stood up. ¡°I still have something to deal with in the study. I¡­ I¡¯ll come over later.¡±


    Afraid that Yuan Yuwan would misunderstand, he explained, ¡°I¡¯ll sleep on the floor. You¡¯re in charge of the house now. It won¡¯t be good if I don¡¯t come.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded and didn¡¯t refuse.


    As soon as Xiao Qirui left, You Bai entered and said happily, ¡°Young Master said that he¡¯ll come over later.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Yuan Yuwan took off the jade hairpin and placed it in front of the dressing table. ¡°Fetch water for me to take a shower.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± You Bai instructed the servants outside. She went forward and helped Yuan Yuwan put down her bun. She sighed and said, ¡°Miss, you can¡¯t be so silly in the future. How can you push your husband into another woman¡¯s room? It should be like today.¡±


    If she had known that Madam Song could persuade her young lady, she wouldn¡¯t have worried for so long.


    Yuan Yuwan glanced at her and did not explain that she had other intentions. Otherwise, this girl would nag at her again.


    On the other side, as soon as Xiao Qirui left the Splendid Courtyard, he asked Xiao Li to investigate what had happened during the day.


    The family heads didn¡¯t inquire much, but that didn¡¯t mean that they really didn¡¯t know anything about the backyard. It was just that they rarely asked about anything that wasn¡¯t important.


    If they really wanted to investigate, there was really no way to hide it from them.


    After a while, Xiao Li returned and told him about Shen Yijia¡¯s visit to the residence during the day and what Feng Manman had said in return with a jade hairpin.


    As for what Shen Yijia and Yuan Yuwan had said, no one knew. At that time, they did not leave anyone to serve them.


    Xiao Qirui frowned. Feng Manman always told him that she hoped that he and Yuan Yuwan could resolve the misunderstanding, but¡­


    ¡°Young Master, I¡¯ve asked around. People said that you were the one who instructed the butler to buy the jewelry in Concubine Feng¡¯s room.¡± Xiao Li admired this Young Madam who had just entered the house. This time, Young Master should be able to tell that Concubine Feng was the kind of person who acted one way in front of others and another way behind their backs.


    At this moment, Xiao Qirui also remembered this matter. That day, he heard a few maidservants discussing behind his back that Feng Manman was so down and out that she didn¡¯t even have any decent jewelry.


    This kind of maidservant, who did not even take her master seriously, was naturally sold by him. After that, he even instructed the steward to buy something and send it to the Magnolia Courtyard.


    Feng Manman must have mistakenly thought that he had chosen it himself.


    Xiao Li couldn¡¯t hear his thoughts. Otherwise, he would have vomited blood from anger. He sighed again. His young master was really hopeless.


    After all, she had saved his life. Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t expect Xiao Qirui to suspect Feng Manman so easily. However, once the seed was planted, it would eventually germinate.


    Moreover, she was mainly doing this for Feng Manman to see. Reminding Xiao Qirui was just a bonus.


    Shen Yijia did not expect that her original intention in telling Yuan Yuwan those things was to tell her to be careful of Feng Manman. In the end, she did the opposite and deliberately angered Feng Manman, wanting to lure her out.


    Indeed, Feng Manman was blinded by envy and couldn¡¯t think too much about it. It was easy for her to give herself away.


    However, Yuan Yuwan was in even more danger.


    Shen Yijia lay on the bed and told Song Jingchen about the Xiao family.


    ¡°General Xiao knows what he¡¯s doing.¡± Song Jingchen knew that she was feeling indignant for Yuan Yuwan. He felt sour, but he still had to comfort her.


    ¡°I know. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have arranged for two maidservants who know martial arts to go to Sister Yuwan¡¯s place.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and rolled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°I even asked Mo Yuan to go to Feng Manman¡¯s room to see if she could find the antidote. I didn¡¯t expect her to hide it so well. She couldn¡¯t find it at all.¡±


    When she pulled Feng Manman, she even took the opportunity to check her pulse. Just as Mo Yuan had said, when the Heart-Devouring Poison didn¡¯t act up, she was no different from an ordinary person. She couldn¡¯t find out at all.


    ¡°She would naturally bring the life-saving medicine with her.¡± Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia wanted to help, so he didn¡¯t discourage her.


    He rubbed her hair and said softly, ¡°General Xiao is watching over Feng Manman. Don¡¯t worry. Go to sleep.¡±

 Chapter 575 - 575 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (3)

    575 Luring the Snake Out of the Cave (3)


    Shen Yijia thought about it and agreed. She nodded obediently and closed her eyes.


    It was a dreamless night.


    The last time he returned in disappointment, Xuanyuan Ce did not go to the Fragrant Teahouse again. Instead, he continued to indulge in various brothels. He even spent a lot of money on a certain courtesan, making people think that he was not interested in the Fragrant Teahouse at all. However, the Fragrant Teahouse took the initiative to invite him.


    The first time, Xuanyuan Ce ignored it. When the Fragrant Teahouse sent out the third invitation in a row, Xuanyuan Ce brought people over without interest.


    !!


    It was still the same small loft from last time. It was still the same woman who led the way.


    However, this time, she did not ask Xuanyuan Ce which tea master he wanted to arrange to serve him. Instead, she asked the person Xuanyuan Ce brought to take off his mask.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and said unhappily, ¡°There aren¡¯t so many requirements to enter the palace of Great Xia. Why are there so many things happening here?¡±


    The woman bowed and apologized, ¡°The guests who came to our Fragrant Teahouse are all rich and noble. If anything happens, our Fragrant Teahouse really can¡¯t bear the responsibility. I hope Your Highness can understand.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°What if I don¡¯t want him to take off his mask?¡±


    ¡°Then His Highness¡¯s fate with our Fragrant Teahouse will stop here.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce stared at her for a long time, but the latter refused to back down.


    He sneered. ¡°Your Fragrant Teahouse had better satisfy me. Otherwise¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡± The woman smiled and winked at Xuanyuan Ce.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s forehead throbbed. He remembered that he was a playboy who only knew how to look for women.


    He leaned back lazily and instructed, ¡°The two of you, take off your masks.¡±


    The two people standing behind him looked at each other. They raised their hands and slowly took off their masks, revealing two unfamiliar faces.


    At first glance, it was stunning. Then, when she noticed the scars on their faces, the woman was shocked.


    The scar seemed to have divided their faces into two. One side was fair and flawless, and the other side was indeed bumpy.


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°You were the one who wanted to see it. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t have tender, protective feelings for the fairer sex.¡±


    ¡°Their faces¡­¡± The woman lowered her head, not daring to look at them a second time.


    ¡°They accidentally burned themselves. Why? Do you want me to tell you why they were burned?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said impatiently.


    The woman said apologetically, ¡°I was rude. Please put on your masks.¡±


    The two of them took the opportunity to put on their masks. In a place where no one could see, the petite one secretly stuck out her pinky and hooked the other¡¯s.


    It was obvious that he wanted to take credit.


    These two people were none other than Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia in disguise.


    The scar on her face was made of pig skin by Shen Yijia when she had nothing to do. It was inspired by Feng Manman.


    Shen Yijia brought it along this time because she wanted to test the effect. Unexpectedly, it happened to work.


    The woman confirmed their identities and suggested that they not carry weapons.


    Xuanyuan Ce asked the two of them to put down their swords with a dark expression. Shen Yijia even took the initiative to take out her dagger.


    Only then did the woman smile and clap her hands. A few women dressed as guards walked over.


    Xuanyuan Ce narrowed his eyes and asked coldly, ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    The woman took out a handkerchief and personally walked behind Xuanyuan Ce. She exhaled and said, ¡°Everyone knows that Your Highness has come to our Fragrant Teahouse. We definitely won¡¯t dare to harm Your Highness, so Your Highness, don¡¯t worry. I just want to give you a surprise.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce held back his disgust and did not move, letting the woman cover her eyes with a handkerchief.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia received the same treatment.


    Someone on either side of them helped them walk to the loft.


    Unable to see, he could only follow the other party. After about ten minutes, the person beside him stopped and heard the sound of a wooden board moving. He took a step forward.


    Right on the heels of that, there was the sound of the wind in her ears. She could clearly feel her body descending along with the things she was stepping on.


    Song Jingchen sneered. The path he took just now was just to confuse them. In the end, they brought them up to the loft.


    A mechanism was pressed in the attic, and they went straight down to the basement on a lift.


    If he was not wrong, the elevator board was under the table. The table had moved just now.


    Time passed bit by bit, and the sounds around them gradually increased. There was laughter, music, and a faint fragrance.


    After following for a while, the handkerchiefs in front of their eyes were untied.


    What greeted his eyes was a magnificent hall. There were five stone pillars and tripods in the middle of the hall. There was a wooden floor and a few floors of lofts. Outside the door was a wall.


    If they hadn¡¯t known in advance that they were underground, they would have thought that this was a detached courtyard.


    The woman was very satisfied with the shock in their eyes. She smiled and said, ¡°Your Highness, do you still need Miss Lan Qing to serve you?¡±

 Chapter 576 - 576 Fraudulent Little Master (1)

    576 Fraudulent Little Master (1)


    ¡°Are you sure this is still the Fragrant Teahouse?¡± After the shock, Xuanyuan Ce asked a stupid question.


    From time to time, girls would walk past them and smile at them before moving on. It could be seen that they were all very cultured.


    Xuanyuan Ce really felt that his visits to brothels these days had been in vain. At this moment, he had already seen a few girls who were even better-looking than the courtesans he spent money on outside.


    If any of them were to be placed in the back residence of an official, wouldn¡¯t they be charmed?


    !!


    The woman leading the way pursed her lips and smiled. ¡°Yes and no. Your Highness, you can treat this place as the Ecstasy Cave.¡±


    ¡°What a good Ecstasy Cave. The Fragrant Teahouse did not disappoint me,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said with a smile. He pulled up the sleeve of a girl who walked past him and placed it to the tip of his nose. He definitely looked like a lecherous person.


    She really couldn¡¯t bear to watch!


    Shen Yijia turned her head away in disdain.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was not moved by her beauty at all, she was a little proud. He was indeed the man she had taken a fancy to.


    However, it made sense. Her beautiful husband had seen too many of her Heaven Immortal-like appearances, so others naturally could not catch his eye.


    Shen Yijia raised her head and puffed out her chest. She sized up the girls passing by.


    Their figures were really good.


    She looked down and compared it to hers. She wrapped it in a corset. There were no breasts.


    What a pity.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what she was thinking. He had been secretly sizing up the men sitting in the hall. Most of them had disguised themselves. In just a short while, he had already recognized two of them. One of them was even a royalist.


    This was awkward.


    ¡°Sister Luoyin.¡± A young maidservant walked over and bowed respectfully to the girl who led the way.


    Luoyin glanced at the maidservant and nodded imperceptibly. After the maidservant left, she smiled and said, ¡°If Your Highness is satisfied with Miss Lanqing, I¡¯ll get someone to bring Your Highness to her room.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce retracted his gaze from the girls around him and asked, ¡°Is she the best-looking girl among you?¡±


    Luoyin paused. She did not dare to hide this matter that could easily be found out. She explained, ¡°The best courtesan here is Mo Ying, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡± Xuanyuan Ce immediately pulled a long face when he heard that Lanqing wasn¡¯t the best.


    With his status, was he not worthy of the best girl?


    Luoyin smiled and said, ¡°Your Highness, you might not know this, but Mo Ying has a bad temper. Whether she lets you in or not depends on her.¡±


    Mo Ying had actually not been here for long. Apart from the person in charge, she was the most prestigious girl in Fragrant Teahouse. However, she had the ability to do so, so people could not be envious even if they wanted to be.


    The Fragrant Teahouse would hold an auction every seven days. Only the highest bidder could enter Mo Ying¡¯s room. However, even if they entered, they would only hear her sing a song. Even so, many people flocked to her.


    As for the rest of the time, it depended on her mood.


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows. ¡°Then I want to see it for myself.¡±


    It had to be said that Xuanyuan Ce had not stayed in the brothel for nothing these days. He vividly portrayed a high-ranking figure who was blinded by lust.


    In any case, Shen Yijia could not tell that he was acting at all. She felt that he was acting as himself.


    Fortunately, Xuanyuan Ce did not know what she was thinking. Otherwise, he would have been so angry that he would have suffered internal injuries again. Who was he doing this for?


    It was fine if he brought his daughter to a brothel, but he even had to tease a girl in front of her. Was it easy for him?


    Luoyin looked troubled. Just as she was about to say something, another maidservant walked over. ¡°Sister Luoyin, my miss asked me to bring this master up.¡±


    Although she also called her Sister Luoyin like the little maidservant from before, she clearly did not have much respect on her face.


    ¡°Who¡¯s your miss?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said unhappily.


    He had already said that he wanted Mo Ying. Did these people not understand human language?


    In any case, he never wanted to come to such a godforsaken place again. If he had to spend time with one of them, he had to at least pick the best.


    The maidservant bowed, unable to hide the smugness on her face. ¡°My lady is the best courtesan here, Miss Mo Ying.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s expression changed in a second and he said excitedly, ¡°Then lead the way.¡±


    The maidservant was not surprised by his reaction. As long as he mentioned who her miss was, all these stinky men¡¯s eyes would light up like cats seeing fish.


    The three of them followed the maidservant straight to the third floor. As expected of the place where the courtesan lived. On the second floor, they could still see people walking in the corridor, but on the third floor, they could no longer see them. It was much quieter than below.

 Chapter 577 - 577 Fraudulent Little Master (2)

    577 Fraudulent Little Master (2)


    Shen Yijia turned around and glanced at him. Luoyin didn¡¯t follow. Instead, she passed through the hall and walked towards the back. She blinked and turned around to meet Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze.


    The two of them exchanged a silent look and followed the two people in front of them without looking sideways.


    When she reached a door, the maidservant stopped and reported, ¡°Miss, a guest is here.¡±


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    !!


    A slightly cold voice came from inside.


    The maidservant pushed open the door and Xuanyuan Ce walked in first. Shen Yijia and Shen Yijia were about to follow when the maidservant reached out to stop them. ¡°Not everyone can enter my lady¡¯s room.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce stopped and frowned.


    ¡°Let them all in,¡± the woman¡¯s voice said again.


    The maidservant was a little surprised, but she did not dare to go against her lady¡¯s wishes. She only glanced at Shen Yijia and Shen Yijia¡¯s faces in disdain, as if they had picked up a huge bargain.


    Shen Yijia secretly rolled her eyes.


    The three of them walked into the room. The maidservant did not follow them in and closed the door from the outside.


    The room was not as pink and tender as the rooms of the women in the brothels Shen Yijia had seen before. Instead, it was very simple here. There was only a large gauze curtain hanging horizontally in the middle, dividing the room into two.


    Shen Yijia sniffed. The fragrance in the room was also very pleasant.


    Through the gauze curtain, they could vaguely see a woman sitting at the back.


    On their side, there was a long table.


    ¡°Your Highness, please sit down.¡± She reached out her hand.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at the table in front of him and waved his hand. Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen immediately went forward and pulled the gauze curtain from the middle to the left and right. After that, they checked everywhere in the room, including the back window. When they opened it, they saw a small courtyard.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. Weren¡¯t they afraid of the ground collapsing after digging such a big hole underground?


    After checking, the two of them stood behind Xuanyuan Ce again.


    Only then did Shen Yijia have the chance to look at the so-called treasure of the shop, the courtesan.


    She was dressed in white, and her cold appearance revealed an indescribable seductiveness. Her black hair was draped over her shoulders, and was only tied up with a green headband. Her eyes, in particular, were slightly upturned. One look at them seemed to be able to seduce one¡¯s soul.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. However, what shocked her the most was not her beauty, but that she had seen this person in that picture book.


    Of course, it was impossible for Shen Yijia to remember all of the thick picture books. There was a very important reason why she could remember her alone.


    This was because she was none other than Shuang¡¯er, Pinellia¡¯s sister.


    After the female corpse was exposed, although Pinellia did not confirm that her sister¡¯s corpse was inside, she still cried for a long time.


    After all, those corpses had rotted so badly. Without a special birthmark, it would have been difficult to distinguish who was who.


    Among the three of them, only one of them had the most normal reaction when he saw her appearance. Therefore, the woman¡¯s gaze stopped on Shen Yijia for a while.


    ¡°I¡¯m new here, so we have to be careful,¡± Xuanyuan Ce explained casually.


    The woman did not comment on their inspection of the room. She retracted her gaze from Shen Yijia and slowly stood up. She sat down opposite Xuanyuan Ce and personally poured a cup of tea.


    Xuanyuan Ce sat down and met her gaze, but he did not take the tea.


    The woman chuckled. ¡°Your Highness, aren¡¯t you being too careful? Is there anyone in our Fragrant Teahouse who dares to poison Your Highness?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not comment.


    The smile on the woman¡¯s face faded. She retracted her hand and drank the tea in her cup in one gulp. Then, she tilted the teacup in the air twice to show that she had drunk it and did not poison it. Just as she was about to pour another cup of tea, the strength in her body suddenly dissipated.


    She loosened her grip and the teacup slipped. Shen Yijia quickly reached out to catch it, preventing it from falling to the ground.


    The woman lay limply on the table and muttered in disbelief, ¡°How¡­ how could this be?¡±


    Song Jingchen and Xuanyuan Ce were also stunned by this change. They had always thought that Fragrant Teahouse didn¡¯t have the guts to poison the king of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have roped him in, but instead become enemies with him.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not take the teacup because he was thinking about how many people had drank from that cup before.


    It was precisely because of this thought that the two of them did not react when the teacup fell.


    Thinking of something, the two of them looked at Shen Yijia, who reacted the fastest. Three words flashed across their minds at the same time. No way.


    Shen Yijia blinked and nodded to confirm their guess. ¡°I drugged her.¡±

 Chapter 578 - 578 Fraudulent Little Master (3)

    578 Fraudulent Little Master (3)


    Previously, she handed over her weapon so readily. Wasn¡¯t she interested in bringing some small powder?


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you would be good and not cause trouble?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Is my daughter so fierce?¡±


    Mo Ying¡¯s eyes widened. Did she drink the other party¡¯s tea?


    She opened her mouth to call for someone to come in, but her body was weak. Her voice was as soft as a mosquito¡¯s, and no one outside could hear her.


    ¡°When did you drug her?¡± As soon as he asked, Xuanyuan Ce remembered that this girl had pretended to open the teapot when she was checking just now. He gasped and felt his jaw ache. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll drink this tea?¡±


    Shen Yijia shrugged and said irresponsibly, ¡°Isn¡¯t it better if you drink it? The Fragrant Teahouse dared to poison the king of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. In order to give the Xuanyuan Kingdom an explanation, the emperor will definitely order a thorough investigation of the Fragrant Teahouse.¡±


    Her beautiful husband said that without concrete evidence, the emperor would not touch the Fragrant Teahouse easily. Wasn¡¯t Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s poisoning readily available? When the time came, would he be afraid that he wouldn¡¯t be able to enter openly?


    Xuanyuan Ce was so angry that his head buzzed. Was this really his daughter? Wasn¡¯t she here to collect a debt?


    In order to help her, he didn¡¯t even care about his reputation. He fought alone in front of her, but this girl was ready to trick him at any time.


    How sinful.


    Although he thought so, he could not ignore it. He frowned and said, ¡°But I didn¡¯t drink it now. She drank it. We can¡¯t kill her, right?¡±


    It was unrealistic to carry the girl out. If they left them behind like this, they would probably be captured before they could leave this place.


    He now understood what it meant to have a brat at home.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Mo Ying and suddenly said, ¡°Are you from Xunyang City?¡±


    He did not react at first. After seeing Mo Ying¡¯s appearance, he understood why Shen Yijia did not stop her from drinking the tea.


    However, he did not understand why these people had left such a weakness behind after killing all the girls in Xunyang City. Could it be that it was because she was a courtesan and was more useful?


    Hearing the words ¡°Xunyang City¡±, Mo Ying¡¯s pupils constricted. She said weakly, ¡°What¡­ what Xunyang City? I¡­ don¡¯t understand¡­ what are you talking about?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked like her husband understood her. She was not anxious about Mo Ying not admitting it. She walked to her side and squatted down. She asked, ¡°Do you know Shuang¡¯er?¡±


    Mo Ying¡¯s eyelashes trembled. ¡°No¡­ I don¡¯t.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head, not letting go of the expression on her face. ¡°Did you know that Shuang¡¯er was also captured?¡±


    She remembered that Pinellia had said that she had an extremely good relationship with her sister. The two sisters were not liked at home and relied on each other.


    Mo Ying¡¯s breathing tightened and she blurted out, ¡°Impossible¡­¡±


    Shuang¡¯er¡­ No, that couldn¡¯t be. If she had been captured, it was impossible for her not to have seen her.


    ¡°How is that impossible? You know that Shuang¡¯er is not bad-looking.¡± Shen Yijia was even more certain that she had not guessed wrongly. She sat down on the small table beside Mo Ying and explained, ¡°It¡¯s just that we saved her.¡±


    That¡¯s right. Mo Ying¡¯s tense body instantly relaxed. Shen Yijia continued, ¡°However, she was caught before after all. Her reputation as a girl was damaged. Your parents felt that she was embarrassing, so they wanted her to hang herself.¡±


    Mo Ying thought to herself, ¡°Can¡¯t you speak more kindly?¡±


    However, this was indeed something their heartless parents would do.


    She closed her eyes and a tear fell from the corner of her eye. She said stubbornly, ¡°You¡¯ve got the wrong person.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You just admitted it.¡±


    She puffed out her cheeks. ¡°But we saved her again.¡±


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched. He wanted to laugh at her heart-attacking way of speaking.


    He finally found some balance in his heart. It was good that this girl didn¡¯t only target him.


    Thinking of this, he glanced at Song Jingchen enviously. Only this guy could make her treat him sincerely. He didn¡¯t know where he got his good fortune from.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°Shuang¡¯er has been looking for you.¡±


    Did this mean that Shuang¡¯er had also come to the capital and had been with them?


    Mo Ying had no choice but to admit it. She said, ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    ¡°Of course we¡¯re here to save you,¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly.


    Mo Ying smiled bitterly. ¡°It¡¯s useless. All of us are poisoned. Even if we get out, we won¡¯t live for long.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Then don¡¯t worry. We have the antidote too.¡±


    Mo Ying looked at Shen Yijia suspiciously and suddenly sneered. ¡°Did Aunt send you to test me?¡±


    Shen Yijia did not understand what was going through her mind. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Aunt? I already said that I was here to save you. We¡¯ve already made a suppressant. We¡¯ll definitely be able to find an antidote in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia actually felt a little guilty.


    The person behind this probably had a real antidote, right? Otherwise, she could only look for the Heart Devouring Grass.


    Most of these women had been trafficked here and were victims. She couldn¡¯t just watch them die.


    It was not a solution to take suppressive medicine for the rest of her life.


    Her tone was so serious, and her eyes under the mask were so sincere that it was difficult not to believe her. After a long time, Mo Ying seemed to have made a decision and asked, ¡°Is Shuang¡¯er alright?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not good.¡± Shen Yijia sighed. Mo Ying¡¯s heart skipped a beat again before she continued, ¡°A while ago, a large number of female corpses were discovered in the Wutong River. Shuang¡¯er recognized a few of them as girls from Xunyang City. She thought that you were among them and cried her heart out. She even fell seriously ill.¡±


    She thought of that little girl who always liked to follow behind her and call her sister. She was clearly starving, but she still secretly left her steamed buns. Mo Ying did not dare to imagine how difficult her life had been after she was captured.


    ¡°But she¡¯s recovered from her illness now. She said that as long as the identity of the corpse is not confirmed, she doesn¡¯t believe that you¡¯ll die. She even said that you¡¯re the smartest.¡±


    Mo Ying stayed silent.


    Shen Yijia looked innocent. ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± she thought. ¡°It¡¯s tiring to talk for so long.¡± she thought.

 Chapter 579 - 579 Kidnapped (1)

    579 Kidnapped (1)


    Music slowly sounded from the third floor. Just as everyone was guessing which lucky person had entered Miss Mo Ying¡¯s room, a black shadow quietly jumped down from a back window on the third floor and landed.


    Shen Yijia jumped out of Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and whispered, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m going.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and reminded her worriedly, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    !!


    The two of them then separated into the night.


    Mo Ying was a courtesan, but to the person behind her, she was just a good-looking vase and a money tree. Therefore, she did not know much.


    However, Song Jingchen had previously analyzed that the women captured from Xunyang City had all been dealt with. At least he had confirmed this from her.


    The establishment had always been clear about rewards and punishments. In order to avoid causing panic, the explanation for them was that they had been sent out to carry out a mission. However, Mo Ying clearly saw that a few people had been brought to the backyard.


    Everyone knew what the backyard meant!


    The only thing those people had in common was their origins. She guessed that it was related to Xunyang City.


    The reason why Mo Ying was still alive was not because of her value. It was just that when she entered the capital, she was locked up with a few women from another place.


    There were a total of ten girls. She did not want one of them to get smallpox halfway and infect the others. In the end, she was the only one who survived.


    This was because at that time, everyone was disheveled. Her record book had been replaced by another person of her age by a freak combination of factors.


    The others were all dead, so naturally, no one could expose her.


    As for entering this place, even if a girl from Xunyang City recognized her, everyone would use a new name. Who knew how they remembered it in the record book?


    What she didn¡¯t say was that she would replace it because she had deliberately lied at that time.


    At that time, she did not know why those people wanted to capture her.


    However, she had liked to secretly hide outside the restaurant and listen to storytellers since she was young. She had heard many stories about good people being threatened by bad people with their families.


    She was afraid that she would implicate the others in her family, so she thought that if she did this, no one would be able to find her true family. She did not expect that she would save her own life.


    With the death of the woman captured from Xunyang City, logically speaking, no one knew her true background. This was also why she was so panicked when she heard Song Jingchen¡¯s first sentence.


    The backyard was a little big. Shen Yijia carefully avoided the guards and secret guards and stopped outside a window with light shining through.


    As she approached, the cries of women and men¡¯s laughter came from inside. Accompanied by these sounds was the sound of whips hitting flesh.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Is this the torture chamber?¡± she thought.


    No wonder Mo Ying said that the women who went to the backyard had never left alive.


    At this moment, the man inside had already begun to curse. His dirty words were simply unbearable to hear.


    She leaned closer and reached out to poke a hole in the window paper to take a look. As soon as her fingers touched the layer of paper, she paused.


    What if she couldn¡¯t help but attack when she saw the tragic state of the woman inside?


    Her beautiful husband had said that now was not the time to save them. Once they alerted the enemy, everyone here would definitely follow in the footsteps of the women from Xunyang City. At that time, not only would they not be able to save them, but they would also speed up their deaths.


    Shen Yijia knew that she could not tolerate it. What she didn¡¯t know can¡¯t hurt her. She bent her fingers and finally retracted them.


    She whispered, ¡°Hold on a little longer.¡±


    After listening for a while, Apart from the voices just now, she could not hear any useful information. Shen Yijia decisively flashed to the next lit room.


    This time, before she could approach, a woman¡¯s scream sounded. Shen Yijia had goosebumps all over her body.


    The owner of the voice seemed to be in great pain. Her voice was trembling and filled with despair.


    As expected, the screams were followed by the man¡¯s laughter. There was more than one person¡¯s laughter.


    ¡°Hold her down. Haha, come, give it to me. I¡¯ll drip it in the remaining eye¡­¡±


    ¡®What are they doing?¡¯


    Even if she couldn¡¯t see, Shen Yijia could guess what kind of cruel punishment it was. She gritted her teeth and tensed up in anger.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions sounded in her mind. Shen Yijia closed her eyes, exhaled, and left.


    The third, fourth¡­ Until the sixth room, the angry voices were finally gone.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face under the mask was already as cold as small ice cubes. Her entire body exuded a dangerous aura. She was definitely colder than Song Jingchen was when he was angry at his subordinates.

 Chapter 580 - 580 Kidnapped (2)

    580 Kidnapped (2)


    ¡°Aunt, did we suddenly close down our business? What if those adults are dissatisfied?¡±


    A familiar female voice pulled Shen Yijia out of her anger. The reason why it was familiar was because she had heard it an hour ago. It was Luoyin, who had led the way for them previously!


    However, what made Shen Yijia more concerned was the way she addressed her.


    ¡°Master will handle those matters. You just have to make arrangements for everyone.¡± Another cold voice sounded.


    !!


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s not something you should worry about, don¡¯t ask.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Why did this voice sound so familiar?


    However, even after searching through her memories, she could not remember where she had heard it before.


    She clearly couldn¡¯t remember, but she felt that such a voice shouldn¡¯t be so cold.


    It should be¡­


    She couldn¡¯t say what it should be.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Without thinking, she reached out and poked a small hole in the window paper.


    She was about to lean closer to take a look when a stern voice came from behind. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Although she was wearing a mask, this guard outfit was too recognizable. It was very easy to recognize that she had come with Xuanyuan Ce.


    She glanced at the small hole regretfully and slipped into the night.


    The door opened from the inside. Shen Yijia took the opportunity to look back.


    It was Luoyin who opened the door. Walking around her, she could see a person with a veil sitting facing the door.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The sound of an arrow piercing through the air could be heard. Shen Yijia did not dare to look anymore. She turned around and quickly ran in the direction where there were no people.


    However, that stern shout was like a bomb, blowing up those guards in the open and in the dark. People surrounded her from all directions. She could not fly, so it was almost impossible for her not to touch them.


    There was no way out ahead. Seeing that she was about to enter a blind spot, Shen Yijia clenched her fists and prepared to fight for three hundred rounds and kill everyone who saw her.


    Just as she thought this, a shadow suddenly descended from the sky, grabbed her waist, and soared into the sky.


    In the next moment, dense arrows nailed littered the spot where she was standing earlier.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Assassins had entered the building, and it was surrounded. A team of women dressed as guards began to search the rooms one by one.


    The bamboo sounds gradually stopped, replaced by footsteps and knocks on the door.


    ¡°An assassin has broken in. In order to protect the guests, please cooperate with the inspection.¡±


    The commotion was getting closer and closer. Seeing that they were about to reach the third floor, Mo Ying¡¯s fingers kept trembling. The originally melodious music had also changed.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Play well.¡±


    Mo Ying gritted her teeth. When she thought about what kind of punishment awaited her if someone found out that she was covering for someone, she could not calm down.


    Bang! Bang! Bang! There was a knock on the door. Mo Ying tightened her fingers, and the zither made an ear-piercing sound.


    She glanced at Xuanyuan Ce and took a deep breath. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Miss, an assassin has entered the building. Guard Luo brought people to check. Open the door quickly,¡± the maidservant said anxiously.


    Bang! The sound of a teacup shattering came from inside, followed right on the heels of the man¡¯s impatient shout. ¡°Get lost. There¡¯s no assassin here. Don¡¯t disturb my mood.¡±


    The maidservant stiffened and looked at Guard Luo. The person inside had a different status from the other guests.


    Guard Luo cupped his fists at the door and said, ¡°Your Highness, please forgive us. We¡¯re doing this for your safety. Please let us in and check.¡±


    In fact, according to the news from the backyard, the assassin had fled in the opposite direction of the building. The possibility of him hiding in the building was very low.


    However, they all knew who had entered the building. The people who were not around were naturally assassins.


    Therefore, although they said that it was for the safety of their guests, they actually wanted to confirm the identity of the assassin.


    ¡°I already said no. Do you not trust me?¡±


    Guard Luo frowned. ¡°If Your Highness is injured in the intermediate building, we can¡¯t bear the consequences. Please excuse us.¡±


    With that, she took a step back and waved her hand to get someone to knock on the door.


    Unexpectedly, the door creaked open. The two guards who rushed up to hit the door missed out of inertia. Before the two of them could fall to the ground, they were kicked out.


    They dared to hit someone in their territory. The group of people outside the door drew their swords.


    Guard Luo¡¯s face also fell. She scanned Mo Ying¡¯s room and finally fixed her gaze on the two masked men behind Xuanyuan Ce.

 Chapter 581 - 581 Kidnapped (3)

    581 Kidnapped (3)


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°What? Is this how your Fragrant Teahouse treats guests?¡±


    Guard Luo waved her hand to dismiss them and apologized with cupped fists. ¡°We¡¯re also thinking about your safety.¡±


    Mo Ying let go of her clenched fists under her sleeve and stood up to smooth things over. ¡°Your Highness, Guard Luo is also on duty. Please forgive her this once. When you come next time, Mo Ying will play for you again, alright?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, what a spoilsport.¡± Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Guard Luo. When he looked at Mo Ying, his expression changed again. He smiled and said, ¡°On your account, I¡¯ll forget about what happened today.¡±


    !!


    Mo Ying smiled obsequiously and gave Guard Luo a look. The latter bowed and retreated, not forgetting to help close the door.


    Hearing the gradually fading footsteps, Mo Ying¡¯s body went limp and she sat on the ground. Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief and quickly went with Song Jingchen to put back the broken window.


    Due to this matter, the few of them did not stay long. After Mo Ying calmed down, they bade farewell.


    ¡°Please help me give this to Shuang¡¯er.¡± She took out a stack of banknotes from the dressing table.


    These were all so-called rewards. She had dreamed of them in the past, but after coming here, she had no chance to use them.


    Shen Yijia paused. It should be more than ten thousand taels. This person was not afraid that she would take it all for herself.


    ¡°I believe you,¡± Mo Ying said with a faint smile.


    Moreover, she did not know if what happened today would be traced back to her. Once it was investigated, she would lose her life. What more money would she need?


    They went out the same way. Their eyes were covered the entire time. When they opened them again, they were already back in the loft.


    Xuanyuan Ce left the Fragrant Teahouse with a dark expression.


    The manager of Fragrant Teahouse was puzzled.


    After returning to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s residence, Shen Yijia told him what she had seen and heard guiltily.


    At the mention of those women being punished, she clenched her fists and her face puffed up with anger.


    Xuanyuan Ce and Song Jingchen were also angry, but more importantly¡­


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°This little girl is ignorant. It¡¯s not her fault!¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Fortunately, my wife didn¡¯t go and take a look!¡±


    ¡°I also saw that aunt. Unfortunately, she was wearing a veil, so I didn¡¯t see her clearly.¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration.


    That voice made her feel like a fishbone was stuck in her throat, but she couldn¡¯t remember who it was.


    ¡°Also, from the conversation between that aunt and Luoyin, Fragrant Teahouse is about to close down.¡±


    Actually, Shen Yijia wanted to say that this matter could not be delayed any longer. Otherwise, the women who were being punished would really die.


    However, she didn¡¯t want to pressure Song Jingchen.


    ¡°It should be because of Chen Duo¡¯er,¡± Song Jingchen analyzed. Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s eagerness, he rubbed her head and comforted her. ¡°I¡¯ll enter the palace in two days.¡±


    His luck was better than Shen Yijia¡¯s. The first room had a big fish in it.


    He had previously guessed that the mastermind had promised the old prince some benefits before he provided the place.


    However, he did not expect that the person who was rumored to have a deep relationship with his wife and did not abandon her after soaring into the sky had such a hobby in private.


    Thinking of what he had seen, Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and asked worriedly, ¡°Hubby, what did you see?¡±


    This appearance was quite scary!


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and regained his usual calmness. He pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯m just a little angry to hear you say that.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia felt that he was lying.


    However, Song Jingchen clearly wouldn¡¯t tell her about those dirty things.


    He only said that he had seen the old prince.


    ¡°Are you prepared to attack the old prince?¡± Xuanyuan Ce glanced at their clasped hands and asked.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°The old prince isn¡¯t a smart person.¡±


    According to Mo Ying, in the entire Fragrant Teahouse, only that aunt and the old prince knew who the mastermind was.


    However, they did not know who that aunt was at all. The fastest way was the old king.


    In addition, Shen Yijia was right. This matter could not be delayed any longer.


    Although they had successfully escaped today, they had alerted the enemy.


    Who knew if that lunatic would kill all those women to silence them like before?


    Therefore, they could not wait any longer!


    After leaving Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s residence, Shen Yijia specially went to the wine shop to tell Pinellia about this. She handed her the banknotes Mo Ying had given her before returning home with Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen said that they couldn¡¯t wait any longer. Shen Yijia thought that he had to make a plan before taking action. Unexpectedly, as soon as she lay down, South Wind knocked on the door.


    Then, she saw four people in the cellar other than Chen Duo¡¯er.


    Three of them were tied up and thrown to the ground.


    An old man about the same age as Dean Lu was tied to a chair.


    Although she had never seen him before, Shen Yijia immediately guessed this person¡¯s identity¡ªthe old prince!

 Chapter 582 - 582 Scandal (1)

    582 Scandal (1)


    This cellar was originally used by Shen Yijia to hide ice. After the temperature in the capital dropped, the family stopped buying ice, so this place was empty.


    Chen Duo¡¯er was leaning against the chair and sleeping soundly when she was woken up by the commotion around her. When she opened her eyes and saw the old prince, she was so frightened that her pupils constricted.


    Song Jingchen saw her expression. Chen Duo¡¯er didn¡¯t tell him about the old prince previously. Did she not know his identity or was she deliberately hiding it?


    He thought for a moment and waved his hand to get someone to bring Chen Duo¡¯er out first. Then, he looked at the old prince and asked, ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    ¡°He should have fainted from shock.¡± With that, South Wind went out and brought in a basin of water. He poured it on the old prince.


    The person who had fainted woke up with a shudder. ¡°Assassin, there¡¯s an assassin!¡±


    The exclamation stopped when he saw Song Jingchen. He moved his hands and feet and realized that his entire body was tied up. There was nothing he didn¡¯t understand. He said angrily, ¡°Earl Zhongyi, how dare you kidnap me?¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia to sit down in the chair opposite him and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m saving Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Save me?¡± The old prince was stunned for a moment before sneering. ¡°What a joke. You¡¯d better let me go immediately. I can let bygones be bygones today. Otherwise¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer him. He suppressed the disgust in his heart and asked, ¡°Your Highness, do you know why Your Majesty summoned me back to the capital?¡±


    The old prince did not know why he was asking this. He sneered. ¡°Isn¡¯t it because you contributed to saving Xunyang City? Don¡¯t think that you can do whatever you want with this. Murdering a relative of the emperor is a crime punishable by nine generations.¡±


    If not for the fact that his hands were trembling, Shen Yijia would have thought that he was as calm as he appeared.


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I¡¯m afraid only Your Highness believes this reason, right?¡±


    The old prince was a little annoyed by his gaze, but he had no choice but to lower his head. He frowned and said, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Someone in the royal family is secretly capturing young women in various places for the sake of building their influence. Coincidentally, I obtained a picture book in Xunyang City. The emperor summoned me back to investigate this case.¡±


    When he said this, Song Jingchen had been paying attention to the old prince and didn¡¯t miss the shock on his face.


    It seemed that the mastermind did not tell him about this.


    That was true. If the old king knew that the emperor was already investigating this case, he would definitely not let those women stay in his Fragrant Teahouse and openly patronize it.


    ¡°So what if you¡¯re investigating a case? What has it got to do with me?¡± Even though he tried his best to hide it, his words were clearly worried.


    ¡°Your Highness, if there¡¯s no evidence, where would I have the guts to treat you like this?¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to beat around the bush anymore. He reminded him, ¡°Your Highness, don¡¯t forget where my men invited you from.¡±


    What kind of bullsh*t ¡°invitation¡± was that? It was clearly a kidnapping!


    The old prince wanted to curse, but when he thought about how he had just left the Fragrant Teahouse and was tied up here, he knew that the matter of the Fragrant Teahouse had already been exposed. His expression changed and he gritted his teeth. ¡°So what if the Fragrant Teahouse has a secret? The women inside were all bought by me. The reason why I want to hide it is because I¡¯m thinking about the royal family¡¯s reputation.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t worried that those women would betray him. It was just a brothel. Even if Song Jingchen reported this matter to the emperor, the emperor would at most ask him to close Fragrant Teahouse.


    Moreover, the fact that Song Jingchen had captured him here meant that he had only found the women in Fragrant Teahouse. He didn¡¯t have any concrete evidence. Otherwise, why didn¡¯t he report it directly?


    The more he thought about it, the more confident the old prince became. His hands stopped trembling.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°So you¡¯re the only master of Fragrant Teahouse?¡±


    ¡°Hmph,¡± the old king said coldly. ¡°Who in the capital doesn¡¯t know whose property the Fragrant Teahouse is?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and instructed South Wind. Soon, Chen Duo¡¯er was brought back. ¡°Does Your Highness know her?¡±


    As soon as Chen Duo¡¯er saw the old king, she kept hiding behind him, not even daring to look him in the eye. The old king only glanced at her before looking away. ¡°I don¡¯t know her.¡±


    There were so many women in the Fragrant Teahouse. Even if he had seen her before, he might not remember her, let alone Chen Duo¡¯er, who was disheveled now.


    ¡°But she came from Fragrant Teahouse. Without her, I wouldn¡¯t have been able to find out about Fragrant Teahouse.¡± Song Jingchen waved his hand. South Wind took out Chen Duo¡¯er¡¯s confession and showed it to the old prince.


    ¡°You¡¯ve seen him?¡±


    This question was directed at Chen Duo¡¯er.


    Chen Duo¡¯er¡¯s body trembled and she hurriedly nodded. ¡°Yes, I have.¡±

 Chapter 583 - 583 Scandal (2)

    583 Scandal (2)


    Thinking of how Song Jingchen addressed this person, she quickly explained, ¡°But I didn¡¯t know his identity before.¡±


    Not everyone would listen obediently after entering the Fragrant Teahouse. Some chose to escape or hang themselves, while others pretended to be obedient and secretly asked for help when they received guests. However, those so-called guests were all in cahoots with them, so no matter which one it was, they had never succeeded.


    Then, those people would be sent to the backyard to receive punishment.


    In order to warn the others, every time this happened, they would take turns to be tortured. The so-called criminal law was to be tortured to death by one or more men.


    She had seen the old prince because after every woman who made a mistake was sent over, he had to choose first. He would choose before giving the rest of the women to others.


    Seeing that she didn¡¯t seem to be lying, Song Jingchen waved his hand and got someone to bring her away.


    ¡°That¡¯s slander! I don¡¯t know her at all.¡± The old prince had already finished reading the confession. He flew into a rage out of humiliation and said, ¡°Song Jingchen, don¡¯t think that you can convict me just because you spouted nonsense to a random woman.¡±


    ¡°I have both witnesses and evidence. Do you think His Highness will believe you?¡± Song Jingchen said indifferently. ¡°Besides, I said that I¡¯m saving Your Highness.¡±


    Naturally, the emperor would not believe his empty words.


    The old prince knew that he had fallen for Song Jingchen¡¯s trap this time. He only smiled coldly at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°I know that Your Highness was also used by someone.¡± Song Jingchen looked at him sympathetically and said patiently, ¡°I have a picture book in my hand, including the case His Majesty asked me to investigate. That person knows that not only did he send people to stop me from entering the capital, but he also eliminated all the women in Xunyang City immediately. However, he didn¡¯t tell His Highness about this. He clearly plans to make Your Highness the scapegoat once the matter gets exposed.¡±


    His analysis made the old king¡¯s expression change again. He seemed to have thought of something and snorted. ¡°Then go ahead and tell my good nephew. However, if you want to know something from me, you¡¯ve miscalculated.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. The old prince¡¯s behavior was unexpected.


    Actually, he could not understand why the old prince wanted to participate in these things.


    He had neither contributed nor made any mistakes in his life, nor had he ever interfered in the affairs of the imperial court. It could be said that no matter who became the emperor, his life would not be difficult.


    If he had a child, it could be said that he was planning for his descendants. However, everyone in Great Xia knew that the prince only had one daughter. It couldn¡¯t be for his grandson, right?


    Thinking of this, Song Jingchen paused. The outside world said that the old prince and the old princess consort were deeply in love, and there wasn¡¯t even a concubine in the residence. However, what he saw last night was clearly not the case. It could be that the old princess consort didn¡¯t give birth to a son for him, but what about other women?


    If he really had such a son, that person would definitely be unable to raise his head as an illegitimate son of the royal family.


    No, it was normal to take in concubines. If such a woman really existed, the old prince could have passed her by when she was pregnant. There was no need to hide it at all. It couldn¡¯t be to leave a loving reputation for everyone, right?


    What was the reason why he would rather bear such a huge accusation than reveal the true mastermind?


    Song Jingchen was a little frustrated. As long as the old prince didn¡¯t relent, he couldn¡¯t report this matter to the authorities. Otherwise, he would have to let the true mastermind off.


    ¡°You¡¯re willing to die for a person who can push you out to take the blame at any time. Those who don¡¯t know better would think that he¡¯s your son,¡± Shen Yijia said disdainfully.


    Song Jingchen at most suspected that the old prince had an heir who didn¡¯t exist. He cooperated with that person to pave the way for him, but he didn¡¯t dare to think about it as much as Shen Yijia.


    However, it was Shen Yijia¡¯s casual mockery that instantly made the old prince¡¯s expression change. Although he hid it very quickly, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen still saw it.


    There was no mistaking the flash of shock.


    The two of them looked at each other in disbelief. According to the clues they got from Old Master Liu, this was done by a certain prince.


    The old prince couldn¡¯t have slept with his niece-in-law and even gotten her pregnant, right?


    This was too terrifying. Would they be silenced if they knew about a scandal like the royal family?


    ¡°Nonsense!¡± The old prince started to curse when he reacted. However, Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia out of the cellar.


    He tried his best to calm down. He took a pen and paper and wrote down the ages of all the princes. He began to analyze the possibilities.


    Ever since the late emperor passed away, the old prince rarely entered the palace, let alone stayed overnight. It was obvious that it was impossible for him to have an affair with the women in the intermediate palace.


    When the late emperor was around, he often asked his only brother to enter the palace to talk to him. Sometimes, he even stayed overnight. However, at that time, the emperor, who was still the crown prince, had not had children yet.


    ¡°No,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Song Jingchen circled Shangguan Pu¡¯s name. Shangguan Pu was 21 years old this year, and this year was the 21st year of Chong¡¯an.


    He looked at Shen Yijia with a burning gaze. ¡°If your guess is right, only the Eldest Prince fits the bill.¡±


    At that time, it was true that the emperor did not have any children. However, two months after the late emperor passed away, Noble Consort Liu revealed that she was three months pregnant.


    On the other hand, the late emperor¡¯s health had already deteriorated a month before his death. The old prince was worried about him and basically stayed in the palace for that month.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Can I say that I was just spouting nonsense?¡±


    ¡°Master, someone sent a letter.¡± One Dot¡¯s voice suddenly sounded from outside the door.


    Delivering a letter at night?


    Song Jingchen let One Dot in. The letter was tied to a stone. He untied it and opened it to see the contents.


    He tightened his grip and asked with a frown, ¡°Who sent it?¡±


    ¡°I was on night duty in the gatehouse when someone suddenly threw this in. I went out to check, but I didn¡¯t see anyone.¡±


    Shen Yijia leaned over curiously and was also shocked. ¡°Is everything written here true?¡±

 Chapter 584 - 584 Admitting The Truth (1)

    584 Admitting The Truth (1)


    After asking, Shen Yijia immediately frowned. ¡°This letter was sent at the right time. Does that mean that the person who sent the letter saw everything we¡¯ve done recently?¡±


    This was also what Song Jingchen was thinking. This letter came after he kidnapped the old prince.


    At least the other party knew what he was investigating and that the old prince was currently in his hands.


    However¡­


    ¡°Regardless of whether the other party is a friend or foe, if what it says is true, the old prince should also be kept in the dark,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Now that he thought about it, the reason why they found out about the Fragrant Teahouse was because of the information provided by the old man who fished. After that, it was the undergarment that came out of the Fragrant Teahouse with a special fragrance. These seemingly small clues pushed him to investigate further.


    Also, someone must have deliberately exposed the female corpse of the Wutong River.


    However, Song Jingchen felt that something was wrong. There was basically only one clue for him to investigate, but today¡¯s letter was different from the vague reminder from before.


    In short, if there was really such a person, they clearly did not want him to notice their existence. However, this letter would mean that they had no such concerns anymore.


    Wasn¡¯t this inconsistent?


    No matter how he looked at it, it didn¡¯t seem like the same person did it.


    How many underhanded people were there?


    Song Jingchen felt a headache coming on.


    A cold hand pressed against his glabella. Song Jingchen came back to his senses and met Shen Yijia¡¯s worried eyes. He relaxed and grabbed that hand. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Let¡¯s resolve the matter at hand first.¡±


    This case had to be resolved. They couldn¡¯t be restrained because of the unknown. As for the others, be it friend or foe, they would have to show their faces at some point.


    When the two of them returned to the cellar, the old prince¡¯s mouth was already gagged, but he was still whimpering.


    South Wind explained, ¡°He¡¯s been making a fuss, so I¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t say anything about taking off the cloth. He sat down opposite the old prince and said firmly, ¡°It¡¯s Lord Jing, right?¡±


    The old prince¡¯s pupils dilated and he shook his head repeatedly.


    ¡°It seems that I was right.¡± Song Jingchen ignored him and placed the letter on the table in front of him. He said, ¡°But Your Highness probably doesn¡¯t know that apart from Princess Leyang, it¡¯s impossible for you to have any other children in your life.¡±


    After hearing his grandfather¡¯s praise for the late emperor, Song Jingchen had always thought that he was different from today. He was a person who knew how to use people, was loyal, and had tolerance for others. However, reality told him that this was not the case. Perhaps the people in power always became more suspicious.


    However, some people hid it very well, such as the late emperor.


    The old king¡¯s heart tightened. He stopped struggling and stood rooted to the ground.


    Song Jingchen gestured for Mo Yuan to take his pulse.


    As soon as the restraints on his hands were undone, the old prince took off the cloth in his mouth. ¡°How dare you? What are you going to do to me?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, aren¡¯t you curious about what I meant just now?¡±


    The old prince narrowed his eyes and stopped resisting.


    After ten minutes, Mo Yuan let go and said expressionlessly, ¡°His body was severely damaged by tiger and wolf medicine in his early years. It¡¯s impossible for him to impregnate a woman.¡±


    The old prince was already in his fifties, so the early years that Mo Yuan was talking about naturally wouldn¡¯t be in the past ten years.


    The old prince glanced at Mo Yuan and sneered. ¡°She¡¯s your person. You naturally have the final say.¡±


    At this moment, he had even forgotten to clarify his relationship with Lord Jing. Clearly, he wasn¡¯t as indifferent to Song Jingchen¡¯s words as he seemed.


    Song Jingchen gestured for South Wind to show him the letter on the table. He said with a complicated expression, ¡°You had Princess Leyang a year after you married the old princess consort. Later on, the late emperor brought you to the capital and you enjoyed endless wealth. Unfortunately, the old princess consort has never been pregnant since then. I think you¡¯ve not only doted on the old princess consort all these years. Have you never thought about why no one could get pregnant with your child?¡±


    The letter was about the old king being drugged by the late emperor.


    The late emperor might indeed care about this younger brother, but he was also worried about him. In order to prevent him from being blinded by power, he got someone to secretly drug him in the first year he brought him to the capital, completely cutting off the possibility of continuing his bloodline.


    Song Jingchen even felt that it was a good thing that Princess Leyang was a woman. Otherwise, the old prince probably wouldn¡¯t even be able to protect his only son.


    It was no wonder that as soon as the old king entered the capital, the late emperor conferred him a fiefdom. He ignored the minister¡¯s advice and was not worried that it would raise his appetite.

 Chapter 585 - 585 Admitting The Truth (2)

    585 Admitting The Truth (2)


    He didn¡¯t even have an heir. Even if he had an idea, no one would support him.


    ¡°Nonsense. These are all fake. It¡¯s impossible for Brother to do this.¡± The old king snatched the letter from South Wind¡¯s hand crazily and tore the thin piece of paper into pieces. His eyes were red with anger as he said, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about sowing discord here. Let me tell you, not only do I have a son, but my son will also ascend to the throne in the future and sit in the supreme position of Great Xia.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Tsk tsk, how pitiful. First, you were poisoned by your trusted brother, then you were deceived by your nephew. My hubby told you the truth out of kindness, but you didn¡¯t believe him. Now, you¡¯re still dreaming. You deserve to be tricked.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, he¡¯s so stupid. Let¡¯s not help him. Let¡¯s just send him to the palace. Anyway, it¡¯s considered a meritorious deed for you to investigate this case.¡± She blinked and thought of something. She asked curiously, ¡°The crime of abducting a young girl and controlling the court officials should be enough to execute his entire family, right? However, his entire family won¡¯t be involved if there¡¯s too many people. At most, there¡¯ll be an old princess consort and the entire Prince¡¯s residence. By the way, it¡¯s said that a married woman shouldn¡¯t be punished. Princess Leyang shouldn¡¯t be implicated, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the old prince and coughed lightly to explain, ¡°Even if a married woman doesn¡¯t deserve to be punished, it depends on the situation. Not only will the old prince not be pardoned, but Princess Leyang¡¯s family will also be implicated.¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t that mean that daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren will also be beheaded? How pitiful.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head sympathetically.


    ¡°A pitiful person must have something hateful about them.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head and pulled Shen Yijia up. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Let¡¯s go back and sleep first. I¡¯ll bring him to the palace tomorrow morning.¡±


    Once the news of the old prince¡¯s disappearance spread, there would probably be other changes in the Fragrant Teahouse.


    Seeing that the two of them were really about to leave, the old prince came back to his senses and hurriedly called out, ¡°Wait.¡±


    Shen Yijia secretly grinned at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen pinched her hand in amusement and turned to look at the old prince. ¡°Your Highness, don¡¯t worry about Lord Jing. Without evidence, I naturally won¡¯t implicate him.¡±


    The old prince choked and said with a red face, ¡°I don¡¯t trust your people. Call a few more doctors to take my pulse.¡±


    His residence had many doctors, and even the imperial physicians had taken his pulse. Why had no one ever mentioned this?


    However, it was normal. He was a prince. Even if those people found out, who would dare to tell him that he couldn¡¯t have children?


    They would be courting death.


    Song Jingchen could tell that he was already inclined to believe him, but he couldn¡¯t accept it for the time being.


    But¡­ did he have to give him time to digest it?


    ¡°Won¡¯t Your Highness suspect that I bribed them in advance?¡± Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°Since Your Highness is already prepared to take the blame, just wait to enter the palace with me tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°How dare you?¡± the old prince said angrily. ¡°You clearly know that I¡¯m just an accomplice, but you still insist on pinning the blame on me. You¡¯re lying to the emperor.¡±


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one who deceived the emperor? You personally admitted that you¡¯re the master of the Fragrant Teahouse.¡±


    He was just short of saying directly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one rushing to have a death wish?¡± You were just fulfilling your love for your son.


    The old prince thought to himself, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed closely behind and continued to poke at his heart. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you think your good son will save you? The matter hasn¡¯t even erupted yet, but he¡¯s already prepared to let you take the blame at any time. You¡¯re still hoping for him to save you. You should go to the netherworld and wait.¡±


    She deliberately emphasized the words ¡°good son.¡±


    The old prince was so angry that he was out of breath. He pointed at Shen Yijia and her husband and could not say anything for a long time.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m tired. Let¡¯s go back to our room and sleep.¡±


    With that, she pulled Song Jingchen away. In the blink of an eye, the two of them had already arrived at the cellar door.


    The old prince gritted his teeth. ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    This time, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t turn around. He said coldly, ¡°My wife is sleepy. If there¡¯s nothing else, Your Highness, please stop.¡±


    ¡°Do you swear that you didn¡¯t lie to me? Moreover, as long as I say it, you can protect me?¡±


    Protect him? Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile. With what he had done to those innocent women, how could he do that? Dream on.


    He did not say anything and continued walking out with Shen Yijia.


    The old prince could not stay calm anymore. ¡°I¡¯ll talk, I¡¯ll talk. Come back.¡±


    The couple returned ¡°reluctantly¡± and sat back in their chairs. They looked at the old prince in unison and listened attentively.


    Seeing them like this, the old prince felt that he had been tricked. However, he remembered that that person clearly knew that the emperor was investigating, but he didn¡¯t reveal any information to him. In addition, he had never let any woman get pregnant in so many years. There was no reason for him to fall for that woman¡¯s trick. He gritted his teeth. ¡°You¡¯re right. It¡¯s indeed Lord Jing. All of this was planned by Lord Jing. I was just providing him with convenience.¡±


    The Fragrant Teahouse had the calligraphy treasure bestowed by the late emperor, and he was not related to the government. These were all invisible barriers.


    ¡°When did you and Noble Consort Liu¡­¡± Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t say it, but his meaning was obvious.


    The old prince was a bastard, but it was still a little embarrassing for him to say that he had slept with his niece-in-law. He stammered, ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Anyway, we still have a night to listen to you.¡±


    The old prince thought to himself, ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that you were sleepy?¡±


    He glanced at Song Jingchen. Seeing that he didn¡¯t mind a woman interrupting at all, he could only explain what had happened back then.


    When he first entered the capital, he was just a young boy. Looking at those noble ladies, it was not that he had no intention of repudiating his wife and remarrying.


    However, the late emperor did not agree. He only agreed to let him marry a secondary consort.

 Chapter 586 - 586 Assassinating the Emperor (1)

    586 Assassinating the Emperor (1)


    In any case, they would both be his women, so a secondary consort was fine.


    Unexpectedly, those women looked respectful to him on the surface, but behind his back, they all mocked him for being an illiterate bumpkin. After bumping into him a few times, he temporarily gave up on this thought.


    ¡°If you look down on me, why should I give you wealth?¡± he thought.


    This was what he had thought back then, so the matter of the secondary consort was left unsettled.


    It was unknown when it started, but the people began to spread rumors about him and the princess consort being deeply in love. Everyone praised him.


    The overwhelming praise made him proud on one hand, but at the same time, it forced him to completely give up on the idea of taking a concubine.


    He could not compare to his noble brother in other aspects. At least he was stronger than him in this aspect, right?


    He had been living with the princess consort for a few years, but there had been no movement in the princess consort¡¯s stomach. He couldn¡¯t possibly have no descendants, right?


    In fact, the princess consort was the one who arranged the women for him in the beginning. After tasting the sweetness, he couldn¡¯t stop himself. So what if those women looked down on him? Wouldn¡¯t they have to wag their tails and beg for mercy under him?


    However, no matter how many women he doted on, none of them could get pregnant.


    It was not until the late emperor was seriously ill that he was worried and moved into the palace.


    At that time, he was still in his prime. How could he tolerate being there for so long? When he was drunk, he thought that he had slept with a palace maid, but he actually violated Concubine Liu, who was delivering soup to the crown prince, who was busy supervising the country.


    If it was just a palace maid, he would have secretly killed her. However, she was the crown prince¡¯s concubine, the future emperor¡¯s woman. He did not have the guts.


    The other party begged him not to spread this matter and pretend that it had never happened. This was exactly what he wanted, so he naturally agreed.


    He originally thought that he would keep this matter to himself forever. Unexpectedly, not long after, the news of Madam Liu¡¯s pregnancy spread. At that time, the emperor, who had just ascended the throne, had an unstable position.


    Madam Liu¡¯s child, regardless of gender, came at the right time. This was how she got the position of Noble Consort.


    When everyone was happy for the emperor, he didn¡¯t think so anymore. It had been exactly three months since that time. He couldn¡¯t care less. He tried his best to enter the palace to seek confirmation from Imperial Concubine Liu, but she denied it.


    He couldn¡¯t tell if he was glad or disappointed. In short, he didn¡¯t look for Imperial Concubine Liu again.


    In order to have a son who could continue the family line, he had been debauched for half his life. When he no longer had any hope, he received a letter from Imperial Concubine Liu, so these things happened.


    In the end, he was told that he had long been drugged by the late emperor. That was not his son at all.


    If not for this, he would at most have played with women in his residence. How could he have gotten involved in such a dangerous matter? The more the old prince thought about it, the angrier he became.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and glanced at him disdainfully. ¡°No wonder he wanted you to take the blame. Firstly, no matter if news of you and Imperial Concubine Liu spread, it would be a stain on her reputation. Imperial Concubine Liu definitely wants you dead.¡±


    ¡°Secondly, Lord Jing isn¡¯t your son. Even if he is, he¡¯s the product of your incest. He¡¯ll try his best to kill you, even if it¡¯s for himself. Coincidentally, he has a use for you. He¡¯ll make use of your last bit of value before letting you die. Wouldn¡¯t that be the best of both worlds?¡±


    ¡°In any case, no matter which one it is, the ones who want you to die the most are the mother and son. You¡¯re actually stupid enough to have such a beautiful dream. You¡¯ve lived most of your life in vain.¡± After analyzing the situation, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen proudly. ¡°Hubby, am I right?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°Yes, you¡¯ve become smarter.¡±


    She made the old prince feel embarrassed and angry. He was even told that he was wasting his life. Song Jingchen even agreed. The old prince was so angry that his eyes rolled back and he fainted.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I can finally sleep.¡±


    The Fragrant Teahouse was on fire. Thick smoke soared into the sky, visible to most of the capital.


    When Shen Yijia heard this news, she was still stunned.


    After confirming that Mo Yuan was not joking with her, her heart sank bit by bit.


    Could it be because she had alerted the enemy last night?


    She thought about how there were so many women below, including Pinellia¡¯s sister. She promised that she would save her.


    Shen Yijia quickly got out of bed, put on her clothes, and walked out. ¡°By the way, where¡¯s my husband?¡±


    ¡°Young Master brought that old prince into the palace an hour ago. Miss slept late last night, so Young Master didn¡¯t wake you up,¡± Mo Yuan said as she followed her.

 Chapter 587 - 587 Assassinating the Emperor (2)

    587 Assassinating the Emperor (2)


    An hour later, they should have just arrived at the palace gate.


    Shen Yijia frowned. The old prince was in their hands. Only Lord Jing could attack the Fragrant Teahouse at this time.


    But was it because she alerted someone last night or because Lord Jing found out about their plan?


    For some reason, an ominous feeling rose in her heart.


    ¡°Young Madam, are you going out? I¡¯ll prepare the carriage.¡± Thirty Thousand was guarding the gatehouse today.


    Shen Yijia felt the uneasiness in her heart grow stronger and stronger. She shook her head and instructed, ¡°Go to the palace immediately and see if you can send a message to your master. Even if you can¡¯t, you have to get the news from inside immediately¡­ No, you can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°You Yi, quick, go¡­¡± Shen Yijia was about to cry from anxiety, but she did not even know what she was worried about.


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s mouth twitched. He couldn¡¯t do it!


    However, seeing that Shen Yijia was in such a hurry that she was not in the mood to dwell on this matter, she also became worried. Only his master could make Young Madam like this.


    Apart from Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen, You Yi had never appeared in front of anyone else. However, they often heard Shen Yijia call him by this name and guessed that she had an expert by her side.


    There was a fluctuation in the air. Shen Yijia knew that You Yi had already gone, so she did not ask Thirty Thousand to prepare the carriage. She ran towards the Fragrant Teahouse.


    Those people were innocent, but they were also witnesses. They could not die.


    When Shen Yijia arrived, the periphery of the Fragrant Teahouse was filled with people. The fire had already been extinguished. There was only a frame left in the teahouse, and there were still sporadic sparks licking it.


    From time to time, she could hear people discussing.


    ¡°Why would there be a fire out of nowhere?¡±


    ¡°Who knew that it would suddenly burn up before the door opened?¡±


    ¡°What about the people inside?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°They didn¡¯t come out. None of them came out. Look over there. They were all dug up by the city guards. They¡¯re still digging inside.¡±


    Shen Yijia subconsciously looked in the direction the person was pointing. There were already many corpses that had been burned beyond recognition.


    ¡°Miss,¡± Mo Yuan reminded her.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and squeezed through the crowd into the backyard.


    The backyard was not spared either. The original small loft was burned to ashes, leaving only a few black stone pillars lying alone.


    She remembered that her beautiful husband had said that the entrance was in the loft.


    Without thinking, Shen Yijia moved the stone pillars away one by one.


    Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand also went forward to help, but they realized that it was a little difficult for the two of them to carry one. Then, they looked at their Young Madam.


    The two of them, who had long seen Shen Yijia¡¯s strength, were shocked.


    The others who had never seen it before widened their mouths and widened their eyes when they saw a little girl moving such a huge stone pillar so easily.


    ¡°Is she even human?¡± they thought.


    By the time everyone came back to their senses, Shen Yijia had already moved away the stone pillars and the remaining wooden beams in the loft.


    The commander of the city guards shouted, ¡°What are you doing? Don¡¯t cause trouble here. Get out quickly.¡±


    Shen Yijia was squatting there in a daze, ignoring him.


    After moving it away, she saw a normal floor. There were no signs of an entrance at all.


    Could it be that this wasn¡¯t the case?


    She got up to move the other one.


    The commander frowned unhappily and waved his hand. ¡°The few of you, throw them out.¡±


    The people he pointed out were all shocked. ¡°Boss, are you serious? That young lady¡¯s strength¡­¡±


    ¡°Hurry up and go.¡± The commander expected better from someone and kicked each of them.


    Helpless, the few of them could only carefully walk towards Shen Yijia and the other two.


    Seeing this, Mo Yuan and Thirty Thousand put down the stone pillars in their hands and guarded Shen Yijia.


    ¡°There¡¯s someone down there,¡± Shen Yijia suddenly said.


    Everyone was stunned.


    The commander reprimanded, ¡°Nonsense. How can there be anyone underground?¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her head and looked into the commander¡¯s eyes. She said seriously, ¡°There¡¯s really someone here. I heard them shouting ¡®let us out¡¯. If you don¡¯t believe me, listen for yourself.¡±


    Because she was moving those stone pillars, Shen Yijia¡¯s face darkened, but her eyes seemed to be glowing. Coupled with her words, everyone inexplicably felt a chill down their spines.


    The commander felt his hair stand on end. He mustered his courage and gritted his teeth. ¡°Where did this lunatic come from?¡±


    Before he could finish, he saw the strange young lady¡¯s expression change. He subconsciously swallowed the rest of his words.


    Shen Yijia stopped thinking about hitting him. She looked around and picked up the guard closest to her. She pressed him to the ground and said faintly, ¡°Listen, there¡¯s really a sound.¡±

 Chapter 588 - 588 Assassinating the Emperor (3)

    588 Assassinating the Emperor (3)


    If not for the fact that the construction of the tunnel required too many people, she would definitely not have wasted time explaining it to them.


    Seeing that she actually dared to attack his people, the commander quickly waved his hand and got someone to take her down.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as they surrounded him, they heard the guard, who had already turned pale from fear, exclaim, ¡°There¡¯s really someone here.¡±


    ¡°Who would be down there? You must have heard wrongly.¡± The guards looked at each other.


    ¡°Commander, there are people below. They¡¯re shouting for help. Hurry up and save them.¡± The guard jumped up and casually picked up a wooden stick to start digging.


    He did not look like he was pretending at all. The others also leaned forward to listen. As expected, they heard a weak voice, and it came from more than one person.


    Could it be that someone was buried alive inside?


    Everyone did not dare to delay any longer. They picked up the things around them and squatted down to dig.


    The commander¡¯s facial muscles twitched a few times. When he looked at the strange young lady again, she was already moving other stone pillars.


    After some thought, he ran out to get someone and tools for digging.


    Everyone picked up the materials. By the time Shen Yijia moved all the stone pillars away, a few pits had already been dug up by them.


    However, what lay below was not the living pit they wanted, nor was it the passageway to the basement that Shen Yijia wanted. Instead, it was a tightly fitted iron plate.


    The cry for help became clearer. It was on the other side of the iron plate.


    Shen Yijia frowned. These definitely did not exist before, and it was impossible for them to be prepared overnight.


    She was even more worried about Song Jingchen¡¯s situation.


    The dozen or so guards held shovels and chiseled for a long time, but there was no movement. Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration and snatched one of them¡¯s shovels.


    She said coldly, ¡°All of you, stand on the ground.¡±


    No one knew what she meant, but they still subconsciously did as she said, including the impressive and awesome commander from before.


    Shen Yijia shook the shovel in her hand, raised it, and stabbed it down.


    The shovel broke, but the iron plate didn¡¯t move.


    It was not that there was no movement at all. Shen Yijia clearly felt something loosen.


    ¡°Give me another one.¡± Shen Yijia reached out and ignored the way everyone looked at the monster.


    A guard beside her swallowed and handed over the shovel in a daze.


    With a loud bang, it broke again.


    Shen Yijia reached out. This time, without her saying anything, someone obediently handed her a shovel.


    Four of them broke. When the fifth one was broken, the iron plate under her feet suddenly fell.


    At the same time, a wave of heat assaulted his face.


    Shen Yijia hurriedly stabbed the shovel into the soil beside her to stabilize herself. She used the momentum to jump to the ground.


    After a few seconds, there was the sound of an iron plate falling to the ground.


    Everyone saw the scene below clearly.


    It was indeed no different from a living person¡¯s pit, but it was a little big.


    From the heat wave just now, it was not difficult to guess that there was a fire inside.


    They sealed all the exits and lit another fire. If there was enough air, the people inside would be burned to death. If there wasn¡¯t enough air, they would suffocate. They would die anyway.


    However, it seemed that they were about to suffocate to death.


    Shen Yijia did not break the other iron plates. She turned around and left.


    She felt that You Yi had returned.


    ¡°Wait, what about the others?¡± someone called out to her.


    Shen Yijia turned around and glanced at the person who spoke. It was the commander. She frowned. ¡°There¡¯s already one opening. Use that.¡±


    With that, she ignored him and quickened her pace away from the crowd.


    As soon as she entered the alley, You Yi appeared in front of her. ¡°The old prince was arrested for attempting to assassinate the emperor. The palace is under martial law.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted and she quickly asked, ¡°What about my husband?¡±


    The old prince was going to confess. How could he stab the useless emperor? Perhaps all of this was a trap.


    ¡°I came back after receiving this news.¡±


    Just now, Shen Yijia had instructed her to send news to Song Jingchen or to spread the news from the palace immediately.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She clenched her fists a few times and wanted to hit someone, but she held back.


    She turned around and ran. Halfway there, she stopped. ¡°Take me home.¡±


    You Yi glanced at her, grabbed her collar, and flew away.


    ¡°Jiajia, where did you go? Why are you like this?¡± Madam Li happened to come out of the kitchen.


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯m fine. I have something to do later.¡± As Shen Yijia spoke, she had already entered Song Jingchen¡¯s study.


    Seeing her anxious expression, Madam Li was worried, but she was afraid of delaying her, so she could only suppress her doubts for the time being.


    In less than ten minutes, Shen Yijia came out. She glanced at Madam Li and forced a smile to comfort her. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll come back with my husband later.¡±


    Madam Li wanted to say that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t be off duty so early, but Shen Yijia was already gone.

 Chapter 589 - 589 Entering the Palace (1)

    589 Entering the Palace (1)


    The carriage sped past Chang¡¯an Avenue. Mo Yuan was driving the carriage.


    Shen Yijia had thought about it. The old prince was so afraid of death. It was definitely impossible for him to try to assassinate the emperor.


    However, the news You Yi heard couldn¡¯t be fake. The old prince had assassinated the emperor, so what could Song Jingchen get from bringing him into the palace?


    There were two possibilities now. One was that the emperor had directed this situation. As the truth of the kidnapping case was revealed and Song Jingchen was no longer useful, the emperor could kick him to the curb since he had outlived his usefulness.


    !!


    As for the old prince, he deserved to die for what he had done. The emperor might as well make a fake assassination attempt to kill two birds with one stone.


    The second possibility was that Lord Jing had learned of the news in advance and attacked the emperor. They were just waiting for Song Jingchen and the old prince to enter the palace to blame them.


    If it was the first point¡­


    Shen Yijia pinched the dagger hidden in her sleeve, and a murderous look appeared in her eyes. If it was really planned by the accursed emperor, she would simply confirm this crime and stab him. At most, she would escape with her beautiful husband and family in the future.


    When Xuanyuan Ziming left, he had invited her to the Xuanyuan Kingdom to play. They could go to the Xuanyuan Kingdom and gain the trust of the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom to bring their troops back.


    Weren¡¯t all the generals in the novels like this? After leaving their hometown, they were recognized by monarchs in a different nation and came back for revenge.


    If it was the second point, the emperor should really be injured at this moment.


    That would be easier. She would bring Mo Yuan to wake the useless emperor up, and Lord Jing¡¯s scheme would fail.


    While she was thinking, the carriage suddenly stopped. Shen Yijia almost rolled out.


    She quickly grabbed the carriage wall to stabilize herself. Through the fluttering curtain, she could see a carriage blocking their way.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Before she could speak, the curtain of the carriage opposite her was lifted, revealing Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s beautiful face. It was a little dark.


    Xuanyuan Ce spoke first. ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    He asked matter-of-factly. Shen Yijia felt puzzled, but when she thought about how this person had helped her many times, she still said concisely, ¡°Into the palace and look for my husband.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce choked. Of course he knew this. In fact, he was here to stop them.


    However, when he met Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes, Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth a few times and wanted to dissuade her. In the end, he sighed. ¡°Get in the carriage.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°No, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you think you can enter the palace by yourself?¡± Xuanyuan Ce knew that she had misunderstood and interrupted her angrily.


    Before he could acknowledge her, his daughter had completely become someone else¡¯s.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and slapped her forehead. She had thought of everything, but she did not consider the most basic point. Without a token, she could not enter the palace.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the palace. Xuanyuan Ce had a temporary token given by the emperor. Usually, the imperial guards guarding the door would let him pass when they saw the token, but this time, they did not.


    The leader of the imperial guards cupped his hands and said, ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an, please forgive me. Lord Jing has ordered that no one is allowed to enter or leave the palace today.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. It seemed that this was her second guess. Even the imperial guards listened to his orders. Perhaps the situation was more serious than she thought.


    Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°Oh? When did Great Xia change its emperor?¡±


    How could he dare to say this? The leader of the imperial guards said vaguely, ¡°We¡¯re just following orders.¡±


    Not to mention that the news of the emperor¡¯s assassination had yet to spread, even if it did, he would not tell Xuanyuan Ce first. What if he felt that this was an opportunity and sent a message back? What if the Xuanyuan Kingdom took the opportunity to send troops to attack Great Xia?


    It had to be said that this leader of the imperial guards was thinking too much. If the Xuanyuan Kingdom really wanted to attack Great Xia, how could an emperor stop them?


    Xuanyuan Ce knocked lightly on the carriage wall. Chu Feng immediately reprimanded, ¡°How dare you? Is my lord an ordinary person? You didn¡¯t even inform him and said that there was an order from above. Could this order be directed at my lord? Is this how Great Xia treats its guests?¡±


    It was clearly a small matter, but he directly linked it to a friendship between the two countries. The leader of the imperial guards knew that this could not be easily dismissed. He thought for a moment and said that he could only ask for instructions.


    ¡°Then hurry up and go.¡± Chu Feng was as arrogant as a tyrant.


    The leader of the imperial guards was unhappy, but he was not stupid. If his master had not spoken, how could a subordinate dare to do this? He had his master backing him up, so no matter how unhappy he was, he could only endure his grievances and make a trip personally.

 Chapter 590 - 590 Entering the Palace (2)

    590 Entering the Palace (2)


    They waited for nearly 15 minutes. Shen Yijia was about to get impatient when she heard Chu Feng remind her in a low voice, ¡°Your Highness, Lord Jing has come out personally.¡±


    With that, he lifted the curtain and Lord Jing arrived.


    The two of them were both lords, but the Xuanyuan Kingdom was stronger than Great Xia. Moreover, Xuanyuan Ce was from an older generation compared to Shangguan Pu, so the other party greeted him first.


    Shen Yijia exploded when she heard this voice. It was difficult for her to resist the urge to go out and beat him up.


    !!


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded coldly and said, ¡°Can I go in now?¡±


    Shangguan Pu paused and cupped his hands. ¡°An assassin appeared in the palace today. For the safety of the emperor, if there¡¯s nothing important¡­¡±


    ¡°I have something important to discuss with your emperor.¡± Xuanyuan Ce got out of the carriage and pointed at the two masked guards behind him. ¡°Catch your assassins. I have someone to protect me. It won¡¯t affect you.¡±


    Shangguan Pu glanced at the two guards calmly and said with a troubled expression, ¡°What a coincidence. My father is unwell today.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°That¡¯s good. I¡¯ve been hosted by Great Xia for so long, so I should visit the emperor of Great Xia when he¡¯s sick. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t I be too rude?¡±


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    Was the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom so bad at reading people¡¯s moods?


    He took a deep breath. ¡°To be honest, my father is actually injured and is still unconscious. Why don¡¯t¡­¡±


    In any case, this matter would spread soon. As long as this person was still in the capital, he would find out. There was no way to hide it.


    Xuanyuan Ce suddenly understood and said considerately, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll just take a look. I won¡¯t disturb your emperor¡¯s recuperation.¡±


    He looked like he had to enter the palace to see the emperor today. Shangguan Pu knew that he couldn¡¯t stop him, so he could only bring them in.


    Along the way, they saw the imperial guards passing by from time to time. They seemed to be looking for someone. Any eunuch or palace maid they encountered on the way had to be stopped and checked.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s first reaction was that they were looking for Song Jingchen.


    Could it be that her beautiful husband had resisted and escaped?


    However, Shen Yijia kept feeling that this wasn¡¯t something Song Jingchen would do. She was extremely frustrated. She had entered the palace, but how was she going to escape the gazes of so many people and find Song Jingchen?


    ¡°What assassin is so powerful that so many people can¡¯t catch him?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked curiously.


    The corners of Shangguan Pu¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°They¡¯re just petty criminals. They have long been caught. However, I was worried that there were still accomplices, so I got someone to search for them carefully.¡±


    It was obvious that he wouldn¡¯t be able to get anything out of him, so Xuanyuan Ce stopped asking.


    The group arrived at Yangxin Hall. It was already surrounded by the imperial guards. Apart from the imperial guards, there were also concubines dressed in red and green guarding the door. All of them were crying with red eyes. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that the emperor had passed away.


    As soon as Shen Yijia walked in, she smelled ginger.


    She looked at the handkerchiefs in the hands of the concubines. One handkerchief might not be so obvious. Dozens of handkerchiefs added up to¡­


    It was a little like soaking in ginger tea.


    Shangguan Pu frowned and looked at Eunuch Deng, who was guarding the door. ¡°Father is injured and needs to recuperate. Send someone to send the ladies back.¡±


    His voice was not soft. At least all the palace concubines present heard it. The sorrowful cries instantly fell silent.


    It was fine if he didn¡¯t let them in, but they couldn¡¯t even cry?


    Eunuch Deng wiped his sweat and swung his horsetail whisk to stand in the middle of the door. ¡°Your Majesties, please.¡±


    At the same time, more than ten powerful eunuchs stood up.


    The meaning was obvious. Should they leave on their own or let someone carry them?


    The consorts also cared about their reputations. If they were carried back, they would not be able to survive in the harem in the future. More than half of the concubines knew the facts. They bowed in the direction of Yangxin Hall and left with their maidservants.


    A small portion of them still wanted to struggle after entering the palace, but faced with Shangguan Pu¡¯s domineering attitude, they could only leave reluctantly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving. Heng¡¯er isn¡¯t in the capital. I want to be filial to his father on his behalf.¡±


    It was Lord Rui¡¯s biological mother, Consort Shu.


    Among the concubines present, she was the only one with a son who had become an adult and was conferred the title of ¡°lord¡±. In other words, only her son had the possibility of fighting for that position.


    The others either had nothing to do, or they only had a son who had not come of age, or daughters. Naturally, they were not as confident as her.

 Chapter 591 - 591 Entering the Palace (3)

    591 Entering the Palace (3)


    Of course, there was another person in the harem who had a son, Concubine Jing. However, the Sixth Prince was still young, and Concubine Jing did not have the ability to fight for him.


    She didn¡¯t appear even after such a big incident today. Clearly, she had given up.


    However, Shangguan Pu did not buy Consort Shu¡¯s words. ¡°Father hasn¡¯t woken up yet. If anything happens, there will be imperial physicians waiting on him. Consort Shu can¡¯t take care of him even if she wants to. It¡¯s better to go back first.¡±


    The concubines, who were originally unwilling to leave, saw that Consort Shu was not doing well. Now, they really did not dare to stay any longer and walked quickly.


    !!


    Shangguan Pu glanced at Eunuch Deng, who immediately walked up to Consort Shu. ¡°Consort Shu, please.¡±


    Consort Shu had a vague guess in her heart. She gritted her teeth and turned to leave.


    After sending the concubines away, Shangguan Pu looked at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°I¡¯ve embarrassed myself in front of an esteemed guest. Please come in.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his eyebrows. Shangguan Pu had clearly done it on purpose for him to see just now, implying that he had the final say in the palace.


    When they walked into Yangxin Hall, they saw Shangguan Yu and Shangguan Yao sitting outside Yangxin Hall. Seeing them, the two of them stood up and greeted Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°Is Father awake?¡± Shangguan Pu asked.


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s gaze paused on the two guards behind Xuanyuan Ce and he shook his head. ¡°No, the imperial physician is still treating Father¡¯s injuries inside.¡±


    ¡°It just so happened that Princess Yong¡¯an went out. Otherwise, she would definitely have been able to save Father.¡± Shangguan Yao¡¯s face was filled with anxiety.


    Shen Yijia frowned. Shangguan Pu and Shangguan Yao were both born by Imperial Concubine Liu, but from the looks of it, Shangguan Yao probably did not know.


    As they spoke, a few imperial physicians walked out of the inner chambers, followed by a few palace maids. Each of them was holding a basin of blood.


    Shangguan Pu stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring Lord Jing¡¯an in to see Father first.¡±


    The sooner they met, the sooner Xuanyuan Ce would leave.


    Shen Yijia followed behind Xuanyuan Ce silently. Shangguan Pu glanced at her and wanted to say that there was no need to bring anyone inside.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce had already bypassed him.


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    In the bedchamber, Imperial Concubine Liu sat on a chair by the dragon bed and cried silently. Eunuch Li, who was standing at the side, also looked worried.


    Hearing the commotion, Imperial Concubine Liu turned around. Perhaps because she did not expect an outsider to enter, the expression on her face froze, and tears hung under her eyelashes.


    As soon as Shen Yijia saw her, she thought of her relationship with the old prince. Looking at her pitiful appearance, she felt a chill down her spine.


    Shangguan Pu explained Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s intentions, so Imperial Concubine Liu could only retreat to the side room.


    On the bed, the emperor¡¯s face was pale and he was covered with a blanket. For a moment, it was impossible to tell where he was injured.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s fingers moved slightly. Looking at the situation in the palace, saving this useless emperor was probably in vain.


    This time, Xuanyuan Ce did not go back on his word. He really wanted to take a look, but he had no intention of leaving the palace.


    In the end, it was Shangguan Yu who suggested accompanying him to the imperial garden.


    The group circled around the imperial garden again.


    The imperial guards were still searching.


    Shen Yijia really could not take it anymore. Shangguan Yu only had Lianshan with him. She could knock these two out.


    As for directly asking Shangguan Yu, Shen Yijia had never thought about it. Not to mention that Song Jingchen had mentioned it many times, she could tell from the fact that the late emperor had poisoned the old prince that no one in the royal family could be trusted!


    When she reached the corner of a rockery and noticed that there was no one around, Shen Yijia was about to attack.


    ¡°I think I dropped my jade pendant.¡± Xuanyuan Ce stopped and searched his body for a while. He frowned and instructed, ¡°Help me look for it.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and looked up to meet Shangguan Yu¡¯s gaze. She frowned and lowered her eyes.


    Shangguan Yu retracted his gaze and smiled gently. ¡°Do you want me to get a few people to help look for it?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just an ordinary jade pendant. There¡¯s no need to mobilize so many people.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a blessing to be able to find it. If I can¡¯t find it, it means that I have no fate with it.¡± After saying that, he waved at Shen Yijia to hurry up. ¡°Come back early.¡±


    ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an is wise.¡± Shangguan Yu smiled and sighed. He pointed at a pavilion not far away. ¡°Why don¡¯t you sit there and wait?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°Indeed, I¡¯m tired from walking.¡±


    Shen Yijia walked all the way back and stopped when there was no one around. She called out softly, ¡°You Yi.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, You Yi appeared in front of her.


    ¡°Have you found my husband?¡±


    You Yi shook his head. ¡°No, but I found the place where the old prince was imprisoned. He¡¯s the only one inside.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know if she should heave a sigh of relief or worry. She thought for a moment and began to undress.


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°So that¡¯s what you¡¯re like.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. She took off her guard uniform in no time and revealed her own clothes.


    She took off her mask and threw it to You Yi. ¡°Put it on and go back to your master.¡±


    If she left for too long and did not return, Shangguan Yu would definitely suspect her.


    You Yi was speechless.

 Chapter 592 - 592 Reversal (1)

    592 Reversal (1)


    Coincidentally, there was no morning court assembly today, so the news of the emperor¡¯s assassination only spread in the palace for the time being. In less than two hours, the entire palace was alarmed, and the imperial guards were everywhere.


    Shen Yijia carefully avoided those people and tried her best to pick a path. Although she didn¡¯t know where Song Jingchen was, she believed that he wouldn¡¯t stay in a crowded place.


    However, as the saying went, the more one was afraid of something, the more it would happen.


    She walked out of a small path in a rockery and saw a few people surrounding a waterside pavilion not far away.


    !!


    She would never admit that it was because she didn¡¯t know the way!


    ¡°Princess, wait a moment. I¡¯ll call someone over now.¡±


    ¡°Then hurry up and go.¡±


    This voice¡­ Who else could it be but Princess Linghui?


    Shen Yijia frowned. Indeed, as the saying went, when one was unlucky, they would have trouble even drinking water.


    She felt that describing her current self was the most appropriate.


    She had heard of many troublesome deeds of Princess Linghui and had seen them before, so she did not want to fight her. She silently turned around and prepared to return.


    If it was in the past, she would naturally not be afraid of her. However, it was different today. Not to mention whether Princess Linghui would recognize her, there would be more trouble. She did not have the time to argue with her.


    However, there were some things that she could not hide from just because she wanted to.


    ¡°Stop right there.¡±


    A coquettish shout sounded. Shen Yijia pretended that she couldn¡¯t hear it and continued walking.


    Another arrogant voice came from behind. ¡°You in pink, which palace are you from? Didn¡¯t you hear the princess tell you to stop? You¡¯re so unruly.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked down at her dress. Previously, when she was pretending to be Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s guard, her hair was all tied up. After taking off her guard uniform, she felt that it was a little strange and would easily attract attention, so she imitated the palace maids she saw and casually curled up her hair.


    The other party was just short of naming her. Shen Yijia could only turn around and bury her head.


    Princess Linghui glanced at her suspiciously. ¡°Come here.¡±


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and walked over obediently.


    If the other party wanted to die, she couldn¡¯t stop her.


    She did not raise her head. Princess Linghui looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s slightly messy hair and thought that she was a palace maid who had just entered the palace and had yet to learn the rules.


    Naturally, there was a special nanny to punish her for this mistake. She would not lower herself to care about such trivial matters. Princess Linghui turned her head away and instructed, ¡°My handkerchief fell into the water. Go down and pick it up for me.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned her head slightly. A pink handkerchief floated in the middle of the pool. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Where¡¯s the handkerchief? I didn¡¯t see it.¡±


    Princess Linghui had the preconceived notion that the person in front of her was a little maidservant who had never seen the world. She did not think that the other party dared to play with her at all. She frowned and pointed unhappily. ¡°Over there!¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around in the direction she was pointing. She looked around and continued to lie through her teeth. ¡°Where is it? There¡¯s no handkerchief.¡±


    ¡°Right there!¡± Princess Linghui was furious. She clattered to Shen Yijia and leaned against the railing, pointing at a handkerchief not far away. ¡°Isn¡¯t that a handkerchief? Are you blind?¡±


    Accompanied by her last scream was the sound of someone falling into the water.


    The palace maids following Princess Linghui were dumbfounded by this sudden change. When they came back to their senses and wanted to look at the culprit, there was no sign of that person.


    ¡°Help! Help!¡±


    Princess Linghui¡¯s cry for help sounded. Only then did the palace maids scream, ¡°The princess has fallen into the water. Quick, save the princess!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to swim. Who¡¯s going to save the princess?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to swim either.¡±


    ¡°Call someone. Hurry up and call someone over!¡±


    The palace maids pushed each other. The reason why they casually stopped a passing little palace maid just now was because no one among them knew how to swim.


    The palace maids on the waterside pavilion were in complete chaos. It was already October, and the weather was getting colder day by day. One could imagine how cold the lake water was.


    In addition, Princess Linghui did not know how to swim, so she could only struggle in the water.


    Fortunately, the young maidservant who had gone to look for someone to scoop up the handkerchief had returned with her. However, what she wanted to scoop up now was not a handkerchief, but Princess Linghui herself.


    Princess Linghui drank a lot of water. When she was saved, her entire body was trembling. She gritted her teeth and said fiercely, ¡°Go¡­ Go¡­ Capture¡­ that¡­ little b*tch. I¡­ I want her to live a life worse than death¡­¡±


    After saying this, Princess Linghui fainted.

 Chapter 593 - 593 Reversal (2)

    593 Reversal (2)


    The scene was in chaos again. Some shouted to look for the culprit, some shouted to send the princess back to her bedroom, and some shouted to look for the imperial physician.


    In the end, it was Princess Linghui¡¯s personal maidservant who came over to stabilize everyone.


    Naturally, she did not forget to get someone to catch the thief who harmed Princess Linghui.


    Shen Yijia knew that Princess Linghui would not die. After all, there were so many people present and she had guessed that the other party would send someone to capture her immediately. Therefore, after leaving the waterside pavilion, she decisively grabbed a guard walking at the back of the imperial guards and dragged him into the forest.


    !!


    When she came out, she was in men¡¯s attire again.


    She jogged to catch up to the team. The man walking in front of him did not turn around and reminded her softly, ¡°Did you go to the water again? You¡¯ve run so many times in a day. Your health isn¡¯t good, but you have to be careful. Be careful not to be attacked by Captain Lin.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched, but she remained silent.


    However, the person in front was clearly a chatterbox who could withstand the silence from someone else. Perhaps it was because the unlucky person who had been knocked out by Shen Yijia did not talk much to begin with. In any case, she did not find anything wrong with the person in front of her. He continued to complain softly, ¡°Why is this old prince so stubborn? He¡¯s already so old, but he still went to assassinate His Majesty. Does he want to take over the throne himself? Let¡¯s see if he has the ability. Now, not only will his entire family suffer with him, but we¡¯ll also be on tenterhooks here.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you think that he might have been wronged?¡±


    ¡°However, I heard that the old prince was used by someone. The person who really wanted to harm Your Majesty was Earl Zhongyi, who brought him into the palace.¡± This chatterbox seemed to have contracted an illness that would kill him if he didn¡¯t speak. He stared straight ahead and didn¡¯t stop talking. ¡°You¡¯ve just entered the palace. You might not know, but this Earl Zhongyi used to be Young Master Song of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence.¡±


    Shen Yijia, who was a little annoyed by his words, narrowed her eyes. ¡°Continue.¡± she thought.


    The chatterbox did not disappoint her. He shook his head and continued, ¡°Actually, I think so too. The old prince has enjoyed wealth and glory his entire life. There¡¯s no reason for him to assassinate Your Majesty at all. However, Earl Zhongyi is different. Back then, everyone in the Duke¡¯s Residence was either dead or crippled. He must have hated His Majesty. In my opinion, His Majesty is still too benevolent.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned cold. She lowered her head and saw something. Her eyes darted around and she kicked hard with the tip of her foot. A stone rushed towards the chatterbox at a 45-degree angle.


    ¡°Ah!¡± The chatterbox screamed. He covered his crotch and knelt down. His entire body arched in pain.


    ¡°Assassin, there¡¯s an assassin!¡± When the confused people heard this cry of pain, they immediately advanced and surrounded him.


    Shen Yijia also joined them and waited solemnly.


    However, there was not a single bird around, let alone a human.


    The guard at the front walked over with a cold expression.


    Shen Yijia guessed that this should be Captain Lin.


    Why did he look a little familiar?


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Captain Lin asked with a frown.


    The chatterbox¡¯s face twisted in pain. He cried, ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know either. Something suddenly attacked my little brother.¡±


    His appearance made everyone laugh. In order not to appear too maverick, Shen Yijia¡¯s lips twitched, but she sneered.


    Who asked you to be so glib-tongued?


    Captain Lin glanced at everyone unhappily. He squatted down and searched around the chatterbox. Soon, he locked onto the ¡°murder weapon¡±.


    He picked up the stone. In this weather, there would be dew in the morning. The face of the stone would dry up when the wind blew, but the face below would not¡­


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she saw him find the original location of the stone based on the wet marks on its surface.


    That position was a little behind the chatterbox.


    ¡°Who was standing behind him just now?¡± Captain Lin asked coldly.


    Everyone tacitly took a step back.


    Then, Shen Yijia was isolated.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Captain Little Lin turned his gaze over coldly. When he saw her appearance, his gaze froze.


    Shen Yijia was originally hoping that the unlucky person she had knocked out had just arrived. No one had any impression of him, but looking at the captain¡¯s expression¡­


    Her heart sank and she secretly clenched her fists.


    Captain Lin stood up and stared straight at Shen Yijia, as if he wanted to bore a hole through her.

 Chapter 594 - 594 Reversal (3)

    594 Reversal (3)


    ¡°Look, isn¡¯t that Earl Zhongyi?¡±


    At this moment, someone shouted.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She followed everyone¡¯s gaze and saw her beautiful husband walking leisurely in their direction.


    Captain Lin retracted his gaze from Shen Yijia¡¯s face and stood up to look at Song Jingchen.


    !!


    Soon, Song Jingchen arrived in front of him. Beside him was a young man in luxurious clothes. He didn¡¯t look older than Brother Hao.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia calmly when he asked this. There was a hint of worry in the depths of his eyes, but his face was calm, as if he didn¡¯t know that something big had happened in the palace, nor did he know that everyone was looking for him.


    Captain Lin took a step forward and cupped his hands. ¡°Earl Zhongyi, you came at the right time. Please come with us.¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Song Jingchen frowned and sized up the guards who instantly surrounded him. He frowned and asked, ¡°What happened in the palace?¡±


    Seeing that he seemed to really not know, Captain Lin pursed his lips and said, ¡°The old prince tried to assassinate His Majesty. As for the rest, Earl Zhongyi will naturally know when you see His Highness Lord Jing.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± The young man exclaimed, ¡°Why would Imperial Grand-Uncle assassinate Father? Is Father alright?¡±


    This young man was the youngest intermediate prince, the Sixth Prince. He was only eight years old this year.


    He could choose not to answer Song Jingchen¡¯s question, but he couldn¡¯t ignore the sixth prince¡¯s. Captain Lin said respectfully, ¡°Sixth Prince, Your Majesty is still unconscious. As for why the old prince assassinated Your Majesty¡­¡±


    He glanced at Song Jingchen and quickly lowered his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. His Highness Lord Jing arrived in time to prevent the old prince from succeeding.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go see Father now,¡± the Sixth Prince said anxiously. After taking two steps and seeing that no one had moved, he frowned and said, ¡°Aren¡¯t you bringing Brother Song to see Eldest Brother? Eldest Brother should be at Father¡¯s place now, right? Let¡¯s go together.¡±


    Captain Little Lin thought for a moment. At this moment, Lord Jing should still be in Yangxin Hall. Moreover, he didn¡¯t say how to deal with Song Jingchen after finding him, so he nodded.


    He thought of something and looked at the guard on the ground who had yet to recover from the pain. He looked at Shen Yijia with a dark gaze. ¡°Send him back first.¡±


    After instructing him, he reached out to Song Jingchen. ¡°Earl Zhongyi, please.¡±


    Shen Yijia was worried that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to leave, but the latter seemed to have seen through her thoughts and shook his head slightly.


    She also knew that she would definitely be recognized if she went over like this. Not only would she not be able to help, but it would also be even more difficult to explain. She clenched her fists and could only agree.


    Thinking of what she had found in Song Jingchen¡¯s study, Shen Yijia took a few steps forward, picked up the chatterbox on the ground, and pushed him in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction.


    The chatterbox was stunned.


    When others saw this, they thought that Shen Yijia had not stabilized herself. After all, the difference in their bodies was obvious.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze flickered and he went forward to help her.


    ¡°Earl Zhongyi, please forgive me. I didn¡¯t do it on purpose.¡± Shen Yijia lowered her voice and apologized. The two of them surrounded the chatterbox. Using his body as a cover, Shen Yijia stuffed the things in her arms into Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve.


    Noticing the bright yellow color, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes revealed an imperceptible smile. He said gently, ¡°It¡¯s fine. Be careful.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Yes.¡±


    With that, she grabbed the chatterbox¡¯s arm and dragged him away without looking back.


    She walked too quickly. The chatterbox could only arch his body, clench his legs, and try his best to keep up. He looked ridiculous.


    ¡°Brother, slow down.¡± For some reason, the chatterbox was a little afraid of the kid in front of him.


    Due to the sudden situation today, many of the guards who had just been summoned had been temporarily sent out to search. In addition, there were so many people. If not for the original staff, everyone might not have remembered what they looked like.


    Shen Yijia did not forget what this person had said just now. Didn¡¯t he say that the useless emperor was too benevolent to only cripple her beautiful husband¡¯s legs and not exterminate the Song family?


    Since this person liked violence so much, she naturally could not disappoint him.


    Shen Yijia did not like to hold grudges. She usually took revenge on the spot. She smiled coldly. ¡°Sure.¡±


    ¡°Brothers, wait a moment.¡±


    Shen Yijia had just tightened her grip when a sharp voice came from behind. She silently unclenched her fists.


    It seemed that the chatterbox had avoided a disaster.


    More than ten eunuchs walked over. The eunuch in the lead asked, ¡°May I ask if you have seen a little palace maid with messy hair along the way? She¡¯s about this tall.¡±

 Chapter 595 - Chapter 595: Reversal (4)

    Chapter 595: Reversal (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He gestured at the bridge of his nose.


    Shen Yijia stayed silent.


    The chatterbox waited for a while. Seeing that his companion did not speak, he could only say, ¡°I¡¯ve never seen him before.¡±


    After the palace maids and eunuchs found out that the imperial guards were searching, they had long hidden as far away as possible. How could they dare to approach them?


    The eunuch sized up the two of them strangely, his gaze especially lingering on the place where the chatterbox was. ¡°May I know what you¡¯re doing?¡±


    The chatterbox immediately acted like a cat whose tail had been stepped on. He said angrily, ¡°Do we have to report to you when we do things? Tell me, are you complicit in the old prince¡¯s crime and deliberately came to ask for information?¡±


    These eunuchs did not seem to have any status, but they were the most vengeful. Not only were their work relationships complicated, but if they were lucky, they could serve their masters directly. The imperial guards liked to stay in one¡¯s own lane, mind one¡¯s own business, and were unwilling to easily become enemies with them.


    The eunuch choked and smiled awkwardly. ¡°I¡¯m just concerned. Princess Linghui was pushed into the pond by a thief and is still waiting for me to capture that thief. I won¡¯t disturb you.¡±


    In other words, they were here to work for Princess Linghui, not an accomplice of an assassin.


    The chatterbox snorted arrogantly and did not speak.


    The eunuch smiled. When he passed by Shen Yijia, he paused and compared her height.


    Were the requirements for the palace guards so low now?


    ¡°The few of you go over there. The rest of you, follow me.¡± There were two small paths in front. The eunuch instructed them to take one of them.


    He gave up on the main road.


    Did he think that she was hiding? Thinking of the unlucky person she had hung on the rockery, Shen Yijia glanced at the chatterbox beside her and carried him to a small path where the eunuchs had come from.


    ¡°Brother, returning to the barracks isn¡¯t this way.¡± He thought that Shen Yijia


    was new and didn¡¯t know the way.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    She dragged him into the crevice of the rockery.


    ¡°No way, Brother. Are you going easy on me again? Your body is too weak. Look at your age. You haven¡¯t gotten married yet, right? This won¡¯t do. I¡¯ll tell you.¡± Perhaps because the pain in his balls had subsided, the chatterbox began to talk again. ¡°You¡¯re lucky to have met me. I happen to have a prescription on hand. We¡¯re brothers. How about I charge you ten taels of silver?¡±


    What answered him was Shen Yijia¡¯s iron fists.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± The chatterbox was stunned. ¡°What are you doing? You can¡¯t do it so many times a day. I didn¡¯t say anything wrong¡­¡± His mouth was covered.


    Shen Yijia began a new round of boxing.


    Ten minutes later, Shen Yijia knocked him out.


    She clapped her hands and threw him aside. She looked up.


    ¡°Eh, where¡¯s that unlucky fellow?¡± she thought.


    Just as she thought this, You Yi descended from the sky with someone in his arms.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    You Yi originally wanted to listen to Shen Yijia and put on her clothes to return to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s side, but the two of them had overlooked something very important.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s figure¡­


    The clothes had been modified according to Shen Yijia¡¯s height and size. Even if they were of different lengths, he would not be able to wear them.


    Therefore, he could only look for Shen Yijia. He only stopped following her after she knocked out a guard, stripped him, and changed his clothes.


    Shen Yijia watched as he gestured at his clothes. She silently took them and changed into them. At the same time, she returned the unlucky person¡¯s clothes.


    As soon as she walked out of the rockery, she met Xuanyuan Ce and the others.


    ¡°Where have you been for so long?¡± Xuanyuan Ce pretended to be unhappy.


    Shen Yijia lowered her voice. ¡°I got lost.¡±


    Shangguan Yu chuckled. ¡°I forgot to ask someone to lead the way just now. I didn¡¯t consider it carefully.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not answer and only said, ¡°Have you found the jade pendant?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Didn¡¯t he say that he was looking for the jade pendant to create an opportunity for her? He really lost it?


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you didn¡¯t find it.¡± Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand. In any case, that jade pendant had been torn off Chu Feng.


    Chu Feng thought to himself, ¡°In any case, it was given to me by His Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu suggested taking a walk at the Tai Liquid Pool. Shen Yijia mouthed the word ¡°Jing¡± somewhere he couldn¡¯t see.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Forget it. I¡¯m tired from walking today. I¡¯ll go back and greet Lord Jing before leaving the palace.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was clearly also a prince, but Xuanyuan Ce still wanted to bid farewell to Shangguan Pu. It made people feel that Shangguan Pu was more important to him.


    If it were anyone else, they would probably be unhappy, but Shangguan Yu wasn¡¯t. He still had a gentle smile on his face as he nodded and said, ¡°Alright..¡±

 Chapter 596 - Chapter 596: Reversal (5)

    Chapter 596: Reversal (5)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°It¡¯s true that I brought the old prince into the palace, but there¡¯s a reason.


    Moreover, I didn¡¯t know that he would harm His Majesty.¡±


    As soon as they entered the Yangxin Hall, they heard Song Jingchen¡¯s calm voice.


    The imperial guards around him had yet to disperse. Xuanyuan Ce sat down on a stone stool in the courtyard of the Yangxin Hall understandingly, indicating that he would enter after they were done inside.


    Shangguan Yu smiled and sat down with him.


    Shangguan Pu sneered. ¡°What a good reason. Are you saying that the old prince¡¯s attempted assassination of His Majesty had nothing to do with you?¡±


    ¡°Yes, if I knew that he had such ulterior motives, I definitely wouldn¡¯t have let him enter the imperial study alone.¡±


    It turned out that after Song Jingchen entered the palace, he saw a large amount of thick smoke rising in the direction of Fragrant Teahouse. He sensed that something was wrong, so when he reached the door of the imperial study, he excused himself and didn¡¯t follow the old prince in.


    In order to prevent the old prince from biting back, he even analyzed the pros and cons with him again.


    For example, as long as the old prince did not mention the matter with the imperial concubine back then, no one would dare to mention it. Moreover, he could also say that he had been manipulated because he controlled the Fragrant Teahouse. He could say that he just wanted to earn more money to buy medicine for the old princess consort.


    In the end, he said that if he, an outsider, was in the emperor¡¯s residence, it would definitely not be appropriate for him to bend the law for personal gain.


    The old prince thought about it and agreed. He might have to plead for mercy in front of a junior later. He couldn¡¯t wait for Song Jingchen to not be present for such an embarrassing matter.


    Hence, he entered the imperial study valiantly.


    As Song Jingchen suspected, it didn¡¯t take long for news of the old prince attacking the emperor to arrive.


    At first, he was also wondering if the emperor was directing the show himself or if it was done by Lord Jing.


    After confirming that it was Lord Jing who planned it, Song Jingchen guessed that he would definitely implicate him. He didn¡¯t appear in time because he wanted to see how much of the forces in the palace belonged to Lord Jing. The outcome did not disappoint him. At the very least, the commander of the imperial guards would not be innocent. Moreover, the entire harem was probably under Imperial Concubine Liu¡¯s control.


    After finding out what he wanted to know, he originally wanted to sneak into the place where the old prince was imprisoned and ask about what had happened in the imperial study. He did not expect to see someone trying to push the sixth prince into the water.


    The person who attacked him was even wearing the same official uniform as him. Was this the backup plan since he didn¡¯t enter the imperial study?


    Although such a clumsy attempt was full of flaws, it was useful.


    Song Jingchen naturally wouldn¡¯t let the other party succeed and saved the Sixth Prince.


    Then, he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s attack on the other guard. He appeared with the Sixth Prince to attract everyone¡¯s attention.


    ¡°Is that so? But I only know that you were the one who brought the old prince into the palace. As for what you said, it¡¯s only one-sided. Who knows if you¡¯re trying to cut ties with this matter?¡±


    ¡°Guards, escort Earl Zhongyi to the prison of the Ministry of Justice.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She tensed up when she saw the imperial guards enter.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice sounded.


    Shangguan Pu asked, ¡°What else do you have to say?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, aren¡¯t you going to ask me why I brought the old prince into the palace?¡±


    Shangguan Pu sneered. ¡°Of course, the officials of the Ministry of Justice will investigate this.¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head and said, ¡°The reason why I brought the old prince into the palace is because His Majesty asked me to investigate a case.¡±


    ¡°Now that the case had been investigated, the old prince was the key person in this case. That was why I brought him to the palace.¡±


    ¡°Therefore, it¡¯s impossible for me to conspire with the old prince to assassinate His Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, investigating a case? Not only have I never heard of it, but even all the ministers in the dynasty don¡¯t know about it.¡± Shangguan Pu snorted. ¡°I think you¡¯re simply making it up because my father is unconscious now.¡±


    Lord Jing had eyes and ears around the emperor. As far as he knew, the emperor had only given Song Jingchen verbal instructions and had never issued a secret decree.


    However, just as he thought this, he heard the kneeling person say, ¡°I have evidence to prove that everything I said is true.¡±


    Noticing his stunned expression, Song Jingchen smiled mockingly and took out a bright yellow imperial edict..

 Chapter 597 - Chapter 597: Reaping the Benefits (1)

    Chapter 597: Reaping the Benefits (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    False imperial edicts were punishable by death. Lord Jing knew that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have the guts to do that. At the same time, he was curious about when the imperial edict in his hand was issued.


    In a flash, he suddenly remembered that when the emperor summoned Song Jingchen back, he had sent Eunuch Deng to Anyang County to personally deliver the decree. Could it have been at that time?


    That¡¯s right. No matter how powerful his spies were, they could not predict the future.


    Shangguan Pu was furious that he couldn¡¯t take down Song Jingchen.


    He wanted to accuse him directly. Not only did Shangguan Yu walk in to speak up for him, but even the Sixth Prince kept calling him his savior, but he also said that he did not believe that he would harm his father.


    In the end, Shangguan Pu could only give up on his previous thoughts, but he suspended Song Jingchen for negligence.


    When the news reached the Court of Judicial Review, everyone was in an uproar. Compared to Song Jingchen being suspended, it was obvious that the old prince attacked the emperor, causing the emperor to be seriously injured and unconscious.


    In less than two hours, the entire court knew about this. Half a day later, all the citizens in the capital knew.


    Madam Li didn¡¯t know what had happened in the palace, but she knew that the old prince had been kidnapped by Song Jingchen and brought home.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t hide the case from her. Thinking of Shen Yijia¡¯s abnormality when she went out, she was extremely worried. Fortunately, the couple returned in time.


    She examined Song Jingchen and heaved a sigh of relief when she saw that he was fine.


    She rarely interfered with Song Jingchen¡¯s work, but this time, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Brother Chen, what happened?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and told her everything that had happened after he entered the palace. Madam Li¡¯s eyes turned red when she heard this. She looked at him and hesitated.


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯m fine.¡± Song Jingchen knew what she was worried about. He shook his head and continued, ¡°The Eldest Prince has been in business for many years, and his influence in the imperial court has long been deeply rooted. Actually, I already guessed that he would make a move, but I didn¡¯t expect him to do it so quickly.¡±


    The reason why he did not bring the old prince back to the Court of Judicial Review for interrogation was because there were too many people in the Court of Judicial Review. He did not want everyone to know about this for the time being.


    He had thought that if this matter didn¡¯t blow up, the emperor wouldn¡¯t publicly execute Lord Jing for the sake of the royal family¡¯s reputation. At most, he would find another crime as an excuse to put Lord Jing under house arrest. At that time, Lord Jing would definitely choose to attack the emperor.


    Of course, even if the case was revealed, Shangguan Pu would not surrender. The difference between the two was that in the first situation, he would only attack the emperor alone, but the latter might cause him to revolt.


    Once that happened, the commoners would definitely suffer.


    Therefore, the current situation was within his expectations. It was just that it happened at the wrong time.


    ¡°I keep feeling like there¡¯s a pair of eyes watching our every move and telling Shangguan Pu,¡± Shen Yijia muttered with a frown.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    Perhaps the Eldest Prince had already received the news from the moment the old prince entered the Song residence.


    It could also be earlier, such as when he targeted the Fragrant Teahouse.


    Shangguan Pu knew that this matter could not be hidden for long. From then on, he had already begun to plan for today.


    Thinking of something, Song Jingchen suddenly smiled. ¡°If there¡¯s really such a person, I don¡¯t have to worry about the news of the old prince committing suicide tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Shen Yijia did not understand.


    Her inquisitive look was extremely cute.


    Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia actually didn¡¯t like these twists and turns, but because she didn¡¯t want to hold him back, she still tried her best to learn to analyze and think.


    How could he not be moved by such a silly girl who was devoted to him?


    Song Jingchen moved his fingers and noticed Madam Li at the side. He suppressed his urge to pull her into his arms. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, the person who provided us with information is the same person who told Shangguan Pu about our progress.¡±


    Only this person knew how much he had discovered in the investigation.


    ¡°Why did he¡­¡± Shen Yijia paused halfway through her question and said in surprise, ¡°Does that person want to reap the benefits?¡±


    First, he would provide Song Jingchen with information so that they would force Shangguan Pu to attack the emperor. At that time, he would stand up and expose what Shangguan Pu had done to the common women.


    Water could carry a boat, but it could also overturn a boat.


    It did not matter to the commoners who became the emperor, but it could not be someone who did not value the lives of the commoners.


    In other words, Shangguan Pu would at most say a few words about killing the emperor and committing a coup, but the kidnapping case would cause him to be criticized. Therefore, that person should be the person who did not want the old prince to die the most..

 Chapter 598 - Chapter 598: Reaping the Benefits (2)

    Chapter 598: Reaping the Benefits (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At that time, the old prince would come out to testify against Shangguan Pu. As the righteous party, that person could be ¡°justifiably¡± promoted to that position by the commoners without losing a single soldier.


    ¡°What a huge game of chess.¡± Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Then what should we do


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°We wait.¡±


    That person was waiting for Shangguan Pu to be convicted of treason, and he was waiting for that person to take action.


    The emperor was seriously injured. Presumably, it would not be long before the edict to pass down the throne appeared. What better evidence existed in this world compared to a fake imperial edict about succession to the throne?


    As Song Jingchen explained, Shen Yijia fell into deep thought.


    How did her beautiful husband¡¯s head grow? Was the thing in his head different from hers?


    Song Jingchen thought that she was analyzing it herself and suddenly said,


    ¡°Since Your Highness is here, why hide?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, two people suddenly appeared in the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She was so focused on her thoughts that she did not notice.


    Concerned about the courtesy between men and women, Madam Li stood up and bowed to the person before leaving.


    As for Shen Yijia, she had never expected her to abide by these etiquettes like ordinary women, nor did she want to restrain her.


    Madam Li felt that Shen Yijia was fine like this. There was no need to make any changes.


    Naturally, if it were any other woman, she might not think that way.


    After she left, Xuanyuan Ce walked into the central room angrily and sat down. He glared at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯ve helped you many times. Is this how you treat your benefactor?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled and stood up. He bowed seriously to Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Thank you for your help, Your Highness.¡±


    If not for Xuanyuan Ce, he would have been worried that Shen Yijia would barge into the palace today because she was too worried about him.


    He was not worried that Shen Yijia would implicate him, but he was afraid that something would happen to her.


    Xuanyuan Ce was very satisfied with his attitude, but he felt that this would make Song Jingchen feel that he was too easy to deal with. He tried his best to suppress the smile on his face and said in disdain, ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    ¡°Then what else do you want?¡± Before Song Jingchen could speak, Shen Yijia was unhappy.


    Xuanyuan Ce choked. Fine, this little girl was on his side. He couldn¡¯t do anything about it.


    ¡°I heard everything from outside just now.¡± He changed the topic.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes were filled with a smile. He poured a cup of tea and pushed it in front of Xuanyuan Ce before asking, ¡°Your Highness, what do you think?¡±


    It was impossible for Xuanyuan Ce to mention this for no reason.


    ¡°Your analysis is not bad. However, someone who didn¡¯t even show their face, but could play such a game of chess. The person who schemed against you and Shangguan Pu is definitely not an ordinary person. If you don¡¯t do anything, the other party will be suspicious.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s why I sent someone to remind the ancestral residence.¡¯


    As he spoke, he spread his hands helplessly. ¡°Not to mention that I¡¯m suspended at home now, I don¡¯t have any foundation in the capital. This is all I can do.¡±


    It was not that he did not want to do it, but there was nothing he could do. He could only struggle on the verge of death.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Oh, he has already thought of it.¡±


    Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s adoration for Song Jingchen written all over her face, Xuanyuan Ce was unhappy again.


    Why was he so smart? Didn¡¯t he know that one would die if one was too smart?


    At this moment, One Dot and Rooster entered from outside. When they saw Xuanyuan Ce present, they paused.


    Song Jingchen nodded slightly before hearing One Dot say, ¡°The two of us learned that the old man fell seriously ill a month ago. He¡¯s dead.¡±


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised by this outcome.


    At Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    Shangguan Pu returned to the residence with a tired expression.


    Song Jingchen was right. He had indeed received the news after the old prince was captured.


    After confirming that the news was correct, he didn¡¯t rest the entire night.


    Apart from not being able to capture Song Jingchen, everything went smoothly.


    However, it was too smooth, making him feel uneasy.


    Shangguan Pu had been able to arrange all of this since five to six years ago. It was obvious that he was not stupid. It was not that he did not suspect that he might have fallen into someone else¡¯s trap, but things had already developed to the extent that he had no choice.


    If the person who provided the information had taken the opportunity to ask him for benefits, he might not have been so suspicious. However, the other party did not mention anything. He did not believe that there was such a thing as a free lunch.


    Most importantly, the other party could send him a message the moment Song Jingchen kidnapped the old prince. What did that mean?


    It meant that the unknown person knew everything about him. That was the most terrifying thing..

 Chapter 599 - Chapter 599: Reaping the Benefits (3)

    Chapter 599: Reaping the Benefits (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He could guard against Song Jingchen or eliminate him, but he didn¡¯t know who this mysterious person was.


    He did not know what the other party¡¯s motive was. This powerlessness was the most terrifying.


    ¡°Your Highness, Miss Liu is here.¡± A voice came from outside the door.


    Shangguan Pu narrowed his eyes and said in a low voice, ¡°Let her in.¡±


    Ever since the female corpse of the Wutong River was exposed, Shangguan Pu¡¯s trust in Liu Piaopiao had changed.


    Liu Piaopiao also knew about this matter, so she had been investigating who had caused her to take the blame recently. She concluded that it was Madam


    ¡°Madam An?¡± Shangguan Pu frowned.


    When Madam An first entered the backyard of Prince Jing¡¯s residence, she also liked to play tricks like other women. She was just jealous. He did not like these things and would not care about them


    However, later on, Madam An gradually calmed down.


    There were so many women in the backyard, but she had become the gentlest. In addition, she was also the type of woman he liked, so Shangguan Pu went to her room more often.


    However, why did Shangguan Pu find it unbelievable that such a timid woman had betrayed him?


    He looked at Liu Piaopiao suspiciously.


    This was how humans were. At first, he believed in Liu Piaopiao and felt that she was good at everything. He even thought of taking her in.


    Once he suspected her, he felt that she had ulterior motives.


    Liu Piaopiao guessed his thoughts and pursed her lips. ¡°Bring her in.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a young maidservant was carried in by two old women with her mouth covered.


    Liu Piaopiao said, ¡°This little maidservant works in the kitchen.¡±


    Shangguan Pu was about to let her continue when the steward walked in. ¡°Your


    Highness, someone sent another letter.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t see the person who sent the letter?¡± As Shangguan Pu spoke, he opened the letter. The handwriting was the same as the letter from last night. There was a short sentence on it: 100,000 taels of gold as remuneration.


    He paused. Was the person here to gain benefits from what happened yesterday?


    He was clearly going to spend a large sum of money, but Shangguan Pu heaved a sigh of relief.


    He placed the letter on the candle and lit it. He glanced at the people present and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to keep him anymore.¡±


    The manager understood that he was talking about the old prince. He nodded and left in a hurry.


    Shangguan Pu knocked on the table. ¡°Continue.¡±


    On a certain day, all the teahouses and wine shops began to discuss the old prince¡¯s attempted assassination of the emperor.


    At this moment, someone mentioned the women they had saved from under the Fragrant Teahouse.


    After the women were rescued, more than ten of them were tortured beyond recognition. In addition, many corpses were dug up.


    The Imperial Capital naturally could not ignore such a huge matter. These women were all clues, so Lord Cai simply imprisoned them.


    However, most of the people were discussing the appearances of those girls.


    ¡°Oh my, did you see that those girls look like Heaven Immortals?¡± A man who was lucky enough to watch the entire process yesterday drooled.


    It was more like they were good-looking. How could they all be good-looking? Those who had never seen them before naturally did not believe it. ¡°No matter how good-looking they are, can they be as beautiful as Miss Peony from the Drunken Red House?¡±


    Peony was the courtesan of the Drunken Red House and the one Xuanyuan Ce had once spent a lot of money on.


    Without waiting for the first person to speak, others who had seen her before immediately stood up and retorted, ¡°Don¡¯t doubt me. She¡¯s really prettier than Miss Peony.¡±


    Just as everyone was arguing about who was good-looking, a scholarly-looking young man stood up and said disdainfully, ¡°You only know how to look at skin. How shallow! Why don¡¯t you think about where those women came from? Why were they hidden in the basement of the Fragrant Teahouse for no reason? And those injuries, those corpses¡­¡±


    Everyone paused. Although these words did not sound good, it seemed to be the case. Someone said, ¡®We don¡¯t know, right? Scholar, if you Imow, tell us.¡±


    The scholar adjusted his robe and said, ¡°I happen to have some connections in the Imperial Capital, so I¡¯ve heard a little about it.¡±


    ¡°Then tell us!¡±


    ¡°Yes, say it quickly.¡±


    Seeing that everyone¡¯s curiosity had been piqued by him, the scholar stopped trying to leave them hanging and sighed. ¡°I heard that those women weren¡¯t willing. They were captured from remote places.¡±


    They were captured? Everyone was in an uproar.


    Those women were locked up in the Fragrant Teahouse, which was the old prince¡¯s business. Did this mean that the old prince was the one who captured them?


    The scholar took a sip of tea and suddenly asked, ¡°Everyone has heard about the old prince¡¯s attempted assassination of His Majesty, right?¡±


    Seeing everyone nod, he shook his head and said, ¡°Then guess, why did he do that?¡±


    Initially, some people thought that the old prince might have been wronged. Now that the scholar had laid the groundwork, everyone naturally connected the two matters.


    What else could it be? He must have been exposed and decided to strike to keep things under wraps. Unexpectedly, Lord Jing arrived in time and prevented him from succeeding..

 Chapter 600 - Chapter 600: The Emperor Awakens

    Chapter 600: The Emperor Awakens


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Two days had passed since the incident at the Fragrant Teahouse.


    In the past two days, the commoners had never stopped denouncing the old prince for imprisoning innocent women. The scholars have also begun to criticize him.


    News of his crimes was pasted on the streets and alleys, implying that he could not be forgiven simply because of his status.


    There were even people who secretly threw stones and feces into the old prince¡¯s residence.


    As long as they came out of his residence, regardless of whether they were masters or servants, they would become street rats that everyone hated.


    If not for the fact that the noble families had the habit of storing food, everyone in his residence would have starved to death before the higher-ups could reach a verdict.


    The old princess consort was already in poor health. Now, she collapsed and was in a precarious situation.


    However, was she really innocent? After all, it was possible that she was not completely unaware of what happened within the Fragrant Teahouse.


    The most innocent person was Princess Leyang¡¯s in-laws. Because of this matter, they were targeted by the commoners. In the end, her in-laws could not take it anymore and could only send Princess Leyang, her son, and her daughter back to the old prince¡¯s residence.


    The old prince, who was locked up in the Clan Residence, became the safest one.


    Of course, the premise was that Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t want him to commit suicide at all times.


    At the same time, there was a new dispute in the royal court because the emperor had been unconscious.


    As the saying went, a country could not go without a ruler for a day. The emperor showed no signs of waking up. The ministers, who had originally wanted to wait for him to wake up and make a decision, could not sit still anymore.


    They began to argue about who should supervise the country.


    Among them, Shangguan Pu, also known as Lord Jing, naturally had the most supporters. Without a crown prince, he was the eldest son and the one who had the most contact with the government. More than half of the officials felt that he was the most suitable.


    Next was Lord Rui, Shangguan Heng, who had just returned to the capital today.


    Of course, there were also people who supported Shangguan Yu, but there were very few of them. After a few words, they were drowned out by the voices of the other two factions.


    After fighting like this for two days, when no one was giving in, Eunuch Li suddenly appeared in the royal court.


    ¡°His Majesty is awake?¡± The ministers surrounded him like a swarm of bees.


    Eunuch Li nodded. ¡°Sirs, calm down. I¡¯m here to pass on His Majesty¡¯s verbal orders.¡±


    The ministers had different expressions, but they fell silent.


    As expected, as soon as Eunuch Li finished speaking, the responsibility of supervising the country fell on Lord Jing.


    Eunuch Li was the emperor¡¯s most trusted person. No one would suspect that he was lying.


    As soon as he left, the ministers went forward to congratulate Shangguan Pu.


    With the power of overseeing the country in his hands, was the position of Crown Prince still far away?


    Shangguan Pu was flattered. After exchanging pleasantries with everyone, he said that he wanted to see the emperor left with Shangguan Yao.


    The ministers could only disperse.


    Shangguan Heng said that he was out of the capital on an errand, but he was actually having fun outside. If not for his grandfather, Count Xuan Ping, and Consort Shu urging him repeatedly, he would not have wanted to come back at all.


    He heaved a sigh of relief when the role of Overseer fell on Lord Jing.


    Seeing him like this, Shangguan Yu said in amusement, ¡°You¡¯re so obvious. Aren¡¯t you afraid that the ministers who support you will be disappointed?¡±


    On his behalf, they almost rolled up their sleeves and fought with others. However, he looked like he was avoiding them.


    Shangguan Heng glanced at the minister walking behind him and rolled his eyes. ¡°They¡¯re just doing this for their own benefit.¡±


    They did not even think about whether he was up to the task, let alone his wishes. Why did he care if they were disappointed or not?


    It was all because he was kind that he did not jump out and undermine them. Wouldn¡¯t he secretly be happy?


    ¡°You were born into an emperor¡¯s family. Some things are not a matter of whether you want to or not.¡± Shangguan Yu said seriously, ¡°You have to know that too many people¡¯s lives are at stake.¡±


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s face turned bitter. ¡°Second Brother, please spare me.¡±


    Consort Shu and Count Xuan Ping had said these words to him hundreds of times, and he was tired of hearing it.


    ¡°Sometimes, I really envy Second Brother for not¡­¡± Shangguan Heng paused halfway and said awkwardly, ¡°Second Brother, I don¡¯t know how to speak. You didn¡¯t hear anything.¡±


    Shangguan Yu chuckled. ¡°I¡¯ll let you off this time.¡±


    What was he envious of him for? Was he envious of his mother¡¯s early death and the fact that he had no other family?


    ¡°Second Brother is the best.¡± Shangguan Heng scratched his head and thought for a moment before saying seriously, ¡°Actually, I¡¯ve already thought about it. If they really win, I¡¯ll turn around and throw this matter of overseeing the country to you.¡±


    ¡°If¡­¡± He looked around. Seeing that there was no one around, he lowered his voice and continued, ¡°If that position really falls to me, I¡¯ll pass it to you. At that time, Second Brother, just protect me..¡±

 Chapter 601 - Chapter 601: The Emperor Awakens (2)

    Chapter 601: The Emperor Awakens (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He said it very seriously.


    At least this was the first time Shangguan Yu had seen such a serious expression on his face. It was obvious that he had thought about it carefully and was not lying.


    He was stunned for a moment. He shook his head and smiled. ¡°Nonsense. Do you think that I¡¯ll want to do something you don¡¯t want to do?¡±


    ¡°At least Second Brother is more suitable than me. If it were me¡­ Great Xia might collapse.¡± Shangguan Heng felt that he did not have any good points. The only good point was that he knew his limits.


    Shangguan Yu laughed. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go and see Father first.¡±


    Shangguan Heng said, ¡°I¡¯m serious.¡±


    Shangguan Yu stopped talking.


    When the two of them arrived at Yangxin Hall, they were told that the emperor had already retired to his room to rest.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Eldest Brother and Fourth Brother just come? He went back to rest so quickly?¡± Shangguan Heng said unhappily.


    It was said that there were no father and son relationships in the imperial family. He did not necessarily have deep feelings for the emperor, but the other party was still his biological father.


    However, he had not seen the emperor at all since he returned. He always said that it was not appropriate to disturb him.


    Shouldn¡¯t he at least be allowed to visit now?


    Eunuch Deng smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°His Majesty rested as soon as the two princes entered. The two princes have already left.¡±


    Shangguan Heng frowned. ¡°Then Second Brother and I will go in and take a look. ¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡± Eunuch Deng was in a difficult position. ¡°But His Majesty has already rested.¡±


    In Shangguan Heng¡¯s opinion, this was a sign of guilt. He looked at Eunuch Deng strangely. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me my father isn¡¯t awake at all?¡±


    ¡°How is that possible?¡± Eunuch Deng denied it.


    He never expected that the only time he didn¡¯t fight with Eunuch Li in his life would be when they did such a life-threatening thing together.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re just feeling guilty. You didn¡¯t let us see Father. Did you do something bad to him inside?¡± Shangguan Heng said angrily.


    Eunuch Deng complained and quickly persuaded, ¡°Your Highness, please lower your voice. You can¡¯t disturb His Majesty¡¯s rest.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s best if you wake my father up. Otherwise, servants like you will go overboard.¡±


    How could Eunuch Deng stop Shangguan Heng¡¯s temper?


    He could only let him in.


    Eunuch Li was kneeling by the bed and nagging. When he saw someone enter, he quickly stood up and greeted them.


    The emperor lay there with a pale face, his breathing calm, as if he had fallen asleep.


    However, with his previous doubts, Shangguan Heng took a few steps forward and reached out to push him away. ¡°Father, Father, wake up.¡± Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li exclaimed, ¡°Your Highness, you can¡¯t¡­¡±


    However, they were still a step too late. As soon as they walked in, they met the emperor¡¯s gaze.


    Especially since the emperor was glaring at them angrily, Shangguan Heng was so frightened that he took a few steps back.


    ¡°Father, they all said that you¡¯re awake. I thought they were lying.¡± With that, Shangguan Heng turned around and kicked Eunuch Deng. ¡°Then why were you feeling guilty just now?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not guilty.¡± Eunuch Deng looked bitter.


    Shangguan Heng did not care if he was guilty or not. He threw the pot out first.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± He wanted to explain, but when he turned around, the emperor had already closed his eyes and fallen asleep again.


    Shangguan Heng decisively shut his mouth. That glance just now was too scary.


    He lowered his voice and said, ¡°Second Brother, since Father wants to rest, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Shangguan Yu nodded. He thought of something and frowned. He looked at Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li. ¡°The two of you, come out.¡±


    Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li looked at each other and could only follow.


    Shangguan Yu asked, ¡°What happened to my father?¡±


    Shangguan Heng did not think too much about it just now because he was too suddenly frightened. When he heard his question, Shangguan Heng realized that something was wrong.


    Even if the emperor needed to rest, he wouldn¡¯t have lacked the strength to scold him, right?


    ¡°His Majesty, he¡­¡± Eunuch Li stammered, not knowing what to say.


    Coincidentally, the imperial physician walked in.


    Eunuch Li seemed to have seen a straw to clutch at and hurriedly said, ¡°Imperial Physician Wu, you tell them.¡±


    It turned out that the emperor was seriously injured and suffered aftereffects. When he woke up, not only was he unable to move from the neck down, but he was also unable to speak.


    However, Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom was still in the capital. In order to prevent anything else from happening, coupled with the emperor¡¯s own wishes, they did not dare to announce it to the public.


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°But you just said that Father asked Eldest Brother to supervise the country!¡±


    He did not want to supervise the country, but he could help Second Brother fight for it.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Eunuch Li¡¯s eyes flashed as he said awkwardly, ¡°After Your Majesty woke up, I could tell that he was worried about the country, so I told him about the officials arguing about who would supervise the country..¡±

 Chapter 602 - Chapter 602: The Emperor Awakens (3)

    Chapter 602: The Emperor Awakens (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°But His Majesty couldn¡¯t say it. I thought of a way and read out the names of the lords one by one, and asked him to blink if he agreed. Then, His Majesty chose His Highness Lord Jing.¡±


    Shangguan Heng choked. This made sense.


    ¡°Then is it possible for my father to recover?¡± Shangguan Yu asked.


    Imperial Physician Wu said, ¡°I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    Although Song Jingchen was suspended at home, it didn¡¯t mean that he really cuan?c care aoout anytmng outside.


    As soon as the court session ended, he received the news.


    Not long after he received the news, a guest came to the house.


    ¡°Uncle Xiao, why are you dressed like this?¡± The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched.


    General Xiao was dressed in rough cloth and carried a bundle of firewood on his shoulder.


    He threw the firewood to the ground and waved his hand. ¡°Let¡¯s talk in your study.¡±


    The two of them arrived at the study. Song Jingchen asked someone to serve tea again. Before he could speak, he asked, ¡°Uncle Xiao, are you here about Lord Jing¡¯s Overseer role?¡±


    General Xiao did not ask him how he knew that Lord Jing was going to supervise the country. He shook his head. ¡°I Imow that you have a plan to deal with that. I am here today to ask you how to deal with that Feng person in my mansion. ¡±


    He couldn¡¯t let his wife and daughter stay in the Yue family forever. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect him to disguise himself for this. He asked, ¡°Has she done anything recently?¡±


    Actually, so many things have happened recently. Shen Yijia did not mention


    Yuan Yuwan in front of him, and he had almost forgotten about Feng Manman. General Xiao glared at him. ¡°She didn¡¯t, that¡¯s why I came to ask you.¡±


    ¡°Since she didn¡¯t, I might have guessed wrongly. Uncle, can¡¯t you just let her stay in the residence?¡±


    He was just short of saying that the Xiao family would not lack that bowl of rice.


    General Xiao was speechless.


    Perhaps it was because of Feng Manman that Xiao Qirui, who had been obedient, sensible, and motivated since he was young, went against him for the first time, so he disliked Feng Manman.


    He really wished she could quickly catch her weakness and slap Xiao Qirui¡¯s face so that he would be more careful.


    He also wanted to tell Xiao Qirui that as his father, his taste in people was much better than Xiao Qirui.


    It had to be said that Xiao Ruoshui was very similar to him in this aspect. Seeing him like this, Song Jingchen sighed and said, ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer.¡± General Xiao thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s equivalent to not saying anything.¡±


    Since General Xiao was already here, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t hide Fan Mingyuan¡¯s matter anymore. He brought him to Fan Mingyuan¡¯s room.


    After recuperating for so many days, he had already gotten out of bed and taken two steps.


    When he heard that Fan Mingyuan had also met a benefactor, General Xiao felt that there was something wrong with Feng Manman, just like Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had initially suspected.


    He strengthened his resolve.


    Leaving the two of them alone, Song Jingchen returned to the courtyard to accompany Shen Yijia.


    He explained General Xiao¡¯s intentions.


    Shen Yijia was amused. ¡°Although I also hope that Feng Manman will expose herself quickly, I¡¯ve never seen anyone like General Xiao, who wants a spy to do something in the family.¡±


    Wasn¡¯t he afraid that she didn¡¯t actually have ulterior motives? Wasn¡¯t he afraid that she was really doing this for Xiao Qirui?


    ¡°By the way, MO Yuan brought in an invitation just now. Madam Qiu asked someone to send it over.¡± As she spoke, she pointed at the gilded invitation on the table.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her but didn¡¯t take it. He lowered his head and continued to rub her wrist. ¡°What did it say?¡±


    His suspension meant that he was very free every day. Then, Shen Yijia¡¯s hands suffered.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Madam Qiu wants MO Yuan to treat the old princess consort.¡±


    She heard that Ji Yunxi had gone to look for some medicinal herbs and had not been in the capital for a while. Song Jingchen paused. ¡°You don¡¯t want her to go?¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Not really.¡±


    Given the old prince¡¯s seniority, even Shangguan Pu, who was in charge of the country, had no right to deal with him. He only sent soldiers to surround his residence. As for the rest, they had to wait for the emperor to wake up.


    Apart from the fact that everyone in the old prince¡¯s residence was unlucky, the most important thing was that Shen Yijia did not want to push MO Yuan to the center of the storm for an outsider.


    Previously, many people had said that if they snatched another patient from Ji Yunxi¡­


    Ji Yunxi would definitely pay attention to MO Yuan.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t let her go.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head and said, ¡°I think Madam Qiu has a little relationship with the old princess consort. She was asked to help, so she couldn¡¯t refuse.¡±


    Shen Yijia meant what she said. She would accompany Madam Qiu every day or two. With their current relationship, there was no need to send invites like this.


    Madam Qiu must have sent this invite to show the old princess consort¡¯s men. At the same time, she told Shen Yijia that MO Yuan could choose whether she wanted to go.


    After hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s explanation, Shen Yijia felt much better. If Madam Qiu really insisted that she let MO Yuan treat the old princess consort against her wishes.


    Then she would accompany MO Yuan, but she would never interact with Madam Qiu again.


    She would treat saving Madam Qiu¡¯s life and the old princess consort¡¯s life as a form of repayment, and leave it at that.


    Compared to General Xiao, who was anxious to consult Song Jingchen, Yuan Yuwan was clearly more calm.


    In the past few days, as long as Xiao Qirui returned to the residence, she would invite him to the courtyard for dinner. After dinner, Xiao Qirui would naturally stay in the Splendid Courtyard.


    In everyone¡¯s opinion, including You Bail s, the couple was very loving.


    One could imagine how angry Feng Manman was.


    Night fell. Feng Manman stood at the courtyard door and waited for a long time. Seeing that only the maidservant had returned, she frowned and asked, ¡°My husband isn¡¯t back yet?¡±


    After serving her for so long, how could the maidservant not know that Feng Manman was not as kind as she looked?


    She flinched. ¡°He has returned.¡±


    Feng Manman¡¯s face darkened under her veil. ¡°He went over there again?


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Feng Manman gritted her teeth. ¡°Since you¡¯re heartless, don¡¯t blame me for being heartless.¡± she thought..

 Chapter 603 - Chapter 603: Revealed (1)

    Chapter 603: Revealed (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Something bad has happened!¡±


    The tranquility of the Splendid Courtyard was broken by a panicked voice.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and put down her chopsticks unhurriedly. She turned to look at You Bai. ¡°Go and see what happened.¡±


    Soon, You Bai returned with a dark expression.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked.


    You Bai glared at Xiao Qirui and said reluctantly, ¡°It¡¯s Concubine Feng¡¯s maidservant. She said that Concubine Feng is seriously ill.¡±


    You Bai had seen her strolling in the courtyard in the day, but she suddenly fell sick at night. Who would believe her?


    Xiao Qirui frowned and opened his mouth.


    ¡°Young General, go ahead. Thank you for your help these few days. I¡¯ll do the rest myself.¡± Without waiting for him to speak, Yuan Yuwan took the lead and instructed You Bai, ¡°Go and get the butler to invite a doctor to the Magnolia


    Courtyard. ¡±


    Meeting her cold eyes, Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart choked. He said with difficulty,


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Seeing Xiao Qirui leave without looking back, You Bai panicked. ¡°Miss, why did you push Young Master out again? You clearly know¡­¡±


    ¡°Stop talking and go quickly.¡± Yuan Yuwan picked up her chopsticks and continued eating without looking up.


    You Bai could not hide anything, so Yuan Yuwan did not let her know too much, including the fact that she and Xiao Qirui had never consummated their marriage.


    Xiao Qirui followed Lu Liu into the Magnolia Courtyard.


    The courtyard was quiet. Only a little light shone from the main room, indicating that this courtyard was occupied.


    After a few gossipy maidservants were sold by Xiao Qirui, he originally wanted the butler to arrange for a few more maidservants in her courtyard.


    However, Feng Manman said that she was not used to being served by too many people, so apart from Lu Liu, there were only maidservants in charge of cleaning this courtyard.


    The maidservant was guarding the bed nervously. When she saw Xiao Qirui enter, she quickly bowed and left.


    Feng Manman lay on the bed with her eyes closed. Xiao Qirui frowned. ¡°What happened? How did this happen?¡±


    Lu Liu choked and said, ¡°Aunt has been saying that her chest feels tight recently. I said that I went to beg Young Madam to hire a doctor, but she said that I couldn¡¯t trouble Young Madam¡­ I didn¡¯t expect her to suddenly faint just now. I couldn¡¯t wake her up no matter how hard I tried.¡±


    Xiao Qirui said coldly, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you tell me before?¡±


    Lu Liu wiped her tears. ¡°Concubine Feng said that it wasn¡¯t easy for you to ease your relationship with Young Madam, so she didn¡¯t let me look for you.¡±


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. Others might not know, but he and Yuan Yuwan knew very well that the two of them had closed the door after dinner these few days. They were just tidying up the accounts in the room.


    Lu Liu carefully glanced at the person on the bed. She gritted her teeth and suddenly knelt down. ¡°Eldest Young Master, I shouldn¡¯t have said that.¡±


    As she spoke, she kowtowed a few times and said fearlessly, ¡°Madam has really suffered too much. She could have been someone else¡¯s first wife.. ¡±


    Lu Liu¡¯s words were like a sharp knife stabbing into Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart. Thinking about how he had neglected Feng Manman recently, he felt deeply guilty.


    He waved his hand tiredly. ¡°Go and see if the doctor is here.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the butler came in with a doctor.


    You Bai followed behind the two of them. She glared at Lu Liu angrily. She wanted to see if this Feng fellow was really sick or faking it.


    You Bai was certain that Feng Manman was pretending to be sick to snatch her young master away from her young mistress. However, the doctor¡¯s words after taking her pulse stunned her.


    ¡°This madam has been poisoned.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Lu Liu exclaimed. ¡°My madam doesn¡¯t fight for anything. Who is so heartless to harm her?¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, you have to stand up for her.¡±


    Feng Manman was Xiao Qirui¡¯s concubine. Apart from Yuan Yuwan, who else could she have a dispute with?


    She was just short of naming Yuan Yuwan as the culprit.


    The atmosphere in the room froze for a moment. The doctor was so nervous that he did not dare to breathe loudly.


    As a doctor, what he was most afraid of was being implicated in such dirty matters. If anything went wrong, he might be killed to silence him.


    You Bai was even angrier. If they hadn¡¯t invited this doctor, she would have suspected that she had been bribed by Feng Manman in advance.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the person on the bed with a complicated expression. He ignored Lu Liu and frowned at the doctor. ¡°Do you have a way to detoxify the poison?¡±


    ¡°This¡­ I have to know what poison it is first.¡± The doctor wiped his sweat. ¡°However, from this madam¡¯s pulse, she should be poisoned by some kind of slow- acting poison..¡±

 Chapter 604 - Chapter 604: Revealed (2)

    Chapter 604: Revealed (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Fortunately, her body¡¯s foundation is weak and she couldn¡¯t take it anymore. Otherwise, if more time had passed, the poison would have seeped into her body bit by bit. I¡¯m afraid even Zenith Heaven immortals wouldn¡¯t have been able to save her.¡±


    Xiao Qirui nodded and instructed the butler to investigate thoroughly.


    The poisoning could have started from food, clothing, accommodation, and transportation. However, according to Lu Liu, Feng Manman usually felt lonely eating alone and asked her to eat with her. Lu Liu was not poisoned, so they could directly rule out the food she had been eating.


    The doctor checked everything in Feng Manman¡¯s room.


    Most of her things were prepared by Yuan Yuwan. You Bai had an inexplicable bad feeling and quickly ran back to the Splendid Courtyard to report to Yuan


    Yuwan.


    ¡°Miss, that woman must be trying to frame you.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan looked up from her book and echoed in amusement, ¡°Maybe.¡±


    Seeing that her young lady finally believed him for once, You Bai was delighted, but her face quickly fell. ¡°Then what should we do now?¡±


    ¡°What do you think we should do?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked.


    You Bai was stunned. ¡°What should we do? Of course we can¡¯t let her succeed.¡¯


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and lowered her head to continue reading. ¡°Don¡¯t think too much. Go to sleep.¡±


    If she and Xiao Qirui were really as close as outsiders thought, Feng Manman¡¯s move might be useful. After all, in order to monopolize a man, it was normal to attack his concubine.


    However, it was all fake.


    Xiao Qirui also knew this.


    Therefore, not only was Feng Manman¡¯s move a huge mistake, but it would


    also make Xiao Qirui suspicious of her.


    However, why did she do this? Was it just to estrange her from Xiao Qirui?


    Or was it because of her right to manage the household?


    However, even if she were to hand over the power to manage the residence, there was still Aunt Qiao in the residence. It was not her turn at all.


    Could it be¡­


    Yuan Yuwan looked up abruptly. ¡°Is Father-in-law in the residence?¡±


    In the palace, after sending off the concubines, Eunuch Liu and Eunuch Deng heaved a long sigh of relief.


    The two of them looked at each other and had the illusion that they appreciated each other.


    ¡°Ahem, you guarded His Majesty for the entire night yesterday. Today, I¡¯ll guard him. Eunuch Deng, go back and rest,¡± Eunuch Li said.


    Eunuch Deng didn¡¯t stand on ceremony with him. He turned around and left Yangxin Hall.


    Looking at the person on the bed, Eunuch Li sighed and instructed the young eunuch outside to bring over a basin of water. He began to wipe his body in resignation.


    As he rubbed, he felt something. He looked up and met the emperor¡¯s murderous eyes.


    Eunuch Li was so frightened that he fell to the ground. When he reacted, he quickly got up and said in surprise, ¡°Your Majesty, you¡¯re awake!¡±


    Apart from waking up once during the day, this was the second time the emperor had woken up.


    The first time was when Lord Rui shook him awake. As for him agreeing to Lord Jing¡¯s rule, that was impossible.


    He said that because he had received Lord Jing¡¯s order in advance.


    God knew that when Shangguan Heng shook the emperor awake, he was almost scared to death.


    The emperor glared at him angrily.


    Just because he couldn¡¯t say it or move didn¡¯t mean he couldn¡¯t hear it.


    The emperor did not expect the two people beside him to betray him. What he did not expect the most was that the commander of the imperial guards had already joined Shangguan Pu.


    That day, as soon as the palace door opened, Shangguan Pu entered the palace and said that he had something to report. He did not think too much about it and let someone enter the imperial study.


    Unexpectedly, Shangguan Pu directly poisoned him. Outside the imperial study were the imperial guards. No matter how he shouted, no one came in.


    Even his Shadow Guards did not appear. It was impossible for the Shadow Guards to betray him. He guessed that something had happened to them long ago.


    However, he had no idea that Shangguan Pu had done so much.


    When the old prince stepped into the imperial study, he was already poisoned and could not move.


    At the same time, the emperor was a little angry at the old prince for being too stupid. As soon as he entered, he simply babbled about his confession and did not discover anything wrong with the emperor.


    Eunuch Li¡¯s heart tightened under his gaze. He cried and said, ¡°Your Majesty, I didn¡¯t want to, but if I don¡¯t listen to His Highness, he definitely won¡¯t let me off. When the time comes, he¡¯ll get someone else to take care of Your Majesty.


    I¡¯m worried, Your Majesty.¡±


    That unfilial son was not allowed to be called Lord Jing anymore.


    The emperor¡¯s eyes turned red. He opened his mouth with difficulty, but he could not say a word.


    ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t be anxious.¡± Eunuch Li took a few steps forward on his knees to calm him down and whispered, ¡°You can¡¯t be angry now. I¡¯ll think of a way to tell Lord Song about your situation. Lord Song will definitely think of a wav to save you.¡±


    Unfortunately, Song Jingchen probably wanted him dead..

 Chapter 605 - Chapter 605: Revealed (3)

    Chapter 605: Revealed (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The emperor felt desolate. He thought that he controlled all the power in his hands. Anyone who didn¡¯t agree with him in court was either suppressed by him or accused of various crimes because of his suspicions.


    At this critical moment, he actually didn¡¯t have anyone to use.


    There were only those who only knew how to flatter him all day long but did not have any real ability.


    He glanced at Eunuch Li and seemed to have made up his mind. He moved his eyes with difficulty and looked in a certain direction.


    Eunuch Li followed his gaze and looked in the direction of the door. Apart from an incense burner in the middle, there was nothing else. He asked with a bitter expression, ¡°Your Majesty, are you asking me to get out?¡±


    No, the emperor was furious, but he could not flare up. He could only blink twice.


    Wasn¡¯t this what he said when he lied to Lord Rui during the day? Eunuch Li understood and thought for a moment before asking, ¡®Your Majesty, do you want me to take something?¡±


    The emperor blinked once.


    However, there was only an incense burner there. The incense burner had to be cleaned and changed every day. It was obvious that what the emperor wanted could not be inside.


    The emperor continued to roll his eyes.


    Eunuch Li was stunned. He reacted and asked, ¡°Is the thing in the jade pillow?¡± The emperor blinked again.


    Eunuch Li gritted his teeth. ¡°Your Majesty, please forgive any offense.¡±


    Unexpectedly, just as he picked up the emperor¡¯s head, a cold voice came from behind. ¡°Eunuch Li, how about I help you?¡±


    Eunuch Li trembled in fear. He let go of the emperor¡¯s head which smashed back onto the jade pillow.


    One didn¡¯t have to look at his expression to know how painful it was just from the sound.


    However, Eunuch Li couldn¡¯t care less. He didn¡¯t know how much Shangguan Pu had heard, so he could only force himself to calm down. He turned around and squeezed out a smile. ¡°Your Highness, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Shangguan Pu walked to the bed and looked down at the twisted emperor. He raised his eyebrows. ¡°Oh dear. How do you serve others? Look at how much you¡¯ve hurt my father.¡±


    Eunuch Li could not figure out what he meant, so he could only kowtow and admit his mistake. ¡°I deserve to die.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, you deserve to die. Hurry up and help my father up. Didn¡¯t he want to take something? I¡¯ll help him take it.¡±


    Eunuch Li was stunned. When he met the emperor¡¯s eyes that were about to pop out, he lowered his head and did not dare to look again. He only carefully reached out and helped him up again.


    Shangguan Pu pulled out the jade pillow and glanced at the emperor. He used his internal energy to shatter the jade pillow.


    A half tiger talisman fell out.


    ¡°This is the tiger talisman which controls the 100,000 city guards?¡± Shangguan Pu picked it up and sneered. ¡°Eunuch Li, who are you preparing to give this to?¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­ Of course it¡¯s for Your Highness.¡± Eunuch Li smiled awkwardly and said obsequiously, ¡°Hasn¡¯t His Highness been looking for this? I deliberately lied to Your Majesty just now to help His Highness find this.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Lord Jing didn¡¯t say whether he believed it or not. Instead, he looked at the Emperor with sympathy. ¡°Father, do you see this? This is the person you trust. I feel sorry for you. You treat the person you shouldn¡¯t trust like a treasure.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re clearly an evil person, but you still want a good reputation. You¡¯re really vicious and hypocritical.¡±


    ¡°Who can you blame for ending up like this?¡±


    ¡°Unfilial son, you unfilial son.¡± the emperor thought.


    The emperor could not speak. He could only glare at the person above to show his anger.


    Shangguan Pu shook his head. ¡°If you hadn¡¯t spared Song Jingchen¡¯s life back then, you wouldn¡¯t have known about the kidnapped girls, and I wouldn¡¯t have attacked you in advance. Isn¡¯t this predestined by the heavens?¡±


    ¡°But Father, don¡¯t worry. Haven¡¯t you always wanted Song Jingchen¡¯s life? Not to mention anything else, I¡¯ll definitely do this for you. I¡¯ll let you have a companion when you leave.¡±


    The emperor was so angry that his breathing quickened and he fainted.


    If not for the fact that the conditions did not allow it, Eunuch Li would have fainted. What he regretted the most now was why he let Eunuch Deng go back and rest.


    ¡°Eunuch Li.¡± Shangguan Pu looked at him.


    Eunuch Li broke out in cold sweat. ¡°Your Highness, what can I do for you?¡±


    Shangguan Pu smiled coldly. ¡°Father is awake, but he still needs to recuperate.


    Don¡¯t let anyone disturb him in the future.¡±


    Was he trying to completely imprison the emperor?


    Eunuch Li gasped. ¡°What about the concubines in the harem?¡±


    ¡°My mother will take care of those people. You just have to send those ministers back.¡±


    ¡°By the way, from tomorrow onwards, I¡¯ll get Commander MO to send people to guard outside day and night. Eunuch Li, don¡¯t do anything to make me unhappy. ¡±


    Eunuch Li was the most trusted person by the emperor¡¯s side. Shangguan Pu still needed him for something, so he naturally wouldn¡¯t kill him.


    Eunuch Li¡¯s heart turned cold. The last thing Shangguan Pu needed was for him to read the imperial edict, right?


    At the same time, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia learned from the old prince what had happened in the imperial study that day.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and could not help but confirm again. ¡°So there was something wrong with the emperor when you went in?¡±


    How stupid was this person?

 Chapter 606 - Chapter 606: Clue (1)

    Chapter 606: Clue (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The prison was quiet. The candlelight danced, illuminating the old prince¡¯s face, which alternated between green and white.


    The old prince felt bitter. At that time, he only wanted to quickly reveal Shangguan Pu¡¯s crimes and plead for mercy for him. How could he have paid so much attention?


    BY tne time ne reanzea tnat sometmng was wrong, It was alreaay too late. ¡®Ine person hiding in the dark knocked him out without giving him a chance to call for help.


    When he woke up again, he was holding a dagger covered in blood. He heard Shangguan Pu calling for the imperial physician.


    Not far from him, the emperor was lying in a pool of blood.


    Right on the heels of that, he was charged with assassinating the emperor. No matter how much he complained, no one listened.


    He felt wronged too.


    He was not only aggrieved, he was also furious. He had done so much for Lord Jing, but Lord Jing was the first to attack him.


    If he had any doubts about Song Jingchen¡¯s previous analysis, he completely believed it now. Lord Jing had never planned to let him live for long.


    ¡°Nephew, you have to save me,¡± the old prince begged.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him indifferently. ¡°The harem of the previous dynasty is controlled by Lord Jing. Your Highness thinks too highly of me.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in agreement and muttered softly, ¡°That¡¯s right. Lord Jing has everything under his control now. If he wants to get rid of someone, the person is dead unless they manage to save that useless emperor first. However, that useless emperor caused our Song family to be in such a state. It¡¯s better if he dies.¡±


    Song Jingchen was pleased by her words. He smiled.


    Her voice wasn¡¯t loud, but it wasn¡¯t too soft.


    At least the old prince heard it clearly. Or rather, Shen Yijia had deliberately said it for him to hear.


    The old prince was shocked and could not figure out if this was what the couple was really thinking. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°The emperor is at most helping the evildoer. Don¡¯t you want to know who really framed the crown prince and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence back then?¡±


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists under his sleeves. Shen Yijia scratched the back of his hand comfortingly and rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re not going to say that


    Shangguan Pu did it, are you?¡±


    The old prince was stunned. ¡°How did you know?¡± he thought.


    ¡°You really went through a lot of trouble to get us to save you. You¡¯re blaming Shangguan Pu for everything.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at him disdainfully. ¡°Shangguan Pu doesn¡¯t trust you at all. Even if he really did it, would he tell you? Why don¡¯t you find a better reason?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± The old prince suddenly paused and glanced at Song Jingchen carefully before falling silent.


    Shen Yijia snorted. ¡°You don¡¯t have any excuses, do you?¡±


    She held Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s go. Those people should wake up after the medicine wears off.¡±


    She was referring to the soldiers guarding the prison outside. Not everyone could enter the Clan Residence. They had no choice but to drug the people outside.


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°It¡¯s not easy to come once. We shouldn¡¯t come again in the future, in case Shangguan Pu finds out.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    The old prince was worried about being killed every day. He didn¡¯t dare to eat or sleep. It wasn¡¯t easy to wait for two people who could save him. How could he bear to let them leave just like that? He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Wait.¡± The couple looked at him in unison.


    The old prince thought to himself, ¡°Why does this scene look so familiar?


    These two seemed to have provoked me like this in the Song family¡¯s cellar.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with provoking you? This method is quite useful.¡±


    ¡°I can tell you everything I know, but you have to promise not to hold me responsible first,¡± the old prince said to Song Jingchen.


    When he said that, Song Jingchen guessed that the old prince must have been


    involved.


    This made sense why he had not mentioned Shangguan Pu¡¯s crimes at all when he revealed them in the cellar.


    Song Jingchen smiled mockingly and nodded readily.


    He agreed too quickly. The old prince felt that it was unreal. He pretended to be calm and added, ¡°Swear it.¡±


    Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°If I really want to attack you, what¡¯s the use of swearing? You don¡¯t think there are really ghosts and gods in this world, do you?¡±


    He paused and sneered as he thought of something. ¡°If there were really ghosts and gods, those innocent women who were killed by you would have come to take revenge on you long ago.¡±


    As soon as Song Jingchen finished speaking, the old prince seemed to hear the hysterical curses of those women before they died. He cowered and stammered, ¡°No, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t swear. You just have to remember what you promised me.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t respond.


    The old prince took a deep breath. ¡°Shangguan Pu was the one who took the dragon robe from my residence and placed it in the crown prince¡¯s residence back then..¡±

 Chapter 607 - Chapter 607: Clue (2)

    Chapter 607: Clue (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The old prince knew how much he was worth, so he had never thought of snatching the throne.


    However, when he entered the capital back then, the late emperor¡¯s high and mighty appearance in a dragon robe left a deep impression on him.


    Therefore, three years after the late emperor passed away, he secretly hired a few embroiderers to make one for him in the residence.


    The dragon robe embroidered with a five-clawed golden dragon took ten years to complete.


    He didn¡¯t tell anyone about this matter, including his consort. For some reason, Shangguan Pu found out about this.


    Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t expose him and only took the dragon robe away. At first, he thought that he was going to destroy it.


    It was not until he found the familiar dragon robe in the East Palace that he reacted. At that time, he was already on Shangguan Put s side, so he naturally wouldn¡¯t expose him.


    Actually, this was also the reason why he believed Noble Consort Liu¡¯s words about Shangguan Pu being his son.


    Shangguan Pu had something on him, but he didn¡¯t harm him. He felt that this must be his son.


    Now that he thought about it, Shangguan Pu simply felt that there was no need to use a sledgehammer to kill a chicken. A good knife should be used on something better.


    He was a chicken, and the position of the Eastern Palace was a knife¡¯s edge.


    How infuriating!


    A murderous glint flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. He narrowed his eyes and said, ¡°How can I prove that you¡¯re telling the truth?¡±


    The old prince inexplicably felt a chill down his spine. He shrank his neck and said, ¡°The embroiderers I invited to the residence back then were all witnesses.¡±


    At that time, he was not so cruel. After the dr?on robe was completed, he onlv poisoned the embroiderers to make them mute and blind, and broke their hands. He did not take their lives directly.


    However, he did not know where those people had gone.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. If this wasn¡¯t considered cruel, how much torture did those innocent women have to endure?


    ¡°That¡¯s why Shangguan Pu is your true enemy. Are you going to watch your enemy take that position?¡±


    The old prince was still saying that he had only provided the dragon robe. He had no idea that Shangguan Pu was using it to frame the Eastern Palace and even caused the entire Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence to be destroyed.


    Shen Yijia could not take it anymore. She reached out and picked him up, slapping him twice.


    Did he have nothing better to do? Without that dragon robe, would Shangguan Pu have been able to frame the late crown prince so easily?


    The old prince spat out a mouthful of blood and said in fear, ¡°You¡­ just¡­ promised not to pursue the matter¡­¡±


    ¡°My husband promised, not me.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and punched him twice without any burden.


    The old prince had been terrified and exhausted these days. How could he withstand it? When Shen Yijia¡¯s third punch was about to land, his eyes rolled back and he fainted.


    ¡°So weak?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia picked him up and shook him. After confirming that he had fainted, she threw him aside.


    Knowing that Song Jingchen must be feeling terrible now, she turned around and said carefully, ¡°Hubby¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and took out a handkerchief to carefully wipe her hands. He said softly, ¡°You don¡¯t have to dirty your hands for such a person in the future.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded meekly.


    Song Jingchen put away his handkerchief and rubbed her head. ¡°Let¡¯s go back first.¡±


    Actually, Song Jingchen had been investigating what had happened back then after returning to the capital. The dragon robe wasn¡¯t like those letters.


    It was not something that could be completed overnight. There would be waves after the water passed, so there were naturally many things to investigate.


    Therefore, this had been within his range of investigation.


    However, he looked at the princes and ignored the old prince who did not have much of a presence.


    After returning to Liu¡¯er Street, Song Jingchen sent One Dot and the others out overnight.


    It had been more than ten years since the old prince invited those embroiderers into the residence. It was not easy to investigate who was among them.


    However, because they had already investigated again a few months ago and had confirmed the exact time and who had invited them away, One Dot and the others did not spend too much time to bring back the news.


    ¡°There were a total of five embroiderers who entered Prince Xia¡¯s residence back then.¡± One Dot placed a stack of rice paper on the table in front of Song Jingchen.


    It recorded the names, addresses, and families of the five embroiderers.


    ¡°The five of them were all embroiderers with good skills in the capital. Back then, the old prince brought them to his residence with the excuse that he wanted to hire a special embroiderer for the old princess consort. They never appeared in the capital again.¡±


    Song Jingchen quickly scanned the contents of the rice paper and knocked on the table.. ¡°What about their families?

 Chapter 608 - Chapter 608: Clue (3)

    Chapter 608: Clue (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°We¡¯ve asked the old people in their neighbors and learned from them that after the families of the five of them became rich, they returned to their hometowns one after another. However, we went to their hometowns to investigate, but they didn¡¯t actually go back.¡± One Dot paused. ¡°I heard that banditry was rampant in those few years. There were often unclaimed corpses thrown into the wilderness.¡±


    It was very likely that those people had been silenced.


    The old prince thought that Shangguan Pu had destroyed the dragon robe. Without physical evidence, he didn¡¯t even kill the embroiderers, let alone kill their families.


    Lord Jing, however, was different. He took a few years to frame the crown prince so that he wouldn¡¯t leave any traces behind. That showed how meticulous he was. How could he let those people live?


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples. Actually, the old prince was also a witness, but he couldn¡¯t convince the public with his bad deeds.


    If he were to say it, others might think that he was deliberately slandering Lord Jing because of his personal grudge with him.


    It was just as Shen Yijia had deliberately said in the prison.


    If they wanted to overturn the case, they had to clear the name of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence.


    ¡°But¡­¡± One Dot hesitated.


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°When I asked about this, I remembered that Master had said that the embroiderers had been blinded and their hands were crippled. I specially asked around and found out that there was a pair of grandmother and grandson living in a small village under Cangtong Town. That old man was in this situation.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that I went to that village and asked the grandson in that family. He said that his grandmother had never been to the capital, let alone learned embroidery.¡±


    This was also why he hesitated to say it.


    Song Jingchen frowned. Even if there was only a glimmer of hope, he didn¡¯t want to let it go. ¡°Write down the address. I¡¯ll personally make a trip there tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Shen Yijia pushed open the study door and walked in, asking curiously.


    ¡°Why are you back so early today?¡± Song Jingchen waved his hand and asked One Dot to leave. He lit and burned the rice paper on the table.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and placed the steaming soup pot on the table. She turned around and opened the window to ventilate the room. ¡°It was too cold outside, so I came back.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled and teased, ¡°I thought you came back early because you missed me.¡±


    A few days ago, Feng Manman was poisoned. The doctor found the set of hair accessories Yuan Yuwan had given her in her room.


    The hair accessories had been soaked in medicinal juice in advance, but only the medicinal catalyst was on it. It would not cause a poisoning effect if it came into contact with the head. However, it would be different if the person ate anything with hibiscus flowers in it. The two of them would combine to form a slow toxin.


    Because October was the season for hibiscus flowers to bloom, Yuan Yuwan would get someone to pick some soup or make pastries using those flowers when she was free-


    She took care of the family and didn¡¯t eat alone, so she naturally sent some to every courtyard.


    In short, in the end, all the clues pointed to Yuan Yuwan.


    It was rare for Xiao Qirui not to believe the so-called evidence. He only got someone to continue investigating.


    However, it was useless for him to believe Yuan Yuwan alone. The servants in the residence began to spread rumors that Yuan Yuwan, the main wife, was narrow-minded and intolerant. They said that she poisoned Concubine Feng.


    Yuan Yuwan felt wronged and knelt in front of General Xiao angrily, wanting to resign from her position as the household manager.


    This was indeed in line with her personality. General Xiao even reprimanded her for this. In the end, seeing that she was really unwilling, he had no choice but to take back his authority to manage the household.


    Since Madam Xiao and Xiao Ruoshui were not around, the right to manage the household ultimately fell to Aunt Qiao.


    Since Yuan Yuwan was free, she would invite Shen Yijia out to listen to books and eat tea every day, or go to Shen Yijia¡¯s bookstore to read.


    In order to accompany her, Shen Yijia often returned only when it was time for dinner.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached, but it wasn¡¯t easy for a man like him to follow her to such gatherings.


    Shen Yijia could hear a hint of grievance in his teasing. She rolled her eyes and leaned over to cup his face. ¡°The cold is just an excuse to Sister Yuwan. The real reason is that I miss you.¡±


    ¡°Look, this is the tonic soup I specially asked MO Yuan to make for you when I went out. I even bought your favorite candied plums and some cloth to make new clothes for you.¡± Shen Yijia moved the soup cup to Song Jingchen and counted the things she had bought for him outside. ¡°Although I¡¯m outside, I¡¯ve been thinking about you.¡±


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. She clearly liked to eat candied plums herself. He was just afraid that she would feel sick if she ate too much, so he snatched it from her.


    Moreover, Shen Yijia¡¯s actions made him feel like he was a freeloader.


    He waited bitterly at home for this girl to come back and pamper him, but she sent him away with a pile of gifts.


    Shen Yijia scooped up a spoonful of soup and placed it near his mouth. ¡°Come, open your mouth.¡±


    Song Jingchen subconsciously opened his mouth.


    ¡°I heard from MO Yuan that this soup is the most nourishing, it has ingredients like goat penis or something like that. They guarantee that you¡¯ll be full of vigor in the future.¡±


    Song Jingchen choked when he heard her words. He glanced at the brown soup and his forehead throbbed.


    However, Shen Yijia still looked like she did not know anything.


    Seeing that another spoonful of soup was about to reach his mouth, Song Jingchen really didn¡¯t know whether to accept it or not.


    MO Yuan!

 Chapter 609 - Chapter 609: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (2)

    Chapter 609: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Sensing something, MO Yuan frowned. When she turned around, she saw Thirty Thousand standing at the kitchen door with a hesitant expression.


    ¡°Do you need something?¡± she asked expressionlessly.


    Thirty Thousand scratched his head and handed over the thing hidden behind him. ¡°This is for you.¡±


    It was a hand warmer that was not much bigger than a palm.


    MO Yuan glanced at him but didn¡¯t take it.


    Thirty Thousand was a little timid, but he still mustered his courage and explained, ¡°You usually have to wash clothes and cook. Isn¡¯t it cold now? You can use this to warm your hands.¡±


    MO Yuan thought for a moment, took off her pouch, and stuffed it into Thirty Thousand¡¯s empty hand before taking the furnace. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    With that, she turned around and walked out.


    Thirty Thousand was stunned for a moment. He looked at the pouch in his hand and quickly said, ¡°Young Madam has one.¡±


    MO Yuan paused. She did want to give it to her mistress.


    ¡°It was customized by Master. I happened to be present at that time, so I ordered an extra one. I just brought it back today,¡± Thirty Thousand said awkwardly.


    ¡°Oh.¡± MO Yuan returned the hand warmer to him and took back her money bag.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need this.¡±


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s heart shattered into pieces.


    During dinner at night, Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed as he looked at the stir-fried pig kidney with chives, and the goat penis and wolfberry soup in front of him.


    ¡°Big Brother, are you sick?¡± Sister Huan suddenly asked.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then why did Mother and Sister MO Yuan say that you¡¯re weak?¡± She glanced at the dishes in front of Song Jingchen meaningfully.


    Just now, Madam Li had specially reminded them not to eat those dishes, saying that they were specially made to nourish Song Jingchen¡¯s body.


    Brother Hao and Lin Shao looked at each other and couldn¡¯t help but suppress their laughter. They thought to themselves, ¡°Sister Huan is indeed a warrior. Can¡¯t you see that Brother¡¯s face has darkened?¡±


    ¡°Sister Huan, you¡¯re a girl. Why do you have so many questions? Eat properly.¡± Madam Li was a little embarrassed. If MO Yuan hadn¡¯t told her, she wouldn¡¯t have known that her almost perfect son had such a problem.


    As for how MO Yuan knew, she had secretly checked Shen Yijia¡¯s pulse. There was nothing wrong with Shen Yijia¡¯s body, so the problem was naturally Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia looked at the strange people at the table. Sister Huan did not seem to be lying. Brother Hao and Lin Shao clearly knew something. She tilted her head. ¡°Hubby, why didn¡¯t you tell me that you were feeling unwell?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. He couldn¡¯t eat this meal properly.


    He put down his chopsticks and personally brought the special dishes to the kitchen to throw them away.


    One Dot and the others were eating. When they saw him enter, they quickly turned their heads away and pretended not to see him.


    Song Jingchen was speechless. Everyone knew that he couldn¡¯t ¡°do it¡±, but he didn¡¯t know, was that it?


    He glanced at MO Yuan coldly and placed the dishes on the table. ¡°Eat them all.¡± One Dot and the others were speechless.


    In order to prevent this from happening again, Song Jingchen still found an opportunity to tell Madam Li about the two of them not consummating their marriage.


    Madam Li was stunned. It turned out that the grandson she had been looking forward to every day was nowhere to be seen.


    After hearing Song Jingchen¡¯s concerns, Madam Li sighed. ¡°As long as you have your own plans.¡±


    Song Jingchen knew how anxious Madam Li was to have a grandson. He


    changed the topic and said, ¡°I have some clues about what happened back then. I¡¯ll make a trip to the capital tomorrow.¡±


    Madam Li was stunned for a moment. When she realized what he was referring to, her eyes turned red. ¡°Really?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and comforted her. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯ll be able to avenge Grandfather and Father soon.¡±


    ¡°Hey, this is a good thing.¡± Madam Li pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. She was in no mood to think about grandchildren. She thought of something and forced a smile. ¡°I¡¯ll tell your father and grandfather now.¡±


    The house was specially decorated with memorial tablets for Song Yi and his son. Song Jingchen accompanied Madam Li to burn some incense and sent her back to the courtyard after listening to her nagging.


    When he returned to the room, she saw Shen Yijia packing her clothes.


    He paused. ¡°You¡¯re going too?¡±


    ¡°What else?¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly, ¡°When the time comes, I¡¯ll leave


    You Yi at home. You don¡¯t have to worry about Mother and the others¡¯ safety.¡± She had considered everything. What else could Song Jingchen say?


    Shangguan Pu still needed to use the emperor¡¯s name to eliminate dissidents and stabilize his power. Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t worried that the useless emperor would die easily.


    Just as he had analyzed previously, the old prince was the witness whose life was in danger at any time.


    However, there had been no news of him committing suicide for so many days. Song Jingchen was even more certain that someone wanted to reap the benefits, so he wasn¡¯t worried that he would be silenced when he left the capital..

 Chapter 610 - Chapter 610: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (2)

    Chapter 610: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In order to avoid being discovered by Shangguan Pu or the faction hiding in the dark, the couple did not bring anyone with them. Instead, they rented a carriage early in the morning and left the city.


    The village One Dot mentioned was called Xiangyang Village. Although it was under the jurisdiction of Cangtong Town, it was not close to Cangtong Town. It was about four hours away.


    It was already noon when they arrived at Cang Tong Town. Song Jingchen asked the carriage to stop in front of a noodle shop. He lifted the curtain and said, ¡°Let¡¯s eat here first.¡±


    Shen Yijia sat in the car, feeling drowsy. When she heard this, she rubbed her eyes. ¡°Okay.¡±


    The couple was wearing washed-out cotton clothes. The only warm jacket on their bodies was covered in patches of various sizes.


    Such attire might be rare in the capital, but it was not out of place in Cang Tong Town.


    The two of them ordered two bowls of noodles. Because it was already past mealtime, there were not many customers in the noodle shop. Soon, the waiter brought over two bowls of hot noodles.


    ¡°Dear guests, enjoy.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Song Jingchen pushed one of the bowls of noodles in front of


    Shen Yijia. ¡°Eat it while it¡¯s hot.¡±


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°Thank you, Hubby.¡±


    ¡°I heard the accents of the two guests. You should be from another city, right?¡±


    Perhaps because he was too free, the waiter did not leave after sending them off. Instead, he started chatting with them.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t impatient. He added, ¡°My wife and I are preparing to visit our relatives in Xiangyang Village. ¡±


    ¡°Xiangyang Village? I know that place. After leaving the town, go north¡­ But that village is a settlement village. Do you have relatives who got married to someone there?¡±


    The so-called settlement village referred to a village where the people were not born and raised there. Usually, refugees would migrate from other places or be relocated by the government.


    Song Jingchen paused and didn¡¯t ask when the people in the village had settled down. He only replied indifferently, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Dunzi, come and help,¡± someone called out from the kitchen.


    Only then did the waiter stop chatting with them.


    After eating the noodles, the two of them set off again. Along the way, they asked around about Xiangyang Village. The sky had already darkened.


    This village looked even poorer than Xiagou Village. The carriage drove along the path with difficulty. From time to time, one or two villagers could be seen working in the fields and returning home.


    This inexplicably reminded Shen Yijia of her days in Xiagou Village. While she sized up those people, others were also secretly sizing them up.


    ¡°A young man on a horse came to our village a few days ago. Another carriage came today. Don¡¯t tell me he¡¯s here to look for the mute grandmother and grandson again.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go up and ask?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Wang Mazi, go and ask.¡± Someone joined in.


    The man called Wang Mazi scratched his head. ¡°If you want to ask, ask yourself. I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not curious.¡± The heckling villagers picked up their hoe. ¡°Anyway, I don¡¯t have any relatives with carriages like this.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯m not curious.¡± Wang Mazi retracted his gaze from the carriage and quickly followed his companion. He muttered, ¡°This damn weather is quite cold. It¡¯s better to go back early and warm up my wife and children.¡±


    Their conversation drifted into the couple¡¯s ears. Song Jingchen guessed that the person they were talking about was One Dot, so he didn¡¯t stop to ask for directions. One Dot had already told him the exact location of the house.


    The carriage finally stopped in front of a house with a date tree.


    Shen Yijia jumped out of the car. In front of her was a mud hut surrounded by a fence. Half of the house had collapsed, and the collapsed part had been rebuilt into a thatched hut.


    ¡°Can such a dangerous house really be lived in?¡± Shen Yijia expressed her doubts.


    Moreover, along the way, every family had already lit up their candles, but this house was dark.


    She was about to ask Song Jingchen if he had come to the wrong place when a


    sickly young man came out of the house.


    Seeing them, the young man was stunned for a moment. He opened the fence door and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    Song Jingchen tied the horse to the date tree. ¡°We¡¯re here to look for the mute woman.¡±


    ¡°Ahem, my grandmother has already rested. Besides, I don¡¯t know you,¡± the young man said as he closed the fence door.


    It was obvious that he was unwilling to pay attention to them.


    Shen Yijia was a little speechless.


    Just as she finished thinking this, a hand was placed on her waist. In the next moment, she was already brought to the courtyard.


    The young man turned around.


    ¡°We¡¯re here to look for the mute woman. It has nothing to do with whether you know us or not,¡± Song Jingchen said calmly..

 Chapter 611 - Chapter 611: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (3)

    Chapter 611: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The young man was so angry that his face turned red. He covered his mouth and coughed violently. ¡°You¡­ get out!¡±


    At this moment, a loud clang sounded in the house. The young man couldn¡¯t care less about them and quickly ran in.


    Then, his concerned voice sounded. ¡°Grandmother, why are you out of bed?¡± Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other and followed him in.


    There was a bed pieced together from wooden planks in the room. Apart from that, there was only a chair lying on the side.


    The young man helped the mute woman lie down again. He was very helpless against the impolite couple. ¡°As you can see, my grandmother can¡¯t answer your questions in this state.¡±


    He didn¡¯t need to think to know that these two people had the same goal as the person who came a few days ago.


    Song Jingchen ignored him and looked at the old woman on the bed. ¡°Old lady, can you hear me?¡±


    The mute woman held the young man¡¯s hand tightly and nodded.


    Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Did you go to the old prince, Lord Xia¡¯s residence 18 years ago?¡±


    The mute woman shook her head. Although she was trying her best to hide it, Song Jingchen still realized that her body was trembling.


    Not only Song Jingchen, but even the young man noticed this change.


    The young man was stunned for a moment. He and the mute woman were not really grandmother and grandson. Eight years ago, his hometown suffered a disaster. He escaped with his family. When he followed the other refugees to Cangtong Town, which was not far from the capital, he was the only one left in the family.


    Apart from the refugees, there were often many people who became bandits because they couldn¡¯t eat their fill.


    At that time, he often saw corpses that had been killed and thrown into the wilderness on the way. He was penniless, so he secretly looked for anything valuable on those corpses. At the very least, he could take off the clothes of the dead and exchange them for some copper coins.


    This was how he dug the mute woman out of the pile of dead people.


    Seeing that the person was still alive, he originally didn¡¯t want to care, but that person refused to let go of him and even gave him a lot of money.


    He had no choice, and he couldn¡¯t bear to see a life die in front of him. He could only bring her to the medical center.


    In the end, it was only with the money that they could live in Xiangyang Village under Cangtong Town.


    Although the two of them were not related by blood, he had long treated her as his biological grandmother after so many years.


    Now, from what these people were saying, his grandmother was related to some prince¡¯s residence?


    However, his grandmother¡¯s reaction was clearly fearful.


    The young man stood in front of the mute woman. ¡°My grandmother said no. You can leave now.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Eighteen years ago, you entered the Lord Xia¡¯s residence with four other embroiderers to be the special embroiderers for the princess consort. I thought that you were just making clothes for the princess consort, but you didn¡¯t expect Lord Xia to want you to do something treasonous. Back then, it was too late for you to leave. You were there for ten years.¡±


    He was not sure which of the five people was the one in front of him, so he could only use this method to trick her. The mute woman struggled to shrink into the bed.


    ¡°Ahhh.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t speak. She could only shake her head vigorously in denial.


    What disgraceful thing was it that she had to be silenced? The young man was confused. Seeing his grandmother like this, he pushed Song Jingchen with red eyes. ¡°You¡¯ve got the wrong person. It¡¯s not my grandmother.¡±


    That was not the mute woman¡¯s reaction. Shen Yijia grabbed his wrist first and did not control her strength. The young man cried out in pain.


    The mute woman could not see and thought that they were hurting the young man. She took a few steps forward on her knees and kowtowed, shaking her head and nodding.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She let go of the young man guiltily.


    The young man quickly went to support the mute woman and comforted her.


    ¡°Grandmother, I¡¯m fine. They didn¡¯t hurt me.¡±


    The mute woman searched his face in a panic and started crying.


    She had already caused the death of her entire family. She could not implicate this innocent child too.


    With this thought in mind, she suddenly pushed the young man away and turned around to hit the wall beside the bed.


    ¡°Grandmother!¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked and quickly stopped him. Song Jingchen attacked at the same time as her.


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°We¡¯re not here to silence you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. We¡¯re here to ask you to be a witness.¡± Afraid that she would court death again, Shen Yijia did not dare to let go. She did not know if she should sympathize with this person or be angry. She puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Do you know how many people your clothes have harmed?¡±


    The mute woman froze and looked in the direction of the voice, but she clearly couldn¡¯t see.


    Seeing that she had calmed down, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen let go of her. The young man helped her sit back down..

 Chapter 612 - Chapter 612: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (4)

    Chapter 612: Husband and Wife Leaving the Capital (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He could tell that these two people did not have any ill intentions.


    ¡°Two years ago, the crown prince plotted a rebellion and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was implicated. Everyone in the family died or were crippled.¡± Shen Yijia paused and carefully glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression before continuing, ¡°You¡¯ve heard about this, right?¡±


    The mute woman nodded blankly.


    As embroiderers, they were often invited by rich families to the residence to measure and tailor clothes for those young ladies and madams. They knew more than others, and the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence was extremely good.


    At that time, she still lamented that good people did not live long.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Then do you know that the reason why the crown prince is charged with this crime is because of the clothes you made? He was framed.¡± The mute woman had only heard of it roughly and did not know the details. When she heard this, her heart tightened and she kept mumbling. She pointed at Shen Yijia.


    Although Shen Yijia had never said what kind of clothes it was, the young man knew more than the mute woman. For example, the dragon robe found in the crown prince¡¯s palace in the past.


    Did this person mean that the dragon robe was embroidered by his grandmother?


    It was winter, but the young man was so frightened that he broke out in cold sweat. He looked at the mute woman, then at Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen. He said in a trembling voice, ¡°My grandmother asked, who are you?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°My surname is Song.¡±


    Previously, they had just said that the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence had been implicated, and now that the surname Song was mentioned, the mute woman and the young man naturally connected the two.


    The mute woman pushed the young man away and kowtowed a few more times in the direction of the two of them. Her wrinkled face was filled with pain. She thought that that matter would never be mentioned again.


    That robe had killed too many people. Although it was not voluntary, it was because they were greedy and afraid of death back then. They had to bear a share of these sins. No one could escape.


    ¡°Stop kowtowing.¡± Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and went forward to stop him. ¡°We know you were forced.¡±


    She glanced at the mute woman¡¯s twisted fingers. ¡°Even if you didn¡¯t do it, someone else would have. Moreover, you¡¯ve fallen into such a state now. We shouldn¡¯t have disturbed you, but the emperor gave us a chance to overturn the case. We want you to testify that it wasn¡¯t the former crown prince who asked you to embroider that dress back then.¡±


    The mute woman nodded in agreement without thinking. Thinking of something, she pointed at her throat and eyes and stuck out her hands.


    She couldn¡¯t see or speak. Her hand was crippled. Even if she wanted to write, she couldn¡¯t do it.


    Shen Yijia understood what she meant and pursed her lips. ¡°Let¡¯s bring you back to the capital for treatment first.¡±


    She would see if MO Yuan could treat her first. If not, there was still her spiritual liquid. As long as she was willing to go, this would not be a problem.


    The mute woman nodded and fumbled for the young man¡¯s hand. She kept shaking her head.


    Shen Yijia did not understand.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°He has nothing to do with this. We won¡¯t implicate him.¡±


    The mute woman clasped her hands and bowed.


    It meant thank you.


    Unexpectedly, the young man suddenly said, ¡°I¡¯m with Grandmother. I¡¯m going to take care of Grandmother.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and didn¡¯t say anything. This was something they had decided on their own, so he wouldn¡¯t interfere.


    There was clearly no place for them to sleep in this house, but in order to avoid unnecessary trouble, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t go looking for an inn in the village.


    He first took out the dry food he had prepared at home from the carriage and heated it up. The two of them simply finished their dinner.


    Then, he built a fire in the kitchen and found some thatch outside to use as a cushion. He laid out a blanket and let Shen Yijia lie on it to sleep on his legs.


    ¡°Hubby, you sleep too.¡± Shen Yijia got up and pulled him to lie down.


    Song Jingchen refused. He brought this blanket because he was worried that Shen Yijia would be cold in the carriage. It wasn¡¯t big.


    She could use half of it as a mattress, and the other half could be pulled up and used as a blanket.


    However, how could Shen Yijia be willing to sleep alone and let him catch a cold? After pulling for a long time, it was useless. She gritted her teeth and stood up to pick him up.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    How long had it been since this girl carried him like this? Did he not care about his reputation?


    His forehead throbbed. ¡°Put me down.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly missed the Song Jingchen who had to rely on her to carry him wherever he went. She subconsciously glanced at his legs.


    Song Jingchen felt a chill down his spine under her gaze. He wanted to struggle and get down, but Shen Yijia was hugging him tightly. If he used too much strength, he might make her fall. He could only grit his teeth and repeat, ¡°Put me down.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Shen Yijia agreed obediently.


    Shaking her head to get rid of the terrifying thought in her mind, she couldn¡¯t help but shake a little before placing him on the blanket.


    Then, she lay down and wrapped her arms and legs around Song Jingchen like an octopus. She buried her face in his arms and stayed silent, pretending to be asleep.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    This was his wife. He couldn¡¯t hit her!


    There was a fire beside her and she was hugging Song Jingchen. Despite the cold wind outside, Shen Yijia slept well.


    Of course, Song Jingchen had to contribute to this.


    When Shen Yijia woke up, the pyre that had been piled up in the kitchen yesterday had already burned away.


    There was a strong fragrance of meat at the tip of her nose.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s faint voice sounded.


    Shen Yijia froze and smiled ingratiatingly at Song Jingchen, who was sitting under the kitchen. ¡°Hubby, good morning.¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that husband and wife made up at the end of the bed when they quarreled? They hadn¡¯t quarreled yesterday. He couldn¡¯t still be angry, right? She wanted to get up, but Song Jingchen stepped forward and picked her up.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She couldn¡¯t help but laugh. She hooked her arms around Song Jingchen¡¯s neck and kissed him. ¡°Do you like to hug me like this? You can hug me like this anytime.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Looking at Shen Yijia¡¯s smug expression, the corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He had indeed been led astray by this girl.


    Song Jingchen put her down and turned around without a word to get hot water for her to wash up.


    He couldn¡¯t hit or scold her. It was useless to treat her the same way. He decided to ignore her for a day!


    After Shen Yijia washed up, he lifted the lid of the pot. There was golden chicken soup stewing inside. The entire kitchen was filled with the fragrance of meat.


    ¡°Wow, you killed their chicken?¡± Shen Yijia swallowed. ¡°Looking at the family¡¯s conditions, a chicken should be considered a precious item. Isn¡¯t it inappropriate for us to do this?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. ¡°This is wild chicken soup.¡±


    There was almost no coarse grain left in this house. How could they afford to raise chickens?


    After explaining, he froze. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s smug gaze, he immediately realized that he had been tricked.


    That made sense. In the past, he had eaten countless pheasants captured by this girl in Xiagou Village. How could she not know them?


    Song Jingchen rubbed his forehead and handed her a bowl of soup. Seeing that she had started drinking, he scooped up two more bowls and prepared to bring them to the mute woman and the young man.


    After all, he had used a lot of their firewood.


    Unexpectedly, before he could walk out, she heard the young man exclaim, ¡°Grandmother, Grandmother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±

 Chapter 613 - Chapter 613: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace(1)

    Chapter 613: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace(1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The mute woman had fallen ill. She was already old and had been agitated yesterday. She had developed a fever without any warning.


    Shen Yijia knew a little about medicine, but not only had she never prescribed medicine for anyone, but she also did not have any medicine to use. The couple could only bring the mute woman to town to see a doctor.


    Fortunately, it was a false alarm. The mute woman¡¯s condition was not too serious.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get the doctor to prescribe some medicine for you later,¡± Shen Yijia said to the young man squatting there and coughing.


    When she saw this person yesterday, he looked sick. Perhaps it was because he didn¡¯t have the money to see a doctor, so he kept dragging it out.


    Shen Yijia suddenly missed the spiritual liquid that she condensed every three days. Although the effect was not as good as a level-three spiritual liquid, it was also not easy to detect.


    The young man said, ¡°My¡­ My name is Zhong Cheng.¡±


    Zhong Cheng?


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and nodded. ¡°Go and get the doctor to prescribe two sets of medicine for you later.¡±


    She could also tell that the two of them had a deep relationship. Since the mute woman wanted to help them testify, she definitely could not ignore this person.


    Zhong Cheng thanked her softly and poured out the medicine he had brewed before bringing it to the mute woman¡¯s room.


    The mute woman could not travel in this state. In order to make it easier to brew the medicine, they asked for a small courtyard in the inn beside the medical center.


    She was originally prepared to set off the next day after her condition stabilized. Unexpectedly, it started to drizzle.


    Another day passed. When they resumed their journey, it was already the fourth day of their departure from the capital.


    Because it had just rained for a day, the road was covered in mud, so Song Jingchen could only slow down.


    However, even if it was not fast, it was quite cold to sit on the driver¡¯s seat of the carriage. However, Shen Yijia insisted on sitting outside and not entering the carriage. Her face was red from the cold.


    Song Jingchen advised helplessly, ¡°It¡¯s cold outside. Get in the carriage.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not cold.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head. After thinking for a moment, she leaned to the side and snuggled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. She grinned. ¡°I¡¯ll warm you up.¡±


    She was still holding the hand warmer that Song Jingchen had given her. Now that she placed it between the two of them, a steady stream of heat flowed into them.


    Song Jingchen paused and looked down at her. He opened his mouth but didn¡¯t say anything in the end. He only pressed her face back into his embrace.


    This way, her face wouldn¡¯t be exposed to the cold wind.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and chuckled.


    The carriage slowly walked along the official road. Shen Yijia was about to fall asleep when the carriage suddenly stopped.


    She turned around and saw a carriage parked in the middle of the road ahead, blocking the way.


    A middle-aged man dressed as a coachman was standing beside the carriage.


    Perhaps because someone had finally arrived, the middle-aged man walked up to their carriage excitedly and cupped his hands. ¡°I¡¯m sorry to disturb you.


    There¡¯s a problem with our carriage. Can you give my old madam a ride?¡±


    This road led directly to the capital. From the direction of their car, their goal should also be the capital.


    Song Jingchen sized him up from head to toe before landing on his hand.


    It was obvious that only people who practiced martial arts all year round would have calluses between their thumb and forefinger.


    Shen Yijia sat up straight and looked at the middle-aged man warily.


    ¡°We have a patient in the car. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s inconvenient,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Zhong Cheng coughed in the carriage.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re a little smart, young man.¡±


    Seeing that the two of them were on guard, the middle-aged man explained helplessly, ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. I don¡¯t have any ill intentions. We¡¯ve been waiting for too long, and my old madam can¡¯t stand the cold, so I wanted to hitch a ride.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a woman in her forties alighted from the carriage opposite. The woman¡¯s clothes did not show, but her aura was much more noble than the wives of those wealthy families.


    She first sized up the couple before bowing and saying, ¡°My old madam said that as long as the Young Master can give us a ride, you¡¯ll definitely be rewarded heavily.¡±


    Was this person just a servant?


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen looked at each other and pursed their lips. ¡°What happened to your carriage? We can try to repair it.¡± The middle-aged man looked embarrassed. ¡°The axle cracked.¡±


    If he could fix it, he would have done so long ago.


    This place was about two hours away from the capital. Originally, he could have ridden to the capital and called for a carriage, but he was worried about leaving his master here. If anything happened, even a hundred heads would not be enough to atone for it.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°But there¡¯s really a patient in our carriage.. If we pass the illness to your old madam¡­¡±

 Chapter 614 - Chapter 614: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace (2)

    Chapter 614: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine,¡± the middle-aged man hurriedly said.


    The woman frowned at him, but she didn¡¯t say anything to refute him.


    A small gaze made the difference in status between the two of them obvious.


    Song Jingchen looked seriously at the carriage opposite him and didn¡¯t refuse.


    With his permission, the woman turned around and helped the person in the carriage down. The other party was wearing a veil and her appearance could not be seen clearly.


    The person nodded at Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia and was helped into the carriage by the woman.


    Their carriage was not big, but it was enough for four people to sit in. The middle-aged man rode beside them.


    Two hours later, the carriage successfully entered the city. The three of them left a money bag and left.


    Song Jingchen brought the remaining people to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s place.


    The Song family was clearly Shangguan Puts main focus. He was worried about them being placed elsewhere, so he could only settle the two people down with Xuanyuan Ce first.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not know if he should be happy or angry at the couple for not treating him as an outsider.


    He was happy that he was trusted, but he was angry that they didn¡¯t tell him about something as big as leaving the capital. As soon as they returned, they threw him a problem.


    ¡°This is their food expenses.¡± Shen Yijia took out the money bag she had just obtained with a pained expression.


    She had taken a look. There were two banknotes and some silver pieces inside. It added up to more than 200 taels of silver. For simply letting them hitch a ride, it was indeed a heavy reward.


    Of course, she did not give so much money as just food. She also gave Xuanyuan Ce a reward for his help.


    Xuanyuan Ce inexplicably understood what she meant and his heart skipped a beat.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that?¡± Shen Yijia was puzzled.


    Xuanyuan Ce sighed. ¡°I have to return to the Xuanyuan Kingdom soon.¡±


    Ji Yunxi suddenly left the capital of Great Xia with the excuse of looking for medicine. He felt that something was wrong and sent someone to investigate.


    Unexpectedly, he found traces of her in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Unfortunately, there was no news of her after that. It was as if Ji Yunxi had disappeared from the face of the earth. No matter how hard he searched, he couldn¡¯t find her.


    Thinking of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, he decided to make a trip personally.


    Shen Yijia was stunned for a moment. She had almost forgotten that this person was also going home. She thought for a moment and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t it inconvenient for that mute woman to stay with you?¡±


    ¡°No, I still need to stay for a few more days.¡± Xuanyuan Ce shook his head and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°Since you¡¯ve brought back the witnesses, you should take action, right?¡±


    If the Song family¡¯s matter was not resolved, he would not be at ease with Shen Yijia¡¯s situation.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and nodded. ¡°It won¡¯t take up too much of your time.¡±


    When they returned home, Madam Li did not ask if they had found her. She only urged the two of them to take a hot bath and prepared a large table of dishes with MO Yuan. When the two of them were full, she chased them back to their rooms to rest.


    Song Jingchen knew that Madam Li really wanted to know the outcome, but he was worried that they would be tired, so he endured it and didn¡¯t ask. He said helplessly, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. We brought her back.¡±


    Madam Li stiffened and tears welled up in her eyes. She smiled and said,


    ¡°That¡¯s good, that¡¯s good.¡±


    She pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. ¡°Hurry up and go back to your room to rest. Sister Jia has lost weight. I¡¯ll go to the kitchen to make some soup. You should drink it when you wake up.¡±


    Shen Yijia touched her face. She had been gone for four days, not four months. How did she lose weight so quickly?


    In the end, the two of them could not persuade Madam Li to return to her room to catch up on her sleep. When Shen Yijia woke up, it was already dark.


    Perhaps because she had slept for too long, Shen Yijia felt dizzy. She sat on the bed in a daze for a long time before getting out of bed.


    MO Yuan, who was guarding outside the door, heard the commotion and pushed the door open.


    ¡°Where did my hubby go?¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and asked.


    MO Yuan walked over to help her change her clothes. ¡°Lord Xian is here. Young Master is talking to him in the study in the front courtyard.¡± Shangguan Yu?


    Shen Yijia frowned and muttered, ¡°Why is he here?¡±


    MO Yuan said, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, forget it.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand. She thought of something and asked, ¡°Have you seen the mute woman?¡±


    Song Jingchen had probably taken care of everything.


    As expected, MO Yuan nodded and said, ¡°She¡¯s not in a good condition. Too much time has passed, and she¡¯s old. I¡¯m afraid she won¡¯t be able to hold on even if we give her lots of medicine.


    Actually, the most important thing was to treat her throat, but that wasn¡¯t guaranteed either.


    Shen Yijia was actually not surprised by this outcome. She thought for a moment and asked, ¡°Have you told her?¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at her and shook her head. ¡°No, I only said that I would do my best.


    Shen Yijia gave her a thumbs up in approval. ¡°How smart. Then let¡¯s help her cure¡¯ it..¡±

 Chapter 615 - Chapter 615: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace (3)

    Chapter 615: The Empress Dowager Returns to the Palace (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the study, Shangguan Yu and Song Jingchen sat opposite each other. He was mainly here today for the intermediate court.


    Now, be it the ministers in the imperial court, the concubines in the harem, or lords like them, they could not see the emperor.


    ¡°The imperial physician said that my father needs to recuperate. I¡¯m a little worried.¡± Shangguan Yu sighed.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I¡¯ve already been suspended.¡±


    So what was the point of telling him this?


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t asked you. On the day of my father¡¯s accident, did you bring the old prince into the palace because you found out that he was the mastermind behind the kidnapping of young girls?¡±


    That day, Song Jingchen only said that he had found out that the old prince was a key figure, but he didn¡¯t mention the details. Later on, when the incident at the Fragrant Teahouse broke out, everyone naturally thought that the key figure Song Jingchen mentioned was equivalent to the mastermind.


    Song Jingchen looked at him deeply, but he wasn¡¯t satisfied. He told him what the old prince and Shangguan Pu had done.


    A look of shock flashed across Shangguan Yu¡¯s face. After confirming that he was not joking, a rare anger rose on his face. ¡°He¡¯s the prince of a country. How can he disregard human lives for his own selfish desires?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°That¡¯s right. If the truth wasn¡¯t in front of us, who would have thought?¡±


    ¡°Since Imperial Granduncle went to confess, why would he assassinate my father?¡± At this point, he suddenly paused and looked at Song Jingchen in disbelief. ¡°The reason why you didn¡¯t say anything that day was because you suspected that the culprit who attacked my father was my eldest brother?¡±


    For his eldest brother to attack his father in the palace filled with the imperial guards, it was obvious that the imperial guards had already sided with him.


    If Song Jingchen had told the truth at that time, not only would his life be in danger, but even those who heard it would have been imprisoned.


    Song Jingchen agreed tacitly.


    ¡°No wonder I keep feeling that something is wrong. Every time I want to enter Yangxin Hall these past few days, I¡¯ve been stopped. I think my father must have been imprisoned by Eldest Brother.¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s face was filled with worry. He smiled bitterly and said, ¡°No matter what, he¡¯s our biological father.


    I really didn¡¯t expect him to do this.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything. There were commoner families who fell out with each other in order to fight for the family assets, let alone the emperor¡¯s family.


    The study fell silent for a moment. After a long time, Shangguan Yu said, ¡°No matter what, the most important thing now is to save my father. We can¡¯t let him continue like this.¡±


    He looked at Song Jingchen and continued, ¡°Unfortunately, we don¡¯t have any evidence. More than half of the officials in the intermediate court are on his side now.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°You¡¯re wrong. It¡¯s you, not us!¡±


    Shangguan Yu was stunned. ¡°Ah Chen, you¡­


    Song Jingchen said calmly, ¡°I wanted to find out who framed Ah Han and the


    Song family. ¡±


    ¡°But now that I think about it, so what if the case is overturned? My father and grandfather won¡¯t come back to life.¡±


    ¡°In the end, their deaths were all caused by that person, so I won¡¯t save him. As for who will be the emperor, I don¡¯t care.¡±


    Shangguan Yu disagreed. ¡°But he attacked innocent citizens without any mercy. If such a person sits in that position, how will the world be safe in the future? How will the citizens be safe?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s still your Shangguan family¡¯s world. What do the citizens of your Shangguan family have to do with me?¡±


    These words were too cold-blooded. Shangguan Yu said in disappointment, as if this was the first time he had met Song Jingchen, ¡°You¡¯ve already been blinded by hatred. You shouldn¡¯t be like this.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that you¡¯ve been unwilling to admit it. Our positions have been different from the beginning, right?¡±


    From the moment the emperor attacked his family, he was destined to be enemies with the royal family.


    He would not give up on revenge because of his former good friend, Shangguan Yu. It was also impossible for Shangguan Yu to watch him attack his father.


    Therefore, Song Jingchen felt that it was a little ridiculous for Shangguan Yu to come and tell him that he wanted to save the emperor.


    He seemed to have hit the nail on the head. Shangguan Yuclosed his eyes and took a deep breath. ¡°You¡¯re right. I was thinking too much.¡±


    He stood up and walked out. He thought of something and paused. ¡°I forgot to mention that I came out of the palace just now. The empress dowager has returned to the palace.¡±


    Not long after Shangguan Yu left, Shen Yijia carefully stuck her head in.


    ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen waved at her.


    Shen Yijia squeezed through the gap in the door and walked up to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head in amusement. ¡°Did you hear everything just


    Shen Yijia blinked and felt a little guilty. She had indeed eavesdropped.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Actually, those are my true thoughts.¡±


    He really didn¡¯t care about the citizens of Great Xia. He even wanted to see Great Xia, which had been protected by his grandfather for his entire life, fall apart. He wanted the useless emperor to have a taste of dying at his son¡¯s hands.


    However, he couldn¡¯t do that. Apart from his grandfather¡¯s instructions before he died, it was also because he had someone to protect.


    He did not want the people he cared about to live in troubled times.


    Shen Yijia reached out and patted his back. ¡°That¡¯s what I thought too.¡±


    She didn¡¯t feel a sense of belonging to Great Xia. Even if she did, it was because Song Jingchen was here. She only cared because Song Jingchen cared.


    If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care anymore, why would she care?


    Although Shen Yijia didn¡¯t say anything else, Song Jingchen inexplicably understood.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart swelled and he subconsciously tightened his grip.


    He looked down at the person smiling like a flower in his arms and said hoarsely, ¡°Jiajia¡­¡±


    The two heads gradually approached each other, so close that they could feel each other¡¯s breath on their faces.


    Suddenly, Sister Huan¡¯s roar came from outside the door. ¡°Big Brother,


    Sister-in-law, it¡¯s time to eat.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I forgot that I¡¯m here to call my beautiful husband for dinner!¡±

 Chapter 616 - Chapter 616: Stroke (1)

    Chapter 616: Stroke (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The 21st year of Chong¡¯an was destined to be a troubled period for Great Xia. First, the old prince attacked the emperor, causing the emperor to be seriously injured and fall unconscious. After he finally woke up and arranged for Lord Jing to supervise the country, there was no movement again.


    Then, when the Fragrant Teahouse revealed the old prince¡¯s evil deeds for many years, the commoners waited for the emperor to recover so that they could convict the old prince.


    Additionally, the Empress Dowager had returned to the palace!


    The empress dowager, who had not returned to the capital for nearly twenty years, suddenly returned at this time. Was she hinting that the emperor was really about to die?


    Looking at Lord Jing, who had been receiving a lot of attention in the intermediate court recently, it was not difficult to guess that Lord Jing would become the next emperor once the current emperor passed away.


    With Lord Jing¡¯s momentum, several family clans in the capital rose with him, including Lord Jing¡¯s maternal family, Prime Minister Liu¡¯s Mansion, and Consort Jing¡¯s maternal family.


    There was no need to mention the Prime Minister¡¯s residence. With Imperial Concubine Liu in the harem all year round, she had always been the target of many officials¡¯ fawning.


    The Shen family, on the other hand, held their heads high for a rare moment after Shen Ping¡¯s mishap.


    So what if Shen Pingxiu was stripped of his official position? As long as Lord Jing took the position of emperor, Shen Pingxiu would still be a legitimate noble.


    Perhaps because they had been reminded, the Shen family had learned their lesson this time. They did not come to find trouble with Shen Yijia immediately.


    Shen Yijia did not take it to heart.


    She originally thought that the empress dowager¡¯s return to the palace had nothing to do with her, but she did not expect¡­


    ¡°Is this the girl you mentioned to me?¡± Empress Dowager Wei¡¯s voice sounded above her head.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and quickly bowed. ¡°Greetings, Empress


    Dowager. ¡±


    Madam Qiu smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s all thanks to this girl accompanying me these days. Don¡¯t scare her.¡±


    ¡°Look at your heartache. Get up quickly.¡± Empress Dowager Wei waved her hand and instructed the nanny beside her to move a small table between her and Madam Qiu. She waved for Shen Yijia to sit down.


    Shen Yijia sat down obediently and could not help but look at the nanny again. She thought to herself that fate was really magical.


    She had never seen the empress dowager before, but this nanny was clearly the woman who had hitchhiked that day. Coupled with the time the empress dowager returned to the palace, it was not difficult to guess that the old madam wearing a veil was the empress dowager in front of her.


    At the same time, she was glad that she and Song Jingchen had disguised themselves that day.


    Madam Qiu said matter-of-factly, ¡°My heart must ache. If not for this girl, how could I be sitting here now?¡±


    From the conversation between the two of them, he knew that Madam Qiu and the empress dowager were close friends.


    ¡°Then you have to protect her well.¡± Empress Dowager Wei held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and took off the bracelet on her wrist for her to wear.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Madam Qiu and saw her nod. ¡°Thank you, Empress Dowager.¡±


    There was no smugness, let alone flattery.


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded in satisfaction and patted the back of her hand.


    ¡°What a good child.¡±


    Shen Yijia resisted the urge to pull her hand back and forced a smile.


    Perhaps seeing that she was uncomfortable, Madam Qiu changed the topic. ¡°You too. Why didn¡¯t you tell me in advance that you were returning to the capital? I heard from Huixin that something happened to your carriage halfway. You¡¯re too bold.¡±


    ¡°Back then, I could leave the capital on my own. Why do I have to be picked up when I return?¡± Empress Dowager Wei looked at the nanny at the side reproachfully. ¡°Why haven¡¯t you changed your bad habit after so many years?


    You tell her everything.¡±


    Nanny Huixin smiled apologetically. ¡°That¡¯s because Madam Qiu cares about the empress dowager. She asked me when she saw me. If I didn¡¯t say anything, she wouldn¡¯t let me go.¡±


    Madam Qiu also smiled. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? What you could tell me in the past can¡¯t be said now?¡±


    ¡°Alright, you¡¯re all on the same side. I can¡¯t win against you,¡± Empress Dowager Wei said.


    The two of them teased each other for a while before Madam Qiu asked with a serious expression, ¡°Did you return to the capital this time because you were worried about His Majesty¡¯s health?¡±


    The empress dowager had just arrived in the capital yesterday, but today, she asked her to bring Shen Yijia into the palace. It was definitely not as simple as wanting to take a look at Shen Yijia.


    The empress dowager picked up her teacup and took a sip. She glanced at Nanny Huixin. The latter understood and waved her hand to dismiss the palace servants in the hall.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid that Great Xia will fall into chaos.¡± She sighed.


    The emperor did not come from Empress Dowager Wei¡¯s stomach. He was already at the age of a governor when he was registered under her name.


    As for her own child, he died of illness when he was ten years old. She also lost all her maternal love. Apart from her title, she actually didn¡¯t have much feelings for the emperor.


    This was also the reason why Empress Dowager Wei could leave for so many years without returning to the palace..

 Chapter 617 - Chapter 617: Stroke (2)

    Chapter 617: Stroke (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She could not listen calmly to an outsider call her mother and watch that person occupy everything that should have belonged to her son.


    Madam Qiu also knew about these things. Even the reason why Empress Dowager Wei lost that child was related to every woman in the harem, including the current emperor¡¯s biological mother.


    However, what could Empress Dowager Wei do? She couldn¡¯t possibly let the Shangguan family die for her child, right?


    After experiencing the chaotic times, she no longer wanted to see sorrow everywhere.


    She walked far away. What someone doesn¡¯t know can¡¯t hurt them.


    ¡°Unfortunately, I realized that coming back won¡¯t change anything.¡± She looked tired.


    Imperial Concubine Liu did not dare to stop her from seeing the emperor, but so what? She had been in the palace for dozens of years, so how could she not understand what was going on?


    Madam Qiu opened her mouth to say something.


    Empress Dowager Wei continued, ¡°If I remember correctly, you told me that this girl is Song Daniu¡¯s granddaughter-in-law?¡±


    When Empress Dowager Wei left the capital, Song Yi had just married Madam Li and Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t been born yet.


    Madam Qiu paused and realized who Song Daniu was. She nodded and said,


    ¡°Yes, you still remember.¡±


    Actually, very few people in the capital knew Old Master Song¡¯s name before he changed his name. Empress Dowager Wei knew because she had followed the late emperor to the battlefield back then and had known Old Master Song for a long time.


    ¡°The Song family is good. Our Shangguan family has let them down.¡±


    Now, not to mention Shen Yijia, even Madam Qiu did not understand what she meant.


    Empress Dowager Wei did not say anything else. She turned to Shen Yijia and said, ¡°Did you bring that powerful maidservant beside you?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She only had MO Yuan by her side.


    Empress Dowager Wei knew that she must have mentioned MO Yuan¡¯s medical skills because Madam Qiu had told her about it.


    Shen Yijia lowered her eyes. ¡°She didn¡¯t follow me in.¡±


    Not everyone could bring a maidservant into the palace.


    ¡°Huixin, make a trip and bring her in,¡± Empress Dowager Wei instructed.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After waiting for about 15 minutes, Huixin walked in with MO Yuan. Only then did Empress Dowager Wei say that she wanted her to take a look at the emperor.


    Shen Yijia had already guessed it when she asked about MO Yuan. She answered honestly because she wanted to take this opportunity to see the situation of the useless emperor. This was a rare opportunity, so she naturally agreed.


    Although technically, she couldn¡¯t refuse.


    Empress Dowager Wei instructed someone to carry a palanquin over. There were a total of two palanquins. The Empress Dowager¡¯s special palanquin walked in front, while Shen Yijia and Madam Qiu rode in the same palanquin and fell a few steps behind.


    The group headed for Yangxin Hall.


    This was Shen Yijia¡¯s first time sitting on this thing, so she could not help but find it novel. She could not help but take a few more glances. Madam Qiu thought that she was worried and comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the empress dowager is different from the other members of the Shangguan family.¡±


    After all, she had been on the battlefield and the empress dowager had been domineering when she was young. However, no matter how domineering a woman was, she would be worn down after entering this harem. However, Madam Qiu knew that the empress dowager¡¯s heart had never changed.


    Otherwise, she would not have given up the wealth and glory in the palace and resolutely run to a bitter place like the imperial mausoleum. She even stayed there for nearly 20 years.


    ¡°I¡¯m not worried,¡± Shen Yijia said seriously.


    Before they entered Yangxin Hall, they saw more than ten people kneeling at the door from afar. When they got closer, they realized that the people kneeling there were Shangguan Yu and another baby-faced purple-robed youth.


    Shen Yijia remembered him. When she first entered the capital, he had argued with her about the words written by a talented scholar. Later on, she had seen him once on the emperor¡¯s birthday. That was when she found out that he was the emperor¡¯s third son, Lord Rui, Shangguan Heng.


    The carriage stopped. Empress Dowager Wei glanced at everyone indifferently and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Shangguan Yu and Shangguan Heng were the first to react. ¡°Greetings,


    Grandmother.¡±


    The ministers quickly kowtowed and bowed. ¡°Greetings, Empress Dowager.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei frowned and said, ¡°The emperor is resting inside. Why are all of you kneeling here?¡±


    Shangguan Yu moved his stiff legs. Before he could speak, Shangguan Heng interrupted, ¡°Grandmother, we were also worried about Father, so we wanted to see him, but they wouldn¡¯t let us in.¡±


    As he spoke, he glanced unhappily at the imperial guards guarding the entrance of Yangxin Hall.


    Empress Dowager Wei looked over.


    Commander MO cupped his hands and said with a straight face, ¡°Empress Dowager, we¡¯re only following His Majesty¡¯s instructions. Moreover, the imperial physician has also instructed that His Majesty needs to recuperate now. ¡±


    Shangguan Heng sneered.. ¡°Then why can Eldest Brother enter? Are you obeying Father or Eldest Brother?¡±

 Chapter 618 - Chapter 618: Stroke (3)

    Chapter 618: Stroke (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Previously, he did not know, but last night, his second brother had told him that his father was imprisoned in Yangxin Hall. He would not believe these people¡¯s nonsense.


    Why did he bring the ministers here to kneel early in the morning? Of course, he was trying to exert pressure on his eldest brother.


    If he did not want to lend credibility to the crime of imprisoning the emperor, he should at least let them in to take a look, right?


    ¡°Your Highness, please be careful with your words. We only listen to His Majesty¡¯s decree,¡± Commander MO said with a terrified expression.


    ¡°You know very well if I¡¯m being careful with my words or not.¡± Shangguan Heng only believed what Shangguan Yu said and would not listen to him. After saying that, he looked at Empress Dowager Wei hopefully. ¡°Grandmother, you can¡¯t be deceived by him.¡±


    That Song fellow was also despicable. He had long known about this, but he didn¡¯t tell them.


    Empress Dowager Wei was a little stunned. She did not expect there to be such a fool in the imperial family. She coughed lightly. ¡°Then can I go in?¡±


    Commander MO pursed his lips. ¡°His Majesty didn¡¯t say not to let the empress dowager in.¡±


    The emperor was under the empress dowager¡¯s name no matter what. He could refuse to see anyone, but he could not refuse to see her. Otherwise, it would be too obvious.


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded and looked at the ministers. ¡°I¡¯ll bring the doctor in to see the emperor. You can go back first.¡±


    ¡°Grandmother, I¡¯ll go in with you too,¡± Shangguan Heng hurriedly said.


    Empress Dowager Wei had a headache. ¡°If you¡¯re worried about your father, wait outside. I¡¯ll tell you when I come out.¡±


    She knew that going overboard was as bad as not doing enough. The fact that these people could still let her in meant that they had their considerations and did not want to be charged with treason.


    However, once she crossed this line and forced them into a corner, it would probably bring about something else.


    Shangguan Heng was a little unwilling and wanted to fight for it. Sensing someone tugging at his sleeve, he said reluctantly, ¡°Alright then. Grandmother, you must ask Father if he said that he can¡¯t see us.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei glanced at Shangguan Yu and waved her hand. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s cold. Don¡¯t kneel here anymore.¡±


    Only then did everyone get up.


    Shen Yijia looked at Shangguan Heng sympathetically. No wonder he liked the book written by the Romantic Scholar. It turned out that he was also stupid.


    In the end, only Empress Dowager Wei, Shen Yijia, and MO Yuan entered Yangxin Hall. Because Commander MO said that not many people could enter, Madam Qiu went back to Cining Palace.


    There was a strong medicinal smell in Yangxin Hall. Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose in discomfort.


    Eunuch Li was still guarding the bed.


    ¡°Greetings, Empress Dowager.¡± Eunuch Li knelt down and bowed.


    Empress Dowager Wei glanced at him indifferently and did not let him get up.


    ¡°Go and take a look,¡± she said to MO Yuan.


    MO Yuan bowed and walked to the bed. Unexpectedly, just as she placed her hand on the emperor¡¯s pulse, the emperor opened his eyes.


    It wasn¡¯t completely open, because one of his eyes was closed. Not only that, but even his mouth was crooked.


    Shen Yijia was shocked.


    ¡°Emperor,¡± Empress Dowager Wei called out.


    The emperor did not wake up when she arrived yesterday.


    The emperor moved his intact eyeball with difficulty. After a long time, he finally saw the person in front of him clearly. His eyes instantly lit up. He opened his mouth, and a long string of saliva flowed out.


    Shen Yijia turned her head away in disdain.


    She was relieved to see the useless emperor tortured to this extent.


    After a long time, MO Yuan retracted her hand and retreated behind Shen Yijia.


    Empress Dowager Wei called out a few more times, but the emperor did not respond. As long as he opened his mouth, saliva flowed out and tears fell.


    ¡°Oh my, Your Majesty, why are you crying again?¡± Seeing this, Eunuch Li couldn¡¯t be bothered with manners. He took a few steps forward on his knees and took out a handkerchief to wipe his saliva and tears. ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t be anxious. The imperial physician said that he would definitely treat you.¡± Empress Dowager Wei frowned. ¡°Eunuch Li, what happened to the emperor?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty hit his head when he fell.¡± Eunuch Li wiped his tears. ¡°At first, the imperial physician didn¡¯t find out. He thought that Your Majesty was only injured by a knife. When he realized that Your Majesty was already like this, he could still say two words vaguely at first. However, his condition has become worse over the past few days.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei looked at MO Yuan.


    MO Yuan paused and said expressionlessly, ¡°His Majesty had a stroke and needs to recuperate well.¡±


    After some thought, she added, ¡°He can¡¯t be provoked again.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. That¡¯s what the imperial physician said.¡± While wiping the emperor¡¯s face, Eunuch Li secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°So you were the one who faked the imperial edict and asked Commander MO to guard outside?¡± Empress Dowager Wei asked suspiciously.


    Eunuch Li kowtowed repeatedly in fear. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. His Majesty instructed me to do so from the beginning.¡±


    The situation was so serious, and the emperor was someone who valued power more than anything else. His first reaction was that it seemed normal to hide his illness.


    The emperor was still very excited. It could be seen from his proficiency in drool and tears.


    Empress Dowager Wei sighed, took a handkerchief and wiped it for him. ¡°Since the imperial physician has reminded you, you should rest well. Lord Jing is in charge of the intermediate court. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s saliva and tears flowed even more fiercely.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°If I didn¡¯t know that the empress dowager had just returned to the capital and didn¡¯t know the inside story, I would have suspected that she was deliberately provoking the emperor.¡±


    ¡°Emperor, rest well. I¡¯ll visit you next time.¡± Empress Dowager Wei lowered her eyes and handed a handkerchief to Eunuch Li. ¡°Take good care of the emperor.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to be negligent.¡±


    The emperor was about to die of anxiety, but Empress Dowager Wei had already turned around and did not notice. He could only try his best to roll his eyes and meet Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze. Then, he stared at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia felt that it was rude not to give a response, so she said two words silently.


    Serves you right!


    The emperor fainted before he could catch his breath!


    Before leaving, Shen Yijia glanced at a certain spot and smiled..

 Chapter 619 - Chapter 619: Trapped in the Fire (1)

    Chapter 619: Trapped in the Fire (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After learning from Empress Dowager Wei that the emperor had woken up and that the order to not see everyone had indeed come from him, Shangguan Heng directly treated her as Shangguan Pu¡¯s accomplice.


    Compared to his grandmother, whom he had just met a few times, he clearly trusted his second brother¡¯s judgment more.


    As soon as Empress Dowager Wei left with her men, he clamored to enter Yangxin Hall.


    In the end, Lord Jing, who had rushed over after receiving the news, reprimanded him as an elder brother and ordered him not to approach Yangxin Hall again without his permission.


    ¡°Second Brother, even Grandmother is on Eldest Brother¡¯s side. What should we do now?¡± Shangguan Heng scratched his head in frustration.


    Empress Dowager Wei¡¯s simple words were equivalent to vouching for Shangguan Pu. They had just spread the news that the emperor was imprisoned, and the news would probably be suppressed soon.


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s fingers rubbed the corners of his sleeves gently. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Don¡¯t you still have to see Consort Shu? Go quickly.¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, aren¡¯t you going with me?¡± Shangguan Heng asked.


    Shangguan Yu shook his head. ¡°No, I have something to do and have to leave the palace early.¡±


    After returning to Cining Palace, Empress Dowager Wei asked MO Yuan about the emperor¡¯s condition again and received the same answer as before.


    Her face was usually expressionless. Even Empress Dowager Wei, who thought that her eyes were sharp, could not tell if this was the truth or a lie.


    After lunch in Cining Palace, Madam Qiu could tell that Empress Dowager Wei was tired, so she bade farewell.


    The pills she had taken recently were all made of well water with spiritual liquid. Her health was much better than before, but she could not compare to ordinary people.


    Empress Dowager Wei was afraid that Shen Yijia would catch a cold, so she instructed someone to prepare a sedan chair and packed a box of snacks for Shen Yijia.


    ¡°I remember that Song Daniu likes this jade cake the most. His descendants probably like it too. Bring it back for your family to try.¡±


    These words were actually unfounded. Who would like some snacks just because their father or mother liked them?


    Especially when Empress Dowager Wei looked at her before she left, Shen Yijia felt that it meant something.


    The sedan chair stopped at the entrance of the palace. Shen Yijia helped Madam Qiu down and saw a familiar carriage parked on the palace path. Two men with the same aura stood there and chatted. Hearing the commotion, they both turned around.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°Madam Qiu.¡± The two of them went forward to greet Madam Qiu.


    ¡°Your Highness Lord Xian, Earl Zhongyi.¡± Madam Qiu bowed. Others gave her face, but she had to know her limits.


    The two of them bowed. Shen Yijia resisted the urge to pounce on Song Jingchen and helped Madam Qiu into the carriage.


    After she left, she took a few steps forward and held Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. She tilted her head and asked, ¡°Hubby, are you here to pick me up?¡±


    Song Jingchen reached out and rubbed her head, not denying it.


    ¡°Since Sister-in-law is here, I¡¯ll leave first,¡± Shangguan Yu said.


    Song Jingchen said distantly, ¡®Your Highness, take care.¡±


    Shangguan Yu paused and shook his head with a bitter smile. In the end, he didn¡¯t say anything and got into his carriage to leave.


    ¡°Why is he here?¡± Shen Yijia pursed her lips and asked.


    ¡°We happened to meet.¡± Song Jingchen helped her into the carriage. The ice mirror that was used to hold the ice cubes had been replaced with charcoal, and a steady stream of heat spread out from there. The inside and outside of the carriage were two completely different worlds.


    Song Jingchen poured a cup of hot tea and handed it to her. ¡°Did you see the emperor?¡±


    After taking a sip of tea, Shen Yijia felt her entire body warm up. Hearing this, she paused. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    After asking, she thought of Shangguan Yu and thought that he was the one who said it.


    She put down her teacup and told him everything that had happened in the palace. After saying that, she called MO Yuan into the carriage to ask about the cause of the emperor¡¯s illness.


    ¡°He was fed medicine, and his symptoms are identical to those of a stroke.¡± MO Yuan paused and continued, ¡°I realized that there seems to be another slow-acting medicine in his body. It¡¯s not fatal, but it¡¯s addictive.¡±


    Everything complemented and countered each other. If there was a poison, there was naturally an antidote. However, this was different. It was not considered a poison, but it could destroy a person¡¯s will when their drug addiction acted up.


    The early-stage ingredients could refresh one¡¯s mind, but as time passed, it would make one irritable until one became a complete lunatic.


    Therefore, the emperor was not only tortured by Shangguan Pu¡¯s poison, but his rationality was also corroded by another drug addiction.


    It could be said to be tragic!


    Song Jingchen recalled that when he first entered the palace, Eunuch Li had said that Ji Yunxi was refining pills for the emperor. Sometimes, if a court session dragged on, he could see him taking pills..

 Chapter 620 - Chapter 620: Trapped in the Fire (2)

    Chapter 620: Trapped in the Fire (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Can you make the same poison?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    MO Yuan nodded and hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°I suspect that the poison he was poisoned with came from my master¡¯s family.¡±


    Just like the Heart-Devouring Poison in the kidnapped woman, it was a rare poison in the poison sutra that her master had once shown her.


    In order to differentiate between the former lady and Shen Yijia, she now referred to the former lady as her master.


    Shen Yijia guessed, ¡°Could it be that the destined person chosen by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets is Shangguan pu?¡±


    The two medicines from Shangguan Pu came from there. It couldn¡¯t be a coincidence.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s also possible that Shangguan Pu was used.¡±


    When they returned home, MO Yuan returned to the pharmacy to make medicine under Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions. Shen Yijia placed the food box given by Empress Dowager Wei on the table and opened it. ¡°The empress dowager gave this to me. Did Grandfather like to eat this pastry in the past?¡±


    Song Jingchen reached out, picked up a piece, and took a bite. The jade cake was milky white. As the name suggested, it was as clean as jade.


    Seeing that he had finished one piece and reached out for a second piece, Shen


    Yijia asked in disbelief, ¡°You like it too?¡±


    ¡°Who wouldn¡¯t like it?¡± Song Jingchen chuckled and stuffed the pastry into Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth was stuffed. She widened her eyes for a long time before swallowing the pastry. She asked suspiciously, ¡°What does the empress dowager mean? Will she help us?¡±


    The Song family had been slandered. How could she be innocent?


    If she was innocent, why not help them to overturn the case?


    ¡°Oh, could it be a reminder that we can¡¯t do anything to humiliate ourselves?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen was amused by her appearance and couldn¡¯t help but rub her head again. ¡°It¡¯s a journey of more than ten days from the imperial mausoleum to the capital. Why do you think the empress dowager could enter the capital in time?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. That¡¯s right. It had only been ten days since the emperor¡¯s accident. It was impossible for her to have the ability to predict the future and Imow in advance that something would happen to the emperor.


    At Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    Shangguan Pu was also discussing this matter with his advisor. He got someone to investigate the time the empress dowager set off from the imperial mausoleum. It was actually the day he attacked the emperor.


    In other words, the empress dowager had received the news before he could attack.


    But was that possible?


    Even he had decided to attack at the last minute because he had received the news.


    Unexpectedly, Shangguan Pu thought of the person who had sent him the news and asked for another 100,000 taels of gold.


    He originally wanted to find out who was behind this while paying.


    Unexpectedly, the other party was too vigilant. The money was given out, but he did not gain any clues.


    Could it be that the empress dowager returned to the capital because of that person?


    Thinking about how there was such an eye staring at him from behind and not knowing if it was friend or foe, Shangguan Pu felt extremely frustrated.


    That was the main reason Shangguan Pu laid low recently. He was worried that he would fall into someone else¡¯s trap once he made a move.


    The advisor said, ¡°The empress dowager has helped us today.¡±


    Shangguan Pu agreed with this. He sneered. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to the medicine given by Apothecary.¡±


    ¡°I thought that the girl beside Madam Song Shen was very powerful. It seems that she¡¯s nothing.¡±


    The advisor frowned and felt that things were not that simple. He thought for a moment and said, ¡°In order to avoid unnecessary trouble, I think Your Highness should take action as soon as possible. We can¡¯t delay it any longer.¡± Shangguan Pu suddenly looked at the man and said after a long time, ¡°I feel the same way.¡±


    He had been overcautious and had already delayed until the empress dowager returned to the palace. If this continued, who knew what would happen?


    The two of them discussed their next plan for nearly an hour before coming out of the study.


    After returning to the backyard, Shangguan Pu thought of something and asked the attendant, ¡°She hasn¡¯t confessed yet?¡±


    The invigilator lowered his head and said respectfully, ¡°No, that maidservant committed suicide when no one was paying attention. Concubine An is pregnant, so they don¡¯t dare to torture her. They¡¯re afraid of hurting the fetus in her stomach.¡¯


    ¡°It¡¯s just a child. If it¡¯s gone, so be it.¡± Shangguan Pu smiled coldly. ¡°Give the order. There¡¯s no need to worry. If she¡¯s still unwilling to say it, let her try the methods of the Fragrant Teahouse.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Under the bright moon, a messenger pigeon flapped its wings and landed in a courtyard in General Xiao¡¯s residence. A slender hand untied the letter raft tied to the messenger pigeon¡¯s leg.


    Fifteen minutes later, a thick fire rose in the backyard of the general¡¯s residence.


    The weather was dry to begin with, and the fire was like a dragon that instantly swallowed several courtyards at the same time. The servants and guards on night duty were in a frenzy.


    ¡°There¡¯s water in the backyard!¡± ¡°Quick, put out the fire!¡±

 Chapter 621 - Chapter 621: Trapped in the Fire (3)

    Chapter 621: Trapped in the Fire (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Because Feng Manman had been poisoned and her body had been injured after the detoxification, she felt especially insecure.


    Under her pleading, Xiao Qirui had no choice but to accompany her in the residence for a few days.


    He had finally escaped and returned to the military camp today. There were too many official matters to attend to previously. He originally planned to rest there, but for some reason, he felt uneasy.


    He simply rushed back overnight. He did not expect to see such a scene as soon as he stepped into the residence.


    The fire soared into the sky, and the red light connected. Everyone ran towards the backyard with containers. The shouts rang in his head.


    ¡°Young Master, it seems to be in the direction of Young Madam¡¯s courtyard¡­¡± Xiao Li said in a daze.


    Before he could finish speaking, the person in front had already run out.


    Xiao Li was stunned and quickly followed.


    Xiao Qirui ran towards the Splendid Courtyard with red eyes. It was hard to tell if his eyes were illuminated by the fire or if he was simply anxious.


    Suddenly, a maidservant with messy hair pounced on him and grabbed his legs.


    This place was facing the Splendid Courtyard. Through the courtyard door, flames shot into the sky.


    Xiao Qirui was extremely anxious. He raised his legs to shake off the person under his feet, but the maidservant refused to let go.


    Xiao Qirui pulled out his sword and roared, ¡°Get lost.¡±


    Lu Liu shrank back. She thought of something and gritted her teeth. She closed her eyes and wailed, ¡°Young Master, Eldest Young Master, you¡¯re finally back. Hurry up and go to the Magnolia Courtyard to save my aunt. My madam is still inside.¡±


    A strand of beautiful hair fell, and the cold sword stopped, almost touching her skin.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Xiao Qirui turned to look in the direction of the Yulan Courtyard and realized that there was also a sky full of fire.


    Lu Liu heaved a sigh of relief. She crawled over and hugged Xiao Qirui¡¯s legs. She knelt down and continued to cry. ¡°The Magnolia Courtyard is also in trouble, but everyone went to the Splendid Courtyard to put out the fire.¡±


    The Splendid Courtyard was the main courtyard, and the main wife lived there. The servants naturally went there to save her first.


    In fact, it was not that no one went to the other courtyards, there were simply fewer of them.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the Splendid Courtyard again. You Bai was anxiously instructing everyone to draw water and put out the fire from the river pool. From the looks of it, Yuan Yuwan had clearly not come out yet.


    He closed his eyes and reached out to pull Lu Liu away.


    ¡°Young Master, Young Master, I beg you. Please save her on account that she once protected you with her life.¡±


    Xiao Qirui paused.


    Xiao Li caught up. When he saw Lu Liu, he frowned and reminded her, ¡°Young Master, let¡¯s quickly save Young Madam.¡±


    This was a perfect opportunity to capture a beauty¡¯s heart. Young Master, you can¡¯t be stupid.


    At first, he really did not understand who his young master liked.


    Until both women entered the residence.


    Every time before going to the Splendid Courtyard, the young master, who never cared about his appearance, would even change his clothes several times. On the way, he would stride so fast like he wished he could fly over.


    Compared to the young master who often entered the Magnolia Garden in a sweaty state, if he still couldn¡¯t understand his thoughts, then he, as his personal follower, should remove the word ¡®personal¡¯.


    Lu Liu panicked. ¡°Young Master, my aunt is also a living person. Moreover, she¡­


    ¡°Young Master, Young Madam¡­¡¯


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Xiao Qirui closed his eyes. When he opened them again, he was calm. He looked at Xiao Li. ¡°Go to the Splendid Courtyard first. You have to save Young Madam.¡±


    ¡°Young Master¡­¡± Xiao Li wanted to persuade him again, but Xiao Qirui had already turned around and walked towards the Magnolia Courtyard.


    He gritted his teeth in anger and ran into the Splendid Courtyard. Unexpectedly, he met a pair of red and swollen eyes.


    You Bai glared at him angrily, snatched the basin from someone beside him, and ran to the pool to get water.


    She had seen it just now. Young master did not enter the house, but went to the Magnolia Courtyard instead!


    Miss was right. She shouldn¡¯t count on others!


    She was wrong. She was terribly wrong!


    The Magnolia Courtyard was a small courtyard. Buckets of water were poured down, and the fire gradually subsided, but there was no movement from the people in the room.


    ¡°Madam, are you inside?¡± Lu Liu followed Xiao Qirui into the courtyard and hurriedly shouted.


    Feng Manman¡¯s cry of surprise came from inside.


    After confirming where he was, Xiao Qirui snatched a bucket of water and smashed it against the door that was burning fiercely.


    The door collapsed and she saw Feng Manman hiding under the table with her head in her hands.


    The loud noise frightened her so much that she raised her head and looked at Xiao Qirui with tears in her eyes.


    ¡°Brother Xiao¡­¡± she muttered.


    Xiao Qirui avoided the flames and rushed in. He picked up the only intact table and raised it above his head. ¡°Can you get up on your own?¡±


    ¡°My¡­ my legs are weak,¡± Feng Manman said with a trembling voice.


    Xiao Qirui could only give up on using the table as a shield. He threw the table away and picked her up.


    From time to time, burning wood would f?ll from above, so it was extremely difficult for Xiao Qirui to walk. He was almost hit a few times.


    ¡°Be careful¡­¡± Feng Manman exclaimed and wrapped her arms around his back.


    Xiao Qirui frowned and turned around to kick a pillar away.


    At this moment, a few guards rushed in with soaked blankets.


    Under the cover of the blanket, the group safely rushed out of the sea of fire.


    ¡°Young Master, are you alright?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Go put out the fire first,¡± Xiao Qirui said as he put Feng Manman down and turned to leave.


    ¡°Brother Xiao.¡± Feng Manman stopped him.


    Xiao Qirui turned around.


    ¡°Thank you. You saved me again.¡±


    ¡°Just treat it as me repaying you for saving my life.¡± Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and continued, ¡°Something happens to you every few days in this residence. If you continue to stay, it will harm you. I¡¯ll get someone to send you out of the residence tomorrow.¡±


    He had already returned the favor. It was time for him to do what he needed to do and protect the people he needed to protect.


    Feng Manman¡¯s heart tightened. She opened her mouth to say something, but the person she had been thinking about had already left without looking back.


    A mouthful of blood flowed from the corner of her mouth, and Feng Manman¡¯s body fell to the ground.


    ¡°Madam, are you alright?¡± Lu Liu quickly hugged her. ¡°Young Master, my aunt has fainted.¡±


    However, this time, no matter how she shouted, Xiao Qirui did not turn around.


    Looking at the departing figure, a tear slowly fell from the corner of Feng Manman¡¯s eye.


    She suddenly remembered what the manager had reminded her the moment she received the mission.


    She could not fake her thoughts.


    But how could she not be tempted?


    In the Splendid Courtyard, tongues of fire quickly spread, and the scorching heat burned one¡¯s face. Booming sounds kept coming from all directions, and the thick smoke and heat waves choked one to tears.


    Yuan Yuwan endured the burning sensation in her hand and poured all the water in the teapot onto a handkerchief to cover her mouth and nose.


    She looked around and noticed that the burning curtains had attracted fire everywhere. She quickly ran over and pulled them all off.


    She had been too careless. She had thought that their target was in the front courtyard and that they had snatched the family management rights to better arrange for their men to enter and leave the front courtyard. She did not expect them to be so crazy as to set fire to the backyard.


    It seemed that the seeds of the fire had been planted in advance. Otherwise, the fire wouldn¡¯t have started so quickly.


    Bang! A piece of wood with sparks on it fell. Yuan Yuwan couldn¡¯t dodge in time and was hit.


    She gasped in pain and got up, enduring the burning pain on her back.


    Another piece of wood fell. She hurriedly dodged it, not wanting to be tripped and fall forward uncontrollably.


    Suddenly, something above her head loosened. Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She turned around abruptly, and the beam of the house with the raging fire quickly enlarged in her eyes.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled bitterly.. Why was it so difficult to live?

 Chapter 622 - Chapter 622: Chased Away (1)

    Chapter 622: Chased Away (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was raining heavily.


    Rain poured down along the eaves, enveloping the entire capital.


    The sound of rain outside the house was mixed with intermittent sobs. The person on the bed¡¯s eyelashes fluttered and she slowly opened her eyes.


    What she saw was a completely unfamiliar room. There was a moment of confusion in the woman¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Miss, you¡¯re finally awake. You scared me to death.¡± You Bai choked and wanted to pounce on her, but she thought of something and hurriedly stopped.


    Her hand stopped in midair and she looked lost. She said nervously, ¡°Miss, how do you feel? Are you still feeling unwell? Do you¡­ do you hurt?¡±


    Her tone changed when she said the last word. She pursed her lips and cried.


    Yuan Yuwan paused for a moment. Unexpectedly, she thought of the fire and the blurry face that suddenly pressed against her when the beam fell. She opened her mouth to say, ¡°Don¡¯t cry.¡±


    However, when she said those three words, there was only the sound of her breath left. She frowned at the burning sensation in her throat.


    Seeing this, You Bai hurriedly wiped her tears and said anxiously, ¡°Miss, don¡¯t speak. Sister MO Yuan said that you¡¯ve inhaled too much smoke. Your throat might lose its voice for the time being, but it¡¯s fine. You¡¯ll be fine after recuperating for a while.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan blinked to indicate that she understood.


    She was lying on her stomach now. Not only was her neck stiff after being in this position for a long time, but she also felt uncomfortable.


    She moved her body, wanting to turn around.


    ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± You Bai hurriedly stopped her. ¡°Your back is seriously burned.


    You can¡¯t move yet.¡±


    Not just her back, but her hands as well¡­


    Thinking of the large blisters mixed with blood when MO Yuan treated her wound, You Bai couldn¡¯t help but sob again.


    Yuan Yuwan moved her lips. She wanted to comfort her by saying that she was fine, but she couldn¡¯t say anything.


    At this moment, the door creaked open.


    Shen Yijia walked in with the medicine. When she met Yuan Yuwan¡¯s helpless eyes and looked at You Bai, who was still crying, she said with a straight face, ¡°You Bai, go to the next room and rest first.¡±


    You Bai stopped sobbing and burped in fear. However, she insisted, ¡°I won¡¯t leave. I want to stay here and guard Miss.¡±


    ¡°You were drenched in the rain and didn¡¯t rest all night. You must have caught a cold. What if you pass your illness to Sister Yuwan here?¡± Shen Yijia continued to scare her.


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t said anything. Now that she said that, You Bai really felt dizzy. She suddenly stood up, covered her mouth and nose, and took a few steps back from the bed. ¡°Then¡­ I can stand here, right?¡±


    ¡°The room is only so big. What do you think?¡± Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Besides, if you fall sick, who will take care of Sister Yuwan?¡±


    You Bai was stunned. That made sense.


    ¡°Hurry up and go out. I¡¯ll stay here with Sister Yuwan,¡± Shen Yijia said as she placed the medicine bowl on the table. She picked up the table and placed it beside the bed. She sat down at the spot where You Bai had been sitting and did


    not forget to remind her, ¡°There¡¯s ginger soup cooked by MO Yuan in the kitchen. Go over and drink a bowl before going back to your room to sleep.¡±


    Because of the rain, Madam Li asked MO Yuan to cook a pot of ginger soup in the kitchen.


    ¡°Then¡­ Thank you, Madam Song. Thank you for your help,¡± You Bai thanked her softly. He glanced at Yuan Yuwan again and turned to leave reluctantly.


    ¡°Tsk.¡± Shen Yijia clicked her tongue and looked at Yuan Yuwan. ¡°The medicine is still a little hot. Drink it after it cools down.¡±


    Noticing that her lips were dry, she guessed that You Bai only knew how to cry and did not even feed her water. She asked with concern, ¡°Are you thirsty? Do you want to drink some water first?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and nodded.


    Her smile made Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ache for some reason. After confirming that the water in the teapot was not hot, she poured a cup and fed her spoon by spoon.


    As she comforted her, he said, ¡°Your injuries have all been treated. After the scabs are removed, I¡¯ll get MO Yuan to make some scar removal ointment for you. I guarantee that it won¡¯t leave a scar.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t care about this. She endured the pain in her throat and drank three glasses of water in a row before shaking her head to indicate that she didn¡¯t want to drink anymore. She asked in a low voice, ¡°Where is this?¡±


    ¡°My house,¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly.


    Yuan Yuwan opened her mouth to ask another question.


    Shen Yijia interrupted, ¡°You have to use your voice less now.¡± Yuan Yuwan blinked.


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°You want to ask why you¡¯re here?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded.


    ¡°You Bai came to look for me. I went to the Xiao family to pick you up.¡±


    Because she had personally seen Xiao Qirui save Feng Manman first. Even though he was the one who carried Yuan Yuwan out of the sea of fire, You Bai was certain that he was unreliable. She guarded her desperately and didn¡¯t let anyone approach. She even ran to the Song family in the heavy rain to ask for help..

 Chapter 623 - Chapter 623: Chased Away (2)

    Chapter 623: Chased Away (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When she saw Yuan Yuwan, she was wearing a cloak and had yet to change out of her clothes.


    Shen Yijia was furious. If Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t stopped her and Xiao Qirui hadn¡¯t fainted from his injuries, she would have beaten him up.


    However, she wasn¡¯t someone who would waste her time, so in the end, she settled for less and dealt with Feng Manman.


    Anyway, no matter what, this fire had something to do with Feng Manman.


    Therefore, Shen Yijia did not feel guilty at all. She helped Yuan Yuwan collect some interest.


    ¡°Although You Bai isn¡¯t good at taking care of people and is a little timid, she did the right thing this time.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and continued,


    ¡°Sister Yuwan, stay here in peace. Don¡¯t return to the Xiao family in the future.


    Let that fool Xiao Qirui go alone.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan lowered her eyes. After a long time, she forced a smile and asked,


    ¡°Is Young General alright?¡±


    ¡°Why do you care about him? Also, do you still want your throat?¡± Shen Yijia


    rolled her eyes.


    Yuan Yuwan looked at her steadily.


    Shen Yijia was a little angry. She turned around and kept scooping up the bowl of medicine with a spoon. She said angrily, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he won¡¯t die. General Xiao has hired an imperial doctor for him.¡±


    The reason why she knew was because when she picked up Yuan Yuwan, she had entered the Xiao family¡¯s residence with the imperial doctor. One of the doctors must have been specially invited over.


    However, there was no need to say that.


    Anyway, no matter what happened to the Xiao family, she felt that Yuan Yuwan shouldn¡¯t go back. Besides¡­


    A hand covered in gauze reached over and gently tugged at Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve. She looked over.


    Yuan Yuwan said, ¡°Jiajia, thank you.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulders slumped and she admitted defeat. ¡°Alright, drink the medicine first. This is for your throat. Don¡¯t talk during this period of time.¡±


    Apart from the Song family, Yuan Yuwan was definitely the most patient person in this world.


    Sigh, who asked her to be like her previous life? No one doted on her!


    Thinking back, wasn¡¯t this the reason why she took in Lin Shao and his sister back then?


    Yuan Yuwan nodded with a smile.


    Just as she finished feeding her the medicine, Rooster¡¯s voice came from outside the door. ¡°Young Madam, Eldest Young Master Xiao is here. He wants to see Eldest Miss Yuan.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Shouldn¡¯t he be bedridden at this time?


    With such a huge beam on his back, he still carried Yuan Yuwan out. His injuries were no less serious than Yuan Yuwan¡¯s. Moreover, it was raining heavily outside.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say no, but she remembered that she should respect Yuan Yuwan¡¯s wishes, so she looked at her inquiringly.


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia reached out and tucked her in. ¡°Have a good rest. I¡¯ll talk to him.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan lowered her eyes and nodded.


    In the front yard, Xiao Qirui was drenched and standing under the eaves of the main hall with a pale face.


    Xiao Li was extremely anxious.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his temples and said, ¡°I have clean clothes there. Go and change your clothes first.¡±


    Xiao Qirui shook his head. ¡°Thank you, but there¡¯s no need.¡± Song Jingchen said, ¡°Then let¡¯s go to the house and warm ourselves by the fire.¡±


    Xiao Qirui said, ¡°I¡¯m too wet, so I won¡¯t go in and dirty the floor.¡± Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°At least you have some self-awareness.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s unreserved voice sounded.


    Everyone present looked over.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at Xiao Qirui and walked into the corridor. She put away her umbrella and threw it to Rooster.


    Song Jingchen walked over helplessly. ¡°Why are you in such a hurry? You¡¯re drenched.¡±


    As she spoke, he took out a handkerchief to wipe her face.


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty. ¡°The rain is too heavy, and it¡¯s only a little wet.¡±


    ¡°Rooster, bring a bowl of ginger soup over for Young Madam.¡± It was indeed just a few drops of rain on her shoulder. She didn¡¯t need to change her clothes.


    Song Jingchen paused and added, ¡°Bring two more bowls.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat and she shook her head repeatedly. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m not drinking it.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s easy to catch a cold.¡± Song Jingchen had a heart of stone.


    Shen Yijia wanted to cry. She could not understand why ginger soup existed in this world.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head in amusement. ¡°Alright, after you finish it, I¡¯ll allow you to eat two more candied plums today.¡±


    Shen Yijia smacked her lips and thought about it seriously. In the end, she shook her head and hugged Song Jingchen¡¯s arm ingratiatingly. She negotiated, ¡°Then can I eat less candied plums and not drink ginger soup?¡±


    It was just candied plums. She had secretly eaten countless of them before her beautiful husband could see them. At most, she would steal them back..

 Chapter 624 - Chapter 624: Chased Away (3)

    Chapter 624: Chased Away (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    How could Song Jingchen not know what she was planning? The corners of his mouth twitched and he said coldly, ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Because she had to brew medicine for Fan Mingyuan, she would basically drip a drop of spiritual liquid into the well by the kitchen every half a month. They usually used the same water to cook inside. The family was extremely healthy, but it was not so easy to fall sick.


    Moreover, Shen Yijia had a special physique, but Song Jingchen was nervous for her.


    ¡°Ahem.¡±


    A sudden cough sounded from the side. The couple seemed to have just remembered that there was someone else beside them and turned around at the same time.


    A calm face, and a disdainful one.


    Xiao Qirui clenched his fists and coughed for a long time before calming down. He said awkwardly, ¡°I¡¯m¡­ sorry.¡±


    At the same time, he was shocked. He didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to be like this in private.


    What surprised him even more was that husband and wife could interact like this.


    When the rough men in the military camp talked about the ways of husband and wife, they could not avoid saying some dirty words. At the time, he usually walked away.


    The only couple he had seen and was most familiar with were his parents.


    In his vague memories, his parents¡¯ relationship was better than his.


    However, that was only when his father was practicing the sword and his mother handed him a handkerchief, or personally washed her hands to make soup, or made new clothes for him.


    His father would give his mother some toys from time to time to make her happy.


    He felt that this was how a couple should interact.


    Unfortunately, everything changed after there was a new person in General Xiao¡¯s backyard.


    The more women there were in the backyard, the further away his parents were from each other. Apart from talking about the siblings, the couple basically didn¡¯t speak.


    He saw all the changes in the two of them.


    However, as a son, he had no right to criticize his father. He could only secretly decide that if he married the woman he loved in the future, he would never take a concubine.


    These memories that had long been sealed surged out like a flood.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s body swayed as if he had been hit in the head.


    When did things start to fall out of his control?


    ¡°Young Master, Young Master¡­¡± Xiao Li quickly supported him.


    Xiao Qirui came back to his senses.


    ¡°I said, quickly drink the ginger soup. After that, quickly go home. Sister Yuwan said that she doesn¡¯t want to see you.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    Why did he come out to make trouble when he was not in good health?


    She originally wanted to say ¡°get lost¡±, but on account of Xiao Ruoshui, she changed her words.


    Shen Yijia sighed at how kind she was.


    Xiao Qirui glanced at the ginger soup in front of him and drank it in one gulp.


    If he didn¡¯t drink it, he was afraid that he would collapse before he even saw Yuan Yuwan.


    Shen Yijia trembled and silently handed over the bowl she had yet to drink.


    Xiao Qirui was stunned.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her coldly.


    Shen Yijia silently retracted her hand and said angrily, ¡°You¡¯re done drinking, now leave.¡±


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and pushed Xiao Li away. He bowed solemnly to Shen


    Yijia. ¡°Can you let me in to see her?¡±


    ¡°No, absolutely not, don¡¯t even think about it.¡± Shen Yijia refused without thinking.


    Xiao Qirui did not speak and maintained his bow.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°What? Are you trying to force me into prostitution?¡±


    Song Jingchen coughed. ¡°That¡¯s not how you use that word.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not care. In any case, it was fine as long as the meaning was similar. It meant forcing others to do something they did not want to do. Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°That¡¯s far from it.¡±


    He looked at Xiao Qirui and said, ¡°Miss Yuan injured her throat and can¡¯t speak.


    Moreover, she needs to recuperate now. Come again another day.¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart tightened and he looked up abruptly. ¡°Then she¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. She¡¯ll be fine after resting for a while,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and stood up. ¡°Then I¡¯ll come back tomorrow. Thank you for taking care of my wife.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to come tomorrow either!¡± Shen Yijia roared at his back.


    She was stunned when she noticed something.


    Xiao Qirui was originally dressed in white, but his back was already dyed red with blood.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. The reason why Xiao Qirui was sent away by him with a few words was probably because he sensed his situation.


    At Lord Jing¡¯s residence.


    Shangguan Pu combined the two tiger talismans in his hand.


    The uneasiness in his heart disappeared at this moment, replaced by a determination to get that position.


    ¡°Congratulations, Your Highness.¡± The advisor heaved a sigh of relief.


    After all, he was risking his life for his future. He naturally hoped that Shangguan Pu would succeed..

 Chapter 625 - Chapter 625: Making a Move (1)

    Chapter 625: Making a Move (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After the emperor¡¯s assassination attempt, the palace had been under martial law.


    All the concubines were ordered by Imperial Concubine Liu to copy sutras in their respective palaces and pray for the emperor. The concubines were angry but did not dare to say anything.


    The palace servants did not dare to breathe loudly. They were all very careful, afraid that they would be used as punching bags by their masters.


    They thought that the situation would be better if the empress dowager returned to the palace. Unexpectedly, when all the concubines arranged to go to Cining Palace to pay their respects to her, they were told that the empress dowager was copying scriptures for the emperor and could not see anyone.


    All the concubines were dumbfounded. The empress dowager was copying sutras. Could it be that they were more noble than the empress dowager and could not copy such scriptures? Or did they not want the emperor to get better?


    This way, they no longer dared to complain.


    In Yangxin Hall, Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng wiped the emperor¡¯s body together and changed into clean clothes. They were already sweating profusely from exhaustion.


    Although they were also servants, as the eunuchs by the emperor¡¯s side, there was no need for them to do it themselves. With just an order, there were naturally people fighting to help.


    However, the situation was different now. In order to prevent too many people from talking, not only did they have to do everything for the emperor, but they also had to be afraid all day. After more than half a month, the two of them had lost weight.


    The emperor had a cloth stuffed in his mouth and was glaring at the two of them.


    As long as he was awake, he would basically look like this. After such a long time, the two of them were still a little frightened.


    Eunuch Li smiled ingratiatingly and said, ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯ll change a cloth for you.¡±


    The emperor was so angry that he panted heavily and continued to glare at him.


    Eunuch Li cowered and mustered his courage to pull out the cloth that had long been drenched in saliva from his mouth. Eunuch Deng immediately stuffed a new ball back into his mouth.


    ¡°Your Majesty, we¡¯re doing this because we¡¯re afraid that you¡¯ll bite your tongue. If you persist, someone will come and save us soon,¡± Eunuch Deng explained.


    The heavy rain that had been falling for the entire day stopped, but the drizzle continued. Listening to the pattering rain outside the house, the two of them felt inexplicably sad.


    They knew better than anyone that once Shangguan Pu succeeded in taking over, the two of them would be the first to be killed.


    What a good reason to die for the Lord.


    Just as they were sighing, the hall door was pushed open from the outside. The two of them¡¯s hearts skipped a beat and they quickly went out to welcome him.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t even look at the two of them and walked straight into the inner hall.


    Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng looked at each other and quickly followed.


    Shangguan Pu walked to the bed and reached out to open the bright yellow curtain. Unexpectedly, he met the emperor¡¯s gaze.


    Seeing the cloth ball in his mouth, Shangguan Pu turned around and kicked Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li to the ground. He said angrily, ¡°Useless slaves, is this how you take care of my father?¡±


    Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li fell to the ground. Ignoring the pain in their bodies, they quickly knelt down. ¡°Your Highness, please forgive me. I did this because I was worried that Your Majesty would suddenly be able to speak and call the people outside over. If I ruin Your Highness¡¯s plan.¡±


    Shangguan Pu raised his eyebrows. ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re all doing this for me?¡±


    ¡°I would never dare to lie to His Highness,¡± Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li said with trembling voices.


    Shangguan Pu sneered and sat down on the bed. He reached out and pulled the cloth out of the emperor¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, this Yangxin Hall is filled with my people. Not to mention that


    Father won¡¯t recover, even if he can shout, no one will come in.¡±


    Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li felt bitter. ¡°Then I¡¯m relieved.¡±


    The emperor was like a ferocious beast that had its limbs restrained and was trying its best to break free. His entire body trembled violently, and the veins on his forehead bulged. He glared at the three of them, wishing he could bore a hole in them.


    Shangguan Pu glanced at him from above and smiled. ¡°Father, don¡¯t be angry. I¡¯ve already taught these two useless things a lesson.¡±


    As he spoke, he picked up the cloth in his hand to wipe the saliva from the corner of his mouth.


    It was unknown where the emperor got the strength from, but he raised his head and bit Shangguan Puts hand tightly.


    Shangguan Pu suddenly pulled his hand out. There was already blood on it. His eyes turned cold and he slapped the emperor¡¯s head to the side.


    However, he was still angry. He raised his hand, wanting to continue hitting him.


    Eunuch Li did not have time to think. He quickly pounced over and hugged him. ¡°Your Highness, you can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Useless slave, you¡¯re courting death.¡± Shangguan Pu kicked him away. He took two steps forward and reached out to grab his neck.


    Eunuch Li¡¯s face quickly turned red. He trembled and could not speak. Just now, he had subconsciously pounced..

 Chapter 626 - Chapter 626: Making a Move (2)

    Chapter 626: Making a Move (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing this, Eunuch Deng quickly explained, ¡°Your Highness, calm down. Eunuch Li is doing this for Your Highness¡¯s sake. If the empress dowager sees the injury on Your Majesty¡¯s face tomorrow, she¡¯ll definitely be suspicious. Then all your previous efforts will be in vain.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ I¡­ I¡¯m also doing this for His Highness¡­¡± Eunuch Li¡¯s eyes rolled back and he forced out this sentence.


    Shangguan Pu snorted and let go.


    Eunuch Li slumped down and kowtowed to Shangguan Pu. ¡°Thank you, Your


    Highness. Thank you, Your Highness.¡±


    ¡°Prepare a brush, ink, and an imperial edict.¡±


    Eunuch Li¡¯s body stiffened and he cried out in his heart.


    Shangguan Pu narrowed his eyes. ¡°Why? You don¡¯t want to go?¡±


    Eunuch Li¡¯s scalp went numb from the gaze. What had happened just now still left him with lingering fears. He could only brace himself and get up to leave the inner hall.


    ¡°By the way, don¡¯t forget to bring the jade seal with you.¡±


    Eunuch Deng said obsequiously, ¡°He can¡¯t carry so much alone. I¡¯ll go and get it.¡±


    Shangguan Pu was very satisfied with his tact and waved his hand.


    He sat down by the dragon bed again. Thinking of what he had to do next, he reached out in a good mood and turned the emperor¡¯s head back, wiping the blood off his hands on him.


    ¡°Father, now that the commoners are clamoring to make Imperial Granduncle, who kidnapped innocent women, pay with his life, the court officials have also written memorials saying that they must punish him severely for his actions. He has committed so many evil deeds. I think he¡¯s going to die anyway. Why don¡¯t we write the imperial edict today?¡± ¡°How about beheading him in public in three days?¡±


    ¡°You agree? You¡¯re indeed my good father.¡±


    ¡°Actually, apart from this, I have something else to do today. Father, you¡¯re already advanced in age. You¡¯re still immobile and can¡¯t speak. I don¡¯t know when you¡¯ll die. However, a country can¡¯t be without a ruler for a day. Let¡¯s write this imperial edict today.¡±


    ¡°What? You want to pass this position to me? That¡¯s true. My brothers are all useless. Apart from me, who else is qualified?¡±


    ¡°Father, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely manage Great Xia well. I won¡¯t disappoint you.¡±


    Although he had guessed it in his heart, Eunuch Li was still so frightened that he shivered and dropped the ink stone in his hand.


    Shangguan Pu turned around. ¡°Eunuch Li, you¡¯re old. You can¡¯t even hold an ink stone steadily.¡±


    ¡°By the way, you seemed to have grown up with my father. Do you think he¡¯s old and should abdicate?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. Your Highness is right.¡± Eunuch Deng walked in with the jade seal and echoed.


    Shangguan Pu laughed. ¡®Eunuch Deng is so eloquent. Then you can write these two imperial edicts.¡±


    Eunuch Deng was filled with regret. Eunuch Li was just a sworn enemy, just let him die. Why did he say anything?


    However, it was useless to regret it. He could only start drafting the edict according to Shangguan Pu¡¯s request.


    There were a total of two imperial edicts. One was to punish, and the other was to pass down the throne. By the time he finished writing, Eunuch Deng¡¯s back was already drenched in cold sweat.


    He had drafted manv edicts for the pmnprnr_ hilt this was the first time he realized that each stroke was so difficult to write.


    Shangguan Pu took it and checked it. He nodded in satisfaction and reached out. ¡°Give me the jade seal.¡±


    Eunuch Li handed over the jade seal with trembling hands.


    The emperor¡¯s pupils quickly dilated, and his body trembled violently.


    ¡°Father, don¡¯t be anxious. It¡¯ll be done soon.¡± He picked up the jade seal and was about to stamp the imperial edict when he thought of something. He paused and smiled at the emperor. ¡°Oh, you want to do it personally? Of course I have to satisfy you.¡±


    With that, he grabbed the emperor¡¯s stiff hand and placed the jade seal inside. He brought his hand and heavily stamped the jade seal on the imperial edict.


    Just as he was about to stamp the next one, the young eunuch¡¯s greetings came from outside the door. ¡®Greetings, Empress Dowager.¡±


    ¡°No need to stand on ceremony.¡±


    Shangguan Pu frowned and glanced at Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li. The two of them understood and quickly put away the things.


    When Empress Dowager Wei entered the inner hall, she saw Shangguan Pu sitting by the bed, massaging the emperor¡¯s hands.


    Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li looked at each other and were about to kneel down and bow to her when Empress Dowager Wei waved her hand to stop them.


    After he was done with one hand, Shangguan Pu was about to change to another when he seemed to sense something and turned around.


    ¡°Grandmother.¡± He quickly stood up.


    Empress Dowager Wei stepped forward and glanced at the emperor, whose eyes were closed on the dragon bed. She asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Shangguan Pu said, ¡°The imperial physician said that Father can¡¯t move his body after the stroke and needs to massage his limbs often.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded. ¡°Just let the palace servants do this. There¡¯s no need for you to do it yourself..¡±

 Chapter 627 - Chapter 627: Making a Move (3)

    Chapter 627: Making a Move (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Pu lowered his eyes. ¡°I want to do something for Father.¡±


    Eunuch Deng started to curry favor. ¡°His Highness is worried about His


    Majesty¡¯s health, so he comes to take care of him every day.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei looked at Shangguan Pu lovingly. ¡®You¡¯re a filial child.¡±


    ¡°This is what I should do,¡± Shangguan Pu said humbly. Seeing that Empress Dowager Wei had no intention of leaving after sitting down by the dragon bed, he asked casually, ¡°Grandmother, are you worried about Father?¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei sighed and reached out to tuck the emperor in. ¡°I¡¯ve been dreaming about the late emperor these past two days.¡±


    Shangguan Pu frowned. Why was this beginning so familiar?


    ¡°He was standing in front of a Buddha statue, reprimanding me for not taking good care of the emperor.¡± Empress Dowager Wei looked tired and continued, ¡°I thought about it carefully later. Why was the late emperor standing in front of the Buddha statue? Could he be guiding me?¡± Shangguan Pu asked, ¡°Grandmother, what do you mean?¡±


    Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li¡¯s hearts skipped a beat.


    Empress Dowager Wei retracted her hand and looked at Shangguan Pu. ¡°The emperor¡¯s stroke is inexplicable. The imperial physicians haven¡¯t treated him for so many days. Why don¡¯t we get the Hidden Spirit Temple to hold a blessing ceremony and bring the emperor there to listen to the abbot recite the sutra?¡±


    ¡°Grandmother, those things¡­¡±


    ¡°You should also believe in Buddhism, right? After all, your mother has asked all the women in the harem to copy sutras.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Has Grandmother already set a date?¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve already sent a letter to the abbot of the


    Hidden Spirit Temple. He replied that it would be a good day in three days.¡± After a pause, she added, ¡°I think the news has already spread.¡±


    Since they were praying for the emperor and time was so tight, the Hidden Spirit Temple had to clear the temple first and inform the others that they would not be entertaining devotees for the next few days. In order not to offend anyone, they had to move the emperor out.


    Shangguan Pu secretly clenched his fists under his sleeves. ¡°Then let¡¯s do as Grandmother says. I hope the blessing ceremony can really help Father recover.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded and stood up. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. It¡¯s not appropriate for you to stay in the palace at night. In order to prevent others from gossiping, you should leave the palace early.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei looked at him and did not move.


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    ¡°I¡¯m going out with Grandmother.¡±


    Empress Dowager Wei nodded and turned to walk out. Shangguan Pu followed half-step behind. When he brushed shoulders with Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li, he glanced at the two of them calmly, hinting at them.


    The two of them hurriedly knelt down. ¡°Goodbye, Your Highness.¡±


    The hall door opened and closed. The two of them heaved a sigh of relief and slumped to the ground.


    ¡°Eunuch Li, what should we do now?¡± Shangguan Pu clearly wanted them to continue what they had yet to do.


    Eunuch Li let out a long breath. ¡°How would I know?¡±


    Eunuch Deng rolled his eyes at him. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have saved you just now.¡± Eunuch Li opened his mouth to retort.


    The person beside him suddenly fell to the side. He was shocked and subconsciously wanted to call for help, but before he could say anything, his eyelids closed and he lost consciousness.


    At the same time, the secret guards hiding on the beam also fainted.


    The next moment, the two men in black landed beside the bed.


    About half an hour later, the secret guards woke up one after another and quickly flew down.


    ¡°What¡­ what¡¯s going on?¡± Eunuch Li slowly woke up and was shocked to see so many people suddenly appear in the hall.


    Didn¡¯t these people usually only stay on the beam?


    The leader of the secret guards ignored him and turned to walk towards the dragon bed.


    On the dragon bed, the emperor was still lying there.


    The leader of the secret guards heaved a sigh of relief. With a wave of his hand, he brought his men back to their positions.


    He did not notice Eunuch Li¡¯s ghost-like eyes.


    Eunuch Li rubbed his eyes and walked forward in disbelief. He took out a handkerchief and carefully wiped the emperor¡¯s face.


    ¡°There¡¯s really nothing else?¡± he thought.


    Empress Dowager Wei had arrived too suddenly just now. They could only hurriedly apply a layer of powder on the emperor¡¯s face to cover the palm print. If one looked carefully, they could still tell.


    But it was completely gone now.


    Eunuch Deng, who woke up later, leaned over strangely. He was also shocked.


    If not for the fact that the two imperial edicts were still in his arms, he would have thought that everything that had happened just now was a dream.


    But the person lying on the dragon bed was His Majesty! Even the blood that Lord Jing wiped on his clothes was still there.


    The two of them looked at each other and silently lowered the curtain.


    Under the night sky, a black shadow silen tly swept past the palace under the cover of the rain.


    Not long after, the black shadow flew out of the palace and flew all the way to Liu¡¯er Street, landing in the Song family¡¯s backyard.


    Shen Yijia was dozing off in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. When she heard the commotion, she raised her head and her eyes lit up. ¡°You Yi, you¡¯re back?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at You Yi, and his eyes darkened.


    You Yi was speechless..

 Chapter 628 - Chapter 628: Blessing Ceremony (1)

    Chapter 628: Blessing Ceremony (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    You Yi threw the person on his back to the ground in disdain and turned to change.


    Shen Yijia, who was ignored, was speechless.


    Song Jingchen was satisfied.


    Shen Yijia realized something and explained, ¡°I¡¯m just worried that he wouldn¡¯t be able to complete the mission.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I know.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Why do you have such an expression when you already know?¡±


    She jumped out of Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and walked to the person lying motionless on the ground.


    The person on the ground did not react.


    ¡°He¡¯s not dead, is he?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    MO Yuan went forward to take his pulse. ¡°Not yet. He must have fainted from the shock.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips in disdain. She noticed something and was shocked. ¡°The useless emperor has a wound on his face!¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. Because he was drenched in the rain, the powder on the emperor¡¯s face had been washed away, revealing five bright finger marks.


    ¡°It¡¯s over. East Wind won¡¯t be discovered, right? Won¡¯t he be in danger?¡± They wanted to replace the useless emperor without anyone noticing.


    Song Jingchen asked MO Yuan to make the same poison for East Wind to consume.


    She made another mask according to the appearance of the useless emperor.


    This way, even if the imperial physician went to take the pulse of the emperor disguised as East Wind, he wouldn¡¯t discover any problems.


    However, they did not add these five finger marks to the mask!


    Even if he had asked East Wind to hide the antidote in his mouth in advance, there were so many guards in the palace. Once he was discovered, he wouldn¡¯t be able to escape with the antidote, right?


    Hence, just as You Yi returned after changing into clean clothes, Song Jingchen instructed him to take a trip to the palace.


    You Yi thought, ¡°I suspect that Young Master did it on purpose, but I don¡¯t have any evidence.¡¯


    He used the same trick to knock out the people from Yangxin Hall and injured East Wind on the dragon bed.


    Afterwards, the secret guards guarding Yangxin Hall each drank a bowl of strong tea to refresh themselves.


    Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng began to doubt their lives.


    The next day, two major events happened in the imperial court. One was the imperial edict for Prince Xia¡¯s punishment. The old prince would be beheaded in public three days later, and the entire Prince Xia¡¯s residence would be turned into sinful slaves. The second thing was to pray for the emperor.


    No one was surprised that the old prince had ended up like this. He had done so many treasonous things. Just as Shangguan Pu had said in the emperor¡¯s ear, he would die sooner or later. He couldn¡¯t escape death.


    However, wouldn¡¯t it be a little too ruthless to be beheaded in public? It wasn¡¯t like no royal family member had committed a capital crime in the past.


    It could be seen from how many sons the late emperor had, but only one of them survived in the end. However, for the sake of the royal family¡¯s dignity, they would at most be sentenced to death by poison.


    The emperor actually wanted to decapitate the old prince in public. It seemed that he really hated him for what he had done.


    Everyone thought about this matter and got over it. After all, it had nothing to do with them.


    There was something else that was directly related to them.


    Empress Dowager Wei wanted to hold a blessing ceremony for the emperor in the Hidden Spirit Temple. They could only pray for the heavens to bless him.


    Lord Jing, on the other hand, asked all the intermediate officials in the capital to copy a scripture and attend the ceremony.


    It was understandable to pray for the emperor, but it was a little strange to place the old prince¡¯s execution day on the same day as the prayer.


    A minister asked if they should postpone the execution date for fear of offending Buddha.


    In the end, since it was given by Shangguan Pu as an imperial edict by the emperor, he had no right to change it.


    At the Song family residence.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen, who was sitting in front of the desk and seriously copying sutras. She was a little speechless. ¡°Hubby, are you really copying?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at her. ¡°Miss Yuan has left. Are you bored again?¡±


    Why did these words sound a little jealous?


    First, it was You Yi, then Yuan Yuwan.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She smiled ingratiatingly and said, ¡°I was afraid that she wouldn¡¯t be used to living here.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan stayed in the Song family¡¯s house for two days. Xiao Qirui came every day, but Yuan Yuwan still didn¡¯t see him.


    This morning, she even suggested staying in a manor that her mother had left for her.


    Shen Yijia could not stop her. Thinking that the capital might not be peaceful for the next few days, she asked MO Yuan to prepare the medicine and arranged for One Dot to send her and You Bai out of the city.


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and continued copying the sutras, ignoring her. The prayer ceremony was tomorrow, and there were still some sutras to be copied.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and sat down obediently. She waited for him to put down his brush before leaning over again.


    ¡°Hubby, what did Sister Yuwan ask You Bai to give you yesterday?¡±


    She had gone to bed early last night and didn¡¯t know about this at first. She had heard it from MO Yuan just now..

 Chapter 629 - Chapter 629: Blessing Ceremony (2)

    Chapter 629: Blessing Ceremony (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I thought you saw it.¡±


    ¡°See what?¡±


    ¡°The note. I put it on your dresser.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and stood up to return to her room to look for it, but Song Jingchen stopped her.


    He said, ¡°She asked me if the Yuan family would be implicated if Shangguan Pu failed. ¡±


    Shen Yijia paused.


    ¡°I told her that the Yuan family has been very close to the Prime Minister¡¯s residence recently.¡±


    The reason why the Yuan family wanted to marry Yuan Yuwan to Earl Rong back then was undoubtedly because they wanted to use the relationship between Earl Rong¡¯s residence and the Prime Minister¡¯s residence to get into Lord Jing¡¯s faction.


    Later on, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s marriage with the Xiao family went on as usual. The Yuan family even lost another legitimate daughter because of this, so they naturally cherished this opportunity even more.


    Now that the Yuan Family was following Lord Jing¡¯s lead, it was not difficult to implicate them.


    Back then, they had only found some so-called evidence in the crown prince¡¯s palace. Any official who was close to the Eastern Palace would be exiled and beheaded. It was obvious what would happen to the Yuan family.


    Shen Yijia vaguely guessed something and widened her eyes. ¡°She¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen flicked her forehead in amusement. ¡°She¡¯s much smarter than you think.¡±


    She was much more heartless, too.


    Actually, Yuan Yuwan could completely make Earl Rong¡¯s residence hate the Yuan family after ensuring her marriage, cutting off the possibility of the Yuan family clinging to the Prime Minister¡¯s residence.


    Perhaps Old Master Yuan would find it difficult in the bureaucracy because of this.


    However, at least she wouldn¡¯t give them a chance to participate in the intermediate contest for the throne. However, she didn¡¯t do that. Instead¡­


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say the last sentence. After all, Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t have any ill intentions towards Shen Yijia.


    The most disgusting thing in the world was not those who had committed heinous crimes, but those who knew that they were evil but could not bring them to justice.


    Take the Yuan family for example. They were timid and did not dare to make a big mistake, but they were lecherous. If they took a fancy to a commoner woman, they would threaten and lure her family to sign a concubine contract and bring her into the residence.


    There was no way to pursue this matter according to the law.


    Therefore, in Song Jingchen¡¯s opinion, the Yuan family without Cabinet Elder Yuan was a parasite in Great Xia¡¯s bureaucracy. Even if they didn¡¯t end up well, they deserved it.


    ¡°So, Eldest Young Master Xiao¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Thirty Thousand reported that Xiao Qirui had arrived. Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°What was he doing earlier?¡±


    Xiao Qirui followed Thirty Thousand in. Compared to yesterday, he looked a little worse.


    He had not been recuperating well these past few days. Needless to say, his face was pale. He was even unshaven today.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Previously, every time he came, Xiao Qirui would at least tidy up. Had he suffered a blow?


    ¡°Sister Yuwan has already gone to rest.¡±


    Without waiting for him to speak, Shen Yijia used her previous excuse. Xiao Qirui paused and pursed his lips. ¡°I¡¯m here to look for Ah Chen today.¡± ¡°Ah Chen? Who allowed you to call him that?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia was about to retort when a hand suddenly covered her mouth. Song Jingchen said, ¡°Sit down and talk.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Do you want to sleep in the study today?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and coaxed her in amusement, ¡°Go and tell


    Mother that we¡¯re having roasted meat tonight.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You¡¯re going to roast it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll roast it.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and left. Halfway through, she turned around and glared at Xiao Qirui.


    Song Jingchen smiled and personally poured a cup of tea before pushing it in front of Xiao Qirui. ¡°Brother Xiao, sit.¡±


    Xiao Qirui sat down opposite him. ¡°Do you have wine?¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He glanced at him and asked Thirty Thousand to bring in two jars of wine.


    Song Jingchen picked up a jar, removed the seal, and prepared to pour the wine.


    Xiao Qirui picked up another jar and drank it.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment before waving Thirty Thousand off. He said helplessly, ¡°You¡¯re injured. You should drink less.¡±


    Actually, he did not understand why Xiao Qirui would come to drink with him. After all, the two of them had different circles and were not too familiar with each other.


    Xiao Qirui acted as if he did not hear him. After drinking half a jar of wine, he wiped his mouth with his sleeve. ¡°You knew long ago, right?¡± ¡°If you¡¯re talking about that Feng person, I did suspect something before.¡±


    Xiao Qirui smiled foolishly. ¡°So I¡¯m really the only fool.¡±


    He only found out yesterday that the Xiao family¡¯s commander¡¯s seal had been lost. In the end, it was found on Feng Manman, and the person who stole it was Mrs. Qiao, who had been lured by her.


    Mrs. Qiao thought that she was favored. It was just that General Xiao valued the rules very much. A wife was a wife, and a concubine was a concubine. That was why he didn¡¯t let her participate in anything.


    Therefore, it was useless for her to rely on that bit of favor to have a true say in the Xiao family..

 Chapter 630 - Chapter 630: Blessing Ceremony (3)

    Chapter 630: Blessing Ceremony (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Feng Manman used this opportunity to brainwash her. As long as she succeeded, Lord Jing would definitely treat her well.


    Mrs. Qiao thought that if she helped the Xiao family earn this merit, General Xiao would definitely be grateful to her.


    Hence, the two of them hit it off. They snatched the power to manage the family and created a fire to lure away the guards in the front courtyard.


    They even swapped in a fake commander¡¯s seal while Feng Manman attracted people¡¯s attention.


    As long as it wasn¡¯t the moment when Shangguan Pu mobilized the guards outside the city with the commander¡¯s seal, they weren¡¯t worried about being discovered.


    However, they did not expect General Xiao to take out the commander¡¯s seal every day to check it. He could tell at a glance what was real and what was fake.


    Now that he thought about it, the assassin back then was probably arranged by Shangguan Pu to give Feng Manman the opportunity to save his life.


    When he thought about how Yuan Yuwan had invited him to the Splendid Courtyard for dinner every day some time ago and handed over the authority to manage the family, Xiao Qirui understood everything.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°So the commander¡¯s seal is already in


    Shangguan Put s hands?¡±


    Xiao Qirui closed his eyes. ¡°The prayer ceremony tomorrow won¡¯t be peaceful.¡± Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°What do you plan to do with Feng Manman?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Embarrassment flashed across Xiao Qirui¡¯s face. He raised the wine jar and took a sip. ¡°I handed her to my father to deal with.¡±


    He originally planned to send Feng Manman away on the second day of the fire, but he did not expect Feng Manman to be seriously injured by Shen Yijia, so he asked her to recuperate in the residence.


    It could be said that he had accidentally prevented her from escaping.


    Song Jingchen looked at him sympathetically and silently pushed the wine jar in front of him over. ¡°Drink more.¡±


    Otherwise, when he found out about Miss Yuan¡¯s decision, he was afraid that Xiao Qirui would not even be able to drink.


    He had completely forgotten who persuaded him to drink less.


    In the end, Xiao Qirui was carried back to the Xiao family by Xiao Li.


    That night, he developed an advanced fever. General Xiao took the time to take a look at him. Seeing that he was spouting nonsense, he was really angry and anxious.


    He wondered if he had drugged him too hard.


    However, he had no time to worry. This was because he had to set off for the


    Hidden Spirit Temple in four hours. He had yet to finish copying the scriptures.


    After the rain, the temperature in the capital plummeted. Before dawn, Shen Yijia got up and put on her clothes.


    ¡°It¡¯s still early. You can go to the wine shop with Mother and the others later,¡± Song Jingchen advised.


    There was no need for the officials¡¯ families to go to the prayer ceremony. Song Jingchen was worried about them at home, so he had discussed it last night. Sister Huan and the others would take leave today and not go to school. The entire family would stay at the wine shop for a day.


    The wine shop was located in a remote area. Not to mention that it was in the slums, no one knew that it belonged to the Song family.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll send Mother and the others over early, then bring the useless emperor to the Hidden Spirit Temple to meet you.¡± Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Let Rooster and the others¡­¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m worried,¡± Shen Yijia said firmly.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and sighed. He reached out and pulled her into his arms. ¡°Then you have to be careful.¡±


    He would definitely be searched strictly if he went to the Hidden Spirit Temple, so he couldn¡¯t bring the emperor along in advance. He could only find another way.


    His original plan was to get One Dot and the others to escort him out of the city.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Not only would the emperor go to pray for the emperor, but all officials above the fifth-grade in the imperial court had to be present. It could be seen how grand the commotion was.


    At dawn, a mighty group set off from the palace. At the front were the palace guards. They were all golden-armored and armed with spears.


    Behind the guards were a few lords. After the lords was the emperor¡¯s carriage, followed by Empress Dowager Wei and a few concubines with higher positions. Imperial Concubine Liu did not come and stayed in the palace to preside over the overall situation. Lastly, there were the officials in the imperial court. They were also ranked according to their official positions.


    There was a long group of people. The ones in front had already left the city gate, and the ones behind were still at the palace gate.


    Shen Yijia stood in the crowd with a cloak draped over her shoulders. She waited for the group to pass before going home. She brought Madam Li and the others to the wine shop through the back door.


    She left You Yi behind to protect them before returning home to change into light men¡¯s clothes.


    The blessing ceremony began at noon. Shen Yijia was about to go to the cellar to bring the useless emperor out when MO Yuan came in with a letter.


    ¡°Who sent it?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    MO Yuan frowned. ¡°The sender said that a girl surnamed Liu asked him to send it over.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao? Shen Yijia thought for a long time before the name Liu Piaopiao appeared in her mind..

 Chapter 631 - Chapter 631: Happy New Year

    Chapter 631: Happy New Year


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Due to what had happened previously, Shen Yijia originally thought that she would not have any interactions with Liu Piaopiao after leaving Xunyang. She did not expect that not only did she come to the capital, but she also asked to meet her.


    This made her feel troubled for a moment.


    ¡°Young Madam, the car is ready.¡± West Wind came in and reported. Shen Yijia looked at the time and pursed her lips before throwing the letter away.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go out for a while. If I¡¯m not back in an hour, bring your men out of the city first.¡±


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯ll go with you.¡± MO Yuan followed her.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°No need. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    ¡°Go and detoxify that bastard emperor first. Then, get him a bucket of water and let him clean up.¡±


    Because she wanted the useless emperor to stew in resentment, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t let MO Yuan detoxify him earlier. She naturally wouldn¡¯t let anyone clean him up at any time like Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng served him. Therefore, one could imagine what state he was in right now.


    Shen Yijia shivered and ran far away.


    MO Yuan was speechless.


    She looked at West Wind.


    West Wind was speechless.


    Noticing that someone had walked in from outside, West Wind¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t that Thirty Thousand? He¡¯s free. Get him to help you. I¡¯ll check the carriage again.¡±


    With that, he strode in front of Thirty Thousand and patted his shoulder heavily. ¡°Brother, it¡¯s time for you to perform. Work hard.¡±


    Thirty Thousand was confused. He wanted to ask what he meant, but the person in front of him had already walked past him.


    He turned around and met MO Yuan¡¯s gaze. He grinned. ¡°MO Yuan, do you need my help with anything?¡±


    MO Yuan said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed the address in the letter and arrived at a teahouse. Only then did she realize that this place was facing the execution ground.


    From afar, the platform of the execution ground was empty, but it was already surrounded by commoners.


    All of them were waiting for something excitedly.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him and retracted her gaze. She went straight into the teahouse.


    Perhaps because everyone had gone to join in the fun, there was not a single guest in the teahouse.


    When the staff saw her, he was stunned for a moment, but he quickly came back to his senses and greeted her with a smile. ¡°Dear guest, you have an appointment with Miss Liu, right?¡±


    ¡°How did you know?¡± Shen Yijia asked subconsciously.


    ¡°Hey, everyone is either going to the Hidden Spirit Temple to join in the fun or watching that over there today. Who would have the time to come to the teahouse for tea, don¡¯t you think so?¡± The staff smiled as he led Shen Yijia to the second floor.


    Shen Yijia was about to ask if the Hidden Spirit Temple was not open to the public today, but she thought that they could stay at the foot of the mountain, so she did not ask.


    The two of them stopped in front of a private room while the staff knocked on the door.


    A maidservant opened the door and invited Shen Yijia in.


    Shen Yijia frowned and followed the maidservant past the screen in the middle. She saw a slender girl leaning against the window and looking out.


    Hearing the commotion, the girl turned around and smiled sweetly at her. ¡°Sister Jiajia, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned.


    ¡°Why are you looking at me like that? Don¡¯t you recognize me anymore?¡± Liu Piaopiao smiled and walked over to hold Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. She pulled her to sit down at the table.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses. Her gaze flickered as she said seriously, ¡°You¡¯ve lost weight. I almost didn¡¯t recognize you.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that it¡¯s not good for your health to be too fat?¡± Liu Piaopiao smiled and narrowed her eyes. She stood up and walked around in front of her twice. She asked shyly, ¡°Have I become prettier?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re beautiful. You¡¯re almost at my level.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao burst out laughing. Her embarrassment disappeared because of her shameless words.


    She walked to Shen Yijia and sat down opposite her. She waved at the maidservant. ¡°Ah Cai, go and guard outside.¡±


    The maidservant bowed to the two of them and left, closing the door behind her.


    ¡°When did you arrive in the capital?¡± Shen Yijia looked at her and asked.


    Liu Piaopiao smiled and didn¡¯t answer. She turned to look out of the window. ¡°I heard that the culprit who captured those girls will be executed today.¡±


    Shen Yijia followed her gaze. At this moment, there was already a team of soldiers around the execution ground. They stood around the platform to prevent the excited citizens from approaching.


    ¡°My parents¡­ can be considered victims.¡± Liu Piaopiao sighed. Shen Yijia asked, ¡°So you¡¯re specially here to watch the punishment?¡±


    Liu Piaopiao turned around and looked at Shen Yijia. She smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I guess so. I have to watch the person who harmed my parents go to hell with my own eyes.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°I thought you would blame me.¡±


    Liu Piaopiao blinked and said seriously, ¡°I did blame you at first, but later on, I realized that you didn¡¯t do anything wrong. After all, it was my parents who did something wrong..¡±

 Chapter 632 - Chapter 632: Happy New Year (2)

    Chapter 632: Happy New Year (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia nodded without commenting.


    ¡°Alright, it¡¯s all in the past. After today, I¡¯ve taken my revenge.¡± Liu Piaopiao let out a long breath. ¡°We haven¡¯t seen each other for so long, so let¡¯s not talk about these unhappy things.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s so cold outside. Don¡¯t you know how to wear more clothes? Young Master Shenzhi¡­ No, he should be called Earl Zhongyi now. Doesn¡¯t he know how to take better care of you?¡± With that, she reached out and poured a cup of tea for Shen Yijia. ¡°Drink some tea to warm up first.¡±


    In order to make it easier to move, Shen Yijia did not wear a cloak. It was indeed a little cold when she sat down. She took the teacup and prepared to drink it. When the fate of the cup touched her lips, she hesitated.


    Liu Piaopiao clenched her fists under her sleeves and poured herself a glass casually. She raised her head and drank it in one gulp.


    Shen Yijia drank it too.


    ¡°It¡¯s been an hour. Why isn¡¯t Young Madam back yet?¡± One Dot asked worriedly.


    Among the remaining five of them, only South Wind followed Song Jingchen to the Hidden Spirit Temple. The rest stayed behind to escort the emperor.


    MO Yuan frowned and stood up. She said expressionlessly, ¡°Bring the emperor out of the city first. I¡¯ll go look for Miss.¡±


    One Dot thought about it and realized that this was the only way. He brought his men to the cellar.


    Song Jingchen had already told the emperor his plan in advance. Even if he was dissatisfied that no one had served him for the past two days, the emperor didn¡¯t dare to show it.


    After all, he had waited for so long. Song Jingchen was the only one who could save him. His life was still in his hands.


    The few of them were about to leave through the back door with the emperor when a familiar figure flew towards them.


    Thirty Thousand was shocked and quickly rushed up to catch her. ¡°MO Yuan, are you alright?¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at him and casually wiped the blood from the corner of her mouth. She stood up and looked coldly at the group of men in black who had suddenly appeared.


    ¡°How dare you? Who are you?¡± the emperor said angrily.


    It would have been fine if he hadn¡¯t spoken, but as soon as he did, he successfully attracted their gaze.


    The men in black were stunned at first, their eyes filled with disbelief. They looked at each other and raised their swords to attack him.


    The emperor was speechless.


    One Dot and the others were speechless.


    They had never seen anyone who liked to court death so much.


    The two sides instantly fought. One Dot and the others did not know who the men in black¡¯s original target was, but the moment they saw the emperor, their target had clearly changed.


    They actually wanted the emperor¡¯s life!


    ¡°Help! Someone, help!¡± The emperor was so frightened that he jumped around and kept shouting.


    A man in black¡¯s sword was about to land on him.


    One Dot cursed softly. After weighing the pros and cons, he gave up on blocking the attacks of the people he fought. He threw out the sword in his hand and blocked the men in black behind him for the emperor.


    A sword pierced through him.


    ¡°One Dot!¡± West Wind shouted with bloodshot eyes. He turned around and kicked the man in black away before rushing to One Dot¡¯s side.


    One Dot said, ¡°Protect the emperor first.¡±


    West Wind closed his eyes and unexpectedly thought of his three brothers who had died in front of them.


    He raised his sword and charged at the emperor with red eyes.


    The emperor was dumbfounded. ¡°No, Song Jingchen asked you to protect me!¡±


    ¡°You, you, you¡­¡± He trembled for a long time before his legs went weak and he fell to the ground. He looked at the person who was swinging his sword at him in fear.


    Seeing that the sword was about to fall, the emperor closed his eyes in fear. There was a ding above his head.


    It turned out that a man in black had circled behind him.


    The emperor heaved a sigh of relief. ¡®What¡¯s your name? After these things are over, I¡¯ll definitely reward you heavily.¡±


    ¡°Shut up if you don¡¯t want to die.¡± West Wind roared.


    The emperor was speechless.


    There were less than two hours left until the blessing ceremony. On the account that everyone had worked hard climbing the mountain on foot, the monk led everyone to rest for a while.


    Naturally, with so many people around, only the emperor, the empress dowager, the concubines in the harem, a few lords, and a few ministers in the intermediate court rested in private rooms.


    Song Jingchen followed the other officials into the resting hall.


    Soon, monks brought hot tea and pastries to everyone.


    Everyone had a small plate of snacks. There were only two snacks on each plate. Song Jingchen picked up one of them and crushed the pastries under the cover of his sleeve. He took out the note inside.


    The words Jade Peak Courtyard were written on it.


    This was the emperor¡¯s current courtyard!


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and handed the note to South Wind. He instructed in a low voice, ¡°Go and see if your Young Madam has arrived.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Master, Miss Ji has sent a letter..¡±

 Chapter 633 - Chapter 633: Happy New Year (3)

    Chapter 633: Happy New Year (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In a meditation room in the backyard of the Hidden Spirit Temple, a man in black knelt on one knee in front of the man.


    The man reached out and took the envelope from the man in black. He opened it and saw two familiar words.


    Rash actions!


    ¡°Rash actions?¡± The man¡¯s eyes darkened. After a long time, he exhaled and asked coldly, ¡°Have you saved Prince Xia?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s already here.¡±


    ¡°Send him to Lord Rui.¡±


    The men in black paused for a moment. Shangguan Pu had tried to attack the old prince in the Clan Residence¡¯s prison a few times, but his men had stopped him.


    For this reason, Shangguan Pu even specially surrounded the execution ground with guards. They had painstakingly saved the old prince, but he was going to be given away just like that?


    However, he clearly did not dare to refute the man¡¯s order. He said respectfully,


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    At the same time, Shangguan Pu also received the news that someone had attacked the execution ground and that the old prince had been rescued. He was so angry that he smashed the teacup in the meditation room.


    It was only when a young eunuch sent something that his anger subsided slightly.


    It was noon. The ministers followed the monks to the altar.


    Looking at the altar not far away, everyone felt a little strange.


    In the past, in order to pray to the heavens to bless Great Xia with good weather and peace, such a great sacrificial ceremony would be held every year. However, this was the first time such a huge ceremony had been held to pray for one person.


    It was unknown what Empress Dowager Wei was thinking.


    However, they were all asking for blessings from the heavens. It should be fine, right?


    After all, the emperor was a True Dragon, right?


    It was said that the late emperor had visited her in her dreams.


    Everyone still remembered that the last time the late emperor visited someone in their dreams, it was to call Song Jingchen back to the capital.


    Thinking of this, everyone realized why the late emperor had asked someone to do something strange.


    He wasn¡¯t this unreliable when he was alive¡­


    Just as everyone was cursing in their hearts, the emperor was carried out in a dragon carriage.


    The imperial physician had once said that the emperor could not be exposed to the wind, so he did not come down. Through the gauze curtain, everyone could vaguely see a person lying on the dragon carriage.


    The ceremony began. The emperor was supposed to offer incense on the altar first, but because he was not feeling well, Eunuch Li finally sent a message and Lord Jing replaced him.


    Shangguan Pu stepped onto the platform step by step in his lord¡¯s suit. A monk offered him three incense sticks. Shangguan Pu reached out and took it. He knelt down on the futon, and the ministers followed suit.


    He kowtowed.


    He kowtowed twice.


    Three kowtows¡­


    He stood up and raised his hand to insert the incense into the incense burner.


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    A sudden voice sounded.


    Who was so reckless as to interrupt the prayer ritual?


    Everyone looked towards the voice.


    It was the ignorant Lord Rui, Shangguan Heng.


    ¡°Third Brother, if you want to fool around, you should consider the occasion,¡± Shangguan Pu said with a frown.


    ¡°Me, fooling around? Hahaha, Eldest Brother, don¡¯t tell me you really think no one knows what you¡¯ve done?¡± Shangguan Heng laughed wildly.


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s eyes turned cold as he looked somewhere. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Shangguan Heng snorted. ¡°That¡¯s what I wanted to ask you. Eldest Brother, why did you imprison Father? Do you want to rebel?¡±


    ¡°What? Imprison the emperor?¡± everyone thought.


    All the ministers instantly reacted, including many ministers who had no choice but to support or secretly work for Shangguan Pu in the imperial court for some reason.


    They were forced to join Shangguan Put s pirate ship, but no one was willing to be accused of being traitors.


    It was understandable for the princes to fight for the throne in private. After all, it was a private matter.


    However, putting these things on the table and even attacking the emperor was not the case.


    Even if you eventually sat in that position, to the people of the world, you would be unjustified and a rebel. At that time, you would definitely attract the condemnation of the vassals of the world.


    Once Great Xia fell into chaos, the commoners would suffer. Be it Shangguan Pu, who was sitting in the throne, or their followers, they would be cursed for eternity.


    This was also the reason why Shangguan Pu had been careful and didn¡¯t dare to take action even though he clearly had the emperor in his hands.


    To put it bluntly, what he needed was a ¡°justifiable reason¡±. There couldn¡¯t be any mistakes.


    ¡°Third Brother, what nonsense are you talking about? It was clearly Father who didn¡¯t want to see you earlier. Besides, Father is up there. How is he imprisoned?¡± Shangguan Yao retorted.


    Shangguan Heng rolled his eyes. ¡°Alright, even if he¡¯s not imprisoned, what about the kidnapping of the young girls and the assassination attempt on Father after the incident?¡±


    This time, the ministers became even more uneasy. It was those women who caused them to be caught by Shangguan Pu.


    They could not advance. They could not retreat.


    They were caught between a rock and a hard place.


    Shangguan Yao said, ¡°Those things were clearly done by Imperial Granduncle. What has it got to do with Big Brother?¡±


    Shangguan Pu tightened his grip and the incense ash fell onto his hand, burning him until he came back to his senses. He narrowed his eyes and looked at the smug Shangguan Heng. ¡°That¡¯s right, Third Brother. The truth has long been revealed. Don¡¯t spout nonsense..¡±

 Chapter 634 - Chapter 634: Meeting Again (1)

    Chapter 634: Meeting Again (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you always been the only one who said those words, Eldest Brother?¡± Shangguan Heng clapped his hands. ¡°While there are so many people around, let¡¯s hear the truth.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a man in prison clothes with disheveled hair was brought out.


    Shangguan Pu glanced at Shangguan Heng.


    He provided him with information to force him to attack the emperor and asked him to focus all his attention on Song Jingchen. In the end, he came out and exposed him. He had really underestimated his third brother.


    However, did he think that he would be caught off guard?


    The person who was brought up had a dirty face. When they recognized who it was, the ministers were stunned for a moment before whispering. ¡°Isn¡¯t that the old prince? Why is he here?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right! Shouldn¡¯t the old prince have been beheaded by now?


    ¡°Is Lord Rui robbing the execution ground? That¡¯s too bold. That¡¯s Your Majesty¡¯s decree.¡±


    The discussions around them continued. Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze had never left Shangguan Heng from the moment the old prince appeared.


    He did not notice that there was another gaze on him.


    ¡°Nephew, isn¡¯t Lord Rui fooling around?¡± General Xiao stood beside Song Jingchen.


    They had to wait until Lord Jing brought the imperial decree back to the meditation room.


    If he angered Lord Jing at this time, what if he killed the Emperor?


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and glanced at the people in the dragon carriage. He shook his head and said, ¡°Let¡¯s wait and see.¡±


    General Xiao thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s equivalent to not saying anything.¡±


    He thought for a moment and squeezed towards the altar. If Lord Jing attacked later, he would be able to save the Emperor.


    Song Jingchen was about to follow when a monk suddenly walked up to him. ¡°Sir, that benefactor asked me to give this to you.¡±


    Seeing the item in his hand, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes narrowed and he looked in the direction he was pointing.


    It was Prime Minister Liu!


    ¡°Sir?¡± The monk reminded him when he did not take it.


    Only then did Song Jingchen come back to his senses and take the wooden hairpin from his hand.


    At the end of the hairpin, there was a word he was all too familiar with.


    Thinking of something, he turned around and looked behind him, but he didn¡¯t see South Wind.


    Song Jingchen secretly clenched his fists and turned to leave, but someone grabbed his wrist.


    ¡°Nephew, where are you going?¡±


    It turned out that General Xiao realized that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t following him and walked back.


    He naturally saw the monk and Song Jingchen looking at Prime Minister Liu.


    ¡°Uncle Xiao, my wife might be in danger,¡± Song Jingchen explained patiently.


    ¡°Look at the guards around you. Can you get out?¡± General Xiao frowned.


    Song Jingchen broke free from General Xiao¡¯s hand. ¡°I have to go out even if I can¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Calm down first.¡± General Xiao gritted his teeth and advised, ¡®My niece-in-law is good at martial arts. How can she be in danger so easily? Don¡¯t fall into someone else¡¯s trap.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He rubbed his hand on the hairpin and turned to look at General Xiao. ¡°Uncle Xiao is right.¡±


    General Xiao was speechless. Wasn¡¯t he too easy to persuade?


    On the altar, Shangguan Pu said bitterly, ¡°Third Brother, you¡¯re really bold. You actually dared to disobey Father¡¯s decree and rob the execution ground. Are you trying to rebel?¡±


    Prime Minister Liu also said righteously, ¡°Lord Rui, even if you are unhappy that Your Majesty asked Lord Jing to supervise the country, you shouldn¡¯t have conspired with criminals to frame others. ¡±


    He was prepared to directly attribute Shangguan Heng¡¯s actions to his jealousy because he did not receive the responsibility of overseeing the country. At that time, no matter what the old prince said, he could say that it was slander. Even if he brought out evidence, he could say that it was fake.


    After all, Shangguan Heng dared to ignore the imperial edict and rob the execution ground. What else could he not do?


    Shangguan Heng was so angry that he fell back. He had never seen anyone so good at playing the blame game.


    Besides, he wasn¡¯t the one who kidnapped the old prince. He was the one who picked him up.


    However, no one would believe him even if he said it, and it was not important.


    He pushed through the crowd and walked to the old prince¡¯s side. ¡°Granduncle, tell me, who harmed my father? And who captured those women?¡±


    ¡°No, I didn¡¯t do it.¡± The old prince was still intermediately afraid of the guillotine and kept shaking his head.


    Shangguan Heng rolled his eyes. This was the only thing he knew how to say when he found this man. He even said, ¡°It¡¯s Lord Jing, Lord Jing did everything.¡±


    Now, he didn¡¯t even know how to say the most important sentence?


    ¡°Tell me who did it,¡± Shangguan Heng reminded her in a low voice.


    The old prince was stunned. He looked up and met Shangguan Puts warning gaze. His eyes turned red as he pushed the person beside him away and rushed onto the stage.. ¡°I¡¯m going to kill you!¡±

 Chapter 635 - Chapter 635: Meeting Again (2)

    Chapter 635: Meeting Again (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Quick, stop him!¡± Prime Minister Liu shouted.


    The guards quickly rushed forward and grabbed him.


    However, even though he was pressed to the ground, the old prince continued to struggle and clamor to kill Shangguan Pu.


    He screamed, and those screams turned into laughter, before turning into cries.


    This time, not only were the ministers stunned, but even Shangguan Heng was a little dumbfounded.


    Why did the old prince look a little crazy?


    ¡°Take him away,¡± Shangguan Pu instructed indifferently.


    Shangguan Heng widened his eyes and ran over to block the old prince. ¡°Wait.¡±


    Shangguan Pu sighed, looking like he couldn¡¯t do anything to his brother. ¡°How long are you going to fool around?¡±


    Shangguan Heng ignored him and pulled the old prince up. ¡°Granduncle, tell me, who harmed my father? Who did those things?¡±


    The old prince cowered and a look of confusion flashed across his face. He suddenly pounced on Shangguan Heng with a ferocious expression.


    Shangguan Heng was caught off guard and fell to the ground. Before he could react, the old prince had already sat on his waist and grabbed his neck tightly.


    ¡°You all want to harm me. I¡¯ll kill you, I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    The ministers were stunned for a moment before quickly shouting for help.


    By the time the guards finally restrained the crazy old prince, Shangguan Heng¡¯s eyes had already rolled back.


    Shangguan Yu squeezed in and pulled Shangguan Heng up. ¡°Third Brother, are you alright?¡±


    Shangguan Heng panted heavily and waved his hand with lingering fears.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Third Brother, no matter how dissatisfied you are with my ruling of the country, you shouldn¡¯t have caused a scene at this blessing ceremony. If you offend Buddha, can you bear the consequences?¡± Shangguan Pu looked down at him.


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He secretly blamed the old prince for being crazy at the wrong time.


    Shangguan Yu frowned slightly. ¡°Third Brother is also worried about Father.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Shangguan Heng shuddered and said unhappily, ¡°Eldest Brother, don¡¯t confuse us. Do you really think I care about the right to manage the country?¡±


    ¡°I only wanted to confirm Father¡¯s safety. Previously, Eunuch Li said that


    Father wanted you to supervise the country, but I didn¡¯t say a word.¡±


    If he was accused of deliberately destroying the blessing ceremony, wouldn¡¯t he also be blamed for anything that happened to the emperor?


    Shangguan Heng felt that his mind had never spun so quickly. He thought of something and looked around, noticing Song Jingchen standing in the back row.


    His eyes lit up. He ran over and grabbed his sleeve. ¡°Back then, you said that you brought Imperial Granduncle into the palace because you found out that he was the key to abducting young girls. You didn¡¯t say that he was the mastermind.¡±


    ¡°Tell me, who is the mastermind you found?¡±


    Putting aside the assassination, Song Jingchen had personally told his second brother about the mastermind behind the kidnapping.


    Worried that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t tell the truth because he was afraid of death, Shangguan Heng gritted his teeth and threatened, ¡°You¡¯d better tell the truth. Otherwise, I¡¯ll teach you a lesson.¡±


    His words successfully made everyone look at Song Jingchen.


    This was because the women from the Fragrant Teahouse were imprisoned in the Imperial Capital. It was also the Imperial Capital Magistrate who interrogated those women to say that the old prince was the mastermind.


    As for Song Jingchen, he had been suspended at home since the emperor¡¯s assassination. He had indeed never spoken.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shangguan Heng calmly, pulled out his sleeve, and turned to look at Shangguan Pu.


    Shangguan Pu narrowed his eyes and looked down at him. ¡°Why are you looking at me, Earl Zhongyi? You can tell the truth, but¡­¡¯


    ¡°You have to think carefully first.¡±


    Although this implied warning was vague, most people could still hear it.


    They couldn¡¯t help but look at Song Jingchen with sympathy. It wasn¡¯t good to offend either side.


    Song Jingchen was stunned and shook his head. ¡°Your Highness wants to know who harmed His Majesty and if he was imprisoned. You can just ask His Majesty yourself. What does this have to do with who the mastermind of the girl¡¯s case is?¡±


    Even if Lord Jing was the one who caught those women, he couldn¡¯t possibly say that he was the one who harmed the Emperor.


    Shangguan Heng gritted his teeth in anger. ¡°If Father could speak, would I need you to remind me?¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t you see that the person in the dragon carriage hasn¡¯t moved at all?¡± he thought.


    ¡°The late emperor naturally has his reasons for visiting in his dreams. Perhaps His Majesty will really recover after praying? Why don¡¯t you wait a little longer, Your Highness?¡± Song Jingchen said calmly.


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s gaze was fixed on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. Although he didn¡¯t point him out, he didn¡¯t help him..

 Chapter 636 - Chapter 636: Meeting Again (3)

    Chapter 636: Meeting Again (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Didn¡¯t they say that Song Jingchen cared a lot about his wife?


    Moreover, what did he mean by that? Would the emperor really recover after praying?


    What a joke!


    Although he knew that praying would not wake the emperor up, Shangguan Pu still subconsciously glanced at a young eunuch beside the dragon carriage.


    The young eunuch nodded subtly, and he felt relieved.


    Shangguan Heng did not believe him either. He opened his mouth to say something else, but Shangguan Yu stopped him. ¡°Third Brother, let¡¯s talk after the blessing. ¡±


    Only then did Shangguan Heng stop.


    He might not even listen to Consort Shu, but he was still willing to listen to Shangguan Yu.


    Uncle Xuan Ping, who had been eyeing them since he saw that the old prince had gone crazy, heaved a sigh of relief.


    At the same time, he felt a little vexed. He blinked but didn¡¯t see his grandson.


    The old prince was brought away and the prayer began again.


    After Shangguan Pu offered incense again, the abbot led the other monks to chant sutras around the emperor¡¯s dragon carriage. Because of Shangguan Heng¡¯s commotion, the ceremony lasted for more than four hours.


    The ministers got up from the futons with trembling legs. They had woken up early in the morning and only ate two snacks for lunch. They knelt for another afternoon.


    The generals were slightly better. The ministers had never suffered like this. All of them looked as if they had lost half their lives. They were cold, hungry, and tired.


    If the emperor really recovered, everyone would suspect that it was because of the half-life that had been taken from them.


    The sun was setting in the west. It was obviously not safe to go down the mountain at this hour, so Lord Jing had to ask the abbot to arrange food and rooms for everyone.


    There were many people, and the lower-ranking officials even had two to three people in a room. No matter what, Song Jingchen had the title of a duke, so he was assigned a small courtyard.


    He returned to the courtyard. As soon as he stepped in, he met a pair of starry eyes.


    Even though he knew that she was fine, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart was finally at ease when he saw her.


    Shen Yijia was wearing a gray monk¡¯s robe and a monk¡¯s hat. Her eyes were smiling like crescents.


    ¡°Hubby,¡± she called sweetly.


    Song Jingchen looked at her without blinking for a long time. He strode forward and pulled her into his arms. ¡°What happened?¡±


    Shen Yijia knew what he was referring to. She was about to explain when she thought of something and paused. ¡°Let¡¯s go into the house first.¡±


    Only then did Song Jingchen realize that MO Yuan, One Dot, and the others were all there.


    After returning to her room, Shen Yijia told him about her meeting Liu Piaopiao.


    ¡°That aunt in the Fragrant Teahouse is her. She¡¯s always been by Shangguan Put s side.¡± Shen Yijia sighed.


    Actually, as soon as Liu Piaopiao spoke, she remembered that the familiar voice she had heard in the Fragrant Teahouse was Liu Piaopiao¡¯s.


    She didn¡¯t expose her directly. She just wanted to see what she wanted to do.


    After drinking the cup of tea, she immediately secretly took a drop of spiritual liquid and pretended to faint.


    Unexpectedly, after waiting for a long time, the tip of her nose was filled with something smelly.


    She had studied by MO Yuan¡¯s side for so long, so she naturally knew that there was a very strong medicine in the tea.


    And that smelly thing was the antidote.


    Although it was a pity to waste a drop of spiritual liquid, she still pretended to wake up.


    Then, Liu Piaopiao said, ¡°Just take it that I¡¯ve avenged my parents.¡± ¡°She was the one who leaked the picture book?¡± Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes.


    This was something he did not expect. After all, Liu Piaopiao was the one who took the initiative to give them the sketchbook. If she wanted to surrender, she could have taken the sketchbook to Shangguan Pu from the beginning.


    Shen Yijia nodded. Because of the picture book, Shangguan Pu wanted to capture Madam Li and the others to threaten Song Jingchen. In the end, he killed Widow Wang.


    Liu Piaopiao could be considered the culprit.


    However.


    ¡°She said that she needed to gain Shangguan Pu¡¯s trust.¡± Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°She was also the one who sent the letter that told us that the old prince was drugged by the late emperor.¡±


    There was also a hint of hatred towards Shen Yijia. She wouldn¡¯t lose out if Shangguan Pu could successfully kill her and Song Jingchen.


    Although she didn¡¯t say it explicitly, anyone who wasn¡¯t a fool would understand. Liu Piaopiao also knew that she could understand what she meant.


    Logically speaking, Liu Piaopiao knew that Shen Yijia had done nothing wrong, but she could not forgive her emotionally.


    Song Jingchen suddenly understood. He had previously felt that the delivery of the letter was different from the vague reminder from before.


    ¡°Those things have nothing to do with you. You don¡¯t have to feel guilty.¡± He pulled Shen Yijia into his arms and reached out to help her smoothen the creases between her eyebrows bit by bit. He comforted her softly.


    ¡°I¡¯m not feeling guilty.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I want to take revenge for


    Auntie Wang again. I want to kill Shangguan Pu or Liu Piaopiao.¡±


    ¡°But she saved a lot of people, so I¡¯m torn.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. ¡°The women in Xunyang City?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded..

 Chapter 637 - Chapter 637: Failure (1)

    Chapter 637: Failure (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The women in Xunyang City did not die. They were replaced by female corpses that Liu Piaopiao had found everywhere.


    As for some characteristics or marks that Pinellia and the others recognized, they could only say¡­


    If there were similarities, it was purely a coincidence.


    According to Liu Piaopiao, it wasn¡¯t that she hadn¡¯t thought of reporting it to the authorities when she first entered the Fragrant Teahouse. However, she quickly dispelled this thought.


    Putting aside whether she could enter the Imperial Capital alive, even if she saw the official, how could she guarantee that the other party was not on Shangguan Put s side? Or would the other party dare to offend a prince?


    Most importantly, what should she do about the poison in those women?


    Later on, the people sent by Shangguan Pu couldn¡¯t stop Song Jingchen from entering the capital. Just in case, he decided to eliminate all the girls from Xunyang City.


    In order to accept this mission, Liu Piaopiao even took the initiative to consume the Heart Devouring Poison.


    This was also why Shen Yijia was conflicted.


    ¡°Bruiser isn¡¯t a child anymore. We can let him decide for himself.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head.


    Shen Yijia thought about it and agreed. She thought of something and quickly got out of Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. She ran to the table and opened the bag on it. There were a few thick ledgers inside.


    ¡°And she gave me this.¡±


    Shen Yijia presented the ledger to Song Jingchen as if it was a treasure.


    It was not for nothing. Liu Piaopiao found a limited amount of medicine to suppress the Heart Devouring Poison in Lord Jing¡¯s residence, so she suggested that she provide the antidote to those women as a deal.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and opened it. When he saw what was inside, his eyes narrowed.


    ¡°This record contains information about the intermediate officials that Shangguan Pu has used those women to gather over the years, as well as their interactions.¡± Shen Yijia smiled and pointed out the names of the officials in the booklet. ¡®With this, we can threaten these people.¡±


    The first thing she thought of was not to give the booklet to the emperor to punish those officials, but to turn Shangguan Pu¡¯s connections into Song Jingchen¡¯s.


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    Shen Yijia thought that he did not agree. She blinked and advised, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that there are no fish in clear water? If these people die, who knows if the officials who replaced them will be vermin again? They might as well leave these controllable vermin behind.¡±


    If used well, who said that vermin could only harm people?


    Besides, they had done something bad. Wouldn¡¯t it be letting them off easy if they died so easily?


    She should let them live in fear. At the same time, they should atone for their past actions.


    The more Shen Yijia spoke, the more she felt that she made sense.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    His wife had grown up.


    Shen Yijia was a little embarrassed by his gaze. She changed the topic and complained, ¡°Shangguan Pu asked her to capture me and threaten you. He even sent someone to our house. He probably felt that it wasn¡¯t enough to capture me alone and wanted to capture Mother and the others.¡±


    In the end, the people he sent saw the living emperor first. Fortunately, she returned in time. Otherwise, the useless emperor would have died.


    ¡°Are you injured?¡± Song Jingchen put down the ledger and pulled Shen Yijia to examine her.


    ¡°No, no.¡± Shen Yijia spun around and scratched her head guiltily. ¡°I¡­ saved One Dot with spiritual liquid.¡±


    At that time, One Dot was only left with his last breath. She didn¡¯t have time to think.


    Song Jingchen paused and asked with a frown, ¡°The emperor saw it too?¡± ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia quickly waved her hand.


    At that time, the dog emperor was so frightened that he covered his head and scurried away. He was probably not even sure if One Dot was injured. However, the four Mahjong Brothers present definitely knew.


    There was a sudden knock on the door. Killing intent flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. ¡°Come in.¡±


    MO Yuan and One Dot walked in.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, the four of them knelt down.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± Shen Yijia asked suspiciously.


    MO Yuan glanced at the four of them and said expressionlessly, ¡°They asked me to make a poison that can control people like the Heart Devouring Poison. I don¡¯t dare to make any decisions on my own.¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. Was this a show of loyalty?


    ¡°Sure, ¡± Song Jingchen said.


    One Dot and the others heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Thank you, Master.¡±


    Seeing that they seemed to be quite happy, Shen Yijia was completely speechless.


    As soon as they sent them away, South Wind knocked on the door again.


    ¡°Master, that person is awake and wants to change back.¡±


    The night fell, and the silence of the Hidden Spirit Temple was broken by a sharp voice.


    ¡°Someone, come quickly. His Majesty¡­ His Majesty!¡± Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng shouted as they ran.


    Their voices were filled with fear. Coupled with the emperor¡¯s original physical condition, everyone who heard him thought that the emperor was dead and shouted in confusion..

 Chapter 638 - Chapter 638: Failure (2)

    Chapter 638: Failure (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Soon, everyone in the Hidden Spirit Temple was alerted.


    Shangguan Pu frowned and hurriedly put on his clothes before rushing to Jade Peak Courtyard.


    The courtyard he lived in was the closest to the Jade Peak Courtyard. However, when he arrived, it was already filled with people.


    He could vaguely hear the words ¡°dead¡± and ¡°gone¡±.


    Could it be that the drugs were too much for him to handle? Shangguan Pu frowned, but this situation was beneficial to him.


    The person who suggested holding the prayer ceremony was Empress Dowager Wei, and the person who disrupted the prayer halfway was Shangguan Heng. No matter what, it was not his fault.


    ¡°Get out of the way. I want to go in.¡± Empress Dowager Wei stood at the front with her men, her aura spreading, and everyone subconsciously fell silent. Shangguan Heng also reprimanded, ¡°Did you hear that? Move aside.¡± The guard looked at Shangguan Pu, who had just rushed over.


    Shangguan Pu glanced at Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng, who were pale with fear, and nodded secretly.


    Only then did the guards make way.


    Empress Dowager Wei walked in first. Shangguan Yu, Shangguan Heng, and Consort Shu followed closely behind.


    ¡°Big Brother, let¡¯s go in quickly,¡± Shangguan Yao urged.


    Shangguan Pu nodded and followed unhurriedly.


    Seeing that no one stopped them, the other concubines and ministers quickly followed.


    ¡°He¡¯ll probably regret it later, right?¡± Shen Yijia, who was dressed as a novice monk, sympathized.


    Song Jingchen originally planned to expose Shangguan Pu during the prayer, but it was already too late when Shen Yijia brought her people up the mountain.


    Therefore, he could only¡­


    Song Jingchen smiled and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go in too.¡±


    Seeing that the couple did not forget to be intimate at this time, General Xiao gritted his teeth.


    No, why didn¡¯t he tell him about the matter of saving the emperor? It made him worry for nothing.


    ¡°Men, arrest that unfilial son.¡±


    The three of them had just squeezed to the door when the emperor¡¯s voice sounded.


    The ministers present were so frightened that they knelt down. Didn¡¯t they say that the emperor had died?


    Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng thought to themselves, ¡°We didn¡¯t say that.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s expression was even uglier. He glanced coldly at Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li, who were hiding behind the crowd.


    He suddenly sneered and approached the emperor step by step. ¡°Father, what are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Unfilial son¡­ Quick, save me.¡± The emperor was so frightened by Shangguan Pu that he crawled into the bed.


    However, not a single guard entered. The ministers were also dumbfounded.


    ¡°Big Brother¡­¡± Shangguan Yao was stunned.


    Empress Dowager Wei also reprimanded, ¡°Shangguan Pu, what are you trying to do?¡±


    Shangguan Pu drew his sword and pointed it at the emperor. He turned around and looked at Empress Dowager Wei coldly. ¡°Don¡¯t you understand? I¡¯m going to kill my father and usurp the throne!¡±


    At this point, he could no longer be bothered to think about how the emperor had woken up. Where had the secret guards he had sent to guard the emperor gone?


    From the moment he nodded and let everyone in, he had no way out.


    Shangguan Heng jumped up in excitement. ¡°See, Eldest Brother. I was right. Those things¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Shangguan Pu shouted, ¡°So what if I did it? In any case, don¡¯t even think about leaving the Hidden Spirit Temple alive. Who else would even know what I¡¯ve done?¡±


    ¡°I only need to tell the outside world that you were dissatisfied with Father passing the throne to me and intended to kill your father to usurp the throne. By the time I arrived with my men, you had already killed all these people. I had no choice but to put righteousness before family.¡± Shangguan Pu became more and more excited as he spoke. He took two steps forward and pulled the emperor off the bed, placing the sword on his neck.


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s mouth fell open in shock. He pointed at Shangguan Pu.


    ¡®You!¡±


    As soon as he said the word, a hand covered his mouth.


    ¡°Son, he¡¯s already gone crazy. Don¡¯t anger him,¡± Consort Shu said with a trembling voice.


    If he wasn¡¯t crazy, who would dare to say such a disgraceful thing directly?


    Shangguan Yu glanced at the sword in Shangguan Pu¡¯s hand that was pressed against the emperor¡¯s throat. He raised his hand, and the fingertips under his sleeve moved slightly. However, he thought of something and finally put it down.


    ¡°Consort Shu is right.¡± Shangguan Pu sneered and turned to look at the emperor, who was so frightened that he didn¡¯t dare to move. ¡°Father, didn¡¯t you want to call for help? How about I help you call for help?¡± ¡°Men, arrest everyone here.¡±


    As Shangguan Pu¡¯s voice sounded, the people¡¯s hearts sank.


    The generals had already secretly clenched their fists, ready to fight at any moment.


    However, after waiting for a long time, no guards came in. It was quiet outside, and there was not even the sound of anyone walking..

 Chapter 639 - Chapter 639: Failure (3)

    Chapter 639: Failure (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Put s heart skipped a beat. He called out twice more, but no one came in.


    The surroundings fell into a dead silence.


    Prime Minister Liu and the officials of Lord Jing¡¯s faction felt their hearts skip a beat.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia reminded him softly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze lingered on Shangguan Heng and Shangguan Yu for a long time before he waved his hand.


    The frightened emperor seemed to have received an order. He suddenly grabbed Shangguan Pu¡¯s wrist and quickly retreated.


    At the same time, Shen Yijia kicked General Xiao in.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance to make a contribution. Don¡¯t thank me too much.¡± she thought.


    General Xiao was shocked and cursed in his heart. He quickly helped the emperor capture Shangguan Pu.


    The change happened too quickly. Although everyone was still a little stunned, they knew one thing in their hearts, and that was that the emperor inside was fake.


    Did the real emperor hide in the dark and watch everything that happened here?


    When the smarter generals thought of this, they also swarmed forward like a swarm of bees. It was not easy to make a contribution when they were not fighting.


    Everyone wanted to catch this pie that had fallen from the sky, but at this moment, a few extraordinary secret guards suddenly appeared beside Shangguan Pu.


    As soon as the secret guards appeared, the scene became chaotic.


    Fortunately, when General Xiao and Shangguan Pu started fighting, Empress Dowager Wei had already retreated out of the courtyard with everyone.


    Shangguan Pu glanced coldly at Song Jingchen, who was standing at the front of the crowd. He said indignantly, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a few secret guards protected him and retreated to the window. One of them took out a circular object and threw it to the ground. The entire room was instantly filled with smoke.


    When the smoke dissipated, Shangguan Pu and the secret guards were nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Hubby, he escaped.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. If not for Song Jingchen holding onto her, she would have rushed towards him long ago.


    Song Jingchen squeezed her fingers. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Someone will send him back.¡±


    Sensing something, he looked up and happened to meet Shangguan Yu¡¯s gaze.


    Shangguan Yu smiled and walked forward. ¡°You¡¯re still the same. You haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Song Jingchen smiled too. ¡°What about you? Do I still know you?¡±


    Shen Yijia was confused by the two of them. Just as she was about to say something, a large number of torches suddenly appeared outside the courtyard, instantly illuminating the area.


    Only then did everyone realize that the guards guarding the courtyard had all fallen to the ground.


    It was no wonder that they didn¡¯t react even after Lord Jing shouted for a long time.


    However, these people were clearly still standing there when they walked into the courtyard. What had happened in less than ten minutes?


    In a secluded place, MO Yuan clapped her hands expressionlessly and turned to meet One Dot and the others.


    After the matter was over, they left, hiding their achievements.


    A group of people with torches walked in. Behind them were Prime Minister Liu and a dozen officials.


    The ministers were stunned. When did Prime Minister Liu and the others slip away?


    Shen Yijia was also stunned. Wasn¡¯t Captain Lin walking in front of the team?


    Oh, the one walking beside Captain Lin was the chatterbox.


    At a glance, this group of people were her former ¡°colleagues¡±!


    Captain Little Lin glanced at everyone and said loudly, ¡°His Majesty has ordered us to return to the palace immediately.¡±


    Something big happened in the capital in October. To be precise, from the moment the emperor was attacked, there had been a lot of things happening in the capital.


    First, the old prince tried to assassinate the emperor, and Lord Jing supervised the country. Then, it was revealed from the Fragrant Teahouse that the old prince had been abducting girls from all over the country for years. Right on the heels of that, the empress dowager, who had not returned to the capital for more than twenty years, suddenly returned to the capital.


    The commoners looked forward to the news day and night. Just as they were about to write a blood letter for the old prince to be sentenced to death, the imperial edict was really issued. Along with the imperial edict was the empress dowager¡¯s decree to pray for the emperor in the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Rumors had even spread throughout the commoners that the emperor was critically ill and wanted to pass down the throne to Lord Jing.


    When everyone thought that this was a foregone conclusion, the old prince was kidnapped from the execution ground in front of everyone. The next day, there was even news that Lord Jing had imprisoned the emperor and intended to kill his father to usurp the throne.


    That was not all. Lord Jing was the one who assassinated the Emperor and kidnapped girls. The old prince was just covering up for him and conspiring with him.


    Since dawn, the soldiers had been traveling through the streets and alleys to catch Lord Jing¡¯s accomplices.


    All the officials of Lord Jing¡¯s faction were captured and imprisoned, including Prime Minister Liu¡¯s residence, Earl Rong¡¯s residence, and the Yuan Family.


    Imperial Concubine Liu was banished to the cold palace, and even Lord Shun was temporarily locked in his residence..

 Chapter 640 - Chapter 640: Sent Back (2)

    Chapter 640: Sent Back (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the imperial study, when he heard Captain Lin¡¯s report, the emperor was so angry that his face flushed with agitation. ¡°How did this matter spread?¡±


    He was imprisoned just like that. As the ruler of a country, did he not care about his reputation?


    As for Little Captain Lin.


    The original commander of the imperial guards had joined Lord Jing and was arrested in the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Not only did Little Captain Lin, who had been left on duty in the palace, take down the traitors in the palace, but he also arrived at the Hidden Spirit Temple in time to receive them.


    As a great contributor, he had already been promoted to Commander Lin.


    Actually, the reason why everyone called him Little Captain Lin previously was because a captain who was quite appreciated by the previous commander also had the surname Lin. In order to distinguish the two of them, people called him that.


    One was big and the other was little. Although they were both captains, their statuses were different.


    Commander Lin said respectfully, ¡°Too many people went to the Hidden Spirit Temple yesterday. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯s very difficult to investigate.¡±


    The emperor was speechless.


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. Go and get Earl Zhongyi to enter the palace to see me,¡± the emperor said.


    After this incident, he was even more afraid of Song Jingchen. At the same time, he felt that he was the most reliable.


    In short, the emperor was conflicted.


    Commander Lin¡¯s gaze flickered. He lowered his head and did not move. The emperor frowned. ¡°If you have something to say, just say it.¡±


    Commander Lin knelt down with a thud. ¡°I don¡¯t dare to hide it. The reason why I know about Your Majesty¡¯s situation is actually because Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li got someone to secretly spread the news.¡±


    The emperor paused and asked with a dark expression, ¡°Where are the two of them now?


    Commander Lin said, ¡°At the Punishment Division.¡± ¡°Go get someone to bring the two of them here.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, why did you protect Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li?¡± Shen Yijia asked in confusion.


    Song Jingchen picked up a crystal bun and placed it in her bowl. ¡°Because I want them to work for me.¡±


    ¡°But will they?¡±


    It was only when they were going down the mountain that Shen Yijia remembered that Captain Lin was Lin Mu, who had sent them to Xiagou Village.


    Moreover, her beautiful husband had already secretly bribed him. ¡°They will. Otherwise, they¡¯ll die,¡± Song Jingchen said as he looked out the window.


    Groups of soldiers walked past the streets, and the commoners whispered to each other.


    She could vaguely hear someone counting the number of people and discussing who was going to be raided.


    ¡°It was the same situation two years ago, right?¡± she thought.


    The difference was that the Song family was a part of the plot back then and was the topic of discussion among the commoners.


    Sensing that the person opposite her was in a bad mood, Shen Yijia swallowed the entire crystal bun. ¡°I¡¯m full. Let¡¯s go fetch Mother and the others, and bring them home.¡±


    Song Jingchen poured a cup of tea and pushed it over helplessly. ¡°There¡¯s no hurry. Take your time.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Are you waiting for Shangguan Pu to return to the capital?¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head proudly. ¡°Shangguan Pu escaped, but you¡¯re not in a hurry at all. This means that you¡¯ve already set a trap for him.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Then tell me, what trap did I set?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s the Xiao family¡¯s commander¡¯s seal. General Xiao has long been on guard against Feng Manman. How could he be so stupid as to let them steal it? Therefore, what Feng Manman stole must be fake. And Shangguan Pu has no way out at this time. He will definitely take the fake commander¡¯s seal and mobilize troops outside the city to attack the city. When the general there sees him holding a fake commander¡¯s seal, won¡¯t he capture him and bring him to the emperor?¡±


    ¡°Your analysis is correct, but the commander¡¯s seal in his hand is real.¡± Song Jingchen smiled.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. As everyone knows, the late emperor split the entire Tiger Talisman into two in order to prevent it from falling into the hands of someone with ulterior motives. One is in the hands of the person in power, and the other is with General Xiao. If you want to mobilize the city guards, you have to have both.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She knew that.


    ¡°In fact, General Xiao has two Yin-Yang Talismans. The Yang Talisman mobilizes troops, and the Yin Talisman warns you.¡±


    Both of the seals could be combined with the emperor¡¯s. The only difference was the direction of the tiger head.


    The Yang Talisman¡¯s tiger head faced outwards, and the Yin Talisman¡¯s tiger head faced inwards.


    As Song Jingchen spoke, he dipped his finger in tea and drew on the table.


    The Yang Talisman looked ordinary, but the Yin Talisman¡¯s tiger head faced backwards. If its neck grew a little longer, it would be able to bite its tail. It was a warning.


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°The late emperor was too smart.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t deny this.


    As the two of them spoke, the sound of hooves suddenly came from below.


    ¡°He¡¯s back.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she quickly stuck her head out to take a look.


    The captured person being escorted was indeed Shangguan Pu..

 Chapter 641 - Chapter 641: Sent Back (2)

    Chapter 641: Sent Back (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Perhaps because he had suffered a huge blow, he stood there with a numb expression.


    ¡°Serves you right.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    As if sensing something, Shangguan Pu, who had nothing to live for, suddenly raised his head and looked over sinisterly.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and subconsciously threw away the chopsticks in her hand.


    Shangguan Pu tilted his head to avoid it.


    And yet¡­


    Shen Yijia¡¯s actions were like a signal. The commoners who did not dare to throw anything into the prison cart picked up their things and threw them towards Shangguan Pu¡¯s head.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She really wanted to laugh.


    After the prison carriage passed, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia left the restaurant and went to the wine shop.


    ¡°Big Brother, Sister-in-law.¡± Sister Huan sat at the entrance of the wine shop with a small stool and looked around. When she saw the two of them, she called out to them and quickly shouted inside, ¡°Mother, Big Brother and


    Sister-in -law are back.¡±


    Her shout successfully alerted everyone in the backyard.


    ¡°Brother Chen, Sister Jia, are you injured?¡±


    ¡°Big Brother, Sister-in-law, we heard that the bad guys have been caught.


    You¡¯re amazing!¡±


    ¡°Miss, Young Master.¡±


    Everyone shouted and talked without interfering with each other. Shen Yijia felt a headache coming on.


    However, it was still considered warm. General Xiao¡¯s residence was the opposite. Xiao Qirui blamed himself for the theft of the commander¡¯s seal and fell seriously ill. He could not even get up to participate in the prayer ceremony yesterday.


    However, early this morning, General Xiao told him that the stolen commander¡¯s token was fake.


    Even Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t know about the Yin Yang Soldier Talisman, but General Xiao told Song Jingchen.


    General Xiao was still very glad that he did not tell his unreliable son about this back then. He decided not to say anything unless he resigned. Xiao Qirui turned to look at his father weakly and closed his eyes tiredly.


    ¡°Father, you can leave first.¡±


    General Xiao snorted. ¡°I¡¯ve locked that Feng person in the dungeon for you. You caused this trouble yourself. I won¡¯t clean up your mess for you.¡± Xiao Qirui did not move.


    General Xiao raised his eyebrows. ¡°By the way, I specially helped you ask around. My daughter-in-law has long left the Song family and moved to the manor outside the city alone. Goodness, it¡¯s definitely not safe for a woman to live in the manor, right?¡±


    Xiao Qirui suddenly opened his eyes and struggled out of bed. He put on some clothes and walked out.


    ¡°General, Eldest Young Master is still sick,¡± Xiao Li complained and quickly chased after him.


    General Xiao sneered. ¡°What do you know, you little brat? Do you understand the ruse of self-injury? You just have to be sick.¡±


    He deliberately did not mention which manor it was. When that brat was found, he would be half-dead again. He would probably have to stay in the manor.


    At that time, he would be the only one left in this residence.


    General Xiao put his hands behind his back and shook his head and sighed as he left Xiao Qirui¡¯s room.


    ¡°Xiao Tong, prepare the horses. I¡¯m going to fetch Madam and my daughter home.¡¯


    General Xiao thought that he had been through this before, but he did not expect an unmarked carriage to rush into the city in the afternoon and finally stop at General Xiao¡¯s residence.


    ¡°Young Master has fainted. Two people, come and carry him.¡± Xiao Li jumped out of the carriage and shouted anxiously.


    Butler Xiao Tong heard the commotion and walked out with his men. ¡®What¡¯s going on? Didn¡¯t you find Young Madam?¡±


    That shouldn¡¯t be the case. Before the general left, he said that Eldest Young Master would be with Young Madam for the next few days and wouldn¡¯t return to the residence. He asked him to keep an eye on the residence.


    Embarrassment flashed across Xiao Li¡¯s face.


    At this moment, the curtain of the carriage was lifted. You Bai stuck his head out and said with a smile, ¡°Uncle Tong, Young General fainted at the entrance of our village. My young lady asked me to send him back. Hurry up and get someone to carry him. Otherwise, I won¡¯t be able to get out after the city gate closes. I still have to rush back to take care of my young lady.¡±


    What else did Xiao Tong not understand? His face turned red and he hurriedly got someone to carry Xiao Qirui out of the carriage.


    After thinking for a moment, he still asked shamelessly, ¡°You Bai, did Young Madam say when she would return to the residence? At that time, I can send someone to pick her up.¡±


    Xiao Tong actually felt guilty when he asked this. Putting aside the fact that Xiao Qirui¡¯s wife and concubine had entered the house on the same day, she was the one who suggested this.


    However, he had saved another woman on the day of the fire and almost let his first wife die. His young master had gone overboard.


    You Bai glanced at Xiao Qirui. ¡°My Miss didn¡¯t say. However, it¡¯s quite good to live in the manor. There aren¡¯t so many messy things. Don¡¯t you think so, Uncle Tong?¡±


    Xiao Tong¡¯s face twitched.. He smiled and said, ¡°How can a manor be as comfortable as living at home?¡±

 Chapter 642 - Chapter 642: Sent Back (3)

    Chapter 642: Sent Back (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    You Bai shrugged. ¡°Perhaps everyone feels differently. Uncle Tong, I think your Young General is about to die. You should quickly get a doctor to take a look at him. I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    The coachman was from the village and was an old man left behind by Yuan Yuwan¡¯s mother. When he heard this, he turned his horse around and left with a wave of the whip.


    Xiao Tong ate a mouthful of dust and spat twice. He muttered, ¡°Why is this girl still cursing people? She wasn¡¯t like this in the past. ¡±


    ¡°Uncle Tong, quickly get someone to call a doctor,¡± Xiao Li urged. This was nothing. They both searched from morning to afternoon and ran to five or six villages to find the Young Madam.


    When the Young Madam said that she did not want to see guests, You Bai immediately brought more than ten farmers out and guarded against them, not letting them take a step closer.


    The Young Master was also stubborn. He wanted to see the Young Madam no matter what.


    Then, he fainted as he waited.


    ¡°Achoo!¡± You Bai rubbed her nose, rolled her eyes, and complained, ¡°That damn Xiao Li must be talking about me.¡±


    ¡°You Bai, we¡¯ve arrived at Liu¡¯er Street. Which Song residence are you talking about?¡± the coachman asked.


    You Bai lifted the curtain and looked out. She happened to see Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao standing at the entrance of the Song residence. Her eyes lit up and she quickly waved. ¡°Miss Song, Miss Miaomiao.¡±


    Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao looked up and waved at her. ¡°Sister You Bai.¡±


    Sister Huan even skipped towards the carriage. ¡°Sister You Bai, you¡¯re back.¡±


    The coachman was speechless. ¡°Alright, I understand.¡±


    However, the way this city lady greeted him was quite unique.


    You Bai jumped down without waiting for the carriage to stop. ¡°Oh my, Miss


    Song, don¡¯t run.¡±


    Sister Huan waved her hand indifferently and looked into the car. ¡°Hey, are you alone? Sister Yuwan isn¡¯t back yet?¡±


    Regardless of whether it was before or after Yuan Yuwan got married, as long as she made snacks, she would get someone to send one to the Song family. Sister Huan had a sweet tooth, so she naturally fell in love with them.


    You Bai held her hand and walked towards the Song family. ¡°No, my young lady made snacks and asked me to send them to you. There are also many materials in the farmstead that can be used to make cloaks and cured meat.¡±


    You Bai counted the things in the carriage one by one. By the time the coachman unloaded everything, the tables in the central room could no longer hold them, so a small pile was piled up on the ground.


    Madam Li was speechless. ¡°Why did that girl Yuwan give so many things? How good would it be to make a few cloaks for herself? And this meat¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s only right. Moreover, there are many of these things in the village. My Miss can¡¯t use them all alone. Old Madam Song, you can¡¯t treat my Miss like an outsider,¡± You Bai said seriously.


    Madam Li was stunned for a moment before she smiled and said, ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t stand on ceremony with your young lady. Coincidentally, the clothes I made for Yuwan a few days ago have been prepared. Wait a moment, I¡¯ll go get them for you.¡±


    When Yuan Yuwan was injured and brought to the Song family, she did not bring anything with her. She could only wear Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes. However, she was slightly taller than Shen Yijia, so Madam Li cut the cloth and made two


    new sets cuuunes 101 nel. unexpecueul).¡¯, sue Illuveu LU Lile uel(-ne sne could finish.


    You Bai¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Alright. I¡¯m not in a hurry.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her suspiciously. ¡°Sister Yuwan specially asked you to send something back?¡±


    You Bai stopped drinking her tea and pursed her lips. ¡°Of course. I sent two people back along the way.¡±


    She clearly knew that Young General Xiao had fainted outside, but she still asked them to pack so many things.


    Therefore, they only sent Young General Xiao back home out of convenience.


    Thinking of how Young General Xiao and Xiao Li were squeezed into the carriage by these things, You Bai couldn¡¯t help but laugh.


    Shen Yijia instantly understood and did not ask further. She asked, ¡°How has


    Sister Yuwan been recently? Is she feeling better?¡±


    ¡°My Miss is very good.¡± You Bai nodded repeatedly. ¡°Sister MO Yuan¡¯s medicine is too effective. My Miss¡¯s injuries have already scabbed over, but she can¡¯t speak for the time being.¡±


    How could it not be useful? Those medicines had been soaked in well water in advance.


    ¡°Then wait a moment. I¡¯ll get MO Yuan to prepare a few more sets of medicine and bring them back.¡±


    ¡°Aye, okay.¡±


    This time, Sister Huan and Lin Miaomiao could not sit still anymore. They also said that they had something to give Yuan Yuwan.


    Therefore, when they came, there was still room for three people in the carriage. When they returned, it was filled to the brim. In the end, You Bai could only sit outside with the coachman..

 Chapter 643 - Chapter 643: Revenge (1)

    Chapter 643: Revenge (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen was summoned to the palace the next day. Perhaps because of Shangguan Pu¡¯s lesson, not only did the emperor arrange for someone to search any visitors at the palace entrance, but there was also an additional checkpoint at the entrance of the imperial study.


    After a body search to make sure that he didn¡¯t have a murder weapon on him, he was let in.


    When he walked into the imperial study, he saw the emperor eating pills with water. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes moved slightly. He lowered his head and cupped his hands. ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡±


    After a long time, the emperor on the dragon throne said, ¡°You¡¯re the one who contributed the most to my escape this time. Tell me, what reward do you want?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty is blessed with the protection of the True Dragon. I don¡¯t dare to take credit.¡±


    The emperor looked satisfied. He opened his mouth to praise him.


    Song Jingchen continued, ¡°However, I do have a favor to ask.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s face darkened. He thought of something and said in a low voice, ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°I captured a woman from Fragrant Teahouse and learned from her that all the women who entered Fragrant Teahouse were fed a poison called the Heart Devouring Poison. However, I couldn¡¯t find the antidote in Lord Jing¡¯s residence. Your Majesty, please let me see Lord Jing so that I can get the antidote for those innocent women.¡¯ The emperor frowned. ¡°Why haven¡¯t I heard you mention it before?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m worried about alerting the enemy.¡±


    The emperor paused and thought of the two spies he had just caught. He coughed lightly and asked, ¡°How¡¯s that woman now?¡±


    ¡°The woman I saved is dead.¡± Right on the heels of that, Song Jingchen explained the toxicity of the Heart Devouring Poison.


    When he heard that her pulse was no different from that of an ordinary person when it didn¡¯t flare up, the emperor¡¯s expression immediately changed. He stood up. ¡°Then I¡­¡±


    Halfway through his sentence, he paused and sat back down. He asked suspiciously, ¡°That maidservant in your residence who detoxified me can¡¯t detoxify this poison?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly what I wanted to tell Your Majesty. According to the maidservants in my residence, this poison needs a poisonous grass called the Heart Devouring Grass to make it. Only the previous dynasty recorded the Heart Devouring Grass, but it has long disappeared in our dynasty. As for the antidote, it needs the root of the Heart Devouring Grass as the medicinal catalyst.¡±


    ¡°Therefore, it¡¯s not that it can¡¯t be cured, but that we can¡¯t find the medicinal catalyst at all.¡±


    The emperor was shocked. ¡°You mean there are remnants of the previous dynasty? And they¡¯re colluding with that unfilial son?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    He knew the emperor too well. Others were vigilant in times of peace, but it was the opposite for him. Once he no longer felt threatened and felt that he was safe, he would think of ways to kick someone to the curb when they¡¯ve outlived their usefulness.


    Just like how he treated the Song family back then.


    That was why he deliberately described the Valley of Heavenly Secrets as the previous dynasty.


    The emperor¡¯s expression changed several times, from shock to fear to suspicion.


    Coincidentally, an eunuch outside the hall reported that the capital magistrate, Lord Cai, wanted to see him urgently.


    The emperor glanced at Song Jingchen and said in a low voice, ¡°Let him in.¡±


    Ten minutes later, Lord Cai walked into the imperial study and knelt down.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Minister Cai, why did you enter the palace today?¡± the emperor asked.


    Lord Cai glanced at Song Jingchen.


    Lord Cai glanced at Song Jingchen.


    The emperor waved his hand. ¡°Earl Zhongyi is not an outsider. If you have anything to say, just say it.¡±


    Lord Cai lowered his eyes. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s those women locked up in the prison of the Imperial Capital. For some reason, a few of them suddenly fell to the ground and wailed non-stop. They even tried to commit suicide by hitting the wall. I think they¡¯ve gone crazy. They¡¯re really terrifying.¡±


    The emperor frowned. Wasn¡¯t this the same situation as what Song Jingchen had said?


    ¡°Has the doctor taken a look at them?¡± he asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ve invited all the famous doctors in the capital. They all said that¡­ they might have been poisoned¡­¡± Lord Cai¡¯s voice became softer and softer. After saying that, he kowtowed a few times on the ground. ¡°However, I¡¯ve gotten someone to guard the prison tightly these days. It¡¯s impossible for anyone to drug them. Your Majesty, please investigate.¡±


    Not to mention that those women were all important witnesses, even the commoners were paying attention to this case. If they died inexplicably in prison, the emperor would not be able to answer to the commoners. Wouldn¡¯t he be blamed?


    He just wasn¡¯t sure.


    The emperor¡¯s eyes darkened. He summoned an eunuch and asked him to call the imperial physician of the Imperial Hospital to make a trip with Lord Cai.


    Lord Cai kowtowed repeatedly to thank him.


    There were a lot of women who acted up in a row. He almost called everyone in the imperial hospital away. They left in a hurry and returned quickly.


    The imperial physician returned with him and reported, ¡°Your Majesty, those women were indeed poisoned, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡± the emperor asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s just that the poison they were poisoned with is really strange. It¡¯s a little like a poison I¡¯ve heard of.¡± Then, he recounted what had happened in the prison..

 Chapter 644 - Chapter 644: Revenge (2)

    Chapter 644: Revenge (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It turned out that he had gotten someone to take the pulses of those women who had not acted up. A moment ago, their pulses were no different from that of ordinary people, but the next moment, they suddenly acted up. When he went to take their pulses again, they were clearly poisoned.


    The emperor asked, ¡°What poison?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve only heard of it a little and don¡¯t know its name, but¡­¡± The imperial physician wiped his sweat.¡± However, the poison I know has only appeared in the previous dynasty. I can¡¯t confirm if it¡¯s the same kind. ¡®


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. He didn¡¯t collude with the imperial physician.


    However, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was so active in the previous dynasty, so it was not surprising that information about the Heart Devouring Poison would spread.


    The emperor asked repeatedly if there was a way to detoxify the poison. The imperial physicians said that the poison was too strange. This was the first time they had seen it, so they needed to study it for a period of time.


    However, those women might not be able to last until then.


    This time, even if the emperor didn¡¯t believe Song Jingchen initially, he had to now.


    He waved his hand to dismiss them.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Lord Cai and reminded him, ¡°Those women are all innocent. Don¡¯t let them commit suicide. If you really have no choice, knock them out first.


    Lord Cai was stunned for a moment and looked carefully at the emperor. After receiving a nod from the latter, he thanked him and left with the imperial physician.


    The emperor¡¯s face was as black as ink. When he was imprisoned, that unfilial son had fed him so much unknown medicine. What if he was poisoned too?


    The more he thought about it, the more afraid the emperor became. He even inexplicably felt that something was wrong.


    He took a deep breath and said righteously, ¡°Minister Song, go and ask that unfilial son to hand over the antidote. We can¡¯t let innocent people die. Also, you have to find out where this poison came from and if there are really any survivors of the previous dynasty.¡±


    Song Jingchen sneered in his heart. ¡°I obey.¡±


    After Song Jingchen left, the emperor remembered why he had summoned him to the palace. However, when he thought of the possible remnants of the previous dynasty, he was glad that he had been polite first and didn¡¯t try to promote him in public while threatening him in private.


    After coming out of the palace, Song Jingchen took the token given by the emperor and went to the prison of the Clan Residence.


    It was unknown if it was intentional, but the cell where Shangguan Pu was imprisoned was the same one that the old prince had used previously.


    However, after the old prince went crazy in the Hidden Spirit Temple and was brought away by Shangguan Pu, he was ignored by everyone.


    It was unknown if the emperor had forgotten, but he had never asked about it after returning to the palace.


    In the dark dungeon, Shangguan Pu was disheveled and dirty. He was leaning against the corner of the wall covered in blood. It was obvious that he had been tortured.


    Song Jingchen gestured for the prison guard to open the cell door. The prison guard hesitated for a moment, but in the end, he took out the key from his waist.


    The cell door opened and closed, but Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t even look up. There was no need to interrogate him at all. The reason why the emperor did not directly sentence him to death was because he had not vented enough.


    Song Jingchen walked up to him and looked down at him for a long time. He said calmly, ¡°You¡¯re indignant, right?¡±


    He had carefully planned for five years and failed without causing much trouble. Anyone would be indignant.


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s originally dead eyes turned sharp, and he suddenly sneered. He looked up at Song Jingchen mockingly. ¡°What right do you have to laugh at me? Or are you so naive that you think you¡¯re really trusted by that person?¡±


    ¡°I think you haven¡¯t forgotten the tragic state of the Song family two years ago. Just wait, you¡¯ll be next.¡±


    Song Jingchen flicked the nonexistent dust off his robe and shook his head.


    ¡®You donlt even know where you failed. You¡¯re so pitiful.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s laughter stopped abruptly as he stared at Song Jingchen resentfully.


    ¡®You don¡¯t think it¡¯s because of me, do you?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Shangguan Pu was slightly stunned. Clearly, Song Jingchen hit the nail on the head.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Then you think too highly of me.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Shangguan Pu asked.


    ¡°It means exactly what it means. Your end was already decided. You wouldn¡¯t have succeeded even without me.¡±


    Shangguan Pu looked at him for a long time and sneered again. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that Prince Song had the ability to read people¡¯s faces.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to do that, but there are indeed people in this world who know how to do it,¡± Song Jingchen said seriously.


    ¡°What exactly do you mean?¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped trying to leave someone hanging. ¡°Your Highness, have you heard of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    Although he tried to provoke Song Jingchen before, Shangguan Pu knew that he wasn¡¯t the kind of person who would kick someone when they were down, so he really thought about it seriously.

 Chapter 645 - Chapter 645: Revenge (3)

    Chapter 645: Revenge (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. It was good that he knew. Otherwise, he would have to waste his breath explaining.


    He looked around but didn¡¯t see a chair. He could only sit on the ground opposite Shangguan Pu.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s said that the Valley of Heavenly Secrets only assists people on the level of emperors and generals. Then do you know that the Heart


    Devouring Poison you used to control those women came from the Valley of


    Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    ¡°Oh, and the poison you fed the emperor also came from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s eyes narrowed. He had a guess, but he still didn¡¯t dare to believe it and asked again, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Song Jingchen inexplicably thought that if Shen Yijia was here, she would definitely scold him, ¡°It means that you¡¯re a big fool.¡±


    He resisted the urge to smile. He clenched his fists and coughed lightly. ¡°I mean that you¡­ have always been a pawn in someone else¡¯s hands.¡±


    In order to prevent him from lying to himself, Song Jingchen continued, ¡°Actually, from the moment the person who provided you with the poison appeared by your side, you no longer had a chance of succeeding. Of course, you might think that you¡¯re the person chosen by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, but if that¡¯s the case, why didn¡¯t the other party tell you their true identity? With the background of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, you¡¯ll definitely be able to put that person in an important position, right? That person didn¡¯t say anything because they were just using you and didn¡¯t trust you at all.¡±


    Knowing the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, he naturally knew how many emperors they had assisted in the previous dynasty. Coupled with the rumors and their divination skills¡­


    If anyone with ambition knew that there was such a person by their side, they would definitely treat the person as an honored guest.


    ¡°How do you know that the person didn¡¯t tell me their true identity?¡± Shangguan Pu said angrily.


    Song Jingchen looked at him as if he was looking at a fool.


    If he really knew, he would not have reacted like that when Song Jingchen asked about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    He clenched his fist and smashed it on the ground, causing the chains in his hand to rattle.


    He turned his head away. ¡°Are you trying to tell me that the True Dragon chosen by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets is my fifth brother?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s not him.¡±


    ¡°Could it be you?¡±


    Song Jingchen was a little helpless. ¡°I told you from the beginning that even without me, you wouldn¡¯t have succeeded.¡±


    He suspected that Shangguan Pu had lost his mind because he had suffered too many blows.


    ¡°Then who the hell is it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet, but I think the answer will be revealed soon.¡±


    Shangguan Pu was speechless.


    ¡°So you just came to show me that I¡¯m a fool who¡¯s been played by someone from head to toe?¡±


    ¡°I just want you to know that I¡¯m not your real enemy.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Shangguan Pu sneered. ¡°So? I¡¯m about to die. What¡¯s the use of knowing this? Can I seek revenge on them?¡±


    Song Jingchen thought for a moment. ¡°The person chosen by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets used you to fight me and hid behind the scenes to reap the benefits. If you¡¯re gone, I¡¯ll naturally be the next person they want to deal with. ¡±


    ¡°So when you die, I should be able to avenge you.¡±


    Shangguan Pu choked and inexplicably understood what he meant.


    ¡°You think too highly of yourself,¡± he mocked.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and didn¡¯t comment.


    ¡°Tell me the real reason why you came to look for me.¡± Shangguan Pu finally recovered his wits.


    ¡°Firstly, the antidote for the Heart Devouring Poison. Secondly, I want to know the entire process of you framing Ah Han back then.¡±


    Even if all the evidence pointed to Shangguan Pu, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think that he was the only one who did this.


    After all, Shangguan Pu had always shown his ambition on his face, so the Eastern Palace was always on guard against him. It was impossible for him to place so many things in the Eastern Palace without anyone knowing.


    Song Jingchen was inclined to believe that someone helped him.


    Perhaps even Shangguan Pu himself didn¡¯t know about the existence of this helper, just like how he didn¡¯t know that he had been used for so many years.


    In Song Jingchen¡¯s opinion, Shangguan Pu deserved to die, but he also didn¡¯t want to let go of the person hiding behind the scenes and controlling everything.


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°You¡­¡±


    He wanted to ask Song Jingchen how he found out, but when he thought of the cowardly old prince, he understood.


    He laughed self-deprecatingly and lazily leaned his head against the wall. ¡°The apothecary only gave me a suppressant for the poison. However, you¡¯ve really impressed me.¡±


    He knew that what happened back then was related to him, but he could still talk to him calmly here.


    In the past, no matter how famous Song Jingchen was, Shangguan Pu would always scorn him. However, he was convinced now.


    If he could be of use to him¡­


    Unfortunately, from the moment the two of them were born, they were destined not to be on the same side.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and waited for him to continue.


    ¡°I can tell you, but you have to help me do two things.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it.¡± It was hard to say if he could do it.


    Shangguan Pu glanced at him. ¡°Firstly, Fourth Brother doesn¡¯t know anything about what I¡¯ve done. It doesn¡¯t matter if he¡¯s sent to a poor place to be an idle lord or demoted to a commoner. Help me protect his life.¡±


    ¡°Secondly, Kang¡¯er is still young. He¡¯s also innocent.¡±


    ¡°Which of those women weren¡¯t innocent?¡± Song Jingchen sneered.


    ¡°Someone has to sacrifice themselves for the throne.¡± Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t feel that he had done anything wrong.


    Most of the people he captured were children of poor families. They could not even eat their fill at home, so they might as well be used by him.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t continue to argue with him. ¡°Since others can sacrifice themselves, why can¡¯t your child bear the consequences of your actions?¡±


    This was because Shangguan Pu had the typical thinking of a superior. Perhaps in his opinion, those women should feel honored to be able to contribute to his negative karma. There was no point in arguing..

 Chapter 646 - Chapter 646: Clue

    Chapter 646: Clue


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After leaving the prison, Song Jingchen looked up at the sky with mixed feelings.


    ¡°Master, where are we going now?¡± South Wind asked.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Into the palace.¡±


    The emperor was definitely still waiting for news from him.


    After two rounds of inspection as usual, Song Jingchen had just arrived at the door of the imperial study when he saw Shangguan Yu come out.


    The two of them looked at each other. Shangguan Yu opened his mouth to say something.


    The eunuch who led the way carefully reminded him, ¡°Earl Zhongyi, His Majesty is still waiting for you inside.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and walked past Shangguan Yu into the imperial study. Shangguan Yu paused for a moment. His eyelashes lowered as he led Lianshan out of the palace.


    In the imperial study, without waiting for Song Jingchen to bow, the emperor asked impatiently, ¡°Have you obtained the antidote?¡±


    From the moment Shangguan Pu was captured until now, the emperor had never met him alone. It was because Shangguan Pu¡¯s actions previously had frightened him. The emperor was now afraid and hated his son.


    Song Jingchen explained that Shangguan Pu didn¡¯t have an antidote and could only suppress the effects of the drug. In the end, he said, ¡°I think the other party doesn¡¯t trust Lord Jing.¡±


    He almost said that Lord Jing was an idiot who was being used.


    The emperor¡¯s expression turned extremely ugly. The more mysterious the other party was, the more it explained the problem.


    At the same time, he was angry at Shangguan Pu for being too stupid and being used so easily. However, when he thought about how he had almost been killed by this stupid son, wouldn¡¯t he be even more stupid?


    Therefore, the emperor got even angrier.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what the emperor was thinking, but he explained kindly, ¡°According to Lord Jing, Your Majesty wasn¡¯t poisoned with the Heart Devouring Poison. I don¡¯t think he¡¯s lying. After all, the greatest use of the


    Heart Devouring Poison is to control others.¡±


    He did not continue, but the emperor understood. That unfilial son wanted his life. There was no need to poison him and control him.


    The emperor thought to himself, ¡°So I have to thank that unfilial son for not thinking about letting me live for too long?¡±


    Although he was still very angry, it was better than being poisoned without an antidote.


    After calming down, the emperor looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°In order to prevent the people from panicking, we can¡¯t tell anyone about the remnants of the previous dynasty for the time being. Do you understand what I mean?¡±


    Although the previous dynasty had been destroyed, it was difficult to guarantee that there weren¡¯t still followers among the commoners. If word got out, there would definitely be another bloodbath.


    This meant that Song Jingchen had to investigate secretly.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Although this was the arrangement, he didn¡¯t completely believe Song Jingchen¡¯s words. As soon as Song Jingchen left the imperial study, the emperor instructed Lin Mu to personally make a trip to the ancestral residence.


    However, he didn¡¯t know that for a common purpose, Shangguan Pu and Song Jingchen had already lined up their stories.


    On the long palace path, a rather likable-looking eunuch came up. ¡°Earl Zhongyi, I¡¯ll send you out.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the young eunuch and didn¡¯t refuse.


    The two of them walked along the palace path one after another. There was still a half-step between them. If others saw them, they would think that Song Jingchen had gained power and that the eunuch had gone up to gain favor.


    After all, this was not uncommon.


    ¡°Eunuch, you look familiar.¡± Song Jingchen looked straight ahead and said casually.


    ¡°Earl Zhongyi is a benefactor who forgets things. Last year, I followed Godfather to Xunyang City and even met Young Master Shenzhi,¡± Qi Shou said respectfully.


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t speak again.


    South Wind was waiting at the palace gate in a carriage.


    Without giving Song Jingchen a chance to refuse, Qi Shou went forward and helped him into the carriage.


    Song Jingchen paused for a moment, took out his pouch, picked out the smallest piece of silver, and handed it over. ¡°Thank you. Please go back.¡±


    ¡°Take care, Earl Zhongyi.¡± Qi Shou bowed to the departing carriage.


    As soon as the carriage left, the smile on his face immediately disappeared. He did not care if the surrounding guards would hear him and spat. ¡°What? You¡¯re so stingy.¡±


    In the end, his reaction was heard by the emperor. The emperor, who had been in a bad mood all day, was amused. When he heard that Qi Shou was Eunuch Li¡¯s godson, he immediately got someone to transfer him to his side to serve him.


    Eunuch Li and Eunuch Deng went to the Punishment Bureau. When they were brought out, they were only left with one breath and were still recuperating. The emperor¡¯s actions reassured the two of them.


    Most importantly, Qi Shou¡¯s attitude towards Song Jingchen made him feel at ease.


    However, he did not know that Qi Shou had already stuffed a booklet into the carriage.


    The booklet recorded the whereabouts of all the palace maids and eunuchs who had left the Eastern Palace two years ago.


    According to Shangguan Pu, he had bribed a little palace maid in the Eastern Palace to put the things inside back then.


    How ridiculous. She was just a little palace maid.


    On the other side, when Shen Yijia found out that the mute woman could speak, she immediately brought MO Yuan to Xuanyuan Ce.


    It had to be said that Xuanyuan Ce was also worried sick about the couple. Afraid that MO Yuan¡¯s medical skills would not work, he specially sent people to find a few doctors to enter the residence.


    Coincidentally, his reason for staying in Great Xia was to recuperate. Ji Yunxi was not around, so his actions would not attract attention.


    When he saw the mute woman again, he saw that her mental state was much better, but she still could not see. After all, the spiritual liquid could only repair any injured body parts. It was impossible for her eyeballs to grow back.


    However, her ten fingers recovered after her bones were straightened.


    ¡°Thank you, Madam Song.¡± Zhong Cheng kowtowed firmly to Shen Yijia.


    Hearing the commotion, the mute woman quickly got out of bed. Before she could kneel down, Shen Yijia quickly supported her.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to kneel down. Just don¡¯t forget what you promised us.¡± Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Your life might be in danger.¡±


    Even if the reversal of the case was an unspoken mutual understanding between the emperor and her beautiful husband, it was still the emperor¡¯s fault. If they really placed the evidence in front of him, who knew if he would go back on his word for the sake of his reputation?


    Moreover, the ones who were wronged were meritorious officials. When the time came, in order to give the people an explanation, an imperial edict would be unavoidable. How could the emperor be willing to do so?


    Therefore, her beautiful husband had never thought of bringing the mute woman directly to the emperor. They needed to spread news about this matter far and wide and let everyone know, so that the emperor had no choice but to review the case from back then.


    The mute woman was undoubtedly in danger.


    ¡°I already have one foot in the coffin. Before I die, I can still seek justice for the old duke. I can die without regrets.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and looked at Zhong Cheng, whose eyes were red. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she might not die.¡±


    After giving a few more instructions, Shen Yijia came out of the mute woman¡¯s house.


    In the central room, Xuanyuan Ce had already asked the chef to prepare a table full of dishes.


    This was what he had instructed when he sent someone to inform Shen Yijia..

 Chapter 647 - Chapter 647: Assassin (1)

    Chapter 647: Assassin (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Girl, you must be hungry. Sit down and eat,¡± Xuanyuan Ce called out.


    Shen Yijia looked up at the sky. It was indeed time for dinner, but she did not tell Madam Li that she was not going back to eat.


    The kids were in school, and even Lin Shao was busy in the shop and could not go back. She was worried that Madam Li would wait at home. She was about to say that she wanted to go home to eat when she met Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hopeful eyes. For some reason, she could not refuse.


    She scratched her head and instructed, ¡°MO Yuan, go home and tell Mother that I¡¯m not going back to eat.¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at Xuanyuan Ce and said expressionlessly, ¡°I¡¯ll pick Miss up later.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce also waved his hand and said, ¡°No need. I¡¯ll send someone to send her back later.¡±


    MO Yuan looked at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Then don¡¯t make an extra trip. It¡¯s quite cold.¡±


    MO Yuan stayed silent.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about anything else. Your medical skills are indeed amazing,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said meaningfully. He waved his hand to dismiss the servants and personally scooped a bowl of soup for Shen Yijia. ¡°Hurry up and try it. These dishes suit your taste.¡±


    Even though it was just the two of them, the table was filled with all kinds of delicacies.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself that he was really extravagant. She looked up at Xuanyuan Ce, who was as attentive as an old mother, and blinked. ¡°Is there no one to eat with you usually?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce paused in his actions.


    Shen Yijia thought that she had hit the nail on the head. ¡°If you¡¯re lonely next time, let Chu Feng eat with you. Don¡¯t have such a strong sense of ranks.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce shook his head and laughed. ¡°It¡¯s not that no one eats with me. It¡¯s just that I haven¡¯t eaten with my family in a long time.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia remembered that Xuanyuan Ce had once said that she was very similar to his daughter. Still, she felt that she was nothing like Xuanyuan Ye.


    She picked up a meatball and stuffed it into her mouth. Seeing that she had eaten it, Xuanyuan Ce also stuffed one in his mouth.


    ¡°Father!¡±


    ¡°Cough, cough, cough.¡± He almost choked to death.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce could not care less. He swallowed the entire meatball and looked at Shen Yijia with red eyes. He thought of something and looked elsewhere guiltily.


    ¡°What¡­ what did you call me?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that I look like Xuanyuan


    Seeing that he was still puzzled, Shen Yijia continued to explain, ¡°You¡¯ve helped my husband and I so much and even treated me to a meal. I should repay you, but I can¡¯t run to the Xuanyuan Kingdom to help you kidnap Xuanyuan Ye, so I¡¯ll allow you to treat me as her for the time being.¡± Xuanyuan Ce suddenly lost his appetite, but..


    ¡°Then call me that again.¡±


    Shen Yijia choked. She took a deep breath and opened her mouth. After a while, she shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, I can¡¯t say it anymore.¡±


    Because of her father, who had abandoned her in her previous life, and Shen Pingxiu, who she had seen in this life, she felt that her father was not a good person.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°What do you mean you can¡¯t say it anymore? And what¡¯s with your disdainful gaze?¡±


    He thought for a moment and picked up a meatball for Shen Yijia with the common chopsticks. ¡°Why don¡¯t you acknowledge me as your adoptive father?¡±


    He would start with being her adoptive father. In the future, it would not be so difficult to accept that he was her biological father.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Her face was filled with disbelief. Without thinking, she shook her head and refused. ¡°No.¡¯


    ¡°Why? I can treat you to a meal every day in the future.¡± Xuanyuan Ce picked up another meatball for her.


    This girl had eaten this meatball and called him father.


    ¡°No, if my hubby gets jealous, I¡¯ll be unhappy.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s expression was serious as she ate the meatballs.


    ¡°How dare he¡­¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s voice stopped abruptly. He chuckled and said, ¡°I mean that one more person will treat you well. He would be overjoyed. How can he be jealous?¡±


    Shen Yijia stuffed all the food in her bowl into her mouth and wiped her mouth with her sleeve. ¡°You don¡¯t understand.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Shen Yijia picked up the soup and finished it. ¡°Let me put it this way. If a beautiful old woman who¡¯s not related to my husband by blood is good to him, I¡¯ll definitely be unhappy.¡±


    ¡°Apart from his family, I¡¯m the only woman who can treat him well.¡±


    So he was an old man?


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He did not know if he should be happy that Shen Yijia praised him for being good -looking or sad that he was considered a blood relative..

 Chapter 648 - Chapter 648: Assassin (2)

    Chapter 648: Assassin (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. After eating, she left and stopped after taking a few steps.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought that she had changed her mind and was delighted.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°You said that you would arrange for someone to send me back. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    While Song Jingchen was suspended at home, Luo Sicheng took charge of almost everything in the Court of Judicial Review. Naturally, he became the unspoken head of the Court of Judicial Review.


    In order not to let others say that he was inferior to Song Jingchen, he often worked late into the night.


    Seeing Song Jingchen return, his expression was extremely interesting.


    Especially after Song Jingchen finished reading the recent cases, he praised him in front of everyone. ¡°You did well.¡±


    He almost couldn¡¯t hold back his forced smile, and his colleagues looked at him strangely.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care what they were thinking. After returning to his room, he took out the booklet and started looking for the people on the list.


    After the matter was completed, Shangguan Pu naturally killed the palace maid. He was not looking for the palace maid, but someone who was on good terms with her.


    He forgot the time. When the low-ranking official came in to remind him, Song Jingchen realized that it was already late at night.


    He rubbed his sore eyes and packed up the rice paper and booklet on the table. He thanked him and left the Court of Judicial Review.


    The cold wind blew. Song Jingchen gathered his cloak and was about to walk towards the carriage when he sensed something. He looked at the corner and saw who was the little black shadow squatting there.


    He was stunned for a moment and quickly strode over. ¡°When did you come? Why didn¡¯t you let me know?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked up and blinked. ¡°I just got here.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the tree beside him that had already been rubbed bald by her, but he didn¡¯t expose her.


    ¡°Get up quickly.¡± He held out his hand.


    Shen Yijia was about to give him her hand when she noticed that her fingers were dyed green by the leaves. She retracted her hand and wiped it nonchalantly, casually, indifferently on her body before putting her hand in Song Jingchen¡¯s.


    She wore a lot of clothes, so her hands were not cold.


    Song Jingchen pulled her up helplessly, but a certain someone staggered and fell into his arms.


    ¡°My legs are numb.¡± Shen Yijia grumbled.


    She finally remembered why she was squatting here. She wanted to scare her beautiful husband, but she got addicted to pulling leaves!


    ¡°You said you just arrived?¡± Song Jingchen picked her up and got into the carriage.


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes and refused to get out of his arms. ¡°I just came here. I did it on purpose, okay?¡±


    As she spoke, she pinched his waist.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The sound of horses¡¯ hooves was especially loud in the silent night.


    Occasionally, one could hear the sound of the night watchmen talking.


    Shen Yijia was telling Song Jingchen about the mute woman¡¯s situation in a low voice when the horse suddenly neighed, and right on the heels of that, the carriage moved forward.


    It happened so suddenly that South Wind had no time to react. By the time he realized that something was wrong, he had already been thrown out.


    ¡°Master, be careful.


    As soon as he finished speaking, a powerful sword aura slashed at the carriage.


    South Wind¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    Bang! The carriage was split into two.


    At the same time, Song Jingchen flew out of the car with Shen Yijia by his waist.


    Without waiting for South Wind to heave a sigh of relief, the men in black lying in ambush jumped down from the roof like arrows and instantly surrounded them.


    Everyone was holding a cold sword in their hands. They were filled with killing intent as they stared at their targets sharply.


    Song Jingchen glanced coldly at the place where the horse had fallen. There was a thin iron wire there.


    The men in black did not waste their breaths. They raised their swords and charged at them. However, before they could get close to the two of them, they were blasted away by a terrifying internal energy.


    The men in black were shocked. They looked at each other and attacked the masked man who had suddenly appeared.


    Shen Yijia was also shocked. Ever since You Yi was sent to her side, they had always sent him out to do some petty missions. This was the first time she had seen him take action.


    So fast, so powerful, so incredible!


    She instantly forgot the anger that had risen because someone had destroyed their carriage. She jumped up in excitement and shouted as she gestured, ¡°You Yi, hit him, hit him, hit him!¡±


    You Yi¡¯s hand trembled, and he almost lost his grip on his sword. He glanced at the men in black and inexplicably saw sympathy in their eyes, so he attacked even more ruthlessly.


    The men in black were speechless.


    Were they weak? They were naturally not weak since they were sent to kill


    Song Jingchen, but why didn¡¯t anyone tell them that Song Jingchen had such an abomination by his side?

 Chapter 649 - Chapter 649: Assassin (3)

    Chapter 649: Assassin (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Moreover, they did not notice this person¡¯s existence at all before this, as if he had appeared out of thin air.


    Shen Yijia attributed You Yi¡¯s sudden outburst to her and shouted even more enthusiastically. ¡°You Yi, on the left!¡± ¡°You Yi, on the right!¡±


    ¡°You Yi!¡±


    She was so focused on the fight in front of her that she did not notice that the expressions of the people around her were becoming more and more strange.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and glanced at the whip that had fallen to the ground. He reached out and grabbed it before joining the battle.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She watched as Song Jingchen shuttled between the men in black, whipping them one by one. She was excited and worried.


    Afraid that a sword would land on him, she quickly pulled out the long whip at her waist and shouted, ¡°Hubby, let me help you.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Looking at the one-sided situation in front of him, South Wind thought for a moment and also drew his sword and rushed in.


    In the end, he realized that he was useless.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± A stern voice came from afar.


    Song Jingchen glanced at You Yi. The latter understood and slashed out with his sword. After forcing the men in black back, he knocked out one of them and carried him into the night.


    At the same time, a pair of city guards rushed over.


    Song Jingchen took the opportunity to bring Shen Yijia away from the center of the fight, leaving the battlefield to this group of soldiers who had suddenly appeared.


    Seeing that the situation was not right, the man in black ignored him and casually picked up his injured companion who had fallen to the ground beside him. They swiftly retreated.


    The city guards chased after him for a few steps, but they realized that the men had disappeared in the blink of an eye. They could only run back awkwardly.


    ¡°Commander Qian, the assassins escaped.¡±


    The man called captain kicked him angrily. ¡°Can¡¯t you see that I¡¯m blind? Hurry up and chase after them.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. They couldn¡¯t even catch up just now. Were they sure they could catch up now?


    ¡°Are you injured, Earl Zhongyi?¡± Commander Qian cupped his hands and asked. He noticed the woman beside Song Jingchen and paused.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and took a step forward to block Shen Yijia behind him. ¡°It¡¯s time to strengthen the security in the capital.¡¯


    Commander Qian felt a chill down his spine and quickly retracted his gaze. He said respectfully, ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll definitely pay attention.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t say anything else. He was angry at being attacked, so he reminded the guards a little. If he said too much, he would be overstepping his boundaries.


    Noticing the shattered carriage and fallen horse in the middle of the road, Commander Qian suggested, ¡°The streets are not safe. I¡¯ll get someone to drive a carriage over to send you home.¡±


    This place was still a distance away from Liu¡¯er Street, so Song Jingchen naturally wouldn¡¯t refuse.


    Soon, a soldier drove the carriage over. Shen Yijia had already stepped on it with one foot. She thought of something and retracted it. She ran to the damaged carriage and pulled out the ice mirror.


    This thing was very expensive.


    Seeing this, Song Jingchen also went over and picked up a few things that could still be used.


    The couple¡¯s actions stunned everyone present.


    After confirming that what was left was only wood, Shen Yijia climbed into the carriage in satisfaction.


    ¡°By the way, help us deliver that horse.¡±


    The loss of a horse was already huge enough. They could not lose the horse meat.


    Shen Yijia was most glad that Xiaohua¡¯s stamina was poor. She didn¡¯t give it to Song Jingchen, but left it at home for her to use occasionally.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t be able to eat its meat after giving it a name.


    Commander Qian was speechless.


    When they arrived home, Madam Li and the others had already retired into their rooms.


    Only MO Yuan, Thirty Thousand, and the others were waiting at the door.


    After exchanging a few pleasantries with Commander Qian, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia returned to the backyard.


    In the cellar, You Yi squatted beside the man in black and drew circles.


    Although she could not see his face clearly, Shen Yijia inexplicably felt that he was about to die of conflict.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    You Yi looked up. ¡°He¡¯s dead.¡±


    Song Jingchen went forward and pulled off the veil on the man in black¡¯s face.


    A black line of blood at the corner of his mouth was especially eye-catching.


    You Yi must have flown too quickly and the man up.


    He knew that he was no match for You Yi, so he chose to commit suicide by taking poison.


    You Yi was very innocent. He glanced at Shen Yijia and disappeared on the spot.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°Could they have been sent by the useless emperor? We¡¯ve already helped him find the Eldest Prince. He¡¯s going to kick someone to the curb when they¡¯ve outlived their usefulness!¡±


    Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t had time to tell her about what had happened today, so Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know that not only would the current emperor not kill Song Jingchen, but he would also rely on him even more.


    However, Song Jingchen knew this. He shook his head and checked the palm of the man in black. ¡°It¡¯s not him. These assassins were sent by the Yan family of the Wu Kingdom.¡±


    When he went to Xunyang City back then, the people chasing after him looked exactly the same as these men in black.


    Later on, Shopkeeper Wang found out that they were death warriors from the Yan family of the Wu Kingdom..

 Chapter 650 - Chapter 650: Putting on a Sack Again (1)

    Chapter 650: Putting on a Sack Again (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Why did the Yan family send someone to assassinate you?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s face was tense, and her eyes were cold.


    She was naturally not narcissistic enough to think that the other party was here for her.


    However, her beautiful husband had never even been to the Wu Kingdom. It couldn¡¯t be because he hated him for leaking the information about the late crown prince of the Wu Kingdom, right?


    If that was really the case, the Yan family¡¯s reaction was too slow. After all, it had been a year since the incident.


    Seeing her like this, Song Jingchen was no longer angry. He reached out and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because I¡¯m in their way.¡±


    The only thing he had done recently was to save the emperor and investigate the old case.


    However, it was impossible for the investigation to be leaked, so it could only be because of the former.


    Whose plans did he interfere with when he saved the emperor? Naturally, it was the person who hid behind the emperor and wanted to reap the benefits.


    Song Jingchen had long known that someone was colluding with the Yan family of the Wu Kingdom, but that was back then. Normally, the two parties who cooperated would definitely need each other for something. In the end, they reached a mutually beneficial outcome.


    However, Yan Guangmao was already the Regent. The Yan family had troops and power. Even the throne of the Wu Kingdom was at his fingertips. There was no need for him to use Great Xia.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think that Yan Guangmao was the kind of person who would continue to do thankless things.


    There must be something between these two parties that he did not know about.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and subconsciously pinched her fingers. ¡°It¡¯s Shangguan Heng?¡±


    Her beautiful husband had previously analyzed the details about who would think of a way to protect the old prince and expose Shangguan Pu. Who was the person who wanted to reap the benefits? Wasn¡¯t that Shangguan Heng?


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth to say something, but South Wind walked in with a messenger pigeon. ¡°Master, Uncle Yang sent a letter.¡±


    As he spoke, he took out the letter from the small bamboo tube on the pigeon¡¯s leg and handed it to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen reached out and took it. There was only a line of small words on it.


    Nangong Xia, Yangshu Village in Qingyang City.


    Wasn¡¯t Qingyang City the hometown of the original host¡¯s mother, Mada Wang?


    Shen Yijia asked in confusion, ¡°What does that mean? Who is Nangong X


    Something flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes as he said unhurriedly, name of Nangong Ke¡¯s youngest daughter.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and thought for a long time before realizing who Nalm Ke was. She said suspiciously, ¡°The princess of the previous dynasty of t] Kingdom who escaped?¡±


    She pointed at the address behind. ¡°Does this mean that she escaped to C


    Xia?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded with a solemn expression. ¡°If Uncle Yang and I we right, Ghost Face is very likely Nangong Xia¡¯s son.¡¯


    In other words, the other identity of the Ghost-Faced General of the Wu Kingdom was someone from Great Xia!


    In the dark room, the chess pieces in the white-robed man¡¯s hand flew o with a whoosh. It stuck to the cheek of the leader of the men in black before him and stabbed into the door frame.


    ¡°Who gave you the guts to act on your own?¡± The man¡¯s voice was emoti( but it made one¡¯s heart inexplicably turn cold.


    Cold sweat broke out on the man in black¡¯s forehead. He lowered his hea said respectfully, ¡°We were only following Master¡¯s instructions.¡±


    The man tightened his grip, and the jade chess piece shattered into powder in his hand.


    He closed his eyes. ¡°Get out of here.¡±


    The next day, Song Jingchen went out on duty as usual. Apart from South Wind following him, the rest of the Mahjong Brothers had been sent to Yangshu Village to investigate the previous princess of the Wu Kingdom. Fan Mingyuan was recuperating and rarely left his room, so the house was empty.


    After MO Yuan sent Brother Hao and the others to the academy, Shen Yijia rolled up a sack and hid it in her sleeve. She greeted Madam Li and prepared to leave valiantly.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she walked out of the door, a green cloth carriage stopped in front of her.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the driver. She did not know him.


    She turned to close the door.


    ¡°Second Girl, Second Girl, it¡¯s so good to see you here.¡±


    This voice?


    Shen Yijia shivered and looked at the two people who got out of the carriage as if she had seen a ghost.


    Who else could it be but Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen?


    ¡°Second Girl, you have to save your sister this time.¡± Madam Chen¡¯s arrogant face changed. She walked up to Shen Yijia and wanted to grab her hand.


    Shen Yijia was so frightened that she quickly retreated and pretended not to see the embarrassment on Madam Chen¡¯s face. She asked strangely, ¡°Didn¡¯t you take your medicine when you went out today?¡±


    In the past, they had always called her a b*tch.


    Madam Chen choked and pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief aggrievedly. Under the cover of the handkerchief, she kept winking at Shen Pingxiu..

 Chapter 651 - Chapter 651: Putting on a Sack Again (2)

    Chapter 651: Putting on a Sack Again (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Pingxiu had lost his official position because he was raising his mistress. Now that he had to rely on Madam Chen for food and clothes, he naturally did not dare to disobey her.


    He immediately straightened his back and glared at Shen Yijia. He said unhappily, ¡°How can you speak to your mother like that?¡±


    At this time, it was time for the servants of the various families to go out to buy groceries. In just a short while, a few onlookers surrounded them.


    Madam Chen said, ¡°Master, don¡¯t say that about Second Girl. I¡¯m fine. As long as Second Girl can ask her son-in-law to plead for Yun¡¯er, I¡¯ll¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and suddenly shouted sadly, ¡°Mother!¡±


    Madam Chen and Shen Pingxiu were so frightened that they hugged each other and staggered back a few steps.


    When she reacted, Madam Chen quickly pushed Shen Pingxiu away and looked at Shen Yijia in surprise. ¡°Second Girl, you finally acknowledge me as¡­¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shen Yijia stretched out a hand in the sky in an exaggerated manner. ¡°Did you see that? These two people who caused your death are bullying your daughter again. Mother, you¡¯re in heaven. Don¡¯t let them off. You have to make them pay with their lives.¡±


    ¡°What? You¡¯ve been watching from the sky? You¡¯re going to look for them at night? You won¡¯t let them off? Really?¡± Shen Yijia was so happy that tears welled up in her eyes. ¡°Mother, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    Madam Chen was speechless.


    Shen Pingxiu was speechless.


    The onlookers were speechless.


    ¡°Second Girl, what nonsense are you talking about?¡± Madam Chen almost couldn¡¯t maintain the expression on her face.


    Shen Yijia turned serious in a second and waved her hand. ¡°Stop. My mother just told me that if you have anything to say, just tell her when she comes to look for you tonight.¡±


    ¡°Stop pretending to be crazy. Let me ask you, your sister has been imprisoned by Lord Jing. Are you going to save her or not?¡±


    Even though Shen Yijia had dealt with him a few times, Shen Pingxiu still felt an inexplicable sense of superiority towards her. Perhaps he felt that Shen Yijia¡¯s life was something he gave to her.


    Shen Yijia pinched her fingers and crossed her arms. ¡°Then I¡¯ll only say one


    The onlookers were amused.


    It was said that filial piety was the most important thing. Shen Yijia¡¯s attitude towards her biological father was actually out of line. However, after thinking about how the Shen family had slandered Shen Yijia in court, they felt that it was normal.


    Shen Pingxiu flushed with agitation. ¡°You!¡±


    ¡®Master!¡± Madam Chen interrupted him with a scream. Her red nails dug into her flesh. If not for the fact that the Chen family was in a hurry to separate themselves from Lord Jing and couldn¡¯t show up, she wouldn¡¯t have come to beg this b*tch.


    She took a deep breath and forced a smile. ¡°Second Girl, we were wrong in the past. I apologize to you here.¡±


    As she spoke, she bowed to Shen Yijia and continued, ¡°But there¡¯s definitely no such thing as harming your mother. Is there a misunderstanding?¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned and asked, ¡°Shen Ruyun was implicated and imprisoned?¡±


    Madam Chen thought that she had relented, and her eyes turned red. She nodded. ¡°Second Girl, you know that your big sister could never take hardship since she was young.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not right.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head and muttered, ¡°Then why weren¡¯t the two of you arrested together?¡±


    Consort Jing¡¯s family should have been implicated.


    Madam Chen paused. A tear had just welled up in her eye, and she looked even more pitiful than before.


    Shen Yijia thought about it seriously and suddenly understood. ¡°Did they forget about you because your family doesn¡¯t have an official position?¡± Shen Pingxiu was speechless.


    As a matter of fact, that was what he thought too. There were too many officials involved in Lord Jing¡¯s rebellion. The Shen family had no status, so the higher-ups probably didn¡¯t care about them at all.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She had something to do with Shen Pingxiu losing his position. In that case, she had saved their lives. She regretted it a little.


    ¡°No, how can those people be so negligent?¡± Shen Yijia clenched her right fist and slapped her left palm. She had to correct her mistake. She decided to correct it and said generously, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll tell my husband now. Those who escaped still need to be caught, right? When the time comes, you don¡¯t have to beg me. You¡¯ll naturally be able to see Shen Ruyun after entering the prison.¡±


    ¡°Unfilial daughter, how dare you!¡± Shen Pingxiu was anxious. They were here to ask Shen Yijia for help, not to send them to prison together!


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and instructed in a certain direction, ¡°Lock the door.¡±


    Soon, the sound of a bolt moving could be heard from inside the door. Shen Yijia pushed it and confirmed that the door was locked. She clapped her hands. ¡°I¡¯m going out now. Hurry home and wait for the soldiers to bring you to meet Shen Ruyun..¡±

 Chapter 652 - Chapter 652: Putting on a Sack Again (3)

    Chapter 652: Putting on a Sack Again (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Unfilial daughter, come back!¡±


    ¡°Damn girl, you¡¯ll suffer from karmic retribution!¡±


    Shen Yijia dug her ears. If there was really such a thing, shouldn¡¯t they be the first to be afraid? How stupid.


    Shen Yijia went to the Court of Judicial Review leisurely. She didn¡¯t go in to disturb Song Jingchen. She left after giving South Wind a few instructions.


    She had something important to do today.


    As she walked, she entered a small alley and called out softly, ¡°You Yi.¡±


    You Yi looked at her strangely. He felt that something bad had happened. He had seen her go to the storeroom in the backyard to look for a sack.


    Shen Yijia chuckled. ¡°You should know where Lord Rui¡¯s Residence is, right? It¡¯s called Rui Manor.¡±


    He dared to collude with the people of the Wu Kingdom to assassinate her husband. If she didn¡¯t collect some interest today, her surname wouldn¡¯t be Shen.


    You Yi looked up at the sky silently and took two steps forward.


    ¡°Hey, wait, wait.¡± Shen Yijia shielded herself with her hands and retreated.


    You Yizhi paused.


    Shen Yijia took out a few straps from her pocket. ¡°Use these to tie me behind your back. Don¡¯t carry me, okay?¡±


    With that, Shen Yijia turned around and wrapped the strap around her body.


    ¡°Alright, lean over.¡± She turned around and waved at You Yi.


    You Yi was silent for a moment. He took a step forward and carried her on his shoulder. He flew out with a whoosh.


    Shen Yijia cursed, ¡°You Yi, you bastard.¡±


    She wanted a refund!


    You Yi thought, ¡°Curse me all you want.¡±


    In the study of Rui Manor, Shangguan Heng had sent all the servants away and was sitting in front of the desk, writing furiously.


    Suddenly, a cold wind blew behind him. He turned around and saw nothing except a row of bookshelves.


    ¡°This damn Hundred Studies Hall actually dares not to sell my books. When I write a popular book, you¡¯d better not beg me.¡± Shangguan Heng cursed and continued working hard.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. Wasn¡¯t the Hundred Studies Hall her shop?


    The books that were not for sale at the Hundred Studies Hall¡­ It seemed that only a while ago did Lin Shao tell her that a person who claimed to be a talented scholar had asked them to sell his books with the original manuscript. She rejected him without thinking.


    If not for the fact that she was no longer interested in arguing with that bullsh*t scholar back then, she would definitely have taken the opportunity to find him and smash all his brushes.


    Therefore, from what he said, it meant that..


    Very good. Shen Yijia clenched her fists and cracked her knuckles.


    Shangguan Heng was stunned and turned around abruptly.


    However, before he could see clearly, a sack covered his head.


    Shangguan Heng exclaimed, ¡°Ah, how dare you? Who dares to plot against


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and hit the sack. Her small fists punched Shangguan Pu, who was struggling.


    When they entered just now, they had already observed him. It was unknown what was wrong with this person, but all the servants in the courtyard had been sent away.


    However, it just so happened that if she knocked him out first before beating him up, she would feel that something was missing.


    ¡°Ah, someone!¡±


    ¡°Stop, stop!¡±


    ¡°Bastard, I¡¯m going to kill your entire family.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk it out!¡±


    ¡°Sir, please spare me. I¡¯ll give you whatever you want. Please spare me¡­¡¯


    Shen Yijia nodded in understanding. This pleading really completed the experience.


    The corners of You Yi¡¯s mouth twitched. Sensing something, he reminded her,


    ¡°Someone¡¯s here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was slightly stunned. She grabbed the sack and slammed it on the ground twice. She glanced at the rice paper on the table and reached out to tear it into pieces.


    The brushes were all broken.


    The footsteps outside the door were getting closer.


    ¡°Your Highness, please wait here for a moment. I¡¯ll report your arrival.¡±


    Usually, Shangguan Yu did not need to report his arrival to Shangguan Heng when he came to look for him, except when he was writing a script.


    Shangguan Yu was about to nod when there was a bang in the study. He paused and walked around the young eunuch to push the door open.


    After pushing it twice, he couldn¡¯t push it open. His eyes narrowed. He thought of something and let go. He instructed, ¡°Knock it down.¡±


    The door was knocked open. When he saw the scene in the study, the young eunuch screamed, ¡°Someone, there¡¯s an assassin!¡±


    Shangguan Yu looked around the study and frowned. He walked to the bruised Shangguan Heng and squatted down to check his breathing. After confirming that he was still alive, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Third Brother,¡± he called out tentatively.


    Shangguan Heng slowly opened his eyes and cried when he saw the person in front of him. ¡°Second Brother, someone wants to kill me.


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    After leaving the Rui Manor, Shen Yijia walked on Vermilion Bird Street in high spirits. Even her anger towards You Yi had dissipated a lot, but not completely.


    ¡°You Yi, if you don¡¯t listen to me next time, I¡¯ll punish you and make you carry a hundred pigs.¡±


    A gust of wind blew past, but You Yi ignored her.


    Shen Yijia did not mind and continued to lecture him. As she walked, her voice stopped..

 Chapter 653 - Chapter 653: An Xiu ‘er Is Crazy (1)

    Chapter 653: An Xiu ¡®er Is Crazy (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The Minister of Justice looked at Song Jingchen strangely.


    Song Jingchen sighed and said, ¡°Logically speaking, they are my in-laws and I should absolve them. However, as subjects, we can¡¯t bend the law for personal gain. Isn¡¯t that right, Minister?¡±


    The Minister of Justice was silent.


    Song Jingchen took out another ledger from his pocket. It recorded the benefits the Shen family had received when Shangguan Pu was in charge of the country.


    Although they were all small profits, the Shen family would suffer if they pursued the matter.


    Even the evidence had been prepared. If the Minister of Justice still couldn¡¯t understand Song Jingchen¡¯s intentions, he would have lived in vain.


    ¡°Earl Zhongyi is righteous,¡± he praised against his conscience.


    Putting righteousness before family? Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and accepted it calmly, but he had no intention of leaving.


    The corners of the Minister of Justice¡¯s mouth twitched. He could only instruct his subordinates to go to the Shen family to arrest them. Only then did Song Jingchen bid farewell with the excuse that the Court of Judicial Review still had official matters to deal with.


    The Minister of Justice was speechless.


    Not long after Song Jingchen returned to the Court of Judicial Review, someone from the palace said that the emperor had summoned him.


    Guessing that it might be related to the assassin from last night, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t wait and followed the young eunuch into the palace.


    As soon as he stepped into the imperial study, the emperor¡¯s furious voice sounded. ¡°You can¡¯t even catch a few assassins. Are the people in your city patrol camp all trash?¡±


    Commander Qian lowered his head, not daring to refute.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡± Song Jingchen bowed without looking sideways.


    The emperor took a deep breath and waved his hand to get him up. ¡°I¡¯ve already heard about the assassin. Are you injured?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. Commander


    Qian arrived in time with his men. I¡¯m not injured.¡±


    The emperor naturally knew that he was not injured, so he was just being polite. He continued to ask, ¡°I heard that when Qian Meng arrived with his men, you had already fought with that group of assassins. Did you discover anything?¡±


    Song Jingchen thought for a moment and shook his head seriously. ¡°My wife was also present at that time. I was worried that she would be frightened, so I didn¡¯t pay attention to anything else.¡±


    Qian Meng looked at him in shock. Did a woman who could lift an ice mirror with one hand and still think about the horse meat that could not be wasted really know about the word ¡°afraid¡±?


    Not only that, but he still remembered that she was also the one who pierced through the iron sheet with a few shovels when Fragrant Teahouse was on fire.


    The emperor frowned and opened his mouth to say something, but Qi Shou rushed in.


    ¡°Your Majesty, bad news. Assassins attacked Rui Manor and injured His Highness. ¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The emperor stood up from his dragon throne in shock. ¡°Have they been captured?¡±


    Qi Shou shivered in fear. ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    The emperor was furious. ¡°What assassin is so bold to barge into the residence in broad daylight? Are all the guards in the residence dead?¡±


    Today, he dared to barge into the prince¡¯s residence and injure the current prince. Would he dare to barge into the palace and assassinate him tomorrow?


    Qi Shou wiped his sweat. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but His Highness Lord Xian brought His Highness Lord Rui into the palace. They¡¯re waiting outside the hall now.¡±


    ¡°Then let them in quickly,¡± the emperor said angrily.


    Song Jingchen frowned. As soon as he was attacked, Shangguan Heng was seriously injured by the assassin. Could it be that he was really the one who colluded with the Yan family of the Wu Kingdom? Was he trying to use this to get rid of his suspicion?


    Just as he was thinking, Shangguan Heng was carried in on a stretcher. The entire imperial study was filled with his wails.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but turn around and glance at him. When he saw the injury on his face, the corners of his mouth twitched. Thinking of what Shen Yijia had said before South Wind brought the messenger pigeon into the cellar yesterday, he had a guess.


    The emperor was naturally most concerned about the assassin. However, Shangguan Heng did not see the culprit at all. By the time Shangguan Yu realized that he was injured and brought people to search Rui Manor, the attacker had already disappeared.


    ¡°Father, you don¡¯t know how despicable that thief is. He put on a sack and started punching and kicking me. It hurts. Father, you have to stand up for me.¡± Shangguan Heng cried and howled. In the end, he gritted his teeth in pain because his expression was too exaggerated.


    If it was just a guess before, Song Jingchen was almost certain when he heard the word sack.


    He felt amused, but also helpless.


    ¡°Alright, you¡¯re a man. It¡¯s inappropriate for you to cry,¡± the emperor said in disdain.


    Shangguan Heng did not care so much. He continued to cry bitterly. ¡°Father, I¡¯m so seriously injured. I won¡¯t recover until I¡¯ve recuperated for a month.. I don¡¯t have to go to the Ministry of Rites for the time being, right?¡±

 Chapter 654 - Chapter 654: An Xiu’er Is Crazy (2)

    Chapter 654: An Xiu¡¯er Is Crazy (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The emperor was stunned and scolded, ¡°I know that you haven¡¯t been on duty these past few days.¡±


    Shangguan Heng continued to cry.


    The emperor was impatient from his crying and waved his hand. ¡°Forget it, forget it. Just don¡¯t ask your mother to cry in front of me when the time comes.¡±


    !!


    Shangguan Heng¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Thank you, Father.¡±


    The emperor looked at him for a long time. If any of his sons were too promising, he was worried that there would be a second Shangguan Pu. On the other hand, he felt troubled by Shangguan Heng?s lack of motivation.


    Noticing Shangguan Yu, the emperor finally felt a little comforted. He thought for a moment and instructed, ¡°Second Prince, you came at the right time. You must have heard about Earl Zhongyi encountering an assassin yesterday. I suspect that it¡¯s the same group of people who barged into Rui Manor today. Work with Qian Meng to investigate this case. You must find the assassin.¡± Shangguan Yu glanced at Song Jingchen and cupped his hands. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Alright, all of you can leave. Earl Zhongyi, stay behind.¡± The emperor waved his hand.


    After leaving the imperial study, Shangguan Heng finally stopped howling and began to criticize the eunuch carrying the stretcher. ¡°Walk slower. Do you want to jolt me to death?¡±


    Shangguan Yu sighed. ¡°I asked you to bandage your wounds in the residence, but you refused. Aren¡¯t you the one in pain in the end?¡±


    ¡°That won¡¯t do. If I bandage it, how can Father see my injuries? Oh my butt¡­¡±


    Shangguan Yu said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll accompany you to see the Imperial Physician to bandage your wounds before sending you back.¡±


    ¡°Second Brother treats me the best. Let¡¯s go, let¡¯s go. When my mother receives the news and rushes over, I won¡¯t be able to leave.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was helpless. He thought of something and took out a golden bead from his sleeve. He rubbed it in his hand and smiled.


    In the imperial study, the emperor looked at the token presented to him and asked in confusion, ¡°What does this mean?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I found this token from the apothecary¡¯s residence provided by Lord Jing. It should be something from the palace.¡±


    The emperor frowned and waved at Qi Shou. ¡°Come and see if you recognize this.¡±


    Qi Shou recognized it at a glance. He boldly reached out and took it. ¡°Your Majesty, this is the identity token of a palace maid. Everyone has it. Look, there¡¯s a name engraved on the back.¡±


    He turned the token over. As expected, there was a name engraved on it.


    ¡°Yuzhu¡±.


    The identity token had always been a palace maid¡¯s personal item. If she hadn¡¯t been to the so-called Apothecary¡¯s residence, how could she have left it there?


    Could it be that someone in the palace had also contacted the remnants of the previous dynasty? Thinking of this possibility, the emperor felt terrible. He instructed in a low voice, ¡°Go and investigate which palace this palace maid called Yuzhu works in. Bring her over immediately.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    All the palace maids who entered the palace had special records, so it was easy to investigate. In just 15 minutes, Qi Shou returned, but no one followed him.


    The emperor asked suspiciously, ¡°You didn¡¯t find anyone?¡±


    A troubled expression flashed across Qi Shou¡¯s face. He stammered for a while before saying, ¡°There¡¯s indeed such a palace maid in the palace, but¡­¡±


    ¡°But what?¡± The emperor frowned. He had an inexplicable bad feeling.


    Qi Shou glanced at Song Jingchen carefully and whispered, ¡°This palace maid used to work in the Eastern Palace, but she lost her footing and fell into the water and drowned two years ago.¡±


    The Eastern Palace. Two years ago, no matter which word it was, it was a little subtle, let alone connected.


    The emperor paused and looked at Song Jingchen suspiciously. If possible, he naturally hoped that no one would ever remember what happened back then. However, since this concerned the remnants of the previous dynasty, he had to be careful.


    After a long time, the emperor said, ¡°Qi Shou, accompany Earl Zhongyi.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    If they wanted to investigate a palace maid, they had to start from the people she worked with.


    Not long after, the palace maids and eunuchs who had served in the Eastern Palace back then were gathered.


    Due to the crown prince¡¯s rebellion, these people were labeled as sinful slaves.


    Even if they were reassigned, they could only go to the inferior-class places. After two years, there were very few people still alive.


    The few palace maids Song Jingchen had found who were on good terms with


    Yuzhu were not present.


    As for those who weren¡¯t here, it was obvious that they were gone.


    When asked about Yuzhu, most people only remembered that she had drowned. They knew nothing else.


    Even those who had an impression of her only said that she was the most honest. She did not even know how to curry favor with her master.


    ¡°I remember that once, Lord An Le was playing a pitch-pot game with His Highness Lord Xian in the Eastern Palace. His Highness felt that it wasn¡¯t fun with too few people, so he personally took out his wallet as a betting chip and let the people from the Eastern Palace play together. Everyone went except for


    Yuzhu..¡±

 Chapter 655 - Chapter 655: An Xiu’er Is Crazy (2)

    Chapter 655: An Xiu¡¯er Is Crazy (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Hearing Qi Shou¡¯s reply, the emperor frowned and asked, ¡°Is that all he asked?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I watched from the side the entire time. Earl Zhongyi only asked about Yuzhu.¡±


    It was good that he didn¡¯t take the opportunity to investigate the case back then. The emperor heaved a sigh of relief and waved him off.


    When he came out of the palace, it was already time for him to get off work. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t go to the Court of Judicial Review again but went straight home.


    Unexpectedly, before he could step through the door, a disheveled person pounced on him.


    Song Jingchen frowned and dodged.


    South Wind, who had followed him in, also wanted to dodge, but he heard Shen Yijia roar, ¡°Catch her.¡±


    South Wind subconsciously reached out and grabbed it. He was immediately overwhelmed by the smoke.


    Song Jingchen quickly pulled Shen Yijia back and asked, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and glanced at the person who was still struggling with


    South Wind holding her wrist. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°An Xiu¡¯er.¡±


    She had met An Xiu¡¯er on Vermillion Bird Street after leaving Rui Manor.


    At that time, she was even more miserable than she was now. She was not dressed properly and was not even wearing shoes. If not for the fact that the bag in her arms looked familiar, she would not have recognized it. It was the bag Auntie Tian had asked her to pass to An Xiu¡¯er.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what she experienced, but she seems to have gone crazy. Mother said that she wanted to get water for her to take a shower, but she refused. I had no choice but to put a shirt on her.¡± Shen Yijia shrugged helplessly.


    There was no sympathy. At most, she would sigh at the changes in the world.


    Anyway, An Xiu¡¯er had once coveted Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen frowned and pulled Shen Yijia back a few steps. He asked in confusion, ¡°You want to keep her?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head without thinking. ¡°Of course not.¡±


    She did not think too much about it when she brought her back. Now that she was asked, Shen Yijia realized that this was a huge problem.


    Song Jingchen saw her expression and said helplessly, ¡°Please ask a few people to send her back to Xiagou Village.¡±


    As soon as Song Jingchen finished speaking, An Xiu¡¯er suddenly stopped struggling and looked at him with a silly smile. ¡°Hehe, you¡¯re finally here.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face instantly darkened. She really didn¡¯t forget to think about her man even if she was crazy!


    She almost blurted out, ¡°Throw her out.¡± Song Jingchen instructed in a low voice, ¡°Bring her in first.¡±


    An Xiu¡¯er seemed to understand. She changed her crazy appearance and shook off South Wind. She raised her head and stuck out her chest as she followed Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°Why don¡¯t we throw her out?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen pinched her hand in amusement. ¡°Let¡¯s see if you dare to bring random people home next time.¡±


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°Should I throw her back now?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. He thought of something and his eyes flickered.


    ¡°There¡¯s no hurry. I have something to ask her.¡±


    ¡°How can you ask her anything if she¡¯s crazy?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°Let¡¯s try.¡±


    In the courtyard, Madam Li and MO Yuan were skewering cured horse meat with straw ropes. When she saw them return together, she asked, ¡°Is Xiu¡¯er alright?¡±


    Shen Yijia pouted. ¡°She¡¯s fine. She still covets my husband.¡± Look, that gaze was glued to her beautiful husband.


    She even suspected that An Xiu¡¯er was pretending to be crazy.


    Madam Li paused and noticed the way An Xiu¡¯er looked at Song Jingchen. She frowned and said, ¡°Let¡¯s hire a few escorts to send her back to Xiagou Village tomorrow.¡±


    The An family would feel terrible if they saw a good girl become like this.


    Thinking that she had chosen this path herself, Madam Li was relieved. She instructed, ¡°South Wind, help carry this meat to the back room and hang it up.¡±


    South Wind agreed. He thought of something and ran to the well in the kitchen to wash his hands before returning and starting to move the meat.


    Worried that he wouldn¡¯t be able to hang it properly, Madam Li followed him to the back room.


    They didn¡¯t see Brother Hao and the others in the central room. Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Are Brother Hao and the others not back yet?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at An Xiu¡¯er, who had followed her in. ¡°Because of her, they¡¯ve been hiding in Fan Mingyuan¡¯s room to do their homework.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the person who was staring at Song Jingchen quietly suddenly exclaimed, ¡°It stinks. I want to take a shower. You, quickly get me some water.¡±


    When she said this, she looked at Shen Yijia with a matter-of-fact expression. Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°I thought you refused to shower.¡±


    She was indeed crazy. Otherwise, why would she address herself using a tone that only imperial family members used? Even if she was still in Lord Jing¡¯s residence, she wouldn¡¯t have the right to call herself that.


    An Xiu¡¯er looked at Song Jingchen shyly. ¡°Young Master doesn¡¯t like it.¡±


    A person with disheveled hair, a dirty face, and a stench on her body acted like a little girl.


    Not to mention Shen Yijia, even Song Jingchen was disgusted.. He suppressed the disgust in his heart and asked in a low voice, ¡°Who am I?¡±

 Chapter 656 - Chapter 656: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (1)

    Chapter 656: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Panic flashed across An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s eyes. Although it only lasted for a moment, Song Jingchen still caught it.


    ¡°Smelly, shower, Xiu¡¯er wants to take a shower¡­¡± She muttered and walked out.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and instructed, ¡°MO Yuan, bring her to take a shower.¡±


    An hour later, the usually expressionless MO Yuan returned with a strange expression.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Where¡¯s An Xiu¡¯er?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s asleep. I placed her next door.¡± After saying that, MO Yuan glanced at Song Jingchen, pursed her lips, and said tactfully, ¡°I saw that something was wrong with her, so I checked her pulse. I realized that she should have been pregnant before, but she had a miscarriage because of the sex.¡±


    What she didn¡¯t say was that An Xiu¡¯er might never be able to get pregnant in this lifetime.


    Shen Yijia gasped. Was Shangguan Pu so inhumane? He didn¡¯t even let go of his own child.


    Song Jingchen also frowned. After a while, he said, ¡°Forget it, send her away tomorrow.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that something was wrong with this sentence. Could it be that this was not her plan from the beginning?


    ¡°You went to Lord Rui¡¯s residence today?¡± Song Jingchen suddenly asked.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Song Jingchen told her what had happened in the palace today and said helplessly, ¡°Don¡¯t be rash next time. What if¡­


    Shen Yijia felt a little guilty and quickly laughed. ¡°I know I was wrong. I won¡¯t do it again.¡±


    At most, she would be careful not to let her beautiful husband know when she did bad things in the future!


    At the same time, in a study in a certain mansion.


    The man sat in front of the desk and drew. After hearing the gray-robed guard¡¯s report, he did not look up. ¡°If you can¡¯t even kill a woman, what¡¯s the use of having you?¡±


    The gray-robed guard felt a chill down his spine. He tried his best to suppress the fear in his heart and explained, ¡°Because of what happened last night, there are city guards patrolling everywhere in the city. I was afraid of alerting the enemy, so I didn¡¯t dare to act rashly. It wasn¡¯t easy for me to find an opportunity, but I didn¡¯t expect Madam Song to suddenly appear and take her away.¡±


    He had many ways to kill someone without anyone noticing, but that crazy woman kept sneaking into crowded places. If she suddenly died, it would definitely attract the attention of others. The man paused. ¡°Who are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°Song Jingchen¡¯s wife.¡±


    The man narrowed his cold eyes. ¡°You¡¯d better pray that she¡¯s really crazy. Otherwise, your death won¡¯t be worth pitying.¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know that she had unintentionally saved An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s life. After dinner, she followed Song Jingchen to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s residence.


    Xuanyuan Ce didn¡¯t seem surprised by their arrival at all. Without waiting for


    Song Jingchen to speak, he asked, ¡°Are we starting?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen nodded and said, ¡°Not to mention the emperor, even those ministers who have been under Shangguan Pu¡¯s control will probably be unable to sit still.¡±


    Halfway through his sentence, Song Jingchen paused and continued, ¡°We can¡¯t possibly dig up this case after Shangguan Pu is executed, right?¡±


    If he really waited until that time, someone would definitely say that he had forged evidence to clear the Song family¡¯s name. In any case, a dead person would not speak.


    There was not much time left for him. That was why he ignored the risk of the emperor suspecting his true motive today and used the remnants of the dynasty as an excuse to interrogate the former servants of the Eastern Palace.


    Just as Song Jingchen had said, the Hall of Supreme Harmony, which had been quiet for a few days, became lively again during the morning court the next day.


    Many officials mentioned Lord Jing¡¯s rebellion, saying that Shangguan Pu was rebellious and should be executed as a warning to others.


    Looking at the eloquent and righteous ministers in front of him, Song Jingchen found it funny.


    It had been three days since Shangguan Pu was imprisoned. These people only spoke now because they were sure that they had not been exposed by Shangguan Pu. They also felt that as long as he lived, they would be in more danger.


    If not for that, who would dare to step forward so easily when the life and death of a prince was at stake? Not to mention anything else, what if the emperor remembered this son in the future and regretted it? He would be the first to attack them.


    If Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t wrong, in order to get back the evidence in Shangguan Pu¡¯s hands, Lord Jing¡¯s residence had probably been ransacked by these people for the past few days.


    As the ministers took turns to report, the emperor, who was dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, sat on the dragon throne. It was unknown what he was thinking, but he did not say a word.


    ¡°Lord Jing is rebellious. How dare he attack the emperor and seize the throne?


    If you don¡¯t punish him severely, people will follow his example. Your Majesty, please issue a decree to execute Lord Jing as a warning to others.¡±


    The ministers in the room repeated, ¡°Your Majesty, please issue a decree to execute Lord Jing as a warning to others..¡±

 Chapter 657 - Chapter 657: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (2)

    Chapter 657: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The civil and military officials knelt on the ground. Some were afraid that Shangguan Pu would expose them, while others were here to help the people they supported eliminate their opponent.


    However, no matter what their goal was, they reached an unprecedented agreement to execute Shangguan Pu.


    It was said that even a vicious tiger would not eat its cubs. The emperor pretended to be forced by everyone at the right time. He opened his mouth and was about to say, ¡°I approve.¡±


    A drumbeat suddenly sounded outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony. The sound was short and soft. Just as everyone thought that they had heard wrongly, the drumbeat sounded again.


    ¡°Dong, dong, dong¡­¡± The muffled drumbeats sounded continuously, resounding throughout the palace.


    This was¡­


    The ministers had a guess in their hearts. They looked at each other and looked at the emperor on the dragon throne.


    When the drums sounded for the first time, the emperor¡¯s gaze subconsciously landed on Song Jingchen, who was standing behind him.


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± The internal director stumbled into the hall. He knelt down in fear and said in a trembling voice, ¡°Someone knocked on the drum.¡±


    Their guess was confirmed. The ministers were in an uproar.


    When the late emperor was around, the drums were specially set up to sound grievances at the entrance of the palace. From the emperor¡¯s relatives to the commoners in the market, anyone who had suffered a serious grievance could beat the drums and cry out their grievances.


    Unlike the drum at the entrance of the Imperial Capital, once this drum was sounded, the emperor had to personally judge it publicly.


    In order to prevent anyone from deliberately disturbing the royal court, anyone who beat the drums would first be flogged 30 times.


    It had to be known that 30 strokes of the cane was no joke. If one¡¯s body was weaker, they would lose their lives in the first round. How could they seek justice?


    It was also because of this harsh condition that the Drum of Ascension was sounded for the first time since it was established.


    No emperor would want to see a major injustice happen during their rule.


    The emperor¡¯s face was as black as ink as he stared at Song Jingchen for a long time, but the latter didn¡¯t seem to notice. He just stood there quietly and didn¡¯t even look up.


    The emperor was suspicious. Could he have guessed wrongly?


    ¡°Dong, dong, dong¡­¡± The drumbeat continued. If the emperor did not speak, the officials naturally did not dare to breathe loudly.


    After a long time, the emperor asked in a low voice, ¡°Who¡¯s the drummer? What grievances do you have?¡±


    The invigilator stammered, ¡°It¡¯s an old woman. She said that she¡¯s here to plead for justice on behalf of the disinherited crown prince and Old Master Song. She said that Your Majesty wronged loyal ministers and generals, and the disinherited crown prince and Old Master Song are both innocent.¡±


    ¡°How dare she.¡± The emperor¡¯s expression turned cold. He had already forgotten how he looked when he needed Song Jingchen to do something. He reprimanded, ¡°The evidence of what happened back then is conclusive. What injustice is there to complain about? Are the imperial guards outside just decorations? Hurry up and chase them away.¡±


    He was the one who personally decided the case, and he was also the one who wrote the imperial edict. If it was really confirmed that he was wronged, wouldn¡¯t it mean that he was in the wrong?


    The internal supervisor looked troubled. ¡°That old woman said that the dragon robe was made by her back then. Moreover, the palace gate is already surrounded by commoners.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s pupils constricted. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Chase them all away. If they disobey¡­¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± The intermediate minister of the imperial censorate, Elder Zhao, suddenly stepped forward. ¡°If we ignore the drum, it will definitely make the commoners suspicious and dissatisfied. Your Majesty, please think twice.¡±


    Wasn¡¯t the drum set up to deal with serious grievances? If it depended on the emperor¡¯s mood, then what was the point of its existence?


    ¡°Your Majesty, please reconsider.¡± A few old ministers walked out and knelt down.


    If one took a closer look, they would discover that these old ministers were more or less related to Dean Lu of Autumn Deer Academy.


    Dong, dong, dong¡­


    The drum beats seemed to hit people¡¯s hearts, adding to the feeling that a storm was coming.


    The emperor looked at Song Jingchen with a dark expression, his eyes filled with anger and killing intent.


    Song Jingchen stopped pretending not to see it and walked straight to the kneeling minister.


    ¡°Your Majesty, please clear the Song family¡¯s name.¡±


    At this moment, a report sounded from outside the Hall of Supreme Harmony.


    ¡°The Empress Dowager has arrived.¡±


    The emperor was shocked and stood up. The empress dowager walked in from outside the hall.


    ¡°Mother, you¡¯re¡­¡± It had to be known that the harem could not interfere in politics. Even when the emperor first ascended the throne, the empress dowager had never come to the imperial court. Later on, she even moved to the imperial mausoleum to live permanently.


    ¡°I heard that someone had knocked on the drum and complained about the injustice. I was worried that the emperor would be too busy with court affairs and ignore it, so I came to remind him.¡±


    The courtiers looked at each other.. If even the harem could hear the drums, how could those in the imperial court not hear them?

 Chapter 658 - Chapter 658: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (3)

    Chapter 658: The Sound of Drums and an Unjust Case (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Besides, even if the emperor really couldn¡¯t hear it, wouldn¡¯t the palace servants remind him?


    Empress Dowager Wei¡¯s words were also interesting. It sounded like she came here casually and indifferently, but she didn¡¯t even go out in formal attire when she went to the Hidden Spirit Temple to pray for blessings. Today, she was wearing a phoenix robe. No matter how one looked at it, she didn¡¯t seem to be walking around casually.


    The emperor was not stupid. The ministers could naturally think of something.


    He frowned and said, ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°Emperor.¡± Empress Dowager Wei interrupted him. ¡°Let¡¯s set aside the fact that Old Master Song was Great Xia¡¯s trusted aide.¡±


    ¡°The obligation to listen to anyone who beats those drums is a promise your father made to the world. It¡¯s a rule he set. If you don¡¯t follow it, what will the world think?¡±


    How was this any different from saying that the emperor was guilty? The ministers quickly lowered their heads, wishing they could cover their ears.


    The emperor¡¯s face alternated between green and red from anger. He closed his eyes and waved. ¡°Bring her in.¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, the eunuch who had gone out to deliver the message returned alone. He knelt there trembling and did not dare to speak.


    ¡°Speak,¡± the emperor snarled.


    ¡°That old woman said that her death is not worthy of pity, but she can¡¯t let good people continue to be wronged.¡±


    That sentence seemed to insinuate that the emperor wanted to kill her to silence her.


    Needless to say, it was possible.


    It was so logical. Who would believe that no one had reminded them in advance?


    The word ¡°insolent¡± almost slipped out of his mouth, but the emperor gritted his teeth and swallowed it in the end. However, his face darkened.


    In the end, it was Empress Dowager Wei who suggested it. The emperor personally brought the ministers to the palace door, and Lin Mu protected them with the imperial guards.


    Standing on the white jade steps and seeing the situation outside, everyone gasped in unison. The internal supervisor who said that the palace gate was filled with several commoners was too humble. It was clearly surrounded by people. From afar, there was no end to it.


    ¡°Is everyone in the capital here?¡± they thought.


    It nad to De said tnat tne person wno nad tn1S tnougnt was telling tne trutn. The formerly mute woman had started from Chang¡¯an Avenue and talked about what Old Master Song had done for the people of Great Xia along the way, but in the end, he died unjustly.


    Her words were sincere, and her voice was a little hoarse. Everyone¡¯s eyes turned red.


    By the time they reached the palace gate, wouldn¡¯t the team be huge?


    Even when the mute woman knocked on the drum for the first time, the burly man volunteered to knock on it for her.


    When she was tired of knocking, the people would take turns. At this moment, there were already a few people standing beside the drum.


    Seeing the emperor come out with his men, someone advanced and shouted, ¡°His Majesty has come out!¡± Immediately after, everyone knelt down. ¡°Long live our emperor.¡±


    The last time he saw this scene was when he first ascended the throne.


    The emperor was shocked and glanced at Qi Shou.


    Qi Shou understood. He cleared his throat and asked in a sharp voice, ¡°Who beat the drum? What grievances do you have?¡±


    Everyone immediately fell silent.


    Zhong Cheng helped the mute woman walk between the burly men who were helping to beat the drum and knelt down.


    ¡°I¡¯m Madam Zhou. I¡¯m here today to plead for Old Master Song.¡± The mute woman leaned down and kowtowed heavily on the ground. ¡°Your Majesty, Lord An Le was framed. Old Master Song is also innocent. Your Majesty, please give


    Old Master Song justice.¡±


    The emperor narrowed his eyes and did not ask her what evidence she had. He said in a low voice, ¡°Do you know that you have to be flogged 30 times for this?¡±


    These words sounded like a reminder to the mute woman, but they were actually all threats.


    If she still insisted on complaining and refusing to leave, it was likely that she wouldn¡¯t survive the beating.


    Nothing could be done without rules. He was just following the rules.


    The mute woman kowtowed again. ¡°I know.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s face darkened. She did not know what was good for her.


    He glanced at the imperial guards waiting at the side. They immediately went forward and grabbed the mute woman.


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    A cold voice sounded from among the civil and military officials behind the emperor. Everyone looked in the direction of the voice.


    Song Jingchen walked to the mute woman¡¯s side and knelt down. ¡°Since it¡¯s the Song family¡¯s injustice, I should be the one to receive these 30 strokes.¡±


    The emperor was about to say that there was no such rule when Song Jingchen continued, ¡°This old granny can be considered my witness.¡±


    The mute woman was stunned. ¡°Lord Song, you..


    That wasn¡¯t what he said last night.


    Her subconscious reaction made everyone feel that these two people probably weren¡¯t working together.


    The emperor felt the same way. However, he didn¡¯t want this old woman to speak again.


    He was about to refuse when Empress Dowager Wei spoke again. ¡°I think what Earl Zhongyi said makes sense. Let¡¯s do that.¡±


    The emperor was speechless.


    In the crowd, Madam Li was also kneeling there with Brother Hao and Sister Huan. Seeing the wooden sticks as thick as an adult man¡¯s arm land on Song Jingchen one after another, their eyes turned red.


    ¡°Mother, Big Brother¡­¡±


    Madam Li closed her eyes and gritted her teeth. ¡°Look at the face of the person in the middle. He¡¯s the one who killed your father and grandfather.¡±


    On the other side, Shen Yijia had just sent An Xiu¡¯er to the hired carriage. Song Jingchen had specially instructed her to do this before leaving.


    In order to make it easier to take care of An Xiu¡¯er, she even hired a female escort to accompany her.


    ¡°Alright, it¡¯s time to go home.¡± Shen Yijia patted An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s shoulder.


    She still had to rush back to watch the show.


    An Xiu¡¯er held a pearl flower in her hand and chuckled foolishly. ¡°Flower, it¡¯s beautiful.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home and give it to Mother.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. She waved her hand, indicating that the escort in charge of driving the carriage could leave.


    She did not see a tear fall from the corner of An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s eye as the curtain of the carriage was lowered..

 Chapter 659 - Chapter 659: Evidence (1)

    Chapter 659: Evidence (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Due to An Xiu¡¯er¡¯s matter, when Shen Yijia rushed to the street outside the palace, she could only see the heads in front of her. She could not see what was going on inside.


    She tried to squeeze in, but there were too many people. There was not even a gap. No matter how strong she was, there was nothing she could do.


    ¡°Hey, why are you squeezing? Go to the back. If you wanted to watch the commotion, you should have come early. Look at how many people are here, stop making things more chaotic.¡± A burly man pushed her back.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. With your thin arms and legs, you might as well stay at the back obediently. Anyway, someone will send a message if anything happens ahead.¡± Another man pushed her.


    ¡°Hey, why hasn¡¯t anyone spread the news yet?¡± someone asked and stood in front of Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia, who had finally squeezed in, was pushed back to where she was.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Who was she looking down on with her short temper?


    She had to stand at the front today.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth, rolled up her sleeves, and took a few steps back.


    She stood still and placed her hands on her hips.


    ¡°You Yi!¡±


    You Yi wanted to ignore her. He was a qualified secret guard. He had always been required to appear in front of people only when there was danger.


    However, in his career, he did not have the ability to disobey his master¡¯s orders.


    Looking at the person who suddenly appeared behind her, Shen Yijia shrank back. What was going on?


    Fortunately, You Yi was wearing a mask, so Shen Yijia could not see his expression. Otherwise, she would have realized that his face was also very dark.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. In the end, it was because You Yi wore too little.


    He was still wearing a thin black shirt in the middle of winter. He didn¡¯t even have a coat. How could he not be cold?


    Thinking that she had yet to give him his monthly allowance, Shen Yijia generously stuffed a piece of silver into his hand.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me if you didn¡¯t have the money to buy clothes? Since you¡¯re with me, how can I treat you badly?¡±


    You Yi was speechless.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia patted his shoulder and pointed ahead. ¡°I¡¯m going to the front. Send me in first.¡±


    You Yi looked in the direction of the crowd, then at Shen Yijia, who had her back facing him. He grabbed her collar and picked her up.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Forget it, forget it. It¡¯s an emergency!¡±


    Just as she convinced herself, Shen Yijia realized that she had flown out!


    She flew out!


    Just her, You Yi wasn¡¯t with her!


    ¡°Ah¡­ Bastard You Yi, did I ask you to bring me to the front like this?¡±


    This was clearly a throw!


    It was completely different.


    Her scream successfully attracted everyone¡¯s attention. Everyone looked up and saw a figure fly over them.


    At the same time, the emperor and the others standing on the white marble steps looked over.


    Seeing that she was about to hit the imperial guards blocking the commoners, Shen Yijia hurriedly shouted, ¡°Move, move quickly!¡±


    The soldiers were so shocked that they took a step back to clear a space.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°No, don¡¯t move aside. Stand back quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen, who was being beaten up, also heard the commotion. When he turned around and saw the person flying over, his pupils constricted. He couldn¡¯t care less. He endured the pain in his body and stood up to run over.


    But it was too late.


    With a bang, Shen Yijia fell to the ground in public.


    Looking at his empty hands, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened and he quickly squatted down. ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    These two words were filled with endless worry and heartache.


    ¡°It hurts a little.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia cursed You Yi¡¯s ancestors in her heart and spat out the dust in her mouth.


    She forced a smile that she thought could charm people to death and looked up. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m here.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s throat hurt. His hand trembled as he reached out. Halfway through, he stopped and asked hoarsely, ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, a drop of something slid down her forehead, past her nose, and finally landed on her lips.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously stuck out her tongue and licked it. Apart from the smell of dirt, it was filled with the smell of rust.


    She was stunned and reached out to wipe it. Song Jingchen quickly grabbed her hand and said softly, ¡°Don¡¯t move. Your forehead is injured..¡±

 Chapter 660 - Chapter 660: Evidence (2)

    Chapter 660: Evidence (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As he spoke, he pulled Shen Yijia up and took out a handkerchief to gently wipe her face. His actions were so careful that the onlookers seemed to be able to feel it.


    Shen Yijia suddenly thought of her bloodstained face when she first transmigrated. Without looking, she knew that she must be very ugly now.


    You Yi!


    She pinched her fingers and noticed the heartache on Song Jingchen¡¯s face. She waved her hand indifferently. ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt. It doesn¡¯t hurt at all. You know that. I¡­¡±


    Halfway through her sentence, Shen Yijia paused. When she looked up, she realized that everyone was looking at the couple.


    ¡°Ahem, Madam Shen¡¯s appearance is quite special.¡± Empress Dowager Wei coughed lightly. ¡°Someone, quickly bring this girl to the imperial physician¡¯s office to apply some medicine.¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly bowed to Empress Dowager Wei. ¡°Thank you for your concern, Empress Dowager. I¡¯m fine. There¡¯s no need to trouble the imperial physician.¡±


    She had a smile on her face. If one ignored the bloodstains on her face, these words were quite convincing.


    Empress Dowager Wei disagreed. ¡°A woman can¡¯t have a scar on her face.¡±


    After confirming that only Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead was injured and that she wasn¡¯t injured anywhere else, Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and persuaded her, ¡°Go. It won¡¯t take long to apply the medicine.¡±


    Seeing her unwilling expression, Song Jingchen pursed his lips and lowered his voice. ¡°Your physique is special. Your wound recovers quickly. If you don¡¯t bandage it and others see it¡­¡±


    He did not finish, but Shen Yijia understood. Thinking that this was indeed a possibility, she could only leave unwillingly with the palace maid appointed by Empress Dowager Wei.


    When she left, she felt that something was wrong. She looked back at Song Jingchen strangely and smelled blood. Shen Yijia sniffed and thought that it was because of her face, so she didn¡¯t think too much about it.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. When they were far away, he walked back to the execution ground and knelt down. He said in a low voice, ¡°1 don¡¯t want my wife to worry. Please hurry up.¡±


    The imperial guard holding the staff glanced at the emperor and received a nod from him. He raised the staff again.


    The sound of sticks hitting his body could be heard. Only then did everyone come back to their senses from the incident.


    Song Jingchen knelt steadily on the ground, not even bending his back.


    The only thing he was glad about now was that Shen Yijia did not notice anything else when she flew in just now. Otherwise, that girl might have broken these sticks.


    Thinking of Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen smiled.


    By the time Shen Yijia returned from applying medicine, the 30 strokes had been completed.


    Because Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want his wife to worry, everyone couldn¡¯t help but look at her.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand. She walked straight to Song Jingchen¡¯s side and thought for a moment before kneeling down.


    Seeing that his face was pale and his forehead was covered in sweat, Shen Yijia asked with concern, ¡°Hubby, what¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    Song Jingchen had never told her that she would be flogged for hitting the drum, so Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know about this at all.


    Song Jingchen shook his head and comforted her. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. Thinking that the most important thing now was to overturn the case, she could only suppress her worries for the time being.


    The palace servants, who had long been tactful, brought over two armchairs. The emperor and Empress Dowager Wei sat down one after another.


    ¡°Emperor, you can start the interrogation,¡± Empress Dowager Wei reminded him.


    At this point, there were still many commoners watching. The emperor knew that he had no choice but to say in a low voice, ¡°Madam Zhou, you said that Lord An Le was framed. What evidence do you have?¡±


    Whether it was the Song family or the other officials who were dealt with together, they were all implicated in Lord An Le¡¯s rebellion. As long as Lord An Le was proven innocent, the others would naturally be innocent.


    ¡°My full name is Zhou Xiu. I was once an embroiderer in the capital.¡± The mute woman kowtowed. ¡°At that time, everyone called me Madam Zhou. If Your Majesty doesn¡¯t believe me, you can call a few old women up to ask. I think some people still remember me.¡±


    ¡°No one wants to know this.¡± the emperor thought.


    Impatient as he was, the emperor waved his hand for Lin Mu to do it.


    There were so many commoners outside the palace gate. Lin Mu quickly returned with two old women who were about the same age as the mute woman.


    In order to avoid any suspicion of collusion, he had casually chosen the two old women from the back of the crowd. He could ensure that they did not hear the mute woman¡¯s words just now.


    When the two old women were brought up, they looked confused. They knelt down in fear and did not dare to look up. ¡°Greetings, Your Majesties..¡±

 Chapter 661 - Chapter 661: Evidence (3)

    Chapter 661: Evidence (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The emperor glanced at the two of them and was very satisfied with Lin Mu¡¯s way of doing things.


    ¡°Do you know her?¡± He pointed at the mute woman.


    Only then did the two of them raise their heads slightly and look in the direction the emperor was pointing.


    Too much time had passed. The two of them sized up the mute woman¡¯s wrinkled face for a long time before finding a sense of familiarity.


    One of them said uncertainly, ¡°Your Majesty, I think she looks a little like Madam Zhou.¡±


    The other person said the same thing.


    The Emperor frowned and said unhappily, ¡°Are you sure?¡±


    The two of them were so frightened that they quickly bent down and explained with trembling hands, ¡®Madam Zhou was originally a famous embroiderer in the capital. However, ever since she was invited to the residence by a noble, I haven¡¯t seen her again. It¡¯s been more than ten years, so¡­¡±


    After so long, she still had an impression of her because the mute woman¡¯s


    skills were really good back then. Later on, she was chosen by a benefactor. For a long time, everyone would sigh at her luck when they mentioned her.


    This exchange could basically confirm the mute woman¡¯s identity. The emperor waved for someone to send the two old women out.


    ¡°Go on.¡± He looked at the mute woman.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Thinking of what had happened back then, the mute woman¡¯s body trembled. She took a deep breath and said, ¡°The benefactor they were talking about just now was actually Prince Xia.¡±


    ¡°That was 18 years ago. Apart from myself, there were three other embroiderers who were invited into Prince Xia¡¯s residence at the same time. Unfortunately, I was the only one who escaped death, the other three were all silenced. ¡±


    She only seemed to sigh.


    It was Prince Xia again. The emperor¡¯s eyebrows twitched.


    The mute woman continued, ¡°At first, the few of us thought that we were going to be special embroiderers for the princess consort. Unexpectedly, Emperor Xia actually asked us to embroider according to the pattern of the True Dragon.¡±


    They were already in the prince¡¯s residence. Did they have a choice? The outcome was obvious.


    The commoners were in an uproar. Did this mean that the old prince was the one who framed the disinherited crown prince?


    ¡°Even if you did embroider a dragon robe back then, others can also embroider it. How do you know that it¡¯s the same piece as the one found in the Eastern Palace? Even if it¡¯s the same piece, how do you know that Lord An Le didn¡¯t conspire with the old prince?¡± the emperor reprimanded coldly.


    ¡°You dare to say that I¡¯ve wronged someone just because you¡¯ve once embroidered a dragon robe? How dare you?¡±


    Actually, the emperor already had a guess in his heart, but it was clearly impossible for him to admit his mistake based on this.


    ¡°I have a way to prove that it¡¯s the same thing.¡± With that, the mute woman fumbled in her pocket and took out a handkerchief.


    Fortunately, she had practiced embroidery since she was young. Even after so many years, even if she couldn¡¯t see, she could still embroider skillfully.


    Qi Shou received the emperor¡¯s signal and went forward to take it. He pinched it to make sure that there was no problem before handing it to the emperor. There was a dragon¡¯s eye embroidered on it, and it looked real.


    ¡°The dragon eyes on that dragon robe were embroidered by me. Your Majesty, you can get someone to compare them.¡±


    Even if it was the same pattern, using the same embroidery method, it would be different when different people embroidered it.


    It was like the words written by a scholar. It was obvious at a glance if they were written by the same person.


    The emperor tightened his grip on the handkerchief. The dragon robe had indeed not been destroyed as evidence, but so what if it was the same one? Didn¡¯t he say that there was another possibility?


    ¡°Your Majesty, I still have a witness,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    The emperor¡¯s face darkened. Song Jingchen was so well-prepared. Who would believe that he didn¡¯t send Madam Zhou?


    ¡°Bring him in,¡± the emperor said through gritted teeth.


    South Wind walked in with a dirty man and an old man. When they saw who the man was, the crowd immediately exploded.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that the old prince?¡±


    ¡°Is he still considered a prince? Didn¡¯t they say that he¡¯s already gone crazy?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The emperor was so shocked that he almost stood up from his chair. The reason why he didn¡¯t send anyone to look for him was actually because he thought that Shangguan Pu had already killed him!


    Moreover, he had heard from the palace servants that the old prince had gone crazy.


    The old prince knelt down and cried, ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯m guilty.¡±


    The emperor¡¯s forehead throbbed. He hadn¡¯t asked anything yet. What crime was there?


    He glared at the old prince.


    However, the old prince had already started to babble about how Shangguan Pu had taken the dragon robe from him and how he couldn¡¯t tell anyone about it. Afterwards, Shangguan Pu used it to frame the Eastern Palace. In the end, he spilled the beans.


    His confession couldn¡¯t be stopped.


    The emperor was furious. At the same time, he blamed Shangguan Pu for not killing the old prince with one strike.


    After the old prince finished speaking, Song Jingchen took out another stack of rice paper.


    Qi Shou took it and presented it to the emperor.


    The content on the rice paper was very messy. There were three types of handwriting. It was obvious that they were written by three people. Two of them were just excerpts.


    The third one was the key.


    Seeing the contents, the emperor¡¯s pupils constricted.


    This was clearly the same as the letter found in the Eastern Palace back then, but the handwriting was different.


    What did this mean?


    ¡°Your Majesty, the handwriting on that paper was actually written by the same person, but somehow, it includes traces of my grandfather and Lord An Lets handwriting.¡±


    As soon as Song Jingchen finished speaking, the old man kneeling at the side kowtowed. ¡°Your Majesty, please spare me. I was forced by Lord Jing. I didn¡¯t want to!¡±


    The evidence was conclusive.


    The emperor¡¯s expression was ugly.


    Song Jingchen bent down. ¡°Your Majesty, Lord An Le is innocent. Our Song family is innocent. The officials who were implicated two years ago are innocent. Your Majesty, please uphold justice and clear our names!¡±


    His voice was not loud, but every word was like a huge rock that smashed into everyone¡¯s hearts.


    Madam Li was already in tears. She pulled Brother Hao and Sister Huan to Imeel down together.


    The surrounding commoners also knelt down. ¡°Lord An Le is innocent. The Song family is innocent. The officials who were implicated two years ago are innocent. Your Majesty, please uphold justice!¡±


    Their uniform voices resounded through the clouds, as if they wanted to tell the world that Old Master Song had been wronged and that they were all innocent.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at Song Jingchen and realized that his eyes were red. She felt a lump in her throat and felt terrible.


    ¡°Hubby, you did it! Grandfather and the others will see it!¡± She secretly grabbed his hand.


    Song Jingchen subconsciously held it and nodded.


    In the Cold Palace, Su Yun ran into the main hall excitedly. ¡°Miss, Miss, did you hear that? Outside¡­


    She paused mid-sentence.


    On the soft couch, Song Li was already crying..

 Chapter 662 - Chapter 662: Shangguan Pu’s Death (1)

    Chapter 662: Shangguan Pu¡¯s Death (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Lord Rui¡¯s faction was the one who didn¡¯t want the Song family to reconcile with Lord An Le. Apart from the emperor, who didn¡¯t want to admit his mistake, the officials in Lord Rui¡¯s faction were the ones who didn¡¯t want the Song family to be exonerated.


    Before Shangguan Put s accident, they had been suppressed by the other party¡¯s momentum. It wasn¡¯t easy for Shangguan Pu to get kicked out of the list of candidates, and the only other obstacle left was Shangguan Yu.


    Lord Rui was about to win, but Lord An Le¡¯s rebellion was about to be cleared. Just thinking about it made them feel aggrieved.


    However, so what if they were unhappy about it? Look at the commoners kneeling outside and then at the emperor¡¯s dark expression. Anyone with a brain could understand that even the emperor could not stop this matter.


    However, they could still try to stop Lord An Le from returning to the capital. After all, the emperor probably wouldn¡¯t be willing to let him return.


    The ministers held their breaths and waited for a long time before the emperor said in a low voice, ¡°Pass down my decree. The case of Lord An Le¡¯s rebellion two years ago was a framing. All the officials involved back then are innocent.¡±


    He closed his eyes and continued, ¡°Lord Jing is an unfilial son, a bad brother, and a disloyal and heartless subject. For all these crimes, he will be sentenced to death by poisoned wine immediately.


    ¡°Anyone involved in Lord Jing¡¯s rebellion will be executed three days later. The women will be exiled to the frontier, and all officials below the third rank and their families will be exiled.


    The emperor vented all his anger on Shangguan Pu.


    However, as soon as he finished speaking, there was silence.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t speak. The commoners kneeling outside didn¡¯t even look up, as if they were waiting for him to continue.


    The emperor suddenly clenched his fists and gritted his teeth. ¡°Old Duke Song was a hero who contributed to building the empire of Great Xia. I was deceived by a traitor and let him die unjustly. I feel guilty and deserve to be punished.¡± ¡°Old Duke Song is specially given the right to a burial in the imperial shrine.¡±


    The last sentence was almost forced out of his mouth.


    Song Jingchen leaned over again. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    The commoners also shouted in unison, ¡°Your Majesty is wise! Long live our emperor!¡±


    These deafening words of ¡°Your Majesty is wise¡± were exchanged for him practically slapping his own face!


    The emperor used almost all his strength to restrain himself.


    However, in the end, he only said the word ¡°stand up¡± before leaving.


    The emperor regretted it the most now. Back then, for the sake of a good reputation, he didn¡¯t cause trouble for the Song family, causing Song Jingchen to turn around and bite him.


    However, on second thought, if not for Song Jingchen, he would have been killed by that unfilial son.


    At the end of the day, it was still that unfilial son¡¯s fault. It was wrong to be rebellious, but it was also a huge mistake to leave behind loose ends.


    The emperor suddenly stopped in his tracks.


    Qi Shou, who was following behind him, barely stopped himself from bumping into him.


    Qi Shout s heart almost jumped out of his throat. If he had bumped into the emperor just now, his head would have been separated from his neck.


    ¡°Your Majesty?¡± he called carefully.


    The emperor instructed coldly, ¡°Send that unfilial son off now.¡±


    Qi Shou quickly agreed. He waved for the eunuchs behind him to serve him before bringing the two young eunuchs to the prison of the residence.


    The emperor didn¡¯t want Lord Jing to live any longer, so he didn¡¯t dare to delay.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he reached the entrance of the prison, he saw Song Jingchen waiting there with a pale face.


    ¡°Earl Zhongyi¡­ No, he should be called Duke now.¡± Old Master Song was already qualified to be buried in the imperial shrine, and the Song family¡¯s noble title would recover sooner or later. At that time, wouldn¡¯t Song Jingchen be the youngest Duke in Great Xia?


    Qi Shou was speechless. He bowed respectfully and asked, ¡°What can I do for you, Duke?¡±


    Instead of going home to apply medicine after suffering 30 strokes, he came to such a godforsaken place, He couldn¡¯t be here to admire the scenery, right? Song Jingchen nodded. ¡®Lord Jing caused the Song family so much misfortune. Can I send him off personally? This way, I can personally avenge my grandfather and father.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Qi Shou looked at the two eunuchs behind him with a troubled expression,


    ¡°Eunuch Qi, Your Majesty only wants that person¡¯s life. It doesn¡¯t matter who gives it to him.¡± One of them spoke up, trying to suck up to him.


    Of course, he wanted Song Jingchen to appreciate the gesture.


    The other person was not to be outdone. ¡°That¡¯s right, Eunuch Qt. Please make an exception.¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Qi Shou reached out with a helpless expression. I¡®My lord, please go ahead..¡±

 Chapter 663 - Chapter 663: Shangguan Pu’s Death (2)

    Chapter 663: Shangguan Pu¡¯s Death (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen nodded and thanked him.


    Shangguan Yao¡¯s cell was close to the door. When he heard the commotion, he looked up and saw the tray in the eunuch¡¯s hand. His pupils constricted, and he threw himself against the cell wall and shouted, ¡°What are you doing? What are you doing?¡±


    Qi Shou thought that he had misunderstood and explained kindly, ¡®Your Highness, I¡¯m here to send Lord Jing off.¡±


    Hearing his words, Shangguan Yao¡¯s eyes instantly turned red with anger.


    ¡°Nonsense, you¡¯re spouting nonsense. Big Brother is Father¡¯s son. How could


    Father kill him? Did you say something to Father? Let me out. I want to see


    Father!¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at him quietly for a long time before continuing onwards. Seeing this, Qi Shou quickly followed.


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to go. Come back here!¡± Shangguan Yao grabbed the wooden railing tightly with both hands. However, no matter how he shouted, there was no response. He could only watch as the few of them disappeared from his sight.


    Shangguan Yao leaned against the cell wall and slowly slid down. He knelt on both knees and covered his face with his hands as he cried sadly. He cried and started to roar again, ¡°Let me drink it. If Father insists on killing me, let me die for Big Brother!¡±


    When his voice reached Shangguan Pu, he rubbed his temple helplessly. ¡°That fool.¡¯


    Song Jingchen turned around and said to the three people who had followed him in, ¡°Give me the wine. Please come in and check later.¡±


    Qi Shou left with the other two.


    ¡°congratulations. unrortunatuy, you still naven?c rouna mm,¡± snangguan YU said and waved his hand. ¡°Forget it, forget it. After today, it has nothing to do with me. Just don¡¯t forget what you promised me.¡±


    ¡®You don¡¯t seem surprised at all.¡± Song Jingchen sat opposite him and put the tray aside.


    He came today to reassure him. Although Shangguan Pu had committed a heinous crime, he didn¡¯t like to break his promise.


    Shangguan Pu sneered. ¡°You were so loud that you woke me up. What¡¯s there to be surprised about?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t comment. He picked up the wine pot and poured the wine. Unexpectedly, Shangguan Pu reached out and snatched the wine pot, drinking it.


    Song Jingchen frowned and asked, ¡°Do you have any last words?¡±


    ¡°Last words?¡± Shangguan Pu was slightly stunned. He gulped down a mouthful of wine and wiped his mouth indifferently with his sleeve. He smiled bitterly and said, ¡°Does wishing to not be born into an imperial family in the next life count?¡±


    He was the eldest son of the emperor. The empress only gave birth to the so-called legitimate son when he was six years old.


    However, in the six years without a legitimate son, he had long been indoctrinated by Imperial Concubine Liu and the Liu family, and believed that this empire would be his in the future.


    Shangguan Han had snatched the position of the crown prince that should have belonged to him the moment he was born. Was it wrong for him to want to take back what belonged to him?


    No, he did not think that he was in the wrong. At most, he felt that his skills were inferior.


    The winner takes all. He could afford to lose!


    However¡­


    It was also true that he did not want to be born into the imperial family again.


    A father was unkind, a son was unfilial, and a brother was disrespectful. Having a family like this was incredibly unpleasant.


    Song Jingchen looked at the person in front of him and stood up. He thought for a moment and said, ¡°If you have a benevolent heart, I think you¡¯re more suitable to be an emperor than Ah Han.¡±


    The fight for the throne meant a bloodbath. The Song family was in the vortex of power, so it was inevitable that they would be implicated.


    Actually, even his grandfather knew that even without Shangguan Pu¡¯s actions, the emperor would have found other opportunities to deal with them.


    The guillotine had always been there. The person holding the guillotine was the emperor. He only lacked someone to push him from behind, and Shangguan Pu happened to play this role.


    They were not on the same side to begin with. He did not want to criticize his actions, but he should not have attacked the commoners. If such a person really sat in that position, it would be the sorrow of the commoners.


    Clearly, this was only a rational analysis. It was impossible not to hate Shangguan Pu. Song Jingchen was not a saint.


    Shangguan Pu laughed out loud and bent down. A black line of blood flowed from the corner of his mouth. ¡°I¡¯ll take it as a compliment.¡± He lay down on his back and closed his eyes.


    Song Jingchen brushed the grass off his robe and turned to leave.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Shangguan Pu¡¯s voice sounded from behind.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks. He didn¡¯t speak or turn around.


    This apology was meaningless to anyone in the Song family.


    What they really needed was the repentance of the emperor.


    Outside the residence, Shen Yijia¡¯s face was tense. Her entire body exuded the aura that she was not to be trifled with. ¡°Don¡¯t disturb me.¡± she thought..

 Chapter 664 - Chapter 664: Shangguan Pu’s Death (3)

    Chapter 664: Shangguan Pu¡¯s Death (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Sister Huan shrank back and carefully tugged at Brother Hao¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Little Big Brother, did I say something wrong?¡±


    Brother Hao rolled his eyes. Now she knew how to call him Big Brother? Usually, whenever she called him Big Brother, she would chase him down the street. His mother had clearly said that he was born before her.


    However, she should just call him Second Brother. Why did she call him Little


    Big Brother? It sounded terrible!


    Thinking of this, Brother Hao pursed his lips. He rolled his eyes and whispered in Sister Huan¡¯s ear, ¡°Sister-in-law¡¯s anger is still light. You should think about what you should do when Big Brother comes out and finds out that you were the one who let it slip.¡±


    Sister Huan¡¯s eyes widened and she continued to tug at Brother Hao¡¯s sleeve pitifully. ¡°Little Big Brother¡­¡±


    ¡°What are you calling me? Who¡¯s little?¡± Brother Hao glanced at her and pulled out his sleeve coldly.


    ¡°Second Brother, I was wrong. You have to help me this time.¡± ¡°That¡¯s more like it.¡± Brother Hao snorted, satisfied.


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    ¡°I have no idea how to help you!¡± Brother Hao shrugged.


    Sister Huan was speechless.


    ¡°Song Jinghao, how dare you trick me?¡± Sister Huan¡¯s face turned red. She roared angrily and punched Brother Hao.


    Brother Hao did not expect her to suddenly attack. Coupled with the fact that he was too close to her, he could not dodge in time and took a solid punch from her.


    Brother Hao covered his mouth in pain.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± a cold voice asked.


    The two of them immediately straightened up.


    ¡°Big¡­ Big Brother,¡± the two of them stammered.


    Brother Hao was in pain while Sister Huan felt guilty.


    After looking around and not seeing Madam Li, Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Why are you alone? Where¡¯s Mother?¡±


    He looked at Shen Yijia when he asked the question.


    He felt that something was wrong!


    This girl had clearly seen him when he came out of the Clan Residence. Usually, even if she didn¡¯t pounce on him, she would have called him ¡°hubby¡± sweetly.


    However, even when he approached, this girl only stared at him.


    Her expression was also a little serious.


    Sister Huan followed his gaze and felt even more guilty. She stammered, ¡°Mother said that she had something on and went back first, but she was worried about you, so she asked us to wait here.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded, roughly guessing why Madam Li was in a hurry to go back.


    ¡°Then let¡¯s go back too.¡± He reached out to pull Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia dodged and snorted at him. She turned around and climbed into the carriage alone.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and looked at Brother Hao and Sister Huan in confusion. He only left for a short while.


    If he remembered correctly, this girl even hugged him when he left, ignoring everyone¡¯s gazes.


    Noticing the guilt on Sister Huan¡¯s face, Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes dangerously.


    ¡°Yes, let¡¯s go home. Let¡¯s go home quickly.¡± Sister Huan also got into the carriage.


    Song Jingchen turned to look at Brother Hao.


    Brother Hao thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯d better get in the carriage.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. Actually, he had already guessed the reason.


    He coughed lightly, covering his mouth with his fist.


    The curtain of the carriage was lifted.


    Song Jingchen paused. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s worried eyes, his heart skipped a beat. He immediately bent down and grimaced, as if he was enduring great pain.


    He pretended not to care and held onto the edge of the car, but when he tried to step onto the carriage, he swayed.


    South Wind quickly supported him. ¡°Master, I¡¯ll help you.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Perhaps I should consider changing it so that Rooster is the one following me around. At least Rooster is better at reading the room.¡±


    South Wind felt an inexplicable chill down his spine, but he still helped Song Jingchen into the carriage.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Sister Huan knew that she had done something wrong and did not dare to take the seat beside Shen Yijia. Brother Hao did not have the courage to do so either.


    Hence, Song Jingchen took the opportunity to sit beside her. However, Shen Yijia had already recovered her serious expression. Even when she turned to look at him, her gaze was cold.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The carriage suddenly jolted. Song Jingchen¡¯s back hit the wall of the carriage. The person who didn¡¯t even frown when he was beaten gasped.


    Shen Yijia roared, ¡°South Wind, be careful when driving the carriage.¡±


    South Wind, who had already reacted, complained in his heart. He mustered his courage and said, ¡°Young Madam, this road is a little bumpy. Hold on tight.¡± In line with his warning, the carriage shook even more violently.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes. He didn¡¯t make a sound after hitting his wound again, but his hand was trembling slightly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached. She could not take it anymore and grabbed his hand, preventing him from moving around too much in the carriage.


    Song Jingchen tried his best to suppress the smile on his face and let her pull him along. Occasionally, he would ¡°accidentally¡± hit the wall of the carriage when it was bumpy.


    In the end, Shen Yijia had no choice but to hug his arm tightly.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan were speechless..

 Chapter 665 - Chapter 665: Ceremony (1)

    Chapter 665: Ceremony (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the Song residence. Looking at South Wind and the kids who had run off, Shen Yijia didn¡¯t steel her heart in the end. She carefully helped Song Jingchen out of the carriage.


    Madam Li and Fan Mingyuan were waiting for them in the central room. Seeing them return one after another, Madam Li didn¡¯t realize that something was wrong and quickly urged Song Jingchen to return to the house to apply the medicine.


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia hesitantly, but he was slapped in the back of the head.


    He heaved a long sigh, lowered his eyes, and limped back to the study.


    Shen Yijia snorted and glanced coldly at South Wind.


    South Wind stiffened and said awkwardly, ¡°I¡¯ll help Master apply the medicine.¡±


    It was obvious that there was something wrong with the two of them. Madam


    Li asked strangely, ¡°Jiajia, you¡¯re¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia angrily poured herself a cup of tea and gulped it down. She slammed the teacup on the table. With a crack, a crack appeared in the middle of the cup.


    ¡°I want to go back to my maiden home,¡± she said.


    Madam Li was shocked. It had to be known that Shen Yijia had married into the Song family for more than two years. No matter how bitter or tired she was, she had never said such words.


    Moreover, to put it bluntly, how could one go to a place like the Shen family?


    ¡°Jiajia, did Brother Chen make you unhappy in any way? Tell me. I¡¯ll help you teach him a lesson. You can¡¯t say such things to scare me.¡±


    ¡°Ahem, that¡¯s right. Sister-in-law, although Ah Chen usually doesn¡¯t talk much, I¡¯ve never seen him so concerned about any woman.¡± Fan Mingyuan also tried to persuade her.


    ¡°Stop talking. I¡¯ve made up my mind.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand and walked towards the backyard. She instructed, ¡°MO Yuan, help me pack my things.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°What is going on?¡± Madam Li wanted to stop MO Yuan, but how could she stop MO Yuan?


    Seeing that the master and servant had really gone, she was so anxious that she wanted to chase after them.


    ¡°Mother, I know why Sister-in-law is angry with Big Brother.¡± Seeing that the matter was so serious, Sister Huan said with a sobbing tone, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that Sister-in-law didn¡¯t know about the beating one has to endure if they beat the drum.¡±


    Madam Li did not expect it to be because of this matter. For a moment, she was helpless and amused. Brother Chen did not want Jiajia to worry and deliberately did not say it. Wasn¡¯t Jiajia angry because she cared?


    She was wondering why Shen Yijia would bring An Xiu¡¯er out so early in the morning. So it was also arranged by Brother Chen?


    ¡°Brother Chen is really something. Back then, he went to Xunyang without Jiajia¡¯s knowledge. In the end, she chased after him alone. He should have known that he has to discuss everything with Jiajia first. This time¡­¡± Madam Li muttered. Seeing Sister Huan¡¯s guilty expression, she comforted her, ¡°Alright, your sister-in-law is fine. Mother will go and take a look.¡±


    ¡°Mother, you can¡¯t let Sister-in-law leave.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Mother.¡±


    Sister Huan and Brother Hao followed.


    On the other side of the house, Song Jingchen was still getting treated. When he heard from Fan Mingyuan that Shen Yijia was going back to her maiden home, his heart skipped a beat. He didn¡¯t even bother putting on his coat and ran to the backyard.


    Fan Mingyuan quickly chased after him. ¡°Ah Chen, don¡¯t worry. Madam Li..


    Before he could finish, Madam Li and Shen Yijia came out of the east courtyard, chatting and laughing. Behind them were Brother Hao, Sister Huan, and MO Yuan. The three of them were carrying bags.


    Fan Mingyuan was speechless. Didn¡¯t Madam Li go over to persuade her? Why did it look more like she was going to help Shen Yijia move out?


    Song Jingchen went forward. ¡°Mother, you..


    Madam Li glanced at him and continued to talk to Shen Yijia. ¡°Jiajia, I¡¯ll make your favorite sweet and sour pork ribs tonight.¡±


    Song Jingchen could only look at Shen Yijia again. ¡°Jiajia¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia did not look at him and said with a smile, ¡°Thank you, Mother.


    You¡¯re the best.¡±


    They walked past Song Jingchen.


    The two little tails behind them, who were helping carry the bags, quickly wanted to follow, but they were stopped by Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°Big¡­ Big Brother,¡± the two of them called out in unison.


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Where are you sending your sister-in-law¡¯s things?¡±


    Sister Huan smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°Sister-in-law said that she wanted to go back to her maiden home. Mother asked us to help her carry her things.¡± ¡°Nonsense.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened.


    ¡°Brother Hao, Sister Huan, hurry up.¡± Madam Li¡¯s voice came from ahead.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll be right there,¡± Sister Huan replied and ran away.


    Brother Hao whispered, ¡°Brother, don¡¯t worry. Sister-in-law is just moving to Mother¡¯s courtyard.¡±


    When they chased in just now, Shen Yijia was instructing MO Yuan to pack her things.


    Seeing that she was serious, Madam Li panicked.- She tried her best to persuade her, but Shen Yijia asked strangely, ¡°Aren¡¯t you my mother?¡±

 Chapter 666 - Chapter 666: Ceremony (2)

    Chapter 666: Ceremony (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Then, Madam Li¡¯s heart burst with joy and brought the twins to help clean up the mess.


    ¡°I think Sister-in-law is really angry this time. Brother, you¡¯d better think of a way. Otherwise, this family¡­¡± Song Jingchen might lose his place in the family if this continued.


    Brother Hao didn¡¯t say the last sentence, but his face was filled with sympathy and expectations that his brother could do better. It was better not to say it out loud.


    Song Jingchen felt his heart skip a beat.


    Fan Mingyuan patted his shoulder. ¡°Alright, pull yourself together. You¡¯ve been smart since you were young. You must have a way to coax Sister-in-law.¡±


    With that, he turned around and walked in the direction of Madam Li and the others.


    ¡°Why are you going?¡± Song Jingchen asked subconsciously.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Fan Mingyuan slapped his forehead. ¡°Junior Sister is going back to her maiden home. I have to take a look, right?¡±


    This was the first time he saw someone move from one courtyard to another and treat it like she was returning to her maiden home.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. Originally, he called her ¡°sister-in-law¡±, but now he called her ¡°Junior Sister¡±.


    ¡°Master, why don¡¯t you go home too?¡± South Wind suggested softly.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°That¡¯s childish.¡±


    Ten minutes later, Song Jingchen and Fan Mingyuan sat in the reception pavilion in the main courtyard.


    ¡°Mother, Big Brother is here too. He¡¯s not even wearing a coat on such a cold day. Won¡¯t he get sick from the cold?¡± Sister Huan leaned against the window of the wing and looked out, reporting the situation outside.


    Madam Li was helping Shen Yijia make the bed. When she heard this, she said without looking up, ¡°Ignore him. He did something wrong. We should let him suffer.¡¯


    Shen Yijia frowned.


    Madam Li noticed and found it funny, but she said bluntly, ¡°Although he just suffered 30 strokes and the weather is indeed cold, Jiajia, don¡¯t worry. Brother Chen¡¯s body has been strong since he was young. At this level, he¡¯ll at most have a high fever and fall sick for a few days.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯ll get sick?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia tightened her grip.


    Madam Li took her hand. ¡°Alright, leave these things here for now. Go and change your clothes first. We still have to leave the city and come back before dark.¡±


    Back then, the emperor had specially allowed them to bury Old Master Song and the Duke for the sake of his reputation.


    However, in Great Xia, especially since they were guilty of treason, descendants were not allowed to pay their respects at the graves. Otherwise, they would be treated as accomplices.


    At that time, Song Jingchen had sworn in front of their graves that he would definitely seek justice for the Song family. This day had finally arrived. Of course, they had to go openly.


    Madam Li had already prepared the things to pay her respects when she returned in advance. She did expect the couple to quarrel, so she was delayed for a while.


    There were a total of two carriages. Shen Yijia followed Madam Li into the first carriage along with Brother Hao and Sister Huan. Song Jingchen could only sit in the second carriage with Fan Mingyuan.


    As for Lin Miaomiao, Madam Li was worried that she wouldn¡¯t be able to take care of her as well, so she didn¡¯t ask for permission for her to take time off school. She instructed Lin Shao to pick her up when school ended.


    At first, Shen Yijia did not realize where she was going. When she left the city and saw that everyone was in low spirits, she vaguely guessed something.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and suddenly regretted being angry with her beautiful husband. He must be feeling terrible too!


    However, she was already angry. If she suddenly stopped being angry, wouldn¡¯t she lose some dignity?


    The carriage finally stopped in front of a desolate mountain. When Shen Yijia first transmigrated, she was ignored by the Song family, who were immersed in sorrow. No one even informed her of the funeral, so this was her first time here.


    There was not even a way up the mountain in front of her. Shen Yijia frowned. She had read about Feng Shui in novels and knew that people were very particular about the positioning of the graves.


    Thinking about the situation back then, she understood.


    ¡°This place is pretty good. It¡¯s quiet. No one will disturb us.¡±


    Song Jingchen had walked behind her at some point. Shen Yijia turned around and looked at him.


    Song Jingchen forced a smile and rubbed her head. ¡°I was wrong about what happened today.¡±


    His usual clothes were mostly black, and he rarely wore white.


    Coupled with the fact that he was a little pale and had to force a smile, he looked like a sickly beauty.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re breaking the rules.¡±


    Song Jingchen took out a candied plum from somewhere and pursed his lips. ¡°Grandfather and Father will be happy to see that the two of us are on good terms.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced away. ¡°Then¡­ I¡¯ll forgive you for the time being.¡±


    After saying that, she felt that she was too easy to coax. She muttered, ¡°I¡¯ll be angry when we get home.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Song Jingchen placed the candied plums in her palm. ¡°Go back to the carriage with Mother and wait for a while..¡±

 Chapter 667 - Chapter 667: Ceremony (3)

    Chapter 667: Ceremony (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    South Wind took out the hoe he had prepared from the carriage.


    Including Fan Mingyuan and MO Yuan, the four of them each took one and prepared to create a path up the mountain.


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan also ran to help.


    It was winter now, and the weeds had withered. It wasn¡¯t difficult to clean them up, but Song Jingchen¡¯s back was already injured, and he had to bend down to do this kind of work. After a while, there was a faint trace of blood on his back.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and got into the carriage to pour a glass of hot water. When no one saw her, she dripped a drop of spiritual liquid into it.


    She had used one drop during the emperor¡¯s blessing ceremony. In order to save One Dot, she had used another drop. This was the last drop of spiritual liquid she had saved.


    Fortunately, Fan Mingyuan¡¯s body had almost recovered. She didn¡¯t have to drip any more spiritual liquid into the well. She could save it up in the future.


    Moreover, it was for Song Jingchen, so Shen Yijia¡¯s heart didn¡¯t ache at all.


    Looking at the water handed to him, Song Jingchen paused. ¡°There¡¯s no need to waste it.¡±


    His injuries would recover in a few days. It was a waste to use spiritual liquid.


    Shen Yijia glared at him. ¡°What I¡¯m willing to do is not a waste.¡±


    Shen Yijia was already angry, so Song Jingchen didn¡¯t dare to anger her anymore. He quickly drank the water obediently.


    Shen Yijia snorted and placed the glass of water back in the carriage. After informing Madam Li, she went to help out.


    Madam Li stayed in the car to comfort her. Since Shen Yijia was no longer around, she did not continue to stay in the carriage.


    In the end, the entire family was mobilized.


    The main thing was to clear the weeds and dig a way forward with a hoe.


    They were working in full swing when a chaotic sound came from behind. They turned around in unison and saw a group of burly men rushing towards them with hoes, shovels, and knives. There were about twenty to thirty of them.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia¡¯s gazes turned cold, and they subconsciously shielded Sister Huan and the others behind them.


    The crowd quickly approached. Before Song Jingchen could speak, he was interrupted.


    The burly leader scratched his head with a silly smile. ¡°Lord Song, it¡¯s you.


    Well, we¡¯re here to help.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Old Master Song has protected Great Xia for his entire life. There¡¯s no need for you to do this kind of work yourself. Go and rest in the carriage. We¡¯ll do it.¡±


    ¡°Lord Song is still injured. Hurry up and rest in the carriage.¡±


    Everyone spoke one after another, and then Shen Yijia and the others were pushed aside by them.


    The few of them looked at each other in confusion. Where did these people come from?


    Shen Yijia held onto someone.


    It turned out that Madam Li had been recognized when she went to buy incense, candles, and paper money to pay respects to Old Master Song. That person guessed that the Song family was going to pay respects to Old Master Song.


    News spread like wildfire. In the end, the commoners in the capital found out about this and even spontaneously organized a selection of such a team. At first, they thought that the Song family would only come tomorrow and wanted to create a road in advance. Unexpectedly, they saw someone busy at the foot of the mountain from afar.


    That was not acceptable. They couldn¡¯t do anything for Old Master Song. It wasn¡¯t easy for them to fight for such a chance with their strong bodies. How could they let others snatch it away?


    Hence, what Shen Yijia and the others saw was a group of people rushing towards them aggressively with tools in their hands.


    The reason why they didn¡¯t encounter them on the way was because they took a small path, while the Song family¡¯s carriage took the official road.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. She thought that they were here to fight. She had already clenched her fists!


    ¡°Lord Song, don¡¯t worry. We¡¯re all good at working. We¡¯ll definitely repair this road neatly.¡±


    ¡°Old Master Song left us with such a peaceful world. Now, we¡¯ll open the path!¡±


    ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll open Old Master Song¡¯s path,¡± the others said in unison.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart seemed to have been hit.


    Was this the reason why his grandfather had instructed him not to implicate the commoners before he died?


    That¡¯s right. It wasn¡¯t that they didn¡¯t know how to be grateful, but they didn¡¯t know anything. Once they knew the truth, they would do their best to do the right thing.


    Song Jingchen cupped his hands and bowed deeply. ¡°I thank everyone on behalf of Grandfather.¡¯


    His solemnity made everyone present feel a little ashamed.


    ¡°Lord Song, don¡¯t say that. This is what we should do. To be honest, we didn¡¯t protect Old Master Song. We¡¯ve let the Song family down.¡± A burly man¡¯s eyes turned red as he spoke.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It has nothing to do with you.¡¯


    Madam Li pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. It was only at this moment that she understood why her father, brother, and father-in-law still wanted to protect Great Xia with their lives even though they knew that the higher ups were incredibly paranoid people.


    It was because they had never done it for the person sitting above them. They did it for these commoners..

 Chapter 668 - Chapter 668: Killing Oneself (1)

    Chapter 668: Killing Oneself (1)


    On the third day after Lord Jing¡¯s execution, all the officials above the third rank were dragged to the market to be beheaded.


    It was worth mentioning that as Consort Jing, Shen Ruyun was not spared either. In the end, a three-foot-long white silk ended her short life.


    The other person was Shangguan Yao. It was true that the emperor was angry at Lord Jing, but he still wanted his reputation. It was impossible for him to kill his other son, who had done nothing.


    Coupled with the advice of the court officials, Shangguan Yao was acquitted.


    The first thing Shangguan Yao did when he came out was to beg the emperor to let him adopt Shangguan Puts son under his name.


    Thinking that the eldest grandson of the emperor was still young, the emperor agreed. However, he really did not want to see the two of them loitering in front of him, so the last imperial edict banished him to a fief.


    In order to reduce his guilt, the old prince was tricked by Song Jingchen into testifying. He didn¡¯t expect to offend the emperor.


    He was an elder. The emperor did not kill him, but he demoted him to a commoner. He also got someone to find a residence outside the city and completely locked him up.


    Moreover, regardless of whether Madam Zhou was willing or not, embroidering a dragon robe was a serious crime. The emperor originally wanted to kill her to vent his anger so that others could see if the Song family was worth helping.


    However, before he could say anything, a minister of the Imperial Censorate,


    Elder Zhao, said, ¡°If Your Majesty kills her, the world might think that Your Majesty is dissatisfied with Madam Zhou avenging Old Master Song.¡± In short, Madam Zhou could not be killed.


    These words simply reflected the emperor¡¯s thoughts, but he could not admit it.


    ¡°Then according to Minister Zhao, not only is Madam Zhou innocent, but I should also reward her?¡± the emperor asked with a dark expression.


    ¡°Your Majesty is magnanimous. It¡¯s the blessing of Great Xia.¡± Elder Zhao praised with a proud expression.


    The emperor was furious. His breath was stuck in his throat, and he almost rolled his eyes.


    The Censorate¡¯s officials were indeed as annoying as ever.


    Elder Zhao did not dare to push it too far and continued, ¡°However, Madam Zhou was in the wrong first. After standing up for Old Master Song to seek justice, I think she can make up for her mistakes. This way, no one in the world will dare to criticize Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°How dare they?¡± The emperor almost blurted out the words. Thinking of the sinful edict that had just been written, the emperor gritted his teeth and said coldly, ¡°Your words make sense.¡±


    With his words, the mute woman was able to leave the prison.


    Madam Li personally brought Shen Yijia to pick them up. Worried that the emperor would think of her again, she got someone to send the two of them out of the capital that day.


    The Shen family had benefited from this disaster because they had no official position or power. Just like other officials below the third-grade, they were exiled, along with the Yuan family.


    The day before she was exiled, Yuan Yuwan returned from the manor with You Bai.


    Looking at Xiao Qirui, who had followed Yuan Yuwan in, Shen Yijia blinked and asked curiously, ¡°Why are you together?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan blushed at her straightforward words. She turned around and bowed to Xiao Qirui. ¡°Young General, you can go back first. When I send my family out of the city tomorrow, I¡¯ll give you an explanation.¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart sank. They were clearly husband and wife who had been VVCuuCu people in the world, but he only saw alienation in her eyes.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart seemed to have been pierced. In the end, he could not stay shamelessly. He said, ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up tomorrow.¡± Then, he returned to the general¡¯s residence.


    General Xiao had yet to return from picking up Xiao Ruoshui and her daughter, and because Mrs. Qiao had conspired with Feng Manman to set fire to the military talisman, General Xiao sent her to a temple. Xiao Ruoqian was also sent away.


    Xiao Qirui had not returned for a few days. The general¡¯s residence did not even have a master who could make decisions.


    Xiao Tong was extremely anxious. When he saw Xiao Qirui enter, he quickly strode forward. ¡°Eldest Young Master, you¡¯re finally back. I was about to instruct someone to look for you!¡±


    Xiao Qirui paused. ¡°What happened in the residence?¡±


    Xiao Tong was an old man by General Xiao¡¯s side. He had weathered all kinds of storms with General Xiao. This was the first time Xiao Qirui had seen him so anxious.


    ¡°Oh my, it¡¯s all because of that woman surnamed Feng. Yesterday, she suddenly went crazy and wanted to commit suicide. I got someone to ask around and found out that these women had been fed poison. The poison has acted up.¡± Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes darkened. He opened his mouth to say something.


    Xiao Tong continued, ¡°Not only did she steal the commander¡¯s seal, but she also almost killed Young Madam. Her crimes are unforgivable to begin with, and I don¡¯t care if she dies. However, before the general left, he specially instructed me to keep her for you to deal with personally. If she dies because of the poison, I won¡¯t be able to answer to the general..¡±

 Chapter 669 - Chapter 669: Killing Oneself (2)

    Chapter 669: Killing Oneself (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xiao Qirui thought to himself, ¡°He¡¯s really my biological father. He¡¯s someone who can kill without even nodding his head. However, he directly pierced my heart and forced me to face the stupid things I¡¯ve done in the past.¡±


    ¡°Eldest Young Master, don¡¯t stand here. I¡¯ve already asked. These symptoms only show up seven days before the person dies. Today is the second day. Hurry up and deal with her. When the general returns, I¡¯ll have an explanation.¡±


    As Xiao Tong spoke, he pulled Xiao Qirui towards the dungeon. When Xiao Qirui came back to his senses, he was already standing in the cell where Feng Manman was imprisoned.


    Feng Manman¡¯s limbs were tied to the wooden pillar and she couldn¡¯t move. She lowered her head, and her messy black hair covered her entire face.


    Perhaps because she heard the commotion, she slowly raised her head. When she saw who it was, her eyes lit up. ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡¯re finally here to save me. I knew you wouldn¡¯t leave me alone.¡±


    The next moment, her entire face contorted and her limbs struggled. ¡°Ah..


    Medicine¡­ Give me the medicine. Brother Xiao, save me!¡±


    Xiao Qirui noticed that there was a deep bloody mark on her wrist.


    The guard in charge quickly covered her mouth with a handkerchief and explained, ¡°She¡¯s like this every time she wakes up. I¡¯m worried that she¡¯ll bite her tongue and commit suicide.¡±


    Xiao Qirui waved him off. He pursed his lips and went forward to take the cloth from Feng Manman¡¯s mouth.


    In just a short while, the hair on Feng Manman¡¯s forehead was already drenched in sweat,


    She gritted her teeth and endured the pain. ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡¯re here to save me, right? I didn¡¯t do those things. Believe me.¡±


    Only people who wanted to die would bite their tongues and commit suicide. Feng Manman clearly didn¡¯t belong to this category.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°Those things? Which one are you referring to? The one where you pretended to pounce on my horse and asked me to save you, or were you talking about the assassin that night, or the one where you conspired with Aunt Qiao to set fire and steal the Xiao family¡¯s commander¡¯s seal?¡±


    The last sentence was almost squeezed out of Xiao Qirui¡¯s teeth. It could be seen that this was what he cared about the most.


    Feng Manman was stunned and even forgot the pain in her body. She quickly shook her head. ¡°No, it wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    Halfway through her sentence, she felt that she could not stand on her feet and quickly explained, ¡°I was forced. As you can see, I was fed poison. If I don¡¯t do as they say, I¡¯ll die.¡±


    In order to deal a blow to Feng Manman, Xiao Tong would come in and talk about the outside world when he had nothing to do. Therefore, even though she was locked in here, she knew that her master had lost.


    Xiao Qirui laughed at himself. Apart from the incident with the fire, the first two things were actually just his guesses.


    However, the person who did it was too cautious. He had never been able to find evidence.


    Even if his so-called uncle did have such a niece, apart from meeting her once when she was born, he had never seen her again.


    When Feng Manman came to look for him with the token, he didn¡¯t suspect that someone was impersonating her.


    Now that Feng Manman had admitted it herself, Xiao Qirui heaved a sigh of relief and felt that others were right. He was indeed too stupid.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s gaze shocked Feng Manman. She said in a panic, ¡°Brother Xiao, believe me. If I wasn¡¯t forced, how could I have done anything to hurt you?¡±


    ¡°If you were really unwilling, why didn¡¯t you tell me? You had so many opportunities to do so.¡±


    ¡°If I told you, they won¡¯t let me off. Brother Xiao, I beg you¡­ Give me the medicine. There¡¯s medicine in the pouch.¡± Feng Manman cried and begged.


    Her purse had been searched.


    Xiao Qirui clenched his fists. ¡°That is not a valid reason for you to harm innocent people.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡± The pain of ten thousand ants eating at her heart tortured her until she couldn¡¯t think at all. When she realized who Xiao Qirui was referring to, she gritted her teeth and said, ¡°She¡¯s not dead, right? Besides, I attacked her because I didn¡¯t want her to snatch you away. I did it for you.¡±


    After the assassination incident, Xiao Qirui agreed to almost everything Feng Manman asked for. This also caused Feng Manman to feel that Xiao Qirui had her in his heart. Yuan Yuwan was a stumbling block in their relationship, so she naturally couldn¡¯t let her live.


    Xiao Qirui closed his eyes. It was his fault.


    Feng Manman still wanted to beg for help, but just as she finished speaking, she saw Xiao Qirui take out a dagger and walk towards her. Her pupils constricted. ¡°No, you can¡¯t¡­¡¯


    The ropes binding Feng Manman¡¯s limbs broke.


    Feng Manman was so frightened that she fell to the ground. When she realized that she had regained her freedom, she looked up at Xiao Qirui happily.


    ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡¯ve forgiven me.. You don¡¯t blame me anymore, right?¡±

 Chapter 670 - Chapter 670: Killing Oneself (3)

    Chapter 670: Killing Oneself (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    With a clang, a dagger was thrown in front of her.


    Xiao Qirui said, ¡°I admit my mistake, but when you stole the commander¡¯s seal. Did you think about how many people would die in the capital once your master launched a mutiny? You¡¯re innocent, but aren¡¯t the commoners who almost fell into the flames of war because of your selfish desires also innocent?¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t want to suffer the pain of being poisoned for seven days, kill yourself.¡±


    With that, Xiao Qirui turned around and left the prison.


    ¡°Brother Xiao¡­¡± Feng Manman stared at the person who didn¡¯t look back. When her hand touched the cold dagger, she subconsciously shrank back before crying again.


    Was she wrong? But what could she do? She didn¡¯t want to die either.


    Outside the dungeon, Xiao Tong waited respectfully. When he saw him come out, he leaned over with a smile. ¡°Eldest Young Master, have you been with Young Madam these past few days? Did she say when she would return to the residence? Do you want me to send someone to pick her up?¡±


    Xiao Tong asked three questions in a row, making Xiao Qirui¡¯s face darken.


    Meanwhile, Shen Yijia was also asking Yuan Yuwan why Xiao Qirui had come with her.


    Yuan Yuwan pursed her lips and said concisely, ¡°We happened to meet, so we traveled together.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡± You Bai stood up and undermined her young lady. ¡°Madam Song, didn¡¯t I send Young Master back to the general¡¯s residence last time?¡± Shen Yijia nodded.


    Yuan Yuwan was helpless, but seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s curious expression, she did not stop her.


    ¡°In the end, a few days later, he went to the manor again. In any case, I definitely couldn¡¯t let him enter and disturb Miss. In the end, guess what happened to him?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head in cooperation.


    ¡°Young Master built a small wooden house beside the manor to stay,¡± You Bai said with a smile.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes, ¡°He bribed you again just because he stayed in a


    small wooden house for a few days?¡±


    After Yuan Yuwan¡¯s accident, You Bai had called Xiao Qirui ¡°that person¡± for a long time. Now, she was calling him Young Master. It was obvious that something was wrong.


    ¡°That¡¯s not all. He went up the mountain to hunt every day and asked us to make soup to nourish Miss¡¯s body. He was afraid that Miss would be annoyed, so he specially caught a nest of little rabbits¡­¡± You Bai recounted what Xiao Qirui had done. In the end, her face fell. ¡°Miss can¡¯t possibly not return to the Xiao family for the rest of her life, right?¡±


    This was the biggest reason why she would forgive Xiao Qirui.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and looked at Yuan Yuwan.


    Yuan Yuwan only smiled faintly.


    Although she did not say anything, Shen Yijia inexplicably understood.


    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about me. Why did you change your courtyard?¡± Yuan Yuwan asked. She remembered that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t live in this courtyard before.


    Shen Yijia blinked. She was too embarrassed to say that she was at her maiden home.


    Early the next morning, Yuan Yuwan went to the city gate with Shen Yijia without waiting for Xiao Qirui.


    Back then, the Song family could return to their hometown because of the emperor¡¯s grace. These people were not so lucky. Not only were they not given a carriage, but their feet were also shackled. Everyone¡¯s hands were tied together with a long rope.


    With just a glance, Shen Yijia saw Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen.


    It had only been five to six days since they last met. The two of them looked like they had aged by more than ten years. They walked in the crowd with numb expressions.


    Shen Yijia was amused. She stuck her head out of the carriage and waved at the two of them. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m here.¡±


    She didn¡¯t even want to call him father anymore.


    Everyone turned to look at him.


    Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen were indeed husband and wife. As soon as they saw Shen Yijia, they looked like they wanted to eat her up. They actually wanted to rush over and hit her.


    However, before they could even take two steps, they were whipped by the official in charge of escorting them. ¡°Behave yourselves.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan rubbed her forehead and quickly instructed You Bai to settle something.


    Only then did the group of people stop. The people from the Yuan family and the Shen family were brought out.


    After all, all these people were guilty of treason. Apart from the two of them, there was really no one else who dared to send them off.


    ¡°B*tch, how dare you come? If not for you, my Shen family wouldn¡¯t have ended up like this. I should have let you go with your mother back then.¡± Shen Pingxiu cursed and raised his hand to hit her.


    Madam Chen also pounced on her. ¡°It¡¯s all your fault for killing my Yun¡¯er. Why didn¡¯t you die!¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned cold. Just as she was about to move, a well-defined hand suddenly reached out from behind her. While grabbing Shen Pingxiu, he hugged her waist and spun her around. He raised his leg and kicked Madam Chen away.


    Right on the heels of that, there was a crack. Shen Pingxiu screamed in pain, ¡°Let go!¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored him and looked at Shen Yijia aggrievedly. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me you were going out?¡±


    A drop of spiritual liquid had treated his injuries, so Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t pretend to be sick even if he wanted to. He could only pretend to be aggrieved. Shen Yijia pulled out of his arms and snorted. ¡°I¡¯ve told my mother.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless..

 Chapter 671 - Chapter 671: Divorce (1)

    Chapter 671: Divorce (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Earl Zhongyi, don¡¯t forget that I¡¯m your father-in-law. How dare you!¡±


    Song Jingchen let go of his hand and sneered. ¡°You¡¯re right. Since you¡¯re my father-in-law, I have to do something for you, right?¡±


    Shen Pingxiu¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and he had an ominous feeling.


    Song Jingchen continued, ¡°Then how about sending your son to reunite with you as soon as possible?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you dare.¡±


    Madam Chen, who had just gotten up, screamed.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to bother with them anymore. He waved his hand and asked the official to bring them back.


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°How did you know that I came to tell them this?¡±


    If not for the fact that she wanted to see what happened to Shen Pingxiu and Madam Chen with her own eyes and deal a blow to them at the same time, she would not have come here.


    ¡°Because you¡¯re my wife,¡± Song Jingchen said seriously as he looked into her eyes.


    Shen Yijia blinked. She couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. She really wanted to pounce on him. What could she do?


    Her mind was still in a dilemma, but her hands had already moved.


    Song Jingchen was slightly stunned and said gently, ¡°I won¡¯t hide anything from you next time.¡±


    After she stayed angry for so long, he was really afraid of this girl.


    ¡°Really?¡± Shen Yijia asked in a muffled voice.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    His tone was solemn.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll forgive you then.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed against his chest proudly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes were filled with smiles. ¡°I heard yesterday that a few imperial guards were beaten up when they went home to visit their families.¡± Shen Yijia stiffened. ¡°Haha, is that so? That¡¯s too tragic.¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s indeed a little tragic. I heard that they were beaten with a wooden stick and their legs were almost broken.¡±


    ¡°Song Jingchen!¡± Shen Yijia looked up and glared at him unhappily.


    So what if she was the one who hit them? They dared to hit her man. Couldn¡¯t she take revenge?


    Song Jingchen chuckled and rubbed her head. ¡°Good job.¡±


    Shen Yijia was happy.


    A slap sounded loudly.


    As the two of them were talking, a clear slap suddenly came from not far away, accompanied by You Bai¡¯s exclamation.


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She looked in the direction of the voice and saw Yuan Yuwan surrounded by the members of the Yuan family. It was unknown what they had said, but everyone was glaring at her, and the things she had brought were scattered all over the ground.


    Seeing the middle-aged man try to slap her again, she quickly rushed forward.


    However, Yuan Yuwan had already grabbed his wrist.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take that slap as repayment for your kindness. I hope Father will take care of himself in the future.¡±


    She had been learning calligraphy since she was young. Because her wrist strength was not enough, her grandfather asked the old woman to make two sandbags and tie them around her wrist. Over the years, the strength of her wrist could not be compared to Master Yuan, who only knew how to be lustful.


    Old Master Yuan struggled a few times but could not pull his hand out. He scolded with a red face, ¡°Let go.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan let go of him.


    Feeling that he had lost some dignity, Old Master Yuan refused to give up and wanted to hit her again. Just as he raised his hand, he felt his vision blur and a punch came at him, causing him to stagger and fall to the ground.


    ¡°Father!¡±


    ¡°Master!¡±


    A few people from the Yuan family quickly went over to help him up.


    Shen Yijia pushed Yuan Yuwan behind her and said angrily, ¡°Sister Yuwan specially prepared bags of things for you on account of how difficult it will be for you to go to the frontier. How dare you hit her? I think she might as well feed them to the dogs.¡±


    Glancing at the five clear finger marks on Yuan Yuwan¡¯s face, Shen Yijia still felt angry. She rolled up her sleeves and wanted to rush up and teach them a


    lesson.


    ¡°Jiajia.¡± Yuan Yuwan quickly pulled her back.


    Shen Yijia turned around in confusion.


    No way, she couldn¡¯t hit them back after being bullied?


    Song Jingchen, who caught up later, pulled her behind him and comforted her. ¡°Let Miss Yuan handle it herself. If you¡¯re worried, we¡¯ll stay here and guard her.¡¯


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and glared at the group of people opposite her.


    The Yuan family did not dare to glare at her. They could only look at Yuan Yuwan murderously.


    Yuan Yuwan took a deep breath and turned to Shen Yijia. ¡°Hitting him will dirty your hands. It¡¯s not worth it.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned.


    ¡°Since Father, Uncle, and my sisters don¡¯t need these clothes and rations, I can¡¯t force them. You Bai, pack these up. If anyone else needs them, give them to them.¡±


    You Bai glared at Old Master Yuan angrily and quickly agreed.


    Yuan Leyao said angrily, ¡°Big Sister, Father wants you to ask the Xiao family to help us plead for leniency.. Are you giving us these lousy things to get rid of us..

 Chapter 672 - Chapter 672: Divorce (2)

    Chapter 672: Divorce (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Yuan Yuwan glanced at her and sneered. ¡°Father, you¡¯d better watch out for


    Second Sister and Third Brother. Don¡¯t let them do anything to embarrass the Yuan family again. Otherwise, I¡¯ll probably be too ashamed to see Grandfather when I meet him.¡±


    There were so many brothers and sisters, but she chose these two. Apart from Yuan Leyao and Third Young Master Yuan, who instantly changed their expressions, the others in the Yuan family were at a loss.


    However, Yuan Yuwan was unwilling to say anything else. She squatted down and helped You Bai pack up before turning to leave.


    The Yuan family treated her as a straw to clutch at. How could they let her leave just like that? They wanted to stop her, but Shen Yijia took a step forward and they instantly shrank back.


    The officials who were escorting them ran over smartly and chased them back towards the group of people. Only when their hands were tied up again did the Yuan family realize that there was really no hope.


    Seeing that You Bai had distributed brand new jackets to the others, Old Master


    Yuan said angrily, ¡°B*tch, that wretched girl prepared those clothes for us. Who asked you to give them away?¡±


    You Bai sneered. ¡°Didn¡¯t Master say that he didn¡¯t care and even slapped my


    Miss? Even if you don¡¯t need it, we can¡¯t waste these things, right?¡±


    The faces of the Yuan family members turned red when they heard this. A gust of wind blew past them and they shivered.


    Although Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t like them, they were still her blood relatives. Therefore, she had put in a lot of effort to prepare these things.


    Apart from the cotton clothes, shoes, and socks to ward off the cold, as well as the rations she had brought from the village, she also specially asked MO Yuan to help prepare some typhoid medicine and insect repellent. She even stuffed some silver inside.


    Now, it had benefited others.


    They couldn¡¯t wait to put on the clothes. With this, at least they didn¡¯t have to worry about freezing to death halfway to the frontier.


    The Yuan family had the same thoughts. Apart from the eldest branch, the other two branches quickly begged Yuan Yuwan.


    ¡°Yuwan, it was Big Brother who hit you just now. We didn¡¯t attack.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Big Sister. We were wrong. We shouldn¡¯t have said that about you earlier.¡±


    ¡°Big Sister¡­¡±


    Yuan Yuwan looked at You Bai.


    You Bai seemed to notice something and quickly stuffed the last bag of clothes into the hands of a woman carrying a baby. She turned around and smiled.


    ¡°Miss, I¡¯ve already given away everything. This is all that¡¯s left.¡±


    She shook the money bag in her hand. They were all criminals. Even if they had money, they had to get the officials to help buy things. Wouldn¡¯t they be scammed then?


    Although the money bag was full, it was not as useful as the other things.


    How could Yuan Yuwan not know what she was thinking? She instructed helplessly, ¡°Give it to Second Uncle.¡±


    She had already given it away. How could she ask for it back?


    ¡°Yes,¡± You Bai replied with a smile. She turned around and handed the money bag to Second Master Yuan. ¡°Second Master, the things my Miss prepared were originally enough to last you for the entire journey. It¡¯s such a pity.¡±


    She glanced at the people from the Yuan family¡¯s main branch mockingly. ¡°This is all that¡¯s left. You have to use it sparingly.¡±


    They wanted to hit her Miss, right? If she didn¡¯t mock them and anger them to death, she wouldn¡¯t be You Bai.


    As expected, as soon as she finished speaking, the rest of the Yuan family looked at the eldest branch differently.


    ¡°You Bai, you¡¯re really something.¡± In the carriage, Shen Yijia praised You Bai generously.


    You Bai was a little embarrassed by the praise. She whispered with a red face,


    ¡°No, Madam Song is the one who¡¯s amazing. That punch just now relieved me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. They didn¡¯t even look at who they were dealing with. However, you¡¯re also very powerful. You know how to use schemes.¡±


    Being good at schemes didn¡¯t seem to be praiseworthy. You Bai helped Yuan Yuwan apply the medicine and scratched her head. Seeing that the admiration on Shen Yijia¡¯s face was not fake, she stopped thinking about it.


    In any case, she should just praise her back.


    Thus, the two of them praised each other in the carriage.


    Yuan Yuwan couldn¡¯t help but laugh when she heard this. She thought of the people from the Yuan family and sighed.


    Not long after she returned home, Xiao Qirui arrived. He had been called to the military camp to settle some matters last night and had been busy all night. He rushed back without sleeping, but he was still a step too late.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, something happened at the military camp,¡± he said apologetically. Yuan Yuwan smiled. ¡°Young General, you don¡¯t have to apologize to me.¡±


    After saying that, she was speechless for a moment. She remembered that she had said the same thing when they met at the noodle shop.


    At that time, she had just found out that he wanted to break off the engagement with her for another woman. She knew that he had broken his promise and that the person she had always thought she could rely on was unreliable..

 Chapter 673 - Chapter 673: Divorce (3)

    Chapter 673: Divorce (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It had only been a few months. If there was anything different, it might be his mental state.


    At that time, she would probably still be sad.


    Without waiting for Xiao Qirui to speak, Yuan Yuwan took the initiative to bid farewell to Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Are you still coming back to stay tonight?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The Yuan family¡¯s residence had been confiscated. She meant that if Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t want to stay in the Xiao family residence, she could stay in the Song family¡¯s residence.


    After Shen Yijia helped her hit Old Master Yuan, Yuan Yuwan felt touched once again. She smiled and said, ¡°I probably won¡¯t be coming back. I¡¯ll visit you another day.¡±


    With that, she glanced at Song Jingchen before teasing her, ¡°Don¡¯t stay in your maiden home all the time. Hurry up and move back.¡±


    Shen Yijia blushed and crossed her fingers. She muttered softly, ¡°Even if you come with us, I¡¯ll move back.¡±


    It was such a cold day, so of course she had to hug her beautiful husband to sleep.


    Her voice was barely audible, but Song Jingchen still heard her. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go to your maiden home to help you pack your things.¡±


    Shen Yijia covered her face. Why did she have to say that she was going back to her mother¡¯s house after arguing?


    Although Yuan Yuwan did not say it explicitly, Shen Yijia had more or less guessed her plan. The one who confirmed her guess was Xiao Ruoshui, who came to tell her the next day.


    Xiao Ruoshui rushed to the city yesterday.


    Coincidentally, when General Xiao went to pick them up, she and Madam Xiao were rushing back because they had heard about the fire in the Xiao family.


    They happened to meet halfway.


    Otherwise, it would take at least a month for General Xiao to come and go.


    ¡°A divorce? Your parents and brother agreed?¡± Shen Yijia asked in surprise. She had guessed that Yuan Yuwan would propose a divorce, but she did not expect it to happen so quickly. Shouldn¡¯t Xiao Qirui ask her to stay?


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xiao Ruoshui nodded with a bitter expression, then shook her head. ¡°My parents didn¡¯t agree, but my brother made the decision himself without waiting for us to return.¡±


    When they arrived home, they saw Xiao Qirui, who was drunk. They asked Xiao


    Tong and found out that Yuan Yuwan had already left with the divorce letter. Even her dowry had been taken away.


    No one knew what the two of them talked about in the study. When they asked Xiao Qirui, he didn¡¯t say anything. General Xiao was so angry that he beat him up.


    Xiao Ruoshui cursed at Feng Manman and Xiao Qirui. After venting her anger together with Shen Yijia, she ran to Fan Mingyuan and continued venting.


    Fan Mingyuan was not like Shen Yijia, who would curse at someone with her. Instead, he kept persuading her. In the end, Xiao Ruoshui left while cursing.


    Shen Yijia looked at the confused Fan Mingyuan and laughed unkindly.


    It was no wonder that Xiao Ruoshui kept yearning for Song Jingchen back then, even though Fan Mingyuan grew up with her.


    Although her beautiful husband did not say much, he was at least better-looking than him. Both of them were insensitive, so she definitely had to choose the good-looking one. Fan Mingyuan was speechless.


    He sensed deep malice.


    After the executions, the exiles were on their way. Lord Jing¡¯s rebellion case came to an end.


    To the commoners, the news seemed to come and go. It did not cause any ripples.


    However, the imperial court had lost so many officials at once. In the end, under the suggestion of the court officials, the emperor decided to be magnanimous and select a new batch of talented people the next year.


    Lord Xian, Shangguan Yu, was in charge of the subjects to be tested.


    It was a boon for those who failed the exam last time, since they originally had to wait three years for the next one.


    However, this had nothing to do with the Song family. After all, Brother Hao, who was the only one who needed to take the imperial examination, had yet to take the children¡¯s examination.


    Brother Hao was eleven this year and twelve next year. Actually, according to his current standards, it was not a problem for him to become a scholar. Unfortunately, he had never had the chance to participate because of what happened back then.


    On the day the imperial edict was issued, Brother Hao told Song Jingchen that he wanted to take the exam every year. The children¡¯s exam was held once a


    year.


    Song Jingchen wanted him to study because he wanted him to be sensible. He didn¡¯t care if he became an official in the future.


    Of course, if Brother Hao wanted to, he wouldn¡¯t stop him.


    However, he could tell that Brother Hao did not like bureaucracy.


    ¡°Why?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Brother Hao¡¯s face turned red. After holding it in for a long time, he said, ¡°Wang Mingan is only a few years older than me. He¡¯s already a scholar. I can¡¯t be much worse than him.¡±


    Wang Mingan was only 14 years old. If he got in next year, he would be a High Scholar.


    Song Jingchen looked at him quietly for a long time. He knew that he wasn¡¯t telling the truth, but he didn¡¯t ask further and nodded in agreement.


    Brother Hao heaved a sigh of relief and turned to leave the study. After a while he stuck his head in again. ¡°Brother, I can protect Mother, Sister, and Sister-in-law in the future. You won¡¯t have to work so hard then.¡±


    His mother told him to remember. He remembered everything, including the deaths of his father and grandfather, the hatred for his eldest brother¡¯s broken legs, and the 30 strokes of the cane.


    He looked serious and didn¡¯t leave after saying that. He was just waiting for Song Jingchen to be so touched that he would praise him for growing up.


    Unexpectedly, after waiting for a while, his good brother walked up to him and said, ¡°I¡¯ll protect your sister-in-law. I don¡¯t need you.¡±


    He should protect his wife. Why did he include him in the equation?


    Brother Hao was dumbfounded and didn¡¯t see the smile in Song Jingchen¡¯s eye: as he walked past him..

 Chapter 674 - Chapter 674: Antidote (1)

    Chapter 674: Antidote (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The imperial edict to restore the title of Duke to the Song family was issued at the end of October. At that time, Shen Yijia and MO Yuan were rushing to make pills to suppress the Heart Devouring Poison in the pharmacy.


    The women of the Fragrant Teahouse had all come out of the Imperial Capital. Including the ones Liu Piaopiao had secretly saved, there were actually more than 200 of them.


    Thinking about the women who had been tortured to death or died during their missions, they didn¡¯t even know how many innocent women Shangguan Pu had harmed in the past five years.


    The deceased had already passed away.


    What troubled Shen Yijia the most now was the poison in these people. If they could not find the Heart Devouring Grass to make a true antidote, they would have to continue relying on suppression medicine to survive. One pill per person meant 200 pills a month.


    Not to mention that there were a lot of them, this so-called suppressant was a poison to begin with. It used its poison to resist the Heart Devouring Poison and achieve a temporary balance.


    It was like drinking poison to quench your thirst.


    However, this was not the main point. During this period of time, they realized that a few women could no longer get a significant effect from taking the suppressant, and would still relapse.


    After asking, they found out that these women were the earliest batch to enter the Fragrant Teahouse. They could obtain two antidotes every month.


    This meant that their bodies had already begun to slowly develop a resistance to these drugs. Sooner or later, even suppressant medicine would not be able to save them.


    It was fine if they didn¡¯t know. Since they knew, they couldn¡¯t pretend to be ignorant like the useless emperor, and watch them die when the suppressant medicine was rendered completely useless.


    However, more than a month had passed. Uncle Yang and Shopkeeper Wang had not sent back any news about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, and there was no sign of the Heart Devouring Grass.


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°We can only place our hopes on the beautiful uncle now.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce left three days ago. He knew that the Heart Devouring Grass they were looking for might be in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, so he revealed that he was also looking for the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and said that he would keep an eye out for it. He didn¡¯t say anything else.


    MO Yuan paused.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, are you done?¡± Sister Huan urged from outside the door.


    ¡°I¡¯m done, I¡¯ll be right there,¡± Shen Yijia replied. She quickly put the pills into a porcelain bottle and left the pharmacy with MO Yuan.


    Excitement surged in Sister Huan¡¯s eyes. ¡°Sister-in-law, we can go home soon. ¡±


    In her short 11 years of life, she spent nine years in the residence on Xuanwu


    Street.


    There were too many memories there. To her and Brother Hao, that was their true home.


    No one knew how many times she and Brother Hao had wandered outside the former Duke¡¯s residence in the past few months after returning to the capital.


    Shen Yijia was also a little excited, although she had only lived there for two days and did not even know the layout inside.


    However, when she thought about how her beautiful husband might be as happy as Sister Huan, she was also happy.


    When they arrived at the front hall, Song Jingchen had just returned.


    It was Eunuch Li who came to read the imperial edict.


    He still remembered that he was the one who brought the imperial edict to raid the Song family. Perhaps no one had expected the Song family to rise again.


    After Eunuch Li finished reading the imperial edict in a sharp voice, he looked at the person kneeling in front of him. The scene in his eyes coincided with two years ago.


    Ahem, there was one difference. The little girl who refused to kneel back then was now kneeling obediently beside Song Jingchen.


    How could Eunuch Li know that at that time, it was not that Shen Yijia was unwilling to kneel, but that she did not know that she was supposed to kneel. Of course, the most important thing was that she could not bear to let go of the beauty she had just obtained.


    ¡°Duke, please get up quickly.¡± Eunuch Li placed the imperial edict in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and helped him up. He smiled and said, ¡°No one has lived in the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence for too long. His Majesty has already arranged for the Internal Affairs Bureau to be in charge of repairing and cleaning. Wait a few more days. When the time comes, you can move in directly.¡±


    Along with the imperial edict were more than ten boxes of rewards, piled up in a courtyard.


    Ever since she found out that the emperor¡¯s rewards could not be exchanged for money, Shen Yijia was no longer interested in these things.


    However, when Eunuch Li instructed someone to open the introductions one by one, she couldn¡¯t help but look over.


    The emperor did not disappoint her. Apart from a thousand taels of silver, everything else was flashy and useless. They could only be used to occupy the storeroom.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. A thousand taels of silver was just the combined income of all her shops for a month. She did not care.


    Shen Yijia carried the box of silver back to the backyard and hid it, leaving the other boxes alone in the courtyard.

 Chapter 675 - Chapter 675: Antidote (2)

    Chapter 675: Antidote (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The corners of Eunuch Li¡¯s mouth twitched. Which of these leftovers wasn¡¯t worth more than that box of silver?


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°They¡¯re valuable, but can they be exchanged for silver? If not, they¡¯re useless.¡±


    ¡°Old Madam, do you want us to get someone to help you move these things in?¡±


    Madam Li glanced at Song Jingchen and nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Eunuch Li smiled and instructed the people who followed him, ¡°The few of you, be careful and help carry it. Later, get the Duke to give each of you a red seal.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After everyone left, Song Jingchen brought Eunuch Li into the study.


    ¡°Why is that person so kind today?¡± Song Jingchen asked strangely.


    Anyone could tell that the emperor had no choice but to overturn the Song family¡¯s case because he was forced by the commoners. He even wrote an edict for his crimes.


    He was unhappy and didn¡¯t say a word about restoring the title of Duke of the


    Song family. No one in the intermediate court dared to provoke him at this


    time. This matter dragged on and on, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t care.


    Not only did he suddenly issue an imperial edict today, but he even let the Internal Affairs Department take care of the repairs to the residence. This was too abnormal.


    Eunuch Li sighed. ¡°His Majesty hasn¡¯t been well recently.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Song Jingchen was puzzled.


    Perhaps the emperor did not want to see him and asked him to focus on investigating the remnants of the previous dynasty, so he directly canceled his morning court session. He had not entered the palace for a few days.


    Coupled with the fact that he was investigating something else, he did not pay much attention to the emperor.


    ¡°I¡¯m not too sure what¡¯s going on either. His Majesty has been having nightmares these past few days and has already killed many palace servants who were on night watch. Even one of the concubines who served him has died.


    His Majesty has issued a gag order, so these things haven¡¯t spread.¡±


    When they heard the emperor¡¯s shout in the middle of the night, the palace servants on night duty had to go in. They did not expect something to happen as soon as they entered.


    That concubine was also unlucky. It was not easy for her to get the chance to sleep with the emperor, but she was cut down by the emperor halfway.


    In the beginning, corpses were carried out of the Yangxin Hall every day. These two days, the situation was slightly better. It was not that the emperor no longer had nightmares, but no one dared to enter the sleeping chamber when the emperor was slashing around with a sword.


    ¡°A nightmare?¡± Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°What does this have to do with the imperial edict?¡±


    ¡°I heard His Majesty call Old Master Song and the late emperor by their names.¡± Eunuch Li wiped his sweat and guessed, ¡°Could it be that he dreamed of the late emperor and Old Master Song, so he wants to compensate the Song family?¡±


    If it was really as he had guessed, then it was a little scary when one thought about it carefully. Who did he want to kill in his sleep?


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°Apart from having nightmares at night, is there anything else that¡¯s abnormal?¡±


    ¡°Abnormal?¡± Eunuch Li thought for a moment and slapped his forehead. ¡°He¡¯s often adrift and irritable. Does that count?¡±


    He gave an example. ¡°Your Majesty quarreled with the ministers in the morning court several times. Even Grand Tutor Zhou was punished by Your


    Majesty.¡±


    Grand Tutor Zhou was the one sent to Xunyang by the emperor.


    He had always been trusted by the emperor. In the past, it was common for the emperor to give him a seat in the Hall of Supreme Harmony on account of his age. It would probably take a while for him to recover.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°He¡¯s still eating the pills made by Princess


    Yong¡¯an?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Why wouldn¡¯t he? He¡¯s eating them more often than before. Princess Yong¡¯an has left the capital, but this medicine is being sent to the palace every once in a while.¡±


    Halfway through, he paused. Eunuch Li widened his eyes in disbelief and asked, ¡°Could it be that there¡¯s something wrong with those pills?¡±


    After saying that, he broke out in a cold sweat. He thought that the reason why the emperor was like this was because of a nightmare.


    After all, insufficient sleep could indeed make one feel frustrated.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer him and only said, ¡°Be careful. If he suggests letting my aunt out of the Cold Palace, think of a way to persuade him otherwise. ¡±


    ¡°Say that if the empress comes out, Lord An Le will definitely return to the capital. ¡±


    The emperor did not want Ah Han to return, so he could use this to dispel his thoughts of bringing his aunt out to reduce his sins.


    The further away someone was from the emperor, the safer it would be for them. Without a doubt, the Cold Palace was the only place he would not step foot in.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Eunuch Li replied respectfully. He hesitated for a moment and asked,


    ¡°Then, the pills¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled mockingly. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with the pills? The person who gave the pills was Princess Yong¡¯an. I believe the imperial physicians have already checked them..¡±

 Chapter 676 - Chapter 676: Antidote (3)

    Chapter 676: Antidote (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Not only did they have to check, but they also had to take one pill from each bottle of pills with Eunuch Deng first to see who was serving him at that time.


    Thinking of this, Eunuch Li¡¯s body stiffened. He carefully glanced at Song Jingchen and forced a smile. ¡°Well, I also know that there¡¯s no problem with the pills. Look, Eunuch Deng and I are fine, right?¡±


    How could Song Jingchen not understand the intermediate meaning behind his words? He knocked on the table and said concisely, ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s it? That¡¯s it?¡± Eunuch Li came out of the study with a bitter expression.


    Rest assured? He was not at all relieved. So what if the emperor had killed someone? He was fine.


    What if one day, he and Eunuch Deng acted up and killed the emperor while serving him?


    At the thought of that scene, Eunuch Li¡¯s legs went weak and he staggered, almost falling flat on his face.


    Was it too late for him to pretend to be sick when he returned to the palace? Should he tell Eunuch Deng?


    Eunuch Li shook his head. It was better not to. The two of them could not pretend to be sick together, right? Anyway, Eunuch Deng was not a good person.


    However, that Deng fellow had just saved him a while ago. If he deliberately hid it from him, wouldn¡¯t it seem like he was too ungrateful?


    No, he hated such people the most in his life.


    Eunuch Li shook his head again.


    He was conflicted. When the young eunuchs who had helped carry the boxes to the storeroom returned, he saw their butler standing alone in the courtyard, shaking his head.


    They looked at each other. Were they stupid?


    In the end, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let Eunuch Li go back in fear. He secretly stuffed a small porcelain bottle into his hands when giving out the red seals.


    Eunuch Li was anxious. As soon as he got into the carriage, he couldn¡¯t wait to open the porcelain bottle and pour out two thumb-sized black pills.


    He had just mentioned himself and Deng, and the duke had given him this. It was obvious that it was the antidote!


    The Duke was indeed reliable!


    Eunuch Li was finally relieved.


    As soon as she returned to the palace, she looked for Eunuch Deng and explained the reason. He also exaggerated how difficult it was for him to get the antidote and how precious it was.


    Eunuch Deng almost cried on the spot.


    In the end, the two of them each ate one pill.


    ¡°This medicine is indeed strange. It smelled like ink when it entered my mouth, but it has a sweet attertaste.¡± Eunuch Deng clicked his tongue in wonder.


    Eunuch Li had just swallowed it and did not pay attention. When he heard his words, he regretted it.


    He wondered if he could get another one to try next time. ¡°Hubby, why are two of my jelly beans missing?¡± Shen Yijia did not look up when she asked. She leaned on the table and counted again.


    There were indeed only eight left, but she clearly had ten.


    Xuanyuan Ce had given her these jelly beans before he left. There was only one packet. She, Brother Hao, Sister Huan, and Lin Miaomiao split it equally. Each of them only got a dozen or so jelly beans.


    She had eaten a lot of jelly beans, but this was the first time she had seen colorful ones, so she couldn¡¯t bear to finish them all at once. Afraid that she wouldn¡¯t be able to hold back, she specially hid them in Song Jingchen¡¯s study.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand paused.


    Shen Yijia had already counted for the third time. She frowned and pushed the small box in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°Count it and see if it¡¯s too little.¡±


    Song Jingchen took a deep breath. Seeing how persistent Shen Yijia was, he could only tell the truth.


    He took the opportunity to explain that if he didn¡¯t do this, Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li would definitely be in a constant state of panic. They wouldn¡¯t be able to help them keep an eye on the emperor.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. Since they were going to do something big, her heart did not ache. However¡­


    ¡°You even blacked it out with ink?¡±


    ¡°Is the ink edible?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. ¡°I didn¡¯t find two of the same color.¡±


    MO Yuan had said that there was no antidote for the pill poison. Where could he find an antidote for Eunuch Li? He happened to think of the jelly beans Shen Yijia had hidden in the study, so he wanted to take out two to replace them.


    Since they were both ¡°antidotes¡±, it definitely wouldn¡¯t work if the colors were different.


    As for what would happen if Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li did not have the antidote, there was actually no need to worry.


    Even the imperial physician could not detect the poison contained in that pill. It was obvious that as long as one did not eat too much, it would be fine.


    He only gave them the ¡°antidote¡± to reassure them.


    ¡°Because I picked out the ones with the same color and ate them first.¡± Shen Yijia spread her hands and rummaged through the small box. She picked a yellow one and stuffed it into her mouth. She stuffed another one into Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth when he wasn¡¯t paying attention.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Didn¡¯t she treasure these candies very much?


    He saw it. She had to count them several times a day.


    Actually, he could have used other things to replace it, but when he thought about how it was given to her by Xuanyuan Ce¡­


    ¡°This candy isn¡¯t as important as my husband. Here, I¡¯ll give it all to you.¡± Shen Yijia saw through his expression and stuffed the small box into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    If another woman gave her beautiful husband a sword and he took it out to wipe it every day, she would definitely be jealous.


    She was very understanding.


    Song Jingchen was speechless. As long as it was about this girl, he seemed to be especially petty. Should he reflect on himself?


    Shen Yijia leaned over to look at him. ¡°Hubby, what are you thinking about?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°I want to try the yellow jelly beans.¡±


    ¡°Yellow?¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head. ¡°There¡¯s no more yellow. I¡¯ve already eaten the last one.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the red lips inches away from him and his eyes darkened. He said hoarsely, ¡°There¡¯s one left..¡±

 Chapter 677 - Chapter 677: Retreat to Advance (1)

    Chapter 677: Retreat to Advance (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Just as Song Jingchen had guessed, after the emperor had nightmares for a few days, he thought of Song Li in the Cold Palace.


    Fortunately, Eunuch Li¡¯s ¡°slander¡± made him give up on the idea of bringing Song Li out of the Cold Palace.


    The emperor got someone to set up a Buddhist hall in Yangxin Hall and secretly invited the masters of the Hidden Spirit Temple to the palace to recite sutras for a day. However, not only did this situation not improve, but it also became more serious as time passed.


    From the initial unconscious killing to relying on blood to calm the anger in his heart every day.


    Every day, bloody corpses would be carried out of the Yangxin Hall. In the past, the eunuchs would fight to the death to show their faces in front of their masters. Now, their expressions would change whenever the Yangxin Hall was mentioned.


    Finally, after almost flogging a few ministers to death in the morning court, the emperor realized that something was wrong with him. However, most of the time, he could not control the hostility in his heart.


    In order to prevent the reputation of being cruel from spreading, the emperor directly stopped court sessions and only got someone to send the memorials every day.


    There was no need to worry about attracting the emperor¡¯s attention. The civil and military officials heaved a sigh of relief.


    However, everyone quickly realized that it was not as if there was no need to attend the morning court assembly. If the memorial was not written well, it would still cause a fatal disaster.


    The ministers were helpless, but in order to save their lives, they began to report the good news without mentioning the bad news. They only wrote flattering words on the memorials.


    However, some major or controversial matters had to be decided by one person. In the end, the old ministers discussed in private and decided to choose a representative to report the matter that needed the emperor to make a decision.


    However, even Grand Tutor Zhou had been beaten half to death. Who would


    Someone muttered, ¡°Your Majesty wouldn¡¯t kill his son too, right?¡± These words reminded some people present.


    It was true that this represented danger, but wasn¡¯t it also an opportunity?


    First, he could block the danger of facing the emperor for everyone. It was a good opportunity to win people¡¯s hearts.


    If he was bolder, he could even use this to overthrow the emperor.


    With such a good opportunity, the officials of Lord Rui¡¯s faction, led by Count Xuan Ping, could not sit still anymore. They all pushed Shangguan Heng out.


    As long as it wasn¡¯t themselves, no one had any objections. But where was Lord Rui?


    Only then did Count Xuan Ping realize that more than half a month had passed since the assassin entered Rui Manor and Shangguan Heng ran to the emperor to apply for leave. After such a long time, Shangguan Heng had never appeared in front of anyone.


    It was his fault for being so frightened by the emperor these days.


    As soon as he left the official¡¯s office, Count Xuan Ping went straight to Rui Manor.


    ¡°Uncle, His Highness is still recuperating. He¡¯s not seeing guests.¡± Fu Gui carefully led him into the main hall and instructed someone to serve tea.


    Count Xuan Ping frowned and said unhappily, ¡°That¡¯s what you said when I came half a month ago.¡±


    Fu Gui smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°His Highness was injured a little seriously this time. He hasn¡¯t recovered yet.¡±


    When he said this, he felt a little guilty. Not to mention that His Highness had only suffered superficial wounds, even if he had been stabbed and had good medicine to recuperate, it was impossible for him not to see anyone after such a long time.


    Count Xuan Ping was not stupid. He did not want to waste his breath on him.


    He stood up from his chair and walked towards Shangguan Heng¡¯s courtyard.


    Fu Gui quickly chased after him and wanted to stop him. ¡°Sir, His Highness said that he won¡¯t see guests.¡±


    ¡°Get lost. Do I need your permission to see my grandson?¡± Count Xuan Ping shouted.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare. It¡¯s really because of His Highness¡¯s instructions.¡±


    ¡°Then let him tell me himself.¡± The more he stopped him, the more Count Xuan Ping felt that something was wrong. He pushed him away and strode into the main courtyard.


    ¡°Count.¡± Fu Gui was about to cry. He couldn¡¯t really get someone to chase Count Xuan Ping out, right? The person in front of him was the lord¡¯s elder.


    There were a few servants guarding the door of the main room. Count Xuan Ping glanced at them and pushed open the door, ignoring everyone¡¯s obstruction. Coincidentally, he met Yuan Bao¡¯s anxious gaze.


    Looking at the clothes Yuan Bao was wearing, Count Xuan Ping felt his head buzz. He gritted his teeth and said angrily, ¡°Where did your lord go?¡± Yuan Bao and Fu Gui knelt down with a thud and stammered.


    They also wanted to know. He had clearly said that he would come back after taking a walk, but it had been more than half a month.


    Just as Count Xuan Ping was so angry that he wanted to kill someone, an idea flashed across Fu Gui¡¯s mind. ¡°By the way, His Highness left a letter behind.¡±


    It had to be said that Shangguan Heng knew his grandfather too well.. Why did he only leave him a letter? Didn¡¯t he expect that he would be the first to look for him and discover that he was not around?

 Chapter 678 - Chapter 678: Retreat to Advance (2)

    Chapter 678: Retreat to Advance (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The letter was quickly brought up. Count Xuan Ping took a deep breath and opened it. There were actually two pages written.


    He looked over patiently. In the letter, Shangguan Hengyan had gone on a jaunt. He would not return to the capital for at least ten years.


    If they were worried that the new emperor would harm their Luo family, they should resign as soon as possible and bring their family back to their hometown to retire. They did not have to worry about not having enough money to retire. He had already prepared it for them and stored it in the bank.


    The entire article meant one thing: He didn¡¯t want to be emperor!


    Count Xuan Ping was so angry that he fainted. He scolded, ¡°Hurry up and send someone to look for him.¡¯


    Fu Gui quickly went to call for help.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Count Xuan Ping stopped him and said in a low voice, ¡°Let them search in secret. This matter must not be made public.¡±


    If those officials who supported Shangguan Heng knew that he was so unreliable, it would be useless no matter how many benefits he offered.


    Fu Gui¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°Yes.¡±


    There was a reason why Shangguan Heng left. Lord Jing¡¯s fall meant that only he and Shangguan Yu were left in the capital.


    One had his family¡¯s support, while the other had nothing. Wouldn¡¯t he be pushed up? How could he be willing?


    In the past, he was obedient because he was worried that Lord Jing would kill those who supported him, including his mother. However, if it were Shangguan Yu, he wouldn¡¯t be worried at all.


    Naturally, he was at ease and left boldly.


    Count Xuan Ping beat up the servants of Rui Manor and calmed down a little. After confirming that no one would notice anything wrong, he left.


    He originally wanted to return to the residence directly, but when he thought of the bank mentioned in the letter, he asked the coachman to take a detour.


    At first, he did not think much of Shangguan Heng¡¯s so-called retirement silver. After all, his lord¡¯s salary was not much. However, when the shopkeeper told him that he had 500,000 taels of silver in his hand, Count Xuan Ping gasped.


    While he was curious about where Shangguan Heng got so much money, he deeply realized that it would not be easy to find him this time.


    There was no other reason. Shangguan Heng had handed over his savings, which meant that it had been premeditated. How could he let them find him so easily?


    Even if he was really pushed to the throne, that brat would probably leave behind an imperial edict and slip away.


    Count Xuan Ping had specialized in that goal his entire life and did not want to give up just like that. However, it took time to find someone, and the court affairs could not be delayed. He had no choice but to agree to let Shangguan Yu appear before the emperor.


    After a while, everyone realized that not only could this prince, who usually kept a low profile, come out of the imperial study unscathed every time, but he could also perfectly and quickly solve all the problems. It was even better than the emperor¡¯s court session.


    This was simply a surprise. Many ministers had no choice but to slowly change their opinions in order to save their lives. They felt that it was not impossible for the emperor to give the throne to Lord Xian now.


    Hearing his colleague¡¯s praise for Shangguan Yu, Count Xuan Ping was anxious and helpless. After seeing Shangguan Yu¡¯s ability, even he had to admit that his grandson could not compare to him at all.


    Apart from going to the Court of Judicial Review to deal with cases every day, Song Jingchen spent the rest of his time in the study at home.


    On the surface, he seemed to have left the center of power, but in fact, every day, someone would send a letter to him about the movements in the imperial court.


    A knock sounded at the door.


    Song Jingchen glanced at the sleepy person reading a book and asked softly,


    ¡°Do you want to go back to your room and rest?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯m not sleepy.¡± As she spoke, Shen Yijia secretly wiped the drool on the desk with her sleeve.


    Song Jingchen had no choice but to let South Wind in first.


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s news about Lord Rui. Do you want to reveal it to the Luo family?¡±


    ¡°Where is he?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°Just outside the city.¡± South Wind paused and continued, ¡°He was dressed as an old woman looking for her relatives and was taken in by Miss Yuan.¡±


    The Luo family thought that Shangguan Heng had definitely run far away in half a month, but they did not know the logic of hiding within the darkness under the light.


    Hearing that it had something to do with Yuan Yuwan, Shen Yijia shuddered. Was Sister Yuwan deceived by him? We have to tell her quickly.¡±


    The corners of South Wind¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Miss Yuan sent someone to provide us with the information.¡±


    Therefore, the person who was deceived was not Yuan Yuwan, but Shangguan Heng, who thought that he had deceived everyone. He probably did not know that he had been recognized long ago and was still role-playing happily..

 Chapter 679 - Chapter 679: Retreat to Advance (3)

    Chapter 679: Retreat to Advance (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°No need. Just make sure he leaves on his own.¡± He meant that there was no need to reveal it to the Luo family.


    Since he left voluntarily, there was a possibility that he was retreating in order to advance.


    Regardless, it was a different story.


    It seemed that no one could hide in the capital anymore.


    Song Jingchen looked up from the letter and suddenly asked, ¡°One Dot and the others are coming back soon, right?¡±


    One Dot and the others had been investigating the princess of the previous dynasty of the Wu Kingdom for almost a month, and Qingyang City¡¯s Yangshu Village was only five to six days away from the capital. If everything went smoothly, they should have returned long ago.


    While the family was having dinner that day, the five of them entered the Song family home.


    Bruiser returned with them.


    After not seeing him for a few months, Bruiser had grown much taller and looked much more mature.


    That made sense. Now that he could manage so many shops on his own, he was no longer the brat from Xiagou Village who only knew how to bring the children up the mountain to fish in the river. He was no longer the brat who was chased around the village by Widow Wang with a broom.


    She still remembered that the first time they met, this brat secretly followed her up the mountain and said that he wanted to acknowledge her as his boss.


    Looking at the person in front of her, Shen Yijia felt as though her son had just grown up.


    Bruiser greeted Madam Li first, then knelt in front of Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia with a thud. He kowtowed three times, causing his forehead to turn red.


    It really shocked everyone present.


    Bruiser rubbed his forehead indifferently and grinned. ¡°I know. The murderer who killed my mother has already been executed. Please accept my gratitude.¡±


    Shen Yijia had written to him and told him what Liu Piaopiao had done. He did not mention Liu Piaopiao at all. It seemed that he did not intend to pursue the matter.


    Madam Li had alwavs felt guiltv about Widow Wang¡¯s death. At this moment.


    her eyes could not help but turn red. She pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and pulled her up to rebuke, ¡°Child, why are you speaking so politely to your family? You haven¡¯t eaten yet, right? Sit down and eat first.¡±


    MO Yuan had already added another set of cutlery.


    Bruiser sat down obediently.


    Thinking of something, Madam Li said, ¡°Wait a moment. I¡¯ll add a few of your favorite dishes.¡±


    Seeing that they had just started eating, Bruiser quickly stopped her. ¡°Auntie, there¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll stay at home for a few days before leaving. Make more for me tomorrow, I want to eat a lot. Please don¡¯t think I¡¯m a glutton when the time comes.¡±


    He did not stand on ceremony and refuse her kindness. He really treated her as a family, making Madam Li feel much better.


    ¡°Alright, tell me what you want to eat. I¡¯ll make it for you tomorrow.¡± As Madam Li spoke, she picked up a lot of food for him.


    Bruiser didn¡¯t refuse and ate it. He didn¡¯t forget to praise her cooking. ¡°Auntie¡¯s cooking is still the best.¡±


    Madam Li smiled and said, ¡°If you like it, eat more.¡±


    One Dot and the others stood awkwardly at the side. Song Jingchen said, ¡®You guys should eat first. We¡¯ll talk later.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After dinner, Madam Li called Bruiser over to try on some new clothes. While making clothes for her family these days, she didn¡¯t forget to make clothes for Bruiser. Now that he had tried them on, if they didn¡¯t fit, she could alter them again.


    Brother Hao and the others had a lot to say to Bruiser, so they followed. Including Fan Mingyuan, the remaining people followed Song Jingchen to the study.


    Looking at the expressions of One Dot and the others, Song Jingchen guessed that they had gained a lot from this trip. He Imocked on the table and said, ¡°Tell me, what did you find?¡±


    The few of them looked at each other. In the end, One Dot stood up and reported, ¡°I found out in Yangshu Village that a girl from another country had indeed fled to their village 21 years ago and was taken in by a family with the surname Sun. However, that family moved out of Yangshu Village back then. No one knows where they moved to.¡±


    One Dot paused for a moment and continued, ¡°I also learned that during the ascension that year, there was a palace maid selection. The Sun family happened to have an eligible daughter.¡±


    Every time the throne changed hands, the palace would release some palace maids of age and choose a new batch.


    Generally speaking, the number of spots each place would give was arranged by the local county magistrate.


    A woman¡¯s best years were only a few short years. Not to mention that she might lose her life if she went to the palace, even if she came out alive, she would be old. Many people would not be willing, but this was mandatory. It did not mean that one could not participate if they were unwilling.


    Song Jingchen frowned.


    ¡°Although everyone in the village guessed that the Sun family couldn¡¯t take the blow and moved because Miss Sun had entered the palace, they left some traces behind.¡± One Dot took out a stack of portraits.¡± This is a portrait I found from a famous local painter. According to the description of the person who saw the fleeing woman in the village, he drew this.¡±


    Because it was too long ago, everyone¡¯s memories were a little off, so they drew a little too much.


    He took out another one. ¡°This is a portrait of that girl from the Sun family..¡±

 Chapter 680 - Chapter 680: Accident (1)

    Chapter 680: Accident (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen looked at the portraits one by one. There were some subtle differences between the women in each portrait.


    However, without exception, they all had peach blossom eyes and were extremely beautiful.


    Back then, when the Wu Kingdom was in chaos and the new emperor ascended the throne, perhaps to prevent gossip or because he felt guilty, he killed all the old servants in the Wu Kingdom¡¯s palace. Therefore, apart from the people of the new emperor¡¯s bloodline, very few people knew what Nangong Xia looked like.


    Uncle Yang had probably gone through a lot of trouble to find out that she had escaped to Yangshu Village.


    The other girl from the Sun family had inferior looks.


    Fan Mingyuan frowned and analyzed, ¡°If the Sun family really can¡¯t bear to part with their daughter, shouldn¡¯t they stay in the village and wait for Miss Sun to leave the palace at the right age?¡±


    She Imew that it sounded strange. Shen Yijia suddenly understood and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. They moved away without even informing the villagers. Aren¡¯t they afraid that Miss Sun won¡¯t be able to find them after leaving the palace?¡±


    Rooster scratched his head. ¡°I asked the same thing. They said that after Miss Sun entered the palace, Madam Sun fell ill and couldn¡¯t get up. The Sun family probably felt that every part of Yangshu Village was filled with memories of Miss Sun when she was by their side. They were afraid that Madam Sun would die from sadness, so they simply moved with their family. After all, not many women who entered the palace survived.¡±


    This saying was not wrong. Didn¡¯t many people choose to burn things related to that person out of fear of seeing them?


    The Sun family could not burn down Yang Shu Village, so they could only move away.


    ¡°That Miss Sun only entered the palace. She¡¯s not dead.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°I think Sister-in-law is right. Even if they really want to move, they have to at least confirm that Miss Sun is gone. They didn¡¯t have to move the entire family as soon as she entered the palace. They seem to be hiding something.¡± What were they hiding?


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and glanced at the portrait on the table. Miss Sun should be about the same age as Nangong Xia. They both looked to be around thirteen or fourteen years old.


    Her eyes lit up. ¡°Could it be that the person who entered the palace was not Miss Sun at all, but Nangong Xia?¡±


    Everyone in the village knew Miss Sun. If they continued to live in Yangshu


    Village, sooner or later, people would find out that they had used a substitute. Once someone reported it, it would be a crime of deceiving the emperor. They would have to move away quickly.


    Shen Yijia shook her head proudly. She was too smart.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head in amusement and put away all the portraits on the table. He said in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯ll bring the portraits to the palace tomorrow and show them to Aunt.¡±


    Song Li had been in charge of the harem for more than ten years. She knew those people in the palace best.


    If Nangong Xia really entered the palace in Miss Sun¡¯s place¡­


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened as he looked at One Dot and the others. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard these past few days. It¡¯s getting late. Go back and rest.¡±


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    After One Dot and the others left, Song Jingchen and Fan Mingyuan discussed


    for a while before the three of them left the study.


    As soon as he walked into the backyard, he saw Sister Huan and the others muttering something in the courtyard.


    Shen Yijia leaned over curiously. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    The few of them looked up and heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, come and see.¡± Sister Huan waved at her mysteriously.


    The few of them moved aside to make room for her.


    Only then did Shen Yijia see that they were surrounded by a small incense burner that was not much bigger than a palm. There was also a small basket beside it.


    Incense was burning in the incense burner, and wisps of green smoke floated out.


    What was there to see?


    Shen Yijia was puzzled.


    However, the shape of this incense burner was a little strange. It looked like a small snake coiling.


    ¡°Why does this look so real?¡± She said as she reached out her hand.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you can¡¯t!¡± Sister Huan and the others exclaimed at the same time, but it was too late.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Shen Yijia jumped up and said with a trembling voice, ¡°How can it be real?¡±


    Usually, she was not afraid of these things, because she would usually kill the snake before it could approach her.


    This time, she was really unprepared. Who would have thought that the hard thing would be so smooth to the touch?


    Shen Yijia had goosebumps.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Song Jingchen walked up with a dark expression.


    The few of them didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to be here, so they quickly stood up.


    ¡°Big Brother.¡±


    ¡°Brother-in-law.¡±


    Song Jingchen first confirmed that Shen Yijia was fine before looking at the snake coiling around the incense burner and flicking its tongue at them.. He said coldly, ¡°Where did this snake come from?¡±

 Chapter 681 - Chapter 681: Accident (2)

    Chapter 681: Accident (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I found it in the courtyard,¡± Sister Huan explained softly. She thought of something and said, ¡°Big Brother, you don¡¯t know, but it was very fierce at first. It even wanted to bite someone.


    ¡°It¡¯s winter, and the snakes are all hibernating. Why would it appear in the courtyard?¡± Song Jingchen frowned.


    Sister Huan shrank back and mustered her courage to say something.


    Lin Shao quickly stood up. ¡°Brother Song, I brought the snake back.¡±


    Shen Yijia said suspiciously, ¡°Why did you catch a snake for no reason? If you want to eat snake meat soup, you should have caught a bigger one.¡±


    At the mention of snake meat soup, she looked at the little snake and swallowed.


    The little snake, which was originally sticking out its tongue happily, lowered its arrogant head, but it was unwilling to take half a step away from the incense burner.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not for food.¡± Lin Shao quickly waved his hand.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Then can I eat it?¡±


    Such a small snake did not seem to be enough.


    Lin Shao was speechless.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. Who was the one who screamed in fear just now?


    Although Lin Shao had brought the snake back, Song Jingchen treated everyone equally and punished each of them to write a self-reflection letter.


    On the other hand, Shen Yijia ate the snake meat soup that she had been longing for. Song Jingchen personally made it.


    Sister Huan and the others, who knew the truth, exclaimed, ¡°Big Brother is too biased!¡±


    The next day, just as the sun rose in the east, someone knocked on the Song family¡¯s door.


    South Wind opened the door and saw a monk leading an ox cart. He frowned and asked, ¡°Who are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m from the Hidden Spirit Temple. I have something urgent to discuss with Madam Song.¡±


    Shen Yijia had just put on her clothes when she heard MO Yuan¡¯s report. She opened the door with a bang. ¡°Furball is injured? Who told you that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a monk. He¡¯s outside the door.¡±


    Before she could finish, she felt a gust of wind brush past her. In the blink of an eye, Shen Yijia had already left the courtyard.


    Song Jingchen came out a step later than her and quickly followed with a frown.


    When he reached the door, he saw Shen Yijia urging South Wind to prepare the horses.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Furball?¡± Song Jingchen pulled her back and asked.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face tensed up. She pointed at the monk beside her and said patiently, ¡°He said that Furball is seriously injured. I have to take a look.¡±


    She had just condensed a drop of spiritual liquid in her body. As long as Furball was still alive, she could save it.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let go of her hand. He looked at the monk and asked in a


    low voice, ¡°Who asked you to come?¡±


    It was no wonder that Song Jingchen suspected him. As soon as they entered the capital, they placed Furball in the back mountain of the Hidden Spirit Temple. There shouldn¡¯t be many people who knew that Shen Yijia raised such a tiger.


    The monk pressed his palms together. ¡°Amitabha. The abbot asked me to come.¡±


    Song Jingchen wanted to question him further.


    Shen Yijia interrupted him. ¡°Hubby, he¡¯s telling the truth.¡±


    She reached out with her other hand. On it was a red string with a knot in the middle. There should have been a porcelain bottle tied there.


    Although she did not know why Furball was seriously injured despite having the spiritual liquid, its life was at stake. She could not ignore it.


    Song Jingchen was also present when Shen Yijia prepared this thing, so he naturally recognized it.


    He pursed his lips and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t you still have to enter the palace? I can go by myself.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t sure if it was a trap, so why would Song Jingchen let her go alone? He said firmly, ¡°I can enter the palace after we come back.¡±


    South Wind had already prepared a horse. Hearing this, he brought out another horse.


    After greeting Madam Li, the two of them rushed to the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    It was still early, and the weather was cold. There were not many devotees in the Hidden Spirit Temple. Before they could ask around, a young monk came up to them and asked, ¡°Amitabha. Are you Young Master Song and Madam


    Song?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    Actually, the suspicion in his heart had mostly dissipated after walking all the way here unimpeded.


    ¡°Master has been waiting for you for a long time. Please follow me.¡± The small monk extended his hand in invitation.


    The two of them followed him all the way to the back of the mountain. After a long time, Shen Yijia realized that a small wooden house had been built beside the Release Pool.


    The abbot was standing in front of the wooden house. Riceball was there too.


    Noticing that Riceball¡¯s snow-white fur was dyed red, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She quickly ran over. ¡°Riceball.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks. Although he had never seen Furball¡¯s wife, he had heard Shen Yijia mention that she had named it Riceball.


    Riceball, who was staring warily at the abbot to prevent him from approaching, immediately retracted its fangs when it heard her voice. It growled and pounced at Shen Yijia..

 Chapter 682 - Chapter 682: Accident (3)

    Chapter 682: Accident (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Fortunately, Shen Yijia was strong enough not to fall to the ground.


    This scene terrified the abbot and the little monk who led the way.


    Shen Yijia rubbed Riceball¡¯s body and realized that it was injured. She frowned and said, ¡°Why are you also¡­¡±


    She paused mid-sentence because she realized that although the wounds on Riceball¡¯s body looked serious, they had long stopped bleeding.


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood. No wonder Furball¡¯s spiritual liquid was gone.


    Song Jingchen walked forward worriedly. ¡°Jiajia?¡±


    His words shocked Riceball. Perhaps because it smelled Shen Yijia¡¯s aura on Song Jingchen, it immediately retracted its aura. It opened its mouth and bit Shen Yijia¡¯s cloak before pulling her towards the wooden house.


    As soon as she stepped into the wooden house, the smell of blood assailed her nostrils. From the door, long bloodstains extended all the way to Furball, who was lying on the ground.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted. She took a few steps to Furball and squatted down. ¡°Furball.¡±


    She called out softly and carefully reached under Furball¡¯s nose.


    ¡°He¡¯s still breathing,¡± she said, relieved.


    Without any delay, Shen Yijia quickly condensed a drop of spiritual liquid from her fingertips. Seeing this, Song Jingchen went forward and helped her pry Furball¡¯s mouth open.


    After about ten minutes, Furball¡¯s chest began to rise and fall clearly.


    Riceball strolled to Furball¡¯s side and lay down beside it.


    Song Jingchen paused and suddenly reached out to Riceball.


    Riceball seemed to notice something and suddenly opened her eyes. She saw that Song Jingchen had closed his eyes again.


    Shen Yijia saw him remove the blood-stained fur around Riceball¡¯s wound.


    After looking at it for a long time, she ran to Furball and said suspiciously, ¡°Hubby?¡±


    Song Jingchen retracted his hand and frowned. ¡± Furball and Riceball¡¯s injuries were caused by a spear.¡±


    ¡°A spear?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Is it man-made?¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that hunting was not allowed on the mountain of the Hidden Spirit Temple? She originally thought that they had been bitten by another ferocious beast.


    Song Jingchen nodded with a solemn expression. ¡°Spears are usually used in the army, and Furball isn¡¯t stupid. It won¡¯t attack people for no reason. Even if the other party wants to kill it and Furball knows that it can¡¯t beat it, it will still run. But look at the number of wounds on their bodies.


    There were actually more than ten areas of various sizes covering his body. It wouldn¡¯t have happened unless he was surrounded by many people.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration. She wanted to know who did it to avenge Furball, but she couldn¡¯t think straight.


    ¡°I suspect Furball encountered a military team,¡± Song Jingchen said in a low voice.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously asked, ¡°Furball doesn¡¯t usually go down the mountain. Where did the army come from?¡±


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°That¡¯s right. Why would they encounter an army in the mountains?¡±


    ¡°Amitabha.¡±


    The abbot¡¯s voice sounded from outside the door.


    The two of them looked at each other and turned to leave the wooden house.


    ¡°Young Master Song, Madam Song.¡± The abbot pressed his palms together and chanted another Buddhist proclamation. His gaze lingered on Shen Yijia¡¯s face for a second.


    The more he looked at her, the more he looked like her benefactor.


    Song Jingchen returned the greeting. ¡°Thank you for sending someone to inform me, but did you see the person who attacked them?¡±


    As he asked, his gaze landed on the abbot¡¯s monk robe. Something had clearly torn off a part of it.


    The abbot followed his gaze and the corners of his mouth twitched. He casually lifted the foot of his robe to cover that area.


    ¡°A monk doesn¡¯t lie. I didn¡¯t see any thieves,¡± the abbot said.


    ¡°Then where did you discover Furball?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The couple looked like they were interrogating a criminal, but he didn¡¯t seem to feel anything.


    The abbot continued to wear a benevolent expression. ¡°Amitabha, I saw it first. When I rushed over, I saw the white tiger dragging the other one into the wooden house. I originally wanted my Junior Brother, who knows a little about the Qihuang technique, to go in and take a look, but unfortunately, the white tiger guarded the door and didn¡¯t let us approach.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you know that the tiger was raised by my wife?¡± Song Jingchen continued to ask.


    The abbot paused and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Don¡¯t you know why I know?¡± he thought.


    The first time they met, she killed a bunch of fish in the pool with that tiger.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her nose and whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, abbot.¡±


    The abbot said, ¡°Amitabha.¡±


    It did not matter if he was magnanimous or not. What was important was that this Release Pool had already been taken over by Xuanyuan Ce.


    Then, the abbot got someone to call over the first monk who had seen Furball and Riceball.


    However, he only saw a white tiger dragging another one out of the 500 meters forest when he was cleaning the back mountain. He did not know anything else.


    He had cleaned up the bloodstains on the ground, but the ones in the forest were still there.


    Looking at the large amount of blood left behind after being dragged, the anger in Shen Yijia¡¯s heart rose steadily, and her teeth ground together.


    Song Jingchen squeezed her hand comfortingly. ¡°Let¡¯s see if we can find any useful clues first.¡±


    Furball had already swallowed the spiritual liquid, so there was no need to worry about its life..

 Chapter 683 - Chapter 683: Major Discovery (1)

    Chapter 683: Major Discovery (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Apart from the occasional rustling of leaves in the wind, there was only the clicking of feet on branches and the clear breathing of the two people in the deep mountains.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia followed the bloodstains on the ground and finally stopped at a mountain stream under a cliff.


    The blood stopped here.


    Shen Yijia looked up. ¡°Could Furball and Riceball have fallen from above?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible, but we can¡¯t rule out the possibility that they came through the mountain stream,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face fell. ¡°Then what should we do now?¡±


    The mountain was so huge. It would have been fine if there was a general direction, but now, there was no blood that could guide them. Not to mention the two of them, it would probably be difficult to find even if they asked for the help of all the monks of the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Song Jingchen suddenly looked in a certain direction and said softly, ¡°Someone¡¯s here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She focused and listened carefully. As expected, footsteps were coming in their direction from the other end of the mountain stream.


    From the sound of it, many people had come.


    When the old monk asked if they needed help, her beautiful husband had already refused, so it was clearly impossible for these people to be from the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She rolled up her sleeves and was about to fight when something tightened around her waist.


    Song Jingchen tapped the ground and flew up to the treetop with her in his arms.


    Shen Yijia immediately understood and silently retracted her foot that was still raised. She imitated Song Jingchen and held her breath.


    Not long after, more than ten men dressed as woodcutters appeared in their line of sight.


    It seemed like they were in disguise.


    What kind of woodcutter could hold a spear in each hand and emit a strong smell of blood?


    It wasn¡¯t that they were stained with blood, but they had killed too many people. The kind of aura that seeped into their bones.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. She was certain that these people were the ones who almost killed Furball.


    ¡°Damn it, I clearly saw those two animals fall. Where did they go?¡± The man in front could not help but curse.


    Another man retorted, ¡°Did they run? Those two animals were seriously injured and fell from such a high place. How can they have the ability to run?¡± ¡°Could they have been washed down by the water?¡± someone asked.


    The man who cursed slapped the back of his head. ¡°Don¡¯t you believe me when I say that you¡¯re stupid? How can such a small stream of water wash away the two animals? Look around. They might have fallen and crawled elsewhere. That animal is full of good things. If we find it and bring it back to the boss, everyone will benefit.¡±


    After saying that, he said regretfully, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that those two animals are too fierce. We broke their skin.


    The man who was beaten shrank back and swallowed his guess that they might have been eaten by another ferocious beast.


    It had been more than half a night since the two animals fell. Actually, he felt that this was very likely.


    They kept calling them animals. If Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know Shen Yijia too well, she would have jumped down and minced these people into meat paste.


    Shen Yijia bit Song Jingchen¡¯s lapel and barely held back her anger. It was impossible for her to bite down on flesh. She couldn¡¯t bear to.


    ¡°Oh no, those bloodstains!¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen froze at the same time, clearly thinking of something.


    They held their breaths and looked over. When they were about to reach the place with blood, birds suddenly chirped in the forest and stopped after three short times.


    The dozen or so people instantly froze on the spot as if they had been cast with an Immobilizing Spell.


    The birds chirped again, the same three times, more urgently than before.


    ¡°Oh no, Young Master is here. Hurry up and return to the camp.¡± Someone shouted, and the dozen or so people ran in the direction they came from as if they were being chased by ghosts.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia, wanting to remind her that he was prepared to follow them.


    However, before he could speak, Shen Yijia nodded in understanding. She hugged Song Jingchen with her hands and feet and hung herself in front of him.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    These people were clearly very familiar with the terrain here. They turned left and right in the forest and disappeared in the blink of an eye. Song Jingchen quickly used his qinggong to follow. You Yi, who had been neglected by Shen Yijia for a long time, also followed silently.


    They ran too loudly, temporarily covering the sound of the three tails behind them.


    About half an hour later, a magical scene happened. The people who were clearly not far in front of him a moment ago disappeared in the blink of an eye..

 Chapter 684 - Chapter 684: Major Discovery (2)

    Chapter 684: Major Discovery (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    However, in front of them was clearly a stone wall that reached into the clouds.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Would they pass through the wall?


    ¡°It¡¯s just a smokescreen.¡± Song Jingchen landed in front of the stone wall with Shen Yijia.


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that there was a winding mountain path hidden in the middle of the stone wall.


    The entrance of the mountain path formed an arc, and the protruding cliff wall perfectly matched the outermost stone wall. If one did not look closely, they would only think of it as a complete stone wall.


    There were no signs of artificial work on it at all. Shen Yijia could not help but sigh at the workmanship of nature.


    The two of them looked at each other and were about to enter the mountain path when a black shadow jumped out from behind them. They deliberately paused halfway, as if afraid that they would be too fast for the two of them to see who he was.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. You Yi was clearly trying to atone for his crimes.


    She snorted. ¡°How dare you pick me up and throw me!¡± she thought.


    No one knew what was on the other side of the mountain path. Song Jingchen thought for a moment and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    After You Yi sent back a safe signal, the two of them passed through the mountain path and saw rows of tents.


    In the middle of the tent was a huge training ground. There were at least tens of thousands of soldiers standing on the training grounds.


    For a moment, Shen Yijia even had the illusion that she had returned to Qilin


    Mountain. The only difference was that these people looked richer than the Qilin Army. Not to mention anything else, just the armor they were wearing was comparable to the imperial army.


    From time to time, soldiers in black and soldiers with spears patrolled the surroundings. Song Jingchen carefully avoided their gazes with Shen Yijia.


    At this moment, a man in white walked onto the high platform in front of the training grounds surrounded by a few people. A uniform voice instantly sounded from the training grounds.


    ¡°Greetings, Young Master.¡±


    They were a little far away, so they couldn¡¯t hear what the man in white said. They saw more than a dozen men being dragged onto the platform by soldiers.


    They were currently behind the platform. Including the white-robed man, the dozen or so people had their backs facing them.


    However, even though their faces could not be seen clearly, Shen Yijia could tell at a glance that it was the group of people they had seen just now.


    It was because they had yet to change their clothes. They were probably caught before they could change.


    It was probably the man in white who was lecturing. The training grounds were silent.


    Shen Yijia pricked up her ears and listened carefully, but she could not hear the man in white¡¯s voice. Just as she was feeling anxious, a cold voice suddenly entered her ears.


    ¡°Attack!¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked and looked up. She saw the man in white pull out the sword at the waist of the person beside him.


    The dozen or so people fell to the ground with their throats cut before they could even beg for mercy.


    ¡°F*ck, who is this person? Why is he so ferocious?¡± she thought.


    However, did this count as indirectly avenging Furball? However, that group of people was obviously a part of this group.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s mind went blank. Her enemy had died before she could take revenge. Where could she find someone to reason with?


    ¡°Why is my beautiful husband silent?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia turned around and realized that Song Jingchen¡¯s expression was very ugly. His phoenix eyes seemed to contain an endless storm as he stared fixedly at the man in white on the platform.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia called out softly.


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes and let go of his clenched fists. He pursed his lips and didn¡¯t say anything. Instead, he wrapped his arm around her and avoided the guards before walking to the side of the platform.


    Coincidentally, the man in white seemed to have finished reprimanding them. He turned around and prepared to walk down the platform from the other side, leaving them with only his back view.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you turn around?¡± she muttered through gritted teeth.


    As soon as he finished speaking, the man in white suddenly stopped and turned around.


    Shen Yijia was delighted. When she saw the man¡¯s appearance clearly, she exclaimed, ¡°Why is it him?¡±


    After saying that, she thought of something and quickly covered her mouth. She turned to look at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression.


    As expected, her beautiful husband¡¯s eyes turned even colder.


    Shen Yijia blinked. He had already recognized the man just now, but he just wanted to confirm it.


    That was true. Although her beautiful husband did not say it, it was obvious that the two of them were very familiar with each other. It was not surprising that they could recognize each other from the back.


    On the high platform, the white-robed man was instructing the person behind him when he suddenly looked up.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and quickly pulled Song Jingchen to hide behind the bushes. She patted her chest in fear. ¡°Fortunately, I dodged quickly. Otherwise, we would have been discovered..¡±

 Chapter 685 - Chapter 685: Major Discovery (3)

    Chapter 685: Major Discovery (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Before she could finish, Song Jingchen quickly retreated with her in his arms.


    In the next moment, an arrow pierced firmly into the place where they were just now.


    Shen Yijia suddenly looked over and saw that the man in white was still in the posture of drawing his bow. He was staring coldly in their direction.


    ¡°F*ck, doesn¡¯t he not know martial arts?¡±


    Moreover, there was some cover in front of them. He shouldn¡¯t be able to see them, right?


    But what was going on with the group of soldiers running over from the training grounds?


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia and was about to leave when a black shadow appeared and blocked their way.


    Was this the time to fight? There were tens of thousands of people below.


    Shen Yijia was about to ask You Yi to run away when she saw the struggling rabbit in his arms. She held her forehead. ¡°If you want to eat meat, I¡¯ll make it


    for you when we get home. Let it go quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze shifted. He took a few steps forward and took the rabbit from You Yi¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Young Master, it¡¯s a rabbit,¡± a middle-aged man who looked like a general said.


    The white-robed man glanced at the rabbit, who was still alive after being nailed to the ground by the arrow. He said coldly, ¡°This is your reward.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Young Master.¡± The middle-aged man happily picked up the rabbit on the ground and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve long heard that Young Master¡¯s archery skills are flawless. Seeing you today, you¡¯re indeed extraordinary.¡±


    Another person continued, ¡°To think that those people only know how to praise the skills of the Song family. I think they¡¯ve never seen Young Master attack, or they wouldn¡¯t spout such nonsense.¡±


    ¡°Haha, General Xiong is right. That Song fellow is not even worthy of carrying Young Master¡¯s shoes.¡±


    The man in white frowned. The few people who were flattering him immediately stopped.


    The man in white said coldly, ¡°Everyone, go and collect your punishment.¡±


    With that, he was about to turn around and leave when he noticed something. He stopped in his tracks and squatted down to pry open the withered grass in front of him. A round golden bead was sitting there quietly.


    The white-robed man¡¯s eyes narrowed. He picked up the golden bead and took out a pouch. He poured out a bead.


    He had picked this up the day he entered Rui Manor after the assassin attacked.


    When the two beads were placed together, they were exactly the same in terms of workmanship and size.


    The man in white narrowed his eyes and instructed, ¡°Gather all the generals in my tent for a meeting immediately.¡±


    The people present looked at each other, not understanding what had happened, but they quickly ran to call for help.


    The man in white looked at the two golden pearls in his hand with a complicated expression.


    Most of the madams and young ladies in the capital liked to embroider pearls and other decorations on their shoes.


    However, he had only seen one person with golden beads so far!


    After coming out of the mountain path, the two of them were speechless for a


    moment. Shen Yijia was too shocked. She did not expect a person who usually looked gentle and elegant to hide such malice so well.


    As for Song Jingchen.


    Shen Yijia glanced at him carefully. She more or less knew why he was like this.


    Although he had his doubts in the past, his doubts were not directed at anyone, but at all the descendants of the royal family.


    For example, everyone knew that Shangguan Heng was the most ignorant and incompetent of all the emperor¡¯s sons, but Song Jingchen suspected him a lot. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have sent someone to look for him after he sneaked out of the capital.


    Among the lords, that person was the one Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to blame.


    Shen Yijia sighed.


    In order to prevent anyone from finding the Hidden Spirit Temple through the bloodstains left behind by Furball and Riceball, the two of them cleaned up the mess when they returned. When they returned to the Hidden Spirit Temple, it was already past noon.


    They were originally prepared to entrust Furball to the abbot to help take care of it and immediately go down the mountain to return to the capital. Unexpectedly, they had just seen the abbot and did not have the time to speak.


    The abbot said, ¡°Little girl, you¡¯re finally back. Hurry up and take a look at that white tiger.¡±


    He looked so anxious that he even forgot to recite the Buddhist name.


    ¡°It has a name. It¡¯s called Riceball,¡± Shen Yijia corrected him. Without delay, she quickly entered the wooden house with Song Jingchen.


    In the wooden house, Riceball lay in a corner and stared fixedly at the old monk who was about to extend his demonic claws at it. It kept letting out low and warning tiger roars.


    ¡°What do you want to do with it?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She roared and grabbed the old monk¡¯s collar, preparing to throw him out.


    ¡°Stop quickly.¡± The abbot ran in and hurriedly said, ¡°Little girl, you¡¯ve misunderstood. My Junior Brother is saving Riceball.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and looked suspiciously at the old monk, who was trembling in fear.


    Riceball did not quiet down at all because of Shen Yijia¡¯s arrival. The entire tiger looked anxious and kept twisting its body.


    ¡°Amitabha.¡± The old monk chanted a Buddhist proclamation. ¡°The Buddha is merciful, white tiger.¡±


    Shen Yijia was impatient. ¡°Speak human language.¡±


    The old monk said, ¡°The white tiger is about to give birth.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Riceball was indeed about to give birth, but because it was too seriously injured and had lost too much blood, its stamina was exhausted.


    The spiritual liquid had yet to heal its injuries, so the tiger cub could not be born.


    At first, the abbot did not know what was wrong with it. He only confirmed this when he called his Junior Brother, who was more knowledgeable in this.


    The old monk wanted to help Riceball, but Riceball did not let him get close at all, so Shen Yijia saw this scene.


    After knowing the cause and effect, Shen Yijia rubbed her nose guiltily. ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Fortunately, she did not really attack him. Otherwise, this old monk would have fallen apart.


    The old monk pressed his palms together. ¡°Amitabha. Buddha is merciful. Benefactor, Patron, you don¡¯t have to apologize to me. Let¡¯s help the white tiger tide through this crisis first.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°You don¡¯t look anxious.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia thought that with her around, it would be easy to comfort Riceball, but she didn¡¯t expect Riceball to be even more guarded than usual. Apart from her, no one else was allowed to approach, including Song Jingchen.


    However, Shen Yijia no longer had any spiritual liquid. She did not know how to help it at all. No matter how hard she tried to persuade it, it was useless.


    Furball slowly woke up and howled at it. Only then did Riceball quiet down and allow the old monk to approach, but the premise was that Shen Yijia had to be present.


    Giving birth was not something that could be done in a short period of time. Moreover, not only was Riceball weak, but the baby tiger was also born prematurely.


    After it gave birth, it would probably be dark outside. Shen Yijia wanted Song Jingchen to go down the mountain first, but knowing that there was an army on the mountain, Song Jingchen was worried about leaving her alone.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She suspected that her beautiful husband was afraid that she would put a sack on that person, but she had no evidence..

 Chapter 686 - Chapter 686: Sealing the City Gate (1)

    Chapter 686: Sealing the City Gate (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    What Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know was that not long after noon, assassins entered the palace.


    It was fine if someone dared to barge into the palace in broad daylight with the intention of assassinating the emperor, but there were so many imperial guards who let the assassin escape.


    The emperor was furious and immediately issued a decree to seal the city gate, preventing anyone from entering or leaving. He ordered the city guards to search for the assassins from house to house and threw Lin Mu and all the imperial guards on duty today into the prison.


    If not for Eunuch Li¡¯s persuasion, the emperor would have almost gotten someone to chop Lin Mu up on the spot for failing to protect him.


    ¡°Your Majesty, His Highness Lord Xian requests an audience.¡± The young eunuch¡¯s voice sounded outside the imperial study.


    The emperor snatched the porcelain bottle from Eunuch Li¡¯s hand in a hurry. He poured out the pills inside and stuffed them into his mouth.


    Eunuch Li quickly handed over a cup of tea respectfully.


    The emperor shoved his teacup to the ground impatiently and said in a low voice, ¡°Summon him.¡± ¡°Lord Xian, enter the hall.¡±


    Not long after, Shangguan Yu entered the imperial study.


    He bowed. ¡°Greetings, Father.¡±


    The emperor changed his previous anger and looked up. ¡°Second Prince, why did you enter the palace today?¡±


    ¡°I heard that Father was attacked and was worried about Father¡¯s health,¡± he said.


    The emperor waved his hand. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Shangguan Yu lowered his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s good that Father is fine. In that case, I can rest assured.¡±


    The emperor nodded. ¡°That¡¯s very thoughtful of you.¡±


    Then, the emperor asked about the imperial examination.


    Shangguan Yu said, ¡°I was about to tell Father about this. Regarding the chief examiners, I¡¯m interested in Assistant Zhang from the Hanlin Academy, Minister Chen from the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs, Old Master Zhao from the Censorate, and Minister Lu from the Ministry of Revenue.¡±


    The people he mentioned were all important figures in the imperial court, especially the elders of the two dynasties, Scholar Zhang and Elder Zhao.


    Apart from that, there were also officials from Lord Rui¡¯s faction and royalists.


    Putting aside the royal faction for the time being, there were only two adult princes in the capital now. One of them would have to become the crown prince. Lord Xian was willing to include the officials from Lord Rui¡¯s faction. It could be seen that he had no selfish motives.


    The emperor was very satisfied. ¡°Then let them enter the palace to see me tomorrow.¡±


    Indeed, among all his sons, Lord Xian was the most filial and reassuring.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The father and son talked about other matters in the court.


    Throughout the entire process, the emperor spoke to Shangguan Yu calmly. Eunuch Li glanced at the emperor.


    After so many days, he realized that as long as Lord Xian was present, the emperor did not seem to be angry.


    About an hour later, Shangguan Yu came out of the imperial study.


    Seeing that he was standing in front of the imperial study without moving,


    Lianshan asked, ¡°Your Highness, are we leaving the palace?¡±


    Shangguan Yu retracted his gaze and shook his head. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen Mother in a long time. Let¡¯s go to Weiyang Palace.¡±


    Lianshan was stunned and quickly followed.


    Weiyang Palace had a small kitchen. The small kitchen was not big and was even a little dilapidated. It had been cleaned up by Su Yun. However, because there were no ingredients, it was usually used to boil water.


    Early this morning, Song Li packed up the few things that were worth some money and personally went to look for the guard at the door to exchange for a bag of flour and two eggs.


    After the Song family¡¯s rebellion, everyone thought that it was time for her to move out of the Cold Palace. Even the guards guarding the palace were very attentive for a few days.


    Unexpectedly, the emperor restored the Song family¡¯s title, but there was still no imperial edict to restore the position of Empress Song Li, so these people¡¯s desire to please her faded.


    However, they did not dare to ignore her as usual.


    When she heard that she only wanted a bag of flour and a few eggs, the guard symbolically took a hairpin and sent the things she wanted.


    There were countless rats in the Cold Palace. Su Yun specially caught a few and locked them in small cages.


    Every day, she would first pick out some of the food sent in from outside and feed it to the rats. After confirming that there was no problem with the rats, she dared to send it to her young lady.


    It was the same today. As soon as she got the flour, she took a bowl and prepared to mix it with water to feed the rats.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. They won¡¯t do anything to me now.¡± Song Li shook her head helplessly. She found a larger basin and prepared to knead the noodles.


    With Brother Chen around, anyone with a brain would know that things were different now. How could they dare to harm her?


    Su Yun felt that it made sense and carried the bowl to feed the rats.


    Song Li was speechless.


    When Shangguan Yu arrived, he could see smoke rising from above a certain house from afar. It was different from the desolation he had seen every time he came here. It added a few pyrotechnic smells to this deathly silent palace..

 Chapter 687 - Chapter 687: Sealing the City Gate (2)

    Chapter 687: Sealing the City Gate (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He subconsciously walked in the direction of the rising smoke. Just as he reached the door, he saw the master and servant busy in the small kitchen.


    Su Yun sat on a small stool behind the stove and started the fire. Song Li stood in front of the stove and skillfully pulled the noodles into strips.


    Song Li had been pampered since she was young. After entering the palace, she was an extremely noble empress. How could she have the chance to cook personally? However, at this moment, her movements were fluid, as if she had repeated it countless times.


    The water in the pot bubbled. Song Li looked up. ¡°Su Yun, don¡¯t add firewood first. ¡±


    Halfway through her sentence, she paused and looked in the direction of the door. When she saw who it was, her eyes were filled with surprise. ¡°Yu¡¯er?¡±


    Shangguan Yu came back to his senses and cupped his hands. He called out gently, ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here today?¡± After asking, she reached out to help Shangguan Yu up. When she noticed that her hands were covered in flour, she retracted them. Before he could speak, she continued, ¡°But you came at the right time today.¡±


    ¡°Su Yun, bring His Highness to the house to sit first. I¡¯ll be done soon,¡± she instructed.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Su Yun stood up with a smile and invited Shangguan Yu to the main hall. She poured him a glass of hot water. ¡°Your Highness, drink some hot water to warm yourself up first.¡±


    Shangguan Yu thanked her warmly and said casually, ¡°Mother seems to be much better.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Su Yun smiled and nodded. She sighed. ¡°Ever since the Song family was rehabilitated, Miss¡¯s health has been improving day by day. In my opinion, when she¡¯s in a good mood, her illness will naturally recover.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes flickered. He picked up his tea and took a sip. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    Not long after, Song Li came in with a bowl of hot noodles with two eggs on it.


    She placed the noodles in front of Shangguan Yu. Seeing his puzzled expression, her heart ached a little. ¡°Today is your birthday. Have you forgotten again?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, you don¡¯t know, but Miss woke up early in the morning to work on this bowl of longevity noodles. I was just worried that the person serving you didn¡¯t prepare it for you. I didn¡¯t expect Your Highness to come to


    Weiyang Palace. Isn¡¯t it because mother and son are connected?¡± Su Yun teased.


    ¡°You talk too much,¡± Song Li rebuked. She stuffed the chopsticks into Shangguan Yu¡¯s hand. ¡°Quickly try Mother¡¯s cooking and see if it has deteriorated.¡±


    In the past, Song Li naturally did not know how to cook. However, Shangguan Yu wanted to eat the longevity noodles she made when he was young, so she promised to make them for him every year.


    Noticing the red mark on the back of her hand, Shangguan Yu was adrift. He thought of something and secretly exerted strength in his grip on his chopsticks. He looked up at Song Li. ¡°Mother, have you forgotten something?¡± Song Li did not react for a moment.


    Shangguan Yu smiled and said, ¡°Mother said that she has to eat longevity noodles with me every year.¡±


    Song Li rebuked, ¡°How old are you?¡±


    Although she said that, she still asked Su Yun to get a set of cutlery.


    She picked out a few noodles from Shangguan Yu¡¯s bowl and urged, ¡°Alright, eat quickly. It won¡¯t taste good if it gets lumpy.¡±


    Shangguan Yu smiled and picked up a poached egg and placed it in Song Li¡¯s bowl. Then, he lowered his head and ate the noodles. He ate the bowl of noodles very cleanly, not leaving any gravy behind.


    Song Li was happy, but she said, ¡°Why are you still like when you were young?


    Whether it¡¯s delicious or not, you always eat everything.¡±


    She remembered the first time she cooked longevity noodles. Little Shangguan Yu said that it was delicious and praised her, saying that his mother was too amazing.


    She did not believe it. After tasting the rest of the pot, she realized that it was not cooked at all. That night, Little Shangguan Yu had a stomachache.


    Song Li blamed herself. The little fellow lay on the bed and comforted her. ¡°Mother¡¯s longevity noodles are the best in the world. Yu¡¯er had a stomachache because he ate the jelly beans given by Eunuch Liu from the imperial kitchen, so it has nothing to do with Mother.¡±


    After saying that, perhaps afraid that she would punish the Eunuch surnamed Liu, he explained pitifully, ¡°Yu¡¯er asked him for the jelly beans. Mother, don¡¯t blame him, okay?¡±


    How could Song Li not tell that the little guy did not want her to feel guilty? Her heart softened. Naturally, she agreed.


    Seeing that she was so easy to talk to, Little Shangguan Yu took the opportunity to suggest that he eat the longevity noodles cooked by his mother every year in the future.


    Worried that this would happen again, Song Li got someone to start the fire in the small kitchen of Kunning Palace the next day. From time to time, she would take the time to practice inside.


    She said that she wanted to eat with him because she was afraid that there would be another situation. Every time she finished cooking the noodles, she would taste them herself to make sure that there was no problem before daring to let him eat them..

 Chapter 688 - Chapter 688: Sealing the City Gate (3)

    Chapter 688: Sealing the City Gate (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Yu clearly remembered the past. His lowered eyelashes trembled and he said hoarsely, ¡°The longevity noodles Mother cooked are the best in the world. I naturally have to finish them.¡±


    Song Li smiled. ¡°It¡¯s good that you like it. I¡¯ll make it for you next year.¡±


    Shangguan Yu tightened his grip and suddenly stood up.


    Song Li was stunned.


    Shangguan Yu composed himself and took out a small round porcelain box from his pocket and placed it on the table. ¡°This is the jade congealing ointment I found outside the palace. It¡¯s good for frostbite. Mother, remember to apply it every day.¡±


    As he spoke, he looked at Song Li¡¯s hand. Apart from the burn on the back of her hand, her index finger was also very red and swollen.


    The first time he had an advanced fever when he was young, Song Li wanted to lower his temperature, but she was afraid that the ice would freeze him, so she covered the ice with her hand and placed her cold hand on his forehead.


    This repeated. His advanced fever subsided, but Song Li¡¯s hand also developed problems from then on.


    Every winter, it would be extremely itchy, red and swollen. If it was serious, the skin would even crack.


    Shangguan Yu seemed to have been scalded. He retracted his gaze and pursed his lips. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll visit you another day.¡±


    This time, Song Li also sensed that he had something on his mind. She sighed and instructed, ¡°Su Yun, send Yu¡¯er off.¡±


    Su Yun agreed and followed Shangguan Yu out of the main hall.


    ¡°Fortunately, His Highness remembers. Otherwise, Miss would have suffered again.¡±


    Shangguan Yu smiled bitterly. ¡°Mother did it for me.¡±


    Before he could finish, a violent sound suddenly came from a room beside him. Shangguan Yu paused.


    ¡°It¡¯s Imperial Concubine Liu.¡± Su Yun explained in a low voice, ¡°Ever since she entered this cold palace, she has been running to the door all day demanding to see His Majesty. When she heard that Lord Jing was gone, she became crazy. The guards were annoyed by her, so they locked her in the house and didn¡¯t let her out.¡±


    ¡°Then won¡¯t she disturb Mother¡¯s rest?¡± Shangguan Yu asked worriedly. Su Yun shook her head indifferently. ¡°It¡¯s fine. She is able to rest if she¡¯s tired.¡±


    Shangguan Yu nodded in understanding. Coincidentally, they had arrived at the entrance of Weiyang Palace. He stopped in his tracks. ¡°Aunt Su Yun, go back. I¡¯ll have to trouble you to take care of Mother.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡± After thinking for a moment, Su Yun continued, ¡°If His Highness has anything troubling him, you can tell Miss. Although Miss can¡¯t go out yet, she¡¯s still His Highness¡¯s mother. Just like when His Highness was young, even if she risked her life, Miss would protect His Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu clenched his fists under his sleeves and said gently, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Aunt Su Yun, go back quickly. Don¡¯t let Mother worry.¡±


    Su Yun glanced at him and bowed.


    Shangguan Yu lowered his eyes and turned to leave Weiyang Palace.


    Lianshan had been waiting outside. When he saw him come out, he quickly went up to him. ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    Shangguan Yu did not even look at him and strode away.


    Lianshan was stunned for a moment before quickly following.


    There was a small path outside Weiyang Palace. On both sides of the path were rockeries, and rarely anyone passed by.


    As soon as he walked into the path, Shangguan Yu¡¯s expression suddenly changed. He held onto the rockery and vomited.


    Lianshan was shocked and quickly went over to help him. ¡°Your Highness, what¡¯s wrong? I¡¯ll call the imperial physician.¡±


    Shangguan Yu turned around and glanced at him coldly. Lianshan immediately fell silent.


    In Lianshan¡¯s memories, Shangguan Yu was magnanimous and never got angry. He was the best master.


    This was the first time he had seen such an expression on Shangguan Yu¡¯s face. Lianshan even thought that he had seen wrongly.


    Shangguan Yu spat out everything he had just eaten. He took out a handkerchief and wiped the corners of his mouth. He casually threw the handkerchief away and took out a piece to wipe his fingers carefully.


    Noticing that Lianshan was still in a daze, he asked emotionlessly, ¡°What did you see just now?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, you¡­¡± Halfway through his sentence, he realized something and quickly lowered his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything.¡±


    Shangguan Yu glanced at him. ¡°Clean up this place.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Lianshan heaved a sigh of relief. For some reason, he felt like he had survived a disaster.


    After leaving the palace, Shangguan Yu returned to the residence.


    There was a courtyard in Lord Xian¡¯s residence called the Sunset Moon. It looked like there was only one more building compared to the other courtyards. There were no guards at the door, but it could be considered a forbidden area in Lord Xian¡¯s residence.


    Apart from Shangguan Yu himself, almost no one had stepped foot inside. The servants arranged to sweep inside usually did not go out.


    After dismissing the servants, Shangguan Yu went straight to the building.


    There were three floors, and there was only one room on the top floor.


    Pushing open the door, one could see a memorial tablet inside. On it was written, ¡°The memorial tablet of my late mother, Nangong Xia.¡±


    At this moment, a middle-aged man was standing in front of the memorial tablet with his hands behind his back.


    Shangguan Yu paused and walked forward to ask, ¡®When did you come?¡± ¡°I just arrived.¡± The man did not turn around.


    Shangguan Yu did not say anything else. He took three incense sticks from the table and lit them. He knelt down and kowtowed three times on the futon in front of the offering table. Then, he inserted the incense into the incense burner.


    There were three other half-burnt incense sticks inside. It could be seen that the man was not lying. He had indeed just arrived..

 Chapter 689 - Chapter 689: Trap (1)

    Chapter 689: Trap (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I thought you¡¯d forgotten that today is the anniversary of your mother¡¯s death,¡± the man said in a low voice.


    Shangguan Yu lowered his eyes. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to forget.¡±


    The man sneered. ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you make a move when there was such a good opportunity previously? You could have killed him immediately.¡±


    He was referring to the time when Shangguan Pu imprisoned the emperor. At that time, if he secretly killed the emperor, Shangguan Pu would definitely take the opportunity to rise to power. They could naturally stand up and expose his crimes.


    ¡°Shangguan Qingyu was saved in advance. If I attack, I¡¯ll only fall into someone else¡¯s trap,¡± Shangguan Yu explained unhurriedly. ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate Song


    Jingchen.¡±


    Shangguan Qingyu was the emperor¡¯s name.


    ¡°Heh, how many forces does he have, and how many do you have?¡± The man flicked his sleeve and turned to look at Shangguan Yu, his face filled with disappointment. ¡°Did I underestimate him, or did you deliberately give him a chance to save someone?¡±


    Shangguan Yu said nothing.


    The man continued, ¡°Back then, you said that you wanted to find the private army in his hands and didn¡¯t let me kill him. In the end? The private army wasn¡¯t found, but it gave him a chance to make a comeback.¡±


    The man sighed and reached out to pat his shoulder. ¡°If you continue to be so indecisive, I¡¯ll have to do it myself like two years ago. You should know that everything you have now is given to you by me.¡±


    With that, the man walked around him and left. Halfway through, he stopped.


    ¡°I already know what happened today. You¡¯ve done well, but it¡¯s not enough.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Foster Father!¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten who killed your mother? Don¡¯t you want revenge anymore?¡±


    The man¡¯s expression was dark.


    Shangguan Yu clenched his fists. ¡°No. I¡¯ve never forgotten it.¡±


    ¡°Hong¡¯er, I taught you. I know you very well.¡± The man shook his head and continued, ¡°Forget it, she raised you after all. Since you can¡¯t bear to do it, let me do it for you this time. However, don¡¯t disappoint me again in the future.¡±


    Shangguan Yu looked up at the memorial tablet in front of him. Even after more than ten years, the name on it still felt unfamiliar to him. However, it was this person who gave birth to him at the cost of her life. His eyelashes fluttered. ¡°I understand.¡±


    The night was as dark as water. In the waterside pavilion, Shangguan Yu, who was dressed in white, was leaning against a soft couch. There were already many empty wine jars piled up beside the soft couch.


    Endless darkness swallowed his face, making it impossible to see his expression.


    Lianshan stood guard at the side, trembling from the cold.


    Seeing that another jar of wine was empty, he gritted his teeth and mustered his courage to go forward. ¡°Your Highness, you can¡¯t drink anymore.¡±


    Shangguan Yu waved him away and picked up another jar of wine. He said self-deprecatingly, ¡°One only remembers your birthday, while the other only remembers the death anniversary of your biological mother. Tell me, which one treats you more sincerely?¡±


    The wind was too strong, and his voice was too soft for Lianshan to hear clearly. However, he inexplicably felt that His Highness was too pitiful.


    Because of this thought, Lian Shan forgot about the gaze he had seen in the day. He snatched the wine jar from Shangguan Yu¡¯s hand and advised earnestly, ¡°Your Highness, you drank too much. I¡¯ll help you back to your room to rest.¡±


    When he realized what he¡¯d done, Lianshan¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and the wine jar in his hand became hot.


    Shangguan Yu did not react.


    Lianshan was stunned for a moment. He carefully looked over and saw that His Highness¡¯s eyes were closed. He had fallen asleep.


    He heaved an inexplicable sigh of relief and quickly got someone to send Shangguan Yu back to his room.


    Shangguan Yu had indeed drunk too much and had a dream that shouldn¡¯t have existed in his memories.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, I¡¯m Mother. Call me Mother.¡± In Kunning Palace, Song Li, who was wearing a phoenix robe, was teasing Little Shangguan Yu, who was learning how to speak.


    Little Shangguan Yu, who was sitting in the cradle, reached out for a long time but could not reach it. He called out incoherently, ¡®Mom.¡±


    Song Li laughed. ¡°Su Yun, listen quickly. Our Yu¡¯er knows how to call me


    Mother.¡±


    She deliberately raised the rattle drum higher to prevent Little Shangguan Yu from succeeding. ¡°Come, Yu¡¯er, call me Mother again.¡±


    Seeing her smile, Little Shangguan Yu also grinned and giggled. He waved his chubby hands and said cooperatively, ¡°Mom.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, why is our Yu¡¯er so obedient? I really cherish you.¡± Song Li laughed uncontrollably. She stuffed the rattle drum into Little Shangguan Yu¡¯s hand, picked him up, and kissed his face a few times..

 Chapter 690 - Chapter 690: Trap (2)

    Chapter 690: Trap (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Shangguan Yu followed suit and drooled all over her face.


    The entire Kunning Palace echoed with the laughter of the mother and son.


    The scene flashed. They were still in Kunning Palace. At that time, Song Li had gone from an ignorant girl to a dignified and gentle empress. She was also pregnant with her own child.


    The three-year-old Shangguan Yu ran in crying. ¡°Mother, why did Eldest


    Brother say that I didn¡¯t come out of your stomach? Are you still my mother?¡±


    Song Li pulled the little child into her arms and carefully wiped the tears off his face with a handkerchief. She said gently, ¡°Yu¡¯er, remember this. Whether you¡¯re my biological child or not, you¡¯re still my child.¡±


    Little Shangguan Yu sniffed and asked, ¡°Is it the same as the brother in your stomach?¡±


    Song Li handed the handkerchief to Su Yun and rubbed Little Shangguan Yu¡¯s head. ¡°Of course. You¡¯re the most important person to me, just like him.¡±


    Su Yun smiled and said, ¡°Her Majesty, look. Even His Highness said that the child in your stomach is a little prince. I can¡¯t be wrong.¡±


    Song Li didn¡¯t really care if it was a boy or a girl, but she still asked cooperatively, ¡°Yu¡¯er, do you want a younger brother or sister?¡±


    Little Shangguan Yu stopped crying. He raised his chin and patted his chest. ¡°A brother, Yu¡¯er can protect him in the future.¡±


    Big Brother always told him that he was about to have a younger brother, so lwanted one too!


    ¡°Alright. Yu¡¯er, protect your brother. Mother will protect the both of you.¡±


    Little Shangguan Yu frowned. ¡°Then wouldn¡¯t it be hard on Mother? It¡¯s bettel for Yu¡¯er to protect Mother.¡±


    ¡°What about your brother?¡± Song Li teased.


    Little Shangguan Yu was stumped by the question. He thought for a long time before saying, ¡°Yu¡¯er has grown up and can protect two people. Mother is so


    silly.¡±


    Song Li was amused by his vexed expression. She hugged him and kissed him


    The three-year-old child who ran back crying soon fell asleep in Song Li¡¯s arms.


    After instructing the nanny to carry the little child to his room, Song Li instantly stopped smiling and said coldly, ¡°Go and find out where Imperial Concubine Liu is.¡¯


    She couldn¡¯t argue with a child, so she could only find trouble with the child¡¯s mother.


    Su Yun glanced at her bulging stomach and hesitated for a long time. Thinkin of her young lady¡¯s temper, she went out to ask around.


    Imperial Concubine Liu was also pregnant at that time, so Song Li did not go overboard. She only reprimanded her and grounded her.


    Unexpectedly, the arrogant Imperial Concubine Liu was so angry that she had a miscarriage. She gave birth to a son prematurely.


    Because of the power of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, the emperor only dared to punish her by grounding her for half a month.


    Song Li issued a gag order to prevent these things from reaching Little Shangguan Yu¡¯s ears.


    A month later, Song Li really gave birth to a son.


    Hearing this good news, Little Shangguan Yu was extremely happy. He ignored the palace servants¡¯ obstruction and ran back to Kunning Palace.


    He ran until his face was red. When he fell, he got up on his own. By the time he reached the entrance of Kunning Palace, he had already turned into a little mud monkey.


    The Kunning Palace was very lively. The concubines of the various palaces were already waiting here. The emperor also sent a eunuch to announce the decree immediately. The little prince was conferred the title of crown prince.


    He did not know what the crown prince was, but seeing that everyone was so happy, he was also happy for his mother and brother, who he had yet to meet.


    Since they could not see the empress, everyone surrounded the servants of


    Kunning Palace and chatted festively. No one realized that he had returned.


    Little Shangguan Yu stood at the entrance of Kunning Palace and suddenly felt a little aggrieved.


    He lowered his head and realized that his palm had been scraped.


    He wanted to tell his mother. Her heart would definitely ache for him and she would carefully apply the medicine for him.


    Little Shangguan Yu prepared to slip into the palace.


    Su Yun¡¯s sharp eyes noticed him. ¡°Your Highness, Her Majesty has just given birth to a younger brother and is tired. You can¡¯t go in and disturb her.¡±


    Since his mother was tired, he could not let her discover that he was injured. Otherwise, she would definitely not be able to rest peacefully.


    Little Shangguan Yu quickly hid his hand behind his back and blinked his watery eyes. ¡°Then Aunt Su Yun, can I go and see Brother?¡±


    ¡°No, Brother is also asleep.¡± Looking at the people entering and leaving, Su Yun summoned a eunuch and instructed, ¡°Send His Second Highness back to the upper study.¡±


    She made this arrangement because she was worried that there would be too many people and the palace servants would not be able to take care of him.


    However, in Little Shangguan Yu¡¯s opinion, Aunt Su Yun, who had always doted on him, could not even see that he was dirty. She even wanted to chase him away.


    He did not want to go back. He shook off the palace maid¡¯s hand and ran away, hiding in the rockery alone..

 Chapter 691 - Chapter 691: Trap (3)

    Chapter 691: Trap (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°His Highness is so pitiful. It¡¯s fine if he acknowledges a thief as his mother, but at least he can be considered a legitimate son under the empress¡¯s name. He¡¯ll have a chance to sit in that position in the future. However, now that the empress has given birth to her son, won¡¯t he have no chance at all?¡±


    ¡°Shh! Lower your voice. Do you want to die?¡±


    ¡°I know. I¡¯m just telling you.¡±


    He heard the palace servants discussing him, but he did not know what it meant to acknowledge a thief as his mother.


    However, he felt that it was not a good thing. He went to ask the Grand Tutor, who said that this was not something he wanted to learn now.


    Later on, he knew what it meant at the wrong age.


    Because there was another person by his side, that person told him, ¡°The Empress wasn¡¯t able to get pregnant a few years ago, but she didn¡¯t dare to set her sights on Noble Consort Liu, so she targeted your biological mother¡¯s stomach.¡±


    He said, ¡°Your biological mother was killed by the empress.¡±


    Little Shangguan Yu¡¯s face turned red. He clenched his fists and roared at that person, ¡°You¡¯re lying. She clearly treats me as well as Fifth Brother!¡± Apart from not giving him the position of crown prince.


    But the man added, ¡°Because she feels guilty. She¡¯s atoning for her sins.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. Mother isn¡¯t that kind of person.¡±


    That person sneered. ¡°There¡¯s a palace maid called Hong Xing in the laundry bureau who used to work for your biological mother. If Your Highness doesn¡¯t believe me, you can ask her yourself.¡±


    That was the first time he had tortured a servant. It was also then that he found out.


    When his biological mother was about to give birth, the empress got someone to feed her a bowl of soup to speed up the delivery, causing her to bleed to death.


    He acknowledged a thief as his mother!


    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡±


    Shangguan Yu suddenly sat up and realized that his entire body was drenched in cold sweat.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Lianshan¡¯s voice came from outside the door.


    It took Shangguan Yu a long time to suppress the lingering palpitations in his dream. He said with a dark expression, ¡°Go and rest. I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, Shangguan Yu, who was dressed in black, left his residence without alerting anyone.


    He nimbly jumped onto the cold roof and used his qinggong to head straight for the palace.


    Soon, he landed on the roof of a desolate hall in the 500 meters of Weiyang Palace.


    Looking around, he noticed a faint fire somewhere.


    Shangguan Yu frowned and quietly approached.


    It was the empress and Su Yun!


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s pupils constricted when he saw what they were burning.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er has grown up. Her eyes are very similar to yours. Unfortunately, you¡¯ll never see them again.¡±


    ¡°Miss.¡±


    ¡°Do you think she¡¯ll blame me?¡±


    ¡°Miss, don¡¯t think too much. If you raise His Highness, Concubine Li will definitely be grateful to you.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Song Li did not comment. She threw the remaining paper money in her hand into the brazier, stood up, and instructed, ¡°Pack up. Don¡¯t let anyone see it.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The darkness enveloped Shangguan Yu¡¯s figure. He tried his best to suppress his trembling and stared fixedly at the master and servant who left.


    Apart from his childhood, he had also found a lot of evidence over the years. However, no amount of evidence could make him as angry as what he heard today.


    Shangguan Yu clenched his fists and jumped onto the roof angrily, preparing to leave.


    At this moment, a soft sedan stopped at the entrance of Weiyang Palace. The eunuch handed the token given by the emperor to the guards.


    The guard did not dare to ask further and opened the door.


    Shangguan Yu turned to leave, but Song Li¡¯s words from the day sounded in his mind.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you like it. I¡¯ll make it for you next year.¡±


    Shangguan Yu paused. Seeing that the group of people was getting closer and closer to the main hall where Song Li lived, his fingers moved subconsciously.


    A man in black suddenly appeared and grabbed his wrist.


    ¡°Young Master, the general wants you to go back.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes turned cold. He clenched his fists and did not attack in the end.


    ¡°His Majesty is calling for me at this hour?¡±


    Song Li looked suspiciously at the group of eunuchs in front of her.


    ¡°Yes, His Majesty even specially asked me to prepare a soft sedan chair. It¡¯s already waiting outside the hall,¡± the eunuch in the lead said respectfully.


    Song Li sneered. ¡°Who am I? What kind of place is this?¡±


    ¡°You¡­ This¡­


    ¡°You don¡¯t know? Then let me tell you.¡± Song Li leaned back lazily and mocked, ¡°I¡¯m a deposed empress. This is the Cold Palace. If His Majesty wants someone to serve him, isn¡¯t this the wrong place?¡±


    The head eunuch wiped his sweat and smiled awkwardly. ¡°Look at what you¡¯re saying, Your Majesty. The truth of what happened back then was revealed. Lord An Le didn¡¯t plot a rebellion, so Your Majesty is naturally innocent. His Majesty actually asked us to come here to bring Your Majesty out of the Cold


    Palace. ¡±


    Song Li¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°What evidence do you have to prove that you were sent by Your Majesty and not here to harm me?¡±


    The head eunuch took out a token from his pocket. Song Li could tell at a glance that it was indeed the emperor¡¯s personal item.


    However.


    ¡°If you¡¯re worried, Your Majesty, you can get the imperial guards at the door to escort you. His Majesty is in a hurry to see you. You can¡¯t cause a delay,¡± the eunuch said.


    Song Li frowned. If the emperor really wanted to see her, not going would be equivalent to defying his decree. Then everything Brother Chen had done would be in vain.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll go.¡± Song Li stood up.


    Su Yun opened her mouth to say something.


    Song Li shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s so late. You don¡¯t have to go. I¡¯ll get someone to pick you up.¡±


    Even if Su Yun went, she wouldn¡¯t be able to enter the Yangxin Hall. It was such a cold day. Why should she suffer for nothing?


    ¡°I¡¯d better go with Miss. Otherwise, I¡¯ll be worried.¡¯


    ¡°I¡¯ll have the Imperial Guards escort me. Stay here. That¡¯s an order.¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    Song Li waved her hand, unwilling to say anything else, and left.


    By the time Su Yun chased after her, she was already in the soft sedan chair.


    She wanted to chase after her, but she was told that the empress had instructed her not to go out.


    The soft sedan swayed and stopped in front of Yangxin Hall.


    The eunuch in the lead went forward to help her, but Song Li shook him off.


    ¡°I¡¯ll walk.¡±


    The head eunuch retracted his hand awkwardly and gave the people carrying the palanquin a look. He turned around and knocked on the hall door.


    ¡°Your Majesty, Her Majesty is here.¡±


    Not long after, the emperor¡¯s voice sounded from inside. ¡°Let her in.¡±


    Not long after, the emperor¡¯s voice sounded from inside. ¡°Let her in.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The head eunuch pushed open the hall door and said with a smile, ¡°Your Majesty, please.¡±


    Song Li frowned and carefully walked in. She looked around, but there was no sign of the emperor in the outer hall.


    At this moment, the hall door closed behind her.


    Her heart skipped a beat. She was about to leave when the emperor¡¯s voice came from the sleeping chamber.


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    Song Li could only suppress the disgust in her heart and walk in unhurriedly.


    When she saw the person inside, her pupils constricted and her hair stood on end. She was stunned on the spot.


    The emperor pulled out a long sword from a concubine covered in blood. He smiled sinisterly and stabbed at her with bloodshot eyes.


    ¡°Go to hell.¡±


    Song Li was so shocked by this shout that she came back to her senses. She quickly wanted to avoid it, but she lost all her strength.


    She fell to the ground softly and could only watch as the crazy emperor approached.


    At the same time, the cold blade quickly came closer..

 Chapter 692 - Chapter 692: Kill (1)

    Chapter 692: Kill (1)


    The next day, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia entered the city as soon as the city gate opened.


    When he returned home and changed his clothes, it was almost seven in the morning.


    In the beginning, when he was investigating the girl¡¯s case, in order to make it convenient for him to enter the palace at any time to report the progress of the case, the emperor gave him a token to enter the palace.


    Later on, the remnants of the previous dynasty were implicated. Even though the Song family¡¯s overturn of the case angered the emperor, the token was not taken back.


    However, Song Jingchen was more inclined to believe that the emperor didn¡¯t take back the token because he had forgotten about it.


    After all, this was the first time he had used this token after so long.


    The guards outside the palace gate had changed to a batch of people he didn¡¯t recognize today. Song Jingchen pretended not to know.


    The guard was stunned for a moment, as if he did not expect him to have a token. After confirming that it was real, he waved his hand and instructed someone to go forward and check. After confirming that he was not carrying a


    weapon, he allowed him to enter.


    From time to time, palace maids, eunuchs, or imperial guards would walk past the long palace path.


    Their expressions were normal, and they did not panic at all.


    ¡°I heard that an assassin entered the palace yesterday?¡± he asked the eunuch who led the way.


    The eunuch replied respectfully, ¡°Yes, but the assassin has been captured.¡±


    He was only in charge of leading the way and could not even go to his master, so he did not know much.


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t speak again.


    The eunuch sent him to the imperial study and left.


    Song Jingchen asked to see the emperor, but he was told that the emperor hadn¡¯t woken up yet, so he could only get someone to bring him to Yangxin Hall.


    There was silence outside Yangxin Hall. There were only a few eunuchs guarding the door, not even the imperial guards.


    When the eunuch guarding outside saw him, a trace of panic flashed across his eyes. He quickly went forward and bowed. ¡°Greetings, Duke.¡±


    Song Jingchen saw their expressions and frowned. ¡°Is His Majesty awake? I have something urgent to discuss with him.¡±


    The eunuch squeezed out a smile and said, ¡°His Majesty rested late yesterday and hasn¡¯t woken up yet. Why don¡¯t you take a walk in the imperial garden first? When His Majesty wakes up, I¡¯ll get someone to inform you immediately.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    After saying that, he suddenly thought of something and stopped in his tracks. He asked casually, ¡°By the way, why didn¡¯t I see Eunuch Deng and Eunuch Li today?¡±


    The eunuch sighed. ¡°Didn¡¯t an assassin enter the palace yesterday? The two eunuchs were injured in order to save His Majesty. They¡¯re still recuperating.¡± Song Jingchen understood and didn¡¯t ask further.


    He turned around and saw a familiar figure running towards him from afar.


    When the person saw him, joy flashed across his eyes. Without waiting for


    Song Jingchen to speak, he said anxiously, ¡°Eldest Young Master, quickly save Miss. Miss was brought into Yangxin Hall by the emperor¡¯s men and hasn¡¯t come out yet.¡±


    It was Su Yun, who had run out of the cold palace.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart sank. ¡°What did you say? When did Aunt enter Yangxin Hans ¡±


    ¡°Last night, a few eunuchs went to Weiyang Palace to pick her up with the emperor¡¯s decree. However, Miss hasn¡¯t come out yet. I¡¯m really worried about her,¡± Su Yun said in a panic.


    Before she could finish, Song Jingchen had already strode towards Yangxin Hall¡¯s bedroom.


    A few eunuchs quickly ran over to stop him. ¡°Duke, you can¡¯t go in. Your Majesty is still resting.¡±


    Song Jingchen said coldly, ¡°Did His Majesty really summon my aunt last night?¡±


    ¡°This¡­¡± The eunuchs lowered their heads in panic and stammered.


    ¡°He was the one who brought people to pick up Miss last night,¡± Su Yun said as she pointed at the head eunuch.


    The eunuch knelt down with a thud. ¡°Duke, it¡¯s His Majesty¡¯s order. I don¡¯t dare to disobey.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent. He walked around the eunuch and wanted to push the door open.


    The leader of the eunuchs pounced on him and hugged his legs tightly. ¡°Duke, you can¡¯t. If you disturb His Majesty¡¯s rest¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes and kicked him away. He said coldly, ¡°Get lost.¡±


    The head eunuch spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted on the spot.


    The remaining eunuchs looked at each other and did not dare to stop him.


    Seeing this, Su Yun quickly ran up and pushed open the door. The moment the heavy hall door was pushed open, the thick smell of blood assaulted her senses.


    Her face turned pale. She couldn¡¯t care less and stumbled in.


    When she saw the scene inside, her legs went weak and she fell to the ground. She looked at Song Li, who was lying among the concubines and covered in blood, in disbelief.


    ¡°M-Miss¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted.


    The emperor, who was sitting quietly in the middle of the corpses, suddenly opened his eyes and looked at Song Jingchen sinisterly.


    ¡°Hahahaha¡­ She¡¯s dead. She¡¯s finally dead. Wasn¡¯t Father very satisfied with this woman? He even threatened me with the throne so that I¡¯d agree to marry her. Since he likes her so much, I might as well send her down for Father to enjoy..¡±

 Chapter 693 - Chapter 693: Kill (2)

    Chapter 693: Kill (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°And you, the famous Young Master Song, actually dared to encourage those stupid commoners to force me to issue an edict. You deserve to die too.¡± He stood up and walked towards Song Jingchen.


    As he walked, the tip of the sword grated on the ground. Blood slid from the blade and dripped to the ground.


    Drop by drop, like exploding red plums, the smell of blood filled the surroundings.


    ¡°I¡¯m the emperor, but everyone in the world only remembers your Song family.


    They keep saying that your Song family has contributed to Great Xia.¡± ¡°But without my Shangguan family, who do you think you are? All of you deserve to die.¡±


    ¡°Hahaha¡­ I¡¯ll kill you. I¡¯ll kill all the Song family members. Hahaha!¡±


    He laughed crazily and suddenly stopped. He raised his sword and slashed at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists and looked coldly at the crazy person in front of him.


    Just as the sword was about to reach him, he quickly snatched the sword from his hand and kicked him away.


    The emperor let out a scream. He spat out a mouthful of blood, and a look of fear flashed across his eyes. ¡°How dare you? Are you trying to kill the emperor?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled coldly. ¡°You killed my aunt with this sword?¡±


    He slowly approached with his sword raised. The emperor retreated step by step. ¡°Don¡¯t forget¡­¡±


    With a bang, the hall door behind him was pushed open from the outside. Song Jingchen was stunned and subconsciously turned around.


    Joy flashed across the emperor¡¯s eyes. He took the opportunity to snatch the sword from his hand and stab it at him.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. He dodged the sword and grabbed his hand. With a force, the sword fell to the ground and the emperor cried out in pain.


    ¡°How dare you!¡±


    The people who entered were stunned by the scene in the hall. Someone advanced and shouted, ¡°Quick, protect the emperor.¡±


    This call brought everyone back to their senses and they exclaimed in unison, ¡°Someone, quick, protect the emperor!¡±


    A team of imperial guards rushed in and surrounded Song Jingchen.


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes paused on Song Li, who was in Su Yun¡¯s arms. His fingertips tightened as he quickly walked over to help the emperor up and said with concern, ¡°Father, you¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, before he could finish speaking, the emperor suddenly pushed him away with widened eyes. As if he could not feel the pain in his wrist, he covered his head with both hands and began to run around the hall. ¡°All of you want to harm me. You have to die!¡±


    Shangguan Yu stood rooted to the ground in shock. ¡°Father?¡±


    ¡°Die! If all of you die, no one will snatch my throne anymore.¡± The emperor laughed crazily. He snatched the sword from a guard and started slashing.


    Compared to before, the current emperor seemed to have lost his mind.


    The ministers who came with Shangguan Yu were frightened by this unforeseen event. They wanted to go forward, but they did not dare to. They exclaimed in unison, ¡°Your Majesty!¡±


    The emperor did not seem to hear him. After he injured a few guards in a row, Shangguan Yu came back to his senses and instructed in a low voice, ¡°Hurry up and stop His Majesty.¡±


    Only then did the guards dare to attack.


    The emperor¡¯s sword had been snatched away and his hands were restrained. He could only struggle and shout.


    ¡°How dare you? I¡¯m the emperor, the emperor! Men, take down all these scoundrels. I want to kill their entire family.¡±


    The ministers were anxious and looked at Shangguan Yu.


    Anyone who was not stupid could tell that the emperor was clearly acting abnormally.


    Shangguan Yu summoned the palace maids and eunuchs of Yangxin Hall and asked with a frown, ¡°What¡¯s going on with His Majesty?¡±


    The leader of the eunuchs shrank back and looked at the emperor carefully. He said with a trembling voice, ¡°He seems to have gone crazy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. In the beginning, His Majesty only killed the palace servants of our Yangxin Hall. These days, he even brought the concubines into the hall and said that he wanted to hear them beg for mercy.¡±


    The eunuchs spoke one after another, all of them expressing the same meaning. Not only was the emperor crazy, but he was also bloodthirsty.


    The ministers¡¯ hearts skipped a beat. Thinking of the emperor¡¯s strange behavior recently, they came to a realization.


    Shangguan Yu closed his eyes as if he could not accept it. ¡°How did Father become like this? Where¡¯s the imperial physician? Have you let the imperial physician take a look?¡±


    ¡°Yes, we¡¯ve tried. The imperial physician said that as long as we don¡¯t agitate His Majesty, he¡¯ll slowly recover. His Majesty was afraid that he wouldn¡¯t be able to control himself, so he stopped the court sessions.¡±


    ¡°But His Majesty usually only does this at night and returns to normal in the day, but today¡­¡± The eunuch who replied glanced at Song Jingchen.


    The emperor¡¯s meaning was obvious. In order not to hurt the court officials, he chose to stop the daily court sessions. This meant that he still had his rationality, but because of Song Jingchen¡¯s provocation, he had become a complete lunatic..

 Chapter 694 - Chapter 694: Kill (3)

    Chapter 694: Kill (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Everyone followed his gaze.


    Minister Chen said sternly, ¡°Duke, His Majesty has treated you well. Not only did he let you enter the court as an official, but he also overturned the case for your Song family. You actually don¡¯t know how to be grateful and dare to harm His Majesty.¡±


    With that, he lifted his robe and knelt down in front of Shangguan Yu. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°His Majesty has been made delirious by someone. I beg Your Highness to give the order to kill Duke Song on the spot as a warning to others.¡±


    The Shen family had been exiled because of Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia.


    Minister Chen had always wanted to avenge Madam Chen and his grandson. Now that he finally had a chance, he was naturally the first to stand up.


    ¡°Kill them, kill them all. Hahahaha!¡±


    ¡°And you. All of you will die!¡±


    The emperor¡¯s manic laughter continued.


    When the ministers heard the emperor¡¯s crazy words, their hearts trembled. If they did not admit that the emperor was crazy, his words would be equivalent to an imperial edict. They would have to die.


    However, if they acknowledged that he was crazy, how could he continue to be the emperor?


    The few of them pondered for a moment and looked at each other. Apart from


    Elder Zhao, the others knelt down. ¡°Your Highness, please give the order.¡±


    Shangguan Yu pursed his lips and looked at Song Jingchen. He said in disappointment, ¡°Why did you¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired of wearing a mask all day?¡±


    It was about time. Song Jingchen¡¯s hand under his sleeve moved slightly, and a round incense pill slid out of his sleeve and into his palm.


    He pinched it with two fingers and a faint fragrance instantly filled the hall.


    The smell of blood was too strong, making it easy to ignore this incense. However, Shangguan Yu¡¯s expression changed immediately.


    He wore this incense every day when he entered the palace to see the emperor, so he was naturally very familiar with this smell.


    Ordinary people would only treat this incense as incense, but in fact, it was the best thing to suppress the crazy Shangguan Qingyu.


    He had brought people into the palace today to let them see Song Jingchen attack the emperor.


    Secondly, he wanted everyone to witness Shangguan Qingyu going crazy. How could he bring that incense?


    Not only did he not bring it, but he also brought something with him that had the opposite effect.


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s first reaction was that he had taken the wrong one, but he quickly denied it.


    When he approached the emperor just now, he clearly saw that he had already fallen into madness.


    He suddenly looked up and met Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. Noticing the smile on his lips, he suddenly wanted to laugh.


    He didn¡¯t know when Song Jingchen met Shangguan Qingyu under his nose.


    However, he was almost certain that everything they saw when they entered was just a show between Shangguan Qingyu and Song Jingchen.


    However, they did not expect him to have something that would cause Shangguan Qingyu¡¯s illness to flare up.


    No, Shangguan Qingyu was the only one who didn¡¯t expect this. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have wanted to tear down the bridge before crossing the river, intending to take the opportunity to personally get rid of Song Jingchen.


    As for Song Jingchen, he clearly had an incense that could suppress Shangguan Qingyu¡¯s madness, but he didn¡¯t use it for a long time. He probably had the same goal as him and wanted everyone to see Shangguan Qingyu go crazy with their own eyes.


    The two of them seemed to be working together, but they each had their own motives.


    As expected, he had underestimated Song Jingchen.


    First, he wanted to use him to label the current emperor as a lunatic and completely pull the emperor down from the throne. Then, he would expose him.


    These thoughts flashed across Shangguan Yu¡¯s mind.


    He assessed the current situation.


    Shangguan Qingyu definitely knew what he had done. Even if he didn¡¯t believe


    Song Jingchen before, he would definitely believe him after what happened just now.


    In the end, Shangguan Yu realized that he only had one path left.


    Instead of letting Shangguan Qingyu expose him and waiting for death, it was better to¡­


    He raised his hand and gestured. Half of the imperial guards in the hall slashed at Song Jingchen.


    There were even people who went straight to the ministers, palace maids, and eunuchs in the hall.


    The emperor gradually woke up under the effect of the incense. When he saw the scene in the hall, he shouted sternly, ¡°Stop!¡±


    However, the only response he received was terrified screams.


    ¡°You¡¯re mistaken. The person you should kill is Young Master Song, not me!¡± These screams echoed through the hall.


    Before Minister Chen could finish speaking, a sword slashed at him.


    Song Jingchen snatched a sword from the guard and glanced at Minister Chen, who had fallen. He sneered and kicked a guard in front of him away.


    He flashed over and blocked the swords for the group of fleeing ministers.


    ¡°Duke!¡±


    Actually, most of them still did not understand what was going on.


    Why did the guards suddenly attack them? Why did the person they wanted to kill save them instead?


    Song Jingchen responded to the enemy and mocked, ¡°I¡¯m not the one who wants to kill the emperor. In fact, it¡¯s your precious Lord Xian.¡±


    The ministers were shocked and subconsciously looked at the emperor. At some point, a few shadows had appeared beside the emperor to protect him, and Lord Xian was only standing at the side and watching coldly.


    ¡°Then His Majesty isn¡¯t crazy?¡± Elder Zhao hid behind Song Jingchen and carefully stuck his head out to ask.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°No, he¡¯s already crazy.¡±


    Was there a contradiction between Shangguan Yu killing the emperor and the emperor going crazy?


    There was no contradiction!

 Chapter 695 - Chapter 695: The Dust Has Settled (1)

    Chapter 695: The Dust Has Settled (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Bang!


    Red signal flares exploded above the palace. Before the soldiers guarding the city gate could react, their throats were slit by the death warriors disguised as commoners.


    ¡°There¡¯s an enemy attack. Quick, close the city gate!¡± The general guarding the city wall instructed sternly.


    However, how could these soldiers, who had stayed in the capital all year round and had only seen blood a few times, be a match for the death warriors?


    Before the city gate was half closed, it was reopened.


    The clatter of armored horses sounded from outside the city gate, getting closer and closer.


    Looking at the team quickly approaching outside the city, the general¡¯s heart turned cold. He roared, ¡°Face the enemy! Quick, archers, get ready!¡± This scene happened almost at the same time at the four city gates.


    Dong, dong, dong¡­


    Deafening drumbeats sounded from the various city walls.


    The commoners were shocked and instantly scattered like birds and beasts, scrambling to run home.


    Shangguan Yu was different from Shangguan Pu. Since he had chosen to attack, he naturally prepared for the worst.


    The emperor was dissatisfied with Lin Mu because of the assassin, so he replaced the imperial guards in the palace with his men to prevent Song Jingchen from having a backup plan.


    Once something happened, the private army would attack the city and restrain the city guards, preventing them from paying attention to the palace.


    As for the 100,000 city guards in General Xiao¡¯s hands, he couldn¡¯t mobilize them without the tiger talisman in the emperor¡¯s hand. Even if Song Jingchen gave him the tiger talisman in advance, it wouldn¡¯t be of much use.


    After all, he had already arranged everything. How could he ignore the toughest group of city guards?


    It could be said that Shangguan Yu¡¯s success or failure today depended on the battle in the palace.


    However, what Shangguan Yu didn¡¯t know was that apart from Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia, who had been carried in by You Yi, had also entered the palace today.


    The reason why Su Yun could escape from the guards at the entrance of the Cold Palace was because they had secretly helped her.


    In order not to expose any loopholes, the fewer people knew about these things, the better. Therefore, they did not tell Su Yun.


    Seeing that Su Yun had run away, Shen Yijia asked You Yi to protect Madam Li and the others on Liu¡¯er Street. She knocked out a guard, changed into his clothes, and sauntered to the prison.


    Time passed bit by bit. The fight in Yangxin Hall had already moved from the emperor¡¯s bedroom to a wide courtyard.


    No matter how powerful Song Jingchen was, he was only one person, not to mention that he had to protect a few old officials in their fifties. He quickly fell into a disadvantageous position, but it wouldn¡¯t be easy to take him down in a short time.


    ¡°A bunch of trash,¡± Shangguan Yu cursed softly. He snatched the sword from the guard and attacked Song Jingchen.


    Clang! The swords collided with an ear-piercing sound.


    After seeing Shangguan Yu¡¯s arrow, Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised that he knew martial arts.


    The two of them quickly fought.


    They were too fast. The guards were afraid that they would accidentally injure their masters and could not approach them at all. They looked at each other and slashed at the ministers.


    The swords intertwined. In the blink of an eye, the two of them had exchanged dozens of blows. For a moment, it was difficult to determine the winner.


    ¡°I¡¯m very curious. When did you meet Shangguan Qingyu?¡±


    Since he had already been exposed, he stopped pretending to call the emperor father.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and didn¡¯t say anything. He glanced at the injured ministers and suddenly sped up.


    It was actually very simple. Shangguan Yu could suspect them because of a golden pearl, and vice versa.


    Shen Yijia was a little money-grubber to begin with. She was willing to embroider gold beads on her shoes so that she would be stranded with no money, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances.


    When she lost one at Rui Manor, her heart ached so much that she had to count it again every time she was free.


    After delivering Riceball yesterday, she realized that one of the golden pearls was missing. She searched the forest but to no avail, so she guessed that she had been discovered.


    The two of them sneaked into the palace overnight and happened to save Song Li from the emperor¡¯s sword.


    At that time, the emperor was still delirious, so they had no choice but to knock him out first.


    However, there were some things that required the emperor¡¯s coordination.


    Shen Yijia thought of the incense Lin Shao had used to calm the snakes, so she asked You Yi to get some from Liu¡¯er Street. Unexpectedly, the emperor regained his rationality after smelling the incense.


    It was only from Lin Shao that they learned that there was another fragrance in the Lin family¡¯s incense book that had the opposite effect.


    However, they did not tell the emperor about this.


    Just as Shangguan Yu had guessed, Song Jingchen also wanted to take this opportunity to pull the emperor off the throne.


    Shangguan Yu slashed at Song Jingchen¡¯s left arm. The latter swung his sword to block it. Shangguan Yu sneered. ¡°Use whatever tricks you have as soon as possible. I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t have a chance afterwards..¡±

 Chapter 696 - Chapter 696: The Dust Has Settled (2)

    Chapter 696: The Dust Has Settled (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Song Jingchen said emotionlessly.


    After knowing that Shangguan Yu had even attacked the empress who had raised him, he no longer had any illusions about this person, let alone unnecessary emotions.


    Sensing something, Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll give you the same words.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a row of archers suddenly appeared on the surrounding walls.


    Shangguan Yu was stunned. Song Jingchen took the opportunity to knock the sword out of his hand and hit his throat.


    He was too fast. It was too late for Shangguan Yu to dodge.


    His eyes darkened. He quickly pulled someone in front of him and quickly retreated.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t chase after them. Instead, he turned around to protect Elder Zhao and the others.


    He could ignore others, but not only was Elder Zhao Dean Lu¡¯s best friend, but he had also helped him many times.


    Song Jingchen naturally couldn¡¯t let anything happen to him.


    After confirming that Song Jingchen was not injured, Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. She stood on the wall and shouted, ¡°Stop, or I¡¯ll get someone to shoot you.¡±


    No one paid attention to her.


    Lin Mu was embarrassed for her, but when he thought about how this grandaunt had gone to the prison to save them, he thought for a long time before saying, ¡°Madam¡¯s voice was too soft, so they didn¡¯t hear you.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You can stop talking.¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you do it?¡± She glanced at Lin Mu coldly.


    Lin Mu felt that he was in the wrong and rubbed his nose. ¡°Should we shoot arrows?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Look at your quiver first. Do you still have any arrows left? Besides, can¡¯t you see that my husband is still down there? What if you accidentally injure him?¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s men were everywhere in the palace. They killed everyone they saw, and there were even casualties among the palace maids and eunuchs.


    On the way here just now, Lin Mu could not stand it anymore. Not only did he send a portion of the imperial guards to save people everywhere, but he also shot at the rebels along the way. He did save many people on the way to Yangxin Hall, but the quiver was empty.


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t possibly stop him from saving those people.


    She originally wanted to scare Shangguan Yu, but he did not fall for it at all.


    How infuriating!


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and said angrily, ¡°Go and help. Are all of you just watching the show here?¡±


    With that, she jumped down from the wall, pulled out the long whip at her waist, and vented her anger on the rebels.


    Lin Mu was slightly stunned. He noticed the emperor protected in the middle by three secret guards and ordered, ¡°Protect His Majesty. Go!¡±


    The imperial guards jumped off the wall and joined the battle.


    Lin Mu rushed to the emperor¡¯s side with a group of people and escorted him back to Yangxin Hall. A few ministers took the opportunity to run in.


    The two sides in the courtyard instantly fought. They were all wearing the same clothes, and the scene was chaotic.


    Fortunately, in order to differentiate between friend and foe, Lin Mu had already asked the imperial guards to tie a white cloth around their foreheads when they arrived. They did not kill the wrong people.


    Most of the rebels in Yangxin Hall were in disguise. Their skills were naturally not something ordinary soldiers could compare to.


    However, the imperial guards had more people than them. With a few of them surrounding one, the rebels quickly fell.


    However, the imperial guards did not have an overwhelming victory.


    One by one, both sides suffered casualties.


    Perhaps because he could tell that their chances of winning were higher, the emperor came out to cause trouble.


    ¡°Go, call a team back to protect me,¡± he instructed Lin Mu.


    Lin Mu was stunned. He didn¡¯t expect the emperor to still want to take the opportunity to get rid of Song Jingchen.


    Without that couple, he would have been locked up as a lunatic.


    Lin Mu didn¡¯t want to go. Not to mention that Shen Yijia had saved him twice, he had only gotten his current position as the commander of the imperial guards under Song Jingchen¡¯s guidance.


    He could not repay kindness with ingratitude.


    Moreover, his brothers were already giving up their lives. If he called a team back, wouldn¡¯t more people die?


    However, he could not openly disobey the emperor¡¯s orders.


    He was in a dilemma.


    Elder Zhao, who was squatting at the side and bandaging Scholar Zhang, exclaimed, ¡°His Majesty has gone crazy again. Commander Lin, quickly find something to tie him up. His Majesty even cut himself when he fell sick.¡±


    The emperor was trembling with anger. He pointed at Elder Zhao and shouted,


    ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Scholar Zhang also said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Commander Lin, look, His Majesty is trembling. Do as Elder Zhao says. Otherwise, can you bear the consequences if


    His Majesty injures his body later?¡±


    Elder Zhao choked. Why was he repeating his words?


    He was so angry that he exerted strength, causing Scholar Zhang to gasp in pain.


    The old men from the imperial court were indeed vengeful..

 Chapter 697 - Chapter 697: The Dust Has Settled (3)

    Chapter 697: The Dust Has Settled (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The emperor was furious. ¡®You!¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty is already speechless. Commander Lin, hurry up and go!¡±


    ¡°Yes, go quickly.¡±


    The other ministers echoed.


    Lin Mu took the cloth from his subordinate in a daze. By the time he reacted,


    he had already personally tied the emperor up and thrown him to the ground.


    Meeting the emperor¡¯s scarlet eyes, Lin Mu¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Elder Zhao is right. His Majesty is indeed crazy.¡±


    Elder Zhao was speechless.


    The morals of the world were declining day by day. People¡¯s hearts were no longer the same as before.


    Seeing more and more imperial guards fall, Shen Yijia frowned and exchanged glances with Song Jingchen. The two of them tacitly gave up on the rebels beside them and went straight for Shangguan Yu.


    The principle of capturing the leader first was never wrong.


    Shangguan Yu pierced through an imperial guard with his sword. Sensing something, he quickly pulled out his sword and kicked the imperial guard¡¯s corpse to the right to block Song Jingchen¡¯s sword before flying up.


    A slap sounded loudly.


    The whip struck the spot where he had been standing just now.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. She hated flying enemies the most.


    The whip swung out again, bringing with it the sound of air being torn apart. It swept towards Shangguan Yu¡¯s legs with an unstoppable force.


    Shangguan Yu frowned. Just as he avoided it, Song Jingchen¡¯s offensive also came close. He could only devote part of his focus to dealing with Song Jingchen.


    He could fight Song Jingchen to a draw. However, coupled with the troublesome Shen Yijia, it wasn¡¯t long before his white clothes were dyed red with blood.


    Caught off guard, his left shoulder was hit by Song Jingchen¡¯s attack. He was overturned and slammed into the wall.


    He choked.


    He spat out a mouthful of blood and looked up at the two people standing side by side not far away. He suddenly smiled.


    He was handsome and harmless to begin with. His smile was better than thousands of flowers blooming, making people feel protective towards him.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at Song Jingchen silently.


    Very good. Even if her beautiful husband didn¡¯t smile, he was still better-looking than him.


    When she faced Shangguan Yu¡¯s face again, she could put on a serious expression.


    Shangguan Yu inexplicably understood what she meant. He chuckled and stood up with his sword.


    ¡°Come on, there has to be an end.¡± He pointed the tip of his sword at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and tightened his grip on his sword.


    At this moment.


    Tap, tap, tap. Uniform footsteps sounded.


    Shangguan Yu raised his eyebrows. ¡°Do you think it¡¯s one of yours or mine?¡±


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, he continued, ¡°Let me guess. It should be Ah Han.¡±


    ¡®You clearly know that I raised soldiers in private. Once I attack, countless citizens in the capital will definitely die. However, you still entered the palace alone to expose me. This means that you¡¯re not worried that I¡¯ll start a mutiny and cause the citizens to fall into the flames of war.¡±


    He coughed up a mouthful of blood.


    ¡°But the city guards have long been drugged by my people. It¡¯s impossible for them to come. You can only mobilize the private army in your hands.¡±


    ¡°Am I right?¡± he asked.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer because he didn¡¯t need to.


    A group of armored soldiers rushed in and surrounded the rebels. At the front was Shangguan Han.


    Apart trom ms snarp racial teatures, ms appearance nad not cnanged mucn m the past year.


    In the past, Shen Yijia only saw him as a ¡°child¡± who loved to cry. However, at this moment, she saw an authoritative aura in him.


    With a wave of his hand, the soldiers immediately stepped forward and took down the rebels.


    The outcome of this battle became clear when Shangguan Han appeared with the army. No one struggled uselessly.


    Shangguan Han pursed his lips and walked to Song Jingchen¡¯s side. ¡°Cousin.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°You¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    Shangguan Han smiled bitterly and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s always been my cousin who faces danger alone. How can it be difficult for me?¡±


    Song Jingchen patted his shoulder and didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Shangguan Han greeted his sister-in-law first before looking at Shangguan


    Yu.


    As soon as he said the words ¡°Second Brother¡±, his eyes immediately turned red.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. So he was just pretending to be stoic earlier.


    Shangguan Yu lowered his eyes and tightened his grip on his sword. ¡°I¡¯m not your second brother.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± Shangguan Han wiped his face with his sleeve and sniffed. ¡°That¡¯s why I want to ask you. Where did you hide my second brother?¡±


    He took out a box from his pocket, took out the brush inside, and handed it over. ¡°As long as you return my second brother to me, I won¡¯t kill you.¡±


    When Eldest Brother and Fourth Brother bullied him, his Second Brother would always stand in front of him to protect him.


    He said that he wanted to become a general to protect Great Xia for him when he grew up.


    Could he return his brother to him?


    Shangguan Yu closed his eyes. When he opened them again, there was only a cold glint.


    He suddenly attacked.


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She was about to move when Song Jingchen grabbed her wrist.


    With a whoosh, the brush in Shangguan Han¡¯s hand, which he treated as a treasure, instantly broke in half.


    It fell to the ground with a thud.


    ¡°I told you, I¡¯m not your second brother. Your mother killed my mother, and I killed your grandfather and uncle. We¡¯re enemies.¡± He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t kill me today, sooner or later, I¡¯ll snatch everything you have.¡±


    ¡°Your empire, your mother¡¯s life, everything you care about!¡± he thought..

 Chapter 698 - Chapter 698: Deal (1)

    Chapter 698: Deal (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s voice was cold and bitter. Every word fell into Shangguan Han¡¯s ears and smashed into his heart, causing him to take a step back.


    However, he still caught the main point of Shangguan Yu¡¯s words and retorted,


    ¡°You¡¯re spouting nonsense. Concubine Li is clearly¡­¡¯


    He had never seen that woman before, but because of Shangguan Yu, he still addressed her respectfully as his mother.


    ¡°What was it? She bled to death when she gave birth to me? Heh.¡± Shangguan Yu was too seriously injured and his entire left shoulder had yet to recover its senses. His body swayed, and he leaned against the wall to prevent himself from falling. He sneered. ¡°But why did she bleed so much? Isn¡¯t it because your mother fed her a bowl of medicine?¡±


    There was a clang.


    Everyone looked in the direction of the voice. It was Su Yun.


    She was still covered in blood and was standing at the door of the side hall looking at Shangguan Yu in shock.


    She was clearly like this because she had heard Shangguan Yu¡¯s words just now. Song Jingchen frowned. He didn¡¯t think his aunt would attack a pregnant woman, but Aunt Su Yun¡­


    She wasn¡¯t denying it. She was shocked. How did Shangguan Yu know this?


    Suddenly, whoosh!


    An air-piercing sound suddenly sounded.


    Everyone suddenly came back to their senses and saw Shen Yijia¡¯s whip knock away a silver needle that was about to reach Song Jingchen¡¯s throat.


    A few more silver needles flew out of the darkness.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned cold. She swung her whip and knocked them all down. Unexpectedly, a silver needle pierced the back of her hand.


    She casually pulled out the needle and threw it to the ground. She scolded in a certain direction, ¡°Which shameless person is playing sneak attacks behind my back?¡±


    ¡°Ha, it¡¯s indeed you.¡±


    A light and pleasant female voice sounded. At the same time, a group of four descended from the sky and landed in front of Shangguan Yu.


    The woman in the lead was dressed in red. It was none other than Ji Yunxi.


    Song Jingchen waved his hand, and the soldiers quickly stepped forward to protect Shangguan Han. A row of archers also stood up.


    ¡°What do you mean it¡¯s me? Are you crazy? Do I know you?¡± Shen Yijia stood in front of Song Jingchen and said fiercely.


    The expressions of three women behind Ji Yunxi changed and they wanted to attack Shen Yijia.


    She raised her hand to stop him and smiled. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t know me now. You just need to know that we¡¯re family.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense.¡± Shen Yijia looked disgusted. ¡°How can you be so shameless? I¡¯d rather be family members with a dog.


    Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyes turned cold, and her fingertips moved slightly.


    Song Jingchen was silent. Why did these words sound a little wrong?


    He pulled the furious Shen Yijia behind him and instructed with a frown, ¡°Archers, get ready.¡±


    The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were too dangerous. He was unwilling to fight them head-on.


    The bowstring was pulled taut, and the atmosphere suddenly became murderous.


    Ji Yunxi let go and chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not here to fight.¡±


    Perhaps because she felt that talking to Shen Yijia was too infuriating, she looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°How about a deal?¡± Song Jingchen said, ¡°I don¡¯t want anything.¡±


    He raised his hand..


    ¡°Wait,¡± Ji Yunxi said. ¡°How would you know that I don¡¯t have what you want if you don¡¯t listen?¡±


    She took a box from someone beside her and opened it.


    ¡°Heart-Devouring Herbs!¡± Shen Yijia recognized it at a glance.


    ¡°Heart-Devouring Herbs!¡± Shen Yijia recognized it at a glance.


    In order to make it easier for Uncle Yang and the others to search, MO Yuan specially drew a few pictures. Shen Yijia had seen them many times, so she naturally recognized them.


    ¡°We can find it ourselves.¡± Since they knew that it was in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, it was only a matter of time before they found it.


    Ji Yunxi sighed. Since this was not enough, then¡­


    She clapped her hands and MO Yu walked in from outside Yangxin Hall. Song


    Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted when he saw the person she was holding hostage.


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shangguan Han exclaimed.


    Song Li¡¯s mouth was stuffed with a cloth, and her hands were tied behind her back. She kept shaking his head with red eyes.


    ¡°I wanted to catch a few more, but your subordinates are too difficult to deal with. However, I guess this one should be enough, right?¡± Although she said that, Ji Yunxi looked relaxed.


    The real Song Li had been sent out of the palace by Song Jingchen last night and settled down with the rest of the Song family.


    It was precisely to prevent anyone from threatening them that Shen Yijia sent You Yi back to protect them.


    If it were ordinary experts, You Yi, MO Yuan, One Dot, and the others would be enough. Who would have thought that Ji Yunxi would appear personally?


    ¡°What exactly do you want?¡± Shangguan Han gritted his teeth.


    ¡°It¡¯s very simple. Let me take His Second Highness away.¡± Ji Yunxi looked at


    Shangguan Yu. ¡°Actually, even if you don¡¯t let him go, I can still take him away.


    I just don¡¯t know if you can bear to sacrifice your people for nothing..¡±

 Chapter 699 - Chapter 699: Deal (2)

    Chapter 699: Deal (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Han looked at Song Jingchen for help.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists. He Imew that Ji Yunxi was telling the truth.


    ¡°Let them through,¡± he instructed in a low voice.


    ¡°Young Master Song is indeed a sensible person.¡± With that, Ji Yunxi turned around and helped Shangguan Yu up. She took the opportunity to check his pulse, and her expression instantly turned cold. ¡°Prepare another carriage and two horses for us.¡±


    Song Jingchen instructed someone to do it. Soon, the things she wanted were ready.


    A woman went forward and checked the carriage and horse. After confirming that there was no problem, Ji Yunxi got someone to help Shangguan Yu into the carriage.


    ¡°Let go of my mother quickly,¡± Shangguan Han said angrily.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s a deal, I¡¯ll naturally let her go, but not now,¡± Ji Yunxi said indifferently.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s expression changed.


    Ji Yunxi pushed Song Li into the carriage and got in herself.


    ¡°Ten miles away from the city. Go there and pick her up in an hour. Don¡¯t try to play tricks on me. Otherwise, I can¡¯t guarantee that you won¡¯t see a corpse.¡±


    After the carriage drove for a distance, the box containing a Heart-Devouring Herb was thrown out. Then, Ji Yunxi¡¯s voice sounded again.


    ¡°I forgot to mention that the ancestor of the Lin family was a traitor who escaped from our valley. I¡¯ll take the siblings away. Since you¡¯re looking for the Heart Devouring Grass, I think you¡¯ll be able to see them soon.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. She suddenly remembered that when she first met Lin Shao and his sister, their family had been killed because of an incense book passed down from their ancestors.


    At that moment, she and Song Jingchen thought that the dog county magistrate had taken a fancy to the Lin family¡¯s incense-making skills. With the county magistrate¡¯s death, they no longer took this matter to heart.


    From the looks of it, the person behind the county magistrate¡¯s collusion with the people of the Wu Kingdom was probably Shangguan Yu. It was obvious that Shangguan Yu had found the incense book for the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    ¡®Men, quickly prepare the horses.¡±


    Shangguan Han anxiously instructed someone to bring the horse over. As soon as he sat down, Song Jingchen pulled him down.


    ¡°Cousin?¡± Shangguan Han was stunned.


    Song Jingchen got on the horse and reached out to Shen Yijia. He pulled her to sit in front of him.


    ¡°Stay in the palace and deal with the aftermath. I¡¯ll bring Aunt back.¡± Song Jingchen waved his whip and left with Shen Yijia.


    According to what Song Jingchen knew, the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were extremely good at using poison. When facing such an opponent, numbers didn¡¯t mean that they were useful. They might even lose their lives for nothing. This was also why Song Jingchen agreed to let them go.


    After confirming the direction Ji Yunxi and the others had headed to, the two of them left the city.


    He left the confused soldier and the general behind.


    ¡°It seems to be Duke Song who went out just now,¡± the soldier muttered to himself.


    The general snapped, ¡°I¡¯m not blind.¡±


    In fact, most people were still a little confused when they saw an army charging towards them aggressively.


    Before they could fight, a second army appeared outside the city, led by Lord An Le.


    They all thought that Lord An Le was going to rebel.


    Instead, he was here to save them.


    After taking down the rebels, the general tactfully expressed his gratitude and reminded Lord An Le not to bring the army into the capital without His Majesty¡¯s decree.


    However, Lord An Lets words sounded.


    ¡°Father overturned the case and cleared my name. I specially came to the capital to thank him.¡±


    The general guarding the city wanted to ask, ¡°Why do you need to bring tens of thousands of people to thank him? Are you sure you¡¯re not here to force him to surrender?¡±


    However, not only had Lord An Le saved everyone, but there were also so many soldiers around him. He only dared to think about it.


    Fortunately, Lord An Le did not go overboard. He only brought 3,000 people into the palace to save the emperor. The rest of the people stayed outside the city.


    Tap! Tap! Tap!


    The carriage sped along the official road, stirring up dust wherever it passed.


    After passing a fork in the road, an identical carriage drove out of the small path. The two carriages crossed and headed in opposite directions.


    Ji Yunxi bandaged Shangguan Yu¡¯s wound briefly and took out a porcelain bottle. She poured out a brown pill and fed it to him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. There was an accident on the way back. Yunxi came late,¡± she said softly.


    Shangguan Yu did not ask what had happened. He reached out and lifted the curtain. He frowned and said, ¡°Did you go the wrong way?


    This road would not pass through the Ten Mile Slope.


    ¡°We didn¡¯t go the wrong way. The general will meet you at the entrance of the waterway. When we get there, we can get on a boat and leave.¡± As Ji Yunxi spoke, she glanced at Song Li, who had been sitting quietly at the side since she got into the carriage. She smiled. ¡°This woman is Yunxi¡¯s apology gift to His Highness..¡±

 Chapter 700 - Chapter 700: Deal (3)

    Chapter 700: Deal (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shangguan Yu followed her gaze and frowned. ¡°Let her go.¡±


    Song Li looked up at Shangguan Yu with a complicated expression. Shangguan


    Yu had already turned his head away and said coldly, ¡°Since I¡¯ve left Great Xia,


    I¡¯m no longer me. It¡¯s time to repay what I owe.¡±


    If he let her live, he would repay her for raising him. If they met again in the future, he and the Song family would only be enemies.


    Ji Yunxi disagreed. ¡°I¡¯m afraid the General won¡¯t agree.¡±


    ¡°Is the Valley of Heavenly Secrets assisting me, or are they assisting Foster


    Father?¡± Shangguan Yu¡¯s voice turned colder. ¡°I¡¯ll explain the situation to


    Foster Father.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re loyal, so His Highness is naturally the only one.¡± Ji Yunxi expressed her standpoint with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and instructed MO Yu, who was driving the carriage, ¡°Stop the carriage.¡±


    With that, her fingertips moved slightly, and a silver needle flew out. Song Li felt her vision darken and she fainted.


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes turned cold.


    Ji Yunxi explained with a faint smile, ¡°Your Highness, don¡¯t worry. She heard our schedule. I just let her sleep.¡±


    ¡°I just don¡¯t want to stir up any unnecessary troubles.¡± Shangguan Yu glanced away.


    ¡°Young Master, someone is chasing after us,¡± MO Yu reminded.


    Ji Yunxi raised her eyebrows. They didn¡¯t go to Ten Mile Slope?


    Thinking of something, she lifted the curtain and instructed a woman in white riding at the side, ¡°MO Tong, wait here. Help me pass a message to Shen Yijia.¡±


    ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want the Lin siblings to die, I want to see her in Phoenix Town in the Xuanyuan Kingdom in three months.¡±


    When she said this, there was even a strange glint in her eyes.


    Song Li woke up with a sigh. She slowly opened her eyes.


    ¡°Ah Li is awake?¡±


    This form of address almost made Song Li think that she had returned to her old self.


    She turned around and wanted to sit up, but she realized that her entire body was weak.


    Madam Li reached out and helped her up. She asked with concern, ¡°Are you feeling unwell anywhere else?¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law, I¡¯m fine.¡± As soon as she opened her mouth, Song Li realized that her throat was dry.


    Recognizing that she was in her residence on Liu¡¯er Street, she asked, ¡°How long have I been asleep?¡±


    ¡°Half a month.¡± Madam Li turned around and poured a cup of tea for her to drink. ¡°Calm down first. I¡¯ll call Han¡¯er over. That child has been worried sick for the past half a month.¡±


    Song Li nodded. ¡°Thank you, Sister-in-law.¡± Not long after, Shangguan Han arrived.


    ¡°Mother, how are you feeling?¡± he asked nervously.


    Song Li sized him up from head to toe and smiled. ¡°Mother is fine.¡±


    ¡°That Ji Yunxi is too despicable. She actually wants Mother to sleep forever.


    Fortunately, MO Yuan is here.¡±


    Thinking of what had happened in the carriage, Song Li¡¯s expression became complicated. She changed the topic and asked, ¡°Why did you suddenly return to the capital?¡±


    Shangguan Han said, ¡°Cousin sent a letter to ask me to return. He said I should thank the emperor.¡±


    That was the truth. He really wasn¡¯t lying to the general guarding the city.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s letter was sent on the day of the rehabilitation.


    He knew that the emperor would not agree to summon Shangguan Han back, but that did not mean that Shangguan Han could not return on his own.


    The emperor had pardoned him, so thanking him was a suitable reason.


    Besides, Xunyang was a long way from the capital, and Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have the ability to predict the future. It was a coincidence that he could make it in time.


    Song Li understood what his return meant.


    She suddenly became serious.


    ¡°Mother?¡±


    ¡°Han¡¯er, I want you to promise me something.¡±


    ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t it just one thing? Why are you so serious?¡± Shangguan Han heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡®Mother, tell me.¡±


    ¡°I want you to swear that no matter what happens in the future, you can¡¯t attack the Song family. One day, if you really can¡¯t tolerate them anymore, just let them go.¡±


    ¡°Mother!¡± Shangguan Han¡¯s face turned red with anger. ¡°What kind of person do you think I am? How can I attack my cousin?¡±


    ¡°I want you to swear,¡± Song Li insisted.


    It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t believe in her son, but she didn¡¯t believe in that position or the suspicious nature of the Shangguan family.


    It was true that Shangguan Han was her son, but he also carried half of the Shangguan family¡¯s bloodline.


    When Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia entered, the atmosphere in the room was still a little strange.


    ¡°Cousin, Sister-in-law,¡± Shangguan Han called out gloomily.


    Song Li smiled and waved at the two of them. ¡°Ah Chen and Jiajia are here.¡± ¡°Is Aunt feeling better?¡± Shen Yijia sat by the bed and asked with concern.


    Song Li held her hand and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Aunt has implicated you this time.¡±


    Song Li only woke up after taking the spiritual liquid. Of course, Shen Yijia knew that she was fine.


    Actually, if she hadn¡¯t given the spiritual liquid to Furball on the day of the accident, she wouldn¡¯t have slept for so long.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°Mother often says that family doesn¡¯t have to talk like that. Aunt, don¡¯t say that.¡±


    Song Jingchen walked forward. ¡°Aunt.¡±


    Song Li glanced at him and smiled bitterly. ¡°If you have anything to ask, just


    ¡°What exactly happened between you and Concubine Li back then?¡±


    He had also investigated in the past half a month. Su Yun, was unwilling to say anything.


    However, everyone who was present when Concubine Li gave birth said that the empress had indeed personally given her medicine.


    Not long after Concubine Li was rumored to be pregnant, the empress brought her into Kunning Palace to recuperate.


    If nothing happened to Concubine Li in the end, her actions could at most be considered to be care and consideration towards a pregnant concubine.


    However¡­


    Concubine Li was gone, but the empress still raised her child by her side..

 Chapter 701 - Chapter 701: Back Then (1)

    Chapter 701: Back Then (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Do you also think that Aunt killed her because she wanted to snatch the child in her stomach?¡± Song Li asked.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, Shangguan Han said anxiously,


    ¡°How can Mother be that kind of person?¡±


    Song Li didn¡¯t say anything and only looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s precisely because I don¡¯t believe it that I came to ask Aunt.¡¯


    That¡¯s right. Why didn¡¯t that child ask her personally?


    Song Li closed her eyes and said with trembling lips, ¡°But Concubine Li¡¯s death is indeed related to me.¡±


    That day, after escaping death from the emperor¡¯s sword and knowing that everything was done by Shangguan Yu, she was angry and resentful.


    However, after knowing why he did those things, Song Li began to fall into deep suspicion and self-blame.


    She wondered if she had really done something wrong back then.


    If she hadn¡¯t done that, her father and brother wouldn¡¯t have¡­


    Shangguan Han¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°I did give her the medicine because of that child.¡± Song Li¡¯s eyes turned red. She turned her head away, not daring to look into Shangguan Han¡¯s eyes.


    The room fell into dead silence.


    After a long time, Song Li finally calmed down. She took a deep breath and continued, ¡°Back then, Concubine Li, who was still a palace maid, was doted on by the emperor. Not long after, news of her pregnancy spread. She naturally rose from a palace maid to a concubine in the emperor¡¯s harem.¡±


    ¡°This was originally a good thing. I didn¡¯t expect that after she was conferred the title, something would happen to her frequently. In the worst case, she was even pushed into the pond and almost died.


    The harem was a place of deception. At that time, I only thought that other concubines were jealous that she was pregnant with a dragon heir and bullied her for not having a backer. As the master of the harem, I naturally couldn¡¯t ignore it, but no matter how I investigated, I couldn¡¯t find the culprit.


    ¡°Just in case, I made the decision to move her to Kunning Palace to recuperate and eat and live with me. As expected, this didn¡¯t happen again.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Wasn¡¯t she protecting Concubine Li? Why would she harm her when she was about to give birth?


    Seeing her confusion, Song Li smiled bitterly. ¡°I also thought that I was protecting her, but I never expected that the person who attacked her was none other than herself.¡¯


    ¡°That¡¯s why I couldn¡¯t find anything no matter how hard I tried.¡±


    Be it falling for no reason or jumping into the pond, she would dismiss the people around her in advance. Naturally, she would not leave any evidence behind.


    ¡°Concubine Li doesn¡¯t want to give birth to the emperor¡¯s son at all, but murdering the emperor¡¯s heir is a capital offense. What she did would be equivalent to looking down on the emperor¡¯s authority. If others find out, they¡¯ll definitely implicate the family who sent her to the palace,¡± Song Jingchen guessed.


    From the looks of it, Nangong Xia must have volunteered to replace Miss Sun in the palace in order not to be found by the emperor of the Wu Kingdom.


    She didn¡¯t want to implicate her savior. She couldn¡¯t let anyone know about these things.


    However, she would never have thought that Yan Guangmao would silence the Sun family who had saved her in order to hide her whereabouts.


    The news that the Sun family was gone was spread by One Dot and the people of Yang Shu Village.


    Apart from Yan Guangmao, there was no need to think about who did it.


    Song Li nodded. ¡°By the time I found out the truth, it was already too late. She found the medicine from somewhere and wanted to kill the full-term child.¡±


    Song Li still remembered the smell of blood when she pushed open the door. The glaring red color, the empty bowl placed at the side, and Concubine Li¡¯s curses.


    At that moment, what else did she not understand?


    She was the one who brought Concubine Li into Kunning Palace. If anything happened to the child in her stomach, the emperor would definitely blame her. It was impossible for Concubine Li not to think of this.


    Now that she thought about it, Concubine Li probably blamed her for being nosy back then, so she thought of a way to take revenge on her.


    Actually, at that time, she could have exposed Concubine Li¡¯s actions.


    However, she had protected that child for ten months. She had felt his heartbeat in her palm through Concubine Li¡¯s stomach many times.


    If things really got out of hand, how would that child face his future?


    Not to mention whether the emperor would abandon him because of his biological mother.


    What about himself?


    How sad would he be to know that his existence was disliked or even hated by his biological mother?


    Therefore, she did not do that. Instead, she used a bowl of medicine to force Concubine Li to give birth to the child..

 Chapter 702 - Chapter 702: Back Then (2)

    Chapter 702: Back Then (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In order not to let him hear gossip when he grew up, she became a villain for the first time. She silenced all the imperial physicians and palace maids involved in the delivery.


    However, at that time, the situation was critical. Many people knew that she had gotten someone to prepare medicine. It was impossible for her to kill everyone, so she could only send them to a remote palace.


    She really did not want that child to be hurt at all. However, it was her actions that made her unable to prove her innocence.


    ¡°Mother, we all believe you,¡± Shangguan Han said seriously.


    She had spent so much effort to protect a child who was not related to her by blood, but in the end, she was misunderstood and inadvertently harmed her family. He knew she must be devastated.


    Song Li forced a smile. ¡°Which woman in the palace doesn¡¯t want to give birth to an heir for the emperor? A mother rises because of her son. I didn¡¯t understand why Concubine Li did that until Ah Chen told me that she was the princess of the Wu Kingdom.¡±


    She was the princess of a country. She had her own pride, but the emperor forced her. To her, that child was undoubtedly her shame and an evil creature.


    How could she allow this stain to exist in this world?


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°But I think she¡¯s so stupid. If I were her, I would give birth to the child. When he grows up, I¡¯ll let him seize the throne of the useless emperor and lead the army back to the Wu Kingdom.¡±


    This way, wouldn¡¯t she be able to avenge herself and her family?


    Song Li paused and was completely led astray by her words. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Jiajia makes sense.¡±


    Right, right.


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen and shook her head proudly.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°There¡¯s probably another reason why she did that. She already has someone in her heart.¡±


    Not everyone was as self-aware as his wife.


    However, it did not matter what Nangong Xia was thinking at that time. Whether she regretted it or not was destined to not have an answer. ¡°Aunt, are there really no more insiders back then?¡±


    Song Jingchen knew that Song Li was the one who suffered the most when Shangguan Yu¡¯s matter was exposed. He shouldn¡¯t have mentioned it at this time, but..


    Song Li acutely sensed something and asked with a frown, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Shen Yijia knew about this question. She interrupted, ¡°On the fifth day after Shangguan Yu left the capital, the young emperor of the Wu Kingdom issued an edict for the late emperor of the Wu Kingdom regarding the rebellion at Muling Pass. He said that he had already found the bloodline of the previous dynasty¡¯s princess and wrote an edict to abdicate. As soon as Shangguan Yu returns to the Wu Kingdom, he can naturally sit in that position.¡±


    Song Li was stunned and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°Ah Chen, are you worried that he¡¯ll start a war and send troops to attack Great Nia?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and didn¡¯t hide it. ¡°Our spies in the Wu Kingdom sent back news that the Wu Kingdom didn¡¯t hide Shangguan Yu¡¯s identity. They even spread the news that their princess was killed by someone in Great Xia¡¯s harem.¡¯


    As soon as this news spread, the citizens of the Wu Kingdom were furious and asked Great Xia to give them an explanation.


    Everyone knew what the Yan family was doing.


    Especially since this involved the death of a princess. It was a personal grudge between the Wu Kingdom and Great Xia. As long as the Wu Kingdom agreed to give the Xuanyuan Kingdom enough benefits, the Xuanyuan Kingdom would not interfere too much.


    Song Jingchen should have expected this.


    The ambition of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was definitely not as simple as assisting the emperor of the Wu Kingdom.


    What they wanted was to be like the previous dynasty and make everyone in the world worship them as gods.


    Moreover, if it was just the Wu Kingdom, there was no need for them to plan for so long in Great Xia.


    Shangguan Yu was the person they had chosen and was the key to everything. If they could explain the misunderstanding back then, they might be able to stop all of this from happening.


    What Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say was that what he was most worried about now was that someone would take the opportunity to incite the citizens of Great Xia.


    They all knew that the Wu Kingdom was only looking for a reason to start a war, but Song Li would definitely become a sinner in the eyes of the commoners. The commoners might feel that as long as they handed over the culprit, they could avoid this war.


    Similarly, it was impossible for them to really hand over their aunt.


    However, in that case, it would definitely cause public resentment to boil. Perhaps Great Xia would fall into chaos before the Wu Kingdom attacked.


    That was the most terrifying thing.


    If the hearts of the people were not united, how could they defeat the enemy?


    Song Li tightened his grip on the blanket and closed his eyes. ¡°Back then, I thought that I couldn¡¯t let that child live in the shadow of being abandoned by his biological mother.¡±


    But now, there was nothing left.


    ¡°Ah Chen, it¡¯s me. I harmed Father and Big Brother. I¡¯m a sinner of the Song family. If it really comes to that, hand me over,¡± Song Li said with a trembling voice..

 Chapter 703 - Chapter 703: Back Then (3)

    Chapter 703: Back Then (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Just because Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything didn¡¯t mean that she hadn¡¯t thought of it.


    ¡°What do you mean by handing you over? What for?¡± Shangguan Han did not understand much, but it had something to do with Nangong Xia¡¯s death. He clenched his fists and said, ¡°In that situation, even without Mother, that woman would not have survived. I¡¯ll send someone to explain it to Second Brother now. If he doesn¡¯t believe me and insists on fighting, we¡¯ll fight with him.¡¯


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t even sat on the throne, and you¡¯re already thinking about using the power of the emperor. You¡¯re amazing, young man.¡± he thought.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s face turned red from her subtle actions. ¡°Did I say anything wrong?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°No, I support you.¡±


    It was a fight. Perhaps she could get a general to play with.


    Song Jingchen was speechless for a moment before saying seriously, ¡°Aunt, we all know that the Wu Kingdom only needs a reason. What happens after we hand you over? If they propose to hand Ah Han over to repay his mother¡¯s debt, do we still have to send Ah Han to them?¡±


    The reason why he said that was because he was worried that Song Li would do something irreparable if that happened.


    Knowing what Song Li¡¯s problem was, he continued, ¡°Even without him, the emperor would have found another reason to deal with our Song family. Therefore, the deaths of grandfather and father have nothing to do with you. They won¡¯t blame you.¡±


    Be it Shangguan Yu or Shangguan Pu, the reason why they chose to frame the Song family was because they had grasped the emperor¡¯s intentions.


    In the end, the emperor was the true culprit. As long as he could tolerate the Song family, what happened back then would not have happened.


    At the mention of that heartless person, the disgust in Song Li¡¯s eyes was undisguised.


    ¡°What are you going to do next?¡± she asked.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Many ministers from the intermediate court have come to visit in the past few days. I think something will happen in the next few days.¡±


    With Elder Zhao and the other ministers deliberately spreading the news, the news that the emperor had gone crazy had long spread.


    At first, some people did not believe it, but after seeing the emperor¡¯s appearance with their own eyes, they had to believe it.


    How was a lunatic supposed to govern a country?


    It was obvious why the ministers had come to visit at this time.


    As for Lord Rui¡¯s faction, Count Xuan Ping had yet to give up on looking for Shangguan Heng.


    However, with Miss Yuan¡¯s cooperation, what happened outside the village did not reach Shangguan Heng¡¯s ears at all.


    Since they couldn¡¯t even find him, Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t worried that Count Xuan Ping would come out and cause trouble.


    Just as Song Jingchen had said, after the ministers of the imperial court were rejected by Shangguan Han for various reasons, they finally chose to ¡°force¡± Shangguan Han to ascend the throne by kneeling outside the residence for a long time.


    Elder Zhao even invited the empress dowager out.


    Shangguan Han was ¡°forced¡± by everyone. In the end, he could only nod and say that he would continue to let the imperial physician treat the emperor. Once the emperor recovered from his illness, the throne would be returned to him.


    The ministers were touched by his pure heart and praised him profusely.


    Many scholars also wrote poems and songs to praise him.


    Every time this happened, Shangguan Han would always look for his cousin, Song Jingchen, to brag.


    However, Shen Yijia was disgusted. There were a few times when she almost swung her fists at him.


    Mid-December.


    It was a month before the three-month deadline given by Ji Yunxi. Shangguan Han had already taken over most of the matters in the imperial court. He was only waiting for the Imperial Astronomers to choose an auspicious day to ascend the throne.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were also prepared to set off for the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Before setting off, Song Jingchen brought his entire family into the palace to see Shangguan Qingyu, who had become a complete lunatic.


    They went to pay their respects to Old Master Song and Duke Song.


    Shen Yijia did not forget to say goodbye to Madam Qiu, Xiao Ruoshui, and Yuan


    Yuwan.


    Speaking of Madam Qiu, because MO Yuan wanted to go with them, Shen Yijia was worried that her condition would suddenly worsen when they were not around, so she secretly rubbed the spiritual liquid that had just condensed in the past half a month into one of the pills she had to take every day. When she finished this bottle of medicine, her body would recover.


    At the Bulwark Duke Residence.


    Due to the commotion caused by Shangguan Yu, they had just moved in a few days ago.


    Madam Li packed their luggage and sighed. ¡°Our family couldn¡¯t spend New Year¡¯s Eve together last year. This time, you¡¯re going on a long trip. I don¡¯t know when you¡¯ll be able to come back.¡±


    ¡°Mother, when my husband and I bring Miaomiao and Lin Shao back, we¡¯ll spend New Year¡¯s Eve together every year in the future.¡± Shen Yijia snuggled into her arms and pretended to be obedient.


    At the mention of Lin Shao and his sister, Madam Li became even more melancholic. ¡°Miaomiao¡¯s body is weaker than other children. I wonder how she¡¯s been this month.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Lin Shao will take good care of her.¡±


    ¡°I heard that the Valley of Heavenly Secrets is very dangerous.¡±


    ¡°No matter how dangerous they are, can they be more dangerous than my fists?¡± Shen Yijia clenched her fists and gestured. ¡°If they don¡¯t let the Lin siblings go, I¡¯ll turn the Valley of Heavenly Secrets upside down.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Mother, what if I want to eat the food you made when I¡¯m outside? Why don¡¯t you make a few more pancakes for me? I can take them out and take a few bites if I want to eat them.


    ¡°I would have forgotten if you hadn¡¯t mentioned it. How can you bring so many big pancakes? Mother will make some dried meat for you. You can also bring the dried food I made last time.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law who were heading straight for the kitchen in amusement. He thought for a moment and instructed South Wind to call Fan Mingyuan to the study..

 Chapter 704 - Chapter 704: Arriving at the Xuanyuan Kingdom

    Chapter 704: Arriving at the Xuanyuan Kingdom


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Ah Chen, you were looking for me?¡±


    Shangguan Han lacked people he could trust, so Fan Mingyuan did not return to Anyang County.


    Song Jingchen nodded and gestured for him to sit down before saying, ¡°The Wu Kingdom shouldn¡¯t make any big moves in the short term, but we can¡¯t let our guard down.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan frowned and said, ¡°Ah Han sent someone to the Wu Kingdom. I wonder if he¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get your hopes up,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    With the ambitious Yan Guangmao and the Valley of Heavenly Secrets around, he was no longer alone from the moment Shangguan Yu returned to the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°What are you suggesting?¡±


    ¡°To prevent anything from happening, we should send troops to the border in advance to guard against any accidents.¡±


    ¡°Do you have a suitable candidate?¡± Fan Mingyuan asked.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°I can¡¯t make all the decisions for Ah Han.¡± Fan Mingyuan rubbed his nose. ¡°Got it. I¡¯ll pass on the message for you.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan rubbed his nose. ¡°Got it. I¡¯ll pass on the message for you.¡±


    The Xuanyuan Kingdom was on the east side of Great Xia. There was a mountain in the middle. After passing through the mountain and entering the territory of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, the first town was Phoenix Town, which Ji


    Yunxi had mentioned.


    It was worth mentioning that when Xuanyuan Ziming invited Shen Yijia to the Xuanyuan Kingdom to play, he specially left her his token. When Xuanyuan Ce left, he gave her another one.


    Coupled with the travel passes given by Shangguan Han, they did not have to worry about not being able to enter the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    There were a total of six of them on this trip. Apart from Shen Yijia and Song


    Jingchen, there was also MO Yuan, You Yi, South Wind, and Thirty Thousand.


    Song Jingchen originally wanted to bring the reliable One Dot, but he didn¡¯t expect One Dot to suddenly feel unwell before setting off. In the end, he could only change it to Thirty Thousand.


    As for why it was such a coincidence?


    When MO Yuan rummaged through her bag, she realized that a bag of medicine was missing from her medicine bag.


    ¡°MO Yuan, what are you thinking about?¡± Shen Yijia asked suspiciously.


    MO Yuan glanced at Thirty Thousand, who was riding a horse and smiling widely. She took out a bag of jerky from another bag and handed it over. She shook her head. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    Shen Yijia took a bite of the jerky and said weakly, ¡°How long until we arrive? I¡¯m about to suffocate to death.¡±


    They had been walking for two months. They could have gone out riding horses from time to time to take a breather, but since she had her period these past few days, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let her go out.


    ¡°Miss, please bear with it. It¡¯s only half a day¡¯s journey away.¡± MO Yuan poured her a cup of tea.


    Shen Yijia looked like she was about to cry. She lifted the curtain and stuck her head out.


    MO Yuan opened her mouth, wanting to say that Young Master had said that he didn¡¯t want her to catch a cold. However, she remembered that Shen Yijia had indeed been stuck inside for the past few days, so she could only swallow her words.


    The sound of hooves came from ahead. Shen Yijia quickly lowered the curtain.


    When the carriage stopped, she stuck her head out again and said with a smile,


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows but didn¡¯t expose her.


    He handed the pheasant in his hand to Thirty Thousand. ¡°Take it and deal with it.¡±


    Then, he walked to the carriage and carried Shen Yijia down. ¡°Rest for a while and eat something before leaving.¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly nodded obediently.


    Although they had been traveling for the past two months, Song Jingchen had never wronged Shen Yijia in terms of food. Especially after leaving the border of Great Xia, he would always find ways to catch prey and cook delicious food for her.


    After a beautiful meal, she nestled in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and slept. When Shen Yijia opened her eyes again, the carriage had already stopped at the entry checkpoint.


    In order to enter the Xuanyuan Kingdom, they had to settle the relevant procedures here and get a pass to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    There were business transactions between the three countries. For caravans to leave the country, they had to get the local authorities to provide written proof, including the reason for the goods they were carrying.


    Because some goods were not allowed to circulate, they had to be strictly checked whether they were leaving or entering the country.


    Due to the inconvenient transportation, most of the people coming and going between the two countries were businessmen.


    Perhaps it was because it was only mid-February, but the convoys that had come out to do business after New Year¡¯s Eve had yet to arrive, so there were only a few convoys in front of the checkpoint.


    Even so, they had to wait in line for a few hours before it was their turn.


    Shen Yijia took out a token from her small satchel and handed it over.


    The official took it and was stunned when he saw the words on the token.


    If he was not mistaken, this was a golden token that only members of the royal family could hold.


    The official sized up the group of people in front of him suspiciously. They did not look like rich people. Could this token be fake?


    Shen Yijia frowned. She thought that it was because Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s token was not working well. She reached into her bag and took out the one Xuanyuan Ce had given her.


    When Xuanyuan Ziming saw Xuanyuan Ce, he had to bow and call him Imperial Uncle. Shen Yijia felt that Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s token was definitely more useful than his.


    The official received it with both hands and almost knelt down in fear when he saw the Qilin pattern on it.


    When he looked at Shen Yijia and the others again, his eyes were filled with admiration.


    Shen Yijia puffed out her chest proudly. She had connections.


    Just as he thought this, he heard the official wave at the person behind him.


    ¡°Arrest them.¡±


    How brave. She even dared to lie about connections with Lord Jing¡¯an.


    A few officials immediately surrounded them.


    Shen Yijia was stunned.


    ¡°Beautiful uncle, you didn¡¯t say that we would be captured if you used your token!¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen shielded Shen Yijia behind him and said indifferently, ¡°Our token is real.¡±


    The official sneered. ¡°Really? If that¡¯s the case, we have to arrest you. Who knows if you stole this token?¡±


    Shen Yijia understood. Did he want to capture them regardless of whether it was true or not?


    They had just arrived and should not have caused trouble. However, there was clearly something wrong with this official¡¯s actions. If they were really arrested just like that, who knew what was waiting for them?


    Shen Yijia pinched her fingers and looked at Song Jingchen. The two of them were about to make a move.


    There was a sudden rush of hooves behind them, and a group of more than a dozen people stopped their horses beside them.


    The leader of the officials should know who it was. He forced a smile and went up to them.


    The person did not even get off his horse. He threw a token over. The official took a rough look and returned the token respectfully.


    ¡°Second Young Master is back. Quick, let him through.¡± He waved his hand to make way for the people behind him.


    The group did not go over directly. The handsome man at the front glanced at Shen Yijia and the others who were surrounded by officials and asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with them?¡±


    The smile on the leader¡¯s face froze and he opened his mouth.


    ¡°We have Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s token. He insisted that we stole it and wanted someone to capture us,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted.


    Perhaps hearing that it had something to do with Lord Jing¡¯an, the man put away the insouciance on his face and said seriously, ¡°When did Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s things become something that anyone can steal?¡±


    The official said awkwardly, ¡°I said that they might have faked it and wanted to get someone to verify it first.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what you said just now.¡± Shen Yijia exposed him bluntly.


    That¡¯s right, the guilty look on the official¡¯s face. The man frowned. ¡°Show it to me.¡±


    The two tokens were still in the hands of the officials. Shen Yijia did not give him a chance to react. She flashed over and snatched them back. She was about to hand them to the man when a hand reached out and took the token from her hand.


    Song Jingchen put away the piece Xuanyuan Ziming had given him into his sleeve and handed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s piece to the attendant accompanying the man.


    The servant confirmed that there was no problem with the token before handing it to his master..

 Chapter 705 - Chapter 705: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (1)

    Chapter 705: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°This token is real,¡± the man said.


    The official quickly corrected himself. ¡®Yes, I was blind. Since Second Young


    Master said it¡¯s true, it can¡¯t be wrong.¡±


    The man didn¡¯t even look at him. He only looked at Song Jingchen and asked,


    ¡°Where did you get this token?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the man¡¯s sleeve and said indifferently, ¡°Coincidentally, I helped Lord Jing¡¯an. When he found out that we were coming to the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he gave me the token as a thank you gift.¡±


    The man asked again, ¡°Are you from Great Xia?¡±


    Everyone in the Xuanyuan Kingdom knew about Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s diplomatic mission to Great Xia. It was no wonder that he had such a guess.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡¯


    The man nodded and looked at the official. The latter immediately understood and summoned someone to settle the procedures for Shen Yijia and the others. He also personally handed the pass through the Xuanyuan Kingdom to South Wind.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Song Jingchen cupped his hands and thanked the man on the horse.


    After taking back their tokens, the group got back into the carriage.


    Looking at the nerson who left without looking back. the servant beside the man said, ¡°Second Master, that token..


    There was a single word engraved on the back of the token. Seeing the token was like seeing a person.


    To put it bluntly, with that token, someone could even mobilize any faction under Lord Jing¡¯an.


    What kind of help was it to make His Highness give away such a precious thing?


    The man raised his hand to stop him from continuing and said indifferently, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    After Second Master left with his men, the leader heaved a sigh of relief.


    Someone leaned over and whispered, ¡°Boss, what should we do now? It¡¯s hard to explain to the Yu family.¡±


    The leader kicked him angrily. ¡°Second Young Master has already spoken. What can I do?¡±


    He thought for a moment and said with a pained expression, ¡°Send the things from the Yu family back to them.¡±


    As the two of them spoke, a gust of wind blew past them.


    The leader of the officers tucked his hands into his sleeves and spat. ¡°What kind of weather is this? It¡¯s already February, but it¡¯s still so cold. How f*cking unlucky.¡±


    After passing the checkpoint, they finally stepped into the territory of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. When Shen Yijia and the others arrived at Phoenix Town, it was already dusk.


    The carriage stopped in front of an inn. Thirty Thousand found a waiter and handed the horses to them to feed. He also went to the hall to ask for three guest rooms.


    After traveling for two months, everyone was exhausted except for Shen Yijia, who was energetic as soon as she got off the carriage.


    They returned to their rooms to wash up and change into clean clothes before gathering in Song Jingchen¡¯s room for dinner.


    The dishes of the Xuanyuan Kingdom were different from those of Great Xia. Perhaps because of the coastal area, most of the dishes were light and slightly salty.


    To Shen Yijia, who liked sweet things, they weren¡¯t suitable for her taste.


    After dinner, they returned to their rooms.


    The night was dark. You Yi, who had been invisible the entire way, suddenly appeared with a box in his arms.


    ¡°What is this?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    You Yi repeated the conversation between the two officials.


    Shen Yijia ran over and opened the box on the table. She was almost blinded by the things inside.


    There were two fist-sized night pearls inside. Under the night pearls was a stack of banknotes. After a rough count, there were more than ten thousand taels.


    There were no transnational banks in the three countries, but gold, silver, and other currencies were common. Moreover, the prices of goods in the Xuanyuan Kingdom were higher than in Great Xia.


    An inn like the one they were staying in today would not cost more than several coins a night in Great Xia, but here, the three rooms cost them two taels of silver.


    Fortunately, Shen Yijia had the foresight to bring along her own small treasury. Otherwise, they might have sent South Wind and Thirty Thousand out to work and earn money.


    Now, there was another unexpected windfall.


    No, this was the money that others used to buy her and her beautiful husband¡¯s lives. Since their lives were theirs, this money naturally belonged to them.


    Shen Yijia touched the night pearls and the banknotes. She smiled so widely that her eyes couldn¡¯t be seen.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. This girl was probably the only one who could be so happy while knowing that someone wanted to harm her.


    Of course, Shen Yijia did not forget what she wanted to do. She closed the box and hid it under the bed. She asked with a straight face, ¡°Who¡¯s this Yu guy? This is the first time you¡¯ve come to the Xuanyuan Kingdom. You don¡¯t have any grudges against them, right?¡±


    In Shen Yijia¡¯s opinion, be it the original host or her, it was impossible for her to have any other enemies in this world other than the Shen family, so the Yu family must be here for Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen frowned and said, ¡°If I remember correctly, Princess Jing¡¯an¡¯s surname is Yu.¡±


    You Yi nodded. ¡°When the late emperor was in power, he placed great importance on aristocratic families. Among them, there were six family clans. The Yu family was ranked fifth among the six families at that time..¡±

 Chapter 706 - Chapter 706: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (2)

    Chapter 706: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°And then?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Since he said that this status was from back then, wasn¡¯t it different now?


    You Yi said, ¡°Back then, the late emperor suddenly had an emergency and died, leaving only the emperor and my lord.


    ¡°The emperor was older and naturally ascended the throne. However, because the previous emperor praised the aristocratic families too much, their ambitions were already huge. They actually wanted to control the emperor and make him a puppet.¡±


    How aggrieved was the emperor who had just ascended the throne?


    It was fine if he could not interfere in the affairs of the imperial court, but the aristocratic families even controlled who could enter the harem. Moreover, any concubine who wanted to serve the emperor at night had to be arranged beforehand and approved by these families.


    This way, if the officials wanted their daughters to enter the palace, they had to please the aristocratic families. If they wanted their daughters to have the chance to sleep with the emperor, they also had to please the aristocratic families.


    Just like that, the power of the aristocratic families grew. During those years, they could be said to have been able to call the shots in the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    However, they were still not satisfied. They felt that once the emperor became an adult, he would definitely counterattack.


    They began to plan to support the grandson borne by the concubine from their family to ascend the throne and eliminate the emperor and the prince.


    However, the emperor was not incompetent. On the surface, he listened to the arrangements of the aristocratic families, but he had been secretly plotting.


    After knowing that they had the intention to support his youngest son to ascend the throne, he no longer resisted the women in the harem. Instead, he was especially enthusiastic and really shared the burden.


    In the end, five concubines in the harem were diagnosed with good luck at the same time.


    Apart from the empress from the Tang family, the five pregnant concubines happened to come from the other five family clans.


    Not only was the Tang family unwilling, but the other five family clans were also unwilling. After all, there was only one throne. Since the girls in their family were also pregnant, why couldn¡¯t the next king come from their own family?


    The emperor¡¯s move was indeed vicious. With this tactic, he made the six aristocratic families, who were originally united and could harm the two brothers at any time, fall out with each other.


    However, this was not enough. The aristocratic families would react eventually. The emperor immediately did something almost cruel. He sent out Demon Guards to kill one of the pregnant concubines.


    Only then did the aristocratic families explode.


    The family that had lost their chips suspected the other families, while the others were worried that their daughters would be the next to be killed.


    Even the Tang family did not escape suspicion. Who knew if the Tang family was jealous because their daughter was not pregnant with an heir?


    However, no matter how hard they investigated, they could not find any clues.


    This was actually the king¡¯s cleverness. If he deliberately led them to investigate one or a few family clans, it would arouse suspicion.


    Only by doing it cleanly and leaving no evidence would the aristocratic families not suspect him.


    The aristocratic families had always been conceited. In their eyes, he was just a puppet in charge of continuing the imperial bloodline. He did not have the ability to do this.


    Apart from their family clans, no one else could do it without leaving any evidence behind.


    The aristocratic families fell into the king¡¯s trap step by step and began to fight among themselves as he had intended.


    First, the pregnant concubines suffered a miscarriage one after another. Even those who got pregnant later could not escape this outcome.


    After a few years of fighting, only the girls from the Cui and Pei families successfully gave birth to heirs.


    At that time, the aristocratic families were already at odds with each other. Not to mention that they could not continue their previous plan, the aristocratic families more or less had something on each other. In order to attack the other party¡¯s power, they even began to let the emperor come into contact with government affairs bit by bit.


    However, the emperor also knew that this was not a foolproof method.


    It was said that a starving camel was still bigger than a horse. If he really continued to waste time with the aristocratic families like this, not to mention that he wouldn¡¯t live for long, his descendants would probably follow his old path one after another.


    Moreover, with the Imperial Court like this, how could the commoners live well?


    He needed a breakthrough.


    This breakthrough was in Xuanyuan Ce.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. No wonder the Xuanyuan Kingdom could shake off Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom in just a few years.


    With such a wise, decisive, and considerate king, why would the country not prosper?


    ¡°It¡¯s common knowledge that the youngest daughter in the direct line of descent of the Yu family likes my lord.¡± At this point, You Yi¡¯s expression under the mask became a little complicated. He glanced at Shen Yijia before continuing, ¡°Previously, my lord was secretly saved by a common woman. The two of them had long developed feelings for each other. When they heard the emperor¡¯s plan, he naturally refused, but the emperor and the empress dowager both knelt down and begged him to cooperate..¡±

 Chapter 707 - Chapter 707: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (3)

    Chapter 707: Old Affairs of the Xuanyuan Kingdom (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The emperor had endured humiliation for many years to protect the two brothers¡¯ lives. How could His Highness really sit back and do nothing?


    Shen Yijia did not expect to hear about the beautiful uncle¡¯s love history. For some reason, she suddenly felt depressed and uncomfortable. She pinched her fingers and asked, ¡°Then, the beautiful uncle broke up with that woman and married someone with the surname Yu?¡±


    After asking, Shen Yijia immediately realized how silly her question was. From the beginning, her beautiful husband had said that Consort Jing¡¯an came from the Yu family.


    What she really wanted to ask was what happened to that commoner woman.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia. He frowned and held her hand.


    His hand was warm, dispelling Shen Yijia¡¯s inexplicable emotions. She turned around and grinned at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯m still here!¡±


    ¡°My lord had no choice at that time. Moreover, that girl¡¯s personality¡­¡±


    He glanced at Shen Yijia again. ¡°It¡¯s a bit similar to Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. What did it have to do with her?


    However, if she knew that someone dared to force Song Jingchen and bully his family like this, she would definitely secretly kill those people.


    However, the aristocratic families had long been deeply rooted in powerful positions. Their web of power was complicated. How could it be resolved by killing one or two family heads?


    ¡°In short, it¡¯s just a little naive.¡± You Yi rubbed his nose and touched a cold mask. He retracted his hand awkwvardly.


    ¡°Because of this, my lord didn¡¯t dare to tell her the truth. Most importantly, at that time, he couldn¡¯t even protect himself. How could he have the ability to protect others? He was worried that the Yu family would harm that girl, so he said some harsh words and listened to the emperor¡¯s arrangements to marry Miss Yu. ¡±


    In the Yu family¡¯s opinion, the emperor¡¯s only brother taking the initiative to marry their daughter was extending an olive branch to them, so they became the first aristocratic family to side with the emperor.


    Seeing that the emneror Dlaced the Yu familv in such an imnortant nosition. the Cui and Pei families were not to be outdone.


    At that time, they felt that instead of letting their grandson be controlled by the other family clans as a puppet, it was better to let him be the legitimate king.


    By the time the aristocratic families realized that something was wrong, it was already too late. In the next five years, the emperor first used the three families that had joined him to eliminate the remaining three families, then slowly devoured the power of the remaining three families.


    Although the emperor did not kill these three families in the end, it was impossible for these three families to cause any trouble.


    Moreover, the emperor did not let them continue to exist because of their friendship back then. He just wanted to use them to balance the powers within the imperial court.


    After all, he did not want the family he had promoted to become a potential competitor to the bloodline.


    ¡°He¡¯s really not a good person. Not only did he let that girl down, but he also used another girl.¡±


    Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t be bothered to analyze the twists and turns in the imperial court of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, so she simply listened to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s love history.


    You Yi thought, ¡°The woman you¡¯re talking about is very likely the person who bribed the officials today!¡±


    However, his ultimate goal in saying so much today was to clarify things for His Highness, not to slander him.


    He said seriously, ¡°Before my lord asked to marry Miss Yu, he told her that he would only give her the position of princess consort. Miss Yu agreed to it herself.¡±


    He had been following Xuanyuan Ce since the late emperor died, so he naturally knew more than Chu Feng.


    ¡°But she still had Xuanyuan Ye with him,¡± Shen Yijia said disdainfully.


    She didn¡¯t know why she was angry, but she was angry!


    You Yi froze and muttered, ¡°I can¡¯t explain it clearly. His Highness will explain it to you in the future.¡±


    ¡°What has it got to do with me? If he wants to explain, he should explain it to the girl he betrayed.¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and said angrily, ¡°Are you my subordinate or Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s subordinate? If you¡¯re his subordinate, go and look for him now. I don¡¯t want you anymore.¡±


    She looked like a heartless heartless woman. She was clearly the one who asked about it first.


    You Yi felt very aggrieved. In order not to let Xuanyuan Ce know, he decided to cling to Shen Yijia.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­¡¯


    Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°Do you know that man today?¡±


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°Can you let me express my loyalty first? Or at least let me drink some water!¡±


    Meeting Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, he could only answer obediently, ¡°It¡¯s His Highness the Second Prince. His mother¡¯s family is the Pei family.¡± Song Jingchen nodded. It was as he had guessed.


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. After saying so much, why is the Yu family targeting us?¡± Shen Yijia finally remembered the original intention of this conversation.


    ¡°Perhaps they¡¯re not targeting us, but the person holding this token other than Lord Jing¡¯an himself.¡± Song Jingchen placed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s token on the table and guessed.


    Before seeing Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s token, the official did not show any obvious hostility..

 Chapter 708 - Chapter 708: Coincidental Encounter

    Chapter 708: Coincidental Encounter


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    However, everything was just Song Jingchen¡¯s guess. They had come to the Xuanyuan Kingdom to save people and find medicine. As long as the Yu family didn¡¯t provoke them again, they weren¡¯t willing to have unnecessary conflicts with the large families of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    It was a dreamless night.


    The next day, the sky was clear.


    Ji Yunxi asked Shen Yijia to come to Phoenix Town, but she did not say what to do after she arrived.


    It was impossible for Shen Yijia to let her lead the way. In any case, as long as they could find the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, their goal would be half achieved.


    However, there were no clues at all. How could they find the location of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets so easily?


    After breakfast, Song Jingchen sent South Wind and the others out to ask around and asked You Yi to try to contact his lord.


    Before Xuanyuan Ce left, he said that he was going to look for the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. It had been almost April since he set off. There might be news from him.


    As the highest ranked secret guards by his master¡¯s side, they naturally had a special communication channel, so Song Jingchen didn¡¯t ask around.


    However, after five to six days, South Wind and the others did not find any useful clues. The letters You Yi sent out were all useless.


    Since she couldn¡¯t find him, they could only start with Ji Yunxi. However¡­


    ¡°We¡¯ve been in Phoenix Town for so many days, but Ji Yunxi hasn¡¯t appeared. Is she playing with me?¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration.


    Song Jingchen comforted her. ¡°Maybe they don¡¯t know we¡¯re here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. That¡¯s right! If she wanted to appear, she had to let her know that they were already here.


    Hence, the group began to wander aimlessly outside.


    Although Phoenix Town was only a border town in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, it was much livelier and richer than Anyang County, where Shen Yijia had stayed.


    There was an endless stream of merchants coming and going on the streets. There were all kinds of strange things displayed in the stalls on the street, making Shen Yijia almost forget their true motive for coming out.


    ¡°Young Master Song, Madam Song?¡±


    An incredulous voice sounded behind them.


    The two of them turned around at the same time. When they saw the person who spoke, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Chu Feng, why are you here?¡±


    She did not see Xuanyuan Ce beside him. She asked suspiciously, ¡°Where¡¯s your lord?¡±


    In Shen Yijia¡¯s impression, Chu Feng and Xuanyuan Ce had always been inseparable.


    It could be said that wherever Xuanyuan Ce was, Chu Feng would also be there.


    Chu Feng didn¡¯t seem to expect it to be them. He was stunned for a long time before reacting. After reacting, he hurriedly said, ¡°His Highness is injured. I came out to get medicine for him.¡±


    He shook the medicine in his hand and glanced at MO Yuan, who was following at the side. He said happily, ¡°It¡¯s great to see you here. His Highness is saved.¡±


    Only then did Shen Yijia notice that Chu Feng¡¯s face was pale. She frowned. ¡°Why is he injured again?¡±


    The word ¡°again¡± made Chu Feng feel extremely awkward. He said awkwardly,


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Why don¡¯t you follow me to see His Highness first?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen. Seeing him nod, she said, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Actually, in Great Xia, although Shen Yijia was not too close to Xuanyuan Ce, he had helped the couple many times, so her attitude towards him was quite good.


    In the past, when she heard that the other party was injured, Shen Yijia would have suggested taking a look herself without needing Chu Feng to say anything, instead of looking at him with a little disdain.


    Her attitude was clearly abnormal, but perhaps because Chu Feng was too worried about Xuanyuan Ce, he did not realize that something was wrong.


    She followed Chu Feng out of the bustling city and arrived at a quiet courtyard.


    ¡°His Highness has been staying here recently,¡± he explained and knocked on the door.


    The door was opened by an old man who could not move easily. Chu Feng greeted him and brought Shen Yijia and the others to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s room.


    As soon as he pushed open the door, a strong medicinal smell wafted out.


    Shen Yijia wrinkled her nose in discomfort. After everyone entered, she slowly followed.


    This should be a temporary stopover. The room was very simple. There was only a square table in the middle, and a bed against the wall at the far end. There was nothing else.


    When he approached, he saw Xuanyuan Ce lying there with his eyes closed. His lips were abnormally purple.


    ¡°He might have been poisoned.¡± Shen Yijia frowned.


    She didn¡¯t even dare to say it. At first glance, she thought that she was about to attend a funeral.


    ¡°Yes, he was poisoned. However, the doctors in this town can¡¯t find out what poison it is,¡± Chu Feng said with a worried expression.


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely. ¡°Since you don¡¯t know what poison it is, why are you grabbing medicine?¡±


    ¡°Other than being poisoned, His Highness is also injured. I grabbed medicine for his external injuries.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia nodded and gestured for MO Yuan to take a look at Xuanyuan Ce.


    While she was taking his pulse, Chu Feng briefly explained the reason why Xuanyuan Ce was injured..

 Chapter 709 - Chapter 709: Detoxification

    Chapter 709: Detoxification


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It turned out that after knowing that Ji Yunxi had last appeared in Phoenix Town after leaving Great Xia, Xuanyuan Ce got someone to focus on searching the surrounding mountains.


    After a few months of investigation, they finally discovered that it was very likely that the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was hidden in the cliff ridge 50 kilometers away from Phoenix Town.


    It was rumored that no one who entered that area had ever come out alive, so it was called Ghost Ridge by the people in town.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who was originally not sure, was even more certain that the cliff ridge was the place he was looking for. He immediately brought a group of people into the mountain.


    However, the cliff ridge was so big, and the mountains were filled with poisonous snakes and ferocious beasts. How could it be easy to find?


    After searching inside for more than a month, most of the team they brought with them had died. Not only did they not find the location of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, but they also accidentally entered a poisonous forest filled with poisonous gas.


    ¡°Misty gas?¡± Shen Yijia remembered MO Yuan telling her about it.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t look like it. There¡¯s nothing unusual inside. His Highness and I didn¡¯t notice anything wrong at first. By the time we realized that something was wrong and wanted to retreat, it was already too late,¡± Chu Feng said.


    ¡°Then why aren¡¯t you poisoned?¡± Shen Yijia frowned.


    Wasn¡¯t this strange? They entered the mountain together, but only one person came out poisoned.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure either.¡± Chu Feng scratched his head. ¡°Apart from His Highness, the two Demon Guards were also intermediately poisoned.¡±


    As for the others, they did not survive.


    ¡°How many days have you been back?¡± MO Yuan retracted her hand and asked expressionlessly.


    Although he didn¡¯t know why she asked this, Chu Feng still answered honestly, ¡°Two days.¡±


    ¡°Bring the others. We¡¯re going to the cliff ridge.¡±


    It was Song Jingchen who said this.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously looked at MO Yuan. She agreed.


    ¡°Why are we going there?¡± Shen Yijia was puzzled.


    In such a dangerous place, if they were all poisoned, her spiritual liquid would not be enough to save them.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and explained, ¡°Everything in the world complements each other. If I¡¯m not wrong, the reason why Chu Feng wasn¡¯t poisoned was because he accidentally took the antidote.¡±


    After being reminded by him, Chu Feng said thoughtfully, ¡°After entering the poisonous forest, we didn¡¯t see any prey around. We didn¡¯t have much rations left, so I thought of leaving all the rations for His Highness.¡±


    As for himself, he picked some unknown wild fruits to satisfy his hunger. Because he did not know if those fruits were poisonous, how could he dare to let Xuanyuan Ce eat them?


    Now, from what Young Master Song said, the wild fruits he ate were actually the antidote?


    Chu Feng felt terrible.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Xuanyuan Ce and muttered, ¡°Did Ji Yunxi ask me to come to Phoenix Town because she wanted me to save him? Would she be so kind?¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets could predict the future? Did she predict this?


    ¡°You saw that woman?¡± Chu Feng was surprised.


    They had been in the cliff ridge for the past two months, and there was no news from outside.


    Shen Yijia told him why she was in Phoenix Town.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Perhaps she didn¡¯t expect Lord Jing¡¯an to be here at all.¡± If she could really predict everything, how could Shangguan Yu have lost?


    Shen Yijia thought about it and agreed. However, the most important thing now was to bring Xuanyuan Ce back to the cliff ridge to find the antidote.


    Thinking of the poisonous forest Chu Feng mentioned, an idea suddenly appeared in Shen Yijia¡¯s mind. Could the Valley of Heavenly Secrets be hiding behind the poisonous forest?


    She looked at Song Jingchen.


    Their eyes met. Clearly, he thought so too.


    MO Yuan took the pulse of the two Demon Guards again. After the two of them were poisoned, they even forcefully used their internal energy to use qinggong to bring Xuanyuan Ce out of the cliff. Their situation was much more dangerous than Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s. MO Yuan used silver needles to temporarily control the poison in their bodies, and the group left Phoenix Town that day..

 Chapter 710 - Chapter 710: Entering the Poison Forest

    Chapter 710: Entering the Poison Forest


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The cliff ridge was 50 kilometers southeast of Phoenix Town. Standing at the edge of the cliff and looking down, it stretched for hundreds of kilometers. White clouds filled the air and surrounded the peaks.


    The terrain inside was complicated. Most of the trees had lived for hundreds or even thousands of years. There were deep valleys, towering cliffs, and miasma that covered the sky.


    Once a person accidentally entered it, even if there were no poisonous insects or ferocious beasts attacking them, it would probably not be easy for them to come out if they were unfamiliar with the terrain. It was no wonder it was called the Ghost Ridge.


    Fortunately, when Xuanyuan Ce and the others entered the mountain, they left marks all the way and walked for five days.


    Shen Yijia suddenly stopped in her tracks. She sniffed and frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t you smell it when you came in?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Halfway through his sentence, Chu Feng stopped abruptly and said uncertainly, ¡°I think there¡¯s a fragrance.¡±


    Actually, it was no wonder that they did not notice. Back then, their group had experienced many ferocious beast attacks and were already exhausted. How could they pay attention to anything else?


    Moreover, this fragrance was faint and easy to ignore.


    Behind them, there was a stream that bisected the entire forest. Shen Yijia was very sure that this fragrance did not exist on the other side of the stream.


    If he wasn¡¯t wrong, this should be the poisonous forest Chu Feng was talking about.


    After confirming that this was the place, the group returned the way they came and found a nearby cave. They scattered some insect repellent powder outside the cave and asked South Wind and Thirty Thousand to guard Xuanyuan Ce and the two Demon Guards in the cave. The remaining people entered the poisonous forest again.


    The poisonous forest was abnormally quiet. All they could hear was the sound of feet stepping on dead branches and leaves.


    Animals had the instinct to seek benefits and avoid harm. No wonder Chu Feng said that they couldn¡¯t find prey here.


    ¡°There.¡± Chu Feng pointed and exclaimed.


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction he was pointing. Not far away, there was a shrub as tall as an adult man. Red wild fruits hung from the shrub.


    The wild fruits were the size of a child¡¯s fist and were lantern-shaped. Needless to say, they were quite beautiful.


    Shen Yijia picked one and played with it in her hand. She clicked her tongue in wonder and said, ¡°You dare to eat it without knowing what it is? You¡¯re great.¡± She gave him a thumbs up.


    Even she knew that the more beautiful something was, the more dangerous it was. Chu Feng still dared to eat it. His courage was commendable.


    Chu Feng scratched his head awkwardly. ¡°I can¡¯t starve to death, right?¡±


    He would starve to death if he didn¡¯t eat it, but he might not die if he ate it. He naturally had to take a gamble.


    ¡°Alright, pick some and send them back.¡± Song Jingchen picked a few as he spoke.


    Chu Feng was stunned. ¡°What about you?¡±


    ¡°Of course we have to continue looking for the Valley of Heavenly Secrets Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly.


    With that, she picked up the lantern fruit and wiped it on her body before eating it.


    ¡°Why is it so sour?¡±


    As expected, even if good-looking things were not poisonous, they might not be delicious!


    However, it was better than being poisoned. She frowned and finished the entire meal. She gulped down a few mouthfuls of water to wash away the sour taste. Thinking of something, she blinked and looked at Song Jingchen. Her face was filled with words. ¡°Hurry up and eat.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and took a bite. He tried his best not to show an expression that would damage his image.


    Seeing that he was struggling to hold it in, Shen Yijia could not help but laugh.


    It turned out that her beautiful husband had something to be afraid of.


    ¡°Hubby, you have to finish the entire thing.¡± As she spoke, she winked at MO


    Yuan. ¡°Right, MO Yuan?¡±


    MO Yuan swallowed expressionlessly. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Thinking of his bitter experience, Chu Feng distanced himself from the three of them and said seriously, ¡°Why don¡¯t we go together when His Highness wakes up?


    His Highness did not want Miss to take the risk, so he did not tell her the truth. If he knew that Shen Yijia had gone to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets herself, he would probably be worried.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°We¡¯re going to save people, not to play. Hurry up and send the things back. If you don¡¯t detoxify them, we¡¯ll really have to attend a banquet.¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t know what the banquet had to do with not detoxifying the poison, Chu Feng still understood that he couldn¡¯t delay any longer.


    In the end, Xuanyuan Ce was his master. If anything happened to Xuanyuan Ce, even a hundred heads would not be enough to save him. Therefore, Chu Feng did not dare to dawdle anymore. He packed a bag of lantern fruits and ran back..

 Chapter 711 - Chapter 711: Controlled (1)

    Chapter 711: Controlled (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    About two hours after eating the lantern fruit, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s lips returned to normal. Chu Feng heaved a sigh of relief.


    The mountains were not a good place to recuperate. While it was still early, the three of them carried one each and left the cliff ridge.


    On the other side, Shen Yijia and the others did not have a smooth journey. It was not easy for them to escape from a swamp, but thick fog suddenly filled their surroundings, drowning the four of them in the blink of an eye.


    In order to prevent any unexpected situations, the four of them walked in single file formation. You Yi led the way, followed by Song Jingchen. Shen Yijia walked behind Song Jingchen, and MO Yuan was at the back.


    The distance between everyone was not large, but because of the fog, apart from a vast expanse of white, they could not see anything clearly.


    Shen Yijia frowned and quickly took a few steps forward to pull Song Jingchen back, but she missed.


    She did not dare to walk around anymore. She stood still and called out softly, ¡°Hubby?¡±


    After a long time, Song Jingchen¡¯s voice sounded from the right.


    ¡°Jiajia, come here. I¡¯m here.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and could vaguely see a blurry figure standing not far away, waving at her.


    Confusion appeared in her eyes, wondering why the person walking in front of her would run to the right.


    However, before she could figure it out, her feet had already walked towards the figure uncontrollably.


    ¡°Jiajia, come with me.¡±


    The figure spoke again, with indescribable bewitchment.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists under her sleeves. Her nails pierced into her palms, bringing about a sharp pain. At the same time, a hint of struggle flashed across her eyes, but she calmed down in an instant.


    After following the figure for nearly half an hour, the fog around them dissipated, revealing the true appearance of the person in front of him. It was the face of an unfamiliar man.


    However, Shen Yijia did not seem to notice. She just stood rooted to the ground in a daze.


    The man sneered disdainfully. ¡°I thought you were supposed to be skillful.¡±


    Footsteps came from behind. When he saw who it was, he quickly threw away the incense in his hand and crossed his arms in front of his chest. ¡°Young Master.¡±


    Ji Yunxi nodded and walked straight to Shen Yijia. She grabbed her chin and forced her to look up. Her lips curled into a determined smile. ¡°I¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her with empty eyes. She let her hand make five red finger marks on her face, but she did not resist. She was clearly being controlled. The man leaned forward curiously. ¡°Young Master, who is she?¡±


    He actually used the last incense in the valley.


    However, when he thought about how he could get as much incense as he wanted when that brat from the Lin family handed over the incense book, the man¡¯s heart no longer ached.


    Ji Yunxi glanced at him. The man Imew that he had misspoken and immediately fell silent, not daring to ask further. ¡°Take her back,¡± she instructed coldly.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    In the depths of the bamboo forest, there was a winding path. At the end of the path was a courtyard. A breeze blew, and the bamboo leaves swayed gently, making a rustling sound.


    The weather turned warmer, and new bamboo shoots appeared. It looked lively.


    A child in green stood at the entrance of the courtyard. When he saw Ji Yunxi coming over, he crossed his arms and bowed. ¡°Young Master.¡±


    ¡°Is my father inside?¡± Ji Yunxi asked.


    ¡°Master hasn¡¯t returned from the priest hall.¡±


    Ji Yunxi nodded and brought Shen Yijia to the priest hall.


    After passing through the bamboo forest, there was a small slope. A winding path followed the slope. After walking along the path for fifteen minutes, a large group of buildings came into view. It was a village. To be precise, it was the settlement of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets¡¯ people.


    The weather turned warm, and one could vaguely see people working in the fields.


    Everyone said that the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had only secluded itself after the destruction of the previous dynasty.


    In fact, this was not entirely true.


    In reality, this had always been the territory of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    However, before the emperor of the previous dynasty suppressed the warlocks, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets would arrange for the young master to lead some outstanding disciples out of the mountains to assist capable people.


    When the time came, Young Master would return to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to take over the position of Valley Master. They would marry the disciple chosen by the high priest and give birth to the next Young Master.


    This had been the cycle for generations. They did not expect the disciples in the valley to suffer heavy losses because of the suspicions of the previous emperor.


    At that time, the incumbent Valley Master recalled everyone and decided that the disciples of the valley were never to enter the mortal world again. They were not to be involved with the royal family in any way.


    In the past hundred years, no one in the valley had gone out again, including the commoners who had returned with the disciples of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets..

 Chapter 712 - Chapter 712: Controlled (2)

    Chapter 712: Controlled (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was not until the previous Valley Master passed away that Ji Luo, who had just reached adulthood, took over the position of Valley Master.


    Ji Luo was extremely intelligent. At such a young age, she had already mastered divination and medicine.


    However, apart from these, there was also the art of making incense in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Due to the fact that the Elders of the incense-making lineage had long defected with the incense book, the incense-making technique passed down in the valley was only superficial in Ji Luo¡¯s generation. Only then did she decide to personally leave the mountain to retrieve the incense book.


    ¡°Young Master, you¡¯re back.¡±


    ¡°Young Master.¡±


    After passing through the alley between the clan houses, the clansmen would greet Ji Yunxi respectfully when they saw her. Ji Yunxi nodded in response.


    It was not that they were not curious about the outsiders behind her, but when they thought of the tense atmosphere between the Elders and the high priest these past few days, they did not dare to ask further.


    In the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, the Valley Master¡¯s status was above that of a priest. After marriage, the two of them did not live together, and the children they gave birth to took their mother¡¯s surname.


    In the intermediate world, the relationship between the two of them was more like that of a master and butler. The high priest¡¯s duty was to convey the Valley Master¡¯s instructions to her clansmen.


    However, Ji Yunxi had yet to take over the position of Valley Master, so the high priest was currently in charge of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    The priest¡¯s hall was usually only filled with people when there was a major festival or sacrificial ceremony in the clan, so it was very quiet. When they entered, they could see a high wall with the totem of a spider lily carved on it. It was as red as fire and as blood.


    After going around the wall, there was a courtyard behind it. There were halls on three sides of the courtyard, and in the middle was a stone tripod. The stone tripod was even taller than an adult man, and there was a ladder beside it.


    As soon as she stood in front of the main hall, a deep male voice came from inside. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Ji Yunxi nodded and turned to the man. ¡°Leave her to me. You can go back.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    When he pushed open the heavy hall door, the strong smell of incense wafted over.


    The furnishings in the hall were a little similar to what Shen Yijia had seen in the secret room of the Qilin Mountain. There were two portraits hanging on the wall in front of her. Below them was an offering table and a futon. At this moment, a man in a black robe was sitting on the futon. It was the high priest, Si Yun.


    As soon as the two of them stepped in, Si Yun opened his eyes. When he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s slightly dazed face behind Ji Yunxi, his eyes paused.


    Ji Yunxi frowned slightly and bowed. ¡°Father.¡±


    Si Yun retracted his gaze and asked indifferently, ¡°Is she the person you mentioned?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s her.¡± Ji Yunxi nodded.


    The reason why she left Great Xia the last time was to find medicine for the emperor. In fact, she had personally witnessed Shen Yijia changing someone¡¯s fate again. She was suspicious and specially came back to investigate further.


    At that time, the fate that Shen Yijia changed was none other than the fate of the eldest daughter of the Yuan family, Yuan Yuwan.


    She had met Yuan Yuwan once on the emperor¡¯s birthday. Others might not know, but she could see through her fate with a single glance.


    It was too short. One could see the end at a glance.


    However, when she saw Yuan Yuwan again at the wedding banquet, the aura of death on her body had already dissipated, leaving only a ball of fog.


    In order to verify her guess, she even lowered herself to meet Madam Qiu again. As expected, the outcome was the same.


    It was not easy to change one¡¯s fate, but when it came to Shen Yijia, it was as easy as eating and drinking. However, as long as it was related to Shen Yijia, she could not calculate anything. How could she not be wary?


    Si Yun asked, ¡°Have you done a divination?¡±


    ¡°I got someone to find Madam Shen¡¯s birth characters and realized that she had no fate with children in this life. Although her life is bumpy, she¡¯s not someone with a short lifespan.¡±


    However, the truth was the opposite. People who shouldn¡¯t have existed still existed, and those who should have been alive lost their lives early on. The root of everything seemed to have started with Madam Shen¡¯s pregnancy.


    Thinking of something, Ji Yunxi suddenly sneered. She took out a porcelain bottle and poured the medicine inside onto a handkerchief.


    He took a handkerchief and wiped it on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. In the blink of an eye, a flower bud of the spider lily appeared on Shen Yijia¡¯s originally smooth and flawless forehead.


    It was no different from the totems on the stone wall outside. It was even more lively than the one on Ji Yunxi¡¯s forehead.


    Jealousy flashed across Ji Yunxi¡¯s face. She had clearly reached marriageable age last year, but she was still only a young master.


    Wasn¡¯t it because firstly, she couldn¡¯t take out the Valley Master¡¯s token, and secondly, she couldn¡¯t revive the spring in the valley?


    She wanted something so badly, but this woman avoided it like the plague.. How could she not be disgusted?

 Chapter 713 - Chapter 713: Controlled (3)

    Chapter 713: Controlled (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing this flower bud, Si Yun stood up from the futon. He could no longer maintain his composure. He stared at Shen Yijia¡¯s torehead with burning eyes.


    ¡°She¡¯s really¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish his sentence, but how could Ji Yunxi not understand what he meant?


    ¡°No, she¡¯s indeed born to Madam Shen.¡± Ji Yunxi said mockingly, ¡°Father, do you remember the missing bamboo slip in the forbidden technique? Although I haven¡¯t seen the contents of it, it has something to do with this unforeseen event.¡±


    She paused for a moment and continued, ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, that woman must have sacrificed her inheritance to deceive us.¡±


    It had to be known that everything in the world was predestined. Even if Madam Shen¡¯s fate changed with the help of an expert, people who shouldn¡¯t exist would be killed sooner or later.


    Not only would they not be able to survive in this world, but the people who interfered would also pay the corresponding price, such as the early death of Madam Shen.


    That woman clearly Imew this and took this opportunity to let her daughter escape her fate and survive, making her a variable in this world.


    It was precisely because of this that Shen Yijia could easily change the fate of the people she came into contact with. Moreover, she was completely unaffected.


    In other words, everyone¡¯s names were on the Book of Life and Death. The original Shen Yijia had long followed the will of the heavens, so her name would no longer be on the Book of Life and Death. The person who was alive now naturally did not have to abide by these rules anymore.


    Thinking of this, Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyes lit up. If she knew how that woman did it back then, did it mean that the path to immortality was no longer a delusion?


    Si Yun clearly thought of this too. Her eyes revealed the same madness as Ji


    Yunxi¡¯s. He suddenly laughed. ¡°Good, as expected of my daughter.¡±


    ¡°Father.¡± Ji Yunxi glanced at the flower bud on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead and smiled. ¡°The most important thing now is to get First Elder and Third Elder to agree to let me take over the position of Valley Master. Only then will they not go against Father again.¡±


    There had always been five elders in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. After the elders of the incense-making defected, there were only four left.


    Among them, the First Elder and the Third Elder had always objected to Si Yun¡¯s insistence on making Ji Yunxi the successor without following the clan rules.


    Speaking of the two old farts who always disagreed with him, Si Yun narrowed his eyes. ¡°What do you want to do?¡±


    Ji Yunxi revealed a strange smile and brushed Shen Yijia¡¯s flower bud. ¡°Of course it¡¯s¡­ a spirit exchange.¡±


    Spirit exchange!


    Si Yun was stunned. He naturally knew that this was one of the most vicious forbidden techniques in the valley.


    He needed to sacrifice the hearts of 81 children to the heavens and transfer all the blood of the person with the inheritance to another person. That person would have the power of the inheritance.


    This secret technique was not groundless. It was recorded in the ancient books that there was once a woman in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets who did not follow the clan rules and secretly had an affair with outsiders. She did not protect the continuation of the inheritance, so the Valley of Heavenly Secrets used this secret technique to deal with her.


    Back then, he had tried all means to capture Ji Luo with this intention. Unexpectedly, Ji Luo had already lost the ability and became a useless chess piece.


    He looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s familiar face and seemed to see Ji Luo, who was once in the valley. His eyes darkened and he said in a low voice, ¡°We¡¯ll do as you say.¡±


    He turned around and looked straight at the portrait of his ancestor in front of him. ¡°I¡¯ll prepare everything in three days. Take her back first.¡±


    Ji Yunxi smiled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Before leaving, she got someone to bring a veil to cover Shen Yijia from head to toe before bringing her back to her residence.


    All along, she had been acting as the successor, so she naturally could not let others see the flower bud on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead.


    Shen Yijia stood rooted to the ground like a marionette. Ji Yunxi lowered her head and let her go. She was extremely obedient.


    The Valley Master usually lived on the observatory at the top of the mountain, while the Young Master lived in a small courtyard below the observatory.


    The afterglow of the sunset.


    MO Yu was waiting at the entrance of the small courtyard. When he saw her return, he went forward and said, ¡°Young Master, Madam is here.¡±


    Ji Yunxi looked up at the white-robed maidservants in the courtyard and said indifferently, ¡°Got it.¡±


    Before Madam Ji married Si Yun, she was a maidservant by Ji Luo¡¯s side. Because she was extremely talented in divination and grew up with Ji Luo, she was given the surname Ji.


    Later on, she was chosen by the Elders to marry Si Yun, so everyone called her Madam Ji. She actually did not have much power in the valley.


    Ji Yunxi did not have much feelings for her.


    She pushed open the door and saw a woman sitting by the window. When she heard the commotion, she turned around. ¡°Yunxi, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Although she was talking to Ji Yunxi, her eyes landed on Shen Yijia, who had followed Ji Yunxi in and was covered by a veil.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Ji Yunxi took a step forward and shielded Shen Yijia behind her.


    She Imew how much Madam Ji hated Ji Luo. If she saw Shen Yijia¡¯s face, she did not know what she would do.


    However, Shen Yijia was useful to her now. She could not let anything happen to her for the time being.


    Madam Ji saw her actions and her expression changed slightly. She sneered. ¡°I heard that you brought back an outsider woman. Why? Can¡¯t I see her?¡±


    She stood up and walked towards Ji Yunxi unhurriedly. ¡°Your father doesn¡¯t want me to kill that woman because she looks like that woman. Are you going to protect her too?¡±


    Ji Yunxi frowned. It seemed that when she brought Shen Yijia to the priest hall just now, she had already been seen by the people around Madam Ji.


    She was wondering if she should tell the truth.


    Madam Ji quickly walked around her and lifted the curtain above Shen Yijia¡¯s head.


    The veil fell to the ground, revealing Shen Yijia¡¯s exquisite face.


    If Shen Yijia, who had hidden the flower bud, looked like Ji Luo, then she looked even more like Ji Luo now that the flower bud was revealed.


    At a glance, two figures overlapped.


    Madam Ji was so frightened that she took a step back. She pointed at her and exclaimed with trembling hands, ¡°Ji¡­ Ji Luo¡­¡±


    Ji Yunxi went forward and helped her sit down. She said coldly, ¡°Mother, sit down first. I¡¯ll explain to you later.¡±


    With that, she picked up the veil and put it on Shen Yijia again. She called MO Yu to bring her to an empty room at the back of the courtyard.


    There was not a single lamp in the room. Shen Yijia listened to the instructions and lay down on the couch, looking at the beam without blinking.


    The door closed, and everything fell into complete darkness..

 Chapter 714 - Chapter 714: Sacrifice (1)

    Chapter 714: Sacrifice (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Yunxi did not hide the matter of the spirit exchange from Madam Ji.


    She knew better than anyone else that Madam Ji¡¯s hatred for Ji Luo was almost crazy. If she didn¡¯t make it clear, Shen Yijia might be killed by Madam Ji if she wasn¡¯t careful.


    It was better to say it to reassure her and avoid unnecessary trouble.


    Before today, Ji Yunxi actually could not understand where Madam Ji¡¯s hatred for Ji Luo came from. She even found it inexplicable most of the time.


    It was not until she saw the flower bud on Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead that she understood.


    Perhaps it was because no matter how hard she tried, she could not obtain it, but the other party had it since she was born. However, she felt that the other party was inferior to her in every way.


    As time passed, this hatred took root and sprouted.


    Until it became distorted.


    Fortunately, Shen Yijia had already fallen into her hands. It wouldn¡¯t be long before everything ended. At least she wouldn¡¯t become like Madam Ji.


    ¡°Young Master, MO Tong is back.¡± MO Yu¡¯s voice pulled Ji Yunxi back from her thoughts.


    ¡°Let her in,¡± she said flatly.


    MO Tong walked in and knelt down.


    Ji Yunxi raised her head slightly and asked, ¡°You didn¡¯t catch anyone?¡±


    MO Tong lowered his eyes. ¡°We searched the Misty Forest but couldn¡¯t find Song Jingchen. It¡¯s MO Tong¡¯s fault for being incompetent. Young Master, please punish us.¡±


    ¡°Without our people leading the way, it¡¯s impossible for outsiders to leave the Misty Forest.¡± Ji Yunxi frowned and thought of Shen Yijia. She said conservatively, ¡°Take someone to guard the exit of the Misty Forest. I don¡¯t want any accidents to happen in the next three days.¡±


    When she completed the spirit exchange, Song Jingchen would be nothing!


    She waved MO Tong away.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After they left, MO Yu hesitated for a moment and said, ¡°Young Master, can¡¯t you do a divination?¡±


    Ji Yunxi shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s useless with Shen Yijia around.¡±


    The so-called variable made it so that anything was possible before a conclusion was reached.


    Moreover, Shen Yijia was not the only one involved in the spirit exchange. She was also involved. Doctors did not treat themselves, and warlocks could not tell fortunes for themselves.


    The only thing she could do was to prevent anything from happening.


    After some thought, she took out a porcelain bottle and threw it to MO Yu.


    ¡°Feed it to her.¡±


    MO Yu lowered his head in agreement.


    In the house, Shen Yijia was still in the same position as when she left. MO Yu looked at her for a long time. After confirming that there was nothing wrong, he walked forward, opened the porcelain bottle, and poured the entire bottle of medicine into her mouth.


    ¡°Go to sleep. When you wake up, it¡¯ll be over,¡± she said faintly.


    It meant that she would never wake up again.


    Shen Yijia closed her eyes obediently.


    MO Yu raised the candlestick and left. The room fell into darkness again.


    At night, the heavy rain came unexpectedly. The bean-sized raindrops hit the ground with a crackling sound, and the entire Valley of Heavenly Secrets was enveloped in the rain.


    A bolt of lightning tore through the sky, bringing with it a short period of light. The person who was lying quietly on the couch suddenly opened her eyes and quickly raised her chin again.


    It was said that spring rain was as expensive as oil, but this rain lasted for three days.


    There was a limit to everything. Going overboard was as bad as falling short.


    The seeds that had just been planted were all destroyed by this rain, but no one cared about this loss.


    It was because at some point, blood tears flowed down from the divine tablet in the priest¡¯s hall. The blood flowed down the stamen of the spider lily and dyed the entire divine tablet red. Even the heavy rain could not dilute it.


    Everyone was shocked. This was a great omen.


    Everyone in the valley more or less knew some divination techniques. It depended on their comprehension.


    They were always suspicious of prying into the secrets of the heavens.


    The inevitability of fate was simple, and karma was not fake. Everything had its own karma. If one went against the heavens and forcefully interfered to change karma, they would definitely attract an unexpected calamity.


    In the past, with the spiritual spring suppressing them, everyone could live without illness or disaster. However, ever since the previous Valley Master defected, the spiritual spring had long dried up.


    The four Elders and their clansmen gathered in the priest hall.


    As everyone was discussing, the door of the priest hall opened.


    Ji Yunxi and Si Yun slowly walked out.


    In an instant, everyone fell silent and bowed. ¡°Priest, Young Master.¡±


    ¡°I believe everyone has seen the blood of the divine tablet.¡± Si Yun¡¯s tone was heavy as he looked at the strange stone wall with a pained expression.


    ¡°We¡¯re here for this matter. Do you know why the divine tablet suddenly became like this, Priest?¡± The Second Elder was the first to ask.


    Si Yun shook her head and looked at the pale Ji Yunxi..

 Chapter 715 - Chapter 715: Sacrifice (2)

    Chapter 715: Sacrifice (2)


    Ji Yunxi nodded and said, ¡°Last night, I drew blood and performed a divination. I finally saw a hint of heavenly secrets.¡±


    Using one¡¯s own blood as a guide to communicate with the heavens and ask for an oracle.


    This seemed simple, but it was extremely harsh on the person who performed the divination. It even damaged their lifespan.


    Normally, who would be willing to sacrifice so much?


    Even though Ji Yunxi did not say anything, everyone could guess the seriousness of the matter.


    ¡°I always thought that the spiritual spring drying up was because of me. I didn¡¯t


    Imow that was not the case until last night.¡± Ji Yunxi smiled bitterly. ¡°Our Valley of Heavenly Secrets has worked hard for the sake of the world for generations, but we didn¡¯t know that we had already left behind a disaster for ourselves. The spiritual spring drying up and the blood of the divine tablets are just warnings. If we don¡¯t respond soon, everyone will suffer divine punishment.¡±


    Everyone was shocked. They naturally knew that it was disadvantageous for them to reveal too many heavenly secrets. Therefore, everyone who went out of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had a rule that they only did one divination a day. Moreover, most of the money obtained from divination would be used to do good deeds.


    ¡°I wonder if Young Master has a way to solve it?¡± someone asked.


    Ji Yunxi did not answer immediately. When more people asked, she said sadly,


    ¡°Sacrifice people to the heavens to beg for forgiveness.¡±


    Everyone was in an uproar. Human sacrifices used living people as sacrificial offerings. They needed to take the blood from the heart and throw the human sacrifice into the stone tripod to burn it.


    This was indeed recorded in the ancient books, but because it was too cruel, the clan had never held it in the past hundred years.


    ¡°I wonder how many people are needed?¡± the First Elder asked with a dark expression.


    ¡°It requires 81 children, and we plan to hold it at seven o¡¯clock today.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡±


    Not to mention that time was tight, even if they were given more time to prepare, it was impossible for them to capture people outside and sacrifice them. That would only cause them to accumulate more negative karma.


    In other words, these 81 children had to be found in their clan.


    Everyone¡¯s expressions were a little ugly, especially those with children under the age of five.


    Seeing this, Ji Yunxi pursed her lips and said, ¡°After the sacrifice, the spiritual spring will come to life again.¡±


    Ji Yunxi said that because she knew that the spiritual spring was too tempting for everyone.


    Including¡­


    She looked at the 70-year-old First Elder and saw joy in her eyes.


    Ji Yunxi sneered and said seriously, ¡°Everyone, go back and think about it. If you¡¯re unwilling, I¡¯ll die with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Since she had already said so, how could anyone have a choice?


    Since the spiritual spring did not dry up because of Ji Yunxi, she could take over the position of Valley Master at any time.


    The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets respected the Valley Master.


    This included the First Elders. They might question and oppose the High Priest¡¯s decision, but they would only obey the Valley Master unconditionally unless the Valley Master violated the clan¡¯s rules and betrayed the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Just like Ji Luo, because she was no longer the Valley Master of the Valley of


    Heavenly Secrets when she betraved them.


    Moreover, the spiritual spring was indeed attractive enough.


    Even if there were people who were really unwilling to let their children die, they had to see if others agreed.


    It was not a loss to exchange dozens of children for the lives of all the clansmen.


    Just as Si Yun and Ji Yunxi had expected, before the sun set, the four Elders sent 81 children to the priest hall.


    Torches were lit around the priest¡¯s hall, illuminating the entire courtyard.


    An altar appeared beside the stone tripod in the middle. Eight men in black robes and sacrificial masks were dancing strangely around the stone tripod. They kept waving their hands and feet and chanting ancient prayers.


    These eight people were all disciples of the High Priest.


    Afraid of disturbing the gods, not many people could be present during the sacrifice. The four Elders bowed sincerely to the stone tripod and left the priest hall.


    The sky turned completely dark, and heavy black clouds enveloped the entire sky, making people feel depressed. They had a feeling that a storm was coming.


    The 81 children had been instructed by their families, but there was no fear on their faces. Instead, they looked at the eight people chanting proudly.


    Of course, it was also possible that they knew what they would experience. However, the beliefs they had been instilled with since they were young made them feel that it was an honor to be able to stand here.


    After the chanting ended, two disciples came out of the side hall with two large trays. Each tray was filled with bamboo tubes the size of wine glasses. The two of them walked up to the child and distributed the bamboo tubes one by one.


    They were also obedient. They held the small bamboo tube and only drank it in small sips when the high priest on the altar asked them to.


    ¡°It¡¯s delicious. Is this the sugar water that Ah Weng mentioned?¡± A chubby little boy smacked his lips and said in surprise..

 Chapter 716 - Chapter 716: Sacrifice (3)

    Chapter 716: Sacrifice (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He had never drunk it before, nor had Ah Weng. Ah Weng had hear( old man who had passed away.


    The others were also very happy. They even forgot that the elders h they had to teach them properly before coming. They raised their h stuck out their tongues to lick the bamboo tube, afraid that they wc drop.


    Si Yun glanced at them sympathetically.


    The bamboo tubes fell to the ground.


    A little girl suddenly fell, followed by a second child, and a third¡­ Before they could react, the 81 people fainted and fell to the ground


    Only then did Ji Yunxi walk out of the main hall. MO Yu and anothel carried Shen Yijia up the altar behind her.


    Si Yun glanced at Shen Yijia and raised her hand. A disciple took thf to hand over a torch.


    After receiving the torch, Si Yun walked up the wooden stairs besid tripod.


    The wind gradually picked up, causing his robe to flutter. His hair f the air.


    The eight disciples surrounding the stone tripod chanted the sacrifice was even more obscure and strange than before.


    Ji Yunxi squatted down beside Shen Yijia and brushed the flower bud on forehead. She muttered regretfully, ¡°That woman did everything for YOU the end, she fulfilled my wish. What a pity.¡¯


    Although she said that, her eyes were clearly filled with joy.


    With that, she took out a dagger and slashed at Shen Yijia¡¯s wrist.


    Blood immediately gushed out. At the same time, she began to chant something in a low voice.


    However, not long after, the blood suddenly stopped.


    Ji Yunxi frowned and was about to make another cut.


    A gust of wind blew past. She frowned and turned around. She thought c something and her expression changed slightly.


    ¡°Father, you can¡¯t,¡± she exclaimed.


    However, it was too late. The torch in Si Yun¡¯s hand had already left her the moment she spoke. In an instant, countless flames rose from the tri and rushed to the top of the stone tripod.


    The fire quickly magnified in Ji Yunxi¡¯s eyes. Before she could say anythi else, she suddenly felt a pain in her wrist and the dagger fell to the grou looked down and was caught off guard by a pair of shockingly bright eyc


    Shen Yijia no longer looked as stunned as before.


    Ji Yunxi¡¯s pupils constricted and she quickly retracted her hand. Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia grabbed her hand tightly. Not only did she not pull it out, but she also pulled Shen Yijia up from her prone position.


    Her eyes turned sharp as she brushed her sleeve with her other hand. However, before she could touch the silver needle hidden above, her wrist was grabbed again.


    Shen Yijia grinned and exerted strength.


    ¡°Crack, crack.¡± The two crisp sounds even drowned out the crackling of the flames.


    ¡°You like to poison so much. Let¡¯s see how you can do it if your hand is broken!¡± she thought.


    ¡°Ah!¡± A shrill cry of pain sounded.


    ¡°Young Master.¡± MO Yu, who was under the altar, exclaimed and wanted to ascend the altar. One of the eight disciples suddenly flashed over and blocked her way.


    MO Yu was stunned. That person had already pulled off her black robe and covered her head. Her movements were too big, and she had even taken off her mask. Who else could it be but MO Yuan?


    Two more disciples pulled off their black robes. Song Jingchen rushed towards Si Yun and You Yi went to stop the others.


    They only had one goal, which was to let Shen Yijia, who was on the altar, deal with Ji Yunxi without distractions.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and punched Ji Yunxi¡¯s face. The wind from her punch stirred up the hair hanging down Ji Yunxi¡¯s temples.


    With her hands free, Ji Yunxi endured the pain and rolled to the side. Shen Yijia¡¯s fist landed on the wooden altar.


    With a bang, a hole was smashed into the floor.


    If this punch landed, she would definitely be disfigured.


    After missing, Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks in anger and punched again.


    After three days, she didn¡¯t even give her food. She was so hungry that she felt a little dizzy.


    ¡°You tricked me. You didn¡¯t get affected by the hallucinogenic incense at all. No, why didn¡¯t you get affected?¡± Ji Yunxi quickly dodged, stood up, and took two steps back. She looked at Shen Yijia indignantly.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Who asked you to be stupid?¡±


    If they didn¡¯t fall for it, how could they get her people to bring them into the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?


    She pretended to punch again. Ji Yunxi wanted to dodge again, but Shen Yijia retracted her fist and pulled out a long whip from her waist to whip Ji Yunxi.


    Ji Yunxi could not dodge in time, and an injury instantly appeared on her body.


    ¡°Look, I¡¯ll call you stupid. You don¡¯t even know what¡¯s going on. Do you think I¡¯m joking with you?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Ji Yunxi gritted her teeth and said hatefully.


    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡± Ji Yunxi gritted her teeth and said hatefully.


    Shen Yijia lashed out with her whip again. Ji Yunxi did not want to be entangled with her, so she wanted to use her qinggong to leave.


    However, as soon as her feet left the altar, the whip wrapped around her legs.


    Shen Yijia pulled hard and Ji Yunxi was thrown to the ground.


    Another whip landed on her body. It was unknown who had a death wish.


    She remembered how she dared to pinch her face.


    She even tried to release her blood. If a tiger didn¡¯t show its might, everyone would treat it as a sick cat.


    After a few whips, Ji Yunxi¡¯s dress was quickly torn apart by Shen Yijia.


    On the other side, Si Yun was sent flying by Song Jingchen¡¯s palm and fell to the ground. He spat out a mouthful of blood and suddenly felt his eyelids grow heavier. He glanced at his men and saw them fall to the ground one by one.


    There was nothing he didn¡¯t understand. He said with a sinister expression,


    ¡°You actually poisoned the stone tripod!¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and didn¡¯t say anything. He raised his sword and attacked him again.


    Unexpectedly, the totem of a spider lily suddenly rose in the air.


    The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets could not stay in the priest hall to watch the sacrificial ceremony, but they did not go home. Instead, they waited not far from the priest hall. As soon as they saw the signal flare, they rushed towards the priest hall.


    The footsteps were getting closer and closer. Song Jingchen paused and glanced at the signal tube in Si Yun¡¯s hand. He turned around and flew up to the altar.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave first.¡± He pulled Shen Yijia back.


    There were many people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets who were good at using poison. It was clearly unwise to fight them head-on.


    Not to mention that they had to take the opportunity to save her.


    Shen Yijia looked around and noticed the torches around her. She met Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes..

 Chapter 717 - Chapter 717: Rescue (1)

    Chapter 717: Rescue (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The flames suddenly rose, illuminating the night sky. From afar, it was extremely dazzling. Everyone subconsciously stopped in their tracks and looked up at the sky above the priest hall.


    Someone asked uncertainly, ¡°This is¡­ just the beginning?¡±


    If that was the case, wouldn¡¯t they disturb the gods if they rashly went over?


    ¡°No, there¡¯s something wrong with this fire,¡± the Second Elder said firmly.


    As Elders, they had participated in other sacrificial rituals before, so they naturally could tell that something was wrong.


    Everyone looked at the other elders. Seeing that they did not raise any objections, they mustered their courage and followed.


    When they really approached the priest hall and looked at the soaring flames, their eyes widened.


    ¡°The Priest Hall is on fire!¡± someone exclaimed.


    There was no need for the elders to speak. Everyone quickly rushed forward to push open the door of the priest hall.


    With a loud bang, the thick door fell to the ground, and heat waves rolled over it.


    Everyone subconsciously took a step back.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± A sharp-eyed person pointed at the stone wall that was red from the fire.


    Everyone looked over and saw a row of crooked red symbols on the stone wall with the spider lily totem.


    The Fourth Elder asked, ¡°It seems to be a character? Who knows it?¡±


    Most of the clansmen of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had not left for a hundred years. The language of the clan was still the same as that of the previous dynasty, so it was normal that they did not recognize it.


    However, this did not include the followers of the high priest who wanted to reenter the world.


    A man in green¡¯s expression was very ugly. He muttered dryly, ¡°You bunch of charlatans. I want to destroy you on behalf of the moon.¡±


    ¡®Moon? Moon Goddess?¡±


    Everyone was puzzled.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Young Master say that as long as we offer children, we can break the divine punishment?¡±


    Who was this Moon Goddess? Were they dissatisfied?


    The First Elder instructed in a low voice, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about this first. Hurry up and go in to see how Young Master and the high priest are doing.¡±


    When everyone heard that it made sense, they ran around the stone wall and into the priest hall.


    When they saw the scene in the courtyard, everyone was shocked again.


    The three halls were all engulfed by flames, and the courtyard was filled with people, including their high priest and young master.


    Someone shouted, ¡°Hurry up and save them.¡± Only then did everyone come back to their senses.


    The people who saved people and extinguished the fire instantly fell into chaos.


    ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m hungry,¡± Shen Yijia said weakly as she nestled in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached and he said angrily, ¡°Do you still dare to mess around next time?¡±


    Since Ji Yunxi had asked her to go, it was impossible for her not to make a move. However, this girl left with someone without saying anything.


    Shen Yijia shrank back guiltily and looked at the scenery on both sides that was rapidly retreating. ¡°Didn¡¯t I get drugged with psychedelic incense at first?¡±


    ¡°Heh, little liar.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe her. He glanced at her embroidered shoes and said meaningfully, ¡°Where did the golden beads on your shoes go?¡±


    At that time, the change had happened too suddenly. When he woke up, Shen Yijia had already disappeared. If not for the golden beads, he would not have been able to confirm that she had left with someone willingly.


    Naturally, without the golden bead leading the way, they would not have been able to find the location of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Shen Yijia blinked and gave a perfect guileless look. ¡°I might have accidentally dropped it. Hubby, did you pick it up?¡±


    She looked so unwilling to admit her mistakes. Song Jingchen almost laughed in anger.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I wouldn¡¯t discover the golden pearls and find you on time?¡±


    ¡°No, my husband is so smart,¡± Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly. She even patted Song Jingchen¡¯s chest.


    Meeting Song Jingchen¡¯s half-smile, her body stiffened. She knew that she had let it slip, so she stopped being stubborn and immediately apologized. ¡°I was wrong.¡±


    At first, she had only stayed behind to find the Valley of Heavenly Secrets because she was curious about the spirit exchange they mentioned, Ji Yunxi, and the woman that looked similar to her.


    Ji Luo!


    Sensing that the person in his arms was suddenly in a bad mood, Song Jingchen thought that she was hungry.


    He found a secluded place and put her down before taking out a paper bag and handed it over. ¡°Fill your stomach first. I¡¯ll make you something delicious when we get out.¡±


    ¡°Wow, it¡¯s a drumstick.¡± Shen Yijia swallowed and took a big bite, bulging her cheeks.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡± Her eyes sparkled as she flattered him again.


    It was true that he couldn¡¯t bear to see her starve, but he still had to teach her a lesson.


    It was rare for Song Jingchen to put on a straight face. He said solemnly, ¡°Next time, I¡¯ll lock you up and starve you for three to five days..¡±

 Chapter 718 - Chapter 718: Rescue (2)

    Chapter 718: Rescue (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the past, this girl would always agree on the surface whenever he told her something, but when something happened, she would rush to the front.


    Since his words were useless, he could only punish her.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She suddenly felt that the drumstick in her hand no longer smelled good.


    She swallowed the meat in her mouth and wiped her mouth. ¡°But you said that you wouldn¡¯t lock me up, nor would you deliberately not give me food.¡±


    ¡°When did I say that?¡± Song Jingchen had no impression of it.


    Shen Yijia snorted. ¡°Have you forgotten the time you wanted to divorce me?¡±


    With her reminder, Song Jingchen¡¯s memories instantly returned to when the two of them first met.


    ¡°If I were to follow you, would you lock me in the house and not let me out?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± ¡°Would you deliberately not give me food to starve me?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°How can you go back on your word? A gentleman can¡¯t go back on his words. Are you still a man?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. He snatched the remaining half of the drumstick from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and stuffed it into her mouth to stop her from chattering.


    ¡°It¡¯s time to save someone.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, he wrapped his arms around Shen Yijia¡¯s waist again and jumped out.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    He didn¡¯t want to finish the argument!


    MO Yuan and You Yi quickly followed.


    In the past three days, after confirming that Shen Yijia was safe, Song Jingchen was not in a hurry to look for her. Instead, he, MO Yuan, and You Yi took the opportunity to search the entire Valley of Heavenly Secrets. They naturally knew where Lin Shao and his sister were locked up.


    Perhaps because they felt that no outsiders would break in, there were no guards assigned to the place where they were locked up.


    As soon as she pushed open the door, she heard Lin Shao¡¯s infuriated voice.


    ¡°I¡¯ve said it before. If you want me to write down the incense recipe, let my sister go. Otherwise, I won¡¯t say anything even if I die.¡±


    In the past three months, the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had tried to threaten Lin Shao with Lin Miaomiao.


    However, Lin Shao knew better than anyone that once the incense book was given away, he would be useless. At that time, the siblings would really have no chance of survival.


    It didn¡¯t matter if he died, but he wanted Miaomiao to live well.


    ¡°Not bad. You have some backbone.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s sudden words shocked the two people hiding in the corner.


    Seeing who it was, the siblings¡¯ eyes lit up and they called out happily, ¡°Brother Song, Sister-in-law!¡±


    The two of them wanted to stand up, but their legs went weak and they fell into a ball again.


    When she got closer, she realized that their feet were chained. Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned cold. ¡°Did they torture you?¡±


    ¡°No, they wanted me to hand over the incense book. I wasn¡¯t willing, so they deliberately let us starve.¡± Lin Shao shook his head.


    One steamed bun a day wouldn¡¯t starve them to death, but it was impossible for them to eat their fill.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the siblings and frowned.


    Their family had worked hard to raise them for two and a half years to make the siblings look similar to children of the same age. However, it only took the


    Valley of Heavenly Secrets three months to turn them into skinny weak chickens again.


    Their efforts for the past two years have been wasted!


    Shen Yijia was very angry, so she asked MO Yuan and You Yi to carry one each while she ran to set the row of houses on fire.


    Song Jingchen followed behind her silently and handed over a matchstick at the right time. Because it had just rained, it wasn¡¯t easy to start a fire, so the two of them ran to the various kitchens to find a lot of oil.


    Wherever the couple passed, it instantly turned into a sea of fire.


    Standing on a hill, Shen Yijia looked at her masterpiece in satisfaction. She thought of something and asked, ¡°Have you found the Heart Devouring Grass?¡± This was the second reason why they were here.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already got it.¡± MO Yuan pointed at the large bag hanging in front of You


    Yi.


    She had originally hidden the bag. When the two masters went to set the fire just now, she took the opportunity to get it back.


    The Valley of Heavenly Secrets had a special medicinal field, so it was not difficult to find it.


    Aside from the Heart Devouring Grass, she also plucked all the herbs that were not available in the outside world.


    After leaving this place, she could plant it in her small medicinal field.


    Shen Yijia gave her a thumbs up in admiration and smiled evilly. ¡°The Valley of Heavenly Secrets used poison to harm so many people. Why don¡¯t we¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Was this girl addicted to arson?


    Before the fire in the priest¡¯s hall was extinguished, the village houses also caught fire one after another. The medicinal field caught fire as well.


    Thinking of the contents on the stone wall, the clansmen of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets panicked.


    However, Si Yun and Ji Yunxi had yet to wake up. They had no way of knowing what had happened and could only think about the divine punishment..

 Chapter 719 - Chapter 719: Rescue (3)

    Chapter 719: Rescue (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    All of them stopped trying to put out the fire and knelt in front of the stone wall to beg for forgiveness.


    Someone suddenly asked, ¡°Where did the foreign woman Young Master brought back go?¡±


    ¡°I think I saw Sister MO Yu bring her into the priest hall,¡± someone replied softly.


    Everyone looked at each other. They did not see that woman when they were putting out the fire earlier.


    ¡°Could she have started this fire?¡±


    Otherwise, why hadn¡¯t such a situation happened in hundreds of years? Why did something happen the moment an outsider entered?


    ¡°It must be her!¡± The Second Elder stood up with his walking stick. She was old, and her dark and thin face was covered in wrinkles, but her eyes were bright and sharp. It was obvious that she was not easy to deal with.


    She narrowed her eyes and looked in the direction of the village. ¡°Not only did this person injure Young Master and the high priest, but she also blasphemed against the gods and destroyed our home. We can¡¯t let her off easily.¡±


    Instead of believing that it was a divine punishment from the heavens, it was better to blame it on someone else. At least this way, everyone could accept it.


    As expected, as soon as she finished speaking, the panic on the faces of her clansmen dissipated, replaced by anger.


    They all expressed that they could not let the outsider escape. They even fought to form teams to capture her.


    They were too far away, so Shen Yijia and the others could not hear the commotion outside the priest hall. However,they weren¡¯t fools. It was expected that they would react.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave first,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia and MO Yuan paused at the same time.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia and asked.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and briefly told him what she had heard while following Ji Yunxi.


    ¡°Ji Luo?¡±


    This time, it was You Yi¡¯s turn to freeze. If not for the fact that he still remembered not to act on his own without his master¡¯s orders, he would have flown out alone to look for her.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia nodded and turned to look at MO Yuan. ¡°Is this your master¡¯s name?¡±


    MO Yuan shook her head. ¡°Master didn¡¯t tell me, but¡­¡¯


    She paused for a moment and continued, ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an mentioned this name to me. Moreover, when I was by Master¡¯s side, I heard her mention Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s name once. It should be the same person.¡±


    She did not say that she had once tried to assassinate Xuanyuan Ce.


    However, her meaning was already very obvious. Not only was Ji Luo the person Lord Jing¡¯an was looking for, but she was also very likely MO Yuan¡¯s master.


    Since that was the case, they had to save her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I heard what that old woman said. The bullsh*t high priest didn¡¯t let her kill Ji Luo, which at least means that Ji Luo is still alive.¡± After comforting her, Shen Yijia looked at the burning Valley of Heavenly Secrets again.


    He sighed and said, ¡°It¡¯s a pity that they didn¡¯t mention where Ji Luo was locked up.¡±


    Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°I know a place.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°The forbidden area of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    In the forbidden area at the back of the mountain, the sound of whips hitting flesh sounded one after another.


    Looking at the woman lying on the ground on her last breath, Madam Ji felt relieved.


    She waved her hand to make way for the maidservant who was carrying out the punishment. She took two steps forward and squatted down in front of Ji Luo. She reached out and grabbed her hair, forcing her to look up.


    Looking at the crisscrossing scars on her face, his lips curled into a mocking smile. ¡°Look at you now. Others will probably have nightmares when they see you like this.¡±


    ¡°Valley Master, do you hate me?¡±


    Ji Luo closed his eyes, clearly not intending to pay attention.


    Madam Ji hated her always calm appearance the most. It was as if no matter what she did, she was just a clown in Ji Luo¡¯s eyes.


    Her face twisted and she exerted more strength. She thought of something and quickly regained her composure.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you just relying on the fact that the high priest doesn¡¯t want me to kill you?¡±


    Madam Ji looked down at Ji Luo and sneered. ¡°I forgot to tell you that the clan is holding a sacrifice tonight, but do you know the purpose of this sacrifice?¡± Ji Luo suddenly opened his eyes and looked at her sharply.


    Madam Ji seemed to be pleased by her reaction and smiled even more smugly. After laughing, she said coldly, ¡°Spirit exchange!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been studious since she was young, and read all the books in the valley, including forbidden techniques. You should know what spirit exchange is, right?¡±


    When she said this, she stared into Ji Luo¡¯s eyes without blinking. As expected, she saw shock in her eyes.


    Madam Ji laughed out loud. ¡°So what if you hid her well? Yunxi still found that person.¡±


    ¡°You lost to me, and your daughter lost to my daughter. Apart from your background, in what way are you better than me? Why can you be a respected Valley Master while I can only kneel in front of you and beg for mercy? Even this marriage is something you don¡¯t want.¡±


    ¡°Do you know? What I hate the most is the surname Ji!¡±


    ¡°But I also thank you for giving me this surname. Otherwise, how could I have married him?¡±


    No one knew that she had admired Si Yun since she was young. She should have been happy that she got what she wanted, but when she thought about how this woman did not want it, her feelings changed.


    Not to mention that Si Yun had been keeping Ji Luo alive, Madam Ji was certain that Si Yun still remembered his past affection for Ji Luo..

 Chapter 720 - Chapter 720: Revenge

    Chapter 720: Revenge


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°But why? You¡¯re already like this, but he still can¡¯t let go of you. Tell me, what right do you have?¡±


    Madam Ji counted the grievances in her heart hysterically. Some were towards Ji Luo, and some were towards Si Yun. In her words, it was as if everyone in the world had let her down.


    However, Ji Luo was unwilling to listen to her. She only wanted to know what had happened and why that child had been captured and brought to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. How was the situation now?


    However, she also knew that if she asked, this woman would definitely not say anything. Therefore, she closed her eyes again.


    Madam Ji saw the change in her expression and sneered. ¡°Do you really want to know about your daughter¡¯s situation now?¡±


    Ji Luo ignored her.


    Madam Ji let go and stood up. She looked at her fingers that were covered in cinnabar and said proudly, ¡°I think she should have turned into a skeleton by now. But don¡¯t worry, you¡¯ve treated me well in the past. I¡¯ll persuade the high priest to send you down to see her as soon as possible.¡±


    ¡°I wonder if she¡¯ll acknowledge you on the way to hell when she sees you like this.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I almost forgot. She doesn¡¯t seem to know you exist at all.¡±


    She shook her head and said sympathetically, ¡°Valley Master, you¡¯re so pitiful.¡¯


    Thinking of that soft child, Ji Luo¡¯s body trembled and her fingers sank into the mud.


    That wouldn¡¯t happen. She had once divined for that child. She was an unpredictable variable in this world. She would definitely turn the situation around.


    This thought had just flashed through her mind.


    There was the sound of hurried footsteps, and a white-robed maidservant hurriedly walked in. ¡°Madam, bad news. The priest hall is on fire. The high priest and Young Master are seriously injured and unconscious.¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Madam Ji was shocked and asked sternly, ¡°What exactly happened?¡±


    The maidservant said, ¡°I heard that it¡¯s a divine punishment.¡±


    After understanding the situation in the priest¡¯s hall, she rushed over to report. The houses and medicinal fields in the village were on fire one after another, and she did not know about the suspicions of her clansmen towards Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Divine punishment?¡± Madam Ji staggered back in fear. She glanced at Ji Luo to prevent herself from losing her composure, but she didn¡¯t calm down.


    ¡°Throw her back inside.¡± She coldly instructed the old woman who was in charge of Ji Luo and hurried out with her men.


    When Shen Yijia and the others came over, they saw Madam Ji coming out of the forbidden area from afar.


    ¡°Why is that old woman here?¡± Shen Yijia gritted her teeth.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that she hated Ji Luo? She¡¯s probably here to cause trouble for her.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Go in and save them. We¡¯ll meet at the exit later.¡±


    You Yi had already brought Lin Shao and his sister over to wait.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and looked at MO Yuan. ¡°Go and save her. After you save her, go and look for You Yi. If we don¡¯t arrive in time, the two of you can leave first.¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia disagreed.


    Song Jingchen explained, ¡°The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets think highly of themselves. There isn¡¯t even a guard in the forbidden area. I think it¡¯s the same inside.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Then why don¡¯t we go in together and save them?¡±


    She could take revenge on the old woman in the future.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°After such a long time, the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets must have reacted, and the medicinal field isn¡¯t far from here. They¡¯ll definitely find us by following the direction of the fire. We can divert their attention.¡±


    Shen Yijia was successfully convinced.


    After crossing a small mountain was the medicinal field.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t they say that there was only a fire in the Priest Hall?¡± Looking at the medicinal field not far away, Madam Ji frowned.


    The white-robed maidservant was also shocked and quickly explained, ¡°This place was fine when I came over just now.¡±


    Madam Ji stopped in her tracks. Something flashed across her mind and she reprimanded, ¡°No, this isn¡¯t a divine punishment.¡±


    Just now, she was too frightened by the word ¡°divine punishment¡± to think about anything else.


    ¡°Madam?¡±


    ¡°Let me ask you, did you see the foreign woman Young Master brought back from the Priest Hall?¡±


    The maidservant thought for a moment. The situation at that time was indeed chaotic, but the clothes that the foreign woman was wearing were different from the others. If she saw her, she would definitely be able to recognize her at a glance. Therefore, she was very sure that the woman was not in the priest hall at that time. She shook her head and said, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Madam Ji¡¯S eyes turned cold. What if that person knew about her background and deliberately took the bait?


    ¡°Call our clansmen over immediately.¡± She turned around and looked in the direction of the forbidden area. After instructing them, she said to the others, ¡°Go back and guard the forbidden area..¡±

 Chapter 721 - Chapter 721: Revenge (2)

    Chapter 721: Revenge (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The arsonist was Ji Luo¡¯s accomplice. If her clansmen found out, Si Yun wouldn¡¯t be able to protect her this time.


    Thinking of this, Madam Ji revealed a strange smile.


    She had waited for this day for a long time.


    A few muffled groans suddenly came from behind.


    Madam Ji vaguely sensed something and frowned. She suddenly turned around and met the face of an extremely handsome unfamiliar man.


    To be chosen to grow up by her young master¡¯s side and be given the surname


    Ji, it could be seen that her strength was not lacking among the clan members. After being surprised, she turned her fingertip and shot a poisonous needle at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°You have a death wish!¡±


    ¡°I think you have a death wish.¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia appeared behind her with a stick in her hand.


    With a thud, Madam Ji¡¯s she whacked Madam Ji¡¯s head.


    Blood dripped down her forehead. Madam Ji¡¯s hair was twisted into a bun. She swayed and turned around. When she saw who it was, she said, ¡°You!¡± and fainted.


    Shen Yijia threw away the stick and spread her hands innocently. ¡°So weak?¡± She had let her off too easily.


    ¡°Hubby, what are we going to do next?¡± Now, she was only glad that she and her beautiful husband had chased after her. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t even know that they were about to be discovered.


    They would have been in the cave. If someone threw a handful of poison into the enclosed space, it would be game over for them.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth, but before he could speak, he saw flames surging not far away. A large group of people was rushing over.


    He raised his eyebrows and said, ¡°Do what you like.¡±


    Something she loved to do?


    Shen Yijia blinked. Hug her husband, kiss him, and sleep with him? Song Jingchen held his forehead and flicked her forehead.


    ¡°Arson. ¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia rubbed her forehead.


    She sounded a little disappointed.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    He threw the maidservants into a ravine at the side so that no one would discover them.


    Seeing this, Shen Yijia took out a pill and stuffed it into Madam Ji¡¯s mouth. She carried her on her shoulder.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°You want to bring her along?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Shen Yijia nodded matter-of-factly. ¡°It¡¯s too easy on her. I¡¯ll keep her and beat her up slowly.¡±


    Song Jingchen wanted to say that he could kill her, but he suddenly remembered that this girl¡¯s subconscious way of taking revenge seemed to be to beat people up. At the very least, she would beat her up a few more times. As for those who died at her hands, they were all assassins who attacked first.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do it.¡± He reached out to take the person.


    Shen Yijia jumped far away with a whoosh. Her deliberately low voice came from the air. ¡°No, men and women shouldn¡¯t touch each other. This old woman isn¡¯t worthy of being carried by you.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Then I¡¯ll carry you?¡±


    The clansmen of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had just passed through the mostly burned medicinal field with torches when a man hurriedly chased after them.


    ¡°This is bad!¡± The man panted and said, ¡°There¡¯s a fire at the end of the village.¡±


    The Fourth Elder gritted his teeth and said in a low voice, ¡°Quick, go to the end of the village.¡±


    In a hidden place, MO Yuan carried Ji Luo, who had long fainted, and looked at the group of people who were getting further and further away. Thick killing intent surged in her eyes.


    She had been with Ji Luo for ten years. Even though her appearance was ruined and she was skinny, MO Yuan could still recognize her at a glance. This was her young lady.


    How dare these people!


    MO Yuan closed her eyes and suppressed the anger in her heart. She carried her into the night.


    Fifteen minutes later, the group arrived at the end of the village.


    ¡°Everyone, there¡¯s a fire in the mulberry field!¡± Everyone quickly rushed to the mulberry field.


    ¡°The bamboo forest is on fire!¡±


    The Fourth Elder brought his men to the bamboo forest.


    ¡°Everyone, this is bad¡­¡±


    Fourth Elder¡¯s face darkened. If he still couldn¡¯t react in time, he would have been played like a monkey. Then his position as an Elder would have been in vain.


    Bang! A spider lily totem suddenly appeared in the night sky.


    ¡°Yes, the place where the fire started is over there.¡± The man who reported pointed at the sky.


    The Fourth Elder was so angry that he fell back. ¡°Everyone, search separately.¡± ¡°Then are we still going there?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°Idiot, it¡¯s obvious that they are deliberately luring us there. By the time we got there, they would have long run away,¡± Fourth Elder cursed.


    In the end, the group began to search the surroundings. No one went to the place where the totem rose.


    Shen Yijia threw away the oil barrel, clapped her hands, and grabbed Madam Ji¡¯s arm. She swung the woman behind her back.


    Madam Ji, who had just woken up and was about to find an opportunity to hold Shen Yijia hostage, fainted again because of this sudden movement..

 Chapter 722 - Chapter 722: Revenge (3)

    Chapter 722: Revenge (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia had no idea at all. She happily leaned in front of Song Jingchen and asked, ¡°Hubby, where should I set the next fire?¡±


    Indeed, doing bad things was the best.


    Song Jingchen said in amusement, ¡°Those people won¡¯t be tricked again.


    There¡¯s no need to burn any more locations. Let¡¯s meet up with You Yi.¡± Since he was not allowed to touch Madam Ji, he could only hold Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s the story of the boy who cried wolf. I understand.¡± Shen Yijia was carrying a person on her back, but she could still easily follow Song Jingchen. Song Jingchen was puzzled. ¡°The boy who cried wolf?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Don¡¯t you know?¡± Shen Yijia turned to look at him in surprise.


    This was the first story Da Hua had told her. She remembered it clearly.


    Song Jingchen shook his head.


    There was actually something her beautiful husband did not know. Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°This story was about a little boy who herds sheep.¡±


    After a while, Shen Yijia finished telling the story. ¡°Once, the wolf really came, but no one believed him. In the end, all the sheep were eaten by the wolf.¡±


    Seeing that Song Jingchen was listening seriously, Shen Yijia blinked and asked, ¡°Then do you know Xiao Ming?¡±


    Da Hua had said that everyone knew Xiao Ming.


    Song Jingchen still shook his head.


    ¡°You don¡¯t even know him? But it¡¯s fine. Don¡¯t you still have me? If you don¡¯t know, you can ask me.¡±


    Although she said that, Song Jingchen could clearly see the smugness on her face and her small chest.


    Song Jingchen seriously suspected that this girl was about to fly into the sky with her arrogance.


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s expression, Song Jingchen expressed that he didn¡¯t want to know.


    However, he still cooperated and asked, ¡°Who is he?¡±


    ¡°Of course Xiao Ming is a student.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Then do you know what Xiao Ming¡¯s teacher likes to say to him the most?¡± Song Jingchen pulled her around a small pit and shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Get out! Haha!¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    After laughing, Shen Yijia continued to ask, ¡°Then do you know what a fatty will become if he falls from a high place? Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Skinny?¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s a dead fatty. Haha!¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Then do you know what eggs can¡¯t be eaten?¡±


    Shen Yijia seemed to have discovered a new pastime. Along the way, she kept asking strange questions to Song Jingchen. Even the answers were strange.


    However, after she finished answering, she still had to laugh for a long time.


    Who would believe that they were escaping if they ignored the speed of their movements?


    When they reached the exit of the Misty Forest, Shen Yijia finally stopped talking.


    Song lingchen heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Brother Song, Sister-in-law, we¡¯re here.¡± Lin Shao walked out of the night.


    Behind him were You Yi and MO Yuan, who were carrying Lin Miaomiao and Ji Luo respectively.


    Lin Miaomiao had fallen asleep, while Ji Luo was wrapped in a cloak from head to toe.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s leave first.¡±


    MO Yuan looked at Shen Yijia and pursed her lips. ¡°Miss, can I trouble you to bring Master out?¡±


    ¡°What are you going to do?¡± Shen Yijia asked suspiciously.


    It wasn¡¯t impossible for one person to carry a person on his shoulder.


    ¡°I suddenly remembered that something was left behind.¡± MO Yuan lowered her eyes, not daring to look into Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes.


    She would be worried if she didn¡¯t hand her master over to Miss.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What could you have left behind? Let¡¯s leave together.¡±


    MO Yuan opened her mouth to say something, but Shen Yijia said directly, ¡°This is an order.¡±


    Bang! A spider lily totem suddenly exploded above her head.


    At the same time, a cold female voice sounded. ¡°It¡¯s not so easy to leave.¡±


    The few of them looked in the direction of the voice. It was four women in white. They were MO Tong and the other three who had been sent by Ji Yunxi to guard the exit.


    Just now, they had also been attracted by the signal from the clan. Halfway through, they realized that something was wrong and turned around, coincidentally hearing the conversation just now.


    MO Yuan took two steps forward. ¡°Miss, leave first. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, are you sure you won¡¯t let us leave?¡± Shen Yijia interrupted MO Yuan and revealed the burlap bag on her back.


    ¡°Madam!¡± MO Tong was shocked.


    Madam Ji no longer had any real power in the family, but she was still Young Master¡¯s mother.


    ¡°We can leave now, right?¡± Shen Yijia raised her chin.


    MO Tong said sternly, ¡°Let Madam go first.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Are you stupid or am I? We¡¯ll naturally let her go after we leave the cliff ridge.¡±


    A while ago, Ji Yunxi kidnapped her aunt and escaped from the palace with Shangguan Yu. Who would have thought that the tables would turn so soon?


    Their luck really changed.


    MO Tong¡¯s fingertips moved slightly. ¡°Alright, you can leave.¡±


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen looked at each other and gestured for MO Yuan and You Yi to leave first. Then, the two of them followed.


    After walking for a distance, Shen Yijia¡¯s ears twitched. She suddenly turned around and grabbed Madam Ji¡¯s arm.


    The poisonous needles pierced into her flesh one by one. Not a single one fell.


    Madam Ji, who had finally regained consciousness, fainted again.


    ¡°You!¡± MO Tong¡¯s pupils constricted.


    ¡°Oh my. This shield is quite useful. Throw out as many poisonous needles as you have. Anyway, I don¡¯t mind her being turned into a porcupine.¡±


    With that, the couple turned around and entered the Misty Wood without looking back, as if they were not worried that they would attack again.


    Seeing her disappear into the fog, a woman in white frowned and said, ¡°MO Tong, Madam was poisoned by your¡­


    ¡°Why aren¡¯t the clansmen here yet?¡± MO Tong interrupted her coldly.


    The other three were stunned.


    That¡¯s right. The signal had been sent for so long, but there was no movement at all.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m sure the people in the Valley of Heavenly


    Secrets have never heard of the story of the boy who cried wolf..¡±

 Chapter 723 - Chapter 723: Encountering Enemies

    Chapter 723: Encountering Enemies


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    There were many people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets who knew medicine. As soon as Shen Yijia and the others entered the Misty Forest, Ji Yunxi and Si Yun woke up.


    Before they could ask, a clansman came to report that Lin Shao, his sister, and Ji Luo had disappeared.


    The father and daughter were so angry that they almost vomited blood. They could only blame themselves for having ulterior motives in order to prevent their clansmen from knowing Shen Yijia¡¯s true identity. They had never revealed the relationships between Shen Yijia, Lin Shao, and Ji Luo.


    The clansmen were at a loss from the beginning to the end, so they could only search blindly.


    Before she could calm down, MO Tong hurriedly came to report that Madam Ji had been held hostage in the Misty Forest.


    ¡°Outsiders are not familiar with the Misty Wood. They must not have gone far. Bring people to chase after them immediately, ¡± Si Yun said coldly.


    Ji Yunxi glanced at MO Tong, killing intent flashing across her eyes.


    Neither of them mentioned Madam Ji, who had been captured.


    MO Tong paused and nodded.


    Soon, with MO Tong in the lead, a group of people entered the Misty Forest.


    Just as they had expected, although Ji Yunxi¡¯s methods were involved when they came, the fog in the forest was real. Coupled with the fact that it was night and it had just rained, it was extremely difficult for Shen Yijia and the others to walk.


    Song Jingchen had been holding Shen Yijia¡¯s hand tightly ever since they entered the Misty Forest. Shen Yijia knew what he was worried about and obediently followed him.


    Perhaps because of the surrounding environment, no one spoke along the way.


    At this moment, footsteps suddenly sounded around them. They were still a distance away, so they could not hear them clearly.


    Normally, they would not be able to hear this sound, but the forest was silent. Coupled with the fact that martial arts practitioners had sharp ears and eyes, the few of them noticed it immediately.


    Soon, they could see specks of fire approaching them.


    The fog was too thick. There was only a weak fire, but no one was there.


    ¡°Hubby,¡± Shen Yijia called out softly. Did the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets not want the old woman¡¯s life?


    ¡°Find a place to hide for a while,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia was about to say that there was no cave around. Where could she hide?


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip around her waist and carried her and Madam Ji up to the treetop.


    Seeing this, You Yi also grabbed Lin Shao and flew up.


    Shen Yijia looked at MO Yuan and saw that she had tied the cloak around Ji Luo to her body. She grabbed a vine and easily climbed up the tree.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You can do that?¡±


    The few of them held their breaths and focused, hiding their figures on the lush branches. Lin Shao covered his mouth tightly and used his other hand to cover the sleeping Lin Miaomiao, as if he was afraid that he would be discovered.


    You Yi glanced at the person who was red with agitation, and silently turned his head away.


    Wasn¡¯t this kid a little silly to start covering it now?


    With the fire, the footsteps became clearer. Through the thick fog, they could vaguely see blurry figures approaching them.


    Just from the number of figures, it could be seen that many people had come. If they were really discovered, a fierce battle would be inevitable.


    Shen Yijia subconsciously pressed down on the whip at her waist.


    Seeing that they were about to approach, it was unknown what they had discovered, but they all stood still.


    Shen Yijia blinked. Just as she was wondering, a murderous aura suddenly approached them.


    It was so fast that Shen Yijia had only seen it on You Yi when she came to this world.


    There were a total of two auras. She quickly pulled out her whip to block them, but Song Jingchen hugged her and landed on another tree.


    Coupled with You Yi, the four of them exchanged blows in midair in the blink of an eye.


    With the interference of the fog and their fast speed, they could only see a few shadows flying around.


    Shen Yijia was extremely anxious. You Yi¡¯s voice suddenly sounded. ¡°Stop..¡±

 Chapter 724 - Chapter 724: Who Is She?

    Chapter 724: Who Is She?


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The two men in black paused and fell from the sky.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s sword missed. He glanced at the two people who were forced back by You Yi¡¯s words and guessed something. He turned around and brought Shen Yijia, who was hugging the tree trunk and preparing to slide down, to the ground.


    The two men in black quickly walked up to Shen Yijia and knelt down, clearly asking for forgiveness.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Only then did she see the clothes of the man in black, especially the mask on his face. It was exactly the same as the one You Yi was wearing.


    So this was a case of friendly fire. They were all on the same side?


    At this moment, the team that had stopped not far away also walked over. Who else could it be but Chu Feng and Thirty Thousand?


    ¡°Master, Young Madam.¡±


    ¡°Young Master Song, Madam Song.¡±


    The two of them called out in surprise.


    Shen Yijia blinked and looked at the large group behind them. She asked suspiciously, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°His Highness was worried about Madam Song and ordered me to go to the military camp to mobilize 5,000 people into the mountains,¡± Chu Feng replied.


    They had been searching in this mountain for two to three days. Previously, they had encountered people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and thought that it would be the same this time. Therefore, there was a conflict just now.


    As for why only two Demon Guards rushed up, it was because the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were too sinister and loved to use poison.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. Five thousand people could raze the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to the ground, right?


    But why did he only say that he was worried about her? They had clearly entered the mountains together.


    ¡°When did you meet the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°Yesterday,¡± Chu Feng replied.


    Song Jingchen nodded. Ji Yunxi didn¡¯t know that he had already entered the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, so she would definitely send someone to kill him. She didn¡¯t expect to encounter Chu Feng and the others.


    Just as he had guessed, Ji Yunxi asked MO Tong to guard the exit of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. MO Tong was worried and instructed some people to ente the Misty Wood.


    Since they had already found them, there was no need for the five thousand people to continue wandering in the mountains. Chu Feng took out a signal flare and sent it out. He explained, ¡°We split into two teams. South Wind led tk other team in the other direction.¡±


    The environment of the Misty Wood was special, so they did not dare to split up too much.


    Noticing that MO Yuan was carrying someone on her back, Shen Yijia instructed the Demon Guards to get another person from the tree branch. Chu Feng was stunned. Didn¡¯t they say that only the Lin siblings had been capture( Why were there two more?


    He asked curiously, ¡°Who are they?¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Madam Ji in disdain. ¡°Ji Yunxi¡¯s mother, my hostage.¡±


    As for what MO Yuan was carrying, Shen Yijia did not say. It was mainly because she had yet to see it clearly!


    MO Yuan ignored him and pulled at Ji Luo¡¯s robe expressionlessly. Not a single strand of hair could be seen.


    Chu Feng rubbed his nose and didn¡¯t pursue the matter. He brought them to tk camp.


    The camp was set up on a flat ground outside the Misty Forest. They arrived after walking for half an hour.


    Of course, without the marks they had made, Shen Yijia and the others might not have been able to walk out even after walking for hours.


    In addition, Xuanyuan Ce had also entered the mountains. However, his body was recovering slower than the two Demon Guards. Coupled with the rain these few days, he had a few intermittent fevers. If he followed everyone to search, he would only be a burden, so he simply stayed in the tent and waited for the news.


    Tap, tap, tap. Chaotic footsteps sounded outside. Before anyone could enter to report, Xuanyuan Ce left the tent.


    There was no news for the past two to three days. God knew how anxious he was.


    A bonfire burned around the tent, illuminating the area.


    When he saw Shen Yijia and the others walking at the front, Xuanyuan Ce felt completely relieved.


    ¡°You¡¯re too ridiculous,¡± he reprimanded with a straight face.


    Even if the problem of the poisonous forest was resolved, who knew what dangers they would encounter in the future?


    They dared to barge in.


    Seeing that he had specially mobilized troops to look for them, Shen Yijia resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°This is called being bold.¡±


    Didn¡¯t he see that not only did they return intact, but they also saved the hostages?


    Unlike Xuanyuan Ce, who had almost lost his life bringing a group of people into the mountain.


    Hearing the hidden meaning in her words, Xuanyuan Ce was stunned.


    The fact that she could still retort meant that she was really not injured!


    He glared at Song Jingchen angrily and sized up the others. Just like Chu Feng, he immediately noticed two more people.


    His gaze swept across the woman on a soldier¡¯s shoulder and finally landed on


    Mo Yuan.


    To be precise, it was on MO Yuan¡¯s back, revealing only a pair of bare feet.


    His heart tightened. He opened his mouth and asked, ¡°Who are you carrying?¡± The one thrown to the soldiers was clearly unimportant.


    MO Yuan glanced at him coldly and ignored his question. She said to Shen Yijia,


    ¡°Miss, she¡¯s seriously injured. Can you let me treat her wounds first?¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly nodded. ¡°Then go quickly. Tell me if you need anything.¡±


    She could tell that MO Yuan did not want Xuanyuan Ce to know that that person was Ji Luo.


    Although she did not understand why, they were close. Of course, Shen had to stand on MO Yuan¡¯s side..

 Chapter 725 - Chapter 725: Mother and Daughter Reunion

    Chapter 725: Mother and Daughter Reunion


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    MO Yuan¡¯s attitude confirmed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s guess. Even though his heart was in turmoil, he was still shocked by the words ¡°seriously injured¡±.


    He tried his best to calm down and suggested, ¡°Bring the person to my tent.¡± MO Yuan stood still.


    If not for the fact that it was too late and her master¡¯s condition was not good, she would definitely have immediately brought her away from the cliff ridge and away from Xuanyuan Ce. How could she be willing to let Ji Luo lie on the bed that Xuanyuan Ce had slept in?


    She had embarrassed Xuanyuan Ce time and time again, and the atmosphere was a little awkward.


    Chu Feng opened his mouth to scold her.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced over and swallowed the ¡°insolence¡± in his throat.


    ¡°Pack up a few tents and come out, ¡± Xuanyuan Ce instructed.


    Not long after, the tents were tidied up. MO Yuan carried someone into one of the tents.


    Xuanyuan Ce followed her, but MO Yuan refused to let him enter. He was not angrv and staved outside the tent.


    MO Yuan¡¯s attitude confirmed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s guess. Even though his heart was in turmoil, he was still shocked by the words ¡°seriously injured¡±.


    He tried his best to calm down and suggested, ¡°Bring the person to my tent.¡± MO Yuan stood still.


    If not for the fact that it was too late and her master¡¯s condition was not good, she would definitely have immediately brought her away from the cliff ridge and away from Xuanyuan Ce. How could she be willing to let Ji Luo lie on the bed that Xuanyuan Ce had slept in?


    She had embarrassed Xuanyuan Ce time and time again, and the atmosphere was a little awkward.


    Chu Feng opened his mouth to scold her.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced over and swallowed the ¡°insolence¡± in his throat.


    ¡°Pack up a few tents and come out, ¡± Xuanyuan Ce instructed.


    Not long after, the tents were tidied up. MO Yuan carried someone into one of the tents.


    Xuanyuan Ce followed her, but MO Yuan refused to let him enter. He was not angry and stayed outside the tent.


    Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that he was interested in MO Yuan.


    Looking at Shen Yijia, who was standing rooted to the ground, Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Do you want to go in and take a look?¡±


    Shen Yijia scratched her head. It was strange. When she heard from the old woman that she looked like Ji Luo, she was filled with curiosity about this unfamiliar woman.


    However, she did not really want to look at her when she was really in front of her. Shen Yijia could not figure out why she had so many emotions for a strange woman. She pursed her lips and changed the topic. ¡°I¡¯m so hungry.¡±


    Not only was she hungry, but Lin Shao was also hungry. However, seeing that the atmosphere was not right, he did not dare to say anything.


    The five thousand people definitely had to eat. After asking around, they found out that there were cooking utensils here. Song Jingchen got someone to bring water for Shen Yijia and Lin Shao to bathe in and personally cooked a pot of shredded chicken porridge.


    When the two of them came out of the shower, the porridge was ready.


    He cooked a large pot, and even You Yi had a share. Naturally, he did not forget to get someone to send two bowls to MO Yuan. As for Xuanyuan Ce, everyone here was his subordinate. It was impossible for him to starve.


    Coincidentally, Lin Miaomiao woke up. The few of them gathered around and ate happily.


    All of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s attention was on the tent, so he did not realize that he seemed to have been ostracized.


    After eating and drinking her fill, Shen Yijia entered her tent and went to sleep.


    It was a dreamless night.


    The next day, the sky was clear.


    Shen Yijia was woken up by a commotion. When she opened her eyes, she didn¡¯t see Song Jingchen. She frowned and quickly put on her clothes and went out.


    Outside the tent, Lin Miaomiao was squatting alone. Seeing her come out, she quickly ran over. ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re awake.¡±


    After sleeping, she looked much better than yesterday, but her face was still pale.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her head and looked at the soldiers walking past in a hurry.


    She asked, ¡°What are they doing? Also, where did my husband go?¡±


    ¡°Brother South Wind¡¯s army encountered people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Many of them were poisoned. Sister MO Yuan wrote down the instructions for an antidote, but there were no herbs. Brother Song brought people to look for herbs.¡±


    ¡°It seems to be a little serious. It was too late to buy medicine. Many people died,¡± Lin Miaomiao explained worriedly.


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin. South Wind must have encountered the people sent by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to capture them.


    ¡°Where¡¯s MO Yuan?¡± she asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s bandaging the injured soldiers. I¡¯ll take you there.¡±


    The two of them went to the place where the injured soldiers were placed.


    The number of poisoned people was more than Shen Yijia had imagined. More than ten tents were lined up, and the ground was filled with soldiers.


    Their hands and feet were bound by straps, and their mouths were stuffed with cloth. Their lips were purple, and their faces were filled with pain. They could not move and could only twist their bodies.


    Whether it was the Heart-Devouring Poison or the useless emperor¡¯s poison, they would torture people first before killing them. It seemed that this time, it was the same. What kind of fetish did the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets have?


    Seeing that a few people in front of her suddenly stopped moving, Shen Yijia frowned. Xuanyuan Ce had sent these people into the mountains to find her.


    In other words, could it be assumed that these people had become like this because of her?


    It was rare for Shen Yijia to feel so guilty. She pursed her lips and looked up for MO Yuan.


    Xuanyuan Ce entered the mountains with his injuries. There was a doctor beside him and MO Yuan. The two of them shuttled back and forth among the injured soldiers.


    You can¡¯t make bricks without straw. MO Yuan had no choice but to bandage those people¡¯s external injuries first.


    After dealing with one of them, MO Yuan was about to turn around to look at the next one when someone suddenly grabbed her wrist.


    ¡°Miss?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s expression was serious. What was the use of treating these external injuries? They would still die if the poison was not cured. She did not say anything and pulled MO Yuan away.


    ¡°Miss.¡± MO Yuan vaguely guessed something.


    Shen Yijia pulled him aside. Seeing that there was no one around, she said, ¡°I have four drops of spiritual liquid. Is that enough?¡±


    There were hundreds of people who had been poisoned. It was unknown how much spiritual liquid each of them needed to drink. It was naturally not enough to detoxify the poison. Shen Yijia wanted to ask if she could buy them more time.


    At least until her beautiful husband brought back the herbs.


    MO Yuan knew how powerful the spiritual liquid was, so there was naturally no problem. However, this way, her master¡¯s face¡­


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    A hoarse and unpleasant voice suddenly sounded. Shen Yijia turned around and her pupils constricted when she saw who it was.


    What kind of face was that?


    The crisscrossing scars covered her entire face like a net. The scars on Feng Manman¡¯s face simply paled in comparison with hers.


    Ji Luo¡¯s gaze landed on her face without blinking.


    Looking at the baby in her memory who had already grown into a slender young lady, she held her breath. Tears flashed in her eyes, and her heart skipped a beat.


    Noticing the fear in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes, she wanted to smile, but her facial muscles had long died. She could not do it at all. She quickly turned her head away and said apologetically, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Did I scare you?


    Her voice was very soft, as if she was afraid of scaring people away, but it could not hide the hoarseness in it. It even trembled.


    Even though she had never looked in the mirror, she knew that she probably looked like a demonic ghost.


    It was her fault for being too anxious. She only wanted to see her daughter as soon as possible and had forgotten about something else.


    Fifteen minutes ago.


    Ji Luo woke up from her sleep and looked at the unfamiliar environment and the whip wounds on her body.


    She vaguely guessed that she was no longer in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    After all, if she was still in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, they would not have gotten someone to apply medicine on her, let alone bring her out of the forbidden area.


    Apart from her daughter, whom they had captured, she could not think of anyone else who would bring her out of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Hence, she rushed out and happened to hear Shen Yijia¡¯s question.


    Shen Yijia blinked, not knowing why.


    This was the first time she had seen this woman, but the woman apologized. She suddenly felt endless grievances.


    Apart from feeling aggrieved, there was also heartache.


    It was very, very painful.


    Shen Yijia did not know why she felt aggrieved or why her heart hurt. In short, she felt terrible.


    She subconsciously asked, ¡°Does it hurt?¡±


    ¡°It must have hurt a lot when vou were iniured. right?¡± she thought.


    Ji Luo¡¯s body trembled. She wanted to say that it didn¡¯t hurt, but she realized that she couldn¡¯t breathe.


    After all, she had just been tortured and it had taken all her strength to find this place. In her excitement, she fell to the ground.


    Shen Yijia was shocked and quickly wanted to catch her, but a purple figure was already one step ahead of her..

 Chapter 726 - Chapter 726: I’m Your Mother

    Chapter 726: I¡¯m Your Mother


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing that it was Xuanyuan Ce, Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks and maintained her outstretched hands. MO Yuan rushed over.


    Xuanyuan Ce hugged the person in his arms and retreated. He shouted, ¡°Stop her.¡±


    A Demon Guard suddenly appeared in front of MO Yuan.


    MO Yuan¡¯s eyes turned cold. She flipped her wrist and a silver needle flew out of her fingertip.


    With a clang, the Demon Guards swung their swords to block it. Without giving MO Yuan a chance to take out any more silver needles, they pounced on her and grabbed her wrist.


    ¡°Let go.¡±


    Two voices sounded at the same time. One came from Shen Yijia, and the other¡­


    Ji Luo retreated from Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s arms and staggered.


    MO Yuan quickly ran over to support her.


    Ji Luo looked at Xuanyuan Ce, who was also looking at her. However, unlike Ji Luo¡¯s coldness, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes were filled with shock and regret.


    MO Yuan could recognize her at a glance, but so could Xuanyuan Ce.


    His heart tightened. He reached out, his fingertips trembling. His throat tightened. ¡°Your face¡­¡¯


    Ji Luo turned her head away to avoid his hand.


    Xuanyuan Ce paused and slowly closed his fingers. He retracted his hand and twisted his fingers. When he closed his eyes and opened them again, his eyes were filled with terrifying killing intent.


    He stood there, his entire body seemed to be enveloped in a layer of frost, like a cold sword.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let off anyone who hurt you,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said.


    Ji Luo¡¯s eyelashes fluttered and she said coldly, ¡°My business has nothing to do with you.¡±


    At this moment, she was a little grateful for the scars on her face, preventing her from making any unnecessary expressions.


    Xuanyuan Ce clenched his fists and stared at her for a long time. He turned around and took two steps before stopping. ¡°Back then, I let you down, but I¡¯ve never forgotten my promise to you.¡±


    He looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Girl, help me take care of her for a few days.¡±


    With that, he glanced at the Demon Guards again and left in large strides.


    Shen Yijia was a little stunned. Thinking of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s love history from You Yi, she vaguely guessed something.


    However.


    Did she agree to his request? No.


    Thus, even if she took care of the lady, she wasn¡¯t helping him.


    ¡°Hmph!¡± she thought.


    There was one more thing.


    She knew that the hidden Demon Guard hadn¡¯t left at all. He was guarding them from behind a nearby tree and fighting for a spot with You Yi.


    MO Yuan frowned and said, ¡°Master.¡±


    Ji Luo ignored Xuanyuan Ce and reached out to stroke her head. She sighed. ¡°MO Yuan has grown up.¡±


    MO Yuan¡¯s eyes turned a little red. ¡°I came late and caused Master to suffer so much. ¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not too late.¡± Ji Luo looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°You did very well.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened under his gaze. She pinched her fingers and was about to say something when Lin Miaomiao ran over.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Sister MO Yuan, bad news. Many people are about to die.


    Brother Song hasn¡¯t returned yet.¡±


    Only then did Shen Yijia remember why she had pulled MO Yuan out. Moreover, Ji Luo had said that it was fine. Could it be that she knew that she had spiritual liquid?


    That¡¯s right. When she was in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, the spiritual exchange Ji Yunxi mentioned should be related to her spiritual liquid. Could it be that the spiritual liquid was not a secret in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?


    Seeing the confusion on her face, Ji Luo said softly, ¡°Saving people is more important.¡±


    Even though Ji Luo had many things to tell her and wanted to know if she had been doing well all these years, she knew that there was no hurry.


    With Shen Yijia¡¯s spiritual liquid and the acupuncture technique that Ji Luo had taught MO Yuan, the poison in the soldiers¡¯ bodies was finally controlled after a few hours of work.


    Seeing the fatigue in Ji Luo¡¯s eyes, Shen Yijia was considerate of her, and took care of her.


    ¡°Let me help you back to rest,¡± she said.


    Ji Luo did not refuse. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Together with MO Yuan, they helped her back to the tent. Coincidentally, a


    soldier brought lunch over.


    Because they did not know that Shen Yijia was also here, the soldier only gave Ji Luo¡¯s share.


    Coincidentally, Shen Yijia also wanted to wait for Song Jingchen to return before eating together.


    Just as she was about to leave, she met Ji Luo¡¯s gaze and was stunned.


    She felt that it was rude to call her by her name. She was not married, so she should call her Big Sister, right? It seemed appropriate for her age, since she was the one who raised MO Yuan.


    This stumped Shen Yijia. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Then, you should eat. I won¡¯t disturb you.¡±


    ¡°Jiajia,¡± Ji Luo called out to her.


    ¡°I heard MO Yuan mention your name. I can call you that, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded in a daze. It was just a name. It was nothing.


    Ji Luo¡¯s gaze landed gently on her face. ¡°I have something to tell you. Can I take up some of your time?¡±


    She had grown up in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and was used to being decisive. She was not a shy person who liked to drag things out. Otherwise, she would not have left the Xuanyuan Kingdom so decisively back then.


    Now that she saw Shen Yijia, she had never thought of using other identities to care for her and protect her.


    In Ji Luo¡¯s opinion, that was unfair to Shen Yijia. She had the right to know everything.


    As for whether Shen Yijia would acknowledge her as her mother or hate her, she deserved it.


    Shen Yijia thought that she was going to talk about the spiritual liquid and said, ¡°You haven¡¯t recovered yet. We¡¯ll talk about the spiritual liquid later. Rest well first.¡±


    Ji Luo shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not what I wanted to say.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her suspiciously.


    MO Yuan had already retreated.


    Ji Luo approached her and carefully held her hand. There was no expression on her scarred face, but Shen Yijia could clearly feel that her hand was trembling, as if she was afraid of something.


    ¡°Jiajia, actually, I¡¯m your mother,¡± she said in a trembling voice.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted and she suddenly retracted her hand. Her first reaction was that this person was joking with her. Her mother was clearly Madam Wang.


    She opened her mouth to retort when she suddenly noticed the tears in her eyes.


    ¡°You¡­¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s hand was still frozen in midair. She closed her eyes and a tear flowed out of the corner of her eye, sliding down the hideous scars on her face. ¡°Yes, I sent you to the alternate world..¡±

 Chapter 727 - Chapter 727: The Truth (1)

    Chapter 727: The Truth (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When Song Jingchen returned with his men, the sun was setting. He handed the herbs to the doctor and walked around, but he didn¡¯t see Shen Yijia. Apart from the poisoned soldiers, there were only a dozen or so patrolling soldiers left in the camp.


    He glanced at South Wind, indicating that he should ask. As soon as South Wind left, Lin Miaomiao ran out of nowhere.


    ¡°Brother Song, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    Her face was flushed and she was covered in mud.


    ¡°Miaomiao, how did you end up like this?¡± Lin Shao asked with concern.


    He had been learning how to make incense since he was young and knew the traits of some medicinal herbs better than anyone else. Therefore, he followed them into the mountains to help find medicinal herbs.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Lin Miaomiao tugged at her sleeve awkwardly and looked at Song


    Jingchen. ¡°Brother Song, I know where Sister-in-law went.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s talk as we walk.¡±


    ¡°Aye, okay.¡±


    T¡±anstat?r?: htlbs YtddlOS       Editor: Atlas btUd10S


    When Song Jingchen returned with his men, the sun was setting. He handed the herbs to the doctor and walked around, but he didn¡¯t see Shen Yijia. Apart from the poisoned soldiers, there were only a dozen or so patrolling soldiers left in the camp.


    He glanced at South Wind, indicating that he should ask. As soon as South Wind left, Lin Miaomiao ran out of nowhere.


    ¡°Brother Song, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    Her face was flushed and she was covered in mud.


    ¡°Miaomiao, how did you end up like this?¡± Lin Shao asked with concern.


    He had been learning how to make incense since he was young and knew the traits of some medicinal herbs better than anyone else. Therefore, he followed them into the mountains to help find medicinal herbs.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Lin Miaomiao tugged at her sleeve awkwardly and looked at Song


    Jingchen. ¡°Brother Song, I know where Sister-in-law went.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Let¡¯s talk as we walk.¡±


    ¡°Aye, okay.¡±


    She quickly led the way.


    Along the way, Lin Miaomiao told her everything she knew in detail. In the end, she frowned and said, ¡°I was playing outside the tent and couldn¡¯t hear her clearly. I vaguely heard the madam who was brought back by Sister MO


    Yuan say something like ¡®Mother¡¯ and ¡®I¡¯m sorry¡¯. Then, not long after, I saw


    Sister-in-law run out. She ignored me when I called her.¡±


    Her speed was naturally not as fast as Shen Yijia¡¯s, and she almost lost her track a few times.


    ¡°It¡¯s here.¡± Lin Miaomiao brought her to the foot of a mountain. ¡°I saw Sister-in-law go up.¡±


    This mountain was steep, and she couldn¡¯t climb up even if she wanted to. She could only wait at the foot of the mountain. In the end, she waited for a long time, but Shen Yijia didn¡¯t come down. She wanted to go back and look for someone, but she happened to see Song Jingchen return.


    Song Jingchen nodded. South Wind had already told him that the soldiers in the camp had been taken away by Xuanyuan Ce.


    Previously, they had analyzed that Ji Luo was the person Xuanyuan Ce was looking for. Coupled with Lin Miaomiao¡¯s words and the totem he saw in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, Song Jingchen had a guess. He said to South Wind and the others, ¡°Go back first. I¡¯ll go up and take a look.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao was worried. ¡°Will Sister-in-law be fine?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head and didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Very few people came here. Following the traces on the ground, he reached the top of the mountain.


    The sun was setting, and a warm glow filled the entire mountain. It was clearly a very warm color, but when it landed on the girl squatting not far away, she looked especially lonely.


    Noticing that the back was trembling slightly, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart seemed to be grabbed by something. He slowly walked forward and called out softly,


    ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, she saw the curled-up little body stiffen and turn around.


    When their eyes met, the corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. His worry dissipated, but he was caught between laughter and tears by the scene in front of him.


    ¡°What are you doing?¡± he asked.


    Shen Yijia was holding something that was charred and shaped like a chicken. There were two drops of tears under her eyes, and her face was dark. She swallowed the meat in her mouth with difficulty and pouted aggrievedly.


    ¡°Hubby, it tastes terrible.¡±


    Actually, she had eaten her own food in her previous life, but it was already good enough for her to be full. She didn¡¯t know what was considered delicious.


    After coming here, MO Yuan usually followed them. Madam Li was at home, and at the very least, Song Jingchen was at home. Her mouth had long been spoiled. Now that she suddenly ate the food she made, she cried because it tasted bad.


    As she spoke, she picked up the pheasant and took a big bite.


    She had to finish the chicken she roasted even if she had to cry!


    Song Jingchen walked forward and squatted down. He was so focused on Shen Yijia that he didn¡¯t notice that there was still a pile of ashes in front of her.


    He took the roasted chicken from Shen Yijia and pulled out the meat from her mouth. He said helplessly, ¡°If it tastes bad, why would you eat it?¡±


    Shen Yijia felt even more aggrieved. ¡°But I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    She hadn¡¯t eaten since she woke up in the morning and hadn¡¯t eaten since noon. It was almost time for dinner.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached a little. He looked around and said, ¡°Wait for me.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she quickly nodded.


    Not long after, Song Jingchen returned with a rabbit.


    A new pile of firewood was piled up in front of Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia found it when Song Jingchen left.


    Song Jingchen saw her staring at the rabbit in his hand and chuckled. ¡°It¡¯ll be done soon.¡±


    After lighting the fire and putting the rabbit meat on the rack, Song Jingchen took out a wet handkerchief and carefully wiped the dirt off Shen Yijia¡¯s face and mouth.

 Chapter 728 - Chapter 728: The Truth (2)

    Chapter 728: The Truth (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia did not move and let him clean her up.


    When her hands became fair again, she held Song Jingchen¡¯s face and kissed him. She smiled and said, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    Song Jingchen was slightly stunned. He put away the handkerchief and pulled her into his arms. As he turned the rabbit meat to roast it, he asked, ¡°Why are you here alone?¡±


    Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly, ¡°This place is high up. I can see the entire area.¡±


    ¡°Why do you have to look far away?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just feel that this world seems different in some way.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her hair and said softly, ¡°That¡¯s because now, you know that you belong here. It¡¯ll naturally be different if you look again.¡±


    Even if Shen Yijia had never said it, Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia had always treated herself as an outsider after suddenly coming to this world. She didn¡¯t feel a sense of belonging here.


    Just like duckweed floating in the waves, she did not know where she came from or where she would go. She happened to meet him and treated his location as her final destination.


    She would go wherever he went.


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes and turned to look at him. ¡°You know everything?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Miaomiao said a little. I guessed most of it.¡±


    Perhaps because he saw the portrait of the ancestor of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets in the secret room and knew Shen Yijia¡¯s background, he had a vague guess.


    Although he found it unbelievable, he could not use common sense to think that it was related to the mysterious Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Shen Yijia hummed. ¡°My husband is smart.¡±


    ¡°She said that she¡¯s my mother.¡± Shen Yijia lowered her eyes. ¡°She personally sent me away at the price of this.¡±


    She pointed at the bud between her brows.


    There was a forbidden technique in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets that could break through spatial barriers, but no one had ever tried it.


    There was no other reason. The conditions to activate the forbidden technique were harsh. It had to be activated on the night of the blue blood moon. The person who activated it had to sacrifice their blood as a guide.


    The Valley of Heavenly Secrets had relied on the Valley Master¡¯s inheritance for generations. Not to mention that the night of the blue blood moon was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, no one knew if this method would work. Who was willing to sacrifice their lives to try?


    That year, Ji Luo calculated that the Blue Blood Moon would appear in October and that her daughter would be in a life-and-death crisis. Only then did she resolutely decide to activate the forbidden technique.


    In order to make it in time for the Blue Blood Moon night, she didn¡¯t even hesitate to use birthing soup to give birth prematurely.


    This was also why the abbot said that Ji Luo had always told him that she didn¡¯t have time.


    ¡°Do you blame her?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°If she hadn¡¯t sent me away, I might have died long ago.¡±


    The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets could use divination techniques. It would not be difficult to find the mother and daughter. For example, Ji Luo had been captured after hiding for ten years.


    However, after sending her away, no matter how they tried, they could not find her location even through divination techniques.


    Shen Yijia was not an ungrateful person. Even though she did not have a good life in the alternate world, she knew that Ji Luo was protecting her.


    At least she had grown up alive.


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia turned her head away and said in embarrassment, ¡°There¡¯s suddenly another mother. I can¡¯t call her that.¡± Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± She looked at Song Jingchen seriously.


    Shen Yijia sniffed. ¡°The rabbit is cooked.¡±


    Song Jingchen laughed. This was the Shen Yijia he knew.


    After eating, Shen Yijia rubbed her stomach in satisfaction.


    Seeing her heartless expression, Song Jingchen was completely relieved. He frowned and said, ¡°Since she¡¯s your biological mother, then Lord Jing¡¯an¡­¡±


    Thinking of all the things Xuanyuan Ce had done to him in the past and his careful tricks, Song Jingchen felt terrible.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said in disdain, ¡°He¡¯s probably my father.¡± Hmph, what a f*cking scumbag!


    Thinking of something, she narrowed her eyes and revealed a dangerous signal. ¡°Hubby, do you think the Yu family knows about my background?¡±


    If she knew, the incident they encountered at the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s checkpoint might not have been targeted at Song Jingchen, but at her. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. He had clearly thought of this too.


    But that was strange, wasn¡¯t it?


    It was understandable that Xuanyuan Ce knew, but he did not even tell Shen Yijia, so he naturally would not tell anyone.


    Before this, the only person who knew about this was¡­


    ¡°It¡¯s Ji Yunxi.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s Ji Yunxi.¡±


    The two of them said in unison.


    Shen Yijia clenched her right fist and slapped her left palm. ¡°Yes, it must be Ji


    Yunxi. She must have reached some kind of cooperation with the Yu family. If I¡¯m not wrong, even if we were captured at that time, I would have been sent to Ji Yunxi in the end, and you would definitely have been eliminated.¡±


    Since they did not succeed at the checkpoint, Ji Yunxi had no choice but to do it herself. The other arrangements would take time, so Shen Yijia and the others waited for a few days, eventually encountering Xuanyuan Ce.


    In other words, it was very likely that Xuanyuan Ce could come out alive because Ji Yunxi wanted him to guide them.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°That¡¯s not entirely right. Lord Jing¡¯an is the lord of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. His status is precious. If he¡¯s killed or disappeared on the cliff ridge, the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom will definitely get someone to turn the cliff ridge upside down. This won¡¯t be beneficial to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°Then is it really a coincidence that we met


    Xuanyuan Ce?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not completely right.¡± Song Jingchen explained patiently, ¡°Chu Feng said that they accidentally entered the poisonous forest. Ji Yunxi must have deliberately lured them in.¡±


    No matter what, nothing could happen to Xuanyuan Ce. The difference was that if they were captured at the checkpoint, Xuanyuan Ce would not be able to find the poisonous forest at all. In the end, he would probably only circle the cliff ridge for a few more days and return empty-handed.


    Because she needed him to guide her, Ji Yunxi used a trick to lure him in.


    In that case, from the moment they entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom, they had fallen into Ji Yunxi¡¯s trap.


    ¡°Unfortunately, Ji Yunxi still lost.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head.


    Song Jingchen corrected him. ¡°Sinners never win.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes. Hubby is right.¡±


    Night was coming. On the way down the mountain, Shen Yijia laid on Song Jingchen¡¯s back sleepily. She said in a muffled voice, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I have a mother.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡±


    Shen Yijia closed her eyes and could not help but smile. ¡°So I have a mother too.¡± She was not an unwanted child.


    She thought that she didn¡¯t say the last sentence, but it actually entered Song Jingchen¡¯s ears.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached. He tightened his grip on her knees. ¡°Yes. You also have me..¡±

 Chapter 729 - Chapter 729: There’s a Reason For It

    Chapter 729: There¡¯s a Reason For It


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When she returned to the camp, she saw MO Yuan standing there with a woman in a veil. It was obvious who it was.


    Song Jingchen stopped and nodded at Ji Luo. He carried Shen Yijia back to the tent.


    ¡°Was that Jiajia¡¯s husband just now?¡± Ji Luo asked.


    MO Yuan nodded. ¡°When I found Young Miss, she was already married to Young Master.¡±


    After Shen Yijia left the tent, MO Yuan roughly explained what had happened beside Shen Yijia in the past two years. Therefore, Ji Luo knew about Song Jingchen, but she still asked again worriedly, ¡°Did he treat Jiajia well?¡±


    ¡°Young Master treats Young Miss very well. Old Madam Song is also a good person.¡±


    Ji Luo nodded and choked. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡±


    It was already a pity for Ji Luo that she couldn¡¯t watch her daughter grow up with her own eyes, let alone see her get married. If she didn¡¯t lead a good life, Ji Luo would probably be even more unable to forgive herself.


    On the branches of the moon, there were countless stars.


    When Song Jingchen settled Shen Yijia down and came over, MO Yuan was no longer around. Only Ji Luo was still standing there.


    He bowed and said respectfully, ¡°May I speak to Madam for a moment?¡± The next day.


    Shen Yijia was woken up by a fragrance. She turned around and saw Song Jingchen sitting at the side reading. The fragrance was coming from the food on the table in front of him.


    She swallowed and tiptoed towards it. Unexpectedly, her hand was grabbed just as she reached out.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t look up. ¡°Wash up first.¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted her hand awl?vardly and smiled. ¡°Good morning, Hubby.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not morning anymore. It¡¯s almost time for lunch.¡± As he spoke, he let go of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and moved the breakfast on the table to the side.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    After hurriedly washing up, Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t wait to grab the bun and take a big bite. She froze and asked, ¡°Who made this bun?¡±


    Seeing that her expression was off, Song Jingchen picked one up and tasted it.


    Shen Yijia clearly saw the muscles on his face twitch a few times, but he still chewed and swallowed the entire bun slowly before saying, ¡°Stop eating the buns and drink the soup. This soup looks good.¡±


    Song Jingchen took the bun from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and placed it in his bowl. He helped her scoop a bowl of soup.


    The pheasant fungi soup was golden in color and had a thin layer of oil floating on it. It looked, smelled, and looked good.


    However, with the good-looking but useless buns in front of her, Shen Yijia only dared to purse her lips tentatively.


    Then her entire face darkened.


    Song Jingchen took a bite and his hand trembled.


    ¡°Well.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to say anything. I already know who made it.¡± Shen Yijia looked like she had seen through the truth.


    Song Jingchen looked at her suspiciously.


    ¡°She made it, right?¡± Shen Yijia sighed, but she clearly looked happy.


    Song Jingchen thought that Shen Yijia was touched by Ji Luo¡¯s actions, but he heard her mutter softly, ¡°It seems that there¡¯s a reason why my cooking tastes bad. It has nothing to do with me.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    She was happy because she had found a scapegoat for her poor cooking skills.


    Regardless of the taste, it was still a sincere gift. The couple was about to brace themselves and fill their stomachs when MO Yuan lifted the curtain and entered.


    She glanced at the two of them and silently put down the things in her hand.


    It was just an ordinary pot of plain porridge and a plate of side dishes stir-fried with wild vegetables found nearby.


    ¡°I secretly made it when Master was resting.¡±


    These words revealed two meanings. Firstly, Ji Luo had rested. Secondly, Ji Luo did not know that she had prepared these other things.


    Although it was just simple porridge and side dishes without any meat or fish, Shen Yijia was almost touched to tears.


    It wasn¡¯t an exaggeration to say that Ji Luo¡¯s cooking was really terrible. It was worse than her cooking.


    Her beautiful husband who could usually hide his expression actually looked stunned when he ate these.


    She seriously suspected that Ji Luo had adopted MO Yuan under those circumstances because of her culinary skills.


    With that thought in mind, she asked.


    MO Yuan paused and suddenly remembered the first time she met her master.


    At that time, she was only five years old. After the old beggar who adopted her died, she had starved alone.


    As long as she had a bite to eat, she would not starve to death, but she would fall sick.


    That winter was especially cold. She thought that she wouldn¡¯t be able to survive it, but a beautiful lady who looked like a fairy appeared and saved her.


    Ji Luo understood her own situation and was naturally unwilling to bring her along at first.


    What made her change her mind?


    The memories were so distant that MO Yuan couldn¡¯t remember them.


    When she saw the soup on the table, she understood.


    That¡¯s right. Back then, she secretly followed behind her master and saw that she ate rations every day. While she was asleep, she secretly used the fungi she picked along the way to cook a pot of soup for her.


    The next day, she overslept. She thought that her master had already left.


    She opened her eyes and saw Ji Luo standing in front of her.


    When the old beggar picked her up, he called her Little Yuan¡¯er. Ji Luo added another word and named her MO Yuan.


    ¡°No way, I really guessed correctly?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. She used to think that MO Yuan¡¯s culinary skills were taught by her master.


    MO Yuan turned her head away awkvvardly and changed the topic. ¡°Master said that her body is fine. If Young Miss and Young Master want to leave the mountain, we can leave at any time.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Those soldiers were poisoned because of us. Let them recuperate for two more days before leaving.¡±


    Shen Yijia had no objections. Moreover, she felt that Ji Luo should also recuperate since she was so seriously injured.


    Speaking of Ji Luo¡¯s injuries, Shen Yijia suddenly remembered Madam Ji, who she had brought out of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    After asking, she found out that Xuanyuan Ce had instructed someone to lock her up before he left. She hurriedly ate breakfast and brought MO Yuan over.


    Song Jingchen went to ask about the poisoned soldiers.


    Since Xuanyuan Ce was not around, he could not leave him alone.


    When she approached the tent where Madam Ji was locked up, she heard intermittent moans. Shen Yijia paused and lifted the tent curtain to enter. When she saw the person whose limbs were tied up and thrown to the ground, she gasped.


    Madam Ji¡¯s hair was disheveled, and her face and hands were covered in blood.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on here?¡± she asked.


    The two guards looked at each other and said respectfully, ¡°We don¡¯t know either. His Highness asked us to guard here. We didn¡¯t do anything. She suddenly became like this.¡±


    They were still panicking.


    Madam Ji looked at Shen Yijia with wide eyes as if she had seen a straw to clutch at. ¡°Save me¡­ I beg you, save me.¡±


    Thinking of the poisonous needles that she had been poisoned with when she left the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes darted around and she squatted down in front of her with interest. ¡°Are you talking to me? Do you know who I am?¡±


    ¡°Please, the spiritual¡­¡± Madam Ji said with difficulty. The veins on her forehead bulged, and sweat dripped down her face.


    It looked terrifying.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and waved at the two guards. ¡°You can leave first..¡±

 Chapter 730 - Chapter 730: Torture (1)

    Chapter 730: Torture (1)


    Shen Yijia stayed until noon before leaving. It was only then that she found out that Ji Luo was the previous Valley Master of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    No one knew when the Valley Master¡¯s inheritance began to exist, and there were no detailed records in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. It was only vaguely written that the ancestor of the Ji family, who was a warlock, had once lost his life to save an expert, leaving only an orphan girl alive.


    When the orphan girl woke up overnight, she had the spiritual liquid.


    The magical aspects of the spiritual liquid could not be told to outsiders. They were afraid of attracting trouble. The orphan girl chose to live in seclusion. Later on, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets came into existence.


    They felt that it did not matter if they had feelings or not since they were responsible for saving the world.


    Marrying the high priest was only to prevent the inheritance from being severed. In the mortal world, it was equivalent to continuing the incense offerings.


    As for the spiritual spring that the clansmen of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had guarded for generations, it was located in front of the observatory where the Valley Master lived.


    The surroundings of the spring were filled with spider lilies. Everyone thought that the water in the spiritual spring could cure all illnesses and extend one¡¯s lifespan by taking it all year round, but they did not know that it was only because the previous Valley Masters had added spiritual liquid to the spring.


    Without Ji Luo around, the spring water naturally lost its effect. Things happened one after another, from the collapse of the spider lily to the depletion of the spring.


    Normally speaking, even the high priest would only learn about this on the day of his marriage to the Valley Master.


    However, Si Yun was ambitious and Ji Luo had a restless person by her side. Therefore, they had long found out about the secret of the spiritual spring.


    Later on, on the way to look for the descendants of the Lin family, Ji Luo encountered the handsome Xuanyuan Ce by a freak combination of factors. She felt love for the first time and became a traitor.


    Hence, there was the pursuit and imprisonment.


    If Shen Yijia had not been sent away, the mother and daughter would have long been turned into two dried corpses by Si Yun¡¯s spiritual exchange technique.


    One would be passed to her, while the other would be given to Ji Yunxi.


    Shen Yijia sighed. Was this the life-and-death calamity that Ji Luo had predicted?


    Later on, she even talked a lot about how difficult it had been for her and how she regretted it. Shen Yijia did not listen to a word she said. ¡°I¡¯ve told you everything I know. Please save me.¡±


    She pleaded in pain from the tent.


    ¡°Miss, how are you going to deal with her?¡± Standing outside the tent, MO Yuan suddenly asked.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and deliberately raised her voice. ¡°Didn¡¯t I promise her just now that I would save her? Of course I have to.¡±


    MO Yuan frowned. ¡°But she¡¯s the one who caused Master¡¯s injuries.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. I¡¯m not done yet.¡± Shen Yijia patted MO Yuan¡¯s shoulder, indicating for her to calm down. She lowered her voice and said, ¡°I meant to save her, but I¡¯ve already used up all my spiritual liquid. From the looks of it, she won¡¯t be able to last for more than 15 days. I can¡¯t go back on my word, right?¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless. Didn¡¯t this mean that he wanted to save her?


    ¡°She¡¯s poisoned. I don¡¯t know what kind of poison she was poisoned with. How can I save her?¡± Shen Yijia shrugged.


    Seeing that MO Yuan still didn¡¯t understand, she stopped trying to leave someone hanging and smiled sinisterly. ¡°I think the method you once mentioned is not bad. We can give it a try.¡±


    MO Yuan understood. ¡°I¡¯ll prepare it now.¡±


    ¡°Hey, wait.¡± Shen Yijia stopped her. ¡°I think it¡¯s a waste to feed her poison. I remember that there are quite a lot of snakes, insects, rats, and ants in this season, right?¡±


    MO Yuan thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s poisonous.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go catch a snake now.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°How many can you catch alone? Let¡¯s go look for Lin Shao.¡±


    After begging for a long time, no one paid attention to her. She started cursing Shen Yijia and Ji Luo again, not even letting Si Yun off.


    However, no matter how fiercely she cursed, the pain in her body did not decrease at all.


    After an unknown period of time, Shen Yijia¡¯s voice came from outside.


    ¡°The few of you, put away the tents around this tent.¡±


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    ¡°And these things, move them all away.¡±


    At the thought of Shen Yijia¡¯s words, hope rose in her heart. She did not dare to curse anymore. She gritted her teeth and endured the pain as she listened to the commotion outside.


    Someone was moving around. They were probably dismantling tents and moving things.


    Did she need to do this to detoxify her?


    Suddenly, she was a little uncertain. However, she was afraid of death and did not want to give up even if there was a trace of hope.


    Ji Luo had always been a stubborn but soft-hearted person. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have brought her along just because she complained a few times, and given her the surname Ji. Shen Yijia was her daughter, so it would definitely be the same.


    With beautiful fantasies about Shen Yijia, she waited.


    She waited until she smelled a faint fragrance, and kept waiting until there was a rustling sound around the tent..

 Chapter 731 - Chapter 731: Torture (2)

    Chapter 731: Torture (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was only then that she realized that she had not heard anyone outside for a long time.


    Where was Shen Yijia?


    Didn¡¯t she say that she would save her?


    The sound was getting closer and closer. She turned around with difficulty and met the gaze of a green snake as thick as an adult¡¯s arm. Her pupils constricted and she screamed uncontrollably, ¡°There¡¯s a snake!¡±


    However, she did not know that this was only the beginning.


    One, two, three snakes crawled in from outside the tent.


    Then, attracted by the blood on her body, they scrambled to crawl towards her.


    With her hands and feet tied, she could not escape at all. She could only watch as the snakes climbed onto her or curled up at the side, flicking their tongues at her.


    ¡°Save me!. Ji Luo, I was wrong. I was wrong. Please spare me. Ji Luo, I beg you. I¡¯m willing to do anything you want me to do. I¡¯ll be your slave. I shouldn¡¯t have repaid kindness with ingratitude. I shouldn¡¯t have treated you like that. I really know my mistake. Please spare me!¡±


    Her body was trembling. She was afraid that she had long overshadowed the pain in her body, so she could only beg for mercy. She sensed a snake crawl under her skirt and felt the slippery touch. She only let out half a scream before she fainted.


    Outside the tent, the dozen or so soldiers were also frightened. If not for the fact that they saw Shen Yijia standing there without moving, they would have stabbed their eyes and pretended to be blind.


    What did the woman inside do to deserve such revenge?


    Shen Yijia actually felt her scalp tingle, but there were so many people watching. She could not back down.


    She straightened her back and braced herself to remind them, ¡°You Yi, and that person, watch carefully. Don¡¯t let any poisonous snakes in.¡±


    You Yi and Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s Demon Guard who had stayed behind to guard Ji Luo, looked at each other and resigned themselves to fate. They picked up the stones from the ground. Any poisonous snakes that appeared were killed in one strike.


    Not long after, more than ten of them lay on the ground.


    MO Yuan said, ¡°Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia interrupted her. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t it be letting her off easy if she was bitten to death by a poisonous snake?¡±


    Seven years. Ji Luo had been locked up in the forbidden area of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets for seven years.


    She had been tortured by this old witch for more than 2,400 days and nights. She did not have that much time to play with her. It was not too much to help her mother vent her anger before the old witch died, right?


    All the soldiers felt a chill down their spines. At the same time, a sentence appeared in their minds. They could not offend this person.


    Shen Yijia let out a shaky breath. She found the snakes cute again.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, there¡¯s no more movement inside,¡± Lin Shao reminded her.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue. ¡°How weak. Take out your snake repellent incense.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Lin Shao heaved a sigh of relief and lit the snake repellent incense in the incense burner with trembling hands.


    The fragrance instantly overwhelmed what was originally there. The rustling sound sounded again. The snakes seemed to be chased by something and scrambled back into the forest.


    ¡°By the way, all of you go and catch some. We¡¯ll have snake soup for lunch.¡±


    The soldiers thought, ¡°If you want to eat, eat it yourself.¡±


    Two hours later, they made roasted snake meat and stewed snake soup. The simple cooking method made the fragrance fill the entire camp.


    The soldiers swallowed and wolfed down the food. It smelled so damn good.


    Shen Yijia was also eating happily. Seeing that MO Yuan had given it to Ji Luo, she thought for a moment and scooped up a bowl of snake soup.


    Song Jingchen followed helplessly.


    She had just woken up and realized that there was nothing unusual around her. She thought that she was dreaming.


    The curtain was lifted and Shen Yijia walked in with a smile.


    Madam Ji looked at her warily. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    ¡°Look at what you¡¯re saying. Didn¡¯t I say that I wanted to detoxify you? You must be hungry. Here, eat this first.¡± Shen Yijia placed the bowl in front of her and squatted down, looking down at her.


    The snake soup was milky white, and the meat could not be seen under it.


    She suppressed the hatred in her heart. ¡°How am I going to eat if you don¡¯t untie me?¡±


    Shen Yijia seemed to have just remembered and reached out.


    Joy flashed across Ji Luo¡¯s eyes.


    However, she was not happy for long before the man who followed him in said,


    ¡°In case she uses poison, it¡¯s better not to remove it.¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted her hand and patted her chest in fear. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯ve thought it through.¡±


    Madam Ji was speechless.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you take away the poison I had long ago?¡±


    Shen Yijia said with disdain, ¡°The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets are very sinister and cunning. Who knows if you¡¯ve hidden the poison elsewhere? I won¡¯t fall for it so easily.¡±


    Madam Ji was speechless.


    ¡°Do you want me to detoxify you or not? If you want to, eat it quickly.¡±


    Madam Ji had not eaten since she was captured. She was already hungry, let alone the fragrance of the soup in front of her. She gulped and in the end, her desire to live triumphed over everything.


    As for the rest, when the poison in her body was cured and she left this place, she would definitely make this b*tch suffer a fate worse than death. She would let her have a taste of what that b*tch Ji Luo had suffered.


    No, she wanted to make this b*tch suffer a hundred times, a thousand times, ten thousand times more than Ji Luo.


    Madam Ji swore in her heart. Enduring the humiliation, she raised her head bit by bit and moved it above the bowl. She lowered her head and stuck out her tongue.


    ¡°Hubby, do you think she¡¯s eating the same way as Furball?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head and said seriously, ¡± Furball will be angry if it finds out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Compared to this old witch, that¡¯s an insult to Furball.¡±


    Madam Ji closed her eyes and pretended not to hear them.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. This woman was so tolerant. If he gave her a chance to live, she would probably become a huge disaster. Shen Yijia found it boring and leaned over to ask, ¡°Does it taste good?¡±


    Madam Ji gritted her teeth and nodded. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s delicious.¡±


    ¡°Then drink more. Don¡¯t just drink the soup. I even scooped up a few pieces of snake meat for you. Try them.¡±


    She deliberately emphasized the word snake meat.


    As expected, Ji Luo¡¯s body stiffened and she looked up in fear. ¡°What did you


    ¡°Snake meat.¡±


    ¡°No! There¡¯s so many snakes¡­¡± Ji Luo¡¯s thoughts were instantly pulled back to when she was surrounded by snakes. The feeling of the snakes wrapped around her seemed to have returned.


    That wasnt a dream!


    Her body curled up and she lay on the ground retching for a while. She suddenly glared at Shen Yijia with bloodshot eyes, wishing she could stab her with her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m going to kill you. I¡¯m going to kill you!¡±


    Shen Yijia patted the non-existent ashes on her skirt and stood up. She grinned and said, ¡°What a coincidence. I have the same thoughts as you.¡±


    ¡°However, after what you¡¯ve done to my mother in the past, I cant let you die too quickly.¡± With that, she pulled Song Jingchen away.


    When the curtain was lifted, Shen Yijia was stunned.


    Outside the tent, Ji Luo was wearing a veil and looking at her happily with tears in her eyes.


    For some reason, Shen Yijia could feel that she was happy.


    ¡°You¡­¡± Ji Luo trembled slightly. She didn¡¯t hear wrongly. Jiajia had said ¡°my mother¡± just now.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched and she blurted out, ¡°Have you eaten?¡±


    Ji Luo was stunned. He looked at Song Jingchen, who was standing behind Shen Yijia and couldn¡¯t help but laugh. Thinking of what he had said last night, she tried her best to calm down and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve already eaten. I came out for a walk.¡¯


    ¡°Then go back quickly. You haven¡¯t recovered yet, ¡± Shen Yijia hurriedly said.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ji Luo nodded.


    ¡°Jiajia doesn¡¯t blame Madam, but she can¡¯t get over the hurdle in her heart for the time being. I hope Madam won¡¯t push her too hard.¡± These were Song Jingchen¡¯s words.


    MO Yuan was right. Her daughter had found a good person..

 Chapter 732 - Chapter 732: Tribulation

    Chapter 732: Tribulation


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Little¡­ little b*tch, you¡¯ll die a horrible death. I curse you for eternity!¡±


    Madam Ji was halfway through her sentence when a stone suddenly flew over and hit her mouth. Blood gushed out and stuck the rest of her words in her throat.


    ¡°I¡¯ll protect my wife for the rest of her life. I¡¯m afraid your curse won¡¯t have any effect.¡± Song Jingchen looked down at her coldly, making Madam Ji shiver.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°My husband is so handsome. I want to pounce on him.¡± she thought.


    With this thought in mind, she really pounced on Song Jingchen¡¯s back. Song Jingchen was caught off guard and took two steps back to stabilize himself.


    ¡°You¡¯re fooling around again.¡± He pulled her in front of him. There was a nervousness in his tone that he hadn¡¯t realized he had.


    Shen Yijia did not mind. She climbed onto him and smiled. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The couple acted as if no one was around, but Madam Ji was in no mood to curse. As more and more ants approached, her entire body trembled and she kept crawling towards a corner of the tent, intending to stay away from the ants.


    However, she was covered in honey. This was a huge temptation for the ants. No matter where she went, they would swarm her.


    In a moment, the densely packed ants scrambled to climb up her legs, arms, and face.


    Some of them even crawled into her mouth and nose.


    They covered her body and bit crazily.


    ¡°No! Go away!¡± Madam Ji rolled on the ground in pain, but it did not help at all.


    ¡°I want to see Ji Luo. Please!¡± Realizing that Shen Yijia would not let her off, Madam Ji placed her hopes on Ji Luo again.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and sneered. ¡°My mother hasn¡¯t been here for so many days. She didn¡¯t even mention you. Do you know why?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Madam Ji also wanted to know why Ji Luo did not show off in front of her like Madam Ji did back then when she was in her hands.


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s because she doesn¡¯t take you seriously at all.¡±


    Madam Ji was stunned for a moment before laughing maniacally.


    She laughed until her entire body trembled and tears streamed down her face.


    ¡°Hahaha! ¡±


    The sound of her manic laughter filled the tent.


    She regarded the other party as a thorn in her side. When she found an opportunity, she wanted to step on Ji Luo, but Ji Luo did not take her seriously at all. She did not even bother to look at Madam Ji.


    How ironic.


    She continued laughing.


    Her crazy laughter filled the entire camp. At night, the soldiers guarding outside felt their hair stand on end.


    Thinking of what they had seen during the day, they were curious about what method Shen Yijia had used to torture Madam Ji. At the same time, their fear of Shen Yijia rose to another level.


    Shen Yijia watched coldly and did not interrupt her.


    Madam Ji had enough of laughing. She looked at Shen Yijia viciously. For some reason, she suddenly raised her head and slammed it against the ground. There was no sound after that.


    Song Jingchen glanced at South Wind.


    South Wind understood and carefully checked Madam Ji¡¯s breathing. He shook his head at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Burn this place,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    If he wanted to stop her just now, he could have done it in time. However, neither he nor Shen Yijia moved.


    To someone like Madam Ji, who had a twisted mind, no amount of physical torture could compare to Ji Luo¡¯s disregard for her.


    Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have chosen to commit suicide.


    Shen Yijia placed her head on Song Jingchen¡¯s shoulder and said weakly, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m tired. Let¡¯s go back and sleep.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, a raging fire rose in the tent that occupied an area, illuminating the entire camp.


    Looking at the fire not far away through the raised curtain, Ji Luo said emotionlessly, ¡°Go back and rest early.¡±


    MO Yuan lowered the tent flap and hesitated for a moment before saying,


    ¡°Master, Young Miss is doing this because¡­¡±


    ¡°Do you think I didn¡¯t attack her because we¡¯re of the same clan? Are you afraid that I¡¯ll blame Jiajia?¡± Ji Luo asked.


    MO Yuan was silent. Clearly, that was what she thought.


    Ji Luo chuckled. After two days of recuperation, although her voice was still hoarse, it was no longer as unpleasant as before.


    ¡°Jiajia doesn¡¯t hate me. I¡¯m overjoyed. Why would I blame her?¡± Her daughter was expressing her acceptance of her in her own way. How could she not understand?


    ¡°Besides, won¡¯t I be doing as Madam Ji wants if I attack?¡±


    MO Yuan paused. ¡°I was thinking about it. ¡±


    Ji Luo looked at the flames reflected in the tent curtain and shook her head without saying anything else.


    ¡°Are you the young master? Can you let me follow you?¡± The girl, who was about the same age as her, stood in front of her timidly.


    ¡°Why do you want to follow me?¡± Little Ji Luo asked.


    ¡°I think Young Master is powerful. I want to serve Young Master,¡± the girl stammered.


    Little Ji Luo frowned. ¡°You¡¯re lying.¡±


    The girl was stunned and knelt down. ¡°It¡¯s my mother. She said that if I can¡¯t stay by Young Master¡¯s side, she¡¯ll beat me to death. Please accept me, Young


    Master.¡±


    As she spoke, she quickly revealed her arm. It was bruised.


    ¡°Outrageous. I¡¯ll tell Mother.¡±


    ¡°No,¡± the girl begged. ¡°If the Valley Master finds out, she definitely won¡¯t let my mother off. Young Master, please spare her.¡±


    Little Ji Luo looked at her and said angrily, ¡°She¡¯s already treated you like this, yet you¡¯re still pleading for her?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my mother after all.¡±


    Little Ji Luo sympathized with her, but she Imew that her maidservant had long been decided by the Elders. It was not something she could change.


    From then on, the girl would always appear in front of her from time to time with injuries.


    Later on, one of her eight maidservants accidentally fell off the cliff and lost her life, leaving an empty spot.


    She found the girl and asked, ¡°If you follow me, you won¡¯t be able to get married from now on. Are you really willing?¡±


    This was a rule of the clan.


    ¡°I¡¯m willing. I don¡¯t want to get married. I just want to follow Young Master.¡±


    ¡°Then come with me.¡±


    Little Ji Luo brought her to see the Valley Master. The Valley Master wanted to say something but hesitated for a long time. In the end, he agreed.


    She could stay.


    The girl stayed and changed her name to MO Yao.


    MO Yao was smart. Although she started later, she was better at divination and medicine than the others around little Ji Luo.


    Little Ji Luo was also willing to bring her along.


    Time passed quickly. The two of them had grown up. At that time, the Valley Master and the High Priest had passed away one after another, and Si Yun had been chosen as the Young Priest.


    This also meant that she would marry Si Yun in the future.


    However, she accidentally realized that MO Yao had fallen in love with Si Yun.


    She tried to persuade the elders to change their candidate, but she was told that this was a decision made by the Valley Master before she died.


    Thinking back, Ji Luo smiled bitterly. ¡°Mother, you did it on purpose, right?¡±


    Now that she thought about it, MO Yao¡¯s injuries back then were fake, and the death of the maidservant who accidentally fell to the bottom of the cliff was not that simple.


    However, none of that mattered anymore.


    Ever since someone used the lives of 81 children to complete the spirit exchange, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets should not have existed.


    Others might not know, but Ji Luo knew that the person whose spirit had been swapped was her great-grandmother.


    Her great-grandmother watched helplessly as her sister turned into a dried corpse in front of her.


    The person who attacked was the Valley Master at that time, their mother..

 Chapter 733 - Chapter 733: Collecting Corpses

    Chapter 733: Collecting Corpses


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Hurry up, His Highness is back.¡±


    The sky was slightly bright, and there was a commotion outside the tent. Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes and glanced at Song Jingchen, who was putting on his clothes. She muttered, ¡®What happened?¡±


    ¡°I think Lord Jing¡¯an is back. I¡¯ll go out and take a look. Sleep a little longer.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded and turned around to continue sleeping. She thought of something and sat up. She said in surprise, ¡°The scumbag is back?¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. He suddenly sympathized with Xuanyuan Ce. Before he knew his background, Shen Yijia kept calling him a beautiful uncle. After she found out, he was always a scumbag in her eyes.


    Although he did not know what the word ¡°scum¡± meant in Shen Yijia¡¯s words, it meant the same thing as trash.


    ¡°Wait for me. I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Shen Yijia hurriedly got up to look for clothes.


    Although Xuanyuan Ce did not tell them where he was going before he left, he had taken away thousands of people in the wilderness. It was not difficult to guess what was going on.


    Moreover, he left because he saw the injury on Ji Luo¡¯s face.


    Seeing her like this, Song Jingchen knew that he couldn¡¯t stop him, so he could only go forward and help.


    When the two of them came out, the empty space outside the tent was already filled with people. When they saw the men, women, and children trembling in the middle of the soldiers, the two of them looked at each other.


    Could it be that Xuanyuan Ce had really wiped out the Valley of Heavenly Secrets at once?


    ¡°Where¡¯s your lord?¡± Song Jingchen asked a soldier.


    The soldier frowned unhappily and glanced at Shen Yijia. He shrank his neck and said respectfully, ¡°His Highness was injured and was sent back to the tent.¡± Shen Yijia cursed inwardly. Injured again?


    She could not remember how many times she had heard the news of Xuanyuan Ce being injured from others.


    Ever since he met Xuanyuan Ce, he seemed to be either recuperating or on the way to get injured.


    However, he was able to live well in the end. It could be said that his vitality was comparable to a cockroach.


    If she remembered correctly, You Yi had said that back then, when Ji Luo met Xuanyuan Ce, it was because she saved him from being seriously injured.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that she had thought so much in an instant. He pulled her to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s tent.


    As soon as she approached, she saw Chu Feng hobbling out with a basin. When she saw the black blood in the basin, Shen Yijia frowned.


    Seeing the two of them, Chu Feng¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Young Master Song, Madam


    Song, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°How¡¯s your lord?¡±


    ¡°His Highness¡¯s condition isn¡¯t good.¡± Chu Feng said angrily, ¡°The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets are really sinister. They kept using poison.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. Other than divination, using poison was their other ability. Of course they¡¯d use it.


    However, that was not why she was here.


    ¡°Did you catch Ji Yunxi?¡± she asked.


    Chu Feng shook his head with a bitter expression. ¡°Ji Yunxi ran away with that high priest.¡±


    The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had lived in this mountain for hundreds of years and were much more familiar with the surrounding terrain than them. Since they were unable to kill them in one move, it was normal for them to escape.


    Actually, he had advised Xuanyuan Ce not to be rash at that time, but


    Xuanyuan Ce was in a fit of anger, so how could he listen to his advice?


    ¡°However, that high priest was also severely injured by His Highness.¡± Chu Feng felt that he had to regain some face for his lord. ¡°If not for the other party using poison, that high priest would definitely not have been able to escape.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia expressed her doubts.


    Moreover, if she remembered correctly, Si Yun was already injured when she lert me vaney or Heavemy secrets witn ner Deauurul nusoana, ngncr


    ¡°Of course.¡± Chu Feng¡¯s voice subconsciously became louder.


    ¡°Guard Chu.¡± A soldier ran over hurriedly.


    Chu Feng frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to invite Miss MO Yuan? Where is she?¡±


    The soldier looked troubled. ¡°Miss MO Yuan said that she¡¯s not His Highness¡¯s doctor. ¡±


    In other words, it was not her duty to treat Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s injuries.


    Chu Feng was stunned. He clearly did not expect MO Yuan to refuse. After all, she had been easy to talk to when he asked her to detoxify those soldiers.


    Why couldn¡¯t she do it when it came to His Highness?


    The old doctor¡¯s cry came from the tent.


    Xuanyuan Ce vomited blood again.


    Chu Feng stuffed the basin in his hand into the soldier¡¯s hand and quickly ran in.


    ¡°Doctor Wang, didn¡¯t you say that His Highness would be fine as long as he let out all the poisonous blood? How did it become like this?¡±


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia lifted the curtain and entered. They saw Xuanyuan Ce lying there with a pale face.


    One of his arms was resting on the edge of the bed, and his sleeves were rolled up high. His entire arm was purple, and black blood kept flowing out of the wound on it. It dripped down his arm into the copper basin on the ground.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know either. Logically speaking, this method is feasible. Why did it become even more serious?¡± Doctor Wang explained with a trembling voice.


    ¡°What do you mean by common sense? You quack.¡± Chu Feng roared and kicked him away. He walked to Shen Yijia and knelt down. ¡°Madam Song, please save my lord.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how to detoxify poisons.¡± Shen Yijia frowned.


    She had learned some medical knowledge from MO Yuan, but it was really just superficial knowledge. No matter how angry she was at Xuanyuan Ce for abandoning her mother back then, she could not joke about his life.


    Moreover, it was unknown if MO Yuan had received her mother¡¯s instructions to not come. She would not undermine her.


    Chu Feng gritted his teeth. ¡°Miss MO Yuan.¡±


    At this moment, the tent flap was lifted again. MO Yuan supported Ji Luo, who was wearing a veil, and walked in.


    Shen Yijia looked over curiously.


    Ji Luo smiled warmly at her, but when he looked at Xuanyuan Ce, she was expressionless again.


    ¡°MO Yuan, go,¡± she said.


    MO Yuan went forward expressionlessly and took out the silver needles she carried with her. She pressed the acupuncture points as instructed by Ji Luo and inserted the silver needles into Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s arm one by one. The blood from the wound instantly stopped.


    The unconscious Xuanyuan Ce seemed to have sensed something and frowned.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Chu Feng ran over.


    ¡°He was poisoned by Yu Manluo. If he hadn¡¯t used his internal energy to suppress the poison in his arm, you wouldn¡¯t have been able to bring him back in time,¡± Ji Luo said mockingly.


    Chu Feng was shocked and bowed deeply to Ji Luo. ¡°Madam, please save my lord.¡±


    ¡°Only the Valley of Heavenly Secrets has the medicine needed to detoxify the poison. It will take at least half a day to get back and forth, but he can only last for two hours at most. It¡¯s too late. Get ready to collect his corpse.¡± These words were very direct.


    Not to mention Chu Feng, even Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    She did not want Xuanyuan Ce to die.


    Noticing her expression, Ji Luo sighed and said, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to say him.


    It was impossible to save him.


    She had already let go of her grudge with Xuanyuan Ce in the seven years in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. The current Xuanyuan Ce was just a stranger to her.


    If she thought about it a bit more, he would only have the identity of her daughter¡¯s father.


    Anything more than that was gone.


    Since they were strangers, there was no need for her to deliberately kill him.


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth. She knew that Ji Luo was not lying to her..

 Chapter 734 - Chapter 734: Letting Them Go (1)

    Chapter 734: Letting Them Go (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°There¡¯s an antidote,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said. Everyone looked at him.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and pinched Shen Yijia¡¯s fingers. ¡°Have you forgotten? MO Yuan brought out many herbs from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. ¡°That¡¯s right. How could I have forgotten about this? MO Yuan, where did you put those herbs?¡±


    MO Yuan said, ¡°Thirty Thousand took it away.¡±


    The rarer the herbs, the more delicate they were. Although she was careful not to hurt their roots when she plucked them, in order to prevent them from dying, she still needed to make some special storage.


    However, she had to take care of her master and could not leave for the time being. When Thirty Thousand found out, he volunteered to take care of this matter.


    When she was in Great Xia, Thirty Thousand had helped her take care of the small medicinal field. He roughly knew what to do, so she didn¡¯t ask further.


    Shen Yijia suddenly realized that she had not seen Thirty Thousand hanging around MO Yuan for the past few days. He had been solicitous since a long time


    TZ7stator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas btUd10S


    ¡°There¡¯s an antidote,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said. Everyone looked at him.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and pinched Shen Yijia¡¯s fingers. ¡°Have you forgotten? MO Yuan brought out many herbs from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped her forehead. ¡°That¡¯s right. How could I have forgotten about this? MO Yuan, where did you put those herbs?¡±


    MO Yuan said, ¡°Thirty Thousand took it away.¡±


    The rarer the herbs, the more delicate they were. Although she was careful not to hurt their roots when she plucked them, in order to prevent them from dying, she still needed to make some special storage.


    However, she had to take care of her master and could not leave for the time being. When Thirty Thousand found out, he volunteered to take care of this matter.


    When she was in Great Xia, Thirty Thousand had helped her take care of the small medicinal field. He roughly knew what to do, so she didn¡¯t ask further.


    Shen Yijia suddenly realized that she had not seen Thirty Thousand hanging around MO Yuan for the past few days. He had been solicitous since a long time ago.


    Perhaps because Xuanyuan Ce was not destined to die, one of the herbs MO Yuan brought out happened to be able to cure Yu Manluo.


    Ji Luo prescribed a prescription and drank a dose of the antidote. He woke up at noon that day.


    After knowing that Ji Luo had saved him, he stopped recuperating and got someone to help him to Ji Luo¡¯s tent.


    At that moment, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were eating with Ji Luo. When he saw him enter, Ji Luo put down his chopsticks. ¡°What can I do for you, Your Highness?


    Xuanyuan Ce didn¡¯t expect Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen to be here. Some things couldn¡¯t be said in front of the juniors, so he could only keep hinting at the two of them.


    He hoped that the two of them would know their place and leave first.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Hubby, try this. MO Yuan said that this is called Monkey Head Mushroom. It¡¯s rare to see it usually. Thirty Thousand and South Wind searched for a long time but only found this much.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It does taste good.¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°Right? Eat more.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce coughed lightly.


    ¡°His Highness¡¯s poison has just been cured. Don¡¯t catch a cold again when the wind blows. Chu Feng, quickly help him back.¡± Shen Yijia blinked and said with concern.


    Since he didn¡¯t die, she had to continue arguing.


    He wanted to send her away? No way!


    Xuanyuan Ce took a deep breath and chanted in his heart, ¡°This is my biological daughter, my biological daughter! ¡±


    ¡°I heard that you helped me detoxify the poison.¡± He decided to ignore the blind couple for the time being.


    Ji Luo frowned and said indifferently, ¡°Coincidentally, there¡¯s an antidote. I would have saved anyone else.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. At first, you thought that there was no antidote, so you were prepared to let Chu Feng collect his corpse. Right, Chu Feng?¡± Shen Yijia was watching the commotion.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at Chu Feng, who nodded silently. Madam Ji had indeed asked him to do so at the beginning.


    He had already thought of finding someone to help him dig a hole. After sending His Highness¡¯s corpse back to the Imperial City, he would lay down inside.


    In any case, he would still die when the higher-ups blamed him. Xuanyuan Ce choked. ¡°No matter what, you saved my life.¡± ¡°If Your Highness feels bad, promise me one thing.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Let those people go.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Xuanyuan Ce seemed to know Ji Luo for the first time. In his impression, Ji Luo was not a kind person.


    Shen Yijia was also puzzled.


    Ji Luo turned his head away. ¡°Those people have no grudges against you, Your Highness. Why do you have to hold on to them?¡±


    ¡°They treated you like that.¡±


    ¡°That is my business,¡± Ji Luo said bluntly.


    Glancing at Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s ugly expression, she knew that he would not let her go unless she made it clear. She could only continue patiently, ¡°Those things have nothing to do with them.¡±


    She went to take a look. Most of the people Xuanyuan Ce captured were ordinary citizens who had hidden from the world with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    Then there were the people from the First Elder¡¯s faction.


    Although the First Elder usually had his own plans, he was a conservative faction and followed the rules of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    It was impossible to tell if he was right or wrong.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at her deeply. ¡°Alright, I promise you..¡±

 Chapter 735 - Chapter 735: A Letter from Great Xia (1)

    Chapter 735: A Letter from Great Xia (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Without Si Yun and Ji Yunxi causing trouble, the people left behind were in a state of disunity. They were not much of a threat.


    The First Elder brought his clansmen and bowed to Ji Luo shakily. ¡°Thank you, Valley Master, for pleading on our behalf. I have a presumptuous request. I don¡¯t know if I should say it.¡±


    ¡°Then don¡¯t say it.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    The First Elder¡¯s eyelids twitched. He lowered his eyes and said, ¡°We¡¯re used to


    living in the valley. I¡¯m afraid we won¡¯t be able to walk out of the cliff ridge. I


    hope Valley Master will allow us to return to our ancestral home.¡±


    ¡°First Elder, have you forgotten that I¡¯m no longer the Valley Master?¡± Ji Luo glanced at the group of people in front of her. She said indifferently, ¡°As for where you go from now on, that¡¯s your freedom. I won¡¯t interfere.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Madam.¡±


    The people behind the First Elder quickly bowed and thanked her. ¡°Thank you,


    Madam.¡±


    After confirming that they could leave, the group helped each other leave.


    Looking in the direction they left, Shen Yijia asked in confusion, ¡°Is it difficult to leave the cliff ridge?¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°It¡¯s their hearts that can¡¯t leave.¡±


    These people had lived here for generations and had long deviated from the outside world. Even if the outside world was prosperous, it was not suitable for them to survive.


    ¡°Do you think Ji Yunxi will return to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    ¡°Can we wait for them?¡± she thought. ¡°No.¡± Song Jingchen shook his head.


    ¡®Why?¡±


    ¡°Because the location of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets has been exposed, and their hearts are not here. Since they¡¯ve already left, why would they go back?¡±


    ¡°Then where will they go?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°The Wu Kingdom.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce had walked over at some point. When he heard this, he frowned and said, ¡°I¡¯ve already sent someone to inform the surrounding prefecture cities to set up checkpoints everywhere. I think there¡¯ll be news soon.¡±


    The cliff ridge was so big that no one knew which direction they would leave from. Although setting up checkpoints to investigate them one by one was a little passive, it was the best method at the moment.


    Even if Song Jingchen knew that Lord Jing¡¯an had a high status in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he didn¡¯t expect him to do this. He didn¡¯t even need to ask the emperor for instructions.


    Seeing his confusion, Xuanyuan Ce said angrily, ¡°I usually don¡¯t interfere in the affairs of the government. If someone dares to assassinate me, can¡¯t I be willful for a while?¡±


    Besides, not every emperor was as narrow-minded as the emperor of Great Xia.


    Shen Yijia widened her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to scold my husband.¡± Xuanyuan Ce choked. ¡°When did I scold him?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking so loudly, and you¡¯re saying that you didn¡¯t scold him?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Whose voice was louder? Xuanyuan Ce covered his chest and said aggrievedly, ¡°Girl, you can¡¯t be so biased.¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t feel that she was biased. Her heart was already with Song Jingchen. She snorted and pulled Song Jingchen away.


    Regardless of whether Shen Yijia acknowledged him as her father, Xuanyuan Ce was still her elder. When he passed by him, Song Jingchen nodded at him with a friendly smile.


    In Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s opinion, this was undoubtedly showing off. He was so angry that his eyes lit up and he looked at Ji Luo. ¡°Ah Luo.¡± Without even looking at him, Ji Luo turned around and left.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Chu Feng went forward to support him worriedly. ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce put away his injured expression in a second and smiled. ¡°Inform everyone to pack up and leave the mountain tomorrow.¡±


    At night, Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were about to rest when MO Yuan suddenly looked for them.


    ¡°Master asked me to bring Young Master and Miss somewhere.¡± As she spoke, she took out a jade token.


    ¡°Hey, isn¡¯t this the piece I gave you?¡±


    The words ¡°Heavenly Secrets¡± were engraved on the jade token. It was the one Shen Yijia had given to Song Jingchen in the secret chamber of the Qilin Mountain.


    Song Jingchen explained, ¡°I wanted to come to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, so I brought it with me. Later on, I met Madam, so I returned it to its rightful owner.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood.


    Knowing that Ji Luo wouldn¡¯t harm them, the two of them didn¡¯t ask where they were going. They carefully avoided the soldiers outside and followed MO Yuan silently into the forest.


    When the three of them returned to the camp, the sky was already bright.


    At the same time, Xuanyuan Ce also received the news reported by the Demon


    Guards. He waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s good that they¡¯re back.¡±


    After breakfast, everyone was already prepared to leave, but they were told that Xuanvuan Ce was not feeling well and wanted to stav for another dav.


    Shen Yijia was the happiest to hear this news.. This meant that she could catch up on her sleep!

 Chapter 736 - Chapter 736: A Letter from Great Xia (2)

    Chapter 736: A Letter from Great Xia (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen shook his head helplessly as he looked at the person who was still excitedly mocking Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s poor health a moment ago and snoring in the next second.


    ¡°Silly girl, he¡¯s not weak. He said that because he loves his daughter.¡±


    He carefully tucked Shen Yijia in and glanced at the small bag in her arms. He reached out to help her take it away, but Shen Yijia smacked her lips and muttered in a muffled voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s a lot of money. I can take care of more husbands. Hehe.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. He pinched her face gently. ¡°Isn¡¯t it enough to raise one? Why would you want more?¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and continued sleeping, hugging the bag in her arms even more tightly.


    Song Jingchen smiled. It seemed that he had to work hard to be a pretty boy who spent money like water in the future.


    The next day, the blue sky was clear. After a simple breakfast, the team set off on time. After traveling for five days, the group finally left the cliff ridge.


    These soldiers had been transferred from the border army by Xuanyuan Ce. Logically speaking, he should have personally given an explanation for so many injuries. However, he waved his hand and only let Chu Feng deal with them. He followed behind Shen Yijia and the others shamelessly.


    ¡°Is he afraid that we¡¯ll sneak away?¡± Shen Yijia whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear.


    A smile flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. He shook his head and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Before dark, the carriage entered Phoenix Town and finally stopped in front of the small courtyard where Xuanyuan Ce was staying.


    The person who opened the door was still the old man with the disabled legs.


    ¡°Master, you¡¯re back. ¡±


    After bowing, the old man was about to retreat and make way when he saw Ji Luo, who was being supported by MO Yuan. He suddenly became excited and said in a trembling voice, ¡°Madam?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. Only then did she realize that something was wrong with Ji Luo¡¯s expression.


    She pulled a long face and said, ¡°What Madam? You¡¯ve got the wrong person.¡± Even if the man had seen her mother in the past, she was still wearing a veil.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t be mistaken. Madam saved my life. I won¡¯t be mistaken on this matter.¡± As he spoke, he knelt down shakily. ¡°Madam, I¡¯m Old Ji.¡±


    Ji Luo said indifferently, ¡°Uncle Ji, get up first.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect to see Madam again in my lifetime. I¡¯m so happy.¡± Uncle Ji wiped his tears and looked up to realize that the atmosphere seemed to be a little off.


    Shen Yijia understood now. Uncle Ji called Xuanyuan Ce ¡°Master¡± and her mother ¡°Madam¡±. So this small courtyard was where the two of them used to live?


    It might even be the place where they fell in love!


    Wasn¡¯t this exposing her mother¡¯s scars?


    She glared at Xuanyuan Ce and suspected that he had brought them here on purpose. She pursed her lips and suggested, ¡°I remember that there¡¯s nothing in this courtyard. Why don¡¯t we stay in an inn?¡± Xuanyuan Ce felt wronged. Was he that kind of person?


    ¡°No need,¡± Ji Luo said.


    Xuanyuan Ce heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, Ah Luo did not misunderstand him. ¡°This is my courtyard to begin with.¡± Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Bang.


    The courtyard door closed. Xuanyuan Ce stood outside the door in a daze for a long time.


    Was he being rejected?


    Across the wall, Shen Yijia held her stomach and laughed.


    Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce had indeed lived in this courtyard for a while, but Ji Luo had bought it.


    A man and a woman living alone together. Even if the two of them were doctor and patient at that time, it was easy to misunderstand.


    Coupled with the fact that Ji Luo was magnanimous at that time and took advantage of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s looks, she did not correct him.


    Later on, their relationship broke down. When Ji Luo left the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he naturally wouldn¡¯t specially come to explain. Uncle Ji had always thought that the two of them were husband and wife. Since his Young Master was coming to stay, how could he chase him away?


    Now, it seemed that it was not what he had thought at all. Thinking about how he had let an outsider stay for half a month every year when Madam was not around, Uncle Ji¡¯s body trembled.


    Fortunately, Madam did not blame him.


    ¡°Will he be fine?¡± Lin Miaomiao asked softly. She felt that the good-looking uncle was a little pitiful.


    Shen Yijia paused and rubbed her head. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he¡¯s an adult, not a child.


    What could have happened?¡±


    Lin Miaomiao nodded obediently and stopped asking.


    The last time they came and went in a hurry, they did not take a good look at this courtyard. Uncle Ji brought them around and Shen Yijia realized that although this courtyard was small, it was complete..

 Chapter 737 - Chapter 737: A Letter from Great Xia (3)

    Chapter 737: A Letter from Great Xia (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    There were a total of five rooms in the front and back courtyard. South Wind and Thirty Thousand lived in one room, MO Yuan and Lin Miaomiao lived in another, and Ji Luo and Lin Shao each had one room. The remaining room was just enough for her and her beautiful husband.


    Most importantly, every room was covered with brand new bedding.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t we have these things the last time we came?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously.


    Uncle Ji also had the ability to predict the future. Could it be that he knew in advance that they were coming?


    ¡°It¡¯s Master who brought up the idea.¡± Halfway through his sentence, Uncle Ji realized that something was wrong. He wanted to change his words, but he realized that he did not know how to address Xuanyuan Ce. He opened his mouth but could not say anything for a long time.


    ¡°Uncle Ji, you can leave first,¡± Ji Luo said.


    ¡°Right. Madam, let me know if you need anything.¡±


    After choosing their rooms, MO Yuan went to the kitchen to boil water, and Thirty Thousand followed her to help.


    Song Jingchen instructed South Wind to go to the restaurant outside and get some food.


    After everyone finished bathing, South Wind returned with two large food boxes, followed by Xuanyuan Ce.


    Noticing everyone¡¯s gazes, South Wind quickly explained, ¡°His Highness has been standing outside the door. All the neighbors are watching.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ls face was pale, as if he was about to collapse at any moment. ¡°Chu Feng isn¡¯t around. I don¡¯t have any money with me.¡±


    He was not pretending this time. Ever since he was poisoned in the poisonous forest, his body had not recovered. Later on, he almost lost his life. If not for the fact that he was afraid that his wife and daughter would run away when he woke up, he would not have been able to hold on.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Ji Luo.


    Ji Luo sat down at the table. ¡°Let¡¯s eat first.¡±


    The room was just enough to live in, but now that Xuanyuan Ce was here, Lin Shao took the initiative to share a room with South Wind and Thirty Thousand and gave up his room.


    After dinner, Lin Shao and Lin Miaomiao returned to the house.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and decided to send Ji Luo back personally.


    She helped her sit down in front of the. Shen Yijia was about to leave.


    Ji Luo held her hand.


    Shen Yijia paused.


    ¡°I know. You did that to him on purpose because of me. Do you think I¡¯ll be sad if you don¡¯t stand on my side?¡± Ji Luo¡¯s eyes were filled with love.


    Her daughter was so kind and considerate that her heart ached.


    After knowing her background, even if she and Xuanyuan Ce had never done their duty as parents, she had never blamed them in her heart.


    ¡°Silly child, my greatest wish in my life is for you to be safe and sound. If there¡¯s one more person in this world who can dote on you and protect you, I¡¯ll only be happy. How can I be sad?¡±


    Therefore, she didn¡¯t have to do anything she didn¡¯t want to do for her.


    Even if that person was Xuanyuan Ce.


    This was because she knew that if anything happened to Xuanyuan Ce, her daughter would also be sad.


    Shen Yijia felt a lump in her throat. Was she the reason why she asked


    Xuanyuan Ce to stay?


    Thinking this through, she grinned and said, ¡°I understand, Mother.¡±


    Song Jingchen sent Xuanyuan Ce back to his room and noticed the blood seeping out of his sleeve. He frowned and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go find MO Yuan and get some medicine.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, there¡¯s no need. I won¡¯t die.¡± Xuanyuan Ce pulled his hand away and said angrily.


    As soon as he saw Song Jingchen, he could imagine the difference in Ah Luo and Jiajia¡¯s attitudes towards the two of them. The more he looked at them, the more unhappy he became.


    Song Jingchen sighed and said seriously, ¡°Your Highness, envy makes a person ugly.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce froze. ¡°What a joke. Why would I be jealous of you?¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows and didn¡¯t say anything. He just looked at him quietly.


    Did he say anything wrong?


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Get out, get out. Don¡¯t stand in my way.¡±


    When MO Yuan came over, the two of them were looking at each other with daggers in their eyes.


    She pretended not to see it and expressionlessly took out a bottle of medicine. She bowed and turned to leave.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°Since Your Highness doesn¡¯t want to see me, I¡¯ll call Thirty Thousand over to change Your Highness¡¯ dressing later.¡± ¡°Did you ask that girl to send the medicine over?¡± Xuanyuan Ce suddenly asked.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°I haven¡¯t had the time to go yet.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ls eyes lit up. ¡°Then help me apply the medicine.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I¡¯m so clumsy. It won¡¯t be good if His Highness gets injured again.¡±


    With that, he turned around and left. No matter how Xuanyuan Ce shouted, he did not stop.


    On the other side, MO Yuan, who had finished delivering the medicine, went back to report to Ji Luo. She saw her sitting in front of the bed and crying silently.


    Her heart skipped a beat. ¡°Master.¡±


    Ji Luo wiped his tears and smiled. ¡°Jiajia called me Mother just now.¡±


    At the same time, Song Jingchen was caught between laughter and tears as he looked at Shen Yijia, who had wrapped herself in a cocoon and was rolling on the bed.


    Afraid that she would faint if she rolled down again, he quickly went forward and pulled her into his arms with the blanket. ¡°What made you so happy? Shen Yijia shook her head, her eyes sparkling. ¡°I¡¯m not happy.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re grinning from ear to ear. You¡¯re not happy? Then are you very happy?


    ¡°Hubby,¡± Shen Yijia called out unhappily. She deliberately dragged her last word, making Song Jingchen shiver.


    ¡°Speak properly. ¡±


    ¡°Hmph, you clearly guessed it, but you still want to tease me.¡±


    Song Jingchen pinched her nose. ¡°Are you that happy?


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s alright.¡±


    No matter what, this was the first time she had called her mother.


    She felt a little embarrassed.


    Knock, knock.


    Someone knocked on the door.


    Song Jingchen pulled Shen Yijia out of the blanket and sat her down. He helped her adjust her messy clothes before saying, ¡°Come in.¡± South Wind pushed the door open and entered.


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°Master, there¡¯s a letter from Great Xia.¡± As he spoke, he took out two letters.


    There was one letter from Madam Li. It was obvious that it was Madam Li¡¯s handwriting.


    Jiajia thought, ¡°One husband, two husbands, three, four, five, six, seven, eight husbands.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought, ¡°My wife is too rich. What if she keeps thinking about raising a lot of husbands?¡±


    Ji Luo thought, ¡°Jiajia called me Mother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Another day of being despised by my wife and daughter.¡±


    Everyone thought to themselves, ¡°You deserve it..¡±

 Chapter 738 - Chapter 738: Departure (1)

    Chapter 738: Departure (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Apart from Madam Li¡¯s letter, there was another envelope with no signature on it. Song Jingchen put Madam Li¡¯s letter aside and opened the unsigned letter.


    ¡°Who wrote it?¡± Shen Yijia leaned over.


    Song Jingchen pointed at the words ¡°Zi Xiu¡± at the end of the letter.


    ¡°It¡¯s Brother Fan.¡±


    ¡°Fan Mingyuan?¡± Shen Yijia crooked her finger. ¡°According to the time, he and


    Ruoshui should have been married for more than a month.¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°The letter didn¡¯t mention this.¡±


    The letter from Great Xia, which they had left in mid-December, was sent half a month later. It was just after New Year¡¯s Eve. At that time, the two of them were not married, so they naturally wouldn¡¯t mention it.


    ¡°Oh, what did that say?¡± Shen Yijia asked casually, her eyes fixed on another letter placed at the side.


    Most of the things in the letter were about the Imperial Court. Song Jingchen knew that Shen Yijia was not interested in these things, so he said concisely, ¡°The person Ah Han sent to the Wu Kingdom was killed. Xiao Qirui requested to go to Nanling Pass.¡±


    Nanling Pass was located at the border between Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom. After leaving the Nanling Pass, the border of the Wu Kingdom was to the southeast.


    He paused and frowned. ¡°I¡¯m afraid this war between Great Xia and the Wu


    Kingdom can¡¯t be avoided.¡±


    Shangguan Han sent someone to the Wu Kingdom to explain what had happened to Nangong Xia back then. Now that the person had been killed, it meant that Shangguan Yu did not believe it at all.


    Naturally, this did not account for the possibility that the person sent by Shangguan Han could not even meet Shangguan Yu. However, if that was the case, did it mean that Shangguan Yu¡¯s situation was not as good as they imagined and that the decision was not entirely in his hands?


    In short, no matter what the situation was, Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom would definitely fight.


    Shen Yijia caught the main point of his words. There was going to be a war!


    She frowned and said, ¡°Can Xiao Qirui do it?¡±


    What if they threw a woman at him and tricked him again?


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. He felt that Shen Yijia¡¯s misunderstanding of Xiao Qirui was too deep, but he didn¡¯t explain it for him. He only said, ¡°He¡¯ll learn from his mistakes.¡±


    The current Xiao Qirui would probably avoid women of unknown origin like they were snakes and scorpions.


    Shen Yijia nodded. Anyway, Sister Yuwan no longer had anything to do with him. Why should she care about Xiao Qirui¡¯s life?


    That was not right. Xiao Qirui was Ruoshui¡¯s big brother. If he really died, Ruoshui would cry to death.


    Shen Yijia scratched her head and decided not to think about it anymore. She stuffed Madam Li¡¯s letter into Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and urged, ¡°Hurry up and see what Mother wrote.¡±


    ¡°If you want to see it, just open it.¡± As he spoke, Song Jingchen took out the letter inside.


    Before he could open it and take a look, Shen Yijia snatched it away.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°You¡¯re too slow.¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The candlelight flickered, and the window paper reflected two figures huddled together.


    ¡°Nonsense,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly scolded.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and quickened her pace. She only knew why he was angry when she read the rest of the letter.


    In the letter, Madam Li said, ¡°Sister Huan ran away from home!¡±


    To be precise, Sister Huan had left a letter and secretly followed Xiao Qirui¡¯s 50,000-strong army to Nanling Pass behind Madam Li¡¯s back.


    It was unknown how she convinced Brother Hao, but with him as a cover, by the time Madam Li realized that something was wrong, the army had already left for three days. Madam Li was so angry that she used the family law on Brother Hao for the first time.


    However, Madam Li did not say anything about this in the letter.


    ¡°Sister Huan, good¡­¡± Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to praise her. When she met Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, she quickly changed her words. ¡°Goodness gracious, how dare you. Hubby, don¡¯t be angry. When she comes back, I¡¯ll definitely help you teach her a lesson.¡±


    In fact, she was thinking to herself, ¡°Sister Huan is good. Sister Huan is too awesome. She has the courage to dominate South Mountain Mental Hospital.¡±


    How could Song Jingchen not tell what she was thinking? He held his forehead and reminded her, ¡°She hadn¡¯t even reached 12 years old last year.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s indeed a little young. I wonder if she¡¯ll be discovered.¡± Shen Yijia was really a little worried now.


    Song Jingchen thought, ¡°Isn¡¯t there something wrong with what you¡¯re paying attention to?¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled awkwvardly and said, ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t worry. They haven¡¯t fought yet, right? Besides, don¡¯t underestimate Sister Huan. She¡¯s very smart. She¡¯s usually the most hardworking among the children in the family. Didn¡¯t you praise her for being talented? Besides, this was her dream.¡±


    ¡°Sabers and swords don¡¯t discriminate on the battlefield. What if¡­¡± Halfway through his sentence, he thought of something and sighed.¡± Forget it.. If others can go to the battlefield, why can¡¯t our Song family go? ¡°

 Chapter 739 - Chapter 739: Departure (2)

    Chapter 739: Departure (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    His words made Shen Yijia worry.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home. In any case, we¡¯ve saved Lin Shao and his sister and obtained the Heart Devouring Grass. There¡¯s nothing to do if we continue to stay here.¡±


    It had been more than three months since they came out. It would take them at least two months to go back. If they were late, there would be changes. It was unknown when Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom would fight, so it was indeed time to go back.


    However¡­


    Song Jingchen looked at her seriously. ¡°Great Xia might not be peaceful.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°I know. It¡¯s precisely because it¡¯s not peaceful that we should go back early, so that Mother won¡¯t be afraid at home.¡±


    ¡°Alright. You¡¯re right. This is Sister Huan¡¯s dream. As her big brother, I should support her.¡±


    What did he mean?


    Shen Yijia asked suspiciously, ¡°Then you¡¯re not planning to catch her?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°She¡¯s grown up.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Who was the one who just reminded me that


    Sister Huan wasn¡¯t 12 years old yet?¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and pulled her into his arms. He heaved a sigh of relief when Shen Yijia couldn¡¯t see him.


    The next day, during breakfast, Song Jingchen asked South Wind and Thirty Thousand to go out and ask about Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom.


    There was no lack of merchants from Great Xia or the Wu Kingdom in Phoenix Town. The two of them asked around and found out.


    After knowing that Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom had already had many small conflicts since the beginning of this month, the couple discussed and decided to set off tomorrow.


    Since they were leaving, they naturally had to tell Xuanyuan Ce and Ji Luo.


    It was impossible for Xuanyuan Ce to go to Great Xia with them. They mainly wanted to ask Ji Luo if she wanted to go with them.


    In the central room, MO Yuan prepared tea for them.


    Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°What is it? Are you preparing to go back?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°We¡¯ve been out for three months. Now that the relationship between Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom is tense, I¡¯m not at ease.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce slammed the teacup on the table and sneered. ¡°Since you know that Great Xia is not peaceful now, why do you still want to go back with this girl?¡±


    The Song family was originally a military family. Now that Song Jingchen had returned to Great Xia, he inevitably had to go to the battlefield. With his understanding of Shen Yijia, he would definitely follow her. How could Xuanyuan Ce be willing?


    Song Jingchen stood up and bowed deeply to Xuanyuan Ce. He promised, ¡°I¡¯ll protect her and never let anything happen to her.¡±


    He had long guessed that Xuanyuan Ce would have such a reaction. If Shen Yijia had hesitated at all last night, he would have left her here, but she didn¡¯t.


    Seeing his firm attitude, Xuanyuan Ce could not care less that Shen Yijia had yet to acknowledge his identity. He said, ¡°What¡¯s the use of guarantees? If you want to leave, leave yourself. My daughter has to stay in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. ¡±


    Shen Yijia also slammed her teacup on the table, even louder than Xuanyuan


    Ce. She took a few steps to Song Jingchen and roared, ¡°Why are you so fierce?


    It¡¯s my freedom to go wherever I want. Why do you care?¡±


    Before she could finish, Song Jingchen covered her mouth.


    She blinked, indicating for Song Jingchen to let go.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead and pressed her head into his arms. He looked at Xuanyuan Ce and said, ¡°I know His Highness is doing this for Jiajia¡¯s own good, but Jiajia is my wife now. She¡¯s under the surname of the Song family. It¡¯s said that one should follow one¡¯s husband after getting married. I¡¯m afraid His Highness has no right to keep her.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you,¡± Ji Luo said.


    She naturally did not want to see her daughter in any danger, but she respected her decision.


    Xuanyuan Ce was a little stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s roar. As soon as he came back to his senses, he heard Ji Luo¡¯s words and his heart instantly shattered.


    Lin Shao and his sister, who were sitting at the side, looked at each other and shrank back silently.


    The sound of footsteps could be heard as Chu Feng strode in.


    He whispered in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s ear and took out a letter.


    After reading the letter, Xuanyuan Ce looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you can¡¯t leave.¡±


    What was the meaning of this? Was he going to imprison them by force if he couldn¡¯t convince them?


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce!¡± Ji Luo¡¯s expression was ugly. She did not expect Xuanyuan Ce to become so stubborn after not seeing him for more than ten years.


    ¡°I¡¯m not done yet.¡± Xuanyuan Ce put away his annoying expression and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°The Wu Kingdom sent an envoy to our country with a princess. You should understand what this means. Are you sure you want to leave at this time?¡±


    It was impossible for the citizens of Phoenix City not to discuss such a huge matter. As long as South Wind and Thirty Thousand heard anything, they would tell him.


    Song Jingchen suspected that Xuanyuan Ce was lying to him.


    Seeing through his thoughts, Xuanyuan Ce said angrily, ¡°They came to visit in secret, do you understand?¡±


    With that, he threw the letter in his hand over to Song Jingchen. ¡°Look at it yourself.¡±


    The letter was written by Xuanyuan Ziming. It was a long paragraph and could be summarized in one word: Help!


    In order to express goodwill to the Xuanyuan Kingdom, the Wu Kingdom personally brought their princess over.


    If the princess of a kingdom was not taken into the harem, she would at least be able to marry one of the princes. However, the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had not added anyone to the harem for many years. Among the three princes of the royal family, only Xuanyuan Ziming had yet to get married. If the Xuanyuan Kingdom really kept her, the emperor would definitely let him marry the princess of the Wu Kingdom.


    He did not want to marry. He wrote this letter in hopes that Xuanyuan Ce would rush back to save him.


    If not for the fact that this was the right time, Xuanyuan Ce would not have opened this letter.


    This matter concerned the relationship between the two countries. It wasn¡¯t a simple matter. If he went back to save Xuanyuan Ziming, wouldn¡¯t he have to take in that princess?


    Song Jingchen held the letter and didn¡¯t say anything for a long time. Shen Yijia looked up at him. ¡°Hubby?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll have to go to the imperial city of the Xuanyuan Kingdom first,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    If the Xuanyuan Kingdom cooperated with the Wu Kingdom, Great Xia would have no chance of winning.


    Therefore, no matter what, he had to think of a way to stir up this matter.


    From the looks of it, the few harassments by the Wu Kingdom against Great Xia were just a smokescreen.


    In that case, he did not have to worry about Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom fighting in the short term..

 Chapter 740 - Chapter 740: Phoenix City

    Chapter 740: Phoenix City


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    This was a serious matter. The group rushed to Phoenix City in only a month.


    Phoenix City, the imperial city of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    This trip was for serious business, so Lin Shao and his sister didn¡¯t come with them. Song Jingchen asked South Wind to send them back to Great Xia first.


    The Heart Devouring Grass and a prescription to cure the Heart Devouring Poison was also sent back with them. Naturally, it also included the herbs they brought out of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    It was worth mentioning that after a month, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s men did not even find a single strand of Ji Yunxi¡¯s hair.


    Song Jingchen guessed that they had either escaped from the Xuanyuan Kingdom or infiltrated the envoys from the Wu Kingdom.


    The two carriages stopped at the city gate. The city guards were about to go forward and check when Chu Feng took out a token.


    The city guard muttered, ¡°His Highness is really back?¡±


    After saying that, he realized that he had misspoken and quickly knelt down to apologize.


    What did he mean by that? Did everyone already know that His Highness was coming back?


    Chu Feng frowned and said in a low voice, ¡°The carriage behind is filled with


    His Highness¡¯s esteemed guests.¡±


    The city guard looked up and quickly lowered his head. ¡°I understand.¡±


    The carriage successfully entered Phoenix City. Although it sounded like he was boosting the morale of others and undermining his prestige, just looking at the city wall, he had to admit that the Xuanyuan Kingdom was indeed much stronger than Great Xia.


    Shops lined up around the spacious street. The middle of the road was filled with busy traffic that flowed constantly.


    Shen Yijia kept exclaiming along the way.


    ¡°Wow, hubby, look at that building. It¡¯s so tall.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, over there!¡±


    Her inexperienced appearance successfully attracted the attention of many people.


    Song Jingchen patiently introduced them to her one by one. Although this was his first time in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he had read many travelogues and it came in handy at this moment.


    Xuanyuan Ce ls carriage walked side by side with them. In order to travel, they usually slept in the wilderness at night. Ji Luo wanted Shen Yijia to rest better, so she brought MO Yuan to sit in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s carriage. She would only occasionally change places with Song Jingchen and talk to Shen Yijia.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t impatient at all, she smiled.


    The more she looked at Song Jingchen, the more satisfied she was with him.


    She was good-looking and had a good personality. Most importantly, she could tell that Song Jingchen sincerely liked Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia wasn¡¯t tired at all after traveling for the past month. Song Jingchen took care of her the entire time, so much so that she couldn¡¯t even interfere.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who hated Song Jingchen more and more, also showed a rare smile.


    ¡°Girl, if you like this place, you can stay here in the future. With Father around, you can walk horizontally in Phoenix City in the future.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce meant that she could do whatever she wanted, but Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know that.


    Shen Yijia revealed a disdainful expression. She rolled her eyes and said, ¡°Only the dead can walk horizontally. Do you want to make a coffin for me?


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter and pinched her face gently. ¡°Your Highness doesn¡¯t mean that. Also, you¡¯re not allowed to talk about death so casually anymore.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Brat, don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t see you smile.¡±


    ¡°Uncle, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    As the few of them were talking, a loud voice approached with the sound of hooves. Soon, they were close.


    Chu Feng quickly stopped the carriage and cupped his fists. ¡°Third Prince.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming nodded, got off his horse, and was about to get into the carriage.


    It was too late for Chu Feng to stop him.


    The curtain of the carriage lifted and he met three pairs of eyes.


    The ones glaring at him were his good imperial uncle. The other two expressionless eyes belonged to MO Yuan and someone else. They looked familiar, but he didn¡¯t know them.


    Xuanyuan Ziming smiled awkwardly and silently retreated to sit beside Chu Feng. He even carefully reached out and stroked the creases on the carriage curtain.


    No, that was MO Yuan just now!


    He suddenly stuck half of his body in again, and his eyes lit up. ¡°MO Yuan, it¡¯s really you. You¡¯re here. Then your Miss¡­ Ouch!¡±


    While he was in shock, the Third Prince was kicked out of the carriage.


    Was that person tired of living, or was the emperor too weak to carry the saber?


    ¡°Have you washed your neck? Do you have enough heads to get beheaded multiple times?¡± he thought.


    What? The person who kicked him was Lord Jing¡¯an?


    Oh my god, His Highness was really back!


    ¡°Imperial Uncle, isn¡¯t that kick a little too ruthless?¡± In the inn, Xuanyuan Ziming lay on the soft couch against the window and kept whining. ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ve injured my thing from this fall. It¡¯s better not to look at other people¡¯s daughters in the future.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ls face darkened and he said sternly, ¡°Chu Feng, bring me a Imife.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming sat up. ¡°Why do you need a knife?¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled and said, ¡°Since it¡¯s useless now, it¡¯s just a decoration.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was shocked and said with a trembling voice, ¡°I¡¯ll keep it even if it¡¯s just for show. At least it proves that I used to have it. ¡±


    ¡°Cut it off. I¡¯ll help you make a specimen. You can take it out and take a look at it at any time in the future. Isn¡¯t it better that way?¡±


    ¡°Why would that be the case?¡± As he spoke, he was about to lift his robe. ¡°I can¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Xuanyuan Ce could not take it anymore.


    At the same time, there was a whooshing sound. A chopstick was stuck less than three inches away from Xuanyuan Ziming.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Xuanyuan Ziming screamed. He looked at the chopsticks that had pierced into the soft couch, then looked up at Song Jingchen, who had thrown the chopsticks, and fainted.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and said with a faint smile, ¡°You want to help him make a specimen? Let him take it out when he wants to see it? You know a lot.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s over. I got carried away and didn¡¯t stop in time. My life is over.¡±


    She looked at Ji Luo for help.


    Ji Luo silently turned her head away. Even when she was young and at her most arrogant, she didn¡¯t dare to discuss it openly with others, let alone in front of her husband!


    This time, she stood on her son-in-law¡¯s side.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°Mother, you¡¯ve changed.¡±


    ¡°If she doesn¡¯t save me, I¡¯ll save myself.¡± She poured a cup of tea and handed it over. She said ingratiatingly, ¡°Hubby, it¡¯s all because of Xuanyuan Ziming. He deserves a beating. Just hit him. I don¡¯t even know what that thing is, so I followed his words and spouted nonsense. Come, you¡¯re thirsty, right? Have some tea.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°Girl, you didn¡¯t say anything wrong. As a man, don¡¯t you even have this bit of magnanimity? Why do you need him? Come over and sit with me. Ignore him.¡±


    It was as if he wasn¡¯t the one who made Xuanyuan Ziming shut up just now.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and said to him silently, ¡°Shut up!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen.


    Ji Luo coughed lightly.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. He knew that Shen Yijia had grown up in a different environment from ordinary people, and he understood her personality. How could he be really angry?


    However, he still picked up his teacup and took a sip with a straight face. ¡°Don¡¯t be so careless with your words next time.¡±


    ¡°It won¡¯t happen again. No, I swear it won¡¯t happen again.¡±


    ¡°With this commotion, the envoys of the Wu Kingdom probably know that we¡¯ve come to Phoenix City..¡± Ji Luo changed the topic and said, ¡°What are your plans next?¡±

 Chapter 741 - Chapter 741: Snitching (1)

    Chapter 741: Snitching (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I want them to know,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    While the Wu Kingdom kept causing trouble at the border of Great Xia to attract everyone¡¯s attention, they secretly sent envoys to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    It could be seen that he was wrong. What the Wu Kingdom wanted was not for the Xuanyuan Kingdom to stay out of it, but for the Xuanyuan Kingdom to help them.


    When the time came, they would catch Great Xia off guard.


    If they wanted the Xuanyuan Kingdom to interfere, they must have made sufficient preparations.


    But he was different. He had nothing.


    He only had one goal for this trip, and that was to eliminate the possibility of the Wu Kingdom and the Xuanyuan Kingdom joining forces. He did not plan to ask the Xuanyuan Kingdom to help Great Xia, as long as the Xuanyuan Kingdom did not help either side.


    With such a powerful country sitting this one out and potentially benefiting from the aftermath, perhaps the Wu Kingdom could still hold back and continue to maintain the tripod situation of the three countries, even if it was an illusion!


    Even if they really fought in the end, without the involvement of the Xuanyuan


    Kingdom, Great Xia would not be too disadvantaged.


    This was the only way he could think of at the moment.


    However, he could not let the envoys of the Wu Kingdom know that he had no bargaining chips. On the contrary, he wanted them to think that his chances of winning were high.


    Thinking of this, Song Jingchen glanced at Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°Hmph, you¡¯re quite a schemer, using me in your plans.¡±


    Song Jingchen poured a cup of tea and walked up to Xuanyuan Ce. He bowed and served the tea with both hands.


    Xuanyuan Ce was right. Song Jingchen had indeed used him on this trip.


    Xuanyuan Ce was the emperor¡¯s only younger brother and had a pivotal position in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. He let the envoys of the Wu Kingdom see that he was close to Xuanyuan Ce.


    At that time, even if the emperor agreed to join forces with the Wu Kingdom, how could the Wu Kingdom be at ease?


    Song Jingchen usually respected Xuanyuan Ce, but Xuanyuan Ce always misunderstood his actions as smugness. At first glance, he was so serious that Xuanyuan Ce wasn¡¯t used to it.


    This was a rare opportunity. He coughed lightly, wanting to suppress Song


    Jingchen. When he looked up, he met two cold gazes.


    Ahem, it was impossible to do so.


    Xuanyuan Ce took the tea unwillingly and took a sip. He snorted. ¡°Do you think anyone can be my esteemed guest?¡±


    When they entered the city, Chu Feng could have just said that they were traveling together. However, he deliberately said to the city guard, ¡°The carriage behind is His Highness¡¯s esteemed guest.¡±


    The so-called esteemed guests were naturally important people. If not for his master¡¯s instructions, he would not have done this.


    It was as if he couldn¡¯t wait for everyone to know what extraordinary people Lord Jing¡¯an had brought back.


    In short, even though Xuanyuan Ce was being used, it only worked because Xuanyuan Ce was willing to cooperate.


    ¡°It¡¯s common knowledge that I don¡¯t interfere in the government. It¡¯s probably not that simple to make the envoys of the Wu Kingdom panic.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°I heard that the palace of the Xuanyuan Kingdom is magnificent. Every flower and grass is beautiful. Unfortunately, I¡¯ve never had the chance to see it. Now that I¡¯ve finally come to Phoenix City, can you bring me around a few more times when you¡¯re free?


    How could Xuanyuan Ce not understand the meaning in his words? All that nonsense about the beautiful scenery was merely a cover for Song Jingchen¡¯s ulterior motive. He said seriously, ¡°I have to remind you that my brother is not easy to fool. I may have a say in other matters, but this is a matter of governance. My opinions are useless here.¡±


    In that position, the emperor had to prioritize the commoners and the interests of the country. Everyone thought that it was good to be the emperor, but Xuanyuan Ce knew that his brother had many things to do.


    Song Jingchen had also thought of this. How could the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom be an ordinary person?


    It was very difficult to make him give up on the potential benefits of this arrangement.


    However¡­


    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to convince the emperor. I just need the envoy of the Wu Kingdom to ¡®misunderstand¡¯ it.¡±


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched. Wasn¡¯t this to gain something without risking anything?


    He couldn¡¯t stand Song Jingchen¡¯s confident expression. He stood up and flicked his sleeve, mocking him coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t forget that I¡¯m also a member of the royal family of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll expose


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Didn¡¯t Your Highness decide to help me ever since the beginning?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce choked and pointed at Song Jingchen. He thought for a long time and didn¡¯t know what to say to him.


    After pacing on the spot for a while, he suddenly looked at Shen Yijia and persuaded her earnestly, ¡°Jiajia, look, this person is such a schemer. I¡¯m really afraid that you¡¯ll be eaten up by him. Do you want to consider a divorce?


    ¡°As long as you agree, I¡¯ll immediately get someone to throw him out of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. I know you like good-looking men. There are many good-looking men in the Xuanyuan Kingdom.

 Chapter 742 - Chapter 742: Snitching (2)

    Chapter 742: Snitching (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He paused and glanced at Song Jingchen in disdain. Why did he need to be so good-looking?


    He snorted and continued, ¡°Although it¡¯s a little difficult to find someone better-looking than him, we can find two people who are inferior to him. If you think two are not enough, find three. If three are not enough, then four. Four¡­


    Wouldn¡¯t that add up and be able to compete with him?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. He thought of Shen Yijia¡¯s ambition to raise many husbands even when she was asleep. So this was the source.


    Shen Yijia pinched her fingers. ¡°It¡¯s too late.¡±


    It was rare that she didn¡¯t retort.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought that there was a chance and walked towards her excitedly. ¡°How can it be too late¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s because I¡¯ve long been eaten up by him. Not to mention bones, there aren¡¯t even any crumbs left.¡± Shen Yijia glared at him and ran to Song Jingchen. She held his face and kissed it. ¡°Hubby, why are you so smart?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face was a little hot. He hadn¡¯t ¡°eaten¡± anything yet.


    He clenched his fists and coughed lightly. He lowered his voice and said,


    ¡°Mother-in-law is watching.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Mother won¡¯t mind.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Ji Luo. ¡°Right, Mother?¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s eyelids twitched. She ignored Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s gaze and took a sip of tea.


    ¡°Right. ¡±


    A knock sounded at the door.


    The waiter pushed open the door and entered.


    ¡°Sirs, your dishes are ready. Shall I serve the dishes now?¡±


    Chu Feng nodded at him.


    Soon, the table was filled with delicacies.


    It had been mentioned before that there was naturally a lot of seafood along the coast of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Most of them were things Shen Yijia had never seen before.


    Seeing that she was curious about everything, Xuanyuan Ce felt very upset.


    His daughter should have lived a luxurious life and been raised like a princess, not..


    Thinking of this, he blamed himself and hated the Valley of Heavenly Secrets even more.


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t know what he was thinking, nor did she care. With Song Jingchen helping her peel the prawns and crab shells, she ate happily.


    After dinner, Xuanyuan Ziming woke up.


    Having learned his lesson, he did not dare to speak nonsense anymore. He guessed that Shen Yijia and the others had yet to find a place to stay, so he immediately suggested letting them stay in his prince¡¯s residence.


    Hearing him brag about how good his residence was, Xuanyuan Ce wished he could throw him out of the window.


    ¡°Are you under the impression that my residence doesn¡¯t even have a few empty courtyards?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming, who was talking enthusiastically, was speechless.


    ¡°Hehe, Imperial Uncle¡¯s residence was personally chosen by Father. He personally drew up a sketch and ordered the Ministry of Works to spend a lot of money to build it. It¡¯s naturally more comfortable to live in than my prince¡¯s residence. ¡±


    These words didn¡¯t reflect the entire truth. Apart from the palace, there was probably no other mansion in the Xuanyuan Kingdom that was more luxurious than Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence.


    As for the location, one could probably see the palace door after walking for half an hour.


    If not for the fact that it was against the rules, Xuanyuan Ziming would have suspected that his father wished he could make room in the palace to build a residence for his uncle.


    ¡°Hmph, so..


    Before he could finish, the door of the private room was pushed open again. MO Yuan and Thirty Thousand, who had disappeared as soon as they entered the inn, walked in.


    ¡°Master, we¡¯ve found a residence.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned. ¡°What residence? Aren¡¯t you living with me?¡±


    ¡°When did we say that we were going to live in your residence?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She thought of something and said angrily, ¡°Earlier, we hadn¡¯t even entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom yet, but they¡¯ve already accused us of stealing and wanted to arrest us. If we really live in your residence, they¡¯re gonna come after us if anything goes missing.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was puzzled by her words and looked at Song Jingchen suspiciously.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and didn¡¯t say anything.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°It means what it means.¡±


    The new residence was a small courtyard with two entrances. It was very clean inside and out. One could live in it after cleaning up a little.


    The layout was a little similar to Ji Luo¡¯s courtyard in Phoenix Town. It was divided into the front and back courtyards. There weren¡¯t that many rooms, but there was a study and a tea room here.


    It was obvious that the person who lived here previously was a scholar.


    ¡°There¡¯s a poetry club less than 500 meters away from the side door. There are often scholars who go there to meet people,¡± Thirty Thousand said.


    This confirmed Song Jingchen¡¯s guess.


    Apart from those, there were three other rooms. Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had one, Ji Luo had one, and the remaining room was given to MO Yuan. The tea room was tidied up for Thirty Thousand to stay in.


    It was just right.


    Shen Yijia was very satisfied with this place, but then she heard that this residence would cost 80 taels of silver a month..

 Chapter 743 - Chapter 743: Snitching (2)

    Chapter 743: Snitching (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen saw the pain on her face and found it funny. She was clearly almost as rich as a country, but this girl was still as stingy as ever.


    Shen Yijia was embarrassed by his gaze and whispered, ¡°I have to keep that money to raise you.¡±


    Song Jingchen teased, ¡°Just me?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that he was talking about Xuanyuan Ce ls suggestion.


    Without thinking, she said, ¡°Of course. I don¡¯t like others.¡±


    Unlike Shen Yijia, Xuanyuan Ce was not satisfied with this residence at all. He wished he could send someone to tear it down immediately.


    ¡°Uncle, shouldn¡¯t we go? Father is still waiting for you,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming reminded him meekly.


    Xuanyuan Ce glared at him and said to Ji Luo, ¡°Since you don¡¯t want to stay in my residence, I¡¯ll send a few people to serve you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. We like peace and quiet.¡± Ji Luo refused.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth and met Ji Luo¡¯s eyes. In the end, he compromised.


    He I ranstator: stood up A las and Studios said. ¡°You¡¯reprobablv Editor: tlas Studiostired from the iournev. Rest earlv. I¡¯ll


    Song Jingchen saw the pain on her face and found it funny. She was clearly almost as rich as a country, but this girl was still as stingy as ever.


    Shen Yijia was embarrassed by his gaze and whispered, ¡°I have to keep that money to raise you.¡±


    Song Jingchen teased, ¡°Just me?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that he was talking about Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s suggestion.


    Without thinking, she said, ¡°Of course. I don¡¯t like others.¡±


    Unlike Shen Yijia, Xuanyuan Ce was not satisfied with this residence at all. He wished he could send someone to tear it down immediately.


    ¡°Uncle, shouldn¡¯t we go? Father is still waiting for you,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming reminded him meekly.


    Xuanyuan Ce glared at him and said to Ji Luo, ¡°Since you don¡¯t want to stay in my residence, I¡¯ll send a few people to serve you.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. We like peace and quiet.¡± Ji Luo refused.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth and met Ji Luo¡¯s eyes. In the end, he compromised.


    He stood up and said, ¡°You¡¯re probably tired from the journey. Rest early. I¡¯ll come back tomorrow.¡±


    With that, he left with Chu Feng.


    Xuanyuan Ziming quickly followed. After taking two steps, he turned around. ¡°Jiajia, Brother Song, I¡¯ll come tomorrow. I¡¯ll bring you around.¡±


    Shen Yijia waved him away.


    ¡°Uncle, wait for me.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming caught up to Xuanyuan Ce and asked breathlessly, ¡°Are we going to the palace now?¡±


    ¡°Who said that I¡¯m going to the palace?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned. ¡°Huh? Didn¡¯t Imperial Uncle come to save me?¡± ¡°Do you really want me to save you?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said meaningfully.


    Although he did not interact much with Xuanyuan Ziming, he did not believe that his nephew was stupid. After all, Xuanvuan Ce¡¯s mother and brother both liked him.


    Xuanyuan Ziming scratched his head. ¡°Imperial Uncle, do you know everything? I¡¯m just being expedient. Really, I have no intention of dragging you down with me.¡±


    This time, Xuanyuan Ce was puzzled.


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face fell. ¡°If I didn¡¯t say that Imperial Uncle fell in love with Princess Changle at first sight, Father would have asked me to marry her long ago. I had no choice. Imperial Uncle, you¡¯ll definitely understand me, right?¡± ¡°Xuanyuan Ziming!¡± Xuanyuan Ce gritted his teeth and shouted angrily.


    With a bang, a fist hit him in the face.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Xuanyuan Ziming cried out in pain. ¡°Imperial Uncle, I was wrong¡­¡±


    Seeing that another fist was about to hit him, Xuanyuan Ziming quickly retreated.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go to the palace and explain it to Father. I¡¯ll say that I misunderstood. Imperial Uncle doesn¡¯t like that bullsh*t princess at all.¡±


    With that, he ran away.


    Looking at the person who ran away in an instant, Chu Feng suddenly understood. ¡°No wonder.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce flicked his sleeve. ¡°No wonder what?¡±


    Chu Feng said, ¡°No wonder those people looked incredulous when they saw His Highness return to Phoenix City. The Third Prince probably spread the news in advance. Everyone thinks that His Highness is here to snatch the bride.¡± Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He took a deep breath and said in a low voice, ¡°Call You Yi over first.¡±


    There was a fluctuation in the air. Soon, two men in black appeared in front of Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°What happened when you entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    You Yi thought for a moment. Since Miss had taken the initiative to mention it, she must not have thought of hiding it from His Highness. Hence, You Yi told him everything that had happened at the checkpoint and what he had heard after that.


    Well, he was Miss¡¯s underling now. He could only say what Miss wanted him to say.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°The Yu family is really bold.¡±


    ¡°How¡¯s the investigation going?¡± He looked at Chu Feng.


    Chu Feng knew that he was referring to the incident where MO Yuan mentioned that someone had once chased after Ji Luo with his token. He quickly lowered his head. ¡°I didn¡¯t find any useful clues, but..


    ¡°But what?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, do you still remember when you were seriously ill?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. He naturally remembered that his hair was not white from birth, but because of that illness.


    ¡°His Highness had been recuperating in bed during that period of time. The empress dowager ignored your objections and ordered the princess consort to take care of you.¡± Chu Feng hesitated for a moment and continued, ¡°That was when it happened.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ls illness was sudden, and even the imperial physicians were helpless. The empress dowager did not want him to not even have a wife. She was just short of imprisoning the princess consort in his room.


    Logically speaking, there were guards, secret guards, and Demon Guards beside Xuanyuan Ce.


    witn so many people guarcung mm, was almost ImpossiD1e co steal ms things without anyone knowing.


    Apart from one exception, it was when the lord and princess consort were sleeping soundly.


    ¡°Heh.¡± Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes. ¡°There weren¡¯t any clues?


    Chu Feng shook his head. ¡°The team we sent out didn¡¯t come back alive at all.¡±


    An hour later, an inconspicuous carriage stopped in front of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence.


    The guard was about to drive them away when he recognized that the person driving the carriage was Chu Feng. He cupped his fists and said, ¡°Guard Chu.¡±


    Chu Feng nodded and jumped out of the carriage. He turned around and lifted the curtain.


    The guards looked at each other and quickly knelt down. ¡°Your Highness..¡±

 Chapter 744 - Chapter 744: Evidence

    Chapter 744: Evidence


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Oh my god, His Highness has returned to the residence!¡± he thought.


    In less than ten minutes, even the fish raised in the residence¡¯s pool knew about this. The entire prince¡¯s residence exploded.


    How long had it been since Lord Jing¡¯an had set foot in the lord¡¯s residence?


    It was obvious from the fact that more than half of the servants in the residence had never seen him before.


    ¡°Your Highness, the princess caught a cold a few days ago. In order to take care of her, the princess consort did not rest last night. She should still be catching up on her sleep. However, I¡¯ve already sent someone to invite her over.¡± The butler explained as he followed the carriage. As he spoke, he kept winking at a servant kneeling by the road.


    Xuanyuan Ce pretended not to see it.


    The carriage stopped in front of the main hall in the front courtyard and entered the central room. The butler got someone to bring tea and snacks and waited respectfully at the side, not daring to make a sound.


    About ten minutes later, Consort Jing¡¯an, Madam Yu, walked in with the help of a maidservant.


    She stood in the middle of the hall and bowed. ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡±


    She was wearing a plain white cloud-patterned dress with a gauze dress of the same color. She had phoenix-like eyebrows and bright eyes. She was dignified, elegant, and had an otherworldly aura.


    As a first- grade princess consort, her clothes could not be considered gorgeous, but it could not hide the elegance in her eyes and the noble elegance in her movements.


    However, this was normal. The aristocratic families had always used the women in their families as bargaining chips. They had let them learn needlework, zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting since they were young. How could a woman raised like this be inferior to anyone?


    Xuanyuan Ce put down his teacup and said without looking up, ¡°All of you, leave.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The servant hurriedly left.


    On the other side, when Xuanyuan Ye heard that Xuanyuan Ce had returned to the residence, she got up from bed in surprise.


    She grabbed the maidservant who sent the message and asked, ¡°Is my father really back?¡±


    ¡°Princess, how would I dare to lie to you? It¡¯s absolutely true. The princess consort has already gone to meet him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye regained her rationality slightly and muttered, ¡°In the past, even if Father returned to Phoenix City, he wouldn¡¯t easily step into the residence. Why did he return today?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, what¡¯s the use of asking you?¡± Xuanyuan Ye waved her off. After thinking for a moment, she instructed, ¡°Someone, help me put on my makeup.¡± ¡°Princess, you haven¡¯t recovered yet. The princess consort asked you to¡­¡±


    ¡°Cut the crap. Isn¡¯t it just a small cold? The imperial physician said that I¡¯m fine, but Mother made a mountain out of a molehill.¡± As she spoke, she walked into the side room specially used to store clothes and dug out all the dresses.


    ¡°Come and help me see which one to wear.¡±


    The two maidservants had no choice but to help.


    In the main hall of the front courtyard, Xuanyuan Ce did not ask her to rise, so Madam Yu maintained her bow. It was not until she felt her calves begin to swell that she heard Xuanyuan Ce speak.


    ¡°Princess Consort, don¡¯t you have anything to say to me?¡±


    Madam Yu lowered her eyes. ¡°I haven¡¯t seen Your Highness for a year. It¡¯s rare for His Highness to return to the residence, so I naturally have a lot to say. I¡¯m just afraid that Your Highness will be annoyed by it.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Then tell me how you stole my token and instructed my men to kill for you, and how you bribed the border guards to target people.¡±


    Madam Yu clenched her fists. ¡°What are you talking about, Your Highness? I don¡¯t understand.¡¯


    Bang! A teacup shattered in front of her, and the tea splashed onto her skirt, leaving some tea stains.


    ¡°Madam Yu, how dare you?¡± Xuanyuan Ce shouted sternly.


    Madam Yu knelt down unhurriedly. ¡°If you want to accuse me, don¡¯t worry. If Your Highness believes that I did those things, show me the evidence. Otherwise, I won¡¯t admit to anything I didn¡¯t do.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at her deeply, his eyes cold. ¡°Do you really think I don¡¯t have evidence?¡±


    ¡°If Your Highness has evidence, submit it to the Clan Residence and His Majesty. If they all say that I¡¯m guilty, I¡¯m willing to be punished.¡± With that, she bent down and kowtowed.


    Xuanyuan Ce narrowed his eyes and was about to say something when a light yellow figure rushed in.


    ¡°Mother, Mother, what are you doing? Get up quickly.¡± Xuanyuan Ye pulled Madam Yu away in a panic.


    She saw that the place where she was kneeling was filled with shattered teacups. The tea on the ground was even dyed red by the blood flowing from her knees. She was so anxious that tears fell from his eyes. ¡°Mother, you¡¯re injured. Someone, call the imperial physician.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to go.¡± Madam Yu waved her hand away and knelt down. ¡°I¡¯ve been married to Your Highness for more than ten years. I¡¯ve always been dutiful and adhered to my duty, afraid that I would tarnish His Highness¡¯s reputation by taking a wrong step. However, Your Highness hasn¡¯t been home for a long time. As soon as he returned, he forced several groundless, trumDed-uD crimes on me. I¡¯m reallv terrified. If Your Highness reallv hates me so much, just divorce me.¡±


    Tears filled her eyes, but she held them back.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Xuanyuan Ye exclaimed and suddenly turned to look at Xuanyuan Ce. Her eyes were no longer filled with the usual admiration. ¡°Father, you¡¯re too much. Do you know that because of you, the commoners are saying that Mother forced you to not return to Phoenix City? Grandmother blames Mother for not being able to win your heart. Do you know how much Mother has suffered because of you? However, she has never complained even once!¡± Madam Yu interrupted her. ¡°Ye¡¯er, you can¡¯t be rude to your father.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye clenched her fists and knelt down beside Madam Yu. ¡°If Father really wants to divorce Mother, just chase me away so that we can make room for that mother and daughter.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, panic flashed across Madam Yu¡¯s eyes. She said sternly, ¡°Ye ler.¡±


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth curled into a mocking smile. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you two hated me so much.¡±


    ¡°Madam Yu, do you still remember what you told me back then?¡±


    Madam Yu¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°Your Highness!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce stood up. ¡°I never cared about what you did. I even allowed you to give birth to a daughter, but you shouldn¡¯t have attacked them. You¡¯ve crossed the line.¡±


    ¡°I originally thought that if you admitted it calmly, I would leave you some dignity. Since you don¡¯t know how to repent, don¡¯t blame me for being merciless. ¡±


    ¡°You want evidence, right? Alright, I¡¯ll find evidence for you.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness!¡± Madam Yu panicked completely.


    Xuanyuan Ye was confused, but she had an inexplicable bad feeling. She stood up and blocked Xuanyuan Ce ls way. She said with tears in her eyes, ¡°Why? I¡¯m also your daughter!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Madam Yu. ¡°Are you?¡±


    With that, he strode away.


    Xuanyuan Ye staggered two steps back and ran to Madam Yu. She asked in fear, ¡°Mother, what did Father mean by what he said just now? Am I not his daughter?¡±


    Madam Yu closed her eyes. When she opened them again, there was a fierce glint in her eyes.


    She pulled Xuanyuan Ye into her arms and coaxed her softly, ¡°Of course you¡¯re


    His Highness¡¯s daughter. You¡¯re the most respected princess in our Xuanyuan Kingdom. I¡¯m useless and can¡¯t win your father¡¯s favor, causing you to be disliked by him too. I¡¯ve let you down. Don¡¯t blame me.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not Mother¡¯s fault. It¡¯s Father¡¯s fault. It¡¯s that b*tch..¡±

 Chapter 745 - Chapter 745: Xuanyuan Oj (1)

    Chapter 745: Xuanyuan Oj (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the past, she had heard that His Highness and the princess consort did not get along. Now that she saw it, it was not as simple as that. The two of them probably had a deep hatred for each other.


    Otherwise, why would His Highness quarrel with the princess consort the moment he returned after not returning to the residence for more than ten years?


    When the guards in the front courtyard saw the bloodstains in the front hall, they guessed that His Highness had almost killed the princess consort in his anger. The princess had arrived in time to stop this tragedy.


    Everyone in the residence did not dare to breathe loudly because of this, afraid that they would accidentally offend their master.


    In the lord¡¯s residence.


    Xuanyuan Ye sent the doctor out of the inner chamber.


    ¡°Princess, don¡¯t worry. The princess consort is fine. Rest well these few days and don¡¯t let your wounds get wet.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye frowned. She was still saying that she was fine after losing so much blood. She knew that the common medic was unreliable.


    However, when she thought about how her mother insisted that she not invite the imperial physicians in the palace, she could only endure it and ask, ¡°Will it leave a scar?¡±


    ¡°Logically speaking, this small wound shouldn¡¯t leave a scar.¡± Seeing Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s ugly expression, the doctor secretly broke out in a cold sweat. She deliberated and said, ¡°If you¡¯re really worried, Princess, I heard that there¡¯s a scar removal medicine and jade skin cream in the palace. If you can use the jade skin cream, there will definitely not be a scar on the princess consort.¡±


    ¡°Jade Skin Cream, right? I understand.¡± Xuanyuan Ye nodded and instructed someone to send her out before turning around and returning to the inner room.


    ¡°Mother, how do you feel? Does your leg still hurt?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Madam Yu smiled gently and patted the bed, indicating for her to sit. ¡°I want to ask you why you said that just now. Where did you hear about that mother and daughter?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye looked at her guiltily and replied honestly, ¡°That day, I came to look for Mother and heard Mother talking to someone else. That person said that if they were reunited, Father would definitely know that she was still alive. In the future, there would be no place for us in the residence.¡± Madam Yu¡¯s fingertips tightened. As expected.


    She closed her eyes. ¡°Then do you think Mother is ruthless?¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Xuanyuan Ye did not understand why she thought that way. She hurriedly said, ¡°It¡¯s clearly that b*tch who doesn¡¯t know any shame. It¡¯s fine if she seduced Father and gave birth to a b*tch, but she actually wants to replace Mother. If Mother didn¡¯t do this, would she come into the family to bully us? Mother was clearly the one Father married into the residence. Just because that b*tch won Father¡¯s heart, do we need to give in to her¡­¡±


    The more she spoke, the angrier she became. She did not notice that every time she said ¡°b*tch¡± , Madam Yu¡¯s face turned paler.


    ¡°Enough!¡± Madam Yu berated sternly. Realizing that she had lost her composure, she rubbed the space between her eyebrows tiredly. ¡°You¡¯re a girl. How can you say¡­


    As if she really could not bring herself to say those words, she paused and said seriously, ¡°Ye¡¯er, promise Mother that you¡¯ll pretend not to know about this. Don¡¯t cause trouble for them.¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Madam Yu held Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face with both hands and looked at her face. She said lovingly, ¡°I won¡¯t let them have the chance to threaten your position. I won¡¯t let anyone destroy you. No one can.¡±


    She could do these dirty things. Her daughter¡¯s hands had to be clean.


    Xuanyuan Ye was puzzled. Where did this ¡°destruction¡± come from? Even if her father really brought the two of them into the residence, she was still her father¡¯s daughter, the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    She opened her mouth to ask, but a nanny hurried in.


    ¡°Princess Consort, His Highness entered the palace directly after leaving the residence. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was shocked. ¡°Father, could it be¡­¡± ¡°You can leave first.¡± Madam Yu waved at the nanny.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Mother, Father must have entered the palace to speak about that¡­ mother and daughter. If he asks to divorce Mother¡­¡¯


    ¡°No.¡± Madam Yu interrupted her and comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, even if your father really has that thought, the emperor won¡¯t agree, and the empress dowager won¡¯t agree either.¡±


    Back then, the aristocratic families had gone overboard with the royal family. The emperor had spared their lives, not to mention that she had played a decisive role in the competition between the emperor and the aristocratic families. She could be considered a contributor.


    If the emperor did not want to be cursed and disappoint the other ministers in the court, he would not allow Xuanyuan Ce to divorce her.


    This was her confidence!


    ¡°Really?¡± Xuanyuan Ye was still worried..

 Chapter 746 - Chapter 746: Xuanyuan (2)

    Chapter 746: Xuanyuan (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°When have I ever lied to you?¡± Madam Yu smiled and pulled her into her arms.


    She thought of something and asked, ¡°I remember that the Emperor sent a


    Demon Guard to protect you.¡±


    ¡°Are you talking about Night Soul?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Mother wants him to do something. Can you¡­


    In the Imperial Palace.


    Without waiting for a report, Xuanyuan Ce strode into the imperial study.


    The eunuch guarding the door seemed to be used to it. After he entered, he even thoughtfully closed the door.


    ¡°You¡¯re here.¡± Xuanyuan Qi buried his head in reading the memorials without looking up.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Xuanyuan Ziming, who was kneeling at the side and smiling at him ingratiatingly. He retracted his gaze indifferently and cupped his hands. ¡°Brother.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been back so often in the past two years.¡± Xuanyuan Qi changed the memorial and continued reading. He said indifferently, ¡°This brat actually dared to use you as a raft and almost tarnished your reputation. I¡¯ve already punished him to kneel here for two hours. If you¡¯re still angry, bring him back and continue punishing him.¡±


    He wasn¡¯t a girl. How could his reputation be tarnished?


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth twitched as he said, ¡°I¡¯m not here for this.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Xuanyuan Qi looked up.


    After all, they were brothers. The facial features of the two of them were somewhat similar. Perhaps because they had worked too hard on the country, although he were only three years older than Xuanyuan Ce, the emperor looked much older.


    ¡°Then you¡¯re here to speak for your esteemed guest?¡± he asked.


    Xuanyuan Ce was silent for a moment. ¡°Brother is indeed well-informed.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what you wanted me to know?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°Can we chat properly?¡±


    ¡°Since Brother knows, then..


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand to stop him from continuing. He said solemnly, ¡°In the face of national affairs, benefits come first. If your esteemed guest can give you more benefits than the Wu Kingdom, there¡¯s no need for you to say anything. If not..


    ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you say it.¡±


    Alright.


    Xuanyuan Ce had long guessed that this would happen, so he was not disappointed. ¡°I have something else.¡±


    ¡°Tell me about it.¡±


    ¡°Call back the Demon Guards you gave to Xuanyuan Ye.¡±


    With such a powerful weapon around, Xuanyuan Ce was worried. As for divorcing the Yu family¡­


    If Madam Yu could guess that the emperor would not agree, how could he not?


    ¡°Why?¡± Xuanyuan Qi did not expect him to mention this. He said in a low voice, ¡°I won¡¯t say anything about how you treat that girl, but you won¡¯t allow me, her uncle, to treat her well?¡±


    Actually, the reason why he and his mother doted on Xuanyuan Ye was not only because she was likable, but also because Xuanyuan Ce, their father, was irresponsible. As family elders, they wanted to compensate her.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ye stays in Phoenix City all year round. She has many servants and guards protecting her. Why would she need the Demon Guards? Besides, she¡¯s too young. She only knows how to like and hate and can¡¯t differentiate between good and evil. If she gets the Demon Guards to kill someone, you¡¯ll be an accomplice.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi paused and remembered that last year, Xuanyuan Ye had followed the diplomatic mission to Great Xia and asked the demon guard to kill a princess.


    Fortunately, the princess was also capable, so she did not succeed. If she had really killed her back then, it would have been troublesome.


    Thinking of this, he nodded. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was relieved and continued, ¡°By the way, I remember that every year, the palace will provide Jade Skin Cream. I wonder if there¡¯s more in the palace. Can you give it to me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. The Jade Skin Cream had the effect of removing scars and beautifying the face. Naturally, that thing was not for men.


    He pointed at the imperial table and asked, ¡°I heard that you brought a woman back to Phoenix City this time. You¡­¡¯


    Halfway through his sentence, he waved his hand. ¡°Forget it, forget it. Ever since that woman left, it¡¯s rare for you to care about a woman.¡±


    ¡°Wu Zhengde,¡± he called.


    A eunuch walked in. ¡°Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°I remember that you were the one who put away the Jade Skin Cream.¡±


    ¡°Yes. ¡®rne previous ones nave all Deen usea up, Dut we got anotner live Doxes. However, at the beginning of the year, Her Highness from the Zhongcui Palace accidentally scalded her hand while cooking soup for Your Majesty, so she was awarded with a box. Not long after, Her Highness from the Xianfu Palace made clothes for Your Majesty.¡±


    Meeting Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s disdainful gaze, Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face darkened and he quickly interrupted him. ¡°Alright, just tell me if there¡¯s more.¡±


    Wu Zhengde smiled awkwardly. ¡°There¡¯s only one box left.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Go and get it for Second Brother.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Soon, Eunuch Wu returned with a jade brocade box.


    Having achieved his goal of entering the palace, Xuanyuan Ce cupped his hands. ¡°Then I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    Knowing that he had always been like this, Xuanyuan Qi was not angry. He reminded him, ¡°Mother misses you every day. Don¡¯t forget to greet her..¡±

 Chapter 747 - Chapter 747: Xuanyuan Qj (3)

    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing that he was about to leave, Xuanyuan Ziming moved his kneeling legs and quickly called out softly, ¡°Uncle, Uncle, bring me away¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce originally wanted to ignore him, but he thought of something and paused. He looked at Xuanyuan Qi, who was sitting in front of the imperial desk. ¡°I¡¯ll take him away.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand.


    After leaving the imperial study, Xuanyuan Ziming heaved a sigh of relief and said gratefully, ¡°I knew that Imperial Uncle wouldn¡¯t leave me alone.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°I won¡¯t argue with you about that for now. Do you really want me to help you?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned and had a bad feeling. He waved his hand and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t Brother Song here? He represents Great Xia. Father might not cooperate with the Wu Kingdom now, so¡­¡±


    Since they were no longer cooperating, the marriage alliance naturally did not exist.


    ¡°You¡¯re confident in him, but what if he can¡¯t make a condition that moves your father?¡± Xuanyuan Ce sneered.


    ¡°No way.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°Then, then you have to save me when the time comes. You don¡¯t even know, but the princess from the Wu Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at the palace maidservants coming and going around him and strode towards the Longevity Palace where the empress dowager lived.


    Xuanyuan Ziming quickly followed. ¡°Uncle, you can¡¯t bear to see me face someone I don¡¯t like for the rest of my life, right? You must have a way to help me, right?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you want me to help you. You have to help me do something.¡± ¡°I¡¯m just an idle prince¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ziming wanted to laugh, but when he met xuanyuan ce¡¯s eyes, ne Immediately stopped smiling anci lowered ms voice. ¡°Uncle, tell me. As long as I can do it, I won¡¯t hesitate to climb mountains of swords and seas of fire. Not to mention one thing, even ten¡­¡¯


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xuanyuan Ce held his forehead. ¡°Go and find out if the princess consort has been in contact with the border recently and who she sent to do this. If not, find out if she sent anyone out of the capital.¡¯


    ¡°What, investigating Imperial Aunt?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming exclaimed.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him, and the latter quickly covered his mouth.


    ¡°Well, why do you want to investigate her?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked softly. The pair of eyes he had seen this morning flashed across his mind. He slapped his forehead. ¡°I remember now. Isn¡¯t that woman in your portrait, Imperial Uncle?¡± ¡°Shut up.¡± Xuanyuan Ce could not take it anymore.


    Xuanyuan Ziming drew a line across his mouth and gestured that he would keep quiet.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought for a moment and told him what Shen Yijia had encountered when she entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ziming blinked.


    Xuanyuan Ce clenched his fists and resisted the urge to hit someone. He said angrily, ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°Does Imperial Uncle suspect that Imperial Aunt did this? That shouldn¡¯t be the case. Imperial Aunt is such a kind person, and most importantly, the snacks she makes are delicious.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at him coldly.


    Xuanyuan Ziming smiled awkwardly. ¡°But if even Imperial Uncle can¡¯t find out, how can I be so capable?¡±


    ¡°No one else knows that I have another daughter, but you¡¯re the only one who found out. What do you think?¡± If not for this, he wouldn¡¯t have looked for him.


    Although he was a prince, he had not returned to Phoenix City for a long time. He was not as efficient in many matters as Xuanyuan Ziming.


    Xuanyuan Zimings face fell. ¡°Since Imperial Uncle trusts me so much, I definitely won¡¯t disappoint you. However, how did you find out that Jiajia is yours?


    ¡°Isn¡¯t this something you should investigate?¡± Xuanyuan Ce reminded him,


    ¡°You can investigate more about a man called Jiang Tao, a member of the Yu family. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming thought to himself, ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that you wanted me to investigate the connection between Imperial Aunt and the border?¡±


    ¡°Got it,¡± he said weakly..

 Chapter 748 - Chapter 748: Making the Decision (1)

    Chapter 748: Making the Decision (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Ce naturally did not just leave the matter to Xuanyuan Ziming. He instructed Chu Feng to follow him and investigate. In addition, he sent the only remaining Demon Guard to the border.


    Back then, since the matter was not successfully completed, the other party sent back the remuneration given by the Yu family. However, because You Yi interfered and took the remuneration, Madam Yu did not receive the news of the defeat immediately.


    Now that she knew, she would probably send someone to silence them.


    The reason why Xuanyuan Ce sent the Demon Guards was to save and bring back the border guards who were involved, before people from the Yu family reached the border.


    As for alerting the enemy?


    Xuanyuan Ce narrowed his cold eyes. If she didn¡¯t move, how was he going to catch her weakness?


    At night, Shen Yijia looked at the enlarged face in front of her and her heart trembled. She closed her eyes and looked like she was at the mercy of someone.


    ¡°If you want to kiss me, kiss me quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°Who said I was going to kiss you?


    ¡°Then I want to kiss you.¡± Shen Yijia raised her head. Unexpectedly, before she could touch him, she was pressed back by a hand.


    ¡°Be honest. Why did you deliberately mention what happened when you entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom today?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. What was supposed to happen had indeed come.


    Because of her extra words, Ji Luo had already asked her what had happened last night. She didn¡¯t want her to worry, so she coaxed her for a long time before finally she gave up.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell me?¡± Song Jingchen pretended to tickle her. Shen Yijia quickly hugged his demonic claws. ¡°I¡¯ll talk, I¡¯ll talk.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her.


    ¡°Initially, on account of the money, I thought that I would let this matter go. Anyway, after we leave the Xuanyuan Kingdom, I won¡¯t have any more interactions with the Yu family. Unexpectedly, we came to Phoenix City instead.¡± Shen Yijia observed Song Jingchen¡¯s expression as she spoke. ¡°Think about it. Before I even entered the Xuanyuan Kingdom, the Yu family wanted to harm me. Now that we¡¯re so close, wouldn¡¯t it be easier for them to cause trouble?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded for her to continue.


    Shen Yijia could only brace herself and continue making up stories. ¡°I¡¯m impatient to guard against this and that every day. Since that man caused this, of course I have to let him resolve it.¡±


    In order to increase her trustworthiness, she spoke very seriously, her eyes wide.


    She almost believed her own words.


    ¡°Liar.¡± Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t let her off.


    How could he not understand this girl?


    She had always liked to take revenge herself. She was direct and violent.


    When had she ever asked anyone for help? Moreover, it was Xuanyuan Ce, whom she called a scumbag. It was not her style to make hints like that..


    Shen Yijia was completely defeated by his gaze. She was indeed too naive to want to fool her beautiful husband.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for her to use her brain.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll talk.¡± She tugged at his sleeve ingratiatingly and looked at him innocently. ¡°I know you don¡¯t want me to stand up for you, but I want to help you. Instead of entering the palace yourself, why don¡¯t we take the initiative to make him summon us?¡±


    Even though he had already guessed it, Song Jingchen was still stunned when he heard Shen Yijia admit it. He couldn¡¯t tell what he was feeling.


    It was obviously impossible for Lord Jing¡¯an not to care about this daughter, but he had never mentioned letting her acknowledge her ancestors. Apart from the fact that this girl had yet to completely accept him, he probably did not want her to be criticized for being a mistress¡¯s daughter.


    Otherwise, with Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s personality, he would definitely want everyone to know that he had such a daughter.


    On the other hand, they only knew what exactly happened back then from You Yi¡¯s unilateral words.


    The emperor and the empress dowager¡¯s attitude towards Ji Luo was unclear, and the same would apply to Shen Yijia.


    No matter what, this was not a good time for them to know about Shen Yijia¡¯s existence.


    This girl, on the other hand, wanted to expose herself without a care. Instead of saying that she hadn¡¯t thought of this, it was more like she didn¡¯t care at all.


    She only knew that he needed to enter the palace, so she helped him enter the palace. She did not consider what she would have to face or whether she would be roasted over a fire.


    She did all of this to help him.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth and felt his throat interfere. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that this matter won¡¯t reach the emperor?


    ¡°So be it. I won¡¯t lose out anyway, but I think I¡¯ll definitely win this time.¡±


    She didn¡¯t know what kind of person Consort Jing¡¯an was, but she had seen Xuanyuan Ye before.


    She was an unruly and willful person.


    Ever since she was in Great Xia, she could compete with her regardless of the occasion just because she was Song Jingchen¡¯s wife..

 Chapter 749 - Chapter 749: Making the Decision (2)

    Chapter 749: Making the Decision (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    If Xuanyuan Ce knew what the Yu family had done, he would definitely look for Consort Jing¡¯ an.


    What would Xuanyuan Ye do?


    Naturally, she would look for her backer, the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, to complain.


    Shen Yijia could already imagine what she would say. When the time came, she would definitely say, ¡°Father questioned Mother as soon as he returned to the residence for that b*tch. He completely disregarded his relationship with Mother. Uncle, you have to stand up for us.¡±


    ¡°Father questioned Mother as soon as he returned to the residence for that b*tch. He completely disregarded his relationship with Mother. Uncle, you have to stand up for us.¡±


    In the Yuqian Palace, Xuanyuan Qi looked up at her, and then at the breakfast that had just been placed in front of him. He sighed and waved his hand to signal the eunuch to remove the food.


    ¡°Did I disturb Imperial Uncle¡¯s breakfast?¡± Xuanyuan Ye felt a little guilty.


    However, she could not take it lying down for the entire night. That was why she calculated the time for the morning court assembly and secretly entered the palace without telling her mother.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked at the breakfast that the eunuch was collecting from the food box and swallowed. He thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I don¡¯t have an appetite today.¡±


    ¡°What did you mean by that just now? What mistress? Where did that come from?¡± Realizing that Xuanyuan Ye had said ¡°b*tch¡± just now, he clicked his tongue. ¡°As the princess of my Xuanyuan Kingdom, you have to be more careful with your words in the future. Don¡¯t forget your status.¡±


    Actually, Xuanyuan Ye regretted it immediately after saying that. Fortunately, she knew that the emperor doted on her and would not really blame her for such a small matter.


    She explained reluctantly, ¡°My father brought back a woman from somewhere. That woman has a daughter.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re saying that your father raised a mistress?¡± Xuanyuan Qi felt that this was the funniest joke he had heard this year.


    How could he not know what kind of person Xuanyuan Ce was? If not for the fact that he knew that Xuanyuan Ce had taken a fancy to a woman back then, he would have suspected that his younger brother was homosexual.


    Seeing his expression, Xuanyuan Ye knew that he did not believe her. She stomped her feet. ¡°It¡¯s true. Yesterday, Father even quarreled with my mother over that woman.¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Seeing that she didn¡¯t seem to be joking, Xuanyuan Qi stopped smiling and waved his hand to dismiss the eunuchs serving in the hall. He continued. ¡°Tell me in detail what happened.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye recounted what had happened after Xuanyuan Ce returned to the residence yesterday. In the end, she cried and said with an aggrieved expression, ¡°Uncle Emperor, my mother is only a woman from the back residence. Because Father is not around, she rarely attends those madams¡¯ banquets. In the past, other than entering the palace to pay her respects to Grandmother and accompany her to pay respects to Buddha, she would at most go to Dayan Temple to pray for Father¡¯s safety. How could she commit murder?¡±


    ¡°However, my father believed that b*tch. That girl¡¯s provocation did not leave any dignity for my mother at all. Uncle, you have to stand up for my mother this time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was actually not too stupid. She seemed to be excusing Madam Yu, but she actually meant the same thing.


    Although Xuanyuan Ce had let Madam Yu down, Madam Yu still served the empress dowager on his behalf and worried about his safety at all times.


    Be it the empress dowager or Xuanyuan Ce, they were the closest relatives the king cared about the most. With such a sensible sister-in-law around, how could he have the cheek to doubt her?


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. She gave such a vivid description. It seemed likely that this mistress really existed.


    However, her identity as a ¡°mistress¡±¡­


    ¡°Your father has indeed gone overboard.¡± He glanced at Xuanyuan Ye and pointed at the imperial desk. ¡°Alright, stop crying. If you continue crying, your grandmother will feel sorry for you.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye sniffed and obediently wiped her tears. She looked at Xuanyuan Qi with teary eyes, waiting for him to continue.


    ¡°I¡¯ll send someone to investigate this matter. If your father really wronged your mother, I¡¯ll definitely ask him to apologize to your mother.¡±


    ¡°What about the mother and daughter?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi said in a low voice, ¡°Those who stir up trouble naturally have to be punished. Don¡¯t worry about this. I won¡¯t let you suffer. Remember, you¡¯re the legitimate daughter of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence. No one can surpass you.¡±


    Although she did not make the emperor immediately deal with the mother and daughter, this matter at least left a bad impression on the mother and daughter in front of the emperor.


    Xuanyuan Ye stopped while she was ahead. Seeing that the teacup in front of Xuanyuan Qi was empty, she went forward and poured him a cup of tea. ¡°I knew Imperial Uncle was the best..¡±

 Chapter 750 - Chapter 750: Making the Decision (3)

    Chapter 750: Making the Decision (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Hmph, you only know how to say nice things.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi argued with the ministers for nearly two hours because of state affairs. It was not easy for the court to end and for him to have a quiet breakfast. Xuanyuan Ye came to visit right after. He had yet to drink a drop of water and was indeed thirsty.


    He picked up his teacup and took a sip. ¡°I heard that you caught a cold a few days ago. It seems that it¡¯s good that you can enter the palace now. Go and pay my respects to your imperial grandmother later so that she won¡¯t miss you.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡± Xuanyuan Ye agreed obediently. She thought of something and her face fell. ¡°My mother was injured yesterday. The doctor said that there might be a scar. Uncle, can you give me a box of Jade Skin Cream?


    ¡°Jade Skin Cream?¡± It was just a box of scar removal ointment. Xuanyuan Qi did not think too much about it and said directly, ¡°There was indeed another box, but your father took it away.¡±


    ¡°Is your mother seriously injured? Why don¡¯t we get the imperial physician to take a look? The scar removal ointment they make is not inferior to that Jade


    Skin Cream.¡±


    His father had entered the palace to beg for Jade Skin Cream?


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s first reaction was that he came to take it for her mother. Otherwise, how could there be such a coincidence?


    However, she quickly rejected this thought, but she still asked hopefully,


    ¡°When did Father take it away?¡±


    ¡°I remember it was around three o¡¯clock yesterday.¡±


    It was right after he left the residence. Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s heart skipped a beat.


    Perhaps his father was not as heartless to his mother as he looked on the surface.


    However, after she left Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s residence, she did not even see him, let alone the Jade Skin Cream.


    She guessed, ¡°Then my father stayed in the palace yesterday?¡±


    ¡°No, he left after paying his respects to your grandmother. He didn¡¯t even stay for dinner.¡±


    Every time Xuanyuan Ce returned to Phoenix City, Xuanyuan Ye would come to him to ask about his whereabouts.


    Xuanyuan Qi was already used to it.


    However, at this point, Xuanyuan Qi thought of something else.


    ¡°By the way, I remember sending a Demon Guard to protect you.¡±


    Having to take back the Demon Guard, Xuanyuan Qi could not hide his embarrassment. After saying that, he picked up his teacup uncomfortably and took a sip to hide his embarrassment.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Xuanyuan Ye was still thinking about the Jade Skin Cream. When she suddenly heard about the Demon Guard, her heart skipped a beat and she forced a smile. ¡°Uncle, are you talking about Night Soul? That¡¯s right.¡±


    She carefully glanced at Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s expression, unable to figure out why he suddenly mentioned the Demon Guards. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°Are you still angry about Ye¡¯er asking him to kill someone? Mother has already taught Ye¡¯er a lesson because of this. Ye¡¯er really knows her mistake. At that time, Ji Yunxi wanted to snatch everything from me. I couldn¡¯t help but be angry.¡± Xuanyuan Ye was about to cry as she spoke.


    Xuanyuan Qi comforted him. ¡°I watched you grow up. I naturally know that you¡¯ve been a little headstrong since you were young, but you don¡¯t have any bad intentions.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye heaved a sigh of relief and continued.


    ¡°I thought about it. You¡¯re a girl, so you don¡¯t need the Demon Guard. I¡¯m going to call Night Soul back and give you two secret guards. How about that?¡±


    Not to mention two secret guards, even ten of them couldn¡¯t compare to one Night Soul.


    Xuanyuan Ye really wanted to cry this time. Since he had already said so much, did she have any room to refuse?


    However¡­


    Her eyes flashed and she said, ¡°Imperial Uncle¡¯s arrangements are naturally for Ye¡¯er¡¯s own good, but Night Soul was just sent out by Ye¡¯er.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at her.


    ¡°It¡¯s Grandmother¡¯s birthday in a few days.¡± Xuanyuan Ye tightened his grip the handkerchief and continued, ¡°I heard that a merchant in the Jiang state obtained a jade stone half the height of a person. Grandmother has always doted on me, so I wanted Night Soul to buy that jade stone. When the time comes, I¡¯ll get someone to carve the jade into a Buddha statue and give it to Grandmother as a birthday gift.¡±


    The corners of Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s mouth twitched. As expected of a girl, she wou use the lethal weapon of the human world as an errand boy.


    If You Yi knew what he was thinking, he would respond, ¡°That¡¯s because you never seen anyone use Demon Guards as mounts or stalkers. My master evel uses a Demon Guard to secretly beat someone up.¡±


    ¡°I remember that Mother¡¯s birthday is still more than half a year away,¡± Xuanyuan Qi said.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to make it in time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi nodded. ¡°Thank you. We¡¯ll talk about this when he returns. I¡¯ll give you the two secret guards first.¡±


    Afraid that she would expose herself if she stayed any longer, Xuanyuan Ye bowed. ¡°Thank you, Uncle. I¡¯ll go and see Grandmother first.¡±


    ¡°Go. Don¡¯t forget to bring the imperial physician along when you leave the palace. ¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    The door of the Imperial Qian Palace closed again. Xuanyuan Qi knocked on the desk. ¡°Ye Ming, go and investigate.¡±


    There was a fluctuation in the air, but it quickly returned to calm..

 Chapter 751 - Chapter 751: Attack (1)

    Chapter 751: Attack (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Princess, this isn¡¯t the way to the Longevity Palace,¡± Bai Zhi reminded her softly on the palace path.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Xuanyuan Ye suddenly came back to her senses and realized that she had unknowingly walked down the wrong path. She glanced at the palace maids behind her and clenched her fists, forcing herself to calm down. The corners of her mouth twitched as she said, ¡°Help me make a trip to the


    Longevity Palace. I¡¯m not feeling well, so I won¡¯t be going to pay my respects to Imperial Grandmother today.¡±


    With that, she turned around and walked towards the palace door.


    Bai Zhi was stunned for a moment and quickly followed. ¡°Princess, where are you feeling unwell? Do you want me to call the imperial physician?¡±


    Madam Yu had set up a small Buddhist hall in her courtyard. Every day, she would copy scriptures for an hour. It was the same today.


    After coming out of the small temple hall, she pressed her twitching eyelids and instructed, ¡°Go and see if the princess is awake. If she is, ask her to come and have breakfast with me.¡±


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she finished speaking, Xuanyuan Ye jogged in.


    Just as she was about to blame her for not looking like a noble lady at all, Madam Yu¡¯s heart skipped a beat when she saw her clothes. She asked, ¡°You left the residence?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye pounced on her and grabbed Madam Yu¡¯s sleeve tightly as if she had seen her savior. She said with a sobbing voice, ¡°Mother, I think I¡¯ve gotten into trouble.¡±


    In the small courtyard, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia went out to buy clothes after breakfast.


    This was Shen Yijia¡¯s suggestion. She said that since they wanted the Wu Kingdom¡¯s envoys to think that they had come prepared, they had to present themselves with dignity.


    Therefore, when Xuanyuan Ce came, he only saw Ji Luo sitting alone in the courtyard fiddling with medicinal herbs.


    Finally, no one disturbed him. He heaved a sigh of relief and smiled. He walked forward and handed her a jade box. ¡°This is the Jade Skin Cream I took from the palace. Try it.¡±


    Ji Luo threw the herbs into the stone mortar and crushed them. She said indifferently, ¡°There¡¯s no need. Your Highness, you should take it back.¡±


    Apart from the first time she forgot about it because she was in a hurry to see Shen Yijia, she wore a veil every day.


    However, even so, it could not hide one of the twisted and ferocious scars that extended to her brow bones.


    Others would feel pain just from looking at that scar. How much pain must Ji Luo have endured back then?


    However, to the scars covering her entire face, that was just the tip of the iceberg.


    The smile on Xuanyuan Cel s face froze. Only he knew that every time he saw these scars, his heart would feel like it was being dismembered.


    ¡°I know you hate me, but you should treasure the body that your parents gave you.¡±


    ¡°Hate?¡± Ji Luo stopped what she was doing, as if she had heard a huge joke. She suddenly laughed and smiled for a long time before looking up at the man in front of her.


    The man stood under the sun with a frown. He was cold and noble, giving off an unapproachable feeling.


    It was just like the first time she saw him. He was clearly injured and could not stand steadily, but when she wanted to approach him and check his wounds, she was almost injured by him.


    At that time, she thought that it would be a pity if such a good-looking man died like this. Hence, she sprinkled a handful of sleeping powder and dragged him away.


    As time passed, he was still the same person with the same face, but she was no longer the same person.


    The corners of Ji Luo¡¯s lips curled up under the veil. ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, you think too highly of yourself.¡±


    Over 2,400 days and nights. If she really wanted to hate someone, there were too many people to hate.


    She could have hated Madam Ji for being ungrateful, hated Si Yun for disregarding their childhood sweetheart relationship, hated her clansmen for watching from the sidelines, hated herself for being blind, and hated leaving those clansmen alive¡­


    She could hate so many people. What was Xuanyuan Ce to her?


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes were filled with hurt. ¡°Ah Luo¡­¡±


    Ji Luo interrupted him with a frown. ¡°Your Highness, we¡¯ve already said what we needed to say seventeen years ago. If you come here as Jiajia¡¯s father, I won¡¯t stop you. If it¡¯s anything else, forget it.¡±


    She owed her daughter to begin with and would not selfishly deprive her of her father¡¯s love, but that was all.


    ¡°Ah Luo, I had no choice back then. I¡¯ve always wanted to explain it to you.¡±


    ¡°Explain?¡± Ji Luo took out a handkerchief from her pocket and wrapped some of the crushed medicinal powder into it. She said in a mocking tone, ¡°You said that you had no choice, and that you could explain it. Why does it matter? Can you pretend that what happened didn¡¯t happen?


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned and took a step back as if all his strength had been drained. His hand that was holding the jade box fell limply..

 Chapter 752 - Chapter 752: Attack (2)

    Chapter 752: Attack (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    That¡¯s right. Even if he had a hundred reasons, how could he account for the harm he had caused Ji Luo and the debt he owed his daughter?


    Wasn¡¯t the scar on Ji Luo¡¯s face the best evidence?


    He suddenly understood why Ji Luo had never thought of getting rid of the scars on her face in the past month despite her excellent medical skills. ¡°By the way, there¡¯s something we should settle.¡± Ji Luo stood up.


    ¡®Wha¡ª


    As soon as he said this, Xuanyuan Ce felt his vision go dark and he fell unconscious.


    Ji Luo shook his handkerchief and shook all the powder on it onto Xuanyuan


    Ce.


    After doing all this, she squatted down, grabbed one of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s legs, and dragged him out.


    Just like back then.


    ¡°That¡¯s how I saved you back then. Today, I¡¯ll throw you out in the same way. This way, we¡¯ll be even,¡± she muttered to herself.


    After taking two steps, she stopped to catch his breath and continued.


    ¡°My body is indeed not as good as before.¡±


    The Demon Guard assigned by Xuanyuan Ce to guard Ji Luo watched this scene. After confirming that their master¡¯s life was not in danger, they silently turned their heads away.


    He didn¡¯t see anything!


    Clang!


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s body was stuck by the threshold. Ji Luo frowned and tugged hard, but he didn¡¯t move.


    She could only let go of his legs and wrap her arms around his neck to continue dragging him out.


    After finally crossing the threshold, before Ji Luo could heave a sigh of relief, she heard footsteps behind her.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Xuanyuan Ce, who was lying on the ground with his clothes torn, and then at Ji Luo, who was so tired that his forehead was covered in sweat. The corners of her mouth twitched.


    This must be her mother¡¯s true colors!


    She enjoyed this moment.


    Ji Luo froze and silently let go.


    With a thud, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s head hit the ground.


    However, no one cared.


    ¡°Jiajia and Ah Chen are back.¡± She turned around and pretended not to see the complicated expressions on their faces. She glanced at Xuanyuan Ce indifferently. ¡°He fainted at the door. I was about to move him in.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Mother, so you can lie through your teeth too.


    To tell you the truth, we saw you drag him out like a dead dog from afar.¡±


    Song Jingchen tugged at Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve, indicating for her to put away her expression. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°Mother, let me do it.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Ji Luo nodded. She seemed to have thought of something and said, ¡°I saw that he¡¯s covered in many medicinal powders. One of them has the effect of causing people to fall asleep. Be careful when you move it. Don¡¯t fall for it.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°My mother grabbed his legs and head just now. It seems that these two places are the only safe places.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    In order not to offend his wife and mother-in-law, Song Jingchen grabbed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s leg and dragged him back to the study.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Shen Yijia picked up the jade box in the courtyard and asked.


    ¡°Jade Skin Cream. I heard that it has the effect of removing scars and beautifying the face.¡± Ji Luo glanced at it and retracted his gaze. ¡°Throw it away. If you want it, I¡¯ll concoct something better for you.¡±


    Shen Yijia instantly understood. It seemed that the scumbag had sent it over.


    ¡°This jade box should be quite valuable.¡± She didn¡¯t know much about jade. She only guessed this because of the exquisite patterns carved on it.


    After some thought, she ran into the kitchen and found a random jar. She dug out all the paste in the jade box and placed it in the jar. Then, she washed the jade box.


    ¡°MO Yuan, pawn it at the pawnshop.¡± With that, she casually threw the jar out.


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    It was said that the Jade Skin Cream needed no less than a hundred precious medicinal herbs in its creation process.


    In fact, even ten jade boxes could not compare to the portion that Shen Yijia had given up.


    However, the two of them tacitly did not mention it. Otherwise, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart would ache when she found out the truth.


    ¡°Mother, didn¡¯t I give you spiritual liquid? Why hasn¡¯t your face recovered?¡±


    As soon as the spiritual liquid gathered, Shen Yijia packed it in a small porcelain bottle and gave it to Ji Luo.


    Logically speaking, it had been almost a month. She should have recovered long ago.


    Ji Luo shook his head and smiled. ¡°There¡¯s no hurry.¡±


    Shen Yijia was relieved that the spiritual liquid was not useless. She took out the things she had bought excitedly and showed them to Ji Luo.


    She emphasized on showing her a golden hairpin.


    Because this was the only thing she chose!


    She had originally chosen a lot, but Song Jingchen coaxed her and changed them to something else.


    To Song Jingchen¡¯s surprise, she received Ji Luo¡¯s praise.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°They¡¯re indeed mother and daughter.¡±


    ¡°Mother, do you like it? I¡¯ll give it to you.¡± Shen Yijia happily put on a golden hairpin for her..

 Chapter 753 - Chapter 753: Attack (3)

    Chapter 753: Attack (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Luo was so touched that his eyes turned red. ¡°You must be hungry. Mother will make you a bowl of noodles.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s hands trembled. ¡°No need, no need. We¡¯re not hungry yet. Let¡¯s have lunch when MO Yuan comes back.¡±


    Song Jingchen found it funny, but he agreed. ¡°Mother, rest for a while.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t cook too much. Fill your stomachs first.¡±


    She put away the gifts that Shen Yijia had given her and went into the kitchen.


    ¡°Madam, I¡¯ll help you start the fire.¡± Hearing about the food, Thirty Thousand followed her.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other. They were doomed!


    A knock sounded at the door.


    There was a knock on the door behind her. Someone was at home, and the door was not closed.


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw a middle-aged man with a white beard standing at the door.


    The man was wearing very ordinary clothes and smiled at her uncomfortably.


    ¡°I¡¯m passing by. Can I ask for a bowl of water?¡± he said.


    This voice was also a little strange, as if he was deliberately speaking in a low voice.


    However, Shen Yijia did not care. She scanned the man from head to toe and her eyes lit up. ¡°Yes, of course. Come in quickly.¡±


    As she spoke, she kept waving at the man, almost running over to pull him in.


    The middle-aged man was speechless.


    He was a little flustered. He suddenly didn¡¯t want to go in. What should he do?


    ¡°Come in quickly.¡± Shen Yijia continued to invite him warmly, like a wolf coaxing a child.


    The middle-aged man turned his head and glanced at a certain someone standing at the entrance of the alley not far away, who kept winking at him. He coma ony orace filmsell anu enter.


    ¡°Sorry to disturb you.¡± He cupped his hands at the couple shakily. ¡°I accidentally lost my money bag.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Then you didn¡¯t even eat?¡±


    The middle-aged man thought to himself, ¡°Was I supposed to have eaten?¡±


    Since he had lost his money bag, it was better to say that he hadn¡¯t eaten.


    He nodded.


    ¡°That¡¯s too pitiful. How can I simply give you a bowl of water?¡± Shen Yijia looked at him sympathetically. ¡°Wait here. My mother happened to be cooking noodles. You can leave after eating.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, Ji Luo and Thirty Thousand came out with two bowls of noodles.


    Without waiting for Ji Luo to ask, Shen Yijia struck first.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Mother, this uncle lost his money bag. He hasn¡¯t eaten for three days. I think he¡¯s pitiful. Let him eat the noodles first. My husband and I aren¡¯t hungry anyway.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. He wasn¡¯t hungry at all.


    The middle-aged man thought to himself, ¡°Why don¡¯t I remember saying that I


    haven¡¯t eaten for three days?¡±


    Was it really good to keep adding scenes for him?


    Ji Luo glanced at the middle-aged man. Although she found it strange, she did not refute her daughter¡¯s words.


    ¡°Since he¡¯s so pitiful, let¡¯s give him my bowl too.¡± Thirty Thousand, who was lucky enough to taste it in advance, hurriedly said.


    Looking at the three bowls of noodles placed in front of him, the middle-aged man remembered that he was here to ask for water. How did it become begging?


    However, this family was so enthusiastic, it seemed that they were not worried that he was a bad person.


    They were too naive!


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze paused on his Adam¡¯s apple without leaving a trace. He said meaningfully, ¡°Hurry up and eat. It won¡¯t taste good once you eat it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. My mother cooked these noodles herself. You have to finish it.¡± Shen Yijia stuffed the chopsticks into his hand and looked straight at him.


    ¡°It¡¯s not delicious even if it¡¯s hot. If it¡¯s cold, I¡¯m afraid you won¡¯t be able to eat it, so eat quickly.¡± she thought.


    Under the gaze of three pairs of eyes that could not be ignored, the middle-aged man picked up a piece of noodles stiffly.


    Slurp-


    Shen Yijia immediately leaned over and secretly made a throat-slitting gesture without being seen by Ji Luo. ¡°How is it? It¡¯s delicious, right?¡±


    The middle-aged man was speechless.


    Naive? This was simply inhumane!


    He swallowed the noodles with difficulty and nodded with tears in his eyes.


    The taste was indescribable.


    ¡°It tastes awful!¡± he thought.


    He did not dare to speak, afraid that he would spit out the noodles he had painstakingly swallowed.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Mother, look at him. He¡¯s so touched that he¡¯s crying.¡± Ji Luo smiled. ¡°If it¡¯s not enough, there¡¯s still some left in the pot.¡±


    Ji Luo smiled. ¡°If it¡¯S not enough, there¡¯s still some left in the pot.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll help him get some.¡± Thirty Thousand ran back to the kitchen.


    These things could not be left behind!


    Fifteen minutes later, the middle-aged man left without looking back.


    ¡°Who was that person just now?¡± Xuanyuan Ce had woken up and was standing at the door of the study, staring in the direction of the door.


    ¡°A pitiful person who lost his money bag and had no food to eat,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Song Jingchen nodded in agreement. It was indeed pitiful.


    ¡°Your Highness, do you want to change your clothes first?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    With his reminder, Xuanyuan Ce remembered what had happened previously. He looked at Ji Luo, who was sitting at the side fiddling with medicinal herbs, with a complicated expression.


    He lowered his eyes and said, ¡°I¡¯ll bring you to the palace in the afternoon.¡± With that, he limped away.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth, but he decided not to say anything. ¡°My lord, don¡¯t you feel a chill down your spine?¡± he thought..

 Chapter 754 - Chapter 754: Last Hit (1)

    Chapter 754: Last Hit (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Even when he walked out of the door, he did not hear anyone ask him to stay. Xuanyuan Ce silently looked up at the sky and felt inexplicably sad.


    He gasped in pain. When he touched the swollen bump on the back of his head, he chuckled.


    ¡°Ah Luo, you haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    After muttering to himself, he untied the rope and was about to get on the horse when he saw a familiar figure standing at the entrance of the alley from the corner of his eye.


    It was the middle-aged man who had just come out, but that familiarity was not because of the hurried glance he had just seen.


    Xuanyuan Ce felt that he had seen this back view somewhere before, but his head was buzzing and he could not remember.


    The man faced the alley with his back to the main road, his body trembling.


    Xuanyuan Ce led the horse over and reached out to pat his shoulder so that he could turn around and look at the front.


    Unexpectedly, the middle-aged man suddenly vomited.


    The surroundings were instantlv filled with an indescribable sour smell.


    I ranstator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Even when he walked out of the door, he did not hear anyone ask him to stay. Xuanyuan Ce silently looked up at the sky and felt inexplicably sad.


    He gasped in pain. When he touched the swollen bump on the back of his head, he chuckled.


    ¡°Ah Luo, you haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    After muttering to himself, he untied the rope and was about to get on the horse when he saw a familiar figure standing at the entrance of the alley from the corner of his eye.


    It was the middle-aged man who had just come out, but that familiarity was not because of the hurried glance he had just seen.


    Xuanyuan Ce felt that he had seen this back view somewhere before, but his head was buzzing and he could not remember.


    The man faced the alley with his back to the main road, his body trembling.


    Xuanyuan Ce led the horse over and reached out to pat his shoulder so that he could turn around and look at the front.


    Unexpectedly, the middle-aged man suddenly vomited.


    The surroundings were instantly filled with an indescribable sour smell.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and wrinkled his nose in disdain. He retracted his hand and got on the horse. He urged the horse to bring him out of this smelly place.


    The clatter of hooves grew further and further away. After confirming that the person had left, an angry shout sounded from the alley.


    ¡°Wu Zhengde! ¡±


    The middle-aged man was none other than the chief eunuch beside Xuanyuan Qi, Eunuch Wu Zhengde.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked at the filth on his body.


    He was so angry that she wanted to kill someone.


    Eunuch Wu knelt down and cried, ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t serve you anymore.¡±


    He was kneeling on the thing he had spat out. Xuanvuan Qi was disgusted and


    took a big step back. As he took off his coat, he said, ¡°You also know that you deserve to die.¡±


    ¡°No, no. Even if Your Majesty doesn¡¯t kill me, I won¡¯t live long because I might have been poisoned.¡±


    He was the dignified head of the imperial palace, the favorite of the emperor, but he was going to be poisoned to death by a few bowls of small noodles. Just thinking about it made him feel aggrieved. He had yet to spend all his money.


    The more he thought about it, the more uncomfortable he felt. Eunuch Wu wailed, ¡°Your Majesty, I can¡¯t bear to part with you, but I have no choice. Who would have thought that this family would be so heartless as to take someone¡¯s


    Xuanyuan Qi stopped unbuttoning his clothes.


    ¡°I have nothing to regret about being lucky enough to serve Your Majesty in my life. I¡¯m just a little worried about you.¡±


    He did not expect this old fellow to be so loyal. Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s anger dissipated by more than half.


    Eunuch Wu wiped his tears and continued to cry. ¡°Didn¡¯t Your Majesty say that you wanted to build a pavilion in the palace? You can look upon your people from above. Unfortunately, Your Majesty couldn¡¯t bear to waste the people¡¯s money, so this pavilion couldn¡¯t be built. I saw the sketch Your Majesty drew. I can¡¯t do anything for Your Majesty, but I saved some money.¡±


    ¡°When I leave, Your Majesty, take that money and build the pavilion. In the future, when you see the pavilion, you can also remember me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi narrowed his eyes, took off his coat, and casually threw it aside. ¡°The pavilion I¡¯m building needs a lot of money.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t worry. I have them. They¡¯re all hidden under my bed.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, my stomach hurts. The poison must have acted up.¡± Eunuch Wu held his stomach and cried out in pain.


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to go in and find out who Second


    Brother¡¯s mistress is? How did you get poisoned?¡±


    Originally, he had sent the Demon Guards over, but before they could approach this small residence, they sensed two familiar auras inside.


    Apart from the other Demon Guards, who else could it be?


    Xuanyuan Ce only had three Demon Guards in total. How could Xuanyuan Qi sit still after knowing that he sent two of them out at the same time? He immediately brought Eunuch Wu out of the palace incognito.


    ¡°Investigate? That¡¯s right, I went in to investigate. They insisted on treating me to noodles. That woman cooked these noodles.¡± Once the noodles entered his mouth, it was simply fatal. How could he remember anything else?


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face darkened. He didn¡¯t get anything useful from this old fellow. Instead, he almost lost his life.


    However, since they had no grudges, he did not think that the other party would poison someone for no reason.


    He raised his hand and was about to call for help.


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re here.¡± A clear voice sounded.


    Xuanyuan Qi retracted his hand and was stunned by the sudden appearance of the girl.


    As an emperor, he had a harem of beauties..

 Chapter 755 - Chapter 755: Last Hit (2)

    Chapter 755: Last Hit (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the past, in order to make him completely obsessed with beauty, all the women the aristocratic families sent to the palace were beautiful.


    He believed that he had seen all the beauties in the world, but the girl¡¯s appearance still stunned him.


    The girl was wearing an apricot-colored dress. There was a flower bud between her brows. Her facial features were exquisite, and her skin was smooth. Although her hairstyle showed that she was a married woman, she had a childish expression, like a fairy who had accidentally entered the mortal world.


    Her facial features had yet to fully develop, but she already had such looks. It was hard to imagine how beautiful she would be in the future.


    However, Xuanyuan Qi was not a person who coveted beauty. The reason why he was stunned was because of the familiarity in the girl¡¯s eyes.


    Seeing that someone was staring at her, the girl also stared back unwillingly. The two people with similar eyebrows stared at each other for a long time as if no one was around.


    Eunuch Wu stood up and stood between the two of them.


    ¡°What are you trying to do? Don¡¯t even think about harming His M¡­¡±


    After being kicked in the leg, he quickly changed his words. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about harming my master again. ¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you lost your money bag? This is your master. Doesn¡¯t that mean that he hasn¡¯t eaten yet?¡± Shen Yijia asked kindly.


    Glancing at the filth on him, she wrinkled her nose in disdain.


    Xuanyuan Qi suddenly understood. No wonder he felt that the girl in front of him looked familiar. She looked like Second Brother.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s looked like her mother, and there wasn¡¯t a trace of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s looks on her at all.


    Shen Yijia, on the other hand, looked like her father. Looking at the girl in front of him, Xuanyuan Qi felt inexplicably complicated.


    Eunuch Wu¡¯s eyebrows twitched. ¡°Yes, he ate. How could I let my master starve?


    ¡°Oh my god, could it be that this person wants to treat His Majesty to noodles and poison His Majesty to death?¡± he thought.


    She¡¯s really too vicious.


    Shen Yijia nodded and took out a paper bag. ¡°Here, I¡¯m here to give you this.¡±


    Eunuch Wu thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. Are they going to poison me because I¡¯m not dead yet?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi coughed lightly. ¡°What is this?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and pointed at Eunuch Wu. ¡°Is his abdominal pain unbearable and he feels nauseous?¡±


    Eunuch Wu nodded. She had indeed poisoned him. Otherwise, how could she know his symptoms so well?


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯ll be fine after eating this.¡± Shen Yijia handed the paper bag forward again. After thinking about it, she felt that she had to explain on behalf of her mother. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, although my mother¡¯s food is a little unpalatable, it definitely won¡¯t kill anyone.¡±


    She and her beautiful husband were still alive and well.


    However, seeing this person¡¯s miserable state, she finally understood why every time she said that she wanted to enter the kitchen, the expressions of everyone in the family, regardless of their age, would change.


    ¡°It¡¯s just unpalatable? It¡¯s not poisonous? It won¡¯t kill anyone by eating it?¡± Eunuch Wu didn¡¯t believe it.


    Seeing that he did not take it, Shen Yijia retracted her hand and said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t take the medicine. Anyway, it¡¯s just a matter of suffering for a few more days.¡±


    If not for the fact that this person had helped her and her beautiful husband block a calamity, she would not have come out to deliver the medicine.


    Hearing that it would be uncomfortable for a few days, Eunuch Wu snatched the paper bag away without thinking.


    ¡°Can this really cure me?¡± He wanted to confirm it with her.


    Shen Yijia nodded seriously.


    Eunuch Wu stole a glance at Xuanyuan Qi. Seeing that he didn¡¯t object, he opened the paper bag. There was a black pill inside.


    Shen Yijia gestured for him to eat quickly.


    Eunuch Wu swallowed. Just as he was hesitating, another sharp pain came from his abdomen. This time, he could not care less. He stuffed the pill into his mouth and swallowed it.


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t feel like much.¡±


    ¡°How can the medicinal effect be so fast? It¡¯ll take at least half an hour.¡± Shen


    Yijia rolled her eyes and thought for a moment. ¡°Since you¡¯re here, follow me.¡±


    As she spoke, she carefully walked around the pile of filth and led the way into the alley.


    Xuanyuan Qi nodded and followed Shen Yijia.


    Eunuch Wu took two steps and glanced at the filth on his body. He resisted the urge to vomit and took off his coat. He jogged after him.


    ¡°This is it.¡±


    She brought him to the back door of a residence. She could vaguely hear many people talking.


    The door was ajar. Shen Yijia pushed it open and walked in first. This was a small courtyard, the same as the backyard of the house they rented.


    She casually pointed at a place and said, ¡°That¡¯s the outhouse. Go in and squat¡­¡¯


    Before he could finish, Eunuch Wu suddenly held his stomach and cried out in pain, ¡°Oh my, what did you give me? Why do I feel even more pain!¡±

 Chapter 756 - Chapter 756: Last Hit (3)

    Chapter 756: Last Hit (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°It¡¯s croton powder.¡± Shen Yijia looked harmless. When she met Eunuch Wu¡¯s gaze, she explained, ¡°You feel uncomfortable because you ate the noodles my mother cooked. It¡¯ll be fine after you clear it out. Coincidentally, croton has the effect of diarrhea.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Eunuch Wu pointed at her, speechless.


    Sensing something, his expression changed. He covered his abdomen and ran in the direction Shen Yijia pointed.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue and muttered to herself, ¡°I told you to go in and squat quickly, but you didn¡¯t listen.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    Shen Yijia looked at him strangely.


    Ever since he regained control of the government, it had been a long time since anyone dared to stare at him like this. However, this girl had already stared at him twice this hour.


    Xuanyuan Qi realized that he did not feel offended at all.


    He ignored the strange feeling in his heart and was about to say something.


    With a thud, the sound of a gong came from ahead, followed by enthusiastic cheers right on the heels of it.


    He asked, ¡°Where is this place?¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed her chin and said uncertainly, ¡°It should be a poetry club.¡± She remembered Thirty Thousand mentioning it previously.


    She went out the side door and turned left before walking for 500 meters. Because they entered through the back door, it was actually less than 500 meters away.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face darkened. How dare you bring them to ¡°borrow¡± the toilet when you don¡¯t even know where this place is?


    How did this girl survive until now without being beaten to death?


    Shen Yijia would definitely say, ¡°I relied on my fists!¡±


    However, turneu out tnat sne was ngnt.


    Outside the backyard was a two-story pavilion. A stage had been built in the middle of the hall, and an old man with a white beard was standing on it, talking frankly.


    Shen Yijia did not understand. She sat down at an empty table in the corner.


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    There were people coming and going, and they were all fighting until their faces turned red. No one noticed that two unfamiliar faces had suddenly appeared.


    The old man was finally finished. He picked up the hammer and struck the gong and drum again.


    The hall instantly fell silent. Two scholarly men walked onto the stage.


    They bowed to each other.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. Were they going to fight?


    Just as he thought this, he saw the old man take two steps back. He clapped his hands and descended to the second floor.


    There were four words written on it, ¡°The Debate of Yu Le.¡±


    Right on the heels of that, the two men started a new round.


    ¡°So it¡¯s a debate.¡± Xuanyuan Qi was a little interested.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±


    Seeing that she was staring at the stage, Xuanyuan Qi asked, ¡°Have you studied?¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly, looking at him as if to ask, ¡°Isn¡¯t that obvious?


    Xuanyuan Qi thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯m not angry.¡±


    He was the emperor!


    He was magnanimous!


    He had a big heart!


    He continued to ask, ¡°What books have you read?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°Two or three things that a rich young lady and a down-and-out scholar have to say.¡± ¡°The madam is soft and easy to push down.¡±


    ¡°Big Boss¡¯s Little Wife.¡±


    ¡®¡±Colorful Affairs at the High Gate.¡±¡®


    ¡°The Little Fortunate Wife of the Sick Heir.¡± She paused and added, ¡°Let me tell you, this is really good.¡±


    The more she spoke, the more excited she became. She didn¡¯t notice that Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s expression darkened with every title she mentioned.


    ¡°Nonsense. How can a girl read such indecent books? Your father doesn¡¯t know how to control you.¡± Xuanyuan Qi didn¡¯t even realize it himself. He subconsciously used the tone of an elder lecturing a junior.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and looked like she was about to cry.


    Her appearance inexplicably reminded Xuanyuan Qi of when he first ascended the throne.


    Xuanyuan Ce was bullied by the young masters of those aristocratic families and ran back to the palace to look at him with this expression.


    At that time, he really hated his helplessness. He could only watch as his brother grew up being bullied.


    He subconsciously softened his tone. ¡°I¡¯m not scolding you. I mean that those books are not suitable for girls to read. You can read something else, such as poetry. ¡±


    The drama queen sniffed and said resentfully, ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t want to?¡± Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    ¡°My biological father was a scumbag. He abandoned us when I was still in my mother¡¯s stomach. In order to avoid being hunted down, my mother could only send me away. I was unlucky. After my adoptive mother, who treated me well,


    died¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia spoke sincerely and tried her best to describe the original host¡¯s encounter.


    She slept in the woodshed and ate leftovers. At best, they would be punished to kneel, and at worst, she would be beaten up and scolded. In short, she suffered at the hands of the original host¡¯s adoptive family..

 Chapter 757 - Chapter 757: Last Hit (4)

    Chapter 757: Last Hit (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Qi, who thought that his heart was as hard as stone, almost cried.


    The Xuanyuan family had actually been abused to this extent. That family deserved to die.


    At some point, the surroundings fell silent. Everyone had started listening to Shen Yijia¡¯s story and pricked up their ears.


    ¡°I refuse to admit defeat. I want to read and learn how to write.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice suddenly became high-pitched.


    Hearing this, everyone¡¯s hearts were raised.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t have money.¡± Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°So every day, I secretly hide in the corner of the academy and eavesdrop.¡±


    Everyone thought, ¡°This academy was too big. Otherwise, how could a little girl sneak in?¡±


    ¡°Slowly, I learned a few words. I started sneaking into the bookstore to read again. ¡±


    Everyone thought, ¡°Is there anywhere in the world that you can¡¯t go secretly?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that it wasn¡¯t a proper bookstore at all. It was filled with indecent books. By the time I grew up and understood this, it was already too late. Those books had long been engraved in my mind.¡±


    She paused for a moment and continued bitterly, ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t want to read poetry? Don¡¯t you think I want to learn zither, chess, calligraphy, and painting? But which one of these doesn¡¯t need money?¡±


    ¡°How pitiful.¡± A soft-hearted scholar cried.


    Shen Yijia wiped her tears and slammed the table. ¡°So how about everyone help me fulfill my childhood dream?


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    Everyone thought to themselves, ¡°Tsk, so she¡¯s a storyteller.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t they causing trouble here?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Brother Wu, Brother Yan, continue.¡± Someone reminded the two participants on the stage.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you to listen.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and poured herself a glass of water.


    After saying so much, she was dying of thirst.


    Noticing Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s indescribable expression, she asked, ¡°Are you thirsty


    Without waiting for an answer, she pushed the kettle toward him. ¡°Pour it yourself.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    ¡°Why hasn¡¯t that follower of yours recovered yet? Did he fall into a latrine?¡±


    If not for the fact that she had to confirm that the other party was fine, she would have left long ago.


    As soon as she finished speaking, an indescribable smell floated in the air and instantly filled the entire hall.


    ¡°Who blew up the outhouse?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°Master.¡± A faint voice sounded behind the two of them.


    The two of them turned their heads at the same time, covered their noses, and


    stepped back, looking disgusted.


    They were synchronized.


    This was simply a walking latrine.


    Eunuch Wu approached the two of them with trembling legs and said with a bitter expression, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Shen Yijia took a big step back. ¡°Since there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯ll go home for dinner. Goodbye.¡±


    Before he could finish, an exasperated voice said, ¡°That¡¯s him. He became like this when he came out of the outhouse.¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡± The old man on the platform was so angry that his face turned red. He pointed at Eunuch Wu and scolded, ¡°How can you do this in the land of the sages? This is simply insulting the refined.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and subconsciously retorted, ¡°What did he do? Didn¡¯t he just squat in the pit for a long time and stink a little? Don¡¯t you usually fart?¡±


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t said anything. As soon as she said that, the entire hall exploded. They all clamored that they were here to cause trouble and wanted to arrest them and punish them severely.


    Seeing the people rushing towards them, Shen Yijia was shocked. She grabbed the table in front of her and threw it at the crowd.


    The crowd dispersed in fear, clearing a path.


    Shen Yijia reached out to grab Eunuch Wu. Thinking about how he smelled, she changed her mind and grabbed Xuanyuan Qi instead.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Run!¡± After shouting at Eunuch Wu, she pulled Xuanyuan Qi and ran away without looking back.


    Eunuch Wu, who was instantly surrounded, watched in despair as his master disappeared from his sight.


    He wanted to run too, but his legs were too weak!

 Chapter 758 - Chapter 758: Accident

    Chapter 758: Accident


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She ran far away in one breath. After confirming that no one was chasing after her, Shen Yijia let go of Xuanyuan Qi and leaned against the wall to catch her breath.


    ¡°How unlucky. He can still cause trouble while squatting in a pit.¡±


    Thinking of something, she stuck her head out again.


    Very good. Not only did those sour scholars not chase after him, but even that unlucky fellow did not follow.


    ¡°That uncle¡­¡± She scratched her head and looked at Xuanyuan Qi, who was looking at her with a complicated expression. She tiptoed and silently helped him straighten his hair. She patted his shoulder in satisfaction.¡± I saved your life. Today¡¯s matter is even. ¡®


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced sideways at the hand on his shoulder.


    This girl was simply too bold!


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia retracted her hand in embarrassment. ¡°My husband is still waiting for me to eat at home. I¡¯ll get going first. Goodbye.¡±


    After taking two steps, she slowly retreated. She sighed and resigned herself to fate. She took out a corner of silver from her pouch and stuffed it in his hand.


    She was so damn kind.


    ¡°With this money, it should be enough for you to rent a carriage and go home. As for that follower of yours, he¡¯s probably been captured and brought back to clean the outhouse. However, don¡¯t worry too much. They won¡¯t do anything to him. He¡¯ll definitely be released after he¡¯s done cleaning up.¡±


    Without waiting for Xuanyuan Qi to speak, she ran away quickly, as if she was afraid of being blamed.


    Xuanyuan Qi held his forehead and clenched the silver in his hand. He raised his hand and a man in black appeared in front of him.


    ¡°Go and see where that old man Wu Zhengde went.¡±


    The man in black disappeared with a whoosh. In less than ten minutes, he returned with a whoosh.


    He said, ¡°Eunuch Wu is sweeping the toilet. Do you want me to save him?¡±


    ¡°Her guess is indeed accurate.¡± Xuanyuan Qi curled his lips and waved his hand. ¡°There¡¯s no need. He has nothing to do in the palace. It¡¯s good to let him train there for a few days.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s return to the palace.¡±


    ¡°Indeed, I¡¯ll get someone to lift Wu Zhengde¡¯s bed board when I get back!¡± he thought.


    In the outhouse, Eunuch Wu¡¯s eyelids twitched. He had an inexplicable bad feeling.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Hurry up and sweep it.¡±


    Eunuch Wu thought to himself, ¡°If a tiger falls from grace, it¡¯ll be bullied by dogs. I¡¯ll endure it. Your Majesty, when are you going to save me?¡± As soon as Shen Yijia stepped into the courtyard, she received three pairs of gazes.


    They were from Song Jingchen, Ji Luo, and Xuanyuan Ziming.


    She was so frightened that she tripped on her left foot and staggered. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Ji Luo smiled. ¡°Jiajia is back. Go wash your hands and eat.¡±


    Lunch was placed in the central room. Usually, MO Yuan and Thirty Thousand ate with them, but with guests around, they set up another table in the kitchen.


    Xuanyuan Ziming waited for Ji Luo to return and asked curiously, ¡°Madam, aren¡¯t you eating with us?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at him. ¡°You talk too much. Eat your food.¡±


    Because of the wound on his face, Ji Luo usually wouldn¡¯t eat with them as long as there were outsiders around.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming buried his head in his food and was extremely obedient.


    Song Jingchen pushed a plate of peeled prawn meat to Shen Yijia. After washing his hands, he returned and asked, ¡°Have you found him?¡±


    Shen Yijia greeted him when she went out.


    ¡°Yes, he didn¡¯t go far. He threw up in the alley next door.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes curved into crescents while she ate.


    Knowing that she liked it, Xuanyuan Ce got someone to send a basket over after he left yesterday.


    Actually, it could be bought on the market, but those weren¡¯t as big as the ones he gave her.


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°Is he alright?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I have my own secret recipe. It¡¯s fine.¡±


    Afraid that Song Jingchen would ask what the secret recipe was, Shen Yijia quickly picked the largest prawn on the plate and placed it in his bowl. ¡°Hubby, eat it too.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    He suddenly felt that the prawns he peeled no longer smelled good.


    Looking at the plate of prawn meat in front of Shen Yijia, he swallowed and silently extended his chopsticks.


    ¡°My husband peeled this for me. If you want to eat it, peel it yourself!¡± Shen Yijia moved the plate in front of her.


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked at Song Jingchen pitifully. ¡°Brother Song, I want to eat the prawns you peeled too. Peel one for me.¡±


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip on his chopsticks.


    Xuanyuan Ziming felt a certain part of his body tighten. He immediately did not dare to cause trouble again. ¡°I was joking. I¡¯ll peel it for Brother Song.¡± As he spoke, he really peeled a prawn and placed it in Song Jingchen¡¯s bowl.


    Shen Yijia snorted.


    After they were done eating, the prawn was still lying alone in Song Jingchen¡¯s bowl.


    Xuanyuan Ziming watched bitterly as MO Yuan put away the bowls and plates.


    If he wasn¡¯t a man, Shen Yijia would have suspected that he had taken a fancy to her husband.


    In the afternoon, Song Jingchen followed Xuanyuan Ce into the palace.


    He came alone and did not even have a token from the emperor of Great Xia. He thought that the emperor would ignore him for a while or not see him at all.


    Not long after the person who didn¡¯t want to report went, he returned and said that Xuanyuan Qi had invited him to the imperial garden.


    Even Xuanyuan Ce was surprised.


    After all, he had sworn yesterday that he wouldn¡¯t do anything special for his sake.


    ¡°What did you do in private?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked. Song Jingchen was also at a loss. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything.¡± Thinking of something, he paused. ¡°Could it be¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°Has anyone entered the palace today?¡± Xuanyuan Ce looked at him as if he was an idiot.


    He was an adult in front of him. If he wasn¡¯t an idiot to ask such a question, what was?


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. ¡°I¡¯m referring to someone other than His Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Who entered the palace today?¡± he asked the eunuch who led the way.


    This eunuch was also served by Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s side, but he was not as prestigious as Eunuch Wu.


    The person who asked the question was Lord Jing¡¯an, who could enter the imperial study without needing to be informed. He did not hide it and replied honestly, ¡°His Majesty entered the palace as soon as the morning court session ended. He stayed in the Imperial Palace for nearly an hour before leaving. At the end of the morning, the envoy of the Wu Kingdom came again, but His


    Majesty didn¡¯t see him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Song Jingchen and saw his expression.


    What else was there to not understand?


    ¡°It seems that His Highness really doesn¡¯t understand his daughter at all.¡±


    The daughter he was talking about was Xuanyuan Ye.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth, but in the end, he did not continue on the topic of Xuanyuan Ye. He only said, ¡°So what if Brother knows? Anyway, I have to reveal it sooner or later.¡±


    He only wanted to hide the matter from his mother.


    After all, his mother¡¯s misunderstanding of Ah Luo was a little deep.


    Thinking about how Ji Luo had been unwilling to give him a good attitude, Xuanyuan Ce felt terrible.


    He glanced at Song Jingchen, who was staring at him, and said reluctantly, ¡°I helped you. In exchange, you have to help me.¡±


    This was the first time his father-in-law had lowered his head to him. Song Jingchen paused for a moment and sighed. ¡°Then Your Highness, you have to at least tell me what happened back then in detail.¡±


    Then, he decided to help.


    Unknowingly, they arrived at the imperial garden. Looking at the pavilion not far away, Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when we leave the palace..¡±

 Chapter 759 - Chapter 759: Major Discovery (1)

    Chapter 759: Major Discovery (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As soon as Song Jingchen entered the palace, Xuanyuan Ziming pulled Shen Yijia out for a walk.


    Xuanyuan Ziming already knew that Ji Luo was the person Xuanyuan Ce had been looking for. Shen Yijia was a year older than him, so he had to call her cousin.


    However, Xuanyuan Ce did not announce it, so he pretended not to know.


    It was unknown if it was because they were unlucky, but when they walked past a jewelry shop, they were stopped.


    ¡°The Third Prince?


    Hearing this voice, Xuanyuan Ziming trembled and hid behind Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go,¡± he urged softly.


    However, it was too late. A graceful figure jogged out of the jewelry shop and blocked their way.


    ¡°It¡¯s really the Third Prince. Changle thought she was mistaken.¡± The girl smiled and bowed to Xuanyuan Ziming. When she saw Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance, she was stunned. ¡°Isn¡¯t this¡­ the second daughter of the Shen family?¡±


    ¡°You know me?¡± Shen Yijia thought.


    Shen Yijia asked Xuanyuan Ziming, ¡°Who is she?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming held his forehead. ¡°You¡¯ve seen Princess Changle of the Wu


    Kingdom in Great Xia.¡±


    At that time, the matter between Shen Yijia and the Shen family had caused an uproar. Princess Changle even boasted shamelessly that filial piety was the most important thing.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t remember.¡±


    The smile on Princess Changle¡¯s face froze for a moment, but she quickly put on a shy expression. She stretched out her slender fingers and tugged at Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Changle was just about to go to the Third Prince¡¯s residence to look for you. I didn¡¯t expect to meet you here. Is this the fate mentioned by the storyteller?¡±


    ¡°Hah, ape feces.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming wanted to pull out his sleeve, but he failed a few times. He endured it and said, ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, we¡­¡±


    Princess Changle said, ¡°Alright. Changle happens to be free. Where are we going later?¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. Princess Changle was really something.


    ¡°Second Miss Shen won¡¯t mind, right?¡± She blinked innocently.


    Shen Yijia paused when she saw a familiar figure from the corner of her eye. ¡°I don¡¯t mind. Go and play. I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Hey, hey! Sister-in-law, you can¡¯t be so disloyal¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ziming panicked.


    Princess Changle held his hand. ¡°I believe Second Miss Shen has something important to do. Third Prince, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Let go. This is inappropriate¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia did not care how angry Xuanyuan Ziming was. She passed through the crowd and followed the figure out of the bustling city to the back door of a residence.


    Seeing that the person had been led in by an old woman, Shen Yijia frowned. She was not wrong. The person just now was indeed MO Yu, who was beside Ji


    Yunxi.


    MO Yu was here, but what about Ji Yunxi?


    She did not know what was going on inside. It was unrealistic to go through the door. It would be even harder to clean up if she climbed over the wall. Shen Yijia went next door to the residence.


    From the weeds growing wildly in the courtyard, it could be seen that no one had lived here for a long time. After walking along the wall between the two residences, Shen Yijia was lucky enough to discover a dog hole.


    You Yi thought to himself, ¡°Miss, have you forgotten about me?¡±


    ¡°Why are you here? Where¡¯s your young master?¡± In the dim room, the woman in the veil spoke, her tone filled with displeasure.


    MO Yu looked at her disdainfully. ¡°My young master is very busy. Not everyone can see her just because they want to. Princess Consort, tell me if you have anything to say.¡±


    The princess consort?


    Shen Yijia leaned under the window and was stunned when she heard MO Yu¡¯s words.


    She and her beautiful husband guessed that Madam Yu and the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were working together.


    Could it be that the other person inside was Madam Yu?


    It was no wonder she thought that way. She didn¡¯t know how many consorts there were in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but the only one she had heard of was


    Madam Yu.


    Therefore, she had the preconceived notion that it was her.


    The conversation between the two of them confirmed her guess.


    ¡°You¡­¡± The woman took a deep breath and said in a low voice, ¡°I want you to do something for me.¡±


    ¡°Princess Consort, have you misunderstood? You¡¯re only working with my young master. If you want us to work for you, shouldn¡¯t you show some sincerity?


    MO Yu sat down opposite the woman and raised her eyebrows. ¡°If I remember correctly, a few days ago, when we wanted to see the princess consort, they even said that you weren¡¯t free.. Why? Do you really think you can order the people ot tne valley ot Heavenly secrets around

 Chapter 760 - Chapter 760: Major Discovery (2)

    Chapter 760: Major Discovery (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The woman¡¯s face darkened. She was right. She really did not intend to continue working with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets before today.


    Even though everyone knew it, she still explained, ¡°Ye¡¯er fell sick a while ago, so I couldn¡¯t leave.¡±


    Ye¡¯er? Xuanyuan Ye?


    It was indeed Madam Yu!


    MO Yu sneered and did not say anything.


    Madam Yu continued, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about anything else. I¡¯ve already done what you asked me to do previously, but you clearly failed, but you didn¡¯t tell me. You should compensate me.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t the princess consort fail because the people she found were too useless? In the end, my young master had to do it himself. Besides, my young master knew long ago that you liked removing yourself cleanly from situations, then pretending that nothing had happened. If I didn¡¯t make you anxious, why would you think of us today?¡±


    Madam Yu was furious. ¡°You!¡±


    MO Yu interrupted her. ¡°By the way, my young master asked me to ask the princess consort if she still has hope for that man after this incident.¡± As she spoke, she glanced at Madam Yu¡¯s knees casually.


    Without waiting for Madam Yu to speak, she continued, ¡°Actually, I¡¯ve never understood why a smart woman like the Princess Consort has to fall for a


    ¡°In order not to make the Xuanyuan royal family hate you, didn¡¯t you do a good job back then?¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Madam Yu tightened her grip on the handkerchief, her fingertips turning white. After a long time, she said, ¡°What do I have to do to make you help me?¡±


    MO Yu smiled and leaned over to whisper in her ear.


    The voice behind was so soft that Shen Yijia could not hear it clearly. She scratched her ears and cheeks anxiously, wishing she could throw her ears in.


    ¡°You, you¡¯re simply too bold. How can you¡­¡±


    It was unknown what MO Yu said, but Madam Yu¡¯s voice trembled.


    MO Yu said unhurriedly, ¡°I almost forgot. Young Master even asked me to remind the Princess Consort that someone has been investigating the Jiang family recently. ¡±


    She glanced at Madam Yu, who was trembling slightly, and leaned closer to whisper, ¡°Who would investigate a servant of your Yu family for no reason? Heh, I think the princess consort¡¯s secret is about to be broken. When the time comes¡­¡±


    Madam Yu suddenly stood up and staggered back a step. ¡°I promise you.¡±


    MO Yu picked up the teapot and poured a cup of tea. She picked it up and said, ¡°I knew the Princess Consort was a smart person. In that case, let¡¯s work together happily.¡±


    Madam Yu loosened her grip and tightened her grip. In the end, she took ten minutes and gritted her teeth. ¡°Then about my situation¡­¡¯


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it just a piece of jade? Don¡¯t worry, Princess Consort. As for that Jiang fellow, as long as you say the word, the Valley of Heavenly Secrets will help you get what you want. ¡±


    After a long time, Shen Yijia heard Madam Yu say one word.


    Right on the heels of that, MO Yu said that she would wait for their good news and bade farewell.


    Footsteps sounded. Shen Yijia quickly wanted to leave the way she came. Just as she turned around, she saw the old woman from before rushing towards her from the side path.


    If she walked in front, she would be discovered by MO Yu. If she retreated, she would still alert the enemy.


    Shen Yijia cursed in her heart.


    Creak!


    The door opened. As if sensing something, MO Yu¡¯s eyes turned cold. She flipped her fingers and shot out a silver needle.


    Bang! There was the sound of something heavy hitting the ground.


    Madam Yu quickly walked out of the room and looked at the old woman who had fallen to the ground and was no longer breathing. A chill ran down her spine.


    On the beam under the eaves, Shen Yijia turned around and waved at the person holding her collar.


    This time, not only was she not angry, but she also showed him eight white teeth in a friendly manner.


    The two people below did not stay. One left through the front door, and the other left through the back. Shen Yijia patted You Yi¡¯s hand. ¡°Quick, let¡¯s follow MO Yu.¡± You Yi carried her and flew out.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I can actually walk by myself!¡±


    When Shen Yijia arrived home, Song Jingchen had just returned from the palace.


    The two of them bumped into each other at the door.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia pounced over in surprise. Seeing that he looked like he was about to go out, she asked curiously, ¡°Where are you going?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Thirty Thousand and gestured for him to bring the carnage DaCK. He pursea ms lips ana said, ¡°M0tner said tnat you went OUt witn the Third Prince. I was about to go out and look for you. Why did you come back alone?¡±


    Speaking of Xuanyuan Ziming, Shen Yijia felt a little guilty.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home. We¡¯ll talk when we get home.¡±


    After entering the courtyard, Xuanyuan Ce was also there. There was also a large box in the middle of the courtyard. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± Shen Yijia ran over and asked, ¡°Have you seen the emperor?¡±


    ¡°I did, but it doesn¡¯t count,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia stopped opening the box. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°He means that he didn¡¯t see my brother¡¯s appearance because my brother caught a cold and has been wearing a veil.¡± Xuanyuan Ce rolled his eyes at Song Jingchen and pointed at the box. ¡°That box was awarded by my brother.¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Shen Yijia had already seen it. She closed the box and said in disdain, ¡°Why is your emperor even stingier than Great Xia¡¯s useless emperor? Giving us a bunch of books like this, it¡¯s pointless.¡±


    The useless emperor even knew how to send some fabric and jewelry to make up the numbers. This gift of books was simply too much.


    Was he insulting her husband for not reading enough books?


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°These books should be for you.¡±


    Although the emperor did not say it directly, he took a rough look and saw that most of them were books that girls read.


    It wasnt just the book. There were also many calligraphy pieces inside that were suitable for women.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Very good. The feud had been formed even before they met.


    She gritted her teeth and carried the big wooden box to the kitchen. ¡°MO Yuan, use these books to start a fire in the future.¡±


    Achoo!


    In the Yuqian Palace, Xuanyuan Qi, who had been pretending to have caught a cold all afternoon, sneezed for no reason.


    ¡°As expected, you can¡¯t pretend to be sick for no reason.¡± He rubbed his eyebrows and instructed, ¡°Get the imperial hospital to prescribe me a cold medicine.¡±


    Hmph, if he didn¡¯t think that that girl would enter the palace, would he have to pretend to be sick?

 Chapter 761 - Chapter 761: Reason

    Chapter 761: Reason


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After dinner, Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen back to her room. When she turned around and saw Xuanyuan Ce, she said angrily, ¡°Why are you following


    ¡°If you have anything to say, you can tell me. No matter what, I¡¯m the prince of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. I can help a lot.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was extremely humble as he rushed to help.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    However, thinking about what Xuanyuan Ce said, it made sense. She turned around and pulled Song Jingchen to the study.


    Xuanyuan Ce followed silently.


    After spending fifteen minutes, Shen Yijia repeated what she had heard in the afternoon, including how she saw MO Yu enter the posthouse in the end.


    Now, the envoy of the Wu Kingdom lived in the posthouse.


    Song Jingchen had already guessed where Ji Yunxi and the others had gone after leaving the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, so he wasn¡¯t very surprised.


    Through the conversation between Madam Yu and MO Yu, they could first confirm that the matter at the border was indeed Madam Yu¡¯s doing.


    MO Yu said that the Princess Consort has always liked to remove herself cleanly. After that, she pretended that nothing had happened.


    This at least meant that they had worked together more than once.


    ¡°However, who is this Jiang person? Also, what did the Yu family do to prevent the Xuanyuan royal family from despising them?¡± Song Jingchen looked at Xuanyuan Ce and realized that his expression was very ugly.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Song Jingchen called out to him.


    Xuanyuan Ce closed his eyes and laughed at himself. ¡°Actually, I never thought of marrying Madam Yu back then.¡±


    Back then, the government was controlled by the aristocratic families. The Xuanyuan family was angry but did not dare to say anything. As a prince, he was not even as good as the young masters of the aristocratic families.


    It was not until Xuanyuan Qi used the harem to sow discord between the aristocratic families that the two brothers had a chance to catch their breath.


    When he met Ji Luo, he was injured because he had found out that the Yu family had something on the Tang family.


    That happened to be the anniversary of the late emperor¡¯s death. He was sent to the imperial mausoleum a month in advance to urge those people to prepare the things needed for the sacrifice.


    After receiving this news, he returned to Phoenix City overnight and secretly infiltrated the Yu family. Although he successfully obtained the booklet, he was seriously injured because of it.


    In order to prevent the aristocratic families from suspecting him, he had to rush back to the imperial mausoleum immediately after sending the booklet into the palace.


    It was also near the imperial mausoleum. He was knocked out and dragged away by Ji Luo. Fortunately, it did not delay his matters.


    At this point, Xuanyuan Ce subconsciously smiled and continued, ¡°Because of this evidence, the Tang family suffered heavy losses. The Tang family suspects that it was done by other families, and because of what happened in the harem, the families completely fell out.¡±


    They even started to expose each other.


    There were a total of six family clans. The Yu family was ranked fifth, but they were inferior. In comparison, the Wang family, who was ranked sixth, was already at the end of its rope.


    At that time, the head of the Yu family actually had the intention to get close to the emperor, but he also did not trust the emperor. In addition, the arrogance of the aristocratic family made it impossible for him to lower his head.


    Xuanyuan Qi saw through this and personally gave the Yu family a way out.


    He wanted Xuanyuan Ce to marry the daughter of the Yu family.


    Song Jingchen paused and glanced at the window beside the study. Sensing that Shen Yijia was also looking over, he squeezed her hand.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and retracted her gaze. ¡°You Yi told us all this.¡± You Yi¡¯s eyelids twitched. He was so frightened that he almost fell from the beam.


    Miss, you can¡¯t betray your teammates like this, right?


    Besides, he didn¡¯t seem to have said anything about stealing evidence.


    As for why You Yi did not say it, it was because the emperor was the most dangerous back then. As long as the emperor was alive, the aristocratic families would not attack His Highness, and there was no need to do so.


    His Highness knew this and sent the three of them to protect the emperor. You Yi was not by His Highness¡¯s side at that time, so he naturally did not know the reason..

 Chapter 762 - Chapter 762: Memories (1)

    Chapter 762: Memories (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°You Yi also said that before you married Madam Yu, you told her that you would only give her the position of princess consort, and she agreed.¡± Shen Yijia continued to betray her teammates.


    You Yi was about to cry.


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned for a moment before shaking his head. ¡°For my brother and mother, I did agree to marry her. However, I already had Ah Luo in my heart at that time, so I didn¡¯t plan to really marry her at first.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi asked him to marry the daughter of the Yu family because rumors had spread a few years ago that the Yu family admired him.


    ¡°Coincidentally, this rumor spread in the second year after my brother ascended the throne. At that time, the aristocratic families were constantly sending women of suitable age into the palace.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not understand what this had to do with him marrying Madam


    Yu.


    Song Jingchen understood.


    He said, ¡°Ordinary wealthy families value the reputation of the women in their pavilions very much. How can they be aristocratic families that use their daughters as bargaining chips? If His Highness was powerful back then, it would be understandable for such words to spread, but in fact, it¡¯s the opposite.¡±


    Although it was not good to say this, Xuanyuan Ce was indeed inferior to a descendant of an aristocratic family at that time. Marrying his daughter to him was not as useful as marrying into another aristocratic family.


    How could the Yu family let such words spread? Wasn¡¯t this destroying a pawn?


    After all, once this rumor spread, apart from marrying Xuanyuan Ce, Madam Yu could only marry beneath her status.


    The aristocratic families thought that they were superior to others, so it was naturally impossible for them to let the women in their families marry someone who was ranked lower than them.


    Otherwise, there wouldn¡¯t have been so many women sent to their temples because their reputations had been ruined.


    Moreover, reputation was very important to women. As an aristocratic family, Madam Yu naturally understood this.


    Even if she really liked it, she would hide it well and not let anyone know.


    Even if the people around her accidentally found out about this, the Yu family would still keep it a secret and not let everyone know about it.


    The aristocratic families had always had strict family rules. It was not difficult for them to prevent what happened in the residence from spreading.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°In order to prevent the girls in the family from having other thoughts, the aristocratic families won¡¯t let them have the chance to see other men before the marriage discussion. Where do you think Madam Yu¡¯s admiration came from?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, do you mean that Madam Yu¡¯s admiration is fake, but she didn¡¯t want to enter the palace and used you as a raft?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    If that was the case, it made sense.


    None of the women who entered the palace in the past few years had a good ending. In order to protect herself, Madam Yu went all out and destroyed her reputation.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°How old was Madam Yu back then? She was already so good?¡±


    Her focus was always strange.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought for a moment. ¡°She¡¯s two years younger than me. The second year after my brother ascended the throne¡­ I was only thirteen at that time.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. Did that mean that Madam Yu was only eleven years old when she did this? She was even younger than Sister Huan!


    ¡°Which woman raised by an aristocratic family is simple?¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head and said suspiciously, ¡°But from MO Yu¡¯s conversation with Madam Yu, it¡¯s not that Madam Yu has no feelings for you.¡± This was what made Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s expression ugly.


    ¡°Back then, I asked her¡­¡±


    After the emperor and the empress dowager suggested that he marry Madam Yu, he investigated Madam Yu. She was abandoned by the family clan because of a piece of trash. After that, she lived worse than a maidservant in the residence for the next few years.


    This confirmed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s guess.


    Therefore, he went to look for Madam Yu.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t like me at all.¡± He went straight to the point.


    That was the first time he and Madam Yu had met.


    Shock flashed across Madam Yu¡¯s eyes, but she did not refute him. Instead, she asked, ¡°How did Your Highness know?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce explained his guess and said, ¡°I can help you.¡±


    Madam Yu looked at him, as if analyzing the truth in his words. After a long time, she asked, ¡°Your Highness, do you have any ideas?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°What you want is to escape the control of the family. On the day of the wedding, I¡¯ll get someone to rob the sedan chair and send you away. At that time, I¡¯ll give you a new identity. As for the Yu family, I¡¯ll explain it to them.¡±


    ¡°Why are you helping me, Your Highness?¡± Madam Yu was puzzled.


    ¡°I¡¯m not helping you. It¡¯s just that I already have someone I like. I don¡¯t want to let her down, and I can¡¯t let her down.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Madam Yu shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving.¡±


    Without waiting for Xuanyuan Ce to ask, she continued, ¡°Since Your Highness has been honest with me, you must know about my situation in the residence for the past few years. To be honest, I do have someone I like. He¡¯s just a servant in the residence. If I leave, I won¡¯t be able to see him again, so I won¡¯t leave..¡±

 Chapter 763 - Chapter 763: Memories (2)

    Chapter 763: Memories (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I can help you leave together.¡±


    ¡°But he¡¯s not alone. He still has his parents and sisters in the residence. If he disappears with me, the Yu family won¡¯t let his family off. If Your Highness can send away a servant, can you send their entire family away without anyone Imowing?¡±


    ¡°Besides, Your Highness should know that the Yu family helped the emperor because a daughter of the Yu family will take the title of the princess consort. If I leave, can Your Highness really ensure that you can convince the Yu family? Even if you convince them, can you be sure that the Yu family will sincerely help the emperor? Are you really going to bet on that?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    She said, ¡°Your Highness has someone you like, and so do I. Your Highness can¡¯t marry the person you like, and I can¡¯t marry the person I like. In that case, why don¡¯t you marry me? After we get married, we¡¯ll live our own lives and not interfere with each other.¡±


    Her words tempted Xuanyuan Ce. He thought of his mother kneeling in front of him and begging, as well as his brother who was doing his best to protect him.


    If he was careless, one false move might lose the game. He could not afford to gamble.


    He asked uncertainly, ¡°Are you really not interested in me?¡±


    ¡°Jiang Tao,¡± Madam Yu said. ¡°His name is Jiang Tao. If Your Highness doesn¡¯t believe me, you can investigate.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce went to investigate. Just as Madam Yu had said, in the few years that she was abandoned by her family clan, Madam Yu was often bullied. It was this man called Jiang Tao who helped many times. The two of them usually interacted very closely. As time passed, it was not impossible for them to develop feelings for each other.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Then why did she ask MO Yu to help her kill Jiang Tao?¡±


    The last word Madam Yu said was ¡°kill.¡±


    ¡°Also, which of her words is true?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce pursed his lips. ¡°She wanted to kill Jiang Tao because it was very likely that Jiang Tao was Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s biological father. Back then, when I was seriously ill, Mother ordered her to take care of me. She even said that if she couldn¡¯t leave me a son or a daughter, she would have to die with me.


    Perhaps she was afraid that I would really die, so¡­¡±


    However, he had already stepped into the gates of hell. How could he have


    consummated his marriage with her?


    It was unknown if it was a coincidence, but not long after Madam Yu gave birth to Xuanyuan Ye, his illness inexplicably recovered.


    He knew that this was another reason why his brother and mother doted on Xuanyuan Ye.


    Because of the agreement to not interfere with each other back then, he had never thought of catching the Yu family off guard.


    The reason why he asked Xuanyuan Ziming to investigate Jiang Tao was because Jiang Tao was already the Yu family¡¯s butler.


    If Madam Yu wanted to do anything, she would definitely ask him for help.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Even a storybook wouldn¡¯t dare to write it like this, right?¡±


    She didn¡¯t know whether to sympathize or laugh.


    She suddenly felt that the top of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s head was glowing.


    It was so green that it glowed.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect to hear such a secret. This was ridiculous.


    ¡°As for which of her words are true and which are false¡­ I don¡¯t know either.¡±


    Before today, he had never thought that Madam Yu was lying about liking Jiang Tao.


    Thinking of something, Song Jingchen suddenly asked, ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you explain it to Mother-in-law back then?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded.


    She didn¡¯t like it when people kept secrets from her, so she would tell her beautiful husband everything.


    Of course, doing bad things was an exception.


    ¡°When my brother proposed this marriage, Ah Luo happened to not be in Phoenix City. She told me that she was going home for a while and would only return in at least two months.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce smiled bitterly. ¡°For some reason, she came back a month early and happened to be on the day I married Madam Yu.¡±


    Ji Luo suddenly appeared in the wedding hall. Not only the Yu family, but all the civil and military officials of the Xuanyuan Kingdom were present. If he took her away without a care, it would be equivalent to slapping the Yu family¡¯s face.


    What would the Yu family do?


    Moreover, the Yu family knew of her existence. If he was not decisive, the Yu family would definitely not let her off, so he had no choice.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, are you really going to marry this woman?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see it? Since you¡¯re here, why don¡¯t you sit down and participate in the wedding banquet? On account of our past relationship, I¡¯ll get the princess consort to find a day to bring you¡­¡±


    A slap sounded loudly.


    She left, but she ran back not long after. Before he entered the bridal chamber, she asked him again.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, do you really want to enter that bridal chamber?¡±


    ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, Mother-in-law came back early because she realized that she was pregnant.¡±


    Ji Luo grew up in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and did not understand the restrictions of etiquette in the secular world.


    It was just like how she could drag Xuanyuan Ce away with a handful of knockout powder if she wanted to save him.


    She fell in love with him. After confirming that Xuanyuan Ce liked her, she slept with him.


    ¡°I only found out later that she was pregnant at that time. Now that I think about it, Ah Luo didn¡¯t poison me to death. She¡¯s really too kind.¡±


    She rushed back happily to share the good news of her pregnancy with him, but she saw that his new wife was beside him at a wedding banquet.


    No one could accept such a thing, let alone Ji Luo, who could not tolerate anything.


    When she said, ¡°He¡¯ll regret it.¡± He did regret it. He regretted it all the time.


    Thinking of what Ji Luo had faced back then, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached.


    She didn¡¯t know what empathy was.


    However, just thinking about the day she left for a period of time and brought back delicious food for her beautiful husband while he was getting married to someone else made her feel very uncomfortable.


    How painful would it be for Ji Luo, who had experienced everything and was involved?


    Xuanyuan Ce was right about one thing. Her mother was too kind.


    If it were her, not only would she poison Xuanyuan Ce, but she would also poison everyone present.


    The candlelight flickered. For a moment, no one in the study spoke. The black shadow outside the window had left. The situation back then was¡­


    You Yi stood guard outside.


    Sensing that someone was coming, he went in to remind Xuanyuan Ce.


    Coincidentally, she heard Xuanyuan Ce say, ¡°I¡¯ll only give you the position of princess consort.¡±


    Madam Yu nodded. ¡°1 know..¡±

 Chapter 764 - Chapter 764: Setup

    Chapter 764: Setup


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After a long time, Song Jingchen broke the silence.


    ¡°In order not to be hated by the Xuanyuan royal family, what the Yu family did probably refers to Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background. If nothing goes wrong, the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets will attack Jiang Tao next. Your Highness¡­¡±


    ¡°I know. I¡¯ll arrange for someone to set up an ambush around Jiang Tao. As long as the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets appear, we¡¯ll take them down in one fell swoop.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce stood up and looked at Shen Yijia deeply. ¡°Girl, I let you and your mother down back then. I won¡¯t let you suffer again.¡±


    He stopped at the door and finally strode away.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s fingertips moved, but she did not say anything.


    The sound of galloping horses outside the courtyard was especially obvious.


    After returning to her room, Shen Yijia turned to look at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    There was a tacit understanding between husband and wife. It was obvious what the other party was thinking.


    Song Jingchen touched the top of her head with heartache. ¡°Go.¡±


    Shen Yijia pounced on him and kissed his cheek. ¡°I¡¯ll come back and sleep with you tomorrow.¡±


    After two steps, she clattered back. ¡°No, what if I miss you? I¡¯m going to take your pillow with me.¡±


    Then, she really hugged Song Jingchen¡¯s pillow and never returned.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    The candle in Ji Luo¡¯s room was still lit.


    Shen Yijia knocked on the door and waited for a long time before opening it from the inside.


    ¡°Jiajia? Why are you here so late?¡±


    Her eyes were red. It was obvious that she had just cried.


    Shen Yijia pretended not to see it. She shook the pillow in her arms and grinned. ¡°I¡¯m here to sleep with Mother.¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s heart instantly softened. A smile appeared at the corners of her eyes.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    On the other side, Song Jingchen, who was alone in the empty room, read until


    late at night. Seeing that it was getting late, he rubbed the space between his eyebrows and closed the book to rest.


    Something flashed through his mind, and he paused in the act of undressing.


    With the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets around, the envoys of the Wu Kingdom must have already known about Jiajia¡¯s relationship with Lord Jing¡¯an.


    Jiajia was his wife, which was not a good thing for the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°Also, today, the envoy of the Wu Kingdom entered the palace. The emperor did not see them, but he saw me. What would they think?¡±


    This had actually achieved the effect Song Jingchen wanted to see at first.


    However, he felt that something was wrong. What MO Yu asked Madam Yu to do.


    Madam Yu said, ¡°You¡¯re simply bold. How can you¡­¡±


    Madam Yu had once wanted to use the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to get rid of Jiajia. For her to be so shocked, it meant that she wasn¡¯t targeting Jiajia.


    Then who could it be? The emperor? Or Lord Jing¡¯an?


    No, it couldn¡¯t be the emperor.


    Not to mention that the emperor was in the palace and had so many experts protecting him, even if Madam Yu was the princess consort, she could not interfere.


    Then there was only¡­


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted, and he quickly put on his clothes again and went out.


    In the courtyard, seeing that the lights in his master¡¯s room were off, Thirty Thousand yawned and prepared to go back to his room to sleep.


    He had only taken two steps when he heard the door open.


    Seeing Song Jingchen¡¯s cold expression, he shivered and quickly went up to him.


    ¡°Master.¡±


    ¡°Prepare the horses.¡± Song Jingchen strode out.


    Seeing this, Thirty Thousand did not dare to delay and quickly ran to the backyard to bring out a horse.


    He handed the horse rope to Song Jingchen and asked, ¡°Is Master going out? Should I tell Young Madam?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll be back soon. ¡±


    Even if Madam Yu wanted to attack Lord Jing¡¯an, it would take time to set up the trap. It wouldn¡¯t be so soon. There was no need to make Jiajia worry. However, he did not expect Xuanyuan Ce to return to his residence..

 Chapter 765 - Chapter 765: Corpse (1)

    Chapter 765: Corpse (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia woke up at dawn. She rubbed her eyes and glanced at the neatly folded clothes at the side¡ªa new set of incense-colored dresses.


    Seeing this dress, she remembered that she had slept with Ji Luo last night.


    Ji Luo had spent more than a month making this dress for her.


    On the way from Phoenix Town to Phoenix City, she would take it out to embroider whenever she had time.


    Ji Luo¡¯s culinary skills were on par with hers, but her needlework was much better than hers.


    Shen Yijia hugged her clothes and rolled around on the bed. She quickly put on her clothes and went out.


    There was a well in the backyard, and they usually went there to wash up.


    She had to pass by her and Song Jingchen¡¯s room to go to the backyard. From afar, she saw Thirty Thousand sleeping under the eaves of the house. Shen Yijia ran over and patted his shoulder. ¡°There¡¯s a fire.¡±


    Thirty Thousand jumped up in fear. ¡°Where¡¯s the fire?¡±


    Seeing Shen Yijia¡¯s evil smile, he heaved a sigh of relief. He thought of something and exclaimed, ¡°It¡¯s dawn?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s dawn.¡± Shen Yijia crossed her arms and asked suspiciously,


    ¡°Why are you sleeping here? I don¡¯t see you being so responsible usually.¡±


    She blinked and asked mysteriously, ¡°Is it because I¡¯m not around and my husband doesn¡¯t feel safe sleeping, so he asked you to stand guard here?¡±


    Thirty Thousand choked. For a moment, he did not know what to say. He simply pushed open the door behind him and entered the house.


    Shen Yijia glared at him and quickly followed him. She said softly, ¡°Keep your voice down. Don¡¯t disturb my husband¡¯s sleep¡­ Eh, my husband is up so early?¡±


    The bed was empty, and the blanket was neatly folded. Song Jingchen was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. Master didn¡¯t return last night.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. ¡°What did you say? My husband went out last night?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. At the end of the night, Master didn¡¯t say anything and asked me to lead the horses. I asked him if he wanted to tell Young Madam, but he said that he would be back soon, but it¡¯s been a night¡­¡± Thirty Thousand panicked completely and spoke incoherently.


    At midnight? It was probably seven o¡¯clock when she went to her mother¡¯s room yesterday. At midnight, she had already fallen asleep.


    ¡°Could it be that he got up and went to the backyard to wash up?¡± Shen Yijia said as she went to the backyard.


    Just as she reached the arch, she met Ji Luo, who was coming from the backyard. Seeing her anxious expression, she frowned and asked, ¡°Jiajia, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Have you seen my husband?¡±


    ¡°Ah Chen?¡± Ji Luo shook his head and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t he in his room?¡±


    After getting up, she went to the kitchen first. Seeing that MO Yuan was preparing breakfast, she went to the backyard to wash up.


    This residence was only so big. If Song Jingchen got up, someone would definitely have bumped into him.


    ¡°No, Thirty Thousand said that my husband went out last night at midnight.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the sound of hooves came from outside the courtyard. The sound of hooves stopped at the door.


    Without waiting for a knock on the door, Shen Yijia darted out and opened it. It was indeed Song Jingchen outside the door. He was still wearing the clothes from yesterday.


    ¡°Hubby, where did you go?¡± Shen Yijia pounced on him.


    Song Jingchen held the horse rope with one hand and kept his other hand raised. He paused and patted Shen Yijia¡¯s back comfortingly. ¡°Let¡¯s go in and talk.¡±


    He handed the horse to Thirty Thousand and led Shen Yijia into the house.


    They had only taken two steps when they heard the sound of hooves again. They turned around at the same time.


    A group of armored soldiers riding armored horses turned into the alley they were in.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression instantly turned solemn. He subconsciously tightened his grip on Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at him suspiciously.


    Song Jingchen looked at the oncoming team without blinking. He tilted his head slightly and said in a low voice, ¡°Yesterday, you said that you heard MO Yu and the Yu family conspiring. Later on, I suddenly remembered that I wanted to stop them because I didn¡¯t want the Wu Kingdom to cooperate with the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Similarly, the Wu Kingdom wouldn¡¯t be willing to see us cooperate with the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but you¡¯re Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s daughter. With this relationship, our chances of winning are higher on the surface. In addition, the emperor didn¡¯t see them yesterday, but he saw me. The people of the Wu Kingdom will definitely be anxious.¡±


    ¡°If they want to stop us, the best way is to attack Lord Jing¡¯an. I went out last night to remind His Highness to be careful.¡±


    Shen Yijia was now equivalent to the bridge between Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom, but the decision was in the hands of the emperor. It was useless to attack Shen Yijia, but Xuanyuan Ce was different..

 Chapter 766 - Chapter 766: Corpse (2)

    Chapter 766: Corpse (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    If anything happened to him, the emperor would not let the culprit off.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Did you tell him?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°I didn¡¯t find him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce usually did not live in the lord¡¯s residence. Instead, he lived in a courtyard in Goldfish Alley.


    The courtyard was not far from their residence. It had been more than four hours since Xuanyuan Ce left. He should have returned long ago.


    However, when he went to the courtyard to ask, the servants said that he had not returned, so he went to the lord¡¯s residence. The result was the same.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She opened her mouth to ask, but the team had already stopped in front of them.


    The person in the lead was a tall and mighty man. He glanced at Shen Yijia, especially at the flower bud between her eyebrows. Then, he took out a piece of rice paper and opened it. Comparing the two, he waved his hand. ¡°Take her away.¡±


    Immediately, a few soldiers dismounted and walked towards Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯ve been sitting at home, but the blame fell from the sky?¡±


    She didn¡¯t know what was going on, so it was impossible for her to surrender. However, before she could attack, two figures blocked her way¡ªSong Jingchen and Ji Luo.


    ¡°There has to be a reason for this, right?¡± Song Jingchen said in a low voice.


    The man took out a token from his pocket. ¡°What other reason does His


    Majesty need for summoning someone? Take her away.¡±


    Actually, after entering the palace, Song Jingchen recognized at a glance that this group of people was wearing the clothes of the imperial guards of the Xuanyuan Imperial Palace.


    He only said that to get information out of him, but from this person¡¯s attitude, he clearly wouldn¡¯t say much.


    Ji Luo¡¯s fingertips moved slightly. Song Jingchen took a step forward and blocked her hand. ¡°The person you want to take is my wife. Can you bring me along?¡±


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia disagreed.


    Song Jingchen looked at the man on the horse without saying anything.


    The leader of the imnerial guards snorted. ¡°You¡¯re courting death. Take them


    away together.¡±


    Ji Luo retracted his hand. ¡°Then bring me along too.¡±


    Song Jingchen turned around and looked at her. ¡°Mother, you havent recovered yet. Stay at home.¡±


    Unseen by outsiders, he mouthed the word ¡°Plan¡±.


    Ji Luo frowned and finally took a step back.


    When the imperial guards arrived, there was a carriage behind them. It looked no different from an ordinary carriage from the outside.


    When she entered, she realized that it was just an iron cage covered in a layer of skin.


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she hammered it a few times. She wanted to hammer it again, but a large hand grabbed her hand.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her hands and said helplessly, ¡°You¡¯re just hurting yourself.¡±


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt.¡± Shen Yijia snorted and asked softly, ¡°Hubby, didn¡¯t you say that you didn¡¯t find that scumbag?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t you let Mother go? Oh, I understand. You didn¡¯t want Mother to take the risk.¡± Before she could finish speaking, Shen Yijia thought it through and said angrily, ¡°Then why did you follow them? I was clearly the only one they wanted to catch.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°We agreed to go anywhere together.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so touched that her eyes welled up with tears. She sighed and said, ¡°Where do you think that scumbag went? Why did the emperor capture


    The heavens could see that she had yet to cause trouble after coming to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth, but in the end, he didn¡¯t say his guess.


    Shen Yijia thought that he did not know either. She sighed again and turned around to grab the iron railing with both hands. She reached out to pull open the curtain outside.


    She hated sealed places like this. It reminded her of the song Da Hua often sang when she entered the laboratory.


    ¡°Iron gates, iron windows, and iron chains. With my hand on the iron window, I looked out.


    How wonderful life outside was.


    When will you return to my family¡­¡¯


    Song Jingchen shuddered. The corners of his mouth twitched as he looked at the person leaning against the iron cage and reaching out.


    Where did she hear this song from? It was so strange!


    The imperial guards who were riding around the carriage were speechless.


    They turned in unison to look at the carriage, then silently turned away.


    Shen Yijia did not know how shocking her singing was. As she sang, her tone changed.


    ¡°The curves of the moon reflect Mother¡¯s heart.


    ¡°I searched carefully in the prison.


    Don¡¯t just feel regret and hatred.


    Turn over a new leaf¡­


    The sound of horses galloping passed on the long street. Such a team of imperial guards was already eye-catching enough. Coupled with the faint singing, the commoners on the street stopped and looked at them.


    In a room on the second floor of an inn, a woman looked at the team below and smiled. ¡°The Yu family is really impressive..¡±

 Chapter 767 - Chapter 767: Corpse (3)

    Chapter 767: Corpse (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    An hour later, the team stopped at the entrance of the palace. All the imperial guards heaved a sigh of relief. If they continued listening, they would go crazy collectively.


    Shen Yijia happened to be thirsty from singing. She jumped out of the carriage and stretched.


    Looking at the imperial guards who instantly surrounded her, she rolled her eyes. ¡°We can walk on our own.¡±


    The leader of the imperial guards nodded, and the others retreated.


    The imperial guards had received the emperor¡¯s instructions. The leader of the imperial guards showed his token and was let in.


    Shen Yijia looked around and whispered, ¡°Hubby, why do I feel that the matter is a little serious?¡±


    Seeing how serious these people were, she remembered that she had been to the palace of Great Xia before. Back then, she could more or less see eunuchs and palace maids walking along the palace path, but she did not see a single one along the way.


    Song Jingchen held her hand tightly. ¡°I¡¯m here. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia nodded obediently and stopped looking around.


    They were brought to a palace with the words ¡°Yuqian Palace¡± written on it.


    The leader of the imperial guards went forward and reported. The door of the Yuqian Palace opened.


    The two of them walked in. Before they could see what was going on inside, a petite figure rushed towards them.


    ¡°B*tch, I¡¯m going to kill you to avenge my father¡­¡± Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia subconsciously raised their feet.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    The figure was sent flying in a parabola.


    ¡°Ye¡¯er!¡± A woman exclaimed and pounced over to help her up.


    Seeing who it was that she and Song Jingchen had kicked out, Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned cold.


    What did he mean by avenging her father? Wasn¡¯t Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s father that scumbag? Was the scumbag dead?


    A stern voice sounded from above. ¡°How dare you! Cough, cough, cough!¡± Shen Yijia looked up. The person who spoke was blocked.


    ¡°Your Majesty, you have to take care of your body. Don¡¯t be angry anymore.¡± ¡°Imperial Physician Wan, you can leave first,¡± Xuanyuan Qi said coldly.


    Imperial Physician Wan moved aside and Shen Yijia saw the face of the person sitting in front of the imperial desk. Their eyes met and her eyes widened.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was not surprised. He looked at Shen Yijia coldly, and there was a hint of complicated emotions in his eyes.


    The eunuch berated, ¡°How dare you? Do you not want your eyes anymore? Kneel when you see Your Majesty.¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t understand when Shen Yijia had seen the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, Song Jingchen knew that this wasn¡¯t the time to be curious about this. He pinched Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and reminded her. He lifted his robe and knelt down. ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡± Shen Yijia frowned and knelt down.


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at the eunuch beside him.


    The eunuch understood and asked the two men kneeling at the front, who were dressed as servants, ¡°The two of you, take a good look. Was she the one you


    saw last night?¡±


    He was pointing at Shen Yijia.


    The two servants turned around and looked at Shen Yijia for a long time.


    One of them said in a trembling voice, ¡°It was too dark at that time, I didn¡¯t see it clearly. But that person was wearing an apricot-colored dress, and her figure was a little similar to hers.¡±


    It was an apricot color. When Xuanyuan Qi saw Shen Yijia yesterday, the dress she was wearing was this color.


    Another person hurriedly said, ¡°I saw that person¡¯s face, but that person had a veil on her face. However, the flower bud between her eyebrows is exactly the same as hers¡­


    Shen Yijia was at a loss.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart sank.


    As expected, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s people attacking Xuanyuan Ce was only the first step. In order to prevent the Xuanyuan Kingdom from cooperating with Great Xia, the second step was to frame them.


    ¡°Uncle, it must be her! ¡± Xuanyuan Ye looked at Shen Yijia hatefully. Ignoring the pain in her body, she knelt down and said, ¡°She must hate Father for abandoning her and her mother back then, so she attacked Father. Uncle, you have to avenge my father!¡±


    Her eyes were swollen from crying, and the sadness on her face was genuine.


    ¡°Your Majesty¡­¡± Madam Yu closed her eyes as tears streamed down her face.


    Although it was just two simple words, it seemed to be infectious and sad.


    ¡°Your Majesty, Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s body is outside the hall,¡± an eunuch reported shakily.


    Xuanyuan Qi suddenly stood up and swayed. The eunuch wanted to help him, but he shook him off and strode out of the hall.


    Madam Yu and her daughter quickly got up and followed. When they passed by Shen Yijia, Xuanyuan Ye raised her foot to step on her hand.


    In the end, she missed. When she met Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes, her heart skipped a beat. She said hatefully, ¡°Imperial Uncle will never let you off.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, what are they talking about?¡± Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen in a daze.


    What did he mean by Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s body? She clearly knew these words, but she couldn¡¯t understand them when she put them together. How strange.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached. He tightened his grip on her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it might not be true. Let¡¯s go out and take a look.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I have the spiritual liquid. I¡¯m not afraid.¡± Shen Yijia stood up with


    Song Jingchen¡¯s help..

 Chapter 768 - Chapter 768: Useless

    Chapter 768: Useless


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Outside Yuqian Palace, people were kneeling. On the soft platform in the middle, the white-haired Xuanyuan Ce lay there with a pale face.


    A red line of blood on his neck was especially eye-catching.


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pupils constricted and she staggered forward.


    She was really sad. No matter what happened to Xuanyuan Ce, she could not lie to her father.


    Now that he was dead, no matter how great the resentment in Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s heart was, it was gone.


    Madam Yu¡¯s vision darkened and she almost fainted. She only stopped herself from losing her composure with the help of the nanny beside her.


    Xuanyuan Qi stopped in his tracks and looked straight at the person lying there. He did not hear the word ¡°Brother¡±.


    The news of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s accident spread when the palace door first opened. At that time, Xuanyuan Qi had just woken up and was about to attend the morning court assembly.


    When he suddenly heard that he had been sitting there in a daze for nearly ten minutes, his first reaction was that Xuanyuan Ce was joking with him.


    Until Madam Yu and her daughter, who had also received the news, entered the palace crying. He had no choice but to believe it.


    It being believable was one thing. When people encountered something they didn¡¯t want to face, they always liked to take a chance.


    Even when he got someone to draw a portrait of the suspect and get someone to arrest him, he still felt that it wasn¡¯t real.


    At this moment, all his doubts disappeared.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face suddenly turned pale.


    The eunuch supported him worriedly, his face filled with grief. ¡°Your Majesty,


    His Highness, His Highness¡­¡±


    He said it twice, but he did not dare to say the word ¡°dead¡±.


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand. Immediately, two eunuchs went over and pulled away Xuanyuan Ye, who was crying her heart out.


    ¡°Let go!¡±


    He pushed away the eunuch¡¯s hand and slowly stepped forward. He took a deep breath and placed his trembling hand on the tip of Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s nose.


    In the next moment, his breathing stopped. He suddenly retracted his hand


    and staggered two steps back. In the blink ot an eye, he grabbed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s collar with red eyes.


    The eunuch knelt down and took two steps forward to hug Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s legs. He cried, ¡°Your Majesty, you have to take care of your body.¡±


    As he cried, the palace maids around him also cried.


    The air seemed to become oppressive.


    Xuanyuan Qi closed his eyes deeply and finally let go.


    At this moment, a figure rushed over and almost knocked Xuanyuan Qi down.


    She was too fast and sudden. Everyone stopped crying and stood rooted to the ground.


    Shen Yijia panicked and tried to pry Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s mouth open. Her hand touched a cold spot, and she shivered.


    It was not easy for her to drip a drop of spiritual liquid into his mouth. She was about to do so when someone grabbed her hand.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡± She turned around in confusion.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s useless.¡±


    ¡°How dare you! Capture her quickly!¡± Xuanyuan Qi was the first to react.


    The imperial guards immediately surrounded him.


    In this situation, the two of them could not resist at all.


    Shen Yijia panicked for no reason and grabbed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hand tightly. ¡°Let me try again. What if it works?¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled her into his arms, his tone filled with pity. ¡°Jiajia, you know that he¡¯s already dead!¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s dead¡­¡± Shen Yijia felt a lump in her throat. She let go of Xuanyuan Ce bit by bit.


    The spiritual liquid could not revive the dead!


    She could not save a dead person!


    As she got dragged away, the jade ring on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hand slipped off and rolled to Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s feet.


    ¡°Lock them up in the side hall first,¡± he instructed in a low voice. He squatted down and picked up the jade ring.


    Xuanyuan Ye was restrained by the eunuch and struggled. ¡°Uncle, she killed my father. I have to make her pay with her life!¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi paused for a moment and his fingers could not help but tighten slightly. He looked at the jade ring that he had just helped Xuanyuan Ce bring in with bloodshot eyes and said coldly, ¡°I¡¯ll investigate. If Second Brother was really harmed by her, I won¡¯t let her off.¡±


    The imperial guards were about to take her away when the empress dowager arrived, making everyone kneel down again..

 Chapter 769 - Chapter 769: Stay (1)

    Chapter 769: Stay (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the blink of an eye, Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s phoenix carriage arrived.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked up and braced himself.


    He naturally knew why his mother had come. Everyone in the palace probably knew now.


    ¡°Mother,¡± Xuanyuan Qi called softly.


    Empress Dowager Zhou had just turned sixty this year, and her hair was already white. She grabbed the armrest and got out of the phoenix carriage with a trembling body. The palace maid wanted to help her, but Xuanyuan Qi beat her to it.


    ¡°Where¡¯s your brother? Where is he? I want to see.¡±


    Following everyone¡¯s gazes, she saw the figure lying quietly in the hall. In an instant, it was as if an invisible bolt of lightning had exploded in Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s ears and mind, making her dizzy and even lose all consciousness in an instant.


    Tears had already rolled down her face.


    Xuanyuan Qi hurriedly supported her, and a hot tear fell on the back of his hand.


    His heart tightened and he advised in a hoarse voice, ¡°Mother, take care of your health.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou did not say anything. She only pushed him away and staggered over.


    Xuanyuan Qi followed her and protected her.


    The road was not long, but Empress Dowager Zhou walked for a long time. It was as if if she walked slower, the figure would stand up on its own. Just like before, he would smile and say to her, ¡°Mother, I¡¯m back.¡±


    But he didn¡¯t!


    No matter how long the journey was, there would be a time when she finished it. She squatted down beside Xuanyuan Ce and reached out.


    It was cold and filled with death. The blood line on his neck was so clear!


    A whimpering cry came from the hall.


    At this moment, she was not the empress dowager. She was just a mother who had just lost her son.


    Everyone said that she was lucky. The moment she entered the palace, she was the empress of the world. After her son ascended the throne, he treated her filially.


    However, if she was really lucky, how could she have lost her husband at such a young age? The three of them were almost killed by traitors.


    If she was really lucky, she wouldn¡¯t have had to send off her son, who was younger than her.


    Her cries were not loud, but they reached everyone¡¯s ears. Everyone¡¯s eyes turned red.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked up speechlessly. Hot tears welled up in his eyes. He covered his face. When he calmed down, he squatted down and reached out to hug his gray-haired mother.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou suddenly grabbed his hand, her armor digging into the back of his hand. She looked up and her body trembled slightly. Her voice was desperate and angry. ¡°Who¡¯s the murderer? Who killed your brother?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at Shen Yijia and quickly retracted his gaze. He closed his eyes and said, ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s her, Grandmother. She killed my father. You can¡¯t let her off.¡± Xuanyuan Ye suddenly interrupted.


    Empress Dowager Zhou slowly stood up and looked sharply at Shen Yijia, who Xuanyuan Ye was pointing at.


    When she saw her face clearly, her fingertips tightened, and monstrous anger rose in her heart. She said coldly, ¡°Ji Luo!¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou had seen Ji Luo before. On Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s wedding day, in order to show how much she valued the Yu family, she personally left the palace to preside over the wedding banquet.


    It was also then that she saw Ji Luo for the first time.


    Putting aside the fact that the flower bud between Ji Luo¡¯s eyebrows was too recognizable, just his appearance was enough to be unforgettable.


    Moreover, she had always known that the reason why Xuanyuan Ce did not return to Phoenix City all year round was because of this woman. This was also the biggest reason why she did not like Ji Luo.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°She¡¯s the daughter of Ji Luo and Second Brother.¡±


    Guessing that Xuanyuan Ye had complained in the palace, Xuanyuan Ce mentioned it to him when he brought Song Jingchen into the palace yesterday.


    Thinking about how a person who was still alive yesterday had become a cold corpse today, Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s heart seemed to be grabbed by a pair of invisible hands. For a moment, he could not breathe.


    When she heard that she was Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s daughter, Empress Dowager Zhou suppressed her anger and sized up Shen Yijia carefully. Indeed, she saw some traces of her son in her eyes.


    She had mixed feelings again.


    Xuanyuan Ye cried, ¡°Grandmother, she came back to take revenge because she hated Father for abandoning her and her mother back then.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou looked at Shen Yijia again. She was calm and did not look sad at all. She already believed most of Xuanyuan Yes words.


    She took a deep breath and called out in a low voice, ¡°Emperor!¡±


    Knowing that she was angry, Xuanyuan Qi felt bitter. ¡°Mother, she¡¯s indeed suspicious, but I¡¯m not sure if she did it. If I wrong her, Second Brother will probably not forgive me.¡±


    He still remembered the look in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes when he mentioned his daughter. If not for that, even if she was just a suspect, he would not have let Shen Yijia stand here peacefully..

 Chapter 770 - Chapter 770: Stay (2)

    Chapter 770: Stay (2)


    ¡°Then aren¡¯t you afraid that you¡¯ll let the murderer off and let your brother die with remaining grievances?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou reprimanded sternly. Xuanyuan Qi clenched his fists. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll investigate.¡±


    ¡°Alright, investigate now. I want to watch with my own eyes as the thief who harmed my son is punished.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was satisfied. She did not notice that Madam Yu, who was silently crying, had stiffened.


    Since Empress Dowager Zhou had spoken, Xuanyuan Qi naturally could not refuse. After all, he also wanted to find the culprit as soon as possible.


    Not long after, all the servants in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s courtyard were brought to the empty space outside the Yuqian Palace. Everyone knelt down in fear.


    The first person to discover that something had happened to Xuanyuan Ce was the old butler of the courtyard. Xuanyuan Ce returned to the residence when it was dark. After returning to the residence, he sent his servant away and went into the study, and did not come out until midnight.


    The old butler was worried and went in to take a look. Xuanyuan Ce was already lying on tne grouna, dead.


    This was a huge matter that caused the entire residence to lose their heads. Everyone was in an uproar.


    Two of the servants claimed to have seen a woman come out of the study at night. Only then did the butler hurriedly bring them into the palace to report the funeral.


    Hearing the question from above, the two servants repeated their previous words in fear.


    ¡°I thought that it was a woman favored by His Highness, so I didn¡¯t dare to cause trouble.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not have much time to return to Phoenix City, and returned to the courtyard even less. They did not understand this master, so they naturally blamed Xuanyuan Ce for it.


    The other servant did not say anything. It was obvious that this was the reason.


    Although the two of them did not see the woman¡¯s face clearly, her figure, clothes, and flower buds matched Shen Yijia¡¯s.


    Most importantly, there were no signs of a fight in the study, which meant that the culprit was very likely someone Xuanyuan Ce trusted.


    Because he trusted her, he let the other party take advantage of him without any precautions.


    It seemed that all the evidence pointed to Shen Yijia.


    Not only that, but the guards also pointed out on the spot that Song Jingchen had asked whether His Highness returned to the residence last night.


    ¡°What a coincidence. Not long after this Young Master left, His Highness returned.


    ¡°I even mentioned it to His Highness. His Highness only nodded and didn¡¯t say anything.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi looked at Song Jingchen sharply. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance to explain.¡±


    The curfew in the Xuanyuan Kingdom wasn¡¯t very early. At midnight, Song Jingchen went out at night to confirm if Lord Jing¡¯an had returned to the residence.


    However, why did he have to confirm this? It was inevitable that people would think that he was asking on Shen Yijia¡¯s behalf so that she could make a move.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and cupped his hands. ¡°His Highness left a token at my house. I was afraid that His Highness would be anxious, so I sent it over overnight. I heard that His Highness didn¡¯t return, so I went to the lord¡¯s residence.¡±


    With that, he took out a token from his pocket. It was the one Xuanyuan Ce had given Shen Yijia.


    It was not that he did not want to tell the truth, but this was a crucial moment. Even if he said it, the emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou would not believe him.


    They might even think that he was deliberately framing Madam Yu, which would confirm their motive to avenge Ji Luo.


    After all, according to them, Xuanyuan Ce was a heartless person, and Madam


    Yu was the one who interfered.


    Killing Xuanyuan Ce and framing Madam Yu would kill two birds with one stone.


    Looking at the token presented, Xuanyuan Qi felt sorrowful again. He waved his hand and gestured for the eunuch to bring people to the lord¡¯s residence.


    The prince¡¯s residence was close, and the guards on night duty were quickly brought over, confirming that Song Jingchen¡¯s words were true.


    It would take at least an hour to get from Xuanyuan Cel s courtyard to the residence. According to the time when the servants in the residence saw the veiled woman, when Song Jingchen arrived at the residence, Xuanyuan Ce had already returned to the residence and had even been killed.


    Although this didn¡¯t rule out Shen Yijia as a suspect, it at least overturned the possibility that Song Jingchen was going to scout the area.


    However, to Empress Dowager Zhou, who was anxious to find the murderer and avenge her son, the evidence in front of her was enough.


    ¡°Emperor, the culprit who killed your brother is right in front of you. Why aren¡¯t you giving the decree?¡±


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth to say something, but Song Jingchen beat her to it and said, ¡°The Empress Dowager is wise. If my wife and I really came to take revenge for their mother, we could have done it in Phoenix Town. Why would we have gone deep into the capital and waited until he arrived in Phoenix City?¡±


    ¡°I can understand the pain of the Empress Dowager¡¯s son¡¯s death, and I feel deeply regretful. However, it¡¯s precisely because of this that we have to investigate thoroughly. Otherwise, if we let the true murderer escape unpunished, wouldn¡¯t it hurt our relatives and enemies? How can His Highness rest in peace in the netherworld?¡±


    ¡°How dare you!¡± The nanny beside the empress dowager berated sternly.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to offend you. Empress Dowager, please forgive me.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his body and touched the ground with his forehead. He continued, ¡°Your Majesty, you should know that I came to your country to ask for His Majesty¡¯s help, but if not for His Highness¡¯s help, it might have been difficult for me to even see His Majesty. At this time, how could I and my wife do such a thing to him? How is this any different from digging my own grave?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi tightened his grip on the armrest and gritted his teeth. ¡°It seems that you know who the real culprit is?¡±


    How could he not understand what Song Jingchen was saying?


    Song Jingchen¡¯s words seemed to be absolving himself and Shen Yijia, but he was actually reminding him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t treat Ah Ce¡¯s death as a simple personal grudge.¡± she thought.


    Instead, she should think about who Ah Ce was in the way of.


    With him gone, the murderer pointed at Shen Yijia, who was inextricably linked to Great Xia. Who would benefit in the end?


    However, how could Xuanyuan Qi know that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t deliberately say this to frame the Wu Kingdom¡¯s envoy?


    After all, if he really believed Song Jingchen¡¯s words, Song Jingchen would benefit in the end.


    He wouldn¡¯t let off the real culprit who killed Ah Ce. The envoys of the Wu Kingdom were suspicious, and so was Song Jingchen.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t point out the murderer as he thought. He only said, ¡°I don¡¯t know, but if Your Majesty gives me some time, I¡¯ll definitely be able to find out.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi narrowed his eyes. He had already thought about it, but he was worried that Empress Dowager Zhou would not be able to accept it.


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°I just want to know who harmed my son.¡±


    Since Empress Dowager Zhou said that, it could be seen that she still listened to Song Jingchen.


    ¡°I understand.¡± Xuanyuan Qi heaved a sigh of relief and said in a low voice, ¡°I can give you five days, but she has to stay in the palace. If you can¡¯t catch the culprit five days later, I¡¯ll make her pay with her life for Second Brother.¡±


    He was referring to Shen Yijia.


    This meant that he wanted to keep Shen Yijia as a hostage.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Shen Yijia looked up at Song Jingchen. ¡°Hubby, I believe you.¡±


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s trusting eyes, Song Jingchen clenched his fists and lowered his eyes. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye, whose eyes were red and swollen from crying, wanted to say more, but she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her arm. She turned around.


    ¡°Mother?¡±


    Madam Yu came back to her senses and quickly let go. She pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and sobbed. ¡°Ye¡¯er, listen to your uncle. Your father won¡¯t have died in vain..¡±

 Chapter 771 - Chapter 771: Separation

    Chapter 771: Separation


    As soon as the news of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s death spread, the entire court was in an uproar. However, what made everyone even more terrified was that the emperor was actually prepared to let Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s body rest in the Yuqian Palace.


    In the Yuqian Palace, Xuanyuan Qi personally cleaned up Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face. An eunuch brought over the prince¡¯s python robe and he was about to take it. Eunuch Wu wiped his tears and said, ¡°Your Majesty, let me do it.¡±


    He did not expect such a huge thing to happen in the palace. He had only swept the latrine pit outside the palace for a day.


    Xuanyuan Qi paused and nodded.


    Eunuch Wu quickly brought the two little eunuchs forward and helped Xuanyuan Ce take off his clothes.


    ¡°That scar was left behind when Second Brother infiltrated the Yu family,¡± Xuanyuan Qi suddenly said.


    Eunuch Wu was stunned for a moment before realizing that he was referring to the inch-long scar on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s abdomen. He choked and said, ¡°I remember this. At that time, His Highness had just become a crown prince. When Your Majesty found out, you blamed yourself and couldn¡¯t sleep for the entire night.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi ignored him and continued.


    ¡°The one on his shoulder was left behind when the head of the Tang family was imprisoned by me. The death warriors of the Tang family came to assassinate me. He blocked the sword for me.¡±


    He explained the origins of every scar on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s body. In the end, he said, ¡°If I hadn¡¯t asked him to marry Madam Yu back then, he would have been able to marry the woman he liked. Perhaps he would have had both children now.¡±


    Eunuch Wu cried and knelt down. ¡°Your Majesty, you have to take care of your body!¡±


    At this moment, an eunuch reported from outside the door, ¡°Your Majesty, the ministers are here. They said that they have something to report. They¡¯re all kneeling outside.¡±


    ¡°Tell them to get lost. I don¡¯t want to see them,¡± Xuanyuan Qi said in a low voice.


    The eunuch said, ¡°But Consort Jing¡¯an is also kneeling outside.¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law?¡± Xuanyuan Qi frowned.


    Boom! The door of the Yuqian Palace opened and Xuanyuan Qi walked out in a plain white robe.


    The ministers quickly lowered their heads. ¡°Your Majesty, about the matter of


    Lord Jing¡¯an resting in the palace. This is not compliant. Please reconsider.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. Please reconsider, Your Majesty.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes darkened. He looked at Madam Yu, who was kneeling at the front. ¡°Sister-in-law, do you think this is inappropriate?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, I know that you have a close relationship with His Highness, but I¡¯ve been married to His Highness for more than ten years. We¡¯ve been apart more than we¡¯ve been together. I only hope to be by his side for the last few days. I hope Your Majesty can fulfill my wish.¡± As Madam Yu spoke, she bent down and bowed.


    Xuanyuan Qi stared at her for a long time before finally agreeing. However, he suggested that she could not enter the hall until the real culprit was caught.


    Madam Yu clenched her fists under her sleeves. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    The Jade Light Hall was remote. In the southwest corner farthest from the harem where the concubines lived, Shen Yijia was arranged to stay there. Along the way, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let go of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand.


    Their fingers intertwined. Their palms were already sweating. It was wet and uncomfortable, but neither of them despised it.


    When they arrived at the Yaoguang Hall, the eunuch leading the way stopped and said with a straight face, ¡°Lord Song, don¡¯t worry. Since Your Majesty said that he¡¯ll give you five days, he won¡¯t make things difficult for Madam Song within these five days. In my opinion, instead of wasting time here, Lord Song, why don¡¯t you leave the palace early to investigate the real culprit?¡± He was just short of saying that he should leave quickly.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°Can I have a word with my wife?¡±


    As he spoke, he took out a pouch that had been washed white. He poured out the silver inside and handed it to the eunuch leading the way.


    The pouch was not much, but it contained a lot of money. Apart from silver, there were also a few banknotes worth a hundred taels.


    The eunuch looked around to make sure no one saw him before reaching out to take it. ¡°Then hurry up.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Thank you.¡±


    After receiving the benefits, the eunuch consciously made room for the couple.


    ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    Knowing that he was worried about her, Shen Yijia was about to comfort him when Song Jingchen pulled her into his arms. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. If I had thought of it earlier yesterday, nothing might have happened to His Highness.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and reached out to hug his waist. She leaned her head against his chest and lowered her eyes. ¡°It¡¯s not your fault. You¡¯re not allowed to blame yourself. Even if you want to blame someone, you should blame the person who did it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯m not sad at all. Didn¡¯t I live well without my father in the past?¡±


    Ever since she found out about Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s accident, she had been terrifyingly calm.


    However, the calmer she was, the more worried Song Jingchen was. Based on his understanding of Shen Yijia, she had always been like this before she used her ultimate move. She would secretly catch others off guard.


    He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder and made her stand still.


    She bent down and looked into her eyes. ¡°Jiajia, believe me. I¡¯ll definitely find evidence, so don¡¯t take revenge on Madam Yu yourself.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to deny it. ¡°Hubby¡­¡±


    ¡°Even if you kill Madam Yu, she¡¯ll still be Consort Jing¡¯an and will even be buried with His Highness. Wouldn¡¯t that be letting her off too easily?¡± Song Jingchen knew that she wouldn¡¯t listen to reason, so he could only persuade her in another way. ¡°But it¡¯s different if I find evidence. At that time, the emperor definitely won¡¯t let her off easily. Think about it, what can make her suffer more than losing her position as the princess consort and losing her reputation?¡±


    ¡°If they¡¯re buried together, wouldn¡¯t it disgust the scumbag underground?¡± Shen Yijia muttered. She bit her lower lip and said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll listen to you.¡± Song Jingchen finally heaved a sigh of relief.


    The couple chatted for a while more, and the eunuch came back to urge him.


    ¡°Have fun in the palace for a few days. Don¡¯t think about anything. Wait for me to pick you up, okay?¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head. Although he said that, his grip on her hand didn¡¯t weaken at all.


    Shen Yijia waved her hand. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll definitely have fun. I¡¯ll wait for you to pick me up. ¡±


    When the word ¡°play¡± came out of her mouth, Song Jingchen felt that something was wrong and wanted to remind her again.


    The eunuch who led the way urged again.


    Song Jingchen had no choice but to let go and leave.


    The eunuch leading the way was speechless. He muttered, ¡°How can you still be in the mood to be so intimate at a time like this? You¡¯re a man. You¡¯re really procrastinating.¡±


    After saying that, he turned around and met Shen Yijia¡¯s gaze. He was so frightened that he took a few steps back.


    He retreated while Shen Yijia advanced.


    The little eunuch¡¯s eyes widened and he trembled. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± Shen Yijia reached out. ¡°Take out the money.¡±


    ¡°What money?¡± Realizing what she was referring to, he quickly covered the money bag tied to his waist. ¡°That money is mine now.¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled.


    Since he still wanted to scam money from her, he was too naive!


    Bang!


    ¡°Ah, how dare you!¡±


    Bang!


    ¡°Ah, do you know who my godfather is?¡±


    Shen Yijia retracted her fist. The little eunuch had just heaved a sigh of relief when she kicked him to the ground.


    She squatted down and tore off his money bag.


    Apart from what Song Jingchen had just given him, there was also his own money. Shen Yijia accepted it with a smile.


    The little eunuch was stunned. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid that I¡¯ll report you?¡±


    Shen Yijia threw the empty money bag back. ¡°Complain? Are you going to say that I stole the money you received for the bribe?¡±


    ¡°Then go ahead.¡±


    The servant was speechless.


    Where was justice? Where was human compassion?

 Chapter 772 - Chapter 772: Not Him (1)

    Chapter 772: Not Him (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After leaving the Yaoguang Hall, Song Jingchen returned to the Yuqian Palace. On the palace path outside the palace, he happened to meet Madam Yu, who had left the palace.


    There was a palanquin behind Madam Yu. Song Jingchen retracted his gaze at a glance and stopped to retreat to the side of the road.


    ¡°Lord Song.¡± Madam Yu stopped in front of him.


    Song Jingchen cupped his hands. ¡°Consort Jing¡¯an.¡±


    Madam Yu asked, ¡°Did Lord Song really look for His Highness last night to return the token?¡±


    After asking, she seemed to sense that something was wrong. She smiled bitterly and said, ¡°What I mean is that if Lord Song had found His Highness earlier last night, His Highness might not have been in trouble.¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored her question and said gratefully, ¡°So Princess Consort Jing¡¯an also feels that His Highness wasn¡¯t harmed by my wife. I¡¯m relieved.¡± Madam Yu was speechless.


    ¡°Of course I hope it¡¯s not her. Otherwise, His Highness would have been so sad. However, no matter what, I still hope that Lord Song can find the culprit within five days. Otherwise, Madam Song..


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡±


    Madam Yu was speechless.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t play by the rules at all. Madam Yu knew that it was impossible to get anything out of him, so she wiped her tears and left.


    ¡°Consort Jing¡¯an is quite pitiful. In the past, His Highness didn¡¯t return to


    Phoenix City much. Now that he suddenly left, His Majesty even wants to keep him in the palace.¡±


    ¡°His Majesty cares too much about His Highness. However, if not for the princess consort¡¯s appearance this time, those ministers probably wouldn¡¯t have been able to convince His Majesty.¡±


    The two eunuchs muttered and walked over. Song Jingchen came back to his senses and looked at the carriage that had walked away. He turned around and walked towards the Yuqian Palace.


    ¡°Why? Do you regret it? Or do you want to tell me that five days isn¡¯t enough?¡± Xuanyuan Qi looked down at him.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°I want to see the servants of the courtyard again. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi paused and stared at him for a long time with a dark expression. He took off a token from his waist and threw it on the imperial table.


    Eunuch Wu understood. He walked forward, picked up the token, and handed it to Song Jingchen.


    The servants of the courtyard were all locked up in prison.


    After coming out of the prison, Song Jingchen rubbed his swollen forehead.


    ¡°Ah Chen.¡±


    A carriage stopped in front of him. Song Jingchen paused. ¡°Mother, why are you here?¡±


    The corners of Ji Luo¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about him.¡±


    Looking around, she did not see Shen Yijia. She asked, ¡°Why are you alone? Where¡¯s Jiajia?¡±


    ¡°Jiajia is still in the palace.¡± Afraid that she would be worried, Song Jingchen was about to explain when the curtain of the carriage lifted and Xuanyuan Ziming stuck his head out.


    ¡°The palace is my territory. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll protect Sister-in-law.¡±


    After Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were taken away by the imperial guards, Ji Luo immediately brought MO Yuan to look for Xuanyuan Ce. Unexpectedly, the courtyard in Goldfish Alley was empty. They went to the lord¡¯s residence to ask around, but those servants refused to say anything.


    Ji Luo had no choice but to look for him.


    At that moment, Xuanyuan Ziming had just received the news that something had happened to Xuanyuan Ce. When he found out that the couple had been taken away by the Imperial Guards, he prepared to bring Ji Luo into the palace.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Jiajia is fine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s promise didn¡¯t reassure Ji Luo, but Song Jingchen¡¯s words made her temporarily suppress the thought of entering the palace to save her.


    Why did he use the word ¡°save¡±? It was because Ji Luo knew that unless he had no choice, it was impossible for Song Jingchen to leave Jiajia alone in the palace.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back first,¡± she said.


    When they returned home, Song Jingchen told them everything that had happened in the palace.


    After not hearing Ji Luo speak for a long time, Song Jingchen looked up and realized that she was in a daze.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, this bastard, he didn¡¯t do anything when he was alive. Now that he¡¯s dead, he even implicated my daughter.¡± She suddenly cursed softly.


    Song Jingchen swallowed his comforting words and heard her ask, ¡°Did you find anything when you went to see the servants in the courtyard?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°There¡¯s indeed something wrong.¡±


    Actually, those people¡¯s words were similar to what they had said in front of the emperor, but Song Jingchen still discovered a problem.


    The guard said that after Lord Jing¡¯an found out that Song Jingchen had gone to look for him, he did not say anything!


    Ji Luo frowned.


    Thirty Thousand blurted out, ¡°That¡¯s not right. If I find out that someone came to look for me in the middle of the night, I¡¯ll definitely wonder if he has something urgent to do. Even if I don¡¯t go back to look for him, I¡¯ll leave a message for the gatekeeper. For example, if that person comes again, I¡¯ll bring him in directly.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right, but His Highness didn¡¯t say anything..¡±

 Chapter 773 - Chapter 773: Not Him (2)

    Chapter 773: Not Him (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°According to the servants who saw His Highness last night, His Highness hasn¡¯t said a word since he returned to the residence.¡±


    This was actually nothing strange under normal circumstances. After all, many times, the servants could tell what their master meant with a look or a movement.


    If their master was in a bad mood, it was common for him to not speak.


    However, something had happened to His Highness. Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but think too much about it.


    He continued, ¡°If you don¡¯t speak, do you not want to say it, or is it because you can¡¯t say it? Why can¡¯t you say it? Is it because once you speak, you¡¯ll expose yourself¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Ji Luo asked, ¡°Do you think that the person who died in the study was not Xuanyuan Ce at all?¡±


    There were no signs of a fight in the study.


    If that person was not Xuanyuan Ce and the cause of death was suicide or being killed willingly, there would naturally be no signs of a fight.


    Only then could the truth match up completely.


    As for the veiled woman, she was just deliberately letting others see her so that they could frame Jiajia.


    Song Jingchen nodded and hesitated for a moment before saying uncertainly,


    ¡°But I¡¯ve observed carefully. There are no signs of disguise on the corpse.¡±


    MO Yuan knew how to make a human skin mask. Back then, he had watched from the side. Although the mask could be faked, if one observed carefully, they would still be able to see some clues.


    Thinking of something, Ji Luo¡¯s face suddenly turned pale, and there was anger in his eyes. ¡°What if it¡¯s someone who looks exactly the same?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her suspiciously.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Ji Luo clenched his fists and took a deep breath. ¡°Back then, I actually didn¡¯t leave directly.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce had said those humiliating words in public. With her temper, she was indeed prepared to leave, but the child in her stomach calmed her down.


    She thought that Xuanyuan Ce might have his difficulties.


    Since she had this suspicion, she would naturally clarify it. Therefore, she got someone to send a letter to the lord¡¯s residence to meet him.


    ¡°His Highness didn¡¯t attend the appointment?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    After all, if they had gone to the appointment, the misunderstanding between the two of them would not have been so deep.


    ¡°No, he came.¡± Ji Luo¡¯s eyes were filled with unconcealed hatred. ¡°But he wasn¡¯t there to explain. He was there to kill me.¡±


    This was also the reason why she did not intend to forgive Xuanyuan Ce no matter how much he explained.


    No matter how many difficulties he had and how much he regretted it later, it could not change the fact that he had wanted to kill her.


    She was lucky not to be dead, but that didn¡¯t mean that it hadn¡¯t happened.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect this to happen. She probably didn¡¯t want Jiajia to feel pressured.


    However¡­


    ¡°His Highness wouldn¡¯t do that,¡± he said firmly. ¡°What if he wasn¡¯t the one who came?¡±


    When he said this, Ji Luo¡¯s teeth were trembling.


    The hurdle she couldn¡¯t cross could very well be a misunderstanding. How ridiculous.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know how to comfort her.


    Ji Luo closed his eyes and tried his best to calm down. ¡°If there¡¯s really someone in this world who looks like Xuanyuan Ce, where is the real Xuanyuan Ce? Is it possible that he¡¯s still alive?¡±


    Song Jingchen stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll go look for him now.¡±


    ¡°Ah Chen.¡± Ji Luo stopped him. ¡°You didn¡¯t rest last night. Even if you want to look for him, you should eat something first.¡±


    Song Jingchen wanted to say no, but Ji Luo had already instructed MO Yuan to prepare food.


    After instructing her, she got three copper coins from Thirty Thousand and returned to her room alone.


    Song Jingchen paused for a moment. Because Ji Luo had never shown it, he had almost forgotten that the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were good at divination. As the Valley Master, Ji Luo was naturally good at this.


    It should not be difficult to calculate a person¡¯s life and death through divination.


    Not long after, MO Yuan brought over a bowl of hot noodles.


    The fragrance assailed his nostrils. Only then did Song Jingchen feel hungry, but when he picked up his chopsticks, he lost his appetite.


    That girl was in the palace. It was unknown if she was hungry.


    In the Yuqian Palace, the commissioned officer repeated what Song Jingchen


    had asked in the prison.


    After he left, Eunuch Wu glanced at him carefully.


    ¡°If you have something to say, say it,¡± Xuanyuan Qi said. ¡°I¡¯m wondering if Madam Song has really been wronged.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi paused and said coldly, ¡°I only believe in evidence.¡±


    Eunuch Wu opened his mouth. Didn¡¯t this mean that if Lord Song couldn¡¯t produce evidence within five days, Madam Song would¡­


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him. Eunuch Wu understood and waved the other eunuchs away.


    ¡°Keep an eye on him for the next few days. Is there anyone serving me who¡¯s sending news to someone outside?¡± Xuanyuan Qi said in a low voice, ¡°If you discover him, there¡¯s no need to alert him. You just have to figure out where the news is being sent..¡±

 Chapter 774 - Chapter 774: Not Him (3)

    Chapter 774: Not Him (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Although he was puzzled, Eunuch Wu still bowed and agreed.


    ¡°How is it?¡± Xuanyuan Qi suddenly asked.


    Knowing that he wasn¡¯t asking him, Eunuch Wu obediently retreated to the side.


    A Demon Guard appeared in the hall. ¡°There¡¯s nothing unusual with the envoys of the Wu Kingdom.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s Consort Jing¡¯an?¡± he asked again.


    ¡°As soon as she returned to the residence, the princess consort personally led people to set up the mourning hall. Then, she stayed by His Highness¡¯s side and didn¡¯t go anywhere.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. ¡°Continue watching.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Eunuch Wu almost thought that he was hallucinating. It was understandable that His Majesty had asked someone to keep an eye on the Wu Kingdom¡¯s envoy, but why did he ask someone to keep an eye on Consort Jing¡¯an?


    ¡°Could it be that His Majesty suspects that His Highness¡¯s death is related to the princess consort?¡± he thought.


    God, he knew so much. He wouldn¡¯t be silenced, would he?


    However, he no longer had the money to buy his life!


    Xuanyuan Qi did not know what he was thinking. After giving the instructions, he leaned back in his dragon chair tiredly and stared at something with dark eyes.


    At this moment, the eunuch reported from outside, ¡°Your Majesty, the imperial kitchen has sent lunch over.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi closed his eyes.


    Eunuch Wu thought for a moment and mustered his courage to persuade him. ¡°Your Majesty, the culprit who killed His Highness hasn¡¯t been found yet. You can¡¯t fall first.¡±


    Seeing that he did not object, Eunuch Wu quickly walked out and brought in the eunuch who was delivering the food.


    Xuanyuan Qi did not like to be extravagant and wasteful. The people in the imperial kitchen knew this and tried their best to prepare simple meals for him.


    However, today, as soon as the food box was opened, Eunuch Wu was furious.


    There was a bowl of clear and bottomless porridge in the food box. There were at least a few grains of rice inside.


    There was also a plate of shriveled vegetables. Not to mention that the leaves of the vegetables were still yellow, there were only a few of them in total.


    The eunuch delivering the food was also dumbfounded. He hurriedly knelt down and begged for forgiveness. ¡°I¡¯ve been wronged. This¡­¡± The food he put into the food box was clearly not these.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked over and frowned. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    Thinking about how he had walked away for a while after filling the food box, the eunuch hurriedly said, ¡°This should be the wrong food box.¡±


    Eunuch Wu reprimanded sternly, ¡°The imperial kitchen has always only provided meals for Your Majesty and the Empress Dowager. You said that you took the wrong one. Are you saying that this was originally meant for the Empress Dowager?¡±


    The concubines in the harem either opened a small kitchen in their own palace or were provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. It was impossible for them to get the wrong one.


    Besides, even servants like them couldn¡¯t eat this food, let alone the concubines in the harem.


    ¡°But I¡­ I¡­¡± The attendant trembled and could not speak.


    The palace was a dangerous place. If something went wrong, they might lose their lives.


    Not to mention that he had bumped into Xuanyuan Qi when he was in a bad mood.


    Annoyed to hear his explanation, Xuanyuan Qi narrowed his eyes again.


    ¡°Drag him away.¡± He paused when he thought of something.


    ¡°You can leave,¡± he said.


    Eunuch Wu was surprised. ¡°When did His Majesty become so easy to talk to?¡± he thought.


    The eunuch kowtowed a few times. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡±


    Afraid that Xuanyuan Qi would retort at any time, he did not dare to delay any longer and quickly left with the food box.


    ¡°Wu Zhengde.¡± Xuanyuan Qi knocked on the imperial desk. ¡°Go and investigate what food the Internal Affairs Department prepared for that girl surnamed


    Shen.¡±


    Eunuch Wu was slightly stunned. He agreed and went to do it.


    As the head of the imperial palace, there were many people in the palace who wanted to curry favor with Eunuch Wu. Besides, this was not difficult to investigate.


    Not long after, Eunuch Wu returned with a complicated expression.


    ¡°Say it.¡±


    ¡°If I¡¯m not wrong, the person who changed Your Majesty¡¯s food box should be Madam Song.¡±


    Most people in the palace only curried favor with those in power. They knew why Madam Song was left in the palace, so¡­


    ¡°Heh.¡± Xuanyuan Qi sneered. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that there was anyone in the palace who dared to make decisions for me.¡¯


    If he did not discover it this time, what would they have done in the next five days?


    ¡°Go and find out whose idea it was. Find a reason to deal with them.


    Eunuch Wu understood. No matter what the reason was, the crime couldn¡¯t be because they mistreated Madam Song.


    He could not help but think to herself that those people were really brainless. No matter what, Madam Song was still His Highness¡¯s daughter. As long as she was not convicted, she was not someone they could bully.


    ¡°Not good, not good.¡± As soon as Eunuch Wu left, an eunuch ran in anxiously.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes suddenly turned cold.


    The eunuch knelt down in fear and said, ¡°Madam Song killed the crane that the princess gave to the Empress Dowager.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless..

 Chapter 775 - Chapter 775: Delivering Food (1)

    Chapter 775: Delivering Food (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Quick, catch her!¡±


    ¡°Go over there. Don¡¯t let her escape.¡±


    Near the pool, the imperial guards and eunuchs chased after a person with a


    crane in each of her hands.


    The scene was completely chaotic.


    ¡°Stop.¡± On the rockery, Shen Yijia panted as she looked at the people surrounding the rockery below. She raised her hands and threatened, ¡°If you take another step, I¡¯ll strangle them to death.¡±


    The crane seemed to sense danger and kept flapping its wings. Its mouth was wide open, but its neck was in someone else¡¯s hand and it could not make a


    sound.


    ¡°No, you can¡¯t.¡± A slightly plump eunuch was helped up. He walked to the front of the crowd and looked up, panting. ¡°Madam Song, you can¡¯t. The crane in your hand is a divine crane. You can¡¯t kill it. If you kill it, your lifespan will be shortened.¡±


    This person was Eunuch Yu, the eldest eunuch beside Empress Dowager Zhou. His status in the palace was not inferior to Wu Zhengde.


    Noticing that one of the cranes was bleeding, Eunuch Yu¡¯s heart trembled. He quickly grabbed one of his men to prevent him from fainting. Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What crane? Aren¡¯t there just two fat geese?¡± As she spoke, she waved her hand.


    These two cranes were unlucky. Shen Yijia was hiding in the rockery eating when they suddenly flew over and pecked at her, knocking over the food she had just taken two bites of.


    How dare they pluck fur from a tiger¡¯s head? Of course she caught them.


    If not for the fact that she had been discovered as soon as she hit them, these two would have been roasted over the fire by now.


    The fat on Eunuch Yu¡¯s face trembled with the crane that was swaying in the air. He revealed an expression that was uglier than crying. ¡°Oh my, that¡¯s not a goose. It¡¯s a crane, a divine bird.¡±


    The crane symbolized longevity. The older one was, the more they believed in these things.


    It was obvious how much Empress Dowager Zhou treasured these two divine birds. Not only did she give them names, but she also ordered him, the chief eunuch, to personally raise them and serve them.


    At this juncture, Empress Dowager Zhou had already suffered a blow because of Lord Jing¡¯An. If she knew that the cranes had been killed, the entire Imperial Hospital would probably move into the Longevity Palace.


    ¡°It¡¯s clearly a goose. Don¡¯t think that I won¡¯t recognize it just because its feet are longer.¡± Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Are you saying that I¡¯m ignorant?¡±


    ¡°Oh my, it¡¯s really¡­¡± Upon receiving the dangerous signal, Eunuch Yu quickly changed his words. ¡°If you say it¡¯s a goose, it¡¯s a goose. Can you let go first?¡±


    Crane thought, ¡°So we¡¯re called geese.¡±


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°No.¡±


    However¡­


    Eunuch Yu was delighted. He heard her continue, ¡°Since you said that they¡¯re geese, it shouldn¡¯t matter if I eat them, right? At most, I¡¯ll get my husband to compensate you with ten geese.¡±


    She looked like she didn¡¯t want to be grateful to him.


    Eunuch Yu was speechless.


    Unable to be soft, his face darkened. ¡°Madam Song, you have to think carefully. You¡¯re in a bad situation to begin with. Not only did you not restrain yourself, but you also acted recklessly and pestered me endlessly.¡±


    Now, she even wanted to kill the divine cranes raised by the empress dowager. If the empress dowager blamed her, could she really bear the consequences?


    ¡°I¡¯m not trying to scare you. When the time comes, not to mention you, even your husband will lose his head.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m so afraid.¡± Shen Yijia wanted to pat her chest, but she realized that her hands were full. She snorted. ¡°You said that my situation is bad, so what am I afraid of? Even if my husband can catch the real culprit five days later, I¡¯ll be the orphan of the scumbag. Is your Empress Dowager going to kill her granddaughter for two fat geese? Aren¡¯t you afraid that the scumbag will go to her dream to settle scores with her? If my husband can¡¯t catch the real culprit, that¡¯s even simpler. I¡¯m about to die. I only have one head. Why would I be afraid?¡±


    She did not think that they would let her beautiful husband off alone. Eunuch Yu thought, ¡°That seems to make sense!¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°So do you think salt baked is better or simmered in a griddle? Or stir-fried? Or roasted by fire?¡±


    Eunuch Yu was speechless.


    Shen Yijia thought for a while and nodded to herself. ¡°These two geese are so fat. I think I can try all of those.¡±


    Seeing that she was about to twist the crane¡¯s neck, Eunuch Yu panicked.


    ¡°Stop,¡± a voice snapped.


    Shen Yijia looked over and saw Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s phoenix carriage quickly approaching. In the blink of an eye, it arrived in front of her.


    As soon as the phoenix carriage stopped, Eunuch Yu went forward and helped Empress Dowager Zhou down.


    ¡°Let go of the crane.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou looked at Shen Yijia angrily..

 Chapter 776 - Chapter 776: Delivering Food (2)

    Chapter 776: Delivering Food (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes at her. ¡°Who are you? Why should I listen to you?¡± she thought.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was so angry that she fell back. She covered her head for a long time before recovering. She said coldly, ¡°Are you really not afraid of death?¡±


    ¡°Of course I¡¯m afraid. Why wouldn¡¯t I be? But didn¡¯t the emperor say that he would spare my life for five days? Why? Do the emperor¡¯s words not count?¡± She Imew he couldn¡¯t go back on his word.


    Was she really using the authority of the emperor? This was an eye-opener for everyone.


    Moreover, this was a death warrant.


    Empress Dowager Zhou took a deep breath. ¡°What do you want in return for releasing the cranes?¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and was about to say something when she heard Empress Dowager Zhou say coldly, ¡°Since you know what¡¯s good for you, you should know that I won¡¯t let you out of the palace.¡±


    The emperor had also said that she would be a hostage in the palace.


    She was using her logic to stop her.


    Shen Yijia spread her hands. ¡°Then I don¡¯t want anything else.¡±


    It was better to eat meat.


    It seemed like she wanted to do this the hard way. Empress Dowager Zhou was really angry this time. Her aura spread out. ¡°Someone, take her away!¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    Before she could finish, a group of people rushed over from not far away.


    With Xuanyuan Qi in the lead, Xuanyuan Ziming and another familiar man, Shen Yijia, followed.


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at Shen Yijia, who was standing on the rockery. When he noticed the cranes in her hands, his eyelids twitched.


    ¡°Mother, calm down first.¡± He went forward to support Empress Dowager Zhou.


    Xuanyuan Ziming and another man called out in unison, ¡°Grandmother.¡±


    At this moment, Shen Yijia remembered who was standing with Xuanyuan


    Ziming. The Second Prince, Xuanyuan Zizhen. His mother¡¯s family was the Cui


    family, one of the aristocratic families.


    Back at the border, it was this person who spoke up for them. Otherwise, she and Song Jingchen would have been arrested.


    ¡°Come down. It¡¯s dangerous up there,¡± Xuanyuan Qi said with a frown.


    Shen Yijia ignored him and ignored Xuanyuan Ziming, who was winking at her.


    She only looked at Xuanyuan Zizhen. ¡°Do you still remember me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zizhen was stunned. He looked around to confirm that she was talking to him and nodded. ¡°We were fated to meet at the border.¡±


    Even though he had guessed that Song Jingchen had helped Lord Jing¡¯an, and that the excuse given by the border guards was fake, he didn¡¯t expect this girl to be Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s daughter, his cousin.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you remember.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at Empress Dowager Zhou, who was glaring at her, and curled her lips. ¡°You helped me back then. I don¡¯t like to owe people favors. Tell me, do you want me to let go of these two big white geese too?¡±


    Actually, it was because she understood that she would definitely not be able to eat the goose meat today. In that case, she might as well return the favor and save her face. It was killing two birds with one stone. Everyone looked at Xuanyuan Zizhen in unison.


    Xuanyuan Zizhen was speechless.


    ¡°Of course,¡± he said.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia threw the cranes in Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s direction. Taking advantage of the chaos below, she jumped down from the rockery.


    By the time everyone recovered, she was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°Your Majesty, do you want us to capture her?¡± the commander of the imperial guards asked.


    Xuanyuan Qi reprimanded, ¡°If you could catch her, why would you have alarmed me and Mother?¡±


    The imperial guards thought, ¡°Previously, she was holding the crane in her hand. How would they dare to use their full strength?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was impatient and did not want to hear his explanation. He waved his hand and asked them to get lost.


    ¡°Emperor.¡± How could Empress Dowager Zhou not tell that he was deliberately protecting Shen Yijia?


    Xuanyuan Qi comforted her, ¡°Mother, please endure her for a few more days.


    If¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmph, I hope she won¡¯t disappoint you.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou snorted and shook off his hand. As the eunuch helped her onto the phoenix carriage, she left without looking back.


    The two immortal cranes that were no longer as arrogant as before were carried away.


    ¡°Your Majesty, look at this.¡± Eunuch Wu came out of nowhere with a food box containing spilled food.


    This was not the first time the two cranes had taken the initiative to peck at someone. Seeing this food box, Xuanyuan Qi understood.


    He sighed and wanted to give an order. He glanced at his two sons and asked, ¡°Why did you enter the palace together? Did you visit your imperial uncle?¡± The two brothers nodded.


    Xuanyuan Qi sighed. He thought of something and asked, ¡°Ah Zhen, when have you seen that girl?¡±


    Xuanyuan Zizhen honestly told him what had happened at the border.


    ¡°At that time, I didn¡¯t expect the other party to be Imperial Uncle¡¯s daughter. I just felt that since Imperial Uncle had given her the token, she wouldn¡¯t be a bad person, so I helped her..¡±

 Chapter 777 - Chapter 777: Delivering Food (3)

    Chapter 777: Delivering Food (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. They had never been to the Xuanyuan Kingdom before, but they were targeted. It was obvious that something was wrong.


    Also, since the token was given by his second brother, why would Song Jingchen send it back overnight?


    ¡°If you two don¡¯t have anything else to do, spend more time with your imperial grandmother.¡± He waved his hand.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    In the Jade Light Hall, when Xuanyuan Ziming arrived, he saw Shen Yijia chewing on a drumstick that she had stolen from somewhere.


    He was silent for a moment. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen anyone as big-hearted as you.¡±


    Even if she didn¡¯t mention the trouble she had just caused, her father had just died. This person was actually in the mood to eat meat.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said, ¡°What else? Do I have to cry every day and not eat or drink?¡±


    ¡°Forget it. If that¡¯s the case, Imperial Uncle¡¯s heart will probably ache.¡± Shen Yijia paused and stopped talking. She continued to eat.


    Knowing that he had said something wrong, Xuanyuan Ziming quickly took out the food box hidden behind him and said ingratiatingly, ¡°Look what I brought you.¡±


    As he opened the food box and placed the food inside, he said, ¡°I know these dog slaves in the palace the best. I¡¯ll go and knock them down later. I guarantee that they won¡¯t dare to neglect you again.¡±


    Soon, he filled the table, but¡­ ¡°Why is there no meat?¡±


    ¡°I thought you¡­¡±


    How could he have known that this person was so carefree?


    Shen Yijia was disgusted. ¡°Take it away. I¡¯m not eating it.¡±


    He even reminded her that the scumbag was dead during dinner. Wasn¡¯t he afraid that she would have indigestion?


    ¡°I¡¯ve already brought it over. Take a bite. I¡¯ll bring you meat next time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was trying his best to persuade her when Eunuch Wu suddenly walked in.


    ¡°The Third Prince is here. Greetings, Third Prince.¡±


    From his tone, it was obvious that he was very familiar with Xuanyuan Ziming.


    Xuanyuan Ziming saw the food box in his hand and asked strangely, ¡°Why is Eunuch Wu here?¡±


    Eunuch Wu glanced at Shen Yijia, who snorted and turned her head away.


    He smiled awkwardly and said, ¡°Your Majesty asked me to deliver some food to


    Madam Song.¡±


    The table had long been filled by Xuanyuan Ziming, so he did not know where to put the food box.


    Xuanyuan Ziming walked over to pick it up considerately. ¡°Thank you for making the trip, Eunuch Wu.¡±


    ¡°Of course, it¡¯s a small matter. Your Majesty is still waiting for me to go back and serve him. I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    ¡°Take care.¡±


    After watching Eunuch Wu leave, Xuanyuan Ziming said happily, ¡°It seems that Father still trusts you.¡±


    Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been biased over and over again.


    He was about to put down the food box to see what they had sent.


    The sound of footsteps came from outside the door again.


    This time, it was Eunuch Yu.


    He was also carrying a food box, but he was here to deliver it on behalf of Empress Dowager Zhou. He even brought a message for her.


    ¡°The empress dowager said that since His Majesty said that he would tolerate you for five days, she won¡¯t hold it against you today on account that you¡¯re of His Highness¡¯s bloodline. However, don¡¯t do anything to embarrass His


    Highness again.¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that she was too kind to not throw the food box in Eunuch Yu¡¯s face.


    Eunuch Yu had seen how powerful Shen Yijia was. After saying that, he did not dare to stay any longer and hurriedly bade farewell.


    Xuanyuan Ziming stood there awkwardly. There was a food box in his left hand and a food box in his right.


    He was indeed naive to say that he would protect her. With his imperial uncle¡¯s daughter¡¯s status, why would she need him to protect her?


    When her imperial uncle was still alive, her imperial grandmother and father treated Xuanyuan Ye well, disregarding the fact that Xuanyuan Ye was born to the Yu family.


    It was naturally the same for Shen Yijia.


    Moreover, now that Imperial Uncle had left, as long as it was confirmed that Imperial Uncle was not harmed by this girl, this girl would definitely be a powerful figure in the future.


    Xuanyuan Ziming felt that his relationship with Shen Yijia was too prescient.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s up to you to befriend someone.¡±


    ¡°Which one do you want to eat?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming neatly put away the food he had brought and leaned over to ask.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Is the old woman trying to poison me?¡±


    Eunuch Yu remembered that he still had something to say.


    Forget it. It wasn¡¯t anything important.


    The corners of Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s mouth twitched, so he opened both food boxes.


    ¡®Eh¡­¡¯


    Shen Yijia looked over. The food box Eunuch Wu sent was actually filled with a whole roasted goose.


    ¡°Father, are you really that magnanimous?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said gloomily.


    As far as he knew, his father had already instructed everyone in the palace to refrain from eating meat for the next seven days.


    He went to open another food box. At first glance, it was another piece of goose meat. On closer inspection, he realized that it was vegetarian goose meat made of bean skin.


    Shen Yijia swallowed and looked at the vegetarian goose meat in disdain. She picked it up and ate it.


    She despised it not only because it was vegetarian, but also because of Empress Dowager Zhou.


    Empress Dowager Zhou treated him very well. Xuanyuan Ziming felt that he should explain it for her.


    ¡°Actually, Grandmother has a sharp tongue but a soft heart. She cares about my father and Imperial Uncle the most. Now that something has suddenly happened to Imperial Uncle and you¡¯ve become a suspect, she inevitably¡­¡±


    ¡°She still hates my mother.¡±


    Don¡¯t think she didn¡¯t notice that the old woman wanted to eat her up the moment she saw her.


    ¡°That¡¯s because Imperial Uncle¡­¡±


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t she know why my mother and the scumbag separated? My mother was clearly the one who was hurt. What right does she have to blame my mother for not letting her see her son?


    The more Shen Yijia spoke, the angrier she became. She placed the roast goose on the table, picked up the other two food boxes, and threw them at Xuanyuan


    Ziming, chasing him away.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    He had lost his potential supporter!

 Chapter 778 - Chapter 778: One of Them

    Chapter 778: One of Them


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Unable to enter the Yaoguang Hall, Xuanyuan Ziming decided to take a detour to save the country and report Shen Yijia¡¯s situation to Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Mother, what does this mean?¡±


    In the study, Song Jingchen looked at the three copper coins on the table and asked.


    Ji Luo lowered her eyes and picked up the copper coins one by one. ¡°It¡¯s a divination of great misfortune. The Spring Tree is defeated, and life or death is uncertain. ¡±


    ¡°Is there still a chance of survival?¡± Song Jingchen asked uncertainly.


    Even though he had read a lot of books, he knew nothing about divination. He could only understand it literally.


    To be precise, he was still alive and could fall at any moment. However, Ji Luo didn¡¯t say anything. He nodded and said, ¡°At least it means that he¡¯s still alive.¡±


    ¡°What?! My imperial uncle is still alive?¡±


    Bang! The study door opened and Xuanyuan Ziming looked at the three people inside excitedly.


    Song Jingchen glanced coldly at Thirty Thousand, who ran in at a loss.


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s face turned pale and he knelt on one knee. ¡°I failed in my duty. Master, please punish me.¡±


    ¡°Hey, don¡¯t blame him. I saw that there was no one in the courtyard, so I came over myself. I didn¡¯t mean to eavesdrop, so I pushed the door open and accidentally heard something.¡±


    There was really only the word ¡°still alive¡±.


    ¡°Where did you go just now?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked Thirty Thousand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll find an opportunity to explain this for you. You can¡¯t blame me if you get punished in the future.¡± he thought.


    Thirty Thousand glanced at Song Jingchen and lowered his head in silence.


    ¡°I¡¯ll remember what happened today. When I get back, I¡¯ll go and look for One Dot to receive my punishment.¡± The Mahjong Brothers had followed him for a long time, so Song Jingchen rarely punished them, but the rules had long been set. Small fights aside, Thirty Thousand had made a start.


    ¡°Go out and close the door.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The study door closed. Looking at MO Yuan walking towards him, Xuanyuan Ziming was suddenly no longer worried about Thirty Thousand. He shrank back and retreated until his back was against the door. ¡°Don¡¯t attack. We¡¯re on the same side.¡±


    MO Yuan took out a porcelain bottle expressionlessly and poured out a pill. She grabbed Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s chin and pretended to feed him.


    At that critical moment, an idea flashed across Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s mind. He exclaimed, ¡°Jiang Tao! Jiang Tao!¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. ¡°MO Yuan.¡±


    MO Yuan understood and let go of Xuanyuan Ziming. She placed the pill back and silently walked back behind Ji Luo, as if nothing had happened.


    If not for the pain in his chin, Xuanyuan Ziming would have thought so too. He rubbed his cheeks and muttered with a long face, ¡°I already said that we¡¯re on the same side.¡±


    However, in an instant, he became excited again. ¡°Did I hear wrongly just now? Is my imperial uncle really still alive?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. I¡¯ve been to the prince¡¯s residence. Imperial Uncle is lying there. He doesn¡¯t look like¡­¡±


    ¡°How do you know about Jiang Tao?¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him and asked bluntly.


    Xuanyuan Ziming choked. When he looked up, he met the gazes of the three people opposite him. They were clearly saying that if he couldn¡¯t explain it well, they would force him to eat unknown pills.


    He did not dare to hide it at the moment and told him about Xuanyuan Ce asking him to investigate Jiang Tao.


    ¡°You don¡¯t know. Although Jiang Tao only has one butler, most of the Yu family¡¯s power has fallen into his hands.¡± Xuanyuan Ce clicked his tongue. ¡°Do you know why? Because of Imperial¡­¡±


    He glanced at Ji Luo and quickly corrected himself. ¡°Because of Madam Yu.¡±


    The descendants of aristocratic families were no longer valued by the emperor, but there was a saying that a starving camel is still bigger than a horse. They still held the wealth accumulated by many predecessors.


    As a result of their unequal net worth and status, anyone could go up and bite them. Naturally, they would not be willing. If they were unwilling, they would have to find a backer.


    Who was more suitable to be their backer than Madam Yu, who had left her family and was now the princess consort?


    However, they never expected that Madam Yu was no longer the Seventh Miss of the Yu family who could be given away like goods.


    She and Jiang Tao cooperated with each other. After more than ten years, they had long taken over most of the Yu family¡¯s businesses. However, the Yu family was still in the dark about this.


    Not to mention the Yu family, even Xuanyuan Ziming was shocked when he found out about this. It was because Madam Yu gave him the impression that she was pure-hearted.


    To be precise, she didn¡¯t have much of a presence.


    ¡°Chu Feng and I spent a lot of effort to find out about this. Apart from this, we also found out that three months ago, a caravan under Jiang Tao¡¯s name went to the border.¡±


    Worried that something would happen to that caravan, Chu Feng led his men out of Phoenix City overnight.


    At this point, Xuanyuan Ziming sighed. ¡°That brat probably still doesn¡¯t know that something has happened to Imperial Uncle.¡±


    ¡°Are your men still monitoring Jiang Tao?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    When Xuanyuan Ce left the day of the accident, he said that he would send someone to guard Jiang Tao and set up an ambush. He probably did not have time to arrange it.


    ¡°Of course. Before I came here, my men sent me a message that someone had sent a letter to Jiang Tao. I think I¡¯ll be able to gain something this time.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming glanced at Song Jingchen and sighed heavily.


    ¡°Unfortunately, it¡¯s useless even if I find out anything. Imperial Uncle is no longer around.¡±


    He kept repeating that something had happened to His Highness. Song


    Jingchen could tell that he was stupid. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°His


    Highness might not be dead.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Then the one in the lord¡¯s residence¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t know about the lord¡¯s residence, but the person who was attacked in the courtyard and sent to the palace definitely wasn¡¯t His Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce must be seriously injured now. He was not sure if Madam Yu had replaced the real Xuanyuan Ce with a corpse.


    ¡°Haven¡¯t you seen it?¡± He looked at Xuanyuan Ziming.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, he¡¯s all stiff.¡± Since it wasn¡¯t his imperial uncle, Xuanyuan Ziming spoke casually. Halfway through his sentence, he circled Song Jingchen and shook his head. ¡°The one I saw must be fake. Then where¡¯s the real imperial uncle? No, you mean to say that it was Madam Yu who harmed my imperial uncle?¡±


    His eyes widened in horror.


    Song Jingchen looked at him coldly. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you curious why I know that His Highness is still alive?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming froze. ¡°Oh. That¡¯s right. Why?¡±


    He did not ask because he had gotten someone to investigate after Ji Luo appeared in Phoenix City this time. He accidentally found out about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. He had heard rumors about the Valley of Heavenly Secrets in the past. With the two of them combined, there was nothing he could not figure out.


    Everyone always acted like they were the smartest, but Xuanyuan Ziming preferred to act as if he were stupid.


    However, he accidentally exposed himself.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to put on an act with him, so he said directly, ¡°Send more people to monitor Jiang Tao. If anyone attacks him, you have to save him.


    No, your men are no match for the other party.¡± He looked at Ji Luo.


    Ji Luo nodded and called out, ¡°You Er.¡±


    ¡°Who are you looking down on?¡±


    It turned out that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t the one who looked down on him..

 Chapter 779 - Chapter 779: News

    Chapter 779: News


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Who¡¯s this?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was shocked to see the man covered in blood being carried on You Er¡¯s shoulder.


    Without waiting for You Er to introduce him, Song Jingchen said, ¡°Jiang Tao.¡±


    Actually, he had never seen Jiang Tao before, but You Er had been sent to monitor Jiang Tao. Apart from Jiang Tao, who else could he have brought back? Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his nose. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    You Er placed Jiang Tao on a chair. He was a middle-aged man with good facial features. He ignored the blood on his body. Looking at his clothes, it was not an exaggeration to say that he was the head of a wealthy family. He did not look like a servant at all.


    ¡°When I went over, they were already fighting,¡± You Er explained and disappeared with a whoosh.


    Xuanyuan Ziming thought to himself, ¡°What you¡¯re saying is that if you didn¡¯t go, Jiang Tao would already be dead.¡± He glanced at Jiang Tao¡¯s injuries.


    Alright, you¡¯re the best.


    Jiang Tao had many knife wounds on his body, and the most serious was the wound on his chest. MO Yuan walked forward to check on him. After a while, she said, ¡°There¡¯s poison on his wound. The poison entered his heart. I can¡¯t save him.¡±


    MO Yuan¡¯s medical skills were taught by Ji Luo. If she said that she couldn¡¯t save him, it was no different from saying that he couldn¡¯t be saved.


    The atmosphere in the study froze for a moment.


    If they used spiritual liquid..


    Song Jingchen quickly suppressed this thought. If he remembered correctly,


    Jiajia only had one drop of spiritual liquid left. Since he guessed that Lord Jing¡¯an might be seriously injured, he had to keep that drop of spiritual liquid for emergencies.


    Actually, there were originally two drops saved, but one was wasted on the fake


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce¡±.


    ¡°Send him to the woodshed first,¡± Ji Luo suddenly said. Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Mother?¡±


    Ji Luo shook his head and said, ¡°I have a way to save him.¡±


    However, Song Jingchen understood. She was prepared to use the drop of spiritual liquid that Jiajia had given her for her scars.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything else.


    Thirty Thousand carried Jiang Tao out of the study. MO Yuan and Ji Luo followed. Xuanyuan Ziming wanted to follow, but Song Jingchen glanced at him. He silently retracted his foot that had already stepped out of the threshold and sat back in his chair.


    ¡°Hehe, Brother Song, no, I should call you Brother-in-law now. Brother-in-law, will we be able to find Imperial Uncle when Jiang Tao wakes up?¡± As he spoke, he even poured Song Jingchen a cup of tea.


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    He was telling the truth. Jiang Tao and Madam Yu did not have an ordinary superior-subordinate relationship. They also had a daughter. For the sake of his daughter, Jiang Tao might not say anything.


    However, he did not need to say anything in the first place.


    Xuanyuan Ziming wanted to say something else, but Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Did you see Jiajia when you entered the palace?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming slapped his forehead. He was here for this matter, but he forgot about it because of the news that his uncle was still alive.


    ¡°Yes, she¡¯s fine. She almost angered my grandmother to death.¡±


    He immediately told him everything about Shen Yijia¡¯s achievements in the palace. In the end, he said enviously, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about her being bullied at all. It¡¯s more like she¡¯s bullying others. You don¡¯t know that my father sent her.¡±


    At this point, he paused and his expression changed a few times. He said uncertainly, ¡°Do you think there¡¯s a possibility that my father actually recognized that the corpse was fake?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused.


    ¡°What I mean is.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming swallowed. ¡°My father actually knows that it¡¯s fake, but he also guessed that something happened to my uncle. It¡¯s very likely that he¡¯s still in the other party¡¯s hands.¡±


    In order not to alert the enemy, he could only follow the other party¡¯s intentions and leave Jiajia in the palace as a suspect. He also set a five-day agreement with him.


    ¡°This time is not for you, but for himself.¡±


    It was very simple. If he couldn¡¯t find him in five days, he would really have to ¡°kill¡± Jiajia.


    After all, facing the ¡°murderer¡± Shen Yijia, who had killed his brother, if he held back again and again, the other party would definitely sense it. At that time, it would be difficult to investigate again.


    In the Yuqian Palace, Xuanyuan Qi looked at the jade ring in his hand and fell into deep thought.


    There were a total of two jade thumb rings. They were passed down from the late emperor and were in the hands of the two brothers.


    Due to his carelessness, he had accidentally broken a hole in his ring. Because the hole was on the inner surface of the ring and it was only a small one, it could not be discovered from the outside. However, when he wore it on his hand, there would be obvious discomfort. Over time, it would even leave a callus on his fingers.


    He placed the jade ring in front of his eyes. There were no flaws in the ring.


    This was not his. His had long been exchanged by Xuanyuan Ce.


    He said, ¡°Brother is the emperor. You should only have the best things. How can you wear this? I¡¯ll exchange it with you.¡±


    This exchange lasted for nearly twenty years. The jade thumb ring had long left a deep mark on the brothers¡¯ hands.


    However, there was an imperceptible callus on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Your Majesty?¡± Eunuch Wu called out softly.


    Xuanyuan Qi came back to his senses and put the jade ring back on his thumb. ¡°wnat IS It(¡±


    Eunuch Wu repeated what he had just said. ¡°Didn¡¯t you ask me to keep an eye on the people below? There¡¯s news.¡±


    There were countless eunuchs and palace maids working in the imperial palace alone. Eunuch Wu naturally did not have to keep an eye on them himself. Besides, he could not keep an eye on them.


    Xuanyuan Qi perked up. ¡°Let them in.¡±


    Eunuch Wu acknowledged and left. When he returned, a young eunuch was behind him.


    The young eunuch usually did not even have the chance to see the emperor up close, let alone be stared at by the emperor. He was so frightened that he knelt down. ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned unhappily.


    Eunuch Wu reprimanded in a low voice, ¡°Look at you. Your Majesty is such a benevolent master. How can he eat you up? Hurry up and tell His Majesty what you saw and heard.¡±


    The young eunuch kowtowed in fear and trepidation. ¡°Yes, it¡¯s Little Yuan.¡±


    Thinking that the emperor definitely did not know who Xiao Yuanzi was, he explained, ¡°Xiao Yuanzi is Eunuch Xing¡¯s godson and works in the Ministry of Internal Affairs. ¡±


    As soon as he mentioned Eunuch Xing, Eunuch Wu and Xuanyuan Qi were stunned.


    There were so many eunuchs in the palace that Xuanyuan Ce could not remember many of them. However, Eunuch Xing was different. He was originally the young master of an official family. During the years when the aristocratic families controlled the government, because Lord Xing was upright and unwilling to associate with the aristocratic families, he was imprisoned by the aristocratic families because he had contradicted them many times.


    In order to warn the others, the entire Xing family died tragically, and the young master of the Xing family was thrown into the palace to be a eunuch.


    After Xuanyuan Qi took power, he overturned the case for the Xing family. He originally wanted to release him from the palace, but he was unwilling to leave, so Xuanyuan Qi kept him by his side.


    Although it was not as good as Eunuch Wu, who had been by his side since he was young, it was considered an important role.


    Noticing Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s ugly expression, Eunuch Wu wiped his sweat and urged, ¡°Why are you in a daze? Hurry up and tell me what you heard..¡±

 Chapter 780 - Chapter 780: Creating Trouble

    Chapter 780: Creating Trouble


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°He asked me to keep an eye on the people in our palace. Because Little Yuanzi is Eunuch Xing¡¯s godson, he often comes over to walk around and is familiar with everyone. Today, he came over again, so I was careful.¡±


    Although he was timid, there were no fools in the palace. Look at his words. He was taking credit for everything.


    However, he did not know that he had used this little trick at the wrong time.


    Xuanyuan Qi said impatiently, ¡°Get to the point.¡±


    The young eunuch cowered and omitted what he had prepared to say. He hurriedly said, ¡°I heard the eunuch in charge of the courtyard ask Little


    Yuanzi¡­¡±


    ¡°Does His Majesty have any doubts?¡±


    Xiao Yuanzi replied, ¡°No, Eunuch Qian, please tell that person not to worry.¡±


    Seeing that he was so sure, Eunuch Qian asked again, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. I was watching when His Majesty changed His Highness¡¯ clothes. He talked about the wounds on his body. The sadness on his face doesn¡¯t seem to be fake.¡± Xiao Yuanzi was not working in Yuqian Palace, but he seemed to have seen it with his own eyes.


    Eunuch Qian clearly knew the reason. He immediately heaved a sigh of relief and said, ¡°But isn¡¯t His Majesty¡¯s attitude towards the Shen family a little wrong?


    ¡°That¡¯s because she¡¯s of His Highness¡¯s bloodline. She¡¯ll definitely be given more preferential treatment.¡±


    With that, the young eunuch carefully raised his eyes and observed Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s expression. ¡°That¡¯s all I heard. Then, Eunuch Qian told him not to look for him for the next few days and not to come to the Yuqian Palace.¡±


    Eunuch Wu looked at Xuanyuan Qi in fear. He had a bold guess, but he didn¡¯t dare to say it.


    ¡°What happened today will rot in your stomach. If word gets out..


    The young eunuch hurriedly said, ¡°I understand. I didn¡¯t go anywhere tonight. I¡¯ve been sleeping.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi nodded. ¡°You may leave.¡±


    By the time they left, Eunuch Wu had yet to recover from his shock.


    ¡°Wu Zhengde.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s voice sounded, and Eunuch Wu shuddered. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ll get someone to keep an eye on the lateral court.¡±


    Most of the servants in the lateral court were sinners, and the work they usually did was also the dirtiest and most tiring.


    For example, they were in charge of clearing out the latrines in the palace every day.


    At five o¡¯clock, the palace door opened and they sent out all the feces.


    Usually, everyone did their best to stay far away from the cart that carried all that human waste. It was too easy for them to spread any news.


    ¡°While you¡¯re at it, check on that Qian fellow,¡± he said.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Eunuch Wu glanced at Xuanyuan Qi. ¡°Then Eunuch Xing¡­¡±


    For Xiao Yuanzi to explain what happened that day so clearly, someone must have explained it to him.


    Coincidentally, Eunuch Xing was also present when he changed His Highness¡¯s clothes.


    Xuanyuan Qi rubbed the space between his eyebrows. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about him for now. The most important thing now is to find the person behind them.¡±


    If not for this incident, Xuanyuan Qi would never have thought that there would be so many holes around him.


    ¡°Yes. I understand.¡±


    He wanted to say something but hesitated. Xuanyuan Qi saw this, but he didn¡¯t say anything.


    ¡®Got it. Don¡¯t ask what you shouldn¡¯t ask.¡± he thought.


    Although he was still very curious, Eunuch Wu had been in the palace for so long that he knew that curiosity killed the cat.


    He silently retreated. When he returned after arranging the matters Xuanyuan Qi had instructed, he saw that he was still sitting there reading the memorial. He went forward and advised, ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s getting late. Your health is more important. It¡¯s time to rest.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi turned and nodded. He thought of something and said, ¡°Let¡¯s stop court sessions tomorrow.¡±


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    It was a dreamless night. When Shen Yijia woke up, it was already past noon. Because of her magnificent feat yesterday, the people of the Jade Light Hall did not dare to underestimate her.


    Now, every time she looked over, the people she saw would be frightened to death.


    Shen Yijia snorted and swaggered out of the Jade Light Hall without looking at the vegetarian food on the table.


    ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. She went out again. Should we report it to the higher-ups?¡± the little palace maid said with a trembling voice.


    Another palace maid shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No. If she finds out that we went to complain, won¡¯t she settle scores with us when she comes back? Besides, the higher-ups didn¡¯t say that they wouldn¡¯t let her out of this palace.¡±


    This was someone who dared to argue with the Empress Dowager and escape unscathed. How stupid did they have to be to dare to go against her?


    ¡°Why isn¡¯t she worried at all?¡±


    ¡°Who knows? Perhaps she thinks that she¡¯s going to die anyway and is fearless? Isn¡¯t there a saying that one has to be a full ghost even if they die? She probably has this mentality.¡± She wanted to be reckless for a few days before she died.


    ¡°It¡¯s possible.¡±


    The fearless Shen Yijia entered the imperial kitchen with ease. However, after looking around, she did not see any meat or fish in the huge imperial kitchen.


    She sighed and walked to the courtyard to pick up a fat chef who was resting on a rattan chair.


    It was already past lunchtime. The imperial kitchen staff had all gone down to rest, leaving only one person to guard the place.


    ¡°Who is it?¡± The fat chef shuddered. When he saw that it was a girl he had never seen before, he said angrily, ¡°How dare you? Is this a place where people can just come and go?¡±


    As he spoke, he tried to break free from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, but it did not move for a long time.


    ¡°Let go.¡±


    Shen Yijia let go obediently.


    Bang! The fat chef fell back into the rattan chair. The rattan chair fell back again due to inertia.


    Before the fat chef could react, he performed a somersault on the spot.


    He was stunned for a moment. He staggered to his feet and straightened his hat. He pointed at Shen Yijia with a red face and said, ¡°Where did this wild girl come from?¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s the meat?¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him.


    ¡°Meat? What meat? Oh, I understand. You¡¯re simply bold. Your Majesty ordered a vegetarian diet for seven days. How dare you.¡±


    ¡°Chef Zhu, the Empress Dowager didn¡¯t eat today. Hurry up and think of a way to¡­¡± Eunuch Yu suddenly walked in. When he saw the situation in the courtyard, he was stunned. ¡°Madam Song!¡±


    ¡°Mrs. Song?¡± she thought.


    Chef Zhu looked at Shen Yijia and then at Eunuch Yu. ¡°Is it that Madam Song?¡±


    Eunuch Yu thought to himself, ¡°Apart from that Madam Song, who else is there in the palace?¡±


    Chef Zhu silently retracted his index finger that was still pointing at Shen Yijia.


    ¡°I can¡¯t afford to offend her!¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia blinked. The old woman didn¡¯t eat? She must be very hungry, right?


    In the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye followed a nanny into the pavilion on the west side of the main hall.


    The window of the attic was open. Empress Dowager Zhou was lying on a soft couch in front of the window with her eyes closed.


    She walked up to Empress Dowager Zhou and called out softly, ¡°Grandmother.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou opened her eyes and looked at her. ¡°Why did Ye¡¯er enter the palace?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was wearing mourning clothes. Perhaps because she had cried too much, her eyes were a little red and swollen, and she did not wear any extra pearl hairpins.


    She was no longer as ostentatious as she usually was. Instead, she looked even more pitiful.


    If it were anyone else, they would naturally not be able to appear in front of the empress dowager in this outfit. However, it was different if it was Xuanyuan


    ¡°I heard that Grandmother hasn¡¯t eaten for two days. I¡¯m worried about


    Grandmother¡¯s health.¡± As she spoke, tears welled up in her eyes.¡± Grandmother, I know you feel terrible, but you have to take care of your body. I don¡¯t have a father anymore. I can¡¯t live without Grandmother.¡±


    Towards the end, she was sobbing uncontrollably.


    Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s tears were drawn out by her.


    For a moment, the two hugged each other and cried.


    Because Empress Dowager Zhou did not let them tell the emperor, the nanny took the initiative to run to the lord¡¯s residence to look for the young princess to enter the palace to persuade her.


    When Eunuch Yu returned and saw this scene, he asked curiously, ¡®Why did the princess enter the palace?¡±


    After asking, she noticed the nanny¡¯s expression. What else did he not understand? He pointed at her angrily and said, ¡°Nanny Gao, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Nanny Gao also regretted it. If she had known earlier, she would have gone to look for the Third Prince.


    The grandmother and granddaughter were crying. A gust of wind blew in with a fragrance.


    This fragrance? Why did it smell so much like meat?


    The two of them paused and looked out the window at the same time..

 Chapter 781 - Chapter 781: Good Thoughts

    Chapter 781: Good Thoughts


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Empress Dowager Zhou liked the cold and was afraid of the heat. For this reason, not only did Xuanyuan Qi get someone to plant flowers and trees around the Longevity Palace, but he also dug a pool and built a water pavilion in the west. Every summer, the Longevity Palace was definitely the coolest place in the entire Xuanyuan Palace.


    Outside the window of the west pavilion was the pool, where the two cranes lived in the Longevity Palace.


    Zhou Jing¡¯s hair stood on end, and the temperature of her body dropped. She had no other thoughts.


    Zhu Dazhi, who was Chef Zhu, stood in front of the grill and flipped the meat skewers on it. From time to time, he would apply some seasoning to the meat skewers.


    Shen Yijia was holding an extra-large cattail leaf fan in her hand. Her small hand kept waving it around, making it look like she was fanning the fire. However, looking at the direction she was waving it in, it seemed like she was deliberately fanning the fragrance towards the attic.


    ¡°Madam Song, the Empress Dowager is looking over. Why don¡¯t we run?¡± Zhu Dazhi¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat. It was unknown if he was sweating from the heat of the charcoal fire or because he was frightened.


    Looking at his trembling legs, it should be because of the latter.


    ¡°What are you afraid of? If the old woman blames you, just say that I forced you to come.¡± Shen Yijia patted her chest and said.


    She was a loyal person. As long as this fat chef obediently roasted meat for her to eat, she would not let anything happen to him.


    Zhu Dazhi thought to himself, ¡°You brought me here with a knife to my neck.¡±


    Zhu Dazhi was on the brink of tears. ¡°Of course I¡¯m afraid. You¡¯re about to die, so you¡¯re naturally fearless¡­ But I still want to live a long life.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°You¡¯re the one who¡¯s going to die. Your ancestors are going to die.¡±


    ¡°Alright, stop crying,¡± Shen Yijia said in disdain. ¡°If you cry on the roasted meat, I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    She shook her fist threateningly.


    Thinking of what had happened to the solid wooden vegetable board in the imperial kitchen, Zhu Dazhi shrank his non-existent neck and retracted his tears.


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia waved her fan even more vigorously. Hmph, this old woman was craving it.


    The fragrance of meat filled her nostrils. She swallowed. ¡°Can we eat now? I¡¯m so hungry.¡±


    Zhu Dazhi carefully glanced at the dark-faced empress dowager and handed over two skewers of roasted three-layer meat with trembling hands.


    Shen Yijia took it with her free hand and ate the two skewers of meat.


    She said in a muffled voice, ¡°It¡¯s alright, but it¡¯s a little worse than what my husband roasted.¡±


    Zhu Dazhi was unhappy. As an imperial chef, he could not compare to her husband. He blurted out, ¡°What¡¯s missing?¡±


    Shen Yijia chuckled. ¡°You lack my husband¡¯s love for me.¡±


    Zhu Dazhi was speechless.


    In the pavilion, Empress Dowager Zhou was so angry that her entire body was trembling. ¡°Outrageous. Not only are they chatting happily during the mourning period, but they¡¯re also eating meat instead of vegetarian food. This is simply outrageous.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou was old and had been hungry for two days. She was already in low spirits. Now that she was angry, she almost had a stroke.


    ¡°Grandmother, calm down first.¡± Xuanyuan Ye quickly helped her back to the soft couch. ¡°Eunuch Yu, quickly bring people to capture that wretched girl.¡±


    ¡°Your Highness, bad news.¡± A green-robed palace maid walked in with small steps and said while panting, ¡°Someone tied up everyone in our palace and threw them in the courtyard.¡±


    She had just been sent out to do something. As soon as she returned, she saw a courtyard full of people. She thought that a thief had entered the Longevity Palace.


    The corners of Eunuch Yu¡¯s mouth twitched. Apart from that little fiend, who else could it be?


    When the fragrance floated over, he felt that something was wrong. At this moment, he felt a headache coming on.;


    He waved his hand and asked the green-robed palace maid to leave. He thought to himself, ¡°I¡¯ll find someone to chase her away now.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Empress Dowager Zhou took a deep breath and waved her hand tiredly. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    ¡°Grandmother!¡± Xuanyuan Ye was shocked and found it unbelievable.


    There was clearly evidence that it was that little b*tch who harmed Father, but the emperor¡¯s uncle still wanted her to stay for five days.


    That was fine. In any case, she would still die once the five days were up. Why was it that even her grandmother¡­


    Empress Dowager Zhou patted her hand and said coldly, ¡°She just wants to anger me to death so that she can avenge her mother. I won¡¯t fall for this.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was furious. ¡°But she¡¯s too much. If we don¡¯t teach her a lesson, she¡¯ll only become more and more unscrupulous.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou closed her eyes again. ¡°There are only three days left anyway. I can tolerate it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye wanted to say more, but Eunuch Yu quickly went forward and whispered, ¡°Princess, not only has the Empress Dowager not eaten for the past two days, but she hasn¡¯t even slept much. Let her rest well.¡±


    He wanted to remind Xuanyuan Ye that she had entered the palace to persuade Empress Dowager Zhou, not to stir up trouble. The most important thing now was to think about how to let Empress Dowager Zhou eat something.


    However, Xuanyuan Ye was already dizzy with anger. Not only could she not understand his painstaking efforts, but she also felt that everyone in the palace was biased towards Shen Yijia.


    As soon as this thought appeared, she couldn¡¯t shake it off.


    Xuanyuan Ye suddenly thought of the dream she had in Great Xia.


    In her dream, the girl her father brought back was doted on by everyone, but she and her mother were abandoned in a corner of the lord¡¯s residence.


    Everyone was accusing her of occupying the magpie¡¯s nest.


    The difference was that the girl¡¯s face in the dream had changed from Ji Yunxi to Shen Yijia.


    A chill spread from her heart to her limbs and bones. Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face instantly lost its color and turned pale.


    She clenched her trembling fingers and closed her eyes. ¡°Rest well,


    Grandmother. I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    With that, without waiting for Empress Dowager Zhou to speak, she left the West Pavilion.


    Eunuch Yu was speechless.


    Empress Dowager Zhou opened her eyes and sighed. She wanted to say something, but an even more domineering fragrance wafted in again. She swallowed the saliva in her mouth and said in a low voice, ¡°Close the window!¡±


    Eunuch Zhu and Nanny Gao looked at each other and quickly went up to close all the windows in the attic.


    The window was closed tightly, but the fragrance seemed to have taken root in Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s heart. It sprouted and did not dissipate for a long time.


    There was a sudden pain in her upper left abdomen. It was the stomach in her five internal organs. Empress Dowager Zhou could not help but turn sideways.


    Nanny Gao probed, ¡°Your Highness, just now, Eunuch Zhu brought back bird¡¯s nest porridge from the imperial kitchen. Even if you feel uncomfortable, you should eat a few bites.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou glanced at her. ¡°Then bring it over.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty will blame us if he finds out that you¡¯ve ruined your body like this. Even His Highness won¡¯t be willing to¡­¡±


    When she realized what Empress Dowager Zhou had said, Nanny Gao suddenly looked up.


    Eunuch Yu tugged at her sleeve and hurriedly agreed. He moved the small table over and served Empress Dowager Zhou.


    It was not that Empress Dowager Zhou did not want to eat, but she felt terrible and could not eat. Now that she had an appetite, she waved her hand to dismiss Eunuch Yu and picked up the porridge bowl.


    Unknowingly, she had finished a bowl of porridge.


    A bowl of porridge was not much, but it almost made Eunuch Yu cry with joy. The empress dowager¡¯s life was not just hers, but the heads of all the servants in the Longevity Palace.


    He even suspected that the little fiend had heard him say that the empress dowager didn¡¯t eat and deliberately used this method to coax her to eat.


    If that was the case, that little fiend had put in a lot of effort.


    Fortunately, Shen Yijia did not know what he was thinking. Otherwise, she would have rolled her eyes in anger.


    However, she was no longer interested in paying attention to the commotion in the attic.


    She stuffed the meat skewers in Zhu Dazhi¡¯s hand and pushed him behind her. She looked at Xuanyuan Ye, who was walking towards her aggressively with a group of eunuchs.


    She raised her eyebrows. She couldn¡¯t hit or scold the old one.. Wasn¡¯t the younger one much more fun than the old one?

 Chapter 782 - Chapter 782: Dealing With Xuanyuan Ye

    Chapter 782: Dealing With Xuanyuan Ye


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Capture her,¡± Xuanyuan Ye ordered. She could not be bothered to say anything else.


    More than ten eunuchs immediately rushed towards the waterside pavilion.


    Zhu Dazhi was so frightened that he trembled. He almost lost his grip on the meat skewer.


    Looking at the little girl who stepped in front of him, he forgot why he had fallen into such a dangerous situation. He was so touched that he almost cried.


    ¡°Hold it steady, or I¡¯ll throw you down to feed the fat goose.¡± With a threat, Shen Yijia went up to greet the attackers.


    Zhu Dazhi thought to himself, ¡°What¡¯s there to be touched about? Go to hell.¡¯


    Even the imperial guards in the palace could not defeat Shen Yijia, let alone these eunuchs. They were not even enough for her to move her fingers.


    Plops sounded one after another. In the blink of an eye, Shen Yijia was alone in the long corridor.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes turned red with anger. She cursed at the trash and pulled out the whip at her waist to rush forward.


    ¡°Princess,¡± Bai Zhi exclaimed. It was too late to stop her.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t learn.¡± Shen Yijia sneered and quickly turned her body to avoid the incoming whip.


    The tip of the whip landed on the oven and sparks flew. Xuanyuan Ye retracted her hand and wanted to whip again, but Shen Yijia did not give her a chance.


    She approached in a flash and grabbed Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s wrist. She snatched the whip from her hand and tied Xuanyuan Ye up.


    Xuanyuan Ye said angrily, ¡°Let go of me, or I¡¯ll get my grandmother to chop off your head!¡±


    Before she could finish, Shen Yijia slapped her.


    She still remembered that Xuanyuan Ce had been harmed by Madam Yu. This slap was merciless.


    Xuanyuan Ye turned her head away from the blow and felt her head buzz. Her entire right ear was ringing, and the corner of her mouth was injured. Her forehead hit the wooden fence and bled.


    Shen Yijia squatted down and grabbed her chin, forcing her to look up. ¡°I haven¡¯t settled the score with you yet, but you came knocking on my door.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief. She thought that Shen Yijia would more or less restrain herself in the palace.


    Apart from fear, she was also furious. ¡°Ah, little b*tch, I want your life.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and slapped her again.


    After beating her up, she did not give Xuanyuan Ye a chance to scold her again. She grabbed the long whip and picked her up.


    ¡°Princess!¡± Bai Zhi jogged over and hugged Shen Yijia¡¯s legs tightly. ¡°Madam Song, let go of my princess quickly.¡±


    ¡°Go away.¡± Shen Yijia looked impatiently at the maidservant hugging her legs.


    Bai Zhi cowered and hugged her legs even tighter. She cried and begged, ¡°Madam Song, let go of my princess. My princess won¡¯t find trouble with you anymore. Besides, think about it. If anything happens to my princess, the emperor and the empress dowager won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Why are you so naggy? Should I throw this maidservant down too?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Bai Zhi, shut up. Who asked you to beg her?¡± Xuanyuan Ye spat out a mouthful of blood and sneered. ¡°Little b*tch, kill me if you have the ability. I don¡¯t believe that Uncle Emperor and Grandmother can let you live like this. When the time comes¡­


    Shen Yijia grabbed the end of the whip and released Xuanyuan Ye from it.


    Xuanyuan Ye thought that she was frightened by her and wanted to curse again, but she felt her ankle tighten and her body flew into the air.


    Plop!


    ¡°Princess!¡± Bai Zhi screamed and fainted.


    Zhu Dazhi, who was hiding in the corner of the waterside pavilion, quickly closed his eyes and lay on the ground.


    It was as if he was telling everyone that he had fainted too. He didn¡¯t know anything.


    However, the meat skewers that he was still holding tightly looked strange.


    A eunuch wanted to swim over and save Xuanyuan Ye. Shen Yijia picked him up with the whip and threw him down in another direction.


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless. She couldn¡¯t even catch her breath.


    Eunuch Yu, who had heard the commotion, happened to see this scene and was so frightened that his pupils constricted. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou had just rested after eating the porridge. He did not dare to speak too loudly, afraid of waking her up.


    Shen Yijia looked at him.


    Eunuch Yu¡¯s heart trembled under her gaze. ¡°Do you want to die? Hurry up and let go of the princess.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at the pool where the bubbles were decreasing and grinned.


    ¡°Sure. ¡±


    Then, she really let go of Xuanyuan Ye.


    Eunuch Yu was speechless.


    He did not dare to say anything harsh to Shen Yijia. He could only scold the eunuchs who were still struggling in the pool, ¡°Hurry up and save the princess. If anything happens to the princess, the Empress Dowager will take your heads.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not care if he was pointing at her or not. She walked to Zhu Dazhi¡¯s side and kicked him. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± Zhu Dazhi got up and walked in front of Shen Yijia. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Afraid that something would happen to Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s health, Eunuch Yu did not dare to alarm her with the news of Shen Yijia throwing Xuanyuan Ye into the water. Instead, he reported it to Xuanyuan Qi.


    When Xuanyuan Qi rushed to the Ganquan Palace next door to the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye was still unconscious. Bai Zhi had just changed her clothes when a few imperial physicians took turns taking her pulse.


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± Eunuch Yu wiped his tears and went up to him.


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand and quickly walked to the bed. He looked at Xuanyuan Ye, who was lying there like a rag doll, and gasped.


    No matter what, he really felt sorry for the child he had doted on since she was young. Seeing her being bullied like this, Xuanyuan Qi was furious. ¡°What exactly happened? Why did the princess enter the palace?¡±


    The people he had sent to keep an eye on the lateral court had yet to return. He was already frustrated, and now that this matter had happened, Xuanyuan Qi really wanted to kill someone.


    Eunuch Yu opened his mouth and was speechless for a moment. Logically speaking, the empress dowager had already said that she didn¡¯t care about that little fiend. The princess didn¡¯t listen, but she insisted on bringing people to cause trouble for her. In the end, she suffered.


    Eunuch Yu felt that she had reaped what she sowed.


    However, how could the little fiend compare to the princess who was doted on?


    Therefore, he naturally couldn¡¯t say this.


    He was still thinking about what to say when Bai Zhi knelt down and took a few steps forward. She cried and said, ¡°Your Majesty, the princess heard that the Empress Dowager doesn¡¯t have an appetite, so she wanted to enter the palace to persuade her. She didn¡¯t expect Madam Song to break into the Longevity Palace to roast meat. Your Majesty has already ordered everyone in the palace to refrain from eating meat for seven days. She simply doesn¡¯t take Your Majesty seriously. The princess went to reason with her.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. ¡°Is that so?¡±


    Since Bai Zhi had already said so, what else could Eunuch Yu say? He was about to nod in agreement.


    A sneer sounded at the door. ¡°Really? Your princess even brought a large group of people with her. Why? Are you afraid that you won¡¯t be able to win against


    Bai Zhi¡¯s face turned pale. She looked up and saw Shen Yijia leaning against the door frame, holding a handful of roasted meat skewers in her left hand and a stick in her right. She was eating with relish, followed by Zhu Dazhi.


    Receiving Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s gaze, Zhu Dazhi knelt down. ¡°Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Oh my god, send a bolt of lightning to take me away.¡± he thought..

 Chapter 783 - Chapter 783: Continue Pretending

    Chapter 783: Continue Pretending


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia was originally going back to the Jade Light Hall. Halfway through, she remembered that she had yet to take the oven she had brought out, so she could only return with Zhu Dazhi.


    She happened to see Xuanyuan Qi enter the palace next door to the Longevity Palace and guessed that he might be here for Xuanyuan Ye, so she followed him in. Unexpectedly, she happened to hear Bai Zhi talking about her.


    In short, she regretted not throwing this girl into the pool at that time.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s gaze paused on the roasted meat in her hand. He turned to look at the pale Bai Zhi and guessed that she wasn¡¯t telling the truth at all. He looked at Eunuch Yu unhappily.


    ¡°Tell me, if you hide anything, even if you¡¯re someone close to Mother, I can still take your head.¡±


    Eunuch Yu complained in his heart. There were so many people present at that time, and this matter could not withstand investigation at all. He could only honestly tell them what he knew, including what Empress Dowager Zhou had said.


    ¡°When I arrived, the princess was already in the water. I don¡¯t know how she fought.¡±


    This was not a lie. Although another eunuch had already told him that the princess claimed to be acting on the empress dowager¡¯s orders to capture Shen Yijia, he had not heard it with his own ears or seen it with his own eyes.


    However, how could Xuanyuan Qi not guess? However, he still got someone to find the other eunuchs for questioning.


    In front of the emperor, not many people had the guts to lie.


    Coupled with what Eunuch Yu had said, they basically recounted everything that had happened.


    Not only did Xuanyuan Ye pick a losing fight, but she also faked an imperial decree. If the emperor really wanted to pursue the matter, she would not be able to get anything out of it.


    Bai Zhi said in a panic, ¡°The princess did that because of her. Not only did she anger the Empress Dowager time and time again, but she also openly disobeyed the Imperial Decree and ate meat during her mourning period. The princess only wanted to help the Empress Dowager.¡±


    She did not tell the truth at first, but now, Xuanyuan Qi was impatient and did not want to hear her explanation. He waved his hand. ¡°Inverting the truth. Drag her away and slap her twenty times.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, please spare me, Your Majesty!¡±


    The two eunuchs quickly covered her mouth and brought her away.


    Xuanyuan Qi narrowed his eyes at the calm and composed Shen Yijia. ¡°Putting aside the fact that I¡¯ve already given the order, why do you have to go to the Longevity Palace to roast meat?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What order? You even sent me roasted geese yesterday!¡±


    However, Shen Yijia could not be bothered to expose him. She took a bite of meat and said vaguely, ¡°The scenery there is good. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    Seeing that the emperor did not pursue the matter of the little fiend hitting someone, Eunuch Yu rolled his eyes and said, ¡°Your Majesty, actually, the Empress Dowager has been unable to eat for the past two days. I¡¯m extremely anxious. No matter how I persuade her, it¡¯s useless.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was shocked and said anxiously, ¡°Why didn¡¯t anyone report such a huge matter to me?¡±


    Eunuch Yu said awkwardly, ¡°The Empress Dowager doesn¡¯t let us cause trouble for Your Majesty, but don¡¯t worry, Your Majesty. Because of Madam Song, the Empress Dowager has already rested after drinking a bowl of porridge.¡±


    He glanced at Shen Yijia and continued, ¡°I¡¯ve heard of a way to stimulate the appetite. I think this is why Madam Song insisted on going to the Longevity


    Palace to roast meat.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°I didn¡¯t. Don¡¯t spout nonsense.¡± she thought.


    Knowing that he cared about his mother, Xuanyuan Qi was finally a little relieved. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I won¡¯t¡­


    On the bed, Xuanyuan Ye suddenly said, ¡°Father, don¡¯t leave. Don¡¯t abandon


    Ye¡¯er.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi turned to look at her. Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes were closed, and she was clearly still unconscious.


    She must have dreamed of Second Brother!


    A look of pity appeared in his eyes. He changed the topic and said, ¡°You¡¯re already like this at such a young age.¡±


    In the end, he did not say the word vicious. ¡®You¡¯re so ruthless at such a young age. If I don¡¯t punish you, won¡¯t you be even more lawless in the future? This time, I¡¯ll punish you to be grounded in the Jade Light Hall. Without my orders, you¡¯re not allowed to take half a step out of the Jade Light Hall again.¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and snorted before turning to leave.


    After taking two steps, she retreated.


    Xuanyuan Qi thought that she had finally realized the seriousness of the problem and was about to admit her mistake. The anger he felt from her attitude just now was mostly dissipated.


    Shen Yijia did not even look at him. She grabbed Zhu Dazhi, who wanted to burrow into the ground.


    She dragged him away without looking back.


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    Everyone quickly lowered their heads and slowed down their breathing.


    Even the empress dowager usually gave His Majesty some dignity. Apart from His Highness, this Madam Song was definitely the second person who dared to treat him like this.


    To be honest, they were afraid that their breathing would be too loud and they would be killed by the emperor to vent his anger.


    Xuanyuan Qi took a deep breath and looked around. In the end, his gaze landed on an imperial physician who was closest to the bed.


    He said angrily, ¡°Why are you in a daze? Hurry up and take a look at the princess.¡±


    Actually, he had already checked Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pulse. However, anyone who was not stupid knew that the emperor was in a fit of anger. They did not dare to explain and quickly checked Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pulse again.


    After a while, she retracted her hand and said in fear and trepidation, ¡°Although the injuries on the princess¡¯s head and face look serious, they¡¯re all superficial wounds. She¡¯ll be fine after applying some medicine. She was mainlv frightened bv falling into the water. I¡¯m afraid she has to recuDerate for


    a while.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi shouted, ¡°Then why are you still standing here? Hurry up and get some medicine for the princess.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir!¡±


    The three imperial physicians left as if they had been pardoned.


    Eunuch Wu glanced at the ashen-faced Xuanyuan Qi and asked after some thought, ¡°Your Majesty, do you need me to send someone to inform the lord¡¯s residence?¡±


    With his understanding of Xuanyuan Qi, he would definitely let Xuanyuan Ye recuperate in the palace. In order to prevent the princess consort from worrying, he naturally had to send someone to inform her.


    Eunuch Wu was waiting for Xuanyuan Qi to nod. Unexpectedly, Xuanyuan Qi pondered for a moment and shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s no need. Go and find a few people to send the princess back to the residence.¡±


    Eunuch Wu was surprised.


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at Xuanyuan Ye and added, ¡°Mother¡¯s health is not good to begin with. If she sees the princess like this, she will definitely feel uncomfortable.¡±


    Eunuch Wu thought to himself, ¡°Oh, so you don¡¯t want the empress dowager to worry.¡±


    Eunuch Yu thought to himself, ¡°I understand. I can¡¯t let the empress dowager Imow about what happened today. It seems that I have to teach those brats a lesson when I get back.¡±


    After the two of them thought about it, they heard Xuanyuan Qi continue, ¡°Get those imperial physicians to go with you. They can come back after the princess has recovered.¡±


    Everyone thought to themselves, ¡°See, His Majesty is still very concerned about the princess. Otherwise, why would he send out so many imperial physicians for something that one imperial physician is enough for? You have to know that there are so many masters in the palace, and all of them are very pretentious. The imperial physicians in the imperial hospital often can¡¯t handle them.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi did not know what they were thinking. With that, he turned around and left the Ganquan Palace.


    Eunuch Wu quickly instructed someone to send Xuanyuan Ye back to the residence and followed him with small steps.


    No one realized that Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s hand under the brocade blanket was clenched into a fist.


    When Xuanyuan Ye returned to the residence, no matter how angry Madam Yu was and how much she hated Shen Yijia, the mother and daughter hugged each other and cried bitterly.


    At night, when everyone was about to rest, Shen Yijia appeared in the waterside pavilion of the Longevity Palace again..

 Chapter 784 - Chapter 784: The Truth

    Chapter 784: The Truth


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Grandaunt, didn¡¯t His Majesty tell you to be grounded in Jade Light Hall? How dare you come out and cause trouble?¡± Zhu Dazhi, who had been pulled up from the bed, wiped his bitter tears and cried.


    What sin had he committed to be on duty at noon today?


    If he wasn¡¯t on duty, he wouldn¡¯t have met this demoness. If he hadn¡¯t met her, he wouldn¡¯t have been targeted by her. If he hadn¡¯t been targeted by her, he wouldn¡¯t have been pulled in by her to do something that would take his head at any time.


    After today, Zhu Dazhi felt that his lifespan would be shortened by at least ten years.


    ¡°Oh my god, someone, please take this demoness away.¡± he thought.


    ¡°He said I wasn¡¯t allowed to take half a step out of the Jade Light Hall. Do you think I¡¯ve only taken half a step?¡± Shen Yijia took out a matchstick and lit all the palace lights around the waterside pavilion. She placed the bag on her back, which was larger than her, on the table in the middle and opened it. ¡°Cut the crap. Come and help.¡±


    Zhu Dazhi choked at her twisted logic. His heart felt like dead ashes as he leaned forward and saw what was inside. The corners of his mouth twitched.


    ¡°Why are you carrying the pot and stove on your back? And these fish, meat, and shrimp. Where on earth did you steal them?¡± she thought. Zhu Dazhi had too many questions, but he swallowed them.


    Anyway, it was useless to ask.


    He resigned himself to his fate and helped to take out and put everything away.


    This time, without Shen Yijia¡¯s instructions, he began to process the ingredients.


    While he was packing up the ingredients, Shen Yijia started the stove.


    After all, apart from eating, she could only start a fire.


    Fifteen minutes later, an alluring fragrance wafted out of the waterside pavilion and spread to every corner of the Longevity Palace.


    A palace maid and eunuch followed the fragrance out to check. They saw a familiar figure in the waterside pavilion waving a large fan.


    At the same time, they thought to themselves, ¡°Why is this person here again?¡±


    Palace maid A asked softly, ¡°Should we report this to the Empress Dowager?¡±


    Palace Maid B asked, ¡°Has the Empress Dowager already rested?¡±


    Eunuch A said, ¡°Didn¡¯t Your Majesty ban her from coming out? Why is she here again?


    Eunuch B said, ¡°She even dared to kill the Empress Dowager¡¯s crane. Why wouldn¡¯t she dare?¡±


    The so-called grounding relied on self-awareness. It was not like they would send people to guard the prisoners. After all, no one dared to disobey the emperor.


    However, Shen Yijia did not have the self-awareness to listen.


    Eunuch C swallowed. ¡°But it smells good. I wonder what delicious food she¡¯s cooking.¡±


    ¡°It looks like a pot.¡±


    In the sleeping hall of the Longevity Palace, Empress Dowager Zhou smelled a fragrance as soon as she lay down. Her eyebrows twitched. Before she could distinguish the source of the fragrance, she heard faint voices outside.


    Actually, everyone was worried that Empress Dowager Zhou had rested, so they lowered their voices and did not dare to speak too loudly. However, there were many people around, so they spoke one after another. In the quiet night, this voice sounded especially noisy.


    She frowned impatiently. ¡°Go and see why it¡¯s so noisy outside.¡±


    Soon, she returned with an angry expression.


    ¡°Is that girl here again?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou asked with a dark expression.


    Apart from Shen Yijia, Empress Dowager Zhou did not think that anyone else would dare to be so impudent in the Longevity Palace.


    ¡°It¡¯s her.¡± Nanny Gao went forward and helped Empress Dowager Zhou sit up. She sighed. ¡°She brought Chef Zhu to the waterside pavilion to boil the pot.¡±


    At this point, she paused and glanced at Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s expression. She continued, ¡°I think the princess is right about something. If we let her continue, she¡¯ll probably push her luck in the future.¡±


    She was not biased towards anyone, but she really felt that Shen Yijia had gone overboard.


    It was fine if she messed around in the middle of the day, but she even came at night. Wasn¡¯t she deliberately disturbing the empress dowager¡¯s rest?


    The empress dowager had not been sleeping well these past few days, so she naturally prioritized her master¡¯s health.


    Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s gaze turned cold as she said in a low voice, ¡°Help me change.¡±


    ¡°Come, sit down and eat with me.¡± Shen Yijia stuffed a piece of meat into her mouth and called out to Zhu Dazhi, who was standing at the side.


    Zhu Dazhi shook his head like a rattle. ¡°You¡¯re eating meat. If I take a bite, I¡¯ll be eating my own head.¡± he thought.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and raised her voice to call out to the palace maids and eunuchs who thought that she was hiding in the dark. ¡°Stop hiding. Let¡¯s eat together. It tastes more delicious when it¡¯s lively.¡±


    Her voice was so loud that the entire Longevity Palace could hear her.


    The air froze for a moment. In the next moment, all the palace maids and eunuchs fled in all directions, as if they were afraid of being caught by her. Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Am I that scary?¡±


    However, this was not all. An unlucky eunuch ran too quickly and bumped into Empress Dowager Zhou.


    Fortunately, Eunuch Yu blocked it so that Empress Dowager Zhou would not be knocked over on the spot.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± Eunuch Yu rubbed his chest in pain and reprimanded the other eunuch.


    The unlucky eunuch¡¯s face turned pale. He hurriedly knelt down and begged for forgiveness. ¡°Empress Dowager, spare me. Empress Dowager, spare me.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou glanced at him indifferently. ¡°Drag him away and punish him according to the palace rules.¡±


    If he offended the empress dowager, he would be flogged twenty times according to the palace rules. If his body was weak, he would lose his life before the beating was over.


    Eunuch Yu was surprised for a moment. Ever since the emperor took over,


    Empress Dowager Zhou had not severely punished servants for a long time.


    He glanced at the people in the waterside pavilion not far away and sighed. It seemed that the empress dowager was really angry this time.


    Just as she thought this, Nanny Gao entered the courtyard with nearly a hundred imperial guards.


    Eunuch Yu thought to himself, ¡°It seems that getting angry is easier said than done.¡±


    Actually, Shen Yijia had already noticed Empress Dowager Zhou the moment she appeared. However, she did not move and continued to eat the meat calmly.


    Since Zhu Dazhi was not eating, she instructed him to peel prawns for her. She did not even look at the group of people who had already reached the pool.


    Empress Dowager Zhou frowned unhappily and said coldly, ¡°Go and bring her here.¡±


    The imperial guards were about to go over.


    The imperial guards drew their sabers.


    ¡°Stop.¡± It was Empress Dowager Zhou who spoke.


    Others did not know the identity of the man in black in front of her, but how could she not know?


    This was clearly a Demon Guard.


    How could this girl have Demon Guards around her?


    Soon, Empress Dowager Zhou understood. After understanding, she looked at Shen Yijia with anger.


    She walked forward. ¡°You can leave first.¡±


    These imperial guards were no match for the Demon Guards at all. They would only be tempting fate if they went up.


    The imperial guards looked at each other and retreated to the sides to make way.


    Empress Dowager Zhou looked at You Yi. ¡°Move aside.¡±


    You Yi didn¡¯t move.


    He would not attack Empress Dowager Zhou, but he would not listen to her either.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was furious.


    Shen Yijia laughed unkindly. ¡°You Yi.¡±


    After a moment of silence, he disappeared from the spot.


    However, Empress Dowager Zhou did not ask the imperial guards to capture them again, because she knew that as long as she opened her mouth, the


    Demon Guards would appear again. At that time, she would only lose face. She took a deep breath and entered the waterside pavilion with the eunuch¡¯s help..

 Chapter 785 - Chapter 785: Release

    Chapter 785: Release


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia happened to be full. She burped and looked at the person standing opposite her. She asked despite knowing the answer, ¡°Does the Empress Dowager want to eat it too?¡±


    Eunuch Yu¡¯s temples throbbed as he reminded her, ¡°Madam Song, you should get up and bow to the empress dowager.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    She didn¡¯t move.


    She came from a mental hospital and did not know those rules and etiquettes.


    Empress Dowager Zhou closed her eyes and tried her best to suppress the anger in her heart. She sat down opposite Shen Yijia and looked at her with burning eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t you feel guilty at all?¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Was the old woman not going to use force?


    She was baffled. ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything wrong. Why should I feel guilty?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou slammed the table angrily and said sternly, ¡°Even if you didn¡¯t harm Ce¡¯er, would he have died if he didn¡¯t send the Demon Guards to protect you? No! It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t feel guilty, but look at what you¡¯ve done in the past two days. You¡¯ve repeatedly violated the rules. You¡¯re simply fooling around. ¡±


    Shen Yijia froze.


    Of the three Demon Guards, one was given to her, one was given to her mother, and one was sent out.


    The person he sent out was also sent to the border because she had complained.


    If not for these things, if these three people had stayed by his side, perhaps nothing would have happened.


    Empress Dowager Zhou saw her expression and finally felt a little better. She wanted to continue.


    Shen Yijia had already regained her composure. She said disdainfully, ¡°Oh, so you know that I¡¯m not the murderer, but you don¡¯t blame the real culprit. Instead, you want me to pay with my life. You¡¯re so vicious. Aren¡¯t you afraid that your son will settle scores with you in his dreams?¡± Who didn¡¯t know how to say heart-wrenching words? Hmph.


    ¡°You¡­ you¡­¡± Empress Dowager Zhou was so angry that her eyes were bloodshot and her entire body was trembling.


    Eunuch Yu was shocked. He quickly picked up the teapot on the table, poured a cup of tea, and handed it over. ¡®Your Highness, you can¡¯t be angry. It¡¯s not worth it to hurt your body.¡±


    Seeing that she was only staring at Shen Yijia and did not take the tea, she said anxiously, ¡°Madam Song, I¡¯m begging you. Can you yield? The Empress Dowager already feels terrible. Don¡¯t agitate her anymore.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything wrong!¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Her son died, and my father died. So what? Just because I don¡¯t have a father, I deserve to be bullied by you?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou was furious. Who was bullying who?! She was simply playing the blame game.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and looked at Empress Dowager Zhou as she continued, ¡°You feel terrible, but you¡¯ve been with your son for at least dozens of years. What about me? I¡¯ve been without my father¡¯s love and mother¡¯s love since I was young. I live like a blade of grass that anyone can step on.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t easy to find him. They had only been together for two days, but he was gone again before she could call him father.


    ¡°So what if he¡¯s gone? You actually want to blame me for his death. Not only did you lock me up in this palace as a hostage, but you also want me to not eat or drink because of him. If you¡¯re not bullying me, what are you doing?¡±


    On what grounds are you doing this?


    He had made her mother suffer seven years of imprisonment. He had made her a test subject in a mental hospital for fifteen years.


    He had yet to repay these debts. Why should he die?


    She Imew that when he stopped at the door that night, he was waiting for her to call him father.


    She wasn¡¯t going to spoil him.


    Her tone was as usual, as if she was just stating the truth, but there was a grievance in her eyes that she could not hide.


    Empress Dowager Zhou paused, her heart inexplicably clenching.


    Eunuch Yu and Zhu Dazhi were so frightened that they did not dare to breathe loudly. They all thought that Empress Dowager Zhou would probably be furious again.


    Unexpectedly, Empress Dowager Zhou stood up. She glanced at Shen Yijia and turned to leave.


    In the night, her back looked especially lonely. She seemed to have instantly aged ten years.


    Eunuch Yu pointed at Shen Yijia with a trembling hand and quickly followed.


    The imperial guards left with them, and the surroundings of the waterside pavilion fell completely silent.


    There was only the bubbling sound of the pot.


    Shen Yijia retracted her gaze and suddenly asked, ¡°What do you think of her mood?¡±


    Zhu Dazhi was puzzled, but he still answered honestly, ¡®Very bad.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t a bad feeling like being angry. It was as if she had suffered a huge blow.


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°Then I¡¯m relieved.¡±


    She had learned this move from Xuanyuan Ye. Don¡¯t think that she couldn¡¯t tell that Xuanyuan Qi was about to let her off during the day.


    Because of Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s nonsense, she was grounded.


    Since Xuanyuan Ye could pretend to be pitiful and let Xuanyuan Qi punish her, why couldn¡¯t she pretend to be pitiful and punish the old woman?


    ¡°Hmph, you locked me up in the palace!¡± she thought.


    Zhu Dazhi was a little stunned. When he figured it out, Shen Yijia was no longer in the waterside pavilion.


    After returning to the Yaoguang Hall, Shen Yijia quickly got someone to get a pen and paper. She thought for a moment and wrote:


    He missed her beauty. A day apart was like three months.


    She missed her husband. A day apart was like three autumns.


    It was signed, ¡°Your dear wife.¡±


    After she finished writing, she smiled foolishly for a long time before folding the letter and asking You Yi to send it out.


    In the end, what happened in the Longevity Palace reached Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s ears.


    Eunuch Wu said worriedly, ¡°Your Majesty, why don¡¯t I bring people to¡­¡± Xuanyuan Qi threw the letter in his hand back onto the desk.


    One could vaguely see the words ¡°Shen Yijia, the Shen family, abuse, marriage swapping, house raiding, and banishment¡± on it.


    It was only a dozen words, but it could summarize Shen Yijia¡¯s past ten years.


    This was what he had asked someone to investigate the day Xuanyuan Ye entered the palace to complain. It was only reported back today.


    Xuanyuan Qi sighed. ¡°Forget it. Mother and I owe her.¡±


    If he and his mother had not asked Ah Ce to marry Madam Yu back then, that girl would have been the most respected princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Instead of..


    He stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll go and see Mother.¡±


    The next day, Xuanyuan Qi stopped court sessions.


    On the third day, Xuanyuan Qi still stopped court sessions.


    In the small courtyard, Xuanyuan Ziming surrounded Song Jingchen. ¡°Father hasn¡¯t attended court for four days in a row. Could it be that I guessed wrongly? Father didn¡¯t recognize that the corpse was fake at all?¡±


    Otherwise, why would he be so sad that he didn¡¯t attend court for so many days? This didn¡¯t make sense.


    Song Jingchen put the letter in his hand into the box and left the study.


    Xuanyuan Ziming quickly followed. ¡°Also, I went to the lord¡¯s residence again today. Isn¡¯t the person lying there my imperial uncle?¡±


    They clearly looked identical.


    ¡°But if not, where exactly is my imperial uncle hidden by Madam Yu? We¡¯ve been searching for him for so many days, but we haven¡¯t found him.¡±


    ¡°By the way, how¡¯s Jiang Tao? Has he been saved?¡±


    ¡°Hey, Brother Song, say something. Tomorrow is the deadline given by Father.


    At that time, Jiajia¡­¡±


    Ever since Shen Yijia¡¯s identity was announced, he really couldn¡¯t call her sister, so he simply followed Song Jingchen and called her Jiajia.


    He still addressed Song Jingchen as Brother Song.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and glanced at him. He said indifferently, ¡°I let him go.¡±


    ¡°Oh, you let him go. What? Let him go?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was shocked. ¡°How can we let him go? Do you know that the people I sent to monitor him died in order to save him?¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I stabbed him a few times before letting him out.¡± ¡°So?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming paused and widened his eyes as he thought of sometnmg. ¡°l understand. you want to¡­¡±


    Thirty Thousand walked in from outside. Song Jingchen glanced at him and saw him nod. ¡°It¡¯s about time. If you¡¯re interested, come with us..¡±

 Chapter 786 - Chapter 786: Extermination

    Chapter 786: Extermination


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Due to the cold of spring in April, the commoners were plagued by colds and colds. Because of this, the various medical centers in Phoenix City were extremely busy.


    Although this happened every year and the doctors were experienced in dealing with this illness, some people would still die.


    The shopkeeper of Benevolence Hall sat at the counter and fiddled with his abacus. On the one hand, he was happy that the medical center¡¯s business was good, but on the other hand, he hoped that this year¡¯s epidemic would pass quickly.


    Just as he was feeling conflicted, a shadow fell over his head. His hands did not stop moving. Without looking up, he said, ¡°Go and line up over there.¡±


    ¡°Shopkeeper Ma,¡± the person called out.


    Shopkeeper Ma was stunned. He looked up at the person in front of him and said uncertainly, ¡°Jiang, Jiang¡­¡±


    Jiang Tao, who had disguised himself, shook his head subtly.


    Shopkeeper Ma quickly corrected himself. ¡°Send this guest to the backyard and let Doctor Liu take a look at him.¡±


    A medicine boy beside him thought that he was talking to him. He immediately put down his work and led Jiang Tao to a wing in the backyard.


    Although this person was dressed in poor clothes and looked a little strange, the shopkeeper had personally instructed him. The medicine boy did not dare to be negligent. He thoughtfully poured him a cup of tea and smiled. ¡°Wait here for a moment. Doctor Liu still has a patient in his hands. He¡¯ll come over when he¡¯s done.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Jiang Tao said.


    As soon as the medicine boy left, he frowned, and his originally straight back bowed slightly. A gasp escaped his mouth, as if he was enduring extreme pain.


    When Shopkeeper Ma entered, he saw him holding his chest and half lying on the table. He was shocked and quickly closed the door. He asked with concern, ¡°What happened? Are you injured?¡±


    He originally thought that Jiang Tao was dressed up to look for him regarding some bad news that couldn¡¯t be leaked out. He did not expect him to really come to see a doctor.


    Jiang Tao endured the pain and said, ¡°It¡¯s a long story. Find a doctor to bandage my wound first.¡±


    ¡°Aye, okay.¡±


    Not long after, Shopkeeper Ma brought Doctor Liu in.


    Although Jiang Tao¡¯s injuries were heavy, they cleverly avoided his vitals. Doctor Liu was secretly amazed as he applied medicine and bandaged his wounds.


    Take the knife in his chest for example. If they missed by a millimeter, he might have died.


    Even he might not be able to stab someone so accurately.


    It was a pity that the culprit did not become a doctor.


    However, he only dared to think about these thoughts in his heart. After bandaging it, he tactfully left.


    Shopkeeper Ma personally helped Jiang Tao put on his clothes and asked worriedly, ¡°Brother Jiang, who was so ruthless? And the Yu family¡­¡±


    Shopkeeper Ma had once received Jiang Tao¡¯s favor. If not for Jiang Tao, he would not be where he was today. Therefore, his concern was not fake.


    Jiang Tao interrupted him and asked, ¡°What day is it now?¡±


    Shopkeeper Ma was stunned, not understanding why he was asking this, but he still replied, ¡°The twentieth.¡±


    The twentieth? The day he was attacked was on the sixteenth!


    Jiang Tao pressed between his eyebrows.


    Two hours ago, he woke up in an alley in the south of the city that few people would pass by. Thinking that the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets might still be looking for him, he disguised himself and came here just in case.


    However, he did not expect that he had been unconscious for four days.


    ¡°What? You said you were unconscious for four days?¡± Shopkeeper Ma looked at him in surprise and shook his head. ¡°I knew Brother Jiang wasn¡¯t that kind of person. ¡±


    Only then did Jiang Tao realize that he had accidentally said what he was thinking. Seeing his huge reaction, he asked suspiciously, ¡°What happened in Phoenix City these past few days?¡±


    ¡°Then a lot of things have happened. You don¡¯t know, right? Lord Jing¡¯an has passed away. Also, there¡¯s news related to you. The Yu family has spread the news that you escaped after stealing the property of the residence and have already gone to the government to prepare a case.¡±


    ¡°You said that Lord Jing¡¯an died?¡±


    Actually, Xuanyuan Ce had been attacked on the same day as him. One happened in the early morning and the other in the afternoon. However, the news of his assassination had yet to spread from the palace, so he did not know.


    Shopkeeper Ma was stunned. What was wrong with Brother Jiang today? Why was he more concerned about other matters than his own?


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard that the suspect is the daughter of a mistress. Perhaps because of this bloodline relationship, the emperor didn¡¯t directly convict her. Instead, he locked her in the palace and said that if he couldn¡¯t prove her innocence in five days, he would make her pay with her life for His Highness. By the way, the deadline is tomorrow, but I haven¡¯t heard any other news in the past few days.¡±


    The doctors in the medical center were often invited to the residences of wealthy families to treat them. They could naturally hear more news than ordinary citizens.


    Most of the things Madam Yu did were done by Jiang Tao on her behalf. Naturally, he knew who Shopkeeper Ma was referring to.


    It was precisely because he knew a lot and knew Madam Yu well that


    Shopkeeper Ma could roughly guess the cause and effect of the matter.


    However, why was it such a coincidence? He woke up today, and tomorrow happened to be the last day.


    Jiang Tao frowned. He only remembered that Madam Yu had written to him that day to pass something to the people in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Because that thing was too dangerous, he did not bring anyone along.


    Unexpectedly, when he arrived at the agreed place, the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets wanted to kill him. Then another group of people came out, and he took the opportunity to escape.


    Later on, he fainted because of his injuries. As for whether he fainted in the alley where he woke up, he could not remember at all.


    ¡°But Brother Jiang, who wanted to harm you?¡± The imperial family¡¯s matters were too far away for them. Shopkeeper Ma was more concerned about Jiang Tao.


    Jiang Tao smiled bitterly and shook his head. ¡°Shopkeeper Ma, it¡¯s not that I don¡¯t trust you, but it¡¯s not good for you to know too much.¡±


    He had no grudges with the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Apart from Madam Yu, who else could make them kill him?


    Actually, he vaguely sensed that someone was investigating him. He had been especially careful these past few days, but he did not expect Madam Yu to want to silence him because of this.


    No matter what, they were¡­


    However, on second thought, if she could lay her hands on Lord Jing¡¯an, what was Jiang Tao to her?


    If he died, no one would know what Madam Yu had done, and that secret would forever be a secret.


    Lord Jing¡¯an was dead, and she had framed Shen Yijia. This way, not only would no one shake the position of the princess consort of the Yu family, but she would also be able to vent her anger.


    This indeed seemed to be Madam Yu¡¯s doing.


    When she struck, she did it with no mercy.


    Hearing his words, Shopkeeper Ma stopped asking. ¡°Then what are you going to do next? Can you still return to the Yu family like this?¡±


    Jiang Tao shook his head and did not say anything.


    ¡°Brother Song, aren¡¯t you afraid that Jiang Tao won¡¯t look for Madam Yu?¡±


    On the second floor of the inn opposite the Benevolence Hall, Xuanyuan Ziming stared at the door of the Benevolence Hall through a slit window and asked.


    He was afraid that Jiang Tao would escape from under his nose.


    Song Jingchen took a sip of tea and said firmly, ¡°He¡¯ll go.¡±


    These words came out of nowhere. Xuanyuan Ziming wanted to ask more, but Jiang Tao had already changed his clothes and came out of Benevolence Hall.


    He was about to remind Song Jingchen when he saw from the corner of his eye that two men dressed as commoners had followed Jiang Tao.


    Just as he heaved a sigh of relief, Song Jingchen stood up and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t arrange those two.¡±


    ¡°Huh? You didn¡¯t arrange it? Then who did?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming quickly followed him. ¡°The people from the Yu family and the Valley of Heavenly Secrets must think that he¡¯s dead. It can¡¯t be my father¡¯s men, right?¡±


    After all, if he hadn¡¯t seen it with his own eyes, he wouldn¡¯t have believed that anyone could save him from such serious injuries.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and glanced at him. Xuanyuan Ziming was shocked. ¡°Did my father really arrange it?¡± ¡°That¡¯s true. How can my father not find out what I can?¡±


    ¡°But how did you know that Jiang Tao would look for Madam Yu?¡±


    The other party was about to kill him. If it were him, he would have run far away immediately, let alone confront the other party.


    Song Jingchen still didn¡¯t answer.


    However, he quickly found out the reason. The Jiang family had been wiped out.


    Jiang Tao had used his power to remove his family from slavery. Apart from Jiang Tao himself, everyone in the Jiang family was free.


    Although the Yu family had come to look for them because of Jiang Tao, because Jiang Tao had not returned, the Yu family could not do anything to them.


    However, the Jiang family was still dead!


    The person who did this was naturally Madam Yu.


    She was worried that the Jiang family would find out something they shouldn¡¯t know from Jiang Tao, so she decided to go all out..

 Chapter 787 - Chapter 787: Confrontation

    Chapter 787: Confrontation


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The sun was setting, and the sky was gradually darkening. The vendors and pedestrians on the street were in a hurry, all wanting to get home before dark.


    Among the crowd, there was a figure that went in the opposite direction of them. He was neither fast nor slow and went to the area where commoners rarely stepped foot.


    ¡°Young Master, aren¡¯t we going to remind Madam Yu?¡± In the room, MO Yu looked at Jiang Tao¡¯s back and asked.


    Ji Yunxi sneered and said casually, ¡°Since she has a death wish, why remind her? Anyway, I¡¯ve already obtained what I wanted.¡±


    ¡°Young Master is wise.¡±


    ¡°Go and inform everyone that it¡¯s time for us to leave.¡± Ji Yunxi stood up and walked out. ¡°By the way, did you find where she hid Xuanyuan Ce?¡±


    ¡°He should still be in the lord¡¯s residence. I haven¡¯t found his exact location.¡± MO Yu followed.


    One reason was that the residence was too big. The other reason was that they had only found out about it this morning. There was too little time for them to find the culprit.


    ¡°He¡¯s really lucky.¡± Thinking of the clansmen who had died at Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s hands, Ji Yunxi gritted her teeth and revealed a strange smile. ¡°Have you done what I asked you to do?¡±


    ¡°Young Master, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve already followed your instructions and asked that family to go to various medical centers to treat their illnesses.¡±


    ¡°Heh, that Shen woman can save one person. I don¡¯t believe she can save another.¡±


    The door of the room opened, and the smile on Ji Yunxi¡¯s face froze.


    ¡°Ji Luo!¡±


    At Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence.


    Madam Yu tried her best to ignore her twitching eyelids. She moved her numb legs and gasped in pain.


    Seeing this, Nanny Wu persuaded, ¡°Your Highness, I know you don¡¯t feel good, but you¡¯ve been guarding here for many days. Your body can¡¯t take it anymore. What do you think the princess will do if anything happens to you? Listen to my advice and go back to your room to rest.¡±


    Actually, Nanny Wu had to say these words a few times a day, but Madam Yu never listened. However, this time, she did not refuse.


    ¡°Help me up.¡±


    Nanny Wu was stunned. ¡°Alright.¡±


    After kneeling for so long, Madam Yu¡¯s legs had lost any feeling in them.


    Nanny Wu quickly asked someone to carry her back to the main courtyard.


    Unexpectedly, Xuanyuan Ye came over not long after Madam Yu left the mourning hall.


    ¡°Where¡¯s my mother?¡± she asked the butler, who was kneeling in front of the mourning hall.


    ¡°The princess consort is not feeling well. Nanny Wu sent her back to her room to rest.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was shocked. ¡°Mother is sick?¡±


    In the main courtyard, Nanny Wu looked at the bruise on Madam Yu¡¯s knee. Her heart ached so much that her eyes turned red. ¡°Princess Consort, wait a moment. I¡¯ll go get the medicine now.¡±


    Madam Yu leaned against the soft couch tiredly and shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll just rest for a while. Nanny, you can leave first.¡¯


    ¡°But your legs¡­¡± Nanny Wu wanted to persuade her further, but seeing that she had already closed her eyes, she could only leave with her men.


    Madam Yu was really tired. She turned around and wanted to sleep for a while when footsteps sounded behind her again. She said unhappily, ¡°Nanny, didn¡¯t I just say¡­¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, she¡¯s already gone.¡±


    This voice?


    Madam Yu was shocked. She suddenly opened her eyes and saw the man walking out from behind the screen. Her pupils constricted violently as she looked at him in disbelief. ¡°You¡­


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with me? Oh, wasn¡¯t I supposed to be dead? Why am I still alive?


    Isn¡¯t that right, Your Highness?¡± Jiang Tao walked towards Madam Yu with a dark expression.


    Madam Yu quickly returned to her senses.


    She tried her best to calm down. She pretended to be calm and sat up to tidy up the nonexistent creases on her clothes. She frowned slightly and said, ¡°What are you talking about? Do you know what this place is? Who asked you to come? Also, I¡¯ve already heard about the Yu family. I believe you¡¯re not that kind of person. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°How could she not feel guilty at all when she saw me? She¡¯s acting as if nothing had happened.¡± he thought.


    Jiang Tao¡¯s eyes turned red with anger. Without waiting for Madam Yu to finish, he grabbed her neck and lowered his voice. ¡°Madam Yu, are you still human?


    When he found out that Madam Yu wanted to silence him, Jiang Tao was not so angry. For their daughter, he knew that this day would come sooner or later.


    After knowing that he had been unconscious for four days, he could still rationally analyze if the time she woke up was a trap for Madam Yu. However, he could not forgive her for attacking the Jiang family. Those were his blood relatives.


    ¡°There are eleven people in my Jiang family. You didn¡¯t even let off the infants.


    Are you still human?¡±


    He asked twice in a row and stared at Madam Yu with bloodshot eyes. His eyes were filled with hatred.


    After everything he had done for her, how could she bear to do such a thing? Madam Yu¡¯s breathing stopped. She wanted to break free from his grip, but the difference in strength between men and women was too great. She could not move at all.


    ¡°Let go of me quickly, or I¡¯ll call for help,¡± she threatened.


    ¡°Then go ahead. The princess consort is having a private meeting with an outsider in her room. I think the citizens of Phoenix City are very willing to discuss such a topic.¡±


    Madam Yu was stunned and said angrily, ¡°I really don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Let go of me first.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Jiang Tao sneered. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll send you down to hell now. When the time comes, I¡¯ll let the person who killed my Jiang family tell you personally what you did. ¡±


    He slowly tightened his grip.


    The air in her chest suddenly constricted, and Madam Yu¡¯s pale face turned red. Knowing that Jiang Tao really wanted to kill her, her eyes suddenly filled with tears. She said with difficulty, ¡°No, that¡¯s right. I did those things. I¡¯m not human, but what can I do? Your father came to me and threatened me. He said that if I didn¡¯t give him a sum of money, he would expose us to the world.¡±


    These words were fake. Madam Yu dared to say that not only because Father Jiang was already dead, but also because there was no evidence.


    Moreover, Father Jiang was a gambler. Most of the money Jiang Tao gave the family had been squandered by him. Jiang Tao knew this very well.


    As for how Father Jiang knew about their relationship, just as Madam Yu had guessed, Jiang Tao lived under the same roof as his family. Who knew if he had accidentally heard something?


    Jiang Tao probably couldn¡¯t guarantee this either.


    Since there was Father Jiang, who knew if there would be a second or third one?


    Only the dead could keep secrets.


    ¡°Kill me.¡± After saying that, Madam Yu closed her eyes. Her eyelashes trembled slightly, and a tear fell on the back of Jiang Tao¡¯s hand. Jiang Tao¡¯s throat moved, and his hands fell weakly.


    He couldn¡¯t bring himself to do it!


    The first time he saw Madam Yu, he was only an inferior-class servant of the Yu family.


    Madam Yu was the most beautiful and doted on among all the young ladies in the Yu family.


    The girl had bright eyes and white teeth, and a sweet smile.


    He thought to himself, ¡°How could there be such a good-looking person in the world?¡±


    In order to take a few more glances at her, he worked hard to enter the camp. Later on, Young Master Yu took a fancy to him and kept him by his side.


    From then on, he followed Young Master Yu to the backyard to pay his respects to his wife. This became what he looked forward to the most every day.


    However, what he did not expect was that not long after, Madam Yu became an abandoned child of the Yu family.


    Her situation had become very difficult, but every time she saw her, she still had a pure and clean smile on her face, as if she was not worried about her situation at all.


    From being admired by everyone to being able to bully servants, wasn¡¯t she sad?


    This question was asked the first time he helped her.


    She just smiled slyly at him.


    Although she didn¡¯t say anything, Jiang Tao understood.


    Apart from the impression that Madam Yu was good-looking, she was also smart.


    After spending so much time together, there was something else.


    However, Jiang Tao knew that even Madam Yu, who had been abandoned by her family clan, was not someone he could touch. He even felt that his unbearable thoughts were a stain on her.


    He buried his thoughts in his heart and did not dare to let anyone know. As someone important to Young Master, he did his best to protect her.


    No matter what Madam Yu did later, he felt that she was just protecting herself, so he was willing to be the knife in her hand.


    Perhaps the heavens had treated him well and actually let him have that relationship with the person he had been thinking about.


    Even though he knew that it was only because Madam Yu needed a child to save her life, he was still secretly delighted. He was willing to give her his life, he thought.


    However.


    While he was in a daze, a stool smashed towards his head with a huge force..

 Chapter 788 - Chapter 788: Exposed

    Chapter 788: Exposed


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Jiang Tao could not dodge in time and was knocked to the ground. Blood flowed from his forehead.


    He was already seriously injured, and now that he was injured again, the dizziness finallv passed. What was left was waves of weakness.


    He turned his head with difficulty and looked in disbelief at the person standing in front of him, looking down at him.


    At this moment, Madam Yu no longer looked regretful and pitiful.


    She threw away the stool in a panic and roared with trembling hands, ¡°Why aren¡¯t you dead? Since you¡¯re not dead, why did you come to the lord¡¯s residence? You shouldn¡¯t have come.¡¯


    The lord¡¯s residence was now filled with spies from the palace. Once this person appeared, all her plans might be disrupted.


    If her relationship with Jiang Tao was exposed..


    ¡°No, that won¡¯t happen. There must be a way to remedy it.¡± she thought.


    Jiang Tao struggled a few times but could not get up, so he simply gave up. Looking at Madam Yu, who was flustered and at a loss, he sneered. ¡°That¡¯s right, why didn¡¯t I die? The people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets couldn¡¯t kill me. Aren¡¯t you curious?¡±


    He did not know why he came. It was because of the anger of the Jiang family being exterminated. He probably also wanted to ask if this woman had ever been sincere to him.


    Madam Yu was stunned. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    It was not that she was not curious, but Jiang Tao¡¯s appearance was too sudden, causing her to be distracted for a moment.


    Jiang Tao did not answer, mainly because he did not understand.


    In case he made too many mistakes and made Madam Yu suspicious, it was better not to say anything.


    The corners of his mouth twitched as he said, ¡°Do you really think that you can continue to be Princess Consort Jing¡¯an without any worries after killing me and His Highness? Don¡¯t forget that there¡¯s still someone with the surname Shen.¡±


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about¡­¡± Madam Yu opened her mouth to deny that she had attacked Xuanyuan Ce, but when she met Jiang Tao¡¯s eyes, she felt that there was no need. She understood Jiang Tao, but how could Jiang Tao not understand her?


    She sneered. ¡°The Shen family is about to die anyway. Including that woman, none of them will survive.¡±


    As long as they waited for one more day, as long as these people died¡­


    Yes, as long as they were all dead!


    From the corner of her eye, she saw the needlework basket at the side. Madam Yu suddenly tore open her clothes and messed up her hair.


    After doing all this, she picked up the scissors in the sewing basket and squatted down in front of Jiang Tao. She said with a trembling voice, ¡°Don¡¯t blame me. Everything I did was for Ye¡¯er. She¡¯s your daughter. If anything happens to me, no one will protect her in the future. You must want her to be fine. You don¡¯t want anything to happen to her, right?¡±


    As she spoke, she tightened her grip on the scissors and stabbed at Jiang Tao¡¯s neck.


    Bang! The door was suddenly kicked open.


    The loud noise made Madam Yu tremble. She subconsciously looked up and saw who it was. Her pupils constricted.


    Before she could react, she felt a sharp pain in her hand. The scissors fell to the ground with a clang, and this crisp sound quickly brought Madam Yu back to her senses.


    She sat on the ground as if all her strength had been sucked out of her. She said with an ashamed expression, ¡°Your Majesty, he¡­¡±


    She wanted to say that Jiang Tao had ill intentions towards her and that she had killed someone to protect herself. After all, this was an excuse she had planned from the beginning.


    However, when she saw Xuanyuan Ye enter behind Xuanyuan Qi, she suddenly couldn¡¯t speak.


    Normally, Ye¡¯er would definitely rush over and pounce on her. However, she didn¡¯t. Why didn¡¯t she?


    Madam Yu closed her eyes, unwilling to think about that possibility.


    ¡°Madam Yu, where is my second brother?¡±

 Chapter 789 - Chapter 789: Found It

    Chapter 789: Found It


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Madam Yu, where is my second brother?¡±


    Madam Yu¡¯s blood seemed to have frozen. She did not expect Xuanyuan Qiyi to ask where Xuanyuan Ce was.


    But how was that possible?


    Even if the emperor had heard her conversation with Jiang Tao outside, he shouldn¡¯t have asked this!


    Unless.


    He had long known that the one lying in the mourning hall was fake.


    As soon as this thought appeared, Madam Yu¡¯s mind went blank.


    Because she was too shocked, she even forgot to hide it.


    ¡°Madam Yu, where is my second brother?¡± Xuanyuan Qi asked again, his tone even colder than before.


    Madam Yu tightened her grip. ¡°What are you talking about, Your Majesty? Isn¡¯t His Highness lying in the mourning hall?¡±


    At this moment, an imperial guard walked in and whispered something in Eunuch Wu¡¯s ear.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked over. Eunuch Wu shook his head.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes turned cold as he said coldly, ¡°Take her away.¡±


    The imperial guards were about to go over and capture her. Xuanyuan Ye finally came back to her senses from the fear that she was not her father¡¯s daughter but a traitor.


    She rushed in front of Madam Yu and grabbed her hand tightly, as if she had grabbed a straw to clutch at. ¡°It¡¯s fake, right? I¡¯m Father¡¯s daughter, right? Everything is fake, right?¡±


    She looked at Madam Yu hopefully, wanting to hear her say, ¡°Of course you¡¯re your father¡¯s daughter, the most respected princess of our Xuanyuan


    Kingdom.¡±


    But she didn¡¯t.


    Madam Yu even lowered her eyes, not daring to look at her.


    Xuanyuan Ye tightened her grip and dug her nails into Madam Yu¡¯s arm. ¡°Tell me, quickly tell the emperor that I¡¯m Father¡¯s daughter. Hurry up and explain.¡± Madam Yu looked at her apologetically, her eyes gradually filled with tears. Xuanyuan Ye loosened her grip bit by bit, and coldness rose in her heart.


    She staggered and slumped to the ground. Shock, fear, uneasiness, and other emotions were like a dense net, making her unable to breathe.


    ¡°Ye¡¯er¡­¡± Madam Yu reached out to pull her back.


    Xuanyuan Ye retreated like a frightened bird and roared in despair, ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡±


    She was a child born out of adultery.


    How could she be such a lowly and disgusting thing?


    That b*tch should be the lowly one.


    She was her father¡¯s daughter, the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    How did this happen?


    There must be a mistake somewhere.


    Xuanyuan Ye shook her head repeatedly and met a familiar pair of eyes.


    She Imew this person!


    When she was young, every time she went to the Yu family, this person would get the servants to bring her her favorite food.


    When she was sad because she could not see her father, this person would secretly comfort her and bring her out to play behind her mother¡¯s back.


    Xuanyuan Ye felt disgusted by the person she used to feel close to.


    It was so disgusting that she wanted him to disappear, along with her unbearable background.


    A fierce expression suddenly appeared on Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face. She suddenly grabbed the scissors by her feet and stabbed at Jiang Tao.


    Jiang Tao¡¯s eyes widened as he stared blankly at the tip of the knife that was rapidly enlarging in his pupils.


    A sense of sadness welled up in him.


    The person he had been thinking about wanted to kill him.


    His daughter wanted to kill him too.


    And he had caused the Jiang family to be wiped out for these two women.


    How ridiculous.


    Everything happened too quickly. Madam Yu exclaimed, ¡°Ye¡¯er!¡±


    She could kill Jiang Tao, but her daughter could not.


    Ye¡¯er did not know anything. The emperor and the empress dowager had doted on her so much in the past. Perhaps they would not take their anger out on her for what she had done.


    However, this pair of scissors was equivalent to killing her father. She did not dare to think about it.


    In the blink of an eye, a figure suddenly rushed in from outside the door and grabbed Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s hand before the scissors pierced Jiang Tao¡¯s throat.


    Everyone was stunned.


    The Demon Guards, who had reacted and were about to attack, silently retracted their hands.


    Shen Yijia snatched the scissors from Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s hand and glanced at the disheartened Jiang Tao. ¡°This person can¡¯t die now.¡±


    Because Song Jingchen always told her that evidence was important in everything, Shen Yijia naturally thought that she had to keep Jiang Tao alive as a witness.


    He did not expect that Xuanyuan Qi, the emperor, had already heard everything he needed to hear. There was no need for evidence.


    The pain in her wrist woke Xuanyuan Ye up completely. Thinking of what she had just done, her face turned pale and she subconsciously looked up at


    Xuanyuan Qi.


    As expected, she saw disappointment in his eyes.


    ¡°Imperial Uncle¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi retracted his complicated gaze and instructed in a low voice,


    ¡°Take them all away.¡±


    All of them, including Xuanyuan Ye.


    Xuanyuan Ye panicked and crawled towards Xuanyuan Qi on all fours. ¡°Imperial Uncle, Ye¡¯er¡­¡±


    The imperial guards paused for a moment. They received Eunuch Wu¡¯s hint and quickly brought the Yu family of three away.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Xuanyuan Qi looked at Shen Yijia and asked.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    She could say that it was because the old woman had changed her usual behavior and asked someone to send her things every day. She had nothing to do.


    Song Jingchen sent her another message saying that the scumbag might still be alive. Xuanyuan Qi was also investigating.


    Therefore, she instigated You Yi to keep an eye on Xuanyuan Qi. She wanted to know the clues he had obtained immediately. Could she say that she saw him hurriedly leave the palace with his men and secretly followed him?


    It seemed that it was quite serious to spy on the Emperor¡¯s whereabouts.


    ¡°I asked her to come.¡± Song Jingchen walked out of the inner room.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she ran up to him. ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re here too.¡± Her words exposed the excuse Song Jingchen had found for her.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless.


    He naturally knew why Song Jingchen was here. He got someone to investigate the border and found out that Jiang Tao had disappeared for no reason. The people watching Song Jingchen sent back news that Jiang Tao was in Song Jingchen¡¯s hands.


    In other words, if Shen Yijia followed Xuanyuan Qi here, then Xuanyuan Qi followed Song Jingchen here.


    Shen Yijia realized that she had said something wrong and quickly added, ¡°I meant that you were hiding inside.¡±


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and cupped his hands. ¡°Your Majesty heard it just now. Jiajia isn¡¯t the murderer.¡±


    Therefore, she did not have to continue staying in the palace.


    Xuanyuan Qi was about to say something when an imperial guard walked in. ¡°Your Majesty, we¡¯ve searched everywhere in the residence, but we didn¡¯t find any secret rooms.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s one more place you haven¡¯t found,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes narrowed as he suddenly looked in the direction of the inner room.


    Song Jingchen and Xuanyuan Qi thought that Madam Yu would hide the real Xuanyuan Ce in some secret room, but they didn¡¯t expect her to be so crazy as to hide him in her room.


    To be precise, it was under her bed.


    She got someone to hollow out the underside of the bed and make a huge secret compartment inside. Across a wooden board, Xuanyuan Ce was only wearing his undergarments. His eyes were closed, and it was unknown if he was dead or alive.


    ¡°Second Brother.¡± Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s body swayed.


    Eunuch Wu quickly went forward to check. After a while, he heaved a sigh of relief and said happily, ¡°Your Majesty, His Highness is still alive.¡±


    Although his aura was weak, it was better than death.


    Shen Yijia wanted to step forward, but Song Jingchen could tell what she was planning. He grabbed her and said in a low voice, ¡°Wait..¡±

 Chapter 790 - Chapter 790: Gratitude

    Chapter 790: Gratitude


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Your Highness, Your Highness!¡± Eunuch Yu ran into the Longevity Palace with a happy expression. Because he ran too quickly, the fat on his face trembled, and his hat went askew. When he crossed the threshold, he tripped.


    Seeing this scene, the palace maids and eunuchs all glanced sideways. As an old man in the palace, Eunuch Yu had never lost his composure like this.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was about to rest after taking the medicine under Nanny Gao¡¯s care. Seeing him like this, she frowned unhappily. ¡°It¡¯s time to learn the rules. It¡¯s inappropriate for you to be so flustered.¡±


    ¡°No¡­ that¡­¡± Eunuch Yu panted heavily. ¡°His Highness¡­ His Highness is back!¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, a group of people ran out of the Longevity Palace. In the middle was Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s phoenix carriage, followed by lantern-wielding palace servants.


    ¡°Faster,¡± Empress Dowager Zhou urged.


    Eunuch Yu, who had yet to catch his breath as he jogged beside the palanquin, was speechless.


    In the Yuqian Palace, Shen Yijia nestled in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and fell asleep.


    Xuanyuan Qi paced back and forth nervously in the hall.


    Eunuch Wu stood at the side with his head lowered. He looked very calm, but his heart was in turmoil.


    What happened tonight was too shocking. The princess consort plotted against His Highness and even committed adultery to confuse the royal bloodline.


    Even novelists wouldn¡¯t dare to write this in their storybooks, right?


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t just him. Even Xuanyuan Qi didn¡¯t expect Madam Yu to be so bold.


    However, he was still most concerned about Xuanyuan Ce. He had yet to think about how to deal with Madam Yu.


    The curtain in the sleeping hall was lifted and the imperial physician walked out.


    Without waiting for him to speak, Xuanyuan Qi asked, ¡°How is it?¡± The imperial physician was hesitating about what to say.


    Xuanyuan Qi said coldly, ¡°Speak. If you dare to lie, I¡¯ll take your head.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so frightened by his loud words that she woke up and looked at Song Jingchen in confusion.


    Song Jingchen squeezed her hand comfortingly.


    ¡°His Highness suffered a huge blow to his head. Although he¡¯s still alive, the chances of him waking up are slim. His life is in danger at any time.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes narrowed and he said angrily, ¡°I don¡¯t care what method you use, you have to wake him up. Otherwise, you won¡¯t be able to be an imperial physician anymore.¡± The imperial physician wiped his sweat. ¡°I¡¯ll definitely do my best.¡±


    ¡°Why are you still standing here?¡±


    ¡°Your Highness.¡±


    A greeting sounded from outside. Xuanyuan Qi paused and turned to welcome them.


    ¡°Emperor, where¡¯s your brother?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s voice was trembling.


    The emperor comforted her and brought her into the room.


    On the dragon bed, Xuanyuan Ce lay there with a pale face. Empress Dowager Zhou went forward with red eyes and reached out to caress his face.


    Feeling the warmth under his hand, she cried tears of joy. ¡°He¡¯s alive. Your brother is really still alive.¡±


    ¡°Mother, this is a good thing.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou took a deep breath to calm herself down. ¡°What¡¯s going on? The previous one¡­¡±


    She had clearly seen it with her own eyes.


    Xuanyuan Qi pursed his lips and waved his hand to dismiss the servants in the hall.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other and wanted to leave too.


    Xuanyuan Qi said, ¡°The two of you stay.¡±


    The two of them could only continue to stay in the background.


    When there were no outsiders, Xuanyuan Qi said, ¡°That person from before was just a substitute who looked like Second Brother.¡±


    He told her how he discovered it. When Empress Dowager Zhou heard this, she quickly looked at Xuanyuan Cel s right hand and saw an inconspicuous callus on his thumb.


    Actually, the reason why Xuanyuan Qi did not tell Empress Dowager Zhou that the corpse was fake immediately was because he was worried that the real Xuanyuan Ce had also suffered a mishap, which would cause her to experience the pain of losing her son twice.


    If not for the fact that the news had spread too quickly this time, Xuanyuan Qi would not have told her.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was not stupid. How could she not have thought of it? Although she did not agree, she knew that the emperor was doing this for her own good. sne did not continue tms tomc and asked, ¡°Have you caugnt tne murderer?¡±


    Since Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen were still standing here safe and sound, it naturally wouldn¡¯t be them.


    Xuanyuan Qi nodded. ¡°It¡¯s Madam Yu.¡±


    ¡°Madam Yu!¡± Empress Dowager Zhou was so angry that her entire body was trembling. ¡°What a good Madam Yu. How ridiculous.¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Xuanyuan Qi hesitated for a moment.¡± Actually, Ye¡¯er is not Second Brother¡¯s son. She was born from the adultery of Madam Yu.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou felt that she had suffered enough during this period of time, and her mental fortitude was strong enough.


    However, when she heard this, she was so angry that she fainted.


    ¡°Mother!¡± Xuanyuan Qi was shocked and quickly carried her to the soft couch.


    ¡°Quick, call the imperial physician.¡±


    The imperial physician was waiting outside the hall. When he heard the summons, he quickly walked in. Fortunately, Empress Dowager Zhou was fine and woke up after being treated.


    Xuanyuan Qi helped her sit up. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be angry anymore.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou waved her hand. At the thought of Madam Yu, her face turned cold. ¡°How are you going to deal with Madam Yu?¡± ¡°I want to wait for Second Brother to wake up and hear his thoughts.¡±


    In the past, he did not understand why Xuanyuan Ce ignored his bloodline so much. Now that he thought about it, he probably knew Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background very well.


    ¡°When will your second brother wake up?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou asked.


    ¡°Well.¡±


    How could Xuanyuan Qi dare to tell the truth? He was about to comfort her.


    Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°Your Highness, my mother-in-law is proficient in the Qihuang technique. If she comes, His Highness might have a chance of survival.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly turned to look at him. So he was waiting for this.


    If she asked her mother to save the scumbag, the old woman would have to remember her mother¡¯s kindness.


    If her mother forgave the scumbag and the two of them got back together, the old woman would not be able to stop or criticize her mother based on this favor.


    Of course, it didn¡¯t matter if her mother didn¡¯t forgive the scumbag. She had to save him anyway.


    Empress Dowager Zhou frowned and looked at Xuanyuan Qi. ¡°What happened to Ce¡¯er?¡±


    Guessing Song Jingchen¡¯s plan, Shen Yijia naturally couldn¡¯t hold him back. She pointed at the imperial physician waiting at the side and interrupted, ¡°He just said that your son¡¯s life is in danger at any time. He might never wake up again.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou trembled and asked nervously, ¡°Really?¡± Xuanyuan Qi nodded helplessly.


    Empress Dowager Zhou felt the world spin and almost fell again.


    The imperial physician was complaining in his heart and quickly went forward to treat her with two more needles.


    If this happened two more times, the empress dowager would have to leave before His Highness left.


    ¡°Ji Luo!¡± Empress Dowager Zhou grabbed Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s hand. ¡°Quick, send someone to bring Ji Luo into the palace.¡±


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be anxious. I¡¯ll send someone to pick her up now.¡±


    At this moment, Eunuch Wu walked in and whispered something in Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s ear.


    Xuanyuan Qi paused and glanced at Song Jingchen. He nodded and said, ¡°Invite her in.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and asked softly, ¡°My mother is here?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. Actually, he had already asked Thirty Thousand to look for her when they left Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence, but for some reason, he only came now..

 Chapter 791 - Chapter 791: Escaped

    Chapter 791: Escaped


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Perhaps because she wanted to see Ji Luo, Empress Dowager Zhou refused to lie down even though she was in low spirits. Xuanyuan Qi was helpless and could only help her sit down on a chair.


    Seeing that she could not even sit still and was still gritting her teeth, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes.


    What was she doing, did she want to intimidate her mother?


    Not long after, MO Yuan helped Ji Luo in.


    Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s gaze had not left her since she stepped into the bedroom.


    Ji Luo was wearing a veil, so her face could not be seen clearly. However, her eyes still evoked Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s memories when she first saw her.


    She made a scene at the wedding banquet. She was ostentatious, unreasonable, and unreasonable. She did not have the gentleness and virtuousness that a woman should have.


    Noticing the scar on the side of her eyebrows that extended from under the veil, Empress Dowager Zhou paused with a complicated expression. Ji Luo pretended not to notice and bowed to Xuanyuan Qi.


    ¡°No need to stand on ceremony.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll have to trouble you with Ah Ce.¡± This was the first time Xuanyuan Qi had seen Ji Luo. He didn¡¯t have as many complicated emotions as Empress Dowager Zhou. However, he felt a little guilty when he thought about how he was the culprit behind the separation of her and his second brother, so he subconsciously spoke more politely to her.


    Ji Luo nodded indifferently and was helped to the bed by MO Yuan.


    She began to check Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s injuries. From the beginning to the end, she did not give Empress Dowager Zhou an extra look.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other and realized that something was wrong. Ji Luo wasn¡¯t a weak person, let alone needing someone to support her when he walked.


    ¡°Mother, are you feeling unwell?¡± Shen Yijia leaned over and asked worriedly.


    ¡°Mother is fine.¡±


    Ji Luo retracted his hand and gestured for MO Yuan to take out the silver needles. He paused and said, ¡°I don¡¯t like outsiders present when I save people.¡±


    It couldn¡¯t be helped.


    Eunuch Wu looked at Xuanyuan Qi carefully.


    Xuanyuan Qi hesitated for a moment before finally helping Empress Dowager Zhou out of the bedroom.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were Ji Luo¡¯s daughters and son-in-law. They weren¡¯t outsiders, so the two of them stayed with a clear conscience.


    ¡°He¡¯s in a bad condition.¡± Ji Luo didn¡¯t take the silver needles. At first, she thought that Song Jingchen had asked her to save him. After checking Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s injuries, there was nothing she couldn¡¯t understand.


    Actually, she had not thought about these things in the past few days.


    Shen Yijia got a glass of water and added a drop of spiritual liquid to it before handing it over. ¡°Mother, take this.¡±


    They did not let Xuanyuan Qi and Empress Dowager Zhou wait for long and went out of the sleeping hall.


    Empress Dowager Zhou opened her mouth to ask, but she could not bring herself to do so. She could only keep glancing at Xuanyuan Qi. Receiving his mother¡¯s hint, Xuanyuan Qi asked, ¡°How¡¯s Ah Ce?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s fine,¡± Ji Luo said directly.


    When he heard this, the person who was most shocked was not Xuanyuan Qi, nor was it Empress Dowager Zhou, but the imperial physician.


    His eyes widened. ¡°How is this possible?¡± he thought.


    To be able to sit in the position of the head of the imperial hospital, his medical skills were definitely not bad. He did not think that he would misdiagnose.


    Based on the results of his examination just now, it was an understatement to say that the chances of waking up were slim.


    How long had this person been inside for? How dare she say that he was fine?


    However, when he listened to Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s instructions and checked Xuanyuan Ce again, he had no choice but to believe it.


    ¡°His Highness will wake up in a few days,¡± he said with a trembling voice.


    The reason why he was trembling was because he was completely excited. He looked at Ji Luo with a burning gaze.


    Such ability was simply unparalleled.


    If he could learn a thing or two¡­


    Ji Luo seemed to see through his thoughts and handed over a piece of paper that she had prepared in advance.


    ¡°This is a set of acupuncture techniques passed down from my ancestors.


    Senior, if you¡¯re interested, you can study it.¡±


    The imperial physician was stunned. As doctors, which one of them didn¡¯t hold the prescription tightly in their hands? He had only thought about it just now, but he had never thought of asking for it.


    He did not take it and said disapprovingly, ¡°This is such an expensive thing.


    You¡­¡±


    Ji Luo interrupted him. ¡°As a doctor, I¡¯m supposed to save the dying and the injured. My abilities alone are limited. If Senior can use it to greater effect, my ancestors¡¯ efforts over the past few lifetimes will not be in vain.¡±


    Hearing this, the imperial physician could not help but feel deep veneration for Ji Luo. He first glanced at Xuanyuan Qi and saw that he did not object, so he took it with both hands.


    ¡°Since Madam handed this to me, I won¡¯t hide it. I¡¯ll definitely teach it to others. ¡±


    Ji Luo did not say anything else. This acupuncture technique was indeed used to treat injuries to the head, but Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s condition was more serious, so it was useless against him.


    The reason why she took it out was to gloss over Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s sudden improvement.


    Moreover, she did not think that there was anything to hide.


    She did not think much of it, but she did not know that the way Empress Dowager Zhou looked at her was even more complicated.


    Xuanyuan Ce was already out of danger, so they bade them farewell and left the palace.


    Xuanyuan Qi got someone to send them out. Thinking of something, Ji Luo stopped in his tracks and said, ¡°Your Majesty, you¡¯d better pay more attention to the situation of the various medical centers in Phoenix City these few days.¡±


    ¡°Mother? Are you really fine?¡± In the carriage, Shen Yijia asked Ji Luo, who was leaning against MO Yuan.


    Ji Luo shook her head to indicate that she was fine.


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°Mother, did you go to look for the people from the


    Valley of Heavenly Secrets?¡±


    Ji Luo paused and sighed. ¡°They managed to escape.¡±


    In the palace, Xuanyuan Qi sent the empress dowager back to the Longevity


    Palace and got someone to move Xuanyuan Ce to the next door of the Yuqian Palace to recuperate. Just as he picked up the memorial, the Demon Guards appeared and said that there were fewer envoys from the Wu Kingdom living in the posthouse.


    Thinking of Ji Luo¡¯s reminder before he left, he quickly got someone to surround the posthouse and instructed someone to keep an eye on the situation in the various medical centers..

 Chapter 792 - Chapter 792: Entering the Palace (1)

    Chapter 792: Entering the Palace (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The news of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s revival quickly spread. The reason was that not only had the mourning flags hanging in the residence been removed, but the mourning hall had also been demolished.


    After asking around, they found out that the person who died was not Lord Jing¡¯an at all.


    The real Lord Jing¡¯an was seriously injured and hidden. The culprit was Consort Jing¡¯an, Madam Yu.


    Their imagination ran wild, and the commoners immediately imagined a scene where she would kill her husband because she couldn¡¯t love him.


    Some people even wrote it into a book and sold it.


    It was selling quite well.


    ¡°If this Third Aunt Wu is referring to Madam Yu, then this Chen Zhaoling is a scumbag.¡± Shen Yijia read a book with relish.


    Since this matter concerned the royal family, no one dared to write it openly. They all changed their identities and names.


    Shen Yijia could no longer remember how many versions she had seen. However, without exception, in the end, the female protagonist killed her husband.


    The only difference was the process.


    Some wrote that because the male protagonist had neglected her for many years, the female protagonist had fallen in love with someone else and wanted to spend the night with her lover, so she colluded with her lover to murder the male protagonist.


    Some of them wrote about how the female protagonist found out that the male protagonist was raising his mistress, and their jealousy turned into hatred.


    In short, there were all kinds of things to write about.


    At first, Shen Yijia only dared to peek at these books behind Ji Luo¡¯s back. She did not want to accidentally bump into Ji Luo. In the end, the mother and daughter ended up reading such novels together.


    Song Jingchen looked up from his desk and saw the person lying on the soft couch opposite him, smiling non-stop. The corners of his mouth twitched. ¡°Is it really that good?¡±


    Shen Yijia moved the soft couch in herself, claiming that she wanted to accompany him.


    Shen Yijia closed her notebook and said seriously, ¡°Not as good-looking as you.¡±


    ¡°Little liar.¡±


    It was unknown who was the one who kept holding onto the book all day long. In the past, she would hug him to sleep. Now, she was hugging the book to sleep.


    Song Jingchen was jealous.


    Shen Yijia blinked and placed her hands on the table. She leaned half of her body over the desk and looked at Song Jingchen without blinking. ¡°Hubby, there¡¯s something on your face.¡±


    She suddenly approached and her breath hit his face. Song Jingchen¡¯s breathing tightened and he subconsciously raised his hand. ¡®What is it?¡±


    ¡°Something handsome, hehe.¡±


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. ¡°You glib- tongued little liar.¡± ¡°What do you mean? It¡¯s clearly sweet. Try it if you don¡¯t believe me.¡± She moved her face forward.


    Her warm breath and fragrance assaulted Song Jingchen¡¯s nose.


    Because she was leaning forward, her clothes were slightly open, revealing a pink undergarment and a slightly protruding curve. It was even more tempting to think about it.


    His face heated up and his mouth went dry.


    Shen Yijia stuck her head out for a long time, but he did not move. Her neck was tired.


    ¡°If he won¡¯t do it, I will.¡± she thought.


    She placed her free hand on the back of Song Jingchen¡¯s head and pressed him against her.


    ¡°Jiajia, you¡­¡¯


    Song Jingchen retreated.


    He retreated too quickly, and Shen Yijia lost her balance and fell onto the desk. Ji Luo covered her face. ¡°I didn¡¯t see anything.¡±


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t said that, but once she did, Song Jingchen felt even more awkward. He felt like an elementary school child caught in the act by his parents.


    The air froze for a moment.


    Shen Yijia got up with difficulty and rubbed her aching forehead. She looked at the culprit resentfully.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose. ¡°You should talk to Mother.¡±


    With that, he stood up and walked out. When he passed by Ji Luo, he didn¡¯t dare to look at her.


    Ji Luo was almost amused by him. She thought of something and her smile froze.


    When she came back to her senses, she realized that Shen Yijia was looking at her. She composed herself and walked over. She smiled and said, ¡°Did I come at the wrong time?¡±


    Of course it wasn¡¯t the right time.


    Although she thought so, Shen Yijia said, ¡°How could that be? Mother can come anytime. ¡±


    In the end, she sighed and said, ¡°My husband is just a little shy.¡±


    She looked like she was unsatisfied with her desires. Ji Luo couldn¡¯t hold back her laughter anymore.


    She was so unreserved. She was indeed her daughter.


    Fortunately, Jiajia was luckier than her.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was rubbing her stomach, she smiled and said, ¡°Jiajia, let Mother check your pulse.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not understand and obediently reached out her hand.


    When she did not hear Ji Luo speak for a long time, she asked, ¡°How¡¯s my health?¡±


    Ji Luo retracted his hand and caressed her face with a smile. ¡°You¡¯re in good health.¡±


    This was the truth. With spiritual liquid to nourish the body, one¡¯s body was better than ordinary people.


    However¡­


    Ji Luo hesitated for a moment before asking tactfully, ¡°Jiajia, is Ah Chen causing trouble for you at night?¡±

 Chapter 793 - Chapter 793: Entering the Palace (2)

    Chapter 793: Entering the Palace (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    According to MO Yuan, the young couple had been married for almost three years. It was not that their relationship was difficult. Since they slept in the same bed every day, she should have gotten pregnant long ago.


    However, there was nothing wrong with Jiajia¡¯s health. The one with the problem was definitely her son-in-law.


    ¡°Make a fuss?¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head. ¡°No. It¡¯s quiet when I sleep.¡±


    What position was she in when she fell asleep? What position was she in when she woke up? She didn¡¯t snore.


    Ji Luo¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Ah Chen was at the prime of his life. How could he remain calm and indifferent when facing his beautiful wife?


    She opened her mouth. Although it wasn¡¯t good to ask about her son-in-law, for her little grandson, she could only brace herself and ask, ¡°Then, is he bad at that?¡±


    When she heard those words, Shen Yijia came to a realization and quickly shook her head. ¡°No, my husband is very capable. He hurts my hand every time.¡±


    Before she could say anything, a loud bang sounded at the door.


    Song Jingchen remembered that he had yet to give the letter to Thirty Thousand, so he came back to get it.


    Ji Luo, who was asking about his daughter and son-in-law¡¯s affairs and didn¡¯t want to be caught by his son-in-law, was speechless.


    Shen Yijia, who had no idea what was going on, asked, ¡°Hubby, does your foot hurt?¡±


    The voice just now was from Song Jingchen kicking the threshold.


    At her reminder, Song Jingchen felt a piercing pain in his feet. He endured the pain and shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ll leave after getting something.¡±


    The letter was written by him just now and was placed on the table.


    He stiffened and looked straight ahead. He limped over to pick up the letter and turned to leave.


    After walking for a distance, she stopped. ¡°Jiajia, come out for a while. I have something to tell you.¡±


    He was afraid that if this girl continued to stay here, he would really be too ashamed to face his mother-in-law in the future.


    That wasn¡¯t right. He couldn¡¯t face it anymore.


    It was too awkward. If there was a hole in the ground, he would have crawled into it.


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± Shen Yijia blinked at Ji Luo and chased after Song Jingchen.


    Watching the couple leave, Ji Luo held her chin and pondered for a moment.


    She sat in front of the desk and wrote down a prescription. She then looked for MO Yuan. ¡°Ah Yuan, follow my prescription to make this medicinal cuisine for your son-in-law every meal in the future.¡±


    MO Yuan looked at the prescription in her hand and paused for a moment. Most of the medicinal herbs on it were used to nourish someone¡¯s vitality.


    It turned out that it wasn¡¯t that Young Master couldn¡¯t do it, but that he didn¡¯t have enough primordial yang. No wonder Miss wasn¡¯t pregnant yet.


    During lunch, a new dish appeared in front of Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead throbbed. He couldn¡¯t help but think of how MO Yuan had taken the initiative to prepare various tonic soups for him.


    ¡°Are you eating?¡± A sudden voice sounded.


    Song Jingchen quickly stood up as if he had been pardoned. ¡°Eunuch Wu.¡±


    ¡°Lord Song.¡± Eunuch Wu cupped his hands in return, feeling flattered.


    She didn¡¯t expect him to come. Ji Luo wasn¡¯t wearing a veil.


    Seeing the crisscrossing scars on her face, Eunuch Wu was shocked. However, he was someone who had seen the world after all. In an instant, he regained his composure.


    He said politely, ¡°Did I disturb everyone¡¯s meal?¡±


    snen YlJ1a rolled ner eyes. sne was aDout to say, ¡°Aren¡¯t you stating tne obvious?¡±


    Song Jingchen beat him to it and said, ¡°Eunuch Wu came at the right time. If you haven¡¯t eaten yet, let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    Why did this scene seem like they knew each other?


    He remembered.


    The first time they met, Madam Song had invited her in enthusiastically to eat noodles, but this time, it was a different person.


    The fear of the noodles surged into his heart. How could Eunuch Wu dare to eat this family¡¯s food? He quickly shook his head and said, ¡°Actually, I received His Majesty¡¯s instructions to invite Madam Ji to the palace.¡± ¡°Why is he looking for my mother? Is your lord awake?¡±


    Five days had passed. It was time for him to wake up.


    ¡°His Highness is indeed awake, but there¡¯s something wrong with his body. The imperial physicians are helpless, so Your Majesty wants Madam Ji to¡­¡¯


    Ji Luo interrupted him. ¡°Since he¡¯s awake, it¡¯s not a big problem. Let¡¯s talk after we¡¯re done eating.¡±


    ¡°Well.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°It won¡¯t take long. Eunuch Wu, sit down and join us.¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Eunuch Wu still wanted to refuse, but Song Jingchen had already gestured for Thirty Thousand to add another set of cutlery.


    Eunuch Wu thought to himself, ¡°Who are these people?¡±


    He sat down in fear. Seeing that he was sitting there without eating, Song Jingchen personally picked up the communal chopsticks and picked up a large piece of food for him.


    Ji Luo frowned, but he couldn¡¯t tell Song Jingchen that this was to nourish his vitality. She could only look at Eunuch Wu unhappily.


    Shen Yijia was also unhappy. Her beautiful husband had yet to pick up food for her!


    Therefore, Eunuch Wu received two pairs of death stares.


    Thinking that he had provoked them because he didn¡¯t want to eat, he quickly picked up the bowl and ate.


    ¡°Eh, it¡¯s quite delicious.¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. ¡°If you like it, eat more.¡±


    With that, he picked up the plate and stuffed all the dishes into his bowl.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, that¡¯s enough. I can¡¯t eat so much.¡±


    Song Jingchen held back his laughter. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Take your time.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Sensing that the two gazes opposite him were even stronger, Eunuch Wu shrank back.


    Should he eat it or not?


    ¡°Mother, Jiajia, you guys eat too.¡± Song Jingchen picked up a crab meatball for Ji Luo and a drumstick for Shen Yijia.


    He successfully helped Eunuch Wu dispel Shen Yijia¡¯s resentment.


    As for Ji Luo, he couldn¡¯t do anything about that.


    After the meal, Eunuch Wu broke out in a cold sweat. Fortunately, Ji Luo did not refuse to enter the palace because of this.


    Shen Yijia was worried and got into the carriage with Song Jingchen..

 Chapter 794 - Chapter 794: It Begins (1)

    Chapter 794: It Begins (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When they arrived at the palace where Xuanyuan Ce was recuperating, the imperial physician had just finished examining him. Apart from the imperial physician, only Chu Feng was waiting at the side.


    Xuanyuan Ce had just recovered from his serious injuries and had been unconscious for nearly ten days. He looked to be in low spirits.


    If it were anyone else, they would look sick, but he just looked a little weak.


    He leaned against the headboard. His white hair fell over his shoulders, and his eyelashes were half-closed. He was so beautiful that it made people want to protect him.


    Shen Yijia could not help but take a few more glances. No wonder he could charm her mother so much back then that she forgot about her own official business.


    If it were her, she would have forgotten about it too.


    Hearing footsteps, Xuanyuan Ce turned around.


    ¡°Chu Feng, who¡¯s here?¡±


    ¡°Eunuch Wu brought Madam Ji and the others here.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. There was something wrong with Eunuch Wu¡¯s words. Could it be that his brain was damaged? Or had he lost his memory?


    Was she finally going to encounter the melodramatic plot in the storybook?


    Just as she finished thinking this, she saw Xuanyuan Ce smile. ¡°Ah Luo and Jiajia are here.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Since he recognized them, it wasn¡¯t a case of memory loss.


    Ji Luo clearly discovered the problem. She frowned and walked over. Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s gaze kept following her, but if one observed carefully, his eyes were unfocused.


    She waved her hand in front of his eyes.


    The wind caused Xuanyuan Ce to laugh. ¡°There¡¯s no need to try. When I woke up, I realized that I couldn¡¯t see.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Fortunately, he only went blind.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. ¡°Didn¡¯t you keep saying that you left your things in Jade Light Hall? We can¡¯t help here. I¡¯ll accompany you to pack up


    first. ¡±


    Shen Yijia felt that it made sense. In any case, the old woman and Xuanyuan Qi were not around, so she did not have to worry about anyone bullying her mother.


    After informing Ji Luo, the couple left.


    Actually, apart from the clothes Song Jingchen asked Xuanyuan Ziming to bring in for her, there was nothing else she brought into the palace.


    Her heart ached mainly because of the valuable things that the old woman had gotten someone to give her.


    Perhaps because of Shen Yijia¡¯s words, Empress Dowager Zhou felt that she owed her. She wanted to compensate her, but because it was the mourning period, Empress Dowager Zhou gave her some complete high-quality jade, simple and elegant jewelry, and some trinkets that she had never seen before. Shen Yijia asked the palace maids about it. Those trinkets were all provided by the country and were worth a lot of money.


    Xuanyuan Ce held his breath. His entire body was stiff, and he did not dare to move.


    He couldn¡¯t see, so his other senses seemed to have become more sensitive. He could clearly feel Ji Luo¡¯s breath on his face. It was so close that he could touch her if he tilted his head slightly.


    This made him feel a little restless. He even felt that it was not bad to be blind.


    The imperial physician was standing at the side and was secretly speechless. He had wanted to check on His Highness like this just now, but he was almost slapped away by His Highness.


    This was infuriating!


    Ji Luo retracted his hand from Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyelids and took two steps back to widen the distance between the two of them. She pretended not to see the disappointment on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face and said indifferently, ¡°It should be temporary blindness caused by blood stasis in the brain. I¡¯ll prescribe a prescription to lessen the blood stasis and treat it with acupuncture. It won¡¯t be long before you recover.¡±


    Chu Feng¡¯s eyes lit up and he quickly went to get a pen and paper.


    God knew that when he returned and found out that his lord had already gone to the gates of hell, he was almost scared to death.


    When His Highness was in danger, he was actually not by his side. This alone was enough for him to die a hundred times.


    Ji Luo wrote a prescription and handed it to him. ¡°There¡¯s a prescription for this every day. Cook it every morning and night. Take it after dinner. Take the medicine for an hour before undergoing acupuncture treatment. Try to eat light meals during the treatment.¡±


    After instructing him, she thought for a moment and wrote another prescription. ¡°This is applied externally. Pulp the medicine into medicinal paste and apply it to your eyes. Change it once a day.¡±


    Chu Feng paused. Did this mean that she wasn¡¯t going to treat His Highness personally?


    Seeing his confusion, Ji Luo didn¡¯t explain. She said to the imperial physician orthodox, ¡°Senior, I¡¯ll teach you how to do the acupuncture.¡±


    She wanted to teach him again? The imperial physician was overjoyed and quickly leaned over.


    MO Yuan had already prepared the silver needles. Ji Luo explained as he demonstrated on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s head.


    She spoke very carefully. She didn¡¯t forget which acupuncture points to insert and what to pay attention to.


    The imperial physician was also listening attentively. After all, he was inserting a needle into His Highness¡¯s head. He did not dare to be careless.


    However, as he listened, he felt that something was wrong.. Why was it so cold?

 Chapter 795 - Chapter 795: It Begins (2)

    Chapter 795: It Begins (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The weather at the end of April shouldn¡¯t be like this.


    It must be an illusion!


    He cringed and continued to listen intently.


    Then, he felt the temperature around him drop again, as if it was about to freeze him into ice.


    Surrounded by that cold aura, the imperial physician could not calm down at all. He looked around and unexpectedly met a beautiful face that was as cold as ice.


    He clearly knew that His Highness could not see, but he felt that the other party was staring at him.


    The imperial physician wiped his cold sweat and something flashed across his mind. He quickly waved his hand and said, ¡°No, no. I¡¯m old and my eyesight isn¡¯t good. Why don¡¯t you do the acupuncture for His Highness in the future?¡±


    The imperial physician wiped his cold sweat and something flashed across his mind. He quickly waved his hand and said, ¡°No, no. I¡¯m old and my eyesight isn¡¯t good. Why don¡¯t you do the acupuncture for His Highness in the future?¡±


    With that, he glanced at Xuanyuan Ce without a trace. Indeed, his expression had improved.


    His life was saved, but the imperial physician wanted to cry. This learning opportunity was so rare.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t stop what he was doing. ¡°There are so many imperial physicians in the imperial hospital. Since it¡¯s inconvenient for Senior, let¡¯s get someone else.¡±


    In other words, if your eyesight isn¡¯t good, find someone with good eyesight.


    ¡°Those young juniors are inexperienced. I don¡¯t dare to let them inject His Highness. What if something goes wrong when they¡¯re nervous?¡± At this point, he looked troubled.


    He didn¡¯t dare to curse, as long as the meaning was there.


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen returned and happened to hear this conversation. She rolled her eyes. ¡°Isn¡¯t there anyone in the entire Imperial Hospital who has good eyesight and experience?¡±


    The imperial physician¡¯s heart was crying. He braced himself and said, ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia muttered in disdain, ¡°The people from the Imperial Hospital are so useless!¡±


    The imperial physician was speechless.


    ¡°Your Highness, for you, I¡¯ve lost the reputation of the entire imperial hospital.¡±


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°We can¡¯t ask Mother to enter the palace every day, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen, who had seen through everything, said in amusement, ¡°It¡¯s indeed inconvenient for Mother to enter the palace every day to give His Highness acupuncture.¡±


    He paused and noticed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s expression instantly darken. He continued, ¡°Why don¡¯t you let His Highness recuperate at our place for the time being?


    ¡°After all, it¡¯s not easy to insert a needle into your head. You won¡¯t feel at ease leaving it to others.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was satisfied.


    The imperial physician quickly added, ¡°Sir, you¡¯re right. That¡¯s what I mean.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce, who had been silent all this while, suddenly sighed and said, ¡°If there¡¯s really an accident, it¡¯s my fate. It¡¯s no wonder that there are others.


    Imperial Physician Meng, you don¡¯t have to feel pressured.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you were so good at acting.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought, ¡°Same to you.¡±


    Ji Luo had already placed the last needle. She glanced at Xuanyuan Ce and said indifferently, ¡°We¡¯ll leave the palace after 15 minutes.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°Alright!¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the imperial physician, then at Xuanyuan Ce. She whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear, ¡°Hubby, why do I feel that something is wrong?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I think something¡¯s wrong too.¡±


    If Xuanyuan Ce wanted to leave the palace to recuperate, he naturally had to obtain the permission of the emperor and Empress Dowager Zhou. As soon as Ji Luo agreed, Chu Feng went to report.


    The emperor was easy to talk to, so Chu Feng chose to tell the truth.


    However, it was different when it came to Empress Dowager Zhou. He made sure to mention that Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s condition was serious, so serious Ji Luo was the only one who could treat him.


    As expected, Empress Dowager Zhou agreed. She even asked him about the environment of his small courtyard and if there was anyone serving him. If there was really no other way, they could move to the residence.


    Chu Feng did not dare to make this decision. He could only say that he would ask His Highness for his opinion.


    Thinking of Ji Luo¡¯s presence, Empress Dowager Zhou suppressed the thought or maK1ng a trip to tne yurple mansion Hall personally. sne glancea at enu Feng and said, ¡°Go back and ask Ce l er how to deal with the Yu family.¡± Chu Feng was stunned and retreated.


    When he returned to the Purple Mansion Hall, Ji Luo had just finished acupuncture for Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°Your Majesty and the Empress Dowager have agreed to let His Highness leave the palace to recuperate.¡±


    With that, he whispered something in Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s ear.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Where is she locked up?¡±


    There was a secret room in the palace of the Xuanyuan Kingdom for important prisoners.


    There was no daylight inside. It was made of stone bricks on all sides, and there was only a bowl-sized hole in the door. Apart from being used for ventilation, it was also to facilitate the delivery of food to prisoners.


    In the dark room, Xuanyuan Ye buried her head in her knees and curled up into a ball. She did not even look at the steamed bun Madam Yu handed over. Madam Yu¡¯s heart ached and she felt helpless. She advised, ¡°Ye¡¯er, please eat.¡±


    ¡°Why did you do that?¡± Xuanyuan Ye interrupted her coldly.. ¡°Since you did it, why couldn¡¯t you hide the secret well?¡±

 Chapter 796 - Chapter 796: It Begins (3)

    Chapter 796: It Begins (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Why did she have to face all this?


    Madam Yu was rendered speechless by her questions.


    Back then, when Xuanyuan Ce was seriously ill, Empress Dowager Zhou said that if she could not leave him with a son or a daughter, she would have to die with him.


    She thought that Xuanyuan Ce would really not wake up, so she took the risk to look for Jiang Tao.


    Who would have thought that Xuanyuan Ce would miraculously wake up as soon as she conceived Xuanyuan Ye? He did not even say anything after knowing that she had given birth to a daughter.


    She thought that he didn¡¯t know anything and that he had misunderstood like everyone else.


    The sound of the door opening interrupted her thoughts. The mother and daughter looked at the door at the same time.


    Two prison guards walked in and escorted Madam Yu away without a word.


    Xuanyuan Ye reacted and quickly ran over to grab one of the prison guards. She said in a panic, ¡°When can I get out? Where¡¯s my grandmother? Does


    Grandmother know that I¡¯m here? Did she say when she would let me out?¡±


    The prison officer pushed her away impolitely.


    Xuanyuan Ye fell to the ground. Madam Yu¡¯s heart ached, but she was restrained by the prison guards and could not do anything.


    The door was closed again. Xuanyuan Ye was anxious. She leaned against the vent and roared, ¡°Where are you bringing my mother? Come back!¡±


    No one paid attention to her.


    The footsteps were getting further and further away, and the surroundings fell into dead silence again. Xuanyuan Ye curled up into a ball in panic and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s that b*tch¡¯s fault.¡±


    If that mother and daughter did not appear, her father would at most continue to ignore her and her mother like before.


    Why would she investigate what her mother had done just to make room for the mother and daughter?


    If she didn¡¯t investigate, no one would know her background.


    Xuanyuan Ye believed that she had found the culprit behind everything. Her scarlet eyes slowly filled with hatred.


    On the other side, the prison guard brought Madam Yu into an interrogation room. When she saw the person inside, her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°How is this possible?¡±


    How could he wake up from such a serious injury?


    Xuanyuan Ce sat by the window, half of his body hidden in the darkness. He ¡°looked¡± at Madam Yu coldly and knocked on the table. Chu Feng, who was standing at the side, understood. He took out a stack of letters and threw them in front of Madam Yu.


    ¡°It¡¯s the evidence you wanted,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said.


    Madam Yu was stunned. Her gaze moved down and she slowly squatted down. She picked up the letter and read it carefully under the dim yellow light of the interrogation room.


    With every page she read, her expression changed. When she reached the end, she suddenly tore the letter apart crazily.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t me. I didn¡¯t do this.¡±


    ¡°I admit that Ye¡¯er isn¡¯t your daughter, but we agreed to live separate lives after marriage. You can¡¯t convict me of this.¡±


    ¡°It was because of me that you brothers could easily take down the aristocratic families. You promised to protect me. You can¡¯t kick someone to the curb when they¡¯ve outlived their usefulness.¡±


    She shook her head in panic and kept repeating what had happened back then.


    ¡°Yes, I promised you. But since we have nothing to do with each other, what makes you think you can attack my Ah Luo?¡±


    If not for the fact that he had asked someone to investigate this time, Xuanyuan Ce would not have expected that Madam Yu had already gotten involved with the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets while she was still in her pavilion.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t do it. It wasn¡¯t me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce ¡°looked¡± at her coldly and said unhurriedly, ¡°Back then, Si Yun learned in advance that my brother had the intention to let me marry you and reached a consensus with you. They tricked Ah Luo back, and you were in charge of persuading me to marry you.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Ah Luo realized that she was pregnant and returned to Phoenix City midway. It happened to be on the day of their wedding.


    ¡°You were worried that the two of us would resolve the misunderstanding, so you intercepted Ah Luo¡¯s letter and asked your substitute to assassinate her. Your goal was actually not to kill her, but to make her give up on me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. It¡¯s not that you don¡¯t want to kill her, but Si Yun didn¡¯t want you to kill her because he wanted to bring Ah Luo back to the Valley of Heavenly Secrets to marry him.¡±


    ¡°But you never expected that the Valley of Heavenly Secrets and the Yu family would still let her escape.¡±


    At this point, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes turned red.


    At that time, Ah Luo was pregnant. First, she experienced his betrayal, then she was hunted down by the two sides. Xuanyuan Ce did not dare to imagine what she had experienced on the way from the Xuanyuan Kingdom to Great Xia.


    Just thinking about it made his heart ache. He wished he could kill himself, who believed in Madam Yu.


    No wonder the old monk said that she was covered in blood when she saw Ah Luo.


    Xuanyuan Ce clenched his trembling hands and took a deep breath to suppress the anger in his heart. He continued, ¡°And this time, the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets told you that I found my daughter.¡±


    He knew everything!


    Knowing everything meant that he would definitely not let her off. Madam Yu sat on the ground and muttered, ¡°I just wanted you to marry me..¡±

 Chapter 797 - Chapter 797: Conclusion

    Chapter 797: Conclusion


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Madam Yu did not know if it was because a lie would become the truth if she lied too much, but she really fell in love with Xuanyuan Ce later on.


    As for the beginning¡­


    Just as Xuanyuan Ce had said, she was just using him as a raft to escape the fate of entering the palace.


    At that time, the aristocratic families were all focused on the women in the harem. As long as one of them gave birth to an imperial heir, they would eliminate Xuanyuan Qi.


    As for Xuanyuan Ce, to put it bluntly, he was alive because Xuanyuan Qi was still alive.


    As long as Xuanyuan Qi died, he would be the second person to be killed by the aristocratic families.


    It was obvious that such a worthless person was not taken seriously by the aristocratic families.


    It was precisely because Madam Yu saw through this that she let the rumors spread that she admired Xuanyuan Ce.


    As a daughter of an aristocratic family, she knew too well how ruthless the family clan was. Moreover, her actions were no different from provocation. How could the family head let her off?


    As expected, when the family head realized that the rumors could not be suppressed, he did not want to marry her off. Instead, he completely gave up on her and let her fend for herself in the family.


    This was her punishment.


    They wanted her to know that she was nothing without the protection of her family.


    However, they did not know that although she could not even compare to a maidservant in those few years, they were the most reassuring years for her.


    This was because she no longer had to worry about being sent out like good-looking goods.


    There was no need to be plagued by nightmares for the entire night after hearing that a daughter of the Yu family had died tragically in the harem.


    Unfortunately, this peace of mind changed four years after she was abandoned by the family clan.


    She remembered that a daughter of the Yu family wanted to enter the palace the next day. Just like the others, she vented her unhappiness before entering the palace. Madam Yu spent the night in the horse shed as usual.


    That night, under the moonlight, a young man in black appeared in her line of sight.


    She clearly only saw a pair of eyes and did not even know who the other party was, but she was tempted by him.


    Based on her familiarity with the layout of the residence, she mustered her courage and quietly followed the young man. She watched as he walked into the master¡¯s study and watched as he was discovered and hunted down.


    Madam Yu took a deep breath and wiped the tears off her face. She smiled mockingly. ¡°If I hadn¡¯t helped you that day, do you think you could have escaped from the Yu family?¡±


    ¡°You only remember how that woman saved you on your way back to the imperial mausoleum, but you don¡¯t remember how I helped you before that!¡±


    She was the one who helped him hide his traces and cut her arm to lure the pursuers away. That was how he left alive!


    She was the one who saved him first!


    No one Imew that when she found out that the person she saved was Xuanyuan Ce, she still happily thought that this was predestined.


    The next year, a man named Si Yun suddenly found her. He said that Xuanyuan Ce had snatched his fianc¨¦e.


    At first, she did not believe it.


    ¡°At that time, you asked me if I really had no feelings for you. If I told you the truth, would you have married me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and did not answer.


    Madam Yu sneered. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t have! You¡¯ve thought of me as a backup plan from the beginning. If I told the truth, you¡¯ll definitely insist on sending me away.¡±


    If she had not seen Xuanyuan Ce in advance, she would have left the Yu family and lived freely.


    But how could there be so many ifs in the world?


    If that woman could make Xuanyuan Ce fall in love with her because she saved Xuanyuan Ce, why couldn¡¯t she?


    Moreover, she had Si Yun to help her.


    As long as that woman completely disappeared from Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s world, he would fall in love with her one day.


    However, she had underestimated Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s feelings for that woman.


    The imperial physician did not dare to tell Empress Dowager Zhou and the emperor the truth, but she knew that Xuanyuan Ce had fallen ill because he missed her.


    The funny thing was that the period when Xuanyuan Ce fell ill because of another woman was when she was closest to him.


    Later on, she often thought how good it would be if His Highness was sick forever. She could see him whenever she wanted.


    It was also because of this almost perverted thought that she took the risk of leaving him alive and hiding him in her room, the closest place to her.


    ¡°Even if I Imew that you saved me that night, I wouldn¡¯t like you.¡± Xuanyuan Ce stood up and placed his hand on Chu Feng¡¯s shoulder. He said coldly, ¡°Besides, these are not reasons for you to harm Ah Luo.¡± Madam Yu was stunned and suddenly laughed out loud.


    This man, this man¡­


    As usual, he was unwilling to give her any hope.


    Xuanyuan Ce was helped out of the interrogation room by Chu Feng. When he crossed the threshold, he paused. ¡°You saved me back then. I won¡¯t kill you, but I have to return the suffering you¡¯ve given to Ah Luo.¡±


    He ¡°looked¡± at the prison guard guarding the door. ¡®Go and tell His Majesty to let Madam Yu spend the rest of her life in a dark room.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce left without looking back.


    Madam Yu stopped laughing. When she realized what he had said, tears rolled down her face. She raised her hand to cover her eyes. Her shoulders could not help but tremble as she whimpered silently.


    She didn¡¯t make too much noise, but the sadness that enveloped her seemed tangible.


    It was unknown if it was regret or hatred.


    Chu Feng helped Xuanyuan Ce out of the secret room and carefully glanced at him a few times. He couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°Your Highness, what exactly happened that day? Why did you return to the lord¡¯s residence unscathed? Why were you almost killed by a woman?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce took a deep breath and looked up. ¡°You talk too much.¡±


    What else could it be? It was just that Ah Luo ignored him and Jiajia refused to acknowledge him. When he found out that she might have been deceived by Madam Yu, he held back her resentment.


    For some reason, he wanted to settle scores with Madam Yu. Unexpectedly, he was tricked and almost lost his life.


    He never wanted to mention such an embarrassing thing again in his life.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Chu Feng rubbed his nose and saw the people in the pavilion in front of him. He said happily, ¡°Your Highness, Madam Ji and Madam Song are still waiting for us.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re clearly waiting for me.¡± Xuanyuan Ce corrected him indifferently.


    ¡°Also, call her Miss Jiajia in the future.¡±


    Chu Feng said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming had also entered the palace today. Xuanyuan Qi had asked him to pay attention to the various medical centers in Feng City. This was why he was here.


    After leaving the imperial study, he went to the imperial hospital again and called a few imperial physicians away. Unexpectedly, he encountered Shen Yijia and the others who had also left the palace.


    ¡°Madam, Brother Song, Jiajia.¡± He walked over and greeted them. When he noticed Xuanyuan Ce walking at the back, he quickly called out, ¡°Uncle.¡± Xuanyuan Ce nodded. ¡°Why did you enter the palace today?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to report something to Father.¡± Halfway through his sentence, Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s eyes lit up as he thought of something. He looked at Ji Luo and said, ¡°I heard that it¡¯s all thanks to Madam that Imperial Uncle can wake up. Even tne Imperial pnyslclans praised madam¡¯s miraculous SKIIIS ana said that she¡¯s comparable to Hua Tuo¡­¡±


    Ji Luo held her forehead. ¡°If you have something to say, just say it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­ I want to ask if Madam has any good prescriptions for treating the epidemic..¡±

 Chapter 798 - Chapter 798: Bringing Him Out

    Chapter 798: Bringing Him Out


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Epidemic? If I remember correctly, there have been epidemics caused by the cold in spring in the past. Are the previous prescriptions useless?¡± Ji Luo asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that it¡¯s useless.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming scratched his head. ¡°It was fine at first. The epidemic was about to pass, but for some reason, everyone¡¯s condition has become more serious after taking the medicine these few days. Many people die every day, and people come to the medical center every day to make a fuss.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Father ask me to pay attention to the various medical centers? I felt that this was abnormal, so I asked Father for a few imperial physicians and prepared to bring them to take a look.¡±


    Ji Luo followed his gaze and looked over. The four imperial physicians subconsciously straightened their backs. She retracted her gaze and said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Actually, she already had a guess, but she still needed to see the patient to confirm it.


    Initially, Xuanyuan Ziming only felt that Ji Luo¡¯s medical skills were outstanding and wanted to ask her for a prescription. He did not expect her to directly ask to go with him. He was simply flattered and said nice things.


    ¡°Madam is indeed benevolent. Let me thank you on behalf of the citizens of Phoenix City.¡±


    As he spoke, he cupped his hands and bowed.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me.¡± Ji Luo said coldly, ¡°I only said that I¡¯ll go and take a look.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned. ¡°You¡¯re only going to look at it and not treat


    Shen Yijia looked at the three carriages parked at the entrance of the palace and said, ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll go to the medical center with you. If we encounter anyone causing trouble, I can¡­¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. MO Yuan will accompany me.¡±


    She went to the medical center to treat patients, so it was normal for her to only bring MO Yuan, who knew medicine. After all, Shen Yijia could not help much.


    After saying that, Ji Luo looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°Ah Chen, bring Jiajia home first.¡¯


    Song Jingchen understood what she meant and nodded.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say more, but Song Jingchen advised, ¡°With the Third Prince around, no one will dare to cause trouble.¡±


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming raised his chin and patted his chest. ¡°Jiajia, don¡¯t worry. With me around, I won¡¯t let anyone touch Madam.¡± Shen Yijia thought about it and agreed.


    Xuanyuan Ce suddenly said, ¡°Why are you calling her Jiajia? How rude.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming choked. ¡°Uncle is right. Jiajia¡­¡±


    He looked at Shen Yijia and forced out a word. ¡°¡­Sister.¡±


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°Yes?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Ce was also satisfied and did not harp on this. Actually, he wanted to go with them, but when he thought about how he could not see now, he might cause trouble if he went, so he could only let Chu Feng follow and protect Ji Luo.


    After Xuanyuan Ziming left with Ji Luo and the four imperial physicians, the three of them boarded the carriage provided by the palace to send them home.


    The prison guard replied to Xuanyuan Qi according to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s instructions. Not long after, the Longevity Palace also received the news. Empress Dowager Zhou did not care about Madam Yu¡¯s life. On the contrary, she even wanted to cut a vicious woman like her into pieces.


    However, since it was Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s decision, Empress Dowager Zhou could only tolerate her continuing to live.


    Sensing that she was in a bad mood, Nanny Gao poured a cup of tea and handed it to her. She took the massager from the palace maid and sat down to massage her legs.


    She mustered her courage and asked, ¡°Is the empress dowager worried about the princess?¡±


    After all, this concerned the royal family¡¯s reputation. To the public, Xuanyuan Qi had only announced that Madam Yu had plotted against Xuanyuan Ce.


    As for her illicit relationship with Jiang Tao and Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background¡­


    Everyone who had gone to the prince¡¯s residence that day had been silenced by Xuanyuan Qi, so the matter did not spread. Naturally, outsiders did not know that Xuanyuan Ye was not a princess at all.


    Empress Dowager Zhou did not say anything, but her expression suddenly turned ugly.


    Nanny Gao thought that she had guessed correctly. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°May I be so bold as to say that a few days after His Highness¡¯s accident, the princess¡¯s eyes were swollen from crying a few times. The sadness on her face doesn¡¯t seem to be fake. I guess that the princess probably didn¡¯t know anything about what Madam Yu did and has been kept in the dark.¡±


    She hesitated for a moment before continuing, ¡°Speaking of which, the princess is quite pitiful.¡±


    First, she thought that her father was gone, but in the end, her father returned. The murderer was her mother, and she was implicated and locked up.


    Nanny Gao felt aggrieved for Xuanyuan Ye.


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou opened her eyes and looked at the waterside pavilion outside the window. She sighed and said, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that girl? She doesn¡¯t know anything, and her background isn¡¯t something she can choose.¡±


    After all, she had watched her grow up and doted on her sincerely. Empress Dowager Zhou really could not bear to ignore her.


    Nanny Gao was still wondering what her last sentence meant when she heard Empress Dowager Zhou say, ¡°Take my token and bring that girl out. At the same time, get them to deal with Jiang Tao.¡±


    Jiang Tao was accused of being Madam Yu¡¯s accomplice. As for Madam Yu, Empress Dowager Zhou knew that Xuanyuan Qi would not let her off, so she did not intend to interfere.


    However, Jiang Tao could not stay alive any longer.


    Nanny Gao was stunned and quickly agreed.


    ¡°Mother brought Xuanyuan Ye to her palace?¡±


    Nanny Gao had just taken Xuanyuan Ye away from the dark room when someone reported this matter to Xuanyuan Qi.


    ¡°Your Majesty, Nanny Gao, the empress dowager¡¯s servant, personally picked her up. She had the empress dowager¡¯s token. We didn¡¯t dare to stop her.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned. ¡°I understand. You can leave first.¡±


    The prison guards retreated.


    Eunuch Wu stood at the side with his head lowered, his expression complicated.


    It would have been fine if he only knew about Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background. He had even seen her try to kill her father with a pair of scissors.


    Eunuch Wu shuddered at the thought of that fierce expression.


    It could be said that Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s attempted murder had completely overturned Eunuch Wu¡¯s impression of her.


    Even Eunuch Wu was like this, let alone Xuanyuan Qi, who had always treated Xuanyuan Ye as his biological daughter.


    He even had the illusion that the scissors were aimed at him.


    This was also the reason why he had never mentioned releasing Xuanyuan Ye these Dast few davs.


    After reading the memorial, Xuanyuan Qi couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. He stood up. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Longevity Palace to see Mother.¡±


    In the eastern pavilion of the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye knelt in front of Empress Dowager Zhou and cried. She kowtowed a few times until her forehead turned red.


    Empress Dowager Zhou could not bear to see this. She waved her hand to get the servants to leave before reaching out to help her. ¡°Silly child, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Imper¡­¡± Thinking that she was no longer Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s daughter, she choked and corrected herself.¡± I¡¯m sorry, Empress Dowager. I feel guilty.


    ¡°With Ye¡¯er¡¯s background, I should have ended my life in prison, but I can¡¯t bear to part with the Empress Dowager. Now that I can see the Empress Dowager again, I have no regrets.¡± She wiped her tears and kowtowed heavily. ¡°I can¡¯t accompany the Empress Dowager in the future. You have to take care of yourself..¡±

 Chapter 799 - Chapter 799: Serious

    Chapter 799: Serious


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°You keep calling me Empress Dowager. Do you really not acknowledge me as your grandmother?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye suddenly looked up and opened her mouth. She thought of something and shook her head repeatedly. She endured the tears that were about to fall from her eyes and bit her lower lip. ¡°My mother has committed a grave sin, I wouldn¡¯t dare to.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to, but she didn¡¯t dare to.


    At the mention of Madam Yu, Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s face darkened. She said sternly, ¡°You¡¯re you, and she¡¯s her. I watched you grow up. As long as you have a clear conscience, why wouldn¡¯t you dare?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned for a moment. She could no longer hold it in and threw herself into Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s arms. Large tears fell. ¡°I thought that Imperial Grandmother didn¡¯t want me anymore. I¡¯m afraid¡­¡±


    ¡°Silly child.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou stroked Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s cheek with heartache, and her eyes turned red.


    They hugged each other and cried. Nanny Gao and Eunuch Yu, who were guarding outside the attic, did not dare to breathe loudly.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± Eunuch Wu called out softly.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡± Xuanyuan Qi sighed. ¡°There¡¯s no need to tell Mother that I was here.¡±


    Nanny Gao and Eunuch Yu complied respectfully.


    Eunuch Wu glanced at the two of them and quickly followed Xuanyuan Qi.


    After leaving the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Qi suddenly paused. ¡®Wu


    Zhengde. ¡±


    ¡®Your Majesty.¡±


    ¡°Get someone to pay more attention. If the princess¡­ Xuanyuan Ye really doesn¡¯t have any other intentions, let her be. Mother is old. I don¡¯t want her to be sad again.¡±


    Eunuch Wu looked up in surprise and quickly agreed.


    Actually, His Majesty couldn¡¯t bear to do it himself. After all, one would still have feelings for a dog or cat after raising it for more than ten years, let alone a living person.


    However, he only dared to curse in his heart.


    As soon as the master and servant returned to the Yuqian Palace, the people in the prison came to report that Eunuch Xing and Eunuch Qian had confessed.


    The two of them were working for Madam Yu. Eunuch Qian was doing it for money, but Eunuch Xing was doing it to repay her kindness.


    It turned out that when the aristocratic families persecuted the Xing family, Madam Yu secretly alerted them, so Mrs. Xing had swapped the newborn baby with a servant¡¯s child in advance, allowing the Xing family to maintain a bloodline.


    Xuanyuan Qi sneered. ¡°He confessed so readily. He calculated that I wouldn¡¯t touch that child.¡±


    Eunuch Wu was silent. His Majesty wouldn¡¯t touch the descendants of the Xing family.


    At the Benevolence Hall.


    Ji Luo frowned. ¡°When did fever, cough, and vomiting start?¡±


    ¡°In these two days.¡± Sitting opposite her was a red-faced woman. The person who answered was the middle-aged man standing beside the woman.


    The middle-aged man looked furious, but he did not dare to flare up because of the soldiers. ¡°Because my wife caught a cold, she lost her appetite. The day before yesterday, she fell asleep after drinking the medicine. She started to heat up in the middle of the night, so I didn¡¯t think too much about it. The next day, I brewed two sets of medicine for her. Unexpectedly, not only did her condition not improve, but she even started coughing and vomiting this morning. If this isn¡¯t a problem with the medicine they prescribed, what is it?¡± Ji Luo said indifferently, ¡°The medicine is fine.¡±


    ¡°How is there no problem? Are you in cahoots with this black-hearted medical center? Let me tell you, if you don¡¯t treat my wife, I¡¯ll report you to His Majesty even if I have to risk my life.¡± The middle-aged man¡¯s eyes turned red with anger.


    The woman couldn¡¯t help but cry. ¡°I won¡¯t die, will I?¡±


    ¡°You keep blabbering on. What are you talking about?¡± The middle-aged man scolded sternly, but his eyes were clearly filled with worry and fear.


    Why was he afraid? Was he afraid that his wife¡¯s words would come true? Ji Luo lowered his eyes and retracted his hand from the woman¡¯s wrist.


    The middle-aged woman sobbed. ¡°I¡¯m not blabbering. The Wang family next door also perished.¡±


    ¡°How are you the same as them?¡± The middle-aged man clearly did not have the confidence to say this. He grabbed his hair anxiously. ¡°Don¡¯t think too much. The child is still waiting for you to cook for them at home.¡±


    Ji Luo stood up and was about to leave when she paused. ¡°When did the Wang family pass away? Did they have the same symptoms as you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s different.¡± The middle-aged man waved his hand repeatedly, as if the woman was hopeless if he admitted it.


    Ji Luo looked at him quietly.


    The middle-aged man was defeated by her gaze. ¡°They died one after another in the past two days.


    ¡°That family went to the countryside province to get married a while ago. For some reason, they all came back sick.¡±


    ¡°However, their symptoms are really different from my wife¡¯s. When they left, their faces were covered in pustules and their bodies were festering. It was terrifying.¡± Thinking of the death of that family, the middle-aged man cowered.


    Ji Luo asked, ¡°Did they return on the 20th


    Both husband and wife were shocked. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    Ji Luo did not answer and looked at Xuanyuan Ziming. ¡°Let¡¯s leave first.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was puzzled, but he still followed her instructions. The middle-aged man panicked. ¡°Hey, you can¡¯t leave. What will happen to my wife if you leave?¡±


    He wanted to pull Ji Luo, but the two soldiers pulled out their swords, scaring him so much that he quickly retracted his hand.


    In the blink of an eye, all the people Xuanyuan Ziming brought, including the four imperial physicians, had left.


    ¡°Why did they leave?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Didn¡¯t they say that they were sent by the imperial court?¡± The patients in the clinic instantly became excited.


    ¡°Are we going to another medical center to take a look?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked.


    Originally, he was prepared to bring his men to every medical center. Benevolence Hall was the first one.


    Ji Luo shook his head. ¡°No need.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Madam, you¡¯ve found the reason?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the plague.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming gasped.


    ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? I¡¯ve just checked the patient¡¯s pulse. He¡¯s clearly suffering from a cold,¡± the thin Imperial Physician Chen reprimanded.


    The other three did not say anything, but they clearly had the same thoughts as him.


    Ji Luo sneered. ¡°Since it¡¯s a cold, why didn¡¯t it work after taking the medicine?¡±


    These imperial physicians usually treated illnesses for the nobles. In Ji Luo¡¯s opinion, most of them were not as skilled as common doctors.


    Of course, there were also people who were truly talented. Clearly, these four people were not included.


    Imperial Physician Chen choked. ¡°Maybe the medical center prescribed the wrong medicine.¡±


    He didn¡¯t believe it himself. How could everyone make the same mistake?


    However, if this was really a plague¡­


    ¡°I have to go to the palace immediately to report to Father.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming felt that Ji Luo would not joke about such a thing. He took two steps and came back. ¡°No, no. I entered the medical center just now and came into close contact with the patients. What if I get sick too?¡±


    If he entered the palace again, wouldn¡¯t he be bringing the plague into the palace?


    ¡°Go find a place to change your clothes. To be safe, I¡¯ll prescribe something else for you,¡± Ji Luo said.


    ¡°Will that do?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was still worried.


    ¡°Then do you still want to enter the palace?¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± How could he have the guts not to report such a big matter? Ji Luo couldn¡¯t help but roll her eyes just like Shen Yijia. ¡°Then it¡¯s fine..¡±

 Chapter 800 - Chapter 800: Leaving the City (1)

    Chapter 800: Leaving the City (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As this matter concerned the plague, Xuanyuan Ziming did not dare to let his guard down, let alone joke about the emperor¡¯s safety. Therefore, in the end, he did not enter the palace himself. Instead, he asked Little Zhu Zi, who had been staying in the residence, to write a letter and send it in.


    As for why he didn¡¯t write it himself, it was naturally because he was afraid that the letter he wrote would bring about an epidemic.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t say anything about his cautiousness. She let MO Yuan burn the clothes she had changed out of and went straight home.


    ¡°Plague?¡± Shen Yijia was shocked. ¡°Mother, you said that there¡¯s a plague in Phoenix City?¡±


    She Imew what the plague meant, but she had never seen how terrifying it was. Song Jingchen¡¯s expression changed drastically.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Ji Luo nodded with a solemn expression. ¡°This matter hasn¡¯t blown up yet. Go out of the city with Ah Chen and find an empty place to stay for two days. If you¡¯re not feeling unwell, you can return to Great Xia directly.¡±


    The Valley of Heavenly Secrets was behind the murder of Xuanyuan Ce, and the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had mixed in with the Wu Kingdom¡¯s envoys and entered Phoenix City.


    They ran away before the incident happened, and the envoys of the Wu Kingdom were thrown into prison by Xuanyuan Qi. The relationship between the Xuanyuan Kingdom and the Wu Kingdom was completely broken, and there was no possibility of cooperation.


    Actually, Song Jingchen had achieved his goal. He originally planned to take this opportunity to cooperate with Xuanyuan Qi, but now that there was a plague in Phoenix City, Xuanyuan Qi might not be able to free himself.


    From what Ji Luo had heard previously, Ji Yunxi was clearly involved in the plague.


    They were probably trying to stall Xuanyuan Qi and prevent him from interfering in the matters of Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom.


    Perhaps they wanted to use the plague to trap Song Jingchen in Phoenix City. If she guessed correctly, the Wu Kingdom would definitely use this opportunity to start a war against Great Xia.


    Ji Luo pressed between her eyebrows. Initially, she thought that Ji Yunxi was going to poison her. After all, this was her usual method. She did not expect it to be a plague.


    ¡°Mother, aren¡¯t you coming with us?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    ¡°Everyone has their own responsibilities. I¡¯m a doctor. Since I¡¯ve found out about this, I can¡¯t sit back and do nothing.¡± Ji Luo looked at Shen Yijia apologetically. ¡°Jiajia, I¡¯m very relieved to have Ah Chen take care of you. Can you return to Great Xia and wait for me to look for you?¡±


    She thought of the couple in the medical center and the patients who didn¡¯t know anything. If she left just like that, she probably wouldn¡¯t be able to get over it for the rest of her life.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She knew that Ji Luo was right. She asked them to leave first for their own good, but for some reason, she felt uncomfortable.


    She didn¡¯t care so much about righteousness. She just wanted the people she cared about to be fine. As for the lives of others, she didn¡¯t care.


    However, in order to save unimportant people, her mother actually wanted to abandon her again?


    It had been less than two months since they reunited.


    Her heart was filled with disappointment.


    Someone grabbed her hand suddenly. Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen and heard him say, ¡°Mother, we¡¯re not leaving.¡±


    Ji Luo frowned. ¡°Ah Chen, you¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that Great Xia can¡¯t do without me, but Jiajia is different. It wasn¡¯t easy


    for her to reunite with Mother. Can Mother bear to push her out again?¡± He had thought it through before saying that.


    Even if he and Jiajia set off now, it would take them at least three months to reach the capital of Great Xia. However, if they could resolve the plague as soon as possible and get Xuanyuan Qi to send troops, it would only take a month to reach the border between the Xuanyuan Kingdom and the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°What if¡­


    ¡°What if I can¡¯t find a way to treat the plague? What if you stay and get infected with the plague?¡± she thought.


    She did not dare to bet her daughter¡¯s life on this.


    ¡°There¡¯s no ¡®what if¡¯. If we still can¡¯t find a solution within half a month, my husband and I will leave immediately,¡± Shen Yijia said gloomily.


    Back then, her mother had sent her away, and stayed behind to face the danger alone. Shen Yijia had no choice. Now that she had a choice, she wanted to stay by her side.


    Ji Luo looked at the couple and closed her eyes. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce also learned about the plague from Chu Feng. When he came out of the backyard, the first thing he said was to ask them to leave, including Ji Luo.


    Ji Luo glanced at him. ¡°We¡¯ve already decided to stay. If I can help your Xuanyuan Kingdom tide over this crisis, please persuade the king to send troops.¡±


    ¡°I promise you.¡± A sudden voice sounded from outside the door.


    They all looked over at the same time.


    Xuanyuan Qi walked in with Eunuch Wu and cupped his hands solemnly at Ji Luo. ¡°As long as Madam is willing to stay and help, I can guarantee that I won¡¯t abandon Great Xia..¡±

 Chapter 801 - Chapter 801: Leaving the City (2)

    Chapter 801: Leaving the City (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Actually, after what the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had done in Phoenix City, Xuanyuan Qi had no intention of letting them off. The difference was that the people who asked the emperor of the Wu Kingdom to hand over the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were still enemies with the Wu Kingdom.


    ¡°Brother, why did you leave the palace?¡± Xuanyuan Ce frowned.


    Xuanyuan Ziming followed in with a helpless expression. He was careful not to enter the palace, but his father ran out on his own.


    Eunuch Wu said with a bitter expression, ¡°His Majesty is worried that if the plague spreads, the commoners will fall into chaos, so¡­¡±


    He personally left the palace to appease the people.


    It had to be said that Xuanyuan Qi, the emperor, was indeed a wise ruler who worked hard for the people.


    If it were Emperor Chong¡¯an, his first thought would probably be to quickly leave the affected area to save his life.


    Next, the few of them discussed how to control the epidemic as much as possible. Actually, there had been cases in the past years. Before coming here, Xuanyuan Qi had already instructed some people to look into it, but he wanted to hear if Ji Luo had a better idea.


    The only thing he was glad about now was that he had discovered it in time. The plague had yet to spread widely.


    After hearing his arrangements, Ji Luo hesitated and said, ¡°It¡¯s naturally the safest way to arrange for the patients infected with the plague to be isolated, but we don¡¯t know how the epidemic spreads for the time being. Perhaps it¡¯s blood, saliva, or it¡¯s more likely that they only need to breathe. We don¡¯t know where the source of the plague is either.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s expression darkened. He planned to seal the city gate and prevent anyone from entering or leaving, but if it was really as Ji Luo had said, they could be infected by breathing. As time passed, those uninfected people would probably¡­


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we let the uninfected people out first?¡± Song Jingchen suggested.


    Ji Luo nodded. ¡°Build a safe zone outside the city. Those who leave the city can stay under observation there for two days before leaving. Also, we need to confirm if there¡¯s an outbreak elsewhere.¡±


    As she spoke, she wrote down prescriptions for the epidemic and supplies needed to quarantine it, including how to differentiate between infected and uninfected people.


    Xuanyuan Qi made a prompt decision and instructed Eunuch Wu to make arrangements.


    Seeing that he had no intention of leaving, Song Jingchen frowned and said,


    ¡°Your Majesty, you need to leave too.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi refused without thinking. ¡°I can¡¯t leave.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty has a good heart for the people, but compared to staying behind, you need to hold down and preside over the city. Otherwise, who will send in the herbs and food? If there¡¯s an epidemic elsewhere, who will arrange it?¡±


    ¡°I can instruct others to do these things.¡± If he left at this time, it would definitely panic the people who stayed, so he couldn¡¯t leave.


    ¡°Your Majesty, do you believe in people¡¯s hearts?¡± Thinking about how their Song family had been suspected by Emperor Chong¡¯an despite not doing anything, Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°I don¡¯t believe it. Perhaps I¡¯m judging a gentleman¡¯s character with my own eyes, but have you ever thought that if the people Your Majesty arranged have ulterior motives, everyone will die?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was speechless. That¡¯s right, he was trapped in the city. If the other party rebelled, they would directly cut off the supply of food and medicine to the city. Xuanyuan Ziming suddenly said, ¡°Father, I¡¯ll stay.¡±


    ¡°Third Prince, you¡­¡¯


    ¡°Among the three brothers, Father has always doted on me the most. I also want to share Father¡¯s burdens. Father, please give me a chance.¡± He lifted his robe and knelt down.


    The usual frivolousness was gone from his face.


    Xuanyuan Qi was stunned for a moment. For the first time, he realized that his son had grown up.


    Actually, the reason why he treated him the best was because Eldest Brother and Second Brother were both born from aristocratic families.


    They had half the blood of the aristocratic families on them. He could not forget what the aristocratic families had done to their Xuanyuan family, and he was guarded against them.


    Therefore, not only was Xuanyuan Ziming his favorite son, but he was also the heir to the throne.


    However, this son of his had never been motivated and always liked to go out. Now that he thought about it, it was not that he was not motivated, but that he did not want the throne.


    As if reading his mind, Xuanyuan Ziming smiled and said, ¡°I understand


    Father¡¯s worries. I promise Father that if I can walk out of Phoenix City alive,


    I¡¯ll listen to Father in the future.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi looked up at the sky and smiled. ¡°Brat, don¡¯t forget what you said.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming lost his seriousness for a second. He grinned and said, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°Have you forgotten about me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi knew what he was going to say and said solemnly, ¡°You have to leave the city.¡±


    ¡°What you say doesn¡¯t count. My wife and daughter are here. I¡¯m not going anywhere. Just give up..¡±

 Chapter 802 - Chapter 802: Leaving the City (3)

    Chapter 802: Leaving the City (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Luo rolled his eyes. ¡°Your wife isn¡¯t here.¡±


    Shen Yijia also rolled her eyes. ¡°Your daughter isn¡¯t here either.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    He felt hurt, but he did not intend to leave.


    Ji Luo moved her fingers. Xuanyuan Ce seemed to notice and took a step back. ¡°Even if you send me out today, I can come back tomorrow.¡± Ji Luo was speechless.


    Two hours later, the city gate was already filled with people.


    Apart from the veils that have been soaked in medicine, there was also a long table in front of the crowd. The imperial physicians and doctors sat there and prepared to examine everyone who went over. In addition, more than ten large wooden buckets were placed at the city gate. They contained the medicine prescribed by Ji Luo. Everyone had to drink a bowl before leaving.


    Everything was ready, but such a huge formation and the blockade of the city gate had already caused the commoners to panic. They seemed to vaguely realize something. Not only were they unwilling to cooperate, but they even got into a conflict with the soldiers.


    ¡°One at a time, one at a time. Don¡¯t push,¡± the soldier said loudly.


    ¡°Why won¡¯t you let us out? We¡¯re not breaking the law. Let us out.¡±


    ¡°Yes, we¡¯re going out. Move.¡±


    ¡°Move.¡±


    Everyone roared. At this moment, Xuanyuan Qi and the others in bright yellow dragon robes appeared on the city tower. He shouted at the people below,


    ¡°Everyone.¡±


    Everyone looked over and saw his clothes. Someone shouted, ¡°His Majesty is here! ¡±


    When they reacted, everyone knelt down in unison and kowtowed to the people on the city tower. ¡°Long live our emperor!¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, you have to uphold justice for us,¡± someone mustered his courage and said loudly.


    ¡°Everyone.¡± Xuanyuan Qi looked at them calmly. ¡°I believe everyone has realized that many people in the city have suffered from strange illnesses recently. To be honest, this illness is really a plague. The plague came fiercely, and the reason why the city was sealed was to ensure that the plague would not spread to other places. However, don¡¯t worry, the Imperial Court will definitely not give up on anyone. After the city is sealed, I will arrange for someone to send food and medicinal herbs in. The imperial physicians and doctors will also stay in the city to treat everyone.¡±


    ¡°You make it sound so nice.¡± A commoner shouted. Faced with the fear of death, even if the other party was the emperor, the commoner was not so afraid. ¡°When you leave the city and the city gate closes, who will care about our lives? Saying that we don¡¯t want the plague to spread is just an excuse. The lives of high-ranking officials and nobles mean something. So do ours!¡±


    As soon as these words were spoken, everyone was agitated and stood up to rush out.


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said. He had been in the market all year round and many people knew him. They all knew that he was the emperor¡¯s favorite and least like a prince.


    He continued, ¡°Not only will I not leave, but Lord Jing¡¯an will also not leave.¡±


    The two of them were people the emperor cared about. The commoners fell silent when they heard this.


    ¡°I¡¯m the same as everyone else. I¡¯m afraid and want to leave, but Father told me that since my surname is Xuanyuan, I have to bear this responsibility. At the same time, I want to reassure everyone that His Majesty will definitely not abandon everyone.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi said in a low voice, ¡°I swear on the Xuanyuan family that I won¡¯t give up on any of the common people, as long as I am able.¡±


    Everyone was stunned for a moment before kneeling down again. ¡°Long live the emperor.¡±


    ¡°Now, I implore everyone to line up and let your relatives and friends leave.


    The remaining people, wait patiently in the city. The doctor will definitely find a way to treat the plague. I will always be on guard outside and ensure that you do not lack medicine or food.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s words were like a tranquilizer that finally calmed everyone down. As long as the emperor didn¡¯t give up on them, they still had hope.


    Not long after, the crowd spontaneously organized themselves. According to the name of the household registration, they went forward to be checked by the doctor and left with a bowl of medicinal soup at the city gate.


    Xuanyuan Qi had already sent a letter. The city guards had built a safety zone a hundred miles away. As soon as these people went out, they would be arranged to stay there.


    Of course, not everyone cooperated. Some sick people wanted to make their way out among the crowd, but the doctor checked everyone individually, and they were barred by the soldiers.


    There were also some who were clearly not sick, but because their relatives had been diagnosed and did not go forward for a checkup, they gave up the chance to leave the city.


    After this inspection, they worked until late at night. Finally, the queue was gone. Many lanterns were lit at the city gate, illuminating the surroundings as if it was daytime.


    Ji Luo sat at the back, which was also the last checkpoint.


    As she watched the last person leave, she frowned.


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Mother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Song Jingchen accompanied Xuanyuan Ziming to sprinkle lime water and burn wormwood. He didn¡¯t let her follow him, so she stayed by Ji Luo¡¯s side.


    Ji Luo looked up at the sick crowd on the other side and saw the couple she had seen at the medical center. The man held the woman in his arms and looked in the direction of the city gate with red eyes. From the previous conversation, she could tell that they had a child. They must have sent the child away. She shook her head and smiled. ¡°Mother will definitely save them.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and nodded. ¡°I believe in Mother.¡±


    The sound of hooves could be heard.


    The mother and daughter looked over. At the front was Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s carriage, followed by Empress Dowager Zhou, and right on the heels of that were the concubines of the harem.


    Behind them were two people from the prince¡¯s residence and the ministers of the imperial court..

 Chapter 803 - Chapter 803: Courting Death

    Chapter 803: Courting Death


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The commoners who were left behind could not help but worry when they saw this scene. It was not until they saw Xuanyuan Qi alight from the carriage to be examined that everyone was slightly relieved.


    Since the emperor of a country followed the procedures, the others naturally had to follow. Empress Dowager Zhou was helped out of the carriage by Nanny Gao and Xuanyuan Ye.


    When she walked up to Ji Luo, Empress Dowager Zhou paused and reached out with a complicated expression.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t even look up. She took out a handkerchief and prepared to cover her wrist. Xuanyuan Ye took out her handkerchief and covered it first. When she met Ji Luo¡¯s gaze, she explained, ¡°I think many people have used Madam¡¯s handkerchief before.¡±


    Ji Luo reached out to check Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s pulse nonchalantly and said indifferently, ¡°Indeed, the emperor used it just now.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? If the emperor can use it, why can¡¯t Empress Dowager Zhou use it?¡± she thought.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face turned pale and she looked at Empress Dowager Zhou.


    Empress Dowager Zhou glanced at her and knew that she was doing it for her. She did not criticize her and looked at Ji Luo.


    ¡°Phoenix City doesn¡¯t lack a doctor like you. Leave with me.¡± As if feeling afraid that it would sound like she was concerned about Ji Luo, she added, ¡°If you don¡¯t leave, Xuanyuan Ce won¡¯t leave the city either.¡±


    Shen Yijia sneered. ¡°Of course my mother isn¡¯t the only doctor in Phoenix City. There are so many doctors in Phoenix City, but no one could save your son back then. My mother did it. What does that mean? It means that none of them are as capable as my mother.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou frowned.


    Seeing this, Xuanyuan Ye hurriedly advised, ¡°Sister, Imperial Grandmother just worried about you. She doesn¡¯t want you to¡­¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s your sister?¡± Shen Yijia was disgusted. She could not understand why Xuanyuan Ye had changed from a crazy dog to a little green tea b*tch in just a few days.


    Xuanyuan Ye choked.


    Empress Dowager Zhou also looked over unhappily.


    Shen Yijia ignored her and turned to ask, ¡°Mother, apart from me, do you have any other daughters?¡±


    Ji Luo shook his head seriously. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Did you hear that? We¡¯re not related at all. Don¡¯t treat a random person as your relative. ¡±


    She did not hide the disdain on her face. Xuanyuan Ye bit her lower lip and lowered her head with red eyes.


    ¡°Alright, stop talking.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou glared at Shen Yijia.


    It was unknown where this girl learned to speak so eloquently.


    As expected, she did not grow up by her side. Even if they were related by blood, there was always a layer between them, making it impossible for her to get close to Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia snorted and stopped talking.


    After Empress Dowager Zhou finished checking, it was Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s turn. It was only then that she suddenly remembered that it was up to Ji Luo to decide if she could leave the city.


    If Ji Luo wanted to take revenge on her and say that she was sick..


    Thinking of this, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s hand trembled.


    She could clearly feel that her pulse had suddenly sped up at a certain moment. Guessing the reason, Ji Luo retracted her hand and drew a tick after Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s name on the booklet.


    The booklet recorded the names of all the people who had undergone inspection. It indicated that they could leave the city, and vice versa.


    When Xuanyuan Ye saw the tick, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    She retracted her hand and noticed the commoners looking over. She suddenly stood up and took two steps back. She bowed to the doctors sitting there and said with a pained expression, ¡°I originally wanted to stay and do my best, but Grandmother is old. I¡¯m really worried about her. Doctors, I¡¯ll have to trouble you with the commoners in the city.¡± ¡°Princess, we¡¯ve been waiting for you. As doctors, this is what we should do.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re too polite, Princess.¡±


    Her words made the doctors, who were originally anxious, subconsciously straighten their backs. Their impression of her increased. Even the commoners praised the princess for being kind.


    Empress Dowager Zhou nodded in relief.


    Seeing this, Xuanyuan Ye wanted to say something.


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood and said, ¡°You mean Empress Dowager Zhou is interfering with your good deeds?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye choked. Did she understand her words that way? When she met Shen Yijia¡¯s malicious eyes, an ominous feeling surged in her heart. She quickly denied it. ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±


    Shen Yijia interrupted her. ¡°The empress dowager doesn¡¯t lack maidservants, right?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou was stunned. She naturally did not lack palace maids to order her around. Moreover, Ye¡¯er was not a servant. She did not need to serve anyone.


    Xuanyuan Ye forced a smile. ¡°Of course Grandmother doesn¡¯t lack people to serve her. I¡¯m just worried about her.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Xuanyuan Qi asked when he saw that Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s carriage did not catch up.


    Xuanyuan Ye hurriedly said, ¡°Uncle Emperor, I¡¯ve delayed everyone. I¡¯ll help


    Grandmother into the carriage now.¡±


    Shen Yijia could not help but laugh. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that you wanted to stay in the city and do your best? Why are you in such a hurry?¡±


    ¡°Oh?¡± Xuanyuan Qi glanced sideways at Xuanyuan Ye, his eyes filled with surprise.


    Well, he was a little relieved.


    It seemed that after what happened to Madam Yu, this girl had grown up. Xuanyuan Ye froze. ¡°I do have this thought, but Imperial Grandmother¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing that Ye¡¯er has this intention. In that case, you can stay in the city. You don¡¯t have to worry about Mother. With Nanny Gao around, nothing will go wrong.¡±


    ¡°Emperor.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou said disapprovingly. This plague wasn¡¯t something to joke about.


    ¡°Mother, since Ye¡¯er is a member of our Xuanyuan family, she should make a difference. This girl is sensible. We should support her.¡±


    He was reminding Empress Dowager Zhou that if Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background was exposed one day, no one would look down on her on account of her heroic deeds.


    Empress Dowager Zhou hesitated. She could still protect her when she was alive, but if she went to see the late emperor one day, Ye¡¯er could only rely on herself.


    Xuanyuan Qi was sincerely thinking about Xuanyuan Ye, but Xuanyuan Ye felt like a fishbone was stuck in her throat.


    Seeing that Empress Dowager Zhou was so easily convinced, her face turned pale. She said calmly, ¡°But Ye¡¯er doesn¡¯t know anything. Will I drag everyone down if I stay?¡±


    Shen Yijia was overjoyed when she saw this. She said seriously, ¡°My husband taught me that there¡¯s nothing difficult in the world. Didn¡¯t you say that you really want to do your best? Then are you afraid that you won¡¯t be able to do it well? Besides, you don¡¯t need to treat everyone. At most, you¡¯ll cook and feed them medicine. You usually take care of the empress dowager, so you must have done these things a lot.¡±


    She deliberately repeated what Xuanyuan Ye had said.


    Xuanyuan Ye was furious and opened her mouth to say something.


    Xuanyuan Qi narrowed his eyes. ¡°Does Ye¡¯er really want to stay and help?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye said, ¡°Of course.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi nodded and said, ¡°Then stay.¡±


    ¡°Nanny Gao, help the empress dowager into the carriage.¡± After instructing her, he did not say anything else and turned around to return to his carriage.


    Xuanyuan Ye was about to cry. ¡°Imperial Grandmother¡­¡±


    She wanted to say that she didn¡¯t want to stay at all, but the c praises entered her ears again. She couldn¡¯t say anything.


    Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s heart ached. ¡°Silly girl, you don¡¯t have to worry about Grandmother. You have to take good care of yourself in the city.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye secretly clenched her fists. ¡°I understand. Imperial Grandmother, you have to take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Princess.¡± Bai Zhi alighted from the palace maid¡¯s carriage and called out worriedly.


    The carriages left the city one after another. After everyone finished the inspection, they looked at Xuanyuan Ye in admiration.


    However, Xuanyuan Ye felt that they were gloating.


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s half-smile, she gritted her teeth hatefully.


    ¡°Do you know what this is called?¡± Shen Yijia smiled.


    She did not expect Xuanyuan Ye to answer and said, ¡°It¡¯s called digging your own grave.¡±


    Ji Luo asked curiously, ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t be in this situation if she didn¡¯t do unnecessary things.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless.


    ¡°Bai Zhi, let¡¯s go..¡±

 Chapter 804 - Chapter 804: Scared

    Chapter 804: Scared


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In order to facilitate the doctors¡¯ observation and treatment, Xuanyuan Ziming asked the soldiers to separate a large area in the east of the city as an isolation area and arranged for all the infected patients to stay there.


    It was also divided into several small areas according to the seriousness of the illness.


    There was also a checkpoint in front of the epidemic area. He had specially arranged for someone to guard it. Whether it was a doctor or the family of the sick, they had to be strictly disinfected to enter and leave. They had to drink a bowl of epidemic prevention medicine.


    As soon as they approached the quarantine area, coughs and wails could be heard.


    There should have been a lot of lime water sprinkled around. Even through the gauze soaked in medicinal juice, one could still smell the pungent smell of lime water.


    Xuanyuan Ziming came out with a few doctors. When he saw them coming, his eyes lit up. ¡°Madam, Jiajia, you¡¯re here.¡±


    Ji Luo nodded. After hearing his arrangements, he nodded and said, ¡°Not bad.¡±


    ¡°I did everything according to the methods left behind by my predecessors.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming scratched his head in embarrassment. His eyes were bloodshot. It was obvious that he had not slept.


    Shen Yijia looked around and didn¡¯t see Song Jingchen. She quickly asked, ¡°Do you know where my husband went?¡±


    When everyone left the city yesterday, it was already the second half of the night. She was extremely sleepy. Ji Luo and MO Yuan joined forces and forcefully threw her into the bathtub to take a medicinal bath before falling asleep. She didn¡¯t see him when she woke up this morning.


    Xuanyuan Ziming said, ¡°Brother Song brought people to burn the corpses.¡±


    Fortunately, they were discovered in time. No one had time to mourn their relatives who had died of illness. Otherwise, they would have to get the people outside the city to dig up the graves. At that time, who knew how many people would be infected.


    ¡°Look, it¡¯s over there.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming pointed.


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction he was pointing. Half a city away, she immediately saw thick smoke rising.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he¡¯ll be back soon,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said.


    Shen Yijia nodded.


    ¡°Madam Ji.¡± The imperial physician was walking out and calling out anxiously, ¡°Come in and take a look. A patient is about to die.¡±


    ¡°Jiajia, wait for Mother outside.¡± Ji Luo hurriedly reminded her and quickly entered the quarantine area with MO Yuan.


    In less than ten minutes, a desperate roar came from inside.


    ¡°Mother, wake up. Hurry up and save my mother. Aren¡¯t you doctors? Hurry up and save her!¡±


    ¡°Please save my mother. Save her!¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s fingertips trembled.


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face turned pale. This plague was fierce and acted quickly. The patients who could still move yesterday were already lying down on their last breaths today.


    Seeing the lives disappear in front of him, Xuanyuan Ziming felt powerless.


    He waved his hand, and the two soldiers immediately rushed in. Soon, they carried out a corpse covered in a white cloth.


    A ten-year-old youth chased after him, but he was held down by the soldiers.


    ¡°Where are you taking my mother? My mother isn¡¯t dead yet. Let go of her quickly!¡±


    The young man was pressed to the ground and could not move. He could only stare at the person being carried out of the quarantine area with red eyes.


    A gust of wind blew past, blowing up a corner of the white cloth. A hand with pus and rot was unexpectedly exposed to Shen Yijia.


    Her pupils constricted. She tried her best to suppress the nausea in her heart so that she wouldn¡¯t vomit.


    No matter how terrifying and tragic the plague she saw in the book was, it was only words. It was far less impactful than this sight.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look.¡± A gentle voice sounded behind her. At the same time, a wide hand covered her eyes, cutting off her vision from the outside world.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s voice trembled. This was the first time she felt afraid and wanted to retreat.


    She was afraid that her mother, her husband, the scumbag, Xuanyuan Ziming, and everyone she knew would contract this terrifying illness.


    She wanted to knock them out and throw them out of Phoenix City.


    Sensing that her body was trembling slightly, Song Jingchen blamed himself. However, because he had just moved the corpse and hadn¡¯t had time to change his clothes, he didn¡¯t dare to pull her into his arms. He could only comfort her as softly as possible. ¡°It¡¯s fine, it¡¯s fine. It¡¯ll be over soon.¡±


    His voice seemed to have some kind of magic that drilled into her ears. Shen Yijia¡¯s heart gradually calmed down.


    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s no need for you to stay in the city.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming pursed his lips and suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t I get someone to send you out?¡±


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t from the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Although Shen Yijia had the blood of the Xuanyuan family flowing in her veins, she had never enjoyed the benefits of her status as a member of the Xuanyuan family. Instead, she had been secretly harmed because of this.


    They had no need or obligation to stay and do this.


    ¡°Now that the city gate has been sealed, how are you going to send us out?¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s emotions came and went quickly, and she instantly perked up.


    Although Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say it, she wasn¡¯t stupid. During Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s years in power, anyone with any prestige was treated as a threat by him. They were killed or exiled. Great Xia had long been riddled with holes in his hands.


    Shangguan Han had just ascended the throne and his foundation was still unstable. How could they fight the Wu Kingdom?


    Even if they could barely resist it, it would take many years for them to rebuild their foundations. The citizens of Great Xia would be displaced and their families would be separated.


    If not for that, Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t have wanted the help of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Therefore, they couldn¡¯t leave. To put it bluntly, they wanted Xuanyuan Qi to owe them a favor.


    As for her identity as Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s daughter, Shen Yijia did not think that Xuanyuan Qi would risk the lives of thousands of soldiers of the Xuanyuan Kingdom because of this.


    After all, war was as cruel as the plague.


    It could be seen from the history books that there were so many emperors who sent their daughters out for marriage to prevent war.


    As the ruler of a country, Xuanyuan Qi had to be responsible for his people.


    Song Jingchen understood this, so he had never thought of getting anything from her status.


    Xuanyuan Ziming thought that she had agreed to leave and said seriously, ¡°I can get someone to lower you down from the city tower with a sling.¡±


    The sling was their only way to communicate with the outside world now.


    They tied the basket with ropes and put it down. The people outside would put the supplies and medicinal herbs they needed inside.


    ¡°You want us to sit in the vegetable basket?¡± Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°We¡¯re not leaving. I believe mv mother can definitelv find a cure.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    Song Jingchen saw the change in her expression and his heart ached. He opened his mouth to say something.


    Shen Yijia waved her fist. ¡°Don¡¯t ask me to wait for you outside. Otherwise, I¡¯ll be angry.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned and said helplessly, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Shen Yijia leaned over and whispered, ¡°Fifteen days. If we can¡¯t find a solution in fifteen days, we¡¯ll leave.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡¯


    Satisfied, Shen Yijia raised her voice and instructed, ¡°Thirty Thousand, quickly bring your master home to wash up and rest.¡±


    ¡°Where are you going?¡± Song Jingchen frowned.


    Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°I¡¯m going to look for the most respected princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Since she¡¯s staying, I have to do something. I can¡¯t let her gain a good reputation for no reason.¡±


    Alright, she was just that bad. She had been frightened just now, so she wanted to scare Xuanyuan Ye too.


    Xuanyuan Ziming silently lit an incense stick for Xuanyuan Ye..

 Chapter 805 - Chapter 805: Acting

    Chapter 805: Acting


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the safety zone outside Phoenix City, the citizens who had confirmed that they were not sick had already left one after another. Some of them stayed in the city because their relatives were still there.


    After Eunuch Wu finished reading the letter, Xuanyuan Qi said after a long time, ¡°Prepare it. Collect what they need and send it in as soon as possible.¡±


    The letter was written by Xuanyuan Ziming. It mainly reported the situation in the city and was sent out along with a list.


    Eunuch Wu agreed and was about to leave when a letter accidentally slipped out of his sleeve.


    Xuanyuan Qi looked up. Eunuch Wu explained awkwardly, ¡°It¡¯s a letter from the princess to the Empress Dowager. I¡¯m about to send it over later.¡±


    ¡°She wrote it?¡± Xuanyuan Qi frowned slightly. ¡°After all, it was sent out from inside. Get someone to smoke it with wormwood before handing it to Mother.¡± Eunuch Wu hurriedly said, ¡°Your Majesty is so thoughtful.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was not in the mood to listen to his words. He waved him off. After they left, his expression turned solemn. According to the letter, an adult man would die in less than seven days from the plague.


    Seven days was too fast.


    ¡°Your Majesty, Lord Zhou is back.¡± A eunuch hurriedly walked in and reported. Xuanyuan Qi sat up straight. ¡°Let him in quickly.¡±


    Not long after, the travel-worn Lord Zhou lifted the curtain and entered. Without waiting for him to bow, Xuanyuan Qi asked, ¡°How is it?¡±


    Lord Zhou cupped his hands. ¡°There¡¯s no plague in Qingzhou, but¡­¡±


    Previously, according to the investigation, the first to die from the plague was the Wang family. After asking around, he found out that they had returned to their hometown to visit their relatives. Lord Zhou found Qingzhou according to the household registration.


    ¡°Extermination?¡± Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s pupils constricted as he looked at the person below him in disbelief.


    ¡°wnen 1 arrwea at tne wang ramuy village, tnere was no one lert In tne village. There were only traces of fire left in the entire village. I even specially visited the three nearby villages. The situation was exactly the same as in the Wang family village. Moreover, I found a small amount of kerosene around each village.¡±


    Regardless of which village the plague originated from, it was obvious that the local county magistrate had discovered the plague but did not report it. In order to stop the plague from spreading, he chose to set fire to the village.


    The Wang family must have left before the matter was discovered. Perhaps they did not even know that they had the plague and thought that they had caught a cold and ran to the medical center to prescribe medicine.


    Coincidentally, it was winter. The medical center was filled with patients, and they were all infected.


    Naturally, Ji Yunxi helped to encourage the spread in just a few days.


    ¡°How dare he!¡± Xuanyuan Qi slammed the desk angrily. ¡°Who¡¯s the local county magistrate?¡±


    The emperor was far away. If not for the fact that the plague had spread to Phoenix City, no one would have known that the villagers of four villages had been burned to death.


    Lord Zhou lowered his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s Yu Zheng, County Magistrate Yu.¡±


    Yu Zheng was a descendant of the Yu family. Unlike the rest of the aristocratic families, he entered the court as an official through the imperial examination.


    At that time, he had achieved good results, but because Xuanyuan Qi hated the aristocratic families, he was directly sent out.


    Actually, in Lord Zhou¡¯s opinion, setting fire to a plague was indeed the most effective and safest way. After all, there had never been a precedent of a plague being cured.


    If Yu Zheng was wrong, his biggest mistake was that he hid it and made his own decisions.


    The mistake was that they did not investigate carefully and let the Wang family return to the capital. They almost harmed the people in a city.


    Xuanyuan Qi gritted his teeth. ¡°The Yu family again.¡±


    He seriously suspected that Ji Yunxi knew in advance, and that Madam Yu had leaked the plague on purpose.


    He had misunderstood Madam Yu on this point. Since Yu Zheng had chosen to set the village on fire, he naturally wouldn¡¯t let others know. It was a coincidence that Ji Yunxi met the Wang family.


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± Lord Zhou took out a letter and raised it respectfully above his head. ¡®When I rushed to the county magistrate¡¯s residence, County Magistrate Yu had already committed suicide. He only left a letter.¡±


    ¡°He saw that the matter had been exposed and knew that I wouldn¡¯t let him off.¡± Xuanyuan Qi sneered. ¡°Bring it over. I want to see what he wrote.¡± Lord Zhou walked forward with the letter.


    Xuanyuan Qi took it and opened it, reading the contents roughly.


    He reprimanded, ¡°Good, what a good Yu Zheng. What do you mean by I¡¯m a wise ruler to the commoners? I¡¯m a benevolent emperor. He didn¡¯t want me to bear the reputation of being cruel, so he took the initiative to slaughter the village. He killed so many people. Do I have to thank him?¡± Xuanyuan Qi didn¡¯t know if he should be angry or praise him..

 Chapter 806 - Chapter 806: Acting (2)

    Chapter 806: Acting (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Lord Zhou did not say anything. His Majesty was definitely decisive when dealing with aristocratic families, but when it came to the commoners, it was the opposite.


    If County Magistrate Yu had reported the outbreak early, like the infected citizens of Phoenix City, even if he knew that the chances were slim, he would probably have gotten someone to treat them as best as he could.


    However, not only would this be a waste of money, but it would also cause more people to contract the epidemic.


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him. ¡®Why? Do you think I¡¯m wrong too?¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi snorted. How could he not tell what Lord Zhou was thinking? Not only him, but more than half of the ministers in the court felt that he should kill all those infected with the plague.


    However, there were thousands of people infected this time.


    ¡°Forget it, you may leave. Let me think about it.¡± Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand tiredly.


    Lord Zhou cupped his hands and retreated. Just as he reached the door, he heard Xuanyuan Qi say, ¡°Let Yu Zheng¡¯s wife and children go.¡± He had done something wrong, but at least he had saved Qingzhou.


    Lord Zhou paused. ¡°Yes.¡±


    In Phoenix City, people died every day from the plague. Similarly, soldiers and doctors kept falling sick.


    The bowls of medicine did not improve the situation at all, making everyone gradually lose hope.


    There were even a few people who began to clamor to bring their sickly relatives out of the city.


    ¡°It¡¯s been two days. If we can¡¯t save anyone, what¡¯s the use of doctors like you?


    We¡¯re going out.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. He even said that he would save us. I think he simply wants to lock us in here and wait for death.¡±


    ¡°If I had known, I wouldn¡¯t have stayed in the first place.¡±


    Shen Yijia squatted at the side and guarded more than ten medicinal furnaces. She looked at the person who had finally been comforted by Xuanyuan Ziming and sighed.


    ¡°Oh my.¡± A cry suddenly came from the side.


    Shen Yijia frowned and looked over. She saw Xuanyuan Ye holding one of her fingers with red eyes.


    ¡°Princess, is your hand injured? Shall I bring you back to bandage it?¡± Bai Zhi went forward worriedly.


    Xuanyuan Ye sniffed. ¡°But these medicines haven¡¯t been brewed yet..


    ¡°Princess, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll take care of it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye hesitated and said, ¡°Auntie Liu, that¡¯s not good. Your own¡­¡±


    There were too many patients. Everyone had to look after more than ten medicinal furnaces at the same time. Just fanning them was enough to tire them out.


    Auntie Liu waved her hand indifferently. ¡°I¡¯m just looking after a few more medicinal furnaces. What¡¯s wrong with that? On the other hand, Divine Doctor


    Ji said that it¡¯s more likely that you¡¯re injured and infected. The quarantine area is right beside you. You should quickly leave with Miss Bai Zhi.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The princess is a good person. She thinks for us in everything, but you have to take care of your health.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about this place. We¡¯ll help you watch over it.¡±


    The people who spoke were all left behind to take care of their relatives.


    Over the past few days, Xuanyuan Ye had helped everyone. Everyone had seen it.


    Thinking that she, a dignified princess, could do this for their family, they naturally remembered her kindness.


    Xuanyuan Ye seemed to be frightened. Her face turned pale and she said gratefully, ¡°Thank you, Aunts.¡±


    With that, she glanced at Bai Zhi. Bai Zhi understood and helped her leave.


    ¡°Wait a minute,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Hatred flashed across Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes. She looked at Shen Yijia aggrievedly. ¡°Sister, what else do you want?¡±


    Shen Yijia could not be bothered to correct her. Anyway, it was useless to say it.


    She glanced at Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s tightly covered hand and sensed that she had stiffened for a moment. She smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Aren¡¯t you injured? Find a doctor to treat your wound.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye tightened her grip and cursed Shen Yijia in his heart.


    If this little b*tch hadn¡¯t dragged her out on time every morning before dawn, she wouldn¡¯t have had to tremble in fear and work so hard.


    However, this little b*tch dragged her to a place with people every time, making her want to return to the prince¡¯s residence, but she was afraid of being criticized.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°There¡¯s no need. All the doctors are very busy. I don¡¯t want to trouble them with this small injury.¡±


    Shen Yijia disagreed. ¡°It won¡¯t take long to treat a small injury. Besides, this is a special period. We can¡¯t underestimate a wound.¡±


    The surrounding people originally felt that the atmosphere between the two of them was off. When they heard this, they nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right. Madam Song is right. You can¡¯t be careless now. Princess, you should get the doctor to take a


    look at you.¡±


    Coincidentally, the imperial physician was coming in from outside. Before Xuanyuan Ye could refuse, Auntie Liu said, ¡°The imperial physician came at the right time. The princess is injured. Come and take a look at her.¡±


    When he heard that the princess was injured, the imperial physician¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He stuffed the prescription in his hand into his pocket and walked over. ¡°Princess, where are you injured?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye quickly shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just a small injury. There¡¯s no need to trouble the imperial physician.¡±


    Before the imperial physician could speak, Auntie Liu was the first to panic. ¡°Oh my, Princess, you can¡¯t let your guard down over such a small injury. Take Luo Yong for example. Yesterday, he accidentally cut his hand when he was moving things. In the end, he fell sick today. He¡¯s a young man, and..


    Auntie Liu went on and on, giving several examples in one go.


    The others also persuaded her one after another. If not for the veil, everyone would have noticed that Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face had darkened.


    Just as she was quickly thinking of a way to escape, her wrist was suddenly grabbed. Xuanyuan Ye felt a jolt of pain and subconsciously let go.


    The index finger of her right hand, which was covered by her left hand, was exposed to everyone.


    There was a red mark on her index finger that was so faint that it was almost invisible. The surroundings instantly fell silent, and only the sound of the medicinal furnace bubbling could be heard.


    The corners of Auntie Liu¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°This injury is indeed quite small.¡± It didn¡¯t even break the skin. It was small.


    Everyone looked at Xuanyuan Ye strangely and silently returned to their seats to work.


    ¡°Such nonsense, aren¡¯t you delaying important matters?¡± The imperial physician was so angry that he forgot why he had come in. He flicked his sleeves and left.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face alternated between green and white. She said angrily, ¡°You clearly did it on purpose.¡±


    ¡°Did I ask you to pretend to be injured?¡±


    Shen Yijia smiled and patted Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Didn¡¯t you want to do your best? It wasn¡¯t easy for me to help you get a chance to stay. You have to cherish it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless.


    If not for the fact that she had learned her lesson twice, she would have rushed up and torn this b*tch apart.


    No one noticed that in the corner, a middle-aged man quietly saw the hostility between the two of them. He seemed to have thought of something and the corners of his lips curled up under his veil..

 Chapter 807 - Chapter 807: Immunity

    Chapter 807: Immunity


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Madam Song, is the medicine over there ready? Master asked me to bring it over.¡±


    The two of them were staring at each other when a young man hurried in.


    Shen Yijia looked over and recognized that it was an apprentice beside the imperial physician. She slapped her forehead and ignored Xuanyuan Ye. She turned around to look at the medicine she had brewed.


    Although they had all contracted the plague, every patient was infected to a different extent, so the amount of medicine they used was naturally different.


    Seeing that it was about time, she poured out the medicinal juice from more than ten clay pots and handed them to the young man. ¡°Alright, take them away.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Madam Song.¡± The young man left with the medicine.


    Shen Yijia refilled the medicine jar.


    ¡°Madam Song, let me help you.¡± Auntie Liu leaned over. Without waiting for Shen Yijia to speak, she brought a ladle to help her add water.


    Shen Yijia glanced at her but did not refuse.


    Among the people who helped brew the medicine here, Auntie Liu was the most optimistic. She seemed to have endless things to say every day.


    Hearing her chattering about the Eight Trigrams, the haze in everyone¡¯s hearts seemed to dissipate a little.


    However, Shen Yijia clearly saw her hiding at the side and secretly wiping her tears a few times.


    Only after listening to the others¡¯ conversation did she know that Auntie Liu¡¯s husband and son had been infected with the plague and entered the quarantine area.


    It was unknown if she was lucky or unlucky. Her sister-in-law had introduced a marriage to her son a while ago. A few days after the plague spread, she happened to return to her mother¡¯s house to send a thank-you gift. She was not in Phoenix City and happened to return before the city was sealed.


    ¡°Madam Song, you just got married to Lord Song, right? Look at how nervous he is about you.¡±


    Song Jingchen came to the pharmacy to see Shen Yijia once. Actually, the two of them had only spoken a few words before going back to work. However, in the eyes of others, they had a good relationship.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s been almost three years.¡±


    Auntie Liu sized Shen Yijia up, as if she did not expect her to get married so early. ¡°Then you have children, right?¡±


    Shen Yijia added two pieces of charcoal to each furnace. When she heard this, she paused. ¡°No.¡±


    Auntie Liu said in disbelief, ¡°She didn¡¯t have a child for three years.¡±


    ¡°Then you have to be careful. Lord Song is young and handsome.¡± As if she felt that it was inappropriate to say this, she changed the topic and said, ¡°I have a prescription. Do you want to try it? I guarantee that you¡¯ll get a child after eating it a few times.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not think so when no one mentioned it. She also found it strange when someone mentioned it. She remembered that An Dong¡¯s wife was pregnant within a month when she was in Xiagou Village.


    Just as she was about to ask about the prescription, a soldier came in and said that something had been sent over. The Third Prince asked him to ask Shen Yijia to help verify it.


    The verification was mainly to see if the quantity of medicinal herbs was right. If it was missing, they could get the people outside the city to make up for it in time.


    This was not difficult. It just needed someone who knew the medicinal herbs to do it.


    However, the others were all taking care of the patients in the quarantine area and could not leave. Xuanyuan Ziming could only look for Shen Yijia, who had learned half a thing or two about medicine.


    ¡°What about my medicinal furnaces?¡±


    ¡°Madam Song, go ahead. I¡¯ll watch over it for you,¡± a middle-aged man stood up and said.


    Shen Yijia had seen the middle-aged man a few times. He always sat alone in the corner guarding the stove and did not talk to anyone. However, he would stand up and help anyone.


    Auntie Liu and the other women also said that they would help watch over it and told her not to worry.


    Shen Yijia thanked him and left with the soldiers.


    Seeing her leave just like that, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes turned red with anger. This scene was very similar to how everyone had said that they would help her look after the furnace.


    Especially since Shen Yijia had exposed her tricks in public. She always felt that others looked at her with a hidden meaning.


    She did not dare to really leave a wound on her hand because she was afraid that she would catch the plague. Who would have thought that Shen Yijia would be so persistent?


    Feeling embarrassed, Xuanyuan Ye did not want to stay in this godforsaken place anymore. She stood up and walked out.


    Wounds, plague¡­


    Something flashed across her mind. Before she could grab something, she slipped and fell to the side uncontrollably.


    ¡°Princess!¡±


    Bai Zhi exclaimed and pounced over without thinking.


    Bang! The master and servant fell into a mess. Everyone was shocked by this change and quickly went over to help the two of them up.


    Fortunately, with Bai Zhi as a cushion, Xuanyuan Ye was not injured. It was just that Bai Zhi¡¯s palm scraped a little when she pounced over.


    ¡°Who splashed water on the ground?¡± Auntie Liu pointed at a water stain on the ground and asked.


    This was why Xuanyuan Ye slipped.


    Everyone looked at each other. There was a well beside them. It was normal for water to spill accidentally when they were fetching water.


    Auntie Liu also thought of this after asking.


    ¡°Miss Bai Zhi is injured. Let¡¯s quickly find a doctor to treat her,¡± the middle-aged man suddenly said.


    ¡°Yes, yes, yes. We can¡¯t delay this.¡±


    When Shen Yijia returned, she did not see Xuanyuan Ye. After asking, she found out that Bai Zhi was injured.


    ¡°Fortunately, Miss Bai Zhi blocked it for the princess. Otherwise, the princess would have been the one injured.¡± Auntie Liu sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll find a cloth to wipe the water over there. It won¡¯t be good if someone slips again.¡±


    With that, she went to look for a cloth anxiously.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She had just gone to get water before leaving, but she did not see any water on the ground.


    Xuanyuan Ye was so afraid of death. It was impossible for her to splash it herself and pretend to fall.


    Shen Yijia felt that this was unlikely.


    However, because of this matter, Shen Yijia did not cause trouble for Xuanyuan Ye the next day. It was mainly because she felt that it was boring. Unexpectedly, the other party sent herself up instead of her.


    ¡®You did it, right?¡± Xuanyuan Ye stood in front of her and looked at her coldly. She was no longer pretending.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled. ¡®What did I do now?¡±


    ¡°You splashed the pool of water on the ground, didn¡¯t you? I asked. You were the last to go over and get water before I fell.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she wanted to laugh. When something happened to the scumbag, this person refused to let go of her. Now, she was doing it again.


    She looked at Xuanyuan Ye as if she was looking at a fool, ¡°Do you think I have the ability to predict the future? I calculated that you would pass by, so I splashed water in advance and waited for you to fall?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless.


    ¡°You think too highly of yourself. If I wanted to deal with you, why would I need to go through so much trouble?¡±


    ¡°Haven¡¯t I always been looking for trouble with you openly?¡± she thought.


    Xuanyuan Ye choked.


    That seemed to be the case.


    However¡­


    ¡°Bai Zhi is sick,¡± Xuanyuan Ye roared with red eyes.


    Bai Zhi had a high fever last night and was sent to the quarantine area early this morning.


    Shen Yijia paused and moved her left hand. ¡°Since she¡¯s sick, go and take care of her. Why are you looking for me? Isn¡¯t she injured because of you?¡±


    She still had to deliver the medicine. She did not want to waste time with Xuanyuan Ye here. With that, she walked around her and left.


    Xuanyuan Ye was so angry that her entire body was trembling. She stared at Shen Yijia¡¯s back, wishing she could poke a hole in her.


    It was not until Shen Yijia disappeared around the corner that she retracted her gaze. She was about to check on Bai Zhi when two men suddenly appeared and blocked her way.


    Because more and more people had been infected recently, Ji Luo made a few medicine bags that she carried with her at all times. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t go home last night, so Shen Yijia prepared to send them to him.


    Seeing her come, Song Jingchen was stunned and said anxiously, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t go home yesterday.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at the pile of corpses behind him. Song Jingchen subconsciously moved to block her vision.


    Actually, Shen Yijia had seen rotten corpses several times in the past few days and was already numb to them.


    However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that she cooked medicine in the pharmacy every day.


    ¡°Let¡¯s leave this place first.¡± With that, he instructed Thirty Thousand. He took off a glove and pulled Shen Yijia¡¯s sleeve with two fingers.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the corner of his sleeve and grabbed it speechlessly.


    Song Jingchen was shocked. He wanted to shake off her hand, but her grip tightened.


    ¡°Stop, I haven¡¯t cleaned my hands yet.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you wear gloves just now? Besides¡­¡± Shen Yijia tilted her head and whispered to him, ¡°I think I¡¯m immune to this plague.¡±


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks and looked around. Noticing that the surrounding soldiers were looking at them, he quickened his pace and left with Shen Yijia.


    He only stopped when there was no one around. He frowned and said, ¡°Mother said that?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and extended her left hand to show him. There was a scab the length of a finger on her palm. It had probably just scabbed over and was still red around it.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°When did you get injured?¡±


    At the mention of this, Shen Yijia still felt unlucky.. She puffed up her cheeks and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t I go to help check the herbs yesterday?¡±

 Chapter 808 - Chapter 808: Fraud

    Chapter 808: Fraud


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Check the herbs?¡± Song Jingchen was puzzled.


    Shen Yijia was a little smug. ¡°They sent it in from outside the city. I was afraid that they¡¯d made a mistake, so Xuanyuan Ziming asked me to take a look.¡±


    With Eunuch Wu supervising, the medicinal herbs sent over were naturally fine. Seeing that there were a lot of things, Shen Yijia wanted to help carry them down the city tower, so she did not leave directly.


    When she was about to move it, the soldier walking in front of her lost his balance and almost threw the two sacks of Cang Shu out of the city wall.


    Cang Shu was one of the important medicinal herbs for treating the plague this time. In her hurry, she reached out to grab it, but she used too much strength and accidentally cut her palm.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s physique was special. When she woke up today, she looked much better.


    After hearing her finish, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached. He looked at her nervously and asked, ¡°Are you feeling unwell anywhere? Did Mother check on you?¡±


    In the past few days, those who had been infected with the plague were either weaker or injured.


    ¡°No, no.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand repeatedly. ¡°I was afraid that Mother would be worried, so I didn¡¯t dare to tell her, but I¡¯m really fine.¡±


    She felt that Song Jingchen definitely didn¡¯t take her words to heart. She said seriously, ¡°You don¡¯t know, right? Bai Zhi fell in the pharmacy yesterday and only scratched her skin. She fell sick today, but look at me.¡± She shook her hand. ¡°I¡¯m completely fine.¡±


    If it was because the pharmacy was too close to the quarantine area that Bai Zhi fell sick, she had also returned to the pharmacy after being injured. Song Jingchen felt inexplicably uneasy. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Don¡¯t go for the next few days. Go home and wait for your injuries to recover before going out.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡± Shen Yijia asked. She originally wanted to enter the quarantine area to help her mother. Anyway, she wouldn¡¯t get sick.


    Song Jingchen habitually reached out to rub her head, but he thought of something and retracted his hand. He said seriously, ¡°What you said just now was just your guess. What if Bai Zhi contracted the plague because she touched something else?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that it made sense. She pulled his hand and rubbed it against her head. She grinned and said, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±


    Song Jingchen was helpless. ¡°Hurry up and go back.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia looked at him reluctantly and turned around. After taking two steps, she jogged back.


    ¡°By the way, I almost forgot. I came to deliver this to you.¡±


    She took out two medicine bags and stuffed one into Song Jingchen¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Give this to Thirty Thousand later.¡±


    She tied the other one to him. ¡°Mother said that this has some anti-epidemic effects. You run around every day. Remember to bring it with you.¡±


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth.


    Knowing what he was going to ask, Shen Yijia said directly, ¡°Other people have it too, but Mother can¡¯t do it alone, so she made one for each of us. Today, I¡¯m going to get those aunties to make it together and get someone else to go to the pharmacy to brew the medicine.¡±


    At this point, Shen Yijia had no intention of helping. Her needlework was horrible.


    Forget it, forget it. She could still do some physical work, since there was a lack of manpower now. It was better to save everyone some needlework.


    Shen Yijia obediently turned around and left. After watching her walk away, Song Jingchen turned around and went back.


    Unexpectedly, he met pairs of teasing gazes.


    ¡°Lord Song is so lucky to have a beautiful wife at home.¡±


    ¡°We also heard that Lord Song and Madam Song have a touching love story.


    Tell us about it tomorrow.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at Thirty Thousand and hesitated to give him the medicine bag.


    Thirty Thousand felt aggrieved. He only said that Young Madam was capable. Why did those words get twisted in these people¡¯s mouths?


    Someone came out to smooth things over. ¡°Look at the two of you. How can you ask about Lord Song and Madam Song? If you have the ability, find a beautiful woman and marry her.¡±


    The soldier who spoke first said seriously, ¡°As long as the plague in Phoenix City passes, I¡¯ll really go to the Cui Hua family to propose marriage.¡±


    Everyone paused. This team that was left behind had been carefully selected. They were all alone with no parents or children.


    This was because if they were unlucky and contracted the plague, at least no one would be sad and miserable for them. They would not destroy a family because of this.


    The low atmosphere lasted for only a moment before someone teased, ¡°Cui


    Hua? Could it be the widow selling tofu on East Street?¡± The soldier blushed. ¡°Don¡¯t speak of her that way. She has a name.¡±


    The guess was correct. Everyone burst into laughter.


    If one observed carefully, many people had bitter expressions on their faces.


    Some even had red eyes.


    Over the past two days, many of their brothers had moved into the quarantine area. No one knew if they would be next.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and looked at the medicine bag tied to his waist. These people were also the epitome of Great Xia¡¯s future soldiers.


    However, he knew that the war between Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom was like this plague in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. He could not avoid it.


    ¡°Master, I didn¡¯t say anything.¡± Thirty Thousand still remembered that he owed a punishment, afraid that he would be punished again.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and threw the medicine bag in his hand over to him.


    Thirty Thousand was stunned. He noticed that Song Jingchen also had one tied to his waist and hurriedly said, ¡°Thank you, Master.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    With that, he ignored the people who were holding the medicine bag and went back to work.


    Because he was worried about Shen Yijia¡¯s injury, Song Jingchen left the matter to others and went home first.


    As soon as he entered the alley, he saw the two of them sitting on the threshold, waiting for him.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°You¡¯re back.¡±


    When Xuanyuan Ce heard this, he quickly stood up and brought out another basin from behind.


    Shen Yijia blinked and realized that Xuanyuan Ce mistakenly thought Ji Luo had returned. She quickly hushed Song Jingchen.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched, and he swallowed the words he was about to say.


    Xuanyuan Ce held the basin and revealed a smile that he thought was mesmerizing. ¡°Ah Luo is back. Quickly wash your hands.¡±


    Every time Ji Luo entered the house, she would clean her hands with water soaked in apricot leaves. Then, she would take a medicinal bath before giving


    xuanyuan ce acupuncture.


    Xuanyuan Ce naturally found an opportunity to curry favor.


    Shen Yijia quickly gave Song Jingchen a look. ¡°Wash your hands quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°That¡¯s not good. After all, he¡¯s an elder.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that? My mother never washes her hands with the water he serves. He might still be very happy if you wash your hands now.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Even if he was happy, it was because His Highness had mistaken him for someone else.


    ¡°Ah Luo?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked suspiciously.


    Shen Yijia panicked. She went forward and grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand, pressing it into the basin. ¡°Mother, clean your hands.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Just as Shen Yijia had guessed, Xuanyuan Ce smiled even more like a fool.


    After Song Jingchen washed his hands, he took out a handkerchief from somewhere.


    Song Jingchen took it hesitantly.


    Xuanyuan Ce smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯ve already boiled the water. Go and take a shower first.¡±


    Shen Yijia pushed Song Jingchen home. ¡°Yes, yes, yes. Mother, quickly take a


    shower. ¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°Are you addicted to calling me that?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not know that his daughter had tricked him again, nor did Ji Luo know that someone was pretending to be her at home.


    She was still discussing the improvement of the prescription with the doctors.


    ¡°Doctor, Doctor, my wife is burning up again. Hurry up and take a look.¡± A sudden roar sounded from outside the door.


    Hearing this voice, the doctors in the room did not look too good..

 Chapter 809 - Chapter 809: Scheme

    Chapter 809: Scheme


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The person shouting outside the door was none other than the middle-aged man Ji Luo had first met at the medical center. He did not leave the city because he wanted to take care of his wife.


    Others called him Ma San.


    Ma San was hot-tempered and had a lot of things to do. Whenever Madam Ma made a move, he would shout for help.


    Everyone was afraid of him.


    Most importantly, with how much Ma San valued Madam Ma, they had no doubt that if anything happened to Madam Ma, Ma San would probably kill someone in anger.


    However, this was the fifth day of Madam Ma¡¯s illness.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go.¡± Ji Luo stood up.


    Seeing a woman step forward, everyone could not help but look ashamed.


    However, they were really afraid that Ma San would take his anger out on her.


    The imperial physician hesitated and said, ¡°Madam Ji, why don¡¯t¡­¡± Before he could finish, Ji Luo had already opened the door and left.


    The imperial physician was speechless.


    Ma San was blocked by a few apprentices. Seeing Ji Luo come out, he shook off the person holding him. ¡°Doctor Ji, Divine Doctor Ji, quickly go and see my wife.¡±


    MO Yuan walked over. ¡°Master.¡±


    Ji Luo nodded and followed Ma San to Madam Ma¡¯s room.


    The room was filled with the smell of rotten meat. Madam Ma lay on the bed and coughed from time to time. The coughs squeezed out of her throat and were almost inaudible. Every cough seemed to have exhausted all her strength.


    Hearing the commotion, Madam Ma turned around with difficulty, but her eyes were unfocused. ¡®Why did you trouble the doctor again?¡±


    Her face was covered in abscesses, some of which were scratched and pitted. She was no longer the same as when Ji Luo first saw her at the medical center.


    Because of these abscesses, Madam Ma was naked and only covered herself with a thin blanket. Ji Luo walked forward and lifted a corner. There was not a single piece of healthy flesh in sight.


    Blood even flowed out.


    This was a sign that her condition had worsened.


    ¡°I know my body very well. I¡¯m about to die. Doctor, go out quickly. This plague is powerful. Don¡¯t get infected. The others are still waiting for you to save them.¡¯


    Before Ji Luo could speak, Ma San was unhappy. ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    Madam Ma¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°When I first married you, someone told me that you would hit people. I was so frightened that I didn¡¯t dare to sleep the entire night. Later on, I found out that you were just a little loud and fierce.¡± Ma San¡¯s eyes turned red. ¡°I won¡¯t be fierce to you in the future.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­¡± As soon as the word left her mouth, she began to cough violently.


    Ma San was at a loss. ¡°Divine Doctor Ji, please help her.¡±


    Ji Luo said indifferently, ¡°Go out first.¡±


    Ma San subconsciously wanted to refuse, but he was afraid that he would really delay Madam Ma¡¯s treatment here, so he could only leave.


    Madam Ma¡¯s voice became softer and softer. MO Yuan frowned. ¡°Master, she¡­


    Ji Luo interrupted her. ¡°I know.¡±


    She took out a porcelain bottle from her pocket, poured out the pills inside, and fed Madam Ma. Seeing this, MO Yuan quickly brought some water for her to drink.


    After taking the medicine, Madam Ma¡¯s breathing clearly stabilized, but Ji Luo knew that this medicine could only make her feel better for the time being. It couldn¡¯t save her life.


    To be precise, if she still couldn¡¯t find a useful prescription, Madam Ma wouldn¡¯t be able to last more than two days.


    Outside the door, Ma San squatted under the eaves with his head in his hands. The door behind him opened and he stood up.


    ¡°Divine Doctor Ji, how¡¯s my wife?¡±


    A tall and burly man stood there, looking at her with red eyes and a hopeful expression. Ji Luo couldn¡¯t tell what he was feeling.


    ¡°She¡¯s asleep,¡± she said.


    ¡°I see, alright, alright. Thank you, Divine Doctor Ji.¡± Ma San thanked her repeatedly and watched Ji Luo and MO Yuan leave. He was about to enter the house to take a look at Madam Ma.


    Suddenly, small voices came from next door to the courtyard wall.


    It was not clear. As long as they did not disturb Madam Ma¡¯s rest, Ma San was prepared to ignore them. However, before he could take two steps, a female voice filled with surprise suddenly raised its pitch.


    ¡°Can the plague really be cured?¡±


    Ma San paused.


    Another voice sounded. ¡°Shh, lower your voice.¡±


    After coming out of Madam Ma¡¯s room, Ji Luo washed her hands and changed her clothes. She then went to the pharmacy to give Madam Ma a prescription before going home.


    ¡°Ha, you still know how to come back.¡±


    Such an annoying tone made Ji Luo, who had just stepped into the courtyard, pause.


    She glanced at Xuanyuan Ce, who was sitting in the courtyard, and then at Chu Feng, who was standing beside Xuanyuan Ce with a complicated expression.


    She retracted her gaze indifferently and ignored him.


    Due to Madam Ma¡¯s matter, she had indeed returned a little late today.


    However, it was not Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s place to care when she returned home.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who thought that he had already been accepted by Ji Luo and could act like a father-in-law, said unhappily, ¡°Chu Feng, look, he¡¯s looking down on me more and more. I said that this person is not a good person. How ridiculous.¡±


    Chu Feng, who had been threatened by Shen Yijia, wanted to die. ¡°Your Highness, stop talking.¡±


    The person who returned was not Lord Song.


    Xuanyuan Ce continued, ¡°One day, I¡¯ll let Jiajia see his true colors.¡± Ji Luo stopped fetching water and narrowed her eyes dangerously.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Chu Feng was about to kneel.


    He had already seen what would happen to him after His Highness found out the truth. There would be an additional corpse called Chu Feng in the crematorium.


    ¡°Hahaha¡­


    Laughter came from the side room. Shen Yijia really couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. She laughed so hard that her hands trembled as she wiped Song Jingchen¡¯s hair.


    Song Jingchen was helpless. He took the handkerchief from her hand and wiped it himself. The corners of his mouth couldn¡¯t help but curl up.


    He thought that Xuanyuan Ce had asked him for help because he had accepted him as his son-in-law. He did not expect this.


    Well, it seemed that he could not help him in the future.


    Xuanyuan Ce paused and had a bad feeling.


    ¡°What does Your Highness want Jiajia to see clearly?¡± Ji Luo sneered. ¡°It seems that Your Highness doesn¡¯t need me to treat your eyes. In that case, MO Yuan, go pack Your Highness¡¯s luggage and send him off.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± MO Yuan had long wanted to chase away this person who appeared in front of her master for no reason.


    As soon as Ji Luo spoke, Xuanyuan Ce was stunned.


    He recalled that ¡°Ah Luo¡± had not said a word when he returned. It had always been that girl who said it. How could he not understand that he had been tricked by his biological daughter again?


    She stood up and explained in a panic, ¡°Ah, Ah Luo, you¡¯ve misunderstood, I¡¯m not talking about you¡­ I thought you were Song Jingchen.¡±


    Ji Luo frowned.


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be deceived by him. My husband has long returned. How could he mistake you for my husband?¡± Shen Yijia pushed open the window and refuted Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s words.


    Song Jingchen greeted her politely, ¡°Mother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was furious and hurriedly explained what had happened.


    ¡°There were only so many people at home. I thought that you were the one who came back first, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t come back, so¡­¡±


    He looked aggrieved.


    Of course he felt aggrieved. Not only was he happy for nothing, but he also served that brat some tea.


    Xuanyuan Ce was furious just thinking about it.


    He was also a little glad that Ji Luo had returned in time and he had yet to say the mushy words he had prepared.


    Ji Luo naturally chose to believe her daughter and son-in-law, even though she had already guessed the truth.


    However, there was a plague everywhere outside, so she did not really chase Xuanyuan Ce out. It was just that Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s cries of pain were especially loud today.


    It was a dreamless night. Early the next morning, just as the family sat down for breakfast, there was suddenly a commotion outside the door.


    ¡°Please save our loved ones.¡± ¡°Saintess, please save us!¡±

 Chapter 810 - Chapter 810: Forced

    Chapter 810: Forced


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen¡¯s expression changed when he heard the words ¡°Saintess¡±.


    At first, they only cried and begged. Perhaps because no one opened the door, they began to knock hard.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. He waved his hand and called Thirty Thousand over to give him some instructions.


    Thirty Thousand was shocked and quickly left through the back door.


    Ji Luo looked over.


    Song Jingchen explained, ¡°I¡¯m worried that they¡¯re here for Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Me?¡±


    When did she become a Saintess? Where did she get the ability to save people from the plague?


    Xuanyuan Ce said directly, ¡°Chu Feng, go and see what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished speaking, the courtyard door collapsed. With Ma San in the lead, a group of people rushed in and blocked the entire courtyard.


    ¡°How dare you? Can¡¯t you see that His Highness is here? You¡¯ve disturbed His Highness. How should you be punished?¡± Chu Feng berated.


    Everyone was stunned and quickly knelt down.


    Previously, when Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s accident happened, it was rumored that he had been harmed by his mistress¡¯s daughter for a period of time. Later on, it was confirmed that Madam Yu was the murderer, so everyone forgot about his mistress. No one knew about Shen Yijia¡¯s relationship with him.


    Now that they saw Lord Jing¡¯an here and thought of Ji Luo¡¯s medical skills, some people guessed that he was here to seek treatment.


    An old man cried and begged, ¡°Your Highness, we didn¡¯t mean to offend you.


    We just want the Saintess to be merciful and save us.¡±


    The others also hurriedly said, ¡°Saintess, please save us.¡±


    ¡°What Saintess?¡± Thinking that Song Jingchen had said that these people might be here for Jiajia, Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face darkened and he said coldly, ¡°There¡¯s no Saintess here. As for the plague, I believe the doctors will definitely be able to find a useful prescription. You can go back first.¡±


    Everyone subconsciously looked at Ma San, who was kneeling at the front.


    The few of them saw their reactions and immediately guessed that these people had been egged on by Ma San.


    Under the pressure of the gazes on his head, Ma San raised his head and pointed at Shen Yijia. ¡°She¡¯s the Saintess. Her blood can treat the plague!¡±


    Shen Yijia was mentally prepared for his first sentence, but she was completely shocked when she heard the last sentence.


    These people kept begging her to save them. She thought that someone had leaked the news that she had the spiritual liquid, so they came to ask her for the spiritual liquid. She did not expect them to come to bleed her.


    There were so many plague victims in the city. Even if they bled her dry, it wouldn¡¯t be enough for each of them, right?


    This was no different from taking her life.


    ¡°This is ridiculous. Who spread such delusional words?¡± Xuanyuan Ce shouted.


    The aura around him soared. He was clearly furious.


    Sweat broke out on Ma San¡¯s forehead as he said in a trembling voice, ¡°I heard it with my own ears. Someone said that Madam Song is the Saintess of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Only her blood can treat this plague.¡±


    It was the Valley of Heavenly Secrets again!


    Ji Luo asked coldly, ¡®Who did you hear that from?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t see the person who spoke.¡±


    yesterday, ne neara a conversation Detween two people separatecl DY a wall. When he went out to look, they were already gone. He really didn¡¯t know who it was.


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°The other party doesn¡¯t even dare to show their face.


    They clearly wanted to use you to achieve an unspeakable goal.¡±


    He looked at the group of people kneeling opposite him. ¡°Everyone, think about it. Wouldn¡¯t it be ridiculous if blood can treat the plague?¡±


    Everyone looked at each other. At first, when Ma San told them, they did not believe him, but¡­


    ¡°Of course not, but recently, everyone in the city with injuries has been infected with the plague. Only Madam Song is an exception. It¡¯s enough to show that she¡¯s different from us,¡± Ma San said.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard that there was a huge cut. Miss Bai Zhi¡¯s skin was scratched and stained, but she was in and out. Nothing happened.¡±


    It was a woman who said this.


    Shen Yijia looked over and found them familiar. It was only when she saw the other women kneeling beside her that she realized that they were all the people who had been brewing medicine with her in the pharmacy. Auntie Liu was also among them.


    Meeting her gaze, everyone lowered their heads in unison.


    Shen Yijia knew why she was fine, but she was not stupid enough to admit it. She said disdainfully, ¡°Everyone¡¯s physique is different. How can Bai Zhi¡¯s weak body compare to mine? I didn¡¯t catch the plague because my wounds were treated appropriately and I didn¡¯t get stained with anything dirty. It¡¯s nonsense to say that my blood can treat the plague. Why? If the heavens don¡¯t take my life, are you coming to take it?¡±


    She was glad that Song Jingchen had asked her to bandage her hand last night. Otherwise, if these people saw that her wound had recovered, wouldn¡¯t they believe that her blood could treat the plague?


    Everyone fell silent.


    ¡°Alright, you can go back first. I¡¯ll get someone to investigate who spread this news today. If I find out, they¡¯ll definitely be severely punished.¡±


    Ma San refused to give up. ¡°Your Highness, let her try. What if her blood can really treat the plague? If not, we won¡¯t disturb Madam Song again.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Let her try. It won¡¯t kill her if she only bleeds a little.¡±


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she wanted to laugh. What did this matter-of-fact tone mean? This was it!


    ¡°They want to try it now. What about after we confirm it? If my blood can really save people, these people will definitely bleed her dry, saying that it¡¯s worth it to save so many people.¡± she thought.


    But what right did they have?


    ¡°It¡¯s the doctor¡¯s prescription to treat the plague, not anyone¡¯s blood! ¡± Xuanyuan Ce said angrily, ¡°Chase them out.¡±


    The secret guards hiding in the dark appeared and walked towards the crowd murderously.


    Seeing this, some of the citizens in the courtyard could not help but retreat, but there were also some who refused to give up like Ma San.


    The relatives of these people had deteriorated. If they did not receive treatment, they would die at any moment.


    They did not dare to fight the secret guards head-on. They only kowtowed and begged, ¡°Saintess, please be merciful and save our families. Can you bear to see them die?¡±


    ¡°Saintess, please be merciful. I only have one son. If he leaves, I don¡¯t want to live anymore.¡±


    Cries of pleading resounded in this world again.


    It was fine to let the secret guards kill, but they could not really attack such an unarmed group of commoners.


    Just as he was at a loss.


    Footsteps sounded in unison outside the courtyard.


    Xuanyuan Ziming walked in with a group of soldiers. Seeing this chaotic scene, he frowned and ordered, ¡°Take them all away.¡±


    Soon, everyone in the courtyard was escorted away by the soldiers.


    The cries gradually faded into the distance.


    However, no one heaved a sigh of relief. With this beginning, every time someone died in the future, these people would think of Shen Yijia and think that she had left them in the lurch.


    Even if they weren¡¯t sure if her blood could really save people.


    After all, how many people could maintain their rationality in the face of the departure of their loved ones?


    At that time, who knew what extreme things they would do?


    ¡°Why are you only here now?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said angrily.


    Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his nose. ¡°Brother Song asked me to capture him, so¡­¡±


    He waved his hand and a soldier was dragged in from outside, trussed up.


    Shen Yijia recognized him at a glance. He was the culprit who had almost fallen and lost Cang Shu on the city wall that day.


    ¡°There¡¯s indeed something wrong with this person. I chased him for two streets before catching him,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said.


    The soldier who was pressed to the ground shook his head vigorously.


    Song Jingchen walked forward and took off the cloth ball.


    ¡°Your Highness, I don¡¯t know anything.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t know anything, why are you running?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming sneered.


    A guilty expression flashed across the soldier¡¯s face. ¡°Someone was chasing me, so I subconsciously ran away.¡±


    ¡°Take him away for interrogation,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said directly.


    ¡°Wait,¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said.


    Before the soldier could heave a sigh of relief, something flashed past his eyes. A finger-long wound immediately appeared on his face, and blood instantly gushed out.


    ¡°Ah!¡± he exclaimed.


    Song Jingchen casually threw down the blood-stained rock and said coldly, ¡°There¡¯s no need to waste time. This person won¡¯t say anything. Just lock him in the quarantine area.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded and did not object.


    The soldier¡¯s face turned pale. He only reacted after being picked up and said in a panic, ¡°I¡¯ll talk, I¡¯ll talk.. Don¡¯t send me to the quarantine area¡­¡±

 Chapter 811 - Chapter 811: Doubt

    Chapter 811: Doubt


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Ziming waved his hand to dismiss them.


    ¡°Tell me, who instructed you? Who else in Phoenix City is your accomplice?¡±


    Actually, when Thirty Thousand found him, he only said that the commoners were gathering here to cause trouble. Song Jingchen asked him to capture a soldier called Jia Quan. Xuanyuan Ziming was still confused about the rest.


    But didn¡¯t they always ask the same question?


    ¡°What instigation? What accomplice?¡± Jia Quan was stunned for a moment. Seeing Xuanyuan Ziming frown, he was afraid that he would be escorted to the quarantine area in the next moment. He quickly said, ¡°Your Highness, I was possessed. I shouldn¡¯t have stolen it, but I did this alone. There¡¯s really no accomplice.¡±


    ¡°Steal?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming looked at Song Jingchen, who shook his head.


    Seeing his reaction, Jia Quan knew that his theft had not been discovered at all. He could not help but look vexed, but he did not dare to hide it anymore. ¡°I saw that most people in this city only left a few old women to guard the house, so I secretly sneaked in and stole some valuable items. I wanted to exchange them for money in the future.¡±


    ¡°I really know my mistake. I won¡¯t dare to do it again. Your Highness, please spare me this time.¡± Jia Quan kowtowed and begged for mercy.


    Xuanyuan Ziming asked where the items were hidden and got someone to verify it. As expected, they found a lot of wealth.


    Jia Quan explained why he wanted to run. With those items as evidence, it didn¡¯t look like he was lying, but this wasn¡¯t what Song Jingchen wanted to hear.


    After Shen Yijia told him about the injury yesterday, he felt that something was wrong. He originally wanted to investigate this person called Jia Quan today, but he did not expect this to happen so early in the morning.


    He did not believe that there were so many coincidences.


    ¡°Do you still remember my wife?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Jia Quan carefully looked up at Shen Yijia and quickly lowered his head. ¡°I remember. Because Madam was injured, I was worried that Madam would fall sick. I even asked around yesterday.¡±


    Shen Yijia stayed at home yesterday. Because he was worried, he could only ask around. Everything made sense.


    Not only that, but this also explained why everyone knew that Shen Yijia was injured.


    Song Jingchen suddenly smiled. He looked very good when he smiled, like a poppy blooming, making Xuanyuan Ziming shiver for no reason. Unfortunately, Jia Quan lowered his head and didn¡¯t see him.


    ¡°What happened this morning has nothing to do with him. You can deal with it yourself,¡± he said.


    Xuanyuan Ziming understood and raised his voice. ¡°You relied on your position to commit theft. Drag him away and flog him twenty times. Return all the stolen assets.¡±


    ¡°If I discover anyone doing such a thing again in the future, don¡¯t blame me for being merciless.¡±


    At such a special time, 20 strokes of the cane was definitely not light.


    Jia Quan still wanted to beg for mercy, but he was dragged away.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. Without waiting for the others to speak, he said in a low voice, ¡°Send someone with better skills to follow him. Don¡¯t alert the enemy.¡±


    ¡°Let You Er go,¡± Ji Luo said.


    Because of this, everyone was in a bad mood.


    ¡°Chu Feng, go and find out who the person Ma San mentioned is.¡± After giving the instructions, Xuanyuan Ce paused and said, ¡°Go and tell them that Jiajia is my daughter. I¡¯ll see who else dares to have designs on her.¡±


    He wanted those commoners to think twice because of this, so Ji Luo did not object.


    However, at this moment, they did not expect that someone who was about to lose her loved ones would be able to do anything.


    Xuanyuan Ziming finally understood the situation from Thirty Thousand. He naturally felt that it was ridiculous and said worriedly, ¡°Why don¡¯t I send Jiajia out of the city first?¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Someone is clearly trying to harm me. Even if I want to leave, I have to find that person first. Otherwise, they¡¯ll think that I¡¯m afraid.¡¯


    Xuanyuan Ziming knew Shen Yijia¡¯s personality and did not persuade her further. He left a few people behind to repair the courtyard door and said that he would get someone to investigate first.


    Everything in the city depended on him. If not for Song Jingchen¡¯s help, he


    probably wouldn¡¯t have had time to sleep.


    After the outsiders left, Shen Yijia hesitated for a moment before asking,


    ¡°Mother, can my blood really treat the plague?¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°They were spouting nonsense. How could you believe them?¡±


    This was the first time her tone was so stern. She was clearly resistant to bloodletting.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t believe them. I¡¯m just asking.¡±


    Ji Luo closed her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not sure if it¡¯s useful, but don¡¯t mention such things again.¡±


    ¡°I understand,¡± Shen Yijia said seriously. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. Even if it¡¯s useful, I won¡¯t die for them.¡±


    ¡°Your daughter is really not that great.¡± she thought.


    Ji Luo was still worried and reminded her not to go out for the next few days. Seeing that it was time to give Xuanyuan Ce acupuncture, she could not delay this treatment, so she could only bring Xuanyuan Ce into the house first.


    Shen Yijia also brought Song Jingchen back to his room. Seeing that he didn¡¯t say anything, she crossed her fingers guiltily and pursed her lips. ¡°Hubby, did I get into trouble again?¡±


    ¡°No, this has nothing to do with you.¡± Song Jingchen pulled her into his arms and sighed. ¡°I didn¡¯t protect you well.¡±


    ¡°What does this have to do with you?¡± Shen Yijia looked up at her. ¡°You¡¯re not a worm in their stomach. How can you know what others are plotting?


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°Are you hungry? Rest for a while. I¡¯ll heat up breakfast and bring it in for you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia nodded repeatedly.


    Not long after, the door was pushed open, but it was MO Yuan, not Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Young master brought Thirty Thousand out for an urgent matter and asked me to bring food over for Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia asked, ¡°How long have they been out?¡±


    ¡°They just left.¡± MO Yuan glanced at her. ¡°Young Master asked me to remind Miss not to go out.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°MO Yuan, you¡¯ve changed.¡±


    Now, not only did she listen to her mother, but she also listened to her beautiful husband. She was no longer the MO Yuan who only listened to her. MO Yuan paused and said seriously, ¡°I just want Miss to be fine.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I was just joking with you.¡± Shen Yijia sat down at the table and scooped a mouthful of porridge into her mouth. Seeing that MO Yuan was still standing there, she waved her hand and said, ¡®You should go and eat breakfast too. I can¡¯t eat if you stand here.¡±


    MO Yuan didn¡¯t move.


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you sit down and eat with me?¡± Shen Yijia glanced at the dishes on the table. It was obvious that they were made according to her portion. There was not enough for two people at all. She changed her words and said, ¡°If you really don¡¯t believe me, go and bring another serving in. I really can¡¯t eat if you stand there and watch.¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at her again, as if trying to tell if she was telling the truth.


    After a while, she left.


    Shen Yijia was speechless and quickly ate the food on the table.


    She obediently took a notebook and snuggled into the soft couch.


    It was still about the scumbag and Madam Yu. Because of the plague later, the novels outside were not updated, and the family did not buy new ones.


    Shen Yijia flipped through a few pages in boredom and sat up, staring at the last few sentences with a burning gaze.


    The legitimate daughter of the Tian family wanted to kill her because she was jealous that her daughter had snatched her father away.


    Madam Tian was referring to Madam Yu.. Then her daughter was Xuanyuan Ye!

 Chapter 812 - Chapter 812: Beat Up Xuanyuan Ye (1)

    Chapter 812: Beat Up Xuanyuan Ye (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. Could it be her?


    She did not see Xuanyuan Ye in the crowd today.


    However, since Ma San could mention the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, it must have something to do with Ji Yunxi.


    With Ji Yunxi¡¯s personality, in order to ensure that the plan was foolproof, she would definitely make use of someone who hated her to the core.


    In Phoenix City, only Madam Yu and her daughter fulfilled this condition.


    It was impossible for Madam Yu since she was locked up in the dark prison. Then only Xuanyuan Ye was left.


    Most importantly, she had tortured Xuanyuan Ye a few days ago, and the other party even blamed her for Bai Zhi¡¯s illness.


    Even a tortoise wouldn¡¯t be able to tolerate it. Moreover, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s temper was not something that could be tolerated.


    Shen Yijia felt that she had never been so smart.


    In the palace, after hearing the palace maid¡¯s report, Xuanyuan Ye was so angry that she swept all the pearl hairpins and jewelry on the dressing table to the ground.


    She placed her hands on the dressing table and looked at the palace maid kneeling behind her through the bronze mirror with a sinister expression. She said coldly, ¡°Say that again!¡±


    The little palace maid cowered and stammered, ¡°The Third Prince arrived in time and chased those people away. Moreover, His Highness announced the identity of Madam Song and said that he had to find out who spread the rumors. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye tightened her fingers and slowly clenched her fists. As if she had made up her mind, she said coldly, ¡°Get someone to prepare. I want to leave the palace.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The palace maid quickly went to do it.


    ¡°Shen Yijia!¡± Xuanyuan Ye spat out these words hatefully. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you can continue to be so lucky.¡±


    The palace maid quickly came to report that the carriage was ready.


    Xuanyuan Ye tidied her hair in front of the bronze mirror. She did not ask anyone to follow her and rode the carriage to the quarantine area.


    As soon as Shen Yijia¡¯s identity was exposed, everyone could not help but pity her. Xuanyuan Ye pretended not to see it.


    Auntie Liu came out of her son¡¯s ward with a basin. Her eyes were red, and she had clearly cried. When she saw Xuanyuan Ye, she squeezed out a smile and asked, ¡°Princess, are you here to see Miss Bai Zhi again?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Xuanyuan Ye looked at the basin in her hand. There were a few handkerchiefs covered in blood and pus in the basin. Just one look made her want to vomit.


    Noticing her gaze, Auntie Liu quickly hid the basin behind her. ¡°Princess is kind. It¡¯s Miss Bai Zhi¡¯s blessing to be able to meet such a good master.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye shook her head and revealed a bitter expression. ¡°If not for me, she wouldn¡¯t have fallen and been injured. If she hadn¡¯t been injured, she wouldn¡¯t have been infected with the plague. She¡¯s still so young. I haven¡¯t even found a good marriage for her¡­¡±


    At this point, she seemed to be unable to hold it in anymore and sobbed softly.


    Her words completely pierced Auntie Liu¡¯s heart. Auntie Liu was so tired that tears fell.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Her son isn¡¯t even in his prime yet. He just got married to Miss Wang and hasn¡¯t had the time to have an heir yet.¡± she thought.


    Seeing this, Xuanyuan Ye quickly stopped crying and choked. ¡°Auntie Liu, don¡¯t


    be too sad. I believe the doctor can definitely find a prescription to treat the plague.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy. I¡¯ve never heard of a plague that can be cured.¡± Auntie Liu really couldn¡¯t lie to herself. The more she thought about it, the sadder she became. She cried for a long time and calmed down a little before saying, ¡°I still have to send this filth to burn. Princess, quickly go and see Miss Bai Zhi. This place is dangerous. Don¡¯t stay any longer.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, Auntie. I understand.¡±


    ¡°Ma San, Ma San, come quickly. Your wife is dying.¡± An anxious voice sounded not far away.


    Xuanyuan Ye glanced at the gray clothes that flashed around the corner and went straight to Bai Zhi¡¯s ward.


    Pushing open the door, she saw Bai Zhi¡¯s red cheeks. Her eyes were closed and she was curled up on the bed without moving. In just two days, she had been tortured by the plague.


    Hearing the commotion, Bai Zhi slowly opened her eyes. When she saw that it was Xuanyuan Ye, her eyes lit up. Then, she said in a panic, ¡°Princess, why are you here again? I¡¯m fine. Please leave.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye stood by the door and did not move. Seeing that she was still thinking for her and thinking of Auntie Liu¡¯s words, she could not help but feel a little guilty.


    ¡°Bai Zhi, do you blame me?¡±


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Bai Zhi shook her head with difficulty. ¡°If not for the princess bringing me into the residence, I would have starved to death on the streets.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye pursed her lips.. ¡°What if I want you to die for me?¡±

 Chapter 813 - Chapter 813: Beat Up Xuanyuan Ye (2)

    Chapter 813: Beat Up Xuanyuan Ye (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Bai Zhi said without thinking, ¡°I¡¯m willing.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xuanyuan Ye tightened her grip on the handkerchief. ¡°I want you to do two things for me.¡±


    Bai Zhi pushed Xuanyuan Ye out of the room.


    The commotion was so loud that it instantly attracted many people.


    Xuanyuan Ye fell to the ground and looked at the person opposite her who could not even stand steadily. ¡°Bai Zhi, I really didn¡¯t expect you to spread those rumors.¡±


    Bai Zhi looked at her in despair. ¡°That¡¯s not a rumor. Madam Song is the


    Saintess. Not only can her blood treat the plague, but it can also revive people.¡±


    ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, you can verify it. She¡¯s different from us. She won¡¯t contract the plague at all.¡±


    Coincidentally, the imperial physician¡¯s eyelids twitched. This matter had caused an uproar, so he naturally heard about it.


    Unlike others who only approached Shen Yijia with the idea of making a Hail


    Mary effort, he thought of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s sudden and miraculous improvement.


    The people who did not dare to have any designs on Shen Yijia because her identity had been exposed began to whisper again.


    Xuanyuan Ye seemed to have just realized that she was being watched and said in a panic, ¡°Stop talking. Are you trying to kill me?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t want to kill her. I just don¡¯t want to die.¡±


    Bai Zhi knelt down with a thud. ¡°Princess, on account of me serving you, please help me beg her to be merciful and save me.¡±


    The others also knelt down one after another. ¡°Princess, help us.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes instantly turned red. She choked and said, ¡°Sister has never liked me. I can¡¯t do it..


    ¡°Princess!¡±


    ¡°All of you, stop talking. If you need to use my life to save everyone, I naturally have no objections, but I can¡¯t make this decision for others.¡± She paused and couldn¡¯t bear to say, ¡°Wait a little longer. Trust the doctors. They will definitely have another way.¡±


    It was already an hour later when the matter was reported to the small courtyard. Not to mention Xuanyuan Ce, even Ji Luo was furious.


    ¡°Have you captured that girl called Bai Zhi?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked coldly.


    Apart from Bai Zhi, Ji Yunxi must have arranged for others to contact her and let them stir up the emotions of the commoners again and again. Sooner or later, something would happen.


    Chu Feng said awkwardly, ¡°She was arrested, but she refused to say that she was an accomplice.¡±


    To Bai Zhi, who was already infected with the plague, death was inevitable. No matter how they asked, it was useless.


    He ¡°looked¡± at Chu Feng. ¡°Do you think Xuanyuan Ye really knows nothing?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Xuanyuan Ce sneered. ¡°Get someone to lock Xuanyuan Ye up and prevent her from taking another half-step out of the palace.¡±


    ¡°In addition, send more people around this courtyard. If anyone dares to trespass, kill them without mercy.¡±


    ¡°Master, bad news. Miss is missing.¡± MO Yuan jogged out of the backyard with a rare anxious expression.


    Song Jingchen happened to hear this when he returned. Before Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce could speak, he said, ¡°I¡¯ll go look for her.¡±


    With that, he disappeared.


    After Xuanyuan Ye returned to the Longevity Palace, he immediately chased the palace maids out.


    She slammed the door shut.


    The palace maids looked at each other.


    ¡°Princess, what¡¯s wrong?¡± The head palace maid mustered her courage and asked from the door.


    Xuanyuan Ye trembled and took out a handkerchief from her pocket. She threw it on the table as if she was facing a ferocious beast. She turned to look at the door and instructed, ¡°Don¡¯t come in yet. Prepare the medicinal bath. I want to take a shower.¡±


    As she spoke, she turned around and met a pair of calm eyes.


    Xuanyuan Ye was shocked and took a step back. ¡°Why are you here?¡± Shen Yijia sized her up. ¡°Do you feel guilty when you see me?¡±


    ¡°What a joke. I didn¡¯t do anything. What¡¯s there to feel guilty about?¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia looked at the handkerchief on the table.


    Noticing her gaze, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She turned around and ran out.


    Shen Yijia flashed over and grabbed her arm, pulling her back. She tilted her head and said, ¡°You can admit nothing. Anyway, I¡¯m definitely going to beat you up today.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s back hurt from hitting the door. Her pupils constricted when she heard this. ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Shen Yijia grinned and slapped her to the ground.


    She used her actions to show that she dared.


    Xuanyuan Ye covered half of her numb face. When she reacted, she wanted to pull out the whip at her waist and fight her to the death.


    Shen Yijia snatched the whip that she had just pulled out and threw it far away.


    She sat on her and raised her hand to slap Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face. ¡°If you¡¯d been 0Decnent, 1 wouldn¡¯t nave troumea you. wny you nave to provoKe meg¡¯


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ye was beaten up until she could not resist at all. Her cheeks instantly swelled up like a pig¡¯s head.


    The palace maid, who had heard the commotion, pushed open the door and saw this scene. Before she could think about why there was another person in the room, she quickly rushed up to save her. However, before she could approach, Shen Yijia kicked her away.


    Shen Yijia grabbed Xuanyuan Ye. ¡°Tell me, did Ji Yunxi instruct you to do this? Who else is your accomplice?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye felt her head buzz. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°What accomplice? I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re talking about. Let go of me quickly. Otherwise, Imperial Grandmother won¡¯t let you off if she finds out.¡±


    ¡°Even if she doesn¡¯t let me off, you won¡¯t have a chance to see it. Besides, do you think I¡¯m afraid of that old woman?¡±


    Shen Yijia did not have the patience to argue with her anymore. She grabbed Xuanyuan Ye and punched her on the ground. Xuanyuan Ye was dizzy and could not even cry out in pain.


    This time, she really wanted to kill her. When she was satisfied, she increased the strength in her hand and smashed it towards Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s head..

 Chapter 814 - Chapter 814: Delivering The News

    Chapter 814: Delivering The News


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia¡¯s punch was wrapped in killing intent. The wind from her punch stirred the hair on Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s temples.


    At the critical moment, an aura suddenly attacked her from behind.


    Shen Yijia had no choice but to retract her hand and dodge.


    It was also during this time that another black shadow quickly retreated with Xuanyuan Ye.


    Looking at the two men in black standing in front of Xuanyuan Ye, Shen Yijia frowned. The auras of these two people did not seem to belong to the Demon Guards.


    Before she could figure it out, Xuanyuan Ye had already explained to her in a trembling voice, ¡°They¡¯re secret guards sent by Imperial Uncle to protect me. If you kill me today, Imperial Uncle will immediately know. If you leave now, I can pretend that nothing happened¡­¡¯


    Xuanyuan Ye could not understand why Shen Yijia still clung to her even though Bai Zhi had already admitted that she was the one who spread the rumors.


    Was it unnecessary for her to ask Bai Zhi to admit it?


    How could she have known that Shen Yijia did not know about the scene where Bai Zhi was acting with her at all? However, even if she knew, she would have assumed that she was the one who instigated it.


    Secret guards? Shen Yijia sized up the two men in black. They were not as powerful as the Demon Guards and could be beaten up!


    With this thought in mind, she clenched her fists and was about to rush forward when a familiar aura grabbed her arm.


    Shen Yijia reflexively retracted her hand and stood still. She turned around and smiled sweetly at the person beside her. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s anger immediately dissipated when he saw her smile. He said helplessly, ¡°Let¡¯s go home first.¡±


    ¡°No, she¡¯s the one who spread those rumors. I have to kill her today.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not me.¡± Xuanyuan Ye pushed himself up. ¡°I¡¯m not the one who said that you¡¯re the Saintess. It¡¯s Bai Zhi. She¡¯s infected with the plague. She doesn¡¯t want to die, and I don¡¯t know where she heard those rumors, so¡­


    ¡°She couldn¡¯t stand the fact she couldn¡¯t beat me, so she thought of this vicious method to kill me. Hubby, do you believe what I said?¡± Shen Yijia ignored Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s words.


    To be precise, she didn¡¯t believe anything Xuanyuan Ye said.


    Xuanyuan Ye choked and quickly shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s not me. It¡¯s really not me!¡±


    ¡°Yes, I believe you,¡± Song Jingchen said to Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ye was speechless.


    Could these two people not hear her at all ? The condemned prisoners could still say their last words before they died, let alone these people who had no evidence at all.


    Shen Yijia was delighted. ¡°Then I¡­¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home first. Mother was worried about you when she realized that you weren¡¯t in your room,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. It won¡¯t take long to kill her.¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°She deserves to die, but not now.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was not Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s daughter, but the emperor and the empress dowager still let her enjoy the status of a princess. It could be seen how much the two of them doted on her. If she was killed like this, Jiajia would turn from a victim to a perpetrator.


    This wouldn¡¯t do her any good.


    ¡°I believe you. Of course I believe you. Lees go home.¡±


    The two of them finished discussing if Xuanyuan Ye should die as if no one was around and left. Xuanyuan Ye felt even more embarrassed than when she was beaten up just now. She was so angry that her eyes rolled back and she fainted.


    The two secret guards looked at each other and disappeared from the hall.


    The palace maids quickly came in and carried her to the bed. Under the arrangements of the head palace maid, they searched for medicine and fetched water.


    Xuanyuan Ye was thrown to the ground by Shen Yijia. Her arms were covered in bruises and abrasions, and she had been slapped no less than ten times. Her cheeks were swollen and she lay on the bed like a rag. The palace maids who were applying medicine for her gasped.


    When Xuanyuan Ye woke up, 15 minutes had passed.


    Looking at the vermilion canopy, she felt as if a lifetime had passed.


    ¡°Princess, you¡¯re awake.¡± The head palace maid gently hung up the bed canopy.


    Xuanyuan Ye struggled to sit up, not wanting to pull at her wound because of this. She hissed in pain. The head palace maid quickly helped her lean against the bedhead. ¡°Princess, please take care of your injuries. The imperial physician specifically instructed you not to leave the palace for the next few days. ¡±


    Her words seemed to remind Xuanyuan Ye of something. She suddenly clenched her fists. ¡®Get out.¡±


    The head palace maid called out worriedly, ¡°Princess.¡±


    ¡°Get out, all of you get out, ¡± Xuanyuan Ye shouted. Tears welled up in his eyes because of the pain on her face.


    The head palace maid did not dare to provoke her anymore and left with her men.


    After they left, Xuanyuan Ye quickly lifted the blanket and staggered out of bed. When she saw the handkerchief on the table, her pupils constricted. After a long time, she reached out with trembling hands.


    Under the eaves outside the hall, a few young palace maids and elder palace maids were guarding. One of the young palace maids suddenly let out a long sigh. ¡°The princess is quite pitiful. Sister Ruo Mei, how could the empress dowager bear to leave her in Phoenix City?¡±


    Ruo Mei was a palace maid. She looked at the high palace wall. ¡°The empress dowager has always doted on the princess. She must be doing this for her own good.¡±


    ¡°But that Madam Song is too much. His Highness has just announced her identity, and she¡¯s already bullying our princess. Who knows what will happen in the future.¡±


    ¡°Chun Xi!¡± Ruo Mei interrupted her. ¡°Master¡¯s matters are not something we can interfere in.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± The little palace maid called Chun Xi looked around. ¡°Have you heard? The plague this time is not incurable.¡±


    Everyone looked over.


    ¡°I heard it from others. There are rumors outside the palace that Madam Song¡¯s blood can cure the plague, but Madam Song refused to help. His Highness even chased away all the people who went to beg her.¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, why do you think His Highness suddenly revealed Madam Song¡¯s background? Isn¡¯t he worried that the commoners will harm her?¡±


    ¡°His Highness thinks for Madam Song in everything. Even His Highness protects her. It¡¯s just that I pity the princess.¡±


    The door behind him opened, and Chun Xi quickly stopped talking.


    Ruo Mei went up to her. ¡°Princess, why are you out? Your body¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± A veil hung on Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face. She took out a letter. ¡°Go and ask them to help me send this letter to Imperial Grandmother.¡±


    sne guessed tnat xuanyuan ye was gomg to complain to Empress Dowager Zhou. Ruo Mei agreed and reached out to take it. However, the moment her hand touched the envelope, Xuanyuan Ye suddenly retracted her hand.


    ¡°Princess?¡± Ruo Mei was puzzled.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s fingertips turned white as she held the envelope. In a place that no one could see, she was even trembling slightly.


    ¡°Forget it, it¡¯s better not to.¡±


    Before she could finish, a little palace maid rushed in. ¡°Not good, not good. His


    Highness has sent people to surround the Longevity Palace.¡±


    After Xuanyuan Ye was brought out of the secret prison by Empress Dowager Zhou, she had been staying in the side hall of the Longevity Palace.


    Instead of saying that they surrounded the Longevity Palace, it was more appropriate to say that they surrounded her.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes turned sharp. Without any hesitation, she stuffed the letter into Ruo Mei¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Help me send this letter out. It must be delivered to Imperial Grandmother.¡±


    Thinking about how difficult Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s situation had been recently, Ruo Mei suppressed the strange feeling in her heart and left with the letter..

 Chapter 815 - Chapter 815: Motherly Love

    Chapter 815: Motherly Love


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Ce instructed Xuanyuan Ye not to take half a step out of the palace, but he did not say that he would not let the palace maids walk around.


    Ruo Mei left the Longevity Palace and bribed an eunuch to deliver the letter to him. The eunuch also bribed a soldier on the city gate tower.


    Just like that, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s letter was sent to the safety zone outside the city.


    This was not the first time Xuanyuan Ye had written to Empress Dowager Zhou. Eunuch Yu did not think too much about it when he received the letter. He got someone to disinfect the letter first before presenting it to her.


    After reading the letter, Empress Dowager Zhou sobbed uncontrollably. ¡°Emperor, where¡¯s the emperor? Call the emperor over to see me.¡±


    Eunuch Yu was shocked and quickly went to invite Xuanyuan Qi.


    When Xuanyuan Qi put down the government affairs in his hand and rushed over, Empress Dowager Zhou was still wiping her tears.


    ¡°Mother, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°Emperor, you said before that you wanted Ye¡¯er to stay in the city because she¡­¡± Thinking that there were too many people in the house, Empress Dowager Zhou swallowed the last sentence and continued,¡± Ye¡¯er stayed. She has done what she needed to. You can bring her out now. ¡®


    ¡°Mother, I heard that that girl¡¯s performance has been very good these past few days. Why did you¡­¡±


    ¡°How can it be fine?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou interrupted her. ¡°Take a good look at what Ye¡¯er said in the letter.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned and was about to take the letter from Empress Dowager


    Zhou.


    Eunuch Wu picked up the letter and opened it for him to see.


    Xuanyuan Qi paused. He knew that Eunuch Wu was doing this for his own good, so he didn¡¯t reach out again.


    In the letter, Xuanyuan Ye did not mention that Shen Yijia had attacked her, nor did she mention the rumors in the city.


    Xuanyuan Ce revealed Shen Yijia¡¯s background. Every word revealed fear and helplessness. The last sentence even said, ¡°Imperial Grandmother, if there¡¯s a next life, I want to be your biological granddaughter.¡±


    No matter how one looked at it, it looked like her last words.


    ¡°Every time Ye¡¯er writes to me, she only reports the good news and not the bad news. She must have suffered a huge grievance to send this letter today. My


    Ye¡¯er, I wonder how badly she¡¯s been bullied when I¡¯m not around¡­¡± Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s heart ached.


    Nanny Gao quickly went forward to pat her back.


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be anxious. I¡¯ll get someone to ask around first.¡± ¡°What¡¯s there to ask? Just say something and see if you can bring Ye¡¯er out.¡± Xuanyuan Qi sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll get Third Brother to send her out tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Take good care of the Empress Dowager.¡± With that, Xuanyuan Qi turned around and left.


    Eunuch Wu put the letter back, bowed to Empress Dowager Zhou, and hurriedly chased after Xuanyuan Qi.


    ¡°Have any letters been sent out of the city?¡± he asked.


    Eunuch Wu hurriedly said, ¡°Yes, yes. It was sent out with the princess¡¯s letter. I saw that Your Majesty was busy, so I put it aside.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi said unhappily, ¡°In the future, give me the letter immediately.¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡±


    On the other side, after Song Jingchen brought Shen Yijia home, she enjoyed her first dose of motherly love from Ji Luo. She raised the water vat and squatted.


    ¡°Squat properly. Don¡¯t look around,¡± Ji Luo said sternly.


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Yijia looked at Ji Luo pitifully, trying to bluff her way through.


    The water vat was not heavy to her, but it was a little embarrassing.


    Her pitiful act didn¡¯t soften Ji Luo¡¯s heart, but Xuanyuan Ce and Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t bear to see her like this.


    Xuanyuan Ce opened his mouth, but before he could speak, Ji Luo glanced at him coldly. Remembering that he couldn¡¯t see, she reprimanded him. ¡°Shut up. You have no right to speak here.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°I haven¡¯t said it yet!¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. With Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s example, he gave up on the idea of interrupting. He silently went to the kitchen and carried another water vat. He walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s side and raised the water vat to squat with her.


    Ji Luo frowned. ¡°Ah Chen, get up.¡±


    ¡°Jiajia made Mother worry. She deserves to be punished, but she¡¯s my wife. My wife is in the wrong. As her husband, I should bear the responsibility together.¡± ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia was so touched that her eyes welled up with tears.


    Seeing his insistence, Ji Luo snorted. ¡°Alright, squat down with her. MO Yuan, help my son-in-law fill the vat with water.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s vat was only half full.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    When Ji Luo said that she wanted to fill it up, MO Yuan really filled it up.


    From the corner of her eye, she noticed that his footsteps were a little unsteady. Shen Yijia asked with heartache, ¡°Hubby, can you still do it?¡± Song Jingchen immediately stabilized himself and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I can do it.¡±


    The vat of water was not light. Shen Yijia did not believe it and suggested,


    ¡°Hubby, why don¡¯t you give me the vat? I¡¯ll hold one in each hand.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°The blow from my wife is even more terrifying than the weight of the water vat.¡±


    Their conversation made Ji Luo want to laugh. Fortunately, she had a veil on her face.


    After about ten minutes, she looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Do you know what you did wrong?¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that she didn¡¯t do anything wrong, but when she thought about how Song Jingchen was still being punished with her, she thought hard. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have gone to find trouble with Xuanyuan Ye on my


    own.¡±


    Ji Luo remained silent.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s not right. I can look for her!¡± she thought.


    ¡°I should have told Mother before I left. I shouldn¡¯t have made you worry.¡±


    Ji Luo asked, ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡®What else?¡¯


    ¡°You Yi.¡±


    Song Jingchen reminded her softly.


    Shen Yijia froze and said awl?vardly, ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have knocked You Yi out and thrown him onto the bed to pretend to be me.¡±


    The reason why MO Yuan only realized that something was wrong with Shen Yijia so late was because You Yi was lying on the bed. If You Yi had not woken up on his own, she would probably have only found out about Shen Yijia¡¯s actions after she killed Xuanyuan Ye.


    ¡°It¡¯s obvious that someone in this city wants to harm you, but instead of staying at home, you even knocked out You Yi, who was in charge of protecting you. You slipped out silently. If anything happens, what will happen to Ah Chen?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said faintly, ¡°And me. You haven¡¯t called me father yet.¡±


    Ji Luo glared at him. ¡°Shut up.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    ¡°Mother, I really know my mistake. I¡¯ll bring You Yi wherever I go next time.¡± Ji Luo stared.


    Shen Yijia quickly corrected herself. ¡°I¡¯m not going out. Even if I go out, I have to get your or my husband¡¯s permission.¡±


    Ji Luo couldn¡¯t bear to punish them too harshly. She glanced at the couple. ¡°Get up.¡±


    Shen Yijia jumped up and quickly put down the water vat to pick Song Jingchen up.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief.


    ¡°Hubby, are you alright?¡± Shen Yijia asked worriedly.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at his trembling hands and did not say anything.


    When she returned to her room, she quickly went to get the medicinal wine.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Shen Yijia reached out and took off his clothes. ¡°I know. I want to touch you.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Alright..¡±

 Chapter 816 - Chapter 816: The Empress Dowager Enters the City (1)

    Chapter 816: The Empress Dowager Enters the City (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Hubby, do you feel good?¡±


    ¡°Be gentle.¡±


    ¡°Oh, how about this?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s fine.¡±


    Ji Luo had just arrived at the couple¡¯s room when she heard this conversation.


    Ji Luo gasped. Did her daughter have to be so explosive?


    Just as she was about to leave quietly, she saw from the corner of her eye that Xuanyuan Ce was walking unsteadily with a stick.


    The sound of the stick hitting the ground was especially crisp.


    Ji Luo¡¯s eyelids twitched. She quickly walked over and grabbed Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s collar.


    Xuanyuan Ce staggered. ¡°Ah, Ah Luo? Didn¡¯t you go to deliver medicinal wine to that brat? Why are you out so quickly?¡±


    ¡°That brat is too weak. He¡¯s even worse than our daughter.¡±


    Ji Luo said, ¡°Shut up.¡±


    If she lost her grandson, she would not let this person off.


    With this thought in mind, she quickened her pace.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    When it was time for dinner, the couple did not come out.


    Xuanyuan Ce instructed, ¡°MO Yuan, call Jiajia over for dinner.¡±


    Ji Luo coughed lightly. ¡°There¡¯s no need to go. I¡¯ll heat up the food in the kitchen later and let them eat when they wake up.¡±


    ¡°How do you know they¡¯re asleep? What if they¡¯re reading in their room?¡±


    Calculating the time, it had just turned dark.


    Ji Luo froze. ¡°Eat your food. Why are you so talkative?¡±


    How did she know? Of course it was¡­


    Ji Luo had completely misunderstood. It was true that the couple had fallen asleep, but the reason was because when Shen Yijia saw Song Jingchen¡¯s dark eye circles, her heart ached for him. He had been so busy these past few days that he hadn¡¯t rested well, so she dragged him to sleep with her.


    At night, a thin black shadow quietly left the inner city camp after everyone rested. He limped into an alley in the south of the city and walked to the door of the third family. He reached out and knocked on the door in front of him.


    Not long after, the courtyard door opened and a middle-aged man stuck his head out. When he recognized who it was, his expression changed and he hurriedly pulled her into the courtyard. He looked around worriedly to make sure that no one was following before closing the courtyard door.


    ¡°You¡¯re looking for me at this time. Do you want to die?¡± The middle-aged man followed the thin man into the house and questioned him angrily.


    With the help of the oil lamp in the room, the thin man¡¯s face was revealed. It was none other than Jia Quan, who had just suffered 20 strokes of the cane in the day.


    Jia Quan sat down carefully on the stool. The wound on his butt hurt so much that he jumped up. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, with the loot around, I¡¯ve already been cleared of suspicion.¡±


    Seeing him like this, the middle-aged man frowned and asked, ¡°Are you injured?¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t die after taking 20 strikes.¡± Jia Quan waved his hand indifferently.


    ¡°Is everything ready?¡± he asked.


    The middle-aged man glanced at him and took the shovel from the corner of the wall. He walked to a tree in the courtyard and started digging. Soon, he dug out a wooden box.


    He used his sleeve to rub the dirt off it and placed the box on the table in the central room.


    ¡°It¡¯s all here. They¡¯re too strict on these dirty things. Everything has to be burnt before leaving the quarantine area. They even arranged for someone to check.


    It¡¯s not easy to bring them out.¡±


    As the middle-aged man spoke, Jia Quan had already opened the box. There were two handkerchiefs covered in pus and blood inside. As soon as it was opened, a stench wafted out.


    Jia Quan took a look and closed the box. ¡°Throw it into the well. It should be enough.¡±


    The middle-aged man nodded. ¡°If everyone is infected with the plague and only that woman is fine, everyone will definitely ask her to bleed to save people again. It¡¯s fine if Lord Jing¡¯an and the Third Prince agree, but if they insist on protecting her, the city will definitely be in chaos. Then, we can stall for time.¡± As he spoke, he took an empty box and placed a handkerchief inside.


    He handed one of the boxes to Jia Quan and said, ¡°I¡¯ll throw this into the well in the pharmacy. Go back to the inner city camp.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡¯


    Jia Quan took the box. The two of them discussed for a while and prepared to split up. Unexpectedly, before they could leave the courtyard, a powerful aura came towards them.


    Before they could react, they felt a pain in their necks and completely lost consciousness.


    When the two of them woke up again, they were already in the prison. Xuanyuan Ziming and Song Jingchen were standing outside the cell, looking at them coldly.


    On the first day of May, the entire Phoenix City was enveloped in a thin rain.


    In the safety zone outside the city, Eunuch Wu had just read to Xuanyuan Qi the letter that Xuanyuan Ziming had gotten someone to send out early in the morning. Eunuch Yu was drenched and ran in anxiously.


    ¡°Your Majesty, bad news.. The Empress Dowager suddenly developed a fever!¡±

 Chapter 817 - Chapter 817: The Empress Dowager Enters the City (2)

    Chapter 817: The Empress Dowager Enters the City (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°What?¡± Xuanyuan Qi was shocked. He didn¡¯t wait for the eunuch to finish speaking. He stood up and walked towards Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s courtyard.


    Eunuch Wu walked to the door and saw that Xuanyuan Qi had already rushed into the rain. He said anxiously, ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s still raining outside.¡±


    As he spoke, he quickly snatched an umbrella from the young eunuch and chased after him.


    Xuanyuan Qi rushed to Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s courtyard in a hurry. Just as he was about to enter, a woman wearing a veil walked out and stopped him.


    ¡®Your Majesty, you can¡¯t go in.¡±


    ¡°Concubine Wan?¡± Xuanyuan Qi had a bad feeling.


    Consort Wan bowed. ¡°Your Majesty, the imperial physician has already checked Mother¡¯s pulse and confirmed that she has a plague. If you go in now, what if you get infected?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi staggered. ¡°Plague? How could it be a plague? Mother was fine, why¡­¡±


    Thinking of something, Xuanyuan Qi stopped.


    The people serving Empress Dowager Zhou had always been careful. He even specially arranged for the imperial physician to be around at all times. Not only did he have to check Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s pulse every day, but the people serving her here had to be checked every morning and night. If they realized that there was a headache or fever, they would immediately replace them.


    The only thing that could let Empress Dowager Zhou come into contact with the source of the illness was the letter sent from the city.


    ¡°Your Majesty?¡±


    Consort Wan¡¯s voice brought him back to his senses.


    ¡°What did you say just now?¡± Xuanyuan Qi asked.


    ¡°The Empress Dowager asked me to tell Your Majesty that she has contracted the plague. In order to prevent it from spreading to others, Your Majesty, make arrangements to send her back to Phoenix City.¡±


    ¡°No, the plague is rampant in the city. How can we send Mother in?¡± Xuanyuan Qi refused without thinking.


    Consort Wan wanted to say something, but the inner room door opened and Nanny Gao walked out with Empress Dowager Zhou.


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    ¡°Alright, just stand there,¡± Empress Dowager Zhou said weakly. Nanny Gao helped her sit down on the chair at the head of the table and said angrily, ¡°I Imew that Consort Wan wouldn¡¯t be able to persuade you.¡±


    She sighed. ¡°Emperor, have you ever thought about how you¡¯re going to explain this plague to the commoners? It wasn¡¯t easy to control this plague in Phoenix City. If everyone gets sick because of me alone, how are you going to explain it to the commoners? How am I going to face the late emperor in a hundred years?¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi said, ¡°I can get someone to surround this courtyard. Mother, don¡¯t you want to see Xuanyuan Ye? I¡¯ve already sent someone to pick her up. When the time comes, let her¡­


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. That girl is probably infected with the plague too.¡±


    The fact that she said that meant that she had clearly guessed where the source of her illness came from.


    Actually, it was not difficult to guess. After all, no one in the safe zone had been infected with the plague for so many days. It could not have appeared out of thin air, right?


    It was unknown if the letter with the plague was intentional or unintentional.


    At this moment, the people Xuanyuan Qi had sent to pick up Xuanyuan Ye had also returned. Just as Empress Dowager Zhou had said, Xuanyuan Ye had started to have a fever early this morning.


    Since she was infected with the plague, she naturally couldn¡¯t leave the city.


    Xuanyuan Qi wanted to persuade her again. ¡°Mother.¡±


    Once they entered Phoenix City, unless the plague was treated¡­


    Empress Dowager Zhou waved her hand and said, ¡°There¡¯s no need to say anything else. Go get someone to prepare the carriage.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯m willing to follow Mother,¡± Consort Wan suddenly said.


    ¡°Consort Wan, you¡­¡±


    ¡°My son is inside, so I¡¯m worried and afraid all day. Why don¡¯t I accompany Mother back? Apart from taking care of Mother, I can also do my best to be filial to His Majesty.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi could not dissuade Empress Dowager Zhou, so he could only agree helplessly.


    Under Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s urging, she immediately got someone to prepare a carriage, including Nanny Gao and Eunuch Yu. Fan, who was serving Empress Dowager Zhou, also followed.


    Xuanyuan Qi personally sent Empress Dowager Zhou to the east gate. As he watched the carriage slowly enter Phoenix City and the city gate close again, a helpless feeling rose in his heart.


    So what if he was an emperor? He could not do anything in the face of the plague.


    ¡°Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager is blessed by the heavens. She will definitely be fine.¡±


    ¡°I hope so.¡± Xuanyuan Qi retracted his gaze and turned to get into the carriage.


    Halfway through the carriage, he suddenly opened his eyes. ¡°I remember Ming¡¯er writing yesterday that there were rumors in the city that that girl was a Saintess. Can blood treat the plague?¡±


    Eunuch Wu was shocked. ¡°Your Majesty, do you want to¡­ but His Highness probably won¡¯t agree.¡±


    He knew that this wound could not be opened. Once it was opened, it would be fine if Madam Song¡¯s blood was useless. If it could really treat the plague, how could those commoners let her off?


    How could Xuanyuan Qi not have thought of this? He sighed and said, ¡°Don¡¯t you think everything is too coincidental?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m stupid.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi pressed the space between his eyebrows and said concisely, ¡°Since mother is infected with the plague. I will definitely treat her at all costs.¡±


    Eunuch Wu was not stupid. After being reminded by him, he immediately reacted and said in disbelief, ¡°Your Majesty means that the princess¡­¡±


    If the princess really did it on purpose, then she was trying to borrow someone else¡¯s knife. She was borrowing Your Majesty¡¯s knife!


    Not only that, but she also gambled with the Empress Dowager¡¯s life.


    The empress dowager doted on her so much. How could she bear to hurt her?


    This was too crazy!


    A dark glint flashed across Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes. ¡°Get the imperial physician to check that letter when we get back.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    However, when Eunuch Wu went to look for her, he was told that all the letters sent out by Xuanyuan Ye had been taken away by the empress dowager. ¡°The Empress Dowager guessed that Your Majesty would look for those letters and specially asked someone to leave this message,¡± Eunuch Wu replied.


    Xuanyuan Qi was stunned and frowned. ¡°Mother probably suspects something too.¡±


    It was unknown if she took the evidence to protect Xuanyuan Ye or something else.


    On the other side, Eunuch Yu looked at the box that Empress Dowager Zhou had placed at the side and hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°Empress Dowager, these letters are probably infected. I should burn them..¡±

 Chapter 818 - Chapter 818: Madam Ma’s Crisis

    Chapter 818: Madam Ma¡¯s Crisis


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Empress Dowager Zhou lay on the bench and said weakly after a while, ¡°Keep it for now.¡±


    Eunuch Yu and Nanny Gao looked at each other and could not persuade her


    anymore.


    ¡°All of you, get out. Don¡¯t let me pass on my illness to you,¡± Empress Dowager Zhou said again.


    Nanny Gao¡¯s eyes turned red. ¡°I¡¯m not afraid.¡±


    Eunuch Yu did not feel good either. He wiped his tears and said, ¡°It¡¯s all my fault. Your Majesty has repeatedly instructed me to carefully smoke the things sent from the city with wormwood before sending them to the empress dowager. I smoked the letter repeatedly, but I forgot to open it¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s normal. Who dares to open my letter?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou interrupted him.


    Seeing that she had closed her eyes after saying that, Eunuch Yu shut his mouth in embarrassment.


    Xuanyuan Ziming had already received the news that Empress Dowager Zhou had entered the city and was waiting at the palace gate with the imperial physicians in advance.


    After all, she was the empress dowager of a country. It was naturally impossible for her to live in the quarantine area like others.


    The carriage stopped. Xuanyuan Ziming walked forward and was about to greet her.


    Eunuch Yu stuck his head out and gestured for him to keep quiet.


    Xuanyuan Ziming understood and waved his hand to signal the people behind him to make way so that Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s carriage could enter the palace.


    The carriage finally stopped in front of the Longevity Palace. A few eunuchs carried Empress Dowager Zhou into the bedroom on a stretcher, but she did not wake up.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was worried. He asked softly with a dark expression, ¡°How did Grandmother contract the plague?¡±


    The messenger only said that Empress Dowager Zhou was sick and wanted to enter the city. He did not say anything else.


    Eunuch Yu looked bitter, not knowing what to say.


    Consort Wan tucked Empress Dowager Zhou in. ¡°It¡¯s a letter from the princess to Mother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming frowned.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll take care of Mother. Mingler, go and do your work. When Mother wakes up, I¡¯ll get someone to inform you.¡±


    ¡°Mother, you have to take good care of yourself too.¡±


    Consort Wan smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will.¡±


    Seeing that he really couldn¡¯t help here, Xuanyuan Ziming gave a few more instructions before leaving.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she left the main hall, she met Xuanyuan Ye, who was supported by a palace maid.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face was abnormally red, and her eyes were red from crying.


    Seeing Xuanyuan Ziming, she quickly asked, ¡°Third Cousin, how¡¯s Imperial Grandmother?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked at her quietly for a long time and said coldly,


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother is resting. Don¡¯t go in and disturb her.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes widened, as if she was hurt by his tone. Tears welled up in her eyes. ¡°Did Imperial Grandmother fall sick because of me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you know.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming did not show any mercy and said directly, ¡°The imperial physician said that Grandmother¡¯s condition is only mild now. In order to prevent her condition from worsening, stay in your room and recuperate. Don¡¯t get close to her.¡±


    In the past, Xuanyuan Ziming felt that Xuanyuan Ye was pitiful and treated her well. Even when Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background had been exposed, he would at most become emotionless towards her. This time, he was really angry with her.


    Hearing that he was blaming her, Xuanyuan Ye explained while crying, ¡°Third Cousin, I didn¡¯t do it on purpose. I didn¡¯t expect to be infected. If I knew, I would never have sent a letter to Grandmother.¡±


    She cried until she was out of breath. She was already sick, so when she cried, her body swayed and she almost fainted.


    Ruo Mei and Chun Xi supported her from both sides.


    Xuanyuan Ziming sneered. ¡°If I remember correctly, you went to the quarantine area before sending the letter yesterday and even had a big fight with Bai Zhi.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s body stiffened. ¡°I¡¯ve been there before, but I didn¡¯t catch the plague¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming retracted his gaze. ¡°Forget it. Imperial Grandmother doted on you so much in the past. I also think you didn¡¯t do it on purpose¡­ Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t you be worse than an animal?¡±


    He said that he believed her, but Xuanyuan Ye felt that he was being sarcastic.


    ¡°The two of you, send the princess back.¡± Thinking of something, Xuanyuan


    Ziming paused and said, ¡°My grandmother is recuperating in the Longevity Palace. It¡¯s not good to disturb her with too many people. You should move to the Ganquan Palace first.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye gritted her teeth indignantly. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming turned to leave.


    ¡°Third Cousin.¡± Xuanyuan Ye stopped him. Xuanyuan Ziming turned around and pursed her lips. ¡°I heard that Sister¡­ Can you ask her to save Imperial Grandmother?¡±


    ¡°As long as she¡¯s willing to save Imperial Grandmother, I¡¯m willing to work for her, even if it costs my life.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s face turned cold. ¡°You¡¯d better pray that before your condition worsens, the doctors can find a prescription to treat the plague and help you keep your life.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face turned pale. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know, right? The person who spread the rumors has already been caught. Jiajia¡¯s blood can¡¯t cure the plague at all. The person only said that because someone wanted to use the commoners to kill her.¡±


    ¡°How is that possible? That person clearly¡­ Bai Zhi clearly said that she¡¯s a Saintess. If her blood can¡¯t cure the plague, why didn¡¯t she fall sick?¡± Xuanyuan Ye panicked. If Shen Yijia¡¯s blood was useless, wouldn¡¯t Grandmother and her¡­


    ¡°Nothing is certain. Perhaps it¡¯s because she¡¯s used to suffering since she was young. She¡¯s in good health. As for Bai Zhi¡­¡± Xuanyuan Ziming sneered. ¡°She¡¯s just being used as a tool, but she¡¯s so stupid that everyone knows about it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face alternated between green and white. She had been deceived?


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not say anything else and instructed someone to send Xuanyuan Ye to the Ganquan Palace before leaving.


    Actually, Jia Quan did not know if Shen Yijia¡¯s blood could cure the plague. Ji Yunxi had asked them to say that.


    The reason why Xuanyuan Ziming said that was because he did not want Xuanyuan Ye to have any designs on Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Your Highness, where are we going now?¡± Little Zhu Zi asked. ¡°I¡¯m going to look for Brother Song.¡±


    After the commotion, Song Jingchen and Ji Luo didn¡¯t go out again.


    They took the risk of being infected with the plague, but those people wanted their lives, so the two of them simply ignored everything.


    Of course, this was only on the surface.


    Therefore, Ji Luo cleared out the storeroom in the backyard and used it as a pharmacy. She wrote a new prescription and directly corrected the imperial physician without showing up.


    It was unknown if it was because they had changed to a quiet environment or because they were too anxious to protect Shen Yijia, but the new prescription today was really effective.


    Although it wasn¡¯t obvious, it was at least a good start.


    However, to everyone¡¯s surprise, an accident still happened.


    Knock knock.


    There was a knock on the courtyard door.


    ¡°I¡¯ll open the door,¡± Shen Yijia said and walked out with an umbrella.


    Song Jingchen frowned and felt inexplicably uneasy as he watched Shen Yijia reach out to pull the latch.


    The courtyard door opened.


    Seeing the person Imeeling in the rain, Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Ma San kowtowed. ¡°My wife is about to die. Madam Song, please save her.¡±


    It was actually not easy for Madam Ma¡¯s situation to drag on until today. Shen Yijia had heard Ji Luo mention it a few times, so this outcome was within her expectations.


    However, Ma San could not accept it.


    He even thought that as long as Shen Yijia was willing to help, Madam Ma could still be saved..

 Chapter 819 - Chapter 819: Accident

    Chapter 819: Accident


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I¡¯ve already said it many times. I¡¯m not a Saintess. My blood can¡¯t cure the plague. Go back,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Ma San did not seem to hear him. He kept kowtowing and repeating, ¡°Save her.¡¯


    Shen Yijia did not feel good.


    Her spiritual liquid might be able to save people, but it would take seven days for the spiritual liquid to condense. Madam Ma would not be able to wait until then, so it was impossible for her to take it out when the time came.


    Just as her beautiful husband had said, if she couldn¡¯t save everyone, she couldn¡¯t save just one.


    It wasn¡¯t that she didn¡¯t want to save him, but she couldn¡¯t.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless even if you beg me. If you have the time, why don¡¯t you go back and accompany her more?¡± Shen Yijia prepared to close the door.


    Seeing that Ma San was drenched in the rain, she pursed her lips and crossed the threshold. She squatted down and placed the umbrella beside him.


    Ma San paused.


    Shen Yijia did not mind and sighed. ¡°Go back.¡±


    She stood up and turned to walk back. ¡°Madam Song.¡±


    Ma San suddenly stopped her.


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw a dark red liquid splash at her.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s pupils constricted.


    ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    An urgent voice sounded behind her.


    Everything happened too quickly. Shen Yijia did not even have time to react.


    In just a breath, she had already been pulled into someone¡¯s arms.


    With a spin, the person used his body to block the dazzling red light.


    The air surged with a rich and smelly smell of blood. Blood flowed down the other party¡¯s hair to his neck, then down his neck and into his clothes.


    One drop, two drops¡­


    More and more of them appeared. Shen Yijia could no longer tell if it was blood or rain.


    She was all too familiar with this smell.


    This smell was almost everywhere in the quarantine area.


    ¡°Brother Song!¡± Xuanyuan Ziming, who had just turned into the alley, was stunned when he saw this scene.


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses at his voice. Her hands trembled as she wanted to help Song Jingchen wipe the blood off his neck.


    Before she could touch it, the other party grabbed her hand.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch it,¡± Song Jingchen said softly.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyelashes trembled slightly. She looked up at him and opened her mouth. She felt her throat dry up. After a long time, she found her voice. ¡°Hubby, blood, this blood¡­¡±


    Her voice was trembling, and there was panic in her tone that had never been there before.


    Song Jingchen wanted to rub her head as usual, but he thought of something and retracted his hand. He smiled and comforted Dao, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head in panic. ¡°I¡¯m fine? How can I be fine?¡±


    This blood was clearly pus from the bodies of plague victims.


    There was so much blood.


    Endless fear spread from Shen Yijia¡¯s heart and instantly engulfed her entire body.


    Ma San didn¡¯t expect Song Jingchen to suddenly appear and block the dirty blood. He staggered back, his legs went weak, and he fell to the ground. He muttered, ¡°1- I didn¡¯t do it on purpose. I just wanted to prove that you¡¯re immune to the plague. Your blood can treat the plague. I never thought of harming anyone else.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t thought of secretly taking Shen Yijia¡¯s blood, but he knew that he didn¡¯t have that chance at all. He thought of what Bai Zhi had said. As long as he could prove that Madam Song wouldn¡¯t contract the plague¡­


    Shen Yijia closed her eyes. When she opened them again, her eyes were red. She retreated from Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and rushed to Ma San. She grabbed his neck and lifted him up.


    ¡°You¡¯re courting death!¡±


    ¡°I¡­ You¡¯re the Saintess¡­ You¡­ You can use your blood to¡­ save him¡­ Ah!¡±


    As he could not breathe properly, Ma San¡¯s entire face turned red. The veins on his forehead bulged. After saying this intermittently, he began to feel dizzy.


    ¡°I already said I¡¯m not!¡± Shen Yijia roared with red eyes and tightened her grip. Suddenly, a large hand covered the back of her hand. ¡°Jiajia, let go of him first.¡± ¡°Hubby?¡± Shen Yijia could not understand.


    She wasn¡¯t allowed to kill Xuanyuan Ye, why couldn¡¯t she kill this person too?

 Chapter 820 - Chapter 820: Have a Child

    Chapter 820: Have a Child


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen carefully pried her hand away bit by bit and comforted her softly, ¡°Can you accompany me in to change my clothes first?¡±


    ¡°Yes, change your clothes. Not only do you have to change your clothes, but you also have to take a shower.¡± Shen Yijia finally regained some rationality. She grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand tightly and walked home.


    After regaining his freedom, Ma San fell to the ground. He did not dare to stay any longer and scrambled to escape.


    A pair of brocade boots stopped in front of him.


    ¡°Arrest him.¡±


    At night, the strong wind and heavy rain crackled against the window lattice. The candlelight swayed, illuminating the dim room, but it could not dispel the gloom in the hearts of the people in the room.


    Although Ji Luo had already prescribed medicine for Song Jingchen to drink and made him soak in the medicinal bath, Shen Yijia still couldn¡¯t relax.


    She remembered that when a medicine boy was wiping the patient¡¯s body, his veil was grabbed by the patient and pus and blood splattered onto his face. He was infected the next day.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m really fine.¡± Song Jingchen leaned against the headboard and looked at the person sitting by the bed with red eyes. She was so stubborn that she refused to sleep. His heart ached for her.


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you let me sleep with you? Haven¡¯t we always slept together?¡± Shen Yijia pursed her lips, feeling so aggrieved that tears were about to fall at any moment.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened. His heart felt like it was being grabbed by a large hand, and he felt so uncomfortable that he couldn¡¯t breathe.


    He could not even bear to let her frown. How could he bear to see her like this?


    Song Jingchen sighed and compromised. ¡°Then why don¡¯t you move a soft couch in?¡±


    He originally wanted her to sleep in Ji Luo¡¯s room tonight.


    Shen Yijia could tell that this was his last concession. Afraid that he would go back on his word, she quickly went out and told Ji Luo.


    When she returned, there was already a soft couch larger than her on her shoulder.


    She placed the soft couch two steps away from the bed and glanced at him. Seeing that he did not object, she carefully moved the soft couch closer to the bed and looked at him again. She only stopped when the soft couch was pressed tightly against the bed, leaving no gaps.


    Song Jingchen wanted to laugh, but his heart ached. ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    Shen Yijia lay down obediently on the soft couch.


    The sound of rain hitting the window lattice and the shallow breathing of the person beside her rang in her ears. Shen Yijia turned around and faced Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to sleep?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°I can¡¯t sleep.¡± Shen Yijia shifted and met Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. She suppressed the urge to roll into his arms. ¡°Hubby, I want to talk to you.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her quietly. ¡°What do you want to say?¡±


    ¡°When this plague passes, I¡¯ll give birth to a child for you. Well, it¡¯s best to give birth to someone like you. When he grows up, you¡¯ll teach him how to read and practice calligraphy, and I¡¯ll teach him martial arts. What do you think?¡± After Shen Yijia finished speaking seriously, she added in embarrassment, ¡°Mother wants to carry my grandson too.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°Alright.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°What about the war between Great Xia and the Wu


    Kingdom?¡±


    She knew that when she returned to Great Xia, her beautiful husband would definitely go to the battlefield. If she was really pregnant, she wouldn¡¯t be able to follow him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. With me around, I¡¯ll protect you both,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Shen Yijia blinked and tried her best to ignore the uneasiness in her heart. ¡°Alright, but what if I give birth to a daughter? Will you mind?¡±


    The people here seemed to favor boys over girls.


    ¡°A daughter¡­¡± Song Jingchen deliberately pretended to be troubled. Seeing that Shen Yijia was nervous, he teased, ¡°Daughters like you must like to cause trouble. In that case, I can only follow you and your daughter every day to clean up your mess.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like to cause trouble,¡± Shen Yijia muttered indignantly.


    It was all because someone else provoked her first.


    Song Jingchen thought about that scene and couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. Seeing


    Shen Yijia¡¯s tired expression, his heart ached. ¡°Alright, go to sleep.¡±


    Shen Yijia was actually already sleepy. Previously, her heart had been tense because she was too worried. After being teased by him, she relaxed a lot. She fell asleep after a while.


    When her breathing gradually stabilized, Song Jingchen got up quietly and covered her with a thin blanket.


    Seeing that she was still frowning when she fell asleep, he reached out to help her smooth it out. He paused as he thought of something and was about to retract his hand when he was grabbed by a soft hand.


    Song Jingchen looked over. Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were closed, and she was clearly still unconscious.


    ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t go,¡± she murmured.


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m not leaving. Go to sleep.¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed and carefully withdrew his hand before lying back down. He leaned against the wall and didn¡¯t lie on the bed like before.


    In the central room, Xuanyuan Ce paced around anxiously.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that brat? He actually let Jiajia sleep in the same room as him. What if he¡­


    Realizing that this was inauspicious, he quickly swallowed it and changed his words. ¡°No, no. I have to call Jiajia out.¡±


    After taking two steps, she circled back. ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate for me to go. MO


    Yuan, you go.¡±


    The room was silent. No one paid attention to him.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°MO Yuan.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± Ji Luo sneered. ¡°Are you saying that if I catch the plague, you have to stay far away from me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said anxiously, ¡°How is that possible? I¡¯ll guard you right by your side.¡±


    ¡°Then what makes you think that Jiajia will keep a distance from Ah Chen because of this? Don¡¯t forget that Ah Chen did it to protect Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia was her daughter. Of course she was worried.


    However, she knew that what her daughter wanted most at this moment was to stay by her husband¡¯s side.


    They shouldn¡¯t separate them ¡°for her own good¡±.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless. He said guiltily, ¡°I¡¯m grateful to that brat, but


    Jiajia is our daughter.¡±


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, remember this. You didn¡¯t care about her in the past and didn¡¯t do your duty as a father. She won¡¯t need you anymore with Ah Chen around.¡± These words were very hurtful, but they were also the truth.


    She had never said it before because she felt that she was the same as Xuanyuan Ce. She had never fulfilled her responsibility as a mother and had no right or position to blame him.


    She could not hold it in today because she was already frustrated. Xuanyuan Ce tn hllnnnpd into hpr


    Noticing that the blood had instantly drained from Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face, Ji Luo took a deep breath, stood up, glanced at him, and continued, ¡°There¡¯s no need for acupuncture treatment for your eyes anymore. Move back to your residence tomorrow. I¡¯ll get someone to send the medicine packets you need to apply every day.¡±


    With that, she turned around and left.


    Xuanyuan Ce tightened his grip on his walking stick and looked in the direction of the door in a daze. ¡°Ah Luo.¡±


    Ji Luo stopped in her tracks and did not turn around. She brought MO Yuan straight to the pharmacy.


    Shen Yijia did not sleep well. She had a long dream and felt that something very important was getting away.


    At midnight, a soft groan sounded in her ear.


    Shen Yijia suddenly woke up and turned around. She saw Song Jingchen with his back facing her. He was curled up on the side of the bed, his body trembling slightly..

 Chapter 821 - Chapter 821: Waking Up

    Chapter 821: Waking Up


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Hubby!¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s heart sank. She crawled over in a panic. Just as she touched his back, the heat in her palm made her heart skip a beat.


    She quickly turned Song Jingchen over.


    His face was flushed, and intermittent muffled groans spilled out of his clenched teeth.


    Shen Yijia hugged Song Jingchen with trembling hands. ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t scare me.¡±


    ¡°Young Madam?¡± Thirty Thousand¡¯s voice came from outside the door. It turned out that Ji Luo was worried and asked him to guard outside.


    Shen Yijia said anxiously, ¡°Thirty Thousand, quickly, call my mother over.¡±


    Thirty Thousand agreed and jogged to look for someone. Ji Luo wanted to find a way to treat the plague as soon as possible. She was still in the pharmacy at this time.


    Not long after, the door was pushed open from the outside. The wind and rain blew in, and Shen Yijia shivered from the cold. She subconsciously hugged Song Jingchen tighter.


    ¡°Mother, my husband has been trembling. Quick, take a look at him.¡± She looked at Ji Luo nervously, as if she had grabbed a straw to clutch at.


    Ji Luo comforted her softly. ¡°Alright, Mother will show him. Let go of him first.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen and took his hand out of the blanket.


    Seeing her like this, Ji Luo didn¡¯t dare to persuade her anymore. She reached out and checked Song Jingchen¡¯s pulse.


    Shen Yijia held her breath, as if she was afraid of affecting her. After a long time, Ji Luo retracted her hand. ¡°Jiajia, Ah Chen¡­¡±


    ¡°Is it the plague?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Ji Luo nodded with a pained expression.


    ¡°What should I do? My husband is feeling very uncomfortable now. Mother, what should I do to make him feel better?¡±


    She was completely like a child who had just learned to walk, eager to be told where to go next.


    Ji Luo felt upset. ¡°I¡¯ll get MO Yuan to get some water. Help him wipe his body.¡± ¡°Get water? Alright, I¡¯ll get water.¡± Shen Yijia finally let go of Song Jingchen. Seeing that he was trembling badly, she quickly covered him with her thin blanket. After getting out of bed, she forgot to put on her shoes and was about to walk out.


    ¡°Jiajia,¡± Ji Luo called out to her.


    Shen Yijia turned around in a daze.


    Ji Luo felt a lump in her throat. ¡°Put on your shoes. Otherwise, Ah Chen will be worried. ¡±


    Shen Yijia looked down at her feet and muttered, ¡°That¡¯s right. I cant let my husband worry.¡±


    ¡°Master, Miss¡­¡±


    ¡°Follow her and keep an eye on her. Don¡¯t let her catch a cold in the rain,¡± Ji Luo said as he looked at Shen Yijia¡¯s slightly thin back.


    It was better for her to be distracted than idle.


    MO Yuan quickly chased after her with an umbrella.


    Ji Luo took a deep breath and instructed Thirty Thousand to guard this place, preparing to return to the pharmacy to get the medicine.


    As soon as she stepped out of the door, she saw a dim yellow light slowly approaching from the corridor.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡± Xuanyuan Ce held a lantern in one hand and an umbrella in the other.


    He walked around this courtyard every day and knew the route by heart.


    Ji Luo glanced at him and walked past him.


    ¡°I know I was wrong.¡± Xuanyuan Ce followed her. ¡°As long as Jiajia wants to do something, I¡¯ll support her.¡±


    Ji Luo did not say anything.


    Xuanyuan Ce went against his conscience and said, ¡°That brat is indeed not bad. He¡¯s worthy of our daughter.¡±


    Ji Luo rolled her eyes at him. ¡°Our?¡±


    ¡°Jiajia is our daughter to begin with,¡± Xuanyuan Ce muttered softly. His strong desire to live automatically shut him up and he did not say anything else.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s condition was much worse than the others. He had also just contracted the plague. Empress Dowager Zhou and Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s condition more or less stabilized after using a new prescription.


    Not only was it useless when it came to Song Jingchen, but in just one night, dense red dots had already appeared on his body. At first, it was his back, but it spread to his limbs.


    Others usually had a recurrent fever when they first contracted the plague, but his fever had not gone down since last night.


    He drank bowl after bowl of medicine and spat them all out in a moment.


    Shen Yijia could only wipe his entire body again and again.


    Ji Luo felt that something was wrong, but she did not dare to say it in front of Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ziming came to visit before dawn.


    ¡°You¡¯re saying that they gathered the blood?¡± Ji Luo asked in disbelief.


    Xuanyuan Ziming nodded. At first, he knew that Ji Yunxi was involved in the plague.


    Song Jingchen reminded him to set up a checkpoint outside the isolation area.


    Anyone entering or leaving the quarantine area had to undergo strict disinfection and routine inspections.


    The goal was to prevent anyone from bringing things with the plague out to do evil. It was also to prevent the plague from spreading too quickly.


    It could be seen that Jia Quan and the others had only secretly brought out two bloody handkerchiefs. It was obvious that this method was effective.


    Yesterday, Ma San used a bag full of blood. It was impossible for him to bring so much out alone.


    Tt was onlv after interrogating Ma San that Xllanxman liming found Oilt that everyone had gathered the blood together. While taking care of the patients, they used a palm-sized handkerchief to dip it in pus and blood and secretly brought it out. Then, they gathered it together and finally gathered a bag of blood.


    It only took a day to do all this.


    To be precise, they had been planning this since Bai Zhi and Xuanyuan Ye quarreled in public.


    Everyone was involved. It was everyone.


    A solemn expression appeared on Ji Luo¡¯s face.


    Usually, letting two patients with a cold stay together could aggravate both sides¡¯ conditions, let alone the fact that there were so many plague patients¡¯ blood mixed together.


    Thinking of this, she frowned. ¡°No wonder Ah Chen¡¯s condition is so serious.¡±


    Seeing that no one had sent new medicine over, Shen Yijia stood at the door. After thinking about what she had just heard, her heart sank bit by bit.


    Her beautiful husband¡¯s condition was more serious than the others. Did this mean that others could last at most seven days after contracting the plague, but he might not even last five days, or even less?


    Shen Yijia shook her head and staggered back two steps.


    She couldn¡¯t wait anymore. Her husband couldn¡¯t wait for her spiritual liquid!


    No, there had to be another way!


    Thinking of something, Shen Yijia suddenly turned around and ran back.


    The commotion alarmed the people in the central room. When MO Yuan walked out, she could only see her back.


    ¡°It¡¯s Miss,¡± she said.


    Ji Luo was shocked. ¡°Jiajia must have heard it. Hurry up and take a look.¡±


    Shen Yijia ran back to her room and chased Thirty Thousand out. She slammed the door shut and rummaged through her closet to find a dagger. She kicked her shoes and climbed onto the bed, pulling Song Jingchen into her arms again.


    ¡°It has to work. It has to work,¡± she repeated. It was unknown if she was trying to convince herself or pray to the heavens.


    As she spoke, she picked up the dagger and tried to slash at her left palm.


    Unexpectedly, a large hand rested weakly on her left hand.


    Shen Yijia paused and turned around in disbelief. She met a pair of helpless


    eyes.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re awake?¡±

 Chapter 822 - Chapter 822: Despair

    Chapter 822: Despair


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Don¡¯t do anything stupid.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned red. She said anxiously, ¡°They said that my blood can treat the plague. I can cure you.¡±


    She had denied it many times. At this moment, she only hoped that those people were right.


    Otherwise, she really didn¡¯t know what to do!


    ¡°No!¡± Song Jingchen straightened his expression and gritted his teeth. He sat up and leaned over to take the dagger from her hand. He raised his hand and threw it out.


    The dagger landed less than two steps away from the bed. This simple action had already exhausted all his strength.


    He lay back weakly, coughing intermittently.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart tightened. She panicked and wanted to pick up the dagger, but Song Jingchen grabbed her hand again.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± She turned around to look at him in a daze.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°No.¡±


    He did not use much strength, and Shen Yijia could easily break free. However, when she met his abnormally firm eyes, she seemed to have lost her strength.


    Shen Yijia almost begged, ¡°Hubby, can you let me try?¡±


    Afraid that his heart would soften, Song Jingchen closed his eyes and didn¡¯t dare to look at her. ¡°You forgot what I told you. If you can¡¯t save everyone, you can¡¯t save even a single one.¡±


    They were not sure if this girl¡¯s blood was really useful, but those people dared to do such a wicked thing. If her blood really cured him, how could they let go of this chance to live?


    At that time, everyone would force her and want to suck her blood.


    Shen Yijia quickly shook her head. ¡°I know what you¡¯re worried about. I don¡¯t care about anyone else. I¡¯ll only save you.¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°Empress Dowager Zhou is also infected with the plague.¡±


    At that time, Xuanyuan Qi would be the first to disagree. With Lord Jing¡¯an around, could he really disregard his mother¡¯s life?


    ¡°Then save her. I¡¯m in good health and have a lot of blood¡­ I¡¯ve never told you this before. In my previous life, I¡¯ve been locked up in a place since I can remember. Those people would come and take my blood every once in a while, but look, I¡¯m still alive and well, right? I¡¯m not afraid of pain.¡±


    Shen Yijia was anxious to convince Song Jingchen, completely unaware of the turmoil her words caused in the hearts of those who heard them.


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not know what a previous life meant, but he understood the key point.


    Compared to Xuanyuan Ye, who was doted on, he didn¡¯t know what to feel. In short, he felt very uncomfortable.


    If he was already in such a state, there was no need to mention Ji Luo. She felt as if something had exploded in her head, making her dizzy.


    She had never heard Jiajia mention this before.


    Ji Luo staggered back a step.


    Jiajia¡¯s words about imprisonment and drawing blood kept echoing in her mind. She covered her mouth tightly. She did not dare to imagine how her daughter had survived in the alternate world for more than 500 meters.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes were also red. Sensing the person beside him suddenly breathing heavily, he called out worriedly, ¡°Ah Luo.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t call me!¡± Ji Luo restrained himself and roared in a low voice. The hatred in her eyes was tangible.


    Unfortunately, Xuanyuan Ce could not see it.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Ce, if you dare to ask my daughter to save your mother and the citizens of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, I¡¯ll definitely kill you with my own hands.¡±


    At this moment, she hated him. Not only did she hate Xuanyuan Ce, but she also hated herself.


    Her daughter had suffered since she was young, but she had never blamed them.


    How could her daughter be so good?!


    She had never even carried such a good daughter properly!


    Guilt surged in Ji Luo¡¯s heart, making it difficult for her to breathe.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached too. His eyes instantly turned red, and he suddenly tightened his grip on Shen Yijia¡¯s hand, his chest heaving violently.


    ¡°Hubby! ¡± Shen Yijia was shocked by his appearance and helped him calm down in a panic. ¡°Hubby, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Song Jingchen struggled to keep his eyes open. ¡°Don¡¯t use your blood. No one can hurt you.¡±


    He suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood.


    ¡°Alright, alright. I promise you, I won¡¯t do it.¡± Shen Yijia agreed with a trembling voice. She went to wipe the blood off his face with trembling hands, but the blood seemed to be endless.


    She panicked completely and called out in fear, ¡°Someone, come quickly!¡± Bang! The door was pushed open.


    Ji Luo walked in and saw the situation in the room. She quickly put away the chaotic emotions in her heart and went forward to check Song Jingchen¡¯s pulse before taking out the silver needles.


    One needle was inserted, two needles were inserted, and three needles were inserted..


    After more than ten needles, Song Jingchen¡¯s condition stabilized slightly.


    ¡°Hubby, how do you feel?¡±


    Before Ji Luo put away the needle, Shen Yijia did not dare to make a sound.


    Song Jingchen slowly opened his eyes and noticed the panic in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes. His face was filled with heartache. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not afraid. I know you can¡¯t bear to make me sad. For me, nothing will happen to you.¡±


    Song Jingchen forced a smile and turned to look at the people blocked by Thirty Thousand and MO Yuan. He took a deep breath and said unsteadily, ¡°Remember what you promised me. You can¡¯t do anything stupid.¡±


    He was saying this to Shen Yijia and deliberately for Xuanyuan Ce and Xuanyuan Ziming to hear.


    Shen Yijia clenched her fists and closed her eyes. ¡°I remember. I¡¯ll listen to you.¡±


    Hearing her agreement, Song Jingchen finally heaved a sigh of relief. He couldn¡¯t take it anymore and fell asleep.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She used her sleeve to wipe the blood off his face.


    By the time she was done, her hands and sleeves were already covered in blood. Ji Luo was about to remind her when Shen Yijia got out of bed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go wash my hands. I can¡¯t let my husband worry.¡± With that, Shen Yijia left the room like a wandering soul.


    Seeing her like this, everyone present felt terrible. Ji Luo almost burst into tears.


    She took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯ll go to the pharmacy. Thirty Thousand, stay here and look for me if you need anything.¡± ¡°MO Yuan, send the guests off.¡±


    The guests included Xuanyuan Ce.


    For the first time, Xuanyuan Ce did not want to stay.


    He followed Xuanyuan Ziming out the door.


    ¡± Imperial uncle, I¡¯ll sena you DaCK to tne prince¡¯s residence nrst.¡± xuanyuan Ziming handed a prescription to Little Zhu Zi and instructed, ¡°Send this prescription to the imperial physician.¡±


    This prescription was given to him by Ji Luo in the central room.


    ¡°Ming¡¯er,¡± Xuanyuan Ce called out to him.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was still not used to being called that. He shook his head and smiled bitterly. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Imperial Uncle. I understand. Sister Jiajia¡¯s blood is useless against the plague.¡±


    Brother Song would rather die than let Jiajia try. Didn¡¯t he want to eliminate the possibility of them letting Jiajia use her blood to save people?


    Xuanyuan Ce sighed. ¡°You don¡¯t have to send me off. I¡¯ll go to the palace to see your imperial grandmother. Go ahead.¡±


    As the two of them spoke, Chu Feng had already driven the carriage over.


    Seeing this, Xuanyuan Ziming did not insist..

 Chapter 823 - Chapter 823: Anomaly

    Chapter 823: Anomaly


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After the blood splashing incident, everyone, including Xuanyuan Qi outside the city, was secretly paying attention to the situation in the small courtyard.


    Although it was splashed on the wrong person, the commoners quickly reacted.


    Everyone knew that Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had a good relationship. Song Jingchen had contracted the plague, so Shen Yijia definitely wouldn¡¯t sit back and do nothing.


    This way, she would definitely use her blood to save them.


    Therefore, everyone was waiting for Song Jingchen to recover and for his illness to be cured.


    However, they were destined to be disappointed.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s blood didn¡¯t cure Song Jingchen!


    As soon as this news spread, everyone fell into deep despair.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to die. Save me, please save me!¡± A festering patient grabbed the medicine boy¡¯s hand tightly, his voice filled with despair.


    The medicine boy was shocked and quickly shook him off. He ran out in a panic.


    ¡°Let me out. I¡¯ll die if I stay here. Let me out.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to die¡­


    Everywhere it passed, painful and hoarse growls could be heard.


    The medicine boy¡¯s face turned pale and he quickened his pace. He ran so quickly that he almost bumped into the person walking around the corner.


    ¡°Why are you so flustered?¡± The imperial physician scolded with a straight face. ¡°Master, they seem to have gone crazy,¡± the medicine boy said nervously.


    The imperial physician frowned. ¡°What nonsense are you spouting in front of


    His Highness? Hurry up and retreat.¡±


    Only then did the medicine boy wake up to the fact that there was someone standing beside his master. When he heard the words ¡°Your Highness¡±, he quickly bowed and left.


    ¡°Your Highness, these people¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming interrupted him. ¡°I understand.¡±


    This was the human heart. Before the news that Shen Yijia was the Saintess spread, everyone might still be able to calmly face their subsequent fates. However, the Saintess¡¯s words made the seeds of their desire to live germinate in their hearts. Now that their hopes had been destroyed, they could not accept it.


    The imperial physician sighed and did not say anything else.


    At this moment, two tightly wrapped soldiers walked out of a house. The two of them were carrying a corpse wrapped in straw mats.


    It looked like a young child.


    ¡°Return my son to me. He¡¯s clearly not dead yet. Where are you sending him? Return him to me!¡± A woman struggled to run out. Her face was covered in abscesses, and she was clearly infected with the plague.


    The guards in front of the house stopped her from leaving the house. The woman watched helplessly as her son was sent out. She sat on the ground and roared in despair.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you save him? He¡¯s still so young. He¡¯s only five years old. He shouldn¡¯t have died. Why didn¡¯t you save him?¡±


    ¡°Quack doctors, you quacks. You said that you would treat us, but you haven¡¯t been able to treat anyone!¡±


    The woman seemed to have gone crazy. She started scolding the soldiers who took her son away, then the doctors. In the end, she even scolded the emperor and called him a liar.


    When she fainted from the scolding, the soldiers went forward numbly and carried her back.


    The imperial physician wiped his sweat and secretly glanced at Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s expression. Seeing that he did not show any signs of anger, he heaved a sigh of relief.


    However, he did not know that Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s heart was far from being as calm as it seemed on the surface. It was not anger, but deep helplessness.


    He laughed at himself and suddenly understood why Brother Song didn¡¯t let Jiajia try no matter what.


    Seeing this scene, he would feel terrible because he could not save everyone. If Jiajia knew that she could save them, she would probably feel even more tormented.


    Besides, he couldn¡¯t guarantee that he wouldn¡¯t insist on not asking her to save the people.


    If he was already like this, what about his father?


    Forget it. This was good too. He wondered if her blood was useful. He would just treat it as useless.


    Xuanyuan Ye, who was in the Ganquan Palace, fell into despair like these people in the quarantine area.


    She tried her best to knock over the medicine bowl in front of her and glared at Chun Xi, who was kneeling at the side.


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Chun Xi lowered his head even more. ¡°It¡¯s true. Lord Song was infected with the plague, and Madam Song couldn¡¯t treat him.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned for a moment before she suddenly laughed foolishly. She laughed until she was out of breath and tears fell from her eyes.


    ¡°Retribution. This is retribution. Retribution¡­


    So what if she didn¡¯t kill Shen Yijia? The person Shen Yijia cared about the most was about to die.


    Oh, not only that, but she was going to die too¡­


    If this wasn¡¯t retribution, what was?


    She alternated between crying and laughing, muttering something that no one else could understand. She looked really strange.


    The palace maids in the hall were so frightened that they shrunk their necks and did not dare to breathe loudly.


    Ruo Mei lowered her eyes and said, ¡°Princess, I¡¯ll help you bring another bowl of medicine. Today, I changed a new prescription. Perhaps it can cure this plague. Didn¡¯t the previous prescription have an effect?¡±


    Seeing this, Ruo Mei waved her hand and gestured for the little palace maid to come over and clean up the broken pieces of the medicine bowl on the ground. She quietly retreated.


    Currently, there were only two masters in the palace, Empress Dowager Zhou and Xuanyuan Ye, and they lived in two adjacent palaces. The Ganquan Palace did not brew any medicine, and the medicine was in the small kitchen of the Longevity Palace.


    ¡°Sister Ruo Mei, did the princess vomit the medicine again?¡± The green-robed palace maid, who was brewing the medicine, asked with concern when she saw her.


    Ruo Mei nodded. ¡°The princess has never suffered since she was young and can¡¯t stand the smell of this medicine. Do you have any medicine that has been brewed?¡±


    If she served Xuanyuan Ye now, she might have to follow her in the future. Ruo Mei naturally did not dare to say that Xuanyuan Ye would knock over the medicine every time she got angry.


    Otherwise, if she revealed that Xuanyuan Ye had a bad reputation, how good would she be as a servant?


    ¡°Yes, but it¡¯s prepared for the Empress Dowager, ¡± the green-robed palace maid said awkwardly.


    Actually, just in case, she would boil two more bowls every time. However, Xuanyuan Ye was too delicate. The medicine she brewed was not enough for her to vomit.


    As soon as he finished speaking, Eunuch Yu entered.


    Ruo Mei bowed to him. ¡°Eunuch Yu.¡±


    Eunuch Yu nodded and looked at the green-robed palace maid. ¡°Have you finished brewing the medicine for the Empress Dowager?¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I was thinking of sending it to you if you didn¡¯t come over soon!¡± As the green-robed palace maid spoke, she quickly brought over a clay bowl and poured out the medicinal juice in the clay pot.


    Ruo Mei thought for a moment and asked, ¡°Eunuch Yu, has the Empress Dowager been feeling better recently?¡±


    Eunuch Yu glanced at her.


    Ruo Mei quickly explained, ¡°The princess feels that it¡¯s because of her that the Empress Dowager fell sick. She¡¯s always felt guilty. If the Empress Dowager can recover early, the princess will feel better.¡±


    Eunuch Yu did not answer her. He said meaningfully, ¡°I remember that the princess and the Empress Dowager contracted the plague on the same day. How do you think this letter can bring the source of the illness out of the palace in advance and infect the Empress Dowager?¡±


    Ruo Mei was stunned. She had never thought of this problem before. Only when Eunuch Yu reminded her did she feel that something was wrong. She suddenly remembered the abnormality when Xuanyuan Ye asked her to send the letter. At that time, she only thought that Xuanyuan Ye was conflicted about whether to report Madam Song.


    However, after serving Xuanyuan Ye for the past few days, she clearly realized that Xuanyuan Ye hated Madam Song to the core. She even stopped hiding it from her. How could she hesitate?


    Then what she was conflicted about was¡­


    She then thought of the pile of ashes on the ground when she went to tidy up the study.


    Thinking of a possibility, Ruo Mei¡¯s face turned pale.


    If that was the case, she was the one who personally sent that letter.


    Eunuch Yu saw her expression and his eyes darkened. He said coldly, ¡°You¡¯re not stupid to be able to become a first-grade palace maid. I¡¯ll also remind you that the most important thing to do in the palace is to recognize who the master is. As for the rest, just do your job. Don¡¯t care about what you shouldn¡¯t care about. Don¡¯t ask what you shouldn¡¯t ask.¡±


    Ruo Mei was stunned and hurriedly said, ¡°Thank you for your pointers, Eunuch Liu. I understand.¡±


    Eunuch Yu did not say anything else. He took the food box from the green-robed palace maid and turned to leave..

 Chapter 824 - Chapter 824: Deterioration

    Chapter 824: Deterioration


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At the Longevity Palace, Consort Wan fed Empress Dowager Zhou the medicine. She took the warm tea from Nanny Gao and helped her rinse her mouth. She carefully wiped the corners of her lips with a handkerchief.


    Empress Dowager Zhou looked at her and said, ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you for the past two days. Nanny Gao is here. Go and rest.¡±


    Consort Wan turned around and handed the handkerchief to a palace maid at the side. She said gently, ¡°This is what I should do. As long as Mother can recover, I won¡¯t feel tired.¡±


    ¡°Ahem, alright, I told you to rest. You¡¯re going to fall sick before I even die.


    Even if you don¡¯t think about yourself, you should think about Third Brother. He hasn¡¯t gotten married yet.¡±


    ¡°Mother, don¡¯t say such inauspicious words. You still need to take a look at Ming¡¯er¡¯s future wife.¡±


    It was unknown what Empress Dowager Zhou thought of, but a trace of pain flashed across her face. She narrowed her eyes and said, ¡°Forget it. I¡¯m not good at judging people. It¡¯ll cause him harm.¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou waved her hand impatiently. ¡°Go, go. Don¡¯t stand here. I heard that many palace maids in the palace have been infected with the plague recently. Don¡¯t approach me if you have nothing to do. Stay in your palace.¡±


    Many red spots had already grown on the back of her hand. If she didn¡¯t control them soon, the red spots would grow into blisters and fester.


    Worry flashed across Consort Wan¡¯s eyes. In the end, she did not say anything else. She stood up, bowed, and left.


    After they left, Empress Dowager Zhou let out a long sigh. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen someone so honest. To think that she gave birth to a good son.¡±


    Apart from the daughters of aristocratic families who had entered the palace earlier and were lucky enough to survive, the other concubines did not have a high status, including Consort Wan.


    Because there was no family clan to rely on, they could only rely on Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s love.


    Consort Wan was not outstanding, and she usually did not use any other methods to get close to Xuanyuan Qi. If not for the fact that she was lucky enough to give birth to a son in one fell swoop, no one in the harem would have remembered her.


    Nanny Gao forced a smile. ¡°Consort Wan is filial to you.¡±


    ¡°Heh, filial. Look at the women in the harem. Which one of them doesn¡¯t act filial? But when something really happens, who comes to me? She¡¯s just a fool.¡±


    Nanny Gao knew that Empress Dowager Zhou only said it in disdain and continued, ¡°It¡¯s precisely because of this that Consort Wan¡¯s filial piety is rare.¡±


    At this moment, Eunuch Yu came in and reported, ¡°Your Highness, His


    Highness is here.¡±


    ¡°Why is he here again? Tell him that I¡¯m resting and let him go back.¡±


    Over the past few days, Xuanyuan Ce would enter the palace every day. He did not say much and only sat at the side, waiting for Empress Dowager Zhou to fall asleep before leaving.


    Empress Dowager Zhou knew her son well. He was clearly feeling guilty.


    As for the reason, Empress Dowager Zhou had more or less guessed it.


    However, neither mother nor son pointed it out.


    Eunuch Yu went out to reply.


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and asked, ¡°How¡¯s Mother today?¡±


    Eunuch Yu bowed and replied, ¡°The Empress Dowager looks much more energetic today. She even drank a bowl of porridge in the afternoon.


    Xuanyuan Ce heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°In that case, I won¡¯t go in and disturb her rest. When Mother wakes up, tell her that I¡¯ll visit her tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll definitely deliver Your Highness¡¯s message.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded and did not stay any longer.


    Due to this plague, the once prosperous Phoenix City became lifeless.


    As time passed, more and more commoners died of illnesses in unwillingness and pain. It could be seen from the smoke above the crematorium.


    Similarly, the atmosphere in the small courtyard became more and more desolate.


    Just as Ji Luo had said, Song Jingchen¡¯s condition was worse than that of ordinary patients infected with the plague.


    On the third day, his entire body was already covered in festering abscesses.


    His condition was starting to worsen.


    Song Jingchen knew that in his current situation, he had less time left compared to anyone else.


    Apart from that, Song Jingchen also realized that his five senses were gradually degenerating. However, according to what he had previously learned, this situation had never happened to the patients beside him.


    However, in order not to worry Shen Yijia, he did not let her know this.


    ¡°Hubby, I just learned how to cook this porridge from MO Yuan. Try it.¡± Shen Yijia held a bowl of porridge in her hand and forced a smile.


    In front of her were layers of curtains. Ever since Song Jingchen realized that there were abscesses on his face, he didn¡¯t want Shen Yijia to approach him again.


    Song Jingchen still remembered that Shen Yijia stayed behind because of his face.


    He was afraid that he would go at any time. What he wanted her to remember was what she liked to look like, not a terrifying version of him.


    A cloth-covered hand reached out from the curtains.


    Shen Yijia blinked her dry eyes and placed the porridge bowl in his hand.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that she had actually secretly looked at him a few times.


    ¡°Has my cooking improved?¡± she asked.


    Song Jingchen scooped a spoonful of porridge into his mouth and smiled.


    ¡°You¡¯ve improved a lot.¡±


    As if to prove that he was telling the truth, he took a few more bites.


    Through the curtain, she could vaguely see his movements.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart skipped a beat, and tears fell.


    How could it taste good?


    That porridge¡­ she had clearly put a few spoonfuls of salt in it.


    She had already realized that something was wrong. From yesterday onwards, as long as she spoke slightly softer, her beautiful husband would ignore her.


    There were a few times when she came in with MO Yuan, her beautiful husband would look at MO Yuan and talk to her.


    It was a coincidence once or twice. He couldn¡¯t make a mistake every time. As expected.


    Song Jingchen suddenly stopped eating porridge and asked, ¡°Are you crying?¡±


    Actually, he couldn¡¯t see clearly. With the curtain covering him, he couldn¡¯t even see a blurry shadow.


    Shen Yijia sniffed and quickly wiped her tears. She tried her best to say in a normal voice, ¡°No, I¡¯m thinking about what I¡¯ll cook for you tomorrow.¡±


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Then let¡¯s have porridge.¡±


    It was simple to make porridge. It wouldn¡¯t tire her out.


    ¡°Alright,¡± Shen Yijia agreed.


    After Song Jingchen finished his porridge, Shen Yijia chatted with him for a while longer. Not long after, she heard fatigue in his voice.


    In the past, Shen Yijia would not have noticed such a subtle change. ¡°Hubby, rest first. I¡¯ll go and see if MO Yuan¡¯s medicine is ready.¡± ¡°Get Thirty Thousand to send the medicine over later. You should rest.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Shen Yijia agreed for the first time. She took a bowl and left.


    After instructing Thirty Thousand, she went to the pharmacy in the backyard.


    Ji Luo had locked herself in the pharmacy for a few days. Seeing her come over,


    Ji Luo quickly asked, ¡°Did something happen to Ah Chen?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and told her about Song Jingchen¡¯s degenerated senses.


    ¡°Hubby didn¡¯t want me to worry, so he didn¡¯t say anything. I guessed it myself.¡±


    Hearing this, Ji Luo¡¯s expression turned ugly. Afraid that Shen Yijia would think too much, she quickly regained his composure and was about to say something to comfort her.


    Shen Yijia said directly, ¡°Mother, tell me, how long can my husband last?¡±


    Ji Luo was stunned and could only bear to say, ¡°At most, he¡¯ll last until he completely loses his five senses.¡±


    With his speed of deterioration, he might not be able to survive tonight.


    Shen Yijia nodded in a daze. ¡°Alright, I understand.¡± ¡°Jiajia.¡± Ji Luo called out worriedly.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Mother, you have to take care of your body..¡±

 Chapter 825 - Chapter 825: Regret

    Chapter 825: Regret


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As the sun set, the door of the pharmacy opened from the inside with a creak. Ji Luo rushed to the small kitchen with two bags of medicine.


    Seeing her enter, MO Yuan stood up and said, ¡°Master, do you want to brew medicine? I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Ji Luo took out two prescriptions from his pocket. ¡°Send this over there.¡±


    The previous prescription had an effect on some patients who had just been infected with the plague. Although it was not obvious, it at least meant that she had used the right medicine.


    This time, she added thick and simple medicine. Because the medicinal properties of the two medicines were strong, she had never dared to use them together before. However, from Song Jingchen¡¯s symptoms, it was impossible to treat the plague with conservative methods, so she took the risk to try.


    There were two prescriptions. One was for patients with mild illnesses, and many other herbs were added.


    MO Yuan paused. Third Prince would send someone to take away the new prescription that her master had modified every day. This was the first time she took the initiative to send the prescription over.


    Ji Luo did not explain further. She took out a clay pot and washed it before starting to boil the medicine.


    An hour later, she came out of the kitchen with the medicine. From afar, she saw someone squatting at Song Jingchen¡¯s door.


    ¡°Jiajia, why are you squatting here?¡±


    It took Shen Yijia a long time to react. She slowly stood up and said, ¡°Hubby asked me to rest.¡±


    ¡°Is that why you¡¯ve been squatting here?¡± she thought.


    Ji Luo was angry and heartbroken, but she couldn¡¯t say anything harsh.


    Noticing the medicine in Ji Luo¡¯s hand, Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Mother, is this medicine for my husband?¡±


    Ji Luo nodded.


    ¡°Then quickly send the medicine in,¡± Shen Yijia said.


    Ji Luo already found it strange that she didn¡¯t suggest sending the medicine herself. When she came out of the room and didn¡¯t see Shen Yijia, she felt that something was wrong.


    Afraid that Shen Yijia would do something stupid, Ji Luo was about to go out to look when Thirty Thousand walked towards her.


    ¡°Young Madam asked me to tell Madam that she has returned to her room to rest,¡± Thirty Thousand said.


    After Xuanyuan Ce moved out, Shen Yijia moved into his original room, but in fact, she had not slept in it for the past two days.


    Ji Luo felt even more strange. Just in case, she went to Shen Yijia¡¯s room.


    The door was not locked. Ji Luo walked in and heaved a sigh of relief when she saw the person sleeping soundly on the bed.


    Thinking that Shen Yijia had indeed been exhausted these past few days, Ji Luo did not disturb her. Her heart ached as she tucked her in and quietly left.


    However, she did not know that as soon as she left, Shen Yijia, who was on the bed, opened her eyes.


    ¡°You Yi,¡± she called out hoarsely.


    A dark figure flashed in through the window.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you two choices. One, help me. Two, I¡¯ll knock you out and throw you on the bed.¡±


    You Yi felt his scalp tingle and decisively chose option one.


    The imperial physician was holding the prescription sent by Ji Luo and discussing it with the doctors.


    In the end, they agreed that although this prescription was bold, it was a good idea.


    Hence, the imperial physician quickly got someone to brew the medicine.


    The prescription was undoubtedly useful. Not long after drinking the medicine, not only the patients with mild illnesses, but even their conditions had clearly improved.


    This was only the beginning. As long as they took this prescription for a few more days, these people would recover soon.


    In the palace, after Xuanyuan Ye finished drinking the medicine, she sensed the change in her body and joy burst out of her eyes.


    ¡°Ahem, this medicine seems to be different from before?¡±


    Even Ruo Mei realized that her words were no longer as weak as before. She lowered her head and said, ¡°Yes, the imperial physician is sending in a new prescription.¡±


    He changed the prescription twice a day. If he wasn¡¯t sure that this recipe was useful, he wouldn¡¯t have done this.


    Xuanyuan Ye cried tears of joy. ¡°That¡¯s great. I don¡¯t have to die anymore. Grandmother won¡¯t die either.¡±


    Previously, she said that it was not bad to make Shen Yijia lose the person she cared about the most for the rest of her life.


    However, only she knew how much she regretted it when she found out that Shen Yijia¡¯s blood could not cure the plague.


    Her identity was not publicized. She was still the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    With her grandmother¡¯s love, she could live better than Shen Yijia. There was no need to fight her head-on.


    Unfortunately, there was no medicine for regret in this world.


    No!


    Wasn¡¯t this bowl of medicine a medicine for regret?


    ¡°There¡¯s still time!¡± she thought.


    Thinking of this, Xuanyuan Ye hurriedly wiped her tears. ¡°Help me change. I¡¯m going to visit Grandmother.¡±


    After waiting for a long time, no one replied. Xuanyuan Ye turned around unhappily. When she saw the person behind her, her pupils constricted.


    That night, everyone in the quarantine area was immersed in joy and completely forgot about the evil things they had done.


    They had no idea that the prescriptions that were useful to them might not be of any use to Song Jingchen.


    At night, Song Jingchen¡¯s condition worsened again. First, his entire body twitched, then he started to vomit.


    He did not eat much today. He vomited until his stomach was empty. He vomited bile and finally began to vomit blood again.


    In his state, he couldn¡¯t even drink the medicine. Ji Luo could only stabilize him with acupuncture.


    However, she knew that this method would not last long.


    Thirty Thousand stood in front of the bed and watched as his master, who used to strategize calmly, became like this. He shed tears and choked. ¡°Master, wait a little longer. You Er has already gone to look for Young Madam. Young


    Madam will be back soon. Wait for her.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming and Xuanyuan Ce rushed over when they received the news. Hearing this, Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°Where did Jiajia go?


    No one answered him, because no one knew where Shen Yijia had gone, let alone when she had gone out.


    ¡°It¡¯s impossible for Sister Jiajia to leave without caring about Brother Song. She might have been stopped by something. Zhu Zi, bring people to look for her,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming quickly instructed.


    Xuanyuan Ce reacted and asked Chu Feng to bring people along.


    At this moment, the courtyard door was pushed open.


    Shen Yijia strode in. Seeing that there were so many people gathered in Song Jingchen¡¯s room, she stopped in her tracks and the light in her eyes instantly dimmed.


    Without needing to ask, Shen Yijia had already guessed what was going on.


    ¡®Young Madam, is Master going to¡­¡¯


    ¡°The moonlight is very good tonight,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him and said something that no one understood.


    Ji Luo¡¯s breathing tightened. ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia walked to the bed. There was nothing covering Song Jingchen¡¯s face at this moment. The abscesses all over it were still bleeding.


    She wanted to help him wipe it with trembling hands, but she was afraid of hurting him, so she stopped her hand in midair.


    Shen Yijia looked up and forced back the tears in her eyes. She took a deep breath and said, ¡°I realized that the scenery at the Full Moon Restaurant is extremely good. I want to bring my husband there to take a look.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± The person who said this was Song Jingchen, who had woken up. He only said one word, filled with indulgence and doting.


    ¡°I¡¯ll prepare the carriage now.¡± Afraid that he would cry, Thirty Thousand left in a hurry..

 Chapter 826 - Chapter 826: Burial

    Chapter 826: Burial


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Full Moon Restaurant was the tall building Shen Yijia had seen when she first entered Phoenix City. It was originally a high pavilion that the Tang family had spent a lot of money to build. After the Tang family fell, it fell under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Revenue.


    Due to this plague, Full Moon Restaurant was no longer taken care of like any other teahouse or wine shop. However, when the carriage arrived, it was already hung with all kinds of lanterns.


    Without letting Thirty Thousand follow, Shen Yijia carried Song Jingchen upstairs.


    This was a four-story pavilion. Apart from the wing on the top floor, there was also an observation platform. Standing on the observation platform, one could see the entire Phoenix City.


    When they arrived at the observation platform, Shen Yijia placed Song Jingchen on the soft couch that had been prepared long ago and sat down so that he could lean half of his body against her.


    After confirming that this wouldn¡¯t make Song Jingchen uncomfortable, Shen Yijia took a blanket from somewhere and covered him.


    Seeing how well-behaved she was, Song Jingchen chuckled.


    Shen Yijia looked at him. ¡®What are you laughing at?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just remembered the period when my legs were just crippled.


    It¡¯s the same. You have to carry me wherever I go.¡±


    From the looks of it, he would never be able to raise his status as a husband in this lifetime.


    Shen Yijia glared at him and said, ¡°Back then, you would rather let Uncle Yang hug you than let me hug you.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to carry me towards the end?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that because Uncle Yang went out?¡±


    Speaking of this, Song Jingchen thought of the time when Uncle Yang had just left. Because he couldn¡¯t embarrass himself, he held it in for a day and didn¡¯t go to the toilet. In the end, he still couldn¡¯t escape this girl¡¯s clutches.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and changed the topic. ¡°You went to prepare these just now?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia looked at the lanterns hanging on the four sides of the observation platform. She blinked and asked, ¡°Do they look good?¡±


    Song Jingchen turned to look at her and smiled. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°I asked you to look at the lights. Why are you looking at me?¡±


    ¡°You look better than the lights.¡±


    The colorful lights that were enough to illuminate the building were no more than blurry circles of light in his eyes.


    According to the rate of degeneration, if he didn¡¯t look at this girl more, he might never see her again.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t I hear you say such nice things before?¡±


    He always told her she wasn¡¯t allowed to do this or that. She was about to suffocate to death.


    Song Jingchen watched as her mouth opened and closed, but he didn¡¯t hear her voice. He felt deeply helpless.


    ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. She had a feeling that Song Jingchen¡¯s next words wouldn¡¯t be what she wanted to hear. She quickly said, ¡°These lamps cost me¡­¡±


    ¡°Jiajia!¡± Song Jingchen spoke again.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t think it looks good, we won¡¯t watch it anymore.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s chest heaved and he started to cough violently. ¡°Listen to me¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. Tell me. I¡¯m listening!¡± Shen Yijia quickly went to calm him down.


    As if her words had worked, Song Jingchen calmed down. He swallowed the blood in his throat and said weakly, ¡°The situation in Great Xia is unstable. After I go, you don¡¯t have to return to Great Xia.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly retracted her hand. ¡°You won¡¯t die. Mother and Brother Hao, and Sister Huan are still waiting for us in Great Xia. The citizens of Great Xia still need you¡­¡¯


    She said a lot, but Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t hear a word.


    Even someone as determined as Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but panic.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze began to lose focus. He used all his strength to grab a piece of Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes and said guiltily, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I haven¡¯t been able to give you the child you wanted. You like handsome people, and I think there are many good men in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. When the time comes, let His Highness find someone for you. Don¡¯t be afraid. With His Highness around, he will definitely protect you.¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, they¡¯re not as good-looking as you.


    Besides, I love to cause trouble so much. Even that scumbag can¡¯t protect me. I¡¯m married to you. You can¡¯t shirk your responsibility and throw me to someone else.¡±


    There was a sudden weight on her shoulder.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart trembled. ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    The person beside her didn¡¯t respond. Shen Yijia turned her head and saw Song Jingchen resting his head on her shoulder with his eyes closed.


    His aura was so weak that it was almost undetectable. Shen Yijia tightened her grip on his sleeve, and her eyes were bloodshot.


    ¡°Hubby?¡± she called out in a trembling voice. The person beside her still did not respond.


    A tear fell.


    It was like a signal. The fear that she had accumulated over the past few days erupted at this moment. Tears welled up in her eyes, and despair flowed from Shen Yijia¡¯s throat.


    However, she was afraid of disturbing Song Jingchen, so she gritted her teeth to prevent herself from making a sound.


    After a while, she wiped her tears and carefully helped Song Jingchen lie down on the soft couch. She carefully covered him with a blanket.


    ¡°I told you, you won¡¯t die.¡±


    She stood up and looked in the direction of the wing. She said coldly, ¡°Bring them out.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the door of the room opened and You Yi walked out with a hemp rope in one hand. Behind him was Xuanyuan Ye, Bai Zhi, Ma San, Auntie Liu, Jia Quan..


    There were nearly a hundred people. Their hands were tied with twine, and their faces were filled with fear.


    ¡°You lunatic, what are you trying to do?¡± Xuanyuan Ye questioned sternly.


    Shen Yijia did not even look at her. She pulled out a dagger from her waist.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know if my blood can cure the plague?¡±


    As she spoke, she grabbed the blade with her left hand and slashed it. Blood instantly flowed out of her palm.


    Under everyone¡¯s shocked gazes, she placed her bleeding hand on Song Jingchen¡¯s lips. Blood flowed from his lips into his mouth, dyeing his originally pale lips red.


    Coupled with the ferocious abscesses on his face, everything became extremely strange. Everyone present did not dare to breathe loudly.


    After a long time, Shen Yijia retracted her hand and casually bandaged her wound with a handkerchief.


    ¡°Do you see that? No!¡± Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°But your blood is fine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    Shen Yijia still ignored her and approached the crowd with the dagger.


    Finally, someone couldn¡¯t take it anymore and knelt down. ¡°Mrs. Song, we know we were wrong. Please let us go.¡±


    With someone taking the lead, the others knelt down one after another. Soon, only Xuanyuan Ye was left standing.


    However, she did not last long. Before Shen Yijia could look over, she gritted her teeth and knelt down indignantly.


    She didn¡¯t want to die. After this plague, she wanted to live more than anyone else.


    ¡°Madam Song, you¡¯re a magnanimous person. Let us go.¡± ¡°Mrs. Song, I beg you. I have to take care of my family. I can¡¯t die.¡±


    ¡°Madam Song, we¡¯ve already realized our mistake¡­¡± ¡°Madam Song!¡±


    They cried, kowtowed, and begged for mercy.


    Every word entered Shen Yijia¡¯s ears, reminding her of when these people rushed into the small courtyard and begged her to bleed for them.


    They seemed to have the same expression.


    ¡°You can¡¯t die, and neither can your families. Do I deserve to die? Does my husband deserve to die?¡±


    She walked forward and looked at a woman hiding behind. ¡°Auntie Liu, your son and husband should still be alive, right?¡± Auntie Liu cowered and did not dare to look up.


    ¡°But my husband is dying.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked down at everyone present. ¡°All of you are murderers.¡±


    ¡°But our blood can¡¯t cure Lord Song.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. We¡¯re just ordinary people.¡±


    Finally, someone realized the crux of the problem.


    ¡°How would we know if we don¡¯t try?¡± Shen Yijia had a bloodthirsty smile on her face. ¡°It¡¯s fine even if it¡¯s useless. Just treat it as¡­¡± ¡°Accompanying my husband to his grave! ¡±


    Everyone was shocked.


    Without giving them a chance to speak again, Shen Yijia rushed into the crowd.


    Everyone felt their vision blur. By the time they reacted, the hemp rope binding them had already broken.


    At the same time, there was a deep wound on everyone¡¯s right wrist.


    Blood gushed out of their wounds.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Someone screamed and quickly covered it with his other intact hand, but it was useless. Blood flowed out uncontrollably and dripped to the floor.


    A timid woman fainted from fear.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Someone with sharp eyes noticed a strange pattern on the ground.


    It wasn¡¯t drawn. It was more like it was carved with something.


    The pattern was so strange that it was like a living creature. It swallowed the blood they dripped on the floor bit by bit and flowed towards the soft couch..

 Chapter 827 - Chapter 827: Blood Exchange

    Chapter 827: Blood Exchange


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ever since Shen Yijia took Song Jingchen away, the people in the small courtyard didn¡¯t speak for a long time.


    They all knew what Song Jingchen¡¯s departure meant.


    Actually, there was not much difference in staying.


    MO Yuan placed Song Jingchen¡¯s clothes, blanket, pillow, and everything else that was stained with blood into a copper basin and prepared to burn them in the backyard.


    These were all sources of the plague. They could not be left behind.


    When she passed by Ji Luo, she suddenly said, ¡°Wait!¡±


    MO Yuan stopped and turned to look at her in confusion.


    Ji Luo¡¯s gaze landed on the dark red blood on the thin blanket for a long time. He thought of something and blurted out, ¡°Rhinoceros Horn!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce and Xuanyuan Ziming were shocked by her.


    ¡°The rhinoceros horn has the effect of clearing heat, cooling blood, calming the heart, and detoxifying the poison. It can treat typhoid fever, warm plague, blood fever, shock, frustration, delirium, rash, yellowing, vomiting blood, blood loss, and gangrene poison¡­¡¯


    She said a series of words that Xuanyuan Ce and Xuanyuan Ziming did not understand, but the two of them were not stupid.


    ¡°Madam Ji, do you mean that the rhinoceros horn can cure Brother Song?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked.


    As soon as he spoke, Ji Luo calmed down. The rhinoceros horn was only a small piece that she had seen from her mother when she was young.


    She had heard that it was far more precious than musk. She had even heard her mother mention its use at that time.


    Putting aside whether it was useful or not, where was she going to find this rhinoceros horn to use as medicine?


    Xuanyuan Ziming pursed his lips. ¡°I know where to find rhinoceros horns.¡± Ji Luo suddenly looked up at him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been poisoned by a hundred poisonous insects for a long time. A few years ago, a commoner offered a rhinoceros horn to Father. Because it¡¯s too precious, Father has always kept it in his treasure vault.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming clenched his fists. ¡°I¡¯ll write to Father now.¡±


    No matter how precious the item was, it was not as important as a person¡¯s life.


    Moreover, if not for Brother Song¡¯s guidance, he might not have been able to do many things well.


    He could have stayed out of it!


    With that, he was about to walk out.


    ¡°It¡¯s too slow to send letters back and forth,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said.


    Xuanyuan Ziming paused. ¡°Uncle, you mean¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said, ¡°You Er, go!¡±


    At the Full Moon Restaurant.


    Looking at the pattern on the ground that was devouring their lives bit by bit, everyone felt their scalps tingle.


    After reacting, they began to cry and beg for mercy. They only hoped that Shen Yijia would let them off.


    However, Shen Yijia did not even blink. She only stood at the side and watched coldly, unmoved.


    As if they could tell that she would not be soft-hearted, a voice suddenly sounded amidst the pleading. ¡°Why are you so vicious? He¡¯s the only one who died, yet you want so many of us to pay with our lives!¡±


    The begging stopped.


    Shen Yijia looked at the burly man who spoke and narrowed her eyes.


    The burly man cowered. ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything wrong. Every injustice has its perpetrator and every debt has its debtor. Ma San was the one who spilled the blood. If you want revenge, look for him. Why look for innocent people like


    Ma San, who was originally in a daze, blushed and said angrily, ¡°It¡¯s true that I splashed the blood, but Wang Dazhuang, don¡¯t forget that you were the one who suggested this idea in the beginning! ¡±


    A guilty expression flashed across Wang Dazhuang¡¯s face. ¡°I did listen to Miss Bai Zhi and mention it. Who would have thought that all of you would be more proactive than me?¡±


    ¡°Besides¡­¡± Wang Dazhuang gritted his teeth and looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Our target was originally you. Lord Song rushed out to protect you. You were the one who killed Lord Song.¡±


    Shen Yijia lowered her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right? That fool. She clearly told him that she was immune to the plague. Why did she rush out?¡± he thought.


    He was usually such a rational person. Why was he so muddle-headed when it came to her?


    Seeing that she agreed with him, the more Wang Dazhuang thought about it, the more he felt that he made sense. He wanted to say something else, but just as he opened his mouth, something flashed across his eyes.


    All his words were stuck in his throat as blood gushed out of his mouth.


    Wang Dazhuang¡¯s eyes widened in fear. He looked at the woman who suddenly appeared in front of him. His mouth opened and closed, but he could not say a word.


    His tongue had been cut off.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like to hear you talk, so you¡¯d better shut up.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s voice sounded in his ear like a demon from hell.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Everyone screamed and retreated from Wang Dazhuang in a panic, or rather, from Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Your heart is too dirty. My husband probably won¡¯t like it.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s tone was filled with regret.


    Wang Dazhuang¡¯s pupils suddenly constricted. He covered his mouth with his uninjured hand and staggered back, wanting to escape.


    How could Shen Yijia give him a chance? She grabbed his clothes and dragged him back.


    Under everyone¡¯s terrified gazes, she dragged him to the edge of the observation platform and threw him down.


    Wang Dazhuang couldn¡¯t even scream.


    ¡°Does anyone else think that they¡¯re innocent?¡± Shen Yijia turned around and smiled.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to die!¡±


    Someone muttered and pushed the person beside him away. He wanted to run, but he had just taken two steps when his legs went weak and he fell to the ground.


    Right on the heels of that, one, two, three¡­


    Everyone collapsed.


    Everyone quickly realized that something was wrong. They had been drugged!


    No wonder Shen Yijia removed the restraints on them. She was not worried that they would escape at all.


    Xuanyuan Ye was also frightened by the scene just now, especially since she was standing beside Wang Dazhuang. Her body was even stained with Wang Dazhuang¡¯s blood. She tried her best to suppress the fear in her heart and threatened with a trembling voice, ¡°Shen Yijia, if you kill us all, Imperial Uncle won¡¯t let you off if he finds out.¡±


    ¡°Then let him cause trouble for me.¡± Shen Yijia sneered.


    The blood of nearly a hundred people quickly dyed the totems on the ground red. The smell of blood was nauseating.


    Shen Yijia walked back to Song Jingchen¡¯s side and picked him up and placed him in a clean place in the middle of the totem.


    The dagger was still dripping blood in her hand. She wiped it on the thin blanket in disgust.


    She said in a coaxing tone, ¡°It might hurt a little. Bear with it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye was still wondering what Shen Yijia meant when she gently cut open Song Jingchen¡¯s wrist.


    Xuanyuan Ye muttered in disbelief, ¡°Crazy, you lunatic.¡±


    You Yi was also shocked. Shen Yijia only asked him to help capture him and did not tell him what she wanted to do.


    Now that she saw this, there was nothing he didn¡¯t understand.


    Miss was simply trying to change blood to save someone!


    After reacting, he quickly wanted to stop her, but he realized that all his strength had been instantly sucked dry.


    He turned his head abruptly and his gaze landed on the two lanterns fluttering in the wind at the door of the wing.


    ¡°You¡¯re not too stupid,¡± Shen Yijia muttered. She lay down beside Song Jingchen and turned to look at him. ¡°Don¡¯t blame me. I promised to give birth to a child for you after the plague. If you don¡¯t keep your promise, I won¡¯t listen to you anymore.¡±


    With that, she raised her dagger and slit her wrist without hesitation. Blood flowed out.


    Shen Yijia quickly grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s hand and interlocked their fingers.


    The moment their wrists touched, the aura around the totem clearly changed.


    As if something was attracting her, Shen Yijia could clearly feel the blood in her body rushing out of the wound on her wrist.


    Half of it dripped onto the totem, and the other half entered Song Jingchen¡¯s body.


    The nearly a hundred people on the other side of the totem also lost consciousness almost instantly.


    Shen Yijia ignored them. She looked at Song Jingchen and raised her other hand to stroke his eyebrows inch by inch. The corners of her mouth twitched as she said, ¡°You asked me to find another pretty boy, but I¡¯m not as magnanimous as you. I saved your life. Even if I die, I want you to remember me. Remember, you¡¯re not allowed to hook up with other girls in the future, nor are you allowed to marry anyone else.¡±


    ¡°Your wife can only be me.¡±


    At this point, Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°But wouldn¡¯t you be very pitiful then? Why don¡¯t you marry one? You can still live for 80 years. I can¡¯t let you live alone. ¡±


    ¡°But the girl you married must be prettier and stronger than me.¡±


    Shen Yijia muttered to herself. As time passed, her face became even paler. Waves of dizziness assaulted her, and a chill spread throughout her limbs and bones.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s hand fell from Song Jingchen¡¯s lips weakly. She subconsciously hooked her fingers around his clothes and said aggrievedly, ¡°Hubby, it¡¯s so cold. Hug me.¡± ¡°Jiajia.¡± ¡°Sister Jiajia!¡±


    ¡°Miss!¡±


    While she was unconscious, Shen Yijia seemed to hear many people calling her, their voices filled with urgency.


    Before she could distinguish who it was, she fell completely into darkness..

 Chapter 828 - Chapter 828: Waking Up

    Chapter 828: Waking Up


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The sun was shining brightly, and a dazzling ray of sunlight shone through the half-open window frame on the face of the person on the bed in the room.


    The sleeping person frowned uncomfortably and turned around to avoid the disturbing light.


    Suddenly, the expression on her face froze and she sat up.


    ¡°Hubby!¡±


    As soon as she said this, Shen Yijia felt dizzy and fell back onto the bed.


    The door was pushed open from the outside.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at the door.


    Their eyes met. The person stopped in his tracks and walked anxiously towards the bed. He hurriedly asked, ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the handsome man in front of her in a daze. She pursed her lips and cried bitterly.


    Song Jingchen panicked and quickly pulled her into his arms. He was about to ask where she was feeling unwell.


    The person in his arms grabbed his arm tightly and sobbed, ¡°Hubby, why are you still dead? I knew that the things in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets were unreliable¡­ What should we do? We can only be a ghost couple in the future.¡± She cried so hard that she hiccuped.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. When he reacted, his heart ached and he found it funny.


    He held Shen Yijia¡¯s face with both hands and gently wiped away the tears on her cheeks with his thumbs.


    However, the tears were like pearls that had broken strings. They could not be wiped away no matter what.


    His eyes were deep as he lowered his head.


    Shen Yijia looked at him in a daze and forgot to cry.


    Song Jingchen kissed the tears on her face and pressed his forehead against hers. He asked softly, ¡°Are you still crying?¡±


    Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to say that she would stop crying, but her words were stuck in her throat.


    Song Jingchen sighed helplessly and lowered his head again. He restrained himself and covered her red lips with extreme gentleness.


    The cold touch made Shen Yijia come back to her senses. She lowered her eyes and placed her hand on Song Jingchen¡¯s back, responding awkwvardly.


    This kiss lasted for a long time. It was so quiet that only the sound of kissing could be heard.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s arms tightened bit by bit, and all the blood in his body was clamoring. He wanted to fuse the person in his arms with his bones and blood, wanting to become one with her.


    It was not until their bodies were pressed tightly against each other and their breaths intertwined that he truly felt alive again.


    God knew how afraid he was when he woke up and found out what Shen Yijia had done.


    He almost lost this girl completely.


    He thought that when this girl woke up, he would definitely teach her a lesson. She was too reckless.


    However, when he saw her lying on the bed with a pale face, he began to reflect again.


    He could not take it anymore after hearing what Shen Yijia had done.


    During the few days when he was infected with the plague, this girl saw it and was worried every day about when he would die. How torturous would it be?


    He selt1sn1Y tnougnt tnat arter ne (Ilea, snen YlJ1a coulC1 live a smootn lite under the protection of Lord Jing¡¯an.


    However, he did not expect that this girl¡¯s heart had always been the same as his.


    Fortunately, she was fine.


    Feeling something dripping on her face, Shen Yijia paused and opened her eyes.


    Before she could see clearly, a large hand covered her eyes. The softness of his lips left, and a head rested heavily on her shoulder.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡± Shen Yijia called out softly.


    ¡®Yes, let me hug you.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s voice was a little hoarse. Somewhere Shen Yijia could not see, his eyes were terrifyingly red..

 Chapter 829 - Chapter 829: Ending (1)

    Chapter 829: Ending (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I¡¯ve been unconscious for five days?¡± Shen Yijia hadn¡¯t recovered from the joy of knowing that she and Song Jingchen were still alive. They didn¡¯t need to be a ghost couple. She was then shocked by Song Jingchen¡¯s next words.


    She hurriedly checked and saw that there was indeed an additional drop of spiritual liquid in her body.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his eyes. ¡°Mother said that you lost too much blood. It¡¯s normal for you to sleep for a few more days.¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s original words were that the situation was dangerous at that time. If they had arrived a moment later, this girl would never have woken up.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen, thinking that he would take the opportunity to lecture her. Unexpectedly, he didn¡¯t say anything and even thoughtfully placed a pillow behind her back.


    Hearing this, Shen Yijia felt even more guilty.


    She reached out and grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve. ¡°Hubby, I¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know what to say. Most importantly, she did not think that she had done anything wrong.


    If they turned back time, she would still do it!


    ¡°I know.¡± Song Jingchen sighed and turned around to bring a bowl of porridge from the table. ¡°You¡¯re hungry, right? I cooked longan and red date porridge. Have some first.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned when she saw the bowl in his hand. He must have brought it with him when he came in just now.


    It was impossible for her beautiful husband to know that she would wake up today.


    That meant that he had prepared porridge at all times so she could eat it when she woke up.


    In the five days she had been unconscious, her beautiful husband probably did not know how many pots of porridge he had cooked.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia¡¯s nose stung again. She threw herself into Song


    Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen quickly took the bowl away and said helplessly, ¡°You still want to cry?¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. Previously, her beautiful husband had asked her if she wanted to cry. When she said yes, he¡­


    She looked up and licked her dry lips. ¡°Can I?¡± she asked hopefully.


    ¡°Can I cry? Can I still kiss you?¡± she thought.


    bong Jingcnen coman?c nup DUI laugn. He nupea snen YlJ1a DaCK to cne Dea ana said coldly, ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia was very disappointed.


    ¡°Have some porridge first,¡± Song Jingchen added. He scooped up a spoonful of porridge, blew on it, and brought it to her mouth.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she opened her mouth obediently. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll cry after eating the porridge.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°By the way, how¡¯s the plague in the city?¡± she asked.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Mother¡¯s prescription cured the plague. The people outside the city have also returned.¡±


    The plague came fiercely, but as long as it was treated correctly, it would disappear quickly.


    The bowl of porridge was quickly finished. Song Jingchen placed the bowl back on the table and helped her lie down.


    Shen Yijia looked at him and still felt like she was in a dream. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect the rhinoceros horn to be so useful.¡±


    If she had known earlier, she would have stolen it long ago. Why would her beautiful husband have to suffer so much?


    Song Jingchen paused for a moment. Even Ji Luo couldn¡¯t tell if it was because of Shen Yijia¡¯s blood or if the rhinoceros horn was effective.


    However, there was no need to tell Shen Yijia this, in case she wanted to bleed to save people in the future.


    He tucked Shen Yijia in and sat down by the bed. ¡°Rhinoceros horns are precious. It¡¯s really lucky to encounter them.¡±


    Something that even her husband felt was precious.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°That scumbag got someone to steal such a precious thing from the treasure vault. Xuanyuan Qi didn¡¯t punish him when he found out, right?¡±


    ¡°No, the emperor is not a petty person. Besides, it only takes a little bit of rhinoceros horn to make the medicine.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him eagerly. ¡°Have you returned the rest?¡±


    How could Song Jingchen not tell that she was trying to act in her own self-interest again? He took off the pouch at his waist and handed it to her. ¡°His Highness returned it, but I asked the king for some more.¡±


    Instead of waiting for this girl to wake up and steal it, he might as well give up his pride and get it.


    The pouch was the one Shen Yijia had given him.


    Shen Yijia took it and poured out a sharp horn wrapped in a red string. There were obvious traces of friction at the tip. It should be the part that was used for medicine.


    Shen Yijia sniffed it and was a little disappointed. ¡°It doesn¡¯t look any different from a bull¡¯s horn.¡±


    ¡°Bull horns can¡¯t cure the plague.¡± Song Jingchen chuckled and took the rhinoceros horn from her hand. He leaned over and brought it to Shen Yijia¡¯s neck. Meeting her puzzled eyes, he explained, ¡°I heard that the rhinoceros horn can exorcise evil and remove danger.¡±


    Shen Yijia understood. She touched the friction at the tip of the horn and nodded in agreement. ¡°We should indeed take good care of it. It saved our lives.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused.


    After saying that, Shen Yijia regretted it and quickly changed the topic. ¡°What about the people I captured? Are they still alive?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Seeing that she was angry, Song Jingchen continued, ¡°Wang Dazhuang is dead. Jia Quan and Sun Ming were left behind by Ji Yunxi, so they had to die too. Bai Zhi was sent to the military camp as a military prostitute because she spread rumors. As for the others, their right hands were crippled and they were sentenced to three years of hard labor.¡±


    The hundred or so people represented more than a hundred families. Because


    of this plague, the citizens of Phoenix City were shaken.


    If Xuanyuan Qi killed them all now, it would definitely make everyone panic.


    Three years of hard labor was already the limit.


    Shen Yijia was still a little angry. ¡°It¡¯s too easy on them to only cripple one hand.¡¯


    If she had known earlier, she would have thrown them all out of Full Moon Restaurant like Wang Dazhuang!


    Song Jingchen thought further.


    ¡°Sometimes living isn¡¯t necessarily a good thing,¡± he said.


    After this incident, Song Jingchen also realized that it wasn¡¯t always right to keep things from Shen Yijia because he felt that it was for her own good.


    After all, no one knew what would happen the next day.


    The world was unpredictable. There would always be times when he could not take care of it, so he should let her know about some dark sides.


    ¡°If those commoners want to survive, they have to rely on labor in exchange for remuneration. When they come out three years later, their reputation will be ruined and no one will dare to hire them. Since they¡¯ve crippled their right hands, we can consider them half crippled. If their relatives are unkind, they will inevitably end up miserable in their later years.¡±


    Song Dajiang and Madam Liu, who had been angered to death by Song Jiayue, were good examples.


    Shen Yijia frowned and said uncertainly, ¡°That shouldn¡¯t be the case. They did that for their families.¡±


    Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°People change easily. Who knows?¡±


    Before those things happened, didn¡¯t Song Dajiang¡¯s family also unite against the Song family?


    They worked together to hurt them.


    Shen Yijia found it a little unbelievable, but she also felt that Song Jingchen was right. Anyway, it was fine as long as she knew that they wouldn¡¯t have an easy time in the future. She moved to the side of the bed and made way for him.


    ¡°Come up and sleep with me.¡±


    Song Jingchen lay down beside her.


    Shen Yijia rolled into his arms in satisfaction and grabbed his hand to play with.


    After not hearing her speak for a long time, Song Jingchen found it strange. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you ask about Xuanyuan Ye?¡±


    This was not like Shen Yijia.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to ask? She¡¯s definitely still acting like a high and mighty princess. Anyway, she has a lot of servants to serve her. She can do whatever she wants. Even if her right hand is crippled, it won¡¯t affect her life.¡±


    She might have even gone to the old woman to complain to her, wanting the old woman to punish her.


    Seeing that she didn¡¯t care, Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached as he hugged her tighter.


    As the princess, she should be the one with a group of servants!


    ¡°No, she didn¡¯t live well,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Now that everyone had been dealt with, how could he leave Xuanyuan Ye behind to be an eyesore to this girl?


    Shen Yijia looked up at him, her eyes filled with interest.


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and kissed her forehead. ¡°Now that the citizens of Phoenix City know her background, she¡¯s no longer a princess..¡±

 Chapter 830 - Chapter 830: Ending (2)

    Chapter 830: Ending (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye was stopped by two eunuchs.


    ¡°Do you two dog slaves want to die? Hurry up and move aside. I want to go in and see Imperial Grandmother.¡±


    The eunuchs looked at her disdainfully.


    Eunuch A sneered, ¡°What kind of status does the Empress Dowager have? How can any Tom, Dick, or Harry see her just because they want to?¡±


    Eunuch B echoed, ¡°That¡¯s right. Why don¡¯t you take a look at yourself? I can¡¯t let you go in and dirty the floor of the Longevity Palace.¡±


    The palace had always been a place where people trampled on the weak and supported the strong, let alone a child born from adultery. This status would be despised anywhere.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face alternated between green and white. She flew into a rage out of humiliation and said, ¡°How dare you? Do you believe that I¡¯ll get Imperial Grandmother to chop off your heads?¡±


    Eunuch A rolled his eyes. ¡°Oh, do you think you¡¯re still the high and mighty princess from before? Why do I remember that His Majesty issued an imperial edict this morning to strip someone of her title as a princess?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re so thick-skinned. It¡¯s fine if you take over the nest, but you almost killed our true princess. I¡¯ve never seen such a shameless person.¡± Eunuch B spat, and his saliva happened to land on Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s shoes.


    Xuanyuan Ye was so angry that her entire body trembled and she almost fainted.


    However, this might be her last chance to see Empress Dowager Zhou. She could not faint.


    Xuanyuan Ye took a deep breath. ¡°No matter what, it¡¯s not up to the two of you to judge me. Do you think Imperial Grandmother only found out about my background today?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s background was actually spread from outside the palace at the beginning, and the person who exposed it was none other than Xuanyuan Ce.


    Apparently he had been chased out of the door by the rumored mistress some time ago, so he felt terrible and ran to the restaurant to get drunk. After drinking too much, he confessed in public with snot and tears, recounting what had happened back then.


    When the news reached the palace, it had already been circulating outside for two days.


    His Majesty was furious. He immediately issued an imperial edict to strip Xuanyuan Ye of her status as a princess and demoted her to a commoner.


    During this period, Empress Dowager Zhou did not say a word.


    Actually, the reason why Xuanyuan Ye was still in the palace was because Xuanyuan Qi was waiting for Empress Dowager Zhou to express her stance.


    The two eunuchs looked at each other.


    What did this mean? The Empress Dowager had long known this person¡¯s background?


    How was that possible?


    Eunuch A was about to mock her when he suddenly remembered that Xuanyuan Ye had been locked up in secret. The Empress Dowager had asked Nanny Gao to pick her up. Could it be that at that time¡­


    Eunuch B obviously thought of it too, and his face turned pale.


    Xuanyuan Ye saw their expressions and sneered. ¡°I think everyone in the Longevity Palace knows how much Imperial Grandmother dotes on me. Think about it. Imperial Grandmother watched me grow up. How could she abandon me because of some blood ties?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± An authoritative voice came from the Longevity Palace.


    At the same time, two heavy doors opened.


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Imperial Grandmother!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce had also entered the palace today. The matter had spread to the palace, and he was here to apologize to Xuanyuan Qi.


    After all, he had embarrassed the royal family. He had to apologize, right?


    Hearing his dignified reason, Xuanyuan Qi snorted and said, ¡°Hmph, didn¡¯t you do that to force me to issue this imperial edict? You¡¯re already shameless, so why should I continue to do such a thankless thing?¡±


    ¡°Brother, I was really schemed against by that brat Song Jingchen. He deliberately made me drunk that day and kept provoking me. I already felt terrible, so I let my guard down.¡±


    Although he was willing to be the scapegoat, he still let the young people take the blame.


    Xuanyuan Qi pointed at him and expected better from someone. ¡°As an elder, you were schemed against by a Junior. Preposterous!¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t Brother also lose to him in chess?¡± When he said this, Xuanyuan Ce was a little smug.


    That was his son-in-law!


    Xuanyuan Qi thought to himself, ¡°Is this bastard brother speaking human language?¡±


    He said angrily, ¡°I did that on purpose. Besides, he only cut a tiny bit of that horn. I can afford that little bit of rhinoceros horn!¡±


    ¡°So be it. Didn¡¯t Brother say it himself? On the battlefield, surrendering is still a loss.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi said, ¡°Get lost!¡±

 Chapter 831 - Chapter 831: Regret (1)

    Chapter 831: Regret (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Ce stood up obediently and cupped his hands to bid farewell.


    He was just here to go through the motions today. It was fine as long as he arrived.


    Xuanyuan Qi fell back in anger. ¡°Sit down.¡±


    Seeing that Xuanyuan Ce had fumbled and sat back down, Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s gaze landed on the white cloth tied over his eyes. He asked worriedly, ¡°Why haven¡¯t your eyes recovered?¡±


    Almost half a month had passed.


    ¡°It¡¯ll naturally be fine when it¡¯s time to recover.¡± Xuanyuan Ce did not care.


    ¡°You¡¯re so magnanimous.¡± Xuanyuan Qi had completely lost his temper with him. He pointed at the bright yellow imperial edict beside him. ¡°This is an imperial edict to give a title to that girl. See if you want to take her away now or if I¡¯ll send someone to announce it. When the time comes, find a time to write her name on a piece of jade.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Since it¡¯s your bloodline, she should acknowledge her ancestors.¡±


    At the mention of her background, Xuanyuan Ce could not help but recall Shen Yijia¡¯s childhood experience. He felt upset and shook his head. ¡°Jiajia hasn¡¯t woken up yet. Let¡¯s talk about it when she wakes up.¡±


    Knowing that this was a token of his brother¡¯s sincerity, he explained, ¡°She hasn¡¯t accepted me as her biological father yet. I¡¯m afraid that she¡¯ll be angry with me when she wakes up.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce had yet to go to the small courtyard today, and no one had come to tell him that Shen Yijia had woken up, so he did not know.


    Xuanyuan Qi wanted to say that who would disagree with such a good thing?


    ¡°Then do as you see fit. I¡¯ll leave the imperial edict here.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Brother.¡±


    At this moment, Eunuch Wu walked in and whispered something to Xuanyuan


    Xuanyuan Qi frowned and looked at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Xuanyuan Ye went to the Longevity Palace.¡±


    At the entrance of the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye knelt at Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s feet and said aggrievedly, ¡°Imperial Grandmother, Ye¡¯er really didn¡¯t harm Sister. Why doesn¡¯t Imperial Uncle believe Ye¡¯er? On the other hand, Sister probably hates Ye¡¯er for taking over her status and has tried to kill Ye¡¯er several times. However, Ye¡¯er doesn¡¯t know about those things at all.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou looked at her and was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Ce was not in Phoenix City all year round. Her love for her son was almost entirely entrusted to Xuanyuan Ye. Not only did she bring her into the palace to stay for a while every few days, but she would also choose the things she liked and send it to her immediately.


    Not to mention her other granddaughters, even her grandson had never made her so concerned.


    However, this child whom she had watched grow up almost..


    Xuanyuan Ye cried for a long time, but Empress Dowager Zhou did not comfort her. Tears fell and she choked. ¡°Imperial Grandmother, even you don¡¯t believe in Ye¡¯er. Do you not want Ye¡¯er anymore?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou took a deep breath. ¡°Let¡¯s go in and talk.¡±


    With that, she turned around and returned to the Longevity Palace.


    Xuanyuan Ye had a bad feeling, but there was no time for her to think too much. She quickly got up and followed.


    After entering the main hall and seeing the imperial physician waiting inside, her premonition became even stronger. She tightened her grip on the handkerchief in her hand and tried her best to calm down. She asked with concern, ¡°Is Imperial Grandmother feeling unwell?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou saw her expression and finally turned cold. ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything to say to me?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye looked up in a daze. ¡°Imperial Grandmother, are you referring to the rumors that I harmed¡­


    Empress Dowager Zhou interrupted her. ¡°Imperial physician, tell me.¡±


    The imperial physician orthodox said, ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯ve checked those letters. There¡¯s indeed nothing wrong with the first few letters. It¡¯s just the last one. It¡¯s obvious that the person who wrote the letter specially mixed the blood of the plague victims into the ink when grinding it.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s face turned pale and she said in a panic, ¡°What letter?


    Grandmother, don¡¯t believe him. He must have been bribed to frame Ye¡¯er.¡±


    The imperial physician was unhappy. ¡°Miss, don¡¯t spout nonsense. I am an upright person. I¡¯m definitely not a despicable person who curries favor with the rich and powerful.¡±


    ¡°You may leave first.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou waved her hand.


    The imperial physician cupped his hands and left.


    Xuanyuan Ye was stunned. She knelt down and took a few steps forward on her knees. She looked up at Empress Dowager Zhou with tears in her eyes. ¡°Grandmother, you have to believe me. I really didn¡¯t do that. Grandmother dotes on me the most in this world. I have no reason to harm you.¡±


    Seeing that Empress Dowager Zhou was unmoved, she continued, ¡°Firstly, it must be Sister. She saw that Imperial Grandmother doted on Ye¡¯er and was jealous, so she wanted to use this method to kill Ye¡¯er..¡±

 Chapter 832 - Chapter 832: Regret (2)

    Chapter 832: Regret (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Ye¡¯er has already fallen to this state. Why won¡¯t she let Ye¡¯er off?¡±


    With that, she covered her face and cried.


    Empress Dowager Zhou did not expect her to still be talking about others. She said coldly, ¡°I can¡¯t figure out why I¡¯ve raised an ingrate for so many years.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye stopped crying. ¡°Imperial Grandmother¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m old, not stupid.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou took a deep breath. ¡°You indeed have no reason to harm me, but you wanted to use me to harm that girl.¡± Xuanyuan Ye quickly shook her head. ¡°I didn¡¯t!¡±


    ¡°You did!¡± Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Someone told you that that girl¡¯s blood could treat the plague, so you deliberately told Ma San about this. You wanted to encourage everyone to force that girl surnamed Shen to bleed to save people, but you didn¡¯t expect them to be easily chased away by the people Mingler brought. In order to protect that girl, Ce¡¯er even announced her background.¡±


    Seeing that everyone did not dare to force her because of that girl¡¯s identity, she came up with another plan. She first quarreled with Bai Zhi in public. While clearing her name, she also reminded everyone that they could first verify that that girl was immune to the plague.


    ¡°On the other hand, you know that with Ming¡¯er and Celer around, those commoners might not be able to touch that girl, so you thought of borrowing the power of the empress dowager and the emperor.¡±


    ¡°The best way was naturally to let me catch the plague.¡±


    ¡°I was infected with the plague, and Ma San and the others proved that that girl would not be infected with the plague. When the emperor finds out, he will definitely want her to bleed to save me.¡±


    ¡°As long as she saves me and the commoners cause a commotion, how can the emperor ignore them? There are so many people¡­ It¡¯s probably not enough to drain that girl¡¯s blood.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief, and she forgot to deny it.


    If not for the fact that she knew that she had never told anyone about this, she would have thought that Empress Dowager Zhou had planted spies around her.


    One had to know that even Bai Zhi only knew that she had spread rumors and knew nothing else.


    ¡°I thought that you were young and had lost your mind for a moment. All these days, I¡¯ve been waiting for you to take the initiative to apologize to me. As long as you can repent, it¡¯s not that I can¡¯t give you a chance. But you didn¡¯t. In the end, you even wanted to bite that girl back. You didn¡¯t feel guilty at all.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou choked.


    As an elder, when a junior made a mistake, she always thought that she could change for the better. However, Xuanyuan Ye disappointed her too much.


    Xuanyuan Ye sat on the ground and looked at Empress Dowager Zhou in a daze.


    Did she just say that as long as she admitted her mistake, she would give her a chance?


    Giving a person who had almost killed her a chance sounded ridiculous, but Xuanyuan Ye knew that Empress Dowager Zhou was telling the truth.


    Even though she knew that she was not her biological granddaughter and was not related to her by blood, Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s doting on her had never changed.


    Empress Dowager Zhou turned around and stopped looking at her. ¡°Eunuch Yu, send her to the emperor. Call the imperial physician along.¡±


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother!¡± Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s pupils constricted. She crawled over on all fours and hugged Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s legs. Tears streamed down her face. ¡°Grandmother, I know my mistake. I won¡¯t go against Shen Yijia again.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be a princess. I just want to be by Imperial Grandmother¡¯s side.


    Even if I have to be a maidservant to serve Imperial Grandmother, I just want Imperial Grandmother to give me another chance.¡±


    ¡°Grandmother, can you give Ye¡¯er another chance?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou closed her eyes and said coldly, ¡°Eunuch Yu, what are you waiting for? Hurry up and bring her away.¡±


    Eunuch Yu quickly went to call for help. Soon, two eunuchs came in and dragged Xuanyuan Ye away.


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother!¡± Xuanyuan Ye grabbed Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s skirt tightly.


    However, she could not exert any strength with her right hand and was easily pulled away.


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother, please give Ye¡¯er another chance!¡±


    Even after she was dragged out of the Longevity Palace, Xuanyuan Ye¡¯s voice seemed to still echo in her ears. Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s body swayed.


    Nanny Gao quickly wanted to help her, but another hand was faster than hers.


    ¡°Imperial Grandmother, are you alright?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked worriedly.


    Empress Dowager Zhou patted his hand. ¡°You¡¯re right. If I continue to be soft-hearted to her, sooner or later, Celer will completely fall out with me.¡±


    She was infected with the plague, and Xuanyuan Ce chose his daughter in the end. Wasn¡¯t this enough proof?


    It would be a lie to say that she didn¡¯t feel uncomfortable..

 Chapter 833 - Chapter 833: Regret (3)

    Chapter 833: Regret (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xuanyuan Ziming helped her sit down on the soft couch. ¡°Grandmother, be it


    Madam Ji or Sister Jiajia, they¡¯ve suffered too much in the past. It¡¯s not good for Uncle to be caught in the middle.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to explain on his behalf. I understand.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou shook her head. ¡°Go back. I¡¯m tired.¡±


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll come and see you another day.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming reminded Nanny Gao again worriedly and turned to leave.


    ¡°If that girl wakes up, get someone to send a message,¡± Empress Dowager Zhou suddenly said.


    Xuanyuan Ziming paused and smiled. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou sighed and closed her eyes tiredly.


    Seeing this, Nanny Gao quickly walked over and rubbed her temples. She opened her mouth to say something.


    Empress Dowager Zhou asked, ¡°Lan, how long have you been serving me?¡±


    Nanny Gao deliberated and said, ¡°I entered the palace fifteen years ago. In the second year after entering the palace, I was assigned to serve in the Kunning Palace. It¡¯s been 40 years.¡±


    Kunning Palace was the palace where Empress Dowager Zhou lived when she was still the empress.


    ¡°It¡¯s been so long.¡± Empress Dowager Zhou sighed. ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you all these years. I remember that you have a younger brother outside the palace, right?¡±


    Nanny Gao¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She forced a smile and said, ¡°Yes, the


    Empress Dowager still remembers.¡±


    ¡°How could I not remember? I still remember you saying that you entered the palace because your family couldn¡¯t afford to eat.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all in the past. Now that His Majesty is around, the people are living and


    working in a better country. There¡¯s definitely less instances of people who can¡¯t afford to eat.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou nodded. ¡°Back then, when you reached the age to leave the palace, I originally wanted to let you leave the palace and get married, but you told me that you didn¡¯t want to get married. You said that your brother had promised to adopt a child under your name in the future. Who would have thought that you would stay for most of your life?¡±


    Nanny Gao knelt down with a thud. ¡®Empress Dowager, I¡­¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou opened her eyes and looked straight at her. ¡°You¡¯re not young anymore. It¡¯s time for you to leave the palace and enjoy life.¡±


    Nanny Gao knew that Empress Dowager Zhou remembered that she had spoken up for Xuanyuan Ye previously. She complained in her heart, but she did not dare to explain further. She bent down and kowtowed heavily. ¡°Thank you for your understanding, Empress Dowager.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou narrowed her eyes again. ¡°Go. It¡¯s still early. Pack up and leave the palace early.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    When Xuanyuan Ziming left the palace, he happened to meet Xuanyuan Ce. The uncle and nephew went to the small courtyard together with an unspoken mutual understanding.


    When they saw Shen Yijia following behind Ji Luo, their expressions were extremely interesting.


    It was mainly because Xuanyuan Ziming watched and Xuanyuan Ce listened.


    ¡°When did this girl wake up? Why didn¡¯t you send someone to tell me?¡± Xuanyuan Ce questioned Song Jingchen.


    Xuanyuan Ziming nodded again and again. He also looked at him. ¡°You¡¯re too much. I¡¯m busy helping you.¡±


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and said calmly, ¡°I just woke up. I was about to ask Thirty Thousand to send you a message when you came.¡±


    Thirty Thousand was stunned. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. I was just about to lead the horses.¡±


    In fact, after Shen Yijia woke up, the couple slept until the afternoon. Even Ji Luo was forgotten by the two heartless people.


    However, his tone and expression were very sincere. Xuanyuan Ce and Xuanyuan Ziming did not discover any flaws.


    Ji Luo put away the herbs she had dried. Xuanyuan Ziming greeted, ¡°Madam Ji.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce also called out, ¡°Ah Luo.¡±


    Ji Luo ignored the two of them and walked past them expressionlessly.


    Shen Yijia followed behind her. Xuanyuan Ziming rubbed his nose. ¡°Sister Jiajia, you¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia left without looking at him.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    Hearing the footsteps leave, Xuanyuan Ce swallowed his concern.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Madam Ji and Sister Jiajia?¡± Xuanyuan Ziming asked softly. Song Jingchen said quietly, ¡°They might not have seen the two of you.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    In the pharmacy in the backyard, Shen Yijia was about to help Ji Luo distribute the medicinal herbs when she was swatted away.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t use much strength, but she still left a red mark on the back of her hand.


    Ji Luo paused and regretted it.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes and said pitifully, ¡°Mother, it hurts. Blow on it for me!¡±


    Ji Luo rolled his eyes at her. ¡°Go find your husband and call him over.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Sure!¡±


    Shen Yijia took two steps back and pursed her lips. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t be angry, okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not angry.¡± Ji Luo threw the herbs into the medicine box roughly.


    Shen Yijia was relieved. ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re not angry.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    ¡°I know.¡± Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°Mother thinks that I shouldn¡¯t have risked everything to save my husband, but the reason why he contracted the plague was to protect me.¡±


    ¡°Besides, if my husband dies, I won¡¯t be happy for the rest of my life.¡± Ji Luo paused. ¡°You should have discussed it with Mother first.¡±


    ¡°If Mother finds out in advance, she definitely won¡¯t agree to me doing that,¡± Shen Yijia said firmly.


    Everyone was biased. No matter how satisfied Ji Luo was with Song Jingchen as her son-in-law, she wouldn¡¯t be willing to exchange his daughter¡¯s life for his life.


    It was the same for Madam Li.


    Ji Luo was speechless..

 Chapter 834 - Chapter 834: Reward (1)

    Chapter 834: Reward (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia had already said everything. What else could Ji Luo say?


    Moreover, she was not really angry with Shen Yijia. Her heart just ached too much.


    As if reading her mind, Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°Mother, look, I¡¯m fine now. There¡¯s a saying that if you survive a disaster, you¡¯ll definitely have good fortune in the future. Mother, just wait to enjoy the blessings of me and my husband in the future.¡¯


    Ji Luo was caught between laughter and tears at her interruption. She tapped her forehead with his finger. ¡°I don¡¯t ask for anything else. I just hope that you and Ah Chen can be free of illnesses and disasters in the future.¡±


    Thinking of something, she pouted. ¡°It would be even better if I could carry my grandson earlier.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and patted Ji Luo¡¯s shoulder confidently. ¡°I¡¯ll satisfy you.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    Could it be that she was already pregnant?


    That was impossible. She had been checking Shen Yijia¡¯s pulse every day for the past few days. If there was a pregnancy, she would have diagnosed it early.


    So where did this girl get her confidence from?


    Shen Yijia did not explain and left with an expression that said, ¡°Leave it to me.¡±


    Ji Luo couldn¡¯t help but laugh and continued to categorize the herbs.


    Giving birth was not like going to the market to pick up cabbages. Not only did it require the hard work of the two of them, but it also depended on fate.


    The two of them had been married for three years without any news of a child. She couldn¡¯t possibly have a grandson immediately.


    Ji Luo did not take Shen Yijia¡¯s words seriously, but he did not know that Shen


    Yijia took her wish to heart.


    At sunset and dusk, in order to celebrate Shen Yijia¡¯s awakening, Ji Luo personally cooked several dishes. Coupled with MO Yuan¡¯s cooking, the table was filled with dishes.


    The dining table was placed in the courtyard, including Xuanyuan Ziming and Xuanyuan Ce, who had stayed behind to freeload. Chu Feng and Little Zhu Zi, who were beside the two of them, happened to be full.


    Xuanyuan Ziming even specially instructed someone to bring good wine from his residence.


    Ever since the plague, this could be considered the first meal the family had eaten together.


    Everyone ate in satisfaction. Of course, if not for a few of the dishes, everyone would have been happier.


    After dinner, Xuanyuan Ce was about to mention the conferment to Shen Yijia, but before he could speak, Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen back to his room, leaving the people in the courtyard looking at each other.


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked up at the sky. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a little too early to sleep?¡± Moreover, it was not good for his health to sleep after eating!


    He wasn¡¯t the only one with this thought. Looking at Shen Yijia, who was pulling him straight to the big bed, Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He asked tentatively, ¡°Are you tired?¡±


    Shen Yijia stood still and turned to look at him. She shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not tired.¡±


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Shen Yijia reached out and placed a hand on his shoulder, pushing him towards the bed.


    Song Jingchen, who was caught off guard, was speechless.


    Shen Yijia grinned and pounced on him like a hungry wolf.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s movements were interrupted when he remembered. He quickly reached out and pressed his hand against her head.


    Shen Yijia removed his hand and continued. Song Jingchen blocked her again.


    Shen Yijia was puzzled.


    She gave a perfectly guileless look, making Song Jingchen laugh in anger.


    Shouldn¡¯t he be the innocent one?


    Not only did this girl bring him back to his room in front of everyone, but she also pushed him down without a word.


    ¡°There¡¯s also this posture¡­¡± he thought.


    ¡°Get up first,¡± Song Jingchen said helplessly.


    Shen Yijia nodded reluctantly and slowly got up from his body. Compared to the speed at which she pounced on him just now, it was worlds apart.


    Song Jingchen quickly sat up and subconsciously tidied his clothes.


    Seeing his defensive actions, Shen Yijia gritted her teeth and muttered softly,


    ¡°It¡¯s not like I haven¡¯t seen it before!¡±


    Song Jingchen felt a little guilty under her gaze. He coughed lightly and asked, ¡°What did you want to do just now?¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten? We agreed to have a child after the plague passes!¡± Shen Yijia felt a little aggrieved.


    She had wasted five days in a coma.


    ¡°Why are you in such a hurry?¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen choked. The atmosphere was different, so these words naturally sounded different to him. Moreover, there were two elders in the courtyard one door away. He said with a hot face, ¡°You just woke up today and your body is weak. You need to recuperate for a few more days. There¡¯s no hurry.¡±


    ¡°My body recovers quickly. I¡¯m not weak at all.¡± In order to be more persuasive, Shen Yijia even walked around Song Jingchen twice.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth, thinking about what to say.


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood.. ¡°Hubby, have you not completely recovered?¡±

 Chapter 835 - Chapter 835: Reward (2)

    Chapter 835: Reward (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She recovered quickly because of her special physique, but her beautiful husband did not have the same ability. She had been unconscious for five days. He must have been so worried that he was in no mood to recuperate.


    Shen Yijia blamed herself. She was too unqualified as a wife. Not only did she not care about her husband¡¯s health, but she also wanted to have children even with his condition.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that she had thought so much in an instant. He was about to shake his head and deny it when his body lightened and he was already picked up by someone.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Shen Yijia carefully placed him on the bed and thoughtfully covered him with the blanket. ¡®You¡¯re right. We¡¯re not in a hurry. Rest well for two days.¡±


    With that, she lowered her head and planted a kiss on the confused Song Jingchen¡¯s forehead. ¡°Sleep first. I¡¯ll tell Mother and come back to sleep with you.¡±


    Song Jingchen reacted and the corners of his mouth twitched. ¡°What are you going to tell Mother?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell her that you¡¯re weak now. We¡¯ll talk about her grandson after you recover. At the same time, get Mother to prescribe you two sets of medicine.¡±


    Shen Yijia said it matter-of-factly, but Song Jingchen almost couldn¡¯t hold back the expression on his face. If this girl really said that, he would probably be too ashamed to face anyone in the future.


    ¡°My body isn¡¯t¡­¡¯


    Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes, Song Jingchen was stunned. He changed the topic and said, ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with my body. Let¡¯s not let Mother and the others worry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be fine after recuperating for two days,¡± he added.


    Apart from the dark circles under his eyes, Song Jingchen was indeed fine. Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Then I won¡¯t let Mother prescribe medicine. About her grandson¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen interrupted her. ¡°In any case, it¡¯s only for two days. There¡¯s no need to tell her. Wouldn¡¯t it be better to tell her directly when we have it and give her a surprise?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought about it and felt that it made sense. ¡°Hubby is still the smartest. ¡±


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief and rubbed his temples, pretending to be tired.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart immediately ached. ¡°Are you tired? Then go to sleep.¡±


    Song Jingchen held her hand. ¡°Stay with me.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    As if afraid that she would delay his rest if she was any slower, Shen Yijia took off her coat in no time and blew out the candle flame to climb into bed. She rolled into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and touched him with her small hand. ¡°Hubby, you haven¡¯t taken off your outer clothes.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s breathing became unstable for a moment. He quickly grabbed her hand. ¡°There¡¯s no need to take it off.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia stopped moving obediently.


    This time, she was seriously injured. On the surface, she looked like she had recovered, but she was actually still very weak.


    Nestled in his warm arms, there was a familiar fragrance at the tip of her nose. Shen Yijia relaxed and quickly went to sleep.


    In a daze, the person beside her seemed to have gotten up and quickly lay back down. Shen Yijia subconsciously tightened her grip. ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t go.¡±


    She spoke, but she didn¡¯t make a sound at all.


    In the dark room, only weak moonlight shone in. Song Jingchen sat by the bed and looked at the person sleeping soundly with a pillow in his arms. His gaze was so gentle that it could drip honey.


    Thinking of something, his lips curled up slightly. He leaned down and kissed Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. He sighed softly. ¡®What a silly girl.¡±


    He tiptoed out of the room.


    Xuanyuan Ziming had already left at some point, leaving Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce in the courtyard.


    Seeing him come out, Ji Luo asked, ¡°Is Jiajia asleep?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded, pursed his lips, and walked up to the two of them. He lifted his robe and knelt down.


    Ji Luo jumped up from the rattan chair in shock and asked with a frown, ¡°Ah


    Chen, what are you doing?¡±


    Shen Yijia slept until dawn. When she woke up, there was no one beside her. She rubbed her eyes and sat up, still in a daze.


    The door was pushed open. She looked up and saw MO Yuan coming in with a basin of water.


    ¡°MO Yuan, where¡¯s my husband?¡± Shen Yijia yawned and asked.


    Compared to yesterday, she looked much better today.


    Because Shen Yijia didn¡¯t like to be served everywhere, and with Song Jingchen around, MO Yuan usually wouldn¡¯t enter their room. Since she brought her water, Song Jingchen must have specially instructed her to do so.


    MO Yuan took some clothes from the wardrobe and handed them to Shen Yijia. She said expressionlessly, ¡°Young Master went out early in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Where did he go?¡±


    MO Yuan shook her head. ¡°No, he only said that he might come back later and asked Miss not to worry about him.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and tilted her head to look at her.


    Although MO Yuan was no longer as stoic as when they first met, she was still expressionless..

 Chapter 836 - Chapter 836: Reward (3)

    Chapter 836: Reward (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia sized her up for a long time and gave up on trying to see if she was lying.


    She took the clothes and put them on. After washing up, she went out.


    In the courtyard, Ji Luo was organizing the herbs that had just been sent over as usual.


    MO Yuan was actually very similar to her in this aspect. No matter where she went, she would definitely be busy with all kinds of herbs when she was free.


    The difference was that MO Yuan would choose to pick herbs on the mountain herself, while Ji Luo was relatively rich. She would let the herb gatherers deliver themselves to her door and choose to buy a portion.


    After the concoction was completed, apart from leaving behind some medicinal herbs that might be used usually, she would sell the other herbs to the medical center to earn the difference in price.


    However, Shen Yijia knew better than anyone that her mother was not short of


    money.


    Shen Yijia was not short of money either, but she enjoyed doing these things. In the end, Shen Yijia classified it as a hobby.


    ¡°Jiajia is awake?¡± Ji Luo smiled.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Shen Yijia walked over and saw that there were several times more medicinal herbs piled on the ground than usual. She asked suspiciously, ¡®Why did you collect so many today?¡±


    ¡°I accepted all the gifts they sent,¡± Ji Luo said.


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth to ask why.


    ¡°I told them not to send it over in the future. I¡¯ll take more this time.¡±


    Shen Yijia suddenly understood. It was time for them to return to Great Xia. ¡°By the way, Mother, do you know where my husband went?¡± Shen Yijia squatted down and helped her pick out the weeds mixed in the herbs.


    Ji Luo paused. ¡°He didn¡¯t tell me. Don¡¯t you know?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head. Ji Luo¡¯s expression did not seem to be fake. It seemed that her beautiful husband had really not told anyone where he was.


    This inevitably made Shen Yijia a little worried. Could it be that he ran away because he didn¡¯t want to have children with her?


    ¡°Ah Chen is a steady child. I think there¡¯s something he can¡¯t reveal. Don¡¯t worry too much.¡± Ji Luo comforted her. ¡°Think about it. If he could say it, he wouldn¡¯t have hidden it from you.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°That¡¯s true.¡±


    MO Yuan had prepared breakfast. As soon as the three of them sat down, there was a knock on the courtyard door.


    Shen Yijia thought that Song Jingchen had returned, so she quickly put down the bowl and opened the door.


    When she saw the person at the door, the smile on her face disappeared. She asked with a straight face, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Eunuch Yu smiled awkwardly and bowed. ¡°The Empress Dowager heard that


    Young Master is awake and specially asked me to bring Young Master into the palace.¡±


    If Empress Dowager Zhou wanted to see someone, she usually sent a young eunuch to pass on a message. That person should have entered the palace happily.


    Not only had they sent a carriage, but Eunuch Yu had also personally come to pick them up. If it was someone else, it could already be considered a great favor.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What young master? Your young master isn¡¯t here.


    Did you come to the wrong door?¡±


    Since he called him young master now, he would call her princess when the imperial edict came.


    ¡°I said no. Go back to where you came from. Don¡¯t bother me again.¡±


    With that, Shen Yijia closed the door.


    Eunuch Yu was speechless.


    ¡°Eunuch Yu, this¡­¡± The young eunuch at the side wanted to scold her for not knowing what was good for her. Seeing that Eunuch Yu¡¯s expression did not change, he quickly changed his words.¡± How are we going to report this to the Empress Dowager? ¡±


    ¡°Do you think the Empress Dowager didn¡¯t know that this would be the outcome?¡± Eunuch Yu sighed and instructed, ¡°Go and unload the things in the carriage.¡±


    There were a total of three carriages. Apart from an empty carriage prepared for Shen Yijia, the other two were filled with various expensive gifts.


    If she had not guessed that she would not enter the palace, Empress Dowager Zhou would not have asked him to bring the reward.


    The young eunuch reacted and broke out in a cold sweat. Fortunately, he held back from cursing. Otherwise, he would have lost his head.


    There were two cars, a total of eight wooden boxes covered with golden agarwood. Soon, they were done moving them.


    Eunuch Yu went to the door, cleared his throat, and said, ¡°Young Master, I¡¯ve placed the Empress Dowager¡¯s reward at this door for you.¡±


    There was no movement inside.


    He thought for a moment and said, ¡°The Empress Dowager personally chose these things. They¡¯re priceless. Don¡¯t let others move them away.¡± With that, he hurriedly climbed into the carriage and urged, ¡°Quick, let¡¯s go.¡±


    Everyone was stunned by his series of actions. They only reacted when he urged them again.


    The dozen or so people quickly climbed into the carriage they had come in. The coachman waved his whip and the team left.


    They looked like they were being chased by a ghost.


    The courtyard door opened again. Shen Yijia walked out and frowned at the eight large boxes blocking the door.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s for you, accept it,¡± Ji Luo said from behind her.


    Shen Yijia hesitated. ¡°But¡­¡±


    Did accepting it mean that she had acknowledged that identity and accepted the old woman?

 Chapter 837 - Chapter 837: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (1)

    Chapter 837: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing her hesitation, Ji Luo smiled and said, ¡°The Xuanyuan family owes you. If they give it to you, just accept it. If they don¡¯t, we don¡¯t care.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou had sent so many things with great fanfare. The meaning was clearly different from the few trinkets she had gotten someone to give her in the palace last time.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°I¡¯m a principled person. I definitely won¡¯t bend over for such a small benefit.¡±


    Seeing her carrying the large wooden boxes onto the carriage one by one with a pained expression, Ji Luo asked teasingly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to take a look at what¡¯s inside?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head without thinking. ¡°I don¡¯t want to see it.¡±


    Since she had to send it back anyway, she couldn¡¯t bear to see it.


    Ji Luo was amused by her.


    There were too many things for a single carriage. Shen Yijia simply removed the carriage and replaced it with a new board.


    The eight large wooden boxes were stacked and placed on two layers. They were then secured with a hemp rope.


    MO Yuan drove the carriage while Shen Yijia sat beside her.


    ¡°Mother, we¡¯ll be off.¡±


    Ji Luo nodded and said, ¡°Come back early.¡±


    The carriage clattered towards the inner city. In just a few days, the people on the streets had returned to their former prosperity. There were no longer any traces of the plague.


    As they entered Yongding Street, a team came towards them.


    In front of the team were four bailiffs on horses, and behind them was a prison cart. Sitting in the prison cart was a prisoner in prison clothes. Her hands and feet were shackled, and her hair was disheveled.


    Perhaps because they recognized her, the other party took the initiative to stop and let her carriage pass first.


    Shen Yijia glanced at the spacious road and thought to herself, ¡°There¡¯s no need.¡±


    She was not interested in the prisoner. Unexpectedly, just as the two sides brushed past each other, the person who had been quietly curled up in a corner of the prison cart suddenly pounced in her direction. ¡°Behave yourself,¡± the bailiff scolded sternly.


    Shen Yijia looked over and was stunned.


    She grabbed the wooden railing of the prison carriage with both hands and glared at her resentfully. Who else could it be but Xuanyuan Ye?


    To be precise, it should be called Jiang Ye now.


    At first, Xuanyuan Qi only demoted her to a commoner. When Eunuch Yu brought the imperial physician to explain about how she wrote a letter using the ink mixed with the blood of plague patients, Xuanyuan Qi was furious and deprived her of her surname.


    She was supposed to be sentenced to death for plotting to murder the empress dowager of the current dynasty. In the end, Empress Dowager Zhou softened her heart and got someone to send a message to the emperor, so the sentence of death was changed to exile.


    ¡°It¡¯s you. It¡¯s all your fault.¡± Jiang Ye glared at her.


    How strange!


    Shen Yijia retracted her gaze indifferently and ignored her.


    Perhaps angered by her reaction, Jiang Ye scolded, ¡°B*tch, you harmed me and my mother. You¡¯ll definitely suffer retribution. I curse you and everyone you care about to have a bad end¡­¡¯


    The bailiff¡¯s whip hit the cage, inevitably hitting Jiang Ye¡¯s hand that was holding the wooden railing. It was so painful that she retracted her hand, but she did not stop cursing.


    Jiang Ye always felt that if Shen Yijia and Ji Luo did not appear, her mother would not have angered Xuanyuan Ce in order to get rid of them. Her secrets would not have been exposed, let alone what happened after that.


    Without those things, she would always be that high and mighty princess.


    Shen Yijia tugged at MO Yuan¡¯s sleeve and gestured for her to stop the car. She said coldly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you and your mother deserve this outcome? Did I ask your mother to harm that scumbag? Or did I ask you to harm the old woman?¡±


    ¡°Oh, not only did your mother almost kill the scumbag, but she also secretly gave birth to you.¡±


    More and more commoners gathered around and whispered to each other. They looked at Jiang Ye with disgust.


    ¡°What a shameless bastard.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Empress Dowager dotes on her so much, but she still did such a vicious thing. Isn¡¯t she an ingrate?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t insult an ingrate. She¡¯s worse than an animal. Pfft.¡±


    ¡°Shut up, all of you.¡± Jiang Ye¡¯s eyes turned red with anger as she roared at the people around her.


    She suddenly thought of something and smiled proudly at Shen Yijia. ¡°Do you think that if I leave, you can take my place in Imperial Grandmother¡¯s heart and enjoy her love? You¡¯re delusional.¡±


    ¡°You definitely can¡¯t figure out why I was able to leave Phoenix City alive, right? It¡¯s because Grandmother couldn¡¯t bear it. Just watch. When her anger subsides in a few years, she will definitely send someone to pick me up. You can never replace me.¡±


    No one noticed that after she finished speaking, the four bailiffs had strange expressions.


    They were personally appointed by the emperor!


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. She made it sound like she cherished that old woman..

 Chapter 838 - Chapter 838: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (2)

    Chapter 838: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Not to mention whether the old woman would still be alive a few years later, even if she really brought Jiang Ye back, it had nothing to do with her.


    ¡°MO Yuan, let¡¯s go.¡±


    It was a waste of her breath to talk to this person.


    MO Yuan didn¡¯t move.


    Shen Yijia turned to look at her. ¡°MO Yuan?¡±


    ¡°Miss, the Empress Dowager personally picked out the things in this carriage for you from the vault. Do you really want to return them to her? No matter what, it¡¯s a token of her appreciation. Why don¡¯t you accept it?¡± MO Yuan said expressionlessly.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°MO Yuan, you¡¯ve learned bad things!¡± she thought.


    The smile on Jiang Ye¡¯s face froze. She looked at the eight large wooden boxes piled behind the carriage and shook her head in disbelief. ¡®You¡¯re talking nonsense. Imperial Grandmother hates your mother so much. How could she give you so many rewards?¡±


    She was about to leave. Shouldn¡¯t Grandmother be sad now? How could she still be in the mood to choose a gift for others?


    ¡°No wonder I saw the carriage from the palace pass by here early this morning.


    So it¡¯s the Empress Dowager¡¯s people.¡±


    ¡°I saw it too. There were three carriages.¡±


    ¡°That box seems to be made of agarwood, right? Oh my god, this wooden box alone is worth a lot of money. Who said that the Empress Dowager doesn¡¯t like this new princess? Isn¡¯t this nonsense?¡±


    The discussions became louder and louder. Jiang Ye covered her ears and shook her head desperately. ¡°Impossible, that¡¯s impossible. I¡¯m the one Imperial


    Grandmother dotes on the most. It¡¯s impossible for her to accept you.¡±


    ¡°Let me go back. I want to see Imperial Grandmother. I¡¯ll apologize to Imperial Grandmother. She¡¯ll definitely forgive me.¡±


    Imperial Grandmother doted on her so much.


    How could she be really angry with her?


    How could she really not want her?


    As long as she begged her again, she would definitely keep her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go to the frontier fortress. I want to go back to the palace. Let me go.¡±


    Jiang Ye began to hit the wooden railing with her body like a madman, as if she wanted to break out of the cage and escape.


    Shen Yijia did not expect Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s reward to be so powerful. She was speechless. ¡°If you had known earlier, you wouldn¡¯t have done it.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou did not even care about Jiang Ye¡¯s background and still doted on her. As long as Jiang Ye knew her place, would she be afraid of not having a good life in the future?


    She had brought this upon herself!


    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Shen Yijia retracted her gaze.


    This time, MO Yuan did not stay any longer.


    The discussion behind her continued. Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Is agarwood very expensive?¡±


    MO Yuan nodded. ¡°Agarwood can not only be used to make incense, but also medicine.¡±


    ¡°Damn, the old woman is telling me that these eight large wooden boxes are worth a lot.¡±


    She turned and leaned over the box, taking two sharp breaths.


    The smell of monev was so fragrant!


    ¡°MO Yuan, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    She understood. Her mother was right. Since she had taken the initiative to give it to her, why should she return it?


    She could go against anything, but she couldn¡¯t go against money.


    ¡°That was close. I was almost stupid!¡± she thought.


    MO Yuan asked, ¡®Miss, where are your principles?¡±


    Previously, who was the one who swore that she would not lower her head for small benefits?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face did not hurt at all. Instead, she looked at her as if she was looking at a fool. ¡°Can principles be eaten? Can they give you your monthly allowance?¡±


    MO Yuan thought about it seriously. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then that¡¯s fine. Hurry up and go home. Perhaps my husband has already returned. ¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at her and didn¡¯t say anything. She silently turned the carriage around.


    In the end, news about what happened on the streets reached the palace. Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face darkened. ¡°She¡¯s unrepentant.¡±


    Eunuch Wu hesitated for a moment and said worriedly, ¡°What if the empress dowager finds out that you asked someone to¡­¡¯


    ¡°Then control your mouth. If Mother finds out, I¡¯ll ask you!¡± Eunuch Wu was speechless.


    He wasn¡¯t the only one who knew. The four bailiffs¡­


    ¡°What? Do you have a problem with that?¡± Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him coldly.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡¯


    If he dared to have any objections, Xuanyuan Qi would probably get someone to take away his coffin.


    That was his life¡¯s work.


    Every time he thought of it, Eunuch Wu¡¯s heart ached.


    On the other side, Empress Dowager Zhou heaved a sigh of relief when Shen Yijia did not return the items.


    Seeing this, Eunuch Yu smiled and said, ¡°The human heart is made of flesh. I believe it won¡¯t be long before Young Master accepts you, the Empress Dowager.¡±


    ¡°Who wants her to accept me?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou glanced at him. ¡°I just don¡¯t want Ce¡¯er to be in a difficult position.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s sacrificed enough for me and the emperor.¡±


    Eunuch Yu smiled awkwardly. ¡°His Highness will definitely understand the


    Empress Dowager¡¯s intentions..¡±

 Chapter 839 - Chapter 839: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (3)

    Chapter 839: Name Changed to Jiang Ye (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Actually, in that situation back then, His Highness was not the only one who sacrificed himself.


    However, he only dared to think about such things in his heart.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get the staff from the registry to take the measurements for that girl tomorrow. When the time comes, I¡¯ll make more clothes and send them to her. She¡¯s wearing such shabby clothes all day. She¡¯ll embarrass Ce¡¯er.¡±


    At this point, she said uncomfortably, ¡°Take that woman¡¯s measurements too.¡±


    Eunuch Yu was stunned. When he realized who the woman she was talking about was, he quickly lowered his head and agreed.


    As soon as Shen Yijia returned home, she carried the eight wooden boxes into the central room.


    She opened them one by one. The gold, silver, and jade artifacts inside almost blinded her.


    Ji Luo did not know what had happened outside and thought that Shen Yijia regretted it halfway.


    After all, she could tell that her daughter was a little money-grubber.


    Seeing that she was so happy over such a small thing, Ji Luo found it funny and heartbreaking. If Jiajia had been used to this since she was young, she definitely wouldn¡¯t be like this.


    ¡°MO Yuan, there¡¯s no need to unload the plates. Let¡¯s pull these to the pawnshop.¡±


    With that, she prepared to move again.


    Ji Luo stopped her helplessly. ¡°How would the pawn shops outside dare to accept these things? Keep them as your dowry.¡±


    ¡°Dowry?¡± Shen Yijia was puzzled. ¡°But I¡¯m already married.¡±


    Ji Luo froze for a moment and turned around to help her cover a few boxes. ¡°Who said that dowry can only be added when you get married? As long as it¡¯s something you brought to your husband¡¯s family, it can be considered a dowry.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Shen Yijia looked at her ¡°busy¡± back in disbelief.


    ¡°Of course!¡±


    ¡°But it¡¯s too troublesome to bring these things to Great Xia. Let¡¯s exchange them for gold.¡±


    Originally, banknotes were the most convenient. Unfortunately, there was no paper currency connecting the two countries.


    As she spoke, she was about to move again.


    Ji Luo stopped her again. Meeting Shen Yijia¡¯s suspicious gaze, she explained, ¡°There¡¯s no hurry.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. Why?


    Ji Luo felt guilty under her gaze.


    MO Yuan continued, ¡°The commoners all know that Empress Dowager Zhou gave these things to Miss. If Miss pawns them today, Empress Dowager Zhou will definitely hear about it.¡±


    ¡°MO Yuan is right. That¡¯s what I mean.¡± Ji Luo echoed, ¡°Besides, these pawn shops might not dare to accept these things. Why don¡¯t we let MO Yuan ask around if there¡¯s a black market in Phoenix City before selling them?¡±


    ¡°That works too.¡±


    Although she was not afraid of Empress Dowager Zhou, it was better to avoid trouble. It was better not to cause trouble for her beautiful husband.


    Seeing that she finally nodded, Ji Luo secretly gave MO Yuan a thumbs up.


    Unable to cash out immediately, Shen Yijia began to think about Song Jingchen, who had gone out. However, he and Thirty Thousand didn¡¯t return for dinner.


    Not only him, but even Xuanyuan Ce, who visited every day, did not come today.


    After dinner, the mother and daughter sat in the courtyard and chatted. Phoenix City was already a little hot in May.


    Shen Yijia fanned herself with a fan. She remembered that Ji Luo was still wearing a thick veil.


    She said tentatively, ¡°Mother, I have the spiritual liquid. Why don¡¯t¡­¡± Ji Luo knew what she meant and asked, ¡°Do you care?¡±


    Did she care about having a mother who looked like a ghost?


    ¡°Of course not.¡± Shen Yijia quickly shook her head. ¡°I just want to see Mother¡¯s original appearance. They all say that we¡¯re very similar, but I¡¯ve never seen it before.¡±


    Ji Luo did not say anything for a moment.


    Afraid that she would think too much, Shen Yijia continued, ¡°If Mother doesn¡¯t want to treat it, then let¡¯s not treat it.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± Ji Luo suddenly said.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. For a moment, she could not react to her words.


    Ji Luo raised his hand to touch his face. ¡°I¡¯ve been telling Xuanyuan Ce that the past is in the past. In fact, I¡¯m the one who really can¡¯t get over it.¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡± Shen Yijia regretted mentioning this.


    ¡°I can still see you and hear you call me Mother. All of this is developing in a good direction. I shouldn¡¯t dwell on the past anymore. I should move on.¡± The corners of Ji Luo¡¯s lips under the veil curled up. ¡°I can¡¯t embarrass you when we go to Great Xia.¡±


    The fact that she said that meant that she would not stay in the Xuanyuan Kingdom anymore.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that no matter what she looked like, she would not embarrass her, but she was afraid that she would change her mind.


    Without saying anything, she ran back to the house and took out a porcelain bottle. She dripped the spiritual liquid into it and handed it to her.


    Ji Luo put away the porcelain bottle, and Shen Yijia did not ask further.


    When Song Jingchen returned, it was already midnight. The lights in the house were still on. He pushed open the door and saw Shen Yijia sleeping at the table.


    He helplessly went forward and carried her to the bed. His movements were very gentle. Unexpectedly, after taking two steps, Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re back?¡±


    Song Jingchen patted her back rhythmically. ¡°Yes, continue sleeping.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to ask him where he had gone, but Song Jingchen¡¯s voice and movements were too hypnotic. She fell asleep again.


    When she woke up, she found out from MO Yuan that Song Jingchen had gone out.


    This time, it would take a day and a night for him to return.


    Shen Yijia was so angry that she almost exploded on the spot. She seriously suspected that Song Jingchen was deliberately coaxing her to sleep so that she wouldn¡¯t ask.


    Due to her anger, when the embroiderer in the palace said early in the morning that she wanted to measure her size and make clothes for her, she was chased out without hesitation..

 Chapter 840 - Chapter 840: Wedding (1)

    Chapter 840: Wedding (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia was angry with him early in the morning until Ji Luo came out of her room.


    It was also at this moment that Shen Yijia finally understood why everyone who had seen her mother said that they looked alike.


    Her eyebrows were so similar to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s that no one could tell when Ji Luo was wearing a veil.


    However, now that there were no longer those crisscrossing scars on her face, anyone with a discerning eye could tell that they were mother and daughter.


    If Shen Yijia looked 30% like Xuanyuan Ce, then the remaining 70% looked like Ji Luo, especially the shape of her face and the bridge of her nose. She looked like a replica.


    However, Ji Luo looked relatively cold, while Shen Yijia still looked a little ignorant.


    ¡°Jiajia?¡± Ji Luo felt a little uncomfortable when she saw Shen Yijia staring at her in a daze.


    Shen Yijia was adrift for a moment. When she reacted, her eyes lit up as she praised, ¡°Yes, Mother is too beautiful. She¡¯s like a fairy.¡±


    After all, she was so good-looking. Of course, her mother was good-looking too!


    For some reason, Ji Luo understood what she meant. She was amused by her straightforward words, and the unnatural feeling in her heart dissipated.


    ¡°Mother,¡± Shen Yijia called again.


    This feeling was actually very strange. She had never lived with Ji Luo before, so it was unreal to suddenly know that such a person existed. Even though she called her mother, she felt that something was missing in her heart.


    It was different now. She could clearly see the similarities between the two of them and was very sure that this person was her mother.


    Ji Luo felt a lump in her throat.


    Shen Yijia was like a child who had been given candy. She was amused for a long time. She thought of something and asked in confusion, ¡°But my body is clearly hers. Shouldn¡¯t I look like Madam Wang?¡±


    So was Ji Luo¡¯s child Shen Yijia or the original host?


    Knowing what she was thinking, Ji Luo said seriously, ¡°Appearances come from the heart. Jiajia, you¡¯re you, not anyone.¡±


    Back then, she helped Madam Wang fulfill her dream because Jiajia borrowed Madam Wang¡¯s daughter¡¯s body. From the moment Jiajia returned, they no longer had anything to do with each other.


    As for Madam Wang and her daughter, they might have met in another world.


    Shen Yijia nodded as if she understood. ¡°I¡¯ll have two mothers in the future. As for the path she hasn¡¯t completed, I¡¯ll walk it for her.¡±


    She was referring to the original host.


    Ji Luo said in relief, ¡®Yes, I¡¯ll accompany you to visit them when we go to Great Xia.¡±


    The relationship between the mother and daughter seemed to have become much closer. Because of this, Shen Yijia temporarily forgot about Song


    Jingchen going out. In the afternoon, Ji Luo suggested going out for a walk, and she agreed without hesitation.


    However¡­


    ¡°Mother, why are we buying these?¡± Shen Yijia looked at the things Ji Luo picked out and was secretly speechless.


    Wasn¡¯t her mother spending too much money?


    They spent a lot. They had to buy jade, gold jewelry, white jade mandarin duck buckles, jade ornaments, and white jade pendants.


    Shen Yijia could not even remember the names of many things.


    Compared to Shen Yijia¡¯s pained expression, Ji Luo was completely unsatisfied.


    She patted the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and said with heartache, ¡°Make do with these things first. I¡¯ll give you something else when we go to Great Xia.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Make do? Does her mother have some misunderstanding about making do?¡±


    ¡°No!¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia finally caught the main point of Ji Luo¡¯s bold words. ¡°I don¡¯t need these things.¡±


    Ji Luo was stunned. She thought to herself that she had almost exposed herself again. She turned her head away and said, ¡°Whether it¡¯s useful or not, it¡¯s


    Mother¡¯s kindness.¡±


    Looking into Jiajia¡¯s eyes, she really couldn¡¯t say that she was panicking.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say, ¡°You¡¯ve already given me all the wealth left behind by the generations of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Is there anything more precious than that?¡±


    However, in order not to sweep her heart away, she did not say anything.


    Anyway, these things were for her. At most, she would secretly pawn them in the future when her mother was not paying attention and exchange them for money.


    She was such a clever little devil.


    After that, Shen Yijia no longer objected to whatever Ji Luo bought, even if it was a big item like a bed!


    In the end, they bought it. Everyone in Phoenix City guessed that Divine Doctor Ji was going to marry off her daughter. Only Shen Yijia, the daughter of the divine doctor, knew nothing.


    She couldn¡¯t be blamed for being slow. The only wedding she had witnessed was An Dong¡¯s marriage. The conditions in Xiagou Village were extremely simple, be it the betrothal gifts or dowry. They definitely wouldn¡¯t buy such things.


    Secondly, she had never thought that Song Jingchen would want to marry her again. After all, in her understanding, she and Song Jingchen were already legally married. How could they marry twice?


    She was still in a daze when MO Yuan and Ji Luo dug her out of the blanket and placed it in the bathtub before dawn the next day.


    Looking at the room that had become festive overnight, Shen Yijia rubbed her eyes in disbelief.


    ¡°Mother, MO Yuan, am I seeing things?¡± she asked blankly.


    If she wasn¡¯t seeing things, she must be dreaming about the scene when she first transmigrated.


    MO Yuan smiled at her adorable look.


    Although it only lasted for a moment, Shen Yijia still caught it. Her eyes widened in fear. ¡°MO Yuan even knows how to smile. As expected, there¡¯s something wrong with my eyes.¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless.


    Ji Luo couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°You¡¯re not dreaming, and you didn¡¯t see wrongly. Today is your big day with Ah Chen.¡±


    In order to give this girl a surprise, she specially lit some calming incense in this room yesterday.


    Ji Luo sighed. She never expected that Jiajia and Ah Chen had not consummated their marriage after being married for three years.


    It was no wonder that her eldest grandson hadn¡¯t appeared.


    On the one hand, she felt that this was unbelievable. On the other hand, she realized how much Song Jingchen valued Jiajia.


    As a mother, she was naturally gratified that her daughter could find such a good person.


    Therefore, when Song Jingchen suggested preparing all of this behind Shen Yijia¡¯s back, she nodded in agreement without thinking.


    This wedding banquet made up for her regret of not being able to send her daughter off personally.


    ¡°Great joy? Is that what I think it means? I¡¯m going to be a bride?¡± Shen Yijia was still in a daze.


    She even felt that her brain wouldn¡¯t work anymore.


    Shen Yijia clearly remembered that before she went to bed last night, she had scolded her beautiful husband several times!


    Ji Luo took the comb from MO Yuan and gently helped Shen Yijia smoothen her hair. He smiled and said, ¡°Ah Chen said that you didn¡¯t attend the wedding back then. ¡±


    She had transmigrated here after the original host died. To be precise, she had never even sat in a bridal sedan, let alone stood in the wedding hall with her husband.


    Unexpectedly, he had been taking it to heart. Shen Yijia suddenly felt a lump in her throat, and her eyes turned red.


    She admitted that she was not a pretentious person, but this feeling of being cherished still made her unable to help but lose it.


    How could her husband be so good?

 Chapter 841 - Chapter 841: Wedding (2)

    Chapter 841: Wedding (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She was going to be a bride!


    Shen Yijia suppressed the urge to immediately see Song Jingchen and pounce on him. She sat obediently in the bathtub. The dense mist made her face blush, and her eyes sparkled.


    It was as if every pore was emitting joy.


    Compared to her happiness, Ji Luo couldn¡¯t help but cry.


    When she first met Shen Yijia, she had accepted the fact that she was already married.


    However, at the thought of sending her off to get married, she still felt reluctant to marry off her daughter.


    After taking a shower, MO Yuan brought a handkerchief to dry Shen Yijia¡¯s hair. Ji Luo brought over a palm-sized porcelain box and took out a small amount of transparent paste. She rubbed it open in his palm and smeared it on her hand and neck.


    The cream had a faint fragrance. It smelled good.


    Shen Yijia sniffed and grinned foolishly. She could already imagine Song Jingchen drowning in this fragrance.


    Oh, it was too embarrassing.


    Seeing that the blush on her face had disappeared, Ji Luo asked with concern, ¡°Is it hot?¡±


    Shen Yijia quickly dispelled those inappropriate images from her mind. Her eyes drifted as she said, ¡°It¡¯s not hot.¡±


    Ji Luo saw the change in her expression and guessed something. She looked a little uncomfortable.


    Her daughter¡­


    Forget it. She wasn¡¯t any better back then.


    After drying her hair, MO Yuan brought over a red wedding dress and helped Shen Yijia put it on.


    The wedding dress was complicated, with layer after layer of fabric. Shen Yijia¡¯s joy when she saw the wedding dress was almost gone.


    ¡°Do I need to wear so many layers?¡± she asked.


    Although it looked good, it would be troublesome to take it off later.


    She remembered that the clothes she wore when she first transmigrated were not so complicated!


    How could Shen Yijia know that because there was too little time, this wedding dress was made by the Internal Affairs Department after working overtime under Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s orders?


    After Xuanyuan Qi found out, he waved his sleeve and asked them to prepare according to the princess¡¯s standards. It was naturally more complicated than ordinary wedding dresses.


    Ji Luo only thought that she felt that it was too hot and did not care too much about rules. She could not bear to see Shen Yijia suffer, so she agreed without thinking.


    MO Yuan helped her lose two pounds.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s usual clothes were mostly light-colored. When she suddenly wore such bright colors, her eyes lit up. Ji Luo and MO Yuan were stunned for a moment.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth could not help but curl up. A smile could not help but appear on her face.


    ¡°Very good, I¡¯ll charm my husband to death later!¡± she thought.


    It would have been fine if she hadn¡¯t smiled, but her smile was even more seductive.


    Ji Luo teased, ¡°My daughter is so good-looking. Ah Chen is lucky.¡±


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°My husband is also very good-looking.¡± Ji Luo was amused by her protectiveness. ¡°Alright, alright. I was wrong. The two of you are a match made in heaven.¡±


    When she came out of the inner room, a familiar-looking woman was waiting there.


    Her husband¡¯s surname was Fang, and everyone called her Madam Fang.


    She was part of the ceremony, whom Ji Luo had asked MO Yuan to invite from the commoners. Xuanyuan Ce originally wanted to invite one of the concubines from Phoenix City, but Ji Luo refused.


    Madam Fang had given away so many brides, but this was the first time she had styled the hair of a girl from the royal family.


    It was impossible for her not to be nervous. When she came, she repeatedly reminded herself to say less, watch less, and do more.


    However, when she saw Shen Yijia, she could not take her eyes off her.


    ¡°Oh my god, this girl is too beautiful. I would even believe that a fairy had descended to the mortal world!¡± she thought.


    ¡°Madam. Fang.¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s voice brought her back to her senses. Madam Fang hurriedly apologized, ¡°I thought that I had seen a fairy and was in a daze. Please don¡¯t blame me for my rudeness.¡±


    Shen Yijia waved her hand indifferently. ¡°No, no.¡± You can continue.


    Madam Fang was stunned. She thought to herself, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t other girls be shy when they hear this? This lady is really different.¡±


    However, with this interruption, the nervousness in her heart dissipated a little.


    Ji Luo suppressed the reluctance in her heart and smiled. ¡°Thank you, Madam Fang.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my blessing to be able to style Miss¡¯s hair.¡±


    Ji Luo pulled Shen Yijia to sit down in front of the dressing table.


    Madam Fang walked forward and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯ll thread it for you first. It might hurt a little. Miss, bear with it.¡±


    Shen Yijia was still thinking about what she meant when she saw the lady take out a long thin cotton thread from the makeup basket she had brought. She wrapped the thin cotton thread in her right hand twice and bit the other end with her front teeth. She twisted it repeatedly in the middle of the web between the thumb and forefinger of her left hand and pressed the opening of the yarn against her face. The thread opened and closed, falling together. Shen Yijia shivered in pain. She held back from punching Madam Fang.


    Why did she pluck her hair?


    Madam Fang was twisting it very seriously. She did not notice that Shen Yijia was already clenching her fists, nor did she know that her head had almost exploded.


    Fortunately, she was already very familiar with this kind of work. It didn¡¯t take long for her to finish.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s skin was delicate and fair to begin with. After opening her face, she looked even more dazzling. Coupled with the physical tears that gathered in her eyes because of the pain, it made one¡¯s heart melt.


    Mrs. Fang said a few auspicious words at the right time. She picked up the comb on the dressing table and raised her hand to comb her hair.


    ¡°The first stroke to comb it all the way to the end.¡±


    ¡°The second stroke for longevity.¡± ¡°The third stroke for many descendants.¡±


    ¡°The fourth stroke¡­¡±


    When Mrs. Fang combed Shen Yijia¡¯s hair, Ji Luo¡¯s eyes were filled with tears again. Afraid that Shen Yijia would see it, she turned her body slightly and did not dare to look.


    After combing her hair, Mrs. Fang helped Shen Yijia tie her hair into a woman¡¯s bun. She turned around and picked up the phoenix crown from the tray in MO Yuan¡¯s hand for her to wear.


    Just as she finished doing this, it suddenly became lively outside.


    MO Yuan opened the door and left. Soon, she entered and said, ¡°Eunuch Wu is here.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at Ji Luo. She clearly did not know what was going on.


    However, since he was here, she had to go out and take a look.


    Eunuch Wu came with the imperial edict to confer Shen Yijia the title of princess. Her title was Yong¡¯an. He came with a courtyard full of rewards.


    When Xuanyuan Ce received the news and rushed over with Chu Feng¡¯s help, Shen Yijia had just received the imperial edict.


    He heaved a sigh of relief and quickly explained, ¡°Jiajia, I originally wanted to ask for your opinion, but I¡¯ve been so busy these past few days that I forgot. I didn¡¯t expect my brother to be so impatient to get someone to announce the decree. ¡±


    Although he was telling the truth, it was more or less a little suspicious that he was pretending to be obedient after taking advantage of her. However, he had no choice. He didn¡¯t want his daughter to take revenge.


    Perhaps because she was in a good mood today, Shen Yijia did not retort. Instead, she felt that his careful appearance was a little pitiful.


    She snorted. The imperial edict had already been issued. What else could she do? Anyway, she couldn¡¯t stay in the Xuanyuan Kingdom for long. When she returned to Great Xia, it didn¡¯t matter to her whether she was a princess or not.


    Not long after Eunuch Wu left, Eunuch Yu came with the empress dowager to give her some gifts.


    Then, there were the families of the ministers who were secretly watching from the various residences.


    The gifts should have been given two days before the wedding, and the dowry should have been sent the day before. However, the preparations for this wedding banquet only took two days.


    There wasn¡¯t enough time, so they could only keep everything simple.


    They did not have many relatives and friends here, so it was not a problem for them to have a meal as a family. Now that Xuanyuan Qi and the empress dowager were involved, it was really difficult to make it simple.


    Fortunately, everyone was tactful. They put down their gifts, praised the bride, and hurriedly bade farewell.


    ¡°Mother, where¡¯s my husband?¡± Shen Yijia looked at the madams and young ladies entering and leaving and whispered to Ji Luo


    Ji Luo was about to explain that Song Jingchen had bought another house on West Radiance Street as a wedding room when the sound of gongs and drums came from outside.


    ¡°It must be my husband!¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She stood up and was about to walk out.


    ¡°Jiajia, the fan.¡± Ji Luo quickly handed her the fan.


    The wedding in the Xuanyuan Kingdom was not like the brides of Great Xia who wore red veils. On this side, they used a fan to cover their faces, but they also used a fan. Therefore, the Ministry of Internal Affairs also prepared a fan.


    Xuanyuan Ziming had arrived at some point and was standing at the door with Xuanyuan Ce. When they heard the door open, the two of them turned around at the same time.


    ¡°Sister Jiajia, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Jiajia, I¡¯ll send you off to get married,¡± Xuanyuan Ce interrupted.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was stunned. He had only heard of brothers carrying their sisters to get married. How could a father carry them?


    He was her cousin. He should be the one carrying her!


    Shen Yijia looked at Ji Luo. Seeing the latter smile and nod, she muttered, ¡°Don¡¯t drop me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce relaxed and smiled. He could not see, but his eyes seemed to instantly light up.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    Forget it. There were many irregularities in this wedding banquet. First of all, she had never heard of a wedding banquet held after three years of marriage.


    Then, there was the dowry on the day of the wedding.


    Now that she had her biological father to send her off, it didn¡¯t seem to be a problem.


    However, he also wanted to carry her!


    Outside the door, a handsome young man in fresh clothes attracted the attention of many madams and young ladies who had yet to leave after giving their gifts.


    The women who originally thought that Shen Yijia was lucky were even more envious and jealous.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even look at them and dismounted.


    According to the rules, the bride¡¯s family would arrange for someone to block the door when they picked up the bride, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even consider the wedding gifts, so he naturally omitted this.


    Therefore, when he saw three Demon Guards in silver masks guarding the door, his eyelids twitched.


    How could he have forgotten about Xuanyuan Ce?!

 Chapter 842 - Chapter 842: Wedding (3)

    Chapter 842: Wedding (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    This courtyard was not big to begin with, and it was not far from the door.


    Shen Yijia was about to lie on Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s back when a commotion suddenly came from outside. She could vaguely hear something like ¡°a fight¡±.


    Shen Yijia was stunned and ran out without thinking.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who was happily waiting to carry his daughter to get married, felt a gust of wind blow past him.


    ¡°Eh, where¡¯s my daughter?¡± he thought.


    Ji Luo walked to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s side in disdain and said angrily, ¡°It must be you.¡±


    With that, she ignored him and quickly followed Shen Yijia.


    ¡°What did I do?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was a little stunned and stopped mid-sentence.


    He suddenly remembered what he had said to the three Demon Guards in a fit of anger two days ago when he found out that Song Jingchen had taken advantage of his daughter for three years.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Jiajia take a fancy to that brat¡¯s face? When the time comes, the three of you will hurt his face. Let¡¯s see if he can lie to my daughter again.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, if you think you can marry my daughter so easily, I won¡¯t let you off easily.¡±


    Thinking back, Xuanyuan Ce felt terrible and quickly stood up to chase after her.


    ¡°Jiajia, Ah Luo, listen to my explanation!¡±


    Outside the courtyard, Song Jingchen and the three Demon Guards were fighting on the eaves.


    Which of the Demon Spirits didn¡¯t fight their way out of a pile of corpses? One of them was already difficult to deal with, let alone three of them at once. Song Jingchen was clearly at a disadvantage. Fortunately, it wasn¡¯t easy for the Demon Spirits to hurt him in a short time.


    ¡°Stop, stop quickly.¡± Shen Yijia stomped her feet as she watched from below. Apart from You Yi slowing down his attack, the other two pretended not to hear her.


    She was so angry that she rolled up her sleeves and wanted to climb up the wall.


    ¡°How dare you bully my husband on my wedding day? I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    Looking at Shen Yijia, who was hanging on the wall and climbing up, the corners of Ji Luo¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°Jiajia, come down quickly.¡±


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯ll help my husband.¡±


    Ji Luo cursed Xuanyuan Ce in his heart. She turned her wrist and three silver needles appeared between her fingers.


    The moment she raised her hand, Xuanyuan Ce finally arrived.


    ¡°Stop,¡± he said hurriedly.


    The three Demon Guards looked at each other and stopped.


    Song Jingchen retracted his sword and landed with Shen Yijia, who had finally climbed up the wall.


    Shen Yijia retreated from his arms and walked angrily towards You Yi and the other two. Unexpectedly, she was stopped after taking two steps.


    ¡°Hubby?¡±


    Song Jingchen helped her adjust her slightly crooked phoenix crown and smiled. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    With that, he threw the sword to Thirty Thousand and cupped his hands at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Thank you for showing mercy, Your Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s right. You Yi and the other two are just following orders. The real mastermind is Xuanvuan Ce.¡±


    After figuring this out, she stopped looking for trouble with You Yi and the other two. She clenched her fists and went straight for Xuanyuan Ce.


    Song Jingchen reached out but couldn¡¯t stop her.


    Therefore, Xuanyuan Ce happily received the dark circles and fainting set meal given by his biological daughter.


    When the auspicious time arrived, crackling firecrackers sounded. Ji Luo stuffed the fan that Shen Yijia had thrown aside back into her hand and looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯ll leave my daughter to you. If you dare to let her suffer in the future, I¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Shen Yijia revealed her eyes from behind the fan. ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. My husband won¡¯t let me suffer.¡±


    Ji Luo was speechless.


    Her daughter was siding with outsiders, but she was no longer sad at all.


    Song Jingchen said solemnly, ¡°Mother, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll only have Jiajia as my wife in my life. I¡¯ll treasure her and protect her with my life.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to interrupt, but Ji Luo glared at her angrily and reminded her a few more times before sending her to the bridal sedan.


    When they finally left with the dowry, Ji Luo also got into the carriage to the new residence.


    After they left for ten minutes, Xuanyuan Ce, who was leaning against Chu Feng, slowly woke up.


    ¡°Your Highness, are you alright?¡± Chu Feng asked worriedly.


    Xuanyuan Ce gasped in pain. In order to maintain his image, he did not even apply medicine today. If he had known earlier, he would have covered it with a cloth.


    He raised his hand to cover his eyes, but he stopped halfway.


    The new residence was not far from here, but the bridal escort team continued the festivities for two hours before stopping.


    It was worth mentioning that Xuanyuan Ce had also prepared a dowry for Shen Yijia, but it was directly sent from the prince¡¯s residence.


    The scene was so grand that the last person in the procession only left the prince¡¯s residence an hour after the first person exited the residence. This naturally made many people¡¯s eyes turn red.


    After the sedan arrived at the new residence, Song Jingchen finished shooting three arrows with his bow. Only then did Shen Yijia get out of the bridal sedan under the reminder of the matchmaker.


    The two of them looked at each other with smiles in their eyes.


    The matchmaker took a piece of red silk at the right time and handed it to the two of them.


    Because Madam Li and the others were far away in Great Xia, Song Jingchen invited Ji Luo to sit in the hall.


    As for why he didn¡¯t specially invite Xuanyuan Ce, it was because Song Jingchen knew that he would come even without an invitation.


    As expected, when the two of them entered the main hall, Xuanyuan Ce, who had two dark circles under his eyes, was already sitting happily at the head of the table.


    In stark contrast to him was Ji Luo, who had a dark expression.


    However, when the couple entered, Ji Luo smiled again.


    ¡°Why do I feel that he¡¯s a little silly?¡± Shen Yijia whispered. It was no wonder her mother¡¯s face darkened.


    The first time she saw Xuanyuan Ce, he was still a cold and beautiful uncle.


    Song Jingchen was amused by her. ¡°Maybe he¡¯s too happy.¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted. ¡°He¡¯s not the one getting married.¡± Why did he look happier than her?


    The couple stood still and the matchmaker raised her voice with a smile. ¡°Bow to the heavens.¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around with Song Jingchen and bowed towards the door.


    The matchmaker shouted again, ¡°Second bow to the elders.¡±


    The two of them changed directions again and bowed to the two elders at the head of the table.


    Tears flashed in Ji Luo¡¯s eyes. This was something she didn¡¯t even dare to dream about.


    Xuanyuan Ce stopped smiling foolishly. As a man, his eyes turned red. He suddenly grabbed Ji Luo¡¯s hand.


    Ji Luo was stunned, and tears fell from her eyes. ¡°Next, the wedded couple shall bow to each other.¡±


    The two of them faced each other and bowed deeply.


    As the matchmaker finished her last sentence, the wedding banquet, which was three years late, finally came to an end.


    Song Jingchen felt inexplicably relieved.


    In the wedding room, Shen Yijia sat obediently on the wedding bed. She covered her face with a fan, revealing only a pair of eyes that seemed to contain the stars in the sky as she looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen also looked at her.


    After the matchmaker finished reading the blessings, she saw that Song Jingchen was still standing there in a daze. She reminded him, ¡°You can remove the fan now.¡±


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and realized that his palms were sweating. He walked forward and took the fan from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. Shen Yijia said, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re so handsome today.¡±


    After saying that, she looked at him eagerly, waiting for him to praise her.


    They were clearly an old couple, but Song Jingchen felt like a young boy. His entire body tensed up under her gaze.


    ¡°My wife, you¡¯re also very beautiful today,¡± he said.


    Shen Yijia grinned in satisfaction.


    The matchmaker blushed. She had never seen such a bold bride.


    She said some auspicious words and picked up a bowl of dumplings from the side. She picked one up and fed it to Shen Yijia. Shen Yijia bit the entire dumpling into her mouth.


    The matchmaker was speechless.


    Shen Yijia chewed for a moment and frowned. The matchmaker quickly asked before she could spit it out, ¡°Are you going to give birth?¡±


    Shen Yijia replied with a bitter expression, ¡°Yes!¡±


    The matchmaker immediately smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s right. Next year, the princess will definitely be able to give birth to a fat boy.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and swallowed the dumpling in her mouth. ¡°Three more.¡±


    One child was too little!


    The matchmaker was speechless.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly and held back his laughter. ¡°You may leave first.¡±


    The matchmaker bowed tactfully and retreated.


    Seeing that she had taken the dumplings away, Shen Yijia said anxiously, ¡°Hey, my dumplings¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen pulled her into his arms. ¡°You¡¯ll have a stomach ache if you eat too much.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡¯


    ¡°Dumplings don¡¯t have the final say in how many children we have.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Then who does?¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°Your husband.¡±


    With that, he raised his hand and grabbed the back of Shen Yijia¡¯s head. He lowered his head and covered her lips.


    He had waited too long for this day


    ¡°Master.¡±


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s voice came from outside the door.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s body stiffened. He used a lot of restraint to look up. ¡°What is


    ¡°The emperor has brought all the ministers of the dynasty here. He said that he¡¯s here to attend the wedding banquet,¡± Thirty Thousand said.


    Shen Yijia gritted her teeth. ¡°What wedding banquet? We don¡¯t have any wine for them to drink.¡±


    She had taken a look when she came over just now. Although the residence was big, she did not see any servants. Her beautiful husband had probably never thought of inviting guests.


    Thirty Thousand¡¯s voice sounded after a while.


    ¡°The king brought the imperial chefs from the palace¡­¡±


    Since the chef had already brought them here, they naturally wouldn¡¯t forget the food and wine.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s fine if you came uninvited, but you even brought your own wine. I¡¯ve never seen such a thing in my life.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. It was because he hadn¡¯t thought it through. It was mainly because he didn¡¯t know anyone here, and time was tight. He glanced at Shen Yijia. ¡°Are you hungry? I¡¯ll get MO Yuan to bring you food.¡±


    Shen Yijia knew that he was about to leave. She grabbed his clothes with two fingers and said gloomily, ¡°Alright.¡±


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but smile and plant a kiss on her forehead. ¡°Wait for me. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    ¡°Go quickly.¡± The sooner he went, the sooner he would return..

 Chapter 843 - Chapter 843: Consummation

    Chapter 843: Consummation


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Not long after Song Jingchen left, MO Yuan brought in a food box.


    ¡°Already?¡±


    She was too excited in the morning and did not eat. Now that she saw a table full of delicacies, Shen Yijia immediately started eating.


    MO Yuan helped her scoop a bowl of fish soup. ¡°Master has already instructed me to prepare it.¡±


    However, Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t left the room yet, so it was not appropriate for her to knock on the door.


    Shen Yijia took a sip of the soup. The soup was milky and mellow. The fish was fresh and tender, and it melted in her mouth. She smiled. ¡°Mother is so good.¡±


    After she filled her stomach, MO Yuan put the leftovers back into the food box and took out a booklet. ¡°Master asked me to give this to Miss.¡±


    Shen Yijia took it. There was only a portrait of a beauty drawn on the booklet. She asked curiously, ¡®What is this?¡±


    MO Yuan shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but Master specially instructed Miss to read it carefully.¡±


    Afraid that Shen Yijia would not take it to heart, MO Yuan prepared to wait for Shen Yijia to finish reading before leaving.


    ¡°So serious?¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia opened the booklet.


    ¡°Wow!¡± she exclaimed.


    MO Yuan looked over curiously and instantly blushed. ¡°This¡­ Miss, take your


    time. I¡¯ll leave first.¡±


    She picked up the food box and left, as if something was chasing after her.


    Shen Yijia stared at the man and woman in the booklet and did not look up. The pictures in the booklet were too¡­ Compared to the books she had read in the past, this was much more intense.


    After flipping through two pages, Shen Yijia suddenly understood. So this was the consummation. Then hadn¡¯t she been deceived by her beautiful husband previously?


    It was impossible for her beautiful husband to lie to her. Perhaps he didn¡¯t know either?


    ¡®Yes, that must be it.¡± Shen Yijia nodded firmly. This was everyone¡¯s first time, so it was normal for her beautiful husband not to understand.


    Thinking of this, Shen Yijia¡¯s face became serious. She had to learn well. She could only teach her beautiful husband after she learned it.


    However, this posture was a little too tricky.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that someone wanted to be his teacher after he left for a while.


    It was not an exaggeration for Thirty Thousand to say that all the ministers of the imperial court were here. In order to show how important Shen Yijia was to him, Xuanyuan Qi brought everyone here before the court session ended.


    With the imperial chefs and palace servants in the palace, the venue was set up quickly. In short, everyone was already drinking when Song Jingchen arrived.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. For some reason, he felt like someone was holding a banquet at his house on his wedding day.


    It was fine if they were forced to receive guests, but they all drank with him warmly.


    After a long time, Xuanyuan Ce stopped him again.


    ¡°Rascal¡­¡± He was a little drunk and still didn¡¯t like Song Jingchen in any way. ¡°Listen carefully, I only have one daughter, Jiajia. If you dare to betray her in the future, I¡¯ll be the first to come after you.¡±


    ¡°That girl is silly. Her heart is filled with you, and she¡¯s treating you well¡­ This is very similar to Ah Luo.¡± Xuanyuan Ce picked up his wine glass and drank it in one gulp. He muttered, ¡°Don¡¯t lose her like me¡­¡±


    The atmosphere was a little awkward because of his last sentence.


    Xuanyuan Ziming quickly said, ¡°Uncle is right. Sister Jiajia is a member of our


    Xuanyuan family. Brother-in-law, you can¡¯t bully her.¡±


    ¡°Brother-in-law.¡± The Eldest Prince and Second Prince also raised their wine glasses. Their meaning was obvious.


    Xuanyuan Qi was afraid that his two sons would become bargaining chips in the hands of the aristocratic families one day, so he was still worried about them.


    Fortunately, the two of them were not people who were obsessed with power. The three brothers had always had a good relationship.


    At least so far, there had never been a case of brothers backstabbing each other.


    Song Jingchen was forced to drink a few more glasses of wine. In the end, Xuanyuan Qi said that it was getting late, so they let him go.


    Since the emperor had left, the others naturally felt embarrassed to stay any longer and bade farewell.


    After sending everyone off, it was already sunset.


    Thirty Thousand brought him a bowl of hangover soup at the right time.


    ¡°This was specially instructed by Madam Ji,¡± he said.


    It had to be said that Ji Luo had been worried sick about the couple consummating their marriage. After worrying that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t understand the etiquette of a married couple, he was also worried that Song Jingchen would cause trouble after drinking too much.


    If not for the fact that she knew that Xuanyuan Qi was trying to show his support for Shen Yijia today, she would have drugged all the guests and thrown them out.


    Song Jingchen finished the hangover soup and took a shower in the front courtyard before returning to his new room.


    At that moment, Shen Yijia had already taken off her phoenix crown and changed into a thin red shirt. Her black hair was casually tied up with a wooden hairpin.


    Song Jingchen had given her this wooden hairpin when he learned how to carve. It was also her favorite hairpin.


    Seeing him enter, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She seemed to have thought of something and lowered her head shyly.


    Her posture made her look like a shy newlywed.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s Adam¡¯s apple bobbed twice. Afraid of scaring Shen Yijia, he took a deep breath and tried not to appear too anxious.


    He walked up to Shen Yijia and asked in a hoarse voice, ¡°Have you eaten?¡±


    Seeing him like this, Shen Yijia was no longer shy. She looked up at him openly.


    He blushed a little, perhaps because he had drunk alcohol or because he was in a good mood.


    He was already handsome, so she wanted to pounce on him even more.


    Shen Yijia swallowed. She did not want to eat the dragon liver or phoenix gallbladder even if it was placed in front of her.


    Song Jingchen was waiting for her to answer when a red phantom pounced at him.


    He was shocked and quickly reached out to hold her. When he lowered his head, he met a pair of sparkling eyes.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to eat anything else, I just want to eat¡­¡± Shen Yijia whispered in his ear.


    Song Jingchen felt something explode in his head.


    He was afraid of scaring this girl.


    Shen Yijia wanted to mention that he had consummated his marriage wrongly in the past, but her lips were soon covered by Song Jingchen.


    The fragrance of wine lingered. Shen Yijia felt that she was very drunk, and her mind had turned into mush. She had learned everything in the day for nothing.


    After a long time, their lips parted. Shen Yijia opened her eyes in a daze and chuckled.


    Song Jingchen led her to the table and handed her a glass of wine. ¡°We forgot to finish the wine.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him in a daze and drank the wine with him.


    The wine cup was taken away, and dense kisses landed again. They lingered on her lips for a moment before moving to her neck.


    The belt around her neck loosened, and fiery red mandarin duck brocade slipped between the two of them.


    Song Jingchen picked her up and walked straight to the wedding bed.


    Thousands of strands of black hair scattered down. Under her was a soft red wedding blanket. The red curtain slowly lowered, and her clothes fell to the ground in a mess.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid,¡± he said.


    Shen Yijia barely regained some rationality. She clenched her fists nervously and placed them on her chest, but she still replied in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯m not afraid.¡±


    These three words completely broke the last string in Song Jingchen¡¯s heart.


    The dragon and phoenix candles on the table shone brightly. The flames of the candles danced and reflected on the closed curtain. Two intersecting silhouettes could be seen, overlapping and intertwining. They were inseparable.


    The night was long..

 Chapter 844 - Chapter 844: Done

    Chapter 844: Done


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When the sun rose from the horizon, there was finally no movement in the room.


    MO Yuan, who was guarding outside the door, secretly heaved a sigh of relief. She first replied to Ji Luo, then turned back to the kitchen and extinguished the fire in the stove.


    The water in the three vats was already empty. She rubbed her sore arms, picked up the bucket, and went to the courtyard to fetch water. She couldn¡¯t help but think to herself that her Young Master and Miss were too good at stirring up trouble. However, she didn¡¯t know where Thirty Thousand had gone. There wasn¡¯t even anyone to boil water for her.


    Thinking of this, she stopped fetching water. It seemed that she had not seen Thirty Thousand since Song Jingchen entered his new room last night.


    In the new room, Shen Yijia closed her eyes and let Song Jingchen help her change into clean clothes. She felt a hand on her waist. She looked up and whispered in a muffled voice, ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t¡­¡±


    After saying that, she seemed to feel that it was not safe enough. She rolled to the side of the bed with the blanket and wrapped herself up like a silkworm before falling asleep in relief.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hand froze in midair. The corners of his mouth twitched as he looked at the person who wanted to stay far away from him. Was this girl going to throw him away after all that?


    Recalling what had happened the entire night, his expression was a little unnatural. Initially, he was prepared to let Shen Yijia off after the ceremony.


    Unexpectedly, Shen Yijia did not know what was good for her. She said that he did not understand and did not know how to do it. After saying that, she even took out a booklet and said that she wanted to teach him.


    Which man could tolerate this?


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but feel sorry for her. Since she had taken the initiative to provoke him, he naturally couldn¡¯t restrain himself.


    In order to prove himself, he forced her to practice the contents of the booklet.


    If not for the fact that she was really tired, he could still¡­


    After all, he still had the knowledge of the three books that this girl had once given him.


    Just as he was hesitating if he should follow, Shen Yijia rolled back first.


    Song Jingchen smiled and tilted his head to look at the defenseless person in his arms. His heart was filled again. He reached out and brushed away the hair on her cheek. He lowered his head and kissed her forehead gently. ¡°Go to sleep.¡±


    On the other side, Xuanyuan Ce, who had been hungover all night, came early in the morning. He had taken advantage of the ceremony yesterday and came to drink tea again today.


    As soon as he entered the courtyard, Xuanyuan Ziming arrived.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked strangely.


    According to what he knew, his brother had already begun to hand over the matters in the imperial court to him. He was just waiting to choose a good day to announce the imperial edict to confer the title of crown prince. This kid shouldn¡¯t be so free.


    Xuanyuan Ziming spread his hands. ¡°There¡¯s a family banquet prepared in the palace tonight. I¡¯m here to pass on a message on Father¡¯s behalf.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned. ¡°Jiajia and Ah Luo might not be willing to go.¡±


    ¡°Father guessed it. He said that he wanted to discuss the cooperation between the two countries with Brother-in -law Song.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°As expected of my brother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming looked around and was about to ask where his family was when he thought of something and paused. He quickly took a few steps around Xuanyuan Ce and said happily, ¡°Uncle, are you able to see now?¡±


    He didn¡¯t say anything when he came in just now.


    Xuanyuan Ce walked around him and walked straight into the main hall. ¡°I can¡¯t see.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming was speechless.


    Chu Feng suppressed his laughter at the side. It was all thanks to Miss¡¯s two punches yesterday that His Highness¡¯s eyes could recover. If he had known earlier, he would have taken two punches. Why did His Highness have to be blind for more than half a month?


    When Ji Luo came over, she saw two uninvited guests sitting calmly in the main hall.


    There were still teacups beside the two of them. She glanced at MO Yuan.


    MO Yuan shook her head, indicating that she didn¡¯t make the tea for them.


    Since it wasn¡¯t MO Yuan, it could only be Chu Feng brought by Xuanyuan Ce.


    Xuanyuan Ziming stood up awkwardly. ¡°Imperial¡­¡± Ji Luo glanced at him and he quickly corrected himself. ¡°Madam Ji.¡±


    Ji Luo nodded and asked indifferently, ¡°Why are you here so early in the morning?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming repeated what he had said to Xuanyuan Ce.


    Since this concerned the cooperation between the two countries, Ji Luo didn¡¯t say anything else. She sat down in the chair opposite him. Seeing that he was still standing, she said, ¡°Ah Chen and Jiajia haven¡¯t woken up yet. Take a seat first.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming glanced at Xuanyuan Ce and coughed lightly. ¡°Since I¡¯ve already delivered the message, I¡¯ll be off.¡±


    Although he came here to avoid being idle, the atmosphere was clearly wrong. How stupid was he to stay here?


    Xuanyuan Ziming left with Little Zhu Zi.


    Ji Luo looked at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Why are you here again?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was like a student who had been asked a question by his teacher. He quickly sat up straight and said seriously, ¡°Don¡¯t we have to serve tea on the second day of our marriage? I¡¯m here to drink tea.¡±


    Ji Luo frowned slightly. ¡°Have you forgotten that Jiajia is a married woman? Even if they¡¯re supposed to serve tea to their parents according to the rules, it¡¯s only on the day of return three days later. Why are you here for tea today?¡±


    Did he really think that Ah Chen had married into the family?


    Xuanyuan Ce froze. He had really forgotten!


    ¡°Ahem, then I came to see you,¡± he said innocently.


    ¡°What¡¯s there to see?¡± Ji Luo retorted rudely. She was stunned. ¡°You can see?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce pursed his lips and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to our daughter.¡±


    At first, Ji Luo didn¡¯t realize that it had anything to do with Jiajia. When she noticed that there were obvious bruises under his eyes, the corners of her mouth twitched.


    This person¡­


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know how to apply medicine?¡± she said helplessly.


    Xuanyuan Ce raised his hand and touched the corner of his eye. He gasped in pain and waved his hand indifferently. ¡°I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s just a small injury.¡± Ji Luo couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. ¡°MO Yuan, get the medicine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was delighted. Ah Luo cared about him!


    Meeting Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes, Ji Luo turned his head away and added, ¡°It¡¯s ugly and an eyesore.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°I didn¡¯t hear that. Ah Luo is just concerned about me.¡±


    Ji Luo stayed silent.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought that since he could not drink the tea his daughter and son-in-law offered him, he could at least have breakfast together. Unexpectedly, it was already noon, and there was no movement in the couple¡¯s courtyard.


    Ji Luo knew that they would definitely not be able to get up if they were up late, but she could not say this to Xuanyuan Ce openly. Otherwise, Xuanyuan Ce would think that she was eavesdropping on them.


    She could only pretend not to know anything and wait with Xuanyuan Ce.


    The longer he waited, the darker Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face became. After noon, the two of them still did not come over. He was so angry that he slammed the table and stood up. ¡°That brat surnamed Song is too much.¡±


    He was a man. How could he not understand the reason behind it?


    Song Jingchen woke up with a knock on the door. The wedding candle had burned out at some point, and only faint light shone through the red curtain.


    A knock sounded at the door.


    The knocking continued, quick and soft. The person in his arms moved. Song Jingchen quickly pulled his arm out carefully, got out of bed, and put on an outer shirt to open the door.


    Outside the door, Thirty Thousand stood there anxiously. When he saw Song Jingchen come out, he hurriedly said, ¡°Master, something bad has happened.¡±


    Song Jingchen turned around and looked behind him. He closed the door and walked out as he put on his clothes. ¡°Let¡¯s talk in the study..¡±

 Chapter 845 - Chapter 845: Dead End

    Chapter 845: Dead End


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°There¡¯s news from Great Xia that our army suffered heavy losses in the first battle with the Wu Kingdom. Prince Xiao retreated to Nanling Pass with his troops.¡±


    The first battle meant that they would really fight each other, not the small-scale harassment and trouble from before.


    ¡°How could that be?¡± Song Jingchen tightened his grip on the teacup.


    Someone must have reported what had happened in the Xuanyuan Kingdom to the Wu Kingdom. It was already a foregone conclusion that Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom would become allies. By attacking Great Xia now, wasn¡¯t Shangguan Yu afraid that the Xuanyuan Kingdom would retaliate?


    Something flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s mind. He was about to make a note of it when someone knocked on the study door.


    Thirty Thousand glanced at Song Jingchen and quickly opened the door.


    Xuanyuan Ziming walked in with a solemn expression. ¡°Brother-in-law, my father has something urgent to discuss with you.¡±


    He was halfway through his sentence when he noticed that the atmosphere in the study was off. He paused. ¡°Did you receive the news too?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer and asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army broke through Pingyang Pass and seized Lin¡¯an City.¡±


    Seeing Song Jingchen frown, he asked, ¡°Do you have a piece of paper?¡±


    Song Jingchen took out some paper from the drawer. Seeing this, Thirty Thousand walked forward to help with the ink.


    Xuanyuan Ziming drew a map of the Three Kingdoms on the rice paper with his brush and ink. He specially marked the Pingyang Pass and Lin¡¯an City he mentioned.


    The eastern border of the Xuanyuan Kingdom bordered Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom. The three countries faced each other and restrained each other.


    Among them, Great Xia was in the southwest, and the Wu Kingdom was in the southeast. Pingyang Pass was an important pass between the Xuanyuan


    Kinzdom and the Wu Kingdom. To the north of Pinzvanz Pass was Lin¡¯an Citv,


    which was also a border city in the southeastern region of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    The border cities were naturally easy to defend and difficult to attack. If they lost Lin¡¯an City, it would be difficult to snatch it back.


    Moreover, this undoubtedly opened a convenient door for the Wu Kingdom for the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Thirty Thousand asked in surprise, ¡°The Wu Kingdom sent troops to the Xuanyuan Kingdom and Great Xia at the same time. Where did they get so many troops?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at Xuanyuan Ziming deeply. ¡°I¡¯m afraid the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets did something.¡±


    This made sense. The cooperation between Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom was inevitable. If the Wu Kingdom wanted to attack Great Xia, they had to be wary of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    He originally thought that Ji Yunxi was using the plague to stall for time so that she could attack Great Xia during this period, but he did not expect her to have designs on Lin¡¯an City.


    In the current situation, if the Xuanyuan Kingdom wanted to take back Lin¡¯an


    City, they would not be able to help Great Xia. On the other hand, the Wu Kingdom only needed to leave a small number of troops to defend Lin¡¯an City and send a large number of troops to attack Great Xia.


    Indeed, the Xuanyuan Kingdom could also put Lin¡¯an City aside and send troops to support Great Xia.


    However, in that case, the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army would have to bypass the Cangbei Mountains from the southwestern region to meet up with Great Xia¡¯s army at the Nanling Pass. It would take at least two months.


    Not to mention that distant water could not extinguish a nearby fire, if the Wu Kingdom took this opportunity to abandon Great Xia and attack the Xuanyuan Kingdom from Lin¡¯an City, wouldn¡¯t it be too easy?


    No one would be willing to put their country in danger for their so-called allies.


    This was practically a dead end.


    What Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t figure out was how the Valley of Heavenly Secrets helped the Wu Kingdom take over Lin¡¯an City in less than a month.


    Seeing his confusion, Xuanyuan Ziming gritted his teeth and said, ¡°It¡¯s the Yu family.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked over.


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk as we walk.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and left the study. He instructed Thirty Thousand, ¡®You don¡¯t have to follow me. Go and tell Mother that if Jiajia wakes up, tell her not to worry. I¡¯ll take care of everything.¡±


    Thirty Thousand quickly agreed.


    Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s carriage was waiting outside. After getting into the carriage, he told her what the Yu family had done.


    Back then, Ji Luo blocked Ji Yunxi¡¯s way in the restaurant.


    Ji Yunxi said, ¡°Anyway, we¡¯ve already gotten what we wanted.¡±


    She had mentioned this to Xuanyuan Qi, who was also investigating what she had taken. Unfortunately, there had been no progress because of the outbreak of the plague.


    Until an urgent report came from the border.


    ¡°It¡¯s a defensive map.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming looked furious. ¡°Even with Madam Yu as the princess consort, the Yu family has been cowering all these years. No one expected them to have a trick up their sleeves.¡±


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t too surprised. The power of the aristocratic families was intertwined and deeply rooted. When they figured out what had happened back then, they couldn¡¯t touch the emperor, but that didn¡¯t mean that they didn¡¯t resent him.


    More than ten years had passed. After more than ten years, it was not difficult for the Yu family to obtain a defensive map.


    Ji Yunxi and the others had left Phoenix City less than a month ago and would not be leaving the country so soon. They had probably used other methods to send the defensive map of Pingyang Pass back to the Wu Kingdom.


    If he guessed correctly, they definitely had spies planted in the army. With the defensive map in hand, it was no wonder that the Wu Kingdom could take down Lin ¡®an City in a short period of time and only send the news back to Phoenix City now.


    This was all connected. Did the Wu Kingdom¡¯s envoy come to the Xuanyuan Kingdom to seek allies, or did he already know that the Yu family had a defensive map?


    Song Jingchen frowned. The Yu family had attacked Jiajia at the border and Lord Jing¡¯an. They were walking towards destruction step by step, as if they had something to do with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    The Valley of Heavenly Secrets deliberately lured Madam Yu to court death and forced the Yu family into a desperate situation so that they could force them to willingly hand over the defensive map.. This was the goal of their trip, right?

 Chapter 846 - Chapter 846: Betrayal

    Chapter 846: Betrayal


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was rumored that the people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets had the ability to assist the emperor. Their strategies and methods could not be underestimated. It was definitely not as simple as using poison. Unfortunately, they had learned about their true goal too late.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of the palace.


    When the urgent report from the border returned, Xuanyuan Qi immediately summoned the ministers of the imperial court to the imperial study for a meeting.


    Seeing Song Jingchen enter, the atmosphere in the imperial study was a little strange.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡± Song Jingchen cupped his hands.


    He called himself an external minister, which meant that he was standing here as an envoy of Great Xia and not as a prince consort from the Xuanyuan Imperial family.


    ¡°Rise.¡± Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand and looked at a minister kneeling below.


    ¡°Continue.¡±


    The minister who was called out paused and glanced at Song Jingchen. He braced himself and said, ¡®Your Majesty, the messenger said that the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army has powerful weapons in their hands. Now that they¡¯ve occupied Lin¡¯an City, which is easy to defend and difficult to attack, even if we snatch it back in the end, we¡¯ll definitely suffer heavy casualties. I think the reason why the Wu Kingdom violated the border is because they don¡¯t want us to participate in their matters with Great Xia. As long as we¡­¡± ¡°Coward.¡± A general sneered.


    The minister¡¯s expression changed at the interruption. ¡°You!¡±


    The general interrupted him. ¡°Lord Zeng, do you mean that our Xuanyuan


    Kingdom is afraid of the Wu Kingdom?¡±


    Lord Zeng blushed and said angrily, ¡°General Ye, don¡¯t slander me. When did I say such a thing?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that as long as we agree not to participate in their matters, the Wu Kingdom will retreat? According to you, if they¡¯re not satisfied with this and want us to send troops to help them, we should just agree, right?¡± General Ye snorted. ¡°They¡¯ve already come knocking on our door, but you still want us to make peace. What¡¯s the difference between this and admitting that our Xuanyuan Kingdom is inferior to the Wu Kingdom? Aren¡¯t you ashamed?¡±


    Lord Zeng was speechless, especially with Song Jingchen present. He felt like an ingrate.


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± General Ye cupped his hands and said, ¡°I¡¯m willing to lead the troops to fight and definitely take back Lin¡¯an City.¡±


    ¡°Permission granted.¡±


    Lord Zeng wanted to persuade him again, but Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him coldly. ¡°I¡¯ve previously promised Lord Song that as long as he can resolve the plague in Phoenix City, I won¡¯t abandon Great Xia. Do you want me to break my promise?¡±


    Lord Zeng lowered his head. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare.¡±


    Seeing that no one had any objections, Xuanyuan Qi appointed General Ye as the main general of the 200,000-strong imperial army to set off. He also appointed a few generals as deputy generals to assist him. They set off three days later.


    After the ministers left, Xuanyuan Qi looked at the silent Song Jingchen. ¡°I¡¯m prepared to send a hundred thousand troops to Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly said, ¡°What was the weapon that that lord mentioned just now?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming did not mention it when he came.


    Xuanyuan QI paused and looked at Eunuch Wu. Eunuch Wu understood and picked up a piece of rice paper from the imperial table and handed it to Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen took it and saw a circular object drawn on the rice paper.


    ¡°What is this?¡± Even though he was experienced and knowledgeable, he could not tell what was so powerful about this thing.


    Eunuch Wu said with a heavy expression, ¡°Lord Song, you might not know this, but this is a very powerful weapon. The people of the Wu Kingdom call it black gunpowder. Don¡¯t think that it¡¯s ordinary. Even a single one can blow up a huge pit that¡¯s a foot deep.¡±


    If it was thrown at someone¡­


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes narrowed. Was this the bargaining chip Shangguan Yu dared to use against both countries at the same time?


    However, since the black gunpowder was so powerful, why did the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army stop in Lin¡¯an City just to stop the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army from helping Great Xia?


    It had to be known that with this thing, it was difficult for the soldiers to approach. They could completely annihilate Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom in one go.


    Song Jingchen believed that Shangguan Yu had the ambition to unify the three countries. Even if he didn¡¯t, what about Yan Guangmao and the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets?


    There was only one reason why he didn¡¯t do that. It was because there was a limit to the amount of black gunpowder.


    He looked at Xuanyuan Qi. He had clearly guessed this.


    ¡°Your Majesty, are you preparing to send another 100,000 troops from Cangbei Mountain to Nanling Pass to meet up with Great Xia¡¯s army?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    Wars not only consumed manpower, but also a large amount of food, medicinal herbs, weapons, and other material resources. No matter which country it was, it was a waste of money.


    Neither of them knew how much black gunpowder the other party had.


    At this moment, the Xuanyuan Kingdom could indeed choose to negotiate and draw a line with Great Xia to avoid a temporary war.


    Not only did Xuanyuan Qi not do that, but he was also willing to send 100,000 troops to support Great Xia.


    Anyone who saw this would praise him for being loyal, but Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think so.


    ¡°I can send 100,000 at most.¡± Xuanyuan Ce thought that he thought it was too little.


    Of course, there were more troops in the entire Xuanyuan Kingdom. However, the rest were guarding the various borders and different cities. The borders had to be guarded against outsiders, and the cities had to be guarded against internal strife. They could not be mobilized easily..

 Chapter 847 - Chapter 847: Set Off

    Chapter 847: Set Off


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I think that instead of scattering the troops, it¡¯s better to take back Lin¡¯an first.¡± Song Jingchen looked up at Xuanyuan Qi. ¡°What do you think, Your


    Majesty?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty?¡± Eunuch Wu called out carefully.


    Ever since Lord Song left, the emperor had been staring at the door of the imperial study for ten minutes. Moreover, his face was dark.


    Xuanyuan Qi came back to his senses and said angrily, ¡°This kid is indeed as


    Second Brother said. He has many schemes up his sleeves.¡±


    Eunuch Wu was puzzled. ¡°Isn¡¯t it a good thing that Lord Song rejected our


    100 , 000- strong army?¡±


    One had to know that without this 100,000 troops, their chances of winning would be reduced.


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him. ¡°Did he say that he doesn¡¯t need our help?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±


    Eunuch Wu paused and pondered for a long time before reacting. He finally understood why Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face darkened.


    In the face of a national disaster, they still sent 100,000 troops to support Great Xia. This was righteousness, and they also kept their promise. As for whether they would continue to help in the future, it would depend on Great Xia¡¯s sincerity.


    Even if they really stopped caring about Great Xia, the world would not say a word.


    However, Lord Song did not accept this 100,000-strong army. Instead, he thoughtfully asked them to solve their own problem first. He was so considerate of the Xuanyuan Kingdom that others felt that the Xuanyuan Kingdom owed him another favor.


    When they took back Lin¡¯an, wouldn¡¯t they have to use the entire country to help Great Xia?


    This was like a borrower discovering that the creditor was in trouble and returning the borrowed money to the creditor, while saying in a dignified manner, ¡°You can deal with the emergency first. When you have enough money, lend it to me.¡±


    However, he had already said it, so he could not refuse. How could he be so scheming? He was simply shameless!


    ¡°That¡¯s not all.¡± Xuanyuan Qi snorted.


    It would take at least two months to detour from Cangbei Mountain to Great Xia¡¯s Nanling Pass. How much rations would the 100,000-strong army waste in two months? He was the one who borrowed the troops. There was no reason for him to fork out the rations, right?


    With this refusal, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t even need to pay for the rations.


    Seriously¡­


    Why wasn¡¯t this brat born in the Xuanyuan Kingdom?


    Actually, he didn¡¯t want to go back on his word. As an emperor, he always wanted to take the initiative, but Song Jingchen clearly didn¡¯t trust him.


    ¡°Forget it, call Ye Hong to see me,¡± Xuanyuan Qi instructed.


    Ye Hong was General Ye.


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    On the other side, Xuanyuan Ziming sent Song Jingchen out of the palace with an unnatural expression.


    He finally understood that his father had deliberately shown it to Song Jingchen in the imperial study.


    If anyone else heard Lord Zeng¡¯s words, they would definitely be grateful and leave with the 100,000-strong army, but was Song Jingchen such a short- sighted person?


    Song Jingchen patted his shoulder. ¡°Go back. Just send a carriage to send me back.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming instructed someone to bring the carriage over. He thought for a moment and asked, ¡®When are you going to set off?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow,¡± Song Jingchen said. Xuanyuan Ziming sighed. ¡°Safe journey.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded.


    Shen Yijia and Ji Luo had already heard about the border situation from Thirty Thousand. Seeing him return, Shen Yijia jogged up to him and asked, ¡°Hubby, has Xuanyuan Qi agreed to lend us the troops?¡±


    Song Jingchen reached out to support her. ¡°Let¡¯s talk inside.¡±


    With that, he did not let go of Shen Yijia. Instead, he held her waist and entered the hall.


    His careful appearance stunned Shen Yijia. After understanding the reason, she hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. My body recovered quickly. When I woke up¡­¡¯


    Song Jingchen covered his mouth with his fist and coughed dryly. When he met


    Ji Luo¡¯s gaze, a trace of embarrassment flashed across his face. ¡°Mother.¡±


    Ji Luo looked at Shen Yijia helplessly and nodded. ¡°Sit down and talk.¡± Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Right, I forgot that my mother is still here.¡±


    ¡°Did the emperor ask you to enter the palace to borrow troops?¡± Ji Luo asked.


    Song Jingchen explained Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s arrangements.


    Hearing him refuse, Shen Yijia asked in confusion, ¡°Is 100,000 too little?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°It¡¯s not a small amount. It¡¯ll be dangerous if we borrow more from the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s guess was right. He didn¡¯t trust him. It wasn¡¯t easy for him to owe him a favor, so he naturally had to employ limited resources where they were needed most.


    Moreover, the 100,000-strong army was very far away. Not only could they not solve Great Xia¡¯s problem, but they would also lose this favor for nothing. In the future, if they wanted him to take action, they would have to use other bargaining chips to exchange for it.


    On the contrary, as long as the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army took back Lin¡¯an within two months, they would have to continue south because they owed him a favor. If the Wu Kingdom did not want the country to fall, they would have to send a large number of troops to defend themselves. This way, Great Xia would be able to take a breather.


    Shen Yijia concluded, ¡°So Great Xia has to survive these three months no matter what.¡±


    The total time added up to three months after the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army rushed from Phoenix City to Lin¡¯an City.


    Three months was too long.


    Song Jingchen nodded. Fortunately, Great Xia was prepared and the army arrived at Nanling Pass in advance. Thinking of something, he took out a piece of rice paper and handed it to Ji Luo. ¡°Mother, do you recognize this?¡±


    Ji Luo looked at the black round object drawn on the rice paper and shook his head. ¡°This is the first time I¡¯ve seen it. What is this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a weapon in the hands of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. It¡¯s called black gunpowder. It¡¯s said that igniting this thread will cause an explosion, which can create a huge pit that¡¯s a foot deep.¡± He pointed at the protruding line on the black ball.


    He originally thought that this thing was brought out by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, but Ji Luo had never seen it before. Could he have guessed wrongly?


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that a bomb?¡± Shen Yijia asked in surprise.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. ¡°A bomb?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. This is a bomb. Apart from bombs, there are also grenades. The grenades need to be pulled out of the ring to explode. There are also landmines. Bury the landmines in the ground. As long as someone steps on them, they will explode.¡± Shen Yijia counted all the lethal weapons she had heard of. The reason why she knew this was because Da Hua had complained about it all day.


    Her exact words were, ¡°Are you from the last century? Who still uses these bows and arrows nowadays? They use guns and bombs in wars.¡±


    At that time, she had asked her curiously what a gun was and what a bomb was.


    From the looks of it, Da Hua was indeed Da Hua. Didn¡¯t she transmigrate there from many centuries ago?


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He looked at Shen Yijia without blinking and asked, ¡°Do you know how to make it?¡±


    ¡°Da Hua told me that I needed sulfur, saltpeter, and charcoal¡­¡± Shen Yijia paused and said guiltily, ¡°But I¡¯ve never succeeded.¡±


    Actually, she had only tried to do it once. In the end, she was blown up and found out.


    In the end, not only did those people destroy all the mechanisms she had hidden, but they also locked her up and starved her for a few days.


    She was so angry that she beat Da Hua up when she came out.


    If she had known, she would have asked her for more details.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head comfortingly. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Knowing what I need has already helped me a lot.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Shen Yijia scratched her head in frustration.¡± Bombs only exist in the world I was in before. Apart from me, did someone else transmigrate here? ¡±


    Ji Luo said thoughtfully, ¡°No, this thing was brought out by the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. This was just as he had guessed at first.


    Ji Luo continued, ¡°I heard that Ji Yunxi helped the Emperor of Great Xia refine pills.¡±


    When refining pills, sulfur, saltpeter, and other things were often added. Ji Yunxi had studied these things all year round, so it did not seem surprising that she could discover bombs, which was the formula for the black gunpowder they were talking about.


    If Ji Yunxi wasn¡¯t her enemy, Shen Yijia would have given Ji Yunxi a thumbs up. She was too smart!


    Since he already knew the rough formula for the black gunpowder, the next step was naturally to experiment. Song Jingchen first sent a letter to Great Xia. After careful consideration, he entered the palace to see Xuanyuan Qi.


    The next day, at dawn, the family left Phoenix City on five horses.


    The horses were a good breed sent by Xuanyuan Ziming.


    Shen Yijia looked behind her a few times. ¡°Strange, why didn¡¯t the scumbag send us off?¡±


    She hadn¡¯t seen him since she woke up yesterday. This was very abnormal.


    Unexpectedly, just as she finished speaking, Ji Luo pulled the reins of the horse and it suddenly stopped.


    The other four stopped their horses and looked at her.


    Ji Luo looked at MO Yuan. ¡°About those drugs¡­¡±


    Yesterday, when Xuanyuan Ce saw that Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia had yet to wake up in the afternoon, he kept nagging.


    Ji Luo was so annoyed that she asked MO Yuan to drug him heavily. When the news about the border spread, she forgot about the incident.


    If she wasn¡¯t wrong, Xuanyuan Ce and Chu Feng should still be lying in the guest room.


    MO Yuan said expressionlessly, ¡°They should wake up tomorrow.¡±


    The corners of Ji Luo¡¯s mouth twitched. She coughed lightly and said, ¡°He¡¯ll wake up tomorrow. He won¡¯t die. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    With that, she waved her whip and left.


    Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen looked at each other. Her mother was amazing..

 Chapter 848 - Chapter 848: Expedition

    Chapter 848: Expedition


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    MO Yuan was an obedient person. When Ji Luo asked her to drug her, she would definitely not mix any water. Therefore, when Xuanyuan Ce woke up, it had been a day and a night since they left the city. When he opened his eyes, he saw Xuanyuan Ziming standing at the side.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Recalling what had happened before he fainted, he rubbed his forehead and struggled to sit up. He looked around and realized that he had returned to the residence.


    ¡°Uncle, you¡¯re awake.¡± Xuanyuan Ziming looked at him sympathetically.


    Xuanyuan Ce was puzzled. ¡°What are you doing in my room?¡±


    ¡°Father was worried about you and asked me to keep an eye on you,¡± Xuanyuan Ziming said.


    If not for him getting someone to look for Xuanyuan Ce, Xuanyuan Ce would have woken up in the house on West Radiance Street.


    Worried about him? What was there to worry about as a man?


    Xuanyuan Ce found it even stranger and asked, ¡°How long have I been asleep?¡±


    ¡°The imperial physician said that you¡¯ve been asleep for at least two days.¡±


    ¡°Two days?¡± Xuanyuan Ce was shocked. He quickly lifted the blanket and got out of bed. As soon as he went out, he met Chu Feng, who had just woken up and had yet to figure out the situation. He instructed, ¡°Hurry up and prepare the horses.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming followed him out. ¡°Uncle, where are you going?¡±


    ¡°Today is the third day of Jiajia¡¯s marriage. I¡¯ll bring her back.¡±


    She did not manage to leave the prince¡¯s residence when she got married. She should have returned to the prince¡¯s residence by now.


    After saying that, he felt that it was inappropriate for him to go like this. He raised his voice and instructed someone to fetch water to take a shower.


    Xuanyuan Ziming was silent for a moment. Although he could not bear to see them like this, he had no choice but to tell them that Shen Yijia and the others had already left Phoenix City early yesterday morning.


    Xuanyuan Ce stopped in his tracks and looked back at him in disbelief. ¡°They left?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming nodded.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°I only slept for a while, but when I woke up, my wife and daughter are gone?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming explained the situation. Seeing that Xuanyuan Ce seemed to have lost his soul, he asked worriedly, ¡°Uncle, are you alright?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand and walked out of the residence. At the same time, he shouted, ¡°Chu Feng, where¡¯s the horse?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming chased after him and persuaded, ¡°Uncle, Madam Ji and the others didn¡¯t say which route they¡¯re using to return to Great Xia. It¡¯s too late for you to chase after them now.¡±


    He finally understood why his father wanted him to watch over Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡®Who said I was going to chase after them?¡± Xuanyuan Ce said angrily.


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce straightened his expression. ¡°Isn¡¯t the army setting off tomorrow? I¡¯ll enter the palace to see your father.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ziming paused. When he reacted, he asked uncertainly, ¡°Uncle, don¡¯t tell me you want to follow the army to war?


    Coincidentally, Chu Feng led the horse out. Xuanyuan Ce snatched the horse and got on it. He glanced at him. ¡°Can¡¯t I?¡±


    With that, he ignored Xuanyuan Ziming¡¯s expression and left with a wave of his whip.


    He had never done anything for Jiajia in her life. This time, he had to protect her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t agree.¡± Hearing his intentions, Xuanyuan Qi refused without thinking. ¡°I¡¯ve already instructed Ye Hong to take back Lin¡¯an City and head south as soon as possible. At that time, Great Xia¡¯s predicament will naturally be resolved. You don¡¯t have to worry about that girl.¡±


    ¡°Since you¡¯re so confident, why don¡¯t you let me go? I¡¯m only responsible for supervising the army and won¡¯t personally go to the battlefield, ¡± Xuanyuan Ce said stubbornly.


    An unknown fire rose in Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s heart. He looked up and met Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s firm eyes. The fire was extinguished with a puff. He asked, ¡°Are you going regardless of whether I agree or not?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded without any fear. ¡°Brother knows me best.¡± Xuanyuan Qi choked. ¡°Then why are you asking me?


    ¡°After all, I¡¯m going to the battlefield. I have to tell my brother.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi was furious at his tone. He threatened, ¡°You can go, but if anything happens to you, see if I¡¯ll still send troops to support Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s because you owe Ah Luo and that brat a favor that you¡¯ve decided to help Great Xia. What does it have to do with me?¡± After Xuanyuan Ce retorted, he realized that Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s face had darkened even more. He promised repeatedly, ¡°But don¡¯t worry, Brother. Ah Luo hasn¡¯t forgiven me. Jiajia hasn¡¯t called me father yet. I won¡¯t let anything happen to me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi glanced at him. ¡°Remember what you told me today.¡± This meant that he had agreed. There was nothing he could do if he didn¡¯t agree.


    ¡°Thank you, Brother.¡± Xuanyuan Ce cupped his hands and asked tentatively, ¡°As for Mother¡­


    ¡°Hmph, do you want me to help you tell Mother? Xuanyuan Ce, are you a three-year-old child?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to the Longevity Palace to see Mother,¡± he said.


    Xuanyuan Qi waved his hand. ¡°Get lost quickly.¡±


    Eunuch Wu handed over a cup of tea at the right time and advised, ¡°Your


    Majesty, don¡¯t worry too much. General Ye brought 300,000 troops this time. Coupled with the garrison of Fenghe County, His Highness will be fine.¡±


    Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°This battle won¡¯t be as easy as you think.¡±


    He and that kid surnamed Song guessed that since the Wu Kingdom dared to attack both countries at the same time, apart from black gunpowder, the Wu Kingdom definitely had a trump card that they did not know about.


    In the Longevity Palace, Empress Dowager Zhou was abnormally calm when she found out that Xuanyuan Ce was going to follow the army. She was so calm that Xuanyuan Ce panicked.


    ¡°Mother, 1¡­


    Empress Dowager Zhou looked at Eunuch Yu. ¡°Go and bring the things to His


    Highness.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was stunned until Chu Feng took the bag from Eunuch Yu. It still felt a little unreal.


    Empress Dowager Zhou continued, ¡°I got someone to make a few sets of clothes for you and prepared some emergency medicine. As for food, you definitely have to eat your meals with everyone. I didn¡¯t get anyone to prepare


    it.¡±


    ¡°Mother.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou smiled sadly. ¡°In the past, every time your father went on an expedition, I would prepare these for him. He would always return safely, so you have to return intact. As his son, you can¡¯t die before an old woman like me. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s throat hurt. ¡°Mother will definitely live to a hundred years old.¡±


    ¡°How many people in this world can live for a hundred years? You don¡¯t have to say such nice words to coax me. Just don¡¯t let me send my son off.¡±


    Seeing that the atmosphere was getting worse, Eunuch Yu quickly tried to smooth things over. ¡°Aiyo, Empress Dowager, you can¡¯t say such unlucky words. Our lord is blessed by the heavens. He will definitely return triumphantly with the army.¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou wiped the corners of her eyes. ¡°Eunuch Yu is right. I¡¯m old and like to spout nonsense.¡± She looked at Xuanyuan Ce. ¡°Don¡¯t kneel anymore. Go back and rest for a day. You don¡¯t have to enter the palace tomorrow.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce kowtowed three times. ¡°Mother, take care of yourself.¡± After watching Xuanyuan Ce leave, Empress Dowager Zhou sighed.


    ¡°Since the empress dowager is worried, why didn¡¯t you stop His Highness? Eunuch Yu asked.


    ¡°Back then, the emperor and I forced him to make a choice. He was separated from his wife and daughter for more than ten years and lived in regret every day. This time, I can¡¯t stop him, and I shouldn¡¯t stop him.¡±


    The imperial edict to appoint Xuanyuan Ce as the supervisor of the army was issued on the same day. Early the next morning, the emperor led the civil and military officials to bid farewell to the soldiers of the three armies.


    When Xuanyuan Ce led the army out of the city, Shen Yijia and the others had already left Yanyang..

 Chapter 849 - Chapter 849: Ambush

    Chapter 849: Ambush


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Yanyang was an area outside Phoenix City. After leaving Yanyang and heading southwest, one could leave via Phoenix Town. After leaving the country, they could bypass Cangbei Mountain and enter Great Xia¡¯s Fengzhou, then go from Fengzhou to the battlefield at Nanling Pass.


    If the army followed this route, it would take at least three months. Moreover, after a long journey, the soldiers would definitely be exhausted. How were they going to fight the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army like this? This was also one of the reasons why Song Jingchen rejected the 100,000-strong army.


    ¡°Even if we travel without stopping, it will take us a month and a half,¡± Song Jingchen said as he looked at the map.


    Now that the Wu Kingdom had taken the initiative, they would definitely break through the Nanling Pass and take down Qingyang City in one go. One and a half months was too long.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°But if we don¡¯t take this path, we can only go southeast and leave via Lin¡¯an City.¡±


    Not only could they not get through Lin¡¯an City, but the other side was the border of the Wu Kingdom.


    Ji Luo suddenly said, ¡°There¡¯s another way.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right,¡± Song Jingchen replied. He pointed at the middle of the three countries on the map. ¡°This is the intersection of the Three Gorges. If we can pass through it, we can save more than half the time.¡±


    They would reach Nanling Pass in about 20 days.


    Shen Yijia looked in the direction he was pointing. The map only had the words ¡°Three Gorges Crossing¡± written on it. There was no marked route at all, which meant that no one had walked this path before.


    ¡°I originally wanted to send a letter to Ah Han and ask him to mobilize the border army outside Fengzhou to support Nanling Pass. In addition, it¡¯s too time-consuming to reorganize the army. I have the token he gave me.¡± Song Jingchen paused for a moment and looked at Shen Yijia before continuing,


    ¡°Jiajia, go southwest and leave via Phoenix Town. After circling around Cangbei


    Mountain, take the token to look for the general stationed there, General


    Sikong. Let him.. ¡±


    Hearing this, how could Shen Yijia not know what he was planning? She said with a resistant expression, ¡°I¡¯m not going.¡±


    ¡°Jiajia.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not want to hear his excuses. She shook her head repeatedly. ¡°Let


    Mother go. I¡¯m not going anyway.¡±


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth to persuade her, but Shen Yijia covered her ears with her hands.


    She couldn¡¯t hear him. She couldn¡¯t hear him. She couldn¡¯t hear him.


    Ji Luo said, ¡°I¡¯ll go. When I fled from the Xuanyuan Kingdom to Great Xia, I took a small path. I can cross the Cangbei Mountain in less than 20 days.¡±


    ¡°Mother¡­¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect Ji Luo to stand on Shen Yijia¡¯s side. The reason why no one walked through the Three Gorges was because it was too dangerous.


    ¡°Do you think you can persuade her?¡± Ji Luo asked.


    Even if she forcefully took this girl away now, she would escape and look for Song Jingchen as soon as she had the chance. She couldn¡¯t lock her in an iron cage like she was a prisoner, right?


    ¡°Mother, you¡¯re the best.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s expression changed in a second. She smiled and opened her arms to hug Ji Luo, but she pushed her away mercilessly.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°When you reach Nanling Pass, you have to listen to Ah Chen. Don¡¯t act recklessly,¡± Ji Luo scolded with a straight face.


    Shen Yijia nodded obediently. ¡°I¡¯ll follow Mother¡¯s instructions. I¡¯ll definitely listen to my husband. If he tells me to go east, I won¡¯t go west. If he tells me to hit a dog, I¡¯ll do it.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at her in disbelief.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t believe it either, but what could she do?


    They rushed for two consecutive days and one night before stopping to rest last night. While the few of them were discussing, MO Yuan had also cooked a pot of shredded pheasant porridge.


    The pheasants were caught in the mountains, and the rice was bought from the houses of the nearby villagers. Because the pot was not big, she did not cook much. She poured out three bowls, which were barely half full.


    She glanced at Thirty Thousand, who was chewing on a pancake at the side. The latter immediately smiled at her.


    MO Yuan was silent for a moment. She carried the three bowls of porridge to the three masters and pushed the pot towards him.


    Thirty Thousand was stunned for a moment before joy burst out of his eyes. He waved the dry food in his hand. ¡°I¡¯ll just eat this¡­ You¡¯re a girl. You can eat the porridge. ¡±


    MO Yuan ignored him. She turned around, took out a pancake from her bag, and sat down against a tree.


    Thirty Thousand stuffed his pancake into his mouth and leaned over with the pot. ¡°The pancake is too dry. Eat it with porridge.¡±


    As Shen Yijia slurped the porridge, she watched their interaction.


    She had already imagined MO Yuan¡¯s appearance after being pregnant for ten months and had thought of the name of her child. The child would be called Three Treasures!


    ¡°Thirty Thousand, bring me another bowl.¡± Song Jingchen put away the map.


    Thirty Thousand took out a bowl from his bag in confusion.


    Song Jingchen picked up half of the porridge in front of him and placed it in the empty bowl. He said emotionlessly, ¡°Hurry up and eat. We¡¯ll set off after eating.¡±


    Thirty Thousand looked at the half bowl of porridge in his hand in a daze. His eyes turned red. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯ll give you some.¡±


    At Nanling Pass, a night attack by the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army caused grief in the pass. The thick smell of blood and the pungent smell of gunpowder filled the air.


    Xiao Qirui, who was wearing armor, helped the soldiers carry the injured people onto a stretcher with a cold expression.


    He was also injured, and blood kept seeping out, dyeing half of his armor red.


    ¡°General, you¡¯re injured. Let the military doctor bandage it first. We¡¯ll be fine here,¡± a junior general advised..

 Chapter 850 - Chapter 850: Medicine

    Chapter 850: Medicine


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Xiao Qirui looked up at the mess around him and instructed his deputy general, ¡°Bring people to count the casualties. Remember to register the names of the brothers who died.¡±


    The registration of names was not only to send an obituary to the families of the soldiers who had died, but also to report it to the imperial court so that they could distribute the pension.


    The deputy general¡¯s eyes turned red and he choked. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and turned around to carry a seriously injured soldier onto a stretcher.


    ¡°Thank you, General.¡± The injured soldier thanked him weakly.


    Xiao Qirui patted his shoulder. ¡°Rest well.¡±


    This place was too close to the city wall and was not suitable for recuperation. These people had to be sent back to the infirmary in the camp.


    Just as everyone was cleaning up the scene in an orderly manner, a carriage suddenly appeared in everyone¡¯s sight. The carriage stopped and a young girl jumped out.


    The soldiers took a glance and continued with their work, as if they were already used to the girl¡¯s appearance.


    The girl walked straight to Xiao Qirui¡¯s side and said with concern, ¡°Brother


    Xiao, I heard that you were injured.¡±


    Xiao Qirui did not look up. He used a wooden board to help a soldier stabilize his injured leg and instructed the person beside him, ¡°Carry him back. Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The man picked up the injured soldier and left.


    Seeing that Xiao Qirui was walking towards the other injured soldiers, the girl reached out to pull him back anxiously. ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡¯re injured. Come back with me quickly.¡±


    Xiao Qirui turned his body to avoid her hand and finally raised his head.


    However, he had no intention of talking to her. ¡°Someone, invite Young General Meng over.¡±


    The Young General Meng he was talking about was Meng Shaoyuan, the eldest son of General Meng Wu, who was stationed at Nanling Pass.


    The girl in front of him was none other than General Meng¡¯s youngest daughter, Meng Linlang.


    Apart from these two people, General Meng also had a daughter named Meng Linyan, who was ranked second in the Meng family.


    Meng Linlang said aggrievedly, ¡°I¡¯m concerned about you. Why did you get someone to invite my brother over?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do? Of course he¡¯s asking Young General Meng to take you away.¡± The soldier who was bandaging the injured soldier sneered.


    As soon as she said this, everyone paused.


    ¡°You¡¯re really daring.¡± they thought.


    However, she was right. General Xiao clearly ignored her, but this Second Miss of the Meng family was still sticking to him.


    Every time, Young General Meng had to take action to chase them away.


    Meng Linlang blushed and berated, ¡°How dare you? Who do you think you are? Who are you to interrupt me when I¡¯m talking to Brother Xiao?¡±


    Song Huan clapped her hands, indicating that the two people standing at the side with the stretcher could carry the injured soldiers away. Song Jinghuan was disguised as a man, and went by the name Song Huan.


    She stood up and said bluntly, ¡°Who do you think you are? Our general was appointed by the Imperial Court. His status is the same as your father¡¯s. You don¡¯t even need to address him respectfully when you see him. You even call him Brother Xiao. Your brother¡¯s surname is Meng, not Xiao.¡±


    Meng Linlang flew into a rage out of humiliation and said, ¡°That¡¯s between


    Brother Xiao and me.¡±


    The soldier rolled her eyes. ¡°Do you think our general cares about you?¡±


    Meng Linlang couldn¡¯t win against her. She stomped her feet and looked at


    Xiao Qirui. ¡°Brother Xiao, look at him¡­¡±


    ¡°Song Huan is right. Miss Meng should call me General Xiao.¡± Xiao Qirui finally stopped ignoring her. He thought of something and frowned unhappily. ¡°The battlefield depends on military achievements, not anyone¡¯s family background. Song Huan has just been promoted to a junior general. Miss Meng should call him Lieutenant Song or Captain Song..¡±

 Chapter 851 - Chapter 851: Sending Her Away (1)

    Chapter 851: Sending Her Away (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As soon as Xiao Qirui finished speaking, the surroundings instantly fell silent. Even the soldiers who were originally wailing did not dare to make a sound.


    Xiao Qirui had brought the imperial court¡¯s army to Nanling Pass two months ago. At that time, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army would only occasionally send a few scouts to cause trouble. The local army did not take them seriously at all, and the imperial court soldiers were treated like outsiders.


    Xiao Qirui was young, but he was on equal footing with General Meng the moment he arrived. Naturally, they were unconvinced.


    Even Meng Wu thought that Xiao Qirui was here to split the power.


    It was not that Xiao Qirui did not Imow, but with a powerful enemy in front of him, he did not want to cause unnecessary trouble. Therefore, he had never fussed over small matters.


    This was the first time everyone had seen him embarrass the Meng family in the two months he had been here.


    Tears slowly welled up in Meng Linlang¡¯s eyes. She looked at Xiao Qirui with tears in her eyes. ¡°Brother Xiao, you¡­¡±


    Song Huan dug her ears. ¡°Hey, are some people deaf or can¡¯t understand human language? Call them General Xiao.¡±


    Meng Linlang glared at her. ¡°You!¡±


    ¡°Call me Lieutenant Song,¡± Song Huan reminded her kindly.


    Meng Linlang was speechless. She scolded angrily, ¡®Who do you think you are? With a single sentence, my father can make you¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± A stern voice sounded behind her.


    Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw a woman in armor walking over angrily.


    There was a soldier beside her. He was the one who had listened to Xiao Qirui¡¯s instructions to look for Young General Meng.


    However, this woman was not Young General Meng.


    ¡°Second Sister, he bullied me. Hurry up and get someone to capture him.¡±


    Before Meng Linlang could finish, her hands were grabbed by the female soldiers Meng Linyan had brought.


    ¡°Second Sister, what are you doing?¡± She widened her eyes in disbelief.


    Meng Linyan ignored her and cupped her hands at Xiao Qirui. ¡°General Xiao, my sister is insensible. I¡¯ll take her away now.¡±


    Xiao Qirui nodded and looked at the surrounding soldiers who did not dare to breathe loudly. He shouted, ¡°What are you waiting for? Go do what you need to do. ¡±


    With that, he ignored the two sisters of the Meng family. He glanced at Song Huan and turned to leave.


    Song Huan understood and made a face at Meng Linlang, whose face had turned red from anger. She jogged after Xiao Qirui.


    ¡°Ah! Second Sister, look at her!¡± If not for the fact that she was being held up,


    Meng Linlang would definitely have rushed up to fight Song Huan to the death.


    Meng Linyan looked unhappily at the figure who was walking behind Xiao Qirui. She turned around and instructed someone to send Meng Linlang into the carriage before following her.


    Meng Linlang was furious. ¡°Let go of me.¡±


    Meng Linyan instructed, ¡°Go outside and guard us.¡±


    After the two female soldiers left, she looked at Meng Linlang coldly. ¡°Didn¡¯t


    Father say that you¡¯re not allowed to come to the pass again? Who let you out?¡±


    ¡°No one let me out. I came by myself.¡±


    Meng Linyan glanced at her. ¡°If you lie again, I¡¯ll send you to Father. You can explain it to him yourself.¡±


    Panic flashed across Meng Linlang¡¯s face. She said angrily, ¡°Alright, it¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t help me teach that brat Song a lesson, but you even used Father to suppress me. Father did say that he wouldn¡¯t let me come to the pass, but we¡¯re both daughters of the Meng family. Why are you allowed to come here?¡±


    At this point, she paused for a moment and continued with a sneer, ¡°Don¡¯t you want to know who let me out? Let me tell you, Mother opened the door for me and instructed the coachman to send me over.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, aren¡¯t you going to complain to Father? Then go ahead. If Mother gets scolded by Father, it¡¯ll be your fault.¡±


    Meng Linyan clenched her fists and took a deep breath. ¡°I¡¯m allowed to come to the pass because I¡¯m willing to fight the enemy. Do you dare to do the same?¡±


    The women at the border were not like the daughters of wealthy families in the capital who stayed at home, nor did they have so many rules.


    This was especially true for the children of military families. Most of them had been training with their fathers and brothers since they were young.


    However, Meng Linlang was different because Madam Meng was a woman who had come from the back residence. Under her influence, Meng Linlang had liked to learn from those well-bred young ladies since she was young. She did not expect the environment to be like this. In the end, she learned nothing.


    Now, she couldn¡¯t even lift a knife, let alone go to the battlefield.


    Meng Linlang choked. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t send you to Father, but sooner or later, someone will report that you¡¯re here. You can either return to Qingyang City immediately, or think about what to say, so that you won¡¯t implicate Mother when you see Father.¡± Meng Linyan glanced at her. ¡°Also, it¡¯s best not to mention that you¡¯re here for General Xiao.


    He doesn¡¯t like you at all..¡¯

 Chapter 852 - Chapter 852: Sending Her Away (2)

    Chapter 852: Sending Her Away (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the other side, Xiao Qirui brought Song Jinghuan back to his tent.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get someone to send you back to the capital tomorrow,¡± Xiao Qirui said directly.


    Song Jinghuan frowned. ¡°General, you want to chase me out of the military camp. Have I made a mistake?¡±


    Because she had insulted Meng Linlang? That shouldn¡¯t be the case. Didn¡¯t the general speak up for her just now?


    Knowing that she had misunderstood, Xiao Qirui sighed and said earnestly, ¡°Sister Huan, your brother wrote to me previously to ask me to take care of you, but as you can see, Nanling Pass is in danger of being broken through by the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army at any moment. If anything happens to you while you¡¯re here, how will I explain it to your brother?¡±


    Because he treated Sister Huan as his sister, he didn¡¯t beat around the bush.


    He was not saying this to scare her. If they continued to defend passively, it was only a matter of time before the city fell.


    Song Huan rolled her eyes. ¡°Once Nanling Pass is breached, all of us will die. What are you going to explain?


    Nanling Pass was surrounded by high walls on all sides, and there were only two sturdy city gates at the front and back. It was an important barrier that Great Xia used to defend against the invasion of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    During times of peace, there were still commoners living here, but once there was a war, the commoners would be moved to Qingyang City behind Nanling Pass.


    Amidst the flames of war, the defense of Qingyang City was not strong. The reason why they were asked to migrate there was because once the Wu


    Kingdom¡¯s army broke through the eastern city, the soldiers in the pass would cut off the suspension cables of the western city and use their flesh and blood to buy time for the citizens of Qingyang City to leave.


    As for why they didn¡¯t let the commoners retreat at the beginning, it was naturally because of their morale.


    Xiao Qirui held his forehead. ¡°Song Jinghuan!¡±


    He felt that even if nothing happened to this little girl, he wouldn¡¯t be able to explain himself when he saw Song Jingchen.


    This good girl had become a rough tomboy after a trip to the military camp. Whose fault was this?


    How could he have known that Sister Huan had already been poisoned by someone before she came to the military camp? However, she knew how to disguise herself in front of Song Jingchen and Madam Li.


    Otherwise, which twelve-year-old girl would dare to run away from home without a word and follow the army to the battlefield?


    However, she was still young. Whether it was her figure or her voice, it was difficult to tell if she was male or female. This was why no one saw through her disguise.


    ¡°General, my name is Song Huan.¡± She suddenly raised her voice.


    Xiao Qirui was shocked by her loud voice. He held his forehead and said, ¡°Are you really not leaving?


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving.¡± Song Jinghuan shook her head repeatedly. ¡°My brother and sister-in-law will be here soon. I want to wait for them here.¡±


    She was confident in her brother and sister-in-law. As long as they were around, they would definitely be able to defeat the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    Xiao Qirui lowered his eyes. ¡°It will take at least a month and a half to get here from the capital of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. What if they can¡¯t arrive in time before the city falls?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been half a month since they received the letter. Let¡¯s hold on for another month.¡± Song Jinghuan paused and blinked.¡± It¡¯s fine if they don¡¯t arrive on time. In the future, my name will be famous in our Song family. ¡®


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He swallowed his words and reminded her, ¡°The Meng family is not a magnanimous family. If you encounter them again, ignore them. Come and look for me if anything happens.¡±


    She wasn¡¯t afraid of them!


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t show it on her face. She replied obediently, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Afraid that Xiao Qirui would continue to lecture her, she said, ¡°General, you¡¯re injured. I¡¯ll help you call the military doctor in.¡±


    With that, she turned around and fled the tent without waiting for Xiao Qirui to speak.


    Not wanting to run too quickly, she bumped into a soldier wandering outside the tent.


    ¡°Ouch.¡±


    That person was a head taller than Song Jinghuan. She was fine, but the other party¡¯s chin was almost broken by her head.


    His sister-in-law had said that one had to be reasonable. Song Jinghuan admitted that it was because of her. She was about to apologize when she looked up and saw who it was. She stopped herself from apologizing and said angrily, ¡°Liu Jinbao, why are you sneaking around here?¡±


    Liu Jinbao held his chin with one hand and endured the pain. ¡°Who said I was being sneaky? General Xiao was injured because he saved me. Can I show some concern?¡±


    Song Jinghuan suddenly understood. ¡°I was wondering why the general was injured. So it¡¯s because of you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I want to criticize you, but why did you come to this battlefield instead of being the young master of a landowning family?¡± Liu Jinbao was indignant. ¡°You¡¯re from a duke¡¯s family¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, a hand covered his mouth.


    ¡°Liu Jinbao, do you want to die?¡± Song Jinghuan narrowed her eyes and leaned over to threaten him softly.


    There were other female soldiers here, but they were all in the reserve camp and did not have many opportunities to go to the battlefield to kill enemies. She did not want to be transferred there.


    Looking at the exquisite face so close to him, Liu Jinbao¡¯s heart pounded, and his earlobes turned red.


    Song Jinghuan thought that he was frightened by her and let go of him in disdain. Sensing that her palms were wet from the hot air he exhaled, she rubbed it off on him impolitely and punched him. ¡°If you dare to spout nonsense again, I¡¯ll beat you up until your father doesn¡¯t recognize you.¡±


    Liu Jinbao shrank back in fear. ¡°Alright.¡± Seeing her turn around and leave, he quickly chased after her. ¡°Where are you going?


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business where I go.¡±


    After taking two steps, she paused.. ¡°Don¡¯t you still have to show your concern to the general? Why are you following me?¡±

 Chapter 853 - Chapter 853: Looking for Trouble (1)

    Chapter 853: Looking for Trouble (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Liu Jinbao blushed. ¡°I wasn¡¯t following you.¡±


    From the corner of his eye, he saw a medicine boy carrying a medicine box walking over. An idea flashed across his mind and he said, ¡°I suddenly remembered that the general was injured. I should bring a military doctor to see him!¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you being too casual about this?¡± she thought.


    Song Jinghuan sized him up strangely for a long time and muttered, ¡°So be it. Why are you blushing like a little girl?¡± Liu Jinbao thought to himself, ¡°You¡¯re the little girl!¡±


    She was indeed a little girl to begin with!


    Song Jinghuan ignored his constipated expression and nodded. ¡°That¡¯s good. If you help the general call the military doctor, I won¡¯t need to go.¡±


    Someone in her team was also injured. As the captain, she had to show some concern.


    Seeing that she had turned around and left without looking back, Liu Jinbao slapped his head in frustration.


    He had clearly heard that she had disrespected Miss Meng and was afraid that she would be punished by General Xiao.


    Liu Jinbao knew that the Song family had restored their title of a duke¡¯s family, but he didn¡¯t know that the Song family had a relationship with the Xiao family, let alone that Xiao Qirui had long known Song Jinghuan¡¯s identity.


    After all, no matter how rich his family was, they were only landlords in a small town. The interpersonal networks in the capital were too distant for him.


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know what he was thinking and went straight to the injured team member¡¯s tent.


    Because there were too many injured soldiers, the infirmary was getting crowded. Therefore, those who were not seriously injured were arranged to return to their tents to recuperate.


    The injured people in her team belonged to this category.


    Seeing her enter, the dozen or so tall soldiers in the tent immediately stood up and greeted her.


    ¡°Little lieutenant.¡±


    ¡°The little lieutenant is here.¡±


    Song Jinghuan placed her hands behind his back and nodded with a straight face.


    Her sister-in-law had said that even if she was not old enough, she could make up for it with her aura.


    Her height was already inferior to others, so she could not lose in terms of aura.


    If Shen Yijia knew, she would¡¯ve said, ¡°Actually, I heard about this technique from Da Hua.¡±


    The soldiers looked serious, but they were howling in their hearts. The little general was still as cute as ever.


    Although Song Jinghuan was small, they all knew that she had earned her position as the captain by cutting off the heads of hundreds of enemy soldiers.


    Because she was always at the front, everyone even gave her a nickname, Daredevil Song.


    Thinking of how she had killed enemies on the battlefield, everyone shivered and retracted their fatherly gazes.


    Her soft and cute appearance was too deceptive.


    She still remembered that at first, when they saw such a small person standing in the line, everyone teased her to go home and drink milk.


    In the end, not only were they slapped in the face, but Song Jinghuan also became their team leader. Indeed, one could not judge a book by its cover.


    Song Jinghuan took care of the injured soldiers. Seeing that the others were still standing there, she pursed her lips and said, ¡°If you have nothing to do, go outside and help. Don¡¯t disturb Tang Shun and the others¡¯ rest.¡±


    The soldiers looked at each other and hesitated for a long time. In the end, they said nothing and left.


    Song Jinghuan tilted his head and asked Tang Shun, who had one hand wrapped in a bandage around his neck, ¡°What happened to them?¡±


    Tang Shun turned his head to look at the other injured people. When he saw them, they all turned around and pretended to be asleep.


    Song Jinghuan said indifferently, ¡°Speak.¡±


    Her voice was not loud, but it carried an aura that could not be ignored.


    She looked very much like Song Jingchen when he reprimanded the siblings.


    Tang Shun trembled and did not dare to hide it anymore. He hurriedly said, ¡°Just now, Sun Hao and the others saw that Liu Yang was too busy and wanted to go over and help. Unexpectedly, Liu Yang actually mocked them for being child soldiers and said that they were in the way.¡±


    Sun Hao and the others did not say anything else, but it was obvious that there was more to it.


    Liu Yang was also a captain of a hundred people. The difference was that Liu Yang was from the local army.


    Child soldiers?


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s face turned completely cold. She clenched his fists. ¡°Liu Yang, right? How dare you bully my people? Do you think I¡¯m dead?¡±


    She turned around angrily and left.


    Tang Shun¡¯s eyelids twitched and he quickly limped after Song Jinghuan. ¡°Little lieutenant, calm down.¡±


    However, when he left the tent, he could no longer see Song Jinghuan.


    ¡°It¡¯s over.¡± Tang Shun scratched his head anxiously with his uninjured hand.


    This was why Sun Hao and the others didn¡¯t say anything. With the young general¡¯s actions, not only would their team be called the children¡¯s army in the future, but they would also be mocked as losers who went home to complain after being bullied.


    It was fine even if they complained, but the person who stood up for them was a child..

 Chapter 854 - Chapter 854: Looking for Trouble (2)

    Chapter 854: Looking for Trouble (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the other side, Xiao Qirui had his injuries bandaged by the military doctor. He looked at Liu Jinbao, who was standing opposite him, and was about to give him some advice when Xiao Li walked in anxiously. ¡°General, bad news. Lieutenant Song is fighting with someone.¡±


    Not many people knew Song Jinghuan¡¯s identity. Coincidentally, they were all in this tent.


    However, neither side knew that the other person knew.


    As soon as Xiao Li finished speaking, Liu Jinbao had already run out before Xiao Qirui could react.


    Xiao Qirui looked at Liu Jinbao¡¯s back and was stunned for a moment. He frowned and stood up to walk out. He asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Xiao Lisui told him what he had found out.


    Halfway there, they happened to meet Meng Wu.


    Meng Wu was in his early forties this year. He had a full beard and a pair of sharp eyes.


    The two of them were of the same level, but Xiao Qirui was a Junior, so he greeted first, ¡°General Meng.¡±


    Meng Wu nodded and sighed. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about what happened. General Xiao, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll definitely punish them well later. However, you don¡¯t have to be too anxious. The soldiers I brought out know their limits. No one will die.¡±


    His words meant two things. Firstly, he would punish his soldiers for their mistakes. Secondly, he was implying that Xiao Qirui¡¯s men were inferior to his.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes darkened. There were countless generals of all sizes in the military camp, let alone a small 100-man captain. He came because of Sister


    Huan.


    As for Meng Wu¡­


    He had probably gotten someone to keep an eye on him since a long time ago and only came when he appeared.


    Thinking of that girl¡¯s ability, Xiao Qirui¡¯s lips curled up slightly. ¡°General Meng is right.¡±


    Meng Wu inexplicably had goosebumps under his gaze.


    By the time they arrived, the arena around the training grounds was already filled with soldiers.


    ¡°Does Liu Yang want to die? He even dares to provoke Daredevil Song.¡± A soldier from Chang¡¯an shook his head, his face filled with excitement.


    A local soldier beside him snorted. ¡®What Daredevil Song? He¡¯s just a little child who hasn¡¯t even grown up. Only you treat him as a hero.¡±


    ¡°No matter how young he is, he¡¯s killed hundreds of enemy troops and became the captain of a hundred troops. He¡¯s not like some people who actually know how to complain sourly even though they¡¯re not capable.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°It means what it means. Don¡¯t you local soldiers like to say that grapes are sour when you can¡¯t eat them?¡±


    Seeing that the conflict between the two of them was about to become a conflict between the imperial court and the local army, someone shouted,


    ¡°General Xiao and General Meng are here. ¡±


    Everyone immediately fell silent and walked to the sides to make way for them.


    In the arena, Song Jinghuan and Liu Yang were fighting fiercely.


    After all, Liu Yang was a man. His strength was not something a


    twelve-year-old girl could compare to. Fortunately, she was agile and had been taught by a few people. Her moves were so chaotic that Liu Yang could not figure them out at all. It was impossible to catch her and win with strength. When he heard that the generals had arrived, Liu Yang subconsciously turned around to look. Song Jinghuan took this opportunity to strike between his legs.


    A shocking cry of pain sounded from the arena. Everyone hurriedly looked over and saw Liu Yang kneeling in the arena with both hands covering his lower body. Daredevil Song grabbed his collar with one hand and punched his face with the other.


    Everyone looked at each other. Just now, they were only focused on looking at the two generals who had suddenly arrived. What exactly happened in the arena?


    Liu Jinbao, who had been staring nervously at the arena, silently clamped his legs.


    This little demoness¡­


    Meng Wu, who also saw the commotion, mocked with a dark expression, ¡°It¡¯s just a victory from a sneak attack.¡±


    Xiao Qirui shook his head in disagreement. ¡°Soldiers don¡¯t care about sneak attacks on the battlefield. What do you think, General Meng?¡±


    Meng Wu narrowed his eyes, snorted coldly, and turned to leave.


    ¡°General Meng.¡± Xiao Qirui stopped him. ¡°During special times, Liu Yang didn¡¯t make a big mistake. It¡¯s fine if he gets twenty strokes of the cane, but there¡¯s no need to punish him too much.¡±


    He was reminding Meng Wu not to forget what he had just said.


    The soldiers gasped. If twenty military rods wasn¡¯t considered a heavy punishment, what was a heavy punishment? Beheading?


    Meng Wu clenched his fists and instructed coldly, ¡°Bring Liu Yang along.¡±


    Liu Yang felt his head buzz. Before he could react, he was dragged away by two soldiers.


    Song Jinghuan chased after her. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m not done yet.¡±


    ¡°Song Huan!¡±


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s body stiffened. She slowly turned around and looked guiltily at the angry person below. ¡°Hehe, why are you here, General?¡±


    Xiao Qirui said indifferently, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    He used to think that his sister was already out of line. Now, compared to this girl, Xiao Ruoshui was simply too obedient.


    He questioned Song Jingchen¡¯s ability to control his younger siblings.


    Along the way, Xiao Qirui had already thought of a lesson. Unexpectedly, before he could say a word, more than ten people knelt in front of him.


    Xiao Qirui was speechless. When did these people follow him in?


    Sun Hao thought to himself, ¡°We¡¯ve been following behind the little lieutenant.¡±


    ¡°General, the little general fought with Liu Yang because of us. If you want to punish someone, punish us.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. This has nothing to do with the young general. If you want to punish someone, punish us.¡±


    The corners of Xiao Qirui¡¯s mouth twitched. He glanced at a certain person who gave a perfectly innocent look. ¡°Who said I was going to punish her?¡± He was educating her!


    ¡°Did you hear that? The general won¡¯t punish me. Get up quickly.¡± Song Jinghuan kicked Sun Hao.


    Sun Hao understood and quickly stood up. ¡°Thank you, General. Then we won¡¯t disturb you here.¡±


    Afraid that Xiao Qirui would go back on his word, the dozen or so people surrounded Song Jinghuan and left the tent.


    Xiao Qirui thought to himself, ¡°If you want to leave, so be it.. Why did you take the little girl with you? Did I say that she could leave?¡±

 Chapter 855 - Chapter 855: Plan

    Chapter 855: Plan


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the training grounds, Liu Yang, who had already recovered, was pressed against the long wooden bench by two soldiers and could not move.


    He turned to look at Liu Jinbao, who was standing beside him with a military staff in hand. He narrowed his eyes and threatened, ¡°Liu Jinbao, if you want to live well in the army in the future, you¡¯d better consider how to wield this military staff.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s eyes widened and he smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Lieutenant Liu. I¡¯ll think about it carefully. Besides, how strong can I be with my small body?¡±


    Of course, he had to consider it carefully. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t he have wasted this stick that he had exchanged for a hundred taels of silver?


    As a businessman, he had been taught since he was young not to make a loss! Liu Yang glanced at him in disdain and said with relief, ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡±


    Liu Jinbao agreed with a smile. He tightened his grip on the military staff, raised it high, gritted his teeth, and slammed it down.


    The impact was loud.


    ¡°Ah! Liu Jinbao, do you want to die?¡±


    Liu Jinbao secretly shook his numb hands and said harmlessly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry,


    Lieutenant Liu. This is the first time I¡¯m unfamiliar with using a military staff. I¡¯ll definitely pay attention next time.¡±


    With that, he held the stick with both hands again without hesitation. He raised it high and slammed it down.


    ¡°Liu Jinbao!¡± Liu Yang¡¯s face twisted in pain. The two soldiers pressing down on him almost lost their grip.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m sorry. I was too nervous. I¡¯ll start over again.¡±


    ¡°Again?¡± he thought.


    Liu Yang was stunned. Before he could react, another blow landed on his back. At the same time, Liu Jinbao¡¯s deliberately raised voice sounded from behind.


    ¡°One.¡±


    One? F*ck, Liu Jinbao, you¡¯re courting death.


    Liu Yang turned around and saw Meng Wu standing outside the tent opposite.


    Liu Yang was confused.


    ¡°Lieutenant Liu, the general is watching. I don¡¯t dare to go easy on you. Bear with it.¡± Liu Jinbao looked like he wanted to beat him up.


    The military staff was raised above his head again and fell.


    ¡°Two.¡± Who asked you to bully the little devil?


    ¡°Three.¡± Keep spouting nonsense.


    ¡°Four.¡± Who asked you to look down on us new recruits?


    Liu Yang¡¯s facial features were scrunched up in pain, and large drops of sweat appeared on his forehead. However, because Meng Wu might still be watching, he did not dare to shout.


    ¡°Eight.¡±


    ¡°Nine.¡±


    He was already covered in injuries from Song Jinghuan¡¯s punches and kicks, but Liu Jinbao still stared at a spot with evil intentions.


    However, Liu Yang fainted from the pain.


    Liu Jinbao pretended not to know. When he hit the last stick, he stopped and rested for a moment. He used all his strength to end this punishment.


    ¡°Twenty.¡±


    ¡°Ah!¡± Liu Yang, who had fainted, woke up from the pain. He only let out a cry of pain before fainting again.


    Liu Jinbao shrank back and asked the two soldiers who were holding Liu Yang down, ¡°Did I hit him too hard?¡±


    Soldier A and Soldier B thought to themselves, ¡°Can¡¯t you tell? Look at Lieutenant Liu¡¯s badly mangled back.¡±


    Seeing the affirmative expressions on their faces, Liu Jinbao was relieved.


    Oh my, he was exhausted.


    However, these 100 taels of silver were worth it!


    After returning to the residential area from the training grounds, the first thing Liu Jinbao did was to look for Song Jinghuan to ask for credit. In the end, he was told that she had brought people to clean up the battlefield.


    Liu Jinbao had no choice but to look for her. As soon as he climbed up the city tower, he saw a petite figure sitting on the wall not far away, her legs hanging outside the city tower.


    His heart skipped a beat and he hurriedly rushed over.


    Hearing footsteps, Song Jinghuan subconsciously turned around. Before she could see who it was, a hand landed on her waist.


    The person behind her carried her down from the wall. Perhaps because he used too much strength, he lost his balance and the two of them fell back at the same time, falling into a pile.


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    ¡°Song Jinghuan, are you serious? They just called you a child soldier, is it worth ending your life over that?¡±


    ¡°Besides, didn¡¯t you already beat him up? I helped you take revenge just now, too.¡±


    Liu Jinbao hugged the person who fell on him and lectured her.


    Fear had overcome the pain from the fall.


    Hearing this voice, Song Jinghuan stopped drawing her saber and struggled to remember. Unexpectedly, Liu Jinbao tightened his grip behind her.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be rash. I¡¯ve already investigated. Liu Yang deliberately humiliated Sun


    Hao and the others because you embarrassed Meng Linlang. He¡¯s avenging Meng Linlang.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    ¡°Let go of me first, damn you,¡± she said angrily.


    ¡°No, what if you jump off a building again once I let go of you?¡± Thinking of


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s martial strength, Liu Jinbao simply clamped her legs tightly.


    Song Jinghuan, who had originally wanted to hold back because he avenged her, couldn¡¯t take it anymore. She raised her head and slammed it back.


    ¡°Who told you that I wanted to die? If you don¡¯t let go of me, you¡¯ll be the one to die!¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s eyes were filled with stars. When he realized what she had said, he was stunned.


    Song Jinghuan took the opportunity to break free. She flipped over and sat on him, punching him.


    Liu Jinbao closed his eyes in fear. After waiting for a long time, he didn¡¯t see a fist that should have landed long ago. When he sensed that the person pressing down on him had left, he opened his eyes. She threw a handkerchief at his face.


    ¡°Wipe off the blood,¡± Song Jinghuan said guiltily.


    Liu Jinbao was stunned. He grabbed a handkerchief and wiped his face. Looking at the blood on it, his hand trembled. ¡°It¡¯s over. I¡¯m disfigured. You have to take responsibility for me.¡±


    To hell with feeling guilty. Song Jinghuan rolled her eyes and turned around to climb up the wall again.


    Liu Jinbao rubbed his nose and unexpectedly felt blood on his hand again. He raised his hands and stuffed the handkerchief into his pocket. He wiped the blood from his nose with his sleeve and climbed up the wall like Song Jinghuan. He carefully sat down beside her.


    ¡°Are you homesick?¡± he asked.


    He had only been here for a month, but he already missed home several times.


    This girl had arrived earlier than him, so it was normal for her to miss home. ¡°No, I¡¯m thinking about how to last a month.¡± Song Jinghuan sighed.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t understand.


    Song Jinghuan turned to look at him. ¡°Nanling Pass is about to fall.¡±


    At that time, they would all die here.


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°How would you know?¡±


    ¡°Only a fool like you can¡¯t tell.¡± Song Jinghuan pointed at the city wall. ¡°We were forced into the pass step by step from outside Nanling Pass. Look at how badly this city wall has been blown up with black gunpowder.¡±


    Liu Jinbao said anxiously, ¡°Well¡­ you¡¯re the young lady of the Duke¡¯s residence. Go and tell General Xiao to send you back to Chang¡¯an.¡±


    Song Jinghuan paused. He thought that Liu Jinbao would be so frightened by her words that he would cry and beg to go home.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and look for General Xiao now.¡± Liu Jinbao turned around and jumped down from the wall to pull her with him.


    Song Jinghuan avoided his hand. ¡°I won¡¯t leave. I want to wait for my brother and sister-in-law.¡±


    Noticing that Liu Jinbao¡¯s face had turned pale, she comforted him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, my brother and sister-in-law will be here in a month. As long as we hold on for a month, everyone won¡¯t have to die.¡±


    ¡°No matter how powerful they are, there are only two of them. Besides, you said that we can¡¯t hold on anymore. We won¡¯t be able to last a month.¡± Liu Jinbao had seen Shen Yijia before. In this month, he often heard Song Jinghuan mention the two of them, so he was naturally not unfamiliar with them.


    ¡°No, I¡¯ve already thought of a way.¡± Song Jinghuan stood up and looked in the direction of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    Her eyes flashed with determination.


    Liu Jinbao was stunned. ¡®What? What way?¡±


    At the same time, Xiao Qirui was discussing his next plan with the soldiers in the tent.


    ¡°Blow up the black powder?¡±


    The Left Commander of the Vanguard Battalion, Lu Chuan, raised his voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Xiao Qirui looked at the map. ¡°Lord Song will reach Nanling Pass in a month. If we want to hold on until then, we have to blow up the black gunpowder in the Wu Kingdom..¡±

 Chapter 856 - Chapter 856: Wooden Kites (1)

    Chapter 856: Wooden Kites (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The black gunpowder was extremely destructive and lethal. The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army only needed to throw it into the pass with catapults. They could not even resist.


    If they wanted to delay their siege plan, the first thing they had to do was destroy the black gunpowder.


    The black gunpowder would explode when ignited. It was not difficult to destroy it, but the difficult part was to figure out where the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army stored the black gunpowder.


    ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army will definitely hide such an important weapon like black gunpowder and send heavy troops to guard it. Even if we know the exact location, we might not be able to approach it. With so much black gunpowder piled up, once the fuse is lit, will the people who go back alive?¡± Liu Jinbao felt that Song Jinghuan must be crazy.


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t answer him and continued, ¡°The confidence of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is due to the black gunpowder. Without black gunpowder, they can only use ordinary methods to attack the city. Although we don¡¯t have as many troops as them, we can still hold on for a month if we just defend the city.¡±


    It was true that they could make black gunpowder again, but that would definitely take a lot of time. They could still achieve her goal.


    There was no fear on her face when she said this. Instead, there was a faint excitement.


    Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t close his mouth until a long time later. ¡°Are you going to do this yourself?¡±


    Song Jinghuan grinned at him and jumped off the wall. ¡°It¡¯s time to eat.¡±


    It was the end of May now. If they held on until July, her Big Brother and


    Sister-in-law should arrive by then.


    After half a month of traveling, Shen Yijia and the others finally arrived at the periphery of the Three Gorges.


    Song Jingchen put away the map and said, ¡°Let¡¯s rest before entering the mountain.¡±


    In the past half a month, they had not heard any news about Nanling Pass.


    Since there was no news, at least it meant that the city had yet to be broken through. Otherwise, such a huge matter would definitely be spread from the vendors of Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    For example, the news that Lin¡¯an City had been occupied by the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had spread throughout the Xuanyuan Kingdom after half a month.


    ¡°You Yi and I will get something to eat,¡± Thirty Thousand said.


    MO Yuan accompanied Ji Luo to Fengzhou, and Thirty Thousand and You Yi were in charge of the food.


    Song Jingchen nodded without objecting.


    ¡°Hubby, how long will it take to cross this mountain range?¡± Shen Yijia took off her bag from the horse¡¯s back and poured out a small pile of strangely shaped wooden pieces.


    The wooden block was polished and carved by Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia during their break in the past half a month.


    Although he had participated, Song Jingchen still didn¡¯t know what these things were for. He thought for a moment and said, ¡°About ten days.¡±


    This was a conservative estimate. After all, no one had ever walked this path.


    According to his previous plan, they could have arrived here earlier. They didn¡¯t expect it to rain heavily for four days in a row, so they had no choice but to stop to avoid the rain.


    The road after the rain was difficult to traverse, so it took a lot of time.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia blinked and focused on piecing the wooden blocks together.


    Only then did Song Jingchen realize that the originally inconspicuous wooden blocks were in the same shape as paper kites. However, this one was wooden, and there were two gears at the bottom.


    Initially, Song Jingchen only helped polish it because he didn¡¯t want her to work too hard. Now, he was a little interested.


    ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± he asked.


    Shen Yijia picked up the wooden kite and checked it. After confirming that it was fine, she smiled mysteriously. ¡°If we can fly over, won¡¯t we save a lot of time?¡±


    ¡°Fly?¡± Song Jingchen was stunned. ¡°With this?¡±


    He admitted that he had thought that this girl could fly when he suspected that she was a demon, but ever since he knew the truth, he no longer had this unrealistic thought.


    Seeing that he did not believe her, Shen Yijia picked up a fist-sized stone from the ground and tied it under the wooden kite with a cloth.


    Then, she pulled the mechanism on the axle, and the two wooden wings quickly flapped. After sliding a distance on the ground, the wooden kite steadily flew out with the stones.


    ¡°Look, it¡¯s flying.¡± Shen Yijia jumped up in joy.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she finished speaking, the wooden kite, who had flown to the treetop, fell straight down and instantly shattered into pieces.


    The smile on Shen Yijia¡¯s face froze. ¡°Could you spare me some dignity? If you want to fall, at least fly further away before falling.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Thirty Thousand and You Yi, who had returned from hunting, swallowed their saliva.. The Young Madam couldn¡¯t be thinking of using this to fly, right?

 Chapter 857 - Chapter 857: Wooden Kites (2)

    Chapter 857: Wooden Kites (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The two of them looked at the wooden kite fragments at the same time. A chill rose from the bottom of their feet.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned red from their gazes. ¡°This is just a model. Besides, rocks can¡¯t pull the axle. Without the axle to drive the wooden wings, the wooden kite will naturally fall.¡±


    ¡°At least it can fly, right?¡± She looked at Song Jingchen. ¡°As long as we make two large ones, it can definitely fly us over.¡±


    Thirty Thousand and You Yi also turned to look at Song Jingchen and shook their heads.


    ¡°Young Master, please don¡¯t agree.¡± they thought.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and walked to the place where the wooden kite had fallen. He squatted down and observed carefully before realizing that the broken parts were all splices.


    ¡°We were in too much of a hurry on the way, so the interface wasn¡¯t completed.¡± Shen Yijia leaned over and explained.


    Actually, no matter how good the interface was, it would inevitably break if it fell from a high altitude.


    However, just as Shen Yijia had said, as long as the wooden wings continued to flap, they would not suddenly fall.


    The three of them were waiting for him to make a decision. Song Jingchen calmly reassembled the wooden kite and smiled. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Shen Yijia was immediately happy to receive her beautiful husband¡¯s approval.


    On the other hand, Thirty Thousand and You Yi were a little flustered.


    The wooden kite could fly from the ground with a rock. If she wanted it to carry a person¡¯s weight, she had to do something else.


    Song Jingchen looked at the mountaintop closest to them. The materials used to make the wooden kite could be found on the spot.


    After deciding to go up the mountain, the few of them quickly filled their stomachs and mounted their horses again.


    Less than half an hour after entering the forest, the howls of wild beasts sounded all around. The horses instinctively sensed danger and became a little restless. Fortunately, they were all good horses picked out from the military camp by Xuanyuan Ziming. After strict training, they did not abandon their masters or refuse to advance.


    You Yi dealt with the poisonous snakes and ferocious beasts before they could approach.


    The few of them found a suitable empty space at the top of the mountain and stopped. Without resting much, they began to get busy.


    They searched for suitable dry wood, polished it, and made the parts. It took the four of them two days to make a huge wooden kite.


    Compared to the model, Shen Yijia used the wild boar skin to add a safety buckle to it. She also added a small axle on the original axle to support it. This way, she could make the wooden wings flap without using too much strength.


    Looking at the wooden kite, who was even bigger than him, Thirty Thousand reached out and touched it. He whispered in You Yi¡¯s ear, ¡°Can this thing really bring us to fly in the sky?¡±


    Actually, he was more interested in asking what the chances of survival were if they fell from a high altitude.


    If he died, would anyone come to collect his corpse?


    On second thought, even if there was, it would probably be very difficult to find his body. He had yet to bid farewell to MO Yuan.


    You Yi rolled his eyes, his fingers trembling slightly under his sleeves.


    Compared to the two of them, who looked calm on the surface but were flustered on the inside, Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes were sparkling.


    The biggest thing she had made in the past was her beautiful husband¡¯s wheelchair. This felt too fulfilling.


    She went forward eagerly. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯ll try it first.¡±


    As she spoke, she was about to pull the safety catch when Song Jingchen grabbed her hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go,¡± he said.


    ¡°No, you¡¯re not familiar with this thing. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    She was actually very confident in what she had made, but if Song Jingchen was the guinea pig, she inexplicably became worried.


    ¡°This is the mechanism to pull the axle. This is used to change the direction of the wooden wings, and this is used to land. If the wind is too strong, pull this and put away a portion of the wooden wings to reduce the wind surface¡­¡± Song Jingchen pointed at the mechanisms on the wooden kite one by one. In the end, he asked, ¡°Am I right?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°He got it right. I want to kneel down to him.¡±


    It was indeed her husband. He remembered everything after hearing it once.


    However.


    ¡°I still can¡¯t. I made this thing. I have to be the first to fly.¡±


    Song Jingchen sighed. ¡°Jiajia, you have to listen to me.¡±


    ¡°You have to listen to Ah Chen.¡± Ji Luo¡¯s words suddenly sounded in her mind.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Then, why don¡¯t the two of us go together?¡± She took a step back. In order to save time, there were already two seats in the wooden kite.


    Of course, one could also fly solo.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head and pulled her away from the wooden kite.


    Absolutely. Not.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia panicked.


    Song Jingchen leaned down and kissed her forehead. ¡°I believe in you. You should believe in me too.¡±


    Shen Yijia was successfully tricked by him. Her beautiful husband had decided to use the wooden kite because he believed in her. Similarly, she had to believe that her beautiful husband had asked him to fly alone. Was that what he meant?


    Thirty Thousand thought, ¡°Master is getting more and more unreasonable.


    They¡¯re still watching.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that right, You Yi?¡± he thought.


    He looked at You Yi.


    Unexpectedly, You Yi turned into a black shadow in his eyes. With a crack, the wooden kite set off.


    ¡®You Yi!¡±


    ¡°You Yi!¡±


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia were shocked and ran over to stop him at the same time. However, it happened so suddenly, and You Yi was too fast. Their hands only touched the tip of the wooden kite¡¯s tail, and they almost fell off the cliff due to inertia.


    The wooden kite descended quickly, then flapped its wooden wings and flew out with You Yi.


    Shen Yijia stomped her feet in anger, but there was nothing she could do. She could only roar in the direction You Yi had flown out. ¡°You Yi, come back here. Do you know how to turn and land?¡±


    You Yi, who had been relieved because the wooden kite had successfully flown up, said in surprise, ¡°Miss, don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be back soon.¡±


    Then, Shen Yijia and the others saw the kite fall, retract its wings, and fly around in the air like a drunk person was operating it.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Someone like you has nothing to do with me even if you die.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Thirty Thousand thought, ¡°Brother, you¡¯re really brave.¡±


    At Nanling Pass, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army attacked the city more and more frequently. In just four days, they launched no less than ten attacks.


    There were traces of black gunpowder everywhere in the pass. On the walls and the ground, blood visible to the naked eye indicated that many more soldiers had lost their lives..

 Chapter 858 - Chapter 858: Suspicion (1)

    Chapter 858: Suspicion (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°General, we don¡¯t have enough medicinal herbs.¡±


    ¡°General, we¡¯ve used up all the stones and logs in our city.¡±


    ¡°General, five of our catapults have been destroyed.¡±


    ¡°General¡­


    When Xiao Li returned from the kitchen, he saw five generals surrounding Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent and reporting the situation in the city at the top of their lungs. He was so angry that his eyes turned red.


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t easy for the general to rest. Why are you arguing here?¡±


    For the past four days, Xiao Qirui had personally led his men to guard the city tower every time the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army attacked the city.


    After the battle, he had to arrange for everyone to clean up the battlefield. Not only did he not rest, but he was also injured several times. Just now, he was even carried back. These people ran down to disturb his rest. Xiao Li really wanted to kill them.


    ¡°Guard Xiao, it¡¯s not that we don¡¯t understand the general, but we can¡¯t delay these things.¡±


    A violent cough sounded in the tent. Xiao Li was shocked and quickly rushed in. The remaining people also wanted to follow, but they were stopped by a group of soldiers.


    ¡°How dare you!¡± the leading general shouted.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re the ones who¡¯re presumptuous.¡± A crisp shout sounded.


    Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw a petite youth walking towards them with an angry expression.


    Recognizing who it was, the five of them looked disdainful.


    Song Jinghuan had been promoted from an ordinary soldier to a captain of a hundred people in just two months. Coupled with her previous competition with Liu Yang, they were naturally familiar with her.


    However, so what? It was just a captain of a hundred men. Any one of them had a higher status than her. They really did not take her seriously.


    ¡°You¡¯re so arrogant. I was wondering who it was.¡±


    Song Jinghuan walked to the soldiers guarding the tent and stood in front of the five of them.


    She imitated the other party¡¯s sarcastic tone and mocked, ¡°If you bark here, I¡¯ll think that a mad dog has entered the military camp.¡±


    ¡°How dare you,¡± the leading general said angrily.


    ¡°Did I say something wrong?¡± Song Jinghuan sneered. ¡°If I remember correctly, you¡¯re all under General Meng, right? Instead of reporting something to


    General Meng, you came here to disturb General Xiao¡¯s rest.¡±


    She paused. ¡°If General Meng can¡¯t even handle this, why don¡¯t you let me be the general?¡±


    Sun Hao and the others behind her were so shocked by her bold words that their eyes widened. Daredevil Song¡¯s nickname was indeed accurate.


    Liu Jinbao was so frightened that his legs went weak and he almost knelt down. ¡°Even if you have this thought, don¡¯t say it out loud. Can¡¯t we just keep it to ourselves?¡± he thought.


    The five people opposite him were also stunned. When they reacted, they shouted in unison, ¡°How dare you!¡±


    Song Jinghuan dug her ears impatiently. ¡°How dare you, how impudent, how bold. It¡¯s getting repetitive, can¡¯t you use something else? Or did your General Meng only teach you to say these words?¡±


    Not only did Meng Wu think highly of himself, but he also cared about his reputation. In the past, no matter how bold Song Jinghuan was, she wouldn¡¯t have deliberately provoked him. She was really angry today.


    Because Xiao Qirui had embarrassed Meng Linlang in public four days ago, not only did Meng Wu start to cause trouble for them, but he also made all kinds of mistakes during the defense of the city.


    The generals from Chang¡¯an were so busy that their feet did not touch the ground. Xiao Qirui was injured and did not have the time to recuperate. He fainted from exhaustion. Looking at these people, their faces were all red. Those who did not know better would think that they had won a battle and that their colleagues had not died in the past few days.


    Others could tolerate it, but she couldn¡¯t.


    Being mocked by a brat who was not even as tall as their shoulders, the five of them couldn¡¯t breathe. Their faces turned red.


    ¡°You, you!¡±


    ¡°I think you¡¯re tired of living. You¡¯re offending your superiors. Guards, drag him away and behead him.¡± It was the leader who spoke first.


    Immediately, a soldier received an order to go up and arrest Song Jinghuan.


    Liu Jinbao jumped forward and blocked Song Jinghuan. Sun Hao and the others reacted and quickly surrounded her.


    Song Jinghuan glanced at Liu Jinbao, who was trembling in fear but still blocking the way. She pursed her lips and pushed him away. He took out a token and walked forward. ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares to do that.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares to do that.¡±


    At the same time, the curtain behind him opened and Xiao Qirui, who was pale, walked out with Xiao Li¡¯s help.


    Seeing that his helpers had arrived, Song Jinghuan put away the token.


    That was close!


    Everyone subconsciously looked at Xiao Qirui, then at Song Jinghuan. They only saw a flash of gold, but they didn¡¯t see what it was..

 Chapter 859 - Chapter 859: Suspicion (2)

    Chapter 859: Suspicion (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xiao Qirui covered his mouth and coughed dryly. His face darkened as he said, ¡°As generals in the army, instead of thinking about how to deal with the enemy, you¡¯re here arguing with a child who hasn¡¯t even gone through puberty.


    Is this the example you set for your soldiers?¡±


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s words just now were really bold. Xiao Qirui specially mentioned her age and said that they were venting their emotions. Anyone who wasn¡¯t stupid knew that he was biased.


    However, so what if they knew? The only person in the army who could be on equal footing with Xiao Qirui was Meng Wu. Since he had already said so, could Meng Wu lower himself to argue with a child?


    Moreover, Xiao Qirui clearly wanted to protect the young soldier. If Meng Wu really did that, not only would he lose his composure, but he would also completely expose his ugly side to Xiao Qirui. It would not be worth it.


    The five of them looked at each other and gritted their teeth. ¡°I know my mistake.¡±


    Only then did Xiao Qirui look at Song Jinghuan. ¡°And you, even if you¡¯re in a bad mood because you saw too many of your colleagues die in battle, you shouldn¡¯t be so loose-lipped. You¡¯re offending your superiors.¡±


    ¡°On account of your young age, General Meng isn¡¯t a petty person. I¡¯ll punish you to run five rounds around the training grounds and personally apologize to General Meng.¡± He paused, as if afraid that Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know how serious the matter was. He asked again, ¡°Do you admit it?¡±


    Sun Hao and the others looked at Xiao Qirui strangely. If not for the fact that they knew that General Xiao was only 22 years old and couldn¡¯t have given birth to a 12-year-old child, they would have thought that Song Jinghuan was his son. However, they had never heard of General Xiao having a youngest son.


    Last time, Liu Yang was beaten up 20 times for leading the way in causing trouble. Compared to General Song¡¯s words, it was simply incomparable.


    Yes, it must be because their little general was too cute that General Xiao protected him like this.


    Sun Hao and the others felt that they had found the truth. They looked at Xiao Qirui kindly. After all, they were all in the same boat.


    Song Jinghuan cupped his hands and said, ¡°General, you¡¯re right. I was careless for a moment. I¡¯ll definitely apologize to General Meng later.¡±


    ¡°Do you know your mistake now?¡± he thought.


    Song Jinghuan thought to herself, ¡°Absolutely not. It¡¯s impossible for me to be wrong about this in this lifetime.¡± Xiao Qirui waved his hand helplessly. ¡°Go.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    He looked at the five generals again. ¡°The five of you, follow me in. The rest of you can leave.¡±


    When Liu Jinbao, who had long wanted to leave, heard this, he quickly turned around and chased after Song Jinghuan. Seeing this, Sun Hao and the others followed.


    On the training grounds, a group of people was sweating profusely from running under the hot sun. Song Jinghuan turned around speechlessly and looked at the people behind him. She thought for a moment and asked Sun Hao, ¡°Have Tang Shun and the others returned?¡±


    The six people she was talking about were the ones who had been injured and were resting in the tent four days ago. Outsiders thought that they were still recuperating these few days, but in fact, Song Jinghuan had secretly sent them out to investigate the location of the black gunpowder in the Wu Kingdom. Sun Hao shook his head worriedly. ¡°Not yet.¡±


    Song Jinghuan clenched her fists and frowned. ¡°Don¡¯t waste time here. If you have nothing to do, go to the infirmary to help.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Sun Hao was worried.


    ¡°Can I run fewer laps just because you¡¯re here? Hurry up and go.¡± Song Jinghuan chased them away impolitely. Seeing that they didn¡¯t listen, she emphasized, ¡°This is a military order.¡±


    ¡°Then run slower, Lieutenant. General Xiao didn¡¯t say that he wanted you to finish running in a day. If you¡¯re tired from running, let¡¯s rest and run tomorrow.¡± Sun Hao¡¯s tone subconsciously sounded like he was coaxing a child.


    The corners of Song Jinghuan¡¯s mouth twitched. This thing could be arranged in installments?


    ¡°I know, I know. It¡¯s only five laps. It¡¯s not like we haven¡¯t run it before. Hurry up and go.¡±


    Sun Hao and the others could only turn around and leave.


    Song Jinghuan pursed her lips. At that time, she told Tang Shun and the others that no matter if they found out or not, they had to return within four days. Today was the fourth day, so they should be back by now.


    Thinking of this, she quickened her pace.


    After running one round, she realized that something was wrong. She turned around abruptly and realized that Liu Jinbao was running behind her, out of breath.


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    She jogged back. ¡®Why are you still here?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡± Liu Jinbao panted heavily. ¡°I¡¯m exercising.¡±


    Song Jinghuan sized him up from head to toe. ¡°You¡¯re already so tired after running one round. You really should train hard.¡±


    Liu Jinbao thought to himself, ¡°Am I being looked down upon?¡±


    Liu Jinbao thought, ¡°That¡¯s not what you said to Sun Hao and the others..¡±

 Chapter 860 - Chapter 860: Suspicion (3)

    Chapter 860: Suspicion (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    However, he was so tired that he could not speak.


    As the young master of a wealthy family, running one lap was already his limit.


    As expected, the distance between the two of them widened.


    When Song Jinghuan ran the third lap, Liu Jinbao was still running the second lap.


    When Song Jinghuan ran the fourth lap, Liu Jinbao finally finished the second lap.


    Seeing Song Jinghuan run past him for the third time, Liu Jinbao gave up.


    He chose to wait for her at the finish line!


    Song Jinghuan ignored him. After running five rounds, she went straight to Meng Wu¡¯s tent.


    After taking a few steps, she turned around angrily. ¡°Why are you following me again?¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s face was still red from exercise. His eyes wandered as he said, ¡°I¡¯m not following you. I just happened to take this path.¡±


    There was no need to mention his appearance. Otherwise, Shen Yijia would not have brought him home with her after taking a look at him.


    This appearance made people inexplicably want to bully him.


    Song Jinghuan suppressed this undesirable thought in her heart and rolled her eyes, not exposing him.


    Ever since she told him her plan, this person had been following her around all day. Fortunately, the two of them didn¡¯t live in the same tent. Otherwise, Song Jinghuan seriously suspected that he would keep an eye on her even when she slept.


    Meng Wu had long found out what had happened outside Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent from his subordinates. When he heard that Song Huan was requesting an audience, his face darkened.


    ¡°I¡¯m dealing with military matters. Ask him to wait outside,¡± he said coldly.


    This meant that he was going to leave that brat hanging.


    The deputy general guarding the side did as he was told and went out to pass the message.


    Meng Wu sneered. ¡°Arrogant brat, you don¡¯t know the immensity of heaven and earth.¡±


    He made up his mind to let Song Jinghuan stand under the hot sun for a few hours. Unexpectedly, not long after the deputy general went out, Song Jinghuan deliberately raised his voice.


    ¡°Since General Meng is busy, I¡¯ll come back later.¡±


    Meng Wu¡¯s face darkened. He was so angry that his hand was trembling. He said sternly, ¡°Let him in.¡±


    There was a moment of silence outside. The curtain was lifted and Song Jinghuan walked in.


    Meng Wu put down his brush and looked up at her. He asked despite knowing the answer, ¡°Why are you looking for me?¡±


    Song Jinghuan blinked and cupped his hands. ¡°My previous words were inappropriate. I said that I wanted to replace General Meng. General Xiao asked me to apologize to General Meng.¡±


    Meng Wu choked. Was this brat really stupid or was he pretending to be stupid?


    Was he just apologizing because General Xiao asked him to apologize? If Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t say anything, would he think that he hadn¡¯t done anything wrong?


    Song Jinghuan thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s not it. Even if General Xiao said so, I still don¡¯t think I did anything wrong.¡±


    Meng Wu inexplicably understood what he meant. The anger in his heart intensified.What¡¯s wrong with that?¡± Song Jinghuan¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°General is right.¡±


    This person finally said something human.


    Meng Wu was speechless.


    He felt that he would definitely have a stroke if he spoke to this person again, so he stopped talking and put down the pen in his hand to narrow his eyes at him.


    ¡°Hurry up and apologize, then get lost.¡± he thought.


    Song Jinghuan tilted her head and looked at him innocently. She stood rooted to the ground without saying a word.


    Meng Wu was speechless. ¡°What the hell are you doing here?¡± he thought.


    Song Jinghuan thought to himself, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that I didn¡¯t do anything wrong? Since I didn¡¯t do anything wrong, there¡¯s naturally no need to apologize. ¡±


    The two of them stared at each other for a long time. Meng Wu was so angry that his blood surged. He noticed something and was stunned. He asked, ¡°I remember that you¡¯re from Chang¡¯an.¡±


    These eyes were too similar to the talented youth in his memory.


    Just now, he even thought that that person was standing in front of him.


    However, how was that possible? The last time he saw that young man was ten years ago. At that time, the young man was already ten years old.


    Although it had been many years, anyone who had seen him would never forget him.


    The problem was that not only did their ages not match, but if that young man really came to Nanling Pass, how could he be a mere soldier?


    With how important that person was to the new emperor, he wouldn¡¯t be surprised if he was asked to be the grand marshal.


    He clearly knew that Song Huan wasn¡¯t him, but he couldn¡¯t shake off this thought. The more he looked at the ¡°boy¡± in front of him, the more he felt that the two of them looked alike.


    He suddenly remembered that Xiao Qirui seemed to treat Song Huan specially. Meng Wu¡¯s heart trembled. There were so many soldiers in the army. He did not think that Xiao Qirui would pay attention to a child for no reason.


    Song Huan¡­


    Song!


    This person¡¯s surname was also Song!

 Chapter 861 - Chapter 861: Suspicion (4)

    Chapter 861: Suspicion (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know that her alias was about to be exposed. She said with a flattered expression, ¡°Yes, I didn¡¯t expect you to even know this. I¡¯m honored.¡±


    Meng Wu choked again, but he was no longer as angry as before. He smiled heartily. ¡°You¡¯ve killed more than a hundred enemy soldiers. In two months, you were promoted to a hundred-man captain as a new recruit. People call you Daredevil Song. It¡¯s difficult for me not to notice.¡±


    He reached out his hand and praised Song Jinghuan. ¡°As expected, the younger generation will surpass us.¡±


    ¡°Are you all right?¡± Song Jinghuan thought.


    The burly man with a full beard made a loving expression. No matter how one looked at him, he looked like a child trafficker with ill intentions.


    Song Jinghuan shivered and had goosebumps all over his body. She smiled dryly and said, ¡°Haha, General, you flatter me. Since you¡¯re busy with military affairs, I won¡¯t disturb you here. I¡¯ll take my leave first.¡±


    Meng Wu nodded in satisfaction. As expected, children still had to be coaxed. Wasn¡¯t this much more polite?


    He had thought about it. Since he suspected that this person was related to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, he could not offend the person before confirming it.


    It wouldn¡¯t be too late to clean up after confirming his suspicions.


    He narrowed his eyes and waved his hand good-naturedly. ¡°Go. If you encounter any difficulties in the future, come and look for me.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, help. Someone wants to abduct your little Huanhuan.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia sneezed. She rubbed her nose and continued to knock.


    In two days, the second wooden kite was almost done. If nothing went wrong, they would reach Nanling Pass tonight.


    ¡°Did you catch a cold?¡±


    It was his fault for being so focused on the kite these past few days that he did not notice this girl¡¯s physical condition.


    Without waiting for Shen Yijia to answer, he picked her up and placed her in the hammock he had specially made for her with vines. He touched her face and asked, ¡°Where do you feel unwell?¡±


    ¡°By the way, Mother left some medicine for you before she left. I¡¯ll get it for you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and quickly pulled him back. ¡°I don¡¯t have a cold.¡± How could she catch a cold? Someone must be thinking about her.


    Seeing that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe her, she said, ¡°I¡¯m not feeling unwell.


    It¡¯s just that¡­¡¯


    ¡°What?¡± Song Jingchen looked nervous.


    ¡°I¡¯m just a little hungry. I want to eat your roasted meat.¡±


    At the mention of roasted meat, Shen Yijia swallowed. She did not know what had happened to her these past two days. She was especially hungry. She had just eaten lunch.


    She glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s expression. Would her beautiful husband think that she was holding him up?


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head with heartache. ¡°You¡¯ve done a lot of work in the past two days. It¡¯s normal for you to get hungry quickly. Wait for me. I¡¯ll go make it for you now.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she quickly nodded. ¡°Then go. I¡¯ll go and assemble the remaining parts of the wooden kite. We can set off after eating.¡±


    Song Jingchen pressed her back down. ¡°Rest. Thirty Thousand and You Yi can do the rest.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Young Madam, take a break. You Yi and I know how to assemble the kite.¡±


    With You Yi¡¯s magnificent feat, he was not worried that his corpse would end up in the wilderness. Instead, he was a little eager to try.


    You Yi nodded silently. He wanted to try again as soon as possible.


    ¡°Yes, I won¡¯t embarrass myself again next time.¡± he thought.


    Since the kite was only a few parts away from being fully built, Shen Yijia did not insist. She closed her eyes and waited for the food.


    When Song Jingchen returned from the forest with a rabbit, she had already fallen asleep.


    Song Jingchen felt her forehead again, worried. After confirming that her temperature was normal, he felt relieved.


    He also realized that this girl¡¯s appetite had indeed grown a lot in the past two days.


    Outside Meng Wu¡¯s tent, Liu Jinbao had been extremely worried since Song Jinghuan entered Meng Wu¡¯s tent. Seeing her come out, he opened his mouth to ask General Meng if he was angry, but before he could say a word, he was grabbed by the other party.


    Liu Jinbao blushed and stammered.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go back first.¡± Song Jinghuan pulled him away as if she was escaping. She didn¡¯t notice that something was wrong with Liu Jinbao.


    The deputy general looked in the direction the two of them had left with a strange expression. He had been standing outside the tent just now and did not hear the general berating anyone at all. Then what was with Song Huan¡¯s terrified expression?


    As he was thinking, Meng Wu¡¯s voice came from the tent.


    ¡°Deputy General Chen.¡±


    Deputy General Chen quickly lifted the curtain and entered.


    ¡°General.¡±


    Meng Wu knocked on the desk and instructed with a dark expression, ¡°Investigate this Song Huan.¡± He paused and added, ¡°Investigate his relationship with the Duke¡¯s Residence in the capital.¡±


    Deputy General Chen was stunned. Although he didn¡¯t understand why Song Huan was related to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, he still agreed respectfully.


    On the other side, Song Jinghuan pulled Liu Jinbao and ran far away. Unexpectedly, before she could heave a sigh of relief, she met the three siblings of the Meng family.


    Meng Linlang snorted angrily. ¡°How unlucky.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Song Jinghuan rolled her eyes. She should¡¯ve gotten a horoscope reading before going outside today..

 Chapter 862 - Chapter 862: Action (1)

    Chapter 862: Action (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was unknown what Meng Wu was up to, but Song Jinghuan wasn¡¯t in the mood to argue with Meng Linlang. She cupped her hands and bowed to Meng Shaoyuan before pulling Liu Jinbao away.


    ¡°Brother, look at him. He doesn¡¯t take you seriously at all.¡± Meng Linlang stomped her feet in anger.


    Meng Shaoyuan looked in the direction the two of them had left. He twisted his fingers at his sides. ¡°You know them?¡±


    Most of the men in the military camp were rough and slovenly. It was rare to see someone as fair and good-looking as Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao.


    ¡°The person walking in front is Song Huan, whom I mentioned to you previously.¡± Thinking of the humiliation she had suffered that day, Meng Linlang looked furious.


    ¡°So he¡¯s Song Huan.¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan had only heard of Song Huan¡¯s name in the past, but he had never seen her.


    Speaking of which, Liu Yang was still his subordinate. Coincidentally, on the day of Song Huan and Liu Yang¡¯s competition, he brought people out of the city to pick up the rations transported from Qingyang City and was not in the military camp.


    It was precisely because of this that the soldier, who heard Xiao Qirui¡¯s instructions to look for Meng Shaoyuan to take Meng Linlang, brought Meng Linyan instead of her brother.


    Meng Linlang said in disgust, ¡°Isn¡¯t that him? Two grown men holding hands in broad daylight. How disgusting.¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s eyes darkened as he called out warningly, ¡°Linlang.¡±


    Meng Linlang pouted indignantly. ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything wrong.¡± Seeing Meng


    Shaoyuan¡¯s expression darken, she hurriedly said, ¡°Oh my, I heard that Brother Xiao was carried back. I have to see him.¡±


    With that, she picked up her skirt and jogged away.


    Meng Linyan, who had been silent, frowned. ¡°Brother, Linlang¡­¡¯


    Meng Shaoyuan raised his hand and interrupted her. ¡°Since Father asked her to stay, it means that he¡¯s tacitly agreeing.¡±


    ¡°Agreeing to what? To let her pester Xiao Qirui?¡± she thought.


    Meng Linyan wanted to ask what he meant, but Meng Shaoyuan suddenly asked, ¡°Who¡¯s the soldier with Song Huan?¡±


    Meng Linyan looked at him suspiciously, not understanding why her brother was interested in the two children. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°I think his name is Liu Jinbao. He¡¯s also a new recruit.¡±


    ¡°Liu Jinbao, Song Huan.¡± Meng Shaoyuan repeated the two names, his eyes filled with interest.


    Not long after Song Jinghuan returned to his tent, Tang Shun and the others returned.


    As the representative, Tang Shun said, ¡°Lieutenant Song, we¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute,¡± Song Jinghuan interrupted him.


    Tang Shun paused and followed her gaze. He realized that there was another person in the tent¡ªLiu Jinbao, who was squatting in the corner and grabbing his right hand silently.


    Liu Jinbao wasn¡¯t in their team, but he hung around Song Jinghuan from time to time. In addition, he was young, obedient, and generous. They all liked him.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Little Brother Liu?¡± Tang Shun asked.


    Song Jinghuan shrugged. ¡°How would I know?¡±


    After returning from Meng Wu¡¯s side, this person seemed to have lost his soul.


    If not for the fact that she was the one who entered Meng Wu¡¯s tent, Song Jinghuan would have suspected that he had been poisoned by Meng Wu.


    The corners of Tang Shun¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Song Jinghuan sighed and walked over to kick Liu Jinbao.


    Liu Jinbao looked up in a daze. Seeing that it was Song Jinghuan, a blush appeared on his face. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Song Jinghuan covered his chest. ¡°You should go.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay.¡± Liu Jinbao stood up obediently and squatted down in another corner.


    Tang Shun was speechless.


    Song Jinghuan held her forehead. Before Tang Shun came in, the situation had already been repeated more than three times.


    Tang Shun asked tentatively, ¡°Then I¡¯ll come back later?¡± Song Jinghuan waved his hand. ¡°No need. Get two people to carry him out.¡±


    Tang Xin was about to go out and look for someone.


    Liu Jinbao jumped up. ¡°I¡¯m not leaving.¡±


    Tang Shun was speechless.


    Song Jinghuan clenched his fists. ¡°Are you possessed by something? What do you want?¡±


    This was the first time his hand had been held by a girl. He was too excited.


    Besides, he wasn¡¯t acting the first few times. After Tang Shun came in¡­


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t want to waste time with him. ¡°We have something to discuss. Get lost quickly.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not leaving. I¡¯m going with you to destroy the black gunpowder.¡±


    Although Tang Shun had yet to say it, one could tell from his excited expression that he had found something.


    Song Jinghuan looked at his small arms and legs. ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of death?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not afraid either. What¡¯s there to be afraid of?¡± Liu Jinbao straightened his neck and snorted. ¡°Anyway, my grandfather only cares about his son now.


    He won¡¯t be sad even if I die.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was silent. The first time she saw Liu Jinbao in this military camp, she found out what had happened to the Liu family this year..

 Chapter 863 - Chapter 863: Action (2)

    Chapter 863: Action (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jiayue gave birth to a chubby child at the beginning of this year. Old Master Liu was so happy that he was completely preoccupied with them. He no longer thought about his precious grandson, Liu Jinbao.


    If that was all, it would have been fine. The Liu family had plenty of money. Even if he was not pampered, he would not starve.


    However, Song Jiayue was not a well-behaved person. She took advantage of the fact that she was doted on and ceaselessly fanned the flames in front of Old Master Liu.


    Old Master Liu¡¯s heart was filled with Song Jiayue and her son. He naturally believed whatever she said. Liu Jinbao had suffered a lot because of this.


    Moreover, because he had been raised by Old Master Liu since he was young, his parents did not have much feelings for him. Seeing that he was being punished, not only did they not support him, but they also blamed him for not having the ability to please Old Master Liu. They were worried that the family assets would fall into Song Jiayue and her son¡¯s hands.


    In short, ever since Song Jiayue gave birth to her son, Liu Jinbao¡¯s life in the Liu family had been filled with misfortune. His previous blissful life had turned pitiful.


    Otherwise, how could he have come to such a dangerous place? Even if he wanted to, Old Master Liu could not bear to let him do so.


    Thinking back, she glanced at Liu Jinbao and asked seriously, ¡°Do you really want to go?¡±


    Liu Jinbao nodded without thinking.


    ¡°Then come here.¡± Song Jinghuan beckoned to him with a finger.


    Seeing that she had agreed, Liu Jinbao was overjoyed. Without thinking too much, he leaned over.


    ¡°I can¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish, Liu Jinbao felt a pain in his neck and fainted. Tang Shun quickly scooped him up to prevent him from falling to the ground.


    ¡°Well.¡±


    Song Jinghuan waved his hand innocently. ¡°Put him on my bed.¡±


    She had her own tent, but Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t. If she sent him back now, it would arouse suspicion. It wouldn¡¯t be good if he was woken up.


    Tang Shun didn¡¯t know if he should sympathize with Liu Jinbao for being deceived or envy him for being able to sleep in the general¡¯s bed.


    Without Liu Jinbao¡¯s interruption, the two of them finally got to the point.


    ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is camping here.¡± Tang Shun circled a location on the map. It was a valley outside Nanling Pass, at the border between the two countries.


    As he spoke, his hand moved back into the territory of the Wu Kingdom. ¡°The black gunpowder is hidden here.¡±


    They observed for four days. Every time the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army attacked Nanling Pass, a few supply carts would come out from here. Although the things in the carts were covered with cloth and could not be seen, there was a high chance that they were transporting black gunpowder.


    On the map, the distance between the two places did not seem to be far, but in fact, that was not the case. However, this was easy to understand. No matter how important black gunpowder was, it would not be placed in the military camp. Otherwise, wouldn¡¯t an accident completely destroy their forces?


    ¡°How many people are guarding it?¡± Song Jinghuan asked.


    Tang Shun said, ¡°We didn¡¯t dare to get too close. I roughly estimate it to be at least 10,000.¡±


    Song Jinghuan gritted her teeth.


    Ten thousand. The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was stationed in the middle. It was impossible for too many people to go around and control these ten thousand people.


    Even if they succeeded in sneaking in, the chances of them returning alive were almost zero.


    Tang Shun stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯ve discussed it with Liang Ping and the others. We¡¯re familiar with the route. We¡¯ll complete this mission.¡±


    Song Jinghuan looked at him and made up his mind. ¡°Alright, the six of you, call Sun Hao, Tian Yong, and Wang Dazhuang. There are a total of ten people.


    We¡¯ll set off at night.¡±


    Tang Shun was stunned. Wasn¡¯t six plus three nine? When he realized that Song Jinghuan had included herself in the team, he disagreed. ¡°It¡¯s fine if the few of us go for such a dangerous matter. Little Lieutenant, you¡¯re still young.


    In the future, you¡¯ll have to¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already made up my mind. You don¡¯t have to persuade me.¡± Song Jinghuan interrupted him. ¡°Go and call them in.¡±


    What Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know was that not long after she received the news, the scouts sent by Xiao Qirui also brought back the same news.


    However, it was different from her actions tonight. Xiao Qirui¡¯s plan was to personally bring a group of people around when the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army attacked next time. This way, even if the commotion was too great, the army would not be able to rush back in time.


    There were horses outside that they had hidden in advance during the day. In order not to cause too much of a commotion and be discovered, Song Jinghuan took out a stack of torn cloth from the small bag on his back and distributed it to them.


    ¡°Wrap it around the horses¡¯ hooves a few times.¡±


    The sound of hooves could not be avoided, but this could reduce the pressure.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    After wrapping the horses¡¯ hooves, the ten of them rode into the night.


    On the gate tower, the sentry yawned sleepily. From the corner of his eye, he saw a shadow and quickly patted his companion beside him. ¡°Look, is there someone over there?¡±


    His companion looked in the direction he was pointing and rolled his eyes. ¡°There¡¯s no one here. Aren¡¯t you too nervous?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, those sons of b*tches from the Wu Kingdom already came once during the day. They also need to rest.¡±


    The sentry thought about it and felt relieved. However, after being interrupted, his sleepiness was gone. He looked around and asked in a low voice, ¡°Have you heard about that matter?¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t the current emperor of the Wu Kingdom our Lord Xian? The reason why he sent troops to Great Xia is to avenge his biological mother. Someone said that as long as Great Xia hands over the empress dowager, they won¡¯t fight anymore.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s such a thing?¡± His companion was shocked.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, but who is the empress dowager? She¡¯s His Majesty¡¯s biological mother. How can His Majesty hand her over?¡± The sentry took a deep breath. ¡°So it¡¯s impossible for us to stop fighting with the Wu Kingdom.¡±


    ¡°This is too much. The empress dowager was clearly the one who caused this.


    How can the emperor send so many of us to our deaths because of her alone?¡±


    ¡°Shh, keep your voice down. The Wu Kingdom hasn¡¯t asked yet, right? We still don¡¯t know if it¡¯s true.¡±


    His companion glanced at him and fell silent.


    ¡°Ouch¡­


    In the tent, Liu Jinbao slowly woke up. He rubbed his neck and gasped in pain.


    ¡°Song Jinghuan, you¡­¡±


    Noticing that his surroundings were dark, his pupils constricted. The rest of his words were stuck in his throat. He ran out without even putting on his shoes..

 Chapter 864 - Chapter 864: An Incident (1)

    Chapter 864: An Incident (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Quick, move aside. I have something urgent to report to General Xiao.¡± ¡°The general is resting. You can¡¯t go in. Someone, drag him away.¡±


    ¡°I really have something urgent to tell the general. Don¡¯t pull me away! I want to see the general!¡±


    In the tent, Xiao Qirui had just drunk the medicine and was about to rest when he heard the commotion outside. He lit the oil lamp that had just been extinguished and instructed, ¡°Xiao Li, let him in.¡±


    There was a moment of silence outside. The tent curtain was lifted and a barefoot young man with disheveled clothes rushed in.


    Xiao Qirui was slightly stunned. ¡°Liu Jinbao?¡±


    ¡°General, that girl¡­ Song Huan brought people to blow up the black gunpowder!¡± Liu Jinbao tried his best to calm down, but his voice still couldn¡¯t stop trembling.


    Xiao Qirui was shocked.


    ¡°What did you say?¡±


    A female voice suddenly sounded.


    Everyone looked out of the tent and saw a woman rush in. Without a word, she grabbed Liu Jinbao¡¯s collar and picked him up. ¡°What did you say just now?


    What happened to Sister Huan?¡±


    ¡°Madam Song?¡± Xiao Qirui thought that he was hallucinating for a moment. It was not until he saw the handsome man who followed the woman in that he was sure that he was not mistaken.


    ¡°Why are you¡­¡±


    According to the normal speed, it would take them about a month to get from the Xuanyuan Kingdom to Nanling Pass.


    Song Jingchen nodded at him. ¡°We¡¯ll talk about it later.¡± Then, he looked at Shen Yijia and said, ¡°Jiajia, let go of him.¡±


    When he found out that Song Jinghuan had run away from home and followed the army to the border, he had written to Xiao Qirui and naturally knew that Song Huan was the name that girl used in the army.


    Shen Yijia obediently let go and said with a cold expression, ¡°Tell me, what happened to Sister Huan?¡±


    Liu Jinbao fell to the ground. At this moment, he recognized the person and hurriedly got up. ¡°She found out where the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army placed the black gunpowder and brought people to destroy it.¡±


    ¡°When did she leave? Do you know where the black gunpowder is hidden?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Liu Jinbao was speechless.


    He had been knocked unconscious by that girl. He didn¡¯t know where the black gunpowder was or when Song Jinghuan went.


    Seeing him like this, Song Jingchen had already guessed it.


    ¡°I know where their black gunpowder is hidden,¡± Xiao Qirui interrupted. With that, he walked to the desk and took out the map.


    ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is stationed in this valley. The black gunpowder is probably here.¡± He pointed at the locations. ¡°Without alerting the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army, it will take at least two hours to travel from here to this location.¡±


    He paused. ¡°I wonder when that girl left.¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the hourglass beside him. ¡°When was the last time the patrol team on the city tower changed shifts?¡± Xiao Qirui was stunned and reacted. ¡°11pm.¡±


    It was currently past midnight.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s heart sank. ¡°Isn¡¯t that an hour and a half ago?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, we should be able to make it in time.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head and comforted her.


    ¡°I¡¯ll get some people to go with you,¡± Xiao Qirui said.


    ¡°No need. If there are too many people, we¡¯ll be easily discovered by the enemy¡¯s scouts.¡±


    The night was dark. Behind a rock somewhere outside the tent, a few pairs of eyes stared in the direction of the tent.


    ¡°Little lieutenant, they¡¯ve all gone to sleep,¡± Tang Shun reminded him softly.


    Song Jinghuan, who was leaning against the rock with her eyes closed, opened her eyes and turned around. As expected, there were only more than a hundred people patrolling the camp.


    She observed for a moment and roughly figured out the patrolling troops everywhere. She said seriously, ¡°Go according to the plan. Sun Hao, the four of you, go around to the left. After releasing the deer and causing a commotion, immediately return to the place where we stopped the horses. Tang Shun, you guys do the same. Go to the right and release it. Remember not to stay around for long.¡±


    There were a total of ten people, and one of them was guarding their horses outside. The little general had sent all of them to lure away the patrolling soldiers. Then who would sneak in and get some black gunpowder?


    One didn¡¯t need to think to know the answer.


    ¡°No,¡± they said in unison.


    At first, they were indeed quite afraid, but when they really arrived, their excitement had long exceeded their fear.


    When they did this, they would be heroes of Great Xia, the kind that would be immortalized in stories for generations.


    Song Jinghuan glared at them. If they spoke any louder, they would have attracted the attention of the enemy.


    Sun Hao lowered his voice and said, ¡°My parents died early and I don¡¯t have any other relatives. I have nothing to worry about. Little lieutenant, let me go..¡±

 Chapter 865 - Chapter 865: An Incident (2)

    Chapter 865: An Incident (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jinghuan shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s precisely because you¡¯re the only one in your family that you can¡¯t go.¡±


    Liang Ping said, ¡°My parents are still around, and I still have my sister-in-law. Even without me, there will still be people to continue the family line. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    ¡°Your parents aren¡¯t young anymore, right? Can you bear to let them send their children off? They raised you for nothing.¡±


    It seemed that being the only one left wasn¡¯t right, but having parents also made one unsuitable for the mission.


    ¡°My parents died last year, but I still have a younger brother at home. My younger brother has already started a family.¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡± Song Jinghuan rolled her eyes. If she continued, she wouldn¡¯t be able to find an excuse to stop them. ¡°Am I the boss or are you the boss? Who do you listen to?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the boss, but we don¡¯t want to listen to you now.¡± they thought.


    Song Jinghuan inexplicably understood what they were thinking and said angrily, ¡°I¡¯m small and won¡¯t be easily discovered.¡±


    She was annoyed that she had to expose her shortcomings.


    The few of them shook their heads repeatedly. Most of the enemy soldiers had been lured away. If they were careful, they could avoid being discovered.


    Song Jinghuan choked and felt her heart ache. She took off his small bag angrily and said, ¡°Do you think I¡¯m going to die? I led this mission. I¡¯m confident that I can escape before the explosion. Are you confident in doing the same?¡±


    The men paused and shook their heads.


    ¡°Then you can¡¯t do it. Hurry up and wait for me at the place where the horses are stationed after you complete your mission.¡±


    Tang Shun glanced at him and patted Sun Hao¡¯s back. ¡°Let¡¯s go, we¡¯ll listen to the little general.¡±


    Sun Hao did not expect him to be so spineless. He was furious. ¡°Tang Shun,


    you¡­ ¡±


    Noticing Tang Shun¡¯s ugly expression, he gritted his teeth. ¡°Alright.¡±


    If the little general did not come out in the end, he would bring his men and fight his way in. It would not be a loss to kill one, but it would be a gain to kill two. He would never abandon the little general.


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know what they were up to. Seeing them leave with the deer they had caught in advance, she heaved a sigh of relief.


    It was very simple to lure them away. They were all people who had stayed in the military camp for a long time. The military rules were strict and the food was poor. They would definitely not let go of prey that came Imocking on their door.


    Sure enough, not long after, a group of people heard the commotion and left the camp. Right on the heels of that was a second group, and the gap in the patrolling team had gaps in it.


    Song Jinghuan seized the opportunity and sneaked in when the patrol team turned the corner. She was small and could hide herself well anywhere.


    After circling around, she placed her final target on the tent of the two men in black standing at the door.


    ¡°Fortunately, I had foresight,¡± Song Jinghuan muttered softly. She took out a bamboo tube from her bag, poured out two silver needles, and put them into the sleeve arrows on her wrist.


    With a whoosh, two silver needles flew out.


    The martial strength of the two men in black was clearly not low. They easily waved their swords to block the sneak attack.


    They looked at each other.


    One of them said, ¡°Continue guarding here. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished speaking, the two of them fainted.


    Song Jinghuan patted her chest in fear. Fortunately, she had used medicinal powder, and the knockout powder given by Sister MO Yuan was strong enough.


    Unfortunately, the medicinal herbs were limited, so she didn¡¯t give her much.


    Song Jinghuan sighed regretfully. She bent down and helped the two of them sit outside the tent, making it seem like they were asleep.


    After confirming that no one would notice, she lifted the curtain and entered the tent.


    Under the moonlight, Song Jinghuan gasped when he saw the wooden boxes piled up inside.


    If so much black gunpowder was thrown into Nanling Pass at once, it would blow up the city wall, right?


    She did not think that the people of the Wu Kingdom could not bear to do it. With their previous fighting style, it was more like they were using it sparingly in the province.


    However, even if it was used sparingly, it made things difficult for them.


    Unfortunately, this thing was too heavy to carry.


    Song Jinghuan sighed again. She pried open a box and took out an explosive. She placed it on the ground and took out a slender thread from her bag.


    If Liu Jinbao was here, he would have recognized the thread that Song Jinghuan had asked him to get.


    It was originally only the length of a palm, but Song Jinghuan twisted it into a long strip ana soaKea It In 011 In aavance.


    She connected one end of the line to the fuse of black gunpowder and pulled the other end back to the entrance of the tent.


    In order to prevent any other accidents from happening, she thought about it and did not go out in the end.


    After lighting it, she still had at least ten seconds to leave this place!


    Song Jinghuan clenched her fists and took out another bamboo tube. She took out a matchstick and blew on it gently. A beam of flames instantly jumped up. The firelight shone on her face, and it was obvious that her face was pale. Her forehead was already covered in sweat..

 Chapter 866 - Chapter 866: An Incident (3)

    Chapter 866: An Incident (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Brother, you have to come quickly.¡±


    She murmured and moved the matchstick closer to the fuse with trembling hands.


    ¡°Sister Huan!¡±


    In the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, Madam Li woke up from a nightmare.


    A girl hurriedly walked in from the outer room and asked with concern,


    ¡°Auntie, did you have a nightmare again?¡±


    ¡°Yuwan.¡± Madam Li seemed to have grabbed a straw to clutch at. She grabbed


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand tightly and said with a trembling voice, ¡°I dreamed that the Nanling Pass had been broken¡­ Sister Huan didn¡¯t come out. She¡¯s still so young¡­¡±


    Towards the end, she choked up.


    Yuan Yuwan took a soft pillow and placed it behind her to let her lean against it. She comforted her softly, ¡°Auntie, don¡¯t worry. Isn¡¯t there a saying that dreams are reversed? Besides, if Nanling Pass had really been broken through, the palace would have received the news long ago. It¡¯s impossible for the Empress Dowager and Your Majesty to hide it from you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Dreams are the opposite. The empress dowager even came to see me during the day. Why is that girl so disobedient? The battlefield is so dangerous.¡±


    Whether she was selfish or weak, her closest relatives had all died because of


    Great Xia. Now, there were only these three children left. She really didn¡¯t want any of them to have any accidents.


    If she could, she would rather their family stay in Xiagou Village forever.


    ¡°Yuwan admires Sister Huan a lot. Unfortunately, Grandfather only taught me some theoretical techniques. I can¡¯t help at all during the country¡¯s crisis.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not the only one who thinks so. Ruoshui thinks so too. If not for the fact that she can¡¯t go with her body, she would have secretly gone without Lord


    Fan¡¯s knowledge.¡±


    ¡°Auntie should be proud of Sister Huan too.¡± Yuan Yuwan comforted her gently. ¡°The imperial physician said that your illness was caused by too much thinking. You should relax now and recover as soon as possible. When Sister Huan returns triumphantly with the army, we can happily welcome her at the city gate.¡±


    Madam Li closed her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re right. I should be proud of her.¡±


    You Bai poured a glass of warm water at the right time.


    Yuan Yuwan took it and fed Madam Li. When she saw that Madam Li¡¯s breathing had stabilized, she helped her back to the bed.


    ¡°Yuwan.¡± Madam Li forced a smile and patted her hand. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to you these days.¡±


    What she said was true.


    After divorcing Xiao Qirui, Yuan Yuwan had been living in a manor outside the city.


    Even though Shen Yijia was not in the capital, she would occasionally get You Bai to send some crops from the farm to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. They did not stop contacting each other.


    A few days ago, You Bai came to deliver something and found out that Madam Li was seriously ill.


    At the thought that there were only a few children in the residence, Yuan Yuwan was worried, so she moved in to take care of them.


    Fortunately, she persuaded Madam Li to take better care of herself. Otherwise, Madam Li wouldn¡¯t have been able to get better.


    Madam Li also knew that she had gone overboard, but knowing was one thing. She couldn¡¯t help but continue to worry.


    ¡°Auntie, what are you talking about? Back then, when Yuwan was in trouble, it was Jiajia who helped me. She¡¯s not in Chang¡¯an now, so it¡¯s only right for me to help her take care of you. As long as you don¡¯t find Yuwan clumsy.¡±


    In Yuan Yuwan¡¯s understanding, women often needed to serve their mother-in-law after getting married. She made sure to clarify that she was here because Shen Yijia had helped her before because she was worried that Madam Li would be dissatisfied with Shen Yijia.


    Although it was impossible for them to get along in the past, she knew too well that some things could not withstand the scrutiny of time.


    Madam Li did not think too much about it. At the mention of Shen Yijia, her expression softened. ¡°You¡¯re all good children.¡±


    Seeing her reaction, Yuan Yuwan heaved a sigh of relief.


    Madam Li continued, ¡°Alright, it¡¯s getting late. Don¡¯t stay here. Bi Tao will take care of me. Go back to your room and rest early.¡±


    There were many servants in the residence now, and many of the former staff had returned. Bi Tao used to serve her.


    ¡°Alright, get Bi Tao to call me if there¡¯s anything.¡±


    In order to make it easier to take care of Madam Li, she lived in the courtyard next door.


    ¡°Go, don¡¯t worry about me,¡± Madam Li said.


    After reminding Bi Tao a few more times, Yuan Yuwan left with You Bai.


    ¡°Miss, what¡¯s wrong?¡± You Bai asked worriedly when he saw that her expression had turned solemn as soon as she left Madam Li¡¯s courtyard. Yuan Yuwan shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡±


    You Bai pursed his lips. ¡°Are you worried about Eldest Young Master Xiao?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan said indifferently, ¡°No, don¡¯t spout nonsense.¡±


    You Bai did not believe her and muttered softly, ¡°I heard everything he said to you the day before he went to war.¡±


    There was silence all around. You Bail s words entered Yuan Yuwan¡¯s ears. She tightened her grip on her handkerchief and couldn¡¯t help but think of the scene before Xiao Qirui left the capital.


    ¡°If I can return triumphantly, can we get to know each other again?¡±

 Chapter 867 - Chapter 867: Punishment (1)

    Chapter 867: Punishment (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It was silent. The fire reflected in her pupils was getting closer and closer to the explosive. Song Jinghuan could even hear her heartbeat.


    At the critical moment, her hand was suddenly grabbed.


    Song Jinghuan was shocked. What kind of expert was this? She actually didn¡¯t sense anyone approaching at all.


    Without any time to think, she quickly took the match in her right hand with her free left hand and threw it in the direction of the fuse of the black gunpowder.


    Everything happened in the blink of an eye. The fuse was about to be ignited.


    Unexpectedly, another man in black appeared and caught the matchstick firmly in midair.


    There were two of them.


    This was what it meant for a warrior to die before they could worry.


    She was no longer worried that she would be killed by the black powder if she couldn¡¯t escape. She was worried that her death would be in vain.


    Oh right, there was also the knockout powder given by Sister MO Yuan.


    Song Jinghuan reached out to touch the small bag. Unexpectedly, before she could touch it, her left hand was grabbed by the person behind her.


    She hit the person behind her with her head, but the other party dodged first.


    The other party seemed to always be able to predict her actions.


    Song Jinghuan thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m so angry.¡±


    ¡°Heh.¡± An angry and bone-chilling chuckle sounded behind her. Song Jinghuan shrank back from the cold voice, then froze on the spot.


    Her hands had been let go at some point. She turned around stiffly and saw the person behind her.


    Song Jinghuan felt a lump in her throat and jumped onto someone.


    ¡°Big Brother.¡±


    The way she called him big brother was filled with dependence and fear.


    Wasn¡¯t she afraid of death?


    Of course she was afraid. She had yet to become a female general, nor had she married a handsome man like her sister-in-law. She had not seen her little nephew born, nor had she seen Brother Hao get married.


    There were still so many things she had yet to do. She was extremely afraid of death.


    However, she was a member of the Song family. Her grandfather and father had left, and her brother was not around, so she had to protect Great Xia for them. She could not be afraid.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s hands trembled at his sides. He felt the little girl hanging on him tremble slightly, but he didn¡¯t throw her aside.


    Without saying anything else to comfort her, he looked at the man in black holding the matchstick. ¡°You Yi, open it.¡±


    After a while, he took out a dagger and pried open the wooden boxes one by one.


    Song Jinghuan leaned against her brother and looked back in confusion. The more she saw, the darker her face became. ¡°Why are they all rocks?¡±


    The tent was filled with wooden boxes, but only a few near the entrance of the tent were filled with black gunpowder.


    Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised. If only Xiao Qirui¡¯s men had found this place, he might have believed that it was filled with black gunpowder, but this girl had also found it.


    It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t believe in Song Jinghuan¡¯s ability, but it was too simple.


    It was as if the enemy was telling them that this was where the black gunpowder was stored.


    He carried Song Jinghuan out and paused before saying, ¡°Bring two for Jiajia to play with.¡±


    You Yi took two of them. After some thought, he put one of them in his pocket and took another one with his free hand.


    Two were given to Miss by Young Master, and the other was given to her by him.


    When the time came, he would get Miss to make a wooden kite for him alone. It would be perfect.


    The two of them did not stay for long, and quickly left.


    When they returned to a mountain range where they had parked their horses, they saw three horses leisurely eating grass, but they did not see Shen Yijia, who was supposed to be guarding here.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart skipped a beat. There was a faint commotion from the other side of the mountain range.


    Seeing the three horses, Song Jinghuan¡¯s eyes lit up and he guessed, ¡°Big


    Brother, is Sister-in-law here too?¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored her. He grabbed the back of her collar and pulled the person off him, walking towards the source of the sound.


    Song Jinghuan was speechless. Big Brother was still the same big brother! She jogged after Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused and turned around to see the person running towards her. She grinned and opened her hands, preparing to give her a hug of love.


    Unexpectedly, Song Jinghuan suddenly stopped three steps away.


    Shen Yijia blinked and followed her gaze to look behind her. She puffed out her chest and said proudly, ¡°I realized that these people were sneaking around nearby. I suspected that they were from the Wu Kingdom, so I tied them up and taught them a lesson.¡±


    Song Jinghuan looked at the nine people who had been thrown together in a pile. They were tied up and their mouths were gagged. He swallowed.. Was there a possibility that they were not from the Wu Kingdom but their own people?

 Chapter 868 - Chapter 868: Punishment (2)

    Chapter 868: Punishment (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Look, they¡¯re still carrying slings.¡± Shen Yijia kicked one of them. ¡°It¡¯s obvious that this thing is used to climb the city wall. I guess they must be trying to sneak into Nanling Pass at night to do something bad. Fortunately, I bumped into them. I¡¯ll bring one back later and let Xiao Qirui interrogate him. It¡¯ll be troublesome to bring the others back, so I¡¯ll kill them.¡±


    Song Jinghuan thought to himself, ¡°Although Sister-in-law¡¯s analysis makes sense, that sling might also be used to leave Nanling Pass.¡±


    The nine men in black raised their heads with difficulty and shook their heads at Song Jinghuan.


    Noticing their reaction, Shen Yijia was stunned. She looked at the clothes on the nine of them and then at Song Jinghuan¡¯s clothes. She smiled dryly and said, ¡°What a coincidence. The style of their clothes is exactly the same as yours. ¡±


    Song Jinghuan said, ¡°Of course. We bought them from the same shop.¡±


    Song Jingchen walked forward and held Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°It¡¯s not safe here.


    Let¡¯s go back first.¡±


    ¡°Hubby is right.¡± Shen Yijia felt guilty and didn¡¯t dare to look at Song Jinghuan. She pulled Song Jingchen away.


    She still wanted to show off in front of Sister Huan.


    ¡°Sister-in-law is indeed the most powerful,¡± Song Jinghuan called out to her softly, his eyes still filled with admiration.


    Shen Yijia paused and could not help but smile. ¡°Of course. Otherwise, how could I be your sister-in-law?¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips and chuckled.


    Tang Shun and the others now knew the relationship between this inexplicable woman and their little general. Thinking of how she had hit them earlier, they finally understood why the little general was so ferocious at such a young age, but¡­


    ¡°Although you¡¯re catching up, can you let us go first? Our waists are about to break.¡± they thought.


    Of course, Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t forget her companions. She ran over and untied them. They were tied up quite firmly.


    The group rode back to Nanling Pass.


    Because Xiao Qirui was injured, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let him go with him, so he waited on the city tower with Xiao Li.


    Hearing the sound of hooves outside the city, he quickly got someone to open the city gate.


    When Song Jingchen and the others first entered the military camp, they revealed their tokens. Meng Wu received the news not long after.


    However, by the time he went over, Song Jingchen had already left the city with Shen Yijia. Xiao Qirui left the military camp with him.


    Meng Wu did not know where they had gone, so he could only wait at the entrance of the military camp.


    Seeing that he had returned, he quickly led his subordinates forward and bowed. ¡°Greetings, Bulwark Duke.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him. ¡°General Meng, it¡¯s been hard on you guarding the city.¡±


    Although he said that, only he knew how much sincerity he had.


    He had never interacted with Meng Wu before, so his impression of him came from his grandfather.


    His grandfather had once said that this person¡¯s ability could not support his thoughts.


    This was both a good thing and a bad thing.


    It was fine during peacetime. Because he was not capable enough, he could not


    do anything too out of line.


    On the other hand, once war broke out, not only would he not be able to protect Great Xia, but Great Xia might also fall into eternal damnation because of his ulterior motives.


    This was also the reason why he had suggested that Ah Han send someone to Nanling Pass in advance.


    Meng Wu did not know what he was thinking. He was flattered and cupped his hands. ¡°I¡¯m ashamed.¡±


    He did not expect the young man he had just thought of to come to Nanling Pass.


    Thinking of something, he looked up and glanced at Song Huan, who was standing obediently at the back of the crowd.


    Previously, he hadn¡¯t heard that Song Huan had gone out with him, so it meant that the duke entered the military camp travel-worn and left the city to look for this kid without even warming up his seat.


    Who would believe that the two of them were not related?


    Fortunately, he didn¡¯t do anything to this kid.


    Unlike Meng Wu, who was rejoicing in his heart, Sun Hao and the others were already surprised enough to see Xiao Qirui personally instructing someone to open the city gate and let them in. When they heard the words ¡°Bulwark Duke¡± , their legs went weak and they almost knelt down.


    If this man was the Duke, wouldn¡¯t the person who hit them be the Duchess? Then their little lieutenant was¡­ the Young Master of the Duke¡¯s residence?


    The nine of them widened their eyes and looked at Song Jinghuan.


    Song Jinghuan rubbed his nose. She had forgotten to remind them in advance.


    After exchanging a few pleasantries with Meng Wu, Song Jingchen said, ¡°It¡¯s getting late. It¡¯s not too late to talk tomorrow. General Meng, go and rest.¡± Meng Wu tactfully left with his men.


    Apart from the patrolling soldiers, only Sun Hao and the others were left standing there. However, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let them leave, so they didn¡¯t dare to leave. They could only follow them obediently to Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent..

 Chapter 869 - Chapter 869: Punishment (3)

    Chapter 869: Punishment (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After entering the tent, Song Jingchen turned around and looked at the group of people who followed him in.


    This naturally included Song Jinghuan. She looked at Shen Yijia for help.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. Logically speaking, she should have pleaded for mercy, but¡­


    She glanced at Song Jingchen¡¯s dark face and knew that he was furious this time. She shook her head helplessly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Little Huanhuan. I can help with other things, but it won¡¯t be good if my beautiful husband is angry.¡± she thought.


    Song Jinghuan thought to himself, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the most powerful sister-in-law?¡±


    Song Jingchen saw her small actions and asked coldly, ¡°Did you report what happened today to General Xiao?¡±


    Song Jinghuan said guiltily, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Then do you know how to deal with military rules for disobeying military orders and acting on your own?¡±


    Song Jinghuan was shocked. ¡°Big Brother¡­¡¯


    ¡°Say it.¡±


    Song Jinghuan bit her lip. ¡°If the situation is serious, he should be executed.¡±


    This time, it was Shen Yijia¡¯s turn to be shocked. She thought that it would at most be a small corporal punishment or a few hundred words from Sister Huan. She did not expect it to be so serious.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia opened her mouth to plead for mercy, but Song Jingchen beat her to it. ¡°It seems that you know the military rules.¡±


    Song Jinghuan knelt down with a thud. ¡°What happened today was my idea alone. They¡¯re all following orders. If you want to kill someone, kill me alone.¡± Sun Hao and the others hurriedly knelt down. ¡°Bulwark Duke, we¡­¡± ¡°Shut up, all of you,¡± Song Jinghuan warned.


    Xiao Qirui coughed lightly. ¡°Fortunately, they didn¡¯t cause irreparable consequences. Why don¡¯t we give them a small punishment?¡±


    How could he not understand? If Song Jingchen really wanted to kill them, he wouldn¡¯t have brought them into the tent to talk about this.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± Shen Yijia secretly tugged at Song Jingchen¡¯s sleeve.


    Song Jingchen said indifferently, ¡°Since General Xiao is pleading on your behalf, each of you will receive 15 strokes of the cane.¡±


    Song Jinghuan straightened her neck and said, ¡°This has nothing to do with them. It was all my idea. You¡­¡±


    ¡°Sister Huan,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted her.


    Song Jinghuan turned his head away aggrievedly.


    Seeing her like this, Song Jingchen knew that she still hadn¡¯t realized her mistake. The anger that he had suppressed rose again. He sneered and said, ¡°Do you think you¡¯re very noble? But have you ever thought that what you did today almost killed them all?¡±


    Song Jinghuan froze.


    Song Jingchen continued, ¡°As a general, you should set an example and restrain your subordinates, but you took the lead in fooling around. If everyone imitated you, why would we still need this military rule?¡±


    ¡°Go and collect 30 strokes. From today onwards¡­¡± He looked deeply at Song Jinghuan. ¡®You¡¯ll join the cooks.¡±


    Those were the soldiers who were in charge of cooking. They usually did not have the chance to go to the battlefield. Although it was relatively safe compared to other soldiers, they could not kill the enemy if they could not go to the battlefield. If they could not kill the enemy, they would not have the chance to contribute. They could be considered the inferior-class soldiers.


    Xiao Qirui was stunned. No matter what, she¡¯s still your sister. Isn¡¯t this a little too ruthless?


    ¡®General Xiao,¡± Song Jingchen reminded him.


    The corners of Xiao Qirui¡¯s mouth twitched, and he waved his hand for Xiao Li to call for help.


    Soon, Xiao Li came in with a team of soldiers. ¡°Carry out the punishment outside,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The sound of the military staff hitting flesh could be heard one after another.


    Shen Yijia stole a glance at Song Jingchen and wanted to go out and take a look.


    ¡°Don¡¯t go.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed his eyebrows tiredly.


    Seeing him like this, Shen Yijia did not know if her heart ached for him or Sister Huan.


    Her beautiful husband would definitely not feel good about personally giving the order to punish his sister, but¡­


    Sister Huan was still so young. How could she withstand thirty strikes?


    ¡°That girl doesn¡¯t know the immensity of heaven and earth. If we don¡¯t teach her a lesson, she won¡¯t take it to heart. We happened to make it this time. What about next time?¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t dare to think about it.


    Shen Yijia knew that he was determined. She winked at Xiao Qirui


    ¡°Ahem, I¡¯ve already gotten someone to transport the two wooden kites in. I¡¯ll go take a look.¡± He found an excuse to leave.


    Song Jingchen saw the conflict within their eyes and sighed helplessly.


    As soon as he left the tent, he saw ten people lying in a row being punished. Xiao Qirui originally wanted to remind them to mind their manners, but when he noticed who was holding the military staff beside Song Jinghuan, the corners of his mouth twitched.


    Alright, there was no need for him anymore.


    ¡°Ouch¡­


    ¡°Young Master, did your wound open again?¡± Xiao Li held him worriedly. ¡°Let me help you back and bandage it again.¡±


    Xiao Qirui glanced at him. ¡°Back to where?¡±


    ¡°Back to your tent¡­¡± Xiao Li paused and suggested, ¡°Why don¡¯t we go to my tent first?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll go and take a look at the two wooden kites.¡±


    If it was really that magical, it might be able to be used in the army..

 Chapter 870 - Chapter 870: Chapter 579

    Chapter 870: Chapter 579


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Thirty strokes of the cane?¡± Meng Wu was shocked to hear Deputy General Chen¡¯s report.


    Deputy General Chen replied, ¡°Yes, I heard that he was even sent to join the cooks.¡±


    Meng Wu fell into deep thought. ¡°Could it be that I guessed wrongly? Song


    Huan has nothing to do with the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but after Song Huan fainted, she was taken away by the Bulwark Duke. The Duchess personally carried her into the carriage,¡± Deputy General Chen said.


    Meng Wu was even more confused. ¡°Taken away?


    ¡°Yes, they went to General Xiao¡¯s residence. They should be preparing to stay there.¡±


    Xiao Qirui had his own residence in Nanling Pass, but ever since the war with the Wu Kingdom, he had been living in the military camp and rarely returned to the residence.


    The two of them came from Chang¡¯an. With the relationship between the Duke¡¯s Residence and the General¡¯s residence, it was not strange for them to stay there, but why did they take Song Huan away?


    ¡°General, are we still investigating Song Huan?¡± Deputy General Chen asked.


    Meng Wu thought for a moment. ¡°Investigate. By the way, do you know what they did wrong and were punished for?¡± ¡°It seems to be because they left the city on their own.¡±


    ¡°Got it. You can leave,¡± Meng Wu said.


    As soon as Deputy General Chen left, Meng Shaoyuan and Meng Linyan lifted the curtain and entered. ¡°Father, are you looking for us?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Meng Wu gestured for the two of them to sit down. ¡°The Bulwark Duke is here. Keep an eye on your subordinates these few days. Don¡¯t let anyone catch you red-handed.¡±


    He woke them up in the middle of the night just for this?


    Meng Shaoyuan said indifferently, ¡°He¡¯s just a kid who is still wet behind the ears. Father, aren¡¯t you too nervous?¡±


    Unlike his dissatisfaction. Meng Linvan¡¯s eves clearly flashed with joy when


    she heard the words ¡°Bulwark Duke¡±.


    That person really came to Nanling Pass.


    ¡°What do you know?¡± Meng Wu mocked, ¡°Why do you think he can sit in his current position today? Simply because of his bloodline?¡±


    ¡°Ignore the Wu Kingdom for now.¡±


    ¡°Father, do you think he can turn the tide alone?¡± Meng Shaoyuan could not figure out why his father was so confident in Song Jingchen. He frowned and said, ¡°If we ignore him now, how can the Wu Kingdom give us a chance to live when the time comes?¡±


    Meng Wu frowned. ¡°You¡¯re right, but the duke¡­¡¯


    Meng Shaoyuan interrupted him and sneered. ¡°Father, why do you think General Xiao came to Nanling Pass?¡±


    Meng Wu was stunned.


    Knowing that he had understood, Meng Shaoyuan narrowed his eyes and leaned over to lower his voice. ¡°Why don¡¯t we¡­¡±


    In the general¡¯s residence, Shen Yijia helped Song Jinghuan apply the medicine and change into clean clothes. Seeing that she was still unconscious, she muttered, ¡°Didn¡¯t Xiao Qirui go easy on her? Could it be that Sister Huan¡¯s body is too weak?¡±


    She sighed and walked to the table to pour a cup of tea. Sensing something, she froze in place.


    There was a knock on the door. Shen Yijia pinched her fingers and walked out to open the door.


    ¡°Hubby, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°I see that you haven¡¯t returned to the house¡­¡± Song Jingchen looked around the house. ¡°She¡¯s still unconscious?¡±


    Shen Yijia shook her head and said worriedly, ¡°No, Hubby. Sister Huan¡­¡¯


    ¡°Her skin is hard enough to withstand it. Don¡¯t worry.¡± Song Jingchen comforted her.


    The corners of Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth twitched. How could he say that about a young lady?


    ¡°Alright, you¡¯ve had a long day. Go back and rest first. I¡¯ll go in and see her,¡± Song Jingchen said gently.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head. She wanted to say that she was still unconscious, but she thought of something and came to a realization.


    ¡°Then don¡¯t be fierce to her¡­¡± She pursed her lips and said, ¡°1 have something to tell you when you come back.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°Okay.¡±


    It was too late today. They only had time to tidy up a courtyard, so the room they were staying in was not far away.


    After watching Shen Yijia return to her room, Song Jingchen turned around and entered the house. He didn¡¯t approach the bed and sat down at the table. He looked at the person lying motionless on the bed and said, ¡°Stop acting.¡± Song Jinghuan¡¯s body stiffened, but she didn¡¯t open her eyes.


    ¡°Do you think I shouldn¡¯t have punished you today?¡± Song Jingchen poured himself a cup of tea.


    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m here to do something beneficial for Great Xia, not to play.¡± she thought.


    As if guessing what she was thinking, Song Jingchen continued, ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with destroying the black gunpowder and delaying the siege plan of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army, but why didn¡¯t you give advice to the higher-ups? You left the city with your subordinates without a word. Do you think that those generals are inferior to you?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true that we don¡¯t always obey military orders, but you seem to have forgotten to even report the situation!¡±


    ¡°You took away only nine people today. When you sit in a higher position in the future, are you prepared to let more people die with you?¡±


    ¡°If everyone had the same thoughts as you and fought for themselves, wouldn¡¯t


    Nanling Pass be in chaos?¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips.


    ¡°There was a fierce general in the previous dynasty¡­¡± Song Jingchen paused and picked up his teacup to take a sip. He put it down and stood up. ¡°Forget it, think about it carefully. ¡±


    The door closed. Song Jinghuan opened her eyes and looked in the direction of the door, looking confused.


    Song Jingchen returned to his room and saw Shen Yijia sitting cross-legged on the bed, staring at her fingers in a daze. He raised his eyebrows and asked, ¡°What are you thinking about?¡±


    Shen Yijia came back to her senses and asked, ¡°Is Sister Huan awake?¡±


    Song Jingchen took off his coat and sat down beside her. He said in amusement, ¡°Didn¡¯t you collude with Xiao Qirui to help her? Were you really deceived by that girl?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks. ¡°I¡¯m just worried.¡±


    She was definitely not stupid.


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°Don¡¯t you have something to tell me?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­¡± Shen Yijia frowned.¡± My spiritual liquid seems to be gone. ¡±


    The drop of spiritual liquid she had gathered last time cured her mother¡¯s face the day before the wedding.


    It had been more than twenty days since then. Normally, another drop should have gathered, but there was nothing in her body.


    Because she had been traveling, she did not notice. If not for the fact that she wanted to use the spiritual liquid to treat Sister Huan¡¯s injuries just now¡­


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He grabbed Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulders and asked nervously, ¡°Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m not feeling unwell.¡±


    Weren¡¯t they talking about the spiritual liquid now? Why was it related to her body again?


    What went wrong that made her beautiful husband think that she was made of tofu?


    She was a woman who wasn¡¯t even affected by the plague!


    ¡°Really? I¡¯ll get a doctor to take your pulse.¡± Song Jingchen was still worried.


    Shen Yijia quickly pulled him back. ¡°There¡¯s no need to hire a doctor. I¡¯m fine. I feel that I¡¯m full of strength now. I can knock down a cow with a single punch.¡±


    She waved her fist. Sensing something, her face fell again. ¡°I¡¯m just a little hungry.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, her stomach rumbled.


    The gurgling sound was especially obvious in the silent night.


    Shen Yijia blushed.


    Song Jingchen was vexed and said with heartache, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was negligent. What do you want to eat? I¡¯ll make it for you now.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°How could you be negligent? You clearly fed me once before entering the military camp.¡±


    Although she was embarrassed, she could not treat her stomach badly.


    ¡°I want porridge.¡±


    ¡°Apart from porridge, is there any meat you want to eat?¡± Didn¡¯t this girl like to eat meat?


    Shen Yijia¡¯s face darkened. ¡°I just want to eat something light.¡±


    Song Jingchen was amused by her expression. ¡°Alright, rest for a while. I¡¯ll make it for you.¡± Shen Yijia snorted. ¡°I want to go with you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Shen Yijia continued, ¡°Carry me.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°But the spiritual liquid.


    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Mother when she comes.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that this was the only way, so she put this matter aside for the time being.


    The general¡¯s residence had an old man guarding the door and a kitchen maid. Even if Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t come back, there were always ingredients in the kitchen.


    After confirming repeatedly that Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to eat meat, Song Jingchen cooked a pot of porridge.


    The cook was a woman in her forties. When she heard the commotion, she came out to check. She saw an extraordinary-looking man feeding his wife porridge in the small kitchen. The cook blushed and wanted to leave, but the two of them had already discovered her and turned around at the same time.


    She rubbed her hands uncomfortably and smiled awkwardly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to do it yourself when you¡¯re hungry. Just let me do it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a bowl of porridge. Auntie, go back and rest,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    The chef was stunned. She did not expect the noble from the capital to be so approachable. She hurriedly said, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to receive an informal greeting like ¡°Auntie¡±. My surname is Liao. You can call me Madam Liao.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and didn¡¯t say anything. He shook a spoonful of porridge and blew on it before bringing it to Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth.


    At this moment, Chef Liao should have left with a discerning eye, but when she saw the Heaven Immortal-like young lady eating a bowl of porridge with relish, she said, ¡°I usually make some pickled vegetables. If you don¡¯t mind¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t refuse or accept it directly. Instead, he looked at Shen


    Yijia. ¡°Do you want to eat it?¡±


    When she heard the word ¡°pickled¡±, Shen Yijia¡¯s mouth already secreted saliva.


    She nodded repeatedly. ¡°Yes..¡±

 Chapter 871 - Chapter 871: Invasion (1)

    Chapter 871: Invasion (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    With the side dishes given by Madam Liao, Shen Yijia drank two bowls of porridge in a row. If Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t afraid that she would feel bloated and thus stopped her from eating, she would have finished the entire pot of porridge.


    It was a dreamless night. Early the next morning, Shen Yijia woke up to deafening explosions.


    She suddenly sat up from the bed. At this moment, Song Jinghuan¡¯s voice sounded from outside the door.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, are you awake?¡±


    Shen Yijia reached out and touched the outside of the bed. It was no longer warm, so Song Jingchen had already woken up long ago.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake. Come in,¡± she said.


    Song Jinghuan came in with a basin of water. Seeing that she was still sleepy, he couldn¡¯t help but complain, ¡°Did the commotion outside wake you up? The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is too hateful. They don¡¯t stop for a day, but they can¡¯t be chased away either¡­¡±


    Seeing that she was nagging non-stop, Shen Yijia asked in amusement, ¡°Are you not angry with me anymore?¡±


    Song Jinghuan blushed and turned around in embarrassment to put the basin away. ¡°I¡¯m not angry at Sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia put on her shoes and got out of bed. She leaned over to look at her.


    ¡°No? Then who pretended to faint last night and ignored me?¡±


    ¡°Sister-in-law.¡± Song Jinghuan begged for mercy. ¡°I know you and Big Brother are doing this for my own good. I was wrong. I shouldn¡¯t have thrown a tantrum. Please forgive me.¡±


    She was dressed as a man in a simple cotton shirt that was convenient for movement. Because she was young, she did not look suspicious even when cross-dressing.


    However, if Sun Hao and the others saw this, their jaws would definitely drop.


    Was this still the young general they knew who liked to pretend to be an adult? Shen Yijia pinched her face and said generously, ¡°Sure.¡±


    After washing up, she thought about what Song Jinghuan had said when he entered. She asked again, ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army came to attack the city, did your brother go to the city tower?¡±


    ¡°I think so. However, Sister-in-law, you don¡¯t have to worry. They come here once a day. Sometimes, they come again at night after the day. I didn¡¯t let them in in the past. Now that Big Brother is here, they have even less of a chance to do so.¡±


    What she did not say was that many soldiers died every day while defending the city, and the morale of the soldiers was getting lower and lower. If they continued to be passive, the city would fall into chaos before the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army could attack.


    Fortunately, Big Brother was here now.


    Shen Yijia nodded. She did not understand war, but she trusted her beautiful husband.


    Song Jinghuan was afraid that she would think too much, so he changed the topic and said, ¡°Actually, I didn¡¯t see him when I woke up. It was Auntie Liao who asked me to accompany you at home today.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her eyebrows. ¡®You don¡¯t look too happy.¡±


    Song Jinghuan quickly shook his head. ¡°No, no. What¡¯s so fun about fighting and killing? Of course it¡¯s more important to accompany Sister-in-law.¡±


    In any case, she was just part of the cook¡¯s army now. Even if she went, she could only boil water and cook for everyone. She had no chance to go to the battlefield at all. She might as well accompany her sister-in-law.


    Seeing through her thoughts, Shen Yijia looked at her with a faint smile.


    Song Jinghuan smiled ingratiatingly. ¡°Sister-in-law, you must be hungry. Brother specially instructed me to leave breakfast in the kitchen for you. I¡¯ll bring it over for you.¡±


    Shen Yijia was embarrassed. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ll eat by myself.¡±


    When she passed by the table in the middle of the room, Shen Yijia paused. She picked up the book on it and casually flipped through two pages. She muttered, ¡°Hubby, did you prepare this because you were afraid that I would be bored? Wouldn¡¯t it be even more boring to look at this thing?¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that she was narcissistic, but she knew that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t leave books lying around, not to mention that they were placed in such a conspicuous position.


    Song Jinghuan looked over and exclaimed, ¡°It¡¯s the military records of the previous dynasty.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at her. She was too narcissistic. This book was not prepared for her at all.


    Song Jinghuan scratched her head and explained, ¡°Yesterday, Big Brother mentioned the fierce general of the previous dynasty, Zong Zhou, to me. He stopped right after mentioning his existence, so I thought about it all night.¡±


    So that was the case. Shen Yijia handed the book to her. ¡°Take a look first. I¡¯ll go and eat breakfast.¡±


    Song Jinghuan took the book and wanted to say yes, but she thought of something and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll accompany Sister-in-law. It¡¯s the same if I read the book later.¡±


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes. ¡°Apart from asking you to accompany me, what else did your brother say? Like keeping an eye on me and not letting me go out?¡±


    Song Jinghuan looked guilty. ¡°Sister-in-law.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, let¡¯s go.¡± Anyway, this girl couldn¡¯t stop her if she really wanted to leave.


    However, Song Jingchen knew her well. How could he not have thought of this?


    Just as Shen Yijia finished filling her stomach and was about to trick Song


    Jinghuan into leading the way for her, You Yi appeared with three black orbs.


    ¡°Miss, Young Master gave you these two balls of black gunpowder. This is from me.. Do you want to study it?¡±

 Chapter 872 - Chapter 872: Invasion (2)

    Chapter 872: Invasion (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He specially placed the one he had given her in the middle. She could not see his expression, but Shen Yijia could tell that he was trying to please her.


    It was very strange.


    She might not be able to help her beautiful husband if she went out, but if she could make black gunpowder, it would definitely be a great merit.


    Atter caretul consideration, Shen Yijia tinally decided not to go out.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go dismantle this.¡± She picked up one in each hand. ¡°Are there any sharper weapons here?¡±


    It was impossible for ordinary weapons to cut through the iron on the outside of black gunpowder.


    Song Jinghuan took the initiative to say, ¡°I¡¯ll go and ask.¡±


    This was the first time they had come to the general¡¯s residence, so naturally, they weren¡¯t familiar with the place.


    Not long after, an old man in his fifties followed Song Jinghuan over.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, this is Uncle Cheng,¡± Song Jinghuan introduced.


    Apart from Chef Liao, Uncle Cheng is another person in this residence. He was usually in charge of guarding the door.


    ¡°Duchess.¡± Uncle Cheng bowed respectfully.


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Is there an armory in this residence?¡± There should be such a place in the general¡¯s residence.


    ¡°Yes, yes. It was left behind by the previous General Gao. It¡¯s in the east courtyard.¡±


    In the past, Meng Wu was not the biggest fish in Nanling Pass, but the owner of this residence, General Gao.


    He was a fierce general who was not inferior to Old Master Song. However, Old Master Song followed the founding emperor to Chang¡¯an, while General Gao stayed at Nanling Pass to guard it.


    Thinking of the outcome of the Gao family, Uncle Ming shook his head and said, ¡°General Xiao didn¡¯t ask about it after moving in, so this key is still with me.¡±


    The number of times Xiao Qirui had stayed overnight here could be counted on both hands.


    Uncle Ming had no doubt that apart from knowing the way to his courtyard and study, Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t know anything else.


    Although this could preserve the original appearance of this residence to the greatest extent, so many years had passed and Emperor Chong¡¯an had received his due retribution. Uncle Ming still hoped that it could welcome a new master.


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Take us there.¡±


    ¡°Aye, okay.¡±


    Uncle Ming wiped the corners of his eyes without a trace and quickly led the way.


    You Yi watched as Shen Yijia left with the two black gunpowder, leaving the one in the middle alone. He silently picked it up and followed.


    After entering the east courtyard, Shen Yijia and Song Jinghuan gasped in unison. This courtyard was twice the size of an ordinary courtyard.


    What was ridiculous was that there was only one room in the entire courtyard, and the huge empty space had been turned into a martial arts arena.


    There was clearly nothing on the weapons racks around the training grounds. They were even covered in dust.


    However, for a moment, the two of them seemed to see a majestic general sweating profusely with a heavy weapon in his hand.


    ¡°When General Gao was still around, he had to come here to practice martial arts every day, ¡± Uncle Ming said nostalgically.


    In the past, he would clean this place every day, but as he got older and went in to maintain the weapons inside, he couldn¡¯t care less about the outside which was never used.


    Shen Yijia had never heard of General Gao, nor did she know who he was. However, Song Jinghuan was different. Even though she was still young in the past, she understood most of it after coming to Nanling Pass.


    Naturally, she knew that General Gao was an old general whose entire family had died tragically because he was accused of colluding with the enemy and betraying the country.


    Compared to the Gao family, who did not even leave behind an infant, the Song family seemed to be much luckier.


    Uncle Ming opened the lock with a key and explained, ¡°The weapons have all been kept here. I¡¯ve been carefully maintaining them for the past few years.¡±


    When the door was pushed open, there was no dust as expected. It seemed that Uncle Ming was right. He often came in to clean up.


    There were all kinds of weapons inside, and Song Jinghuan¡¯s eyes widened.


    Shen Yijia was also very surprised, but what attracted her the most was a longbow placed in the middle.


    The reason why it was called a longbow was because not only was it longer than an ordinary bow, but its body was even thicker than her arm.


    The entire bow was dark black and looked very domineering.


    Seeing that she was interested, Uncle Ming introduced, ¡°This bow is made of black iron. Because it¡¯s too heavy, no one has¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Shen Yijia picked up the bow and shook it in her hand.


    ¡°Oh my god, this thing is even heavier than my beautiful husband.¡± she thought.


    Uncle Ming¡¯s eyes widened as he looked at Shen Yijia in disbelief.


    ¡°What did you say just now?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Uncle Ming came back to his senses and carefully observed the bow in her hand. After confirming that it was still the same one that had not been swapped, he swallowed and said, ¡°No, nothing.¡±


    It was better not to mention that General Gao had painstakingly found black iron and ordered someone to create this bow, but in the end, he could not carry it because it was too heavy.


    He was already gone. He had to protect his reputation.


    When this bow was first strung, it caused a commotion in Nanling Pass for a long time. General Gao even said that he would give it to whoever could pick it up. He was so happy that all the soldiers in the army took turns trying it, but no one succeeded.


    General Gao could not bear to destroy it and rebuild it, so he simply put it in the storeroom.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia did not think too much about it. She gestured with the bow and asked, ¡°Why doesn¡¯t this bow have a string?¡±


    ¡°There is a string, but because no one used it, the string was kept separately. There are also matching arrows.¡± Uncle Ming became energetic and his legs became nimble.


    Regardless of what this Duchess had eaten to grow up with such strength, he would be able to see this bow drawn in his lifetime. After he died, he would be able to relay this news to General Gao.


    ¡°What bow is this? It¡¯s so ugly.¡± Song Jinghuan was attracted by the commotion and walked over to ask.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Ugly? I think it¡¯s a handsome bow.¡±


    ¡°Is it?¡± Song Jinghuan looked at it carefully again and curled her lips.. ¡°How is it handsome?¡±

 Chapter 873 - Chapter 873: Defense of the City

    Chapter 873: Defense of the City


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The reason why Song Jinghuan looked down on this black iron bow was because she was too young and subconsciously disliked big weapons. Shen Yijia didn¡¯t expose her.


    The matching arrows were made of black iron. There were a total of twelve of them.


    After stringing the bow, Shen Yijia picked up an arrow. She pulled it back and shot it at the target outside the door.


    Her aim was not accurate enough to hit the bull¡¯s eye, but the arrow was too fast. The huge force cut off the target and the entire arrowhead stabbed firmly into the opposite wall. The tail of the arrow trembled violently and buzzed.


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s mouth fell open in shock. After a long time, she found her voice and stammered, ¡°Yes, the bow does seem a little handsome.¡±


    If the black iron bow that was loaded with strings had finally regained its functionality, then Shen Yijia¡¯s move had injected its soul into it, allowing it to finally have its own mission.


    Shen Yijia pulled the arrow out and looked at the deep hole left in the wall. Then, she looked at the intact arrow. The more she looked at it, the more satisfied she was.


    ¡°Can I take this bow away?¡± No matter how much she liked it, she did not forget that this belonged to someone else.


    Uncle Ming was even more excited than Song Jinghuan. His eyes turned red as he said, ¡°General Gao once said that whoever can pick up this bow belongs to this bow. Of course, Madam can take it away.¡±


    They only needed to pick up the bow, being able to shoot with it was not a requirement.


    Song Jinghuan caught the main point. ¡°So no one has ever picked up this bow?¡±


    Uncle Ming stiffened. ¡°Does it count if two people carry it?¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless. So two people had to carry this bow when using it? Thinking about that scene¡­


    ¡°Sister-in-law, you¡¯re amazing.¡± She turned into a fan again and looked at Shen Yijia with stars in her eyes.


    Shen Yijia puffed out her chest and asked, ¡°This arrow can shoot far, right?¡±


    Song Jinghuan was stunned and didn¡¯t react to her question.


    However, there was no doubt that it could definitely shoot far.


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and asked again, ¡°Who do you want to kill the most in the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s Han Tong.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She did not know Han Tong, but since he was famous, he must not be an ordinary person.


    How could she have known that not only was Han Tong not an ordinary person, but he was also a fierce general under Yan Guangmao? He was also the one who had commanded the army to attack the city this month.


    However, as the commanding general, he had always hidden behind the army and was heavily protected by his personal guards. It was impossible for anyone to approach him, let alone kill him.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll use Han Tong¡¯s blood to start your career, Little Chenchen.¡± Shen Yijia carried her bow and walked out.


    Song Jinghuan quickly chased after her. ¡°Who¡¯s Little Chenchen?¡±


    Shen Yijia wiped the bow in her arms with her sleeve. ¡°I just gave this bow a name. It sounds good, right?¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    She glanced at the black iron bow and inexplicably felt resistance from it.


    Fortunately, it couldn¡¯t speak. Otherwise, Song Jinghuan suspected that it would scream at the top of its lungs and want to go back to the furnace to be rebuilt.


    The two of them left the east courtyard.


    Without even looking at the three pieces of black gunpowder on the ground, You Yi fell silent. ¡°Miss, have you forgotten why you¡¯re here? And kid, have you forgotten the mission Young Master gave you?¡±


    Glancing at Uncle Ming, who was staring at the courtyard door, he said indifferently, ¡°Watch these three balls.¡±


    With that, he used his qinggong and followed.


    At the east city gate, the Wu Kingdom army had already formed a formation ana was stanamg In tne open space outsiae tne City.


    At first, the black gunpowder that was thrown into the city was like an opening gambit. This time, they were not in a hurry to attack like before.


    A burly general rode to the front of the group and looked up at the blurry figures on the city gate tower.


    ¡°People on the city wall, listen up. Our princess died in the palace of Great Xia. We only want to avenge her. As long as you open the city gate and surrender, we can spare you. We can also let you join our Wu Kingdom¡¯s army and promote you to nobles in the future.¡±


    ¡°Open the city gate. We won¡¯t kill those who surrender!¡±


    ¡°Open the city gate. We won¡¯t kill those who surrender!¡±


    ¡°Open the city gate. We won¡¯t kill those who surrender!¡±


    The 100,000-strong army repeated these words in unison. Their voices pierced through the clouds and echoed in everyone¡¯s ears in the city.


    Xiao Qirui frowned and looked at the person below. He introduced him to Song Jingchen. ¡°That¡¯s Song Zhong.¡±


    Apart from the Ghost-Faced General, Yan Guangmao had three other ferocious generals under him in the Wu Kingdom. They were Han Tong, who was good at arranging troops, sharpshooter Song Zhong, and Bu Ren, who was born with divine strength.


    Song Zhong raised his hand, and the soldiers behind him immediately fell silent.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to doubt the authenticity of my words. His Majesty is Lord Xian of Great Xia. He has half of the blood of Great Xia in his body. Our Wu Kingdom and Great Xia should become one.¡±


    For more than a month, the morale of the soldiers at Nanling Pass had already plummeted because they had been passively defending. Coupled with their fear of the black gunpowder in the hands of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army, many people wavered when they heard Song Zhong¡¯s words.


    However, this was not enough. Song Zhong¡¯s next words hit the nail on the head.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget how General Gao died back then. He clearly had outstanding military achievements, but his entire family died tragically because of your emperor¡¯s suspicious nature. Is such an imperial court really worthy of your loyalty?¡±


    Most of the soldiers at Nanling Pass were brought to the battlefield by General Gao back then. When they heard this, everyone even began to whisper.


    ¡°Everyone.¡± Song Jingchen raised his voice. ¡°I¡¯m Song Jingchen, Song Kunhong¡¯s grandson.¡±


    He had only arrived at Nanling Pass last night. Before he could go to the military camp today, he received news that the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was approaching the city and came here directly. Therefore, this was the first time most people had seen him.


    They were curious about the newly arrived general in Nanling Pass, but he did not know who he was.


    Hearing his self-introduction, everyone fell silent.


    Everyone was naturally familiar with Old Master Song¡¯s name. At the same time, everyone remembered that Old Master Song had died because of Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s suspicious nature.


    ¡°His Majesty asked me to come to Nanling Pass this time to protect the territory of Great Xia with everyone. Secondly, he wants to investigate the case from back then. Although he¡¯s still young, he¡¯s definitely not an intolerant monarch. On the contrary, he won¡¯t let any contributing minister be wronged.¡±


    Since it was a reopening of the investigation, it meant that they had to overturn General Gao¡¯s case.


    ¡°General Gao has been upright and unyielding his entire life. He¡¯s gone, but as long as you¡¯re around, his soul will still be around. If you listen to the enemy¡¯s instigation and open the door below today, it¡¯s equivalent to confirming General Gao¡¯s crime. Do you want him to be humiliated and die with the eternal infamy of colluding with the enemy?¡±


    He looked at Song Zhonz below and continued, ¡°The bandits have written a pardon letter. Do you really think they will treat you equally? Moreover, you have to know that we¡¯re not standing here for the royal family, but for the families behind us. In order to prevent them from suffering from the flames of war and let them live in peace, we have to fight..¡±

 Chapter 874 - Chapter 874: Jiajia Is Here (1)

    Chapter 874: Jiajia Is Here (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Fight!¡±


    ¡°Fight!¡±


    ¡°Fight!¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s words raised the morale of the soldiers to an unprecedented high. Be it the imperial court¡¯s army or the usually lazy local army, they only had one goal in their hearts. They wanted to chase the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army out of Great Xia¡¯s territory.


    Xiao Qirui glanced at Song Jingchen.


    Not long after he ascended the throne, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army arrived. They didn¡¯t have time to consider overturning General Gao¡¯s case. Moreover, Song Jingchen had left Changan half a month before him. How could he have received the mission to investigate the case?


    However, Xiao Qirui also knew that since Song Jingchen had spoken, he would definitely do it. He would definitely seek justice for General Gao.


    Previously, he had always thought that these local troops were uncooperative because they were intolerant towards outsiders. They were dispirited all day because they were scared out of their wits by the black gunpowder of the Wu Kingdom. Only now did he understand that they had accumulated resentment against the Imperial Court for a long time and could not do anything to rebel. That was why they used the stupidest method to express their dissatisfaction.


    Song Jingchen was different from him. He had seen through this, so he let Song Zhong finish his words.


    This was because he knew that some abscesses could only heal faster if they were punctured and the abscesses flowed out, instead of covering them and letting them rot.


    For example, the injustice suffered by General Gao, the death of the princess of the Wu Kingdom, and the reason for the Wu Kingdom to send troops.


    The corners of his mouth twitched. He hadn¡¯t been able to convince these local troops even after coming to Nanling Pass for two months, but Song Jingchen had done it on the second day.


    His father was right. Song Jingchen was much better than him. He didn¡¯t just have to learn how to arrange troops and strategies. He also had to learn how to read people and use them to win their hearts.


    Perhaps intimidated by the sudden burst of morale on the city tower, the horse under Song Zhong snorted uneasily.


    Song Zhong never expected that not only did his words not make the soldiers of Great Xia abandon their weapons and surrender, but they also helped them regain their morale.


    Although Great Xia had fewer troops than them, the other party had a relatively advantageous terrain. If they insisted on breaking into the city, they would lose many people. This was not a good thing for their subsequent attacks.


    It was precisely because they understood this that they chose to take it slow during the previous siege. It was to wear down the other party¡¯s morale and achieve their goal of taking down Nanling Pass without wasting a single soldier.


    This way, not only could they preserve their troops, but they could also let the people of Great Xia fight internally.


    He fixed his gaze on the general who had suddenly stood up on the city wall. The moment their eyes met, his heart sank.


    ¡°Song Jingchen! How is that possible? Shouldn¡¯t he have just arrived at Cangbei Mountain?¡± he thought.


    It was at least a month¡¯s journey from Cangbei Mountain to here.


    If they had known that he would arrive so quickly, how could they have delayed until now?


    Without any time to think, he quickly called for a messenger to send word about Song Jingchen¡¯s arrival in Nanling Pass. He sent the news that there was a change in the plan to Han Tong, who was in charge of arranging the troops.


    The messenger got the order and galloped out.


    At this moment, Han Tong, who was over 50 years old, was protected in the middle of the camp behind him by a team of armored soldiers. When he heard the messenger¡¯s words, his eyes revealed dense killing intent and he said with a sinister expression, ¡°Song Kunhong is dead. I was worried that no one would be able to take revenge for his sneak attack on me back then. This Song family kid came at the right time.¡±


    The messenger subconsciously glanced at his legs hanging on both sides of the horse¡¯s abdomen.


    Compared to hiding at the back and arranging the troops, a famous general naturally wanted to fight the enemies in the front.


    However, as everyone knew, General Han¡¯s legs were injured on the battlefield in the early years. When winter came, he even needed to walk with a walking stick, so he naturally could not fight in front.


    However, he did not expect that the person who severely injured him back then was Great Xia¡¯s Old Master Song.


    After the previous dynasty was destroyed, the rebel army everywhere occupied land and became kings. In the end, only the three families, Xuanyuan, Shangguan, and Nangong, won.


    In order to snatch their territories, the three families experienced a three-year-long war. In the end, they were defeated and injured. Helpless, they could only negotiate and establish their own countries with their respective territories as the boundary. As a result, the three countries were established.


    As an old general, Han Tong had fought Old Master Song at that time. As for the so-called sneak attack, Old Master Song was already dead, so he naturally said whatever he wanted.


    Han Tong glanced at the messenger and his eyes darkened. He pulled out the sword at his waist.


    The messenger felt his vision blur. ¡°Ah!¡± he screamed, covering his eyes that were bleeding profusely as he rolled off his horse.


    Han Tong did not even look at him. He raised the sword in his hand that was still stained with dazzling blood. ¡°Pass down the order to attack the city..¡±

 Chapter 875 - Chapter 875: Jiajia Is Here (2)

    Chapter 875: Jiajia Is Here (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    A loud sound reverberated in the area.


    A deep horn suddenly sounded in this world. This was the signal to attack the city.


    ¡°Since you¡¯re stubborn, don¡¯t blame me for not giving you a chance.¡± Song Zhong suddenly pulled out the spear on his back and waved it forward. An earth-shattering roar erupted from the depths of his chest. ¡°Soldiers, listen up.


    Attack the city! ¡±


    An extended horn sounded, and at the same time, the war drums sounded. Dong, dong, dong¡­


    From slow to urgent, the sounds entered everyone¡¯s ears with an unstoppable momentum. ¡°Charge in and kill them all!¡±


    ¡°Charge!¡±


    ¡°Attack! ¡±


    The Wu Kingdom army shouted excitedly. They formed a turtle shell formation and quickly approached the city gate.


    Xiao Qirui glanced at Song Jingchen. Seeing that he was silent, he raised his hand. ¡°Hit the drum.¡±


    The war drums on the city gate tower were beaten by someone, and a loud rumbling sound shook the world.


    Amidst the war drums, the soldiers quickly entered combat mode.


    When the Wu Kingdom army entered the range of the arrows, Xiao Qirui raised his hand again. ¡°Fire.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a rain of arrows instantly tore through the sky and enveloped the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    After the first row of archers finished shooting, they quickly took a step back and reloaded their arrows. The archers at the back immediately went forward and shot the arrows in their hands.


    The two rows of archers cooperated and surrounded the city with arrows.


    However, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was all hidden in the turtle shell formation, and the arrows could not injure them at all.


    The soldiers on the city wall could not help but feel anxious.


    Han Tong watched this scene coldly. He picked up the blue flag at the side and waved it forward.


    A loud sound reverberated in the area.


    The horn sounded. In front of them, the soldiers carried ladders on their backs. The soldiers holding spears also rushed out under the cover of the turtle shell formation.


    To put it bluntly, the ones at the front were there to attract the arrows.


    Song Jingchen said in a low voice, ¡°Stonehenge.¡±


    The catapults were quickly pushed behind the archers by the soldiers. Boulders shot out in unison. At the same time, the arrows in the archers¡¯ hands were replaced by rockets.


    The huge rock smashed a flaw in the turtle shell formation. Even if it did not shatter the shield from the side, it was enough for one or two fire arrows to enter the gap and shoot into the enemy¡¯s body.


    For a moment, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was shot by arrows or smashed to the ground by rocks. They screamed repeatedly.


    Han Tong¡¯s eyes turned sharp. ¡°Archers, catapults, cover the scaling ladder.¡± The soldiers at the side blew the horn again.


    Right on the heels of that, black gunpowder flew out from behind the camp through the catapults, drawing an arc in the sky before exploding accurately on the city gate tower.


    The power of the black gunpowder was so great that the soldiers on the city wall could not dodge it at all.


    They did not even have time to wail before they were badly mangled by the explosion. Some of them were affected by the power of the explosion even if they were not hit. They screamed in fear and rolled down the city gate tower.


    This was only physical. The fear of black gunpowder had long been engraved in the bones of Great Xia¡¯s soldiers.


    What they saw in front of them were their companions who didn¡¯t even leave behind their corpses. What they heard were their companions¡¯ screams. Many people had the intention to retreat, but they subconsciously looked at Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen stood tall in front of them.


    A long whip had appeared in his hand at some point, and his other hand was waving his sword to block the rain of arrows coming from outside. If a soldier beside him rolled out of the city wall, he would immediately roll him back with the long whip.


    He knew better than anyone that war was built from countless corpses.


    Regardless of victory or defeat, there would be casualties, but he would still do his best to save everyone.


    For some reason, everyone felt inexplicably at ease when they saw this scene.


    They could not retreat. Behind them were the commoners of Great Xia, including their families. If they retreated, what would happen to the unarmed commoners?


    Since they were wearing this armor, protecting them was their mission, even if it meant death!


    ¡°Brothers, don¡¯t be afraid. They only have some black gunpowder. As long as we guard this city gate, victory will still be ours.¡±


    Someone shouted these words.


    The others also shouted, ¡°That¡¯s right. It¡¯s just a few bombs. What¡¯s there to be afraid of? At most, we¡¯ll fight them to the death. Eighteen years later, I¡¯ll be a good man again.¡±


    ¡°Right! ¡±


    Everyone encouraged each other. Some carried bows and arrows, while others carried rocks. They rushed up to fill the ¡°gap¡± created by the black gunpowder.


    Some people went forward and dragged away the corpses of the soldiers on the city wall so that their companions could walk. If any of them were still alive, they could be transported to the back in time for the military doctor to treat them..

 Chapter 876 - Chapter 876: Jiajia Is Here (3)

    Chapter 876: Jiajia Is Here (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At this moment, under the cover of black gunpowder and bows, the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom below had already pieced together the main ladders and built several scaling ladders.


    The Wu Kingdom army¡¯s black gunpowder attack also stopped at this moment.


    This further confirmed Song Jingchen¡¯s guess.


    The Wu Kingdom had limited black gunpowder.


    Actually, it was not difficult to analyze. Saltpeter mines were rare. Since it was one of the materials used to make black gunpowder, the black gunpowder produced by the Wu Kingdom could not support a war.


    Therefore, although he had already gotten someone to study it, he did not bet all his chips on it.


    Outside the city wall, the enemy forces struggled to climb up the ladder.


    The soldiers on the city wall threw rocks and poured oil down. However, they had already used up a lot of these things in the previous attacks. If this continued, they would run out of ammunition and food sooner or later.


    Song Jingchen said in a low voice, ¡°Get the locking bridge ready.¡±


    The bridge was made of wooden frames and a wooden stake that could be spun freely. The stake was tied with a retractable rope lock. One end of the rope was tied to the soldier¡¯s waist, and the other was pulled by multiple soldiers.


    Through the bridge, the soldiers could be hung directly outside the city wall, making it easier to kill the soldiers who had climbed the ladder and pull it down with flying hooks.


    When everything was ready, Song Jingchen ordered, ¡°Release.¡±


    Everyone quickly pushed the lock bridge and put down their companions with flying hooks.


    After dodging the boulders and kerosene, the Wu Kingdom soldiers, who had finally reached the city tower, saw the person who had suddenly appeared behind them. They quickly swung their swords to slash at him, but their throats were mercilessly slit.


    At the same time, ladders and the Wu Kingdom soldiers on the ladders were pulled back by the other party¡¯s flying hooks.


    For convenience¡¯s sake, their ladders were pieced together piece by piece. After landing, they instantly disintegrated.


    Han Tong¡¯s eyes darkened. He looked at the horn soldier beside him and the other party understood.


    A loud sound reverberated in the area.


    The horn sounded again. The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom outside the city wall quickly raised their shields above their heads. The twelve of them rushed down the city wall.


    ¡°Why? Do these people want to be cowards again?¡± Meng Wu could not help but mock when he saw this scene.


    The others also laughed along.


    Xiao Qirui frowned. With Han Tong commanding, he felt that it wasn¡¯t that simple. He turned around and was about to ask Song Jingchen for his opinion.


    The shield in the middle of the small turtle shell array suddenly opened. An archer flew out and drew his bow.


    Before the soldier controlling the bridge could pull his companion back, he watched as the arrow pierced through his body.


    Seeing this, the archers on the city wall quickly shot at the other party¡¯s archers. However, after the other party shot an arrow, they fell back into the turtle shell formation. At the same time, their shields closed again.


    More and more soldiers who were still on the bridge lost their lives. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened and he used his internal energy to shatter the longsword in his hand.


    Another Wu Kingdom soldier flew out of the turtle shell formation. However, this time, before they could shoot the arrows in their hands, they were killed by the fragments.


    The generals on the city tower were stunned and looked at Song Jingchen, who was standing there motionless. When they reacted, they imitated him. They couldn¡¯t break a sword with their bare hands, so they snatched the bow from the soldiers at the side.


    After figuring out the pattern of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers, as long as someone flew out, they would shoot the arrows in their hands.


    If they were lucky, they would fall after being shot by an arrow. If they were unlucky, they would be targeted by more than two people and have a few more holes in their bodies.


    However, before they could be happy with this progress, a loud bang came from below.


    Everyone quickly looked over. It turned out that two war chariots had rushed through the arrows and rocks on the city gate tower under the cover of shields and were taking turns hitting the tightly shut city gate.


    This city gate had been bombarded by black gunpowder a few times. Although it had been repaired, it would not last long if this continued.


    Song Jingchen stuffed the bow in his hand into Xiao Qirui¡¯s hand. ¡°Cover me.¡±


    Thinking about how his sword had broken just now, he took Xiao Qirui¡¯s sword and turned to walk towards the bridge.


    Xiao Qirui almost instantly guessed what he wanted to do and quickly stopped him. ¡°I¡¯ll go. Cover me.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him. ¡°Are you confident?¡±


    Xiao Qirui was silent. He hadn¡¯t even tried. How would he know if he was confident?


    However, there were so many soldiers protecting the chariot. To be honest, he was not confident that he could kill all of them before he died.


    ¡°Anyway, you can¡¯t go.¡± He grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s shoulder and said directly.


    Song Jingchen smiled.. ¡°If you could be so unreasonable when facing Miss


    Yuan, why would you have to worry about not being able to woo her back?¡±

 Chapter 877 - Chapter 877: Jiajia Is Here (4)

    Chapter 877: Jiajia Is Here (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    He was clearly worried about the other party, but one of them was silent. The other was polite and seemed gentle on the surface, but he was actually clear and decisive.


    The corners of Xiao Qirui¡¯s mouth twitched. When he thought of Yuan Yuwan, a melancholic expression appeared on his face. He said, ¡°Since you know so much, teach me when we return to Chang¡¯an.¡±


    Song Jingchen suspected that he had heard wrongly because of the noise outside. Was this what the Xiao Qirui he knew would say?


    Realizing what he had said, Xiao Qirui coughed lightly. ¡°I just said that since you know so much, it seems that you were the one who coaxed Sister-in-law.¡±


    Song Jingchen raised his eyebrows. It was true that they were inseparable, but it was clearly that girl who was pestering him endlessly in the beginning. He was the one being¡­


    Their conversation lasted only a few breaths before another collision sounded.


    Song Jingchen slapped Xiao Qirui¡¯s hand away and said solemnly, ¡°Cover me. This is a military order.¡±


    Xiao Qirui wanted to point out that His Majesty didn¡¯t confer Song Jingchen as the commander-in-chief, but Song Jingchen¡¯s official position was indeed higher than his. He could only shake his head and say helplessly, ¡°Then I¡¯ll disobey this military order today. If I¡¯m lucky enough to return alive, you can punish me according to the military rules.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he snatched the sword from the soldier at the side and raised his hand to grab the rope lock hanging from the bridge. He opened his mouth to instruct someone to raise the bridge.


    His wrist was suddenly grabbed. Song Jingchen pulled him off and pushed him in front of the two soldiers. He instructed indifferently, ¡°Keep an eye on him.¡±


    ¡°General Xiao, I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Although the soldier was puzzled, he still grabbed Xiao Qirui¡¯s hands tightly.


    Xiao Qirui struggled a few times but couldn¡¯t break free. He couldn¡¯t kill anyone, so he could only roar angrily, ¡°Song Jingchen, come back.¡±


    Song Jingchen ignored him. Unexpectedly, just as he raised his hand, a familiar voice sounded behind him.


    ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen suddenly turned around and saw Shen Yijia holding a huge bow in her arms and carrying an arrow basket filled with arrows on her back. She was leaning against the wall and panting heavily.


    Before he could speak, he sensed something and rushed over to pull her into his arms. ¡°Be careful.¡±


    In the next moment, an arrow accurately flew up from where Shen Yijia had been leaning against just now and hit the wall behind her. It landed with a crisp clang.


    Seeing this, Xiao Qirui heaved a sigh of relief and said with a dark expression, ¡°Let go.¡±


    The two soldiers looked at each other and did not move.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°The Duchess is already here. Do you need me to stop him?¡±


    The two soldiers looked at Song Jingchen and finally let go when they saw that he didn¡¯t object.


    How could they know that it wasn¡¯t that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t object, but that he was focused on checking if Shen Yijia was injured?


    Shen Yijia let him examine her. After that, she pretended to be afraid and patted her chest. She was about to praise her husband for being amazing.


    She looked up and met Song Jingchen¡¯s dark face.


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Oh my god, I forgot that my beautiful husband didn¡¯t let me come to the city tower.¡±


    ¡°Nonsense. This place is so dangerous. Is it something you can come to?¡± After confirming that Shen Yijia was not injured, Song Jingchen scolded her. He wanted to say something else, but when he saw Shen Yijia¡¯s face fall, he couldn¡¯t bear it anymore.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, why did you run so¡­¡± Song Jinghuan chased after her, panting. When she noticed her brother¡¯s gaze, she silently hid behind Shen Yijia.


    She couldn¡¯t be blamed. She had advised her sister-in-law not to come to the city tower.


    Her so-called advice was to tell Shen Yijia how despicable Han Tong was, how hateful he was, and how difficult it was to kill him.


    In the end, it successfully aroused Shen Yijia¡¯s fighting spirit and she rushed here quickly.


    Song Jingchen sighed and summoned two soldiers. ¡°Send Madam back to


    General Xiao¡¯s residence.¡±


    ¡°And you, if you¡¯ve recovered, go back to your military camp.¡±


    The last sentence was directed at Song Jinghuan.


    He finally understood that this girl was most likely the one who urged Jiajia to come to the city tower.


    He might as well just trust that Jiajia would stay at home obediently instead of asking the girl to watch over her.


    Song Jinghuan thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m not angry. It¡¯s not worth it to be angry.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going back.¡± Shen Yijia retreated from Song Jingchen¡¯s arms.


    She pursed her lips. She wanted to be angry, but she remembered that her beautiful husband was concerned about her. She would forgive him this once.


    After all, she was an understanding wife.


    ¡®You¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia pointed at the huge bow in her arms. ¡°I¡¯m here to help you.¡±


    A general who had seen a black iron bow and tried to pick it up but failed happened to look over. He was first stunned by Shen Yijia¡¯s appearance. He looked down and saw the bow in her arms. He was so shocked that his mouth fell open. ¡°General Gao¡¯s black iron bow!¡±


    His words successfully attracted the attention of many people for Shen Yijia.


    Those who had seen the black iron bow had the same reaction as him. Those who had not seen it only took a glance before returning their gazes to the battlefield.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the black iron bow and asked hesitantly, ¡°Are you saying that this bow is the black iron bow that General Gao spent ten years crafting?¡± He had never seen the black iron bow, but he had heard of this matter.


    It was not easy for General Gao to forge a huge bow, but in the end, he realized that he could not even lift it. He even asked all the soldiers in the army to take turns to try, but no one succeeded.


    After all, it was one of the few jokes in General Gao¡¯s life, so the news quickly spread among the generals.


    After knowing that he had been laughed at, he even said that he would be able to pick it up one day. Unfortunately, in a few years¡­


    ¡°That¡¯s right. I even tried to carry it back then. There¡¯s no way I¡¯m mistaken.¡± The general looked certain.


    Song Jingchen glanced at Shen Yijia and reached for the bow.


    Shen Yijia took a step back and tiptoed to whisper in his ear, ¡°Are you afraid of losing face?¡±


    There were so many people watching. As her husband, he would be embarrassed if he couldn¡¯t pick up something that his wife could.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°General, our city gate can¡¯t hold on much longer.¡± A soldier ran over anxiously to report.


    No matter how shocked the other generals were, they did not dare to continue standing here and dispersed.


    Song Jingchen looked at Shen Yijia. ¡°Jiajia, go back first.¡±


    ¡°No, as I said, I¡¯m here to help you.¡±


    She also knew that the situation was urgent, so she didn¡¯t give Song Jingchen a chance to speak again. She continued, ¡°I heard that Han Tong is the general who commands the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army to attack the city. If we kill him, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army will definitely fall into chaos.¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°Han Tong is at the back of the camp and is protected by the ironclad army. Not to mention that it¡¯s impossible for an arrow to shoot so far, even if it could, it wouldn¡¯t be able to penetrate layers of shields.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Before he could finish, Shen Yijia took out an arrow from the arrow basket behind her. ¡°This is an arrow made of black iron.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned.


    Author¡¯s Note: The tortoiseshell formation is a defensive barrier where the soldiers put their shields together to protect the front, back, left, and right. It serves to cover the advance of the soldiers under the shields..

 Chapter 878 - Chapter 878: Shoot To Kill (1)

    Chapter 878: Shoot To Kill (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The sounds of horns and war drums continued. The sounds of battle, shouts, and wails filled the world.


    The messenger shuttled through the battlefield. Every once in a while, he would report the specific situation of the battle to Han Tong, who was behind the camp.


    ¡°General, General Song Zhong asked me to tell you that the city gate of Nanling Pass will definitely be broken in 15 minutes.¡±


    ¡°Another 15 minutes?¡± Han Tong was clearly dissatisfied with this speed. He cursed, ¡°What trash.¡±


    This time was different from the previous time when they deliberately attacked the morale of Great Xia¡¯s soldiers. It was a proper siege. Not to mention 15 minutes, dozens of soldiers died in the blink of an eye.


    It had to be known that they still had to continue deeper into Great Xia and attack Chang¡¯an. The more people died now, the harder it would be later.


    Han Tong pondered for a moment and raised his hand as if he had made a decision.


    At this moment, an arrow that seemed to carry the strength of a thousand troops passed through most of the battlefield and shot towards him with a fierce sound.


    Han Tong was first shocked, but he was an experienced general after all. He quickly calmed down and shouted with disdain, ¡°Defensive array.¡±


    The well-trained iron armored soldiers surrounding him rode over and surrounded him layer by layer. There were a total of three layers.


    Every armored soldier was still holding their shields in front of them, firmly protecting Han Tong in the middle.


    Although the range of the arrow was indeed amazing, it had to travel in a


    straight line. Even if it could turn, it would not be able to penetrate the bodies of three armored soldiers and penetrate three shields to injure Han Tong.


    This was what the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army thought when they saw the arrows fly out. This was what the soldiers in the defensive formation thought too, along with Han Tong.


    However, there would always be exceptions.


    The sound of sharp arrows entering the body sounded one after another. It finally stopped when the fourth sound sounded.


    What was even more terrifying was that in the next moment, the three armored soldiers in front of Han Tong exploded on the spot because of the impact of the arrows. Blood splattered all over the surrounding armored soldiers¡¯ faces, and Han Tong was exposed to everyone again.


    All of this happened in the blink of an eye. It was so fast that Han Tong did not even have time to retract the disdain on his face.


    He lowered his head in disbelief and looked at the long arrow that only revealed a portion of its feather in front of his chest.


    ¡°How is this possible?¡± How could there be such a powerful arrow?


    No, it should be said that a bow that could shoot an arrow so far away must be a heavy bow. With such power, it was even a heavy bow that even Bu Ren, who was born with divine strength, could not pull.


    Who was it? Who exactly was it?


    Blood kept flowing out of his mouth, and his internal energy tore through his body because of this huge impact.


    ¡°General Han!¡±


    He vaguely heard someone calling out to him in fear, but he was no longer in the mood to care. He raised his head with difficulty and looked in the direction of the city tower.


    Han Tong¡¯s body exploded.


    The last scene reflected in his pupils was a general in armor embracing a petite woman on the battlements of the distant city tower. Their hands were overlapping on the same bow.


    ¡°Hubby, we did it.¡± Shen Yijia turned around happily to look at the man behind her, her face flushed with excitement.


    The soldiers on the city tower reacted faster than Song Jingchen. Almost as soon as Shen Yijia finished speaking, deafening cheers spread.


    ¡°Han Tong is dead!¡±


    ¡°Han Tong was shot dead by our General Song!¡±


    ¡°Han Tong was killed by our General Song and his wife!¡±


    They had watched as General Song¡¯s wife pulled the bow, while General Song aimed it at Han Tong.


    When the last sentence sounded, everyone was silent for a moment. Then, as if they had unified their words, they shouted, ¡°Han Tong was killed by our


    General Song and his wife.¡±


    Xiao Qirui got someone to beat the war drums at the right time.


    It had been two months, and many of their generals had died. This was the first time they had killed an enemy general, and it was the commander-in-chief.


    They had waited too long for this moment.


    Song Jingchen smiled and rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. ¡°Yes, you did it.¡±


    The morale of the soldiers continued to rise under this cheer, and the attacks on the Wu Kingdom soldiers outside the city wall became more and more violent. If not for the general¡¯s orders, they would have rushed down the city wall and fought the Wu Kingdom soldiers.


    On the other hand, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had long been flustered by the news of Han Tong¡¯s death. They looked behind them in fear. The archers had forgotten to draw their bows, and the soldiers hanging on the ladder had forgotten to continue climbing up..

 Chapter 879 - Chapter 879: Shoot To Kill (2)

    Chapter 879: Shoot To Kill (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    What was a commander-in-chief? He was like a switch for the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. Once he died, everyone seemed to have paused.


    To them, the previous war had gone too smoothly, so much so that it gave them the illusion that they couldn¡¯t have done this.


    Song Zhong swung his spear and pierced through a soldier who was in an adrift. He roared angrily, ¡°Attack the city. Continue attacking the city. Whoever dares to stop will be killed without mercy!¡±


    The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom came back to their senses slightly, but when they thought of the bow above their heads that could shoot through people, they no longer had their previous bravery.


    Shen Yijia glanced at Song Zhong outside the city wall and narrowed her eyes. ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s kill him.¡±


    Song Jingchen placed his hand on her black iron bow again and saw a dazzling light from the corner of his eye. He thought of something and smiled. He reminded her, ¡°Draw the bow fully.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that there was no need to draw the bow fully at such a close distance, but since her beautiful husband had specially reminded her, she pulled the bowstring to the limit.


    On the saddle slope outside Nanling Pass, Yan Guangmao sat on a horse and looked at the battle below with a cold expression.


    ¡°If General Yan doesn¡¯t go down soon, all your men will die,¡± the man in black beside him reminded him coldly, his tone unchanged.


    If Shen Yijia, Song Jingchen, or Ji Luo were here, they would recognize this man as Si Yun, who had escaped from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets.


    However, compared to before, Si Yun¡¯s skin was abnormally pale. One could even vaguely see green blood vessels under his skin. It looked especially strange.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Imperial Preceptor. My men aren¡¯t as weak as you think. On the other hand, Imperial Preceptor¡­¡± Before Yan Guangmao could finish speaking, a whooshing sound quickly approached.


    His heart skipped a beat. He pulled the reins of his horse, trying to dodge, but the horse under him had long been frozen in place by the sound.


    Yan Guangmao cursed in his heart, ¡°A useless animal like Han Tong.¡±


    At the critical moment, he suddenly pounced to the left. The moment he left the horse¡¯s back, a shiny black arrow pierced into the horse¡¯s body from where he was sitting just now and pierced through its abdomen, stabbing deeply into the ground.


    Bang! The horse exploded as expected.


    Blood splattered towards Yan Guangmao. His pupils constricted. He had only seen it from afar just now, and this scene was far from being close to him. This arrow almost pierced through his body. He almost ended up like this animal.


    However, before he could calm down, another arrow shot over. Yan Guangmao rolled to the side and barely dodged it.


    Si Yun was also shocked by the scene in front of him. The dazzling sunlight shone on Yan Guangmao¡¯s body. Something flashed in his eyes. He looked over and said sternly, ¡°Sword, quickly, throw away your sword! ¡±


    When Yan Guangmao heard this, he subconsciously pulled off the sword at his waist and threw it down the saddle slope.


    ¡°Hubby, are you going to continue?¡± Shen Yijia asked curiously when she saw Song Jingchen staring at the distant hill.


    There were only twelve black iron arrows, and she had already shot out three. However, she probably wouldn¡¯t be able to take back these three arrows. With her accuracy, she really couldn¡¯t bear to waste them without Song Jingchen around.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. He¡¯s already escaped,¡± he said as he jumped down from the wall. He wanted to carry Shen Yijia down, but he noticed the bow in her arms and froze in place.


    Shen Yijia immediately understood and threw her new favorite, Little Chenchen, onto the city gate tower without hesitation. She opened her hands to Song Jingchen.


    The latter smiled and carried her down. ¡°Are you tired?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not tired. Let¡¯s kill Song Zhong too.¡±


    She wanted to send him off personally.


    Song Jingchen looked at the Wu Kingdom army below and shook his head.


    ¡°When the water is full, it overflows. When the moon is full, it will wane.


    There¡¯s no hurry to kill him.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°When things reach an extreme, they will definitely rebel. Han Tong¡¯s death has destroyed the morale of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. If we kill Song Zhong now, it might stimulate their fighting spirit,¡± Song Jingchen explained patiently.


    Moreover, with Song Zhong shouting threats at the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers below, it would only make the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers rebel. At this moment, Song Zhong could be considered half an ally.


    If they wanted to kill him, they would have to wait.


    Shen Yijia nodded in understanding. Neither of them realized that although the soldiers around them did not stop what they were doing, they were all listening attentively.


    ¡°They were talking about us, right?¡± they thought.


    Dong!


    A crisp knocking sound suddenly sounded from behind the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    This was¡­


    The soldiers on the city gate tower looked at each other in disbelief.


    Dong! Dong!


    Two more sounds sounded. The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom outside the city stopped attacking and quickly retreated.


    When they saw their companions¡¯ corpses on the way, they did not forget to bring them along.


    The city gate was about to be breached. Retreating at this time?


    Song Zhong turned around with scarlet eyes.


    Who was the one who gave the order?


    When he saw the commander¡¯s flag raised behind him, Song Zhong was shocked. He was no longer dissatisfied and quickly retreated with the main group.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had really retreated!


    Cheers of victory erupted from the city gate tower.


    They had won. It was a true victory.


    All of this happened so suddenly that even Song Jingchen didn¡¯t expect it.


    How could he have known that the two arrows that the couple had shot at Yan Guangmao had forced Yan Guangmao and Si Yun to use their internal energy and expend a Herculean effort to pull them out?


    Yan Guangmao was more or less frightened by his move. If it hit the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom, wouldn¡¯t they be skewered like candied haws?


    And it was the kind that even a shield couldn¡¯t block.


    Song Jingchen indeed didn¡¯t know at first, but when he saw the new commander-in-chief flag flying in the middle of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army, he had a guess.


    ¡°Who is the commander of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army?¡± he asked Xiao Qirui.


    ¡°Yan Guangmao.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°So he¡¯s the one on the saddle slope.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°It¡¯s a pity that I didn¡¯t kill him.¡±


    She even wasted two of her arrows.


    Song Jingchen found it funny. A large part of the reason why the black iron arrow could successfully kill Han Tong was because he was too confident..

 Chapter 880 - Chapter 880: Despicable

    Chapter 880: Despicable


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    There was a moat outside Lin¡¯an City. The army of the Xuanyuan Kingdom was stationed on the other side of the moat, facing the north gate of Lin¡¯an City.


    The 300,000 imperial court troops had only arrived today. General Ye brought people to arrange for everyone to set up camp. Xuanyuan Ce did not have time to rest and immediately summoned the main general here.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡±


    Cai Yao was originally the general guarding Fenghe County, which was adjacent to Lin¡¯an City. After Lin¡¯an City was occupied by the Wu Kingdom, Xuanyuan Qi immediately ordered him to bring troops to Lin¡¯an City to resist the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. It would naturally be better if they could snatch Lin¡¯an City back.


    Since Fenghe prefecture was relatively close to Lin¡¯an City, he arrived half a month earlier than Xuanyuan Ce.


    ¡°What¡¯s the situation in Lin¡¯an City? Have you tried to attack the city in the past half a month?¡± Xuanyuan Ce sat in the tent that had just been set up and asked two questions in a row.


    Cai Yao lowered his head. ¡°I¡¯m ashamed.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is too despicable!¡± Speaking of this, Cai Yao still looked angry.


    The reason why the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army could easily take over Lin¡¯an City was because the City Lord of Lin¡¯an City and a deputy general were the Yu family¡¯s spies.


    After what Madam Yu had done was exposed, Xuanyuan Qi¡¯s men found out that the Yu family had cooperated with the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. In a fit of anger, they settled the old and new scores together and sent all the members of the Yu family to prison. They were sentenced to death.


    After knowing that something had happened to the Yu family, the two of them were discussing how to avenge them. Unexpectedly, the Wu Kingdom people with the letter from the Yu family¡¯s master came looking for them.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army first quietly broke through Pingyang Pass using the defensive map given by the Yu family. Then, with the City Lord of Lin¡¯an City and the deputy general of the city guard, it was almost effortless to take over Lin¡¯an City.


    If not for a smart soldier who sensed that something was wrong and found an opportunity to run out during the night shift, the news of Lin¡¯an being snatched would have taken much longer to spread to Phoenix City.


    It was also because it was too sudden that the citizens in the city were controlled by the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army before they could escape.


    They weren¡¯t the only ones. The soldiers guarding Lin¡¯an City were also controlled.


    ¡°Every time I bring troops to the city, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army will push the citizens and soldiers of our Xuanyuan Kingdom to the front.¡±


    Cai Yao¡¯s face turned red with anger.


    If they really wanted to attack the city, they would have to step over the corpses of the innocent citizens of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Not to mention that he could not do that, even if he wanted to ignore it, the other generals would not agree.


    Those were the innocent citizens of their city!


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s eyes turned cold. In order to restrain them, the people of the Wu Kingdom would do anything.


    ¡°Your Highness?¡± Seeing that Xuanyuan Ce did not speak, Cai Yao called out carefully.


    The news that Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s daughter, who had been left behind among the commoners, had married the Bulwark Duke of Great Xia had long spread. He was really worried that His Highness would disregard the lives of the commoners in Lin¡¯an City for that woman.


    ¡°Since we can¡¯t attack from the outside, we¡¯ll disintegrate from the inside,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said in a low voice.


    It turned out that he was thinking about a solution. Cai Yao heaved a sigh of relief and asked in confusion, ¡°Your Highness, what do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t we still have people in Lin¡¯an City?¡± Xuanyuan Ce looked out of the tent. ¡°Go and bring over that soldier who escaped from Lin¡¯an City.¡±


    Cai Yao was stunned and quickly nodded.


    Soon, he returned, followed by a young man who was about 15 or 16 years old and wearing ordinary soldier armor.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡± Although this was the first time he had seen someone more important than a general, the young man did not show any fear.


    Xuanyuan Ce couldn¡¯t help but look at him twice. ¡°What¡¯s your name? Where are you from?¡±


    The young man, who was originally calm, suddenly fell silent.


    ¡°His Highness is asking you a question,¡± Cai Yao reminded him softly.


    The young man¡¯s face turned red. ¡°My name is Chu Sheng. I was born and raised in Lin¡¯an.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, stifled laughter came from the side. Xuanyuan


    Ce looked over. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    Chu Feng immediately stopped smiling. ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯m not laughing. ¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce frowned and turned to look at Cai Yao. The latter¡¯s shoulders were trembling from holding back his laughter.


    Chu Sheng, isn¡¯t this good?


    Chu Sheng? It sounded similar to another word referring to ¡°animal¡±.


    Xuanyuan Ce held his forehead and said seriously, ¡°Alright, it¡¯s just a name. If you don¡¯t like it, change it.¡±


    Chu Sheng¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°Thank you for the name, Your Highness.¡± Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°When did I say that I wanted to give you a name?¡±


    Chu Sheng continued, ¡°My mother said that she spent a bucket of rice to hire a fortune-teller to name me. The fortune-teller said that I would definitely meet a benefactor in the future with this name. Moreover, the benefactor would help me change my name. It turns out that she really wasn¡¯t lying to me.¡±


    If Xuanyuan Ce still did not realize that he was being scammed, he would be a fool. He narrowed his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s fine if you want me to give you a name. Let me ask you, how did you get out of Lin¡¯an City back then? Since you grew up in


    Lin¡¯an City, do you have a way to bring me into the city without alerting the Wu


    Kingdom¡¯s army?¡±


    Chu Feng was shocked. ¡°Your Highness, didn¡¯t you promise the king not to go to the battlefield?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°They didn¡¯t even fight. What kind of battlefield is this?¡±


    At Nanling Pass.


    After a huge battle, the soldiers were cleaning up the battlefield in an orderly manner.


    The joy of victory filled everyone¡¯s nerves. Even though they were already very tired pvprvnnp qtill full of pnm-cm


    Most importantly, this time, it was no longer like before. The local army and the imperial court¡¯s army were no longer divided. Everyone cooperated and helped each other wherever they were needed.


    The relative efficiency was also much faster.


    Xiao Qirui smiled when he saw this scene.


    Song Jingchen patted his shoulder. ¡°I¡¯m sending Jiajia back to the general¡¯s residence. Do you want to come with me?¡±


    Xiao Qirui subconsciously wanted to refuse, but he thought of something and nodded and said, ¡°Okay.¡±


    The group chatted and laughed as they left the scene..

 Chapter 881 - Chapter 881: None of Them Are Good People (1)

    Chapter 881: None of Them Are Good People (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Young General Meng.¡±


    A respectful voice sounded behind him.


    Meng Shaoyuan turned around and saw a young man with red lips and white teeth standing there with a large bundle of arrows in his arms.


    Nanling Pass was already very hot in June, and they had just experienced a war. The young man¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat, and his originally fair cheeks were red from the sun.


    If this were any other soldier, they would definitely look extremely miserable. However, the person in front of him was the opposite. Not only was he not ugly, but he also looked pitiful.


    Meng Shaoyuan circled his mouth with his tongue and asked with a smile, ¡°Liu


    Jinbao, right?¡±


    Liu Jinbao felt uncomfortable under his gaze. He lowered his head and said,


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Could it be that Young General Meng hated him for hitting Liu Yang? But wasn¡¯t that General Meng¡¯s order? At most, he had spent money to buy the opportunity to be in charge of the punishment.


    Speaking of Liu Yang, he had been recuperating ever since he was punished last time.


    He was Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s subordinate. It was possible that Meng Shaoyuan wanted to stand up for him.


    Liu Jinbao felt that he had found out the truth, but Meng Shaoyuan didn¡¯t say anything else. He nodded and turned to leave.


    Liu Jinbao was stunned. Was he thinking too much?


    However, when he thought about how Meng Shaoyuan had looked at him as if he was prey, he still felt a chill down his spine.


    ¡°Jinbao, come and help.¡± Sun Hao called out to him from not far away. There was an injured soldier lying beside him. He wanted to carry him back to the infirmary, but he could lift him onto his back alone.


    Liu Jinbao came back to his senses and quickly replied, ¡°Okay.¡±


    He first put the arrow in his arms aside and helped the injured soldier lie on Sun Hao¡¯s back.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± Sun Hao smiled and thanked him.


    Song Jinghuan had been surrendered to the Cooks¡¯ Army. It was unknown if the higher-ups had forgotten about it, but they didn¡¯t arrange a new captain for their team. Therefore, those people were temporarily led by Sun Hao and Tang Shun, the two vice-captains.


    Liu Jinbao scratched his head and said, ¡°It¡¯s a small matter. By the way, is the wound on your back alright? Why don¡¯t I carry him?¡±


    ¡°Those sticks were like a back massage. It¡¯s not a serious injury.¡± Sun Hao stood up and prepared to leave. ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Liu Jinbao reminded him.


    Sun Hao nodded and carried the soldier straight to the infirmary.


    It was rare for the infirmary to sound like anything but painful wails.


    ¡°Such a heavy bow was drawn by our general¡¯s wife. Then, our general casually shot an arrow with his wife in his arms. Han Tong died on the spot. His head exploded and blood covered the ground. It has to be known that Han Tong was hiding at the back of the camp and was more than half a battlefield away. The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was scared out of their wits by this arrow and retreated.¡±


    ¡°Little Six, I heard that you were injured by an arrow shot from outside before you could go up the city tower. You didn¡¯t even go up the city tower. How did you see it? You¡¯re not bragging, are you?¡± Another injured soldier lying next to him teased.


    The person who spoke had stayed in the infirmary to recuperate from his injuries and did not participate in this city defense battle.


    The soldier called Little Six blushed. ¡°Anyway, I just saw it. Don¡¯t doubt me.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s true. I saw it too.¡± Another soldier said, ¡°At that time, I was beside the general and Madam. Not only was Han Tong hiding behind them, but he was also protected by the iron armored soldiers.¡±


    ¡°I saw it too. I really didn¡¯t expect the general¡¯s wife to be so strong. She¡¯s really a match made in heaven with our general.¡±


    Everyone spoke one after another and described the arrow on the city wall to the people around them.


    ¡°Did you hear that? It¡¯s your loss that you couldn¡¯t go today.¡± Little Six snorted proudly. He didn¡¯t see it, but he had heard it from others.


    The military doctor who was treating his wound was so excited that he exerted strength when he heard the key point. He gritted his teeth in pain. ¡°Oh my,


    Military Doctor Tong, be gentle.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be gentle,¡± Doctor Tong said guiltily.


    The injured soldier beside him urged, ¡°Little Six, tell your big brother more.¡±


    After recovering from the pain, Little Six said angrily, ¡°Go away, who are you to call yourself my big brother?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re my big brother, alright?¡± The injured soldier chuckled and said,


    ¡°Brother Six, tell me again. Is our general¡¯s wife really that powerful?¡±


    Little Six felt comfortable being called that. Seeing that he still had doubts about the general¡¯s wife, he hurriedly said, ¡°Of course. Have you heard the story of that black iron bow?¡±


    At the entrance of the infirmary, Meng Linyan¡¯s face turned colder and colder as she listened to everyone praise the woman they had never met..

 Chapter 882 - Chapter 882: None of Them Are Good People (2)

    Chapter 882: None of Them Are Good People (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Ma¡¯am?¡± a female soldier behind her called softly.


    Meng Linyan turned around and realized that there were a few soldiers carrying a stretcher behind her. They had stopped because her men were blocking the way.


    ¡°It suddenly occurred to me that there was something else. Send the medicine in,¡± she instructed and turned to leave.


    The female soldier who reminded her just now was a maidservant who had been by her side since she was young. Seeing this, she waved at the others.


    ¡°Hurry up and send him in.¡±


    With that, she quickly followed Meng Linyan.


    ¡°Miss, don¡¯t listen to their nonsense. That woman can¡¯t compare to you at all.


    In my opinion, only you are worthy of Heir Song in this world.¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s no longer the heir,¡± Meng Linyan corrected him. Her expression softened.


    ¡°Yuezhu, do you think he still remembers me?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± Yue Zhu was stunned. Seeing that Meng Linyan¡¯s expression was about to darken again, she hurriedly said, ¡°Miss, don¡¯t worry. The Duke will definitely remember you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Thinking of something, Meng Linyan smiled. ¡°Get ready. We¡¯ll meet this general¡¯s wife tomorrow.¡±


    She emphasized the words ¡®general¡¯s wife¡±.


    ¡°Should we tell the general first?¡± Yue Zhu was a little worried.


    ¡°Father is so busy every day. There¡¯s no need to disturb him for such a small matter. Besides, it¡¯s the first time the general¡¯s wife has come to our Nanling Pass, and Mother isn¡¯t around. As the daughter of the Meng family, I should visit ner so tnat 1 can CIO my part as a nost.¡±


    As the two of them spoke, they unknowingly arrived at the kitchen.


    When fighting, the soldiers usually brought a few pieces of dry food with them. When they were hungry, they would take a few bites, since they had no time to stop and eat proper meals.


    It was almost dinnertime, and because they had won the battle, Song Jingchen specially instructed them to give everyone a sumptuous meal today. Therefore, the soldiers in the kitchen were busy.


    A soldier carrying water came out and saw her return. He called out respectfully, ¡°Little General Meng.¡±


    In order to distinguish the three members of the Meng family, they called Meng Wu General Meng, Meng Shaoyuan was Young General Meng, and Meng Linyan was Little General Meng.


    Meng Linyan nodded and noticed that he was smiling. She asked curiously, ¡°What are you so happy about?¡±


    The kitchen was Meng Linyan¡¯s territory, so the soldier did not dare to hide it. He scratched his head and smiled. ¡°Little Song described what happened on the city wall today to everyone inside. I just found it novel.¡±


    Coincidentally, someone was urging him. He excused himself and went to work.


    At first, Meng Linyan didn¡¯t realize who Little Song was. When she entered the kitchen and saw the person surrounded by everyone, she remembered that it was Song Huan, who had been demoted to a soldier in the cook¡¯s army.


    ¡°That arrow flew out with a whoosh, scaring Han Tong so much that he quickly got the armored soldiers to surround him. Guess what happened?¡± Song Jinghuan asked proudly.


    ¡°How would we know? Little Song, don¡¯t leave us hanging.¡±


    Song Jinghuan coughed lightly. A soldier at the side handed her a bowl of water.


    Song Jinghuan took a sip of water leisurely and sighed. ¡°This damn weather is too hot.¡±


    Someone immediately fanned her with a fan from the stove.


    An old soldier was so angry that he blew his beard and glared at her. He dodged the fan in the soldier¡¯s hand. ¡°Child, what happened after that? Hurry up and tell me.¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips. ¡°After that¡­¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to do anything?¡± A stern voice suddenly sounded.


    Everyone looked in the direction of the voice. Seeing that it was Meng Linyan, they quickly dispersed.


    ¡°Look at you. Wouldn¡¯t it have been done long ago if you¡¯d just said so?¡± The veteran limped away angrily.


    Song Jinghuan stuck out her tongue and casually grabbed two sticks of firewood before stuffing them into the stove.


    A shadow fell over her. She looked up.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what your relationship with the Duchess is. Since you¡¯re in this kitchen, you¡¯d better behave yourself. If I catch you delaying everyone¡¯s work again, I won¡¯t let you off on account of the Duchess,¡± Meng Linyan said coldly.


    Many people had seen Song Huan being carried away in the carriage by the Duchess, so Meng Linyan had naturally heard of it.


    She had long known that Song Jingchen had married the daughter of a low-ranking official, so she guessed that Song Huan was Shen Yijia¡¯s relative.


    She didn¡¯t think about Song Jingchen because she felt that if Song Huan was a


    blood relative of the Song family, it was impossible for Song Jingchen to punish her.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t delay everyone¡¯s work. They came up to me and asked me.¡± Didn¡¯t she see that she had been sitting at her post?


    ¡°How dare you? Is this how you talk to a general?¡± Yue Zhu reprimanded..

 Chapter 883 - Chapter 883: None of Them Are Good People (3)

    Chapter 883: None of Them Are Good People (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jinghuan clenched his fists and stood up. ¡°Little General Meng, I didn¡¯t delay everyone¡¯s work.¡±


    She did not deny her relationship with the Duchess, so Meng Linyan was even more certain of her guess. She glanced at Yue Zhu.


    The latter understood and berated, ¡°The general and I saw the whole scene from outside, yet you still dare to quibble. Men, drag him away!¡±


    Meng Linyan raised her hand. ¡°There¡¯s no need to hit him. After all, he¡¯s the


    Duchess¡¯s subordinate. However, since he¡¯s in the wrong, he has to be punished. From today onwards, you can clean the stables.¡±


    In order to prevent the warhorses from falling sick, they needed someone to clean up the feces in the stables every day. Being dirty and tired was not the main point. Now that the weather was getting hotter, the smell there was the most uncomfortable.


    After saying that, Meng Linyan looked at her coldly, as if she was waiting for her to offend her superior so that she could punish her.


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s face darkened. Thinking of what her brother had said, she took a deep breath and suppressed the urge to beat her up. She gritted her teeth and said, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Meng Linyan was surprised for a moment. She had seen Song Jinghuan a few times, and every time, she would bare her fangs and brandish her claws. When had she ever been so obedient?


    However, she was not disappointed. Since Song Huan was in her hands, it would be easy for her to find fault with Song Huan. She could take revenge for Linlang.


    ¡°Then pack up and go over now.¡±


    Meng Linyan was not worried that she would disobey orders. With that, she left the kitchen with Yue Zhu.


    ¡°Kid from the Song family, did you offend her in some way?¡± The crippled veteran leaned over again.


    ¡°Who offended her?¡± Song Jinghuan rolled his eyes and muttered angrily, ¡°To think that I thought she was different from that useless dog. I didn¡¯t expect them to be the same.¡±


    She said it very softly, but the veteran still heard her. He looked at Song Jinghuan deeply and was about to say something when a soldier ran in from outside and left the kitchen with Song Jinghuan.


    Song Jinghuan was pulled along and jogged to a stream behind the military camp before stopping. She shook off the other party¡¯s hand and said angrily, ¡°Liu Jinbao, what are you doing?¡±


    Liu Jinbao panted heavily. After looking around and making sure that no one was around, he said seriously, ¡°Be careful these few days.¡±


    He was clearly concerned, but Song Jinghuan was already angry, so the words she heard were twisted.


    ¡°I think you¡¯re the one who has to be careful. Don¡¯t think that I won¡¯t dare to hit you just because you helped me yesterday.¡±


    Yesterday, Song Jingchen punished her with 30 strokes of the cane. The person holding the military stick was Liu Jinbao.


    ¡°I do have to be careful.¡± Liu Jinbao nodded in agreement. ¡°But you have to be careful too. You embarrassed Liu Yang in public by competing with him. Young General Meng¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Song Jinghuan finally realized that she had misunderstood. She frowned and asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Liu Jinbao choked and told her about what had happened on the city tower. ¡°I still feel terrible when I think about the way he looked at me.¡±


    He shook his body exaggeratedly and concluded, ¡°In any case, regardless of whether I¡¯m thinking too much, the two of us have to be careful. Isn¡¯t your brother and sister-in-law here( Why don¡¯t you take a tew days Ott or just stay in the general¡¯s residence every day?¡±


    After all, there was no evidence. They couldn¡¯t complain without any evidence. If they misunderstood Young General Meng, it would be slander.


    Song Jinghuan sized him up from head to toe and circled him.


    Liu Jinbao blushed and didn¡¯t dare to look at her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jinghuan clenched his right fist and slapped his left palm. ¡°This is the feeling.¡±


    Liu Jinbao was stunned. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    Song Jinghuan said matter-of-factly, ¡°It makes me want to bully you.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Song Jinghuan, you¡¯re a girl. You dare to say something like this? How could you¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, that¡¯s not what I meant. Didn¡¯t you say that there was something wrong with the way he looked at you? I was wondering if he had taken a fancy to you.¡± Song Jinghuan shrugged innocently.


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s face was no longer red. He was so angry that his head hurt. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°We¡¯re all men!¡±


    ¡°What if Meng Shaoyuan has a homosexual fetish and likes someone like you?¡± Seeing that Liu Jinbao was furious, Song Jinghuan quickly swallowed the rest of her words and said seriously, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll be careful.¡±


    Liu Jinbao finally relaxed.


    ¡°You must remember what I said. Don¡¯t go anywhere alone if there aren¡¯t many people around. If anyone asks you to go out, don¡¯t go. As soon as you realize that something is wrong, immediately look for your brother and sister-in-law,¡± he reminded her again.


    Seeing him like this, Song Jinghuan, who originally didn¡¯t care, couldn¡¯t help but think more about it. The more she thought about it, the more she felt that her initial guess was right.


    She took out a pouch from her pocket. ¡°There are a few packets of knockout powder inside. Keep them well. They can save you if you encounter any danger.¡±


    ¡°Keep this life-saving thing for yourself. I don¡¯t need it.¡± Liu Jinbao was worried about her to begin with. He wouldn¡¯t want her things.


    ¡°Just take it if I tell you to. I still have extra.¡±


    Afraid that he wouldn¡¯t believe her, Song Jinghuan took out an identical pouch.


    She stuffed the pouch into Liu Jinbao¡¯s arms and asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t my brother and I give you two sleeve arrows previously? Why didn¡¯t you bring it with you?¡±


    That was when the Song family left Xiagou Village and returned to the capital. Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t expect her to still remember. He scratched his head and said, ¡°I was afraid of damaging it, so I kept it in my bag.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that for you to protect yourself?¡± Song Jinghuan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°Put on the sleeve arrow first thing when you get back. Don¡¯t take it off when you sleep, understand?¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s heart felt warm at her concern. ¡°Got it.¡± ¡°It¡¯s time for dinner later. Let¡¯s go back first.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Liu Jinbao temporarily forgot about his worries. On the other hand, Song


    Jinghuan was worried. She wondered if she should think of a way to move to Liu Jinbao¡¯s tent and keep an eye on him. At the very least, it would be good to see him every day to confirm that he was safe.


    No matter what, they were old acquaintances. She could not leave him in the lurch.


    At night, in Meng Wu¡¯s tent, after hearing his subordinate¡¯s report, the father and son¡¯s faces darkened.


    ¡°The Bulwark Duke has already started investigating?¡± Meng Wu asked.


    He thought that Song Jingchen had said that he wanted to investigate General Gao¡¯s case again to appease the soldiers. He didn¡¯t expect him to be so proactive..

 Chapter 884 - Chapter 884: Visit (1)

    Chapter 884: Visit (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Yes, the Bulwark Duke summoned Lord Zhu as soon as he returned to the general¡¯s residence.¡±


    Lord Zhu was the governor of Nanling Pass. If he summoned him at this time, it couldn¡¯t be that he wanted him to help fight the war. It could only be because of the case file which accused General Gao of colluding with the enemy and committing treason.


    Meng Wu waved his hand and asked them to leave.


    When only the father and son were left in the tent, Meng Shaoyuan said angrily, ¡°Father, we can¡¯t sit still and wait for death anymore. If Duke Song finds out what happened back then..


    ¡°It¡¯s the Retired Emperor who couldn¡¯t tolerate meritorious officials, and deliberately fabricated evidence to frame him.¡± Meng Wu interrupted him in a low voice. ¡°If he wants to investigate, let him investigate. What happened back then was instigated by the Retired Emperor. Those who know the truth have long turned into dust with the Gao family. I don¡¯t believe he can find anything.¡±


    ¡°Then we won¡¯t do anything?¡± Meng Shaoyuan couldn¡¯t understand why his father had become so cautious as soon as Song Jingchen arrived.


    Seeing through his thoughts, Meng Wu warned, ¡°It¡¯s better to be quiet than to move. Don¡¯t panic and give others something to use against you.¡± Meng Shaoyuan clenched his fists. ¡°Then my previous suggestion¡­¡±


    ¡°Let me think about it.¡± Meng Wu knocked on the desk. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Go back first.¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan lowered his eyes. ¡°Yes.¡±


    When he returned to his tent, Meng Shaoyuan still had nowhere to vent his anger.


    Meng Wu had the heart but not the guts. However, he was different. He had ambition and guts. He did not want to guard a godforsaken place like Nanling Pass for the rest of his life.


    The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. He slapped the table in front of him and instructed loudly, ¡°Get Liu Yang to see me.¡±


    The soldiers guarding outside the tent agreed and left.


    Soon, Liu Yang, who had appeared many days ago, lifted the curtain and entered. ¡°Young General, are you looking for me?¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan glanced at him and asked, ¡°How¡¯s your recovery?¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan was the one who brought Liu Yang up. Of course, he would not foolishly think that he was concerned about her. He said respectfully, ¡°I¡¯m fine now.¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan nodded in satisfaction. ¡°Go and bring me Liu Jinbao.¡± He paused and revealed a devilish smile. ¡°You should know what to do.¡±


    Liu Yang was shocked. ¡°This¡­¡±


    Others might not know, but he had been by Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s side for so long that he knew some of his hobbies very well. Meng Shaoyuan had a homosexual fetish and liked to play with boys.


    In the past, he was the one who helped send the people Meng Shaoyuan liked to his bed.


    Thinking of Liu Jinbao¡¯s appearance, it wasn¡¯t strange.


    The reason why he hesitated was not because he was worried about Liu Jinbao. Liu Jinbao had deliberately hit him hard, Liu Yang wished he could kill him to vent his anger.


    However, they had always done that kind of thing outside the military camp in the past. Now that there were many people in the military camp and there were nobles from Chang¡¯an around, if the matter was exposed..


    ¡°Why? You can¡¯t do it?¡± Meng Shaoyuan narrowed his eyes.


    Liu Yang quickly explained, ¡°I¡¯m just worried that someone will find out that Liu Jinbao is missing and report it to the higher-ups. If they find out it¡¯s related to the Young General, it will affect your reputation.¡±


    Every soldier¡¯s name was registered. If someone disappeared for no reason, they would definitely have to investigate.


    Meng Shaoyuan licked his lips and sneered. ¡°Hmph, you woke up in the middle of the night and realized that someone was trying to escape from the military camp. You chased after them and didn¡¯t want to accidentally kill them. It¡¯s just killing a deserter. What does it matter?¡±


    However, there had to be a corpse.


    Liu Yang was stunned and instantly understood what Meng Shaoyuan meant.


    He was going to kill Liu Jinbao after using him!


    ¡°Young General is right. I understand what to do.¡±


    The night was as dark and silent as water. The gentle breeze finally took away some of the heat in the day. The soldiers, who had been tired for the entire day, also fell asleep.


    The two black shadows avoided the patrols and shuttled between the various tents. In the end, they stopped at one of the tents.


    Liu Yang looked at the person behind him and asked softly, ¡°Are you sure he¡¯s sleeping in the innermost bed?¡±


    Another person replied, ¡°It¡¯s absolutely true. He brought his own appliances.


    They¡¯re different from others. I can recognize them at a glance.¡±


    Although Liu Jinbao was no longer doted on in the Liu family after Song Jiayue gave birth to a son, he was once the golden goose that Old Master Liu doted on. Any ornament in his room was worth a lot of money.


    He also knew the importance of silver, so when he left home, he almost emptied his courtyard.


    Well, he didn¡¯t empty it because the rest were all big items. He couldn¡¯t move them.


    With money in his hands, he was not someone who would suffer. He had no choice in terms of food, so he naturally had to buy good appliances. In any case, as long as there were no problems after checking, this was allowed in the military..

 Chapter 885 - Chapter 885: Visit (2)

    Chapter 885: Visit (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Liu Yang thought for a moment and gestured to the person behind him, indicating that he should stay outside and keep watch. He quietly entered the tent.


    Ordinary soldiers usually stayed in a tent with ten people. They were all rough men. The sound of their snores was one thing, but the smell was obvious.


    Liu Yang wrinkled his nose in discomfort. When he passed by the first bed..


    ¡°Son of a bitch from the Wu Kingdom, take my punch.¡±


    He threw a punch and coincidentally hit Liu Yang¡¯s stomach. It was so painful that he gritted his teeth, not daring to make a sound.


    He thought that he was already unlucky enough, but the soldier on the second bed actually placed his spear on the ground. Liu Yang accidentally tripped and fell facedown.


    When he came out of the tent with a sack, his accomplices guarding outside realized that his clothes were messy and his face was swollen.


    The accomplice was stunned. If not for the fact that he had been guarding outside and did not hear any strange sounds, he would have suspected that something had happened to Captain Liu.


    Liu Yang glared at him. ¡°Hurry up and leave.¡± His accomplice led the way awkwardly.


    The two of them retraced their steps.


    The soldiers outside Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s tent had long been sent away. At this moment, he was soaking in the bathtub with a satisfied expression.


    Hearing Liu Yang¡¯s report, he smiled. ¡°Put him on my bed. Go outside and wait. ¡±


    Liu Yang agreed and placed the person on his shoulder on the bed. He was about to untie the sack.


    Meng Shaoyuan said coldly, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Of course, it was more interesting to open the gift himself.


    ¡®Yes.¡± Liu Yang quickly left.


    The next day, everyone got up and washed up by the stream as usual.


    A soldier came back after washing up. He rubbed the back of his neck gloomily and complained, ¡°Liu Jinbao, did you hide a needle in your pillow?¡±


    Liu Jinbao, who was putting on his clothes, paused. ¡°I sleep on that pillow every day. How can I hide a needle in it?¡±


    ¡°Then why does my neck hurt so much?¡± The soldier said with a bitter expression.


    He thought that the beds of rich people were softer and more comfortable, so when Liu Jinbao suggested changing beds with him, he agreed without thinking. If he had known earlier, he would have slept on his own hard bed.


    ¡°Let me see.¡± Liu Jinbao leaned over.


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing there. You fell asleep on your own.¡± Although he said that, Liu Jinbao¡¯s heart was in turmoil. Fortunately, he held back. ¡°Why didn¡¯t I sleep well in the past? You have to make it up to me.¡±


    Liu Jinbao knew that he was in the wrong, so he agreed.


    A soldier teased, ¡°So not everyone has the fate to enjoy life. Jinbao, are you still trading positions tonight? Let me try it too.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s bed was not only soft, but also clean. It was not as smelly and hard as theirs.


    Liu Jinbao was about to agree when he thought of something and shook his head repeatedly. ¡°Forget it. My own bed is more comfortable.¡±


    The soldier was not angry. He said happily, ¡°Then remember to look for me when you want to experience life.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Boom!


    An explosion came from the storeroom in the backyard of the general¡¯s residence.


    Auntie Liao, who was preparing breakfast in the kitchen, felt her heart skip a beat. She did not even have time to put down the spatula and ran towards the backyard.


    At the same time, You Yi, who was guarding the door, flashed into the storeroom.


    When Auntie Liao arrived, she saw the noble Duchess¡¯s dark face and messy hair.


    Shen Yijia stood at the door trembling and called out with lingering fears, ¡°Auntie Liao.¡±


    As she spoke, she blew smoke out of her mouth.


    Auntie Liao was frightened. ¡°Oh my, what¡¯s going on?¡±


    Shen Yijia felt her ears buzz. After a while, she waved her hand sluggishly. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I was just blown up.¡±


    As she spoke, she spat out another mouthful of black smoke.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had just suffered a defeat, and the commander-in-chief, Han Tong, had died. Yan Guangmao had to appease the army and would not attack the city again for the time being.


    Therefore, Song Jingchen left the city early in the morning.


    Shen Yijia was bored alone in the general¡¯s residence. She finally remembered the three black gunpowder bombs that she had neglected.


    Therefore, this scene happened.


    Auntie Liao was speechless.


    ¡°I¡¯ll help you wash up first.¡± As she spoke, she reached out to help Shen Yijia. Halfway through, she realized that she was still holding a spatula.


    When she saw the spatula, she remembered that there were still vegetables cooking in the pot, so she couldn¡¯t leave.


    Just as she was feeling conflicted, she noticed You Yi standing at the side. Auntie Liao stuffed the spatula into his hand.


    ¡°Little brother, there¡¯s still some vegetables cooking in the pot. Go and help me take care of it.¡±


    You Yi was speechless.


    As the cold water hit her face, Shen Yijia finally regained her composure. She exhaled. ¡°That was close..¡±

 Chapter 886 - Chapter 886: Visit (3)

    Chapter 886: Visit (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Madam, that black gunpowder is not a joke. Let me do it for you next time.¡±


    Although they had only been together for two days, Auntie Liao could tell that the two masters who had just moved in were easy to get along with. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have dared to say such things.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I was just playing.¡±


    The black gunpowder she concocted was only half complete. Apart from being a little loud, there was no danger at all.


    What went wrong?


    Seeing that she was thinking about something, Auntie Liao did not dare to disturb her again.


    After finally combing Shen Yijia¡¯s messy hair, she was about to get water to wash her up.


    ¡°Madam, Little General Meng requests an audience,¡± Uncle Ming said respectfully.


    ¡°General?¡± Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°Tell him that my husband isn¡¯t around. He can come back later.¡±


    Auntie Liao reminded him, ¡°Little General Meng is General Meng¡¯s eldest daughter.¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°A woman?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Auntie Liao nodded. ¡°So you can¡¯t just push the guest to the duke again.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not think too much about it. Since she was a general, she thought that she was here regarding military matters. She did not understand those things. Besides, she still had to help her beautiful husband make gunpowder. How could she have the time to waste on guests?


    Just as she was about to say that she didn¡¯t want to meet her, Uncle Ming said, ¡°Little General Meng is here to see Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    ¡°Can I not meet her?¡±


    Uncle Ming hesitated and said, ¡°Of course, but¡­¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just that the Meng family has been stationed at Nanling Pass all year round. Be it in the hearts of the commoners or in the military, they have quite a bit of prestige. I¡¯m afraid people will gossip if we reject them,¡± Uncle Ming analyzed.


    How troublesome.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Alright, then invite her to the reception pavilion.¡±


    Uncle Ming left after receiving the instructions. Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to follow, Auntie Liao quickly stopped her. ¡°Madam, why don¡¯t you change your clothes before meeting the guests?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t my clothes fine?¡± It wasn¡¯t like she was meeting her beautiful husband. She had to dress up beautifully if that was the case.


    Shen Yijia looked down at her clothes. They were just a little dark.


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. It seems that Auntie Liao¡¯s reaction was not right when Uncle Ming came in and said that Little General Meng wanted to see me.¡± she thought.


    First, she deliberately reminded her that the person who came was a woman, and now she asked her to change her clothes.


    She narrowed her eyes. ¡°Auntie Liao, is there a problem with Little General Meng?¡±


    Auntie Liao did not expect her to ask so directly. She said tactfully, ¡°Little


    General Meng is already seventeen this year and hasn¡¯t gotten married yet.¡±


    There were many women at the border who only got married when they were 17 or 18 years old, but they had all taken a fancy to someone early on and decided on a marriage long before that age. It was rare to see a 17-year-old girl like Meng Linyan who had no one by her side.


    ¡°What does that have to do with¡­¡± Shen Yijia was stunned and said suspiciously, ¡°So she doesn¡¯t have a man and wants to snatch my man?¡±


    The corners of Auntie Liao¡¯s mouth twitched. It was said that women at the border were bold, but this woman from Chang¡¯an was even bolder.


    Seeing the faint anger in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes, she quickly explained, ¡°I don¡¯t know what Little General Meng is thinking. It¡¯s just that the Bulwark Duke is in a high position at a young age and is talented and good-looking.¡±


    She did not finish, but Shen Yijia understood. To summarize, her husband was too perfect. It was difficult not to be tempted.


    But so what?


    Shen Yijia said seriously, ¡°My husband already has me. No one else has a


    chance.¡±


    ¡°Oh my.¡± Auntie Liao had never seen someone so magnanimous. ¡±


    She felt that this Duchess was too innocent. Afraid that Shen Yijia would suffer, she simply said, ¡°Normally speaking, even if the Meng family wants to visit, they should have asked Madam Meng to appear. How can an unmarried girl come knocking on our door?¡±


    Wasn¡¯t everyone aware of Little General Meng¡¯s thoughts?


    That wasn¡¯t right. The Duchess hadn¡¯t thought of this.


    Auntie Liao was really worried.


    In her opinion, with the Duke¡¯s status, it was better to be his concubine than someone else¡¯s legitimate wife.


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that her husband did not take concubines, but after thinking about it, she felt that there was no need. Anyway, it did not stop others from having designs on her beautiful husband.


    ¡°Thank you for the reminder, Auntie. I understand.¡± She nodded and walked out.


    If it were anyone else, they would definitely want to dress up beautifully and go out to make the other woman think that they were inferior and not dare to have any designs on their husbands again.


    However, Shen Yijia did not think so. Changing her clothes specifically to meet someone like that, wasn¡¯t it giving them too much face?


    Most importantly, she did not care about anyone regardless of their status..

 Chapter 887 - Chapter 887: Angering Meng Linyan to Death

    Chapter 887: Angering Meng Linyan to Death


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When Auntie Liao finished dressing Shen Yijia, Meng Linyan had been sitting in the reception pavilion for half an hour.


    Hearing the commotion, she subconsciously turned around.


    A woman in green walked in against the light. Her smooth and fair face was still a little tender, like an immortal who had accidentally entered the mortal world.


    Meng Linyan¡¯s looks were also top-notch at Nanling Pass. She had made ample preparations before coming.


    She knew that because she had been practicing martial arts with her father and brother all year round, her skin was not as fair as the women in Chang¡¯an. Today, she specially asked Yue Zhu to put on makeup for her and even changed into women¡¯s clothes that she rarely had the chance to wear.


    However, when she saw Shen Yijia, she suddenly felt that everything she did was a joke.


    The other party had yet to put on any makeup and did not need to do anything.


    That wasn¡¯t right. She looked down and saw Shen Yijia¡¯s clothes.


    For a moment, she did not know if the other party was simply underdressed or if she did not take her seriously at all.


    After all, even a three-year-old child understood that dressing appropriately was the most basic respect for guests. She did not believe that Shen Yijia would not understand such a simple logic.


    That was the latter.


    Yue Zhu coughed lightly and reminded her, ¡°Miss, the Duchess is here.¡±


    Meng Linyan forced a smile and stood up to bow. ¡°Greetings, Duchess.¡± She had no intention of competing with Shen Yijia in terms of looks.


    Presumably, what that person needed more was a woman who could fight alongside him, not a canary with empty looks.


    As for Shen Yijia shooting Han Tong, she didn¡¯t see it with her own eyes after all, so she deceived herself and thought that it was Song Jingchen¡¯s credit alone.


    Shen Yijia walked straight to the armchair at the head of the table and sat down. She looked at Meng Linyan casually. ¡°Meng, Meng what?¡± Auntie Liao was stunned. Didn¡¯t she just say her name?


    The smile on Meng Linyan¡¯s face froze. ¡°My name is Linyan.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand disinterestedly. ¡°Sit. Don¡¯t stand there.¡±


    Meng Linyan pinched her fingers. ¡°Thank you, Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not instruct Auntie Liao to serve tea. She leaned back in her chair and lowered her eyes to play with her fingers, treating Meng Linyan like she was air.


    Her thoughts were simple. Didn¡¯t Uncle Ming say that it was good to reject them outside the door? Then she would let them in.


    However, she knew that the other party had ill intentions. Wouldn¡¯t she be stupid to show her any respect?


    Did she look like an idiot?


    Meng Linyan was speechless. Shouldn¡¯t the Duchess be polite to her first and ask her why she was here?


    Shen Yijia did not know what she was thinking. Otherwise, she would have retorted, ¡°Aren¡¯t you here because you want to snatch my husband from me?


    What¡¯s there to ask?¡±


    In fact, Meng Linyan only came today to see what kind of woman Song


    Jingchen married. She did not want to do anything else. However, she did not expect Shen Yijia to be a completely unconventional person, making her feel awkward.


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡°I heard that Madam grew up in Chang¡¯an at a very young age.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced at her, indicating for her to continue.


    Meng Linyan choked. ¡°Nanling Pass is not as prosperous as Chang¡¯an, and it¡¯s not peaceful now. It¡¯s really not a place for women like Madam.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    She almost said, ¡°It¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Meng Linyan was so angry that she fell backward. She tried her best to restrain herself from acting up. She thought of something and said proudly, ¡°Speaking of which, I also went to Chang¡¯an with Father when I was young. At that time, I was playful and secretly sneaked out behind Father¡¯s back. In the end, I encountered a kidnapper.¡± She paused, and her expression was filled with nostalgia.¡± Fortunately, I met the Duke, so I was saved. ¡®


    When she said this, she had been paying attention to Shen Yijia¡¯s expression. ¡°At that time, the High Duke was only a ten-year-old child. Not only did he save me from a kidnapper, but when I was escaping, I accidentally twisted my ankle. He even carried me all the way. After escaping danger, he specially arranged for someone to send me back to the inn. I wanted to¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia sighed. ¡°My husband is good in every way, but he¡¯s too kind-hearted. Usually, when he sees injured cats and dogs on the way, he has to personally apply medicine on them. After applying the medicine, he has to personally see them recover before he can be at ease. If he wants to save them, so be it. After all, it¡¯s considered a good deed. However, the cats and dogs he saved are insensible. Not only are they ungrateful, but they also want to cling to my husband. Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s infuriating?¡±


    Meng Linyan was speechless. She had just mentioned that she had been saved by the High Duke, but this woman was already comparing her to dogs and cats. Was she afraid that she wouldn¡¯t be able to tell?


    ¡°However, I¡¯ve said it a few times. He¡¯s changed his mind now. He said that he definitely wouldn¡¯t be kind without my permission in the future, lest he be repaid with ingratitude by some shameless thing.¡±


    There were two meanings to these words. Firstly, it implied that Meng Linyan was shameless. Secondly, it meant that Shen Yijia had the final say in the Song family. Song Jingchen had to listen to her.


    If anyone wanted to have designs on her beautiful husband, they¡¯d have to see if Shen Yijia and her fists agreed.


    The expression on Meng Linyan¡¯s face visibly cracked. She said coldly, ¡°These are just Madam¡¯s thoughts. Since the Duke is willing to lend a helping hand, it means¡­¡±


    ¡°My thoughts are my husband¡¯s thoughts. Otherwise, how can we be called husband and wife?¡± Shen Yijia waved her hand and said sympathetically, ¡°You¡¯re not married yet. You won¡¯t understand even if I tell you.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re already so old. Why aren¡¯t you married yet? Do all the men in Nanling Pass have such high standards?¡± Shen Yijia looked sincere. After thinking about it, she decided not to say that none of the men wanted Meng


    Linyan.


    She was too kind.


    Meng Linyan¡¯s heart was stabbed hard. She said with a cold expression,


    ¡°Madam, you don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked and said seriously, ¡°I¡¯m not worried. Even if you can¡¯t get married and become an old single lady in your life, I¡¯m not worried. Anyway, you¡¯re not my daughter.¡±


    Meng Linyan was so angry that she almost choked.


    Didn¡¯t they say that all the women in Chang¡¯an were well-mannered? Why was there still such a loose-lipped person?


    If she came in standing up left horizontally, outsiders would be even more critical, right?


    Shen Yijia was really worried that this person would faint from anger. She suddenly remembered and asked, ¡°Oh, right, I haven¡¯t asked why you¡¯re here today.¡±


    Meng Linyan gritted her teeth and took out a handkerchief. ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal.


    Back then, the Duke gave me a handkerchief, and I wanted to ask Madam to pass it to the Duke on my behalf.¡±


    To Meng Linyan, this handkerchief was the only witness to Song Jingchen saving her back then. It could be seen how precious it was.


    Even if she really wanted to return it, she would hand it over to Song Jingchen personally. Now that she took it out, one could tell that she was completely angered by Shen Yijia.


    She wanted to tell Shen Yijia that Song Jingchen definitely didn¡¯t save her out of kindness. Otherwise, why would he give her something?


    Shen Yijia glanced at the old handkerchief in her hand and said in disdain, ¡°How can a grown man like my husband carry a handkerchief with him? Besides, with his status, his belongings are all top-notch. But look at the handkerchief in your hand. It¡¯s clearly the kind that is used by servants..¡±

 Chapter 888 - Chapter 888: Large Double Standard Scene (1)

    Chapter 888: Large Double Standard Scene (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In fact, Shen Yijia did not know how to differentiate between fabrics. She only recognized the rough material because she had the experience of putting people in burlap sacks many times.


    Anyway, it didn¡¯t matter. If she said it wasn¡¯t Song Jingchen¡¯s, then it wasn¡¯t. Even if Song Jingchen was standing here, it didn¡¯t matter.


    Meng Linyan tightened her grip on her handkerchief.


    Shen Yijia clicked her tongue. ¡°It¡¯s just a handkerchief. You still have it after so many years. It seems that you must like it very much. Then keep it.¡±


    Meng Lin stood up. ¡°Duchess!¡±


    If this handkerchief really did not belong to that person, wouldn¡¯t she have become a joke after keeping it for so many years?


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia pretended to be frightened and patted her chest in fear. ¡°Are you leaving? Then I won¡¯t send you off.¡±


    She thought that since she had already said so much, Meng Linyan would leave no matter how thick-skinned she was. Unexpectedly, she smiled. ¡°I heard that Madam killed Han Tong with an arrow on the city gate tower. I think you¡¯ve practiced martial arts before. I wonder if Linyan can learn a thing or two.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her strangely. Did she think that she couldn¡¯t win with words, and decided to go the violent route instead?


    Should she be called stupid or very stupid?


    ¡°Do you want to fight me?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    Meng Linyan said confidently, ¡°It¡¯s just a spar. We won¡¯t overdo it.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. ¡°Alright, wait for me here.¡±


    With that, she ran out. Meng Linyan sneered, thinking that she had frightened her.


    This time, Shen Yijia did not make her wait for long. However, when she returned, she had a weapon in her hand.


    Seeing that it was a bow and arrow, Meng Linyan¡¯s expression froze. She had an inexplicable bad feeling.


    Shen Yijia did not waste her breath on her. She handed the bow to her and said with a smile, ¡°My husband said that we can¡¯t bully the weak. How about this? If you can pick up this bow, I¡¯ll fight you.¡±


    If Meng Linyan wanted to fight, fine. She had to pick up her Little Chenchen first. Otherwise, she had no right to make her fight.


    ¡°Hmph, do you really think you can compete with me just because you want to?¡± she thought. ¡°You¡¯re dreaming.¡±


    However, It sne could beat ner to deatn or cripple mm, sne could consider lt.


    Meng Linyan left in anger. She left without saying goodbye.


    This was because she suspected that the bow in Shen Yijia¡¯s hand was fake. She tried it, but she almost broke her hand. She felt embarrassed.


    Auntie Liao, who originally thought that Shen Yijia was too innocent and was afraid that she would be bullied, swallowed silently.


    Madam had clearly spoken softly from the beginning to the end and did not even curse, but every word could anger someone to death. However, she gave a perfect guileless look. She was really amazing.


    ¡°Madam¡­¡± She wanted to praise her, but when she looked up, she realized that the person who was smiling just now had a dark expression.


    ¡°You Yi.¡± Shen Yijia strode out angrily and shouted at the top of her lungs, ¡°You


    Yi, You Yi!¡±


    A black shadow landed in front of her.


    Shen Yijia glanced at his charred hair and the spatula in his hand and held her forehead. ¡°Go and keep an eye on the military camp. If my hubby comes back, come back and tell me immediately.¡±


    You Yi seemed to have been pardoned and disappeared in a flash.


    Unexpectedly, he appeared again the next moment. He stuffed the spatula in Auntie Liao¡¯s hand and disappeared on the spot again.


    Auntie Liao thought to herself, ¡°I called such a powerful person ¡®Little Brother and even asked him to help me cook? I want to faint.¡±


    However, when she returned to the kitchen and saw the mess, she felt even more dizzy.


    Song Jingchen returned to the military camp before noon. After receiving You Yi¡¯s report, Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and called Auntie Liao over to tell her the names of the dishes. She went back to her room and started cooking up some ideas.


    On the other side, after knowing that Song Jingchen had come to the military camp, Meng Linyan, who was so angry that she smashed everything in her tent, finally regained her fighting spirit.


    As long as the Bulwark Duke acknowledged her, that woman was nothing. She was really too angry to take her seriously.


    ¡°The Bulwark Duke must not have eaten yet. Yue Zhu, let¡¯s go to the kitchen.¡± Meng Linyan tidied her dress again and confirmed that there was nothing wrong. She turned around and left the tent.


    Unexpectedly, she met Meng Linlang after taking a few steps.


    Meng Linlang sized her up from head to toe and said with a faint smile, ¡°Sister, I heard that you went to see the Duchess.¡±


    Meng Linyan glanced at Yue Zhu.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to look at her. She follows you around like a shadow every day. How can she have the time to tell me about you?¡± Meng Linlang covered her mouth and laughed. ¡°I really couldn¡¯t tell. You even told me that Brother Xiao doesn¡¯t like me and asked me not to pester him and embarrass the Meng family.. Why isn¡¯t it embarrassing when it comes to Eldest Sister?¡±

 Chapter 889 - Chapter 889: Double Standard (2)

    Chapter 889: Double Standard (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Although the two sisters were from the same mother and were only two years apart, one of them had followed Madam Meng to the back residence since she was young, and the other had practiced martial arts with General Meng. One thought that the other party was pretending to be noble, and the other felt that the other party was insensible. Their rela tionship was not very good.


    Meng Linyan frowned.


    ¡°Sister, don¡¯t be angry. I was just joking.¡± Meng Linlang laughed. ¡°Sister, you¡¯re dressed so beautifully. You probably have something to do. I won¡¯t hold you up.¡±


    With that, she waved her hand and left.


    ¡°Miss,¡± Yue Zhu called out worriedly.


    Meng Linyan tightened her fingers. ¡°I¡¯m different from her.¡±


    Anyone with a discerning eye could tell that Xiao Qirui disliked Linlang, but she was different. The Duke had once risked his life to save her. Song Jingchen and Xiao Qirui went out of the city to investigate together. When they returned, they immediately summoned a few deputy generals and redeployed their troops. At the end of the day, he thought of something and said, ¡°The weather is getting hotter and hotter. Get the military doctors to provide a prescription for resisting the heat and brew it for the soldiers every day.¡±


    Xiao Qirui nodded. ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    If they wanted to defend Nanling Pass, they had to ensure the health of the soldiers.


    Song Jingchen looked at the hourglass at the side. It was almost noon. He knocked on the desk. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s all for today. Everyone has worked hard. Let¡¯s go down for lunch first.¡±


    After everyone left, Thirty Thousand saw him using the sand table to different strategies again. He suggested, ¡°Master, I¡¯ll go to the kitchen and get you some food. ¡±


    Song Jingchen was about to nod when a soldier¡¯s voice sounded outside the tent. ¡°Little General Meng.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to deliver lunch to the Bulwark Duke.¡±


    The next moment, the curtain was lifted and Meng Linyan entered with a food box.


    Seeing the man sitting in front of the sand table, she could not take her eyes off him.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s thoughts had already been pulled out when the conversation outside sounded. He didn¡¯t need to look to feel the gaze on the other side.


    He looked up unhappily.


    Seeing him look over, Meng Linyan¡¯s heart pounded.


    It was him. Even though she had not seen him for ten years, she could still recognize him at a glance. The man in front of her was the young man who had saved her.


    It was the person she had been thinking about for ten years.


    He had a noble status, and she thought that she would never see him again in this life.


    Meng Linyan¡¯s nose felt a little sour. She opened her mouth.


    Song Jingchen looked away in disgust and said coldly, ¡°Get out.¡±


    Meng Linyan¡¯s heart tightened. She knew that she had lost her composure and quickly explained, ¡°I¡¯m in charge of the reserve camp. I found out that the


    Bulwark Duke hadn¡¯t¡­¡¯


    Song Jingchen was impatient to hear her speak. He raised his voice and called out, ¡°Someone.¡±


    Meng Linyan choked.


    The two soldiers guarding the tent walked in in confusion.


    ¡°In the future, no one is allowed to enter my tent without my permission. It¡¯s fine if this is your first offense, but if there¡¯s a next time, go and receive 30 military strikes.¡±


    The two soldiers were shocked because the meals of the other generals were sent to the tent by the kitchen staff. They thought that General Song was the same. Although they were puzzled why Little General Meng would come personally, they did not dare to stop her. Who would have thought that she would almost be punished?


    The two of them quickly agreed.


    ¡°Invite her out,¡± Song Jingchen said again.


    The two soldiers looked at each other and braced themselves to look at the traumatized Meng Linyan. ¡°Little General Meng, please.¡±


    Meng Linyan¡¯s face turned pale from the two of them¡¯s gazes. Afraid that she would embarrass herself further if she continued to pester them, she could only bow and leave.


    ¡°Wait.¡± Song Jingchen suddenly stopped her.


    Meng Linyan was delighted. Did he recognize her?


    However, Song Jingchen¡¯s next words made her want to find a hole to hide in.


    ¡°This is a military camp, not the backyard of a residence. As a general, you should dress appropriately.¡±


    The two soldiers gasped. General Song was too ruthless.


    Meng Linyan, who had been holding on for a long time in front of Shen Yijia, was about to faint. Fortunately, Yue Zhu quickly supported her.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think that he had gone overboard at all. He said indifferently, ¡°You may leave.¡±


    Thirty Thousand looked at the curtain that was lowered again and then at his master. For a moment, he didn¡¯t know if he should go out and get food.


    At this moment, voices sounded outside the door again.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to deliver lunch to my husband.¡±


    The soldier said in a businesslike manner, ¡°General Song has ordered¡­¡±


    Before he finished speaking, the tent curtain was lifted from the inside. General Song, who had been cold and heartless earlier, walked out and asked happily and tenderly, ¡°The weather is so hot.. Why are you here?¡±

 Chapter 890 - Chapter 890: Double Standard (3)

    Chapter 890: Double Standard (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I¡¯m here to deliver lunch to you.¡± Shen Yijia raised the food box in her hand and showed it to him. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°They don¡¯t seem to be planning to let me in just now.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and said, ¡°The madam can enter my tent anytime in the future. There¡¯s no need to inform me.¡±


    The two soldiers complained in their hearts and quickly agreed.


    Before Meng Linyan could walk far, she met Shen Yijia, so she had specially stopped to watch her make a fool of herself. However, upon seeing this scene, she instantly felt as if she had been slapped hard.


    She knew that she would only embarrass herself even more if she continued to stay, but her feet seemed to be frozen by something and she could not move.


    ¡°There¡¯s food in the military camp. Why would you have to go through so much trouble to come all the way here?¡± Although he said that, Song Jingchen¡¯s tone was clearly happy.


    Well, he was a little smug.


    Shen Yijia knew him well. She wanted to laugh, but she held it in. She placed the food box in his hand and spun around in front of him. ¡°Do I look good to you?¡±


    She was wearing a bright red dress. The hem of the dress was embroidered with large patches of red spider lilies, which complemented the flower bud on her forehead.


    Unlike her usual pure and lively self, she was now as beautiful as a devil.


    Song Jingchen was stunned for a moment. He guessed something and said with a smile, ¡°My wife is naturally extremely beautiful.¡±


    Shen Yijia tilted her head and asked, ¡°Then can I dress like this often in the future? Even if I have to enter the military camp?¡±


    That¡¯s right, she had heard the whole conversation from outside just now. However, when she heard the footsteps of someone coming out, she hid again and walked out of the tent beside her, pretending to have just arrived.


    Song Jingchen coughed lightly. ¡°As long as I¡¯m here.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t possibly wear it for others to see when he wasn¡¯t around, right?


    The guard looked sympathetically at a certain someone who was on the verge of collapse.


    Shen Yijia bared her teeth at a certain someone standing not far away and finally entered the tent.


    This time, they had come to Nanling Pass with only simple necessities. She only brought this dress because her mother had worked hard for a few nights to make it and she did not have the time to wear it. Moreover, the hem of the dress was large and was not suitable for movement. How could she wear it like this every day?


    She only asked that to anger Meng Linyan.


    Song Jingchen looked at the person lying on the desk as if she had no bones as soon as she entered the tent and pulled her into his arms worriedly. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    Shen Yijia snorted and turned around to ignore him.


    ¡°Jiajia.¡± Thinking of Shen Yijia¡¯s series of actions outside the tent, Song Jingchen turned her head back. ¡°Is it because of Meng¡­¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Shen Yijia interrupted him.


    Actually, she knew that it was not wrong for Song Jingchen to save her back then. He had also performed very well just now. She shouldn¡¯t have been angry, but when she thought about how her beautiful husband had carried her, she couldn¡¯t help but feel depressed.


    ¡°You¡¯re really not jealous?¡± Song Jingchen asked.


    ¡°No, no.¡± Shen Yijia nestled in his arms for a moment before getting out of his embrace. She picked up the food box he had placed at the side and opened it. When she saw the dishes inside, she was stunned.


    Vinegar potatoes, vinegar cabbage, pickled vegetables¡­


    Song Jingchen stood up and looked over. He chuckled and said, ¡°No, the weather is hot. I didn¡¯t have much of an appetite at first, but after seeing this, I can eat a few bowls of rice. My wife understands me.¡± Shen Yijia muttered in embarrassment, ¡°Then hurry up and eat.¡±


    ¡°Have you eaten?¡± Song Jingchen helped put out the food.


    The tip of her nose was filled with sourness. Shen Yijia had long forgotten about her anger. She swallowed her saliva and said, ¡°If you want me to eat with you, I¡¯ll reluctantly eat some.¡±


    Actually, she had already eaten before she came. She had eaten two full bowls. Song Jingchen almost couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°Thank you, wife.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not prepare her own portion. There was enough food, but there was clearly not enough food for the two of them.


    Song Jingchen said, ¡°Eat first. I¡¯ll get someone to send some food over.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you.¡±


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. The moment he turned around, the smile on ms race disappearea wltnout a trace. He was even angry. He was a completely different person from when he was facing Shen Yijia.


    He first instructed the guards to go to the kitchen and whispered to Thirty


    Thousand.


    Thirty Thousand left in a hurry.


    Song Jingchen narrowed his eyes. At first, he thought that Shen Yijia was jealous because she saw Meng Linyan leave his tent, but when he saw the dishes she had prepared, he knew that he was wrong.


    When Song Jingchen brought in the food, the person who wanted to wait for him to eat with them had already secretly finished half of the food.


    Noticing Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze, Shen Yijia chuckled awkwardly. ¡°I ate my share. The rest is yours.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled dotingly. ¡°I can¡¯t finish the rest. Let¡¯s eat together.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen picked up a large pair of chopsticks for her and placed them in her bowl.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll eat a little more.¡±


    In truth, Song Jingchen really couldn¡¯t eat much. He even suspected that Auntie Liao used vinegar as water. He only took a few bites before his teeth almost ached.


    Seeing that Shen Yijia was eating with relish, he poured her a glass of water. ¡°Is it really not sour?¡±


    Shen Yijia said matter-of-factly, ¡°It¡¯s delicious because it¡¯s sour.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    After eating and drinking her fill, Shen Yijia started to feel sleepy again. Song Jingchen carried her to the bed behind the screen to rest.


    ¡°Master.¡± Thirty Thousand deliberately lowered his voice.


    Song Jingchen lowered his head and kissed Shen Yijia¡¯s forehead. He turned around and left the tent.


    ¡°Little General Meng did go to the general¡¯s residence this morning and said something related to Master,¡± Thirty Thousand said softly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold.. ¡°What did she say?¡±

 Chapter 891 - Chapter 891: The Kitchen (1)

    Chapter 891: The Kitchen (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia slept until the afternoon. When she opened her eyes, Song Jingchen was no longer in the tent. She asked the soldiers guarding outside the tent and found out that he had just left.


    ¡°Do you want me to help you find the general?¡± the soldier asked.


    In the military camp, everyone was still used to calling Song Jingchen a general.


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment and shook her head. ¡°No need. By the way, where¡¯s the kitchen?¡±


    ¡°Madam, are you hungry? I can¡­¡¯


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. ¡°No, I¡¯m going to find someone.¡±


    She had not seen Sister Huan since she returned to the general¡¯s residence from the city tower yesterday. Since she was in the military camp, she naturally had to visit her.


    The soldier suggested, ¡°The kitchen is a little far from here. Why don¡¯t we bring you there?¡±


    This time, Shen Yijia did not refuse. After all, this was the military camp, so it was not appropriate for her to run around.


    There were many soldiers in the military camp. When they arrived, the people in the kitchen had already begun to prepare dinner for everyone.


    The soldier leading the way said respectfully, ¡®Madam, it¡¯s chaotic inside. Don¡¯t go in. Who are you looking for? I¡¯ll help you call them out.¡±


    ¡°The name is Song Huan.¡± Afraid that he wouldn¡¯t recognize her, Shen Yijia was about to explain that she had been transferred to the kitchen yesterday.


    The soldier smiled and said, ¡°Daredevil Song, I know him. Madam, please wait here for a moment.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Daredevil Song? Is that girl so famous in the military camp? She even has her own nickname.¡±


    She thought that she would be able to see Sister Huan soon, but when the soldier returned, he was still alone.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he here?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    The soldier said strangely, ¡°They said that she was sent to the stables.¡± The two of them went to the stables.


    When she saw the person who only revealed her eyes and where she was shoveling horse dung, Shen Yijia finally understood why he had a constipated expression when mentioning the soldier in the stables.


    The smell was really indescribable!


    Shen Yijia felt her stomach churn and she could not help but retch.


    Song Jinghuan was stuffing horse dung into a feces bucket. When she heard the commotion, she turned around and saw that it was Shen Yijia. She was first delighted, then ran over worriedly. ¡°Sister-in-law, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Shen Yijia retched for a long time before finally suppressing her discomfort. She waved her hand and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. Aren¡¯t you in the kitchen? Why are you here?¡±


    Originally, she was just angry. However, when Shen Yijia asked her this, Song Jinghuan felt aggrieved and wanted to complain. She thought of something and shook his head. ¡°It¡¯s a normal transfer.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at her suspiciously. Before she could ask further, another soldier popped out of the stables. ¡°What normal transfer? It¡¯s clearly Little


    General Meng deliberately targeting you.¡±


    Shen Yijia silently took two steps back from the two of them.


    After saying that, the soldier pulled off his handkerchief and wanted to take a few breaths of fresh air. However, there was another stench at the tip of his nose, making him roll his eyes.


    Seeing the soldier¡¯s face, Shen Yijia said uncertainly, ¡°Are you Liu Jinbao?¡± Liu Jinbao scratched his head in embarrassment. ¡°Sister-in-law, you still remember me.¡±


    If she remembered, how could she not remember? She would never forget someone who was good-looking.


    Of course, she wouldn¡¯t say that.


    ¡°You and our Huan¡­¡± From the corner of her eye, she saw that the soldier leading the way was still standing there. Shen Yijia changed her words and said, ¡°You¡¯re classmates with our Huanhuan. Of course I remember. But what did you mean by that just now?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    Song Jinghuan wanted to stop Liu Jinbao from continuing, but Shen Yijia glanced at her and she immediately shut her mouth obediently.


    Meng Linyan¡¯s targeting was so obvious that anyone who wasn¡¯t stupid could tell. However, they didn¡¯t know the real reason and only thought that she was venting Meng Linlang¡¯s anger.


    Liu Jinbao guessed the same, so he told her about Meng Linlang pestering Xiao Qirui. Song Jinghuan couldn¡¯t stand it anymore and quarreled with her, causing her to become enemies with the Meng sisters.


    Shen Yijia narrowed her eyes and said coldly, ¡°We¡¯re indeed a family. We¡¯re all the same.¡±


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know that Meng Linyan was pestering her brother, but she still nodded in agreement.


    Shen Yijia glanced at her. ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask your brother to¡­¡±


    ¡°No need, no need.¡± Song Jinghuan quickly refused. ¡°Someone has to shovel this horse dung. I can do what others can do.¡±


    Previously, she had almost gotten into trouble. Her brother had placed her in the kitchen because he wanted her to settle down.


    In her position, she understood the principle of doing one¡¯s job.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Seeing that she did not seem to be lying, Shen Yijia did not force her.


    She promised, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let you be bullied for nothing.¡±


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s eyes lit up.. She leaned over excitedly and asked, ¡°Sister-in-law, what are you going to do?¡±

 Chapter 892 - Chapter 892: The Kitchen (2)

    Chapter 892: The Kitchen (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that.¡± Shen Yijia retreated again and distanced herself from the two of them. She sniffed and resisted the urge to vomit. ¡°Go ahead. I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    Then, she looked at Liu Jinbao. ¡°Jinbao, I have high hopes for you.¡±


    With that, she turned around and left without waiting for the two of them to react. No matter how one looked at it, her pace was faster than usual.


    Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao looked at each other. Sister-in-law didn¡¯t like the smell on them just now, right?


    Thinking of what had happened just now, Song Jinghuan narrowed her eyes dangerously. ¡°Alright, Liu Jinbao, you actually learned to complain for me.¡± ¡°You¡­¡± Liu Jinbao¡¯s hair stood on end. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡± Song Jinghuan clenched her fists. ¡°What do you think?¡±


    ¡°Tell me. I have nothing to say.¡± Liu Jinbao turned around and ran.


    ¡°How dare you run!¡± Song Jinghuan snorted and chased after him.


    Shen Yijia did not like to hold grudges because she would take revenge on the spot. Moreover, she had always wanted to deal with Meng Linyan.


    As soon as they left the range of the stables, she called You Yi out and instructed softly, ¡°Go and find out where Meng Linyan is.¡±


    She returned to Song Jingchen¡¯s tent with the soldiers who were shocked by Song Jinghuan calling her sister-in-law.


    You Yi was as efficient as ever. As soon as Shen Yijia entered the tent, he returned.


    Hearing his report, Shen Yijia smiled. ¡°Coincidentally, I was still worried that it wouldn¡¯t be easy to attack in the military camp.¡±


    In another tent, Meng Wu cupped his hands gratefully at the man sitting opposite him and said, ¡°So it was the Duke who saved my daughter back then. If not for the Duke, I don¡¯t know where my daughter would have been sent by that bold villain. I¡¯ll never forget your kindness.¡±


    ¡°General Meng, you¡¯re welcome. Sit down.¡± Song Jingchen picked up the tea on the table and took a sip. ¡°Actually, I was young back then. It¡¯s been so long. If Eldest Miss Meng hadn¡¯t personally visited to thank me, I would have forgotten about this matter, let alone know that the person I saved back then was General Meng¡¯s beloved daughter.¡±


    Meng Linyan did not tell Meng Wu about her visit to the general¡¯s residence, so she naturally did not know what happened next.


    He couldn¡¯t figure out what Song Jingchen meant by this for a moment, so he could only follow his words. ¡°The Duke and Linyan have met again. I naturally can¡¯t forget this huge favor.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°General Meng taught his daughter well.¡±


    Meng Wu was stunned when he heard him praise his daughter. Could it be that the Bulwark Duke had taken a fancy to Linyan?


    As soon as this thought appeared, Meng Wu was so excited that his face turned red. If his daughter could get married into the Duke¡¯s residence, they would be family in the future. Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t come to condemn him for a dead person.


    Why hadn¡¯t he thought of this before?


    Song Jingchen smiled and said, ¡°I¡¯m not a narrow-minded person, but Miss Meng has remembered this matter for so long. I think she knows how to repay kindness. As the saying goes, it¡¯s difficult to repay a favor, so this favor is naturally the same. I really don¡¯t want a girl to feel uneasy because she can¡¯t repay a favor.¡±


    Meng Wu thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s time. Is he going to ask my daughter to marry him next?¡±


    There was no need to think about it. He was willing!


    Just as he was feeling happy, he heard Song Jingchen take a sip of tea and continue, ¡°It was nothing for me back then. It¡¯s really not a huge favor, but if Miss Meng insists on repaying my kindness, it¡¯s not impossible. General Meng, why don¡¯t you give me a hundred taels of silver and we¡¯ll call it even? Miss Meng won¡¯t have to keep thinking about this either.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m willing¡­¡± Realizing what Song Jingchen had said, Meng Wu stopped abruptly and asked in disbelief, ¡°What?¡±


    He suspected that he had heard wrongly.


    The duke should be saying, ¡°Why don¡¯t you betroth your daughter to me?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned. ¡°General Meng, do you think 100 taels of silver is too much? Although it¡¯s just a formality, won¡¯t you look down on Miss Meng if it¡¯s too little?¡±


    He was just short of saying, ¡°Do you think your daughter¡¯s life isn¡¯t even worth a hundred taels?¡±


    Meng Wu¡¯s bearded face turned red again, but this time, he was embarrassed.


    Wasn¡¯t 100 taels a humiliation to his daughter?


    ¡°What do you think, General Meng?¡± Song Jingchen looked sincere.


    Meng Wu forced a stiff smile. ¡°The Bulwark Duke also wants my daughter to be at ease and not be hindered by your kindness. Not to mention a hundred taels, I should be giving you a thousand taels.¡±


    That girl would probably be happy if he brought back a thousand taels. Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said impolitely, ¡°Then we¡¯ll do as General Meng says..¡±

 Chapter 893 - Chapter 893: The Kitchen (3)

    Chapter 893: The Kitchen (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Meng Wu was speechless.


    Song Jingchen added, ¡°I¡¯ll accept this money. Don¡¯t mention anything about me saving her life again.¡±


    Meng Wu was speechless. ¡°Could you be any more shameless?¡± he thought.


    No matter how angry he was, he did not dare to show it. He said gratefully, ¡°The Bulwark Duke is so thoughtful. I¡¯ll get someone to send the silver to the general¡¯s residence later.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and stopped talking.


    That girl should be awake already. He could tell her the good news. Song Jingchen returned to his tent in a good mood. Shen Yijia was nowhere to be seen.


    ¡°General, Madam asked me to pass this to you for her.¡± The soldier handed him a note at the right time.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. With You Yi around, he didn¡¯t have to worry about that girl¡¯s safety. He thought for a moment and instructed, ¡°Help me find ten soldiers who know how to set up lanterns.¡±


    On the other side, after Meng Wu sent Song Jingchen away, he instructed someone to call Meng Linyan over with a dark expression. However, he was told that Meng Linyan had gone to Qingyang City.


    That¡¯s right. Because of what happened outside Song Jingchen¡¯s tent, Meng Linyan was too ashamed to continue staying in the military camp, so she found an excuse and left.


    However, she did not expect that this would make it easier for Shen Yijia to attack her.


    On an official road outside Nanling Pass, a carriage was moving unsteadily.


    In the carriage, Yue Zhu was carefully comforting Meng Linyan.


    ¡°Miss, don¡¯t be sad. The Duke definitely didn¡¯t recognize you, that¡¯s why¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, the carriage suddenly stopped. The master and servant were almost thrown out due to inertia.


    ¡°Miss, are you alright?¡± Yue Zhu quickly helped Meng Linyan up. She turned around and scolded, ¡°How did you drive the carriage?¡±


    No one paid attention to her.


    No matter what, they were martial arts practitioners. The master and servant immediately sensed that something was wrong. They looked at each other, drew their swords, and rushed out of the carriage.


    However, before they could see the enemy, two sacks descended from the sky and covered the two of them.


    After seizing the sword, the attackers threw two punches and then two kicks.


    You Yi almost perfectly copied Shen Yijia¡¯s actions because before he attacked,


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Do whatever you see me do.¡±


    ¡°Ah! How dare you? Where did you come from? Do you know who I am? I¡¯m¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia gave him a thumbs up and knocked out Meng Linyan, who was shouting.


    You did the same thing and knocked Yue Zhu unconscious. Then, he looked at


    Shen Yijia eagerly.


    What should he do next?


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Didn¡¯t we see a village when we came? There should be a latrine pit there, right?¡±


    If she dared to make her Huanhuan stink, she would let her have a taste of it. This was called giving someone a taste of their own medicine.


    This was the path to Qingyang City. Although it was behind Nanling Pass, in order to prevent the city from being destroyed if the enemy broke through, the citizens of the nearby villages were also sent to Qingyang City.


    Therefore, there was no need to worry that the villagers would be implicated.


    You Yi was silent. He really didn¡¯t know if he should say that Miss was kind or cruel. After all, she didn¡¯t kill anyone, right?


    Shen Yijia carried Meng Linyan on her shoulder. Seeing that he was still in a daze, she urged, ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there. We have to go back early.¡±


    Although that was the case, it was already dawn when the two of them returned to the general¡¯s residence.


    From afar, she saw Uncle Ming standing at the door and looking around. When he saw her return, he seemed to say something to another servant in the house. Then, he smiled and welcomed her. ¡°Madam, you¡¯re back.¡±


    Shen Yijia glanced into the residence but did not see anyone. She nodded and asked, ¡°Uncle Ming, is my husband back?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s back. The Bulwark Duke came back early.¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up. She thanked him and jogged into the residence.


    ¡°The Bulwark Duke has returned to the courtyard.¡±


    Uncle Ming¡¯s reminder sounded behind her. Shen Yijia, who originally wanted to go to the study, did not stop in her tracks. She turned around and went to the courtyard where she lived.


    Stepping into the courtyard, Shen Yijia stopped in her tracks.


    When they moved in, they chose a small courtyard to clean up.


    The decorations in the courtyard were extremely simple. There was only one osmanthus tree planted, but it was bare because no one had taken care of it for a long time.


    However, at this moment, the originally bare osmanthus tree was filled with all kinds of lanterns.


    Shen Yijia walked over and leaned closer to see that there was a painting on every lantern.


    She reached down and took off the first lantern in front of her. On it was a drawing of a swaddled baby. The baby¡¯s small face was wrinkled. It must have been newly born.


    ¡°You¡¯re as ugly as a monkey,¡± Shen Yijia muttered. She hung the lantern back and went to get a second lantern.


    It depicted a child walking with his hand on the wall. It was slightly longer than the first painting.


    ¡°This looks much better.¡±


    She went to get a third lantern..

 Chapter 894 - Chapter 894: Sweet Worldly Beauty

    Chapter 894: Sweet Worldly Beauty


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The third lantern also had a child on it. The child wore a tiger hat and held a small wooden sword in his hand. He pursed his lips and looked ahead with a


    serious expression, making Shen Yijia howl in her heart.


    ¡°This is too cute. I want to kiss, hug, and raise it high.¡± she thought.


    After drooling at the lantern for a long time, Shen Yijia reluctantly hung it back and went to get the fourth one.


    Unlike the previous three lanterns, which only had one child drawn, on the fourth lantern, the child looked about the same size as the third lantern, but there was a pink swaddling cloth in his arms.


    From the color of the swaddling clothes, it should be a baby girl.


    The child carried another smaller baby awkwvardly with his short hands. He looked extremely comical. Shen Yijia was so amused that she grinned.


    However, when she noticed the flower bud between the baby¡¯s eyebrows, her laughter paused. Her heart was filled with an inexplicable emotion.


    On the fifth one, the boy held the girl¡¯s hand and taught her to walk.


    On the sixth one, the boy gave his little wooden sword to the girl.


    The seventh one¡­


    The eighth one¡­


    The ninth one¡­


    The further he looked, the more familiar the boy and girl¡¯s faces became. If she could tell from the flower bud between the girl¡¯s eyebrows that it was her, the boy was clearly her beautiful husband.


    There were a total of 19 lanterns. The last one showed the two of them standing facing each other in wedding clothes.


    Her beautiful husband was drawing the ten years that the two of them had never met!


    Shen Yijia touched the lanterns in front of her. A tear quietly fell on the back of her hand.


    Afraid that tears would fall on the lantern and ruin the painting, she quickly wiped it with her sleeve, but a hand quickly grabbed hers.


    Shen Yijia turned around and saw Song Jingchen¡¯s face through her tears. She glanced at him and pounced on him. ¡°Hubby¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen was shocked. His heart ached as he hugged her and asked, ¡°Why are you crying? Don¡¯t you like this gift?¡±


    Shen Yijia leaned her head against his chest and shook her head repeatedly. ¡°I like it¡­ I like it too much..


    How could she not like such a beautiful life?


    However, Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t in her childhood at all. There was only a courtyard and a group of white coats surrounding her, letting her bleed and cutting off her flesh.


    No one taught her how to walk, read, or practice martial arts. She was actually very stupid when she was young. She only learned to stand up when she was three years old.


    She didn¡¯t say anything, but Song Jingchen remembered what she had once said about being imprisoned. His heart ached, and his grip gradually tightened.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that I didn¡¯t meet you sooner.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry to have missed you for fifteen years.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to go through so much.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be here from now on.¡±


    There were no flowery words in that promise. There were only six short words.


    After the discomfort in her heart passed, Shen Yijia snuggled in his arms and rubbed her tears and snot against his clothes. She looked uD and said in embarrassment, ¡°Didn¡¯t you already draw it? You¡¯ve always been here.¡±


    Song Jingchen saw her small actions and found them funny and heartbreaking.


    He lowered his head and kissed the corner of her lips. He said in a low voice,


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    He only pressed down a little, but as soon as he raised his head, a hand grabbed his lapel.


    ¡°I want more.¡± Shen Yijia pulled him down and tiptoed to kiss him. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened, and he took the initiative to deepen the kiss.


    The moonlight was strong, and his breathing was getting heavier. It was so quiet that only their heartbeats could be heard.


    This kiss lasted for a long time. Sensing that the person in his arms was breathing less heavily, Song Jingchen reluctantly let go of her and pressed his forehead against hers.


    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you learned to breathe?¡± he teased in a hoarse voice.


    Shen Yijia pouted indignantly. ¡°I¡¯ll learn if you do it again.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled and kissed her lips. ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go back to the house and try.¡±


    With that, he bent down and picked her up. He walked straight to the room behind him.


    Under the moonlight, more than ten lanterns fluttered in the wind. The people in the painting seemed to have come alive, making up for their irreparable regrets..

 Chapter 895 - Chapter 895: Tricked (1)

    Chapter 895: Tricked (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Lin¡¯an City was an important checkpoint for the Wu Kingdom to prevent the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army from converging with the Great Xia¡¯s army. In order to prevent anyone from spreading the news outside or spies from sneaking into the city, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army took turns patrolling the city 24 hours a day, guarding the entire Lin¡¯an City tightly.


    In the middle of the night, the sound of the patrol team¡¯s footsteps and armor could be heard from time to time on the streets. The sound was uniform, making one inexplicably panic.


    When the sound above gradually faded away, a light cracking sound suddenly sounded from an abandoned courtyard beside them.


    The stone was pushed away, and a young man crawled out of the hole first. Right on his heels was another young man. After the young man stood still and looked around to make sure that there was no danger, he squatted down and pulled a middle-aged man with white hair up from below. Behind the white-haired man was a masked man in black.


    These four people were none other than Chu Sheng, Chu Feng, Xuanyuan Ce, and You San.


    ¡°Your Highness, are you alright?¡± Chu Sheng lowered his voice and asked. Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him coldly. ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to mention what happened tonight to anyone. Otherwise¡­¡±


    Chu Sheng nodded repeatedly. ¡°I understand. His Highness has never climbed into a latrine pit.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s forehead throbbed. It was clearly an abandoned latrine pit!


    He looked at the pit in front of him with a complicated expression. He really could not figure out what was going on in the mind of the person who dug up this secret passage that could enter and leave Lin¡¯an City.


    ¡°If you want to dig, so be it. Why did you make a latrine pit above?¡± he thought.


    As for Chu Sheng, he probably wouldn¡¯t have discovered this secret passage without any special experience.


    Chu Sheng did not know what he was thinking. Otherwise, he would have flattered him. ¡°Your Highness, you¡¯re too amazing.¡±


    He could discover this secret passage because he had passed by this place after drinking too much and wanted to find a place to squat, but he accidentally fell down.


    ¡°Your Highness, what should we do next?¡± Chu Sheng scratched his head and asked.


    ¡°Find a place to change first.¡±


    As Xuanyuan Ce spoke, he walked to the corner of the courtyard. After listening carefully for a moment, he jumped over the wall.


    You San followed closely behind. Seeing that Chu Feng was about to leave, Chu Sheng quickly pulled him back and begged, ¡°Brother, on account that we¡¯re both surnamed Chu, bring me along.¡±


    Chu Feng frowned. He grabbed his clothes and jumped onto the wall. With another leap, he landed on the ground.


    Their luck was not bad. Not long after, they encountered three Wu Kingdom soldiers who had left the team and ran to the alley to relieve themselves.


    Without Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s instructions, the three of them were easily dealt with by You San in the blink of an eye.


    Chu Sheng was dumbfounded. This was too amazing.


    ¡°What are you waiting for?¡± Chu Feng reminded her softly.


    ¡°Oh.¡± Chu Sheng swallowed and glanced at the fallen soldier. He quickly took the clothes that You San had plucked from the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers with trembling hands.


    After the three of them put on their armor, You San also dealt with the corpses.


    ¡°Brother, what about me?¡± Chu Sheng asked boldly.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at him. ¡°He doesn¡¯t need it.¡±


    Chu Sheng wanted to ask why, but You San had already disappeared into the night.


    Chu Sheng was speechless.


    The three of them chased after the patrol team in front of them in the armor of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers. It was too dark around them, so the people in front did not think too much about it since they were wearing the armor of Wu Kingdom soldiers.


    They originally wanted to find an opportunity to inquire about the place where the city guards were imprisoned, but before they could take the initiative to find someone to ask, it was time for the handover.


    Looking at the soldiers coming and going around, Chu Feng was speechless. What kind of heaven-defying luck was this?


    They had previously analyzed that there were more than 100,000 city guards in Lin¡¯an City. Apart from the military camp, there was no other place that could lock up so many people.


    They were lucky to get in so easily.


    However, just as he thought this, someone suddenly ran past him.


    ¡°He¡¯s Lord Jing¡¯an of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡± Chu Sheng ran to the front of the team and pointed at Xuanyuan Ce. He shouted, ¡°And the two of them are spies.¡±


    As soon as he said this, the surrounding Wu Kingdom soldiers instantly surrounded the two people at the back of the group.


    The change happened too quickly. Before Xuanyuan Ce and Chu Feng could react, everyone¡¯s necks were covered in swords.


    ¡°Haha!¡± A hearty laugh sounded. The soldiers who had surrounded the two of them made way for someone.


    A middle-aged man in a general¡¯s armor walked out and patted Chu Sheng¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Well done.¡±


    Chu Sheng smiled ingratiatingly. ¡°I¡¯ve already brought him here according to the general¡¯s instructions.. As for my family..

 Chapter 896 - Chapter 896: Tricked (2)

    Chapter 896: Tricked (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll get someone to release them later. As long as you stay in this city obediently, I guarantee that no one will touch them,¡± the middle-aged man said with a smile.


    ¡°Thank you, General Shang. If you need me again, I¡¯ll definitely go through fire and water.¡±


    Hearing their conversation, Chu Feng¡¯s eyes turned red with anger. ¡°Chu


    Sheng, you animal. You actually colluded with the enemy to commit treason.¡±


    Chu Sheng lowered his head in shame. ¡°I have no choice. I can¡¯t ignore my parents and siblings.¡±


    General Shang smiled in satisfaction before looking at Xuanyuan Ce, who had been silent. He cupped his hands and said with a fake smile, ¡°Lord Jing¡¯an, I¡¯ve heard a lot about you.¡±


    ¡°Heh, I¡¯m just an idle lord. How can I be as famous as Second Master?¡±


    This ¡°Second Master¡± was not General Shang¡¯s ranking in the family, but in the


    Wu Kingdom. No matter what he did, he was slightly inferior to Yan


    Guangmao. As time passed, the title ¡°Second Master¡± spread.


    Xuanyuan Ce had stepped on General Shang¡¯s sore spot. His face darkened and he instructed coldly, ¡°Take him away.¡±


    Something had happened at Nanling Pass. Little General Meng was targeted in a sneak attack, and someone threw her into the latrine pit.


    Originally, only Meng Linyan and Yue Zhu knew about this. However, the master and servant were unlucky. The next day, as soon as they woke up and walked back to the official road, they encountered a group of soldiers transporting food to Qingyang City.


    The news spread like wildfire. In less than a day, everyone in Nanling Pass knew.


    Meng Linyan couldn¡¯t say that she had lost her footing and fallen, so she could only tell people about the sneak attack.


    Meng Wu was naturally furious at such an embarrassing matter. He immediately got someone to investigate.


    However, Meng Linyan did not see the culprit at all. Only her own carriage left the city that day. Even if she suspected Shen Yijia, she had no evidence.


    After investigating, they could only leave it at that.


    However, this wasn¡¯t the worst thing for Meng Linyan. When she found out that not only did Song Jingchen know that he had saved her, but he also asked her father for a reward of 100 taels of silver to offset the fact that he had saved her life back then, she was so angry that she spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted.


    In addition, ever since he changed beds with his companion and his companion said that his neck hurt the next day, Liu Jinbao confirmed his guess and began to talk about how comfortable it was to sleep in his bed during the day. Before he fell asleep, he would secretly change beds with someone.


    Sometimes, someone would see him lying down on his bed, but they would see another person lying on his bed the next day.


    The person he changed beds with was not limited to his companions in his tent, making it impossible to figure out the pattern.


    Four days passed peacefully. Liu Jinbao was feeling smug when something unlucky happened.


    Among the many soldiers who wanted to experience his luxurious bed, he chose Liu Yang¡¯s lackey.


    At night, Liu Jinbao had just fallen asleep when he sensed something. He opened his eyes abruptly. The next moment, a hand reached over and covered his mouth and nose.


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s pupils constricted when he saw the black shadow standing by his bed through the moonlight. Without thinking, he pulled the sleeve arrow on his wrist.


    The other party seemed to have expected this move and dodged it easily. This happened a few times in a row, and his mouth and nose were tightly covered by the other party. The lack of oxygen made it difficult for him to raise his hand.


    ¡°Behave yourself, or I¡¯ll send you to the King of Hell now.¡± A cold threat came from the black shadow.


    Although he had deliberately disguised himself, Liu Jinbao could still tell that it was Liu Yang.


    Seeing that he took out a silver needle and was about to stab it into his neck, Liu Jinbao quickly twisted his neck and struggled.


    Liu Yang sneered. ¡°I¡¯m sending you to enjoy life. Don¡¯t be ungrateful.¡±


    Before he could finish, the person who was struggling suddenly rolled his eyes and stopped moving.


    Liu Yang stopped what he was doing and had an ominous feeling.


    Liu Jinbao was someone the young general wanted. Even if he died, he couldn¡¯t die now.


    Thinking of this, he quickly let go of Liu Jinbao¡¯s mouth and nose and reached out two fingers to check his breathing.


    Unexpectedly, just as his hand approached, the person he thought he had accidentally killed suddenly grabbed his finger.


    Liu Yang was shocked. ¡°You¡­¡±


    As soon as he said the word, his vision darkened and he fainted.


    Liu Jinbao quickly stood up to avoid the person who fell on him. He held his breath and reached out to push him. Seeing that he didn¡¯t react, he said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    He stuffed the paper bag into her pocket proudly and couldn¡¯t help but mutter,


    ¡°The medicine that girl gave me is really useful.¡±


    Although he had confirmed it previously, he had no evidence after all. Now that he had the evidence¡­


    Another sound rang out.


    Liu Jinbao was speechless.


    Damn, the medicine that girl gave him was so useful?


    The snores in the tent were like thunder, easily covering up the commotion on Liu Jinbao¡¯s side.


    When the other man in black guarding the tent saw that Liu Yang did not come back, he went to check, and he saw two people lying together on a bed.


    His accomplices were speechless.


    In the tent, the dim yellow candlelight danced. Liu Jinbao opened his eyes with difficulty and recognized at a glance that this was not the tent he lived in. His heart skipped a beat and he struggled to remember. The drug had not worn off yet, so he struggled to prop himself up and fell back down.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake?¡±


    A man¡¯s voice sounded from the side.


    Liu Jinbao turned around with difficulty and his pupils constricted. ¡°Young


    General Meng, you¡­¡±


    Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s clothes were wide open as he looked at the young man on the bed greedily.


    The young man¡¯s skin was fair, his long eyelashes were curled, and his eyebrows were handsome. Because he was still young, his facial features had yet to fully develop. He still looked androgynous, but it was precisely because of this that he looked even more lovable.


    Meng Shaoyuan had played with countless youths, but he had never seen such a beautiful man.


    That was not right. Song Huan was not inferior to the person in front of him at all.


    However, it did not matter. One by one, they would not be able to escape his grasp.


    Liu Jinbao felt nauseous under his gaze. Seeing him reach out, he gritted his teeth and rolled to the side of the bed. ¡°What are you trying to do?¡±


    Actually, when he realized that he was lying on the bed, he immediately thought of Song Jinghuan¡¯s words. At the same time, he already had a guess.


    He did not expect someone who usually looked righteous to be so dirty in private.


    Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s hand paused in midair. He looked at the young man in front of him who was curled up like a frightened cat and smiled.


    ¡°You¡¯re so afraid now. You¡¯ll only beg me to dote on you later.¡± A porcelain bottle appeared in his hand. ¡°Eat this. Believe me, you¡¯ll like it.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t come over.¡± Liu Jinbao felt nauseous. He used his last bit of strength to roar, ¡°This is the military camp. If you come any closer, I¡¯ll call for help.¡±


    ¡°Scream, then.¡± Meng Shaoyuan reached out and pulled him back. He pinched his chin and rubbed it gently. He smiled. ¡°The more you shout at me, the more excited I get.¡±


    As he spoke, he forced Liu Jinbao to open his mouth. He bit off the stopper of the porcelain bottle and poured it into his mouth..

 Chapter 897 - Chapter 897: Fierce Battle

    Chapter 897: Fierce Battle


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Not to mention that Liu Jinbao was drugged, he was no match for Meng Shaoyuan even under normal circumstances.


    Seeing that the mouth of the bottle was getting closer and closer to him, he struggled with all his might, but it was useless.


    At this moment, chaotic footsteps sounded outside the tent. Liu Jinbao¡¯s eyes were filled with hope. Unexpectedly, Meng Shaoyuan pretended not to hear him and poured the medicine into his mouth without even stopping.


    ¡°Young General, General Song is urgently calling for you.¡± An anxious voice sounded from outside.


    Meng Shaoyuan frowned unhappily at being interrupted.


    Liu Jinbao took the opportunity to break free and spit out the medicine that had just entered his mouth. Meng Shaoyuan did not stop him. He raised his chin and said, ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. I¡¯ll come back and dote on you later.¡±


    With that, without waiting for Liu Jinbao to react, he knocked him out and instructed his subordinates to guard him well. Then, he walked unhurriedly towards Song Jingchen¡¯s tent.


    Song Jingchen usually lived in the general¡¯s residence. The reason why he came to the military camp in the middle of the night was because he had received news from the scouts.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was reorganizing overnight. If nothing unexpected happened, they would soon launch a second wave of attacks.


    ¡°Last time, they lost because they underestimated us. This time, they will definitely be prepared. If we still defend like before, the city gate will definitely break.¡± Song Jingchen looked at the eight people and said, ¡°And if I¡¯m not wrong, Yan Guangmao will personally lead the troops this time.¡±


    With Han Tong¡¯s death, the morale of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was low. If they wanted to revive the morale of the army, only Yan Guangmao could do it. This tug-of-war had been long enough for them. In order to prevent any other accidents, he would definitely choose to attack forcefully.


    ¡°But they have black gunpowder. Apart from defending the city, what else can we do?¡± a general said dejectedly.


    Song Jingchen glanced at him and said in a low voice, ¡°Add another city gate.¡±


    When the sun rose in the sky, the dark army of the Wu Kingdom approached


    Nanling Pass like a tide.


    Before they arrived, the sounds of the army could be heard.


    Behind the city gate, Xiao Qirui and another general were already waiting with 100,000 soldiers.


    ¡°General Xiao, are we really going to open the city gate?¡± A soldier looked nervously at the man sitting on the horse.


    Xiao Qirui pursed his lips and looked up at the city tower.


    On the city tower, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia stood side by side. Sensing his gaze, Song Jingchen looked back at Xiao Qirui and their eyes met. Xiao Qirui nodded and ordered loudly, ¡°Open the city gate!¡±


    With his order, the soldiers guarding both sides of the city gate no longer hesitated.


    Ever since the Wu Kingdom attacked, this was the first time they had opened this city gate.


    It also meant that there would be a fierce battle next.


    With a loud bang, the city gate completely opened. Xiao Qirui took the lead and rode out, followed by the other soldiers.


    After all 100,000 people left the city, the general in charge of the city gate said with red eyes, ¡°Close the city gate!¡±


    The soldiers beside him also had red eyes. When the general gave the order again, they pulled on the iron chain. With the sound of a winch turning, the city gate slowly closed.


    The 100,000 people outside the city gradually disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight.


    This city gate had just been hit hard a few days ago. Although it had been repaired, it could not withstand a second wave of attacks. The 100,000 people who left the city were the city gate that General Song mentioned.


    The city gate behind them rose higher and higher, but no one turned around. By the time the Wu Kingdom army arrived at the battlefield, the 100,000 people led by Xiao Qirui had already lined up in a formation.


    As if not expecting them to leave the city to fight, when the two sides were 100 feet apart, Yan Guangmao, who was at the front of the team, raised his hand and the army behind him immediately stopped.


    ¡°Why? You¡¯re finally not a coward anymore?¡± Song Zhong looked at Xiao Qirui mockingly.


    Xiao Qirui was not a talkative person to begin with, so he was unwilling to argue with the other party. He said coldly, ¡°Do you dare to fight me one-on-one?¡±


    On the battlefield, if one side¡¯s general suggested a one-on-one battle, the other side would have to fight, be it for their own reputation or to stabilize the morale of the army.


    Song Zhong choked and subconsciously looked at Yan Guangmao. After receiving his nod of agreement, he sneered. ¡°That¡¯s a good idea. I can kill you as a sacrifice first.


    Xiao Qirui said indifferently, ¡°I have the same intention.¡±


    Yan Guangmao had so many generals under him. Since Song Zhong could be ranked, he was naturally not an ordinary person. After being provoked by a nameless person, killing intent appeared in his eyes. He raised his spear and rode towards Xiao Qirui.


    Xiao Qirui also rode his horse forward.


    ¡°Hubby, can Xiao Qirui defeat him?¡± Shen Yijia stood on the city tower and asked nervously as she watched the two people fighting below.


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate him.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t look worried.


    This step was originally within his and Xiao Qirui¡¯s plans. Although the previous victory had raised their morale for a while, they were still lacking something to fight the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army head-on against the pressure of black gunpowder.


    Xiao Qirui made a move this time to make up for this.


    All the soldiers in the army, including the 100,000 people outside the city, thought that he had asked them to go out to consume the strength of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. In the end, they still had to rely on the soldiers guarding the city to actually defeat the weakened invaders. Little did they know that the 100,000 people outside the city were his heavy bets.


    It could be said that if these 100,000 people were completely wiped out, the Nanling Pass would definitely be broken.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. Alright, she admitted that she was a little prejudiced against him because of Sister Yuwan.


    As the two of them spoke, Xiao Qirui and Song Zhong had already exchanged dozens of moves.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s weapon was a longsword. He might be at a disadvantage against a spear, but he was faster.


    Of course, Song Zhong, who could be called a divine spear, was definitely not undeserving of that nickname. However, he was still inferior to Xiao Qirui, who had come prepared.


    Clang! The weapons collided with an ear-piercing sound. The two of them tapped their toes on the horse¡¯s abdomen and flew up. After exchanging a few moves in midair, they fell back onto the horse¡¯s back.


    ¡°Kid, you¡¯ve really impressed me to be able to last so long in my hands. Unfortunately, you¡¯ve pledged your loyalty to the wrong person. Why don¡¯t you submit to our General Yan? Isn¡¯t it better to have a high position and a generous salary than to be pushed out to die at any time?¡±


    Song Zhong had the same thoughts as everyone else. He felt that Xiao Qirui and the 100,000 soldiers behind him were all here to die.


    Xiao Qirui frowned. He originally wanted to ignore Song Zhong, but after some thought, he said, ¡°Didn¡¯t you also get pushed out to die?¡±


    Song Zhong¡¯s expression changed and he said coldly, ¡°It seems like you want to do this the hard way.¡±


    With that, he waved his spear and urged his horse towards Xiao Qirui.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the time and said indifferently, ¡°It¡¯s almost time.¡±


    His voice was too soft for Song Zhong to hear him, but he didn¡¯t mind. He was confident in his skills.


    In Song Zhong¡¯s mind, no one could dodge this attack.


    However, his spear missed.


    How was that possible?


    The greatest taboo on the battlefield was to be distracted. Song Zhong did not pause, he quickly retracted his hand and tried to retreat.


    However, it was too late. A cold light flashed in front of him, and his gaze finally fixed on the calm and composed man in front of him.


    In the next moment, Song Zhong¡¯s body tilted and he fell off the horse¡¯s back. A dazzling line of blood appeared on his neck..

 Chapter 898 - Chapter 898: Surprised

    Chapter 898: Surprised


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The change happened too quickly. Most people did not see it clearly. When they reacted, the 100,000-strong army and the soldiers on the city wall erupted in excited cheers.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was the opposite. Their confidence, which came from Yan Guangmao holding down the fort, had disappeared again.


    After losing two generals in a row, Yan Guangmao¡¯s expression was also very ugly.


    Bu Ren, who was born with divine strength, cupped his hands and said,


    ¡°General, let me meet him.¡±


    Yan Guangmao frowned at Xiao Qirui, who had already returned to the opposite camp under the cheers.


    On the city tower, Shen Yijia asked again, ¡°What about Bu Ren? Can Xiao Qirui defeat him?¡±


    ¡°Bu Ren is born with divine strength. Brother Xiao is not his match, but Yan Guangmao won¡¯t let him fight.¡±


    Xiao Qirui had been acting at ease just now. Yan Guangmao did not know his strength, so it was impossible for him to take the risk and give in.


    Of course, Yan Guangmao could fight himself, but as the commander-in-chief of an army, if Song Jingchen didn¡¯t fight, how could Yan Guangmao lower his status?


    Shen Yijia nodded in understanding. At the end of the day, he was afraid of losing, but he did not want to embarrass himself.


    Just as Song Jingchen had analyzed.


    In the end, Yan Guangmao did not agree to Bu Rents request. Instead, he directly issued an attack order.


    The battle was about to begin. The archers of both sides launched the first wave of attacks, covering the horses behind them.


    ¡°Brothers, kill them. It¡¯s not a loss to kill one, and it¡¯s a gain to kill two.¡±


    ¡°Charge!¡±


    ¡°Attack!¡±


    In the past, they could only defend and not come out. They also had to endure the harassment of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army every day. The soldiers of Great Xia had held it in for too long. At this moment, their eyes were red from killing intent.


    The battlefield was in chaos. Soldiers kept falling. Enemies and allies alike were being cut down.


    Blood flowed on the battlefield outside Nanling Pass. The smell of blood filled the air, but no one retreated.


    If the soldiers were like this, Xiao Qirui, as a general, was naturally no exception. He rode ahead of the army and mercilessly harvested the heads of the enemy. However, his main target was not ordinary soldiers, but the generals of the Wu Kingdom.


    He attacked like lightning and stabbed at a deputy general. The deputy general swung his spear to block, but he jumped up and kicked him off his horse.


    Before the deputy general could get up and fight again, he died under the hooves of an unknown friend or foe.


    Xiao Li followed closely beside him and protected his back. The two of them had been master and servant for many years and had long formed a tacit understanding. Soon, two more generals fell.


    Clang! Just as his longsword was about to break the tendons of the fourth general, a hammer suddenly flew over from the side. The iron chain tied to the hammer firmly wrapped around his longsword.


    It was Bu Rents weapon, Double Meteors.


    Going head on against Bu Ren, who was born with divine strength, was clearly


    not a wise move. Xiao Qirui decisively let go of his sword.


    Unexpectedly, in the next moment, another hammer flew at him.


    ¡°Young Master, take this sword!¡± Xiao Li roared and threw his weapon over. He snatched a spear from the enemy and stabbed through a soldier who wanted to ambush Xiao Qirui.


    Xiao Qirui tapped his horse¡¯s abdomen and flew up to catch the sword. The hammer barely brushed past his heel.


    Surprise flashed across Bu Rents face. He put away his contempt and said seriously, ¡°Your opponent is me.¡±


    Since Yan Guangmao did not let him fight, he did not dare to disobey. However, he had always been unconvinced. Therefore, when Xiao Qirui kept reaping heads, he fought his way through and saved the last deputy general.


    Xiao Qirui frowned and turned his head to remind Xiao Li to be careful. He rode his horse to welcome Bu Ren.


    The Wu Kingdom had as many as 400,000 troops stationed at the entrance of the gorge. This time, Yan Guangmao had mobilized half of his troops and had an absolute advantage in numbers. Even if they did not use black gunpowder, they could exhaust these 100,000 people to death.


    However, he still had to conserve his troops, so he naturally wouldn¡¯t fight a war of attrition.


    The sounds of fighting on the battlefield were deafening. More and more soldiers fell. Yan Guangmao, who was at the back of the team, watched this scene coldly and raised his hand. ¡°Prepare the catapults.¡±


    A loud sound reverberated in the area.


    A horn sounded.


    The three catapults were pushed forward a distance. After confirming that the range was at the back of the Great Xia army, they placed black gunpowder, ignited it, and fired.


    There were so many soldiers and there was no cover. If they were blown up, the outcome could be imagined.


    This was also the reason why Xiao Qirui did not leave the city to fight in the past.


    Seeing the three black gunpowder fly out of his head at the same time, Yan Guangmao¡¯s lips curled up. He had already expected the outcome of the Great Xia soldiers.


    Unexpectedly, three sharp arrows suddenly flew over from the city gate tower.


    Yan Guangmao¡¯s pupils constricted and he suddenly looked at the beautiful couple standing on the city gate tower.


    The arrow and the black gunpowder collided in midair. Although it could not pierce through the black gunpowder, it stopped it from moving forward. The arrow and the black gunpowder fell at the same time.


    Boom! Continuous explosions sounded in the middle of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    However, this was not the end. They had only used three catapults, but it was impossible for them to throw three pieces of black gunpowder and wait for them to explode before throwing the next round.


    In the end, it was too late for Yan Guangmao to stop them. He could only watch as the black gunpowder that was about to be thrown at the Great Xia army was shot down in midair.


    Boom! Continuous explosions sounded in the middle of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army.


    Large groups of soldiers were badly mangled by the explosion. They fell against their companions. It could be said that they were caught off guard, or perhaps they did not even have time to know how they died.


    Everyone was stunned by this change.


    It was really surprising that he had hit his own people with explosives.


    What was the difference between this and sending themselves to their deaths?


    The difference was that they didn¡¯t even have to move. The other party paid and invited them to watch this death banquet.


    It was too surprising and exciting.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was in complete chaos, while the soldiers of Great Xia were excited.


    Many people came out with the mentality of tempting fate, but at this moment, the commander-in-chief who sent them told them with his actions that they didn¡¯t have to die. At least they wouldn¡¯t die aggrievedly under the black gunpowder.


    In comparison, Great Xia had the upper hand.


    So what if there were many people? On average, it was enough for each person to kill two enemies.


    ¡°Stop, get the slingers to stop.¡± Yan Guangmao roared.


    Actually, there was no need for him to remind them. The people behind were already dumbfounded and stunned on the spot.


    On the city tower, Shen Yijia smiled so widely that her eyes could not be seen. She even gloated. ¡°Why haven¡¯t they thrown out the black gunpowder yet?¡±


    Song Jingchen, who was standing behind him, rubbed her head dotingly. ¡°They probably won¡¯t dare to use it again.¡±


    Even if he used it, he had to consider who this black gunpowder would hit in the end.


    ¡°Well, then won¡¯t these arrows be wasted?¡± Shen Yijia looked regretful.


    Actually, after guarding the city last time, Song Jingchen had specially gotten someone to craft many heavy arrows for this day.


    If they used black iron arrows, they would definitely be able to destroy the catapults of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. However, this was enough to stop the black gunpowder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you still have Yan Guangmao to be your target?¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned and smiled. ¡°That makes sense.¡±


    Fortunately, Yan Guangmao did not hear their conversation. Otherwise, he would have fainted from anger on the spot..

 Chapter 899 - Chapter 899: Victory

    Chapter 899: Victory


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia was eager to try, so Song Jingchen naturally wouldn¡¯t disappoint her.


    Next, Yan Guangmao perfectly displayed what a live target was.


    In short, wherever he was, the direction of the arrows shot from the city gate tower was the same.


    The range of the black iron bow was long enough, and its lethality was great. Unless he left the battlefield, he could only hide.


    This way, it would be difficult for him to stay in the same place for a few seconds, let alone command. Moreover, he could dodge, but the soldiers behind him did not have the ability.


    More and more people were shot and fell. Yan Guangmao was so angry that he looked at the city tower with fire in his eyes.


    Shen Yijia snorted. This feeling of harassing him while knowing he was unable to hit her was simply too satisfying.


    It was probably similar to how the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had thrown a few black gunpowder into the city from time to time to disturb Great Xia¡¯s morale.


    The soldiers on the city gate tower looked at her in admiration.


    Fortunately, she didn¡¯t have a tail behind her. Otherwise, she would have wagged it so hard she could fly. One could tell from the way she shook her head when she drew the bow.


    ¡°General, let us go out and kill the enemies too,¡± a general requested with cupped fists.


    In the beginning, they had stayed behind to guard the city tower just in case. Now that they no longer had that worry, how could they be willing to just watch their companions fight a bloody battle here? They also wanted to kill the enemy!


    Song Jingchen looked at the defeated Wu Kingdom army outside the city and Yan Guangmao, who had been forced into a corner by the arrows. A moment later, he said, ¡°Open the city gate.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The city gate opened again. This time, their mood was different from before. Everyone¡¯s hearts were burning with fighting spirit as they shouted and rushed to the battlefield.


    ¡°Hubby, I want to go down too.¡± Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes burned. It had been a long time since she had a good fight.


    Moreover, she wanted to compete with Bu Ren, who was born with divine strength.


    How could Song Jingchen not know what she was thinking? With his understanding of Shen Yijia, she would definitely be like a fish entering the sea on the battlefield, but swords didn¡¯t discriminate on the battlefield. How could he be at ease?


    He thought for a moment and put on a troubled expression. ¡°But I can¡¯t pull this bow. The black gunpowder and Yan Guangmao¡­ ¡±


    Although it was very embarrassing, he and Xiao Qirui had indeed tried to pick up the black iron bow, but they did not succeed in the end.


    As soon as he said this, Shen Yijia instantly felt that she had a heavy responsibility on her shoulders. How could she still remember to compete with Bu Ren? She puffed up her chest and said proudly, ¡°Then I won¡¯t go.¡± She thought of something and muttered unhappily, ¡°Yan Guangmao is too good at hiding. ¡±


    Song Jingchen tried his best to suppress the smile on his face. ¡°Then make sure he can¡¯t hide.¡±


    As he spoke, he took out two heavy arrows from the arrow basket behind him and nocked them on the bowstring.


    Shen Yijia understood and immediately pulled the bowstring.


    The two arrows flew out one after another, passing through most of the battlefield and shooting straight at Yan Guangmao.


    Yan Guangmao¡¯s attention was always on the city tower. When he sensed it, he immediately dodged to the left.


    He thought that he would be safe this way, but the moment his figure froze, another arrow pierced his chest, causing him to take a few steps back before stopping.


    This arrow had completely predicted his movements!


    The newly shot arrows were not as damaging as the black iron arrows. They could not pierce through him, but the sharp tip still sank into his body due to inertia.


    ¡°Commander! ¡±


    The soldiers protecting him exclaimed in unison.


    It would have been fine if they had not made a sound, but this sound made the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom, who were already panicking because of the black gunpowder and the army that rushed out of the city, become even more panicked.


    From ¡°the commander was injured¡± to ¡°the commander was seriously injured and unconscious¡±, when the news reached the battlefield ahead, it had already evolved into ¡°the commander was killed by an arrow.¡±


    The army of the Wu Kingdom was immediately thrown into chaos. Some timid people retreated in panic without even waiting for the bugle call to retreat. More and more soldiers abandoned their weapons and retreated in confusion.


    The battlefield was in chaos.


    Boom! Bu Ren hit Xiao Qirui¡¯s abdomen and knocked him off his horse.


    The sword in Xiao Qirui¡¯s hand fell to the ground and he spat out a mouthful of blood.


    ¡°Young Master.¡± Xiao Li roared with anger. Because the two of them had been separated by a long distance in the battle just now, and there were Wu Kingdom soldiers rushing over from all directions, it was impossible for him to break out of the encirclement and rush over in a short time.


    ¡°Hmph, you¡¯re nothing much.¡± Bu Ren looked down at him with a mocking expression.


    The two of them had been fighting for so long and were both injured. This time, he had finally caught Xiao Qirui¡¯s flaw and knocked him down. Of course, Bu Ren would not let him off. He swung his meteor hammer and was about to pursue the victory when he looked up and noticed the situation around him.


    He gritted his teeth and roared, ¡°The commander didn¡¯t say to retreat. Why are you running?¡±


    Unfortunately, the battlefield was too noisy and no one heard him.


    Perhaps someone had heard it, but their instinct to seek benefits and avoid harm still made them choose to retreat.


    Dong! Dong! Dong! Three times in a row, the sound of the golden gong finally sounded.


    Knowing that the current situation was difficult to turn around, Yan Guangmao still chose to retreat.


    Bu Ren was stunned. He glanced at Xiao Qirui, who was standing up with his sword, and rode away unwillingly.


    A general raised the spear in his hand and shouted, ¡°The bastards of the Wu Kingdom have bullied us for so long. It¡¯s not that easy to escape now. Brothers, charge and kill them all.¡¯


    ¡°Charge!¡±


    ¡°Attack! ¡±


    Next was a one-sided harvest by Great Xia¡¯s soldiers.


    Yan Guangmao had brought nearly 200,000 people with him. Perhaps less than half of them left alive in the end. Great Xia naturally suffered casualties, but they did not lose as many people as the other party.


    This battle where the smaller army won was called a legend even in the future.


    Of course, the most interesting and unbelievable part would be the arrows shot from the city gate tower.


    In the military camp, injured soldiers kept being sent back. The military doctors were busy, and almost all the soldiers in the reserve camp came to help. Although they were tired, because they had won two consecutive battles, everyone, including the injured soldiers, was full of smiles.


    Some of them were even in the mood to describe the thrilling battle to their companions in the reserve camp.


    Song Jinghuan circled the infirmary again and again. She had basically seen all her original teammates, except for Liu Jinbao.


    Worried, she could only find someone in his team to ask.


    ¡°You said you didn¡¯t see him from the beginning?¡± Song Jinghuan asked in disbelief.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. He didn¡¯t come when the army was formed. We all suspected that he had become a deserter. It was just that the situation was urgent and our captain didn¡¯t have time to report it.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s impossible.¡± Song Jinghuan retorted without thinking. ¡°He¡¯s not that kind of person.¡±


    Liu Jinbao was too timid, but it was precisely because he was timid that he couldn¡¯t escape. That would be a huge crime that would implicate his family.


    If Liu Jinbao was here, he would¡¯ve said, ¡°Thank you for believing me!¡±


    The soldier she caught and questioned was busy escorting the injured soldiers. After saying that, he was called away to get busy.


    Song Jinghuan frowned. Thinking of what Liu Jinbao had told her previously, she suddenly had a bad feeling. She bade farewell to her companion and ran out. Unexpectedly, when she passed by the kitchen, a hand suddenly covered her mouth and pulled her in..

 Chapter 900 - Chapter 900: Accident (1)

    Chapter 900: Accident (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s heart tightened. Thinking that it was Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s men, she subconsciously reached out to take out the knockout powder in the sachet.


    ¡°Brat, it¡¯s me.¡±


    A familiar voice sounded behind her. Song Jinghuan stopped in her tracks, and the person behind her loosened his grip on her.


    ¡°Old Master Ye, what are you doing?¡± Song Jinghuan rubbed his cheeks angrily.


    Old Master Ye was the crippled veteran Song Jinghuan met when she was still in the kitchen.


    ¡°Let me ask you, what¡¯s your relationship with the Bulwark Duke?¡± Old Master Ye changed his previous confusion and asked her seriously.


    Song Jinghuan frowned. ¡°We¡¯re not related.¡±


    Actually, her alias had almost fallen off, but she subconsciously denied it when she was asked so directly.


    ¡°Rascal, I heard it all at the stables that day.¡± Old Master Ye snorted. ¡°You called that girl sister-in-law. She said that she would avenge you. The next day, there was news that Young General Meng was attacked and thrown into the latrine pit. Tell me¡­¡±


    ¡°Old Master Ye.¡± Song Jinghuan interrupted him. ¡°Have you ever heard of killing someone to silence them?¡±


    Old Master Ye glared at her. ¡°Why is a child so cruel? Let me ask you, will the Duke really overturn the case for General Gaffs family?¡±


    When he mentioned General Gao, a trace of sadness flashed across his eyes.


    Song Jinghuan was stunned and said without thinking, ¡°Of course, my brother¡­


    Her voice stopped abruptly.


    ¡°Alright, what can someone like you hide?¡± Old Master Ye said in disdain, ¡°If


    I¡¯m not wrong, you¡¯re the Duke¡¯s younger brother, right? I heard that the


    Duke¡¯s residence has a pair of twins. You¡¯re that boy.¡±


    He had an expression that said, ¡°I¡¯ve already seen through you. Stop pretending.¡±


    Song Jinghuan rolled his eyes. ¡°If you say so. But why are you looking for me?


    I¡¯m in a hurry to save someone.¡±


    The people in the kitchen had all gone to the infirmary to help, but Old Master


    Ye was too old and inflexible.


    ¡°I Imow. Is Liu Jinbao missing?


    He said it affirmatively.


    Song Jinghuan glared at him. ¡°How do you know?¡±


    ¡°Hmph, is there anything in this military camp that I don¡¯t know? With that silly kid¡¯s appearance¡­¡± Halfway through his sentence, he looked at Song Jinghuan.¡± Your looks are also very dangerous. That pervert likes delicate children like you. ¡®


    Song Jinghuan turned to leave with a dark expression.


    ¡°Hey, wait.¡± Old Master Ye stopped her. Seeing that she was indeed anxious, he did not delay any longer. ¡°Come with me. I¡¯ll get you something.¡±


    Song Jinghuan followed him to the back of the kitchen reluctantly.


    He squatted down beside the well and dug out an iron box.


    Song Jinghuan was stunned. She leaned over and looked at the rusty box in his hand. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    Old Master Ye wiped the dirt off the box with trembling hands and did not answer her question. He sighed and said, ¡°I thought I would never have the chance to use this thing again.¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed her lips. She actually didn¡¯t know much about Old


    Master Ye. She only knew from others that his leg was injured in a battle.


    In his situation, he could have received a sum of money to settle down and return to his hometown. However, for some reason, he did not leave. Instead, he stayed in the kitchen to do some chores.


    ¡°Fortunately, I¡¯ve waited for this day.¡±


    Uncle Ye was sad for a while. He opened the iron box and took out something wrapped in cloth. It looked very thin. ¡°Kid, you have to hand this to the Duke personally. General Gao¡¯s innocence¡­ I¡¯ll leave it to the Duke.¡± Song Jinghuan was shocked. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you give it to him yourself?¡±


    ¡°Ever since the Duke said in public that he wanted to overturn General Gao¡¯s case, this military camp has been filled with spies from the Meng family. If I go to see the Duke, won¡¯t I alert the enemy?¡±


    With external enemies in front of them, Nanling Pass could not withstand internal strife.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t ask further. She kept the item and prepared to leave.


    ¡°That silly kid Liu Jinbao is most likely still in Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s tent. If you look for him now, there will only be two outcomes,¡± Old Master Ye reminded him.


    Firstly, everyone would know about the matter. The Bulwark Duke would punish him according to the military rules. However, Meng Shaoyuan was Meng Wu¡¯s only son. How could Meng Wu watch him die?


    Secondly, it would be that this kid walked into a tiger¡¯s den. It wasn¡¯t that he looked down on Song Jinghuan, but with her ability, it was impossible for her to quietly save him.


    Song Jinghuan¡¯s face continued to darken. ¡°I¡¯ll go and ask my sister-in-law for help, then.¡±


    After coming out of the kitchen, Song Jinghuan strolled around the military camp and rushed to the general¡¯s residence before dark..

 Chapter 901 - Chapter 901: Accident (2)

    Chapter 901: Accident (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At that moment, Shen Yijia had just returned from the city tower. The two of them met at the entrance of the general¡¯s residence.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, why are you back alone? Where¡¯s my brother?¡± Song Jinghuan jogged over. Noticing Shen Yijia¡¯s pale face, she asked worriedly, ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Shen Yijia handed the horse rope to Thirty Thousand, who had sent her back. ¡°Your brother is still busy. Do you have something urgent to tell him


    Initially, she did not want to come back, but the smell of blood outside the city was too strong, making her want to vomit. She did not want her beautiful husband to worry, so she found an excuse to come back first.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go in first.¡± Song Jinghuan pulled her into the house.


    After she finished speaking, Shen Yijia frowned and said, ¡°Let You Yi save her. Don¡¯t return to the military camp tonight. You can hand the things to your brother when he returns.¡±


    With You Yi¡¯s skills, he could save him silently.


    Song Jinghuan thought so too and nodded repeatedly.


    Naturally, there were no surprises. In less than an hour, he carried the unlucky Liu Jinbao back.


    Liu Jinbao had never seen You Yi before and thought that she was Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s subordinate. He had been on tenterhooks the entire way. When he saw Song Jinghuan, he pounced on her and hugged her without thinking. ¡°1 knew you would save me.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless.


    She tried her best to suppress the urge to throw him out. She reached out and patted his back comfortingly. ¡°Alright, alright. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡± Looking at the two of them hugging, Shen Yijia blinked.


    Yes, they were quite compatible.


    This time, Xiao Qirui was also seriously injured. Xiao Li helped him bandage his wound. Seeing that he was still smiling, he said with a sobbing tone, ¡°Young Master, why are you still smiling? You almost¡­¡±


    ¡°Xiao Li, it seems like we can really go back alive.¡± Xiao Qirui interrupted him with a smile.


    Xiao Li choked.


    Seeing him stand up, Xiao Li reached out to help him up. Xiao Qirui waved his hand. ¡°It¡¯s just some superficial wounds. Help me prepare the ink.¡±


    He walked over to the desk and sat down.


    Xiao Li instantly guessed what he wanted to do and said helplessly, ¡°You write a letter to Miss Yuan every three days and don¡¯t send it out. I really don¡¯t understand what¡¯s the point of writing like this.¡±


    Xiao Qirui shook his head. ¡°I just write it when I want to.¡±


    ¡°Then why don¡¯t you send it to her?¡± Although he said that, Xiao Li didn¡¯t stop grinding the ink.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s hand that was holding the pen paused. He didn¡¯t send it because he didn¡¯t want to disturb her and make things difficult for her. He was also afraid that he would be disappointed if he didn¡¯t receive a reply.


    ¡®You can leave first,¡± he said.


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    Without looking up, Xiao Qirui dipped his brush in ink. ¡°It is the sixth day of


    June. ¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, Xiao Qirui folded the letter and placed it in a special box.


    At this moment, Xiao Li¡¯s voice sounded outside the tent.


    ¡°Bulwark Duke, you¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°Yes, I¡¯m here to see Brother Xiao.¡±


    ¡°My young master is¡­¡± Before Xiao Li could finish, the tent curtain was lifted from the inside. Xiao Qirui glanced at Xiao Li and then at Song Jingchen. ¡°Why are you here so late?¡±


    ¡°I came to see how your injuries are,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    Xiao Qirui said, ¡°It¡¯s just a small injury.¡±


    The two of them entered the tent. Thirty Thousand and Xiao Li stood guard outside.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Xiao Qirui took the tea Song Jingchen poured and asked.


    They were all people who had been to the battlefield. They could tell at a glance how serious their injuries were. There was no need to come all the way here at night.


    Song Jingchen took out two envelopes and handed them over. ¡°Someone asked


    Sister Huan to pass these to me.¡±


    Xiao Qirui took it suspiciously and opened it. When he saw the contents, he didn¡¯t know whether to laugh or cry. ¡°It¡¯s expected.¡±


    Of the two letters, one was to remind Retired Emperor Meng Wu of his fear of General Gao, and the second was a reward.


    Although they didn¡¯t know why Meng Wu didn¡¯t destroy these two letters immediately, Song Jingchen and Xiao Qirui believed most of the contents of the letters.


    Just as Xiao Qirui had said, it was within his expectations. He just lacked evidence.


    Now that he thought about it, Xiao Qirui suddenly felt a little glad. Although the Xiao family was in charge of the garrison in Chang¡¯an, they could not mobilize them without the other half of the commander¡¯s seal in the emperor¡¯s hand.


    Otherwise, the Xiao family would probably follow in the footsteps of the Song and Gao families.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to wait for Your Majesty to make a decision?¡± Xiao Qirui asked.


    The more one knew about this, the more unexpected it would be. Song


    Jingchen must have other plans for coming to look for him.


    Song Jingchen shook his head. ¡°I¡¯m worried about leaving such a hidden danger in the army..¡±

 Chapter 902 - Chapter 902: Accident (3)

    Chapter 902: Accident (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Xiao Qirui knew that he was right, but to act first and report later¡­


    ¡°Forget it. What do you want to do?¡± Xiao Qirui asked.


    ¡°Let¡¯s restrain them first.¡±


    The two of them discussed for a while, then got someone to call over a few deputy generals from the capital overnight. About 15 minutes later, a few deputy generals left Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent in a hurry.


    In the general¡¯s residence, Shen Yijia was in a daze. When she heard footsteps, she opened her eyes and saw that it was Song Jingchen. She rubbed her eyes and asked, ¡°Hubby, did everything go smoothly?¡±


    ¡°Yes, did I disturb you?¡± Song Jingchen sat down by the bed and pulled her into his arms.


    Shen Yijia shook her head. ¡°No, I slept too early. So the Meng family has already been arrested?¡±


    This was too fast.


    ¡°Yes, and his trusted aides.¡± Since he had chosen to attack, he would not give him a chance to react.


    At first, the Nanling Army naturally did not believe him. They did not want to find the correspondence between him and Yan Guangmao in Meng Wu¡¯s tent. One of the letters was about Yan Guangmao threatening him with what happened back then, and the other was about Meng Wu writing it and had yet to send it out.


    In short, once these letters were made public, everyone had to believe them.


    Meng Wu was a cautious person, so he naturally wouldn¡¯t leave such evidence behind. Those letters were actually forged by him and Xiao Qirui.


    No one had seen Yan Guangmao¡¯s handwriting, but Meng Wu¡¯s handwriting was readily available. Therefore, he specially imitated his handwriting and wrote a furious and helpless reply after being threatened.


    His handwriting and tone were the same. If not for the fact that Meng Wu had never seen or written those letters, he would have suspected himself.


    However, it was useless for him to know that it was fake. It was fine as long as the Nanling Army and the soldiers who remembered General Gao believed that the letters were real.


    ¡°Back then, General Gao was charged with treason because of a few letters. This can be considered¡­


    ¡°I know. To give someone a taste of their own medicine!¡± Shen Yijia added. She looked up and kissed him on the cheek. ¡°Hubby is amazing.¡±


    Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°My wife is also very powerful. If not for you today, we might not have been able to defend Nanling Pass.¡±


    Shen Yijia raised her chin proudly. ¡°Of course.¡±


    To the soldiers of Nanling Pass, not only had they won the battle today, but they had also helped General Gao capture the villain. They were only waiting for an imperial edict today to completely wash away their reputation. It could be said to be a double blessing.


    However, just as everyone was filled with joy, a shocking explosion suddenly sounded in the direction of the East City Gate.


    The commotion was so loud that the ground seemed to shake a few times.


    The east gate had been blown up!


    ¡°Haha, they¡¯re here. They¡¯re here.¡± In the tent where the four people of the Meng family were locked up, Meng Shaoyuan suddenly laughed.


    Meng Wu looked up. ¡®What did you do?¡±


    ¡°Me? I just helped the people of the Wu Kingdom bury some black gunpowder while they were repairing the city gate.¡± Meng Shaoyuan snorted. ¡°I¡¯ve already told Father that Song Jingchen doesn¡¯t trust us at all, but Father didn¡¯t believe me.¡±


    Fortunately, he had decided to cooperate with Yan Guangmao from the beginning. Otherwise, there would only be death waiting for them.


    Meng Wu choked. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you happy that we don¡¯t have to die?¡± Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s expression was sinister.


    The complete plan was that when Yan Guangmao attacked the city, his men would take the opportunity to ignite black gunpowder and blow up the city gate.


    Meng Shaoyuan would then lead his men to attack the Great Xia army from the back with the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers. Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen chose to send a hundred thousand troops out of the city to fight.


    They could only delay the plan, but Song Jingchen captured the Meng family again.


    It had to be said that Song Jingchen was too lucky.


    At this point, what else could he do? Meng Wu sighed. ¡°I hope Yan Guangmao will really keep his promise.¡±


    ¡°So we don¡¯t have to die?¡± Meng Linlang asked Meng Linyan.


    Meng Linyan was shocked by Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s words. She had always thought that her father had been wronged!


    ¡°General Xiao, bad news. The east gate has been blown up.¡± The soldier who reported the news rushed into the tent in a panic. His entire body and face were covered in blood.


    ¡°Tell me clearly, what exactly happened?¡± Xiao Qirui had already put on his armor when he asked the question. He picked up his sword and walked out.


    The messenger quickly followed. ¡°It¡¯s black gunpowder. I don¡¯t know who buried a large amount of black gunpowder under the city gate in advance, but Lu Renjia ignited them when we weren¡¯t paying attention.¡±


    By the time they realized that something was wrong, it was too late. Their companions, who rushed forward to capture them, were all killed by the explosion.


    If he hadn¡¯t been a step slower, he would have ended up like those people.


    Thinking of his companion¡¯s tragic death, the messenger wiped his face.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes turned cold. He patted the soldier¡¯s shoulder and said, ¡°Go to the general¡¯s residence¡­¡±


    ¡°General Xiao.¡± Thirty Thousand ran over. ¡°My master has already gone to the east city gate..¡±

 Chapter 903 - Chapter 903: The Unkillable Black-robed Men

    Chapter 903: The Unkillable Black-robed Men


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the seventh day of June, at seven o¡¯clock.


    At the east gate of Nanling Pass, battle cries shook the sky. The deputy general on duty was leading the city guards to try his best to resist the sudden invaders.


    The reason why they were called invaders was because these people seemed to have appeared out of thin air. They were covered from head to toe in loose black robes, not soldiers of the Wu Kingdom in armor.


    There were not many of them, and they were not even equipped with weapons. However, all of them were skilled and could not be compared to ordinary soldiers.


    In just half an hour, more than half of the city guards had fallen, but the other party did not suffer any casualties.


    ¡°Damn it, what¡¯s wrong with these people? They can¡¯t even be killed!¡±


    A burly soldier cursed and stabbed a black-robed man while his back was facing him. The spear pierced through the other party¡¯s body as expected, and blood flowed out and dripped to the ground.


    Before the soldier could rejoice, the black-robed man suddenly turned around, grabbed his neck, and lifted him up.


    His wide sleeve revealed a portion of his wrist because of his raised hand. The soldier¡¯s pupils constricted when he noticed something. ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re not human¡­¡±


    The black-robed man acted as if he did not hear it. He exerted strength and with a crack, the soldier¡¯s head fell to the ground.


    He did not even care about the spear stabbed behind him. He began a new round of killing.


    No one noticed that the dead soldier¡¯s fingers suddenly curled up.


    More and more soldiers fell. It was more like a one-sided massacre.


    It took less than half an hour to get from the general¡¯s residence to the city gate. Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia rushed over as soon as they heard the explosion. However, when they arrived, the city gate was silent, leaving only the soldiers lying on the ground and the bloodstains on the ground.


    Song Jingchen frowned and reminded her, ¡°Be careful.¡± He got off the horse to check.


    Shen Yijia also dismounted and squatted down to examine a few people. She looked up at Song Jingchen and said uncertainly, ¡°Hubby, these people seem to be still alive.¡±


    Although his breathing was weak, his pulse was clearly still beating.


    Song Jingchen also discovered that many of them were alive. Moreover, there were no obvious wounds on these people, but he saw strangulation marks on the necks of a few of them. There were even armor marks with traces of blood. Thinking of something, he was about to pry open a soldier¡¯s armor to check.


    A weak cough sounded in the middle of the crowd.


    Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia looked at each other and quickly ran over to move the soldiers away from the person who made the sound.


    It was a middle-aged man in a general¡¯s armor.


    The middle-aged man slowly opened his eyes. When he saw who it was, he quickly called out, ¡°General¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen recognized the other party at a glance and asked with a frown, ¡°Deputy General Liu, what happened here?¡±


    ¡°The city gate¡­ was blown up¡­ Four to five hundred black-robed men rushed in.¡± At the mention of the black-robed man, fear appeared in Deputy General Liu¡¯s eyes. He shook his head in panic. ¡°No, they¡­ they don¡¯t seem to be human¡­ They can¡¯t be killed¡­¡±


    With that, he fainted again.


    Shen Yijia frowned. ¡°Four to five hundred? How many people are there in the city guard?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at the people lying on the ground with a cold gaze. ¡°Eight thousand.¡±


    Shen Yijia was shocked. In less than half an hour, four to five hundred people had dealt with eight thousand city guards without any casualties. Everyone had to have You Yi¡¯s skills, right?


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t any scouts send a message back in advance?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ve all been cleaned up.¡±


    Otherwise, it was impossible for Nanling Pass not to have received the news in advance when such a group of people approached.


    ¡°Then they left after killing everyone?¡±


    Actually, it was wrong to say that they killed people. Nine out of ten of these people were still alive.


    If not for the fact that these soldiers were on her side, Shen Yijia really wanted to ask who they were killing when they were so unprofessional!


    He looked at Deputy General Liu¡¯s hand again. It was indeed stained with blood.


    There were no wounds on these soldiers¡¯ bodies from weapons. The blood on their swords should have been left behind by the black-robed man.


    He stood up and looked in the direction of the city gate. He did not see any blood on the way out. He guessed, ¡°They didn¡¯t leave. They must have entered the city.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the faint sounds of fighting could be heard behind him.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and take a look,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    The two of them quickly mounted their horses and rode in the direction of the sounds of fighting.


    ¡°Young Master, there seems to be something wrong with these people.¡±


    At the other end of the street, Xiao Li looked at the soldiers fighting the black-robed man in front of him and said.


    Coincidentally, they brought the army towards the city gate. Unexpectedly, they encountered this group of black-robed people halfway. They thought that the other party would run when he saw so many of them.


    In the end, the other party was not afraid at all and directly attacked.


    A few hundred people against hundreds of thousands of people. Wasn¡¯t this sending themselves to their deaths?


    This was what most people thought at the beginning.


    However, in the end, his companions fell one by one.


    Of course, it was not that the black-robed men were not injured. However, even though their bodies were covered in wounds, they could still move freely, as if they did not feel any pain at all. No one fell.


    Xiao Qirui pulled out his sword and jumped up from the horse¡¯s back. He stabbed at the chest of a black-robed man who was pinching a soldier with one hand.


    The sound of the sword entering flesh was especially ear-piercing.


    The black-robed man didn¡¯t seem to care. He broke the necks of two soldiers with one hand and struck Xiao Qirui with his free hand.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes darkened. He pulled out his sword and dodged.


    After missing, the black-robed man¡¯s fingers formed a claw and attacked him again. Xiao Qirui swung his sword to block, his eyes staring at the blood that was constantly seeping out of the black-robed man¡¯s chest.


    That was clearly where his heart was.


    ¡°He¡¯s still alive after being stabbed in the heart.¡± Xiao Li was right. There was something wrong with these people.


    ¡°Cut off their heads.¡± A sudden voice sounded. Xiao Qirui reacted and turned around to kick the black-robed man. At the same time, his sword slashed at the neck of another black-robed man.


    With a crisp sound, the blade cut him, but it did not hurt him at all.


    This was¡­ Xiao Qirui swung his sword and cut the other party¡¯s black robe into pieces.


    At the same time, it revealed the man¡¯s true appearance under the black robe.


    It was a man in his early thirties. His entire head, including his neck, was covered by an iron hood, revealing only a pair of scarlet eyes.


    Looking down, they saw spots on the back of his hand that looked like rigor mortis. Everyone¡¯s breathing tightened. ¡°Is he even human?¡± they thought.


    ¡°Hubby, they¡­¡±


    ¡°This should be the source of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s confidence,¡± Song Jingchen muttered and rushed into the battlefield.


    ¡°You Yi, let¡¯s go and help too.¡± As Shen Yijia spoke, she took out two black iron arrows from the arrow basket behind her and threw one to You Yi. After thinking for a moment, she took out two more and threw them to Song Jingchen and Xiao Qirui. She took one and flashed in..

 Chapter 904 - Chapter 904: Weakness

    Chapter 904: Weakness


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Arrows made of black iron could penetrate shields, so it was naturally not a problem for them to cut through the black-robed man¡¯s iron headgear.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s movements were straightforward. She kicked away a black-robed man who pounced on her and grabbed another person¡¯s arm.


    The black-robed man¡¯s reaction was not slow. He ignored his twisted arm and grabbed at her with his other hand.


    Shen Yijia frowned. She dodged the hand in front of her and flashed in front of the black-robed man. She stabbed the arrow in her hand into the top of his head and pulled it down. The black robe and the hood inside broke in the middle.


    If seeing the black-robed man¡¯s hand made everyone feel strange, then when they saw the other party¡¯s pale face with a dense aura of death, everyone had the same thought.


    These were not living people at all!


    The people of this era were naturally afraid of ghosts and gods. The soldiers who were about to go up and help could not help but retreat when they saw this scene.


    ¡°What are you waiting for? Go and help.¡± A deputy general finished drinking and swallowed. He raised his saber and rushed forward to slash.


    The others recovered from their shock and did not dare to delay any longer. They joined the battle.


    A few of them could successfully surround a black-robed man without the protection of a hood, but the black-robed man¡¯s speed and strength were different from ordinary people. It was impossible for the four of them to break their hoods one by one.


    Noticing that more and more soldiers around him had fallen, Song Jingchen swung his sword and cut off an outstretched hand. He jumped up and stepped on the black-robed man¡¯s head to land beside Shen Yijia.


    On the other side, Shen Yijia kicked a black-robed man who had just broken under the blades of a few soldiers. In the next moment, Song Jingchen grabbed her waist and brought her away from the battlefield. She looked at him in confusion. ¡°Hubby?¡±


    ¡°Wait here for a while.¡± Song Jingchen rubbed her head and instructed in a low voice, ¡°Use the iron chain formation.


    The group of soldiers standing at the back circled around the battlefield.


    Another group of soldiers took out chains from the supply cart and threw one end to their companion opposite.


    Seeing this, Xiao Qirui repelled his opponent with a sword. He grabbed a soldier with one hand and flew back, shouting, ¡°Retreat!¡±


    The others quickly broke free from the black-robed men and left the battlefield.


    The black-robed man still wanted to chase after them, but the mesh formed by the intersecting iron chains quickly tightened in the middle and tied them up.


    Those who rushed out were dealt with by You Yi and Xiao Qirui.


    Looking at the black-robed men who were still trying to attack, Shen Yijia rubbed her forehead. ¡°Why don¡¯t these people seem to be very smart?¡± Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°The numbers are wrong.¡±


    There were no more than 200 people here, but Deputy General Liu said that there were 400 to 500 people rushing into the city. Even if the number was not accurate, there would not be such a huge difference.


    Thinking of something, his eyes turned cold. ¡°The military camp and the west gate! ¡±


    It was obvious that these people were killing machines let in by the people of the Wu Kingdom. It was probably not a coincidence that Xiao Qirui¡¯s team could encounter them, but these people had followed the smell.


    The reason for this guess was because during the fight just now, Song Jingchen clearly realized that the black-robed man had no hearing. Attacking people was more like their instinct.


    Since a portion of the troops had come here to stop Xiao Qirui, it was very likely that the rest had gone to the crowded military camp and the west gate.


    Although Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say much, Xiao Qirui instantly understood what he meant. He said in a low voice, ¡°I¡¯ll bring 5,000 people to the west city gate.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Then, he looked at the deputy generals behind him.


    ¡°Hubby, I¡¯ll go to the military camp,¡± Shen Yijia volunteered.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth. ¡°You¡­¡¯


    ¡°Don¡¯t we already have a way to deal with them? Besides, I have You Yi by my side. Don¡¯t worry, they won¡¯t be able to hurt me.¡± Shen Yijia patted her chest.


    If one did not know the black-robed man¡¯s weakness, it was indeed quite terrifying. After all, it was completely beyond everyone¡¯s understanding that they could not be killed.


    However, since she already knew how to deal with it, it was not difficult for Shen Yijia.


    Song Jingchen looked at her deeply and finally nodded. ¡°Alright, be careful.¡±


    He looked at You Yi again. ¡°You Yi, protect her.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia valiantly left with the five thousand people.


    Song Jingchen watched the team leave. He left a group of people here to deal with the black-robed man while he returned to the east city gate with the remaining people.


    No one knew when the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army would arrive at the city gate, and the city gate of the east city had been destroyed. It was the most important thing now. He had to personally lead the troops to guard it.


    Just as Song Jingchen had guessed, when Xiao Qirui arrived with his men, the city guards at the west gate were already in a mess.


    This was the first time they had seen such a monster that they could not kill no matter what. The soldiers¡¯ hearts collapsed.


    Looking at the defeated soldiers not far away, Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes turned cold.


    ¡°Follow the plan.¡±


    The reason why they could take down people in one go on the streets was because of the restrictions there. However, it was different here. The black-robed people were too scattered, so they could only attack them one by one.


    The reason why they could take down people in one go on the streets was because of the narrow space there. However, it was different here. The black-robed people were too scattered, so they could only attack them one by one.


    On the other side, Shen Yijia also returned to the military camp with her men.


    The situation in the military camp was not much better than at the west gate. There were a total of 350,000 soldiers at Nanling Pass. After two months of defending the city, there were less than 300,000 left.


    Among them, 50,000 were from the reserve camp, and nearly 50,000 of the Meng family¡¯s subordinates were under control.


    After knowing that the east gate had been blown up, Xiao Qirui took 150,000 people with him.


    In other words, other than the city guards at the two city gates, there were less than 100,000 soldiers left in the military camp, including the reserve camp. Many of them were still recuperating in the infirmary and could not fight.


    It seemed that there were quite a number of people, but the soldiers left behind in the military camp were all doing their own jobs. They were too scattered and could not resist the black-robed men who suddenly barged in.


    When they entered the military camp, they could see soldiers lying on the ground everywhere. Everyone felt terrible.


    A deputy general mustered his courage and reached out to check the pulse of the soldiers beside him. He sensed something and was stunned for a moment. He checked the two of them again and said happily, ¡°Madam, these people are still alive.¡±


    The other soldiers also squatted down to check.


    ¡°Madam, this is still breathing.¡± ¡°My third son isn¡¯t dead yet.¡±


    ¡°And him.¡±


    Everyone reported to Shen Yijia that their companions were not dead yet. Shen Yijia, who had thought that it was a good thing at the city gate, inexplicably felt shocked at this moment.


    Since the black-robed man was a killing weapon let in by the Wu Kingdom, how could they not be able to kill a single person?


    It was understandable that one or two of them had slipped through the net, but the truth was the opposite.


    ¡°There¡¯s a sound over there.¡± A deputy general pointed in the direction of the reserve camp.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips, put away her thoughts, and rushed over with her men.


    A portion of the reserve camp was the women¡¯s army. It was originally under Meng Linyan. After the Meng family¡¯s incident, a small number of people were under arrest, and the rest were led by a former deputy general.


    At this moment, the group of women screamed in fear from the dozen or so men in black.


    The others in the reserve camp did their best to protect them.


    Shen Yijia held her forehead. ¡°Go and save them.¡±


    Knowing the other party¡¯s weakness, the soldiers threw out iron chains and wrapped them around the limbs of the men in black. Shen Yijia and You repeatedly cut open the hoods, and the soldiers with sabers followed closely behind to cut off their heads.


    The entire process was extremely smooth, but the scene was too bloody. Their heads rolled to the feet of the female soldiers curled up in a ball, scaring them so much that they screamed and fainted.


    ¡°Since these people are staying in the military camp and getting paid, they should act like soldiers.¡± Shen Yijia shook her head and sighed. She glanced at the heads at her feet, whose eyes were still wide open. She suppressed the disgust in her chest and turned to leave.


    She had no idea how much devilish training her casual words had given these female soldiers in the future..

 Chapter 905 - Chapter 905: Sorrow and Joy (1)

    Chapter 905: Sorrow and Joy (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Although the soldiers outside could still resist a little, the 50,000 traitors with their limbs tied up and their weapons surrendered were fish on the chopping board. They could only wait to be slaughtered.


    In the tent where the four people of the Meng family were imprisoned, Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s eyes lit up when he saw the two black-robed men suddenly barge in. He quickly asked, ¡°Did General Yan ask you to save us?¡±


    The shouts outside had long been heard. Although he found it strange that Yan Guangmao¡¯s men had arrived so quickly, joy had long overcome his rationality. He ordered, ¡°Untie us quickly. I¡¯ll settle it in a while.¡±


    Before he could finish, he felt his throat tighten. He looked over and saw that the black-robed man had already appeared in front of him, one hand wrapped tightly around his neck.


    Meng Shaoyuan¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°You¡­¡±


    His heart turned cold. He lowered his head in disbelief and saw a hand pierce through his heart.


    Even until his death, Meng Shaoyuan probably could not figure out why Yan Guangmao still sent people to kill him. He had clearly joined Yan Guangmao and blown up the city gate for him.


    Meng Wu exclaimed, ¡°Yuan¡¯er!¡±


    The other black-robed man had already arrived in front of him. He used the same technique and was equally straightforward. Without a word, the father and son fell to the ground.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Meng Linyan and Meng Linlang screamed in fear.


    When Shen Yijia rushed over with her men, she happened to encounter the two men in black who had already finished killing and were about to leave.


    After moving so many times, without her instructions, the soldiers behind her had already restrained the two of them.


    Shen Yijia lifted the tent flap and gasped when she saw the bloody scene inside.


    In the past, she was not afraid of these things, but for some reason, when she saw this scene or smelled the strong smell of blood recently, she felt nauseous.


    She was not someone who would make things difficult for herself. She waved her hand and instructed, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Shen Yijia worked under the hot sun until noon before she finally finished cleaning up all the black-robed men in the military camp. The deputy generals also knew how to deal with the remaining matters. She was about to look for Song Jingchen, but just as she climbed onto the horse, she felt a wave of dizziness and fell down.


    ¡°Ma¡¯am!¡±


    She heard many people calling her. She looked up and saw You Yi¡¯s mask and the worry in his eyes. Only then did she faint in relief.


    ¡°You still know how to worry. At least you have a conscience.¡± she thought.


    When Shen Yijia opened her eyes again, it was already dark outside. She rubbed her still dizzy head and was about to sit up when a nervous voice sounded beside her.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake? Are you still feeling unwell?¡±


    Shen Yijia turned around and met a handsome face filled with self-reproach. She shook her head and said, ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯m just a little dizzy from sleeping for too long.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll go look for the military doctor.¡±


    Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want Song Jingchen to worry, so she leaned out and pulled him back. ¡°No need. I¡¯m really fine.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, half of her body was pulled into a familiar embrace.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s my fault for not protecting you well and making you suffer. Hit me.¡± Song Jingchen buried his head in Shen Yijia¡¯s shoulder.


    There was obvious fear in his voice. If one looked carefully, they could even see that his entire body was trembling.


    Something that could make her beautiful husband so nervous¡­


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and felt a little uncomfortable. No wonder the spiritual liquid suddenly disappeared. She took a deep breath and reached out to pat Song Jingchen¡¯s back gently to comfort him. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Everyone is going to die anyway. Isn¡¯t there a saying that in death, our souls are lighter than a feather and heavier than Mount Tai?¡±


    Before she could finish, she was pushed out of someone¡¯s arms. Song Jingchen said solemnly, ¡°Stop, what are you talking about¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia was stunned. She tilted her head and asked, ¡°Isn¡¯t it because I¡¯m terminally ill?¡±


    ¡°Otherwise, why did you look like your wife had died just now?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Who said you were¡­¡± Seeing through her thoughts, Song Jingchen was so angry that his forehead throbbed. He raised his hand high and gently rubbed Shen Yijia¡¯s head. He said angrily, ¡°You¡­¡±


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°What about me?¡±


    ¡°Tell me.¡± she thought. ¡°I¡¯ve already prepared myself.¡± she thought.


    ¡°You¡¯re pregnant.¡±


    ¡®What?¡± Shen Yijia widened her eyes, suspecting that she had heard wrongly.


    Song Jingchen was amused by her adorable reaction. He lowered his head and pressed his forehead against hers. He smiled and said, ¡°I said, you¡¯re going to be a mother. I¡¯m going to be a father.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Shen Yijia looked into his eyes and reached for her abdomen.. ¡°1 have a little monkey here?¡±

 Chapter 906 - Chapter 906: Sorrow and Joy (2)

    Chapter 906: Sorrow and Joy (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°It¡¯s not a little monkey. It¡¯s our child,¡± Song Jingchen corrected her seriously.


    Didn¡¯t they all mean the same thing?


    Shen Yijia said in disbelief, ¡°Hubby, am I dreaming? Pinch me.¡±


    Song Jingchen chuckled. ¡°I can¡¯t bear to. Why don¡¯t you pinch me instead?¡±


    Shen Yijia obediently reached out and pinched his leg.


    ¡°Does it hurt?¡± she asked nervously.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face twisted in pain. ¡°It doesn¡¯t hurt.¡±


    Shen Yijia saw his expression. Her heart ached and she was excited. She smiled evilly and said, ¡°Then I¡¯ll try again.¡±


    Song Jingchen quickly grabbed her demonic claws that were reaching for his cheek and said with an injured expression, ¡°It hurts. Wife, show mercy.¡±


    He was really injured. This girl could not bear to hit him so hard in the past. It must be because of a certain brat who had yet to be born!


    ¡°Haha!¡± Shen Yijia laughed out loud and threw herself into his arms. Her eyes lit up as she said, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m really going to give birth to a baby for you.¡±


    No wonder her appetite had improved recently and she got tired easily. Yes, she even liked to eat sour food. It turned out that it was because there was another person in her stomach.


    Song Jingchen suddenly felt a little sad.


    This girl might not know how to be a mother, but he knew how much she wanted this child.


    From the moment she drugged him when An Dong¡¯s wife was pregnant in


    Xiagou Village, to the wish made in front of Buddha in Xunyang City, and more¡­


    It had really been too long!


    Thinking of his negligence during this period of time, Song Jingchen blamed himself.


    Sensing something, Shen Yijia blinked and said, ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    Hearing that she was hungry, Song Jingchen quickly put away his unnecessary emotions and said softly, ¡°I made shredded chicken porridge for you in the pot. Wait a moment, I¡¯ll bring it over for you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Seeing Song Jingchen leave, Shen Yijia screamed. The sound was so loud that the roof was about to fly off.


    Song Jingchen stopped in his tracks in fear. He guessed the reason and chuckled.


    Her reaction was even greater than his. He had only run around the arena twice and caught two deputy generals to spar with him.


    Actually, if not for the tense situation at Nanling Pass and Song Jingchen¡¯s control, there would have been a greater reaction.


    On the other side, Shen Yijia was looking down at her stomach and talking to the baby in her stomach with a serious expression. ¡°Hey, can you hear me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m your mother.¡±


    ¡°It was your father who went out just now.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me that you were sneaking into my stomach? Look at how worried your father is. You¡¯re not allowed to do this in the future. Otherwise, I¡¯ll beat you up.¡±


    A small head poked in through the window. ¡°Sister-in-law.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked over and knew that she had been heard. She was not embarrassed and asked, ¡°Sister Huan, why are you hiding there?¡±


    Song Jinghuan smiled and said, ¡°Big Brother didn¡¯t let me disturb your rest, but


    I wanted to wait for you to wake up.¡±


    ¡°Oh, then come in quickly. I¡¯m awake.¡±


    Song Jinghuan shook his head repeatedly. ¡°No, no. Big Brother will be back soon. I¡¯d better go back and sleep. I¡¯m just saying hello to you.¡±


    Shen Yijia said, ¡°Oh, then sleep early.¡±


    ¡°Goodnight, Sister-in-law.¡± The window was lowered again. Soon, Song Jinghuan stuck his head in again. ¡°Sister-in-law, remember to tell the baby that I¡¯m his aunt.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    When Song Jingchen returned, he saw Shen Yijia sitting cross-legged on the bed obediently.


    He placed the porridge and a few dishes on the table. He carried Shen Yijia to the table and scooped a spoonful of porridge for her.


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth obediently. ¡°By the way, how¡¯s it going outside?¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. He knew that if he didn¡¯t say it, this girl would think too much. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army didn¡¯t come to attack the city today. I asked them to repair the city gate first and add a few mechanisms to it.¡±


    The repair of the city gate was not something that could be done in a day or two. Even if it was repaired in a short period of time, it could not help but be weakened. Most importantly, he hoped that those mechanisms would be effective.


    Knowing that Song Jingchen had plans, Shen Yijia asked, ¡°Then..


    ¡°The military doctor checked on those unconscious soldiers, but he didn¡¯t see anything wrong for the time being.¡±


    Shen Yijia opened her mouth.


    ¡°Most of the black-robed people have been cleaned up. I¡¯m worried that there are still people left alone in the city. Brother Xiao is leading people to search the area outside.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°He knew what I was going to ask even before I asked. As expected of my beautiful husband. Smart!¡±


    Night fell.


    Xiao Qirui had just finished off a black-robed man when he instructed him to get on his horse and continue searching ahead.


    Looking at the cold streets, the only thing he was glad about now was that the citizens of Nanling Pass had been moved to Qingyang City. Otherwise¡­


    Just as this thought flashed through his mind, a child¡¯s cry suddenly sounded in the alley ahead.


    ¡°Don¡¯t come over. Big Brother, where are you?¡±


    How could there be children here?


    Without any time to think, Xiao Qirui quickly rode over.


    The horse stopped at the mouth of the alley and he looked sideways.


    A boy about four or five years old was lying on the ground. He turned his head and looked behind him. Not far from the child stood a black-robed man.


    The black-robed man had already reached out his demonic claws at the boy.


    His pupils constricted as he flew over and pulled the child into his arms.


    He felt a sharp pain in his back.


    ¡°Young Master!¡±


    ¡°General!¡±


    With a whoosh, the sound of iron chains tearing through the air sounded. The pressure behind him disappeared. Xiao Qirui felt a chill spread from the wound on his back to his limbs. It was so cold that his limbs went numb for a moment. He lost his balance and knelt on one knee.


    Xiao Li staggered over. ¡°Young Master, are you alright?¡±


    Xiao Qirui gritted his teeth and endured it. He shouted, ¡°Go and investigate why there are children in the city!¡±


    The boy was so frightened that he stopped crying. Hearing his words, his small body trembled.


    Xiao Qirui naturally felt him shrinking into his arms. He took a deep breath and patted the boy¡¯s back, trying to make his voice as soft as possible. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    It would have been better if he hadn¡¯t comforted him. As soon as he opened his mouth, the boy burst into tears. ¡°My sister¡­¡±


    Xiao Qirui frowned.


    ¡°General, it¡¯s settled.¡± A soldier walked over and reported.


    ¡°Take him to his sister,¡± Xiao Qirui said as he prepared to push the boy out.


    However, the boy was frightened just now. He grabbed his armor tightly and refused to let go.


    Xiao Qirui had no choice but to give up. He planned to bring his men to look for her himself, but just as he was about to stand up with her in his arms, his vision darkened and he fell.


    ¡°Young Master! ¡°

 Chapter 907 - Chapter 907: The Incident (1)

    Chapter 907: The Incident (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°After the Gu family¡¯s wife gave birth to her daughter, her health deteriorated. A year later, she died of an illness. Not long after, her husband passed away in an accident. The Gu family doesn¡¯t have any other relatives, so Gu Feng can only take care of his siblings himself. This time, he arranged for the commoners to evacuate. Gu Feng was worried about leaving his young siblings


    in the care of outsiders, so he secretly hid them and sent them some food every day.¡± Thirty Thousand pursed his lips and continued, ¡°Yesterday, it was Gu Feng¡¯s turn to guard the east city gate. I didn¡¯t expect such a thing to happen at the east city gate.¡±


    Gu Feng was unconscious and could not send food to the two children in time. At night, an older boy ran out to look for him. In the end, he encountered the black-robed man, and General Xiao bumped into him.


    Fortunately, nothing happened to the two children, but General Xiao¡­


    Song Jingchen nodded to show that he understood and said indifferently, ¡°Arrange for two people to send the siblings to Qingyang City. Find a kind family and give them some money to help take care of the siblings for a while.¡±


    He looked at the two confused children surrounding Shen Yijia not far away. He thought for a moment and added, ¡°Find a family who don¡¯t have children at home.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Sister, will they send me and my sister away?¡± the boy asked Shen Yijia. ¡°Yes. There¡¯s a war going on here. It¡¯s not safe. They¡¯ll send you to a safe place.¡± The boy lowered his head. ¡°Then is my brother alright?¡±


    The people who were injured yesterday had yet to wake up. To be honest, Shen Yijia was not sure if they could wake up. She could only say tactfully, ¡°Your brother will look for you after the war.¡±


    The boy sensitively guessed something and blinked hard to hide the tears in his eyes. ¡°What about the general who saved me last night? Was he seriously injured?¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless for a moment. Just as she did not know how to answer, Thirty Thousand walked over. ¡°Young Madam, Master asked me to send them to Qingyang City.¡±


    ¡°Then go quickly.¡± Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief.


    Thirty Thousand picked up the girl and left holding the boy¡¯s hand. After taking two steps, the boy suddenly broke free from his hand and ran back. ¡°Sister, my name is Gu Lei. When the general wakes up, tell him to thank him for saving me. When I grow up, I¡¯ll definitely repay him.¡±


    Shen Yijia rubbed his head. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll help you pass the message to him.¡± After watching the siblings leave, Shen Yijia sighed.


    ¡°I¡¯ll go and see Brother Xiao. Do you want to go?¡± Song Jingchen walked over and asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    The couple went to Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent together.


    Xiao Li¡¯s eyes were red from staying awake by the bed. When he saw the two of them enter, he quickly cupped his hands and bowed.


    On the hospital bed, Xiao Qirui was lying there with a pale face. The wound on his back was actually not big, but for some reason, he did not wake up after fainting.


    ¡°What did the military doctor say?¡± Song Jingchen asked with a frown.


    Xiao Li said with a long face, ¡°He suspects that he was poisoned. He¡¯s still looking for a way to detoxify the poison.¡±


    It was obvious that they couldn¡¯t find out anything from this explanation, so they could only push the blame to the poison.


    Shen Yijia went forward to check his pulse. After a while, she retracted her hand and walked back to Song Jingchen¡¯s side dejectedly.


    Song Jingchen held her hand comfortingly and looked at Xiao Li. ¡°I¡¯ll stay in the military camp for the next two days. If anything happens, get someone to look for me in time.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Bulwark Duke.¡±


    After leaving Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent, Song Jingchen sent Shen Yijia back to the general¡¯s residence. Seeing that she remained silent, he rubbed her head and comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    She was afraid for Xiao Qirui and the other soldiers.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his head and planted a kiss on her forehead. ¡°The military doctor said that you shouldn¡¯t think too much. It¡¯s not good for the baby in your stomach. Leave the matters outside to me, okay?¡±


    Shen Yijia knew that Song Jingchen was at his wit¡¯s end. She didn¡¯t want him to worry, so she forced a smile and nodded.


    Song Jingchen was still worried. He instructed Song Jinghuan to stay in the residence with her before leaving with Thirty Thousand. ¡°Sister-in-law, Sister-in-law.¡±


    ¡°Huh? What¡¯s wrong?¡± Shen Yijia looked up from her stomach.


    Song Jinghuan glanced at Liu Jinbao and said carefully, ¡°Didn¡¯t you leave some black gunpowder behind previously? Liu Jinbao and I dismantled it yesterday and modified it according to the formula you left behind. Do you want to take a look?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought for a moment. ¡°Alright.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t abort the child for the sake of the spiritual liquid. Moreover, even if she did, it might not condense immediately.


    She didn¡¯t want to continue having this terrifying thought. In the next two days, Shen Yijia focused on the research of black gunpowder. Perhaps because Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao kept giving suggestions, after a few failures, the three of them really replicated the black gunpowder.


    During this period, Xiao Qirui and the soldiers didn¡¯t wake up. Song Jingchen was too busy to come home. He ran between the military camp and the east gate every day and only asked Thirty Thousand to come back every day to report his safety.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, let¡¯s quickly tell Big Brother this good news.¡± Song Jinghuan looked at the black gunpowder that had just been made on the ground and said happily.


    They had limited materials and only made six, but it was enough to make them happy.


    Shen Yijia also revealed a rare smile. She turned around and looked at the night outside. She smiled and said, ¡°It¡¯s too late today. Let¡¯s go tomorrow morning.¡±


    Song Jinghuan slapped her forehead. She almost forgot that her sister-in-law was pregnant. She nodded repeatedly. ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll go tomorrow.¡±


    In the dark night, the soldiers in the military camp entered their dreams one after another. In the infirmary, a soldier could not sleep because of the heat. He sat on the bed and fanned himself from time to time.


    It wasn¡¯t easy for him to get a little sleepy. The person in the bed beside him suddenly sat up, scaring him so much that he almost dropped his fan.


    Thinking of who was sleeping beside him, the soldier said happily, ¡®You¡¯re finally awake. You don¡¯t even know how worried we were. We thought¡­¡±


    He rambled on about what had happened in the past two days. The black shadow sitting there turned to look at him stiffly.


    The moment their eyes met, the fan in the soldier¡¯s hand stopped and his voice stopped.


    Through the moonlight, he clearly saw that the other partys pupils were red.


    The soldier opened his mouth to scream, but the black shadow pounced on him.


    With a muffled groan, the black shadow stood up again, but the soldier was already silent.


    This was like a signal. More and more soldiers sat up in bed and reached out their claws before the people around them could react.


    Song Jingchen had been reading medical books whenever he was free these past two days, wanting to find a way to treat the soldiers. Suddenly, there was a commotion outside. He frowned and stood up to go out.


    At this moment, Thirty Thousand rushed in anxiously. ¡®Master, bad news. Those people have all gone crazy. They kill everyone they see..¡±

 Chapter 908 - Chapter 908: Enemy Attack (1)

    Chapter 908: Enemy Attack (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Apart from the corpses of the soldiers who had been confirmed to be dead, the remaining 50,000 rebels were also burned. As many as 70,000 people were seriously injured and knocked unconscious by the black-robed men.


    The 70,000 people had all become killing machines overnight. When the other soldiers were caught off guard, the military camp instantly fell into chaos.


    In the blink of an eye, hundreds of soldiers fell.


    ¡°Tang Ming, wake up. I¡¯m Sun Hao!¡± Sun Hao grabbed Tang Ming¡¯s hand tightly and roared with red eyes.


    A hint of struggle appeared in Tang Mingls eyes, but it disappeared in a flash.


    He threw Sun Hao away.


    ¡°How did this brat become so strong?¡± Sun Hao was surprised for a moment. Seeing that Tang Ming was about to attack him again, he did not have time to think and quickly rolled to the side.


    Seeing the other party¡¯s fist graze his armor and leave a deep pit on the ground,


    Sun Hao¡¯s pupils constricted. ¡°You¡¯re actually serious. Are you crazy?¡±


    It was as if Tang Ming did not hear him and grabbed at him again. Sun Hao spat and stood up. He pulled out the sword at his waist to block.


    The two of them exchanged dozens of blows in the blink of an eye. Sun Hao was very surprised.


    Because they were of the same level and in the same team, he often sparred with Tang Ming and knew his skills very well. However, this time, he clearly felt that the other party had become much stronger and faster.


    Fortunately, the other party was unarmed. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have been able to last so long.


    Sun Hao was sent flying by Tang Ming¡¯s punch. Tang Ming did not stop at all and attacked him again. Sun Hao gritted his teeth, grabbed a handful of soil, and threw it out. While the other party¡¯s vision was blocked, he stabbed at Tang Ming¡¯s throat.


    At the critical moment, the scene of them fighting side by side flashed across his mind. Sun Hao¡¯s sword stopped at the last moment.


    This was his companion, his teammate, and not his brother who was closer to him than his family. He could not bring himself to do it!


    Sun Hao was sent flying again and fell heavily onto the collapsed tent behind him. He spat out a mouthful of blood and looked at the person walking towards him step by step. He loosened his grip on his sword.


    It wasn¡¯t that he was too injured to get up, but he didn¡¯t want to fight anymore.


    Tang Ming¡¯s situation was clearly abnormal. He had no idea what he was doing.


    However, he was different. His consciousness was clear. He still remembered the times when they trained together, drank together, joked together, and fought together.


    Sun Hao gave up. He lay on the bloodstained ground and turned to look at his formerly familiar companions killing his other companions. His eyes welled up.


    He closed his eyes and couldn¡¯t bear to look anymore. When he felt the wind from the palm coming at him, he felt relieved.


    This was good too.


    He was not a fool, not to mention that he had personally witnessed and fought with the black-robed man. At this moment, he naturally understood why Tang Ming had become like this. He would only end up fighting to the death.


    The expected attack did not come. He opened his eyes and looked at the figure blocking in front of him. A guiltv exDression flashed across his face.


    Song Jingchen tilted his head and glanced at him. He said indifferently, ¡°Tie him up first.¡±


    Sun Hao was stunned. He glanced at Tang Ming, who was struggling on the ground and could not break free since Song Jingchen was stepping on him. He quickly picked up the sword that had fallen to the side and stood up. ¡°Yes.¡±


    He found ropes and tied Tang Ming up. The other deputy generals also rushed over. ¡°General!¡±


    ¡°Control them first,¡± Song Jingchen said.


    After receiving the instructions, the few of them did not dare to delay and went to give orders.


    ¡®Master, if these people keep doing this¡­¡± Thirty Thousand felt upset as he looked at the chaos around him.


    Although he was not familiar with these people, if he put himself in their shoes, he would not be able to do it if his companions became like this one day.


    Actually, even if it was the enemy who barged in, everyone would not be so flustered. However, the ones who attacked them were their teammates who were familiar with them in the past.


    It had to be known that as long as they hesitated slightly, they would end up in eternal damnation.


    Song Jingchen said solemnly, ¡°Let¡¯s go and see Brother Xiao first.¡±


    With that, he walked straight towards Xiao Qirui¡¯s tent. Just as he reached the door, someone flew out. Song Jingchen helped him up.


    Seeing who it was, Xiao Li said anxiously, ¡°Bulwark Duke, quickly, my young master¡­ ¡±


    Before he could finish, Song Jingchen had already lifted the curtain and entered the tent.


    With a whoosh, the blade cut through the air. Song Jingchen dodged the oncoming sword and grabbed Xiao Qirui¡¯s wrist..

 Chapter 909 - Chapter 909: Enemy Attack (2)

    Chapter 909: Enemy Attack (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At the same time, he saw the two soldiers lying on the ground in the tent. As expected.


    Xiao Qirui looked at him with bloodshot eyes. Although he said that he was looking, his eyes were unfocused. He ignored the danger of his right hand, which was holding the sword, breaking. He clenched his left fist and attacked fiercely.


    Worried that Song Jingchen would kill his young master, Xiao Li hurriedly explained, ¡°My young master is still conscious. He just told me to leave quickly.¡±


    Song Jingchen hesitated for a moment before letting go of his wrist and choosing to defend.


    The two fists collided, and he was forced back dozens of steps. Shock flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s expression was cold as he slashed over with his sword again, filled with killing intent.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. He pulled out the sword at his waist to block. The two of them were extremely fast. Sabers and swords flashed, and only shadows could be seen.


    The difference was that Song Jingchen had always focused on defense. On the other hand, Xiao Qirui¡¯s every move was fatal. If this continued, Song Jingchen would be seriously injured sooner or later.


    Xiao Li and Thirty Thousand were extremely anxious. They were worried that something would happen to their master and wanted to help, but the two of them couldn¡¯t even get close.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that General Xiao is still conscious?¡± Noticing that Song


    Jingchen was injured, Thirty Thousand questioned.


    Xiao Li paused. ¡°Conscious. Yes, he was conscious¡­¡±


    He bypassed the two people fighting and ran towards the bed. Thirty Thousand followed in confusion.


    Xiao Li rummaged through the bed and turned the pillow and blanket into a mess. He muttered anxiously, ¡°Where did it go? Why is it gone?¡±


    ¡°What are you looking for?¡±


    ¡°A box. A box of letters.¡± As Xiao Li spoke, he gestured the size of the box with his hands.


    Thirty Thousand was suspicious and did not understand what a box was for. However, standing here alone could not solve any problems, so he decided to help look for it.


    The two of them searched the bed but could not find any boxes. From the corner of their eyes, they saw something. Thirty Thousand pointed at the table in the middle and asked, ¡°Is it that one?¡±


    Xiao Li looked in the direction he was pointing. ¡®Yes, yes, it¡¯s that box.¡±


    However, the two people in the middle were fighting fiercely. How were they going to get close?


    Song Jingchen had been looking for an opportunity to control Xiao Qirui, so he naturally didn¡¯t miss their conversation.


    He glanced at the box not far from him and stepped on it. He kicked it out.


    Xiao Qirui swung his sword and cut the box in half. The letters inside scattered and fell to the ground.


    Looking at the letters that had been cut in half all over the ground, something flashed across Xiao Qirui¡¯s mind. He paused, and a hint of struggle appeared in his eyes.


    The killing intent around him froze. With a clang, the sword in his hand fell to the ground.


    ¡°Young Master, you¡¯re awake.¡± Xiao Li was about to run over when Thirty Thousand quickly stopped him.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Xiao Qirui covered his head in pain and squatted down.


    ¡°Brother Xiao,¡± Song Jingchen called out tentatively.


    Xiao Qirui suddenly looked up and sized up Song Jingchen¡¯s injuries with his blood-red eyes. Then, he looked at the two soldiers lying on the ground beside him and suddenly picked up the swords on the ground.


    Guessing what he was going to do, Song Jingchen¡¯s pupils constricted and he was about to attack.


    ¡°Don¡¯t come over!¡± Xiao Qirui roared with bloodshot eyes. He raised his sword to his neck and quickly stood up and took a step back.


    He knew that he could not last long. Instead of becoming a killing machine like the black-robed man, he might as well end it himself while his rationality was still intact.


    ¡°Young Master, they¡¯re not dead. They just fainted from your blows.¡± Xiao Li was about to cry.


    ¡°It¡¯s useless.¡± The redness in Xiao Qirui¡¯s eyes did not fade at all. His face twisted for a moment as he gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Ah Chen, do you still remember the poison in the Emperor?¡± His voice trembled.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip on his sword.


    The reason why the Emperor was labeled as a lunatic was because Ji Yunxi poisoned him. When the poison acted up, he killed everyone he saw. How could he not remember?


    The situation of Xiao Qirui and those soldiers was more than a hundred times worse.


    Song Jingchen closed his eyes. ¡®Wait a little longer. There must be a way to resolve it.¡±


    ¡°No, the city gate of Nanling Pass was broken, but Yan Guangmao only sent the black-robed man in. He¡¯s not in a hurry to attack the city because he¡¯s


    IATAitino


    What were they waiting for? They were waiting for these people to flare up and for the Great Xia soldiers to kill each other.


    However, where did he get his confidence from? It was none other than the fact that this poison was incurable.


    Rather than calling it poison, it was better to say that the living dead could no longer be saved.


    He didn¡¯t believe that Song Jingchen hadn¡¯t thought of this, but he wasn¡¯t willing to admit it.


    The tent fell into a dead silence.


    ¡°Report!¡± A soldier scrambled in. ¡°The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army is attacking.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened. ¡°Where are they?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re less than twenty miles from the city gate.¡±


    Twenty miles. They would be here in less than half an hour.


    The commotion outside continued. Yan Guangmao had clearly calculated the time and arrived.


    ¡°Xiao Li, bring me my armor,¡± Xiao Qirui suddenly said.


    ¡°Young Master?¡± Xiao Li was shocked.


    Xiao Qirui looked at Song Jingchen firmly. ¡°I¡¯ll bring those injured soldiers out to stall for time. I¡¯ll leave the rest to you.¡±


    The injured soldiers he mentioned were the ones who had been injured tonight.


    ¡°I¡¯ll end myself before I lose control.¡± This sentence seemed to be meant for Song Jingchen, but it also seemed to be reminding himself.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists. ¡°I¡¯ll make the arrangements.¡± With that, he turned around and left the tent.


    It was a crucial moment, and he could not be benevolent.


    In the tent, Xiao Li helped Xiao Qirui put on his armor with trembling hands. ¡°Young Master, I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    ¡°You follow the Bulwark Duke!¡±


    Veins bulged on Xiao Qirui¡¯s forehead. It was obvious that he had been holding back his urge to kill someone.


    ¡°I promised Madam and Miss that I would stay by your side at all times. I¡­¡±


    ¡°This is an order,¡± Xiao Qirui said sternly.-

 Chapter 910 - Chapter 910: Xiao Qirui’s Death

    Chapter 910: Xiao Qirui¡¯s Death


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The moonlight was like water, and the evening wind blew.


    Flames soared at the city gate, and the smell of burning corpses mixed with the smell of blood in the air.


    The enemy army surged towards the city gate.


    Under the boundless sky, the young general held a long sword and stood in front of the army domineeringly.


    The people he brought had long died. The dark brown warhorses fell at his feet, along with the warhorses and the corpses of the enemy troops.


    One man holding the fort against ten thousand.


    His armor had long been stained red with blood. Some of it belonged to the enemy, while some of it belonged to him.


    Bright red blood dripped from the tip of his sword, leaving red marks on the ground. With every step he took, he left a blood-red footprint.


    More and more blood gathered on the ground, and his life was rapidly draining away, but he couldn¡¯t feel it. There was only killing in his eyes and a voice in his heart.


    Stop them!


    Stop them!


    The hundreds of thousands of enemy soldiers were so frightened by the murderous aura around him that they stopped in their tracks.


    ¡°General, he¡­¡± Bu Ren was shocked.


    How was that possible?


    Why didn¡¯t he fall when he was so seriously injured?


    Yan Guangmao glanced coldly at the black-robed man beside him. ¡°How long are you going to watch the show?¡±


    Si Yun looked up at Xiao Qirui, as if sized up his personal belongings. He smiled in satisfaction and untied a white bone flute from his waist.


    A strange flute sound spread out from his body. Circles of sound waves spread out, making one¡¯s scalp tingle.


    However, the sound of the flute, which sounded slightly uncomfortable to others, entered Xiao Qirui¡¯s ears. It was like tens of thousands of silver needles stabbing into his brain, devouring his rationality bit by bit.


    Xiao Qirui bent his right Imee, and his facial features became ferocious.


    Si Yun smiled proudly. Just as he thought that nothing would go wrong, Xiao Qirui suddenly raised his head and looked straight at him with his scarlet eyes.


    Si Yun¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He slowly put down the bone flute and said in disbelief, ¡°He lost control.¡±


    Uncontrolled by his flute, he had completely become a killing machine! Yan Guangmao mocked, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to miscalculate.¡±


    Si Yun¡¯s eyes turned cold as he said sinisterly, ¡°There are still hundreds of thousands of puppets in the city for us to use. This¡­ we¡¯ll just kill him.¡±


    Although he said that, he was clearly unwilling to give up such a good weapon. He picked up the bone flute again. His fingers danced quickly, and the sound of the flute became stranger and faster.


    Xiao Qirui moved. With the momentum of an army, he quickly rushed towards Si Yun at the back of the army like an unsheathed blade.


    ¡°Release the arrows and stop him. Don¡¯t let him get close to the commander and the high priest.¡± Bu Ren roared.


    Arrows flew at Xiao Qirui, but they could not slow him down at all. He rushed into the middle of the army like a demon from hell.


    The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom fell one after another, and blood dyed the ground red. When Xiao Qirui¡¯s figure rushed through the army and appeared again, he was covered in blood.


    Bu Ren quickly threw out his meteor hammer to block it. With a clang, the chain was broken by the sword qi and sent Bu Ren flying.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Bu Ren spat out a mouthful of blood and looked at the young man walking towards him in fear.


    However, Xiao Qirui didn¡¯t even look at him and stabbed at Si Yun.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± Si Yun sighed. He flipped his fingers and a silver needle flew out of his fingertips.


    It was swift.


    The silver needle drilled into the space between his eyebrows.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s attacks stopped.


    The sword fell to the ground.


    Xiao Qirui fell to the ground weakly. A pouch fell out of the broken armor on his chest and rolled to the bloodstained ground.


    A trace of clarity flashed across his eyes. He used his last bit of strength to grab the pouch.


    ¡°If I can return triumphantly, can we get to know each other again?¡±


    While he was in a daze, a young girl in plain clothes slowly walked towards him and smile.¡±Alright¡±


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s lips curled up.


    At this moment, war drums sounded on the city tower, and the flag of Great Xia was raised in the wind.


    ¡°Is it finally here?¡± he thought.


    He closed his eyes in relief.


    ¡°Miss Yuan, in the next life, if we can meet again, I won¡¯t let you down..¡±

 Chapter 911 - Chapter 911: Untitled

    Chapter 911: Untitled


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Is he¡­ dead?¡±


    Bu Ren looked at Xiao Qirui, who was dead on the ground. Thinking of the many brothers who had died in his hands, he pulled out his sword from the waist of the soldier beside him and was about to behead him.


    An arrow brushed past the back of his hand and stabbed into Xiao Qirui¡¯s side.


    The arrow feathers buzzed and vibrated. They seemed to be filled with grief and protectiveness.


    Bu Ren¡¯s pupils constricted and he looked up at the city tower.


    Yan Guangmao also looked over, his eyes darkening. ¡°Let¡¯s enter the city.¡±


    His purpose in entering the city was not to attack the city. In his opinion, the current Nanling Pass was nothing to him.


    The horn sounded, and the army quickly approached the city gate. However, due to the threat of the arrows, they tacitly bypassed the corpse on the ground that was filled with arrows.


    Song Jingchen clenched his fists and turned to look at the army behind him. ¡°General Xiao bought us enough time. We¡¯ll have to rely on everyone next.¡± As he spoke, he bent down and bowed deeply.


    In a place where no one could see, a faint smile slowly appeared on his lips.


    ¡°We swear to defend Nanling Pass and Great Xia. We won¡¯t let General Xiao die in vain!¡±


    ¡°We swear to defend Nanling Pass and Great Xia. We won¡¯t let General Xiao die in vain!¡±


    Everyone roared with red eyes. Their voices surged and pierced through everyone¡¯s eardrums.


    Their eyes were firm, but everyone knew that they only had 100,000 troops left to fight. They had no chance of winning against the 400,000 troops that the Wu Kingdom had mobilized this time.


    The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army¡¯s attack this time was even fiercer than before. One wave of people fell, and the other wave approached. They could not kill them all.


    More and more soldiers climbed the gate tower. Everyone¡¯s eyes were bloodshot from the killing.


    Boom!


    A loud bang came from the city tower. The hearts of the soldiers on the city tower turned cold. It was too fast!


    Behind the city gate, Song Jingchen led the remaining 50,000 people and waited.


    The sound of hooves came from behind and stopped beside Song Jingchen.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t turn around and asked indifferently, ¡°Did you send them away?


    ¡°Who are you sending away? Bulwark Duke!¡± A gnashing voice sounded.


    Song Jingchen suddenly turned around and met a cold face. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Thirty Thousand hid behind Shen Yijia and did not dare to look at him.


    He had tried to trick his Young Madam into going to Qingyang City according to his master¡¯s words, but she didn¡¯t believe him at all. He had no choice.


    Shen Yijia snorted. ¡°I¡¯ll settle scores with you after this.¡±


    She was wearing armor that she had found somewhere, but surprisingly, it fit her.


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth. ¡°Our child¡­¡±


    ¡°If his father is gone, why would I need him?¡± Shen Yijia said angrily.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart seemed to be grabbed by something. It felt uncomfortable and he didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Bang!


    Bang!


    Bang!


    A huge collision sounded one after another, and the city gate shook visibly.


    This city gate was built at the last minute and could not last long.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Then follow me closely later.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the city gate completely collapsed with a bang.


    The enemy army rushed into the city like a swarm of locusts. However, someone stepped on a mechanism. Rolling wood with sharp iron thorns fell with a bang and quickly rolled towards the enemy along the inconspicuous slope.


    Before the Wu Kingdom soldiers in front could react, they were pierced by the spikes.


    ¡°Move!¡± Bu Ren shouted and swung the half of the meteor hammer over. The rollinz wood stopped.


    However, before the Wu Kingdom soldiers could heave a sigh of relief, several fire arrows pierced into the logs and instantly ignited them.


    In the next moment, with a loud bang, the rolling wood exploded, blasting the soldiers around it into a badly mangled mess.


    This was not the end. The flames that splashed out were blown away by the wind.


    The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom were burned so badly that they covered their heads and fled. At this moment, buckets of kerosene poured down from the city gate tower, forcing the soldiers who had one foot in Nanling Pass to retreat for a few kilometers.


    ¡°Black gunpowder?¡± Yan Guangmao looked at the rolling logs that rolled out of the city one by one and frowned.


    Si Yun sneered. ¡°It¡¯s just flour.¡±


    He looked at the man in the city with interest.. If he could use this person as a puppet¡­

 Chapter 912 - Chapter 912: Reinforcements Arrive (1)

    Chapter 912: Reinforcements Arrive (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Noticing Si Yun¡¯s gaze on Song Jingchen, Shen Yijia¡¯s face turned cold. ¡°Leave him to me later.¡±


    It was obvious that he was the one who created the black-robed men. Now, he even dared to target her people.


    Very good, the hundreds of thousands of soldiers, Xiao Qirui, and her mother¡¯s seven years of imprisonment would be avenged today.


    Song Jingchen glanced at her.


    ¡°His poison doesn¡¯t work on me,¡± Shen Yijia explained.


    The brat in her stomach had swallowed her spiritual liquid. If he dared to poison her¡­


    ¡°Hmph, when he comes out, I¡¯ll let him know why his butt is so red.¡± she thought.


    A certain genderless child cowered.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and knew that she had made up her mind. He reminded her, ¡°Be careful.¡±


    Then, she looked at Xiao Li, whose eyes were red. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°You and Thirty Thousand will bring two teams and find an opportunity to bring Brother Xiao back.¡±


    Xiao Li wiped his tears and choked. ¡°Thank you, Bulwark Duke.¡±


    Although the rolling logs at the city gate had exhausted a portion of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers, this was not enough to completely stop their attack.


    In less than five minutes, countless Wu Kingdom soldiers surged into the city again.


    The sound of hooves mixed with this shout seemed to shake the entire Nanling Pass.


    The difference in military strength between the two sides was too great. The Wu Kingdom¡¯s army had the absolute advantage in numbers. Even if they exhausted themselves, they could exhaust the Great Xia soldiers to death.


    To the soldiers of Great Xia, this was destined to be a battle to the death.


    ¡°Let¡¯s fight them to the death!¡± 50,000 soldiers roared as they went up to them.


    In an instant, the two sides clashed, and the sound of killing shook the sky.


    Song Jingchen charged through the heavy-armored cavalry like an iron shield alone. The sword in his hand was like a lightning dragon. Wherever the cold light reached, it dazzled. Even though his iron armor was like a mountain, no one could stop him.


    You Yi also joined the battlefield. He was born to kill. At this moment, he was like a flood dragon entering the sea. He raised his hand and slashed down. The enemy soldiers fell to the ground like wheat stalks.


    ¡°I can finally kill to my heart¡¯s content.¡± Shen Yijia bared her teeth and pulled out the long whip at her waist.


    The whip whistled through the air. Usually, before the enemy¡¯s spears could touch her, she would whip them off their horses and kill them.


    Wherever the three of them passed, there were mountains of corpses and seas of blood.


    Most of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army¡¯s unstoppable aura was suppressed by them, and their formation was completely messed up.


    However, their target was not these soldiers.


    Song Jingchen took the lead and led a group of cavalry elites to clear the way. Shen Yijia and You Yi each led a team on the left and right wing. The three teams led the army and charged into the dense Wu Kingdom army.


    ¡°Shoot the horse and capture the leader first.¡± he thought.


    No matter how powerful they were, it was impossible for them to kill all 400,000 soldiers. It would only tire them out. Only by killing Yan Guangmao and Si Yun could they end this war as quickly as possible.


    More and more soldiers surrounded them.


    When the horses under them fell, they immediately snatched the enemy¡¯s horses and continued to charge.


    However, it was not easy for them to break through the human wall formed by 400,000 people alone. The warhorses could be snatched, but the stamina they lost could not be replenished.


    The cavalry behind them had long been devoured by the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. Even Shen Yijia, who was far stronger than ordinary people, gradually felt tired, let alone Song Jingchen and You Yi. The three of them were enraged.


    Soon.


    They were almost there.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Yan Guangmao looked at Si Yun. ¡°Where¡¯s your puppet?¡±


    Si Yun tightened his grip on the bone flute. ¡°That¡¯s it.¡±


    There was only one possibility why his flute could not summon the living dead.


    Yan Guangmao was shocked and turned to look at the young man who was approaching him.


    He actually¡­ killed all those people?


    However, before Yan Guangmao could think further, Song Jingchen¡¯s attack was already close.


    He quickly swung his saber to block. The sabers and swords collided with a clang, producing dazzling sparks in the night.


    The blood on his face blurred Song Jingchen¡¯s face, but the killing intent in his eyes was tangible.


    ¡°Hmph, you¡¯re courting death.¡± Yan Guangmao sneered and took the initiative to attack.


    Perhaps because his plan didn¡¯t work, Si Yun had no intention of watching from the sidelines this time. He flipped his fingers, and several silver needles flew out of his fingertips and shot at Song Jingchen.


    With a whoosh, the long whip that rushed in blocked all the silver needles.


    ¡°Heh, aren¡¯t you ashamed to pinch embroidery needles all day?¡± Shen Yijia rode over to block his path and said disdainfully, ¡°Oh, it¡¯s also possible that you¡¯re not a man at all..¡±

 Chapter 913 - Chapter 913: Reinforcements Arrive (2)

    Chapter 913: Reinforcements Arrive (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Si Yun recognized her and his eyes were filled with hostility. He hated Ji Luo for betraying their engagement and ruining his destiny. He hated Shen Yijia, who Ji Luo had given birth to with another man.


    ¡°You have a death wish,¡± he spat out angrily.


    ¡°What a coincidence. This is what I wanted to say to you.¡± Shen Yijia wrapped the whip around her palm and said coldly, ¡°I want your life.¡±


    With that, she stopped talking to Si Yun and suddenly swung her whip at him.


    The corners of Si Yun¡¯s lips curled up in disdain. He used his qinggong and jumped up, perfectly dodging the whip. Then, he swooped down and slapped Shen Yijia¡¯s head.


    Shen Yijia hooked her feet onto the horse¡¯s pedal and leaned back to avoid it. Si


    Yun¡¯s palm slapped the horse¡¯s back.


    The warhorse collapsed without even letting out a neigh. ¡°I hate flying enemies the most in my life.¡±


    The annoying Si Yun could fly. She hated him twice as much.


    Before Si Yun could figure out what she meant, his wrist was wrapped in a long whip.


    ¡°Scum, accept my anger.¡± she thought.


    Shen Yijia threw him to the ground and grabbed his wrist.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see how you use poison without your hands.¡±


    At this moment, more than ten powerful men in black suddenly rushed out of the night behind and raised their swords to attack Shen Yijia.


    You Yi blocked them with his sword. ¡°Your opponent is me.¡±


    The dozen or so men in black looked at each other and attacked him in unison.


    Crack. It was the sound of bones breaking.


    Si Yun¡¯s pale face twisted in pain. He subconsciously slapped Shen Yijia with his other hand, but his hand was grabbed again.


    There were a few more cracking sounds. From his wrist to his elbow, the bones in his hand broke one by one.


    Shen Yijia tried again. She grabbed his arms and flipped them in the air, twisting them 180 degrees.


    Several spears stabbed over from the side. Shen Yijia quickly retreated to avoid them. She grabbed Si Yun¡¯s legs and swung them at the surrounding soldiers. They did not dare to hurt Si Yun, so it was inevitable that they would be


    Les Lldlneu.


    Shen Yijia sneered. She simply grabbed him and used him as a meat shield. From time to time, she would whip him and harvest a few heads.


    Si Yun was thrown around like a rag. His body was covered in wounds from the soldiers¡¯ spears. He could not even scream, let alone say anything harsh. If he was given another chance, he would never let Shen Yijia get close to him.


    Unfortunately, there was no medicine for regret in this world.


    On the other side, Yan Guangmao and Song Jingchen had already fought for a hundred rounds. It would have been fine under normal circumstances, but Song Jingchen was already exhausted from fighting his way out of the encirclement.


    At this moment, against an expert like Yan Guangmao, his arm and waist were injured. If one looked carefully, his hand that was holding the sword was even trembling slightly.


    The only thing he was glad about was that the commotion caused by the two of them fighting was too great. Sand and rocks flew everywhere, and the surrounding soldiers could not approach. He did not have to divert his attention to deal with them.


    Yan Guangmao slashed with his long saber.


    Song Jingchen swung his sword to block it.


    The weapons collided, and a series of flames erupted in the night.


    The two of them did not give way to each other. Their eyes were inches apart, and even the killing intent in their eyes was killing each other.


    Yan Guangmao threw a punch, and Song Jingchen blocked it with his fist.


    Invisible internal energy exploded in the middle, and the two of them were forced back dozens of steps.


    Song Jingchen knelt on one knee and supported his overexerted body with his sword. He looked straight at Yan Guangmao with his scarlet eyes.


    Yan Guangmao moved his slightly numb arm without a trace, and a solemn expression flashed across his eyes.


    ¡°You¡¯re not bad, but unfortunately, you were unlucky to meet me.¡± He seemed to pity and mock him. Without giving Song Jingchen a chance to buffer himself, the saber slashed at him again.


    A terrifying killing intent appeared in Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes. This time, he didn¡¯t dodge. Instead, he caught Yan Guangmao¡¯s saber with his bare hands.


    Surprise flashed across Yan Guangmao¡¯s eyes. He wanted to retract his attack, but it was too late.


    The sword pierced through his heart.


    Yan Guangmao¡¯s eyes turned sharp as he smacked Song Jingchen¡¯s chest.


    Song Jingchen was sent flying. Behind him were countless spears in the hands of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers, but he no longer had the strength to dodge.


    At the critical moment, a long whip wrapped around his waist and pulled him away from the soldiers.


    Shen Yijia flashed over and caught him. Seeing that he was covered in blood, she was stunned. ¡°Hubby¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s throat moved. ¡°Am I very useless?¡±


    His pupils were scarlet. As he spoke, blood kept flowing from the corner of his mouth.


    If it were any other time, he would definitely not say such a thing. However, too many things had happened today..

 Chapter 914 - Chapter 914: Reinforcements Arrive (3)

    Chapter 914: Reinforcements Arrive (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Thinking of the hundreds of thousands of Great Xia soldiers he had personally ordered to be killed, thinking of Xiao Qirui¡¯s death, the helplessness he felt when his family was raided swept through his every nerve again.


    He couldn¡¯t save anyone. Nothing could be changed.


    Shen Yijia felt a lump in her throat. ¡°Who said that? My husband is the best.¡±


    ¡°Only a silly girl like you would say that.¡± Song Jingchen smiled. Sensing something, his pupils constricted. He suddenly hugged Shen Yijia and changed directions with her.


    The rapidly approaching hidden weapons quickly enlarged in Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes.


    Ding! An arrow nailed the hidden weapon less than a square inch away from Song Jingchen¡¯s back.


    Right on the heels of that, the roar of horses galloping came from the right rear of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. The ground seemed to be trembling.


    Accompanied by the sound of hooves was the deep sound of a horn and the sound of war drums.


    Dong! Dong! Dong! With the momentum of mountains and rivers, it resounded throuqh the world, causing everyone¡¯s hearts to tremble.


    The hearts of the Great Xia soldiers turned cold. Could it be another army of the Wu Kingdom coming from that direction?


    Yan Guangmao leaned against a man in black. The hidden weapon that had ambushed Shen Yijia just now was shot by the man in black. Yan Guangmao turned around with difficulty and looked in the direction of the night. He had an ominous feeling.


    ¡°Report! the Xuanyuan army is here!¡± A scout ran over in a panic.


    ¡°Don¡¯t shake the morale of the army!¡± Yan Guangmao roared with bloodshot eyes. As soon as he finished speaking, he spat out a mouthful of blood.


    How was that possible?


    A few days ago, he had received a letter from Lin¡¯an City. The letter said that they wanted to capture Xuanyuan Ce alive. The army of the Xuanyuan Kingdom would not even have time to react, so how could they come here?


    ¡°It¡¯s really the Xuanyuan Flag. The person leading the army is a white-haired man. ¡±


    Yan Guangmao¡¯s pupils shrank.


    With a head full of white hair, who else could it be other than Xuanyuan Ce? Could it be that Lin¡¯an City had fallen?


    At some point, dawn slowly rose in the sky. Stepping on that light, tens of thousands of cavalry galloped over. Every one of them was wearing cold silver armor, and they were like sharp arrows that could split the sky and earth. They rolled towards Nanling Pass with an overwhelming aura.


    ¡°It¡¯s the beautiful uncle. Hubby, the beautiful uncle is here.¡± This was the first time Shen Yijia found Xuanyuan Ce so pleasing to the eye.


    Yan Guangmao¡¯s pupils constricted. He gritted his teeth and instructed, ¡°Capture her.¡±


    He was referring to Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Bullsh*t.¡± Shen Yijia shielded Song Jingchen behind her and grabbed the long whip to whip the ground. With a bang, dust flew up. The soldiers who wanted to approach were so frightened that they stopped in their tracks.


    However, the ordinary soldiers were frightened. The men in black who were originally fighting You Yi changed their direction, leaving only two people to continue holding You Yi back. The others attacked her together.


    Shen Yijia was about to go up to them when five men in black with silver masks suddenly appeared in front of her.


    This was¡­


    After interacting with You Yi for a long time, she naturally recognized the five of them at a glance.


    However, didn¡¯t Xuanyuan Ce only have three Demon Guards? You Yi was following him, and he had sent You Er to her mother¡¯s side. Where did these four extra guards come from?


    How could Shen Yijia know that Xuanyuan Qi was worried about Xuanyuan Ce and sent four of his seven Demon Guards to protect him?


    ¡°Let¡¯s see who dares to touch my daughter!¡± Xuanyuan Ce roared domineeringly.


    ¡°Anyone who touches the princess will die!¡±


    ¡°Anyone who touches the princess will die!¡±


    The soldiers of the Xuanyuan Kingdom roared in unison, as if they had practiced it countless times in advance.


    Great Xia¡¯s soldiers thought to themselves, ¡°What? Are those our reinforcements?¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°This is so impressive. I suddenly feel that it¡¯s not a bad idea to be a princess.¡±


    With the Demon Guards around, no one could get close to Shen Yijia, let alone capture her.


    The morale of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers, who were fighting the soldiers of Great Xia in the city, had also plummeted because of the arrival of the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army.


    Yan Guangmao was already seriously injured and was forcing himself to hold on. Seeing this, he was so angry that he vomited blood a few times. ¡°Master, we¡¯ll escort you away first,¡± the man in black asked for instructions. Yan Guangmao closed his eyes. ¡°Retreat.¡±


    As soon as the retreat signal was issued, the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom retreated from the left like a tide.


    However, how could Xuanyuan Ce let them leave so easily? He took the lead and chased after them with the army.


    The Great Xia soldiers were not to be outdone and pursued them as well.


    Less than half of the nearly 400,000 troops of the Wu Kingdom that attacked the city safely retreated in the end.


    The Wu Kingdom was doomed.


    Now, what they had to think about was no longer how to break through the Nanling Pass, but how to withstand the anger of Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom and protect their territory.


    Unfortunately, Yan Guangmao was still taken away by a group of people, leaving Si Yun, who was beaten to death by Shen Yijia.


    Actually, this was normal. The people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets thought highly of themselves and thought that they were superior to others in every aspect.


    However, the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom only called them high priests out of respect for their king. Who would really take them seriously?


    Xuanyuan Ce rode his horse back and dismounted. He walked to Shen Yijia¡¯s side and smiled. ¡°Daughter, am I powerful?¡±


    As he spoke, he glanced smugly at Song Jingchen, who was leaning against Shen Yijia.


    Hmph, he still had to rely on his daughter to protect her. What a piece of trash!


    Shen Yijia subconsciously wanted to retort, but when she saw something, her heart skipped a beat.


    Song Jingchen also looked in that direction.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked over suspiciously and saw a team of blood-covered soldiers slowly walking towards them on the battlefield filled with corpses.


    The eyes of the soldier walking at the front were red, and he was carrying a man who had been shot several times.


    ¡°Young Master, did you see that? We won, ¡± Xiao Li muttered.


    He recalled what the young man had said to him with a smile that day. ¡°Xiao Li, perhaps we can really go back alive.¡±


    Xiao Li could no longer control himself. He fell to his knees and roared mournfully.


    ¡°Young Master, I¡¯ll bring you home!¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes turned red as she threw herself into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and cried silently..

 Chapter 915 - Chapter 915: Good News

    Chapter 915: Good News


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the suburbs of the capital, because it had rained for a few days in a row, the farmstead was covered in mud.


    ¡°There¡¯s no end to this damn weather,¡± You Bai muttered. She resigned herself to her fate and cleaned up the corridor. Seeing that it was about time, she put down the broom and went to the kitchen to get a basin of water to bring into Yuan Yuwan¡¯s room.


    She first placed the basin on a shelf at the side and walked to the bed to hang


    up the curtain. Just as she lifted a corner, she saw the girl sitting motionless on the bed with her knees crossed. She was shocked. ¡°Miss, why didn¡¯t you call me when you woke up?¡±


    As she spoke, she hung the bed curtain properly and touched the embroidered pillow. There was no warmth on it, so it was obvious that the girl had woken up long ago.


    Her heart skipped a beat. She reached out to touch the girl¡¯s forehead.


    Yuan Yuwan subconsciously avoided her. As if she had just noticed her entering, the corners of her mouth twitched and she said, ¡°I haven¡¯t been awake for long. Is it still raining outside?¡±


    ¡°Yes, of course. This weather¡­¡± Halfway through her complaint, You Bai noticed something. His pupils constricted. ¡°Miss, why are you crying?


    Yuan Yuwan paused and raised her hand to touch her cheek. When her fingertips touched something wet, she shook her head. ¡°The light is blinding.¡±


    How could You Bai believe her? However, sensing that she was not in a good mood, she did not dare to ask further.


    After breakfast, she saw her in the east courtyard staring blankly at a cage of rabbits. She couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. She asked worriedly, ¡°Miss, are you worried about Young General Xiao?¡±


    These rabbits were caught by Xiao Qirui when he first arrived at the manor to relieve his young lady¡¯s boredom.


    After so long, there were already more than ten of them.


    The rabbit cage also expanded from a small one.


    Yuan Yuwan took a while to speak. ¡°Is there any news from Chang¡¯an recently?¡±


    If it were any other time, her young lady would have refuted her long ago. How could it be like this? You Bai was even more certain of her guess. He hesitated and said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it raining these few days? No one in the manor has entered the city, so¡­¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded and threw the vegetable leaves in her hand into the cage. ¡°Tell Uncle Cai to get ready. Let¡¯s enter the city.¡±


    You Bai was afraid that she would fall sick from being cooped up in the village, so she didn¡¯t persuade her that it was difficult to walk in the rain. She hurriedly went to call Uncle Cai to prepare a horse.


    Fifteen minutes later, the carriage left the village unsteadily and entered the city at noon.


    ¡°Miss, where are we going?¡± Uncle Cai asked from outside.


    Yuan Yuwan pursed her lips and said, ¡°To the Fan residence.¡±


    After Fan Mingyuan married Xiao Ruoshui, he did not stay in the Duke¡¯s residence. Instead, he lived in Liu¡¯er Alley.


    The carriage stopped at the entrance of Fan Manor. As soon as Yuan Yuwan got out of the carriage, another carriage drove in from the other side of the alley.


    Without waiting for the carriage to stabilize, Xiao Ruoshui got out of it happily. ¡°Sister Yuwan, why are you here?¡±


    Seeing her stomach, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyelids twitched. She quickly walked over to help her up. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant. Why are you still so rash?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui smiled and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the doctor said that the pregnancy is going well. I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    As she spoke, she patted her stomach. ¡°This kid is so tough.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°You have to be careful.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, stop talking about me. It wasn¡¯t easy for me to survive the first three months. I was prepared to visit you in a few days when it stopped raining. Why did you enter the city in the rain?¡± Without waiting for Yuan Yuwan to speak, she continued, ¡°Let¡¯s go in first. I have good news for you.¡± Yuan Yuwan smiled and nodded.


    ¡°Really? We won?¡± In the attic, You Bai said in surprise.


    Xiao Ruoshui raised her chin proudly. ¡°I just heard this news from my father.


    My father heard it from the palace. How can it be fake?¡±


    ¡°I heard that my brother made a great contribution this time.¡± She blinked at Yuan Yuwan and continued, ¡°There has been good news twice in a row. I think it won¡¯t be long before we can completely defeat the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army. I only hope that we can meet at the city gate before I give birth.¡±


    At this point, she smiled evilly. ¡°Jiajia and Brother Song will definitely return with the army. Sister Yuwan, you¡¯ll definitely be there to welcome Jiajia, right?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan picked up her teacup and took a sip without saying anything. She secretly heaved a sigh of relief under the cover of her sleeve.


    Author¡¯s Note: There is a time lag when the news of the border pass reached the capital. At this time, the news they received was the second time Nanling Pass had defended the city, in which Xiao Qirui led a hundred thousand troops out of the city to fight and repel the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army..

 Chapter 916 - Chapter 916: Fetal Movements (1)

    Chapter 916: Fetal Movements (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the way back to the manor, You Bai clearly felt that her young lady¡¯s mood had improved a lot, so she dared to tease her.


    ¡°Not only is Young General Xiao fine, but he also made a great contribution. Miss, are you relieved now?¡± she said with a smile.


    Yuan Yuwan glanced at her. ¡°When did I say I was worried about him?¡±


    ¡°Oh, you definitely weren¡¯t worried.¡± You Bai shook her head exaggeratedly and pretended to be in deep thought. ¡°I wonder who¡¯s been so distracted these past two days. The person can even use salt instead of sugar when making snacks. It¡¯s fine if they don¡¯t turn the page after reading for a long time, but they prick their hands the moment they pick up a needle and thread¡­¡±


    Speaking of this, You Bail s heart ached. If not for the fact that there were not many things in the village that could pass the time, she would have hidden the needlework basket long ago.


    ¡°I was worried about Jiajia. She¡¯s a girl¡­¡±


    You Bails eyes widened and she stared at her. ¡°Continue, I don¡¯t believe you.¡± she thought.


    Yuan Yuwan felt a little embarrassed by her gaze. She reached out to tickle her.


    ¡°I¡¯ve really spoiled you too much. You¡¯re starting to tease me.¡±


    ¡°Haha!¡± You Bai curled up into a ball and laughed until tears came to her eyes. She hurriedly asked for mercy, ¡°Miss, please spare me. I was wrong. You¡¯re worried about Madam Song, not Young General Xiao.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was speechless.


    As the master and servant chatted and laughed, the carriage returned to the manor.


    You Bai helped Yuan Yuwan out of the car and saw that she was looking in a certain direction.


    ¡°Miss, what are you looking at?¡± She followed her gaze.


    Under the rain, a small wooden house stood quietly.


    ¡°Eh, isn¡¯t that the wooden house that Young General Xiao built back then? He even lived there for a long time back then.¡±


    To be precise, ever since Yuan Yuwan moved to the manor, Xiao Qirui had lived there most of the time before the expedition.


    The wooden house was not far from their village. It was built on a small hill and could be seen when one looked up from the courtyard. Similarly, standing in front of the wooden house, one could see everything in the village.


    Yuan Yuwan retracted her gaze. ¡°It¡¯s been raining for a few days in a row. I¡¯m afraid the house is going to leak. Tomorrow, hire a few people to repair it. It¡¯s inconvenient to work in the rain. You can give them more money.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Receiving Yuan Yuwan¡¯s warning gaze, You Bai stuck out her tongue and quickly swallowed her teasing words. ¡°I¡¯ll go to the manor and ask who¡¯s free tomorrow and make a reservation first.¡±


    With that, she ran away with the umbrella.


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head and laughed. She looked up at the wooden house again and tried her best to ignore the dull pain in her heart. She turned around and returned to the courtyard.


    There was no mistake about the good news!


    At Nanling Pass.


    The eastern city gate, which had experienced a huge battle, was devastated. Broken limbs could be seen everywhere. The soldiers and medical officers were methodically cleaning up the mess.


    Because the military doctor¡¯s tent was close to the infirmary, many military doctors were killed by the crazy soldiers last night. Fortunately, Xuanyuan Ce had brought many medical officers with him this time, so there was no need to worry.


    However, although the two countries were allies, there were some boundaries that could not be crossed. For example, the nearly 500,000 soldiers Xuanyuan Ce brought did not enter the pass. Instead, they went to the valley where the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was originally camped and occupied the tents that they did not have time to burn when they evacuated.


    As for Xuanyuan Ce, he left the task of settling the soldiers to Old General Ye and brought Chu Feng and Chu Sheng to the general¡¯s residence.


    Speaking of Chu Sheng, his name should be Chu Lin now.


    Actually, on the first day Xuanyuan Ce saw him, he had been asked by General Shang of the Wu Kingdom to think of a way to bring Xuanyuan Ce into Lin¡¯an City in exchange for the lives of his family.


    Xuanyuan Ce originally wanted to enter Lin¡¯an City and attack from the inside. After some consideration, he decided to beat them at their own game.


    When General Shang was feeling smug because he had caught him and let down his guard, his Demon Guards had already rescued the captured city guards in Lin¡¯an City.


    Coupled with the army led by General Ye outside, they directly wiped out General Shang¡¯s 200,000-strong army at once. They did not even have time to send out any news.


    This was also why Yan Guangmao had no idea.


    Chu Sheng had made a great contribution. Xuanyuan Ce gave him the name Chu Lin according to the agreement. Seeing that he was quite smart, he simply stayed by his side.


    This time, he followed him to Nanling Pass.


    Song Jingchen was seriously injured this time. Putting aside his external injuries, Yan Guangmao¡¯s attack almost shattered his internal organs.


    After returning from the battlefield, he forced himself to make appropriate arrangements before falling into a coma..

 Chapter 917 - Chapter 917: Fetal Movements (2)

    Chapter 917: Fetal Movements (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Fortunately, in order to treat his legs, Shen Yijia had fed him a lot of spiritual liquid. His physique had also improved a lot. Otherwise, if his injuries were on someone else, the military doctor would have shaken his head and sighed.


    When he woke up again, it was already dawn the next day.


    When he opened his eyes and met Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s murderous eyes, he was stunned. ¡°Your Highness?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted. ¡°You¡¯re finally awake.¡±


    Song Jingchen propped himself up and sat up. He realized that this wasn¡¯t his room. He looked around but didn¡¯t see Shen Yijia.


    ¡°Stop looking. I let that girl go back to her room to rest,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said angrily.


    Shen Yijia¡¯s emotions fluctuated easily because she was pregnant. First, she went into battle to kill the enemy, and then she cried because of Xiao Qirui. When she saw that Song Jingchen had fainted, she was so anxious that she almost had a miscarriage.


    After Xuanyuan Ce found out that she was pregnant, he was so angry that he almost slashed at Song Jingchen with a knife.


    He let his pregnant wife go to the battlefield. Was this person careless or did he not care about his daughter at all?


    However, Shen Yijia still refused to leave Song Jingchen¡¯s side. Xuanyuan Ce had no choice but to knock her out.


    Although he didn¡¯t say it, Song Jingchen could more or less guess it. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°Thank you, Your Highness.¡±


    His body was covered in wounds. When he raised his hand, it inevitably pulled at his wounds, causing him to frown in pain.


    Xuanyuan Cel s eyes hurt. This grown man was so good -looking even when he frowned. No wonder he could charm his daughter.


    ¡°It¡¯s good that you¡¯re fine. Don¡¯t let that girl worry about you again.¡± He was clearly concerned, but he had to put on a disdainful expression.


    This could probably only be explained by the fact that his son-in-law was born to be at odds with him.


    Song Jingchen shook his head to indicate that he was fine. ¡°It¡¯s all thanks to His


    Highness¡¯s timely arrival that Nanling was able to escape. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright.¡± Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand impatiently. ¡°I¡¯m doing this for my daughter, not you. Don¡¯t flatter yourself.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°But where did Ah Luo go? Why don¡¯t I see her?¡± Xuanyuan Ce asked.


    Not many people in Nanling Pass knew Ji Luo. Among the people who knew, Song Jingchen was injured and unconscious. He didn¡¯t dare to ask Shen Yijia since she was in a bad mood.


    As for You Yi and Thirty Thousand, the two of them were also seriously injured. He couldn¡¯t find them even if he wanted to ask, so he could only ask Song Jingchen, who was the first to wake up.


    ¡°Mother went to Fengzhou.¡± Song Jingchen told her about them going their separate ways in Yanyang. In the end, he said, ¡°Looking at the time, she should be able to reach Nanling Pass in about ten days.¡±


    They could arrive early because they directly passed through the Three Gorges and walked in a straight line. Not only did Ji Luo have to take a detour from Fengzhou, but she also had to travel with the army, so it would naturally take longer.


    Hearing that there was an army traveling with her, Xuanyuan Ce finally relaxed. However, when he thought about how his wife and daughter were being ordered around by Song Jingchen, he felt a little upset.


    Afraid that he wouldn¡¯t be able to help but strangle Song Jingchen to death if he continued to stay, he glared at him and left without a word.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched helplessly. He endured the pain and got out of bed.


    Liu Jinbao, who had volunteered to take care of Song Jingchen, saw him come out and said worriedly, ¡°General, why are you out? Your injuries¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± Song Jingchen waved his hand. Seeing that this was still the courtyard he used to live in, he returned to his room.


    In the inner room, Shen Yijia lay on the bed with a pale face. She frowned, as if she was not at ease even when she was asleep.


    Song Jingchen blamed himself. He reached out and stroked her brow. He coaxed her softly, ¡°I¡¯m here. It¡¯s fine.¡±


    ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t be afraid¡­¡± Shen Yijia muttered and did not wake up.


    Although she was not injured, breaking through the 400,000 -strong army was too exhausting for her pregnant body.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned red. He carefully tucked her in and leaned down to kiss the top of her head. ¡°Yes, Jiajia is so powerful. I¡¯m not afraid.¡±


    Shen Yijia muttered something again. Her voice was so soft that Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t hear her clearly, but her brows finally relaxed.


    When Song Jingchen came out of the room, not only was Liu Jinbao standing outside the door, but Song Jinghuan was also there.


    ¡°Big Brother.¡±


    ¡°General.¡±


    The two of them called out in unison.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Brother Xiao¡­ where is he?¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips and said, ¡°In the front courtyard.¡±


    ¡°Stay here and guard your sister-in-law. If she wakes up, come and look for me immediately.¡± Song Jingchen turned around and went to the front courtyard.


    Liu Jinbao followed closely behind.


    ¡°Duke.¡± As soon as he arrived at the front courtyard, he met Xiao Li, who had returned from outside. He was still wearing the bloody armor from yesterday. The blood on his face had been washed clean, but his eyes were all bruised. Actually, not only did he not sleep the entire night, but the soldiers in the military camp were also so busy that they did not sleep at all.


    Song Jingchen looked at the bag in his arms.


    ¡°This is what my young master left in the military camp. I went to pack it up just now,¡± Xiao Li explained.


    Although Xiao Qirui often lived in the military camp, he did not have much luggage. He only had two sets of clothes and a few military books.


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°I¡¯m here to see Brother Xiao.¡±


    Xiao Liqiang forced a smile. ¡°I thank you on behalf of my young master.¡±


    As he spoke, he led the way. Before pushing open the door, he paused and said worriedly, ¡°I got someone to place a lot of ice inside. The Duke¡¯s health¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Song Jingchen shook his head.


    The door was pushed open, and a bone-piercing chill assaulted their faces. Xiao Li and Liu Jinbao, who was following behind, looked at Song Jingchen worriedly. He had already walked in first.


    Because they had to put ice in it, the bedding on the bed had been removed. Xiao Qirui was wearing armor and lying on the cold ice.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s throat moved. He lifted his robe and knelt down.


    I¡¯m sorry..

 Chapter 918 - Chapter 918: Crisis

    Chapter 918: Crisis


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    On the 15th of June, the entire Nanling Pass was covered in mourning banners.


    On the street outside the general¡¯s residence, Song Jingchen led tens of thousands of soldiers to stand on both sides, all the way to the west city gate. Everyone quietly looked at the team coming out of the general¡¯s residence. Xiao Li, who was walking beside the coffin with the memorial tablet in his hand, closed his eyes and choked. ¡°Young Master, we¡¯re going home.¡± Yes, they were going home.


    However, the young man¡¯s passion would forever remain on that cold battlefield.


    The mountains and rivers were fine, and the hero had returned to his hometown! When he came, he was a young man, but when he returned, his soul was gone!


    A sorrowful horn sounded. With Song Jingchen in the lead, the soldiers knelt on one knee.


    ¡°Brother Xiao, let¡¯s go home.¡±


    ¡°General Xiao, let¡¯s go home!¡±


    The word ¡°home¡± resounded throughout Nanling Pass. This was not only for Xiao Qirui, but also for the 200,000 soldiers who had sacrificed themselves. It was also the hope in everyone¡¯s hearts.


    However, they knew that they could not go home for the time being.


    Their mission had yet to be completed. They still had to bring their companions¡¯ wishes to completely defeat those evil people who invaded Great Xia, so that they would no longer dare to extend their claws to Great Xia. Only then could they return true peace to Great Xia.


    The sky had darkened at some point. Dark clouds pressed down and thunder rumbled. Heavy rain instantly fell. The mourning banners around them swayed, as if tens of thousands of heroic souls were sobbing silently.


    On the training grounds of the general¡¯s residence, Song Jingchen, who was dressed in white, waved the sword in his hand expressionlessly. His moves seemed casual, but they were filled with killing intent.


    The rain drenched his entire body, and the wound that had just been bandaged cracked open again. Blood seeped into his white clothes, but he did not seem to notice it. His attacks became faster and more ruthless. Every time he attacked, he would hit the target.


    Apart from the dripping of rain, the only sound in the entire training grounds was the sounds of the sword in his hand.


    When Shen Yijia, who had slept for three days in a row, came over, she saw this scene.


    Her heart tightened. She took the umbrella from Song Jinghuan¡¯s hand and was about to go over when a hand reached out from the side to block her way.


    ¡°It¡¯s good to let him vent.¡± Xuanyuan Ce sighed. After coming here for a few days, he more or less understood what had happened before that battle.


    He naturally knew that Song Jingchen was like this not only because of Xiao Qirui¡¯s death, but also because of the nearly 100,000 soldiers he had personally ordered to be killed.


    To be honest, if he were Song Jingchen, he might not have been so decisive.


    Of course, his actions were not wrong, because if he did not kill those people, they would be controlled by Si Yun and become killing machines in his hands. They would continue to attack the other soldiers of Great Xia.


    Xiao Qirui, who had left the city with injured soldiers to stall for time, knew this. The soldiers of Nanling Pass knew it, and Song Jingchen knew it himself.


    However, knowing was one thing. To Song Jingchen, who had given this order, he was probably the only one who could understand what he had to endure. In other words, he was just a young man who had yet to reach his prime.


    Shen Yijia was slightly stunned.


    Xuanyuan Ce patted her head. ¡°He¡¯s been busy writing good news these past two days and arranging for Xiao Qirui¡¯s coffin to return to the capital. He even personally calculated the casualty list. He¡¯s been holding it in for too long.¡±


    Shen Yijia slapped his hand away. ¡°Just talk. Don¡¯t touch me.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°This heartless girl.¡±


    He put on an injured expression, but Shen Yijia did not even look at him. She darted out of his sight.


    Xuanyuan Ce was shocked. He wanted to say that it was still raining, but when he turned around, he saw the young man who had almost injured himself fall back in the rain. His precious daughter caught him again.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless. This brat!


    His injuries hadn¡¯t recovered to begin with. After being drenched in the rain,


    Shen Yijia missed her spiritual liquid for the umpteenth time.


    Seeing her like this, Xuanyuan Ce cursed all the vulgarities he had learned in his life in his heart. He wanted to use the same trick to let her rest. Just as he raised his hand, he felt a pain in his neck and fainted.


    Shen Yijia turned around and looked at You Yi, who was standing at the door.


    She said with a cold expression, ¡°Carry him back to his room.¡±


    Did he really think she was stupid? To fall for the same trick twice.


    Seeing that their lord had been carried away by You Yi like a dead pig, the other Demon Guards looked at each other and silently followed.


    Unless their master¡¯s life was in danger, they did not have to attack until they received instructions.


    ¡°Sister-in-law, Liu Jinbao and I will stand guard. Go and rest too,¡± Song Jinghuan said worriedly.


    ¡°There¡¯s no need. I¡¯ve already recovered after sleeping for a few days,¡± Shen Yijia said as she lifted the blanket covering Song Jingchen. She thought of something and instructed, ¡°Help me find some strong wine.¡±


    Seeing that her expression had indeed returned to normal, Song Jinghuan could only obey.


    Three days later, Song Jingchen woke up again.


    When he opened his eyes, he saw a head nestled in front of his chest. His gaze subconsciously softened. Just as he moved his fingers, the person in his arms woke up.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re awake,¡± Shen Yijia said happily.


    Song Jingchen forced a smile. ¡°Yes, how long have I been asleep?¡±


    His voice was still a little hoarse.


    ¡°Three days.¡± Shen Yijia reached out and touched his forehead. She heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°The fever finally stopped. Are you hungry or thirsty? I¡¯ll go¡­¡± As she spoke, she got up from Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and prepared to get out of bed.


    Song Jingchen pulled her back. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for making you worry.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, what nonsense are you talking about? You¡¯re my husband. Isn¡¯t it my duty to take care of you?¡± Shen Yijia puffed up her cheeks and reached out to touch his furrowed brows. She said seriously, ¡°Hubby, you did the right thing.


    Baby and I are proud of you.¡±


    ¡°No one will blame you, so you don¡¯t have to blame yourself.


    Song Jingchen stared at her without blinking. Complicated emotions surged in his eyes, and his throat moved. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia also knew that persuasion alone was not enough for this matter. It would become a thorn in Song Jingchen¡¯s heart like the death of his grandfather and father-in-law.


    The only way to remove this thorn was to avenge those people.


    Therefore, when Song Jingchen discussed the upcoming battle against Wu with Xuanyuan Ce, she didn¡¯t stop him. She just stayed by his side quietly.


    Coupled with the troops sent to Lin¡¯an City, the Wu Kingdom had lost 400,000 to 500,000 troops this time. Facing the crusade of the two countries, the possibility of a counterattack was low.


    Next, they would only have to wait for the Fengzhou army to reach Nanling Pass before they could join forces with the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army to attack the Wu Kingdom.


    There was a knock on the door.


    Song Jingchen stopped talking. ¡°Come in.¡±


    Thirty Thousand walked in. ¡°Master, Madam Ji and General Sikong have arrived at the west gate.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. It was five days earlier than he had expected.


    ¡°Hubby, let¡¯s go pick up Mother,¡± Shen Yijia suggested.


    ¡°Alright.¡¯


    The couple left the study hand in hand, leaving Xuanyuan Ce stunned for a long time.


    ¡°Wait, who is General Sikong? Why was it announced with Ah Luo¡¯s name?!¡± he thought.


    He clearly didn¡¯t even know General Sikong well, but the sense of danger caught him off guard. He stood up with a whoosh and overtook Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia. He rushed out alone and shouted, ¡°Chu Feng, prepare the horse. ¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at the person who passed her like a gust of wind and asked


    Song Jingchen, ¡°What happened to him?¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°When General Sikong was young, he was a rare handsome man in the army. Mother traveled with him all the way. His Highness is probably worried.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. A man that her husband said was beautiful? This was fun.


    On the day that Ji Luo arrived at Nanling Pass, the urgent news that they had set off a day earlier than the mourning team was also sent to the royal court.


    The good news was naturally happy, but along with the good news came the news of Xiao Qirui¡¯s death.


    ¡°General Xiao! Your Majesty, bad news. General Xiao has fainted.¡±


    Shangguan Han stood up from the dragon throne and instructed sternly, ¡°Quick, call the imperial physician.¡±


    In the Yuan Family¡¯s manor on the outskirts of the city, Yuan Yuwan was sitting under the porch with her head buried in an almost green handkerchief. You Bai came in with an umbrella, followed by an unfamiliar maidservant.


    Walking into the corridor, she put away the umbrella and said, ¡°Miss, Miss Xiao sent this. She said that she needed to see you urgently.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, Yuan Yuwan gasped.


    Looking closely, she saw a bright red dot of blood on the handkerchief.


    ¡°Miss!¡± You Bai was shocked and quickly wanted to take off her handkerchief to check her wound.


    Yuan Yuwan dodged to the side and looked straight at the helpless little maidservant standing at the side.


    She had seen this maidservant once or twice when she went to visit Xiao Ruoshui. She was indeed from the Fan residence.


    She said that it was an urgent matter, but she asked someone who was usually not important to her to come. The situation at that time was probably chaotic, so she casually assigned someone.


    The maidservant¡¯s eyes were red. She had clearly cried before coming.


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart sank bit by bit. The dull pain in her heart was even more intense than before.. She closed her eyes and said, ¡°Tell me, what¡¯s the matter?¡±

 Chapter 919 - Chapter 919: Denial

    Chapter 919: Denial


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°My Young Master died in battle at Nanling Pass. His coffin is on the way back to the capital.¡±


    You Bai¡¯s face suddenly turned pale. She suddenly turned to look at Yuan


    Yuwan.


    After a while, she said, ¡°I understand. Go back and take good care of your Miss.


    Don¡¯t let the baby get affected.¡±


    The maidservant bowed and left with an umbrella.


    Yuan Yuwan pushed herself up and swayed.


    You Bai went forward to help her up worriedly. When she got closer, she realized that her entire body was trembling. ¡°Miss¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m tired. I¡¯m going back to my room to rest.¡± Yuan Yuwan brushed her hand away and grabbed the unfinished handkerchief tightly. She turned around and entered the house.


    Worried, You Bai followed behind her and watched as she took off her embroidered shoes, lifted the blanket, and lay down.


    She was abnormally calm.


    However, the more she acted like this, the more worried You Bai became. She choked and said, ¡°Miss, if you feel uncomfortable, cry. Don¡¯t hold it in alone.¡± Yuan Yuwan turned around and said, ¡°I¡¯m sleepy.¡±


    You Bail s heart ached. She choked and said, ¡°Alright, Miss, rest. I¡¯ll guard you here.¡±


    Since Yuan Yuwan did not speak, You Bai did not dare to disturb her. However, she felt terrible and could only grit her teeth to prevent herself from crying.


    She wiped his tears again and again, but she could not fully wipe them away.


    She did not understand. Her Miss was clearly such a good person. Why did the heavens have to be so cruel? Why couldn¡¯t they treat her well at all?


    Sadness filled the room. You Bai cried alone for a long time. When she was tired of crying, she fell asleep.


    A thunderclap exploded. She woke up with a start and looked up to find that the person on the bed had disappeared.


    You Bai¡¯s face turned pale and she quickly ran out to look for her.


    She first went to the east courtyard. The door of the rabbit cage was wide open, and there was only one rabbit curled up in a corner. The other rabbits had long disappeared.


    It had been raining all these days. Worried that these rabbits would run around, the cage door had been closed.


    You Bai guessed that Yuan Yuwan had been here almost instantly. She closed the cage door with trembling hands and looked elsewhere, but she couldn¡¯t find Yuan Yuwan anywhere in the entire residence.


    You Bai panicked completely. If anything happened to Miss, she didn¡¯t want to live anymore.


    Thinking of something, she rushed out of the courtyard without even taking her umbrella and ran towards the wooden house on the hillside not far away.


    The rain became heavier. The bean-sized raindrops hurt her face, but the girl in front of the wooden house seemed not to notice. She dragged her machete with both hands and slashed at the wooden house again and again.


    When You Bai arrived, the door of the wooden house had been completely destroyed. Rain drifted into the house, drenching the pitifully few things inside.


    ¡°Miss!¡± You Bai pounced on her and stopped her. She said with tears in his eyes, ¡°Miss, what are you doing?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan ignored her and continued slashing in another direction with a numb expression.


    Noticing that her hands were bleeding, You Bails heart tightened. Her heart ached and she blamed herself. She did not dare to let it continue. She quickly went over and snatched the knife from her hand. She cried bitterly, ¡°Miss, if you don¡¯t want to see it, let¡¯s get someone else to dismantle it, okay? I promise¡­ I promise not to let it appear again, okay?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t know what she had said, but she suddenly felt as if all her strength had been drained from her body. She sat down weakly.


    ¡°Miss!¡± You Bai wanted to help her up.


    Yuan Yu suddenly spoke.


    ¡°I¡¯m used to being sober in my life. I never dared to ask for too much, but he wouldn¡¯t let me off. Why did he follow me? Why did he chase after me? Why¡­


    Why did he shake my heart?¡± Yuan Yuwan closed her eyes while trembling. ¡°Since he made a promise, why didn¡¯t he keep it and come back alive?¡±


    Why were the heavens so unfair?


    ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Why!¡±


    ¡°Miss, I beg you. Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t go back. I can¡¯t go back anymore.¡± Yuan Yuwan collapsed in her arms and grabbed her clothes tightly.. ¡°You Bai, my heart hurts¡­¡±

 Chapter 920 - Chapter 920: Si Yun’s Death

    Chapter 920: Si Yun¡¯s Death


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I know, I know¡­¡± You Bail s heart ached so much that she could only hug her tightly. ¡°It¡¯ll get better. Everything will get better.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan closed her eyes. She had thought many times that everything would be fine, but the heavens never seemed to let her off easily.


    When her grandfather left, her sky collapsed. The man said to her, ¡°You still have me.¡±


    She thought that everything would be fine as long as she passed the mourning period.


    She had relied on these words to support herself for three years, waiting expectantly for that person to marry her. However, reality gave her a slap in the face, shattering her fantasies and shattering her youthful hopes.


    When she left the Xiao family with the divorce letter, she thought that things would get better.


    However, that person pressed on step by step, shattering the high wall she had painstakingly built bit by bit.


    He said, ¡°If I can return triumphantly, can we get to know each other again?¡±<segment 44350


    Before she could say ¡°yes¡± to him, the man left and would never come back.


    She wanted to scold him for breaking his promise time and time again. She wanted to blame him, but he was gone. Who could she blame?


    How cruel was this? How cruel were the heavens to her?


    Her heart hurt too much, but she couldn¡¯t cry. She could only let despair and pain barge through her heart, crushing it until she couldn¡¯t breathe.


    With a weight on her shoulder, You Bai looked down and saw that the person in her arms was pale and her eyes were closed.


    ¡°Miss!¡± She called out in a trembling voice. ¡°Miss¡­ Miss! Don¡¯t scare me¡­¡±


    It was still raining. It was June, and it was so cold that one¡¯s teeth chattered. You Bai gritted her teeth and helped Yuan Yuwan up. Before she could take two steps, she staggered and the master and servant fell into a mess.


    ¡°Miss.¡± You Bai got up in a panic to check on Yuan Yuwan. When she noticed that there was blood on her forehead, the nerves in his heart completely collapsed at this moment. She leaned on Yuan Yuwan and wailed, ¡°Miss, I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m useless. I can¡¯t do anything right.¡±


    She wailed for a long time until the faint sound of hooves brought her back to her senses.


    ¡°Miss, wait for me. I¡¯ll go and find someone now,¡± she said with a trembling voice. She wiped her face and got up to run down the hill. The rain blurred her vision. She ran in a hurry, and she slipped and rolled down the hill. She rolled to the side of the road before stopping.


    At this moment, the sound of hooves approached. The hooves were raised high in front of her, and You Bai¡¯s pupils constricted.


    This sudden change also shocked the young man on the horse. He quickly pulled the reins of the horse and turned it around.


    Seeing who it was that was almost stepped on by his horse, the young man said in disbelief, ¡°You Bai?¡±


    You Bai came back to his senses from the shock. Ignoring the pain on his body, he said anxiously, ¡°Your Highness, quick, my young lady has fainted..


    ¡°What?¡± Shangguan Heng was shocked. ¡®Where¡¯s Ah Yu?¡±


    ¡°In front of the wooden house.¡±


    Shangguan Heng looked up at the wooden house not far away and dismounted. Noticing the sorry state You Bai was in, he frowned and instructed the person behind him, ¡°Yuan Bao, send her back to the manor first.¡±


    With that, he ran towards the wooden house alone.


    Yuan Yuwan felt that she had slept for a long time when she heard footsteps. She slowly opened her eyes and realized that she was sitting on the edge of the bed. What she saw was a sea of red.


    She was stunned. As soon as she raised her hand, the red in front of her eyes was lifted. She looked up and met a pair of deep eyes.


    ¡°Miss Yuan.¡± The young man was dressed in red and looked at her with a smile.


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart skipped a beat. She subconsciously reached out and grabbed a corner of the young man¡¯s robe, as if she was afraid that he would disappear if she let go.


    ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re back?¡± As soon as she opened her mouth, she realized that her voice was extremely hoarse.


    However, the young man did not seem to notice it. His clear eyes gradually darkened, and they were filled with emotions that she could not understand. Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart skipped a beat again.


    The young man reached out and pulled her into his arms. ¡°What are you talking about? Today is our big day. Where can I go?¡±


    ¡°Our big day?¡± Yuan Yuwan leaned against his chest. The faint fragrance of cold wood on the young man¡¯s body filled her nose. She felt that everything was unreal, but she also felt that this was how it should be.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. From today onwards, you¡¯ll be my wife, the Young Madam of the Xiao family. You don¡¯t have to be afraid. With me around, I won¡¯t let those people from the Yuan family have the chance to bully you again.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan opened her mouth, wanting to say that the Yuan family had been sent to the frontier fortress and that no one could bully her anymore.


    Before she could finish, the scene around her changed. Blinding light shone in. She closed her eyes in discomfort. When she opened them again, she was already standing on a hill.


    It was a ten-mile slope, the only way from the capital to Nanling Pass.


    She looked around frantically for something. The sound of hooves stopped behind her.


    Yuan Yuwan turned around and stared blankly at the young man in armor who was walking towards her with a smile on his face.


    ¡°Miss Yuan, I¡­¡±


    Tears welled up in Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyes as she threw herself into the young man¡¯s arms. ¡°Alright!¡±


    The young man¡¯s body stiffened slightly, and his grip on the person in his arms gradually tightened. After a while, he said, ¡°I heard it.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan looked up at him.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    Guessing what he was going to say next, Yuan Yuwan shook her head frantically.


    Xiao Qirui looked slightly troubled. He lowered his head and planted a kiss on her forehead. He sighed. ¡°Forget about me.¡±


    ¡®Young Master Lin, is this incense really useful? Why is my Miss crying?¡± You Bai asked nervously.


    Lin Shao scratched his head. ¡°This incense is called a fulfilling dream. I can¡¯t control what Sister Yuwan dreamed of¡­


    The girl on the bed¡¯s eyelashes fluttered. She opened her eyes and saw a familiar house.


    You Bai leaned over in surprise. ¡°Miss, you¡¯re finally awake.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan turned around to look at her.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been asleep for three days. You scared me to death.¡± You Bai wiped her tears and explained, ¡°That day, you suddenly fainted. Fortunately, you met His Highness, Lord Rui. After you returned, you developed a fever again. I could only beg His Highness to send us into the city. We¡¯re in the Duke¡¯s residence now.¡±


    ¡°Yuwan is awake?¡± Madam Li entered with a maidservant. She walked to the bed and sat down. Her heart ached so much that she took out a handkerchief to wipe the tears from the corners of Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Auntie, you¡¯re worried,¡± Yuan Yuwan said weakly.


    Madam Li sighed. ¡°We¡¯re a family. We happened to brew some medicine. Let¡¯s drink it first.¡±


    Lin Miaomiao squeezed out from behind her brother and untied a pouch from her waist. She opened it and poured out three round candied plums. ¡°Sister Yuwan, if you¡¯re afraid of the medicine being bitter, I still have candied plums here. They won¡¯t be bitter anymore after eating them.¡± Seeing everyone¡¯s concern, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s eyes turned red. ¡°Yes.¡±


    At Nanling Pass.


    In three days, the army brought by General Sikong had finished resting. Song Jingchen discussed the final plan to attack the Wu Kingdom with a few generals and finally decided to set off tomorrow to attack the Wu Kingdom with the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army.


    Shen Yijia was afraid that if she continued to stay in the residence, her mother would feed her all kinds of medicinal cuisine that were rumored to be useful to the baby. She tried her best to coax her to the infirmary to help.


    She wasn¡¯t willing to stay in the general¡¯s residence, but it wasn¡¯t appropriate for her to disturb Song Jingchen¡¯s discussion. Fortunately, she accompanied Ji Luo in the infirmary for half a day.


    After coming out of the infirmary, Ji Luo suddenly asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Si Yun?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned. That¡¯s right. Where was Si Yun?


    The news that Si Yun was the one who caused the living dead had already spread throughout the military camp. Shen Yijia casually grabbed a soldier and asked.


    Knowing that Si Yun had been locked in an iron cage by the latrine pit, Shen Yijia was about to ask him to lead the way when Ji Luo¡¯s eyelids twitched. She quickly interrupted her. ¡°Get someone to prepare a tent and bring him there.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Her mother is so smart..¡±

 Chapter 921 - Chapter 921: Battle Against Wu

    Chapter 921: Battle Against Wu


    When she saw Si Yun again, Shen Yijia almost did not recognize him.


    It had only been ten days since he was captured, but he had already lost weight.


    Her eyes were sunken, and her cheekbones were prominent. He was wearing a loose prison uniform, and his entire body emitted a dense aura of death. He no longer looked as ambitious and annoying as before.


    His arms had been broken by Shen Yijia on the battlefield. Now, it seemed that his legs had also been broken. He was dragged in by two soldiers like a rag.


    His hair was disheveled and dripping with water. It was not difficult to guess that someone had washed him before he was brought here.


    Seeing Ji Luo, Si Yun¡¯s pupils constricted, and he erupted with monstrous anger.


    He opened his mouth to say something, but his mouth opened and closed. For a long time, he could not say a complete sentence. Instead, blood kept gushing out as his mouth opened and closed.


    The soldier who brought him in explained, ¡°We were worried that he would bite his tongue to commit suicide, so we cut off his tongue.¡±


    In fact, it wasn¡¯t just the tongue. Everyone broke Si Yun¡¯s leg bones with a stick. They also pulled out the fingernails of his ten fingers and toes.


    Every day, the wind and sun would blow, and the latrine attracted many mosquitoes. When his wound rotted and became pus, the military doctor would help him cut off the rotten flesh and give him top-notch ointment. He would definitely not die early.


    They still remembered the scene of their companions killing each other, the heads of the nearly 100,000 soldiers they had personally beheaded, and how General Xiao had died tragically.


    The culprit behind all of this was Si Yun. How could the soldiers let him off easily?


    Everyone vented their anger on him. If not for the fact that they were afraid that he would not be able to hold on, everyone would have cut off his flesh bit by bit.


    Since the soldier didn¡¯t say anything, how could Ji Luo not think of it? She looked at Si Yun mockingly.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been scheming all your life for those illusory things. Then did you expect this outcome?¡± She sneered. ¡°I originally thought that since you¡¯ve done so many evil things, it wouldn¡¯t be a bad idea to test the medicine on you. However, seeing you end up like this, doing that would be akin to letting you off easy.¡±


    Si Yun glared at her with bloodshot eyes filled with hatred.


    However, Ji Luo was unwilling to say anything else. She waved his hand and instructed someone to bring him back.


    Si Yun did not seem to expect her to do this. He was stunned for a moment and began to struggle violently. However, he was not even comparable to a child now. How could he break free from the grip of the two soldiers?


    He was dragged away indignantly. This was the last time Shen Yijia and Ji Luo would see him.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°Mother¡­¡¯


    Ji Luo looked at her. ¡°Do you want to ask if those people who were injured by the living dead can still be saved?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She wasn¡¯t the only one who wanted to know. Her beautiful husband actually wanted to know too.


    Ji Luo said, ¡°Although they¡¯re dead, they still have the ability to move. It¡¯s not wrong to call them the living dead, but in the secret techniques of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets, they¡¯re called Poison Puppets or Human Voodoo Dolls.¡± ¡°So the men in black who entered Nanling Pass first are the Poison Puppets?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Their entire bodies are covered in poison. The poison will enter other people¡¯s bodies through their wounds and reproduce. When they mature, the infected will become new poisonous puppets.¡± Ji Luo said seriously,¡±


    Since they were already dead, how could they be saved?


    Shen Yijia felt her throat go dry. ¡°Then¡­ what if there¡¯s spiritual liquid?¡± Ji Luo paused and patted her hand comfortingly. ¡°The spiritual liquid can¡¯t revive the dead.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. She wanted to ask something, but she saw a corner of his shirt from the corner of her eye. She stood up and called out, ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Song Jingchen walked in and greeted Ji Luo. He looked at Shen Yijia and said, ¡°Sister Huan said that you and Mother came to the military camp.¡±


    ¡°Sister Huan is here too?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    ¡°Yes, she and Liu Jinbao improved the black gunpowder. They said that it was your suggestion. Everyone is preparing to test it. Do you want to take a look?¡± Shen Yijia was stunned. Why didn¡¯t she know what advice she had given?


    Seeing her confusion, Song Jingchen asked, ¡°Didn¡¯t you mention the landmines to them?¡±


    Shen Yijia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Landmines?¡±


    She had mentioned it to them, but she had only said the word ¡°landmine¡± and that it would explode if she stepped on it.


    However, that was not the point.


    Those two brats actually made landmines?


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and take a look.¡± Shen Yijia pulled Song Jingchen away. She thought of something and paused. She turned around guiltily and looked at Ji Luo.. ¡°Mother, do you want to go with us?¡±

 Chapter 922 - Chapter 922: Battle Against Wu (2)

    Chapter 922: Battle Against Wu (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Luo found it funny. ¡°You guys go first. I¡¯ll be right there.¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Watching the two of them leave the tent, Ji Luo sighed. Actually, if someone could consume the spiritual liquid within six hours of the poison puppet entering his body, he could be saved.


    However, the dead could not be revived. Why should she add to her troubles? Moreover, Jiajia was pregnant now and could not take out the spiritual liquid at all.


    The test of the landmine was very successful. Its power was not inferior to black gunpowder at all, but it was better at catching the enemy off guard than black gunpowder. This gave the soldiers a lot of confidence in the upcoming battle against Wu.


    Song Jingchen immediately got someone to take out half of the black gunpowder and turn it into landmines.


    In order to boost morale, he got someone to transport a lot of meat from the nearby city that day and held a night banquet on the training grounds.


    Naturally, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t forget to send a portion to the Xuanyuan army stationed in the valley.


    At night, bonfires were set up on the training grounds. The entire military camp was as bright as day, and the soldiers were divided into teams to roast meat around the bonfires.


    ¡°Hubby, it¡¯s not good to drink on an empty stomach. This is delicious. Try it.¡±


    Shen Yiiia cut off a Diece of roasted meat with her dagger and brought it to


    Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head. ¡°I¡¯m not eating. You eat¡­¡±


    Before he could finish, Shen Yijia stuffed the meat into his mouth and puffed up her cheeks. ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten properly for the past few days. After today, there will be a long war. Are you prepared to continue starving like this?¡± Song Jingchen opened his mouth.


    ¡°I know you don¡¯t feel good, but didn¡¯t you hear what Mother said today? You didn¡¯t order those people to be killed. When the black-robed man entered the city and we arrived, those people were already dead.¡± Shen Yijia didn¡¯t want to mention this, but she couldn¡¯t bear to see Song Jingchen continue blaming himself.


    If anything happened to him on the battlefield because he wasn¡¯t paying attention, she would really have nowhere to cry. Song Jingchen¡¯s throat moved and he replied softly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia sighed and focused on feeding him.


    After being stuffed a few times, Song Jingchen saw that she couldn¡¯t even care less about eating. He took the dagger from her hand helplessly. ¡°You eat too.¡±


    Shen Yijia obediently opened her mouth and accepted his feeding. She said in a muffled voice, ¡°You eat it.¡±


    The couple took one bite after another. The surrounding soldiers, who were originally eating meat happily, felt sour bubbles in their hearts.


    They missed their wives too!


    Sitting opposite Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia was a handsome middle-aged man with resolute facial features. He teased, ¡°The Duke and Duchess are really close.¡±


    Glancing at Ji Luo, who was smiling at the two people opposite him, he coughed lightly and handed over his piece of meat. ¡°Sister, this is for you.¡±


    Ji Luo paused and looked at the plate of fat mutton handed to her. She smiled playfully. ¡°Thank you, Brother Sikong.¡±


    Unexpectedly, just as she reached out, a hand took the plate away faster than her.


    Xuanyuan Ce sat between the two of them and smiled. ¡°Ah Luo, don¡¯t you not like mutton? I specially roasted rabbit meat for you and Jiajia.¡±


    Chu Feng and Chu Lin placed two plates of rabbit meat in front of Ji Luo and Shen Yijia.


    Xuanyuan Ce glanced at Sikong Yi, who seduced his Ah Luo when he was away.


    Sikong Yi raised his eyebrows and raised his wine bowl at him, drinking it in one gulp.


    Not to be outdone, Xuanyuan Ce picked up his wine bowl and drank it in one gulp.


    Ji Luo held her forehead. ¡°Xuanyuan Ce!¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He stuffed the mutton into his mouth and pretended to be innocent. ¡°Ah Luo, what¡¯s wrong?¡±


    Ji Luo thought to herself, ¡°Aren¡¯t you afraid of choking to death?¡±


    Seeing all of this, Shen Yijia blinked at Song Jingchen. Look, they¡¯re starting again.


    Ever since he saw Sikong Yi help Ji Luo off the horse, Xuanyuan Ce had been guarding against him like he was guarding against wolves. As long as the two of them were together, the atmosphere would definitely be tense.


    Song Jingchen covered his mouth and coughed lightly. ¡°Mother will be embarrassed if he doesn¡¯t hold back.¡±


    Shen Yijia whispered, ¡°Got it, got it.¡±


    Ji Luo thought, ¡°Do the two of you think I¡¯m blind?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t eat anymore. She stood up and left. Xuanyuan Ce quickly picked up the plate of rabbit meat and followed. ¡°Ah Luo, you haven¡¯t eaten anything yet.¡±


    r


    Two of the three of them left the stage at once. Shen Yijia looked at Sikong Yi again.handsome. They were not the same type, but they were both handsome.


    No matter who her mother was with, she didn¡¯t seem to be at a disadvantage.


    ¡°Ahem.¡± Sikong Yi asked awkwardly, ¡°Is there something on my face when the


    Duchess looks at me like that?¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded seriously. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Sikong Yi was amused by her adorable appearance. ¡°What is it?¡±


    Shen Yijia grinned. ¡°You¡¯re a little handsome.¡±


    Sikong Yi was stunned and subconsciously looked at Song Jingchen.


    A certain someone, who was cutting meat for Shen Yijia, had a dark expression.


    Shen Yijia felt it almost instantly. She added, ¡°But it¡¯s still a little inferior to my husband. Hehe.¡±


    As if she didn¡¯t think that was enough, she opened her arms and gestured. ¡°By just a bit.¡±


    Sikong Yi couldn¡¯t help but laugh. He cupped his hands at Song Jingchen, whose expression had clearly improved a lot. ¡°I¡¯ll go drink two bowls with those brats.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°General Sikong, please go ahead.¡±


    As soon as General Sikong left, Thirty Thousand and MO Yuan found an excuse to leave. Shen Yijia didn¡¯t give Song Jingchen a chance to speak. She leaned over and held his face with both hands. She praised him sincerely, ¡°Why is my husband so good-looking? How can such a good-looking husband be mine? Oh my, I¡¯m so happy.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    The initial battle plan was drawn up during the day. At night, everyone ate and drank happily. Before dawn, the army set off.


    Fengzhou was the border city between Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Because the Xuanyuan Kingdom had the strongest national strength among the three countries, there were more troops stationed there than at Nanling Pass. There were a total of 500,000 troops.


    This time, General Sikong brought 300,000 soldiers. Coupled with the soldiers collected on the way, there were nearly 100,000 more when they arrived at Nanling Pass.


    There were a total of 400,000 soldiers led by Song Jingchen and General Sikong to attack the border city of the Wu Kingdom, the western city gate of Luozhou.


    Xuanyuan Ce and General Ye also led 400,000 Xuanyuan troops to attack their northern cities.


    As for the original garrison, they stayed behind at Nanling Pass to prevent the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army from counterattacking. Actually, this was unlikely, but


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to take the risk..

 Chapter 923 - Chapter 923: Breaking Through (1)

    Chapter 923: Breaking Through (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At the end of June, the sun was blazing.


    Under the scorching sun, the soldiers of the Wu Kingdom moved everything within the range of the bows and arrows outside Luozhou City into the city. Those that could not be moved were destroyed.


    Even on the grass, earth walls, tree stacks, and stone piles had been cleaned up.


    The houses and wells outside the city were also demolished.


    If they could not do it with human strength, they would use black gunpowder. They would definitely not leave anything for the army that could attack at any time to hide or use.


    They really cleared out the wilderness.


    Apart from that, there were observation posts set up every ten miles from the city at the border of the two countries. Once they discovered the army approaching, the outposts would use smoke to send news.


    Everyone in Luozhou was making preparations for the next defense, but not everything went smoothly.


    ¡°City Lord, bad news. The commoners are making a fuss.¡± A soldier who was in a sorry state and had scratches on his face rushed into the City Lord Residence with a head full of sweat.


    The City Lord of Luozhou was a fat middle-aged man. When he heard this, he jumped up from his chair. ¡°What about them?¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t General Yan order the citizens of the city to go out of the city and collect the crops outside? They said that it won¡¯t ripen for half a month. We can¡¯t harvest them now.¡±


    Food was the lifeblood of the commoners. Yan Guangmao¡¯s order was equivalent to taking their lives. Wouldn¡¯t this cause a commotion?


    ¡°Idiot.¡± The City Lord was so angry that he slammed the desk. ¡°Do they want to collect it after half a month? Then ask them to go to Great Xia and the


    Xuanyuan Kingdom to ask if they can come and attack us after half a month.¡± ¡°If possible, get them to help me ask if they can stop hitting us.¡±


    ¡°Half a month¡­ Heh, they might not have to work at that time. The people from Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom will help them collect it.¡±


    The soldier wiped his sweat.


    That made sense. The problem was that the commoners were facing the yellow soil. It made no sense to them. They only knew that the food harvest was not good and that they would have to starve this year. The entire family might have to die.


    Previously, in order to prepare the rations needed for the war, everyone had just paid taxes. Now, they were waiting for this food to save their lives.


    The City Lord was so angry that he circled around twice. Seeing that the soldiers were still standing there, he scolded, ¡®You still have to ask me about


    such a small matter? What do I pay you for?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± If he knew how to deal with it, he wouldn¡¯t have been scratched in the face.


    ¡°Tell them that if they don¡¯t accept it now, they won¡¯t be able to harvest a single grain of rice. Let them think about it themselves. Are they willing to lose a portion of their food or do they want to harvest nothing?¡±


    ¡°If you still want to cause trouble, pick a few troublemakers¡­¡± The City Lord made a throat-slitting gesture. ¡°Make an example out of them.¡±


    The soldier was stunned for a moment before quickly agreeing.


    The City Lord sat back in his armchair and picked up his teacup to take a sip. He could not help but mutter, ¡°Why did you have to fight? Now, you¡¯ve gone for wool and come home shorn.¡±


    However, he only dared to say this when there was no one around. After thinking about it, he felt that he should report this to Yan Guangmao.


    At this moment, Yan Guangmao was recuperating in the east courtyard of the City Lord Residence. In his battle with Song Jingchen, he had been stabbed through the heart. If not for the fact that he was using his internal energy to protect his heart meridians, he would have died long ago.


    However, although he was not dead, it was impossible for him to go to the battlefield.


    When the City Lord arrived, the doctor was changing Yan Guangmao¡¯s dressing. He could only wait at the side.


    After the doctor changed the dressing and left, he was about to speak when Bu Ren walked in. ¡°My lord, the sentries have come to report that the army of the Xuanyuan Kingdom and the Great Xia army have crossed the border of the two countries. They will arrive outside Luozhou City tomorrow at the latest.¡± Yan Guangmao¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°How many troops are there?¡±


    Bu Ren said with a solemn expression, ¡°I estimate no less than 800,000. In addition, our spies have also discovered traces of the Xuanyuan army at Pingyang Pass. I¡¯m afraid they¡¯re preparing to attack the Beichuan Realm at the same time.¡±


    It could be said that Yan Guangmao¡¯s army was only here to deal with Great Xia. Their main force was still at Pingyang Pass.


    As soon as Bu Ren finished speaking, another general rushed in. ¡°My lord, the capital has sent a letter. The people of Nanman and Dongyi are attacking our eastern and southern borders at the same time.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Yan Guangmao spat out a mouthful of blood in anger.


    ¡°The Southern Barbarians and Eastern Barbarians¡­


    Yan Guangmao picked up the medicine bowl that had yet to be removed and smashed it at the general¡¯s feet.. ¡°Who does that bastard think he is? He actually wants a share of the loot?¡±

 Chapter 924 - Chapter 924: Breaking Through (2)

    Chapter 924: Breaking Through (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    With the Three Kingdoms as a complete territory, the foreign races surrounding the territory were the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western Barbarians, or the ¡°Xiongnu¡±.


    Back then, it was the people of the Northern Barbarians who surrounded Xunyang. Most of them roamed the borders. During the peace of the three countries, these outsiders would at most cause trouble at the borders of the various countries from time to time before leaving. However, the meaning this time was clearly different.


    The City Lord, who was standing at the side, was already coven Foreigners were best at seizing every opportunity. Seeing that t Kingdom was being attacked by two countries at the same time they give up such a good opportunity?


    Fortunately, Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom were still between them. Otherwise¡­


    In comparison, what he wanted to report was nothing.


    Yan Guangmao did not forget him. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    His expression was so dark that water could drip from it. The City Lord wiped his sweat and trembled as he told him about the citizens causing trouble in the city.


    ¡°Do you need to tell me such a small matter? Tell them to burn all the food they can¡¯t collect before the sun sets tomorrow.¡±


    The City Lord quickly nodded and bowed. Seeing that they had something to discuss, he found an excuse to leave first.


    At the end of June, the 400,000-strong army led by Xuanyuan Ce and Song


    Jingchen arrived near the north and west gates of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s Luozhou.


    At that moment, it was already late. Song Jingchen said, ¡°Rest here for the night and attack the city tomorrow.¡±


    General Sikong nodded and quickly arranged for someone to set up camp.


    The current Luozhou was already like a frightened bird. Just like Nanling Pass back then, they did not have to worry about the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army leaving the city to attack them.


    Of course, it was better if they dared to come. Fighting was better than staying in the city and not coming out.


    ¡°What¡¯s over there?¡± Shen Yijia rode to Song Jingchen¡¯s side and pointed in Luozhou¡¯s direction.


    They were still a mountain away from Luozhou¡¯s city gate. When they looked up, they could see a large patch of red in the sky behind the mountain.


    Song Jingchen looked in the direction she was pointing. ¡°I¡¯m afraid they¡¯re burning the food that they couldn¡¯t harvest in time.¡±


    He pursed his lips and summoned Thirty Thousand. ¡°Bring a team to see if they can be saved. If not, forget it.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Although this was the arrangement, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t have much hope.


    Along the way, they had destroyed so many sentries. The news of the army pressing down on the border had long reached Yan Guangmao¡¯s ears. It was impossible for him to give them a chance.


    It turned out that it was just as he had guessed. In less than an hour, Thirty Thousand returned with the team.


    He said with a pained expression, ¡°He¡¯s really inhumane. He was afraid that the fire wouldn¡¯t burn enough and even poured kerosene into it.¡±


    There was so much food, but he burned it just like that.


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. It was shameful to waste it. This method was indeed inhumane.


    ¡°Do you expect them to leave the food to us so that we can fill our stomachs before beating them up?¡±


    Thirty Thousand scratched his head. ¡°That¡¯s naturally impossible¡­ They can collect it faster, right?¡±


    He said the last sentence so quietly that no one heard it.


    After saying that, he reacted. If the food was burned, Luozhou might lack food. Although his heart ached, it was better for them to burn it.


    With this thought in mind, the protectiveness in Thirty Thousand¡¯s heart disappeared.


    At dawn the next day, just as the sun rose in the sky, the Great Xia army and the army of the Xuanyuan Kingdom attacked the west and north gates of Luozhou at the same time.


    The soldiers of the Wu Kingdom had long carried the city defense equipment, buckets of boiling dung water, kerosene, and stones up the city tower.


    All the black gunpowder in the city was taken out. Everyone looked at the approaching army outside solemnly.


    The general in charge of guarding the western city gate this time was Bu Ren. He looked at the armored youth in front of the army with a complicated expression.


    Who would have thought that the situation would change so drastically in just half a month?


    The defending side had become the attacking side. On the other hand, they could only hide in this city and not dare to step out.


    The army was very fast. Seeing that they were about to enter the range of the arrows, Bu Ren raised his hand. ¡°Archers, get ready.¡±


    However, at this moment, the army outside the city suddenly stopped.


    The soldiers on the city tower looked at each other. Weren¡¯t they attacking the city? Why did they stop?


    ¡°Look, what¡¯s that?¡± a soldier asked, pointing up.


    With his shout, the soldiers looked up.


    In the sky, things that looked like paper kites quickly flew towards them. In the blink of an eye, they arrived above their heads and covered the light that had just risen.


    Just now, everyone had their heads lowered as they stared at the army outside the city. Coupled with the fact that the sky was still gray, they did not notice the kites above their heads.


    ¡°I think there¡¯s someone up there?¡± one of the soldiers said uncertainly.


    As soon as he finished speaking, something fell from the paper kites and quickly enlarged in everyone¡¯s eyes.


    Bu Ren¡¯s pupils constricted as he shouted, ¡°Dodge!¡±


    However, it was already too late. Explosions sounded one after another on the city wall.


    Precise projectiles. Not to mention the soldiers, even the boiling dung water, kerosene, and city defense equipment were blown to pieces.


    The feces splashed everywhere, and the kerosene was ignited by the sparks produced by the explosion of black gunpowder. For a moment, sorrow filled the city gate tower, and screams rose and fell.


    Seeing one or two kites fly into the city, Bu Ren was shocked. He suddenly turned to look at the black gunpowder placed behind the city gate. ¡°Not good, the black gunpowder¡­¡±


    Boom! A deafening explosion sounded, and even the city gate trembled. Bu Ren staggered back a step and roared, ¡°Shoot them down!¡±


    ¡°The wooden kites made by Madam are too useful.¡± Sikong Yi¡¯s eyes lit up. He had fought so many battles, but this was the first time he was so happy.


    Someone praised Shen Yijia, and Song Jingchen smiled imperceptibly. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Let¡¯s attack the city.¡±


    ¡°Report!¡± A sentry scrambled into the City Lord¡¯s residence. ¡°My lord, bad news.


    The west city gate has fallen. The Xia army has attacked.¡±


    ¡°What did you say?¡± Yan Guangmao sat up from the rattan chair. However, his face twisted in pain.


    ¡°Report! The north city gate has fallen. The Xuanyuan Army has attacked the city.¡± Another sentry ran in.


    Yan Guangmao could not catch his breath. He was so angry that he fell back into the rattan chair. Looking at the sun that had just reached his head, he said in disbelief, ¡°How is that possible? It¡¯s only been half a day. How could they¡­


    ¡°I don¡¯t know where they got the black gunpowder. Also, there¡¯s a kite that can bring people to the sky.¡± the sentry explained in a trembling voice.


    More than ten men in black suddenly appeared in the courtyard. The leader knelt on one knee with cupped fists and said, ¡®Master, Luozhou can¡¯t be saved. We¡¯ll escort you away.¡±


    The two sentries were shocked and looked at each other. Before they could speak.


    With two whooshing sounds, a line of blood appeared on their necks and they fell to the ground.


    Yan Guangmao glanced at the man in black and clenched his fists on both sides of the rattan chair. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The leader of the men in black quickly went forward and carried him. Unexpectedly, a group of people had just arrived at the door..

 Chapter 925 - Chapter 925: Seizing Three Cities in a Row (1)

    Chapter 925: Seizing Three Cities in a Row (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    A cold voice filled with killing intent sounded from the other side.


    The dozen or so men in black quickly protected Yan Guangmao. ¡°Boss, bring our lord away first. We¡¯ll hold them back.¡±


    The leader of the men in black glanced at Song Jingchen and jumped onto the roof of the City Lord Residence with Yan Guangmao on his back. In the blink of an eye, he disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight.


    ¡°Bulwark Duke, be careful, ¡± Sikong Yi reminded him.


    Although this was the first time the two of them had fought side by side, some tacit understanding was naturally formed. There was no need to say anything.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Song Jingchen nodded and chased after him.


    Seeing this, the other men in black wanted to stop him, but a large saber blocked in front of them.


    Sikong Yi sneered. ¡°Your opponent is me.¡±


    The men in black looked at each other and attacked him in unison. Sikong Yi flew up and dodged. When he landed, he was already behind the group. The men in black stopped.


    Sikong Yi, who had been looking down on them just now, smiled and raised his hand. ¡°Fire.¡±


    He had so many people to use. Did they think he was stupid to fight alone?


    The men in black were speechless.


    After the leader of the men in black left the range of the City Lord Residence with Yan Guangmao, he snatched a soldier¡¯s horse and headed straight for the east city gate.


    He was optimistic. There were their guards at the east gate. As long as they left the city, the guards would definitely be able to stop Song Jingchen. Song Jingchen was alone, so it was not impossible for him to die at the hands of the guards if he was unlucky.


    However, that was just wishful thinking. Before they could approach the city gate, they heard deafening battle cries from afar.


    ¡°The Xuanyuan army has reached the east gate. Go to the south gate,¡± Yan Guangmao said weakly.


    He had yet to recover from his serious injuries. After the jolt on the horse, his wound split open again, and his clothes were dyed red with blood.


    At this moment, his face was no longer as calm as before. Instead, it revealed deep anxiety and malice.


    It wasn¡¯t only because of Song Jingchen, but also because he was worried about the future of the Wu Kingdom.


    He had spent half his life working hard and finally obtained a position above everyone else. He no longer had to live according to anyone¡¯s wishes.


    All of this was very likely to be destroyed in a day.


    The man in black turned his horse around after receiving the order, but he didn¡¯t forget to look back at Song Jingchen¡¯s position. It didn¡¯t matter if he didn¡¯t look, but when he did, he realized that the young man who was chasing after him didn¡¯t follow.


    He frowned. He didn¡¯t have time to think about it. He waved his whip and sped up the horse.


    In order to avoid the Great Xia soldiers and the Xuanyuan Army in the city, he tried his best to walk through the alleys.


    Seeing that they could see the south city gate after leaving this alley, the man in black heaved a sigh of relief. Unexpectedly, Song Jingchen darted out of another alley and rushed towards them with a sword in his hand.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s sword was wrapped in rich internal energy, and the alley was too small. If they didn¡¯t want to be killed by his sword, they could only abandon the horse. The man in black decisively jumped off the horse with Yan Guangmao and avoided it.


    Their horse was injured by Song Jingchen¡¯s sword energy and fell to the ground.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t give them a chance to react and attacked again.


    The man in black dodged with Yan Guangmao. However, there was a limited space and he was still injured by his sword qi. His eyes were filled with killing intent as he used his qinggong to quickly retreat with Yan Guangmao.


    ¡°Master, I¡¯ll kill him first.¡± With that, he helped Yan Guangmao sit down against the wall.


    Yan Guangmao also knew that if he didn¡¯t get rid of Song Jingchen, he wouldn¡¯t be able to leave easily, so he didn¡¯t stop him. He instructed, ¡°Let¡¯s end this quickly. Don¡¯t underestimate the enemy.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡±


    As soon as the man in black finished speaking, he drew the scimitar at his waist and faced Song Jingchen¡¯s attack.


    Clang! The swords collided, and the two of them were forced back a few steps by the other party¡¯s internal energy.


    Surprise flashed across the man in black¡¯s eyes. Although he had never fought Song Jingchen before, he had seen him attack no less than ten times. The most recent time was the battle between Song Jingchen and Yan Guangmao.


    In less than half a month, he could clearly feel that Song Jingchen¡¯s internal energy and speed were stronger than before.


    Previously, he only wanted to kill him to escape, but now, he was completely frightened by his growth.


    If this person was not eliminated, he would sooner or later become a powerful enemy of the lord and young master.


    With this realization, the man in black no longer held back. He circulated his internal energy and threw a killing move at Song Jingchen.


    His speed was so fast that only an afterimage was left. However, Song Jingchen¡¯s five senses were already incomparable to ordinary people under the nourishment of the spiritual liquid. Although the man in black was fast, he could still see him clearly.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s lips curled into a mocking smile.


    The man in black saw his expression and had an ominous feeling. However, his attack was too fast and fierce. It was too late to stop..

 Chapter 926 - Chapter 926: Seizing Three Cities in a Row (2)

    Chapter 926: Seizing Three Cities in a Row (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At that moment.


    The sharp blade entered his body.


    The man in black lowered his head in disbelief. His scimitar brushed past Song Jingchen¡¯s abdomen and only cut through his armor, but the other party¡¯s sword pierced through his chest.


    He had used all his internal energy in this attack just now and did not protect himself at all.


    The scimitar fell to the ground with a clang.


    Blood flowed out of the man in black¡¯s mouth. He grabbed Song Jingchen¡¯s wrist with all his might and turned around with difficulty. ¡°Master, run.¡±


    At some point, Yan Guangmao had already stood up. He gritted his teeth and turned to leave.


    Song Jingchen frowned and punched the man in black. The huge force sent him flying and he slammed into the wall behind him before falling to the ground in a sorry state.


    The man in black spat out a mouthful of blood. The mask on his face fell off from the impact, revealing the crescent mark on his face.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold. The last time he saw this mark was on the way back to his hometown after the Song family¡¯s accident. However, those people¡¯s skills were clearly incomparable to this person¡¯s.


    Moreover, he had been attacked by the men in black with the crescent mark many times before that.


    Did this mean that Yan Guangmao had been in contact with Shangguan Yu since a long time ago?


    These thoughts only flashed across Song Jingchen¡¯s mind. He walked to the man in black and pulled out his sword. He was about to chase after Yan Guangmao when the man in black hugged him again.


    Impatience showed on his face.


    The man in black gritted his teeth and said, ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it.¡± Song Jingchen pierced his throat.


    There was a main street outside the alley, and there were several alleys connected to it. After being delayed by the man in black, when Song Jingchen chased out of the alley, Yan Guangmao had long disappeared.


    Song Jingchen frowned slightly. Yan Guangmao was seriously injured, so it was impossible for him to go far.


    Just as he was about to search through the alleys, the sound of hooves sounded on the right. He turned around and saw Shen Yijia riding in his direction. He glanced down at the person she had wrapped her long whip around her waist and dragged behind the horse.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched.


    Shen Yijia stopped her horse in front of him and said with a smile, ¡°Beauty, are you looking for Yan Guangmao?¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°Then are you looking for this despicable person, Yan Guangmao?¡± She pulled the whip and threw the dying person to her right. ¡°Or this bad person, Yan Guangmao?¡± With that, she threw him to her left.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Shen Yijia blinked and urged him to choose quickly.


    Song Jingchen held his forehead and walked forward to carry her off the horse. He said helplessly, ¡°Didn¡¯t I ask you to wait for me at the camp? You¡¯re pregnant now, so it¡¯s not easy for you to ride a horse.¡±


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°I was waiting for you at the camp. Didn¡¯t I come because I heard that the army had taken down Luozhou? Besides, Mother said that it¡¯s fine.¡±


    When Ji Luo was pregnant with her, she had escaped from the Xuanyuan Kingdom to Great Xia without any incident. It was obvious that the baby with the spiritual liquid was not weak.


    ¡°Mother really said that it¡¯s fine?¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe her.


    Apart from him, Ji Luo was probably the person who was most worried about this girl¡¯s stomach, especially when he knew that she almost had a miscarriage because she went to the battlefield last time. He wished he could keep an eye on her 24 hours a day.


    Shen Yijia jumped out of his arms guiltily.


    Song Jingchen pinched her cheek punishingly. ¡°Did you secretly come over when Mother went to treat the injured soldiers?¡±


    ¡°No, no.¡± The sound of hooves sounded behind her again. Shen Yijia turned around and her eyes lit up. ¡°I even brought MO Yuan. It¡¯s really fine.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, MO Yuan arrived. It was obvious that she had heard Shen Yijia¡¯s words. She said expressionlessly, ¡°Master realized that Miss was missing and asked me to look for her.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°I¡¯m your lady. Can you help preserve my dignity?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but chuckle. He glanced at Yan Guangmao, who


    was staring at them resentfully. He took the whip from Shen Yijia¡¯s hand and held her hand with his other hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we going to kill him?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    ¡°There¡¯s no hurry.¡±


    The flames of war in Luozhou City spread for a day and night. In the end, the flag of the Wu Kingdom on the city tower was changed to a flag with the emblem of Great Xia.


    Originally, General Ye had also planted the flag of the Xuanyuan Kingdom on the North City Building.


    Unexpectedly, in less than a breath, it was pulled out by Xuanyuan Ce. Under General Ye¡¯s puzzled gaze, Chu Lin braced himself and inserted the Jia flag he had prepared long ago.


    General Ye was speechless.


    ¡°This is my gift to my daughter,¡± Xuanyuan Ce said.


    General Ye was silent. It seemed that his upcoming battle was going to be in vain.


    In the next half a month, Song Jingchen led the army east and captured three cities in the Wu Kingdom. He killed six generals of the Wu Kingdom and captured nearly 200,000 prisoners of war.


    The soldiers of the Xuanyuan Kingdom had clearly participated in the battle, but they were all sent away by Xuanyuan Ce.


    At first, they were quite dissatisfied. Xuanyuan Ce waved his hand and distributed all the spoils of war that he had split with Song Jingchen according to their military contributions, stopping everyone¡¯s complaints.


    After all, after reporting military merits to the Imperial Court, most of it would belong to the generals above. The real share of military merits would typically not be given to ordinary soldiers.


    They were clearly the ones at the front. Although no one dared to say anything, they still felt uncomfortable. How could it be better to exchange their heads for real money?


    Not only did no one have any objections to Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s move, but they also worked even harder to kill the enemy on the battlefield. The most dangerous charging battalion also became popular.


    If not for the fact that their stamina did not allow them to fight, they would have fought one city a day without stopping.


    Of course, there was a reason why Xuanyuan Ce did this. The main force of the Xuanyuan Kingdom would go all the way south from Pingyang Pass, and the cities they conquered would eventually be planted with the flag of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    He was not worried that the Xuanyuan Kingdom would suffer a loss. Coupled with the fact that the city here was close to Great Xia, the final outcome of the negotiation was that Great Xia would use some wealth to exchange for ownership.


    Since it belonged to Great Xia, he might as well give it to his daughter.


    With this reputation, no matter what, no one in Great Xia would dare to bully her in the future. Even if there was another Emperor Chong¡¯an, he would have to think twice before attacking the Song family.


    The good news arrived in Chang¡¯an one after another. At the same time, Xiao Qirui¡¯s coffin arrived outside Chang¡¯an..

 Chapter 927 - Chapter 927: Condolences

    Chapter 927: Condolences


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    When the bad news first reached the capital, General Xiao fainted in the imperial court and was sent back to the residence. When he woke up, he immediately brought a group of people out of the city and met the escort team halfway.


    At this moment, he was personally holding the memorial tablet with a coffin behind him.


    Paper money flew everywhere. The commoners stood on both sides of the street. The originally bustling Chang¡¯an City seemed to have a pause button pressed. No one spoke, but wherever the team passed, the commoners on both sides would kneel down and sob softly.


    This scene spread all the way to the entrance of the general¡¯s residence.


    In order to accompany Madam Xiao, Xiao Ruoshui had been staying in the general¡¯s residence for the past few days, including Fan Mingyuan.


    ¡°Madam, Grandaunt, Young Master, the general has brought Young Master back.¡± Xiao Tong walked in and choked.


    Madam Xiao¡¯s body stiffened. She clenched the handkerchief in her hand and stood up. She said in a trembling voice, ¡°Open the door and welcome Young


    Master back to the residence.¡±


    ¡°Mother, let me help you, ¡± Xiao Ruoshui said with red eyes.


    Madam Xiao patted her hand.


    The sound of the bell outside gradually approached. The door of the general¡¯s residence slowly opened. Everyone was stunned to see a woman standing at the door.


    ¡°Sister Yuwan?¡± Xiao Ruoshui said in disbelief.


    She knew that Yuan Yuwan had fallen sick and was recuperating in the Duke¡¯s residence, but she was too busy to visit her.


    Yuan Yuwan nodded and bowed to Madam Xiao. ¡°Auntie, I¡¯m here to pick up the


    Young General.¡¯


    Madam Xiao¡¯s eyes turned red. She walked forward and helped her up. ¡°Silly child, you don¡¯t have to do this.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head. ¡°We were husband and wife. Yuwan should come.¡± With that, she turned around and returned her gaze to the approaching team.


    The group stopped in front of the residence. When he saw Yuan Yuwan, General Xiao nodded in relief.


    Regarding the divorce, General Xiao and Mrs. Xiao knew that their son had let her down, but they did not blame him.


    Apart from feeling gratified that she could come, General Xiao also felt that it was a pity. It was a pity that the Xiao family was not lucky enough. It was a pity that the two of them were not fated enough.


    ¡°Rui¡¯er!¡±


    ¡°Big Brother!¡±


    Madam Xiao and Xiao Ruoshui threw themselves in front of the coffin and cried bitterly.


    The two of them cried, and it was as if a spell broke. The servants who came out with them could no longer hold it in. They either sobbed or wailed.


    For a moment, the entire Xiao residence was filled with cries.


    General Xiao¡¯s hand was trembling as he held the memorial tablet. He closed his eyes and said hoarsely, ¡°Take the Young Master home.¡±


    The head of the family spoke. The maidservant wiped her tears and went forward to pull Madam Xiao away. Fan Mingyuan also pulled Xiao Ruoshui away.


    Looking at the coffin that passed in front of her, Yuan Yuwan felt as if her heart was being gripped tightly by a large palm. Her body swayed, and tears fell uncontrollably.


    ¡°Miss.¡± You Bails heart ached as she supported her.


    Yuan Yuwan said, ¡°Go in.¡±


    The mourning hall had long been set up in the residence. As soon as the coffin was put down, Eunuch Li came with an imperial edict. He conferred Xiao Qirui the title of Peacekeeper General.


    After handing the imperial edict to General Xiao, Eunuch Li quickly helped him up. Looking at the person who seemed to have instantly aged a lot, he sighed and said, ¡°My condolences.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Eunuch Li. The residence is doing a funeral, so I won¡¯t ask you to stay for tea.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Eunuch Li waved his hand. ¡°However, Your Majesty specially instructed me to burn incense for the Peacekeeper General.¡±


    General Xiao cupped his hands and said, ¡°Thank you for your concern.¡±


    Knowing that the residence was busy, Eunuch Li did not stay long after offering incense.


    Not long after the people from the palace left, Madam Li brought Song Jinghao and Lin Shao over. Right on the heels of that, people from various residences in the capital came to pay their respects..

 Chapter 928 - Chapter 928: Missing (1)

    Chapter 928: Missing (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    As the night deepened, the lively general¡¯s residence returned to silence. Under this silence, it was as if the air was filled with grief. ¡°Yuwan, I¡¯ll get the servants to tidy up a room. Go and rest.¡±


    ¡°No need.¡± Yuan Yuwan lowered her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll leave in a while.¡±


    Madam Xiao paused for a moment and understood something. She sighed and said, ¡°Alright.¡±


    With that, she gestured for the maidservant kneeling behind her to help her up. She wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief. ¡°I¡¯ll go and see Ruoshui. Talk to Rui¡¯er. I¡¯ll get Uncle Tong to arrange a carriage to send you back later.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was pregnant. After kneeling for a day, her face turned pale. In the end, Madam Xiao got someone to forcefully send her back to her room and even asked Fan Mingyuan to take care of her.


    Yuan Yuwan knew that Madam Xiao wanted to give her a chance to be alone with Xiao Qirui. She turned around and bowed. ¡°Thank you, Auntie.¡±


    Madam Xiao took all the servants in the mourning hall away, leaving only Yuan Yuwan and her servant behind.


    ¡°Wait for me outside,¡± Yuan Yuwan said.


    You Bai sniffed. ¡°Yes.¡±


    After the footsteps behind her faded away, Yuan Yuwan threw all the paper money in her hand into the brazier. She stood up and walked towards the coffin.


    She gently reached out and brushed past the coffin. She looked down at the coffin in front of her, as if she was looking at the young man lying inside again.


    After a while, she clenched her fists and said in a trembling voice, ¡°In this life, you betrayed me twice. I should blame you, but you were too ruthless. You didn¡¯t even give me this chance.¡±


    As long as he was still alive, she would not feel so terrible even if the two of them completely stopped contacting each other in the future.


    As long as he was still alive.


    Yuan Yuwan closed her eyes gently. ¡°You owe me. In your next life¡­¡±


    She opened her eyes and watched with a smile. Tears suddenly fell and hit the coffin, causing water to splash. ¡°Make it up to me again.¡±


    With that, she turned around and walked out, as if she was afraid that she would not be able to walk away if she waited any longer.


    She didn¡¯t know if there was a next life. If there was, she would definitely cry and make a fuss. She would make this person unable to let go of her and couldn¡¯t bear to die.


    ¡°Miss.¡± Seeing her come out, You Bai quickly went forward to help her. Yuan Yuwan resisted the urge to turn around and said calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± You Bai pursed her lips and stopped talking.


    The master and servant walked straight out of the residence. They passed by a corner and happened to meet General Xiao.


    ¡°Uncle Xiao.¡± Yuan Yuwan bowed.


    General Xiao was stunned for a moment. He turned to look in the direction the master and servant were going and nodded. ¡°It¡¯s been hard on you today.¡±


    ¡°Arrange for a carriage. Send Little Yuan back personally,¡± he instructed Xiao Tong.


    The latter quickly went to make arrangements.


    ¡°Thank you, Uncle.¡±


    General Xiao waved his hand. ¡°Hurry up and go. It¡¯s going to be curfew soon.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Yuan Yuwan bowed and left with You Bai.


    ¡°Little Yuan.¡± General Xiao suddenly stopped her.


    Yuan Yuwan stopped in her tracks and turned around. The moonlight shone on her fair figure, making her look slightly thin. General Xiao continued, ¡°If you encounter any difficulties in the future, feel free to come to the Xiao residence.


    This will always be your home.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was slightly stunned and bowed again.


    At this moment, two carriages were parked at the entrance of the residence. Xiao Tong waited beside one of them with a strange expression. Yuan Yuwan didn¡¯t think too much about it. Just as she was about to go over, the curtain of the other carriage was lifted.


    ¡°Yuwan, I¡¯ll send you back.¡± It was Shangguan Heng.


    Only then did Yuan Yuwan recognize that the driver of the other carriage was Yuan Bao. She finally understood why Xiao Tong had that expression.


    No matter what, she was once the Young Madam of the Xiao family. Xiao Qirui¡¯s corpse was lying inside. Seeing a foreign man come to pick her up, even if she didn¡¯t plan to marry again, he would feel a little upset.


    At this moment, the sound of hooves sounded again. A carriage stopped in front of her.


    ¡°Sister Yuwan, Auntie asked us to bring you home.¡± Lin Miaomiao stuck her head out.


    Lin Shao was driving the carriage, and Song Jinghao rode beside him.


    Yuan Yuwan felt a warm current in her heart. She bowed to Shangguan Heng and said, ¡°Thank you, Your Highness, but men and women should guard against each other. Your Highness, please leave.¡±


    ¡°Ah Yu¡­¡± Shangguan Heng¡¯s baby face frowned.


    Yuan Yuwan stopped looking at him and said to Xiao Tong, ¡°Uncle Tong, someone is here to pick me up. I won¡¯t trouble you to make a trip.¡±


    ¡°Well.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan shook her head and let You Bai help her into the Song family¡¯s carriage.


    However, their carriage was in the middle. It was easy to turn in. If they wanted to go out, they had to let the carriage in front leave first. Shangguan Heng had no choice but to instruct Yuan Bao to leave dejectedly..

 Chapter 929 - Chapter 929: Missing (2)

    Chapter 929: Missing (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing this, Xiao Tong asked the coachman to make way for them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± Song Jinghao said.


    As soon as he finished speaking, a young man limped out of the residence. ¡°Miss Yuan, please wait a moment.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan lifted the curtain of the car window. ¡°Xiao Li?¡±


    Xiao Li thought that he had not protected Xiao Qirui well. As soon as he returned, he went to collect a punishment, 20 strokes of the cane. After that, he ran out of the mourning hall and knelt for half a day. Later on, he fainted and was sent back to his room. When he woke up and found out that Yuan Yuwan had left, he hurriedly chased after her.


    He walked to the carriage and handed the bag in his arms to Yuan Yuwan. ¡°After my young master left the capital, he usually wrote you a letter every three days. Although he didn¡¯t say anything, I think he definitely wants you to see it.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She took the bag in a daze. It was clearly very light, but it felt heavy in her hand.


    Xiao Li wiped his tears and took out another pouch. ¡°When my young master left¡­¡± He choked for a moment. ¡°He held this pouch tightly in his hand. You¡­¡±


    At this point, he seemed to be unable to continue. When Yuan Yuwan took the pouch away, he bowed deeply. ¡°Miss Yuan, take care.¡±


    In the mourning hall, General Xiao stood in front of the coffin with his hands behind his back. His back was as straight as ever, but his back was filled with sadness.


    ¡°In the past, I always said that you were stupid and inflexible. Now, it seems that I was right.¡±


    He had already learned what had happened on the battlefield from Xiao Li.


    Because he knew that he would become a killing machine that would attack his companions at any moment, he decided to die. If he wasn¡¯t a blockhead, what was he?


    Even if it was a killing machine, it was still his son. He could lock him up and tie him up in chains. At least he would still be alive, right?


    However¡­


    General Xiao¡¯s eyes turned red bit by bit, and hot liquid flowed out of his eyes. He walked forward and wiped the nonexistent dust off the coffin with his sleeve. He smiled and said, ¡°Brat, good job. As expected of my son.¡±


    He was a boorish person. Apart from being more tolerant when facing Xiao Ruoshui, he always felt that he should be strict with his son.


    As soon as Xiao Qirui learned to walk, he made him raise the wooden sword and swing it under the hot sun for a few hours every day. At that time, he was not as tall as the wooden sword.


    During Xiao Qirui¡¯s first time learning how to ride a horse, he fell. After falling off the horse, he cried aggrievedly, and in return, he was reprimanded even more severely.


    There were too many instances.


    He had never hugged him even once.


    When he was young, Xiao Qirui was actually very cute and mischievous like Xiao Ruoshui. It was because of him that he became more and more silent.


    He had grown into what General Xiao wanted to see, but he still did not receive a single word of praise from him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve done well, my son.¡±


    A low and suppressed whimper came from the mourning hall.


    Madam Xiao, who had reached the door, paused and waved her hand to dismiss the people behind her. She wanted to walk in, but in the end, she stopped and leaned against the wall, covering her mouth and crying.


    In the room of the Duke¡¯s residence, the dim yellow candlelight flickered. Yuan Yuwan looked at the bag and pouch on the table in front of her.


    After a while, she reached out and picked up the pouch. The pouch was very light, almost weightless. It was covered in dark red blood.


    ¡°When my young master left, he was still holding this pouch tightly in his hand.. ¡®


    Yuan Yuwan¡¯s breathing tightened, and her entire body seemed to be frozen. She reached out and opened the pouch, taking out a strand of hair tied into a concentric knot with red thread.


    Her eyes trembled, and her grip on the pouch tightened. She could no longer suppress her tears.


    The scene of the young man carefully taking the knot away on their wedding night was still vivid in her mind.


    She felt that her heart was about to break. She covered her chest, which was about to suffocate, and cried and cursed, ¡°Bastard, Xiao Qirui, you¡¯re a bastard.¡±


    There were some things that could not be thought about carefully. When she thought about it carefully, she realized that there were regrets between them.


    The wedding night ended on bad terms. They looked at each other from afar in front of the wooden house, and the prey that appeared every day at the entrance of the courtyard.


    He was simply a block of wood. How could anyone only know how to send bloody wild animals to a girl¡¯s house?


    He even stumbled over an apology. If she didn¡¯t want to hear it, he stopped and wouldn¡¯t say it. If he wasn¡¯t a blockhead, what was he?


    Large tears rolled down her face like a meandering stream. They gathered on her chin and then dripped down.


    After a long time, she wiped her tears and picked up the bag beside her. There were two boxes inside..

 Chapter 930 - Chapter 930: Missing (3)

    Chapter 930: Missing (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She opened one of them. It was a dried flower, a few hairpin rings, a safety buckle, and a few smooth and round stones.


    Seeing this, Yuan Yuwan¡¯s tears fell uncontrollably again.


    She was not someone who liked to cry, but tonight¡¯s tears seemed to be endless.


    In the other box was a messy stack of letters. A few of them were even stained with blood. When she picked them up, she realized that these letters had no end. They seemed to have been cut in half.


    Her vision gradually blurred. With trembling hands, she poured out all the letters and pieced them together¡­


    ¡°On the 15th of January in the first year of Qianyuan. We passed by the Liangshan Mountain and encountered heavy snow. The army temporarily rested and walked alone in frustration. We saw the red plums in the snow on the mountain. They were extremely beautiful. You were not around, so I secretly took one of the red plum blossoms and made it into dried flowers. I


    hope Ah Wan will be happy.¡±


    ¡°Fool, don¡¯t you usually call me Miss Yuan? Why are you calling me so intimately in the letter? Do you really think that you can disregard etiquette and do whatever you want just because I can¡¯t see it?¡± She took a deep breath and carefully placed the letter aside. She picked up the letters beside her and read them one by one.


    Every letter roughly explained where the army was. There were only a few words, but it could be seen that the person was trying his best to find some interesting things. However, the journey was arduous and boring. How could such a thing happen?


    Hence, there were those stones.


    In her mind, she could not help but imagine the young man sitting in the tent with a stone and racking his brains to write a letter. Yuan Yuwan smiled through her tears. As she smiled, more tears flowed out.


    ¡°On the 3rd of March in the first year of Qianyuan. The army arrived at Nanling Pass. The people in the pass were poor, but they were still in chaos from the flames of war. They couldn¡¯t bear it and were terrified that the flames of war had spread throughout Chang¡¯an. I couldn¡¯t sleep at night. I swear to chase the Wu army out of the border and protect Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°On the 21st of May in the first year of Qianyuan. The Wu army is coming in to attack the city more and more frequently. They saw their companions die in battle. As the commander, I was unable to do anything and felt deeply guilty. The South Mountain Pass is in danger. If I can¡¯t return safely, I hope Ah Wan won¡¯t be sad. Find a good person to protect you for the rest of your life.¡±


    ¡°On the 6th of June in the first year of Qianyuan. Ah Chen and his wife have already arrived at Nanling Pass. Our army has repelled the Wu army twice in a row. I believe we¡¯ll be able to return triumphantly in a few days. Seeing how they interact, I¡¯m anxious and look forward to returning early.¡± A tear fell on the letter, wetting the words ¡°returning early¡±.


    This was the last letter.


    It was rumored that the city gate was destroyed on the 7th of June. The black-robed men rushed into the city, and Xiao Qirui was accidentally injured in order to save a child. He was unconscious for three days. When he woke up, he realized that he had lost control and led his troops out of the city to resist the Wu army. He died in battle.


    He had clearly written about ¡°returning early¡± happily the day before.


    Yuan Yuwan raised her hand to cover her eyes. She choked, feeling that it was hard to breathe.


    The sobbing in the room only stopped at dawn. You Bai was guarding the door, her eyes swollen from crying. She sniffed and carefully pushed the door open.


    Yuan Yuwan had fallen asleep on the table. There were neatly sewn letters beside her hand. Noticing that her face was covered in tears, You Bail s heart ached. She quickly called two nannies to carry her back to the bed.


    Xiao Qirui¡¯s coffin stayed in the Xiao residence for three days, and Yuan Yuwan never appeared again. On the day of the funeral, she brought You Bai back to the manor.


    Madam Li was worried, but she knew that she could not keep her here, so she could only let Lin Miaomiao accompany her for a while.


    Because of the deaths of Xiao Qirui and the nearly 200,000 soldiers, the happiness brought about by the good news was diluted.


    Because all of this was brought about by his once respected brother, Shangguan Han¡¯s expression became uglier by the day. Even the atmosphere in the palace was very oppressive. However, at this moment, the empress dowager, who was supposed to be in the harem, disappeared.


    Shangguan suddenly stood up from the dragon throne. ¡°What did you say? Why did Mother disappear for no reason?¡±


    With that, he did not wait for the palace maid to reply and strode towards Renshou Palace.


    There were palace maids and eunuchs of all sizes kneeling outside Renshou Palace. When they saw the emperor coming, they greeted him in fear and trepidation.


    ¡°Why are you kneeling here? Where¡¯s my mother?¡± Shangguan Han roared.


    ¡°Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager said that she was tired last night. After serving her and resting, we retreated. Who knew that the Empress Dowager would disappear this morning? Aunt Su Yun was also knocked unconscious in the bedroom.¡±


    Shangguan Han¡¯s pupils constricted and he said angrily, ¡°Su Yun, where is Su


    Yun?¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, Su Yun staggered out of the hall and knelt down in front of Shangguan Han. ¡°Your Majesty, it¡¯s Ping¡¯er. Ping¡¯er must have taken the Empress Dowager away.¡±


    She still remembered that it was Ping¡¯er who came in to change the incense. She fainted right on the heels of that

 Chapter 931 - Chapter 931: The Finale (1-1)

    Chapter 931: The Finale (1-1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The empress dowager of a country disappeared just like that in the heavily guarded harem. She did not even alarm anyone. What if the target of the villains was him, the emperor?


    There was still a war at the border. If this matter was spread, people might panic.


    No matter how anxious Shangguan Han was, he knew how powerful it was. He immediately got someone to seal off the palace. In addition, he closed the city gate on the grounds that thieves had entered the palace and stolen treasures. He ordered Lin Mu to lead the imperial guards to search every house.


    ¡°Go and investigate that Ping¡¯er.¡± After Shangguan Han finished making the arrangements, he instructed, ¡°Invite Lord Fan into the palace.¡±


    Eunuch Wan should leave.


    These days, Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s emotions had been unstable. Fan Mingyuan had taken leave to take care of her at home. Because Eunuch Wan had urged him to hurry, he did not even change into his court clothes when he arrived.


    After knowing that the empress dowager had disappeared, he asked, ¡°Your Majesty suspects that it¡¯s Lord Xian¡­ Did the people of the Wu Kingdom kidnap the empress dowager to threaten Ah Chen?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. The Wu Kingdom has lost three cities in a row. This is their only way now. ¡±


    Moreover, that person believed that his mother had caused his mother¡¯s death. He hated his mother. Only he would do this. Only he had the ability.


    It was normal for him to have a hidden pawn that he had not pulled out after lying low for more than ten years.


    Fan Mingyuan frowned. ¡°If it was really him, the empress dowager would have been taken out of the city by now.¡±


    How could Shangguan Han not know this? He just did not want to let go of the slightest possibility.


    He slammed his fist against the wall angrily. ¡°I can¡¯t ignore Mother¡¯s life.¡± Even if he had to retreat.


    Fan Mingyuan lowered his eyes. He had already sacrificed so many soldiers. If that happened, even if the empress dowager was saved, she would become a sinner of Great Xia.


    Thinking of something, he said, ¡°Your Majesty, can you let me check the list of palace servants who served Nangong Xia back then?¡±


    Shangguan Han was stunned. When he realized who Nangong Xia was, he quickly got someone to call Su Yun over.


    At this moment, a eunuch hurriedly ran in. ¡°Not good, Your Majesty. The former emperor is missing¡­¡¯


    Perhaps it was true that a wreaked havoc would live for a thousand years. Shangguan Qingyu, the former emperor, was imprisoned in a side hall and had been living well for so long.


    Shangguan Han and Fan Mingyuan looked at each other, even more certain of their guess.


    There was no other reason. In that person¡¯s heart, Song Li was the executioner who killed Nangong Xia, and Shangguan Qingyu was the evil person who imprisoned her.


    On the other side, the battle against the Wu Kingdom became more and more intense. Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s army worked together, and the Southern and Eastern Barbarians scattered a portion of their troops. A few armies attacked the hinterland of the Wu Kingdom and occupied Changping, Binzhou, Shi Prefecture, and many other Wu Kingdom cities.


    In mid-November, the army was stationed outside the capital city. The winter was bitterly cold, and the river outside the capital city was already covered in a thick layer of ice.


    ¡°Inform everyone to rest and reorganize for three days before attacking the city.¡±


    In the tent, Song Jingchen inserted a flag into the middle of the sand table, to represent the Wu Kingdom¡¯s capital.


    If Sikong Yi and Xuanyuan Ce did not object, the other generals would not have any objections.


    After everyone left, Shen Yijia came out from behind the screen with a big stomach.


    MO Yuan followed closely, her face filled with nervousness.


    Song Jingchen stood up and walked forward to support her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you tired? Why are you out?¡±


    When he touched her hand, it was a little cold. Song Jingchen took off his cloak and put it on her. The two of them were of different heights. The cloak covered Shen Yijia¡¯s body from the neck down.


    This wasn¡¯t enough. Song Jingchen carefully helped her tie the ribbon. It was warm, but it was a little strange.


    Shen Yijia looked up at him with a serious expression. ¡°Do I look like a ball to you?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze subconsciously landed on her stomach. He held back his laughter and shook his head. ¡°No.¡±


    Shen Yijia was already six months pregnant, but her stomach looked bigger than anyone else¡¯s. Early on in the pregnancy, she did not manage to check it. Later on, she realized that she was pregnant with twins.


    Although she was pregnant with two children, this girl still jumped up and down all day. It really shocked everyone.


    However, she was very stubborn and refused to return to Nanling Pass first.


    It was unknown if it was because Xiao Qirui¡¯s incident had frightened her or if it was because she was pregnant and sensitive.


    There was once when Song Jingchen¡¯s team encountered an ambush by the Wu army and returned a day later than planned. She was so worried that she didn¡¯t sleep the entire night. The next day, she secretly sneaked out to look for him behind Ji Luo¡¯s back. Fortunately, Song Jingchen returned in time.


    Because of this, Song Jingchen never said anything about asking her to retreat..

 Chapter 932 - Chapter 932: The Finale (1-2)

    Chapter 932: The Finale (1-2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Otherwise, in Shen Yijia¡¯s current situation, Song Jingchen had no doubt that even if he temporarily coaxed her into agreeing to return to Nanling Pass first, this girl would probably return to the front line to look for him because of a nightmare or other reasons. In that case, it was better to keep her by his side.


    ¡°Don¡¯t I look like a ball? Why do I feel that way?¡± Shen Yijia lowered her head and walked around in a circle.


    Her cloak was lifted up by her big stomach. Her head was small, and her body was biz. She looked exactlv like a tumbler.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched and he quickly helped her sit down.


    Seeing how nervous he was, Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not that weak.¡± Why did everyone treat her like a porcelain doll?


    Song Jingchen said without thinking, ¡°Jiajia is the most powerful. You¡¯re not weak at all. It¡¯s the two little fellows in your stomach who are weak.¡±


    If he hadn¡¯t said that, this girl would have done something to prove herself.


    Shen Yijia pouted. It was all because the two little fellows in her stomach were a burden to her.


    Just as this thought flashed through her mind, something hit her stomach, and Shen Yijia froze.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Song Jingchen asked nervously.


    Shen Yijia said uncertainly, ¡°He¡­ he seems to have moved.¡±


    She held her breath and lifted her cloak to touch her stomach, but after waiting for a long time, her stomach did not move again, as if what she felt just now was just her imagination.


    Seeing her disappointed expression, Song Jingchen resisted the urge to try. He rubbed her head and comforted her. ¡°They¡¯re still young. They don¡¯t have the strength to move.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re indeed weaklings.¡± Shen Yijia said disdainfully, but she hoped that they would grow faster.


    After confirming that Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t going anywhere today, she went back to sleep.


    When she fell asleep, a hand quietly reached under the blanket. He thought that he wouldn¡¯t get a response, but just as he touched her stomach, a small bump appeared under his palm.


    Song Jingchen felt as if he had been pricked by a needle. He retracted his hand and was stunned for a moment. He wanted to try again, but he thought of something and held it in. He leaned over and whispered, ¡°Your mother is sleeping. Be good and don¡¯t disturb her.¡±


    Shen Yijia did not know that the two little ones had already secretly greeted their biological father behind her back. When she woke up, she saw MO Yuan standing quietly at the side.


    ¡°Where¡¯s my husband?¡±


    ¡°If the Duke doesn¡¯t want anything to happen to the Empress Dowager of Great Xia, he¡¯ll bring you and these people back to where you came from.¡±


    ¡°In your dreams.¡± A deputy general¡¯s eyes turned red with anger. He drew his sword and slashed at the envoy.


    The envoy was so frightened that he hurriedly dodged and said in a panic, ¡°The two countries are at war. Why didn¡¯t you kill the envoy? Why didn¡¯t you follow the rules?¡±


    ¡°Heh, rules?¡± The deputy general sneered. ¡°What right do you have to talk about rules here?¡±


    With that, he stabbed out again and cut off the envoy¡¯s hair crown.


    Her hair fluttered and fell to the ground. The envoy¡¯s pupils constricted. He covered his head and looked at the silent youth in panic. ¡°Bulwark Duke, you have to think carefully. Can you really disregard the life and death of your Empress Dowager?¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes turned cold as he looked at the deputy general who attacked. The latter immediately put away his sword and knelt down. ¡°I know my mistake. General, please punish me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not allowed to eat tonight, ¡± Song Jingchen said.


    ¡®Yes.¡±


    He almost cut off his head. Was it over after a night of hunger? The envoy was so angry that his face turned the color of pig liver. He opened his mouth to say something.


    Song Jingchen waved his hand. ¡°See the guest out.¡±


    The envoy said, ¡°Duke¡­¡±


    ¡°You said that the empress dowager of Great Xia is in your hands, but I didn¡¯t


    receive any news from Chang¡¯an. Do you think I¡¯ll believe you just because of your words?¡± Song Jingchen sneered. ¡°You¡¯re already old. You should cherish your life.¡±


    In other words, if you say another word of nonsense, he would get someone to kill the envoy.


    His face turned pale. In the end, he still felt that his life was more important.


    After he left, the tent fell into a dead silence. Although they had pretended not to believe it just now, everyone knew in their hearts that it was impossible for the people of the Wu Kingdom to speak without thinking.


    It was very likely that the Empress Dowager was really in their hands.


    As for why there was no news from Chang¡¯an, firstly, it was because the journey was long. Secondly, it was probably because someone had stopped them on the way.


    A general wanted to ask Song Jingchen for his opinion, but Sikong Yi shook his head. He looked at the cold-faced young man in front of him and stood up to signal for everyone to leave first.


    The tent curtain lifted and closed. The teacup in Song Jingchen¡¯s hand shattered, and the shattered porcelain pierced his palm. Blood instantly gushed out.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± When Shen Yijia entered, she happened to see this scene. She quickly ran over and pried his hand away. Looking at his badly mangled palm, she was angry and her heart ached. ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    She had been standing outside for a while just now and roughly knew what had happened.


    ¡°I¡¯m indignant.¡± Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes were red. He gritted his teeth and said, ¡°So many soldiers died, and Brother Xiao¡­ I¡¯m really indignant.¡±


    However, he also knew that Shangguan Han wouldn¡¯t agree. He couldn¡¯t ignore his aunt¡¯s life.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips. ¡°MO Yuan, bring the first aid kit over.¡±


    In the royal palace of the Wu Kingdom.


    As soon as Song Li opened her eyes, she realized that she was in an unfamiliar environment. She didn¡¯t even bother to put on her shoes. She quickly ran to the door. Just as she placed her hand on it, the door was pushed open from the outside.


    She was shocked when she saw the young man standing outside the door.


    ¡°You¡­¡¯


    ¡°Mother, long time no see.¡± Shangguan Yu was dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe and still had a smile on his face, but that smile did not reach his eyes. He looked much thinner than before.


    Song Li had already regained his composure and said coldly, ¡°Is this the Wu Kingdom¡¯s palace?¡±


    During the time she was abducted, someone kept feeding her medicine. Although she woke up a few times along the way, she only knew that she seemed to be in the carriage and did not know the direction she was going.


    ¡°Mother is still as smart as ever.¡± Shangguan Yu smiled and walked into the room. Song Li retreated step by step.


    Shangguan Yu walked to the table in the middle and sat down. The eunuch behind him placed a food box on the table and was about to open it.


    Shangguan Yu waved his hand to signal him to leave. He opened the food box and took out a bowl of noodles.


    ¡°Mother, have you forgotten? Today is my birthday. You said that you would spend my birthday with me every year.¡±


    ¡°What exactly do you want to do?¡± Song Li asked coldly.


    Shangguan Yu didn¡¯t seem to hear her. He took out an empty bowl from the food box and divided half of the noodles into it. He pushed it across and smiled.


    ¡°Mother¡­¡±


    Bang! Half a bowl of noodles was pushed to the ground by a bare hand.


    Shangguan Yu was stunned for a moment, but he quickly returned to normal. He picked up his chopsticks and picked up a piece of noodles to eat. After tasting it, he frowned and put down his chopsticks. He sighed and said,


    ¡°Mother¡¯s noodles are still the best. I still remember that at this time last year,


    Mother specially cooked noodles for me in the Cold Palace.¡±


    ¡°Shangguan Yu¡­ No, you should be called Nangong Yu now.¡± Song Li interrupted him coldly. ¡°You don¡¯t have to remind me of the stupid things I¡¯ve done. Tell me, what do you want to do by capturing me and bringing me to the Wu Kingdom?¡±


    She clenched her fists. ¡°If you want to use me to threaten Ah Chen to retreat, then you¡¯ve made a mistake. I won¡¯t let you succeed even if I die.¡±


    Shangguan Yu sighed. ¡°Mother is exhausted from the journey. You must be tired. Someone, come.¡± He stood up. ¡°Clean up this place and serve the Empress


    Dowager to rest.¡±


    Immediately, two palace maids walked in.


    Seeing that he had turned around and was about to leave, Song Li secretly heaved a sigh of relief. Unexpectedly, Shangguan Yu arrived in front of her the next moment and snatched the porcelain bowl fragment from her hand.


    When he was snatching it, the fragment accidentally cut his finger. Shangguan


    Yu frowned. ¡°This thing is too dangerous. Mother, you¡¯d better not touch it.¡±


    ¡°You!¡± Song Li was furious. She wanted to say something, but she felt a pain in her neck and fainted again.


    Shangguan Yu placed her back on the bed and a eunuch walked in. ¡°Your


    Majesty, Lord Xu is back..¡±

 Chapter 933 - Chapter 933: Finale (2-1)

    Chapter 933: Finale (2-1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°What did you say? General Yan is still alive?¡± Shangguan Yu looked at the disheveled Lord Xu and asked.


    The news of Yan Guangmao¡¯s accident was brought back by a secret guard at the risk of his life. After giving the secret guard instructions, he stopped breathing. Shangguan Yu and everyone thought that Yan Guangmao was already dead.


    Lord Xu said with a trembling voice, ¡°It¡¯s absolutely true. I saw it with my own eyes. General Yan isn¡¯t dead yet. He¡¯s still alive.¡±


    Originally, he had already left the Great Xia army¡¯s camp. Unexpectedly, he was kidnapped again. Then, he saw Yan Guangmao, who was on his last breath.


    Shangguan Yu narrowed his eyes. ¡°They want to exchange General Yan for the


    Empress Dowager of Great Xia?¡±


    Everyone in the Wu Kingdom knew that Yan Guangmao had single-handedly supported him to the throne, but Song Jingchen knew his relationship with Yan Guangmao very well. He knew that he wouldn¡¯t ignore his adoptive father¡¯s life, just like how he knew that Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t ignore Song Li.


    ¡°No, no. He said that he can agree to Your Majesty¡¯s conditions and let General Yan go, but he has to use General to exchange for the opportunity to see the empress dowager of Great Xia and ensure her safety. He also¡­¡± In the cold winter, Lord Xu broke out in a sweat. ¡°Your Majesty even has to personally appear and promise in front of everyone in the world that you will immediately let the empress dowager of Great Xia go after he retreats with his army. If Your Majesty doesn¡¯t agree, not only will he not retreat, but he will also let General


    Yan and our Wu Kingdom die with the empress dowager of Great Xia.¡±


    I can retreat, but you have to show some sincerity. Otherwise, how can you make me believe that you¡¯ll keep your promise and let the empress dowager go after I retreat? That was the meaning behind this bargain.


    Actually, Lord Xu was still at a loss. At first, Song Jingchen didn¡¯t believe that the empress dowager of Great Xia was in their hands, but why did he change his mind not long after he left?


    How could he have known that One Dot and the others had arrived with Shangguan Han¡¯s secret decree at the Great Xia army¡¯s camp?


    Killing intent flashed across Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes. Song Li was his last bargaining chip. Before the Great Xia army retreated from the Wu Kingdom¡¯s territory, he would definitely not let him go.


    Song Jingchen had guessed that after knowing that his adoptive father was in his hands, he would ask for an additional request to let him go.


    Instead of letting him mention it, it was better to take the initiative to say it. He could even make some harmless requests in the eyes of others.


    Was it really harmless?


    This step was none other than to see who was more ruthless.


    After not hearing the person in charge speak for a long time, Lord Xu raised his head carefully. ¡°Your Majesty¡­¡±


    ¡°Tell him to retreat 50 kilometers. Three days later, I¡¯ll personally bring the Empress Dowager of Great Xia to the city gate.¡±


    Lord Xu could only run to the Great Xia army¡¯s camp outside the city on tenterhooks again. The news he brought back was that Song Jingchen had agreed.


    He had been running back and forth for a day, and the minister quickly heard that Yan Guangmao was still alive.


    The ministers in the imperial court were divided into two factions. One of them thought that this was Song Jingchen¡¯s scheme. It was too risky for the emperor of a country to appear, so he suggested holding the empress dowager of Great Xia hostage and moving the capital.


    The other faction felt that Yan Guangmao had contributed a lot to the Wu Kingdom and had worked hard. They had no choice but to save him. Moreover, as long as the empress dowager of Great Xia was in their hands, the Great Xia army would hesitate to attack. There was no need to move to the capital at all.


    As for the Xuanyuan Kingdom, they were allies with Great Xia. If Great Xia retreated now, it would be equivalent to betrayal. At that time, it would be a light punishment if Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom did not become enemies.


    In short, the two factions had their own opinions. For a moment, the imperial study was in a heated argument.


    After sending them away, Shangguan Yu leaned back on his throne tiredly.


    ¡°Your Majesty, you can¡¯t go.¡±


    With this female voice, the door of the imperial study was pushed open again and a graceful woman walked in.


    Shangguan Yu stopped looking tired. ¡°I¡¯ve already made up my mind. You don¡¯t have to persuade me anymore.¡±


    ¡°What if that¡¯s a dead end?¡± Ji Yunxi asked with a frown.


    Shangguan Yu paused and looked up at him. He said in a low voice, ¡°He¡¯s my adoptive father.¡±


    Moreover, there were some things that had to be concluded.


    Ji Yunxi clenched her fists. ¡°If Your Majesty insists, I won¡¯t be able to accompany you on the rest of the journey.¡±


    She turned to leave.


    Although she didn¡¯t want to admit it, she really couldn¡¯t help much in the current situation.


    Moreover, she still had to avenge her parents. She could not let herself fall into this trap even though she knew that it was a dead end. She had to live and wait for the next opportunity to attack.


    ¡°Thank you very much.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s voice came from behind.


    Ji Yunxi stopped in her tracks and turned to look at the handsome man in the high seat. ¡°If the person who was captured was Yunxi, would Your Majesty risk your life to save me?¡±


    Shangguan Yu pursed his lips and said, ¡°At midnight tonight, I¡¯ll send someone to send vou out of the citv..¡±

 Chapter 934 - Chapter 934: Finale (2-2)

    Chapter 934: Finale (2-2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Yunxi smiled self-deprecatingly and walked back. She took out a porcelain bottle and placed it on the imperial table. ¡°This is the medicine my father made when he was raising the Human Voodoo Dolls.¡± She paused and said seriously, ¡°Don¡¯t take it unless you have no choice.¡±


    This time, Shangguan Yu did not speak again until Ji Yunxi walked out of the imperial study.


    Seeing that he had been staring at the porcelain bottle in silence, Lianshan, who was waiting at the side, suddenly walked forward and knelt down. ¡°Your Majesty, General Yan is not worth risking your life.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes turned cold. ¡°Lianshan!¡±


    Cold sweat broke out on Lianshan¡¯s forehead. He lowered his head and continued, ¡°When we first came to the Wu Kingdom, the emperor of Great Xia sent people to see you, but those people were detained by General Yan. That day, you asked me to deliver medicine to General Yan and I happened to bump into them and overhear the conversation. Concubine Li wasn¡¯t killed by the empress dowager at all.¡±


    Shangguan Yu was stunned and said coldly, ¡°How do you know that the other party isn¡¯t quibbling?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I thought at first, but I also heard General Yan instruct Mr. Chang to deal with them cleanly. He said that he would never let you know.¡±


    Mr. Chang was Yan Guangmao¡¯s most trusted retainer. During the days he led the troops to war, Mr. Chang had been in charge of all the matters in the general¡¯s residence, including kidnapping Song Li from Great Xia. He was also the one who planned it.


    ¡°Originally, I felt that Your Majesty still had to rely on General Yan in the Wu Kingdom. I was worried that you would have a feud with General Yan because of this, so I didn¡¯t say anything about it. However, now that things have come to this¡­¡± Lianshan gritted his teeth. ¡°Perhaps General Yan has been lying to you.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s heart skipped a beat. He pulled out the sword behind him and stabbed it at Lianshan. The tip of the sword pressed against Lianshan¡¯s throat and stopped. His eyes were cold as he looked at Lianshan with dense killing intent. ¡°Do you know the outcome of provoking my relationship with my foster father?¡±


    ¡°I swear on my head that everything I said today is true.¡±


    With a clang, the sword fell to the ground.


    Shangguan Yu clenched his fists under his sleeves and instructed coldly, ¡°Bring Mr. Chang here.¡±


    Not long after, a refined man in a green robe entered the imperial study. In less than an hour, the door of the imperial study opened again. Shangguan Yu walked out with a cold expression. Lianshan followed worriedly. ¡°Your Majesty..


    ¡°Get someone to clean up the inside.¡±


    Lianshan paused and did not follow him anymore. He turned around and called for two eunuchs. As soon as he stepped into the imperial study, the strong smell of blood filled his mouth and nose.


    Seeing Mr. Chang lying in a pool of blood and dying miserably, Lianshan gasped. Mr. Chang was someone General Yan trusted, but Your Majesty killed him. Did this mean that¡­


    Noticing the two eunuchs who were so frightened that their legs went weak, he rrownea. ¡°Hurry up ana clean up.¡¯


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡±


    After leaving the imperial study, Shangguan Yu went straight to the secret room where Song Li was locked up.


    Bang! The secret room door was pushed open. Song Li looked up and was stunned when she met Shangguan Yu¡¯s scarlet eyes.


    ¡°How did my mother die?¡± Shangguan Yu stared at her. When he asked this, his voice even trembled slightly.


    Song Li was stunned for a long time before saying, ¡°Would you believe me if I said that I didn¡¯t kill her?¡±


    When she discovered Nangong Xia, she had lost too much blood. That bowl of growth medicine saved the fetus in her stomach, but it was not the culprit who killed her. She died because she drank poison.


    In the camp outside the city, the soldiers had long known that the empress dowager had been captured. Now that they had received the order to retreat 50 kilometers, everyone¡¯s faces were filled with unwillingness and anger.


    However, since Song Jingchen had already spoken, they didn¡¯t dare to disobey. ¡°Take care, Bulwark Duke.¡± Sikong Yi cupped his hands at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Thank you, General Sikong.¡±


    After watching Sikong Yi leave with the army, Song Jingchen turned around and returned to the tent.


    Including South Wind, One Dot, and the others who had sent the news from Chang¡¯an, the tent was already filled with people.


    Seeing him enter, the Mahjong Brothers quickly stood up. ¡°Master.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and sat down beside Shen Yijia. When he met Shen Yijia¡¯s worried eyes, he patted her hand comfortingly and looked at One Dot and the others. ¡°Get ready. Follow me into the city after midnight.¡±


    The few of them looked at each other and were about to agree when Xuanyuan Ce rolled his eyes. ¡°Do you think people are so easy to save? What¡¯s the use of bringing them along? Let the Demon Guards accompany you.¡±


    The Mahjong Brothers thought to themselves, ¡°Although we¡¯re indeed not as skilled as those abnormal people, isn¡¯t this too much of an insult?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce did not feel that his words had hurt anyone. He said seriously, ¡®Moreover, someone needs to disguise themselves as you in the camp. Who else is more suitable than them? You don¡¯t have to worry about Jiajia¡¯s safety. Didn¡¯t we leave 5,000 people here? If you fail, I¡¯ll immediately leave with Jiajia and Ah Luo to meet up with the army.¡±


    Once the rescue failed, the other party would have another hostage in their hands. At that time, there would be no need to talk about it. They would just retreat obediently.


    Shen Yijia nodded repeatedly, indicating that she definitely wouldn¡¯t do anything rash this time. Seeing that Song Jingchen was silent, she used her trump card and said, ¡°If you don¡¯t bring the Demon Guards, I¡¯ll get worried. If I get worried, I¡¯ll have insomnia. Insomnia isn¡¯t good for the baby. Can you bear to do that?¡±


    She naturally Imew that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t bring the Demon Guards because he wanted them to stay and protect her, but he was the one who had to do something dangerous.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and finally agreed. However, he only wanted the five Demon Guards Xuanyuan Ce had brought, while You Yi and You Er stayed behind.


    As soon as it was past midnight, six men in black hiding in the night quietly climbed up the city tower with the help of the hooks. Before the city guards on the city tower could react, they infiltrated the capital..

 Chapter 935 - Chapter 935: Rescue (1)

    Chapter 935: Rescue (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The night was dark. There was only the sound of uniform footsteps and armor rubbing against each other as the patrol team walked past. Song Jingchen carefully avoided the patrols with the five Demon Guards and stopped at the back door of a residence called the Cherishing Flower Pavilion.


    After knocking on the courtyard door, it opened a crack from the inside. A woman with heavy makeup stuck her head out and saw six men in black standing outside. Her expression changed. ¡°You¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, Song Jingchen took out a palm -sized token.


    The moment she saw the token, the fear on the woman¡¯s face immediately turned into respect. She quickly turned around and let Song Jingchen and the others in.


    Although the three countries had always maintained peace, no one was a fool. They naturally planted spies among the other countries and established their intelligence systems.


    On the surface, the Cherishing Flower Pavilion was a brothel, but in the end, all the information in the capital was sent back to Great Xia by the merchants here.


    However, because of the recent chaos outside, the Cherishing Flower Pavilion did not have any guests now. Only the girls in the pavilion gathered in the hall to entertain themselves.


    Seeing six unfamiliar men enter, the girls were silent for a moment. Just as they were about to welcome them, the woman leading the way waved her hand to dismiss them and brought Song Jingchen and the others to the third floor.


    She walked to the door at the back and bowed. ¡°Wait a moment.¡± With that, she raised her fair hand and knocked on the door. ¡°Aunt, someone is here.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the door creaked open and a tall and beautiful woman walked out. The woman didn¡¯t look at anyone else. Her gaze swept up and down Song Jingchen for a moment before her eyes lit up and she pounced on him. ¡°Brother Chen, I knew you would come.¡±


    It was a simple sentence, but it sounded incredibly alluring when she said it. It made one¡¯s bones go soft.


    The corners of Song Jingchen¡¯s mouth twitched. He pulled a Demon Guard beside him to block her.


    The woman was shocked. It was too late for her to stop. She bumped into the arms of the Demon Guard and hit his mask with her forehead. It was so painful that she gasped.


    She was not angry. Instead, she hammered the Demon Guard¡¯s chest twice. ¡°Oh my, you¡¯re hurting me.¡±


    The Demon Guard thought, ¡®Who am I? Where am I?¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°Rong Qj, I¡¯m here for serious business today.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve tricked me into coming here for so long. It¡¯s rare for you to look for me.


    Why are you so serious?¡± Rong Qi glared at him and pretended to be angry. ¡°You¡¯re really insensitive.¡±


    At this point, she paused and pursed her lips as if she had thought of something. She chuckled. ¡°I heard that you¡¯re married. Oh my, with your personality, I don¡¯t know how much cold treatment that little girl will receive. Why don¡¯t you let me save her from the fire and water?¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned and said coldly, ¡°My wife is doing fine. You don¡¯t have to worry about her. Also, speak properly.¡±


    Surprise flashed across Rong Qi¡¯s face. She thought that someone like Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t care about any woman. Indeed, nothing was absolute in this world.


    She stopped teasing and cleared her throat. ¡°Alright, I was just joking with you. I understand that you can¡¯t bully a friend¡¯s wife.¡±


    As soon as she opened her mouth, the Demon Guards, who had been teased until their faces turned red, froze.


    Rong Qi raised his eyebrows. ¡°You seem to be very disappointed that I¡¯m a man, but if you don¡¯t mind, I can also¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face darkened. ¡°Rong Qi!¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll stop talking.¡± He raised his hands in surrender.


    Very few people knew that the owner of the Cherishing Flower Pavilion was not


    only a man, but he was also someone who had been rumored to be in the martial world for a period of time.


    Unfortunately, before his reputation could rise, he met Song Jingchen. He was coaxed into losing a bet and became Great Xia¡¯s spy in the Wu Kingdom.


    Every time he thought of this, Rong Qi regretted it. He cherished women, who were as beautiful as flowers. Why couldn¡¯t he figure it out and compete with Song Jingchen to see who knew more flowers?


    Rong Qi seriously suspected that Song Jingchen was the one who had said that there was a beautiful woman in Chang¡¯an back then. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have run all the way to Chang¡¯an without seeing her. How could he have met this black-hearted person? He had even been deceived by him for ten years.


    Thinking of this, Rong Qi glanced at Song Jingchen resentfully. It was all this kid¡¯s fault for being so deceptive.


    He would never admit that it was because he was too gullible when he first entered the martial world.


    Song Jingchen ignored his gaze and walked around him into the room.


    Rong Qi pursed his lips and waved his hand to signal the woman leading the way to retreat. He winked at the Demon Guard..

 Chapter 936 - Chapter 936: Rescue (2)

    Chapter 936: Rescue (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The Demon Guards, who did not even blink when they killed, were so frightened by him that they jumped up onto the roof beam.


    Rong Qi was speechless.


    He turned to look at the others. With a few more whooshes, the remaining Demon Guards instantly disappeared from their spots, as if he was some ferocious beast.


    Rong Qi was stunned for a moment. When he reacted, he laughed out loud and turned to follow Song Jingchen. ¡°Where did you find these people? They¡¯re quite fun.¡±


    Fun? Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll get them to play with you another day.¡± After not seeing him for so many years, this kid had become so kind?


    There must be a demon behind this abnormality. Rong Qi was no longer the brat he used to be. He shrunk his neck and waved his hand repeatedly. ¡°Forget it. I still prefer the girls in our building.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t respond and reached out to him.


    Rong Qi crossed his arms and took a step back in an exaggerated manner. ¡°What do you want to do? Although I¡¯m dressed like this, I¡¯m a real man. Even if you¡¯re good-looking.¡±


    Song Jingchen frowned fiercely. He was no longer able to complain about his actions from time to time. He went straight to the point. ¡°Where¡¯s the thing? Since you guessed that I would come, you should be prepared, right?¡±


    ¡°How boring,¡± Rong Qi muttered. He turned around and took out an envelope from the compartment on the dressing table and handed it to him. ¡°Time is limited, and the palace is heavily guarded now. Our people can¡¯t find out much.¡±


    Song Jingchen opened the envelope. Inside was a map of the Wu Kingdom¡¯s royal palace. It also explained the situation of the various palaces and marked the places where Song Li might have been locked up.


    ¡°Shangguan Yu has always been cautious. He definitely has to keep the important hostages under his nose to feel at ease.¡± As he spoke, he pointed at the location of the emperor¡¯s bedroom. It happened to be marked.


    Speaking of serious matters, Rong Qi became serious for once.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t say anything and only looked up at him to ask for his opinion.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy to break into the palace now.¡± Rong Qi sat down opposite him, picked up the teapot, poured a cup of tea, and pushed it in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°The empress dowager is the greatest bargaining chip in the Wu Kingdom now. How can they give you a chance to save her? I think instead of taking the risk of being surrounded in the palace and looking for people everywhere, it¡¯s better to wait for her to come out.¡±


    Song Jingchen gestured for him to continue.


    ¡°Won¡¯t Shangguan Yu bring the empress dowager out of the city to exchange for Yan Guangmao in three days?¡± Rong Qi said seriously, ¡°The distance from the palace to the city gate is the best time to save them.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°What you said makes sense.¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, the spies have sent back news that the army outside the city is already retreating. There are less than 10,000 people left in the camp,¡± Lianshan reported. ¡°There are also people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets who have successfully left the city.¡±


    The man in the waterside pavilion said faintly, ¡°Song Jingchen retreated decisively. ¡±


    He did not ask about the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Lianshan carefully looked up at him. ¡°Then can we take this opportunity to¡­¡±


    Shangguan Yu said in a low voice, ¡°Father is still in their hands.¡±


    Lianshan did not expect his master to still want to take the risk to save Yan


    Guangmao. He could not help but say, ¡°General Yan¡­¡±


    ¡°Lianshan.¡± Shangguan Yu looked at the endless night. ¡°Why do you think Song Jingchen didn¡¯t tell me the so-called truth through Lord Xu? Even if I didn¡¯t believe it, it can at least leave a seed of doubt in my heart.¡±


    Lianshan was puzzled.


    Shangguan Yu raised the wine jar and took a sip. He smiled self-deprecatingly. ¡°Because he knows that there¡¯s no turning back for me.¡±


    Many of the mistakes he had made in the past were already set in stone. It would not change anything just because he knew the truth or apologized. For example, although the Song family¡¯s accident was caused by his adoptive father, he was an insider and even an accomplice. At this point, he had no way out.


    Moreover, the two countries had been fighting for months and had sacrificed tens of thousands of soldiers. Song Jingchen wouldn¡¯t give up on attacking the


    Wu Kingdom just because he let Song Li go.


    This battle was no longer as simple as a personal grudge.


    Since they were going to fight in the end, why mix in those meaningless truths?


    ¡°But we can leave Yan¡­


    ¡°I told you, he¡¯s my adoptive father.¡±


    Even if Yan Guangmao used him, he had to take revenge himself.


    Of course, only if there was a chance.


    Without waiting for Lianshan to continue persuading him, Shangguan Yu said coldly, ¡°Song Jingchen won¡¯t sit still and wait for death. He¡¯ll definitely think of a way to save her. The palace is heavily guarded, so it¡¯s not easy to save her. It¡¯s very likely that he¡¯ll attack me while I¡¯m bringing the Empress Dowager out of the city. Go and find a woman about the same age as the Empress Dowager.¡±


    The cold wind was biting cold, and Lianshan shrank back from the cold. He quickly lowered his head and agreed. He thought for a moment and persuaded,


    ¡°It¡¯s late. Your Majesty, you have to take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Go and prepare as I say.¡±


    Three days passed in a flash. The agreed time to change hostages was noon.


    At about seven o¡¯clock, a well-equipped army came out of the palace. In the middle of the army was the emperor¡¯s dragon carriage. Lianshan rode beside the dragon carriage, followed by a carriage. From the curtain of the carriage that was blown up by the wind from time to time, one could vaguely see a woman sitting in the carriage with her hands and feet bound and her mouth gagged.


    The commoners, who did not dare to go out because the army was surrounding the city, could not help but stop on both sides of the street to watch.


    ¡°The empress dowager of Great Xia is sitting in the carriage, right?¡± someone asked softly.


    ¡°Apart from her, who else could it be?¡±


    Actually, at this point, they didn¡¯t know if it was the empress dowager of Great


    Xia who killed their princess or the emperor who took the initiative to attack Great Xia. If they really thought about it carefully, it was neither. They only hoped that the war would end quickly.


    Shangguan Yu sat in the dragon carriage and looked at the commoners around him. He closed his eyes indifferently and asked, ¡°Has everything been arranged?¡±


    Lianshan lowered his voice and replied, ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t worry. Our people have been lying in ambush all the way to the city gate. As long as Duke Song dares to save her, I guarantee that he won¡¯t be able to return.¡±


    Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished speaking, a group of men in black holding swords suddenly jumped down from the roofs on both sides and instantly fought with the soldiers.


    The commoners screamed in fear and ran around.


    ¡°There¡¯s an assassin. Protect the emperor.¡± Lianshan shouted and drew his sword to block a person who stabbed at Shangguan Yu.


    Right on the heels of that, tens of thousands of soldiers rushed out of the houses on both sides and instantly surrounded the entire team, including the men in black.


    ¡°Oh no, we¡¯ve fallen into a trap,¡± a man in black cursed.


    Another person slashed a soldier to death and said angrily, ¡°Let¡¯s not worry about that for now. It¡¯s more important to save the Empress Dowager.¡±


    The other men in black came back to their senses and charged towards the carriage behind the dragon carriage..

 Chapter 937 - Chapter 937: The Dust Settles (1)

    Chapter 937: The Dust Settles (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    A cold wind blew as a cavalry wearing the Wu army¡¯s armor ran towards the palace door at an extremely fast speed. The imperial guards were shocked and quickly went forward to stop him. They shouted, ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re from the Western Camp. We¡¯re specially ordered by His Majesty to enter the palace to take care of business. Hurry up and move aside.¡± As the leader of the cavalry spoke, he threw over an iron token that indicated his identity.


    The imperial guards caught the iron token. It was indeed from the Western Camp, but didn¡¯t His Majesty go to save General Yan?


    According to the time, he should not have left the city yet.


    The imperial guards asked, ¡°Since it¡¯s a secret order from Your Majesty, do you have proof?¡±


    The imperial guards usually worked in the palace and didn¡¯t usually see many soldiers. In addition, the city was under martial law now, so they did not suspect the other party¡¯s identity. They would only ask this question as a routine investigation. They could not just let them in the palace after the other party said that His Majesty had secretly instructed them to do so, right?


    The cavalryman was about to explain when he was interrupted by another question.


    What was going on here?


    The guards rushed over and cupped their hands. ¡°Commander Liu, they¡¯re from the Western Camp. They claim to have received Your Majesty¡¯s secret order. I¡¯m investigating. ¡±


    Commander Liu narrowed his eyes. ¡°Do you have proof?¡±


    The cavalry said, ¡°His Majesty encountered an assassin in the city. It was an emergency, so he didn¡¯t have time to give out the token.¡±


    ¡°What? His Majesty was attacked?¡± Commander Liu¡¯s expression changed. He quickly grasped the crux of the problem and asked sternly, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you protect His Majesty when he was attacked?¡±


    The cavalry¡¯s expression did not change. ¡°An inescapable net has long been set up in the city. Those assassins are just clowns. Commander Liu, you don¡¯t have to worry about His Majesty¡¯s safety. Moreover, His Majesty ordered us to enter the palace for other important matters.¡±


    Those who could become the commander of the imperial guards were naturally people Shangguan Yu trusted. They knew his arrangements very well and knew that what the cavalry said was true.


    He frowned and asked, ¡°What is it?¡±


    The cavalry said, ¡°It¡¯s not appropriate for me to say anything else about His


    Majesty¡¯s secret order. Commander Liu, don¡¯t ask too much. If we delay His Majesty¡¯s important matters, we won¡¯t be able to bear the responsibility.¡±


    If it were anyone else, they would have been shocked by the secret order. However, Commander Liu was not easy to fool. He sneered. ¡°Hmph, you don¡¯t want to tell me why you entered the palace. You don¡¯t have a token in your hands. I have the right to suspect that your motives for entering the palace are impure. Guards, capture all of them.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Another cavalryman cupped his hands at Commander Liu. ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have said anything about Your Majesty¡¯s secret order, but Commander Liu is someone Your Majesty trusts. There¡¯s no harm in telling you. However, let¡¯s get the unpleasantness out of the way. If His Majesty pursues the matter later, you will have to bear the consequences yourself.¡±


    Commander Liu enjoyed this flattery and his expression improved. ¡°Fine, just say it. It¡¯s only my duty to do this. I don¡¯t think His Majesty will blame me even if he finds out.¡¯


    The cavalryman nodded and bent down to whisper in his ear, ¡°The real and fake empress dowager.¡±


    Commander Liu immediately believed the other party¡¯s words.


    There was no other reason. In order to prevent the news from leaking, the number of people who knew that Song Li, who had been brought out of the palace, was only a substitute, could be counted on one hand. Coincidentally, Commander Liu happened to be one of the people who knew. Since the other party could say that she was the real Empress Dowager, they were probably being serious.


    He straightened his expression. ¡°Why did His Majesty ask you to enter the palace?¡±


    ¡°His Majesty suspects that Song Jingchen entered the city, but we didn¡¯t find any traces of him among the assassins. He was worried that Song Jingchen would guess that the person he brought out of the palace was the fake empress dowager, so he asked us to bring people into the palace to save her. He ordered us to move the empress dowager to another safe place.¡± The cavalryman paused. ¡°As for where we¡¯re bringing her, His Majesty says that the fewer people know, the better. Forgive me for not being able to tell you.¡±


    Commander Liu frowned. He wanted to say that he could capture Song Jingchen even if he broke into the palace with his men, but when he thought of how powerful that person was, he was worried that he would be too confident. The hostage might really get saved by him.


    Moreover, Shangguan Yu was the one who instructed him to move them. If anything happened because of him, he wouldn¡¯t be able to bear the responsibility even if he had a hundred heads.


    Thinking of this, Commander Liu waved at the imperial guards behind him to make way.


    The cavalry continued, ¡°We rarely enter the palace. In order to save time, we¡¯ll have to trouble Commander Liu to lead the way.¡±


    Commander Liu thought that it made sense and did not refuse. He led his men towards the emperor¡¯s bedroom.


    Unbeknownst to him, the cavalryman who had spoken to him at the beginning was looking at him in a complicated manner.


    If not for the fact that the situation didn¡¯t allow it, the cavalryman really wanted to see how interesting this person¡¯s expression would be when he found out that the person who coaxed him to lead the way was Song Jingchen, whom they had been guarding against day and night..

 Chapter 938 - Chapter 938: The Dust Settles (2)

    Chapter 938: The Dust Settles (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    However, he couldn¡¯t tell him the truth now, right?


    The other person with him was none other than the owner of the Cherishing Flower Pavilion, Rong Qi. In order not to be recognized, he and Song Jingchen had disguised themselves simply.


    That day, Rong Qi suggested saving them on the streets. Song Jingchen knew Shangguan Yu well, so he knew that Shangguan Yu naturally thought of the same thing as Rong Qi. Therefore, he beat him at his own game. When Shangguan Yu¡¯s team was about to leave the city, the five Demon Guards brought people to pretend to save the fake empress dowager and stall for time while he entered the palace with Rong Qi.


    As for the clothes and tokens they were wearing, Rong Qi had been in the Wu Kingdom for many years, so it was not difficult to get his hands on them.


    With Commander Liu leading the way, the group arrived at the secret room beside the emperor¡¯s bedroom.


    There were experts guarding the secret room, both openly and secretly. Song Jingchen explained his intentions. Although the other party was suspicious, they didn¡¯t stop them from entering the secret room because Commander Liu was present.


    After entering the secret room and seeing the layout, Song Jingchen was stunned.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Rong Qi asked softly.


    Although he also felt that this secret room was too luxurious, Song Jingchen, who had been born with a golden spoon in his mouth, had seen everything. Rong Qi didn¡¯t think he would be stunned by this.


    However, it was really because of this.


    If he didn¡¯t clearly remember that this was the Wu Kingdom¡¯s palace, Song Jingchen would have thought that he had returned to Great Xia, in the Kunning Palace where Song Li lived when she was still the empress.


    He lowered his eyes and continued walking in. He saw Song Li lying on the bed with a palace maid guarding her.


    Hearing their intentions, the palace maid quickly retreated to the side.


    Song Jingchen walked forward and checked Song Li¡¯s breathing. After confirming that she had only fallen asleep, he was relieved.


    The palace maid asked carefully, ¡°Do you want to wake her up?¡±


    Song Jingchen shook his head and said, ¡°I¡¯m afraid something unexpected will happen during the transfer. There¡¯s no need for that for the time being. Go get a cloak and put it on her.¡±


    After instructing him, he glanced at Rong Qi. Rong Qi understood. When the palace maid passed by him, he quietly took the pouch from her waist.


    The palace maid did not notice anything. She carefully helped Song Li put on a large cloak and watched them leave with his men.


    The group left the palace smoothly. However, to their surprise, they bumped into Shangguan Yu, who had rushed back, on the street outside the palace gate.


    Shangguan Yu sized up Song Jingchen and the others and noticed their armor. He had already guessed what had happened. He sneered. ¡°What a good plan.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and said, ¡°Your reaction wasn¡¯t slow either.¡± It was faster than he had expected.


    With the imperial guards behind him, it was impossible to turn around. At this point, there was only one way out.


    He and Rong Qi looked at each other and did not give the other party time to set up the formation. They led their horses and rushed forward.


    The two sides fought in the blink of an eye. The other party had the advantage in numbers, so it was not easy to break through.


    In addition, the Wu army¡¯s target was Song Li, the hostage. Most of the people surrounded Song Jingchen.


    It would have been better if he was alone, but he still had to split his attention to protect Song Li behind him. It was inevitable that he would be restrained when dealing with them. Soon, his arm and waist were slashed a few times.


    Fortunately, the five Demon Guards arrived in time, allowing him to catch his breath.


    The people Shangguan Yu had brought along had seen the Demon Guards attack when they were on the streets. Now that they saw them again, they were more or less afraid.


    Seeing the Wu army¡¯s aura suddenly decrease, Rong Qi turned around in confusion. Then, he saw the five Demon Guards slash at the soldiers with their swords, and the Wu army fell in large numbers.


    He rubbed his cold neck. Oh my god, he had teased them without losing his head. He should thank his parents for giving him such a good-looking appearance that these people couldn¡¯t bear to kill him.


    Song Jingchen raised his hand and slashed down, killing a soldier who was ambushing Rong Qi. He said in a low voice, ¡°Why are you in a daze? Charge out first.¡¯


    Rong Qi smiled. ¡°Got it.¡±


    With that, he took the lead and formed a formation with the five Demon Guards, protecting Song Jingchen and Song Li in the middle. The group cut through the obstacles along the way. Wherever they went, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s army was overturned and corpses littered the ground. They really slaughtered their way out.


    The commotion here spread far and wide. Commander Liu rushed over with his men. Seeing this scene in front of him, even a fool would understand that he had been deceived.


    Thinking of the stupid thing he had done, he was angry and afraid. He gritted his teeth and snatched the bow from the hand of a soldier beside him. He jumped onto the wall and jumped onto the roof. He aimed in Song Jingchen¡¯s direction and shot an arrow..

 Chapter 939 - Chapter 939: The Dust Settles (3)

    Chapter 939: The Dust Settles (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The arrow shot straight at Song Li, who was behind Song Jingchen.


    At this moment, he could no longer care about whether the hostages were alive or not. He only thought that they had been taken away from him. He had to make up for his mistake.


    Of course, it was not because he was angry.


    Crack!


    A sword light slashed over and cut off the arrow shot by Commander Liu.


    Seeing the person who attacked, Commander Liu was stunned. ¡°Your Majesty?¡±


    Shangguan Yu said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t hurt the empress dowager.¡±


    While the two of them were talking, Song Jingchen and the others had already rushed out of the encirclement. He turned around and glanced at Shangguan Yu. He had actually sensed Commander Liu¡¯s arrow and was even prepared to block it with his body, but he didn¡¯t expect Shangguan Yu to attack.


    His guess when he saw the secret room was confirmed at this moment. Shangguan Yu knew the truth behind Nangong Xia¡¯s death.


    This thought only flashed through his mind when the hurried sound of hooves sounded around him again. Song Jingchen¡¯s eyes darkened. Everyone had already exhausted their strength to break out of the encirclement just now, so it was almost impossible for them to break out of another encirclement again, not to mention that more people would come this time.


    After estimating the time, he said, ¡°Rong Qi, leave with the empress dowager first. ¡±


    There was a reason why he handed her over to Rong Qi. As a thief who wanted to be famous in the martial world, his qinggong was much stronger than his battle skills.


    In Rong Qi¡¯s words, the speed at which he escaped was his foundation.


    Rong Qi took Song Li and glanced at him. ¡°If you die, I won¡¯t work for the Song family for the next year.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t let you have your way.¡±


    As soon as Song Jingchen finished speaking, he grabbed the reins and changed directions, blocking Shangguan Yu and the others. Seeing this, the others also gave up on escaping.


    Rong Qi pursed his lips and jumped up with Song Li in his arms. He flew to the roof at the side and quickly disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight.


    In the blink of an eye, the Wu Kingdom¡¯s soldiers, who had arrived from all directions, surrounded Song Jingchen and the others.


    A new round of confrontation came quickly and fiercely. Perhaps because they turned around this time, everyone had no intention of leaving alive. With the thought of killing a few more people even if they died, their auras rose unprecedentedly.


    Including the five Demon Guards, everyone¡¯s eyes were red from killing.


    ¡°Your Majesty, I¡¯m going to chase after the Empress Dowager of Great Xia.¡± A man in black cupped his hands and requested.


    Shangguan Yu nodded.


    Song Jingchen pierced the throat of an expert. Noticing that the man wanted to take the opportunity to chase after Rong Qi, he jumped up from his horse and slashed at him.


    Clang!


    His attack was blocked by Shangguan Yu.


    ¡°Your opponent is me,¡± Shangguan Yu said indifferently.


    Song Jingchen frowned. Although it was only one strike, he clearly felt that Shangguan Yu¡¯s cultivation had improved a lot compared to when he was in Great Xia.


    Of course, it wasn¡¯t that he couldn¡¯t advance.


    The two of them fought. The commotion was so loud that sand and rocks flew.


    After no less than a hundred moves, they were more or less injured.


    However, Song Jingchen had been seriously injured in order to protect Song Li. Now that he was fighting Shangguan Yu, his injuries were even more serious.


    Suddenly, the ground under his feet began to tremble.


    Thud!


    Thud!


    Thud!


    Deafening war drums sounded, each sound like a blow to the heart.


    An army was attacking the city.


    The Wu army was completely flustered.


    Shangguan Yu seemed to have expected that Great Xia wouldn¡¯t really retreat, and he didn¡¯t look surprised. He looked at Song Jingchen¡¯s slightly trembling hand and wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth with his sleeve. He sneered. ¡°If I capture you as a hostage, do you think Shangguan Han will retreat for you and give up the prize that he already has?¡±


    ¡°I also want to know if everyone in the Shangguan family is as ungrateful as you and Shangguan Qingyu.¡±


    Shangguan Yu¡¯s heart was stabbed fiercely. He swung his sword and stabbed.


    ¡°I¡¯m avenging my mother. How can I be considered ungrateful?¡±


    ¡°We both know the truth. Why should you lie to yourself? Oh, perhaps thinking like this will indeed make your conscience feel better,¡± Song Jingchen said expressionlessly. ¡°After all, Aunt treated you like her own son. In order to protect you when you grew up, she didn¡¯t hesitate to carry a bad reputation. However, in the end, you caused her to be banished to the cold palace, caused her biological son to be exiled, and she almost died in the bitter cold. You even caused her brother and father¡¯s deaths. Now, you even want her to become the sinner of the entire Great Xia.¡±


    ¡°Not only are you repaying kindness with ingratitude, but you¡¯re also a coward.¡¯


    Although he knew that Song Jingchen was deliberately messing up his mind, Shangguan Yu¡¯s breathing still became uncontrollably chaotic..

 Chapter 940 - Chapter 940: The Dust Settles (4)

    Chapter 940: The Dust Settles (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    His mind kept replaying his crimes and calling him a coward.


    Song Jingchen took the opportunity to attack him. The huge force sent him flying and he fell to the ground.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± Lianshan was shocked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t come over!¡± Shangguan Yu shouted at the soldiers who wanted to retreat. He used his sword to support his body and stood up.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, so let¡¯s end it today.¡± He looked at Song Jingchen with red eyes. As he wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, a dark red pill quietly entered his mouth.


    In an instant, his eyes were filled with almost tangible blood qi, and the aura around him began to change.


    Song Jingchen instinctively felt an unprecedented sense of danger. He frowned and tightened his grip on his sword.


    Martial arts emphasized gradual progress, not overnight changes. There had never been any shortcuts. It was clearly abnormal for Shangguan Yu¡¯s internal energy to suddenly increase.


    Powerful internal energy barged through his body. The veins on Shangguan Yu¡¯s forehead bulged. He endured the pain of his meridians cracking at any moment and suddenly attacked Song Jingchen.


    It was too fast.


    Even though Song Jingchen¡¯s five senses were sharper than others, he almost couldn¡¯t catch him.


    After barely seven or eight moves.


    Bang!


    He was sent flying to the ground by a palm strike and spat out a mouthful of blood.


    Before he could stand up, Shangguan Yu¡¯s attack approached again. Song Jingchen swung his sword and barely blocked it. The incomparably domineering pressure made his entire arm go numb.


    Shangguan Yu put away his sword and attacked with an even fiercer killing move. This time, it directly broke Song Jingchen¡¯s sword and all the meridians in his body.


    The next move was aimed at his throat.


    ¡°Am I going to die here?¡± he thought.


    However, that girl would cry, right? And their unborn child..


    Thinking of this, Song Jingchen used his last bit of strength to roll to the side.


    The blade missed and drew a line of blood on his neck.


    He actually dodged it?


    Surprise flashed across Shangguan Yu¡¯s eyes. However, this didn¡¯t change anything.


    He 100Kea aown at tne Injurea man wno 100Kea 11Ke ne naa Deen soaKea In a pool of blood and raised his sword to stab again.


    At the critical moment, a sharp sound tore through the air.


    A huge force made his longsword fall from his hand.


    Shangguan Yu suddenly looked up and saw a pale face.


    Looking down, the woman was holding a bow. Her skirt was covered in blood.


    Noticing the woman¡¯s bulging abdomen, Shangguan Yu was slightly stunned. He retracted his gaze and grabbed at Song Jingchen.


    ¡°Yu¡¯er, don¡¯t!¡±


    Shangguan Yu paused.


    ¡°As your mother, I beg you. Please turn back.¡± Song Li knelt down and begged.


    Shangguan Yu turned to look at him with red eyes. He retracted his fingers and clenched them into fists. He opened his mouth and spat out two words silently.


    Right on the heels of that, a look of pain flashed across his face. A bright red line flowed out of his mouth, and his eyes darkened.


    ¡°Your Majesty!¡± Lianshan broke through the layers of obstacles and caught his fallen body. He helped him wipe the blood from the corner of his mouth in a panic, but the blood seemed to flow endlessly. He couldn¡¯t wipe it away no matter how hard he tried.


    Shangguan Yu opened his mouth, and more blood gushed out. ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t speak. I¡¯ll go find an imperial physician for you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ useless¡­


    Once he took that medicine, even Zenith Heaven immortals would not be able to save him.


    It was precisely because of this that Ji Yunxi said before she left that he should not eat it unless he had no other choice.


    He tightened his grip on Lianshan¡¯s sleeve and said with difficulty, ¡°The imperial study¡­ There¡¯s a secret compartment¡­¡±


    With that, he turned to look at Song Li, who was covering her mouth and crying.


    ¡°Mother, I¡¯m sorry.¡± he thought.


    He closed his eyes and smiled.


    Just like in the past, everyone who saw it felt as if they were bathing in a spring breeze.


    To him, death was also a form of release.


    With Shangguan Yu¡¯s death, the Wu army no longer had any thoughts of resisting. They were easily controlled by the army brought by Sikong Yi and Xuanyuan Ce.


    Shen Yijia threw away the bow in her hand and staggered to Song Jingchen¡¯s side. Seeing that his eyes were closed and there was no part of his body that was fully intact, her breathing tightened. She reached out with a trembling hand, but she didn¡¯t know where to put her hand. Her hand stopped in midair.


    ¡°Hubby¡­¡± she called out in a trembling voice..

 Chapter 941 - Chapter 941: The End (1)

    Chapter 941: The End (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    At the end of November, an old prince of the Wu Kingdom appeared and handed over the surrender letter left behind by Shangguan Yu to the Xuanyuan Kingdom and Great Xia, ending the battle against the Wu Kingdom that had lasted for nearly half a year.


    From then on, the territory of the Wu Kingdom would be bounded by the Cang


    River. The cities in the north would belong to the Xuanyuan Kingdom, and the


    south would belong to Great Xia.


    At the end of November, the army returned to the court.


    Ji Luo sent Shen Yijia to the carriage. Looking at her thin face, he rubbed her head with heartache. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve already explained the acupuncture technique and prescription to Ah Yuan. Ah Chen will be fine.¡±


    This time, not only were the meridians in Song Jingchen¡¯s entire body broken, but he also suffered serious internal injuries. Because of this, he fell unconscious and never woke up.


    Ji Luo checked and found that his injuries were slowly healing. She guessed that the remaining spiritual liquid in his body was helping him recover.


    However, his injuries were too serious, causing him to enter a dormant state.


    Apart from waiting for him to wake up on his own, the only thing she could do was apply acupuncture to help him recuperate, and give him medicine every day. Coincidentally, one of the herbs they brought out of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets was called Blueheart Grass, and was an important ingredient. Shen Yijia decided to return with the army.


    Originally, Ji Luo wanted to go with them, but last night, the spies sent back news that they had discovered traces of the people from the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. Afraid that Ji Yunxi would use sinister methods to harm others again, they decided that MO Yuan would escort Shen Yijia and Song Jingchen back to the capital, while Ji Luo would personally take a trip to deal with Ji Yunxi.


    ¡°I know.¡± Shen Yijia glanced at Song Jingchen, who was lying in the carriage, and grinned. ¡°Mother, my husband and I will wait for you in Chang¡¯an.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll try my best to reach Chang¡¯an before you give birth.¡± Ji Luo helped her tighten her cloak. ¡°Alright, quickly get into the carriage. It¡¯s cold outside. You¡¯ll catch a cold.¡±


    Shen Yijia nodded. She thought of something and looked up at Xuanyuan Ce, who was standing behind Ji Luo. She pursed her lips and said, ¡°I¡¯ll leave Mother to you. You have to protect her this time, Father.¡±


    She said the last word extremely softly, almost covered by the wind around her. However, Xuanyuan Ce still heard it. His heart trembled and he stood rooted to the ground like a fool. He only came back to his senses a long time after the army left.


    ¡°Jiajia called me father just now?¡± Although it was a question, his excitement was obvious. As a man, his eyes turned red.


    He had waited too long for her to call him father.


    It was rare for Ji Luo not to dampen his spirits. She looked in the direction where the army had left and sighed. ¡°Too many things have happened recently.¡±


    No one knew what would happen tomorrow. They had to cherish the moment.


    At the end of February the next year, the army arrived outside Chang¡¯an. Shangguan Han personally brought the civil and military officials to the city gate to welcome the triumphant return of the army.


    Speaking of which, Shangguan Qingyu had been kidnapped with Song Li. Shangguan Yu would not be as benevolent to him as he was to Song Li. Even after knowing the truth, he could not change his birth, nor could he blame Nangong Xia for giving birth to him. Therefore, he vented his anger on Shangguan Qingyu, the culprit. In short, when Sikong Yi brought people into the Wu Kingdom¡¯s palace to find him, they found him with his skin peeled off completely. He was dead by then.


    Although he had committed a heinous crime, he was still the former emperor of a country. This concerned the reputation of the royal family. In the end,


    Song Li decided not to bring his corpse back and let him embarrass himself.


    As a result, Shangguan Qingyu became the only emperor in the imperial mausoleum of Great Xia who only had a cenotaph and not a grave. Many people saw this as a warning against living a shameful life, afraid that they would suffer retribution like him and not even be able to enjoy incense after death. Of course, this was a story for another day.


    Song Jingchen was seriously injured and had yet to wake up. Shen Yijia naturally wouldn¡¯t join in the fun in the palace. After entering the city, she separated from the army and returned to the Duke¡¯s residence with Song Jinghao and the others.


    Madam Li was already waiting at the entrance of the residence with a group of servants. When she saw Shen Yijia being helped out of the carriage by Song Jinghuan and Lin Miaomiao, her eyes turned red.


    ¡°Mother, my husband and I are back,¡± Shen Yijia said with a smile.


    She was clearly pregnant, but there was not much meat on her face. Her eyes were filled with fatigue.


    Madam Li had been pregnant with twins before, so she knew very well how difficult it was. When she thought about how Shen Yijia had been tired from traveling for nearly three months with such a big stomach, her heart ached.


    She turned around and wiped the corners of her eyes. She smiled and walked forward to hold Shen Yijia¡¯s hand. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s good that you¡¯re back.¡±


    She more or less understood what had happened on the battlefield from the good news. She knew that Song Jingchen was still unconscious, but she didn¡¯t have the energy to worry about his condition..

 Chapter 942 - Chapter 942: The End (2)

    Chapter 942: The End (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    After expressing her concern for Shen Yijia, she guessed that she was tired. She quickly instructed the maidservant to bring her back to her room to wash up, and went to the kitchen.


    Knowing that they would arrive today, the chefs in the residence were busy before dawn. However, seeing that Shen Yijia had lost so much weight, Madam Li still felt that it was not enough, so she wanted to personally cook a few of her favorite dishes.


    Song Jinghuan, who had been ignored from beginning to end, scratched her head. ¡°Did Mother forget about me?¡±


    She left home at the end of December. It was now the second year of Qianyuan. She had changed a lot in the past year and two months.


    She had become much taller, and her facial features had grown. She had been fighting all day, and the dirt and sand had weathered her fair skin, turning it into a light wheat color. She looked even more like a tomboy.


    Afraid that she would feel disappointed, Lin Miaomiao quickly explained softly, ¡°How could that be? Auntie misses you every day. She made so many dresses for you.¡±


    Of course, Big Brother and Sister-in-law also had them.


    Song Jinghao said angrily, ¡°That¡¯s right. If I had known that you would be gone for so long, I wouldn¡¯t have covered for you back then.¡±


    Every time his mother thought of this girl, she would scold him. God knew how he had lived for the past year.


    Lin Shao nodded seriously.


    In case Song Jinghuan blamed herself, the few of them tacitly didn¡¯t mention that Madam Li was so worried that she fell seriously ill.


    ¡°I was just joking. Why are you so serious? Sister-in-law has been working the hardest these days. It¡¯s only right that Mother cares about her. How can I be jealous of her?¡± Song Jinghuan rolled her eyes. She thought of something and looked at Song Jinghao. ¡°Do you know who I met at the border?¡±


    Song Jinghao wasn¡¯t curious at all, but after not seeing her for so long, he didn¡¯t want to dampen her spirits. He asked cooperatively, ¡°Who is it?¡± ¡°Liu Jinbao. Do you still remember him?¡±


    She and Liu Jinbao had made the landmine together, which was a great merit. Therefore, Liu Jinbao also entered the capital this time, but he followed the army into the palace.


    On the other side, Shen Yijia came out of the bathroom and saw Uncle Yang leading a group of people out of the courtyard from afar.


    Shen Yijia frowned and asked the maidservant guarding the door, ¡°Who are they?¡±


    ¡°Madam, it¡¯s an imperial physician from the Imperial Hospital. He¡¯s here on


    Your Majesty¡¯s orders to treat the Duke.¡±


    Shen Yijia understood and did not ask further. She returned to her room.


    Actually, after three months of recuperation, Song Jingchen¡¯s external injuries had almost recovered. Even MO Yuan couldn¡¯t find any problems, let alone these imperial physicians.


    Shen Yijia hoped to quickly unload the cargo in her stomach and use the spiritual liquid.


    Thinking of this, she was a little puzzled. They could have arrived in Chang¡¯an half a month earlier, but they were delayed by the heavy snow on the way.


    In addition, Ji Luo had told her that the twins might be born prematurely. She was already prepared to give birth halfway, but her stomach had yet to move.


    It was almost a full term pregnancy. If she didn¡¯t come out soon, she would suspect that she was pregnant with a demigod.


    As soon as this thought flashed through her mind, she was kicked in the stomach and a bump appeared. Then, she started to lose control. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that the two little fellows were dancing in her stomach.


    Shen Yijia gasped in pain and muttered, ¡°What are you kicking for? Did I say something wrong? If you don¡¯t come out, how can I save your father?¡± The two little ones instantly fell silent.


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and looked at Song Jingchen, who was lying on the bed with a rosy face. She reached out and poked his face. ¡°If you don¡¯t wake up, I¡¯ll bring them with me when I remarry. Hmph, not only will they call someone else their father and take his surname, but someone else will sleep with your wife and beat up your children. At that time, you¡¯ll be alone.¡±


    When Madam Li entered, she saw her nagging at Song Jingchen. Her heart ached again, and she even complained to her unconscious son.


    How could he make his pregnant wife worry and be afraid all day?


    She sighed and forced a smile. ¡°Jiajia, you must be hungry. Eat first and rest after that.¡±


    As Madam Li spoke, she gestured to the maidservant behind her to place the food on the table.


    The table was filled with her favorite food. Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°Mother, how can I finish so much alone? Sister Huan hasn¡¯t eaten yet. Call her over.¡±


    It was not mealtime right now, so the others in the family must have already eaten, so she did not ask.


    ¡°Sister Huan has them too. These are all prepared for you. You don¡¯t have to finish them all. I don¡¯t know if your taste has changed, so you can choose what you like to eat..¡±

 Chapter 943 - Chapter 943: The End (3)

    Chapter 943: The End (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    Knowing that she could not stay idle, Madam Li sat at the side and picked out something that interested her.


    ¡°Madam Qiu has taken MO Yuan¡¯s medicine. She¡¯s been feeling much better this year. Just now, she even got someone to send a visitation card. She said that you¡¯ve just returned today, so you should rest well and she¡¯ll visit you tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°And that girl Ruoshui gave birth to a fat boy in mid-December last year.¡± At the mention of Xiao Ruoshui, one could not help but think of Xiao Qirui and Yuan Yuwan.


    Shen Yijia swallowed the food in her mouth and pursed her lips. ¡°How¡¯s Sister Yuwan? Is she still living in the village?¡±


    Madam Li shook her head. ¡°That child left after Ruosheng was done. She said that she wanted to relax, but she didn¡¯t say where she was going. She only asked someone to send a letter home every month to report her safety. I¡¯ve asked someone to investigate the caravan that brought the letter back. If I¡¯m not wrong, she should have gone south.¡±


    The south. Wasn¡¯t Nanling Pass, or rather, the direction where Xiao Qirui¡¯s bones were buried, in the south?


    Shen Yijia suddenly felt depressed.


    Madam Li also regretted mentioning this and quickly changed the topic. ¡°Miaomiao and Lin Shao said that you found your biological mother. Why didn¡¯t she come back with you?¡±


    Shen Yijia told her about Ji Yunxi. In the end, she said, ¡°I received a letter from my mother half a month ago. She should be here in two days.¡±


    Traveling on horseback was faster than traveling with the army, not to mention that the army had been delayed for nearly half a month.


    It was worth mentioning that Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce found Ji Yunxi in a small village east of the Wu Kingdom. When they arrived, no one in the village was alive.


    Ji Luo did not say anything in the letter. She only said that Ji Yunxi wanted to change her fate.


    Fortunately, everything was settled now, and Ji Yunxi had suffered the consequences she deserved. Otherwise, with her madness, she would have continued to harm others if she didn¡¯t succeed.


    Madam Li nodded. ¡°Alright, it just so happens that you¡¯re about to give birth. I¡¯ll be more at ease with my in-laws around.¡± Seeing that Shen Yijia was full, she quickly asked the maidservant to remove the things. She stood up and said, ¡°Rest in the house. I¡¯ll get someone to tidy up a courtyard for my in-laws to stay in.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mother.¡±


    As soon as Madam Li left, MO Yuan brought in a bowl of medicine.


    ¡°You added Blueheart Grass?¡± Shen Yijia asked.


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Shen Yijia was inexplicably nervous and rubbed her hands. ¡°Let me do it.¡± The next morning, Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce arrived in Chang¡¯an.


    Ji Luo wanted to personally take care of Shen Yijia¡¯s delivery, so she moved into the Duke¡¯s residence.


    With Xuanyuan Ce present, Madam Li was too embarrassed to ignore him, so she politely mentioned letting him stay. She thought that a grown man like him would be embarrassed, but as soon as Madam Li finished speaking, he agreed. He was afraid that Madam Li would go back on her word, making everyone present speechless.


    Fortunately, Song Jinghao had grown up now. It wasn¡¯t rude to have him entertain him.


    Apart from that, not only did Madam Qiu come, but Xiao Ruoshui and Fan Mingyuan also brought their sons to visit.


    Madam Qiu was purely visiting Shen Yijia, and Fan Mingyuan was also purely visiting Song Jingchen. Only Xiao Ruoshui was here to complain about her son, Fan Rui. He ate too much and had a bad temper. He cried whenever he couldn¡¯t see her.


    However, there was more or less a hint of bragging in her complaints. For the entire afternoon, the topic could not break away from the fat boy in her arms. When Shen Yijia heard this, she was extremely envious. She hoped that the baby in her stomach would come out quickly.


    At night, a heavy rain suddenly fell in Chang¡¯an.


    Perhaps Shen Yijia¡¯s thoughts in the day were too strong and were heard by the two little ones. About midnight, her stomach stirred.


    She did not know what it was like for others to give birth, but her symptoms acted up quickly and fiercely. In the blink of an eye, she could clearly feel her water break.


    Ji Luo had repeatedly reminded her not to move when her water broke. Shen Yijia could only call for someone to come in, but the rain was too loud and covered her voice.


    Coincidentally, Shen Yijia¡¯s heart ached for MO Yuan, who had stayed up all night yesterday to let her rest. It was Bi Tao, who served Madam Li, who guarded the door.


    Otherwise, with MO Yuan¡¯s hearing, she would have heard anything in the room. How could it end up in this situation?


    Just as he was so anxious that she did not know what to do, a black shadow covered her.


    Shen Yijia was stunned. ¡°Hubby?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Song Jingchen comforted her. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯ll call the midwife over now.¡±


    If not for the fact that his hands were trembling, Shen Yijia would have thought that he was as calm as he looked.


    ¡°Wait, carry me to the delivery room first. It¡¯s in the next room..¡±

 Chapter 944 - Chapter 944: The End (4)

    Chapter 944: The End (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Madam Li had long prepared the delivery room. Ji Luo had added a lot of things to it as soon as she arrived. Wouldn¡¯t it be a waste of her two old mothers¡¯ efforts if she didn¡¯t use it?


    As soon as she finished speaking, a pair of strong arms wrapped around her back and knees and picked her up.


    After three months, Shen Yijia felt this familiar embrace again. Her heart inexplicably calmed down, and an unprecedented grievance surged out at this moment.


    Her eyes turned red. She buried her head in Song Jingchen¡¯s arms and cried silently, instantly drenching the front of his shirt.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart felt like it had been crushed repeatedly by a huge rock. Apart from apologizing, he couldn¡¯t say anything else.


    ¡°You have to make it up to me in the future,¡± Shen Yijia muttered softly.


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Outside the door, Bi Tao was leaning against the eaves and dozing off. When she heard the door open, she suddenly turned around and saw Song Jingchen. She was so shocked that it took her a long time to come back to her senses. vvllell sue Dilem 11J1d, vvnu VVdS CULMS, sue guesseu what had happened. Without waiting for Song Jingchen¡¯s instructions, she rushed into the rain.


    Madam Li, Ji Luo, and Xuanyuan Ce quickly rushed over.


    Of course, the midwife came with them.


    They had already learned from Bi Tao that Song Jingchen had woken up. Seeing him guarding the bed, they didn¡¯t greet him with the concern they had imagined. Instead, they cried bitterly and he was chased out by the two mothers without hesitation.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who was guarding the door, glanced at him coldly. He wanted to blame him for not fulfilling his duty as a husband, but when he thought about how he only found out that Ah Luo was pregnant many years later, he choked on his words.


    Song Jingchen was looking nervously at the closed door and didn¡¯t notice his abnormality.


    At midnight, a loud cry came from the delivery room.


    About half an hour later, another cry sounded.


    The heavy rain seemed to have specially come to welcome the two little lives. It stopped the moment the two children were born.


    The delivery room door opened and the doctor walked out with a smile. She was about to report the good news when a gust of wind blew past her. Song Jingchen was nowhere to be seen.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who wanted to go in but couldn¡¯t, said angrily, ¡°Why are you looking at me? Tell me, how¡¯s my daughter?¡±


    The doctor came back to her senses and quickly bowed. ¡°Congratulations, in-law. Madam is happy to have twins. The mother and son are safe.¡±


    In the delivery room, Shen Yijia looked at Song Jingchen, who was walking towards her, with a smile. ¡°Hubby, am I powerful? I gave birth to a son and a daughter for you in one go. Also, Mother said that the girl is older.¡±


    As for which mother said it, it was not important.


    Others had long lost the strength to speak after giving birth. She was the only one who acted as if nothing had happened, especially when she looked like she was taking credit.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart ached and he felt helpless. He reached out and brushed away the hair on her forehead. He lowered his head and kissed her. ¡°Yes, Jiajia is the best.¡±


    As the couple spoke, Madam Li and Ji Luo each came out of the inner room with a swaddling cloth of different colors. Thinking that they could give the couple time to be alone, the two of them tacitly placed the swaddling cloth beside Shen Yijia and left.


    Shen Yijia turned around happily. Disbelief flashed across her face, and she turned to look at the other one.


    Yes, there was a flower bud on her forehead. It was definitely her child!


    After confirming this, she who had not cried after giving birth could not help but cry when she saw the child.


    Song Jingchen was shocked. He quickly picked up the two little ones and placed them aside. He leaned down and hugged her. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Does it hurt a


    Shen Yijia looked up at him with tears in her eyes. She sobbed and said, ¡°Why are they as ugly as monkeys?¡±


    Didn¡¯t they say that the boy would look like her beautiful husband and the girl would look like her?


    At the very least, it would be good to inherit half of their looks.


    The twins, who had been despised by their mother since they were born, were speechless.


    When Ji Luo and Madam Li heard the commotion, they were speechless.


    Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t help but smile bitterly. He glanced at the siblings, who were sleeping soundly, and felt peaceful..

 Chapter 945 - Chapter 945: Side Story – The Daily Life of Raising a Child

    Chapter 945: Side Story ¨C The Daily Life of Raising a Child


    (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Recently, two happy events happened in Chang¡¯an.


    Firstly, the Duchess gave birth to twins.


    As for the second reason, it was naturally because the duke, who had been unconscious for months, had woken up.


    Because of the two happy events that spread at the same time, the commoners all said that these two children were born with good fortune. They had clearly never seen them before, but they described the two little fellows as the golden children under the Guanyin.


    The most ridiculous thing was that some storyteller had even made up stories about the siblings calling their parents and reciting poems.


    Shen Yijia almost believed her if not for the fact that the siblings had never left her sight since they were born.


    When Song Jingchen entered the house, he saw her sitting cross-legged on the bed and counting her treasure seriously.


    One moment, she was frowning, the next moment, she was grinning, and the next moment, she was shaking her head and sighing. Her expression was rich.


    Song Jingchen walked over in amusement and sat down by the bed. ¡°I made carp tofu soup.¡±


    Shen Yijia looked at him resentfully and put down the stack of banknotes in her hand. She took the bowl bitterly.


    The carp was stewed for a long time, and the fish bones had long been picked out. She did not have to worry about the fish bones getting stuck in her throat.


    Staring at the bowl in her hand for a long time, she seemed to have made up her mind. She took a deep breath, gritted her teeth, closed her eyes, raised her head, and gulped it down.


    Even drinking soup made her feel like a warrior breaking his wrist.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Shen Yijia smacked her lips and asked uncertainly, ¡°You added salt?¡±


    For the sake of the two little fellows¡¯ nutrition, Madam Li had long invited ten healthy wet nurses into the residence. She was just waiting for the children to choose a taste they liked so Shen Yijia could take a break from breastfeeding.


    Unexpectedly, the siblings were very picky. They didn¡¯t like any of the ten wet nurses. No matter what, they were only willing to drink their mother¡¯s milk.


    Helpless, Shen Yijia could only feed him herself. So be it. She was in good health, so it was not a big deal.


    What she could not tolerate was that not only did she have to be careful with her feeding, but she also had to drink pig trotter soup or carp tofu soup every day.


    The kind that didn¡¯t have salt in it!


    The first time she drank it, Shen Yijia almost vomited.


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head with heartache. ¡°I¡¯ve read about medicinal cuisine. It¡¯s fine to add a little salt.¡±


    Shen Yijia muttered, ¡°Actually, I¡¯m used to it. It¡¯s fine without salt.¡±


    Although the two little fellows had indeed made her cry because of how ugly they were, she had given birth to them herself. She did not want to affect them negatively because of her appetite.


    Besides, so what if they were ugly? It was just like how she drank tonic soup. She would get used to it.


    While comforting herself, Shen Yiiia could not help but qlance at the two red monkeys lying on the small bed at the side. The little person in her heart burst into tears again.


    ¡°Don¡¯t cry, don¡¯t cry. I gave birth to them myself!¡± she thought.


    She cried internally.


    Song Jingchen had no idea that in such a short period of time, her heart had already been in turmoil for hundreds of rounds.


    ¡°It¡¯s really fine. When have I ever lied to you?¡± Not wanting her to dwell on this matter, he put the bowl aside and picked up a gold bar in front of her. He changed the topic and asked, ¡°Why did you take out all these things?¡±


    This was the money that Shen Yijia had brought out of the Shen family back then, as well as the profits from the shops left behind by Madam Wang over the past few years. The rest was what Xuanyuan Ce got someone to organize and send to Great Xia after they left the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    From the looks of it, Shen Yijia could be considered a rich woman.


    She glanced at the two little fellows again and said in a low voice, ¡°Min¡¯er and Tan ¡®er look like this. I¡¯m a little worried that no one will want them when they grow up, so I want to prepare more betrothal gifts and dowry for them. When the time comes, someone will take them in on account of the money, right?¡±


    The names of the siblings were suggested by Song Jingchen and voted on by the entire family.


    The elder sister¡¯s name was Song Tan, and her younger brother¡¯s name was song Min.


    Shen Yijia sighed and continued, ¡°This bit of money is still not enough. Hubby, we have to earn money.¡±


    She spoke seriously, looking like she had a long way to go. Song Jingchen was speechless.


    On the first day of their birth, they were despised by their mother. On the fifth day, their mother was making plans for their future. He really didn¡¯t know who was more miserable, the twins or the mother.


    After a while, Song Jingchen deliberated and said, ¡°Didn¡¯t Mother say that they¡¯re still young and will grow up in a few days? Look, don¡¯t they look much better than when they were born?¡±


    Among the newborns, the siblings could actually be considered to have the best looks. However, they were too different from the fair, fat, and soft appearance Shen Yijia had imagined. That was why she felt disappointed..

 Chapter 946 - Chapter 946: Side Story – The Daily Life of Raising a Child (2)

    Chapter 946: Side Story ¨C The Daily Life of Raising a Child (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and remained silent. She clearly did not believe him.


    However, reality quickly slapped her in the face.


    Newborn children grew up quickly. Perhaps it was because of Shen Yijia¡¯s spiritual liquid. It was not an exaggeration to say that the twins looked different every day. By the time she finished her confinement period, the siblings had already become fair and chubby. One could even vaguely see the shadows of the couple.


    Shen Yijia was so happy that she wished she could carry them to Xiao Ruoshui every day.


    Now that the dowry was safe, they didn¡¯t have to worry about Song Tan and Song Min¡¯s future. It was a double blessing.


    At the same time, as the siblings grew older, their personalities slowly became prominent. Then, Shen Yijia realized that the two of them were ridiculously auiet.


    For example, every time they stayed with Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s son, they could only hear Fan Rui babbling alone in the courtyard. When they looked at the twins, the siblings were either sleeping or rolling around with their eyes wide open. They did not ¡°communicate¡± with Fan Rui at all.


    Other than the fact that they would howl when they were hungry, they barely spoke.


    It really let people see what it meant to cherish words.


    After her previous experience of them growing up and looking better, Shen Yijia was calm this time. She thought that it would be fine as long as they grew up.


    There was news from the Xuanyuan Kingdom that Empress Dowager Zhou was seriously ill. Before she died, she wanted to see her great-grandson and great-granddaughter.


    The twins were already three years old at that time.


    It was worth mentioning that Xuanyuan Ce had returned to the Xuanyuan Kingdom when the twins were a year old. Ji Luo had also left Chang¡¯an a few days after he left.


    She said that she could not waste her medical skills in Chang¡¯an.


    Everything was about karma. Ji Yunxi and Si Yun had killed so many people as people of the Valley of Heavenly Secrets. As the previous Valley Master, she had the responsibility to restrain them. She wanted to eliminate this negative karma.


    Lin Shao, who was well-versed in incense and was interested in medicine, left with her.


    It was only when the news of Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s serious illness spread that she brought Lin Shao back. To be precise, she arrived in Chang¡¯an a day before the letter.


    At the Duke¡¯s residence, Shen Yijia hung two bird nests made of straw on a tree. In order to make them look realistic, she specially made a few ¡°bird eggs¡± and placed them in.


    After doing all this, she walked up to Song Tan and Song Min with a smile and coaxed them gently, ¡°Tan¡¯er, Minter, Mother will bring you out to see the bird¡¯s nest, okay? Your father liked to play with this when he was young. You must want to play too, right?¡±


    Looking at her mother¡¯s smiling face, Song Tan looked at Song Min helplessly. ¡°The bird¡¯s nest is fake, and so are the eggs. Father didn¡¯t like to play such childish games when he was young. Mother wants to coax us again!¡±


    She still remembered that half a year ago, her mother had brought them to the Hidden Spirit Temple to see Furball and Riceball¡¯s family. When they arrived at the Release Pool, she told them that her father loved to go into the river to catch fish when he was young.


    The family went on an outing and she said that their father loved to catch crickets.


    There were many more such instances.


    They could only blame themselves for being too young at that time. That was why they believed their mother¡¯s nonsense and did everything she said. However, they were all three-year-olds now. This move could no longer deceive them.


    Song Min sighed like an adult. ¡®Mother, Father specially told us before going on duty today that you¡¯re not feeling well today. He asked us to watch over you and not let you jump around. You¡¯re disobedient again.¡±


    It was rare for Shen Yijia to feel a little embarrassed. Who was the reason for her discomfort? Besides, with her physique, she would be fine after a nap. She scratched her head. ¡°Look, I¡¯m fine. Your father likes to make a fuss.¡±


    Song Min pursed his lips and looked at Song Tan. ¡°Do you want to dig out the bird¡¯s nest?¡±


    Song Tan shook her head repeatedly. ¡°No, I still have a lot of words to write.¡±


    Receiving his sister¡¯s resistance, Song Min sighed again and used his ace in the hole, trump card. ¡°Mother, if you¡¯re disobedient, we¡¯ll tell him about you secretly exchanging Father¡¯s treasured calligranhy for silver.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Am I being threatened by a three-year-old? I am, right?¡±


    Song Tan nodded repeatedly. ¡°There¡¯s also the paintings Father usually draws. You always say that you¡¯ll help him put them away, but you actually sold them all.


    It was even taken out in the name of a servant in the residence.


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    The twins continued, ¡°So, Mother, if you don¡¯t want us to complain to Father, you have to be good.¡±


    Looking at the two little ones¡¯ smug expressions, the little person in Shen Yijia¡¯s heart jumped. If not for the fact that she could not bear to lay her hands on the two miniature versions of herself and her beautiful husband, she really wanted to roll them up and throw them into the ground.


    Sensing the danger, the siblings¡¯ pupils trembled. They looked at each other and ran around her. As they ran, they shouted, ¡°Father, quickly control your wife.¡±


    Only then did Shen Yijia realize that Song Jingchen had returned. He was standing at the courtyard door and looking at them with a smile.


    At the thought of being threatened by the twins, she pursed her lips and ran over. ¡°Hubby, control them quickly. They¡¯re bullying me.¡±


    The siblings felt a gust of wind blow past them. When they looked closer, their mother was already hanging on their father.


    Song Tan and Song Min thought to themselves, ¡°Father is right. Mother hasn¡¯t grown up yet. They twins themselves haven¡¯t wanted anyone to carry them for a long time.¡±


    Song Jingchen had actually been back for a while, so he naturally heard the conversation between the mother and children clearly. However, he still asked cooperatively, ¡°Did they make you angry again?


    Shen Yijia nodded repeatedly. ¡°They¡¯re not fun at all.¡±


    If she wanted them to play with him, they would have to fight with their wits and courage. However, she was about to lose.


    Thinking of something, her eyes lit up. ¡°Why don¡¯t we have two more¡­¡± A sudden cough sounded.


    The couple turned around at the same time. When they saw who it was, Shen


    Yijia said in surprise, ¡°Mother, Sister Yuwan, why are you together?¡±


    The people who came were Madam Li, Ji Luo, and Yuan Yuwan, whom they had not seen for many years. Madam Li was the one who coughed to remind them.


    ¡°You¡¯re already the mother of two children, yet you¡¯re still so unreasonable.¡± Ji Luo scolded jokingly.


    For Jiajia to maintain this personality, at least it meant that Ah Chen had treated her as well as before in the two years she was not around. What was there to worry about?


    Shen Yijia pursed her lips and jumped out of Song Jingchen¡¯s arms. ¡°You haven¡¯t told me why you and Sister Yuwan are together.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought that her next sentence would be ¡°Let me tell you all about it.¡± Unexpectedly, Ji Luo made a sharp turn.


    ¡°Let me take a good look at my precious grandchildren first.¡±


    With that, she went straight to the twins, not even looking at Shen Yijia.


    Shen Yijia was speechless. ¡°I was clearly your baby in the past! So love can be transferred?¡± she thought.


    She looked at Song Jingchen aggrievedly. ¡°Hubby, don¡¯t worry. My love for you will never change.¡±


    Song Jingchen covered his mouth and coughed lightly. ¡°I still have some unfinished business. You guys chat first.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°Don¡¯t think I didn¡¯t see your ears turn red.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan chuckled. ¡°You haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    Shen Yijia walked forward with a smile and held her hand. ¡°Nonsense. I¡¯ve clearly become prettier.¡±


    She was even more shameless now.


    Madam Li was amused by her. ¡°The two of you, have a good talk. I¡¯ll get the kitchen staff to cook a few more good dishes tonight.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mother.¡±


    ¡°Sorry to trouble you, Auntie.¡±


    It was unknown where the twins had been brought by Ji Luo. Shen Yijia brought Yuan Yuwan to the reception pavilion and waved away the maidservant who came to serve tea. ¡°Did you return to Chang¡¯an with my mother?¡±


    She was really curious about this.


    Yuan Yuwan nodded with a smile. ¡°I bumped into Lin Shao and Auntie on the way, so we went together..¡±

 Chapter 947 - Chapter 947: Side Story – Letting Go

    Chapter 947: Side Story ¨C Letting Go


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Ji Luo and Yuan Yuwan had met a year ago and started traveling together since then.


    Ji Luo had heard about Yuan Yuwan from Shen Yijia and mistakenly thought that she did not want the people in Chang¡¯an to know where she was.


    After all, it was her business. Out of respect, she never mentioned it in the letter sent back to Chang¡¯an. Yuan Yuwan thought that she would mention it. By a freak combination of factors, Shen Yijia did not receive any news.


    The world was so big, but she could even encounter such a thing. Shen Yijia sighed in her heart. Fate was really a magical thing.


    ¡°You¡¯re not leaving after coming back this time, right?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned for a moment. Seeing the worry on Shen Yijia¡¯s face, she chuckled and said with a smile, ¡°I¡¯m not leaving. I¡¯ve brought You Bai to many places in the past three years. I¡¯ve seen many things that I¡¯ve never seen before.¡±


    Shen Yijia heaved a sigh of relief. Although the world was peaceful now, there was no lack of bad people everywhere. Sister Yu Wan and You Bai were just two weak women. If they encountered them, they would not even be able to resist.


    She did not ask where Yuan Yuwan had been for the past few years, nor did she ask if she had let go. Since she could come back, at least it meant that she had already crossed that hurdle. That was enough.


    The Sister Yuwan she knew had never been someone who would indulge in the past.


    The two of them chatted for a while more before Xiao Ruoshui came to visit.


    Speaking of which, Xiao Ruoshui had another daughter last year. Now, she had both a son and a daughter.


    Seeing that she was alone, Shen Yijia asked curiously, ¡°Didn¡¯t you bring Rui¡¯er and Little Yingying along?¡±


    ¡°Those two devils are too noisy. I sent them to my mother¡¯s place.¡± Ever since Xiao Qirui left, Madam Xiao¡¯s health had not been good. Xiao Ruoshui was afraid that something would happen to her, so she threw the children to her every few days.


    However, it was really noisy. They could tear down the house if people didn¡¯t keep an eye on them. It wasn¡¯t an exaggeration to say that they were two extremes compared to Song Tan and Song Min.


    When Shen Yijia heard her complain, she felt that her children were quite obedient.


    The three of them had not gathered together for a long time. They chatted until dinnertime, but they still felt unsatisfied.


    Looking at Xiao Ruoshui, who had been talking non-stop since she entered, Shen Yijia and Yuan Yuwan looked at each other and smiled.


    After dinner, Xiao Ruoshui and Fan Mingyuan still had to pick up the children.


    The journey was tiring, and Yuan Yuwan was a little tired, so she bade farewell.


    Shen Yijia advised, ¡°It¡¯s not safe for you to return to the manor at this time of night. Why don¡¯t you stay here today? I¡¯ll arrange the same courtyard for you.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan smiled. ¡°I¡¯m not going back to the manor. I asked You Bai to return to the old residence to clean up in advance and prepare to stay at the old residence.¡±


    Shen Yijia paused. Looking at the smile on her face, she knew that she had really crossed that hurdle.


    ¡°How nice!¡± she thought.


    After sending Yuan Yuwan off and coaxing the siblings to sleep, the family sat in the reception pavilion and chatted. Only then did Ji Luo tell them what she had heard.


    Shen Yijia blinked. ¡°Empress Dowager Zhou?¡±


    Back then, Xuanyuan Ce did not pester Ji Luo, instead, he returned to the Xuanyuan Kingdom because Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s health was deteriorating.


    Unexpectedly, she was about to die in less than two years.


    Shen Yijia had never hated anyone from the Xuanyuan family. It didn¡¯t seem like she hated them now.


    After all, without the Xuanyuan Kingdom, Great Xia might still be fighting the Wu Kingdom. It was even possible that their country would have been destroyed.


    In particular, in the past two years, the Xuanyuan Kingdom would send all kinds of gifts to the twins during festivals. Out of courtesy, Madam Li would also prepare a gift in return for those who came to bring it back.


    Although they had not met, they had become even closer to the Xuanyuan family.


    In addition, no matter what, she had the blood of the Xuanyuan family flowing in her veins. It was only right for her to meet them.


    Humans couldn¡¯t always remember past grudges. They had to look forward.


    Ji Luo nodded. ¡°I thought that they would send someone to pick you up, but the journey is long, and you have two children with you. I¡¯m worried, so I wanted to go with you. We can take care of each other on the way.¡±


    As soon as they finished talking about Empress Dowager Zhou, there was a knock on the Duke¡¯s residence¡¯s door early the next morning. This time, it was Chu Feng.


    Xuanyuan Ce did not come. It seemed that Empress Dowager Zhou was indeed about to die. Otherwise, Ji Luo would have been worried that the two children were still young. He was naturally the same. If not for the fact that he could not leave, it was impossible for him not to come personally. However, although he did not come, he sent two Demon Guards..

 Chapter 948 - Chapter 948: Side Story – Pressing for Marriage

    Chapter 948: Side Story ¨C Pressing for Marriage


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Although it was only to bring the twins to see Empress Dowager Zhou one last time, the journey was long and the round trip would take at least half a year.


    After packing their luggage, Song Jingchen and Shen Yijia brought the siblings into the palace to bid farewell to Song Li and apply for leave from Shangguan Han. The next morning, the family set off.


    Song Jinghuan and Lin Miaomiao each led one of the twins to the door. Madam Li, Song Jinghao, Bruiser, and Lin Shao followed behind.


    Everyone¡¯s faces were filled with reluctance.


    Shen Yijia looked at the people in front of her and teased, ¡°When we come back, it¡¯s time for you to put your marriage on the agenda.¡±


    Time passed so quickly. When she first transmigrated, these guys were still half-grown children, but now they were all of marriageable age.


    ¡°Sister-in-law!¡± Lin Miaomiao¡¯s face instantly turned red. She secretly glanced at Bruiser beside her and stammered.


    ¡°A grown man should get married, and a grown woman should get married. What¡¯s there to be shy about?¡± Shen Yijia was amused by her reaction. She looked at Bruiser in anticipation. ¡°Bruiser, it¡¯s not that I want to criticize you, but as a man, you have to take the initiative. I heard from Mother that many madams have been asking about Miaomiao¡¯s marriage recently.¡±


    In the past few years, Bruiser had been helping Shen Yijia manage the shop. Not only had he made the business of the shop prosper, but he had also opened many branches everywhere. Even Song Jingchen had praised him for being very smart in managing businesses.


    Perhaps it was because he had placed all his attention on business, but while anyone with discerning eyes could tell that Lin Miaomiao liked him, he himself seemed to be unaware. It was not that he had no feelings for her, but the two of them had not broached this topic.


    Actually, it wasn¡¯t just Lin Miaomiao. There were also many people who were asking about Bruiser and Lin Shao¡¯s marriage.


    After all, the three of them had always been raised in the Duke¡¯s Residence. Outsiders thought that they were adopted by Madam Li. With the Duke¡¯s current status, ordinary people did not dare to covet Brother Hao and Sister Huan, the legitimate young master and young lady of the Duke¡¯s Residence. They thought that it was not bad to have an adopted son and daughter.


    Of course, Madam Li naturally would not agree to such a selfish marriage.


    However, Bruiser did not know the inside story. When he heard that someone was asking about Lin Miaomiao¡¯s marriage, he panicked and hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯ll listen to Sister.¡±


    Shen Yijia rolled her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s the point of listening to me? You have to get Lin Shao and Miaomiao to nod first.¡± ¡°Sister-in-law!¡±


    Lin Miaomiao ran away in embarrassment.


    Bruiser was stunned. When he reacted, he quickly chased after her.


    He completely ignored his future brother-in-law, Lin Shao¡¯s death stare.


    After successfully playing matchmaker, Shen Yijia turned to Song Jinghuan, who was watching the show, in satisfaction. ¡°Sister Huan, you and Jin Bao¡­¡±


    The smile on Song Jinghuan¡¯s face froze. ¡°Sister-in-law, don¡¯t spout nonsense. I don¡¯t have any thoughts about him.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Why did I hear that you scolded Liu Jinbao for picking up a handkerchief for a girl a while ago?¡± At this point, Shen Yijia paused. ¡°I thought you were interested in him and got jealous.¡±


    Liu Jinbao had contributed to the development of black gunpowder. Shangguan Han thought that he was a promising talent, so he arranged for him to enter the weapons manufacturing workshop of the Ministry of Works.


    Although he only started as an apprentice at first, because he was personally appointed by the emperor and he was indeed talented in this area, he had been promoted to junior superintendent some time ago.


    ¡°How is that possible?¡± Song Jinghuan explained, ¡°I was afraid that he would be deceived. Think about it, no one has bothered with him in Chang¡¯an for so many years. Those women went up to him as soon as he was promoted. It¡¯s obvious that they don¡¯t have good intentions.¡±


    She spoke seriously. Seeing that Shen Yijia was about to say something, she slapped her forehead and said, ¡°Oh my, I suddenly remembered that I had an appointment to play polo. If I don¡¯t go now, I¡¯ll be late.¡±


    ¡°Tan¡¯er, Minter, remember to miss Auntie.¡±


    With that, Song Jinghuan ran away.


    Shen Yijia fell silent and turned to look at Song Jinghao.


    Song Jinghao trembled. ¡°Sister-in-law, I still have to take the imperial examination in the second half of the year. Sir said that we should prioritize our studies now. There¡¯s no hurry to get married. Well, have a safe trip with Big Brother. I¡¯ll go back and study first.¡±


    Looking at his back, Shen Yijia suppressed her laughter and looked at Lin Shao.


    Lin Shao cupped his hands and bowed. ¡°I¡¯m not very familiar with the acupuncture techniques taught by Auntie Ji. I¡¯ll practice again.¡±


    Shen Yijia thought to herself, ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything. All of them looked reluctant just now, but they ran faster than rabbits.¡±


    She looked at Madam Li aggrievedly.


    Madam Li¡¯s eyelids twitched. ¡°It¡¯s getting late. Hurry up and get in the car.


    Come back early.¡±


    Shen Yijia was speechless.


    It wasn¡¯t until the carriage was far away that she asked uncertainly, ¡°Were we chased away?


    Song Jingchen rubbed her head dotingly. ¡°No.¡±


    In the other carriage, Song Tan and Song Min looked at each other and at Ji Luo in unison. They said solemnly, ¡°Grandmother, if Mother urges the two of us to get married one day, can you help us?¡±


    Ji Luo was stunned for a moment when she heard the two three-year-old brats talk about this. When she reacted, she couldn¡¯t help but laugh..

 Chapter 949 - Chapter 949: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (1)

    Chapter 949: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Yijia¡¯s urging to get married was a wake-up call for Song Jinghuan. She recalled that she had indeed been too close to Liu Jinbao in the past few years.


    She slapped her forehead in frustration. Even her sister-in-law had misunderstood. It seemed that she had to stay away from that kid in the future.


    Anyway, he was familiar with Chang¡¯an now. Even without her protection, no one would dare to bully him.


    Just as she thought this, a maidservant walked in. ¡°Miss, Second Young Master sent someone to say that Young Master Liu is here and wants you to go over.¡±


    Song Jinghuan subconsciously wanted to walk out, but he thought of something and leaned back on the soft couch. She waved her hand and said, ¡°No, no. I¡¯m an unmarried girl. How would I look if I went to see a man who isn¡¯t family?¡±


    The maidservant looked at her as if she had seen a ghost. Miss was clearly right, but why did the words ¡°lady¡± sound so awkward coming from her mouth? Song Jinghuan rolled her eyes. ¡°Why are you looking at me? Go and reply.¡±


    The maidservant smiled awkwardly. ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡±


    The maidservant looked at her in confusion.


    Song Jinghuan pursed her lips. ¡°By the way, find out why he came to the residence today. Don¡¯t let anyone know that I asked.¡±


    The maidservant found this awkward, but she did not dare to ask further.


    About 15 minutes later, she ran back, panting. ¡°Miss, Young Master Liu seems to be here to bid farewell today.¡±


    Song Jinghuan paused. ¡°Farewell?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. When I went over, I happened to see Second Young Master sending Young Master Liu out. I also heard Second Young Master say something about having a safe trip and taking care of himself¡­¡¯


    At the entrance of the Duke¡¯s residence, a servant was waiting with two horses.


    When he saw Liu Jinbao come out, he quickly went up to him. ¡°Young Master.¡±


    Liu Jinbao nodded and took the reins from the servant. He cupped his hands at


    Song Jinghao. ¡°Brother Jinghao, please go back.¡±


    Song Jinghao patted his shoulder and comforted him. ¡°Life and death, everything is decided by the heavens. Don¡¯t be too sad.¡±


    Liu Jinbao forced a smile. ¡°I know.¡±


    He glanced in the direction of the Duke¡¯s residence¡¯s door without a trace. He did not see the figure he wanted to see and could not help but feel disappointed.


    After this farewell, he did not know what would happen next time he came to Chang¡¯an.


    ¡°Young Master, it¡¯s getting late. We should leave,¡± the servant reminded him.


    Liu Jinbao retracted his gaze and got on his horse. ¡°Brother Jinghao, goodbye.¡±


    Song Jinghao cupped his hands in return. ¡°Take care.¡±


    As soon as the master and servant left, Song Jinghuan arrived. Seeing Song Jinghao standing alone at the door, she asked, ¡°Second Brother, where¡¯s Liu


    Jinbao?¡±


    Song Jinghao glanced at her. ¡°Old Master Liu is seriously ill. He needs to rush back to Qingping Town to see him one last time.¡±


    Song Jingchen opened her mouth.


    Song Jinghao sighed. ¡°He¡¯s on the official road. If you take the small path, you can meet him at Ten Miles Slope.¡±


    The two of them were twins who had been together since they were born. It was no exaggeration to say that they could tell what the other party was thinking with just one look and action.


    Even his sister-in-law could tell that Sister Huan treated Liu Jinbao differently, so how could Song Jinghao not tell?


    Fortunately, apart from his poor family background, Liu Jinbao¡¯s personality was fine.


    Moreover, with the current status of the Duke¡¯s residence, it did not matter


    who she married. His background was not important at all.


    Song Jinghuan wanted to retort, but before she could say anything, the servant had already brought her horse over.


    Song Jinghuan puffed up her cheeks. ¡°We¡¯re friends. If I don¡¯t send him off, I¡¯ll look petty.¡±


    It was rare for Song Jinghao to see her like this, so he couldn¡¯t help but chuckle.


    ¡°Second Brother!¡± Song Jinghuan glared at him.


    ¡°Alright, go quickly. If you don¡¯t go now, you won¡¯t make it in time.¡±


    Song Jinghao never expected that the girl would follow him to Qingping Town.


    Looking at the note that the merchant had handed over on Sister Huan¡¯s behalf, Song Jinghao¡¯s forehead throbbed. The scene of Madam Li nagging at him after covering for that girl and letting her go to the battlefield back then appeared in his mind.


    He stood up from his chair and walked into the study. He quickly packed up the books he usually read and walked out. He happened to meet Bruiser, who was looking for him, at the entrance of the courtyard.


    ¡°Brother Hao, where are you going?¡± Bruiser stopped him.


    ¡°You came at the right time. Don¡¯t you have a small residence in the south of the city? Give me the key. I¡¯ll stay there for a while.¡±


    Bruiser took the key from his waist and handed it to him. He asked curiously, ¡°Why are you staying there for no reason?¡±


    There were two shops in the south of the city. Bruiser would sleep there when it was too late to come back, so there was no need to clean it up before Song Jinghao went there.


    Song Jinghao said without blushing or panting, ¡°The imperial examination is coming soon. It¡¯s quiet there and suitable for me to study.¡±


    With his brain, there was no need for this. Besides, no one in the residence would disturb him. Bruiser didn¡¯t believe him at all. He wanted to ask, but Song Jinghao said, ¡°I¡¯m not talking to you anymore. There¡¯s a note on my desk. Help me take it and pass it to my mother.¡±


    Without waiting for Bruiser to speak again, he left in a hurry with the servant, as if he was being chased by a ghost.


    ¡°I was going to ask you if you wanted to go to the lake tonight,¡± Bruiser muttered and went to his study in resignation.


    Song Jinghuan had no idea that she had burdened her second brother so much that he didn¡¯t dare to return home. At that moment, she was traveling with Liu Jinbao.


    A month and a half later, three people arrived at Qingping Town..

 Chapter 950 - Chapter 950: Side Story – Grievous News

    Chapter 950: Side Story ¨C Grievous News


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In order to rush for time, the three of them ate and slept in the open. They were tired and hungry.


    When they passed by a wonton stall, Liu Jinbao noticed that Song Jinghuan¡¯s gaze had lingered on it for a few more seconds. He hurriedly said, ¡°I¡¯m starving. Let¡¯s go eat a bowl of wontons before going back.¡±


    With that, he led the horse to the wonton stall. ¡°Boss, give me three bowls of wontons. ¡±


    ¡°Sir, please take a seat. The wontons will be ready soon.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been rushing the entire journey, but now that we¡¯re in the town, you¡¯re not in a rush anymore?¡± Song Jinghuan thought.


    Song Jinghuan thought that he was just homesick and didn¡¯t think too much about it.


    Most importantly, she had been eating pancakes for more than a month. She was indeed craving good food.


    It was still early, and there were no other customers at the stall. The boss quickly helped them cook three bowls of hot wontons.


    Song Jinghuan couldn¡¯t wait to taste it and praised, ¡°This wonton is not bad.¡± Seeing that she was eating happily, Liu Jinbao, who had no appetite, was tempted.


    Seeing this, the servant stopped being polite.


    The three of them gobbled up the wontons. Coupled with their travel-worn appearance, they looked like they had escaped from the wilderness.


    The stall owner, who was originally bursting with joy because of the customers, could not help but worry.


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me these three people don¡¯t have money to pay?¡± she thought.


    ¡°Boss, two bowls of wontons.¡±


    Fortunately, another guest came at this moment, interrupting his wandering thoughts in time.


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯ll be done soon.¡±


    The two of them sat down at an empty table. While they were waiting, one of them started talking about what had happened in town recently.


    Whose daughter-in-law gave birth to a fat boy? Whose brat did not learn well and peeped at a widow bathing?


    At first, Song Jinghuan only listened for fun. Unexpectedly, the two of them talked about the Liu family.


    ¡°Yes. Have you heard about the Liu family?¡±


    In just a short while, Song Jinghuan had heard this opening speech countless times.


    Hearing that it started with the Liu family this time, she subconsciously looked at Liu Jinbao. The other party had obviously noticed it and stopped chewing.


    ¡°How could I not have heard of it? Sigh, the Liu family is really pitiful. The old master is so old he might die soon, but Uncle Liu died first. The young master of the Liu family was chased away a few years ago and hasn¡¯t returned. It¡¯s hard to say if the Liu family¡¯s surname will still be Liu in the future.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. In my opinion, Old Master Liu is already so old. He has children and grandchildren. He shouldn¡¯t have taken concubines back then. How can a woman who can anger her parents to death be a good person?¡±


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t care what the two of them said next. She looked at Liu Jinbao worriedly and realized that his hand that was holding the spoon was clenched in anger.


    What did they just say? Uncle Liu was gone? Didn¡¯t they say that his grandfather was critically ill? What happened to his father?


    ¡°Don¡¯t be anxious. Perhaps they¡¯re talking about the other Liu family?¡± Actually, Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t believe her own words, but she still braced herself and comforted him. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to your house to take a look first.¡±


    Liu Jinbao blinked. ¡°Alright.¡±


    With this interlude, no one had the appetite to eat. They hurriedly paid and left.


    Half an hour later, the three of them stood at the entrance of the Liu residence.


    Looking at the gate in front of him, Liu Jinbao swayed and rushed in without thinking.


    Song Jinghuan handed the reins to the servant and quickly followed.


    As expected, the two of them were stopped by the servants at the entrance of the residence.


    ¡°Hey, who are you? Is this a place you can enter? Leave quickly.¡±


    When had Liu Jinbao not been stopped like this when he went home? He sized up the two servants in front of him and frowned.


    He had never seen them before..

 Chapter 951 - Chapter 951: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (2)

    Chapter 951: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Open your eyes and take a good look. This is the young master of your residence.¡± Song Jinghuan took a step forward.


    Looking at the figure in front of him, Liu Jinbao felt an inexplicable urge to cry.


    The servants were stunned. They looked at each other and laughed out loud.


    After laughing enough, the tall servant pointed at Liu Jinbao and said, ¡°She said that this person is the young master of our residence.¡±


    ¡°What a joke.¡± The other person¡¯s face was also filled with mockery. He glanced at the two of them. ¡°Before you impersonated him, you didn¡¯t ask around. Our Liu residence has Eldest Master and Second Master, but there¡¯s no Young


    Master.¡±


    The tall man corrected him. ¡°Eldest Master is already gone.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right, right. There¡¯s only Second Master in our residence now.¡±


    The Second Master that the servants were talking about should be the second son that Liu Jinbao had mentioned. He was the son of Song Jiayue, who had been doted on by Old Master Liu since he was born.


    Eldest Master naturally referred to Liu Jinbao¡¯s father.


    This was the second time he had heard such words from someone else today. Liu Jinbao grabbed the tall servant¡¯s collar. ¡°Say it again. What happened to my father?¡±


    No matter how distant they were, he was still his biological father.


    The tall servant was shocked by his reaction. When he reacted, he wanted to break free from his grip in embarrassment. However, although Liu Jinbao looked thin and weak, his grip was not weak. The servant struggled a few times, but he could not break free. Instead, his face turned red.


    At this moment, a stern voice came from the residence. ¡°You¡¯re so noisy. Do you all want to quit?¡±


    A middle-aged man in mourning clothes walked out with a group of guards.


    Another servant quickly explained, ¡°Manager Liu, these two people are causing trouble here. Yan San and I are about to chase them away.¡±


    Liu Jinbao stood at the foot of the stairs. Yan San blocked him, so Manager Liu could only look at Song Jinghuan.


    Due to the journey, she was in a sorry state. Manager Liu thought that she was here to ask for money. After all, the Liu family was one of the richest families in Qingping Town. This was not uncommon.


    Normally, he would have instructed the servants to chase them away, but he was in a good mood today. It was rare for him to be so kind as to dig out a piece of silver from the pouch at his waist.


    ¡°The residence is holding a funeral today. I don¡¯t have time to argue with you. Take the silver and get lost.¡± With that, he threw the silver at Song Jinghuan¡¯s feet.


    Song Jinghuan glanced at the middle-aged man in front of her. She had seen this person once when she and her sister-in-law came to the Liu residence to sell chickens. He was the butler of the Liu residence.


    However, compared to five years ago, Manager Liu looked much fatter.


    Coupled with the fact that she was still a little girl back then, it was normal that the other party did not recognize her.


    She didn¡¯t say anything and only turned to look at Liu Jinbao.


    Manager Liu thought that she wasn¡¯t satisfied and was about to scold her for not knowing what was good for her before instructing the guards to chase her away.


    ¡°Uncle Liu.¡± Liu Jinbao let go of Yan San and stood up.


    Manager Liu swallowed his words and looked in the direction of the voice.


    At first glance, the person looked familiar. He took another look and his pupils constricted.


    ¡°You¡­¡¯


    He was speechless for a long time.


    Actually, Liu Jinbao had changed a lot in the past few years. He had grown a lot taller and his facial features had become more prominent. However, he was still a child he had watched grow up. No matter how much he had changed, he could recognize him.


    Song Jinghuan saw his reaction. Logically speaking, since something had happened to his master in the residence, he should be happy to see his young master, who had not returned for many years, return at this time.


    However, when Manager Liu recognized Liu Jinbao, he was clearly in disbelief and fear. How could he be happy at all?


    Song Jinghuan frowned. As far as she knew, the reason why Liu Jinbao returned was because he had received a letter from the Liu family. Looking at Manager Liu¡¯s reaction, could it be that he didn¡¯t know that someone had sent a message to Liu Jinbao?


    She glanced at the people Butler Liu had brought. Song Jinghuan¡¯s sharp eyes noticed that a follower in mourning clothes standing behind Butler Liu was looking at Liu Jinbao with excitement. She thought of something and her eyes darkened again.


    While she was thinking, a roar pulled her back to reality.


    ¡°Nonsense. My father usually doesn¡¯t drink at all. Why would he lose his footing and fall into the water? Even if he fell into the water, are all the servants useless or dead?¡±


    Manager Liu said, ¡®Master usually doesn¡¯t drink, but the day before the accident, Master and Old Master quarreled for some reason, causing the already seriously ill Old Master to faint from anger. Old Master and the others guessed that Master might have drank two cups because of this matter, but in the end..


    Because the masters were in a bad mood from the argument, they chased away all the servants. He was already weak from alcohol, but he used alcohol to drown his sorrows. When he fainted, he accidentally lost his footing and fell into the water. It was late at night, so when the servants realized it, he was already dead..

 Chapter 952 - Chapter 952: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (3)

    Chapter 952: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Everything seemed reasonable, but Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t believe him at all. He pushed him away and wanted to enter.


    Manager Liu, who looked grief-stricken, staggered a step from his push. His face darkened and he said sternly, ¡°Stop him.¡±


    The guards he brought immediately stood in a row and blocked Liu Jinbao¡¯s way.


    Liu Jinbao was so angry that his eyes turned red. ¡°You useless servant. Do I need your permission to go back to my house?¡±


    Manager Liu stopped pretending. He patted the non-existent dust off his sleeve and sneered. ¡°I¡¯m saving you some dignity by calling you Young Master. Do you really think you¡¯re still the young master of our Liu residence?¡±


    If he couldn¡¯t see the problem now, Liu Jinbao would be stupid. He looked at Manager Liu coldly. ¡°What do you mean?


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Manager Liu glanced at Liu Jinbao¡¯s clothes and said disdainfully, ¡°Your name was removed from the family tree half a month ago. You have nothing to do with our Liu family now.¡±


    Liu Jinbao clenched his fists. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. Grandfather wouldn¡¯t do that to me.¡±


    Even though his grandfather had a second son, his grandfather¡¯s love for him could not be faked. He did not believe that his grandfather would chase him out of the house.


    ¡°Impossible?¡± Manager Liu sneered. ¡°From the day you stole the money from the residence and left home, the old master had already said that he would pretend that he didn¡¯t have a grandson like you. Otherwise, why do you think the Liu family never sent anyone to look for you? As for Eldest Master and Madam, you know their attitude towards you. Have they ever taken care of you since you were born? Naturally, they don¡¯t care about your life.¡±


    The two of them were an odd pair. They had given birth to sons to complete the mission given by Old Master Liu to carry on the family line.


    Therefore, they left Liu Jinbao to the nanny to take care of him when he was born. Later on, Old Master Liu wanted to bring him to his side, so the two of them were happy and relaxed.


    They only had each other in their hearts, followed by the silver, and behind the silver was the old master.


    Because the silver was in the old master¡¯s hands, they could only get the money if they curried favor with him. Only with money could the two of them live a happy life.


    Liu Jinbao was just a tool to please Old Master Liu. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have stopped comforting Liu Jinbao after he fell out of favor. Instead, they tried their utmost to find problems where there were none.


    The servants in the residence saw it.


    Thinking of something, Manager Liu continued, ¡°As for the letters you¡¯ve sent back in the past few years, Old Master didn¡¯t even look at them before asking me to burn them.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s face turned pale. What he firmly believed in was shattered at this moment.


    That¡¯s right. It wasn¡¯t that he hadn¡¯t contacted his family in the past few years. Back then, he had run away from home in a fit of pique, but after experiencing a cruel war and seeing life and death, the injustice in his heart had long dissipated. Moreover, he had gone to the battlefield to prove that he wasn¡¯t a useless young master who only knew how to eat, drink, and have fun.


    Therefore, the moment he received the reward, not only did he inform his family that he was safe, but he also sent the reward back to the Liu family.


    Although the rewards given to him were not much, it was given by the emperor himself. It naturally could not be measured by real money.


    However, he was disappointed. Not only did he not receive any replies, his subsequent letters were all ignored.


    He thought that it was because his grandfather looked down on his position as an apprentice in a weapons smithy, so he wanted to work harder and wait until the day he could return to his hometown.


    Unexpectedly, it was not that his grandfather looked down on him, but that he did not want him anymore.


    What Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t know was that regardless of whether it was the letter he wrote or the reward he sent back, the item was privately withheld when it reached Manager Liu¡¯s hands. It didn¡¯t reach the Liu family at all.


    Manager Liu had watched Liu Jinbao grow up and knew him best. As long as Old Master Liu didn¡¯t ask him to come back, he wouldn¡¯t go home even if he starved to death outside.


    Even if Liu Jinbao really came back one day, the Liu family would have changed. He couldn¡¯t change anything.


    However, he did not expect Liu Jinbao to come back at such a critical moment.


    He didn¡¯t suspect that the people around him had betrayed him. He just thought that Liu Jinbao had suffered outside and couldn¡¯t take it anymore.


    Seeing that Liu Jinbao did not suspect anything, Manager Liu sighed pretentiously. ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m deliberately targeting you. The old master has said that you¡¯re not allowed to step into the Liu residence again. The old master¡¯s health is not good to begin with. I don¡¯t dare to let you in and offend him. If anything happens to him because he got too angry¡­


    He seemed to be unable to continue. He shook his head and took off the pouch at his waist. ¡°After all, I¡¯ve served you once. Take this money. You can survive for a while if you save some money. Don¡¯t make things difficult for us servants here.¡±


    His father was gone, and his grandfather, who had doted on him since he was young, didn¡¯t want her anymore. He suffered consecutive blows in a day. Liu Jinbao couldn¡¯t think of anything else now.


    However, Song Jinghuan was different. From the moment she saw Manager Liu, she felt that something was wrong. Coupled with what Manager Liu had said just now and the current situation in the Liu residence, she had basically guessed the cause and effect.


    She pursed her lips and quietly whispered something in the servant¡¯s ear. After the servant left, she nudged Liu Jinbao, who was still immersed in grief.. ¡°Do you still want to see your grandfather?¡±

 Chapter 953 - Chapter 953: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (4)

    Chapter 953: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (4)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The feelings between people were mutual. Although Liu Jinbao felt terrible that his biological father had died, it was far less of a blow than Old Master Liu chasing him out of the family.


    Unlike his parents, who had been hands-off caretakers after giving birth to him, his grandfather was his closest relative who had doted on him since he was young.


    Although it had changed after Second Uncle was born, their relationship was still there.


    When he heard Song Jinghuan¡¯s question, he subconsciously wanted to nod, but he was afraid that it would really be as Manager Liu had said. His grandfather;s condition would worsen if he was unhappy.


    Song Jinghuan knew what he was thinking at a glance. She curled her lips and said, ¡°Don¡¯t just believe what others say. Are you stupid?¡±


    Liu Jinbao looked up at her with red eyes. He looked like an abandoned puppy. Song Jinghuan glanced at him and couldn¡¯t bear to continue stabbing him with words. She glanced at the shrewd Manager Liu in disdain. ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about whether this person bullied his master or not¡­¡± Thinking that she didn¡¯t have any evidence yet, and that Liu Jinbao believed this person¡¯s words without a doubt, he changed the topic. ¡°We didn¡¯t come all the way here for nothing, right? This is very likely the last time you¡¯ll see your grandfather.¡±


    Liu Jinbao¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°Grandfather¡­¡± He believed his grandfather didn¡¯t want to see him.


    Song Jinghuan thought to himself, ¡°1 used to think that this person was quite smart. Why did he stop thinking when it came to Old Master Liu?¡±


    She scratched her head. ¡°Even if he doesn¡¯t want to see you. You can see him secretly. You¡¯re afraid that his condition will worsen, so you can just not let him know. Besides, your father is gone. As his son, you have to burn incense, right? And your mother, aren¡¯t you going to visit her?¡±


    Liu Jinbao was stunned. His grandfather didn¡¯t want to see him, so he could sneak a look outside the window.


    Manager Liu¡¯s hand that was holding the pouch was still in midair. When he heard Song Jinghuan¡¯s words, he knew that something was wrong. Seeing Liu Jinbao¡¯s tempted expression, he opened his mouth to say, ¡°The Old Master has instructed me not to let you take half a step into the Liu residence.¡±


    Before he could finish sDeaking. Song linghuan snatched the Douch and shook it in his hand. It looked to be about 20 to 30 taels of silver, but as the manager of a rich family in town, he could casually take out so much money. Those who didn¡¯t know better would think that he was the old master.


    ¡°You¡¯re master and servant after all. For you to be able to give us so much money, you must be thinking about old times. Let him go in and offer incense to his father. He won¡¯t object if we secretly take a look at the old master, right?¡± Song Jinghuan imitated the way the servants looked at them just now and glanced at him. ¡°Anyway, the old master is sick now. Let¡¯s go in quietly. As long as you don¡¯t say anything, he won¡¯t know that Liu Jinbao has returned. Naturally, he won¡¯t be so angry that his condition will worsen.¡±


    She directly blocked Manager Liu¡¯s excuse. Manager Liu narrowed his eyes. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t dare to lie to my superiors.¡± He no longer referred to himself as an old servant.


    Song Jinghuan sneered. ¡°Are you afraid? Or do you already think of yourself as the master of the Liu residence? Are you afraid that we¡¯ll discover something when we go in?¡±


    Manager Liu seemed to have been stepped on and raised his voice. ¡°Nonsense.¡± Seeing that Song Jinghuan was not easy to fool, he flicked his sleeve and said to Liu Jinbao, ¡°You know Old Master¡¯s temper. If you still respect him, leave quickly. Don¡¯t make everyone look bad.¡±


    Liu Jinbao was already persuaded by Song Jinghuan and didn¡¯t listen to him at all. ¡°I¡¯ll go in and take a look before leaving.¡±


    As he spoke, he was about to walk in.


    Manager Liu naturally would not agree. He threatened, ¡°I¡¯ve already said all the good things. If you continue to pester me, don¡¯t blame me for being rude. When the time comes, I¡¯ll sue you for trespassing.¡±


    The people in the government office had taken so many benefits from him in the past few years. As long as he sued them, he would guarantee that Liu Jinbao would never be able to come out.


    Thinking of this, he wasn¡¯t worried anymore. It was good that Liu Jinbao was back. He could just crush him to death to prevent any unnecessary trouble. He gave Yan San a look. The latter understood and immediately left.


    Song Jinghuan saw this and didn¡¯t stop him.


    Looking at the guard who stood in front of him, Liu Jinbao hesitated for a moment.


    It wasn¡¯t that he was afraid of meeting the officials, but these people wouldn¡¯t let him in. If he barged in, he would definitely cause a commotion and his grandfather would find out.


    This was how humans were. The more they cared, the more careful they would be.


    Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t give him any time to waste and whipped Manager Liu.


    She had seen that her sister-in-law was good at using the whip, so she got someone to make one. This was the first time she had used it.


    This old thing was really lucky.


    Liu Jinbao was stunned for a moment when she suddenly attacked. Those guards did not have time to react at all. The whip hit Manager Liu¡¯s shoulder firmly, leaving a long red mark on his chin.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Manager Liu cried out in pain. He was helped up by his subordinates so that he did not fall to the ground.


    The guards reacted and surrounded Song Jinghuan.


    They didn¡¯t take a little girl seriously at all. Similarly, Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t take them seriously. She whipped out again and wrapped her whip around Manager Liu¡¯s neck, dragging him in front of her.


    ¡°If you take another step forward, I¡¯ll strangle him.¡± She tightened the whip.


    She had been listening to this old thing¡¯s pretense for a long time.


    Manager Liu¡¯s face turned red. He rolled his eyes in annoyance. Seeing this, the guards did not dare to go forward.


    However, Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t want to kill him for the time being. She intimidated him and loosened his grip. ¡°Tell your men to move aside.


    Otherwise, I¡¯ll kill you first before barging in. Anyway, your death will be in vain.¡±


    He didn¡¯t want to die in vain.


    Manager Liu had just gotten a chance to catch his breath. When he heard this, he was furious again. He said hatefully, ¡°If you kill me, don¡¯t even think about leaving Qingping Town.¡±


    Would Song Jinghuan be afraid of him?


    At this moment, a man could not help but say, ¡°Young Master, Manager Liu is doing this for your own good. You should leave quickly with your companions.¡±


    Song Jinghuan looked over. It was the follower who was so excited that he almost cried when he saw Liu Jinbao.


    He seemed to be helping Manager Liu, but the worry in his eyes could not be faked.


    This was most likely the person who sent the letter to Liu Jinbao.


    However, this was not important now.


    Seeing that she was silent and did not make a move, Manager Liu thought that she was afraid and continued to say ruthless words.


    Song Jinghuan was impatient. She pulled out the dagger from her waist and stabbed it into his abdomen.


    There was another wail like a pig being slaughtered.


    After he finished howling, Song Jinghuan said coldly, ¡°If you dare to spout nonsense again, I¡¯ll cut off your tongue.¡±


    The knife stabbed into him and blood flowed. Manager Liu knew that she was serious and did not dare to say anything else. He trembled and asked the servants to make way.


    The attendant wanted to persuade Liu Jinbao to leave quickly before the officials arrived.


    However, Liu Jinbao was not really stupid. At this point, how could he tell that something was wrong? He ignored his attendant and strode into the residence.


    With Manager Liu in hand, the guards only dared to fall far behind. When they reached the second gate, a group of people blocked their way.


    ¡°Madam, it¡¯s them. They kidnapped Manager Liu and want to barge into the residence.¡± A maidservant pointed at Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao.


    The woman she called Madam was Song Jiayue.


    Because Song Jiayue had given birth to a son, Old Master Liu valued her very much. Later on, she used the excuse that she didn¡¯t want her son to be looked down upon by others to persuade Old Master Liu to support her. She was now the old madam of the Liu family.


    However, because she was younger than Eldest Master, no one could call her Old Madam, so they called her Madam.


    Song Jiayue¡¯s gaze swept across Song Jinghuan¡¯s face and finally stopped on Liu Jinbao¡¯s face. Perhaps it was because a servant had reported it, but she didn¡¯t recognize him until a long time later.


    ¡°Liu Jinbao, what are you doing?¡± She looked disgusted.


    For the sake of Old Master Liu, Liu Jinbao cupped his hands and said,


    ¡°Grandfather is seriously ill. I¡­¡±


    ¡°What grandfather? Your grandfather isn¡¯t here. You have nothing to do with our Liu family anymore.¡± Song Jiayue interrupted him sharply. ¡°Hurry up and let her go. Otherwise, I won¡¯t be polite to you.¡±


    In the past, Liu Jinbao had been spoiled by Old Master Liu and had bullied many people. However, he only bullied his classmates in the academy. When the servants didn¡¯t do as he wished, he would scold them. As for Old Master Liu¡¯s concubines, as long as they didn¡¯t cause trouble in front of him, he wouldn¡¯t care at all. Therefore, there was actually no feud between them.


    However, Song Jiayue didn¡¯t like him from the moment she saw him.


    The reason was very simple. She was once the beloved daughter of the Song family, but she could not compare to Liu Jinbao at all. When the Song family was in trouble, they even treated her as a concubine without hesitation. Seeing how happy Liu Jinbao was, she was initially jealous, but later on, it was to pave the way for her son.


    Now that he had returned, she was afraid that he was here to snatch her son¡¯s assets, so she naturally wouldn¡¯t be happy..

 Chapter 954 - Chapter 954: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (5)

    Chapter 954: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (5)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jinghuan glanced at the guards standing behind Song Jiayue with clubs, and then glanced at the servants hiding around them and secretly sized them up.


    She was relieved.


    All of these people combined were no match for her.


    Retracting her gaze, she pushed Manager Liu forward and said, ¡°If you want us to let him go, let Liu Jinbao go in and see Old Master Liu. We¡¯ll naturally leave when we see him.¡±


    Actually, she felt that something was wrong. Song Jiayue had appeared, but Liu Jinbao¡¯s mother had yet to appear. It was impossible for her not to have received the news.


    Moreover, these people were wearing mourning clothes, but they did not look sad at all.


    As servants, they had to pretend they were devastated even if they weren¡¯t really sad that their master had passed away.


    Song Jiayue had long noticed Song Jinghuan and found her familiar, but she didn¡¯t remember her. When she heard her words, she first glanced at Manager Liu, then seemed to have heard a huge joke. ¡°He¡¯s just a servant of our Liu family. Are you threatening me with a servant?¡±


    Song Jinghuan said, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    Of course, she knew that Manager Liu was just a servant. Didn¡¯t he think that he had some status in the Liu residence because the people he brought listened to him?


    Sensing that the whip was slowly tightening around him and was about to break his neck at any moment, Manager Liu, whose lips were pale from excessive blood loss, quickly said with a trembling voice, ¡°Madam, I¡¯ve worked hard for the Liu family for half my life. Even if I don¡¯t contribute, I¡¯ve worked hard. You can¡¯t ignore my life. I¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course I want to save Uncle Liu.¡± Song Jiayue sighed. She was no longer as arrogant as before. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she held them back. ¡°But Master doesn¡¯t want to see Liu Jinbao. What if something happens to him because of this? What should Second Master do? He¡¯s still young, and he¡¯s usually closest to his father.¡±


    Hearing Second Master, Manager Liu instantly felt as if his throat was stuck. He could no longer say the rest of his words. Instead, he looked like he was about to die.


    ¡°Uncle Liu, don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t let you die in vain.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless. He wasn¡¯t even dead yet, but she was already saying such things. Did she want her to kill Manager Liu?


    Song Jiayue didn¡¯t say anything else. She pressed the corners of her eyes with a handkerchief and gave the guards behind her a look. The group of people raised their clubs and rushed towards Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao, completely ignoring Manager Liu¡¯s life.


    Song Jinghuan raised her eyebrows and knocked out Manager Liu with one hand. She pulled out her long whip and swung it at the guards rushing over.


    It didn¡¯t matter if she killed him or not. However, since she could tell that Song Jiayue wanted to use her to kill him, she wouldn¡¯t let her do it.


    Liu Jinbao was afraid that the guards would hurt Song Jinghuan, so he couldn¡¯t care less about the commotion and went up to them bare-handed.


    Although he had been in the Ministry of Works for the past few years, he had been taught a lot by Song Jinghuan, and his skills had improved a lot. Coupled with Song Jinghuan¡¯s killing weapon, the guards were no match for the two of them.


    Song Jiayue was protected by a few maidservants and hid behind them. At first, she was smug, but seeing more and more guards fall, her expression turned even uglier.


    She didn¡¯t expect Liu Jinbao, who couldn¡¯t lift his shoulders or carry his arms in the past, to become so powerful.


    She had read the letter sent back by Liu Jinbao and knew that he had found an apprenticeship in Chang¡¯an. However, her impression of him was too deep, so she and Manager Liu didn¡¯t care at all.


    He was just an apprentice. What could he do?


    Therefore, they did not take him seriously at all.


    With a bang, the last guard fainted from Song Jinghuan¡¯s whip. Song Jiayue staggered back in fear, feeling as if the whip had struck her heart.


    She thought of something and her face turned pale. She pointed at Song Jinghuan and asked, ¡°What¡¯s your relationship with Shen Yijia?¡± Without waiting for Song Jinghuan to speak, she shook her head again and again. ¡°No, you¡¯re not her.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was speechless. She remembered her sister-in-law, but didn¡¯t recognize her?


    Actually, it was no wonder that Song Jiayue couldn¡¯t recognize her. At that time, Song Jinghuan knew that the old Song family had ill intentions. When she and Brother Hao saw them, they would avoid them and wouldn¡¯t approach the old Song family at all.


    Later on, when Song Jiayue entered the Liu residence, she had even less chance to see her.


    Even though she had hurriedly met the Liu family before leaving, Song Jiayue¡¯s attention was all on Shen Yijia. After so many years, she naturally didn¡¯t remember her.


    Song Jiayue had always felt that without Shen Yijia, the old song family wouldn¡¯t have been destroyed, and she wouldn¡¯t have ended up being someone¡¯s concubine.


    However, she also knew that it was impossible for her to take revenge on Shen Yijia in this lifetime because that woman was too powerful. The current Song family was not something she could afford to offend.


    For a moment just now, although she saw Shen Yijia¡¯s shadow on this girl, it must be an illusion!


    However, after being frightened by Shen Yijia¡¯s shadow, Song Jiayue calmed down. She looked at Liu Jinbao and threatened, ¡°If you dare to hurt me, Master won¡¯t let you off.¡±


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips. She just said that if they didn¡¯t let Manager Liu go, she wouldn¡¯t let them off. Women were so fickle.


    Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t even look at her. ¡°Let¡¯s go see my grandfather first.¡±


    ¡°No way!¡±


    Song Jinghuan was about to agree when she was interrupted by another sharp voice. She looked at Song Jiayue unhappily.


    Song Jiayue tightened her grip and lowered her voice. ¡°Master said that he didn¡¯t want to see you. You can¡¯t go in.¡±


    Song Jinghuan rolled his eyes and pulled Liu Jinbao away.


    The usually arrogant guards were still lying on the ground wailing and fainting. The rest were all maidservants and weak attendants, so they naturally did not dare to stop them.


    Song Jiayue was extremely anxious when footsteps sounded. A team of bailiffs rushed in and stood around the courtyard.


    Song Jiayue was delighted. She pointed at Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao and said, ¡°You came at the right time. They barged into a residence and injured the guards in the residence. Capture them quickly.¡±


    So what if they could fight? If they dared to fight an official, they would be on the wanted list.


    The bailiffs did not move. They looked at a middle-aged man who had entered from behind.


    Song Jiayue recognized County Magistrate Zhang at a glance. She knew that Manager Liu had spent a lot of money to bribe the county magistrate, but she had never heard of him bribing County Magistrate Zhang.


    As far as she knew, such matters were usually managed by the deputy county magistrate. There was no need for County Magistrate Zhang to personally appear. She found it strange, but it did not stop her from finding the confidence to explain. She did not give Liu Jinbao a chance to explain. She pinched her handkerchief and sobbed. ¡°Our master is bedridden now, and Eldest Master is gone. They¡¯re bullying Second Master and me because our Liu family doesn¡¯t have a man to lead the household.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was dumbfounded. If not for the fact that the timing wasn¡¯t right, she would have taken out a copper coin and thrown it over. After all, her acting was not bad.


    County Magistrate Zhang glanced at everyone present and finally looked at Song Jinghuan.


    Song Jiayue covered her eyes with a handkerchief and watched secretly. She was just waiting for him to say that he would arrest them. Then, she would add more fuel to the fire and make Liu Jinbao die in prison.


    Unexpectedly, Magistrate Zhang walked up to the girl and cupped his hands.


    ¡°Greetings, Second Miss.¡±


    Song Jiayue was speechless..

 Chapter 955 - Chapter 955: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (6)

    Chapter 955: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (6)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°This is ridiculous. There¡¯s actually someone who dares to barge into a house in broad daylight. They¡¯re looking down on the law.¡±


    A strong male voice sounded outside the courtyard, accompanied by sparse footsteps.


    Another voice immediately echoed, ¡°That¡¯s right. Lord Wang, you have to uphold justice for our Liu family. Lock that bold lunatic up and sentence him to eight to ten years in prison.¡±


    Song Jinghuan and Liu Jinbao looked at each other. The voice of Lord Wang was unfamiliar, but the other voice was definitely Yan San, who had been instructed by Manager Liu to get reinforcements.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, in Qingping Town, I definitely won¡¯t¡­¡¯


    Stepping into the flower door, Lord Wang¡¯s voice suddenly rose and stopped.


    Yan San, who was half-step behind him, and the dozen or so bailiffs behind him had to stop to prevent themselves from colliding.


    ¡°Lord Wang, why did you stop?¡± Yan San stuck his head out curiously and was stunned when he saw the scene in the courtyard.


    Lord Wang turned around and glared at him. Since he had invited Lord Zhang over, why was he looking for him?


    Since he had benefited, he had the preconceived notion that Lord Zhang had appeared here because he had been bribed by the Liu family. Otherwise, why would the county magistrate be so proactive?


    Perhaps the Liu family had given him more bribes than everyone else.


    While Deputy Wang was envious, he also felt a faint pleasure in his heart. Lord Zhang, who usually looked upright and honest, was only so-so.


    He thought to himself, ¡°With this weakness in hand, when Lord Zhang is promoted, if he doesn¡¯t promote me to seal my mouth, I¡¯ll¡­¡±


    Thinking of this, County Magistrate Wang was not only not angry that the Liu family had hidden everything from him, but he also felt very happy.


    This was the last year of Lord Zhang¡¯s term. He would have to change his position next year, so he could take over.


    He was incredibly gleeful.


    ¡°Lord Zhang, why did you have to do such a small thing yourself?¡± He put on a smile and walked over.


    From the corner of her eye, he noticed Song Jiayue¡¯s pale face. He thought to herself that this Madam Liu was getting more and more beautiful.


    Lord Zhang glanced at Song Jinghuan. Seeing that she didn¡¯t say anything and instead had a ¡°you¡¯re the county magistrate, you have the final say¡± expression, he understood.


    ¡°Small matter?¡± He looked at Deputy Wang coldly. ¡°As a servant, he plotted against his master¡¯s life and invaded the main family¡¯s assets. Are these small matters in your eyes?¡±


    The smile on Deputy Wang¡¯s face froze. He stole a glance at Yan San beside him and saw that he was also puzzled. He probed, ¡°Sir, is there a misunderstanding?¡±


    After interacting with Manager Liu for so long, he actually knew a little about


    tne LILI tamilY.


    Lord Zhang said, ¡°Are you saying that someone reported a fake case to deceive


    The servant who brought Lord Zhang glanced at Song Jinghuan. Eldest Miss taught him to say that.


    Song Jinghuan was speechless. She guessed it.


    ¡°This¡­¡± Cold sweat broke out on Deputy Wang¡¯s forehead. He braced himself and said, ¡°Master Liu died from drowning while drunk. The coroner has confirmed it.¡±


    Therefore, there was no such thing as murder. As for encroaching on the family assets¡­


    ¡°Lord Zhang, you might not know this, but Liu Jinbao has been excommunicated by Old Master Liu. The head of the Liu residence is Old


    Madam Liu. She has a six-year-old son.¡±


    Their master was still around, so the family assets naturally belonged to them.


    ¡°I had no intention of inheriting any assets. I just wanted to offer my father an incense stick and see my grandfather. However, they kept obstructing me, so I had no choice but to suspect the real cause of my father¡¯s death.¡± Liu Jinbao bowed to Lord Zhang. ¡°County Magistrate, please investigate the truth.¡±


    ¡°Filial piety is the main priority. You did nothing wrong.¡± Lord Zhang waved his hand to get him up. ¡°If your father¡¯s death is really strange, I will naturally deal with it impartially. What do you think, Lord Wang?¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Even a fool could tell that Lord Zhang was on Liu Jinbao¡¯s side. Deputy Wang raised his hand to wipe his sweat and turned to look at Song Jiayue, wanting her to stand up and speak. Then, he was shocked that County Magistrate Zhang did not receive his hint when he called her ¡°Eldest Miss.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a few days since Uncle Liu drowned. I don¡¯t think we can find anything now. Why don¡¯t we let the people who know the truth tell us?¡± Song Jinghuan looked around and finally fixed his gaze on the follower. ¡°Tell us everything you know.¡±


    She blinked and said meaningfully, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, your young master has a much bigger backer than these people.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, everyone looked at the attendant standing in the middle of a group of servants.


    Liu Jinbao frowned. ¡°Luo Wen?¡±


    He had long realized that apart from Manager Liu, only Luo Wen was left in the residence. The rest were all unfamiliar faces..

 Chapter 956 - Chapter 956: Side Story – Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (7)

    Chapter 956: Side Story ¨C Liu Jinbao VS Song Jinghuan (7)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    If he remembered correctly, Luo Wen was a distant relative of Manager Liu. He was also the one who brought him into the residence.


    Luo Wen was a little nervous under everyone¡¯s gaze. When he met Liu Jinbao¡¯s gaze, he gritted his teeth and took two steps forward to kneel. ¡°Greetings, Lord


    Zhang and Lord Wang.¡±


    Lord Zhang nodded for him to continue.


    ¡°I can testify that Boss Liu did not lose his footing and fall into the water. Instead, he was knocked unconscious and thrown down by Manager Liu and


    Old Madam.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense!¡±


    Two voices sounded at the same time. It was Manager Liu and Song Jiayue.


    Lord Zhang frowned unhappily.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t.¡± Song Jiayue explained in a panic. ¡°In name, I¡¯m Eldest Master¡¯s stepmother. I have no grudges with him. I have no reason to harm him. It¡¯s¡­


    it¡¯s this useless servant who slandered me!¡±


    Manager Liu said, ¡°Luo Wen, I know you still hate me for not borrowing money to treat your mother back then, but I really didn¡¯t have that much money back then. I¡¯ve been bringing you along these few years to make up for it.¡±


    ¡°You have no right to mention my mother.¡± Luo Wen interrupted him coldly and kowtowed three times to Lord Zhang. ¡°I can guarantee with my head that I saw what I said just now with my own eyes. Everything I said is true.¡±


    Song Jiayue and Manager Liu were about to say something when Lord Zhang gave them a look. A few bailiffs immediately went over and grabbed them.


    Deputy Wang¡¯s legs went weak.


    Lord Zhang said, ¡°Continue.¡±


    Luo Wen said, ¡°Ever since the old master suddenly fell ill three months ago, the manager and the old madam began to replace the shopkeepers of the shops under the Liu family in the old master¡¯s name. Eldest Master happened to go out with the caravan during that period of time. When he returned, he found out and quarreled with the old master. That night, he drank some wine and accidentally bumped into the manager and the old madam. They were afraid that the matter would blow up, so they killed him to silence him.¡±


    Song Jinghuan was shocked by his words. She had guessed the beginning correctly, but not the end.


    If her imagination was bolder, could Second Master Liu not be Old Master Liu¡¯s son?


    After all, so many of his concubines did not get pregnant.


    Song Jinghuan felt that she had found out the truth.


    Apart from Liu Jinbao, everyone else present thought of this.


    ¡°Since you saw it, why didn¡¯t you save him?¡± Liu Jinbao¡¯s focus was different from theirs.


    ¡°I¡­¡± Luo Wen lowered her head guiltily.


    Song Jinghuan patted his shoulder. ¡°If he tried, we might have lost our only witness.¡±


    They even dared to change the shopkeepers in the shop. Most of the servants in the residence had long been changed to their subordinates. Othervvise, wouldn¡¯t the change of shopkeepers cause a ruckus as soon as they came to confront them?


    Liu Jinbao clenched his fists.


    Song Jinghuan said, ¡°You were the one who sent a letter to Liu Jinbao to tell him that Old Master Liu was seriously ill and asked him to come back, right?¡±


    Luo Wen nodded. ¡°Back then, my mother was seriously ill. Before she died, she kept wanting to eat Jude Xuan¡¯s roasted duck, but my family¡¯s money was used to buy medicine. It was Young Master who rewarded me with some money, so my mother could leave without any regrets.¡±


    His mother¡¯s illness had dragged on for nearly a year and had spent all the savings in the family. To Liu Jinbao, it was just a casual gift to a servant, but to Luo Wen, it was no different from sending charcoal in the snow.


    He had always remembered this kindness.


    Knowing that the young master and the old master had a deep relationship, he did not want him to not even be able to see the old master one last time, so he secretly got someone to send a letter to the capital.


    However, he did not expect that before his young master returned, eldest master would be harmed by them first.


    Later on, he secretly observed and realized that the butler was colluding with the county magistrate.


    The Liu residence was already in the hands of Song Jiayue, and there was the protection of an official. He was worried that Liu Jinbao was no match for them, so he persuaded him to leave at the entrance of the residence.


    ¡°Nonsense, you¡¯re spouting nonsense. What benefits did Liu Jinbao give you to


    frame me like this?¡± It was unknown where Song Jiayue found the strength to break free from the bailiff¡¯s grip. She pulled out the sword at the bailiff¡¯s waist and stabbed it at Luo Wen.


    Song Jinghuan raised her eyebrows and kicked her away.


    Song Jiayue¡¯s body smashed against the wall behind her and she fainted.


    ¡°Mother!¡± A boy about five or six years old rushed out.


    ¡°Mother, Mother, what¡¯s wrong?¡± The boy went to pull Song Jiayue back with red eyes. Seeing that her eyes were closed, he ran to Song Jinghuan and started to punch and kick her. ¡°You bad person, why did you hit my mother? I want to tell my father. I want him to kill you and feed you to the wolves.¡±


    Liu Jinbao grabbed his collar and picked him up. ¡°How can you say such vicious words at such a young age?¡±


    Manager Liu was shocked. ¡°Fu Gui¡­¡±


    ¡°Let go of me!¡± The boy flailed his arms and legs in midair. Seeing that Liu


    Jinbao was unmoved, he scolded with a red face, ¡°Who do you think you are? My mother said that the Liu family will be mine in the future. I can do whatever I want.¡¯


    A complicated expression appeared on Song Jinghuan¡¯s face. It was obvious that this was Song Jiayue¡¯s son, the second master of the Liu family, Liu Fu Gui.


    She glanced at the anxious Manager Liu. It was unknown if his surname would be Liu in the future.


    As it turned out, she was not wrong. In less than an hour after Lord Zhang brought her back to the government office, Manager Liu confessed everything, including whether Deputy Wang had accepted bribes.


    ¡°Go in. Don¡¯t you want to see your grandfather?¡± Seeing that Liu Jinbao was standing in front of the door without moving for five minutes, Song Jinghuan couldn¡¯t help but urge him softly.


    Liu Jinbao pursed his lips. ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t Luo Wen say that the excommunication happened after your grandfather fell ill? It might not have been his intention at all. Your grandfather doted on you so much. How could he abandon you so easily?¡± Liu Jinbao took a deep breath and pushed the door open. ¡°Baby, is my baby back? Grandfather has let you down, my baby¡­¡± At this moment, the cries of an old man sounded in the room.


    Song Jinghuan was speechless..

 Chapter 957 - Chapter 957: Side Story – Perfect Reunion

    Chapter 957: Side Story ¨C Perfect Reunion


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Liu Jinbao entered the house in a few steps. When he saw Old Master Liu lying on the hospital bed, his eyes turned red. He knelt on both knees and kowtowed heavily. ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯m unfilial.¡±


    Old Master Liu turned around with difficulty. His blurry vision gradually cleared, and his eyes burst out with surprise. ¡°Baby, you¡¯re back from school¡­


    Oh my, why are you crying? Did that little girl surnamed Song bully you again?¡±


    Liu Jinbao looked at the maidservant beside him in confusion.


    The maidservant explained, ¡°The old master is not always sober.¡±


    Song Jinghuan nodded. She had heard from Sister MO Yuan that it was easy to develop dementia when one was old. This was probably the case.


    Thinking that Old Master Liu still remembered her beating up Liu Jinbao, Song Jinghuan stood behind the maidservant guiltily.


    Liu Jinbao wiped his tears with his sleeve. ¡°No, I¡¯ve become friends with her now. She treats me very well.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright.¡± Old Master Liu smiled and said, ¡®You¡¯re much better than your father, that brat who only knows how to covet my money.¡±


    Liu Jinbao burst into tears.


    ¡°Why are you crying again?¡± Old Master Liu reached out his trembling hand. Liu Jinbao quickly took a few steps forward and held it.


    ¡°Darling, don¡¯t cry anymore. Grandfather got someone to make your favorite Dragon Whiskers Crisp. It¡¯s not for anyone else. You¡¯re the only one who can eat it.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡¯


    ¡°I may be old, but I¡¯m not stupid. They want my golden seal. I hid it well and won¡¯t give it to them. My things have to be left to my darling.¡±


    Song Jinghuan glanced at Liu Jinbao and left with the maidservant.


    She didn¡¯t know much about medicine, but after interacting with Sister MO Yuan for a long time, she could tell that Old Master Liu was old and about to die.


    That afternoon, Old Master Liu did not wake up again after falling asleep.


    Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t tell him about Song Jiayue and Manager Liu¡¯s situation, nor did he mention Liu Fugui¡¯s background, including the fact that Eldest Master had been killed by them.


    He managed to hold on until he saw his grandson. He left in peace.


    At night, Song Jinghuan sat on the stone steps outside the mourning hall with Liu Jinbao.


    ¡°Have you seen your mother?¡±


    Madam Liu fell ill after Eldest Master Liu¡¯s accident. It seemed that she wouldn¡¯t be able to hold on for long. Song Jinghuan didn¡¯t know if she should sympathize with him.


    It was true that her relationship with Eldest Master Liu was enviable, but she was not a good mother or a good housewife.


    In her sister-in-law¡¯s words, she was a pure romantic.


    ¡°Yes, she said she was living a miserable life and asked me not to see her again.¡± She also said to remember to bury her with his father when she died.


    Song Jinghuan pursed his lips and suddenly hated the woman she had never seen before.


    How cruel was it for a mother to say such things to a son who had just lost two of his closest relatives and only had her left?


    Why didn¡¯t she think carefully before speaking? Liu Jinbao was only sixteen years old.


    In the capital, unless they were like her eldest brother and second brother, most men were still messing around at the age of 16 and enjoying the love of their parents.


    She could not think of this because she did not have a son in her eyes.


    Or perhaps, she was still touched by her great love story.


    Song Jinghuan suddenly remembered that her father and mother had an extremely good relationship. Back then, when the family met with an accident, no matter how sad and desperate her mother was, she didn¡¯t abandon the three of them.


    Compared to Madam Liu, her mother was really too good.


    Song Jinghuan sighed and pressed Liu Jinbao¡¯s head on her shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯ll protect you in the future.¡±


    At this moment, Liu Jinbao didn¡¯t know that Song Jinghuan would really protect him for the rest of his life.


    It was even to the extent that a long time later, the people in the capital would relish in saying that Song Jinghuan, the demoness on the battlefield, would put away her fangs as soon as she returned home and personally wash Master Liu¡¯s hands.


    In the end, Madam Liu did not last long. By the time the funeral was over, it was already mid-June.


    Liu Jinbao had to stay in Qingping Town for the time being, but Song Jinghuan couldn¡¯t stay for long.


    Before returning to the capital, she took the time to see Shopkeeper Wang and his wife before she returned to Xiagou Village.


    The fragrance powder workshop in Xiagou Village was already quite large-scale with the incense recipe left behind by Lin Shao. It was quite famous in the south.


    Two years ago, Shen Yijia even gave up most of the profits. With this workshop and flower fields, Xiagou Village and the villagers in the nearby villages became richer. Every family built brick houses.


    Song Dali, the bandit leader who chased after Shen Yijia, was finally conquered by Song Zhaozhao. The two of them already had three children.


    There was also An Xiu¡¯er. She was married to a widower in the same village who was alone with his son. Her body was damaged and she could not give birth, so the two of them were compatible.


    As for Liu Fugui, Song Jiayue and Manager Liu had committed so many crimes. They could forget about leaving the village for the rest of their lives. Liu Jinbao wouldn¡¯t agree to let him continue staying in the Liu family. In the end, Liu Fugui was brought back to Xiagou Village by his second uncle, Song Erlin.


    He was still young. As long as he taught him well, he could change his behavior.


    When they left Xiagou Village, Song Jinghuan¡¯s horse was already filled with things that the villagers had forced on her.


    When she walked far away, she could still hear Song Dali shouting, ¡°Remember to tell grandaunt to come back often when she¡¯s free!¡± She smiled. Everything seemed to be going well.


    She wondered if Sister-in-law and the others had arrived yet.


    It took nearly three months to travel from Great Xia to Phoenix City in the Xuanyuan Kingdom if they went as quickly as possible, or four to five months if they traveled slowly. It had only been two and a half months since Shen Yijia and the others set off, so they naturally hadn¡¯t arrived yet.


    Not only did she not arrive, but Shen Yijia even regretted it a little. If Empress Dowager Zhou wanted to see her two great-grandsons, she could have just asked the Demon Guards to bring the two of them over. Why did she have to make this trip personally?


    ¡°Be good and eat a little.¡± Song Jingchen coaxed her beside a stream in a city away from Phoenix City.


    Shen Yijia leaned against him weakly and buried her face in his arms. ¡°I don¡¯t want to eat it.¡±


    ¡°Then tell me what you want to eat.¡±


    Shen Yijia wanted to say that she didn¡¯t want to eat anything, but she noticed the darkness under his eyes and smiled. ¡°I want to eat you.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He turned around and looked at Song Tan and Song Min¡¯s big eyes, as if they were asking if their father was delicious. The tips of his ears turned visibly red.


    Shen Yijia held back her laughter and circled his chest with her fingers. ¡°You said you would give me whatever I wanted to eat. I want to eat you now. Are you going to give it to me?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at her and naturally didn¡¯t let go of the teasing in her eyes. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°Tan¡¯er, Minter, go and see if Grandmother is back.¡±


    Song Tan and Song Min looked at each other.


    ¡°Father wants to send us away. Are we leaving?¡± they thought.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go. Grandmother said that it¡¯s hard for Mother to be pregnant with a baby. We have to be good.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    After the two little ones finished exchanging glances, they ran over and muttered in Shen Yijia¡¯s ear. Then, they left hand in hand.


    Shen Yijia could not help but laugh.


    The red glow spread from the tip of Song Jingchen¡¯s ear to his face.


    After laughing enough, Shen Yijia held Song Jingchen¡¯s burning face and said mysteriously, ¡°Your son just told me¡­ don¡¯t worry, we won¡¯t snatch Father from you.


    Song Jingchen stopped her.


    The breeze was gentle and cold, but their hearts were burning. ¡°Thank you for crossing space and time to come to my side.¡±


    ¡®I thank you, too, for keeping my life from going blank..¡¯

 Chapter 958 - Chapter 958: The Awakening of a Parallel World

    Chapter 958: The Awakening of a Parallel World


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The summer day was hot. After noon, it was the time when people were most easily sleepy. Afraid of disturbing their master¡¯s rest, the servants of Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence subconsciously slowed down their pace.


    At midnight, a girl about eleven or twelve years old came out of the kitchen with a food box. Her black hair was tied up high on her head with a crown. She was dressed plainly and did not look like her master, but she was not dressed like a maidservant in the residence.


    When the servants saw her on the way, they stopped and bowed. She did not even look up as she entered a courtyard called the Qiongyu pavilion with a straight face.


    The servants were already used to her reaction.


    The girl went straight to the main room of the Jade Pavilion. She was not slow, but she did not make a sound.


    ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Her sudden words shocked the two maidservants who were hiding under the porch and muttering something.


    The two maidservants patted their chests in unison and complained, ¡°Miss MO


    Yuan, you scared us to death.¡±


    MO Yuan said unhappily, ¡°The princess is resting inside. You¡­¡¯


    ¡°Oh my, that¡¯s what we¡¯re anxious about.¡±


    Compared to the young princess, the maidservant was just a fierce-looking mandarin duck.


    Of course, the premise was that they were not disloyal to the young princess.


    Otherwise, MO Yuan would be their nightmare.


    ¡°Is she dreaming again?¡± MO Yuan asked.


    The two maids nodded in unison.


    MO Yuan looked worried and stopped asking them. She turned around and went to the waterside pavilion at the back.


    Lord Jing¡¯an and the princess consort had been married for eight years, and she was the only daughter of the princess. Not only did the couple dote on her, but even the people in the palace doted on her.


    For example, the empress dowager liked the cold and was afraid of the heat in her courtyard. His Majesty got someone to plant flowers and trees around the Longevity Palace. He even dug a pool in the west, built a water pavilion, and built a loft. When the princess said that she liked it, the empress dowager turned around and took out her private money to get someone to build a similar courtyard in Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence.


    When they arrived at the waterside pavilion, they found the small figure in the pool.


    The young princess was wearing a light green dress and was lying on a small boat. Her face was covered by a lotus leaf that had been folded. It was almost one with the lotus leaves in the pool. If one did not look carefully, they would not notice it.


    MO Yuan tapped her toes and landed lightly on the small boat.


    The young princess lifted a corner of the lotus leaf and glanced at her. Then, she covered it back as if nothing had happened.


    MO Yuan sat down beside her and did not say anything.


    When she didn¡¯t speak, the young princess couldn¡¯t help but sit up and look at her with her big watery eyes. ¡°Sister MO Yuan, do you think I really don¡¯t have a husband?¡±


    There was a red spider lily bud between the young princess¡¯s eyebrows. Her skin was fairer than snow, and her serious face had some baby fat. Not only was she not intimidating, but she was also cute.


    However, MO Yuan knew that this was all on the surface. When the young princess teased people, she was simply a little devil.


    ¡°Sister MO Yuan!¡± Seeing that she was staring at her silently, the young princess called out to her angrily.


    MO Yuan lowered her eyes. ¡°His Highness said that he wanted to keep the princess for a few more years, so he didn¡¯t arrange any marriage for the princess.¡±


    For the past three days, the young princess had to ask this question every day when she woke up. MO Yuan went from shock to numbness and accepted it.


    The only thing she was not used to was that the princess who was originally noisy suddenly became quiet. She was in a daze every day. She did not even go to the palace.


    Disappointment flashed across the young princess¡¯s face. She supported her chin with her chubby hand and looked at a dragonfly that had landed on a lotus leaf in the distance. She muttered to herself, ¡°But, that¡¯s not right.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± MO Yuan knew that she was like this because she had been dreaming recently, but every time she asked her what she had dreamed of, she said that she couldn¡¯t remember..

 Chapter 959 - Chapter 959: The Little Princess Who Left Home (1)

    Chapter 959: The Little Princess Who Left Home (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Everything is wrong. This pool is wrong, the water pavilion is wrong, and that pool is wrong.¡± The young princess curled her fingers and counted carefully. In the end, she pointed. ¡°You¡¯re also wrong.¡± MO Yuan thought, ¡°You¡¯re the one in the wrong.¡±


    If not for the fact that she knew that her princess could not hold back, she would have suspected that she was up to something again.


    ¡°Ah, my father is back.¡± The young princess suddenly looked somewhere.


    As soon as she finished speaking, she fell into a warm embrace.


    Xuanyuan Ce brought her around the pool. He did not hear his daughter¡¯s cheers as usual. He raised his eyebrows and sped up.


    In a while, his daughter would definitely be so excited that she would shout,


    ¡°Father, fly higher!¡±


    The young princess did not know what her father was thinking. She tugged at a strand of his hair and looked around. She asked curiously, ¡°Father, why isn¡¯t your hair white?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s pupils constricted, and his aura stagnated. He fell from the air and fell into the pool.


    The cold water made him come back to his senses. He looked down and realized that his daughter was gone. He was so frightened that his face turned pale.


    ¡°Jiajia!¡± Xuanyuan Ce called out loudly and plunged into the water. He searched for a long time but to no avail. Just as he was feeling extremely anxious, a


    bell-like laughter sounded above his head.


    ¡°Father is so powerful.¡±


    Little Jiajia stood steadily on a lotus leaf, clapping her hands.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    ¡°Xuanyuan Yijia, you¡¯re torturing your father again. ¡±


    Ji Luo saw this scene as soon as she arrived and glared at Xuanyuan Ce, who was still struggling in the water. She flew over and brought Little Jiajia back to the waterside pavilion. Just as she was about to reprimand her, she was pounced on.


    ¡°Mother, I missed you so much.¡± Little Jiajia kissed her face.


    Ji Luo made her stand up straight and said with a straight face, ¡°You have to use this trick every time you make a mistake. This time, I definitely won¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°It has nothing to do with my daughter. The weather is too hot. I¡¯ll go and cool down.¡± Xuanyuan Ce walked over with a smile.


    His entire body was drenched, and his hair was loose and dripping with water. He was clearly in a sorry state, but it did not hide his handsome appearance.


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°My father is so handsome.¡±


    Ji Luo said angrily, ¡°Just keep spoiling her. Let¡¯s see when she¡¯s going to tear down your residence.¡±


    The father and daughter winked at each other and tacitly stopped talking back.


    Xuanyuan Ce returned to his room and changed into clean clothes. He drank the ginger tea that his daughter had personally sent over. He was delighted, but at the same time, he was thinking about the reason why he fell into the water.


    He coughed lightly. ¡°Daughter, I¡¯m asking you¡­¡±


    Little Jiajia blinked her big eyes. ¡°Ask away.¡± she thought.


    Looking at her innocent appearance, Xuanyuan Ce stammered for a long time, not knowing what to say.


    Little Jiajia was enlightened. ¡°Father wants to ask about white hair?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce nodded. Even he did not realize that he was nervous.


    Little Jiajia rolled her eyes. ¡°I think Grandmother has a lot of white hair. You¡¯re Grandmother¡¯s son. How can you not be the same?¡±


    Normally, Xuanyuan Ce would definitely be able to tell that she was not telling the truth, but he was thinking about something else and naturally did not notice.


    The father and daughter chatted for a while more. Xuanyuan Ce told her about the interesting things he had encountered when he went out with Ji Luo, and Little Jiajia asked a few questions from time to time.


    ¡°Father, I haven¡¯t been to the palace to see Grandmother for a few days. I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    She didn¡¯t want to stay and be punished by her mother to practice calligraphy.


    Xuanyuan Ce laughed out loud and did not refuse. It was mainly because he could not refuse any requests from his precious daughter.


    After entering the palace, the father and daughter separated on the palace path. Xuanyuan Ce went straight to the imperial study, while Little Jiajia went to the Longevity Palace.


    Watching her father leave, Little Jiajia looked confused. Her father¡¯s reaction was wrong. His hair seemed to be wrong too.


    She was still young. Why did she have so many worries?


    Little Jiajia entered the Longevity Palace with a solemn expression and realized that something was wrong.


    ¡°Grandmother, where are the two big white geese?¡±


    Empress Dowager Zhou was speechless. When had she ever raised any geese in the palace?


    Nanny Gao smiled and said, ¡°Princess, do you want to eat goose meat? I remember that there¡¯s fresh goose meat in the imperial kitchen today. If you want to eat it, I¡¯ll give the order.¡±


    Little Jiajia sat opposite Empress Dowager Zhou, her short legs dangling in the air. She grabbed a pastry in each hand and took small bites, not saying anything..

 Chapter 960 - Chapter 960: The Little Princess Who Left Home (2)

    Chapter 960: The Little Princess Who Left Home (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Empress Dowager Zhou tapped her forehead and smiled. ¡°You¡¯re such a glutton. You know better than me what ingredients the imperial kitchen has.¡±


    She gestured for Nanny Gao to do it.


    Little Jiajia suddenly said, ¡°Let Zhu Dazhi do it.¡±


    ¡°Who is Zhu Dazhi?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou asked.


    Nanny Gao looked puzzled. She clearly didn¡¯t know either.


    Yu Gong entered and happened to hear this. He said uncertainly, ¡°I¡¯ve heard of such a name, but that person is only an apprentice in the imperial kitchen. I wonder if it¡¯s the same person the princess is referring to.¡±


    The apprentices were in charge of washing and cutting vegetables. They were not qualified to be cooks.


    Not everyone in the imperial kitchen had the chance to show their faces in front of their masters, let alone a mere apprentice.


    Little Jiajia continued to nibble on the pastry. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Don¡¯t ask me. I


    don¡¯t even know why I said this name.¡± Reality and dreams were so annoying.


    Reality and dreams were so annoying.


    Empress Dowager Zhou watched as she nodded and shook her head. She guessed that Zhu Dazhi had said something to her.


    After all, everyone in the palace knew that she and the emperor doted on this girl. If they wanted to stand up for themselves, wouldn¡¯t it be better to have this girl mention it?


    The harem was a place where everyone schemed against each other. Everyone tried their best to climb up the social ladder. If it was just a little trickery, she had always turned a blind eye to such things, but she could not tolerate those people targeting her granddaughter.


    She glanced at Eunuch Yu, who understood and went to the imperial kitchen with Nanny Gao.


    Zhu Dazhi thought to himself, ¡°Look, there¡¯s a big pot flying in the sky.¡±


    Little Jiajia did not know that her words had almost sent Zhu Dazhi to the afterlife. She ate a goose banquet in the Longevity Palace and left the palace in satisfaction and confusion.


    In the Duke Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence, Ji Luo was instructing the servants to move the luggage into a carriage.


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes turned red as she ran over with her short legs. ¡°Mother, are you and Father going out again?¡±


    ¡°There was a flood in Qinghe prefecture. Your Imperial Uncle asked your father to be in charge of disaster relief.¡± Seeing the tears on her face that were about to fall, Ji Luo smiled and said, ¡°Let your father go alone first. Mother will accompany you at home for a few more days.¡±


    ¡°I can check if you¡¯ve been studying well these days.¡±


    Little Jiajia was shocked. ¡°Mother, why don¡¯t you go with Father?¡±


    Although Little Jiajia had explained the situation, Xuanyuan Ce still felt a strong sense of reluctance when they set off. He inexplicably felt a panic that his soft little daughter would be snatched away at any moment.


    Ji Luo was both angry and amused. ¡°Alright, your daughter is smart. Who has the ability to kidnap her?¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce hesitated for a long time. In the end, he sighed and said with a bitter expression, ¡°Ah Luo, during the time I¡¯m not in the residence, if a


    good-looking brat comes to look for his daughter, you have to beat him up.¡± Ji Luo was speechless. ¡°Should I beat Mingler and the others too?¡±


    ¡°Those brats are part of the family, so there¡¯s naturally no need to be wary of them. Besides, how are they good-looking?¡± Thinking of a certain face, Xuanyuan Ce was furious.


    Ji Luo thought that he was a fiend and was stunned. She urged him to leave quickly.


    Xuanyuan Ce could only turn around and leave reluctantly.


    Ji Luo found it funny and gently stroked Little Jiajia¡¯s sleeping face.


    Thinking that her daughter would eventually get married, Ji Luo also felt reluctant. However, compared to letting her stay by their side, she hoped that her daughter would find her own happiness.


    The door closed. The little girl lying on the bed suddenly opened her eyes, which were sparkling.


    What a good-looking little brother!


    ¡°Cousin, quick. Grandmother asked me to bring you into the palace.¡±


    A chubby boy ran into the jade pavilion with his short legs covered in sweat.


    Little Jiajia looked up from the pile of books and said weakly, ¡°Didn¡¯t I just enter the palace yesterday?¡±


    She even saw Zhu Dazhi and helped him clear his name.


    Zhu Dazhi had also benefited from this disaster. He was now an imperial chef.


    The chubby boy stuck out his tongue and panted. He kept gesturing.


    Little Jiajia looked at the two youths who were about twelve or thirteen years old in confusion.


    One of them smiled and explained, ¡°The commoners offered two cranes to


    Father. Because of the auspicious nature of those cranes, Father gave them to


    Grandmother. Grandmother said that you would like them and asked us to bring you to the palace to take a look.¡±


    The chubby boy nodded repeatedly, his mouth still chanting.


    Little Jiajia suddenly stood up in disbelief.


    In the Longevity Palace, Empress Dowager Zhou was surrounded by a few concubines and said flattering words. There was no expression on her face. She thought of something and said faintly, ¡°Jiajia is about to arrive, right? Nanny Gao, go to the imperial kitchen and instruct them to make a few more snacks for the princess..¡±

 Chapter 961 - Chapter 961: The Little Princess Who Left Home (3)

    Chapter 961: The Little Princess Who Left Home (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Nanny Gao smiled and agreed.


    The expressions of the concubines instantly changed. They said a few pleasantries and bade farewell.


    Seeing the usually dignified and elegant women panic when they heard that the princess was coming, the eunuchs and palace maids serving in the hall held back their laughter.


    That was true. If they didn¡¯t leave now, they wouldn¡¯t be able to leave when the princess arrived.


    Empress Dowager Zhou also wanted to laugh, but she held it in.


    ¡°Look at these petty people. They¡¯re afraid that my good granddaughter will ask them for something.¡±


    Eunuch Yu smiled awkwardly. Every time those concubines came dressed up in jewelry, they would only be left with bare clothes when they returned. They couldn¡¯t even leave behind a hairpin. Who wouldn¡¯t be afraid?


    ¡°Consort Rong, Concubine Hui, are you here to see Grandmother?¡± A crisp child¡¯s voice sounded outside the hall.


    ¡°Ah, yes, yes¡­ I remembered that I have something to do. I¡¯ll leave first.¡± ¡°I suddenly remembered that there¡¯s still soup stew in my palace.¡± ¡°My clothes haven¡¯t been confiscated yet.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. There are still palace maids, right? Let me tell you¡­¡±


    Fifteen minutes later, Little Jiajia and the three princes arrived fully loaded.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was amused when she saw it. Wasn¡¯t that the jade ornament on Consort Rong¡¯s head today? The golden jade bracelet in the boy¡¯s hand seemed to belong to Beauty Zhao.


    ¡°Grandmother, look.¡± Little Jiajia leaned over as if she was presenting a treasure.


    The chubby boy was also happy. After all, the Eldest Prince and the Second Prince were older, and they were still a little embarrassed.


    Empress Dowager Zhou gestured for the palace maids to help them put away their things and asked with a smile, ¡°Which fish¡¯s birthday is it today?¡±


    The young princess¡¯s daily excuse was that it was the fish¡¯s birthday today and the cat¡¯s wedding tomorrow. How could those concubines not express their gratitude for such a joyous occasion?


    However, she was cunning. When she saw who gave her expensive things, she praised them sweetly. Every time, she would arouse the desire of the women in the harem to win.


    They naturally regretted it after that, but it was useless. The next time those concubines encountered this matter, they had to prove they were the best.


    Without waiting for Little Jiajia to speak, the chubby boy interrupted, ¡°Cousin said that there was a flood in Qinghe Prefecture. Father needs a lot of money to save the commoners. Whoever donates the most money, she will go to Father


    and put in a good word for the concubine. ¡±


    ¡°The ladies have all gone back to gather money,¡± the Eldest Prince added.


    Eunuch Yu could not help but praise her, ¡°The princess already knows how to share Your Majesty¡¯s burdens at such a young age. She¡¯s remembering the kindness of the empress dowager and His Majesty.¡±


    These words touched Empress Dowager Zhou¡¯s heart. She couldn¡¯t get enough of holding Little Jiajia¡¯s chubby hand. In the end, she didn¡¯t forget to teach her grandsons to learn more from Little Jiajia.


    She raised Little Jiajia¡¯s chin proudly.


    When the two cranes were sent into the Longevity Palace, the emperor arrived. Empress Dowager Zhou naturally praised Little Jiajia in front of Xuanyuan Qi.


    When it came to naming the crane, Little Jiajia and Empress Dowager Zhou spoke almost at the same time.


    ¡°Good luck and longevity.¡±


    ¡°Good luck and longevity.¡±


    Everyone was stunned for a moment before laughing.


    ¡°Mother, look at this girl. She wants to be like you.¡±


    ¡°Why else would she be my biological granddaughter?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou was very happy.


    No one noticed that Little Jiajia looked at the two white cranes, even more confused.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? You can¡¯t even watch over an eight-year-old child.¡± Looking at the maidservant Imeeling on the ground in front of him, Ji Luo was furious.


    How could she not know her daughter¡¯s personality? No one could stop her from doing whatever she wanted. However, when she thought that she might suffer outside, she could not calm down.


    Ji Luo checked Little Jiajia¡¯s room and realized that apart from her small treasury, there was nothing missing. She was even more certain that she had run away from home.


    Just as she was about to go out and look for her, a maidservant gritted her teeth and handed her a note. ¡°Princess Consort, I found this in the princess¡¯s room. ¡±


    Ji Luo opened it suspiciously.


    ¡°Father, Mother, I¡¯m going to look for my husband. Don¡¯t worry about me. I brought MO Yuan and You Yi. I won¡¯t be in danger.¡± At the end of the letter, it was signed ¡°Your dear daughter.¡±


    Ji Luo stayed silent.


    The maidservant lowered her head even more. ¡°Only I¡¯ve seen it. No one else knows.¡±


    If news of this spread, the princess would definitely be famous for having an affair.


    The princess consort wouldn¡¯t kill her to silence her, right?


    The maidservant wanted to cry. ¡°Princess, you¡¯ve harmed me.¡± she thought.


    Ji Luo waved her away. Just from the few words on the note, she could imagine how that girl would smile when she wrote a letter. She took a deep breath and took out three coins.


    Fifteen minutes later, she summoned the people she had sent out and sent someone to the palace to inform them. She packed a few clothes and set off for Qinghe Prefecture with more than ten doctors.


    With You Yi and MO Yuan around, she did not have to worry about Little Jiajia¡¯s safety. She wondered if Xuanyuan Ce would stomp his feet when he found out..

 Chapter 962 - Chapter 962: Inquiring

    Chapter 962: Inquiring


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In order to prevent Little Jiajia from being captured by Xuanyuan Ce before she could run too far, Ji Luo did not get anyone to send him a message in advance. Instead, she waited until she arrived at Qinghe prefecture before showing him the letter Little Jiajia had left behind.


    It had been two months since Little Jiajia left.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about that girl. I did a divination. She won¡¯t be in danger on this trip.¡± She might even meet her fated one.


    She didn¡¯t say the last sentence.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless. Was this what he was worried about?


    ¡°No, I¡¯ll send a letter to Emperor Chong¡¯an of Great Xia. If he doesn¡¯t send my daughter back properly, I¡¯ll bring the army to flatten his country.¡±


    Ji Luo knew that he wasn¡¯t spouting nonsense.


    The Xuanyuan Kingdom had developed rapidly in the past few years. Not to mention Great Xia, even the combined strength of the two countries could not compare to it. It was undoubtedly the leader of the three countries.


    It could be imagined that after Emperor Chong¡¯an received this threatening letter, he would find that girl and send her back to Prince Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence even if he had to turn Great Xia upside down.


    However.


    ¡°How did you know that my daughter went to Great Xia?¡± Ji Luo looked at him suspiciously.


    She could only divine that Little Jiajia had gone southwest, but she could not calculate the exact location.


    Coincidentally, Great Xia was in the southwest of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Xuanyuan Ce was speechless.


    Not only did he know that his daughter had gone to Great Xia, but he also knew who her husband was!


    But could he say that?


    In his previous life, Ah Luo was never with him in the end, and his daughter was always separated from him. These had almost become his lifelong regrets.


    Perhaps the heavens had taken pity on him, causing him to return to the day he met Ah Luo when he opened his eyes a hundred years later.


    Using his past memories, he helped his brother get rid of the aristocratic families and married Ah Luo, making up for all the regrets in his previous life.


    If she knew¡­


    Xuanyuan Ce did not dare to gamble and had never thought of revealing this secret.


    Meeting Ji Luo¡¯s scrutinizing gaze, he held back his guilt and explained, ¡°Didn¡¯t the people circulate a portrait of the young heir of Great Xia¡¯s Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence a while ago? Jiajia has the same personality as you and likes handsome boys. I guess she probably saw that portrait and ran to Great Xia to look for him.¡±


    Ji Luo knew about this. She even saw that portrait of a young man in luxurious clothes sitting on a horse and looking back at the world with a smile.


    At that time, she even joked that this little heir was compatible with her daughter, causing Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s face to darken. She almost couldn¡¯t get out of bed for a few days.


    Later on, when she got angry, the matter was over.


    As expected of her daughter. Her taste was as good as hers.


    Ji Luo didn¡¯t know that Xuanyuan Ce didn¡¯t give that portrait a chance to appear in front of Little Jiajia, but this didn¡¯t stop her from unilaterally agreeing to this ¡°marriage¡±.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. If you dare to ruin Jiajia¡¯s plans, I won¡¯t let you off.¡± After saying that, Ji Luo snatched Little Jiajia¡¯s letter and turned to leave.


    The threat was full of meaning.


    Xuanyuan Ce thought to himself, ¡°I must have a grudge against Song Jingchen.¡±


    Besides, it wasn¡¯t like he didn¡¯t want them to continue their previous fate. He just wanted to keep his daughter for a few more years.


    Little Jiajia did not know that her father was suffering. After she brought You Yi and MO Yuan to rob the tenth group of bandits, she finally shook them off.


    It took them another month and a half to arrive at Great Xia¡¯s Chang¡¯an in mid-October.


    ¡°Candied hawthorn. I¡¯m selling candied hawthorn.¡± The vendor carried the candied hawthorn skewers and peddled them on the street. Noticing the little girl¡¯s gaze, he subconsciously softened his tone. ¡°Little girl, do you want two sticks of candied hawthorn? It¡¯s not sour at all. It¡¯s very sweet.¡±


    Little Jiajia blinked. ¡°Uncle, I can buy your candied hawthorn, but you have to


    answer my question first.¡±


    The vendor subconsciously said, ¡°What is it? There¡¯s nothing in Chang¡¯an that I don¡¯t know. ¡±


    ¡°Do you know which family¡¯s Young Master is the best-looking in Chang¡¯an?¡±

 Chapter 963 - Chapter 963: Encounter

    Chapter 963: Encounter


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Jiajia looked in the direction the vendor was pointing and saw a few well-dressed young masters walking out of the Yuelai Restaurant surrounded by servants.


    The oldest among them was about thirteen or fourteen years old, and the youngest looked to be not much younger than her.


    She had a beautiful father at home. Apart from Xuanyuan Ziming, who was so chubby that one could not tell if he was beautiful or ugly, the rest of her cousins were all blessed. She had also seen the Young Masters of the other aristocratic families.


    Little Jiajia admitted that she was used to beauty and had seen the world, but her eyes still lit up when she saw so many good-looking young masters.


    In particular, there was a young man in a black robe. His hair was half tied up and there was a white jade hairpin at the top of his head. He had clean eyes, red lips, and white teeth.


    As Little Jiajia watched, tears streamed down the corners of her mouth.


    She unilaterally announced that this person was her husband!


    The young master in the moon-white robe with peach blossom eyes and a smile on his lips was also good-looking.


    Little Jiajia only took a glance before looking at the youth in the black robe again.


    Her husband was the most beautiful.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, beautiful father. In the future, you can only be ranked second.¡±


    Seeing that the little girl was staring at the other party as if she was a little puppy looking at a meat bun, the peddler kindly reminded her, ¡°That person in the black robe is the little heir. The youngest is the current crown prince. The second prince and the third prince are wearing moon-white robes on the left of the crown prince. The others are the second young master of Count Xuan Ping¡¯s residence, the eldest young master, the legitimate grandson of the Duke of Dingyuan¡¯s residence, and the Taifu family¡­¡±


    They were either nobles in the royal family or children of the duke¡¯s family. Their status was precious, and it was not something ordinary people like them could dream of.


    It was strange. How old was this young lady in front of him? Why did that notion appear in his mind?


    Little Jiajia only heard that the person in the black robe was the little heir, and then¡­


    After the vendor finished introducing them in one breath, he turned around and realized that the little girl, who was originally in a daze, had already walked across the street. He sighed and quickly called out, ¡°Kid, you haven¡¯t taken your candied hawthorn.¡±


    Of course, her little husband was more important.


    ¡°Cousin, it¡¯s not easy for me to leave the palace. Bring me to take a look. I promise to only take a look for a short while before leaving.¡±


    Recently, there had been some new entertainment in Chang¡¯an. When Shangguan Han heard about it, he clamored to go and play, but Little Heir Song refused.


    ¡°You leave the palace every few days. How is that not easy?¡± The little heir exposed him seriously.


    Shangguan Han¡¯s face fell and he looked at his second brother for help.


    Shangguan Yu smiled helplessly. ¡°Ah Chen, it¡¯s still early anyway. It won¡¯t take much time to take a look.¡±


    Shangguan Heng had already secretly gone to see it. He was not interested in the two insects fighting. However, he had always followed his second brother and said, ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. Don¡¯t spoil the mood.¡±


    The three most important people spoke, and the other Young Masters echoed.


    They were the accompanying students of the princes. From the moment they were chosen to enter the palace, they had to be taught by their families. They had to be diligent and studious. They could not lead the prince astray.


    However, they were still young and loved to play. How could they really resist the temptation?


    Everyone expressed their opinions. When the little prince did not speak for a long time, they looked at him suspiciously.


    ¡°Cousin, what are you looking at?¡± Shangguan Han was the youngest and shortest. He stuck his head out from beside his second brother.


    Three steps away from them, a little girl was looking at them with a smile.


    No, she was looking at Heir Song.


    The little girl¡¯s hair was only tied up with a headband and was a little messy. She was still wearing a thin summer shirt and had a small cloth bag slung over her shoulder. She was clearly in a sorry state. Not only Shangguan Han, but the others were also stunned.


    This young lady was too cute.


    They felt like abducting her back home!


    This was what almost every young master present was thinking.


    Except for the little heir.


    The little heir immediately realized that someone was staring at him. He thought that after being caught, the other party would run away in embarrassment like the others. Unexpectedly, the little girl smiled even happily when she saw him looking over.


    The young heir, who had always been strong-willed, instantly blushed, I refused to back down.


    Hence, the bystanders saw their eyes meet.


    Shangguan Yu was the first to come back to his senses. He coughed light asked, ¡°Little girl, what¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Little Jiajia shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m here to look for my hubby.¡±


    The soft and childish voice said the word ¡°hubby¡±, causing everyone pres laugh.


    The little heir¡¯s eyelids twitched. He had an inexplicable ominous feeling the next second, he saw the little girl pounce on him with her short legs.


    ¡°Hubby, I finally found you.¡±


    The attendant was shocked and forgot to stop him.


    The others were also stunned and their laughter stopped.


    The little heir originally wanted to kick him away, but his feet refused to to him and he couldn¡¯t raise them no matter what.


    Bang!


    In the end, the two of them fell into a mess.


    After all, the little heir was only ten years old. Even if he had practiced martial arts since he was young and had greater strength than his peers, he would not be able to withstand this flying pounce. Moreover, Little Jiajia was not considered skinny.


    By the time everyone reacted, the little heir had already fainted.


    It was Little Jiajia¡¯s turn to be stunned.


    Jiajia¡¯s diary: ¡°On the first day I met my little husband, I made him faint!¡±

 Chapter 964 - 964 Mistake

    964 Mistake


    Song Jingchen slept very well. He felt like something was pressing against his chest and he couldn¡¯t breathe. He wanted to move it away, but he couldn¡¯t move his limbs.


    He struggled hard and struggled again. In the end, he was woken up by the sound of swallowing.


    Song Jingchen had just heaved a sigh of relief when he sensed something. He was shocked and pushed the person lying on him away, shrinking into the bed.


    ¡°You¡­¡± He wanted to ask who she was, but when he saw her sleepy face, the image of her before she fainted flashed across his mind. He didn¡¯t know if he was embarrassed or angry, but his handsome face instantly turned red. ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Little Jiajia was originally a little angry at being disturbed. She looked up and met her little husband¡¯s shocked eyes. She smiled sweetly. ¡°You¡¯re my husband, and I¡¯m your wife. Where else would I be?¡±


    No matter how calm and sensible he usually was, he was only a ten-year-old child. When had he ever encountered such a situation?


    Song Jingchen held it in for a long time, but in the end, he could only say, ¡°You¡¯re spouting nonsense¡­ Don¡¯t you know shame?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not spouting nonsense. You¡¯re my husband.¡±


    Song Jingchen was furious. ¡°I¡¯m not!¡±


    Little Jiajia said, ¡°You are!¡±


    Song Jingchen responded. ¡°No!¡±


    Little Jiajia said, ¡°You are!¡±


    Song Jingchen responded. ¡°No!¡±


    No, why was he fighting with her over this? Childish.


    At this moment, the servant guarding outside heard the commotion and pushed open the door. Seeing that he was awake, he said with a strange expression, ¡°Heir, Madam wants you to go to the front courtyard when you wake up.¡±


    Seeing that the servant wasn¡¯t surprised to see an outsider in his room, Song Jingchen was even more puzzled.


    This girl kept calling him ¡°Hubby¡±. She even appeared in his room openly. Could it be that his mother had arranged a betrothal for him without his knowledge?


    Thinking of this possibility, Song Jingchen felt terrible. He jumped out of bed, put on his shoes, and walked out.


    He was in a hurry to ask, so he ignored Little Jiajia, who was following behind him.


    When the two of them arrived at the front courtyard, they saw Old Master Song sitting at the head of the table. Beside him was Shangguan Han, and Madam Li was sitting at the end.


    Song Jingchen was about to bow and greet her when the little girl beside him spoke before he could. ¡°Mother, Grandfather.¡±


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°It¡¯s over, it¡¯s over. She even called them ¡®Mother¡¯ and ¡®Grandfather¡¯. She must have arranged a betrothal for me.¡±


    Old Master Song laughed. ¡°You and Brother Chen aren¡¯t married yet. There¡¯s no hurry to call me Grandfather.¡±


    Little Jiajia nodded obediently. ¡°Yes, Grandfather.¡±


    Old Master Song was speechless.


    Madam Li coughed lightly and smiled. ¡°Jiajia must be hungry. I got the kitchen to make almond lamb custard. Han¡¯er, bring Jiajia to eat.¡±


    Shangguan Han didn¡¯t want to leave, but he knew that his aunt¡¯s words carried the weight of his grandfather¡¯s words, so he didn¡¯t dare to refuse.


    ¡°Thank you, Mother.¡± After thanking her innocently, Little Jiajia whispered in Song Jingchen¡¯s ear, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll save some for you.¡±


    The little girl¡¯s breath tickled his ear. Song Jingchen resisted the urge to touch his ear and took two steps to the side uncomfortably.


    After leaving the main hall, Shangguan Han asked weakly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious about what Aunt and the others are saying inside?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m curious, but Mother didn¡¯t want me to hear it.¡±


    Shangguan Han thought to himself, ¡°So you know that Aunt sent you away on purpose.¡±


    However, there was no way to stay. He could ask the other party involved.


    Shangguan Han jogged after Little Jiajia and asked curiously, ¡°When did you meet my cousin? How did you get engaged secretly?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not engaged. Weren¡¯t you there when I met my husband?¡± Little Jiajia tilted her head and looked at him as if she was looking at an idiot.


    ¡°When did I¡­¡± Shangguan Han was stunned. He thought of something and looked at her in shock. ¡°You mean the time at the entrance of Yuelai Restaurant?¡±


    Little Jiajia nodded. ¡°You¡¯re not too stupid.¡±


    ¡°No, then you¡­¡± She just rushed up and shouted?


    Shangguan Han didn¡¯t know what to say.


    At the same time, Madam Li and Old Master Song were also stunned.


    Madam Li said, ¡°You said you don¡¯t even know her name?¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°I thought Mother arranged a betrothal for me behind my back.¡±


    Madam Li was speechless.


    Old Master Song was speechless.


    Song Jingchen also sensed that something was wrong. He pursed his lips and asked, ¡°Mother doesn¡¯t know her?¡±


    Madam Li held her forehead.


    At noon, Uncle Yang rushed in to report that Brother Chen had fainted and was carried back.


    When she and her father-in-law arrived, they saw a young lady running towards the residence with Brother Chen in her arms, followed by Han¡¯er and the others.


    After the doctor checked and said that it was fine, she learned what had happened from Han¡¯er and the others.


    With Little Jiajia calling him her husband and saying things like ¡°I finally found you¡±, in the end, everyone agreed that Brother Chen had found himself a wife.


    Although Madam Li found it unbelievable, she thought about how her son had an idea at such a young age. In addition, Little Jiajia was smart and sweet-talking, so she accepted it.


    On the other hand, Old Master Song was impressed by Little Jiajia¡¯s strength and even praised his grandson for having good taste.


    As for Bulwark Duke Song¡­ He was not at home and did not know what had happened.


    Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°He was carried back by the little girl? From where? Yuelai Restaurant?¡±

 Chapter 965 - 965 Fight

    965 Fight


    The news that the young heir of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence was chased by an unknown girl, fainted for some reason, and was carried across Chang¡¯an Street by that girl spread throughout the capital in less than half an hour.


    There were too many people who had witnessed it with their own eyes. Everyone spoke one after another. Soon, a touching scene of their little wife searching for her husband from thousands of miles away appeared. Her husband was so touched that he fainted, and her little wife transformed into a strong little warrior and brought her husband to seek treatment.


    This shattered the hearts of all the young ladies in the capital.


    Among them, Eldest Miss Xiao of the General¡¯s residence was the most upset, and the angriest was Princess Linghui, who was born to Consort Liu.


    One was the daughter of a favored concubine, and the other was a general with a heavy army. Naturally, only the two of them dared to come to seek confirmation.


    Coincidentally, the two of them arrived at the same time. Just as they were about to hand in their visiting cards, Little Jiajia came out with Shangguan Han.


    ¡°Brother Crown Prince.¡±


    ¡°Greetings, Your Highness.¡±


    The two of them greeted Shangguan Han.


    ¡°Fifth Sister, Sister Ruoshui, why are you here?¡± After asking, Shangguan Han saw that the two of them were staring at Little Jiajia and introduced her. ¡°She¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Brother Crown Prince, this maidservant is so unruly. She can¡¯t even bow to me.¡±


    Shangguan Han was stunned. Little Jiajia used to wear thin summer clothes. The Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence did not have suitable clothes, so Madam Li got someone to buy a set of clothes for her at the last minute. The materials and styles were all the most popular now. How did she look like a maidservant?


    She was not a maidservant. Shangguan Han wanted to explain, but Princess Linghui did not give him a chance to speak. ¡°Hong Qiao, go and teach her the rules.¡±


    As soon as she finished speaking, the palace maid standing beside her took a few steps forward. Without giving anyone a chance to react, she raised her hand and slapped Little Jiajia.


    Of course, Princess Linghui knew that Little Jiajia was not a maidservant. However, when an unfamiliar little girl came out of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, regardless of whether she was the one who pestered Brother Chen to call her husband, she decided to hit her first.


    At the very least, she would say that it was a misunderstanding after the fight.


    She was the princess of a country. If the other party did not dare to do anything to her, she could only admit that she was unlucky.


    From the tacit understanding between the master and servant, it could be seen that this was her usual trick.


    However, an accident happened this time.


    Xiao Ruoshui and Little Jiajia attacked at the same time. The former threw out a long whip to block, but the latter kicked out.


    Hong Qiao knelt down with a thud, her hand still raised.


    Shangguan Han reacted and reached out to block Little Jiajia. ¡°Fifth Sister, what are you doing?¡±


    Princess Linghui did not expect Little Jiajia to dare to fight back. She ignored Shangguan Han and cursed, ¡°How dare you hit my people? I think you don¡¯t want to live anymore.¡±


    As she spoke, she glared at Xiao Ruoshui.


    The Xiao family had military power. Imperial Concubine Liu had always wanted to rope her in, and she had instructed her not to bully the girls of the Xiao family. Otherwise, she would definitely beat up that wretched girl, Xiao Ruoshui, today.


    Little Jiajia pushed Shangguan Han away and explained seriously, ¡°I¡¯m not a maidservant.¡±


    Since the other party had misunderstood, she felt that she should explain this clearly first.


    As for bowing, she did not even need to bow when she saw Imperial Uncle, the Empress Dowager, and Grandmother. She had long forgotten how to do so.


    Of course, Little Jiajia did not miss Princess Linghui¡¯s glare at Xiao Ruoshui. After explaining, she did not forget to smile sweetly at Xiao Ruoshui. ¡°Little Sister, don¡¯t be afraid. I¡¯ll protect you in the future.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned by her smile. She tried her best to suppress the urge to reach out and poke her face. She said awkwardly, ¡°Don¡¯t flatter yourself. I¡¯m not helping you. I just don¡¯t want Brother Chen to worry about you.¡±


    Little Jiajia nodded in realization. ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re my husband¡¯s friend. Then you¡¯ll be my friend in the future.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought to herself, ¡°Who wants to be friends with you? We¡¯re love rivals! Love rivals!¡±


    Shangguan Han was a little stunned. He did not understand how ambitious these two people were to make friends when his fifth sister was already angry.


    Look, Fifth Sister¡¯s face was as angry as a pufferfish.


    ¡°Are you dead? Hurry up and take down that wretched girl.¡±


    The palace maids and eunuchs brought by Princess Linghui quickly surrounded Little Jiajia.


    ¡°Fifth Sister, you can¡¯t¡­¡± Shangguan Han was anxious to stop her.


    Little Jiajia picked him up with one hand and threw him aside. She turned around and looked at the guard at the door of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. ¡°They were the ones who wanted to fight. It¡¯s not that I like to cause trouble.¡±


    When her little husband asked, he would have to testify for her. She was a good wife, not a troublemaker.


    The guard said nothing.


    In the main hall, after Song Jingchen¡¯s repeated explanations, Old Master Song and Madam Li finally believed that Little Jiajia was not his fianc¨¦e.


    Thinking of that little girl¡¯s strength, Old Master Song felt a little regretful.


    Although his daughter-in-law came from a general¡¯s family, because she was the youngest daughter of the Li family and had been doted on by the Li family since she was young, she had only learned some flashy moves that were useless. He thought that his granddaughter-in-law had to be capable.


    Originally, the Xiao family¡¯s girl was not bad, but the Xiao and Song families were too eye-catching. If the marriage alliance was to happen, it would only make Emperor Chong¡¯an even more afraid. This was not a good thing.


    The little girl was not from the capital and probably did not have any background. She was just right.


    Moreover, the little girl was natural and unrestrained, unlike other young ladies. She had a good foundation and completely matched his fantasy of his granddaughter-in-law.


    What a pity.


    No, perhaps not now. It was hard to say in the future!


    Old Master Song sighed deeply. ¡°Brother Chen¡­¡±


    Song Jingchen shuddered. ¡°Grandfather, I¡¯m only ten years old!¡±


    It was rare to see her eldest son reveal a side of him that was appropriate for his age. Madam Li covered her mouth and chuckled.


    She had actually always known what her father-in-law was thinking. At first, she felt a little uncomfortable. However, ever since she married into the family, not only did her father-in-law not show any dissatisfaction with her, but he also handed over all the matters in the backyard to her to manage. He also respected her a lot. She had long thought it through.


    Old Master Song glared at him. ¡°So what if you¡¯re ten years old? There are so many people who have already been engaged when they were still in their mother¡¯s womb.¡±


    Song Jingchen held his forehead. ¡°It¡¯s obvious that that girl sneaked out of her house. Her parents are probably anxious. The most important thing now is to send her back.¡±


    ¡°That makes sense. We can discuss your engagement when we see our in-laws.¡±


    ¡°Grandfather!¡±


    It was no wonder that that girl caught his grandfather¡¯s eye. He called her ¡°Mother¡± and ¡°Grandfather¡± more often than he did. He had already started to call the other party¡¯s family ¡°in-laws¡±.


    He would even believe that the girl was his grandfather¡¯s biological granddaughter who had been proficiently exiled.


    ¡°You really don¡¯t like it?¡± Old Master Song asked bluntly.


    If his grandson really did not agree, he could not force himself to do anything.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face heated up at the question. When he met Old Master Song¡¯s probing gaze, he was about to shake his head when Butler Yang hurriedly ran in. ¡°Old Master, bad news. The future heiress beat up Princess Linghui!¡±


    [Little Skit]


    Old Master Song thought to himself, ¡°Little Jiajia doesn¡¯t have a background. If she marries Song Jingchen, she¡¯ll be able to calm Emperor Chong¡¯an down. It¡¯s killing two birds with one stone.¡±


    Little Jiajia, who had no background, grinned. ¡°Grandpa is right!¡± she thought.


    The little heir thought to himself, ¡°Have you not asked for my opinion?¡±


    Old Master Song and Little Jiajia thought, ¡°Your opinion isn¡¯t important!¡±

 Chapter 966 - Chapter 966: Protecting His Wife

    Chapter 966: Protecting His Wife


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Did she beat her up alone?¡± Old Master Song asked Butler Yang.


    Relying on other people¡¯s love for her, Princess Linghui made a grander entrance than the crown prince. There were a total of 13 palace maids and eunuchs standing in this hall with swollen faces, asking him to make the decision. In addition to Princess Linghui, who had fainted and was carried to the neighboring ward for treatment, there were 14 people present.


    Little Jiajia won against those numbers. Was his little granddaughter-in-law so powerful?


    Butler Yang was speechless. ¡°Old Master, is your focus wrong?¡± he thought.


    However, when he received the news and went out, these people were already lying on the ground wailing. Only the future heiress was sitting on Princess Linghui¡¯s body and waving their small fists. He really did not know if anyone would help.


    Just as he was about to call the guards in to ask, the dozen or so palace maids and eunuchs began a new round of condemnation.


    They spoke one after another and explained everything.


    In short, Little Jiajia was the only one who did it.


    Actually, Little Jiajia did not hit Princess Linghui at first.


    After all, they were not in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. It could be said that they were defending themselves. However, it was different for the princess of a country. When the time came, she would be accused of offending her superiors and cause trouble for the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence.


    Unexpectedly, Princess Linghui said that Brother Chen was hers, which angered Little Jiajia. In the end, she was the one who suffered the most punches.


    They naturally did not say anything about this, let alone mention that Princess Linghui had deliberately caused trouble first.


    Little Jiajia stood at the side and held her fingers without retorting, giving off the illusion that she was alone and at a loss for words.


    Not to mention the soft-hearted Madam Li, even Old Master Song, an iron-blooded old man who had spent half his life fighting, could not bear to see her like this.


    He frowned unhappily.


    Hong Qiao and the other head palace maid looked at each other and thought that he was dissatisfied with Little Jiajia hitting someone. They secretly heaved a sigh of relief.


    The people of the Duke¡¯s residence had always been protective of their own. If the Old Master insisted on protecting that little girl and investigated who was right and who was wrong, this matter would really be difficult to handle.


    From the side, did the old master¡¯s attitude mean that this girl did not look like the future princess consort that the rumors said?


    With this understanding, the two of them felt even more confident.


    Hong Qiao said, ¡°This girl beat up the royal princess and offended her superiors. Old Master, please¡­¡±


    ¡°Grandfather.¡± Song Jingchen came in from outside and saw Little Jiajia standing there quietly. He pursed his lips and said, ¡°I carefully understood what happened just now. Someone bullied her first. She¡¯s a child who was bullied by more than ten people. It¡¯s hard to tell on the surface, but she might have suffered serious internal injuries. Grandfather, it¡¯s better to hire an imperial physician to examine her.¡±


    Old Master Song, who was about to instruct someone to send Princess Linghui back to the palace, raised his thick eyebrows and nodded in agreement.


    Hong Qiao said anxiously, ¡°Old Master, where did you hear such distorted words? It¡¯s clearly this brat¡­¡¯


    ¡°Why? Do you think the crown prince is lying?¡± Song Jingchen interrupted her with a straight face.


    Hong Qiao was stunned. She could not answer this question..

 Chapter 967 - Chapter 967: Someone from the Palace

    Chapter 967: Someone from the Palace


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Seeing that the Song family could not see their injuries as if they were blind and were instead concerned about the person who hit them, Hong Qiao was furious. She was about to say something when a sharp voice sounded from outside the door.


    ¡°Wow, the residence is lively today.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a group of people walked in under the lead of a servant. The leader was Eunuch Li, the eldest eunuch beside Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Noticing the injuries on the faces of Hong Qiao and the others, Eunuch Li was surprised, but he did not show it on his face. He only smiled and went forward to greet the three masters of the Song family. Then, he exchanged pleasantries with Old Master Song.


    Speaking of which, Old Master Song had long passed the title to his son. He had also handed over his military power. Unless there was a war outside, he usually did not attend court.


    Perhaps because he felt that it was awkward to neglect him, Emperor Chong¡¯an would summon him to the palace from time to time. At the very least, he would send someone to the Duke¡¯s residence every few days to take care of him to show his value. Therefore, Eunuch Li could be considered a regular guest in the residence.


    Madam Li only thought that it was the same this time. As for why she did not suspect that he was here because of Princess Linghui, he did not even ask when she saw Hong Qiao and the others, let alone mention Linghui. It was obvious that he did not know about this matter.


    With this thought in mind, Madam Li prepared to leave with Little Jiajia and Song Jingchen.


    On the other hand, Eunuch Li stopped talking and said before Madam Li could speak, ¡°His Majesty was inspired today and specially asked Her Majesty to prepare a small banquet in the Qiongfang Hall. I¡¯m here this time on His Majesty¡¯s orders to bring everyone to the palace to attend the banquet.¡±


    He paused for a moment and looked at the three Song family members. When he looked at Little Jiajia again, there was a hint of unnoticeable respect. ¡°And this delicate guest.¡±


    The empress came from the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, so it was reasonable for her to invite the Song family to a small banquet in the palace. However, there had never been a banquet as sudden as today. No matter how one looked at it, it seemed to be a spur of the moment.


    Eunuch Li did not explain. He thought of something and said jokingly, ¡°On the way here, I heard the commoners discussing the future heiress of the residence. Isn¡¯t this delicate guest the future heiress?¡±


    Seeing that he was so perceptive, Little Jiajia instantly forgot about the unhappiness she felt from being stared at. She smiled and was about to nod and admit it.


    Song Jingchen spoke first. ¡°Eunuch Li, you¡¯ve misunderstood. I suddenly fainted because I wasn¡¯t feeling well. She happened to see me and sent me back. For some reason, rumors started spreading outside. Speaking of which, she saved my life.¡±


    He did not know where Little Jiajia came from, so he naturally could not introduce her.


    As for the matter of saving his life, he deliberately mentioned it because she had just beaten up the princess. With this relationship, Emperor Chong¡¯an would not punish her too much on account of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence.


    After all, Linghui was the one who caused trouble first and was not in the right.


    Actually, he still found it strange. Why did everyone in and out of the palace know that he had a new wife in less than half a day?


    And it was without his knowledge!


    It was fine if he did not hear it with his own ears previously, but since he had come to ask, he naturally had to clarify. It had to be known that such rumors were really damaging to a young lady¡¯s reputation.


    Hearing that he had fainted, Little Jiajia felt a little guilty. If not for her collision, her little husband would not have fainted.


    Hearing him deny it again, the guilt instantly dissipated. She glared at Song Jingchen angrily.


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips tightly. An unnatural expression flashed across his face, but he was stubborn enough not to speak again.


    Eunuch Li saw the change in their expressions and knew what to do. He tactfully stopped talking about this topic.


    ¡°Old Master, look, His Majesty is still waiting..¡±

 Chapter 968 - Chapter 968: Entering the Palace

    Chapter 968: Entering the Palace


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the inner hall of Kunning Palace, Empress Song, who was dressed in a phoenix robe, was sitting in front of the dressing table. A few other palace maids surrounded her and helped her tie her hair and do her make-up in an orderly manner. The eldest palace maid, Su Yun, walked in with a smile. ¡°Your Majesty, the Duchess is here.¡±


    Empress Song was slightly surprised. She looked up at the bronze mirror and saw that it was about time. She waved her hand to dismiss them and hurriedly said, ¡°Hurry up and invite Sister-in-law in.¡±


    It was no wonder that she had such a reaction. Two years ago, Madam Li had injured her body because she gave birth to a pair of twins. It took her more than a year to recover. The children were too young to leave their mother. Madam Li had not entered the palace for a long time.


    As the empress of the Central Palace, it was not easy for her to leave the palace. The last time she met Madam Li was when the twins were born. It had been two years since they last saw each other.


    Thinking of the small banquet that Emperor Chong¡¯an suddenly asked her to prepare, a solemn expression flashed across Empress Song¡¯s face.


    Not long after, Su Yun brought in a woman in an imperial order. Beside the woman was a fair-skinned girl.


    When she said ¡°sister-in-law¡±, Empress Song was stunned when her gaze landed on the little girl.


    There was no other reason. The little girl had a simple bun on her head and a flower bud between her eyebrows. There was still some baby fat on her jade-like face. Her almond-shaped eyes seemed to be filled with water, moist and pure. She was wearing a red dress with snow fox fur. She was really better-looking than the child sitting under the Guanyin in the painting.


    ¡°Greetings, Your Majesty.¡±


    When she came back to her senses, Empress Song hurriedly went forward to help her up and rebuked, ¡°Sister-in-law, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Your Majesty, you can¡¯t abandon your courtesy.¡± Madam Li shook her head to stop her and stood up.


    Seeing her like this, Empress Song felt upset.


    His father had fought on the battlefield with the late emperor and made outstanding contributions. When the late emperor was in power, the Song family could be said to be in the limelight.


    However, when it came to Emperor Chong¡¯an, in just a few years, her father had handed over all his military power. Her brother was clearly ambitious, but he always hid his talents. Sister-in-law was like this because she did not want to cause trouble.


    The reason was that Emperor Chong¡¯an was too suspicious.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t entered the palace for a long time. Your Majesty seems to have lost a lot of weight. Is there anything troubling you?¡±


    Empress Song put away her complicated thoughts and shook her head. ¡°There¡¯s food and drinks in the palace. There are many servants. There¡¯s nothing to worry about. ¡±


    With a wave of her hand, Empress Song dismissed the palace maids in the hall. She personally held Madam Li¡¯s hand and sat down in front of the soft couch.


    Su Yun brought over tea, fruits, and snacks at the right time.


    Although the Bulwark Duke had to attend court every day, he was an outsider. Even though he was her biological brother, he could not come to the harem. It was not easy for the two of them to meet, so they naturally had a lot to say.


    However, it was mostly Empress Song who asked and Madam Li who answered. The topic of conversation included the twins who had just turned two years old.


    At the mention of the child, Empress Song remembered the young lady who had entered the palace with Madam Li and turned to look.


    Alright, the young lady was not embarrassed to be ignored. She was sitting there alone and eating snacks happily.


    Madam Li followed her gaze. ¡°Look at me. I was so happy to see Her Majesty that I forgot about Sister Jia.¡±


    As she spoke, she waved at Little Jiajia. ¡°Sister Jia, come over quickly. This is


    Brother Chen¡¯s aunt.¡±


    Little Jiajia had just finished eating a snack. When she heard this, she took out a small handkerchief she carried with her and wiped the crumbs off her fingers. She walked over and called out softly, ¡°Hello, Aunt.¡±


    She was as obedient as she could be.


    Fortunately, no one familiar with her temperament was around. Otherwise, their jaws would have dropped.


    Was this still the young princess who dared to secretly hide behind the emperor¡¯s dragon throne in the imperial court at the age of two and make faces at the court officials below? She was so bold as to hide the jade seal and say that she wanted to play a treasure hunt with the emperor¡­ She was so young, but she had already stirred up the prince¡¯s residence and even the palace of the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    In short, tales of the ¡°great deeds¡± left behind by the young princess in the Xuanyuan Kingdom could not be finished in three days and three nights.


    However, the young princess could still pretend to be obedient. Empress Song¡¯s heart softened when Jiajia called her ¡°aunt¡±.


    ¡°What a good child.¡± Empress Song held Little Jiajia¡¯s hand. It was meaty and felt good to the touch. She subconsciously pinched it and thought to herself, ¡°As expected, little girls are more lovable, unlike that brat.¡±


    Thinking of something, Empress Song looked at Little Jiajia in surprise, then at Madam Li. Just now, her attention was on Little Jiajia and she did not think too much about calling her aunt.


    ¡°Is this really Brother Chen¡¯s future wife?¡±


    She liked this girl at a glance. She felt that it was too sudden to ask.


    Little Jiajia thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m famous. No wonder the emperor of Great Xia knew of my existence and even asked me to enter the palace to attend some banquet.¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, as soon as Han¡¯er returned to the palace, he told me that Brother Chen¡¯s wife had come looking for him. I thought he was spouting nonsense, but I didn¡¯t expect to see her so soon. However, Sister-in-law, you hid it too well.¡±


    Madam Li was speechless.


    It was one thing to like Little Jiajia, but there was no reason to unilaterally arrange a marriage. Madam Li had no choice but to explain the whole story, including how Princess Linghui was beaten up by Little Jiajia when she came looking for her early this morning, and why she brought Little Jiajia into the palace.


    Of course, she only knew that Little Jiajia¡¯s full name was Xuanyuan Yijia. She had run away from home and came to Chang¡¯an. As for the rest, Little Jiajia didn¡¯t say anything, so she didn¡¯t know much.


    The reason why Little Jiajia didn¡¯t say anything was very simple. She was afraid of being sent home.


    Empress Song thought to herself, ¡°She ran away from home, fell in love with Brother Chen at first sight, and hit Linghui. This was all done by an eight-year-old girl? You really can¡¯t judge a book by its cover.¡±


    Little Jiajia smiled sweetly at her.


    Empress Song was speechless. No matter how she looked at her, she was a soft girl,


    ¡°Your Majesty¡­¡±


    Empress Song waved her hand. ¡°Sister-in -law, don¡¯t worry about Linghui. It¡¯s not enough for her to cause trouble in the palace and she decided to start messing around elsewhere, so it¡¯s only right to teach her a lesson. You can¡¯t just stand there and let her bully you.¡±


    At this point, her lips curled into a mocking smile. ¡°With the Xuanyuan Kingdom eyeing us covetously, His Majesty is worried about the relationship with the Song family. He won¡¯t make a fuss because of this.¡±


    She knew Emperor Chong¡¯an too well. On the surface, he doted on the noble consort and her children, but it was only to strengthen the courage of the noble consort¡¯s family to restrict the Song family.


    Only the Liu family could not see through it and were smug about it. Thinking about it, it was ridiculous. As the empress of Great Xia, she was often glad that the Xuanyuan Kingdom was around.


    It was like a guillotine hanging above Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s head. As long as it was around, his father, a brave general, would be able to rest in peace. Of course, she did not want Emperor Chong¡¯an to really need her father one day.


    Little Jiajia blinked. Why did she feel inexplicably guilty?


    Author¡¯s Note: While Emperor Chong¡¯an was suspicious of the Song family, he¡¯s also worried that the Xuanyuan Kingdom will attack. At that time, Old Master Song, who is brave and good at fighting, will definitely be needed. However, he¡¯s afraid that Old Master Song will rebel, so he doesn¡¯t dare to let him grow stronger. Therefore, he deliberately supports Noble Consort Liu¡¯s family in suppressing him to balance the situation.


    He even summoned the old master into the palace from time to time to show him some respect while comforting him.


    Old Master Song knew this, which was why he obediently handed over his military power. In the main story, the Xuanyuan Kingdom was not powerful enough to scare anyone, so Emperor Chong¡¯an did not have this worry. Old


    Master Song did not say that he would hand over his military power directly.


    As for why the Xuanyuan Kingdom was so powerful, it was naturally because Xuanyuan Ce had memories of his previous life. He had already produced black gunpowder and wooden kites in advance. It was simply too easy to use these to deal with Great Xia, which only had regular weapons.


    Why then, did the emperor of the Xuanyuan Kingdom not unify the world?


    The main reason was that the lethality of black gunpowder was too great. If they fought, too many people would die. The king was benevolent and could not bear to do so. In addition, he did not have such ambitions. He only wanted to protect his personal fief. Of course, he would not be polite if others attacked..

 Chapter 969 - Chapter 969: Attending the Banquet

    Chapter 969: Attending the Banquet


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Since the palace was hosting a banquet, it was naturally impossible to invite only the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence. Later on, the families of a few important ministers came to pay their respects to the empress.


    There was no lack of people who were curious about Little Jiajia¡¯s identity, but most of them did not dare to pay much attention because of Empress Song.


    There was only one exception, and that was Consort Liu¡¯s biological mother, the Prime Minister¡¯s wife.


    Perhaps because she had learned that Princess Linghui had been beaten up, Madam Liu did not mention her name. She only talked about trivial topics.


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t care at all, but Empress Song sneered.


    ¡°Madam Liu, you¡¯re right. I often tell the imperial consort not to be too arrogant and indulging in Linghui so that she won¡¯t lose the dignity of a princess of a country. I was originally worried, since Linghui was born from the imperial consort¡¯s body after all. The imperial consort wouldn¡¯t be able to bear to teach her properly. Now that I see that Madam Liu is so sensible and is


    Linghui¡¯s biological grandmother, I think with your guidance, Linghui will be more sensible in the future.¡±


    These words only angered Madam Liu. However, Empress Song was right. Princess Linghui was chasing a boy at a young age and often used her status to bully other noble ladies. She did not look like a lady at all.


    The women present were all smart people. Although they did not know the reason, they did not want to offend either of them. They could only pretend to be stupid and smooth things over. They talked about their troublesome children and finally changed the topic.


    Little Jiajia shook her head secretly as she watched from the side. These people were really stupid. No matter what happened in the future, Aunt Song was the empress now, and the crown prince¡¯s position belonged to the fifth prince, the son of Empress Song.


    Be it the imperial concubine or the Liu family, they could not surpass the two of them.


    Although they didn¡¯t seem to be helping either side, they had already offended Aunt Song.


    Actually, if they were really afraid that the Liu family would get up one day and dig up old scores, they wouldn¡¯t have interrupted. Hadn¡¯t they heard that when immortals fought, the commoners suffered?


    However, these people didn¡¯t stay far away and even leaned forward. They were really stupid and didn¡¯t know it. Look at how angry Aunt Song was.


    Little Jiajia did not forget that Empress Song had attacked that Liu person to protect her. She took a walnut from the side and pinched it. With a crack, the walnut broke into two.


    She carefully picked out the walnuts and handed them to Empress Song with a smile. ¡°Aunt, eat a walnut.¡±


    ¡°Those people are brainless. I¡¯m not talking to them.¡± she thought.


    Empress Song looked at the walnut in surprise. After a while, she reached out to take it. ¡°Jiajia, your hand¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been strong since I was young. I¡¯m fine.¡± In order to verify her words, Little Jiajia took the plate and broke it into pieces.


    A gulping sound sounded in the hall.


    Little Jiajia looked in the direction of the voice and smiled even more happily. ¡°Madam Liu, do you want to eat walnuts too? Here, it¡¯s all for you. If you can¡¯t finish it, bring it back for Princess Linghui to eat later. Take it as my compensation.¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Mrs. Liu¡¯s lips trembled.


    Empress Song smiled and said, ¡°Jiajia is indeed sensible. If I had to say, it¡¯s just a fight between children. It¡¯s normal to step on each other¡¯s toes occasionally. Madam Liu, don¡¯t you think so?¡±


    Little Jiajia nodded seriously. ¡°That¡¯s right, that¡¯s right. She complained when she couldn¡¯t win. How shameless.¡±


    Madam Liu was speechless.


    No one knew whether Madam Liu was frightened by Little Jiajia. In the end, Empress Song got someone to send her to Consort Liu, along with the plate of walnuts.


    Around three in the afternoon, Little Jiajia followed Madam Li to Qiongfang Hall. At that time, there were already many people sitting inside.


    Some of them were people she had just seen in Kunning Palace, and some were ministers in court clothes. However, little Jiajia didn¡¯t care. She scanned the people present and finally found Song Jingchen sitting quietly at a table. Her eyes lit up and she wanted to go over, but before she could take two steps, someone blocked her way.


    Little Jiajia looked up unhappily, When she saw who it was, she widened her almond-shaped eyes and hid behind Madam Li.


    Madam Li frowned. Before she could speak, the other party had already taken two steps to her side and bowed respectfully. ¡°Princess.¡±


    Little Jiajia smiled guiltily. ¡°Sister MO Yuan..¡±

 Chapter 970 - Chapter 970: Threat (1)

    Chapter 970: Threat (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Jiajia did not expect MO Yuan to appear, let alone the subsequent developments in the hall. Little Jiajia was stunned.


    In short, the small royal banquet that was originally agreed upon became a welcome banquet. She, an unknown person who had been invited to the palace, became the focus of everyone¡¯s attention.


    That¡¯s right, she was the princess of a foreign country.


    The leader smiled at her lovingly and brought her into the conversation from time to time, as if he was afraid of neglecting her and misrepresenting the hospitality of Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Well, she felt that there was a hint of careful flattery in it.


    Little Jiajia continued to be stunned.


    She looked at Imperial Concubine Liu, whose eyes were red and swollen from crying, and whose face was pale. Occasionally, her eyes would meet Imperial Concubine Liu¡¯s, and she would be filled with fear and hatred.


    Little Jiajia felt inexplicable. Was she so terrifying that no one dared to look her in the eye? It was weird.


    Thinking of something, Little Jiajia carefully turned to look at the old man sitting beside her.


    The old master nodded politely at her, no longer looking at his granddaughter-in-law like before.


    ¡°Grandfather, listen to me¡­¡± she thought.


    The old man refused to listen. He picked up his glass and went to chat with the person beside him.


    Little Jiajia refused to give up and looked at the little heir sitting at the back.


    Her little husband was the same. He didn¡¯t even look at her.


    She was devastated.


    Apart from the two of them, Little Jiajia was sitting a step higher than the others, not to mention that everyone¡¯s gazes were on her, intentionally or otherwise. Naturally, they saw the change in her expression.


    While feeling suspicious, she thought to herself, ¡°I¡¯m still a child. Isn¡¯t His


    Majesty being too cautious?¡±


    ¡°His Highness mobilized 500,000 troops to the border of Great Xia and sent a letter to the emperor of Great Xia.¡±


    As if seeing that she was in such a miserable state, MO Yuan finally took advantage of the noise in the hall to be merciful and lean close to her ear to explain.


    Little Jiajia was stunned. She came back to her senses and blinked. With her understanding of her father, she would definitely intimidate Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    As expected, MO Yuan continued, ¡°His Highness¡¯s letter said that if the princess loses a single strand of hair in Great Xia, he will bring the army to flatten Great Xia.¡±


    Little Jiajia thought to herself, ¡°It¡¯s indeed something my biological father can say. It¡¯s simple and crude. No wonder Emperor Chong¡¯an treats me like this.¡±


    However, didn¡¯t MO Yuan leave Phoenix City with her? How did she know so much?


    Seeing her confusion, MO Yuan glanced at her coldly and said indifferently, ¡°I met someone sent by His Highness on the way. I was the one who passed the letter to the emperor of Great Xia.¡±


    When she said this, there seemed to be a hint of anger on her usually expressionless face.


    What was there to be angry about? Naturally, she was angry at Little Jiajia for ditching her.


    Because of her guilty conscience, Little Jiajia was smart enough to pretend not to notice.


    She pursed her lips. ¡°Then today¡­¡±


    ¡°If I didn¡¯t do this, wouldn¡¯t the princess have gone somewhere else?¡± God knew how she and You Yi had been living these days.


    They did not even dare to sleep, afraid that their bold princess would be bullied outside.


    It turned out that they were thinking too much. Not only was their princess not bullied, but she also beat up the princess of Great Xia.


    Little Jiajia stopped talking. MO Yuan didn¡¯t know that Chang¡¯an was her destination and thought that she was playing around. She was afraid that once Jiajia was found, she would slip away alone, so she went all out to trick her into entering the palace.


    First, she passed through Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s place, and then there was that threatening letter. For the safety of Great Xia, no matter where she went next, Emperor Chong¡¯an would keep a close eye on her until she returned to the Xuanyuan Kingdom safely.


    This was probably why her father wrote that letter. Apart from ensuring her safety, he also wanted her to not suffer any grievances even if she was in a foreign country.


    Thinking of this, Little Jiajia sniffed. She wondered how the disaster relief was going. Did her parents eat well? Did they sleep well?


    Especially her father. She wondered if he cried when he found out that she had run away from home.


    It was a pity that she could not see her father cry with her own eyes.


    There was actually a reason why Little Jiajia thought that way. According to her mother, when she was born, her father cried even more miserably than her mother, who had given birth.


    And when she¡¯d first learned to call him Father, his father had cried and laughed, scaring her mother into thinking he¡¯d gone crazy.


    In short, Little Jiajia was really curious about what her handsome tather would look like when he cried..

 Chapter 971 - Chapter 971: Threat (2)

    Chapter 971: Threat (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Thousands of miles away in the Xuanyuan Kingdom¡¯s Qinghe prefecture, a discussion was happening between the commoners.


    ¡°Have you heard? His Highness cried for another night last night.¡±


    ¡°Of course I heard about it. I even saw His Highness just now. His eyes were red. It¡¯s obvious that he was crying badly.¡±


    ¡°His Highness must have cried because he couldn¡¯t bear to see the commoners suffer. His Highness is really a good person.¡±


    Ji Luo glared at Xuanyuan Ce, who was suffering beside her. She endured it and said disdainfully, ¡°If you get up in the middle of the night to cry again, sleep in the study.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce said pitifully, ¡°Ah Luo, you¡¯re all I have. Don¡¯t leave me.¡± Ji Luo stayed silent.


    The surroundings suddenly fell silent. Little Jiajia looked up strangely. The singing and dancing in the hall had stopped at some point, and everyone was looking at her without blinking.


    Little Jiajia was confused and subconsciously looked for her husband¡¯s gaze.


    Their eyes met.


    The little heir did not expect her to suddenly look over. His heart skipped a beat and he subconsciously looked away. He pursed his lips and glanced at Emperor Chong¡¯an.


    Little Jiajia understood and followed his gaze. Her gaze was much more straightforward, and the words ¡®Why are you looking at me?¡± were clearly written on her face.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an choked and almost couldn¡¯t maintain the look of fondness on his face.


    However, when he thought of the letter that was still lying on the table in his bedroom and the urgent report sent by the border guards, he could only endure it. He smiled and said, ¡°Princess, this is your first time in Great Xia. I think you¡¯re not familiar with Chang¡¯an. Why don¡¯t you stay in Wanjing Garden first? I¡¯ll get someone to bring you around in the future so that I can do my best as a host.¡¯


    Everyone in the hall had different expressions. It had to be known that Wanjing Garden was beside the palace. It was beautiful all year round and was known as the small palace. It had never been opened to the public, let alone been lived in.


    It was true that the Xuanyuan Kingdom was a powerful country, but this was only a princess and a little girl. Emperor Chong¡¯an was so polite that everyone was puzzled.


    Of course, they had never experienced the fear of waking up early in the morning and seeing two strangers standing by the bed, let alone knowing the existence of that letter. It was normal that they could not figure it out. Emperor Chong¡¯an did not need their understanding.


    After all, he was the ruler of a country. If word got out that he was being threatened, he would embarrass himself.


    Others felt that it was a huge gift for Emperor Chong¡¯an to let Little Jiajia stay in Wanjing Garden, but Little Jiajia did not think so. She pursed her lips and looked at Emperor Chong¡¯an as if she was looking at an evil person who wanted to separate her and her little husband. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I have a place to stay.¡± The smile on Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s face froze. ¡°Oh? I heard that this is the princess¡¯s first time in Great Xia.¡±


    He had been getting someone to keep an eye on the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, so he naturally heard the rumors immediately. At first, he ignored them, but when he found out that the other party was the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, he felt that the matter was serious.


    Fortunately, the person who went to investigate returned and said that it was a misunderstanding. After probing today and confirming that the Song family did not know the other party¡¯s identity, he was relieved.


    ¡°It¡¯s true that it¡¯s my first time in Great Xia, but I think the Song family is good.


    It¡¯s good to live in the Duke¡¯s Residence.¡±


    Little Jiajia looked at Old Master Song. Although she had only heard a few words from Kunning Palace, she roughly knew the emperor of Great Xia¡¯s attitude towards the Song family. In order not to cause trouble for the Song family, she stopped talking and blinked. ¡°Grandpa, I see that there are many empty courtyards in the residence. Can I stay there?¡±


    Everyone was shocked. She actually rejected His Majesty¡¯s suggestion!


    What did she mean by the Song family being good? Did she mean that His Majesty was not good?


    This was ridiculous.


    Some people could not help but want to reprimand her. When they noticed that Emperor Chong¡¯an was holding back his laughter, they were smart enough to keep their mouths shut.


    Old Master Song trembled under everyone¡¯s gazes. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°Princess, my humble residence is really simple. I¡¯m afraid I haven¡¯t received you well. Why don¡¯t you¡­¡±


    MO Yuan interrupted him. ¡°Our princess doesn¡¯t like to be restrained. Since she feels that the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence is good, she has her own reasons. I hope His Majesty will agree.¡±


    She looked at Emperor Chong¡¯an when she said this.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an could not continue laughing. How could he agree? What if this young princess was pretending to be traveling and wanted to rope in the Song family?


    ¡°I don¡¯t care. That little brother is good-looking. I want to stay at his house.¡± Little Jiajia suddenly changed from her previous obedient self. She pointed impatiently at the little heir who was looking at Old Master Song worriedly.


    Everyone looked in the direction he was pointing at and saw the young heir¡¯s ridiculously exquisite face. Coupled with the rumors they had heard previously, they instantly understood that the young princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom cared about his looks.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an also thought of this and felt that she was just a spoiled girl. Apart from being a little angry, he was also angry that he did not give birth to a son who was prettier than the Song family¡¯s son.


    With this thought in mind, he could not help but glance at the princes, making their expressions turn cold.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an thought to himself, ¡°They¡¯re actually not bad-looking, especially the Second Prince.¡±


    Eunuch Li coughed lightly to remind him.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an came back to his senses and smiled. ¡°In that case, don¡¯t refuse. Help me entertain the princess well. Don¡¯t let her suffer.¡± Old Master Song stood up and cupped his hands. ¡°Yes.¡± Little Jiajia smiled. ¡°Thank you, Emperor of Great Xia.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an smiled.


    Although this banquet caught Little Jiajia off guard, she did not have to worry about being sent home. She could also openly stay in the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence. This outcome was good. She did not mind that the palace had specially arranged a carriage to send her off, preventing her from sitting with her little husband.


    Compared to her good mood, Emperor Chong¡¯an, who had returned to Yangxin Hall, was not so happy.


    ¡°This is too much. Xuanyuan Ce is simply too much.¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an swept


    the memorial on the imperial table to the ground.


    Eunuch Li had already dismissed the servants in the hall before the emperor lost his temper. Seeing this, he quickly knelt down and advised, ¡°Your Majesty, calm down.¡±


    ¡°Calm down? I¡¯m the emperor of a country. How can I calm down when someone threatens me with a sword at my throat?¡±


    Eunuch Li thought to himself, ¡°So what if you¡¯re angry? Nothing can be done about it. After you¡¯re done being angry, won¡¯t you still have to smile at a little girl?¡±


    However, as the number one eunuch, Eunuch Li naturally had to share the burden for the emperor. After thinking for a moment, he said, ¡°In my opinion, it¡¯s not a bad thing for the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom to come to


    Chang¡¯an..¡±

 Chapter 972 - Chapter 972: Marriage Alliance

    Chapter 972: Marriage Alliance


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Do you think it¡¯s a good thing?¡± Emperor Chong¡¯an said coldly.


    Eunuch Li laughed dryly. ¡°Your Majesty, what do you think of that little princess and the Xuanyuan Kingdom?¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an narrowed his cold eyes. Just from that letter and the 500,000 troops, it could be seen that Xuanyuan Ce valued this daughter very much.


    He also had children, but he felt that it was impossible for him to do this for anyone.


    If it was an opponent of similar strength, he could indeed use such a hostage in his hands.


    Unfortunately, that was not the case. The abilities that the Xuanyuan Kingdom had displayed over the years made Emperor Chong¡¯an deeply understand the difference between Great Xia and the Xuanyuan Kingdom. The Xuanyuan Kingdom was an existence that could not be shaken even if Great Xia used all its strength.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an had no doubt that if he dared to attack the young princess or use her to exchange for benefits from the Xuanyuan Kingdom, the other party might agree at first, but the consequences were definitely not something he could bear.


    Therefore, apart from supporting her and waiting for the young princess to finish playing in Great Xia and escort her back, there was nothing he could do.


    The more Emperor Chong¡¯an thought about it, the more aggrieved he became.


    Eunuch Li knew that the emperor had reached a dead end out of anger. He carefully reminded him, ¡°The young princess is a woman. She has to get married in the end. If Great Xia can form a marriage alliance with the Xuanyuan Kingdom..


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was stunned for a moment before becoming even angrier. He could not even maintain his dignity as an emperor. He panted heavily and said angrily, ¡°Bastard, are you saying that you want the son of the Song family to marry that young princess?¡±


    The crown prince came from the Song family¡¯s daughter¡¯s stomach. If the Song family formed connections with the Xuanyuan Kingdom, what was the difference between that situation and personally giving Great Xia to the Song family?


    ¡°Your Majesty, don¡¯t be angry.¡± Eunuch Li was so frightened that he kowtowed repeatedly. He regretted talking too much, but now that things had come to this, he had no choice but to make things clear. He braced himself and said, ¡°I just think that the young princess is still young, so it¡¯s normal for me to be friendlv to Heir Song because of his appearance. However. a child¡¯s


    temperament has yet to be determined. Even if she likes him today, it might not be the case tomorrow.¡±


    Seeing that the young princess could praise the Song family¡¯s children for being good-looking in public today and even take the risk of offending the emperor to stay in the Song family, wasn¡¯t she simply acting like a child?


    However, Eunuch Li felt that she was unaware that her actions would anger Emperor Chong¡¯an at all. Of course, it was also possible that she did not care, but this was no longer important.


    Children were the easiest to coax. She would like whoever treated her well. A marriage alliance was a marriage alliance. In the end, it was unknown who would win the young princess¡¯s favor and her heart.


    Eunuch Li was just short of asking his son to seduce the young princess. Unfortunately, such a thing was embarrassing to ordinary people, let alone the princes. He did not dare to do it.


    The hall fell silent for a long time. It was so long that Eunuch Li thought that he could not escape this calamity that he heard the person in charge speak.


    ¡°You can leave first.¡±


    Eunuch Li heaved a sigh of relief. With his understanding of Emperor Chong¡¯an, he had taken his words to heart.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an did listen. He sat alone in front of the imperial desk for a long time. The more he thought about it, the more he felt that this matter was feasible.


    With how much Xuanyuan Ce valued the young princess, once the marriage alliance was established, not only would he not have to worry about the Xuanyuan Kingdom attacking Great Xia, but he might also obtain unexpected benefits.


    The most direct thing was that he no longer had to suffer. He no longer had to keep those old things in front of him.


    He had so many sons. Apart from the eldest son who was already engaged, the second, third, and fourth sons were all suitable. As for the fifth son, Emperor Chong¡¯an sneered. If he could be on good terms with the Xuanyuan Kingdom, the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence would naturally be useless. Wasn¡¯t it up to him to keep the position of crown prince?


    The more Emperor Chong¡¯an thought about it, the more beautiful this vision became. Even the anger he had accumulated from being threatened dissipated completely. If not for the fact that he still had his rationality, he would have immediately gotten someone to call the princes over and teach them a lesson..

 Chapter 973 - Chapter 973: Studying In The Palace

    Chapter 973: Studying In The Palace


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t know that Emperor Chong¡¯an had the intention to seduce her. Or rather, to let his son seduce her so that he could cozy up to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Every day, when she woke up, she would go to Madam Li and pretend to be obedient. She would tease the twins for a while or go to the old master¡¯s residence. When she was bored, she would go to the Xiao family¡¯s house and pull the unwilling but obedient Xiao Ruoshui out for a walk. Her life was extremely carefree.


    However, there were also bad things about this arrangement. Ever since she moved into the Duke¡¯s Residence as a foreign princess, everyone in the residence had been extremely polite to her. They were no longer as close to her as before.


    With her status, she could more or less understand. What made her most angry was that her little husband had gone to the palace to study with the crown prince.


    So be it. He left early and returned late every day. Little Jiajia couldn¡¯t see him at all.


    After doing this for a few days, Little Jiajia was extremely depressed.


    Due to her previous lie by omission, she still felt a little guilty about the Song family. It was impossible for her to make a fuss, so she could only complain to Xiao Ruoshui.


    Poor Xiao Ruoshui had no choice but to submit to the harassment of her love rival. She even had to listen to Little Jiajia talk about her ¡°hubby¡¯s looks¡± every day. She was so angry that she really wanted to pull out her whip and fight Little Jiajia.


    ¡°Unacceptable.¡± Little Jiajia slammed the teacup on the table and said decisively, ¡°MO Yuan, tell the emperor of Great Xia that I want to study in the palace too.¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at her, as if confirming the authenticity of her words. After a while, she replied calmly, ¡°Yes.¡±


    When she was in the Xuanyuan Kingdom, it was impossible for the princess to study. This was a pleasant surprise.


    Apart from being a little good-looking, it seemed that Prince Song was not completely useless, MO Yuan thought.


    Actually, not only Emperor Chong¡¯an, but even MO Yuan felt that her princess was only interested in the little heir on a whim, Just like the toys she had obtained in the past, she would lose interest soon, so she did not take it to heart at all.


    Seeing that Little Jiajia said it so matter-of-factly, as if the palace school was her backyard, Xiao Ruoshui did not know what to feel.


    Back then, in order to fight for the position of an accompanying student for the prince and princess, many young masters and young ladies of aristocratic families fought to the death.


    It was only because she knew her limits and knew that she didn¡¯t have the ability that she didn¡¯t think about it. Otherwise, she would have been one of them.


    She did not doubt at all that Little Jiajia could enter the palace to learn. From the fact that this person had beaten up Princess Linghui and she was fine, while Linghui got punished, Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s attitude towards Little Jiajia was clear.


    However, it was normal. She was the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Apart from flattering her, there was nothing he could do.


    Seeing her awkward expression, Little Jiajia remembered that the servants of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence had told her how difficult it was to enter the palace to learn. She suddenly said, ¡°By the way, tell the Emperor of Great Xia that I want Sister Ruoshui to be my study companion.¡±


    She couldn¡¯t enter the palace as a study companion. She didn¡¯t care, but she couldn¡¯t embarrass the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    Since she wasn¡¯t going in as a study companion, she should have a study companion by her side.


    Of course, she couldn¡¯t let others take advantage of such a wonderful job.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go,¡± Xiao Ruoshui said with a red face.


    Little Jiajia said, ¡°I know you want to. You don¡¯t have to stand on ceremony with me.¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at Xiao Ruoshui, called You Yi to guard her, and turned to leave.


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless. How did she come to that conclusion? It was indeed quite honorable to be able to study in the palace and it would be easier to find her in-laws in the future, but¡­ she had to use the back door of her ¡°love rival¡±.


    Little Jiajia did not know her dilemma. At the thought that she could study with her little husband every day in the future, she was in a good mood and stopped wandering outside. She hurriedly sent Xiao Ruoshui home and returned to the Duke¡¯s residence.


    What surprised her even more was that as soon as she entered the residence, she heard from the gatekeeper that the heir had returned.


    He was back.. Her little husband was back so early today!

 Chapter 974 - Chapter 974: Marriage

    Chapter 974: Marriage


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Study in the palace?¡± Song Jingchen took a deep breath and looked at the smug little girl leaning against the window sill. His head hurt.


    Little Jiajia smiled. ¡°That¡¯s right. I¡¯ve decided to go to school with you tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t know, do you? I hate studying, but I have no choice. You¡¯re so busy every day. I can¡¯t stop you from studying and force you to play with me, right? Then I can only sacrifice myself.¡±


    ¡°However, you don¡¯t have to be too touched. Just go to school with me every day in the future. Anyway, it¡¯s convenient. You can¡¯t sneak away.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. When the time comes, you have to help me do my homework. In any case, I can¡¯t be inferior to others. I went to school for you. You have to be responsible for me.¡±


    If she didn¡¯t want to embarrass himself, shouldn¡¯t she work hard herself? No matter how good his homework was, it couldn¡¯t be funneled into her head. Besides, he wasn¡¯t the one who asked her to go. Why did he have to be responsible?


    Also, didn¡¯t she come to Great Xia to play? The Xuanyuan Kingdom had all kinds of great teachers, so why did she come to Great Xia¡¯s palace to join the classes?


    Song Jingchen was speechless when he heard her ramble on and on.


    He suddenly remembered what his grandfather had said to him after returning from the palace banquet that day.


    ¡°That person has always been worried about our Song family. He definitely doesn¡¯t want our family to be related to the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Brother Chen, stay away from the princess in the future.¡±


    ¡°Actually, it¡¯s understandable for the emperor to be worried. If someone ambitious seizes this opportunity, he could persuade the Xuanyuan Kingdom to help him in the future. It won¡¯t be a problem for him to overthrow the imperial power. ¡±


    ¡°But Brother Chen, you have to remember that anyone in Great Xia can be a traitor, except for our Song family. We are indebted to the late emperor, just as he was indebted to us. Grandfather can¡¯t let him down.¡±


    ¡°When your father returns, I¡¯ll tell him and ask your mother to help you take a look. We¡¯ll settle your marriage first so that that person can rest assured.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t say that you¡¯re still young and in no hurry. Even if the person we chose isn¡¯t from a good family, we won¡¯t find someone with a bad personality. It¡¯s better than the emperor ¡°granting¡± you a marriage with someone who¡¯s out to harm you.¡±


    ¡°Why is such a good girl the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom?¡±


    ¡°Just bear with it a little longer. By then, our Song family will be able to catch our breath.¡±


    Bear with it? What were they waiting for? Although his grandfather didn¡¯t say it explicitly, he understood.


    They were waiting for the day Emperor Chong¡¯an abdicated and the crown prince ascended the throne.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes. Although he didn¡¯t refute his grandfather at that time, he subconsciously felt that something was wrong.


    On account of the late emperor¡¯s kindness, his grandfather only wanted to help the Shangguan family protect Great Xia. For the sake of the people in power, he was willing to retreat again and again.


    However, Emperor Chong¡¯an was not the late emperor. He did not have any mercy. Could the Song family really wait until the day the crown prince, who had half of the Song family¡¯s bloodline, ascended the throne?


    It was unknown if he had been thinking too much these past few days, but he had a dream.


    Last night, he actually dreamed about the funeral banner of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence hanging high. The whiteness of the funeral banner pierced his eyes, and he had lingering fears for the entire day. He did not even hear what the teacher said in class.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Are you unhappy?¡± Little Jiajia tilted her head and looked at the young man sitting in front of the desk. The young man¡¯s eyes were filled with fatigue. It was obvious that he had not rested well.


    After some thought, she exerted strength with her hand on the window sill and rolled into the study.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and said helplessly, ¡°There¡¯s a door. Why did you climb through the window?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m lazy.¡± Little Jiajia leaned over and picked up the book he had placed in the middle of the desk. When she saw that it was a military book, she was a little surprised. ¡°My father¡¯s study also has this book. Can you understand it?¡± Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°I was just looking at it for fun.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s head hurt when she saw the book. She did not feel that she had been patronized. She put the book back and asked with concern, ¡°Why are you back so early today? Did someone in the palace bully you?¡±


    Song Jingchen looked at her steadily and asked, ¡°What will you do if someone bullies me?¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he regretted it and said, ¡°No one bullied me. I completed my assignments quickly today, so I naturally came back early.¡±


    In fact, he usually returned at this time. The reason why he came back late a few days ago was because he listened to his grandfather and deliberately avoided this girl.


    Little Jiajia ignored his last sentence and clenched her fists. She said angrily, ¡°How dare someone bully my people? Tell me who it is. I¡¯ll help you beat him up.¡±


    ¡°Forget it, I don¡¯t know him anyway. Bring me to him directly.¡± As she spoke, she pulled his hand and was about to leave when she comforted him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the emperor of Great Xia won¡¯t dare to do anything to me.¡±


    Her father¡¯s 500,000 troops were still waiting at the border.


    Song Jingchen was accidentally pulled up from the chair by her. Sensing the softness of her hand holding his, the tips of his ears turned red. He quickly said, ¡°No one bullied me.¡±


    Little Jiajia paused and turned to look at him suspiciously. ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°No, I¡¯m the crown prince¡¯s study companion and the heir of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. No one dares to bully me. Besides, they can¡¯t beat me.¡± Little Jiajia still didn¡¯t believe it.


    Song Jingchen regretted saying that again and said seriously, ¡°I really didn¡¯t. Even if I did, I wouldn¡¯t need a little girl like you to avenge me.¡±


    Did he still want his reputation?


    ¡°Alright.¡± Little Jiajia believed him. She thought of something and blinked.


    ¡°Then can you avenge me if anyone bullies me in the future?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t think anyone dared to bully her, but he was afraid that she wouldn¡¯t relent, so he nodded. ¡°Sure.¡±


    Little Jiajia was happy. ¡°I knew you were the best.¡±


    Song Jingchen coughed uncomfortably and took the opportunity to pull his hand away. He sat in front of the desk again and casually picked up a book to read. ¡°Alright, I want to read. Go back quickly. You don¡¯t have to go to school tomorrow since we have a day off. I¡¯ll bring you to the palace the day after tomorrow..¡±

 Chapter 975 - Chapter 975: Looking at Each Other

    Chapter 975: Looking at Each Other


    Since Little Jiajia was unwilling to leave, it was useless for Song Jingchen to say anything. Moreover, he was helpless against her bold and straightforward words. In the end, he could only let her go.


    When Little Jiajia said that she wouldn¡¯t disturb them, she really didn¡¯t make a sound. She obediently moved a stool and sat opposite the desk. She supported her chin with both hands and stared straight at the young man opposite her. It was unknown what she was thinking, but she would cover her mouth and stifle a laugh from time to time.


    At first, Song Jingchen would ask curiously, ¡°What are you laughing at?¡±


    The little girl pretended to be shy, but her eyes were still on his face. She said boldly, ¡°With how good-looking my husband is, our children will definitely be good-looking in the future.¡±


    ¡°What children?¡± Song Jingchen was so shocked that he almost jumped up from the ground. He was mature and was often teased by his grandfather about his tendency to act like an old man, but this little girl always made him lose his composure.


    She called him her husband the first time they met, and he couldn¡¯t correct her no matter what. Now that she even thought of having children, should she consider how many children she should give birth to and what name she should give them?


    No, what was he thinking? He was still a child!


    Song Jingchen blushed again. He didn¡¯t say anything and pretended that the person opposite him didn¡¯t exist.


    However, how could he ignore such a pair of eyes? He held the book for a long time and did not read a word.


    It wasn¡¯t until MO Yuan came over and called her away that Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief.


    The servant guarding the door was shocked to see another person in the study.


    ¡°Princess, the emperor of Great Xia has agreed. He even rewarded you with many scholarly treasures.¡±


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was worried about how to let his son spend more time with Little Jiajia without appearing too deliberate. When he heard that Little Jiajia wanted to go to the palace to study, he naturally agreed, so MO Yuan¡¯s trip was especially smooth.


    ¡°Got it.¡± Little Jiajia was not surprised. Although she had only met him once, she could tell that as long as the emperor of Great Xia¡¯s status was not involved, he would probably let her get away with murder.


    It was really a tragedy for Great Xia to have such an emperor.


    The master and servant walked all the way to the guest courtyard. When they passed by the main courtyard, they saw people carrying something in and out from afar.


    There were few masters in the Duke¡¯s Residence, and the residence was usually quiet. After living here for so many days, this was the first time she had seen such a lively scene.


    Little Jiajia could not help but be curious. ¡°What are they doing?¡±


    MO Yuan took a look and retracted her gaze. ¡°Didn¡¯t the Duchess say a few days ago that she wanted to hold a banquet? I think it¡¯s tomorrow.¡±


    Little Jiajia remembered. At that time, she was playing with Sister Huan and Brother Hao in Madam Li¡¯s courtyard. Madam Li mentioned it and even asked if she was going to attend.


    Putting aside the fact that she didn¡¯t like that kind of scene, she was a foreign princess. If she really appeared, she would overshadow the host no matter what, so she naturally refused.


    She did not take it to heart. Coupled with the fact that she had been going out every day for the past few days, she had forgotten about it.


    For some reason, she did not think much of it at the time. Now that she thought about it, she felt that Madam Li secretly heaved a sigh of relief after she said that she would not be attending.


    Relief? Why? Afraid that she would cause trouble?


    How could that be? In order to leave a good impression on her future mother-in-law and grandfather, she was very obedient in front of them.


    Little Jiajia couldn¡¯t figure it out, so she looked at MO Yuan and caught the hesitation on her face. She narrowed her eyes. ¡°MO Yuan, do you know something?¡±


    MO Yuan opened her mouth. Coincidentally, a maidservant outside the door reported that the main kitchen had sent over dinner. She changed the topic and said, ¡°Princess, let¡¯s eat dinner first. The weather is getting colder. If you don¡¯t eat, it¡¯ll get cold.¡±


    Little Jiajia was even more curious, but after spending half the afternoon in her little husband¡¯s study, she had only drunk a few cups of tea and did not see a single snack. She could not take it anymore and could only suppress her curiosity.


    After dinner, the servants sent hot water. These were all instructed by MO Yuan on the first day they moved in. They followed Little Jiajia¡¯s previous schedule.


    The hot water was steaming, making the house foggy.


    MO Yuan moved a small table to the side and helped Little Jiajia wash her hair. She found it funny when she saw her chin resting on the water and only revealing her head.


    Only at this moment could she see a hint of shyness on this fearless princess¡¯s face.


    She was brought into Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence by His Highness when she was five years old. She had always been by the princess¡¯s side and had watched her learn how to speak from the beginning to the end. The two of them could be said to have grown up together.


    She had seen what the princess looked like. However, after the princess could remember, she stopped letting others help her take a shower.


    She even said that her body could only be shown to her future husband.


    She remembered that she had amused the princess consort and a room full of maidservants at that time. However, even the princess consort could not do anything about the princess¡¯s insistence, so she could only let her be.


    After so many years, the princess had not changed at all.


    ¡°Sister MO Yuan, tell me quickly. Is there anything else to say about tomorrow¡¯s banquet?¡± Little Jiajia tilted her head and accidentally buried her lips in the water, blowing out a string of bubbles as she spoke.


    MO Yuan was almost amused. She thought of something and couldn¡¯t laugh anymore. After thinking for a while, she said, ¡°A few days ago, the princess asked me to send something to the young master and young mistress of the residence. I accidentally heard the servants in the main courtyard discussing that the Duchess held this banquet to find someone suitable for Heir Song.¡±


    Little Jiajia stood up from the bathtub in shock.. ¡°What did you say?¡±

 Chapter 976 - Chapter 976: Banquet (1)

    Chapter 976: Banquet (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Madam Li¡¯s body had been weakened because of childbirth. Apart from a few madams who were on good terms with her, she had almost never been outside in the past two years. When she decided to host a banquet, it could be said to have shocked everyone.


    As soon as the invitations were sent out, there were already people wondering what happened. After asking around, they found out that most of the people who received the post this time were low-ranking families with young girls. They could not help but speculate.


    The heir of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was already ten years old this year. It was just right for him to be engaged at this age.


    However, with the heir¡¯s status, what kind of noble lady could he not marry? In the past, not to mention entering the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, even if someone saw the Song family from afar, they would not dare to stare at them carefully. Why was this invitation sent to the houses of low-ranking families?


    One such recipient was baffled. Could it be that the servants had sent it to the wrong person? He looked at the invitation again. The names and addresses were all from his own family. Fortunately, there was no mistake.


    If they couldn¡¯t figure it out, they would gather with their wives and talk to them. Some of them could see through it.


    Not only did the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence have a lot of military achievements, but were also the maternal family of the Empress. The crown prince had to call the old duke his maternal grandfather.


    For such an extremely noble family, even if they showed the prince a noble lady, it would only be icing on the cake.


    However, the winds howled around the highest peaks. In order to avoid attracting the attention of the person above, they had to avoid arousing suspicion.


    They were not stupid. They could understand the twists and turns just by mentioning it. They were really surprised and happy that their family could receive the thread. It was no different from having something fall into their laps,


    After praying to the Bodhisattva, they began to count the days of the banquet and tried their best to dress up in a way that stood out.


    They added clothes and jewelry. At the last minute, they invited the teachers to teach the young ladies the rules. The teachers were so busy that they were dizzy. A few jewelry shops in the capital became famous, and the embroidery rooms were also making a lot of money.


    It made the entire capital lively for a few days.


    There were even many people who did not receive the invitation. They tried their best to give gifts and build friendships, hoping that the madams invited would bring their daughters along on that day.


    However, most of them could only return in disappointment. Putting aside whether they would offend the Duchess if they brought people in recklessly, with one more woman, they would have one more competitor. Only a fool would agree.


    Such a huge commotion naturally did not escape Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s ears.


    When Emperor Chong¡¯an heard this, he sneered again. ¡°Look, look. Those who don¡¯t know might think that the palace is choosing a concubine.¡±


    It wasn¡¯t that he didn¡¯t know that many people were scolding him behind his back for kicking someone to the curb when they¡¯ve outlived their usefulness. They said that a cunning rabbit would be cooked by a lackey. However, how could he not be afraid of the influence of the heir of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence?


    He really should let those people sit in his position and try. He did not believe that they could sleep.


    ¡°Your Majesty, calm down.¡± Eunuch Li quickly lowered his head and persuaded, ¡°Actually, this is a good thing for Your Majesty. If Heir Song is engaged, it would be impossible for that young princess to have anything to do with the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence in the future.¡¯


    If the princess of a foreign country did not marry into Great Xia, she would have to return sooner or later. This way, regardless of whether she would marry into the royal family, at least he would not have to worry about the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence.


    Emperor Chong¡¯an was prone to getting carried away when it came to the matters of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. When he heard his words, he calmed down. He looked at the list of guests handed in by the spies. They were all family members of civil servants below the third-grade who did not have any real power. His last bit of displeasure dissipated completely.


    ¡°Fine. At least they know their place.¡±


    Eunuch Li secretly felt aggrieved for the old duke. If the old master really had the intention to disobey, this empire would have belonged to him long ago.


    It had to be known that back then, when the late emperor died, the various vassals took advantage of the chaos. It was only because the old master personally led troops to quell the rebellion that His Majesty could sit firmly on the throne. Without the old master, His Majesty would not have been able to rest easy today.


    It had only been a few years. How could His Majesty forget those things and think that the Song family was disloyal?


    If he was the old master, he would definitely not care about anything. He would wait for the rebels to kill His Majesty before coming out to clear the emperor¡¯s name.


    Of course, he only dared to think about such blasphemous thoughts in his heart. He did not even dare to dream about it.


    Madam Li did not care what Emperor Chong¡¯an thought. She wanted to find a match for her son. She wished she could read the thoughts of the attendees. If she could, she would be able to see through the young ladies of the various families.


    Duke Song had taken on an idle job in the Ministry of Rites and left early. Madam Li brought the twins out for breakfast. While she was cleaning up, she summoned her eldest maidservant, Bi Zhu, and gave her some instructions..

 Chapter 977 - Chapter 977: Banquet (2)

    Chapter 977: Banquet (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen had always been self-disciplined. Even though he was on leave today, he didn¡¯t sleep too much. He woke up early in the morning and practiced in the courtyard for an hour. After taking a shower and changing into fresh clothes, he went into the study.


    When Bi Zhu arrived, breakfast had just been served.


    Hearing Madam Li¡¯s words, Song Jingchen frowned and instantly regained his composure. ¡°Go back and report it to Mother. I understand.¡±


    After Bi Zhu left, Song Jingchen pursed his lips and instructed his stunned follower, ¡°Let¡¯s leave for breakfast and prepare a carriage.¡± He thought of something and paused for a moment before continuing, ¡°Tell Uncle Yang that there¡¯s no need to send another carriage to pick up Brother Fan. I¡¯ll pick him up from Lu Ming Academy later.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± The follower subconsciously walked out and only reacted after instructing the servants in the courtyard. He circled back and stammered, ¡°Madam only asked you to stay away. She didn¡¯t insist on you leaving the residence.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him. ¡°What are you trying to say?¡±


    The follower thought that he did not know and scratched his head. ¡°Madam is probably going to find a match for you today. Aren¡¯t you going to take a look secretly?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for that. It¡¯s a marriage. My parents¡¯ orders and the matchmaker¡¯s words. Mother won¡¯t harm me.¡± Song Jingchen walked out.


    How could he not know? He had been mentally prepared when he returned from the palace banquet that day, but he did not expect his mother to act so quickly.


    It was also because he had been avoiding that girl these past few days that he did not receive the news. He left early and returned late all day. He did not even go to his mother¡¯s courtyard, but it was not important anymore.


    His words were calm, but the follower was extremely anxious. He quickly jogged after him and advised earnestly, ¡°Whoever it is, she will be someone who will accompany you for the rest of your life in the future. Take a look. If you don¡¯t like the girl that Madam chooses, we can stop her in time, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t stop walking. ¡°There¡¯s no need. I believe in Mother.¡±


    Anyway, marriages were not arranged on the spot. He would naturally know who his mother liked when he returned to the residence later. If the other party was really bad¡­


    Forget it. It didn¡¯t matter if she was good or not. In the future, when she married, she would stay in the backyard all day long and spend more time with his mother. It was fine as long as his mother liked her.


    Song Jingchen tried his best to ignore the resistance in his heart. No matter how his subordinate persuaded him, he didn¡¯t say anything else.


    However, he was like an adult when he was young and did not care about his marriage at all.


    The attendant was in a hurry. When he got into the carriage, he had already started to speak without thinking. ¡°If the heir¡¯s marriage is really set, what will happen to the princess? I thought the princess would definitely be the heir¡¯s concubine in the future.¡±


    ¡°I wonder if the princess knows about this. If she finds out, she¡¯ll be so sad. However, with the princess¡¯s ability, she¡¯ll probably interfere, right? If only she could really interfere.¡±


    He persuaded his young master to stay because he thought that his young master had high standards and didn¡¯t like any woman, thus making this banquet futile.


    As soon as he got into the carriage, Song Jingchen picked up a book and ignored his nagging. He finally looked up. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    The follower had a long face, as if he had been abandoned. ¡°The princess is so good. Her heart is filled with thoughts about you. Young Master, you haven¡¯t been in the residence these past few days. The princess comes to ask about you twice a day. Most of the time, she will carry snacks with her. When she heard that you weren¡¯t around, she asked me to distribute the pastries to everyone. The princess is good-looking and always smiles when she speaks. She never puts on airs. I think only a good girl like the princess is worthy of the crown prince.¡±


    ¡°Shi An!¡± Song Jingchen interrupted him and frowned. ¡°Don¡¯t say these things again in the future. If you ruin her reputation, no one will be able to protect you if the Xuanyuan royal family finds out.¡±


    When he got engaged, the little girl would no longer say that they were a match made in heaven, let alone call him ¡°hubby¡±, right?


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips. He was clearly holding his favorite travelog, but he couldn¡¯t stand it anymore. He put the book aside and closed his eyes to rest.


    Speaking of a woman¡¯s reputation, it was even more important than her life. Shi An felt even worse. ¡°The princess doesn¡¯t care about this. It can be seen that she really loves you.¡±


    ¡°It seems that His Highness is right. I¡¯ve really indulged you too much.¡± Song Jingchen glanced at him coldly.


    Shi An was stunned and quickly covered his mouth with both hands. ¡°I¡¯ll shut up..¡±

 Chapter 978 - Chapter 978: Banquet (3)

    Chapter 978: Banquet (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Lu Ming Academy was on the outskirts of the city. Although it could not compare to the four main academies in the city, there were many poor disciples.


    rlWvo years ago, Fan Mingyuan was found and brought into the residence by the old master¡¯s people. He was personally taken in as a disciple by Duke Song. At that time, he was already ten years old. Compared to the four academies with countless disciples, Lu Ming Academy was the most suitable for him.


    Firstly, it would not make him feel uncomfortable. Secondly, the children of wealthy families had begun to be educated early on. Not only would he fall behind, but he would also lose his confidence as time passed.


    Autumn Deer Academy was also a good choice. However, Duke Song and the dean of Lu Ming Academy were old friends and the dean could help take care of Fan Mingyuan. Therefore, they finally chose Lu Ming Academy.


    Fan Mingyuan usually stayed in the academy and only returned to the Duke¡¯s residence during a vacation.


    The carriage stopped at the foot of Lu Ming Academy. Song Jingchen had just lifted the curtain when he saw a young man in green walking down the stairs with a servant. The other party also saw him and looked surprised.


    ¡°Ah Chen, why are you here?¡± Fan Mingyuan quickly took a few steps. It was really cold outside. Without waiting for Song Jingchen to speak, he stepped on the coach stairs and got into the carriage.


    There was a container filled with hot water in the carriage, and a charcoal stove was lit. The curtain of the carriage was put down to block out the cold outside. After drinking a cup of hot tea, he felt better.


    ¡°Mother is holding a banquet at the residence today. She was afraid that I would bump into the attendees, so she chased me out. I had nothing to do, so I sent the carriage that was coming to pick you up.¡± Song Jingchen smiled. ¡°I guess you don¡¯t want to go back either. We can accompany each other.¡±


    The academy had a break every ten days. Fan Mingyuan hadn¡¯t returned for so long, so he naturally didn¡¯t know that Madam Li was trying to find a match for Song Jingchen. Seeing that he was being serious, he couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°Madam isn¡¯t afraid that you¡¯ll offend a girl. She¡¯s worried that a girl will offend you.¡±


    After being in the Duke¡¯s residence for two years, Fan Mingyuan was no longer as careful as he was in the beginning, especially when facing Song Jingchen, who was two years younger than him but always acted like an elder brother and often cared about him.


    There were only the two of them in the residence. Every time they took a break, the two of them would gather together, either reading or playing chess. Sometimes, Shi An would chat with them, so Fan Mingyuan couldn¡¯t help but hear a lot about Song Jingchen¡¯s past.


    For example, at this banquet, every time the residence held a banquet, there would always be one or two girls who got lost and ran to the front courtyard. Some said that a girl sprained her ankle as soon as the heir appeared. Coupled with Shi An¡¯s amazed tone, it was quite funny.


    Song Jingchen rubbed his nose and didn¡¯t explain.


    Shi An felt uncomfortable. As soon as he saw Fan Mingyuan, he wanted to pour out his grievances. However, as soon as he opened his mouth, his little heir glanced at him and he could only shut his mouth again in embarrassment.


    Fan Mingyuan still found it strange. ¡°Why is Shi An so quiet today? Shi Quan is usually too quiet, so I asked him to learn more from Shi An.¡±


    Shi Quan was a servant beside him. He was the exact opposite of Shi An, who would die if he did not speak. He tried not to speak if he didn¡¯t have to. Even though his Young Master had called him out, he only smiled dryly.


    Song Jingchen glanced at the restless Shi An. ¡°He made a mistake. I¡¯m punishing him by not allowing him to speak today.¡±


    Shi An was speechless. When did this happen? Why didn¡¯t he know?!


    Song Jingchen ignored him and picked up his teacup to take a sip. ¡°The banquet won¡¯t end until late in the afternoon. We have to eat outside for lunch.¡±


    Shi An thought to himself, ¡°Let¡¯s go to a restaurant. The Yuelai Restaurant is not bad. The fragrant crispy chicken and phoenix tail shark fin inside are all top-notch delicacies. The Delicacy Pavilion is fine too. I can eat two bowls of rice with a serving of Eight Treasures Rabbit Ding. There¡¯s also the Jade Belt Shrimp, Eight Treasures Duck, and Mandarin Fish¡­¡±


    Fan Mingyuan felt that Song Jingchen was here to hide from the girls attending the banquet. He smiled and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go to the Heavenly Fragrance Restaurant. My treat, but it¡¯s still early. We can find a teahouse to listen to some stories first.¡¯


    Shi An was speechless.


    While the two of them were discussing how to spend the next half a day, Madam Li¡¯s eyelids did not stop twitching when she saw Little Jiajia following closely beside her.


    Why did she feel that this banquet would not go smoothly?

 Chapter 979 - Chapter 979: Thrown Out

    Chapter 979: Thrown Out


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Madam, all the guests are here.¡± Bi Zhu came in and reported.


    Little Jiajia turned around and smiled brightly. ¡°Auntie, in that case, let¡¯s go over quickly.¡±


    She was wearing a red dress embroidered with Ruyi and a short jacket of the same color. There was a snow fox fur collar around her neck. Her outfit made her face look even fairer and more ostentatious than usual.


    Madam Li could only suppress her worries and leave the twins to the nanny to take care of them. She brought Little Jiajia to the banquet hall.


    Although everyone knew that Madam Li wanted to find a match for her son using this banquet, they could not say it out loud. Coincidentally, there was a plum garden in the Duke¡¯s residence and a greenhouse built beside it. Therefore, Madam Li was holding a banquet to admire plums. Not only could she admire the flowers, but she could also eat tea and chat in the greenhouse. It was quite convenient.


    Madam Li was aware that she rarely went out and was not familiar with the families of those civil servants. In order to avoid an awkward silence, she specially invited a few madams she was familiar with, including Madam Xiao, who had many dealings with the Duke¡¯s residence.


    She thought that when everyone sat together and someone took the lead, the topic would naturally rise.


    However, no matter how well she planned it, Little Jiajia was an unexpected variable.


    Who was Little Jiajia? She was the most doted on princess in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Even Emperor Chong¡¯an had to treat her well. Because of her, the noble consort and her daughter, who were quite doted on, had suffered a setback and were still grounded.


    No one dared to underestimate her.


    The people present were not older than her. Even if they were older than her, no one dared to act impudently in front of her.


    After this greeting, the scene turned cold.


    With the self-proclaimed smooth-talking madam flattering her, Little Jiajia was indifferent. If anyone else wanted to speak again, they would have to consider it carefully.


    Firstly, they were not familiar with each other, and the guests did not know the temperament of this foreign princess. They were afraid of saying something wrong and making her unhappy. Secondly, the age difference was too great, and they really had nothing in common to talk about.


    After all, women only talked about children, husbands, or family matters. They couldn¡¯t say this to Little Jiajia. They could just bypass her and talk to others, but with her status, who would dare to neglect her?


    Thirdly, the princess had rejected Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s invitation to stay in Wanjing Garden at the palace banquet. The news that she was interested in Heir Song had long spread. These people had all come with the intention of forming a marriage alliance with the Duke¡¯s Residence. When facing Little Jiajia, they felt a bit awkward. Even though the shovel was raised, no one dared to dig deeper.


    It wasn¡¯t just them, Madam Li was also feeling uneasy. She was not angry at Little Jiajia for standing here, but she felt guilty for no reason. It was a feeling that even she could not explain.


    She kept calling Song Jingchen her hubby. It was only right for Madam Li to look for a daughter-in-law for her son, but she glanced at Little Jiajia beside her.


    She still felt guilty.


    Little Jiajia did not seem to sense that the atmosphere was off. She sat upright beside Madam Li and glanced around. When she noticed a certain yellow figure with her head lowered, her already tense face tensed up even more.


    ¡°Xiao Ruoshui, you actually didn¡¯t say anything when we met yesterday. If I hadn¡¯t asked Sister MO Yuan, I¡¯d be unaware even after my husband had been snatched away!¡± she thought.


    Xiao Ruoshui regretted it now. Apart from regret, she also felt guilty. Her mother had clearly told her that it was impossible for the Xiao and Song families to get married, but she refused to give up and insisted on following them.


    Now, Jiajia would definitely see her and think that she was a traitor.


    How could Auntie Li bring Jiajia over? With her around, it would be strange if this continued.


    Madam Li expressed that she didn¡¯t want to either!


    Madam Xiao did not know how much her daughter was suffering. She had seen


    Little Jiajia a few times when she went to the Xiao residence to look for Xiao Ruoshui. She was not as afraid of her as others. She smiled and tried to smooth things over. ¡°On the way here, I saw that the plum blossoms bloomed even better this year than the last time I saw them. It¡¯s a pity that we haven¡¯t seen them for the past two years.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Madam Xiao, it¡¯s only been two years since you last saw it. This is the first time I¡¯ve seen it. In the past, I only heard that there was a plum blossom forest planted in the Duke¡¯s residence. Unfortunately, I haven¡¯t had the chance to come to the residence. Now that I¡¯ve made this trip today, I can talk to someone in the future.¡±


    Mrs. Xiao was speechless.


    The corners of Little Jiajia¡¯s mouth twitched. The person who spoke to her was probably brainless and liked to stand out. Look at what she said. Not only did it make people think that Madam Xiao was showing off her close relationship with the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence, but she also implied that the threshold of the residence was high.


    She probably didn¡¯t have that intention, but it sounded like that to people.


    The madams, who had wanted to follow Madam Xiao¡¯s lead, were at a loss for words. The greenhouse fell silent again.


    The madam finally realized that she had said something wrong. She lowered her head and stopped talking.


    Madam Li pursed her lips and smiled faintly. ¡°It¡¯s my fault. How about this? Take a look today and bring some back later. You can put them in a vase for a few days.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s good. I¡¯m waiting for you to say that. Don¡¯t regret it when the time comes,¡± Madam Xiao said with a smile.


    The madams covered their mouths and laughed.


    ¡°It¡¯s just a few plum blossoms. My heart won¡¯t ache.¡± Madam Li sighed secretly.


    ¡°It¡¯s boring for you girls to listen to us here. Don¡¯t hold back. Go out and play. Help your mother pick them. If you see any plum blossoms you like, get a maidservant to help break them. Don¡¯t hurt yourself.¡±


    There were more than ten candidates in total. Apart from the initial greetings, she had never even spoken to them, let alone understood their personalities or anything else. If she sent them out like this, this competition could be considered to have ended without a hitch.


    Those madams knew this, but the young ladies could not see through them. They were all children less than ten years old. Even though their mothers had mentioned it before they came, they could not help but heave a sigh of relief when they heard this. The atmosphere here was too oppressive.


    ¡°Thank you, Madam.¡±


    With someone taking the lead, the other girls left the greenhouse in groups of two or three. Xiao Ruoshui also slipped into the crowd.


    ¡°They¡¯re all good children.¡± Madam Li smiled and instructed Bi Zhu to take care of them. Then, she looked at Little Jiajia, who was sitting calmly at the side, and opened her mouth to say something.


    Without waiting for her to speak, Little Jiajia stood up first. ¡°I¡¯ll help Auntie entertain them.¡¯


    The corners of Madam Li¡¯s mouth twitched in tacit agreement.


    Everyone quickly stood up and watched her leave. When she disappeared from everyone¡¯s sight, they heaved a sigh of relief.


    Madam Li sighed again. ¡°I wasn¡¯t a good host today.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s good tea to drink and flowers to admire. We can even break the plum branches and take them away later. We¡¯re the ones who have taken advantage of your hospitality,¡± a madam sitting closer to Madam Li said with a smile.


    ¡°Sister Shen is right. We usually don¡¯t have a moment of leisure in the back residence. It¡¯s rare for us to hide here for half a day. Madam, don¡¯t mind us being noisy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    As expected, without Little Jiajia around, the atmosphere in the greenhouse became much lighter. Everyone talked about the children and the interesting things they usually heard. Time passed quickly.


    However, as they chatted, someone realized that something was wrong. Originally, the laughter of the girls outside could be heard from time to time, but at some point, it could no longer be heard.


    Madam Li also sensed this and was about to send a maidservant to take a look when MO Yuan entered through the curtain.


    Everyone recognized that she was the princess¡¯s maidservant and their hearts skipped a beat.


    ¡°Madams, my princess asked me to come and say that she¡¯s brought the ladies to the Qinghui Garden to play. Madams, don¡¯t worry.¡±


    With that, MO Yuan turned around and left without waiting for anyone to react.


    ¡°Qinghui Garden?¡± Madam Xiao asked.


    Madam Li held her forehead. ¡°The courtyard where the princess is temporarily staying.¡±


    ¡°What does the princess want to do?¡±


    The person who asked this turned pale. Her daughter was inside.


    Madam Li had spent some time with Little Jiajia and more or less understood her. She comforted her, ¡®Madam Liu, don¡¯t worry. The princess is just a little playful. She definitely doesn¡¯t have such bad intentions.¡±


    Madam Xiao also said, ¡°Indeed. I¡¯ve seen the princess a few times. She¡¯s a little girl who¡¯s been doted on since she was young. Although she has a temper, she¡¯s still a good child who knows her limits.¡±


    Madam Xiao really felt that Little Jiajia was good. Every time that girl came to look for Ruoshui, she would greet her first. She didn¡¯t put on any airs at all. She would even personally send Ruoshui back.


    In the past, her daughter had been wild when she went out to play. How could she remember to bring her anything? She had only been following the princess these few days. Every time she returned, she would either bring snacks or food. This change naturally had something to do with the princess.


    If not for that, she would not have let Ruoshui go out with the princess every time. Moreover, the princess had even helped Ruoshui get a spot to go to the palace school.


    As for why the princess would be like this today, Madam Xiao could more or less guess the reason.


    It was all because of Heir Song.


    Since the Duchess and Madam Xiao had spoken, no one could do anything about it.


    With this in mind, everyone could not help but be a little distracted.


    About an hour later, a maidservant hurriedly ran in. ¡°Madam, something bad has happened. The princess got someone to throw Eldest Miss Shen out of the residence..¡±

 Chapter 980 - Chapter 980: The Sober Bulwark Duke (1)

    Chapter 980: The Sober Bulwark Duke (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Her words shocked everyone. The madam in the greenhouse could no longer sit still.


    Why did it get to the point of throwing someone out? Then their daughters¡­


    However, that maidservant was only a maidservant outside Qinghui Garden. She had been sent to report at the last minute and did not know what had happened in Qinghui Garden.


    Madam Li was also worried that something would happen to the girls in the residence. She comforted Madam Shen and rushed to Qinghui Garden with the madams.


    In Qinghui Garden, Shen Ruyun, who was wearing a pink dress, shook off the maidservant holding her hand. Thinking that if she was thrown out like this, she would definitely become the laughing stock of the entire Chang¡¯an, she was angry and anxious. She couldn¡¯t care less and said without thinking, ¡°You¡¯re not the master of this residence. What right do you have to chase me out?¡±


    ¡°Because I¡¯m a princess, and you¡¯re just a daughter of a fifth-grade official.¡± Little Jiajia glanced at her. ¡°You seem very discontent.¡±


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s lips trembled.


    ¡°If you¡¯re unhappy, report it to the authorities.¡± Little Jiajia didn¡¯t want to waste her breath on her anymore. She raised her voice and called out, ¡°You Yi.¡±


    You Yi, who was dressed in black, suddenly appeared behind her. Before Shen Ruyun could scream, she was picked up.


    You Yi was not like the maidservants in this residence, who did not dare to use force for fear of hurting someone. No matter how Shen Ruyun screamed and struggled, You Yi carried Shen Ruyun to the courtyard door.


    ¡°Let go of me. Let go of me! This is Great Xia, not your Xuanyuan Kingdom!¡±


    ¡°Quiet.¡± A stern voice sounded. Madam Li and the madams of the various families had arrived. The person who shouted was Madam Shen, who was beside Madam Li.


    Shen Ruyun was stunned. When she came back to her senses, it was as if she had seen a straw to clutch at. She cried without caring about her image,


    ¡°Madam, save me¡­¡±


    Madam Li heard Shen Ruyun¡¯s bold words just now. She frowned unhappily and thought of her good friend. She sighed inwardly and said to You Yi, ¡°Let her go first.¡±


    You Yi didn¡¯t move and only looked at his little master.


    Little Jiajia pursed her lips and nodded reluctantly. She had to show some respect to Madam Li.


    Seeing that she had relented, Madam Li heaved a sigh of relief. Apart from the servants, only Little Jiajia and Shen Ruyun were in the courtyard. She was about to ask where the others had gone when she heard the west wing open with a creak.


    Bi Zhu was the first to come out, followed by the girls, and finally MO Yuan.


    When they approached, they realized that the eyes of some of the girls were red, as if they had been crying, especially the three people walking in the middle. They had clearly changed their clothes and even had bandages on their palms. Madam Li¡¯s heart skipped a beat. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    Her first reaction was to wonder what Little Jiajia had done.


    Thinking about how she had guaranteed their safety in front of the madams just now, apart from feeling apologetic, Madam Li also felt her face hurt.


    The mother of the three injured girls thought so too. Their hearts ached for their daughters, but they did not dare to say anything.


    As if reading their minds, without waiting for anyone to speak, Xiao Ruoshui, who had been holding back her anger, interrupted, ¡°Jiajia brought us to this courtyard to play. Miss Shen said that she didn¡¯t want to play. Since she didn¡¯t want to play, we didn¡¯t force her. We told her to stand further away so that we wouldn¡¯t bump into her. She didn¡¯t want us to have a good time, so she ran over and messed up Sister Shuhui. Tian Tian and Sister Jing happened to be beside Sister Shuhui and were knocked over by her, so Jiajia asked her to apologize. Not only did she not apologize, but she also cried and said that Jiajia had wronged her. What did she mean by wronging her? This courtyard is so big, she could¡¯ve stayed anywhere, but she just had to get in the middle. Besides, Sister


    MO Yuan saw her stretch her legs¡­¡±


    Shen Ruyun couldn¡¯t care less about crying now. She said anxiously, ¡°I didn¡¯t. Shuhui and the other two fell as soon as I walked over. Besides, MO Yuan was so far away at that time. It¡¯s possible that she saw it wrongly¡­¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was furious. ¡°Are you saying that Sister MO Yuan wronged you?


    What¡¯s so amazing about you that Sister MO Yuan would try to do that?¡±


    Shen Ruyun cowered and looked at Little Jiajia timidly. She stammered, ¡°1- I don¡¯t know either¡­


    She was just short of saying that Little Jiajia instructed her to do so.


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t have the patience to argue with her, but she couldn¡¯t beat her up either. She rolled her eyes. ¡°You¡¯re so good at acting. You¡¯ll definitely be the main attraction in a theater in the future.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was super supportive. ¡°Haha, Jiajia, you¡¯re so mean. No matter what, she¡¯s a young lady from a wealthy family. How could she go and perform


    Little Jiajia thought about it seriously. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because she loves it..¡±

 Chapter 981 - Chapter 981: The Sober Bulwark Duke (2)

    Chapter 981: The Sober Bulwark Duke (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Shen Ruyun¡¯s face turned red. ¡°You¡¯re bullying me too much. Madam, believe me, I really didn¡¯t do that.¡±


    After all, she was still young. No matter how she tried to act, she could not help but look guilty.


    That guilty conscience was magnified in the eyes of the madams.


    They had seen too many of Shen Ruyun¡¯s tricks in the back residence. She pretended to be weak, pretended to be aggrieved, shouted that there was a thief, and played the blame game¡­ However, those were all tricks used by concubines. How old was Miss Shen?


    It was common knowledge that Shen Ruyun¡¯s actions were probably related to her biological mother, Madam Chen. They could not help but look at Madam Shen with sympathy.


    It was already pitiful enough for her husband to marry a common wife and suppress her. Moreover, she had no children of her own. Her life in the residence was probably not easy.


    Only women understood women the best in the world.


    After such a thing happened, it wouldn¡¯t be right for the banquet to continue. Madam Li got someone to prepare generous gifts for the guests and personally sent them out.


    ¡°Princess, can I still come and play with you in the future?¡± Seeing that her carriage was right in front of her, the girl called Tian Tian mustered her courage and said. Her eyes were red from crying and were filled with anticipation. She was also a little nervous, as if she was afraid of being rejected. When the other girls heard her words, they looked at Little Jiajia expectantly.


    Little Jiajia pursed her lips and nodded reluctantly.


    The girls instantly beamed with joy. Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s heart ached when she saw this. She snorted and whispered in Little Jiajia¡¯s ear, ¡°You¡¯re too evil. In order not to let them snatch Brother Chen from you, you actually became friends with them first.¡±


    They were already friends. The girls would definitely be too embarrassed to snatch him from her.


    Xiao Ruoshui felt the same way too. If not for that, she wouldn¡¯t have felt so guilty during the banquet.


    ¡°Too bad, too bad.¡± she thought.


    Little Jiajia was stunned for a moment before smiling. ¡°That¡¯s a good idea.¡± Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± Little Jiajia patted her shoulder. ¡°No matter how many playmates I have, you¡¯ll always be the closest to me. No one can surpass you.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui paused, thinking about it. That was more like it. Otherwise, she would have suffered a huge loss.


    Madam Shen was the last to leave. She glanced at Shen Ruyun, who had gotten into the carriage first, and said to Madam Li apologetically, ¡°Ruyun is insensible. I¡¯ve really let Madam down today.¡±


    Madam Li sighed. ¡°You¡¯re always like this. That this matter has nothing to do with you, would I be calculative with a child?¡±


    Madam Shen was a typical southern beauty and had a gentle personality. She smiled bitterly and said, ¡°I brought her here after all.¡±


    ¡°How could I not know what goes on behind the scenes?¡± Madam Li waved her hand to interrupt her. ¡°Then the Shen family¡­ Forget it, you won¡¯t listen even if I tell you.¡±


    She turned around and instructed Bi Zhu, ¡°Bi Zhu, follow the Shen family¡¯s carriage and send Miss Shen back. There¡¯s no need to be in a hurry to return. When Lord Shen is on duty, tell him what happened in the residence today.¡± Madam Shen opened her mouth but hesitated. In the end, she did not say anything.


    She knew that the Duchess was doing this for her own good. She was the one who didn¡¯t stand up for herself.


    As expected, Bi Zhu stayed in the Shen family for more than half a day. When she saw Shen Pingxiu, she first told him about Shen Ruyun¡¯s actions and said that Shen Ruyun had offended the princess badly. On account of Madam Shen, the Duchess did not pursue the matter and gave Shen Ruyun some leeway.


    It need not be mentioned how afraid Shen Pingxiu was, how angry Madam Chen was, and how regretful Shen Ruyun was.


    Little Jiajia solved a big problem and was so happy that she ate two more bowls of rice at noon. When Song Jingchen returned at noon, she happily ran to his courtyard and said that she had made a group of good friends, the kind who wouldn¡¯t snatch her husband away. Then, she mentioned Shen Ruyun and ridiculed her.


    Shi An thought to himself, ¡°The Princess is indeed powerful.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    What a child.


    While she was happy, Madam Li was worried.


    In the evening, the Duke saw her lying on the bed tossing and turning like a pancake. He could not help but ask, ¡°Did vou meet anvone suitable todav?¡± Madam Li originally did not want to disturb his rest, but she really had no idea. Seeing that he had asked, she told him everything that had happened at the banquet. In the end, she said, ¡°The Princess still calls Brother Chen ¡®hubby¡¯ whenever she sees him. I¡¯m afraid she won¡¯t let us arrange a marriage for Brother Chen.¡±


    The Duke smiled and said, ¡°Then let¡¯s put it aside for now. If the princess can really marry into our family, it might be a good thing.¡±


    Madam Li did not ask what was good about it. She hesitated and said, ¡°But Father-in-law¡­


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯ll tell Father myself.¡±


    Madam Li frowned and said suspiciously, ¡°Why do I feel that you already knew that this matter wouldn¡¯t succeed?¡±


    How could he dare to admit it? He laughed and said, ¡°That¡¯s not true. You¡¯ve had a long day today. Go to sleep.¡±


    Madam Li was indeed tired. Since her husband would tell her father-in-law, she stopped worrying and fell asleep soon.


    On the other hand, the Bulwark Duke could not fall asleep.


    He had indeed guessed it. The reason why he did not bring it up before was because he wanted to show Emperor Chong¡¯an that the Song family had done what they needed to do. They could not control anything else.


    Apart from fighting in wars, his father always followed through on everything else. On account of the late emperor¡¯s kindness, he only wanted to follow His Majesty¡¯s wishes as much as possible.


    Little did he know that once the emperor¡¯s suspicion existed, it was like a thorn in his eye. Unless he removed this thorn, nothing he did would help.


    Now, the Song family was the thorn in Emperor Chong¡¯an¡¯s eye. If they did not want to be eliminated, what they had to do was not to reduce their presence, but to let the thorn pierce deeper into his heart and lungs. They had to let the emperor know that this thorn existed, but he could not pull it out.


    As for the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, she was the opportunity for the Song family to make the thorn dig deeper..

 Chapter 982 - Chapter 982: Entering the Palace (1)

    Chapter 982: Entering the Palace (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The next morning, MO Yuan dug Little Jiajia out of bed.


    ¡°Princess, it¡¯s time to get up.¡±


    Little Jiajia did not react.


    MO Yuan was already used to her behavior. She didn¡¯t call her a second time. She only called for a maidservant to help support her and helped her wash up and change her clothes.


    After packing up, Little Jiajia still did not wake up. A maidservant came from outside the door to report that the heir was already waiting.


    After some thought, MO Yuan picked up Little Jiajia, who was still sleeping, and asked the maidservant to carry the food box and follow her.


    At the entrance of the Duke¡¯s residence, Shi An had his hands in his sleeves. When he saw MO Yuan carrying the princess out, he was stunned for a moment. When he reacted, he hurriedly said, ¡°Your Highness, the princess is here.¡±


    After saying that, he went forward solicitously to help lift the curtain. ¡°It¡¯s cold outside. Sister MO Yuan, quickly carry the princess into the carriage. Ah, it doesn¡¯t seem to be convenient for you. Young Master, why don¡¯t you help pick her up?


    ¡°Miss MO Yuan, since the princess isn¡¯t awake yet, why don¡¯t you carry her back first? She won¡¯t be able to listen to class like this.¡±


    Without waiting for MO Yuan to speak, Little Jiajia, who was sleeping soundly, jumped out of her arms. ¡°Oh my, Sister MO Yuan, why didn¡¯t you wake me up?¡±


    As she spoke, she climbed into the carriage and sat obediently beside Song Jingchen. She didn¡¯t forget to smile sweetly at him. ¡°Good morning, Hubby.¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless.


    Shi An was speechless.


    Song Jingchen was silent for a moment. ¡°Have you forgotten what I told you yesterday?¡±


    Little Jiajia tilted her head and thought for a moment before coming to a realization. ¡°Yes, yes. I can¡¯t call you ¡®hubby¡¯ when there are outsiders around.¡± ¡°Good morning, Brother Chen.¡± She changed her words.


    Song Jingchen was speechless. He had clearly explained to her for a long time that intimate titles like ¡°hubby¡± and ¡°wife¡± could only be used by married couples. They weren¡¯t husband and wife, so others would laugh at them if they heard it. Since when did he say that she simply couldn¡¯t call him that when they were outside?


    Little Jiajia thought to herself, ¡°That¡¯s right. Only outsiders will laugh at me. Of course, I can call him that when it¡¯s just the two of us.¡±


    Song Jingchen knew what she was thinking.


    ¡°Forget it, forget it. At least it¡¯s an improvement. I¡¯ll slowly correct it.¡± he thought.


    Little Jiajia did not know what he was thinking. Thinking that she had yet to eat breakfast, she leaned out and gestured for the stunned maidservant to hand her the food box.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s go. We¡¯ll be late if we don¡¯t leave soon.¡±


    She was extremely enthusiastic, as if she wasn¡¯t the one who was lying in MO Yuan¡¯s arms and unwilling to wake up.


    No one said anything about it.


    The palace was an important place. In order not to cause unnecessary trouble, they could not bring servants to the palace school. There were palace maids and eunuchs serving people inside, so Little Jiajia did not let MO Yuan follow them.


    Song Jingchen was already used to it. Seeing how heartless the little girl was, he reminded her worriedly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t run around in the palace. As the princess of the Xuanyuan Kingdom, no one dares to bully you on the surface. I¡¯m afraid that if something really happens, your father won¡¯t be able to do anything.¡±


    Little Jiajia stuffed a pill into her mouth and nodded repeatedly. She said in a muffled voice, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t run around.¡±


    Besides, You Yi was still following her in the dark. What was she afraid of?


    ¡°If someone wants to hurt you, you need to be careful. It¡¯s easy to block an open blade, but difficult to guard against a hidden arrow. I¡¯m just afraid that someone will plot against you.¡±


    This girl had grounded Imperial Concubine Liu and Princess Linghui as soon as she arrived in Great Xia. The other party must hate her.


    If it were anyone else who was so naggy, Little Jiajia would definitely roll her eyes and ask, ¡°Do I look like a fool?¡± But since it was her little husband¡­ She blinked and said seriously, ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re the best.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Apart from you, no one can make me take half-step out of the school. ¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. There was no need to go that far.


    Because Little Jiajia was lazing in bed, when they arrived, the others had already entered the palace. Only Xiao Ruoshui was waiting at the door.


    Seeing that they had finally arrived, she couldn¡¯t help but complain, ¡°Why are you so late? I¡¯ve been waiting for 15 minutes.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so early?¡± Little Jiajia was surprised. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you go in first?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui looked at her resentfully. ¡°I was afraid that you wouldn¡¯t have anyone to accompany you.¡±


    She wouldn¡¯t say that she was a little timid because she wasn¡¯t familiar with the others.


    ¡°Sister Ruoshui is so loyal.¡± Little Jiajia grinned and took out a pine nut candy from the pouch hanging on her waist and stuffed it into her mouth. ¡°Quick, try it. Sister MO Yuan made it for me. It¡¯s very sweet..¡±

 Chapter 983 - Chapter 983: Entering the Palace (2)

    Chapter 983: Entering the Palace (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    She dug out another piece of jerky from another pouch. ¡°And this is also made by Sister MO Yuan. Her jerky is the best.¡±


    The sweet taste spread in her mouth. Xiao Ruoshui pinched a piece of jerky and muttered, ¡°Forget it, I forgive you.¡±


    Little Jiajia covered her mouth and giggled. She untied the two bulging pouches. Just as Xiao Ruoshui thought that she was going to give them to her, she turned around and stuffed the two pouches into Song Jingchen¡¯s hand. ¡°Studying takes a lot of brainpower and makes you hungry easily. These are all for you.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless. What kind of candy was this? It was so sour. She couldn¡¯t forgive this. She definitely couldn¡¯t forgive this!


    ¡°I¡¯m focused on studying. How can I¡­¡± Song Jingchen wanted to teach her a lesson with a straight face, but when he met the little girl¡¯s eyes that reflected his image, he couldn¡¯t say anything harsh. ¡°Forget it, I¡¯ll help you keep it for now. I¡¯ll return it to you later.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to return it to me. Sister MO Yuan was afraid that I¡¯ll be hungry, so she made a lot.¡± As if afraid that he wouldn¡¯t believe her, Little Jiajia took out three similar pouches.


    They were dressed thickly in the winter, so it was impossible to tell anything from the outside even if she stuffed a few more pouches.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Putting aside the fact that men and women studied different things, there were two different classrooms in the palace.


    The men¡¯s classroom was in Mingde Court, which was close to the royal court, while the women¡¯s classroom was in Huilan Court, which was right next to the harem.


    Song Jingchen frowned as he watched the sedan chair carry Little Jiajia towards the back palace.


    He felt that he was not the kind of person who liked to poke his nose into other people¡¯s business. Apart from his blood relatives, he could even be considered cold to others. However, for some reason, he kept making exceptions when facing this little girl.


    If it was someone else who clung to him like her, he would have thrown her out on the first day. There wouldn¡¯t have been anything else after that.


    ¡°Your Highness, are we leaving?¡± The young eunuch carrying the palanquin asked carefully.


    Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and tried his best to ignore the inexplicable worry in his heart. He said calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The sedan chair stopped at the entrance of Huilan Court. Palace maids were waiting there to bring the two of them to the spacious and bright classroom.


    There were eight tables for two in the classroom. The tables were very short and were divided into two columns. There were four rows.


    Apart from the table on the left of the first row, which was only occupied by one person, and a table in the last row, which was empty, the rest of the seats were already filled.


    As soon as the two of them appeared, everyone in the classroom looked over.


    The self-proclaimed bold Xiao Ruoshui was inexplicably a little nervous. The people sitting here were either royal relatives like princesses or noble ladies from noble families. With the current status of the Xiao family, they were far from being able to reach this level. Moreover, her father was a general, and her usual circle of friends did not include these people.


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t think too much about it. She brought Xiao Ruoshui straight to the last row.


    When she passed by the first row, she clearly sensed a malicious gaze. She stopped and turned around. It was the noblewoman sitting alone at the long table. She looked a few years older than her.


    Liu Siyao didn¡¯t have time to look away. Their eyes met and she turned her head away in a panic.


    Little Jiajia tilted her head and walked over. ¡°Who are you?¡±


    She had to know who had ill intentions towards her.


    Liu Siyao trembled. She did not expect Little Jiajia to be so direct. She lowered her head and did not dare to look at her.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± Little Jiajia asked again. Her voice was soft, but it sounded like a demonic voice from hell to Liu Siyao.


    She had seen the injury on Ling Hui¡¯s face with her own eyes. She heard from her aunt that her face had almost been disfigured.


    ¡°She¡¯s Prime Minister Liu¡¯s granddaughter, Liu Siyao, Linghui¡¯s cousin. She¡¯s also Linghui¡¯s study companion. Because Linghui is still grounded, she didn¡¯t come to school.¡± A gloating voice sounded from behind.


    Little Jiajia looked in the direction of the voice. The young lady who spoke stuck out her tongue. ¡°I¡¯m Chang Le. The Eldest Princess is my mother. Princess, you can call me Chang Le.¡±


    Little Jiajia nodded and looked at Liu Siyao in confusion, as if she didn¡¯t understand why she was looking at her like that since she was so timid. ¡°Princess, do you want to sit with me? Let the two of them sit in the back.¡±


    By ¡°them¡±, Chang Le was referring to Xiao Ruoshui and her own study companion.


    ¡°No need. I want to go with Sister Ruoshui.¡± Little Jiajia refused.


    What was so good about sitting in front? It was so close to the Headmaster that it was inconvenient to sleep.


    The smile on Chang Le¡¯s face froze and she did not say anything else..

 Chapter 984 - Chapter 984: Entering the Palace (3)

    Chapter 984: Entering the Palace (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    With this twist, no one dared to openly size up Little Jiajia anymore. This made Xiao Ruoshui heave a sigh of relief. ¡°Jiajia, I won¡¯t pine after Brother Chen anymore.¡±


    Little Jiajia looked at her suspiciously.


    Xiao Ruoshui was not a shy person. She said bluntly, ¡°You chose me instead of Chang Le just now. I¡¯ll also treat you as my best friend. We don¡¯t steal things from each other. Don¡¯t worry, I won¡¯t snatch it from you again.¡±


    Was she touched by her?


    Little Jiajia grinned. ¡°My husband is mine to begin with. It¡¯s useless even if you want to snatch him away.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s eyebrow twitched.


    ¡°That Chang Le doesn¡¯t really want to be on good terms with me,¡± Little Jiajia added.


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t she be? She took the initiative to talk to you and even invited you to sit with her. Isn¡¯t that just another show of goodwill?¡±


    Little Jiajia blinked. ¡°Have you ever heard of the saying that the enemy of an enemy is a friend?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was stunned for a moment before reacting. ¡°You mean that Chang Le doesn¡¯t get along with Princess Linghui and wants to rope you in because she sees that you can suppress Linghui?¡±


    What else could it be? Which noble lady sitting here did not have any arrogance? These people would never be convinced by a foreign princess like her. How could they sincerely befriend her? Even if they were friendly, they had some motive.


    This was the first time Xiao Ruoshui had seen the complexity of people¡¯s hearts. She reminded her softly, ¡°Then you have to stay away from Chang Le in the future. Don¡¯t be used by her. Although the Eldest Princess isn¡¯t in Chang¡¯an, I heard that His Majesty still respects his sister.¡±


    Naturally, she was more concerned about the Eldest Princess¡¯s only daughter than the other daughters of the royal family. Otherwise, how could a Fourth Rank Princess like her have the courage to fight Linghui?


    Little Jiajia rolled her eyes. ¡°Not to that extent. Besides, do I look like someone who can be used by anyone?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true. You¡¯re so smart, I didn¡¯t even see her intentions.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was still nagging and did not realize that Little Jiajia was not in a good mood. She even seemed a little tired after thinking of something.


    The women had to learn the eight elegant arts: zither, chess, books, paintings, poems, wine, flowers, and tea.


    In the morning, the class taught them about books and paintings. However, to Little Jiajia, as long as it wasn¡¯t the zither, everything else was the same. She slept through it.


    This was hard on Xiao Ruoshui. Beside her was a bad student who was openly sleeping. From time to time, the teacher would glance in their direction, scaring her so much that she didn¡¯t dare to move for the next two classes.


    It was not easy for her to endure until school ended. Little Jiajia woke up.


    ¡°Since we¡¯re in school, we should still study hard. We can¡¯t let the instructor down,¡± Xiao Ruoshui persuaded with a long face.


    Even so, she was thinking of something different.


    She was so envious. She wanted to sleep too.


    Little Jiajia rubbed her eyes and nodded in agreement. ¡°You¡¯re right, so you have to study hard and listen carefully. Good luck.¡±


    ¡°Then you¡­¡±


    Little Jiajia joked, ¡°I have a noble title to inherit. I dont have to learn these.¡± Xiao Ruoshui was even more envious.


    Huilan Court had a special kitchen to provide meals for the daughters of the various noble families. They also prepared a room for them to take an afternoon nap. Apart from the princess, who could return to her bedroom to rest, the others were allocated a room for two.


    Little Jiajia was naturally with Xiao Ruoshui. The palace maids had originally wanted to give her a private room, but she didn¡¯t want it. Xiao Ruoshui was extremely touched again.


    In order to express her gratitude, she even specially told her what she had heard. ¡°Mingde Court¡¯s classes ends 15 minutes after ours. If you go and look for Brother Chen now, he should be done with class too. You can also eat with him.¡±


    Little Jiajia thought to herself, ¡°Good lord, I only slept for a while. This girl already has her own sources of information, although this isn¡¯t a secret.¡±


    She immediately abandoned her companion and found a palace maid to bring her to Mingde Court. As for the promise not to run around, she was going to look for her husband.


    Just as Xiao Ruoshui had said, Little Jiajia arrived at the entrance of Mingde Court just as classes ended.


    The eunuch probably knew her. Hearing her intentions, he led the way without a word.


    ¡°The heir should have gone to the room at this time. Princess, please come this way.¡±


    Mingde Court was even larger than Huilan Court. After passing through a courtyard and around a rockery, they finally saw a row of neatly arranged buildings.


    The young eunuch stopped in front of the last room. Just as he raised his hand, the door of the room opened.


    It was Song Jingchen who opened the door.


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes lit up. Just as she opened her mouth, she remembered that Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want her to call him that, so she hurriedly corrected herself. ¡°Brother Chen.¡±


    Song Jingchen clearly didn¡¯t expect her to come. He was stunned for a moment.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    The eunuch leading the way left first.


    ¡°I¡¯m here to eat with you.¡± Little Jiajia craned her neck to look into the room. There was a bed and a desk. It was a simple arrangement. ¡®Why don¡¯t you have anything here?¡±


    The room she was assigned to not only had a dressing table, a soft couch, and a small suite used as a study.


    ¡°It¡¯s just an occasional break. That¡¯s enough.¡± Song Jingchen didn¡¯t let her look. He turned around and closed the door. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Where are you going?¡± Little Jiajia followed.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t eaten yet, have you?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes. Have you eaten?¡±


    ¡°Not yet.¡±


    ¡°Hehe, I knew it. I¡¯ll come and have lunch with you every day in the future.¡±


    ¡°What did you learn in the morning? The teacher taught us about books and paintings today. It¡¯s so boring. As soon as he opened his mouth, I felt sleepy. However, Sister Ruoshui is quite serious in her studies.¡±


    Little Jiajia had a lot to say. Regardless of Song Jingchen¡¯s response, she rambled on alone until she entered a greenhouse. A voice interrupted her. ¡°Hey, Cousin, didn¡¯t you say that you weren¡¯t coming to eat with us today?¡±

 Chapter 985 - Chapter 985: Palm Reading

    Chapter 985: Palm Reading


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the greenhouse, the four of them sat around a round table. The food in front of them had been sent over from Kunning Palace. It looked and smelled great.


    Little Jiajia buried her head in her food and glanced up at the young man opposite her from time to time.


    The young man had a pair of beautiful peach blossom eyes and gentle facial features. His white clothes added to his gentle temperament. It was different from Song Jingchen¡¯s noble temperament. The young man was not aggressive. One would have a good impression of him just by looking at him.


    This young man was none other than the Second Prince, Shangguan Yu, who was placed under the empress¡¯s name.


    ¡°Princess, is there something wrong with my face?¡± Shangguan Yu put down his chopsticks and looked over with a smile.


    He was good-looking to begin with, and his smile was like a spring breeze.


    Little Jiajia was not embarrassed at all. She swallowed the food in her mouth and shook her head seriously. ¡°Nothing wrong. I just think you¡¯re quite good-looking.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused.


    Shangguan Yu was a little embarrassed by the praise. The tips of his ears turned red. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome. I¡¯m telling the truth,¡± Little Jiajia said in a matter-of-fact tone.


    This should be the third time she had seen Shangguan Yu. The first time was when she first came to Great Xia, and the second time was at the palace banquet. However, her thoughts were focused on Song Jingchen the first two times and she didn¡¯t notice anyone else.


    Shangguan Han, who was working hard, looked up and smiled. ¡°Then look at me, Princess. Am I quite good-looking?¡±


    His second brother and cousin had both been praised by the princess. How could he be the only one left? He was not bad either.


    Song Jingchen said in a low voice, ¡°Don¡¯t talk when you¡¯re eating or sleeping. Eat well!¡±


    Little Jiajia immediately agreed. ¡°Yes, eat well.¡± She stopped looking around.


    Shangguan Han was speechless.


    Shangguan Yu was speechless.


    For a moment, no one spoke in the greenhouse. Only the occasional sound of dishes colliding could be heard.


    After dinner, Shangguan Yu got someone to set up the chess game that started the day before the break. He smiled and said, ¡°If we don¡¯t finish it today, I¡¯m afraid I¡¯ll have insomnia again tonight.¡±


    Song Jingchen originally wanted to send Little Jiajia back to Huilan Court first. When he turned around and saw her sitting down on a stool, looking like she wanted to watch the game, he felt an inexplicable desire to win. Shangguan Yu smiled. ¡°I remember that it¡¯s your turn.¡±


    Song Jingchen pursed his lips and reached out to place a piece on the chessboard.


    The two of them sat down for half an hour.


    Song Jingchen won the last chess piece.


    ¡°I lost again.¡± Shangguan Yu looked regretful and joked, ¡°Can¡¯t you let me win this time?¡±


    Song Jingchen opened his mouth to say something, but a sudden voice sounded. ¡°Really? You¡¯re not lying to me?¡±


    The two of them looked in the direction of the voice and realized that Little Jiajia and Shangguan Han, who had been sitting at the side watching the game, had gathered together.


    Perhaps afraid of disturbing them, they each moved a small stool and sat opposite each other in a corner, muttering softly.


    Little Jiajia snorted and let go of Shangguan Han¡¯s hand. She knocked on his hand and said angrily, ¡°If you don¡¯t believe me, forget it.¡±


    Shangguan Han rubbed his head and blushed. He stammered, ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t believe you. It¡¯s just that¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Fifth Brother, Princess, what are you talking about?¡±


    The two of them turned around at the same time and met two pairs of curious gazes.


    Little Jiajia did not react, but Shangguan Han jumped up and ran to the round table. ¡°Second Brother, the princess said that she knows fortune-telling. She was reading my palm just now.¡±


    ¡°Princess, you have such ability?¡± Shangguan Yu seemed very interested. ¡°Then what did you see?¡±


    Thinking that everyone present was on his side, Shangguan Han immediately told her what Little Jiajia had said. ¡°There was originally a calamity in life, but fortunately, with the help of a benefactor, the calamity will turn into nothingness and I¡¯ll finally get what I want.¡±


    ¡°Who is the benefactor?¡± Song Jingchen suddenly asked.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t had the chance to ask.¡± Shangguan Han looked at Little Jiajia, who had regrouped beside his cousin.


    Little Jiajia grinned and pointed a finger at herself. ¡°Of course it¡¯s me.¡±


    Song Jingchen and Shangguan Han were speechless. She really knew how to flatter herself.


    Little Jiajia raised her chin, indicating that she was telling the truth.


    Shangguan Yu found it funny. ¡°I¡¯ve met a divination master among the commoners in the past. I¡¯m very curious. Princess, can you show me too?¡± He reached out to Little Jiajia.


    Little Jiajia blinked and grabbed his hand, pulling it in front of her.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s gaze landed on their hands and he frowned.


    Fortunately, Little Jiajia quickly let go, and Song Jingchen¡¯s brows relaxed. Unfortunately, everyone¡¯s attention was on Little Jiajia, so they didn¡¯t notice this.


    ¡°A thought of kindness saves oneself. A thought of evil repays oneself. One wrong step leads to another. Unfortunately, it¡¯s too late to regret it.¡± Little Jiajia had an unfathomable expression. She shook her head and sighed. After saying that, she even tiptoed and patted Shangguan Yu¡¯s slightly stiff shoulder. She said earnestly, ¡°It¡¯s not too late to be kind now.¡±


    ¡°Go in. I¡¯ll wait for you at the palace gate after school.¡±


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t move. She tilted her head and asked him, ¡°You¡¯ll believe me, right?¡±


    Song Jingchen knew that she was referring to what had happened just now. Ah Yu didn¡¯t say anything, but Ah Han was so angry that he almost cried. He said that she was spouting nonsense.


    Meeting the little girl¡¯s hopeful gaze, Song Jingchen nodded. ¡°Yes.¡±


    Little Jiajia instantly smiled. ¡°I knew it.¡±


    There was only one zither lesson in the afternoon. Fortunately, Little Jiajia had slept well in the morning. She was not sleepy even if she did not rest at noon. Otherwise, she would have smashed someone¡¯s zither when the room was filled with demonic sounds.


    Coupled with the fact that she was in a good mood, not only did she not feel frustrated, but she also joined the demonic sound camp. Her fingers flew around, playing the zither until it clanged. It even drowned out the sound of the others¡¯ zithers.


    ¡°Clang, clang, clang, clang-


    Everyone was angry but did not dare to say anything.


    The day¡¯s classes finally ended. Little Jiajia ignored the resentful gazes of the young ladies and happily left the classroom with the green-faced Xiao Ruoshui.


    She was the closest to Little Jiajia and had suffered the most from the demonic sound. After this incident, she did not cut ties with Little Jiajia. It was all her fault for being too kind.


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t know how touched she was. After leaving the palace, Xiao


    Ruoshui got into her carriage and left first. Song Jingchen didn¡¯t appear either.


    ¡°Princess, are you waiting for Heir Song?¡±


    Little Jiajia turned around. She had seen the person before. He seemed to be the fourth son of the emperor of Great Xia.


    ¡°Fourth Prince?¡±


    The young man smiled. ¡°My name is Shangguan Yao. I¡¯m a year younger than you. You can call me Ah Yao directly.¡±


    ¡°Oh.¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s expression was cold.


    Shangguan Yao was a little angry. He thought of something and endured it. He continued, ¡°Princess, you¡¯re waiting for Heir Song, right? My father is taking a look at fifth brother¡¯s homework in Mingde Court and called Heir Song over. He might not be able to come out so soon.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I send you back first?¡±


    Little Jiajia found it strange. This person was even younger than her, but he said that he would send her back? Was he going to send her back later?


    ¡°No need. I¡¯ll wait for him in the carriage.¡±


    The carriage from the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence had already arrived. However, she did not get into the carriage because she wanted to see her young husband first.


    Shangguan Yao was not a good-tempered person to begin with. Seeing that Little Jiajia did not humor him, he threw the Eldest Prince¡¯s words to the back of his mind and left angrily.


    Little Jiajia snorted. ¡°You¡¯re unaccountably solicitous. You must be up to something..¡±

 Chapter 986 - Chapter 986: Sending Soup

    Chapter 986: Sending Soup


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The cold wind was biting, and it hurt his face. Song Jingchen tightened his cloak and saw a carriage parked at the entrance of the palace from afar. There was a four-sided lamp hanging at the front of the carriage, and the word Song was reflected on it.


    ¡°Your Highness.¡± Seeing him come out, the coachman perked up and bowed.


    Song Jingchen sent the eunuch leading the way away and nodded. ¡®You¡¯ve worked hard.¡±


    The coachman waved his hand repeatedly. ¡°It¡¯s not difficult. The princess is still waiting for you inside.¡±


    When the coachman said this, Song Jingchen had already gotten into the carriage and saw the person sleeping soundly inside.


    Song Jingchen was stunned. He specially sent someone out to greet her, thinking that this girl had already gone back.


    ¡°I originally wanted to send the princess back before picking you up, but the princess insisted on waiting for you to come out,¡± the coachman explained. ¡°Let¡¯s go back to the residence first.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his voice and got into the carriage to lower the curtain to prevent the cold wind from entering the carriage.


    As soon as he entered, she realized that the charcoal stove in the car had been turned off at some point. It was not much warmer than outside.


    ¡°What nonsense.¡± Song Jingchen scolded with a straight face, but he didn¡¯t hesitate at all. He quickly took off his cloak and draped it over Little Jiajia.


    Her hand inadvertently brushed past Little Jiajia¡¯s cheek. Feeling the coldness on it, his fingertips trembled and he felt a trace of guilt.


    The cloak was still warm when he took it off. The little girl seemed to sense it and shrank into it, burying her face in it.


    Song Jingchen blushed for some reason. That was the cloak he had worn.


    The Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was on Xuanwu Street. Other than Vermillion Bird Street, it was the closest area to the palace. Even so, the carriage traveled for nearly half an hour.


    Song Jingchen asked the coachman to drive the carriage straight to the entrance of Qinghui Garden. Just as he was hesitating if he should wake Little Jiajia up, the coachman greeted MO Yuan.


    ¡°Miss MO Yuan is here to pick up the princess, right? The princess is in the carriage.¡±


    Song Jingchen retracted his hand and lifted the curtain. ¡°You came at the right time. The princess is asleep. Carry her in.¡±


    MO Yuan glanced at him and noticed the cloak covering her princess. She paused for a moment and got into the car to carry her away without a word.


    Song Jingchen frowned. It was understandable that the little girl was young and insensible, but why didn¡¯t this maidservant look reliable?


    Her master came back so late, but she didn¡¯t even ask what happened. She wasn¡¯t in a hurry at all.


    Additionally, if she was reliable, she wouldn¡¯t have let the little girl come to Chang¡¯an alone.


    He still remembered the first time he saw the little girl. She was still wearing thin autumn clothes on a cold day, and her hair was messy like a beggar¡¯s. He wondered how much she had suffered along the way.


    ¡°Heir Song, Madam instructed someone to send ginger soup over,¡± Shi An reminded him.


    Song Jingchen came back to his senses and realized that a bowl of ginger soup had appeared in front of him. He picked it up and finished it in one gulp. He instructed awkwardly, ¡°Get the kitchen to send a bowl to the princess too.¡±


    It was unknown how long that girl had slept in the carriage. It wouldn¡¯t be


    good for her to catch a cold.


    MO Yuan was so unreliable that she definitely wouldn¡¯t consider this. After thinking about it, he was still worried. What if MO Yuan didn¡¯t wake the little girl up and let her continue sleeping? He reminded someone to send dinner over.


    When MO Yuan saw it, she would figure out that the little girl was still hungry. She would wake her up for dinner, right?


    Shi An chuckled foolishly. ¡°The heir is so considerate. I¡¯ll go now.¡±


    After saying that, he did not give her master a chance to flare up and scold him. He picked up the empty bowl and ran away. He was in a hurry and almost bumped into the man coming towards her.


    ¡°Why are you in such a hurry?¡±


    Hearing this voice, Shi An was shocked and quickly knelt down. ¡°Duke.¡±


    Duke Song was dressed in a black brocade robe. He was tall and had cold eyes. Even though he was already in his thirties, it did not hide his elegance.


    Time seemed to have given him special treatment, not leaving much of a mark on his face.


    Duke Song frowned slightly. ¡°It¡¯s so late at night. Where are you going in such a hurry?¡±


    Shi An thought that it was not something shameful. He was about to explain his master¡¯s instructions when a voice interrupted him.


    ¡°Father.¡±


    Duke Song glanced at his son. This kid was still as mischievous as a wild monkey a few years ago. For some reason, he had become more and more like an adult in the past two years. Sometimes, even he, as a father, felt anxious.


    However, the look that flashed across his face just now was guilt, right?


    Duke Song was a little interested, but then he remembered that he had to humor his eldest son. He didn¡¯t ask further and walked into the study.


    Song Jingchen heaved a sigh of relief. He waved at Shi An and turned to follow.


    On Qinghui Garden¡¯s side, Little Jiajia and MO Yuan were ¡°competing¡± over a bowl of ginger soup.


    ¡°Princess, your health is more important. You should drink the ginger soup.¡± MO Yuan looked helplessly at the bulges in the blanket on the bed.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. Hurry up and take that choking thing away!¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s muffled voice came from the blankets, her tone filled with resistance.


    MO Yuan sighed and sat down by the bed. ¡°Princess, as long as you drink this bowl of ginger soup, I¡¯ll cook anything you want.¡±


    The bump moved. Little Jiajia stuck her head out of the blanket and blinked.


    ¡°You¡¯re not going to make it if I don¡¯t drink it?¡± MO Yuan was speechless. Of course, she had to do it.


    ¡°I¡¯m not drinking it. Take it away.¡±


    ¡°Princess!¡±


    ¡°Sister MO Yuan, don¡¯t you know how good my body is? I only slept in the carriage today. How can I fall sick so easily?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s better to be safe than sorry. Have you forgotten how you fell into the ice hole back then¡­¡± MO Yuan paused halfway through her sentence. When she looked at Little Jiajia, there was no longer a smile on her face. Her heart ached as she said, ¡°If His Highness was here, he would definitely¡­¡±


    Little Jiajia snorted and turned around to look at her. ¡°My father isn¡¯t here, is


    MO Yuan knew that her words had reminded her princess of something bad. It was probably impossible for her to make her drink the ginger soup now. She sighed and was about to leave.


    At this moment, a maidservant reported from outside the door, ¡°Miss MO Yuan, the main kitchen has sent ginger soup and dinner to the princess.¡±


    MO Yuan was stunned. She looked at the leftovers and ginger soup in her hand that she had yet to collect. She looked up and met Little Jiajia¡¯s angry face. She subconsciously said, ¡°I didn¡¯t instruct them to do that.¡±


    She knew how much the princess hated drinking ginger soup or medicine. How could she ask the kitchen to send another bowl over when one bowl was already too much?


    Little Jiajia clearly didn¡¯t believe her.


    MO Yuan was helpless and simply let the delivery man in. Without letting them open the food box, she asked, ¡°Who asked you to send it over?¡±


    Little Jiajia was going to the palace school. MO Yuan wanted to make some snacks for her from time to time, so she started the fire in the small kitchen in Qinghui Garden. She also made Little Jiajia¡¯s meals herself, so she didn¡¯t ask the main kitchen to send them over.


    The old woman looked at the plates on the table and guessed that the princess had already eaten. When she heard MO Yuan¡¯s question, she replied truthfully, ¡°It¡¯s Shi An, who¡¯s by the heir¡¯s side. He said that the heir instructed him to do so. ¡±


    MO Yuan looked tentatively in the direction of the inner room. Seeing that there was no movement, she sighed again. ¡°The princess has already eaten. Take it back and share it with your subordinates. As for the ginger soup¡­ take it back too.¡±


    Before she could finish, Little Jiajia ran over. ¡°Did my husband really ask you to send it over?¡±


    Many people in the residence had heard Little Jiajia call Song Jingchen her husband, but the old woman was obviously an exception. She was stunned for a moment before reacting. She quickly lowered her head and said respectfully, ¡°Yes, it was instructed by the heir.¡±


    Little Jiajia was delighted. ¡°Hurry up and bring it out. I¡¯ll drink it.¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless. If she had known that Heir Song was so useful, she wouldn¡¯t have spent so much effort just now..

 Chapter 987 - Chapter 987: Protection

    Chapter 987: Protection


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the study, Duke Song looked at his eldest son, who had just reached his chest in height. Seeing his serious expression, he reached out and patted the top of his head. ¡°You¡¯re still young. Don¡¯t think too much.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt awkward. ¡°I¡¯m no longer a child. Even if Father and Grandfather didn¡¯t say it, I could tell that that person couldn¡¯t tolerate our


    Song family.¡±


    Duke Song was stunned. That¡¯s right. This brat had suddenly become a different person. He no longer attracted cats and played with dogs. It seemed to be after his father handed over his military power.


    He did not know if he was relieved or sad that his son was so smart. He sighed and said, ¡°Your grandfather and I are here for everything.¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t answer. He asked in confusion, ¡°Father, are you here for anything else today?¡±


    Duke Song was silent. He originally wanted to remind his eldest son to get along well with the princess, but seeing that his son was so sensible, he suddenly changed his mind.


    It was good that his son liked the princess. If he didn¡¯t like her, as her father, he couldn¡¯t sacrifice the rest of his son¡¯s life for other purposes.


    He sat down in front of the desk. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I heard from your mother that you¡¯ve been leaving early and returning late every day these days, so I came to see you.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt that his father wasn¡¯t telling the truth, but he didn¡¯t pursue the matter. He cupped his hands and said, ¡°It¡¯s my fault. I¡¯ve troubled Father and Mother.¡¯


    It was still early, so High Duke Song decided to test his son¡¯s studies.


    The father and son chatted for nearly an hour.


    Before leaving, Duke Song thought of something and said, ¡°I¡¯ve told your mother that there¡¯s no hurry to get engaged. We¡¯ll talk about it when you meet a girl you like.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s cold, so don¡¯t come out. Don¡¯t stay up late to study either. Rest early.¡± Duke


    Song patted his shoulder. ¡°As I said, your grandfather and I are here.¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    High Duke Song did not say anything else. When he turned around, the relaxed expression on his face disappeared, replaced by a solemn expression.


    Previously, although he had handed in the commander¡¯s seal, the generals in the army were still old subordinates of the Song family¡¯s army. However, recently, Emperor Chong¡¯an clearly could not sit still. He actually planned to make those generals surrender openly and covertly. What else did he want to do in the future?


    He had to think about his family. If Emperor Chong¡¯an really wanted to kill them all as soon as possible¡­


    Duke Song¡¯s eyes turned cold. The crown prince was also orthodox.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know what his father was thinking. Perhaps because he mentioned his marriage, he had a dream that night.


    The Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence was decorated with lanterns and banners. Guests filled the door, and congratulations sounded one after another.


    He saw his grandfather, father, mother, Sister Huan, Brother Hao, and the bride with a veil. All of them were smiling.


    However, the festive scene instantly shattered. The red color was replaced by white. Her father and grandfather were gone. There were two thin coffins in the main hall. Her mother and siblings knelt in front of the mourning hall and cried their hearts out.


    He felt panic. Perhaps he had already guessed who was lying in the thin coffin, but he didn¡¯t want to admit it.


    He wanted to rush up and take a look, but his feet seemed to have taken root and he could not move at all. He wanted to roar, but he could not make a sound. He could only watch as her mother cried until she fainted and woke up again.


    ¡°Hubby.¡± A sobbing voice sounded behind him. He suddenly turned his head.


    Although his face could not be seen clearly, he knew that it was his new wife. Everything was covered in white, she was the only one wearing red.


    ¡°Hubby-¡±


    The cries of his mother and sister-in-law gradually faded away. Only this ¡°hubby¡± continued. It became clearer and clearer, as if it was whispering in his ear.


    It wasn¡¯t a dream. Someone was really crying.


    Song Jingchen opened his eyes in a daze and turned his head in the direction of the voice. Under the weak moonlight, he saw a black figure suddenly sitting beside him.


    Her hair was loose and covered her face, making it impossible to see her face.


    ¡°Hubby.¡±


    Before Song Jingchen could calm down from the nightmare, his heart suddenly trembled. He rolled around and hugged the blanket to hide in the bed. His scalp went numb.


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re finally awake.¡± Seeing that he was awake, Little Jiajia burped happily and aggrievedly.


    Under the double fear, Song Jingchen¡¯s face turned pale and his heart pounded. When he heard this voice, he came back to his senses and heaved a sigh of relief. Then, he rubbed his temples with a headache. ¡°Why are you here so late at night?¡±


    Little Jiajia did not answer. She only looked at him with teary eyes. ¡°Hubby, I¡¯m so cold.¡±


    With that, she crawled into bed on her hands and knees, pulled the blanket over her, and covered herself.


    Song Jingchen was so frightened by her actions that he jumped up. His eyes adapted to the darkness and he finally realized that something was wrong. This girl was only wearing her undergarments.


    ¡°Nonsense. You¡¯re not even wearing clothes. What if you catch a cold?¡±


    He was extremely anxious, but he was afraid of waking up the night watchmen. At that time, this girl would lose all her reputation. He could only try his best to keep his voice low.


    Little Jiajia sniffed. ¡°I¡¯m under the blanket. I won¡¯t catch a cold.¡±


    This was her husband¡¯s bed, her husband¡¯s pillow, and her husband¡¯s bed. It was very warm.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Nonsense. This is my bed. You¡¯re a girl. Please get up.¡±


    Little Jiajia pursed her lips. ¡°But I¡¯m cold.¡±


    Song Jingchen was in a difficult position.


    ¡°Hubby, come in quickly. Don¡¯t catch a cold.¡± Little Jiajia lifted a corner of the blanket and patted the seat beside her, indicating for him to lie down quickly.


    ¡°How improper¡­ How can you¡­¡±


    Seeing that he was standing there without moving, Little Jiajia cried again.


    She sniffled quietly.


    Song Jingchen gritted his teeth. ¡°Why are you crying?


    ¡°I had a nightmare just now.¡±


    Song Jingchen was stunned. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I dreamed that you were killed.¡± Little Jiajia sounded sad.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s heart tightened. ¡°Who is it?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember. You were covered in blood. I couldn¡¯t wake you up no matter how hard I tried.¡±


    Was it because of a dream that she disregarded her health and came to look for him at night?


    Song Jingchen was a little touched. He softened his voice and coaxed her, ¡°It was just a dream. I¡¯m fine.¡± She sniffled quietly.


    ¡°Stop crying.¡±


    Little Jiajia continued to sob.


    Song Jingchen had no choice but to sit down. He reached out and patted her gently to comfort her through the blanket. He remembered that his brother or sister cried. This was how his mother coaxed them.


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯m really fine. Don¡¯t cry.¡±


    It was probably the first time he¡¯d done such a thing. His movements were stiff.


    Little Jiajia looked at him with wet eyes. ¡°You¡¯re fine now, but that doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯ll be fine in the future.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt that something was wrong, but he just wanted to coax her as soon as possible. He subconsciously said, ¡°Don¡¯t I still have you? You¡¯re so powerful, you definitely won¡¯t let anyone harm me.¡±


    As soon as he realized what he had said, he almost bit the tip of his tongue.


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡®You¡¯re right. With me around, I¡¯ll definitely protect you. Don¡¯t be afraid.¡±


    Song Jingchen wanted to refute. When had he ever said that he was afraid?


    ¡°Hubby, you¡¯re so lucky.¡± Little Jiajia suddenly sighed.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t understand why the topic had changed to him being lucky.


    ¡°With a wife like me, who is skilled in martial arts, extremely smart, and has a pure heart, and looks like a Heaven Immortal, don¡¯t you think you¡¯ve benefited greatly? Your blessings are yet to come.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless. She was really good at praising herself.


    Little Jiajia was not done yet. In order to prove how smart and powerful she was, she started from the moment she was born. She was actually strong. When she was three years old, she solved several unsolved cases with her father. In fact, it was Xuanyuan Ce who solved the cases. She slept in his arms. In the end, she said how many people liked her. She was a noble princess. Who dared to dislike her?


    In short, Song Jingchen had burned countless incense sticks in his previous life to get her to be his wife.


    Song Jingchen was speechless. He didn¡¯t know anything else, but this girl¡¯s ability to talk to herself was indeed incredible.


    Also, how did she conclude that he would definitely marry her in the future?


    The voice in his ear became softer and softer until it disappeared. Song Jingchen stuck his head out and realized that the little girl had fallen asleep. There was a faint smile on her lips.


    Song Jingchen suddenly felt his face heat up. This girl was in his room, resting on his pillow and under his blanket.


    However, he was only shy for a short while. He calmly got out of bed and took a cloak that he had never worn before. He wrapped Little Jiajia from head to toe and coughed lightly. ¡°You¡¯re here, right?¡±


    No one replied.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t mind and continued, ¡°Hurry up and bring your princess back.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, a man in black appeared in the room. Song Jingchen thought to himself, ¡°As expected.¡±


    You Yi didn¡¯t talk to him. He picked up Little Jiajia and disappeared.


    If not for the warmth on the bed and the faint fragrance that didn¡¯t belong to him, Song Jingchen would have suspected that everything that had happened just now was an illusion.


    As if no one cried and came looking for him at night because of a nightmare, let alone bragged about protecting him..

 Chapter 988 - Chapter 988: Yuan Yuwan (1)

    Chapter 988: Yuan Yuwan (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    In the blink of an eye, it was early November. It was another day off. Early in the morning, two carriages slowly drove out of the Duke¡¯s Residence and headed for the Hidden Spirit Temple outside the city.


    The Hidden Spirit Temple was one of the top monasteries in Great Xia. It was built against a mountain and occupied an extremely large area. Usually, there was an endless stream of devotees. On a big day like the 15th day of the New Year, it was even more lively.


    The carriage could only travel halfway up the mountain. Further ahead, the mountain path was rugged. Carriages couldn¡¯t enter, so they could only change to a sedan chair.


    The coachman deftly set down the stairs.


    Little Jiajia was the first to jump out of the carriage. Madam Li was helped down by Bi Zhu.


    Today, Madam Xiao also brought Xiao Ruoshui along. Apart from her, Madam Li also arranged to meet Madam Shen. Coincidentally, the three carriages arrived at the same time and they went up the mountain together.


    The sedan chair had been arranged a day ago. After walking for about half an hour, they arrived at the top of the mountain.


    She looked up at the mountain gate. It was carved from white jade and was right in the middle of the Hidden Spirit Temple¡¯s three words.


    How much was this worth?


    She naturally came to the Hidden Spirit Temple to offer incense. Little Jiajia patiently followed everyone to pray to Buddha and went to the back to pray to the Guanyin. After paying the incense money, the novice monk led her to the room to rest.


    It was so lively here. Little Jiajia expressed that she was not tired at all, nor did she want to rest.


    As if seeing the restlessness in her heart, Madam Li reminded her, ¡°There are many devotees today. Princess, you have to be careful. Be careful not to bump into anyone.¡±


    Did this mean that she could play by herself?


    Little Jiajia smiled, revealing her teeth. Her eyes curved. ¡°I know.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was very envious. ¡°Mother¡­ ¡±


    Madam Xiao was a little worried.


    ¡°Auntie Xiao, I¡¯ll definitely protect Sister Ruoshui.¡± Little Jiajia almost patted her chest and promised.


    What else could Madam Xiao say? She could only nod in agreement.


    ¡°Go on then, come back early. We¡¯ll have lunch later. We¡¯ll go back after lunch.¡± Since they had come to the Hidden Spirit Temple, they naturally had to eat a vegetarian meal.


    Little Jiajia and Xiao Ruoshui looked at each other and smiled. The two sisters left the room hand in hand. Madam Li instructed someone to follow and keep an eye on them.


    Madam Shen¡¯s gaze followed the two of them, and a hint of disappointment appeared in her eyes. ¡°If I had a daughter, she would be this old.¡±


    After saying that, she thought of something and shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s good that you don¡¯t have it. Otherwise, I¡¯m afraid I wouldn¡¯t be able to protect you.¡± Madam Li frowned and felt that there was something wrong with Madam Shen today.


    Madam Shen seemed to sigh. Soon, a smile appeared on her face again. She looked at Madam Li and said seriously, ¡°Madam, I want a divorce.¡± Madam Li was shocked.


    Madam Shen walked up to her and slowly knelt down. ¡°Please help me,


    Madam.¡±


    The Hidden Spirit Temple was indeed a large monastery. The further they went, the more people there were. Wherever there were people, there would be business opportunities. The abbot was easy to talk to and specially left a space for everyone to do business. Apart from the lack of meat, it was almost as big as a regular market.


    Little Jiajia walked all the way.


    She picked out some things that she could give to her husband. She kept talking about things that were good, and how her husband would definitely like it. Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s ears were about to pop.


    Just as she was about to complain, Little Jiajia pulled her to a stop in front of a clay figurine stall.


    Yes, she wanted to make a small figurine and give her to her little husband.


    ¡°Hehe, when my husband arrives later, I¡¯ll bring him over. At that time, I¡¯ll get Uncle to make one of him.¡±


    Fan Mingyuan was also on leave today. Song Jingchen said that he wanted to pick him up, so they didn¡¯t go together.


    Xiao Ruoshui was speechless.


    ¡°If you can¡¯t defeat your enemies, then join them.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui waved her hand generously. ¡°Boss, give me one too.¡± Meeting


    Little Jiajia¡¯s puzzled gaze, she said proudly, ¡°I want to give it to Brother


    Mingyuan.¡±


    ¡°When Brother Mingyuan arrives later, I¡¯ll bring him along too.¡±


    Little Jiajia laughed so hard that she almost couldn¡¯t straighten her back.


    Xiao Ruoshui felt uncomfortable from her laughter. She turned her head and vaguely saw a familiar figure. ¡°Eh, isn¡¯t that Xiao Qirui?¡±


    ¡°Your brother? Where is he?¡± Little Jiajia had heard Xiao Ruoshui mention this person, but she had never seen him before.


    Xiao Ruoshui pointed in a direction, but the young man she had seen just now had long disappeared.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go and look.¡± Xiao Ruoshui knew that her brother had gone out early in the morning, but she didn¡¯t expect him to come to the Hidden Spirit Temple.


    ¡°What about the pottery man?¡± Little Jiajia was in a difficult position.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that simple?¡± Xiao Ruoshui was afraid that Xiao Qirui would be even more difficult to find if he walked far away, so she casually pointed at a maidservant. ¡°Wait here. When the pottery man is done, take the clay figurines and return to the room. Also, tell my mother that I saw Xiao Qirui..¡±

 Chapter 989 - Chapter 989: Yuan Yuwan (2)

    Chapter 989: Yuan Yuwan (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    With that, she pulled Little Jiajia into the crowd. MO Yuan hurriedly followed.


    However, it was not easy to find someone in Hidden Spirit Temple. The few of them walked for about half an hour, but they did not find Xiao Qirui. Instead, they walked further and further away.


    ¡°Could you have seen it wrongly?¡± Little Jiajia looked around. This should be the back mountain of the Hidden Spirit Temple. There were only a few halls offering Buddha, and there was no one else around. It was much more desolate than before.


    ¡°Impossible. That must be Xiao Qirui,¡± Xiao Ruoshui said firmly.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s look again.¡±


    ¡°Miss Xiao?¡± A voice sounded beside her.


    The few of them looked over and saw a maidservant about the same age as MO Yuan. She was standing in the opposite corridor and looking over, as if she was confirming something.


    When she saw Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s face clearly, she was delighted and jogged over. ¡°Miss Xiao, it¡¯s really you. I thought I was seeing things.¡±


    ¡°You Bai, why are you here?¡± Xiao Ruoshui slapped her forehead. ¡°If you¡¯re here, then Sister Yuwan must be here too.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Miss came to the Hidden Spirit Temple to chant scriptures and pray for the old master. Just now, I went to help Miss deliver the Buddhist scriptures she copied.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve lived here with Miss for three days. I was about to go down the mountain today when I happened to meet Miss Xiao.¡±


    Without needing Xiao Ruoshui to ask, You Bai finished explaining everything.


    ¡°Then we can go down the mountain together later. Where is Sister Yuwan now? Hurry up and bring me there.¡±


    You Bai led the way.


    Xiao Ruoshui introduced her to Little Jiajia in a low voice. ¡°Sister Yuwan is the eldest daughter of the Yuan family. She¡¯s three years older than me and has been engaged to my brother since a very young age. She¡¯s my future sister-in-law.¡±


    ¡°Childhood sweethearts.¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes lit up with excitement. ¡°You said that you saw your brother just now, and Miss Yuan is here. Could it be that they made an appointment?¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui thought for a moment and shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. My brother is more of a blockhead, and Sister Yuwan is very well-behaved. The two of them don¡¯t meet.¡± It was even more impossible for her to secretly date without telling her family.


    Little Jiajia could not understand.


    As the two of them spoke, they had already followed You Bai into a side hall. In the middle was also a benevolent-looking Buddha statue. In front of the Buddha statue, a graceful girl knelt quietly on a futon and muttered something.


    You Bai raised a finger and made a shushing gesture. Xiao Ruoshui and Little Jiajia stopped talking.


    After waiting for a while, Little Jiajia almost suspected that the girl in front of her had fallen asleep. The girl finally opened her eyes and kowtowed deeply to the Buddha statue.


    You Bai quickly went forward and helped her up. ¡°Miss, Miss Xiao is here.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan turned around and smiled when she saw the person behind her.


    She called out to Sister Ruoshui and bowed to Little Jiajia. ¡°Greetings, Princess.¡±


    Little Jiajia blinked, feeling inexplicably sour.


    It was different from the joy she felt when she first saw her little husband, nor was it like the sudden good impression she had of Xiao Ruoshui. Looking at Miss Yuan, her heart ached even more.


    She knew that all of this stemmed from the dreams she had. It was clearly her first time in Great Xia, but she was very familiar with everything here.


    Xiao Ruoshui did not notice that something was wrong with Little Jiajia. She went forward and held Yuan Yuwan¡¯s arm. She chuckled. ¡°How did Sister Yuwan know that this is a princess? I haven¡¯t introduced her yet.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you write to me and tell me? Although I don¡¯t go out often, I still Imow the noble ladies in the capital. This girl looks unfamiliar. She must be the princess.¡±


    As Yuan Yuwan spoke, she looked at Little Jiajia and noticed the sadness on her face. She asked with concern, ¡°Princess, what¡¯s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?¡±


    Little Jiajia shook her head. ¡°No, I just feel that you¡¯re very close to me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll follow Ruoshui and call you Sister Yuwan. Don¡¯t call me princess anymore.


    Just call me Jiajia.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She smiled and said, ¡°Alright, Jiajia.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui was very satisfied that the two of them could get along well. She thought of something and hurriedly said, ¡°My mother is also here today. She¡¯ll definitely be very happy to see Sister Yuwan.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan nodded. ¡°You should pay your respects to Auntie.¡±


    As they spoke, they walked forward again. As for looking for her brother, Xiao Ruoshui had forgotten about it, so Little Jiajia wouldn¡¯t care.


    No one noticed that behind the Buddha statue stood a young man in an indigo brocade robe.


    After their conversation faded away, the young man walked out.


    If Xiao Ruoshui was here, she would have recognized him.. Wasn¡¯t this her brother, whom she had been looking for for a long time?

 Chapter 990 - Chapter 990: Yuan Yuwan (3)

    Chapter 990: Yuan Yuwan (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    It turned out that there was a small courtyard behind this side hall. Behind the Buddha statue was a corner door to the small courtyard.


    Xiao Qirui was originally talking to his good friend in the courtyard. He felt bored and walked around casually. Unexpectedly, as soon as he walked into the side hall, he heard the girl¡¯s low pleading voice.


    Men and women had to keep their distance. He was about to leave when he heard his sister¡¯s voice.


    Naturally, he also knew that the girl who had knelt down and prayed sincerely for her family¡¯s health was his fianc¨¦e, whom he had never seen before.


    ¡°Qirui, why are you in a daze here?¡± A young man in embroidered clothes patted Xiao Qirui¡¯s shoulder. He followed his gaze and saw nothing.


    Xiao Qirui came back to his senses and wanted to say that he was fine. He recalled the girl he had seen just now and coughed lightly. ¡°I think I saw my sister just now. I think my mother came to the Hidden Spirit Temple too. I¡¯ll go over and take a look.¡±


    The young man in embroidered clothes did not suspect anything.


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m sending my mother down the mountain. You don¡¯t have to wait for me.¡±


    ¡°Got it. Go quickly.¡±


    On the other side of the room, Madam Li and the other two chatted for a while. They waited for Little Jiajia to return, but Song Jingchen and Fan Mingyuan arrived first.


    Coincidentally, the young maidservant who had been arranged by Xiao Ruoshui to wait for the figurines also entered. She heard that Xiao Qirui had also come to the Hidden Spirit Temple, so Xiao Ruoshui went to look for him.


    Madam Xiao said helplessly, ¡°This girl makes me worry.¡±


    She even nagged at Xiao Qirui a few times. The older he grew, the more ideas he had. He never told his family where he went.


    Song Jingchen looked at the two potters placed on the table by the maidservant. His fingertips moved slightly. He thought for a moment and said,


    ¡°Brother Fan and I will go out and look for them.¡±


    Madam Li glanced at her son and smiled. ¡°There are so many people outside. Where are you going to find them? If Jiajia and Ruoshui don¡¯t come back, we¡¯ll have to send someone to look for the two of you.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s wait a little longer. It¡¯s lunchtime soon. The two children should be back soon.¡±


    Song Jingchen could only wait in the next room with Fan Mingyuan.


    Madam Li¡¯s guess was right. The few of them returned before lunch, and Yuan Yuwan was also included.


    Yuan Yuwan greeted them one by one.


    Madam Xiao was undoubtedly satisfied with her future daughter-in-law and showed her concern.


    Madam Li thought to herself for a moment.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that you saw your brother? Why didn¡¯t he come with you?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t find him.¡± Xiao Ruoshui took a sip of tea and finally felt warm. She curled her lips and said, ¡°Maybe I saw it wrongly.¡±


    After saying that, she blinked at Yuan Yuwan. ¡°Forget about him. Didn¡¯t I bring your future daughter-in-law here?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan blushed. She thought of something and quickly explained, ¡°I¡¯ve lived here for three days, but I haven¡¯t seen Young Master Xiao.¡±


    Madam Xiao patted Yuan Yuwan¡¯s hand comfortingly and looked at Xiao Ruoshui. ¡®What nonsense are you talking about? Look at how frustrated your


    Sister Yuwan is.¡±


    She Imew her son well. She wouldn¡¯t suspect that the engaged couple had met here without telling their family.


    Moreover, even if they really met, she wouldn¡¯t think much of it.


    Unfortunately, Xiao Qirui was an ignorant person.


    As they spoke, Little Jiajia was also showing Song Jingchen what she had bought for him.


    ¡°This is a blessed amulet. It can keep you safe. I¡¯ll put it on for you.¡± ¡°I heard that this is a red thread left behind by Elder Yue. We each have one.¡±


    This continued on.


    ¡°By the way, where¡¯s my clay figurine?¡±


    MO Yuan felt that she couldn¡¯t bear to watch, but she still dutifully handed over the figurine.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite accurate.¡± Little Jiajia sized up the figurine and stuffed it into Song Jingchen¡¯s arms in satisfaction. ¡°This is for you. We¡¯ll go again later and ask him make one of you.¡±


    Song Jingchen felt that this figurine of her was cute when he saw it just now, but now, he felt that it was hot.


    He wanted to refuse, but he was afraid that the little girl would be sad.


    He pursed his lips tightly and could not say a word.


    No matter what, he was a few years older than the two of them. Seeing them like this was no different from watching children play house.


    It was strange that Ah Chen, who had always been steady, could be forced to this extent.


    He smiled. Song Jingchen finally couldn¡¯t hold it in anymore. He blushed and stood up. ¡°I¡¯m going for a walk.¡±


    With that, he left.


    Little Jiajia was stunned and glared at Fan Mingyuan. ¡°Don¡¯t be envious. Sister Ruoshui bought one for you too.¡±


    It was Fan Mingyuan¡¯s turn to blush.


    When Song Jingchen left the room, he realized that he was still holding onto Little Jiajia¡¯s pottery figurine. Seeing someone walking towards him, he stuffed the figurine into his arms guiltily. After stuffing it, he felt that it was inappropriate and wanted to take it out, but the person was already close.


    ¡°Heir Song?¡± Xiao Qirui looked at the young man in front of him strangely.


    Song Jingchen reached out halfway. When he heard this voice, he covered up the nonexistent creases on his chest and cupped his hands. ¡°Young Master Xiao.¡±


    Xiao Qirui wanted to ask something, but Song Jingchen said, ¡°Are you looking for Auntie Xiao? I¡¯ll bring you there.¡±


    ¡°Thank you very much.¡±


    When Little Jiajia chased after him, she saw an unfamiliar young man beside


    Song Jingchen. She jogged over. ¡°Brother Chen, who is he?¡±


    Seeing Little Jiajia, Song Jingchen thought of the pottery man in his arms. The blush on his face that had just faded rose again. He coughed lightly and said, ¡°This is Young Master Xiao.¡±


    When Little Jiajia heard this, she sized up Xiao Qirui from left to right and frowned. ¡°You¡¯re Sister Yuwan¡¯s fianc¨¦.¡±


    Then, there was nothing else.


    In the room, Madam Li had just asked Bi Zhu to send a portion of the vegetarian food to the room next door when she heard the maidservant guarding the door say that the heir had brought Young Master Xiao over. Madam Li smiled and said, ¡°It seems that Ruoshui wasn¡¯t wrong.¡±


    She looked at Yuan Yuwan and said this.


    Yuan Yuwan blushed and stood up. ¡°1- I¡¯ll..


    She wanted to say that she should leave first.


    Madam Xiao pulled her back. ¡®You haven¡¯t seen him yet, right? There are so many people here. It¡¯s fine to meet.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan bit her lip. ¡°Alright..¡±

 Chapter 991 - Chapter 991: Someone from the Xuanyuan Kingdom

    Chapter 991: Someone from the Xuanyuan Kingdom


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°Mother, Duchess, and Madam Shen.¡± Xiao Qirui entered and greeted the three of them. When his gaze swept past Yuan Yuwan, who was sitting beside Madam Xiao, he paused.


    He had only vaguely seen a figure just now and did not see it clearly. Now, he could see the girl¡¯s face clearly.


    He suddenly thought of that sentence from a literature book. ¡°A hibiscus is as pure as jade.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, Big Brother is infatuated with Sister Yuwan,¡± Xiao Ruoshui suddenly said, causing the maidservants in the room to laugh.


    Yuan Yuwan had been afraid to look at the person just now. When she heard this, she subconsciously looked up and met the young man¡¯s gaze. She blushed and quickly turned her head away.


    This person was so rash.


    Not to mention Madam Li, even Madam Shen, who was originally in a low mood, smiled.


    Xiao Qirui, who did not know that he had left an impression on his fianc¨¦e, felt his face heat up. He wanted to say something to ease the atmosphere, but he felt stupid and did not know what to say.


    Madam Xiao looked at the two of them and found it funny. She patted Xiao


    Ruoshui lightly. ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    After saying that, she looked at her son, who was standing there like a wooden block. ¡°This is Yuwan. You haven¡¯t seen her before, right?¡±


    Xiao Qirui originally wanted to follow Madam Xiao¡¯s words, but his behavior of staring at the girl would inevitably cause misunderstandings. He quickly said,


    ¡°I know.¡±


    He knew, even though he had not seen her before.


    Yuan Yuwan looked over in surprise.


    Xiao Qirui lowered his eyes and explained what had happened in the courtyard behind the side hall with his friend. However, he only said that he had heard Xiao Ruoshui¡¯s voice. When he went out, she had already left.


    It had to be said that with his explanation, the knot in Yuan Yuwan¡¯s heart disappeared.


    Fortunately, he was not the kind of person who would stare at a random girl.


    Speaking of which, he knew who she was and¡­


    At the thought of this, Yuan Yuwan blushed again.


    Xiao Ruoshui had never known when to stop. She chuckled and said, ¡°So Big


    Brother heard me call Sister Yuwan?¡±


    ¡°Then is Big Brother here to look for Mother and me, or is he here to see Sister


    Yuwan?¡±


    For the first time, Xiao Qirui had the urge to change his sister¡¯s rashness. It was a very strong urge.


    Madam Xiao was afraid that if Xiao Ruoshui continued, the young engaged couple would die of frustration, so she came out to smooth things over. ¡°How rude. You¡¯d even tease your elder brother.¡±


    Xiao Ruoshui wanted to say something, but when she noticed Yuan Yuwan¡¯s red face, she stuck out her tongue and swallowed her words.


    It was fine to undermine Xiao Qirui, but she couldn¡¯t make Sister Yuwan uncomfortable.


    On the other side, after giving Xiao Qirui directions, Song Jingchen was pulled to the small market by Little Jiajia.


    Unfortunately, the pottery maker¡¯s stall was no longer there.


    Seeing Little Jiajia¡¯s disappointed expression, Song Jingchen pursed his lips. ¡°It¡¯s the same even if we come here next time.¡±


    Little Jiajia sighed. ¡°That¡¯s the only way.¡±


    The sky turned dark early in winter. After lunch, Madam Li prepared to return to the residence.


    They also went down the mountain in a sedan chair and changed carriages.


    However, this time, Little Jiajia did not forget her friends. Instead, she took Yuan Yuwan¡¯s carriage with Xiao Ruoshui. After entering the city, the three of them parted ways.


    ¡°Ah Rui, send Yuwan off,¡± Madam Xiao said.


    Xiao Qirui had come on horseback and had been following her. Just as he was about to agree, Yuan Yuwan hurriedly said, ¡°Auntie, there¡¯s no need to go through so much trouble.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble,¡± Xiao Qirui interrupted her. There was a nervousness in his tone that he did not notice.


    Hearing his words, Yuan Yuwan couldn¡¯t refuse anymore. She nodded slightly.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll have to trouble you, Brother Xiao.¡±


    Xiao Qirui heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so polite to me. I have nothing to do anyway.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned for a moment. When she saw the serious expression on his face, she smiled.


    Madam Xiao held her forehead. The first sentence sounded reasonable, but there was no need for the second sentence.


    Outside the Second Gate of the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence, as soon as the carriage stopped, Uncle Yang welcomed them.


    ¡°Madam, someone from the Xuanyuan Kingdom is here.¡±


    Madam Li was stunned and subconsciously looked at Little Jiajia, who had alighted from the carriage behind.


    Little Jiajia blinked. ¡®Who¡¯s here?¡±


    As soon as she finished asking, a young man in his twenties walked out. The young man did not even look at anyone else. He quickly took a few steps to Little Jiajia and knelt on one knee. ¡°Princess.¡±


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Chu Feng, why are you here?¡±


    Chu Feng was the number one person by her father¡¯s side. Her father had sent him out¡­


    Little Jiajia had a bad feeling and subconsciously glanced at Song Jingchen.


    As expected, Chu Feng said in a tone that was neither servile nor overbearing, ¡°I¡¯m here to pick you up on His Highness¡¯s orders..¡±

 Chapter 992 - Chapter 992: Parting (I)

    Chapter 992: Parting (I)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t go to the palace school the next day. Song Jingchen returned from school. As soon as he entered the residence, he saw more than ten mahogany boxes of various sizes in the courtyard.


    Shi An explained, ¡°That Chu Feng went to the palace this morning. At noon, His Majesty sent someone to send these over. He said that they were gifts for the princess to bring back to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. ¡°When are they leaving?


    ¡°They said that they wanted to go back before New Year¡¯s Eve. They¡¯ll leave tomorrow.¡±


    Shi An sighed inwardly.


    The Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was considered one of the top noble houses in Great Xia, but it could not compare to Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Could Lord Jing¡¯an bear to marry his daughter off to the heir?


    In any case, if it were him, he would definitely not agree.


    Perhaps he would not let the princess come to Great Xia again after returning this time.


    ¡°I pity my young master.¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that Shi An had already thought so far ahead. He even sympathized with his master.


    As he walked in, he asked, ¡°Has the princess been in the residence all day?¡±


    ShiLfbgan9¡¯dRJIeg


    Shi An explained, ¡°That Chu Feng went to the palace this morning. At noon, His Majesty sent someone to send these over. He said that they were gifts for the princess to bring back to the Xuanyuan Kingdom.¡±


    Song Jingchen paused. ¡°When are they leaving?¡±


    ¡°They said that they wanted to go back before New Year¡¯s Eve. They¡¯ll leave tomorrow.¡±


    Shi An sighed inwardly.


    The Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence was considered one of the top noble houses in Great Xia, but it could not compare to Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence in the Xuanyuan Kingdom. Could Lord Jing¡¯an bear to marry his daughter off to the heir?


    In any case, if it were him, he would definitely not agree.


    Perhaps he would not let the princess come to Great Xia again after returning this time.


    ¡°I pity my young master.¡± he thought.


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t know that Shi An had already thought so far ahead. He even sympathized with his master.


    As he walked in, he asked, ¡°Has the princess been in the residence all day?¡±


    Shi An nodded. ¡°I heard that the princess is leaving tomorrow. Miss Yuan and


    Miss Xiao came in the morning and left two hours ago.¡±


    Song Jingchen nodded and headed straight for Qinghui Garden. He didn¡¯t want to be stopped by Chu Feng.


    ¡°The princess has instructed that she won¡¯t see anyone. Please leave, Your Highness.¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at the dozen or so guards guarding the courtyard door and frowned. In the end, he turned around and left without saying anything.


    ¡°Brother Chu, I heard that the princess likes this little heir. Will we make the princess angry?¡± one of the guards asked nervously.


    ¡°Bullsh*t, how old is the princess? What do you mean by liking him? She just got closer to him because he¡¯s good -looking. Who will remember who he is when we return to Phoenix City?¡± Although he said that, Chu Feng¡¯s heart was actually beating like a drum. Thinking of his lord¡¯s instructions, he became firm again. ¡°Besides, the princess did instruct me not to let anyone disturb her. I¡¯m not deliberately making things difficult for her.¡±


    Shi An felt even worse when he heard this. He comforted him softly, ¡°Heir


    Song, don¡¯t listen to his nonsense. The princess definitely won¡¯t forget you.¡± Song Jingchen lowered his eyes and thought of something. He turned around and walked out. He instructed, ¡°Get someone to prepare a horse. I¡¯m going out for a while.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Now?¡± Shi An was stunned. When he reacted, he quickly jogged after him. ¡°Where is Your Highness going? Do you need to tell Madam? The weather is so cold. Why don¡¯t we prepare a carriage?¡±


    Song Jingchen glanced at him.


    Shi An was speechless. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll prepare the horses.¡± he thought.


    Little Jiajia didn¡¯t know that Song Jingchen had come to look for her. She fiddled in her room alone for more than half a day. When she came out after she was done, the lights were already on.


    MO Yuan carried three brocade boxes into the house. ¡°Princess, the Duchess got someone to send these over.¡¯


    When he found out that Little Jiajia was going back to the Xuanyuan Kingdom, Emperor Chong¡¯an wanted to hold a banquet in the palace to send her off, but Little Jiajia rejected him. When Madam Li found out, she did not mention the farewell and only asked someone to entertain Chu Feng and the others. ¡°For me?¡± Little Jiajia rubbed her swollen eyes and took the brocade box to open it one by one.


    There were three brocade boxes. One was a sparkling golden dagger, the other was an inkstone, and the other was a set of pure gold jade hair ornaments.


    Little Jiajia¡¯s gaze swept across the three brocade boxes. She tilted her head and looked at MO Yuan. ¡°Is there one missing?¡±


    MO Yuan was puzzled.


    ¡°Look, this dagger was given to me by the old master. The inkstone was given to me by the duke, and the head was given to me by Auntie.¡± Little Jiajia hooked her fingers and counted carefully. In the end, she raised her fourth finger. ¡°Where¡¯s the other one?¡±


    ¡°No, there are only three.¡± MO Yuan thought for a moment and added, ¡°The brocade box was handed directly to me. It hasn¡¯t been handed over to anyone else.¡±


    Therefore, there was no possibility of anything being hidden.


    Little Jiajia asked in disbelief, ¡°Hubby didn¡¯t give me a gift?¡±


    MO Yuan was speechless. ¡°No.¡±


    The door was suddenly pushed open. The two of them turned around at the same time and saw two little kids slowly crossing the threshold.


    ¡°Brother Hao, Sister Huan?¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Why are you here so late at night?¡±


    The two children did not speak, so Little Jiajia could only lead them in first. After sitting down, she realized that their hands were stained with dirt.


    ¡°Sister MO Yuan, go and get some water for them to wash up.¡±


    MO Yuan should have gone out. Not long after, she brought in a basin of water. Little Jiajia personally twisted a handkerchief to help the two of them wipe their hands..

 Chapter 993 - Chapter 993: Parting (2)

    Chapter 993: Parting (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The two of them were also obedient. They sat there motionless, their eyes still darting around, as if they were checking something.


    MO Yuan frowned and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t see Young Master and Young Miss¡¯s nanny when I went out just now. I asked the guards guarding the courtyard, but they all said that they didn¡¯t see anyone enter the courtyard.¡±


    Little Jiajia was stunned. Where did these two little ones come from?


    ¡°Sister, we¡¯re here to save you,¡± Brother Hao whispered.


    ¡°What?¡± Little Jiajia was a little confused.


    ¡°I heard from them that those people outside are here to take you away. Don¡¯t be afraid. We¡¯ll help you escape.¡±


    Little Jiajia felt that she understood, but not fully.


    Sister Huan also said, ¡°There¡¯s a small hole at the back of this courtyard. We can climb out from there. That way, they won¡¯t be able to catch you.¡±


    Brother Hao nodded. ¡°Big Brother dug that hole when he was young to hide from Grandpa. Only the three of us know.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not right. Now that there¡¯s you and Sister MO Yuan, only the five of us Imow.¡± As he spoke, he held out his palm and counted.


    The corners of Little Jiajia¡¯s mouth twitched. Thinking of the dirt on the two little fellows, she probably understood.


    It seemed that these two little fellows had heard from someone that Chu Feng and the others were here to pick her up. When they saw someone guarding the courtyard, they thought that she had been imprisoned and secretly came to save her at night.


    Little Jiajia was a little touched, but she also wanted to laugh. She reached out and rubbed the heads of the two little ones. ¡°Thank you, but you might have misunderstood. Those people outside are not bad people.¡±


    Brother Hao and Sister Huan tilted their heads at the same time, looking puzzled.


    Little Jiajia thought they were adorable and explained patiently, ¡°They¡¯re actually here to bring Sister home. Do you know what home is? It¡¯s a place with parents.¡± Brother Hao thought for a moment. ¡°So Sister is going home?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°Will Sister come back?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Brother Hao and Sister Huan, remember to miss me.¡±


    Brother Hao nodded heavily. ¡°I will.¡±


    Sister Huan quickly promised, ¡°I will too. Also, Big Brother will miss Sister.¡±


    Little Jiajia was afraid that the main courtyard would be anxious when they realized that the two of them had disappeared, so she didn¡¯t dare to ask them to stay any longer. After coaxing them, she quickly asked MO Yuan to send them back. She took the opportunity to take a small box from the inner room and avoided the guards guarding outside the courtyard to go to Song Jingchen¡¯s courtyard.


    At that moment, Song Jingchen had just returned from outside. As soon as he entered the study, he heard a sound outside the window. His heart skipped a beat and he quickly stuffed the things in his arms into the drawer. Almost at the same time, a figure jumped in through the window.


    Seeing who it was, Song Jingchen wasn¡¯t surprised at all.


    ¡°Hubby, what were you hiding just now?¡± Little Jiajia walked over curiously.


    ¡°Nothing.¡± Song Jingchen turned his head away and casually picked up a book.


    ¡°I¡¯m looking for a book to read.¡±


    Little Jiajia scratched her head. ¡°But your book is upside down.¡±


    When Song Jingchen heard this, he subconsciously changed the direction of the book. On careful look, it was the other way around!


    ¡°Haha, I was lying to you.¡± Little Jiajia laughed.


    ¡°You¡­¡¯


    ¡°Alright, alright, I won¡¯t tease you anymore.¡± Little Jiajia was afraid that Chu Feng would come looking for her later, so she quickly took out the small box and placed it in front of Song Jingchen. ¡°Look what I brought you.¡±


    ¡°Open it.¡± Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes sparkled.


    Song Jingchen opened it and saw five small white porcelain bottles in the box.


    Song Jingchen had seen many porcelain bottles like this. They were usually used to store pills.


    Under Little Jiajia¡¯s gaze, he took out the porcelain bottles one by one and realized that there were still small strips of cloth stuck to each bottle. Three of them had the words ¡°One Breath¡± written on them, and the remaining two were ¡°Living Dead¡± and ¡°No Breath¡±.


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    Little Jiajia explained proudly, ¡°One Breath is a life-saving medicine. As its name suggests, as long as you¡¯re still alive, you can be saved.¡±


    Song Jingchen was speechless.


    ¡°So the Living Dead medicine can let the people who eat them live, but they¡¯re no different from dead?¡±


    ¡°And No Breath can stop someone from breathing?¡±


    Little Jiajia applauded him. ¡°Hubby is so smart. You¡¯re right.¡± Song Jingchen was speechless. Weren¡¯t these names obvious enough?


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate these two bottles of poison. Other poison doctors can usually detect signs of poisoning. My mother just developed these two types of poison. Apart from my mother and me, no one can detect it.¡±


    Song Jingchen¡¯s breathing tightened. He didn¡¯t doubt the authenticity of Little Jiajia¡¯s words. He carefully placed the porcelain bottle back in the box and covered it before pushing it in front of Little Jiajia. ¡°This thing is too precious.


    Take it back.¡±


    ¡°I still have more. These are for you.¡± Little Jiajia pushed them back.


    ¡°There are many life-saving things. Keep it well. Don¡¯t casually take it out and show it to others in the future.¡±


    Looking at the box that was pushed in front of her again, Little Jiajia was silent. ¡°Why do I have the illusion that we¡¯re just going back and forth here?¡± she thought.


    Song Jingchen was silent. He had also thought of it.


    The two of them looked at each other. Little Jiajia burst out laughing. Song Jingchen held it in, but there was still a smile in his eyes.


    ¡°Your Highness, Guard Chu is here.¡± Shi An¡¯s voice came from outside the door.


    ¡°They must have realized that I¡¯m not in the courtyard.¡± Little Jiajia puffed up her cheeks. Although she was reluctant, she remembered her father¡¯s words and stood up. ¡°I have to go. Remember to keep this box well, especially the life-saving pill. It can save the person you want to save.¡±


    With that, she waved at Song Jingchen and left through the window.


    Song Jingchen tightened his grip and quickly followed her to the window, but her shadow was gone.


    He pursed his lips, unable to hide the disappointment in his eyes.


    ¡°By the way.¡± Little Jiajia suddenly stuck her head through the window. ¡°I forgot to ask just now.. Will you miss me when I leave?¡±

 Chapter 994 - Chapter 994: New Year’s Gift (1)

    Chapter 994: New Year¡¯s Gift (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The next day, after Little Jiajia bade farewell to the people who had come to send her off, she got into the carriage back and left for the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    The carriage traveled out of the city. When it reached the official road, it sped up.


    ¡°Princess, sleep a little longer,¡± MO Yuan suggested.


    Madam Li had helped prepare this carriage. The seats inside were much wider than ordinary carriages, and there was a thick blanket draped over it. It was quake-proof and warm, so one could lie down and sleep.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sleepy now.¡± Little Jiajia blinked. ¡°Sister MO Yuan, show me the pottery figurine again.¡±


    MO Yuan was helpless. She took out a brocade box wrapped in cotton from the compartment under her seat. When she opened the brocade box, there were more layers made of cotton. Layer after layer, she tore open three layers of it before revealing a pottery figurine that was not much bigger than a palm.


    ¡°If Princess likes it, you can get someone to make a few more when we return to Phoenix City.¡±


    ¡°My husband gave this to me. It¡¯s different.¡± Little Jiajia looked at the pottery figurine again and again. ¡°But this doesn¡¯t look very much like him. I have to get someone to make a more similar one next time.¡±


    ¡°Oh my, what should I do? I haven¡¯t gone far, but I miss my husband a little.¡± she thought.


    MO Yuan was speechless. ¡°I¡¯d better help the princess keep the pottery figurines well, in case you accidentally knock them over.¡±


    If that was the case, she completely believed that her princess would go back and ask Prince Song to send another one.


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Little Jiajia carefully placed the pottery figurine back into the brocade box. Seeing that MO Yuan had wrapped it up and was about to put it in the compartment, she couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°It¡¯s dark and narrow inside. Give me the brocade box. I¡¯ll carry it.¡±


    MO Yuan thought to herself, ¡°Those who don¡¯t know better would think that it contains the ashes of Heir Song.¡±


    Little Jiajia did not know what she was thinking. She was still muttering softly, ¡°I wonder where my husband went so early in the morning. He didn¡¯t come out to send me off.¡±


    What she did not know was that when the carriage passed by the ten-mile slope, there were already two people waiting by the roadside with their horses. No one stopped them, and the convoy passed by.


    ¡°Heir, aren¡¯t we here to send the princess off? Why didn¡¯t you tell them to


    ¡°I¡¯ve already sent her off.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve¡­ sent her off? But the princess doesn¡¯t know that you¡¯ve been here at all. You didn¡¯t talk to the princess.¡±


    ¡°Did Guard Chu say something to you last night? It must be that he doesn¡¯t want you to see the princess. Your temper is too good. Why do you have to listen to him?¡±


    Song Jingchen didn¡¯t want to say anything else. ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡±


    Chu Feng didn¡¯t say anything. Instead, he gave him a letter from Lord Jing¡¯an.


    There were only five words in the letter. Mud Bodhisattva Crosses the River.


    Song Jingchen knew that this sentence was referring to the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence.


    At the same time, he made it clear that if Song Jingchen couldn¡¯t solve his own issues, he wouldn¡¯t let that girl come to Great Xia again, let alone marry him.


    He didn¡¯t say anything, but Song Jingchen understood everything.


    It was worth mentioning that before Little Jiajia left, she got someone to send three bottles of health pills to Yuan Yuwan.


    Cabinet Elder Yuan was old and would have some problems from time to time. It wasn¡¯t a big problem, but it was still torturous.


    Yuan Yuwan had grown up by Cabinet Elder Yuan¡¯s side, so she was naturally very worried. When she received the health nourishment pill and asked the doctor to check it and found out that it was beneficial to her grandfather¡¯s health, she sent it over immediately.


    Cabinet Elder Yuan couldn¡¯t bear to waste his granddaughter¡¯s filial piety, so he ate one every morning and night.


    Of course, at first, no one really took it to heart. After all, old age was inevitable. It could not be cured with medicine.


    However, after persevering for a while, Cabinet Elder Yuan¡¯s complexion visibly improved, and he became much more energetic. In the past, he had called for an imperial physician every few days, but no longer.


    This made the pavilion start to take the Health Pill seriously. After all, no one wanted to die if they could live for a few more years.


    Yuan Yuwan was grateful for Little Jiajia¡¯s kindness, but she also knew that as the princess of a country, she didn¡¯t lack anything. On account of how much Little Jiajia valued Young Master Song, Cabinet Elder Yuan was about to ask about the origins of the Health Nourishment Pill.


    Yuan Yuwan only said that it was sent by the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence.


    She more or less understood the situation in the imperial court and was worried that Emperor Chong¡¯an would attack the Bulwark Duke¡¯s residence. She only said that because she hoped that when that day came, her grandfather would help out on account of the health pills.


    Through this, she had helped the Bulwark Duke¡¯s Residence.


    Seeing that it was New Year¡¯s Eve, the members of the Yuan family moved to the old residence to celebrate the new year with Cabinet Elder Yuan.


    Early this morning, Yuan Yuwan was reading on a soft couch by the window when You Bai walked in angrily. ¡°They went overboard. They really went overboard.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan put down her book and asked in amusement, ¡°Didn¡¯t you go to the kitchen to get breakfast? Who provoked you again?¡±

 Chapter 995 - Chapter 995: New Year’s Gift (2)

    Chapter 995: New Year¡¯s Gift (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°It¡¯s all because of the kitchen staff.¡± You Bai put down the food box and complained angrily, ¡°Didn¡¯t the palace reward the old master with many blood swallows a few days ago? The old master gave some to you, Miss. I saw that Miss hasn¡¯t looked too good these past few days, so I specially took some and sent it to the kitchen yesterday. I repeatedly reminded them that Miss wanted to eat it this morning. Unexpectedly, when I went to get it just now, Old Madam Ma told me that it had been taken away by the servant beside Second Miss.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan cleaned her hands and sat down at the table. She nodded and said, ¡°Old Madam Ma can¡¯t stop her.¡±


    ¡°She couldn¡¯t stop her, but who would know what¡¯s in the kitchen if Old Madam Ma didn¡¯t say it? It¡¯s not like they could¡¯ve checked every ingredient in the kitchen.¡± The more You Bai thought about it, the angrier she became. Seeing that her Miss was still acting as if nothing had happened, her eyes turned red. ¡°They just saw that Miss was easy to talk to, so they didn¡¯t take our courtyard¡¯s matters to heart. All of them are traitors. Miss usually treats them well, but what did they do? As soon as Madam and the others returned, they followed them to bully you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just some food. If it¡¯s gone, so be it.¡± Yuan Yuwan really didn¡¯t care, but she didn¡¯t want You Bai to be so angry that her health would be affected. She thought for a moment and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t we do this? Since Old Madam Ma is so dedicated, let her follow Madam and the others back to the Yuan residence to serve them.¡¯


    ¡°Serve them, my¡­¡± You Bai paused. When she realized what Yuan Yuwan had said, his eyes lit up. ¡°Miss, you should have done this long ago.¡±


    ¡°No, I have to keep an eye on them for the next few days and see who else is a traitor. When the time comes, Miss can send them over.¡±


    There were only two masters to serve in the old residence. As servants, they had nothing to do. It was different in the Yuan residence. They would suffer when the time came.


    ¡°Alright, help me keep an eye on it.¡±


    With Yuan Yuwan¡¯s permission, You Bai went out to patrol valiantly. However, in less than an hour, she returned with red eyes.


    Seeing that she was holding a set of clothes in her hand, Yuan Yuwan knew without asking that the clothes she had ordered a few days ago must have been taken away.


    She sighed. ¡°It¡¯s only a matter of a few days. It¡¯ll be fine when they move back there.¡±


    After so many years, she was already used to it.


    ¡°Can¡¯t we let the old master make the decision? The materials used to make the clothes this time were all given to Miss by the princess.¡±


    Originally, she had made six sets. Now, only this set was left. The other girls were the ones who chose the rest.


    Yuan Yuwan pursed her lips. ¡°Grandfather is old.¡±


    Putting aside the fact that he could protect her for a few more years, he would only be unhappy if sisters quarreled over a set of clothes.


    Her sisters could ignore her grandfather¡¯s likes and dislikes, but he was her only pillar, so she couldn¡¯t.


    You Bai was about to say something when an old woman reported from outside the house, ¡®Eldest Miss, General Xiao is here to send New Year¡¯s gifts.¡±


    ¡°So what if he¡¯s here? The Madam is in charge now. Why are you looking for our Miss?¡± You Bai said angrily.


    She said this because she was targeting the old woman. After all, this old woman was someone close to First Madam Yuan.


    The old woman glared at You Bai and said with a fake smile, ¡°Young Master Xiao and Miss Xiao are the ones who came this time. Old Master left some food and asked Eldest Miss to go over.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. Forget about Ruoshui. Wasn¡¯t that person a little too diligent these days?


    ¡°Eldest Miss, hurry up. Don¡¯t make the guests wait.¡±


    Yuan Yuwan said indifferently, ¡°Go back first. I¡¯ll go over after changing my clothes.¡±


    The old woman rolled her eyes and turned to leave.


    You Bai did not have time to be angry this time. She entered the house and rummaged through the cabinets. She was determined to dress her lady up beautifully.


    ¡°This is the first time Young Master Xiao has personally come to send New Year¡¯s gifts. It¡¯s obvious that he takes Miss seriously.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t spout nonsense.¡± Yuan Yuwan blushed slightly. From the corner of her eye, she noticed the clothes that You Bai had just brought back. She smiled. ¡°Although it¡¯s not good to make Grandfather angry, you can¡¯t just let anyone take what Jiajia gave you.¡±


    You Bai was puzzled.


    Yuan Yuwan did not explain further. ¡°I¡¯ll wear that.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to keep it for the new year?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan found it funny. ¡°I¡¯m not a child. Why do I have to wear new clothes during the new year?¡±


    After changing her clothes, Yuan Yuwan did not delay any longer and brought You Bai straight to the front courtyard.


    Unexpectedly, she was called from behind halfway. Yuan Yuwan turned around. Who else could it be but her half-sister, Yuan Leyao?


    ¡°Sister, you¡¯re dressed so well today. Are you here to see my future brother-in-law?¡± Yuan Leyao held Yuan Yuwan¡¯s arm affectionately.


    Yuan Yuwan looked down at Yuan Leyao and retracted her hand. ¡°I¡¯m going to the front courtyard. It seems that Sister is going too. Let¡¯s go together.¡± ¡°You only know how to pretend!¡± Yuan Leyao glared at Yuan Yuwan and


    followed her.


    Apart from Cabinet Elder Yuan, Eldest Master and Madam Dong were also present.


    Yuan Yuwan picked up the curtain and entered. She bowed and greeted him.


    Cabinet Elder Yuan was still smiling, but when he saw Yuan Leyao enter with Yuan Yuwan, his face darkened.


    Xiao Qirui was engaged to the eldest girl. With the elders present, it was fine for the two of them to meet. Why was the second girl here to join in the fun?


    Seeing this, Madam Dong quickly smiled and said, ¡°These sisters usually have a good relationship. They¡¯re always together.¡±


    With that, she waved at the two of them. ¡°I was worried that Ruoshui would be bored. Come and talk to her.¡±


    Cabinet Elder Yuan looked down on the descendants of the family, but he was old and hoped that the family would get along. When he left, they could rely on each other.


    Although he felt that Yuan Leyao did not know the rules, he did not say anything.


    However, it was not appropriate to let Xiao Qirui stay here any longer. He was about to suggest going to the study.


    The Xiao family¡¯s girl said, ¡°Ah, Sister Yuwan, aren¡¯t you wearing the clothes we ordered from the Silken House last time? They¡¯re really beautiful.¡±


    When Xiao Qirui heard this, he took a quick look. It was indeed beautiful.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled. ¡°Yes, they sent one set over today. I really liked it, so I put it on.¡±


    Madam Dong felt that something was wrong when she heard Xiao Ruoshui mention clothes. When she heard Yuan Yuwan¡¯s words, the smile on her face froze.


    This wretched girl!


    ¡°One set?¡± Xiao Ruoshui frowned. ¡°That¡¯s not right. The six sets I booked were sent to my house yesterday. Besides, the Silken House is so big. Why would they deliver the sets one by one? Did they make a mistake?¡±


    Yuan Yuwan was stunned. She seemed to have thought of something and pursed her lips. ¡°Perhaps there was a mistake over there. It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll get You Bai to ask.¡±


    ¡°Then we have to hurry. Don¡¯t let them send your clothes to another house,¡± Xiao Ruoshui suggested heartlessly.


    Yuan Yuwan smiled and stopped talking about this topic.


    However, no one present was stupid. Looking at Madam Dong¡¯s guilty expression, it was not difficult to guess that something was wrong.


    Xiao Qirui looked at the girl opposite him who was forcing a smile, and his heart ached.


    Cabinet Elder Yuan was even more direct.. ¡°Aren¡¯t you the one in charge these days?¡±

 Chapter 996 - Chapter 996: Side Story Ends (1)

    Chapter 996: Side Story Ends (1)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    Little Jiajia did not know that the fabric she had given away had caused so much trouble in the Yuan family. She did not think much of it when she was in Great Xia. The closer she got to home, the more she missed her parents. If not for the fact that she did not have wings, she would have flown back.


    In the Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence, the servants were hanging red lanterns everywhere and pasting window flowers and couplets.


    It should have been a festive and lively scene, but everyone was listless.


    It was New Year¡¯s Eve tomorrow, but their princess had yet to return.


    In the past, the princess would have led them to paste the couplets she wrote. To be honest, it did not look good.


    However, everyone liked it. Even the Longevity Palace asked for one or two sets every year.


    After pasting the couplets, the princess would also take out the prizes from her private stash and lead everyone to play cuju, pitch-pot, money, and archery in the courtyard.


    In short, with the princess around, the residence was always filled with laughter.


    Now, when everyone buried their heads in their work, the huge Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence was cold and cheerless.


    Empress Dowager Zhou was also looking forward to Little Jiajia¡¯s return.


    When Little Jiajia left, she only left a letter for her family. The palace only received the news the next day. If not for Xuanyuan Qi stopping her, Empress Dowager Zhou would have sent someone to chase after her.


    She wanted to blame Ji Luo and Xuanyuan Ce, but the two of them went to Qinghe Prefecture to provide disaster relief. She didn¡¯t even have a place to vent her anger.


    When Xuanyuan Ce finally returned from his work, Empress Dowager Zhou immediately urged him to bring Little Jiajia back. This coincided with Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s thoughts, so Chu Feng went to Great Xia to pick her up.


    Even so, it was impossible for Empress Dowager Zhou to give Xuanyuan Ce any more leeway. She heard from the palace servants that Lord Jing¡¯an had come to pay his respects.


    She said angrily, ¡°Didn¡¯t I say that I¡¯ll see him when he brings my granddaughter back? Otherwise, he can forget about stepping into the Longevity Palace.¡±


    Nanny Gao quickly calmed her down. ¡°I heard that Lord Chu has already picked up the princess and is on the way back. I think she¡¯ll be here soon.¡±


    ¡°How long will it take? It¡¯s New Year¡¯s Eve tomorrow. It¡¯s supposed to be a day for the family to celebrate. Wouldn¡¯t I have to travel alone on the road?¡± Empress Dowager Zhou stroked her heart. ¡°Oh no, I feel even worse when I think of this. Let that brat go quickly. I don¡¯t want to see him.¡±


    Nanny Gao had no choice but to get someone to go out and reply.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who had been rejected by his mother again, felt aggrieved. He left the palace dejectedly and returned to his residence.


    Only the heavens knew that he felt much worse than others.


    Others thought that his daughter was playing around this time. Only he clearly realized that his precious daughter was about to be snatched away again.


    ¡°Mother chased you out?¡± Ji Luo went to the palace a few times and encountered a wall. Later on, she stopped going. When she saw Xuanyuan Ce return, she inexplicably gloated.


    She wasn¡¯t the only one who was despised as a daughter-in-law, Xuanyuan Ce was also getting the cold shoulder.


    Her daughter was indeed amazing.


    Xuanyuan Ce looked at her resentfully. ¡°Ah Luo¡­¡±


    Ji Luo laughed impolitely. ¡°Alright, you haven¡¯t eaten dinner yet, right? I¡¯ll get someone to prepare dinner.¡±


    After the servants set up the food, the couple did not have much of an appetite. Just as they were about to ask someone to take the food away, a maidservant rushed in excitedly. ¡°Your Highness, Princess Consort, the princess is back!¡±


    Although they had instructed Chu Feng to return early, the two of them did not have much hope that Little Jiajia would be able to reach home before New Year¡¯s Eve. After all, Great Xia¡¯s Chang¡¯an was a long way from Phoenix City. It was clearly a journey that would take more than two months.


    Hearing the maidservant¡¯s words, the two of them were stunned.


    After a while, Xuanyuan Ce stood up and strode out.


    The maidservants in the room looked at each other. They did not understand why His Highness seemed even more unhappy that the princess had returned.


    Ji Luo knew him well and rolled her eyes. ¡°You can stay here and be awkwvard. I¡¯ll go out and take a look.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce snorted and took a big bite of rice. His eyes darted towards the door uncontrollably.


    ¡°Princess.¡±


    ¡°Princess, you¡¯re finally back.¡±


    As soon as Little Jiajia stepped into the residence, the entire Lord Jing¡¯an¡¯s residence seemed to come to life. The maidservants and servants leaned over and bowed.


    Little Jiajia greeted everyone happily. Before she entered the courtyard, she saw a group of people rushing over from afar..

 Chapter 997 - Chapter 997: Side Story Ends (2)

    Chapter 997: Side Story Ends (2)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    The woman walking at the front was like a Heaven Immortal. Who else could it be but her mother?


    Little Jiajia¡¯s eyes lit up. She stuffed the box in her arms into MO Yuan¡¯s hand and rushed forward like a cannonball. ¡°Mother, I missed you so much!¡±


    Ji Luo¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change. She turned around and dodged to the side.


    Little Jiajia was shocked and couldn¡¯t stop in time. Not only did she miss, but she also pressed down on a group of maidservants.


    Everyone instantly exclaimed.


    The maidservants thought to themselves, ¡°As expected, the princess is cuter in our memories.¡±


    Meeting the resentful gazes of the group of maidservants, Little Jiajia got up awkwardly and patted the nonexistent dust off her body. She looked angrily at her mother, who was watching the show from the side. ¡°Mother¡­¡±


    Ji Luo reached out and tapped Little Jiajia¡¯s forehead twice. ¡°You actually came back.¡±


    Little Jiajia took advantage of the situation and hugged her arm. ¡°Oh my, Mother, what are you talking about? This is my house. If I don¡¯t come back, where can I go?¡±


    ¡°Who knows?¡± Ji Luo wouldn¡¯t fall for her tricks. She waved away the servants who had gathered around and turned to walk back.


    Little Jiajia refused to let go and followed her. ¡°Mother, I¡¯ve missed you so much. Don¡¯t you miss me at all?¡± ¡°How rare. So you still have me in your heart.¡± ¡°As heaven and earth can see, my heart is filled with my mother.¡±


    ¡°Oh? There¡¯s only me and no one else?¡±


    ¡°Of course there¡¯s Father, Grandmother, Imperial Uncle, Eldest Cousin, Second


    Cousin, Third Cousin¡­¡± Little Jiajia listed the names of everyone in the Xuanyuan family. In the end, she added inwardly, ¡°There¡¯s also my Little


    Husband.¡±


    ¡°Eh, where¡¯s Father? Isn¡¯t he in the residence?¡±


    Hearing her ask about Xuanyuan Ce, Ji Luo said in amusement, ¡°He¡¯s brooding inside.¡±


    Little Jiajia stuck out her tongue guiltily. ¡°Fine, I still have to coax him.¡± she thought.


    The mother and daughter chatted warmly. Xuanyuan Ce stopped eating and paced back and forth anxiously.


    ¡°Why haven¡¯t they entered yet?¡± he thought.


    After circling around for an unknown number of times, he finally heard footsteps. He quickly sat back at the table and pretended to eat seriously.


    ¡°Beautiful Father.¡± A soft voice sounded at the door.


    Xuanyuan Ce, who had originally planned to let his daughter coax him out of his anger, gave up in a second. He threw down his chopsticks and rushed over. ¡°Daughter, I miss you so much.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve lost weight. You must have suffered along the way.¡±


    On closer inspection, his eyes were still red.


    Ji Luo was speechless. This man was pathetic.


    Little Jiajia was speechless. What happened to being angry?


    When Little Jiajia left home, it was a hot summer day. Now that it was late winter, they had not seen each other for half a year.


    In half a year, Little Jiajia had grown a little taller and lost a lot of baby fat on her face. Xuanyuan Ce couldn¡¯t get enough of seeing her. As he instructed someone to prepare Little Jiajia¡¯s favorite food, he asked about her well-being like an old mother. Ji Luo could not even butt in.


    Fortunately, everyone was used to it. No matter how dignified His Highness was outside, he was a completely different person at home.


    Everyone was already used to their behavior as the loving father and strict mother.


    After Little Jiajia ate, Ji Luo quickly interrupted Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s nagging. ¡°Alright, it¡¯s not too late to talk tomorrow. Jiajia is tired. I¡¯ll send her back to the courtyard to rest.¡±


    Little Jiajia hurriedly nodded. After traveling day and night for two months, she could not remember how many horses had died from running. She was indeed a little tired.


    Xuanyuan Ce¡¯s heart ached for his daughter, so he could only stop talking. ¡°I¡¯ll send someone to the palace to send a message to Mother so that she can sleep easy tonight. ¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Ji Luo held Little Jiajia¡¯s hand and walked out. ¡°By the way, I¡¯ll sleep with my daughter tonight. I won¡¯t be coming back. You can sleep by yourself.¡±


    Xuanyuan Ce was shocked. His daughter was back, but his wife was gone.


    No matter how Xuanyuan Ce tossed and turned at night, he could not fall asleep. In the Jade Pavilion, Little Jiajia, who had taken a shower, nestled warmly in Ji Luo¡¯s arms. She thought of something and suddenly said, ¡°Mother, give birth to a brother or sister for me with Father.¡±


    Ji Luo was stunned, but she didn¡¯t ask why. She smiled and said, ¡°I heard that you found yourself a husband in Great Nia?¡±


    Ji Luo had grown up in the Valley of Heavenly Secrets since she was young, unlike the other women in this world who were bound by all kinds of rules. She was quite bold and unrestrained. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t have wanted to be with Xuanyuan Ce despite violating the clan rules.


    With her personality, she was not so strict with her daughter.


    Or rather, as long as Little Jiajia didn¡¯t do anything outrageous, she could tolerate it..

 Chapter 998 - Chapter 998: Side Story Ends (3)

    Chapter 998: Side Story Ends (3)


    Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios


    ¡°I can¡¯t hide anything from Mother.¡± Thinking of Song Jingchen, Little Jiajia chuckled foolishly. ¡°He¡¯s very good-looking, but he always likes to pull a long face. He keeps saying that this is against the rules and that it¡¯s inappropriate. I asked him to help me do my homework, but he lectured me and even forced me to practice my calligraphy.¡± ¡°Then why do you still like him?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s good-looking.¡±


    Ji Luo held her forehead. Back then, she saved Xuanyuan Ce because he was good-looking.


    ¡°Mother, do you believe in past and present lives?¡±


    ¡°Past and present lives?¡± A complicated look flashed across Ji Luo¡¯s eyes. She tightened her grip on Little Jiajia. ¡°Perhaps.¡±


    ¡°The first time I saw him, I felt that he must be my future husband. So, Mother, you and Father will give birth to another brother or sister for me. Even if I


    marry far away, you won¡¯t be reluctant to let me go.¡±


    Little Jiajia¡¯s voice became softer and softer. Ji Luo looked down and realized that the little girl had fallen asleep.


    Seeing the smile on her daughter¡¯s lips, Ji Luo shook his head. ¡°Silly girl, no matter how many children Father and Mother have, we can¡¯t bear for you to marry far away.¡±


    Time passed quickly. In the blink of an eye, five years had passed.


    In these five years, Great Xia and the Wu Kingdom sent a peace agreement to the Xuanyuan Kingdom and became affiliated with the Xuanyuan Kingdom.


    As for Great Xia, Emperor Chong¡¯an had a sudden illness last year and became a living corpse in bed. With the support of more than half of the ministers in the court, Shangguan Han successfully ascended the throne.


    At the same time, Duke Song had also become the popular prime minister of the dynasty, a huge upgrade from a dispensable official of the Ministry of Rites.


    It was worth mentioning that the identity of the second prince Shangguan Yu¡¯s biological mother was also exposed in the same year.


    His mother was originally the princess of the previous dynasty of the Wu Kingdom, Nangong Xia. The first thing Shangguan Han did when he ascended the throne was to confer Nangong Xia the title of Gentle Empress Dowager. He originally wanted to send troops to attack the Wu Kingdom to avenge her, but Shangguan Yu refused and only focused on assisting his half-brother, Shangguan Han.


    On the official road to Chang¡¯an, a carriage drove quickly, stirring up thick dust wherever it passed.


    ¡°Sister MO Yuan, how long until we reach Chang¡¯an?¡± A girl¡¯s pleasant voice sounded in the carriage.


    ¡°Princess, the Ten Mile Slope is ahead. We¡¯ll be able to enter the city in half an hour.¡±


    As soon as MO Yuan finished speaking, the carriage suddenly stopped.


    Xuanyuan Yijia lifted the curtain curiously and saw a young man standing by the roadside holding a horse.


    Her eyes lit up. She quickly got out of the carriage and pounced on the young man.


    Song Jingchen¡¯s eyelids twitched. He quickly flew over and pulled the girl into his arms. ¡°Why are you still so rash? What if you fall?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t I still have you? Will you let me fall?¡±


    Song Jingchen helped Xuanyuan Yijia stand up. When he met her eyes, his eyes were filled with a smile. He reached out and rubbed her head. ¡°No.¡± Xuanyuan Yijia also laughed.


    ¡°How did you know I would arrive today? I wanted to give you a surprise.¡±


    ¡°In two days, Miss Yuan and Brother Xiao will get married. I figured you would definitely come.¡±


    ¡°Princess, actually, my heir has been waiting for you here for three days. He waits from morning to night every day.¡± Shi An appeared out of nowhere. Song Jingchen glanced at him. ¡°You talk too much. Who¡¯s your master?¡±


    ¡°Of course it¡¯s you. However, Shi An¡¯s life was saved by the princess. The princess is Shi An¡¯s second parent.¡±


    He was referring to an assassination attempt on Song Jingchen a few years ago.


    Shi An had taken a fatal blow for him. Fortunately, he had taken the ¡°One Breath¡± medicine Xuanyuan Yijia had left for Song Jingchen in time and survived.


    Xuanyuan Yijia was stunned. ¡°If I had known that you missed me so much, I would have left a few days ago.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all my father¡¯s fault. As soon as I said that I was coming to Great Xia, he cried. I can¡¯t ignore him.¡±


    Song Jingchen found it funny. He got on the horse and reached out to


    Xuanyuan Yijia. ¡°Let¡¯s go. Everyone is waiting for you.¡±


    The afterglow of the setting sun softened the young man¡¯s facial features.


    Xuanyuan Yijia¡¯s eyes lit up and she placed her hand on his. ¡°Okay..¡±